As a new ADV owner who also has bikes this is the best and most accurate review I've seen on RUclips. You sum it up perfectly, I really like mine and am growing to love it as my experience grows.
Good afternoon Mr ChromeFreeDisco (great handle BTW!) - thanks so much for stopping by - great to know you enjoyed the video and that you to, are also enjoying the ADV350. As per the video my eyes have been opened and I'm really looking forward to going on a longer tour with it later this year. All the best, cheers, Phil
That bit at the end, with you hobbling about and grabbing your leg to haul it through the tunnel, that's me, that is ! I've just bought one too Phil, for the same reasons as yourself. Had to sell my Tiger 900 and Z900RS SE because I can't ride conventional bikes at the moment. Also, like you, I am considering using the scoot to do our regular tour the Pyrenees and Picos this year.
Hey Vic, ha ha, it's good to know it's not just me then. I did try swinging my leg over a few weeks ago and then got kinda stuck with my leg at 90 degrees on the seat. And as you know the seat has quite a bit of friction on it, so it took some time to unhinge myself. A few people walked by as I tried to be nonchalant :-) Whether it's age, injury or both Vic, sorry to hear you had to sell your bikes though - especially the Z900RS-SE....What a gorgeous bike that is. I really miss mine but having said that I'm quite liking the new "low power" and "ease of use" world and now jump (not literally) at any chance to ride. I've got my touring plans sorted and will be heading across to Amsterdam on the Newcastle ferry in September for 10 days of humming around the low countries, black forest and the Alsace. Kinda nervous but excited also. Let me know how you get on if you do decide to head over to Spain this year. All the best, thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Hello! Good to hear from you and what great avatar name you have! Thanks very much for your comments, much appreciated. All the best, have a nice day, cheers, Phil.
Great review! I recently took delivery of an identical ADV from the same dealer, after starting to become shall we say 'increasingly aware of my own mortality' riding fast bikes. As you say, the bike is just fast enough, and ideal for pottering around the Northern countryside. Very easy to ride, stable and handles very well, and you don't have to worry about putting down too much power coming out of bends! 🙂
Hey Paul, thanks for that. I think the scoots are flying out of the Newcastle showroom at the moment! Then again I guess that’s not surprising as unfortunately the biking demographic isn’t exactly getting any younger. And as you say, with that comes a few more practical realities. Despite that though for zipping around lovely little roads and picking up cheese scones and a nice bottle from M&S on the way back (the supermarket / not the bike shop on Westgate road) it’s really quite perfect. Plus it’s great pinning it out of corners and never being surprised. If I see an identical scoot on the A1 I’ll wave! As let’s face it, no one else will 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Just bought mine a couple of weeks ago and agree with your assessment! Had a 125 cc for 9 years we rode when on vacation when at our summer home on one of the Portuguese islands. This bike really steps up the ease of getting around in the cities and is really appreciated when going from one side to the other at a very nice clip. Super happy with the upgrade, would definitely recommend! ❤
Afternoon Michael - great to hear from you & thanks for taking the time to comment. Great to know you’re enjoying your ADV…I can’t think of anything better for whizzing around at either your summer or winter home! And yes, they do handle quite well 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Your report speaks from my heart, I feel the same way about the ADV350 as you do, a great, sporty scooter suitable for everyday use with good handling and a lot of fun, thank you very much for your great report, I love it 😍 many greetings from Germany
Thank you very much and greetings from the UK. It great to know you really enjoy your ADV and also enjoyed the video, thanks so much. Have a good evening, ride safe, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Well done Phil a really calm considered and honest review …reeks of an experienced biker and what we are really interested in. Keep up the good work and take good care of those easy peelers !
Hey Roddy, thanks for the feedback - much appreciated! As for the easy peelers, they are being very well looked after :-) Hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.
Bought a Forza 350 and love it. Used too ride sportsbikes but now have knackered knees.So mounting the bike by putting leg through super helpful.once on.no problem.Great review thank you.
Hey Simon, thanks for stopping by. Knackered knees…Yeah I sympathise! When I was riding bikes on long tours / fast rides part of the allure was always getting to the other end, feeling tired and aching - these days I much prefer gliding around in perfect comfort on something which is so easy to use and practical. Getting on and off easily also helps! As does no drive chain… Anyway, glad you enjoyed the review and good to know that you’re enjoying the Forza, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Obviously not from someone 'sponsored' by a manufacturer, so thanks for your honesty ,great review and has helped me, old big bike rider for over 50 years, decide to take the plunge... I had a test ride yesterday and tried the forza and ADV, both brought a big grin, but the ADV handled much better on the twisty back roads and gave a great feeling of being well planted ..... The order is in, looking forward to a new chapter, thanks for the video, it made a difference...
Hey Adrian, 'sponsored' ? Ha ha, no way. Everything is bought and paid for! It's really good to hear your views on the ADV / Forza though - I only sat on the Forza in the showroom and immediately felt it was a good city scooter - but the ADV, with its bike like front end felt like it would deliver proper handling and road holding. Which it does. It's not perfect, but I'll take good handling any day! Let me know how you get on with yours when it arrives, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Just signed up, pick up a nice white ADV Monday. Some great feedback from others who follow you regarding touring .... never done any great distance on anything other than a 'big bike', so looking forward to planning a little trip ... As romised. i'll keep you posted mate ...
@@adrianmccabe6107 Hey Adrian, excellent news 😀 I'm heading off in September for my Euro-Tour on the ADV and I'm really looking forward to it - especially the lack of preparation! Just sling everything under the seat! And 70 MPG! Brilliant. Good luck with your trip Adrian, cheers, Phil.
You are probably the most off-beat presenter on here. That's a compliment. I have got a yearning for one of these, so watching it again. I really enjoy riding my 155cc twist and go, a Yamaha Aerox. 10:14 What a nice town. Berwick? Nick J
Ha ha I'll definitely take that as a compliment - thank you! Have a look at the six month video and you'll see I've become quite smitten by the ADV. As with anything, 'specs' say absolutely nothing and it is, as you say, about what you enjoy, so I'm sure the Aerox is a blast. I spent a year commuting in the snow on a CG125 and it was brilliant fun! And yes, that is Berwick - it's a shame the that the notional town centre is a bit rubbish as all the little side streets, the walls, quayside, riverside etc, are all lovely. It's well worth a visit. All the best Nick, thanks for dropping by, cheers, Phil.
Hey Nick, ah! It’s you! There’s something about these new YT handles that means I don’t really know who I’m speaking to! Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
You nailed what this bike is for and thus far it seems to do them all well. Plus it's a great looking unit. That's a great plan to use it for the tour around Europe too. Toaster bit was absolutely priceless, thanks for the early AM laugh 😅
Mr Neutral, great to hear from you again. Has the temperature reached 💯 yet? I’m thinking of doing a series based around “Scooter breakfasts from around the world” so if you let me know what a good Florida breakfast is, I’ll see what I can do. If it involves ribs or a visit to Denny’s though, I might struggle 😀 All the best, washing machine test coming soon, cheers, Phil.
I sold my V Strom 1000 because getting my leg over was becoming difficult due to knee and hip arthritis. I bought a Honda SH350i (same drive train as yours) and have been having a great time with it. If you get the chance, try one. Getting on and off is a doddle compared to the ADV and Forza. Can't quite get a toaster in, but I can get a coolbag in the topbox and a takeaway bag on the "curry hook". Just did a 178 mile ride with a couple of pals on sporty motorcycles - no problem!
Afternoon, what - the toaster won’t fit in? Well, that’s a deal breaker right there 😀 I’m slightly jealous about the “curry hook” though, I’m not sure if the ADV has one? I need one, or two! It’s great to hear you’re comfortable and able to get out and about easily on the SH though - I may very be following you at some point. I’ll also be getting a top box soon…I mean you have to don’t you 😀 As you say, the engine and CVT on these machines are really good - I’m very impressed tbh. Must dash - it’s a beautiful evening 🛵 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Excellent review, it’s not as you say for real off roading, mines going in for it’s first service next week, surprisingly nimble and agile, suspension is firm, under-seat storage is a great bonus.
Hey Adrian, thanks so much, glad you enjoyed the review and are enjoying the ADV. I think the handling overall was the biggest surprise and bonus for me - as you say, it’s very nimble yet sure footed at the same time. Don’t get me started on the storage though 😍 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Thanks Mark and yes, I know - it’s sacrilege. And no Marmite either….One thing that’s missing from the ADV - a chilled glove compartment. What were the designers thinking of by missing that out? All the best, cheers, Phil.
@davideccles1617 Very true David, it’s not right but it all comes down to logistics and practicalities. Carrying and then smearing butter on a cold crumpet that had the consistency of memory foam seemed a bridge too far 😀 I’ll do better next time & bring the Marmite 😋 All the best, Phil.
Very true David, just, I dunno - then I’d need the butter dish, a special knife, some kind of plate and it all gets complicated….Still, you know what, you’re right. Next video will be proper! Thanks for the challenge!
Thank you for that review.Nice to see that you are on two wheels again. I've been looking at what I could potentially get to stay on two wheels after I recently developed osteoarthritis in my right hip and knee which causes huge problems (and pain) when trying to get on and off a motorcycle. I'm having to sell my beloved KTM 790 and I think I'll be seriously looking at this Honda :)
Good evening Mr.Motomuso, great to hear from you and thanks for your kind comments - most appreciated. Sorry to hear about your OA and how it’s affecting you. I now have a bike in addition to the ADV but like you, swinging my leg over the bike (even though it’s small) is difficult as is keeping my knee bent so I can reach the footpeg. The ADV is so much easier and so much more comfortable - while it’s not a pure “step through” I find it much easier to get on / off and while riding I hardly notice my knee at all. And to be completely honest if you keep it on the roads where it works well, it’s a lot of fun. Yes, it’s not as visceral as a bike, but it still has a lot going for it. And while practicality can be seen as boring perhaps it is a really useful machine. If you love the sensation of two wheels I think anything which can extend that for you is worth it. Let me know how you get on! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Good to see you out enjoying a two wheeler again! Seems a well designed product that is all most of us would ever need. I’ve long been a big Honda fan and if I had room for more than one bike I would probably include a Honda scoot. Thanks for another brilliant video.
Good morning and thank you very much 😀 You’re right in that the scoot is probably as much as anyone would need in reality, it’s just the thing about bikes is having more than you need - whether that’s in terms of speed, power, looks and tech. Bikes are much more aspirational I guess. As a means of getting about though, they are really good. Great to hear from you again, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for the video. It always impressed me how the prices in the UK and USA are so much lower than the rest of the world. In Ireland a used one is around 7200€ and in Brazil the price is prohibitive.
Hello EddieInTrouble - thanks for stopping by. Prices are mad everywhere as you say - like the ADV 350 seems sort of reasonable in the UK, but then the higher end machines are crazy prices, while insurance and service / parts costs can be insane. I totally get profit motive and that manufacturers charge what the market can handle, but yeah, it's not fair! Anyway, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Thanks very much! Really appreciate the comments and yes, a beer cooler would be nice. I think that’s what I’ll do when I get a top box 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
i have experience with many different bikes but i always say the fastest machine i have and ever ridden is my sh300i. For real world use, commuting and city traffic the combination of light weigh, 27 instant hp and the cvt geabox is unbeatable. Also, with a nervous right wrist i can still do 3,6l/100km every tank and riding like a hooligan sometimes. Scooters are amazing, not emotional but extremely effective and this motor is bombproof (mine is the 300cc but basically the same with 75000km and counting)
You’re so right and if I had my commuting in the city time again I would so go for a scooter. Even now, I really value being able to jump on it, carry stuff with no hassle and keep up with traffic plus have a good time in the corners. As you say, they are not emotional vehicles in themselves, but are so practical for doing real world stuff. And 75K on yours….! Yeah, I think I’m keeping mine regardless of what happens in the future. And I won’t compare it to an XT500 ha ha ha. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Just found your channel via the CL500 which is in my radar. An ADV is also of interest, I've had many scooters and an ADV could well be next. I also watched your accident video and wish i hadn't! I've been riding 45years and of course feel I'm invincible, to see I'm not is sobering! Anyway.... About your channel, I see you're not new to video, but your delivery, editing and depth of content is really excellent. I look forward to more of the same - but no more accidents please....😬
Hey Rog, well, I'm very pleased to hear from you and very pleased that it's not just me who enjoys the slightly odd combo of the CL and the ADV! I definitely should have owned a scoot before though - I feel I've missed out a lot. As for feeling invincible, yeah I knew that feeling also. It's an odd thing...I made a tiny mistake that 999 times out of a 1000 wouldn't have had any consequences, but this time it did. Still, there's so much to be positive about and I'm enjoying and appreciating my riding so much without the need for speed, huge lean angles or anything. It's just nice to be out and have 48 litres of underseat storage :-) As for the video content - well, to be honest, that's what the channel is about really - the filming, editing, colour grading and getting feedback on it, so I really appreciate your comments and it's good to know the work is appreciated. Still lots to improve though. I've got another CL video coming up at some point - I won't say soon though ha ha ha. And yeah, no more accidents - for either of us. Ride safe, all the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews we do indeed have similar taste in motorcycles. I had z900rs and my current daily is a V85tt. In my effort to slow down I bought a very rough R100 with the intention to refresh it. I then saw another R100 fully refreshed for silly money....do I now have two. Both tax/ MOT free but very satisfying to ride.
Hey Maurizio, great to hear from you & thanks for stopping by. It's really good to know you enjoyed the video - thanks so much. All the best, cheers, Phil.
This Honda ADV is something else, rides like a bike, raised wide bars perfect screen if you enjoy the ride, feet forward back press against the back rest and lock in for the twisties. Its quick off the mark and a top speed of 90 (thats where bike feel counts) Looks good And other bikers nod which is a small bonus. Even the stock exhauste has a good note.
Hello! Thanks for stopping by. Totally agree on the ride aspect - it really does ride like a bike at all speeds as you say. And when you use both brakes it stops brilliantly. I tell you what, it’s kinda growing on me! Two things I slightly disagree with though 1) looks…hmmm…but it’s loads better than the city scoots 2) Bikers waving…everyone looks straight through me when I zoom by…I’ve got over it though 😀 Anyway, hope you’re well, cheers, Phil.
Hello again Alan! How are you doing? Great to know you like this video - you must be a fan of easy peelers, toast and crumpets also? It's good to know the work is appreciated though so thanks very much for taking the time to comment. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Thank you for the great review. I am very nearly 60. . . and have been riding and have been riding from 16 (I think it was a Honda MT5). I never ridden a scooter? Due to arthritis legs aren't as flexible these days. . . As a result I have a Honda Hornet 750 twin 8 months old as new never ridden 0 miles. I think the ADV is the way forward. Thanks again, Andy.
Hey Andy, great to hear from you and very sorry to hear about the arthritis and impact on your riding. My mum had arthritis and I’m getting a bit in my hands so have a sense of what it’s like. You’ll know my right knee is pretty compromised these days but the ADV gave me a new lease of riding life plus it opened my eyes to a different way of approaching things. And the ease of use means it gets used all the time as opposed to “putting it off”. If you do get one you’ll be able to enjoy the places and people you did before and you’ll notice much more and get wherever you’re going comfortably and I guarantee it - just as quick as before. Let me know what you decide to do and thanks for your feedback Andy - much appreciated, cheers, Phil.
Mr Lawson, good to hear from you again, hope all is well. Yes, it’s a fabulous time of year here in the UK and there’s nothing better than the dawn chorus especially. All the best, cheers, Phil.
I've had mine for almost one year, clocked up 18,000 km . I've rode some amazing rides in Thailand. The shock I got when I saw how much they are in UK. Well over £1000 , more in UK than in Thailand.
Hey Paul, thanks for stopping by and good to hear about your experiences on the ADV. As for the price in the UK, well, yeah. We always get ripped - even a cabbage costs £17 these days 😀 Hope all is well in🇹🇭, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Thanks very much Kevin, glad you enjoyed the review. And yes, there are some odd commercial decisions being made - another example is Honda not bringing over the CB350 to the UK, given the success of the smaller Enfields, it would be massive. All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews it's either Honda is just plain arrogant or very conservative not covering all it's bases. Anyhow I do hear good reviews of the R. E., It was just unfortunate that a friend encountered a lemon unit from them that was resolved through a lengthy process. Anyhow, loved that part about your Al Fresco breakfast and inspired me to do my own version minus the toaster. Cheers! And looking forward to your next reviews, Phil!
@@80eightReviews Yes doing well and travelling a lot on two wheels over the last year (Africa, Central America, Australia, throughout Europe...). Keep up the reviews please.
Hey Peter, will do and your own travels sound very exciting! I was hoping to whizz around Greece and Albania last year on the Guzzi but maybe 2024 on the Scoot! If you’ve been to Albania, let me know your thoughts, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Okay, I'll confess, I bought a Himalayan rather than a Guzzi. I rode a Him. around in East Africa where I accidentally found myself off-road at times, and then had some off-road misadventures in Central America on a Honda 250 Tornado. So, my Him. is to practice on trails for future off-round experiences (perhaps in the Caucasus). However, a few years ago I did ride from York to Albania on a Guzzi V7 ii and it managed the journey well (especially when filtering in chaotic traffic there). Albania is well worth visiting and of course you could pop over into Greece. The Guzzi v7 850 Stone may be an option soon - but that awful digital clock!
Ha ha confession accepted Peter! And to be honest, I wouldn’t have chosen a Guzzi for East Africa 😀 Back when I used to whizz around the middle east and Africa my DR350 was a cracker so the Him is a kind of spiritual successor I guess. Worst bike was my 1150GS ADV - too heavy, too ponderous and I felt like a rich voyeuristic westerner on it when riding through Syria. Not good - the Him is spot on though! Thanks for the info on Albania and as for the Guzzi clocks - well, there’s always duct tape…. Cheers, Phil.
I bought the Forza after getting smashed off my Speedmaster.. The Forza got me out and about and served well until I could ride a bike again. Never thought I’d own a scooter, but I can really see the benefits of these things now that I’ve had one..👍
Hello - great to hear from you and that's an interesting parallel to my situation. Yes, they are very useful and while nowhere near as involving / visceral as a bike, I'm warming to it! Either way as the first stage back to riding a bike and getting used to two wheels again, they are really good. Think I might keep mine. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Very good review Phil, clear & concise, no booming music & nicely edited. What do you have to say about the weight attached to the back wheel especially over cobbled streets, I have the Burgman 400 and slow speed it sounds worrying, I found it best to gun it and it rides it so much better 😃
Hey Mark, good to hear from you & glad you enjoyed the review. My next video was going to feature a pounding 120BPM soundtrack together with 27 minutes of on-bike GoPro footage but as it’s you, I’ll scrap that and do something else 😀 As for your observation about rearward weight, as you suggest, scooters are probably not the best for weight distribution and my ADV over cobbles (plenty in Berwick) and bumpy roads does sound rather rattly - although that could also be all the stuff I’ve got under the seat shaking about, you know like bits of old wood, a harmonica, a toy bus and some teaspoons 😀 Gun it? Yeah that’s the best option I reckon - when I first started to ride off-road many years ago and faced with something snotty, the old adage was “if in doubt, nail it” Works every time! Mostly… Hope you’re enjoying the Bergman, all the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews The more I ride the Burgman, the more I appreciate it for what it is. This weekend I'm accompanying a friend who's test riding the ADV 350 so it will be interesting to see what he thinks of it. He's thinking of downsizing from a NC750S DCT. Ride smoothly, ride quick and ride safely 😉
@@marktaylor4277 Thanks Mark - let me know what your friend thinks about the ADV. The crashy suspension on will probably come up, especially as he's used to the NC I imagine! It does get (a bit) better though, promise 🙂 Cheers, Phil.
Glad to see Jon's script writing is still bang on, Phil. All the usual gags were there - Peter Fonda's chopper, bruised plums, even a Maggie Thatcher quote - excellent! Just so pleased you're out & about on two wheels again, regaling us with food-related adventures. Right, I'm off to flog the Guzzler & buy a Yamaha Xmax 300. Or possibly not.
Morning Hugh, er yes, I dipped deep in to Jon’s big book of quips and only just managed to pull it back from the full “Carry on up the Khyber” mode. Next time will be different, I won’t be influenced by his punning presence. Though I am thinking of changing the channel name to the “grand khazi”. Moving on. Yes, it’s nice to be out and about. The aim this summer is to do plenty of miles on the washing machine in order to get my eye and stamina back in, then see where I’m at later on in the year. The next food plan is to put a hot plate under the seat, waterproof it and store 48 litres of soup for sale at various lay-bys on the A1. “Scoot soup” £2 a cup. Bargain. Must dash, I need to scan the classifieds for Griso’s in the MK area. Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews "Scoot soup" - presumably made by the one you referred to (a long time ago) as the "Soup Dragon?" Different flavours available? Which day is stilton & parsnip?
Absolutely Hugh, she’s been slaving over a hot stove for the last three days - in between scrubbing the step. I’m thinking Tuesdays for Stilton & Parsnip? If that works, I’ll see you on the Haggerston Castle lay-by. It’s around 300 miles from Mk but well worth it for soup. Why, I’ll even throw in a bap. Bargain!
I'm kind of the opposite coming from zero riding to riding a 125 Yamaha NMax. I'm now coming round to the idea that a bigger faster bike is actually safer on the roads. That is for one reason, the car drivers riding up your backside. Better off being able to ride at least as fast as most cars.
Good afternoon - you make a very valid point - also on bigger and faster machines everything is designed for those parameters, be it brakes, chassis or suspension, so the machines inherently are built stronger and safer in many ways. Personally I would never want to go back to a bike that could not stay ahead of traffic, unless I was was after something for very short town journeys only. Anyway, great to hear from you, hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
Morning - I'm sure it does as does the 350. Purely from my perspective though, when I think of two up touring (going back to the original comment) I think of two people with luggage heading up a 8000ft mountain pass in The Alps and 30HP will only do so much. It will certainly get you to the top no problem, but I think you would get that feeling of pinning the throttle and waiting for something to happen. So yeah, it could do it easily but if that was the main use for it, then something else might be better. Despite that, I'll be heading off for a long tour at some point on it - it's great! Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
The exhilaration of anything that gets you up a hill that you used to ride a push bike up is universal for all two wheeled motorized transport .You are out in the wind and something else is getting you up that hill . AT first I thought you were making a circle around Bridgend but then realized there was no circle there .I will have to Google the town to figure out that spot .. (Late night fun for the elderly) . In New England we have "Thomas's English Muffins" to fill in for a crumpet .. So glad to bike started ... More More !!
Morning Guy, exactly and perfectly put. Now I do like a push bike, but as you say when you have an engine to do the hard work and take you further, what more do you need. As for the riding circle and not to spoil your late night fun (don’t worry I street view my around Bantam and Litchfield 😀) it’s a little square (triangle) on Palace Street, with the fabulously named “Foul Ford” off to one corner, which I’ve always imagined / wanted to be a den of iniquity and desperados back in the days of Dickens. Thomas’s English Muffins, mmm…I’m like the sound of those 😋 More coming soon, hope you and the family are well Guy and that bell keeps on ringing…Well, at least in daylight hours. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Phil, it certainly was a wrench⁷ letting the Tiger, and especially the Yellowball go. I only managed to put 211 miles on it in a year. Not even run in.The hip is a nightmare. Most of the time it is bearable, but really gives me grief after about 15 minutes when I sit on conventional bikes (thats if I can get on them in the first place!). I'm still hanging on to my Ninja z1000sx in the hope things might improve, but I doubt it. If I take the scoot to Spain this year, I will certainly let you know how I get on. Ride safe mate.
Hey Vic, really sorry to hear that. Is the hip wear and tear, product of a mis-spent youth or injury? Any chance of it improving at all? But yeah pain while riding is horrible. I can do around 2 hours on the CL then I'm toast. I went out at the weekend for a few hours and the day after I felt like I'd been thrown the stairs, kicked in the ribs then pushed in front of bus. The ADV is totally comfortable though and even better, I won't have to carry bungee's when I go away on it. Anyway, here's hoping you can get back on the Z1000SX, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews general wear and tear from too many wet and cold trail rides in the past several decades I think. I did have a major get-off in 2000, when my XR650R spat me off along the Ridgeway, but that didnt affect my hips. Just a collarbone broken in two places, shoulder blade cracked in half north to south, and 3 broken ribs. Nothing serious, haha ! But I did have to sleep sitting up for 8 weeks !
Ah mis-spent youth then! Respect for riding the 'Big red pig' on the Ridgeway though! I thought I was doing well on my XR600R back in the day but that was a lightweight pussycat compared to your 650. I stupidly sold the XR for a CCM604...Now that was the devil incarnate, especially when the electric start failed partway through an enduro. Had to sleep sitting up for 8 weeks...Blimey. Yeah, I'm feeling that Vic! Look after yourself, I'm just off to find some Radox :-) Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews jeez ! Lot of parallels going on here. I sold my XR600R to get the 650R. Eventually realised it was a mistake. Too much power, wrong weight distribution = spin up the rear tyre instead of traction. The XR600R, with a few Thumper Racing mods that worked for Scott Summers, was a very underrated woods bike, and I always remember how it plodded up Grwynne Fawr like a trials bike. Superb. Big regret selling that. After the 650R I went with a couple of Husky 510's. The Italian made one with the KYB suspension was the best handling dirt bike I ever had, BUT, had to worry about fuel at about 60 miles ! Mad. Enough of my rambling !
Ha yeah - very similar - the CCM was like 12 inches longer than the XR and wouldn’t turn in the woods. Horrible thing. Sold it to a guy who was taking it to India to use the engine as a replacement well pump. True story! Had a SuperTrapp on my XR600 and it sounded beautiful 🤩 Thought I was Scott Summers up until the point reality hit home - which was most days 😀 Had Supermoto wheels on mine also and stuck a big tank on it and rode it to Egypt. What a bike!
Great vid Phill,I keep toying with the idea of swapping my vstrom for a forza/ADV 350 because I get fed up with changing gears all the time but I do struggle with the stigma that seems to be attached to scooter riders from other bikers..
Hey Mick, thanks for the comments and hope you’re doing well. Must admit I miss using a gearbox on the ADV but I have to say it’s all super easy! I’ve probably been just as guilty with respect to scooters mainly because they are more about usefulness than outright desire. I can honestly say that I wished I’d had one when I was doing a regular commute to work, as opposed to ruining whatever bike I had at the time. For me the stigma is more self-created I guess and it’s only because I’m still holding out for a bike at some point. Let me know what you decide to do Mick and if you do get a scoot, we can compare storage space 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
I've had mine about a month now and it's just about to go in for it's 600 mile service...I'd agree with your thoughts on it and am enjoying mine....a note to all Adv owners though...check your welds on the tubular chassis and in and around the headstock...the paint around the welds on mine hasn't adhered properly and the dealer is currently dealing with Honda to have it rectified...it's not something you would easily notice without a torch or light so check yours carefully...possibly not all Advs...maybe I'm just unlucky...easily rectified with some anti rust paint or acf50 but shouldn't have to be done on a brand new bike.
Afternoon and thanks for stopping by. Glad you enjoyed the review! Like you I’m thinking these machines are great 2nd bikes and if I had my time again (back when I needed to commute) I would have had one years ago. I’d still keep the bike though 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Hey Nick, good to hear from you and hope all is well in Southern Europe / the far East or wherever you are. Yeah, it’s a nice little thing the ADV and like you I’ve heard a bit of tweaking with the CVT and airbox can make a world of improvement. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Hello and thanks for stopping by - glad you found the review useful. Good luck with your decision making - both are great scoots so you're not going to go wrong with either. Let me know what you decide! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Hey Jonathan, good to hear from you and glad you liked the review. As for your question…Easily! Although to clarify, I’m assuming you mean one-up only? The scoot easily cruises at 75mph, handles well in the corners and even as standard, carries tons of luggage. It’s comfortable plus not so fast that you miss everything. If your aim is to see stuff the ADV is great. Going uphill it doesn’t exactly ‘struggle’ but you just have to accept it is what it is. And the economy is great. I think it all depends on why you tour - is it about carving around great tarmac and using all yours and the bikes abilities or is it about seeing new places and enjoying the ride. If the latter, the ADV is spot on, if not, then get something else. Either way, I’m hoping to get to Europe next year on the ADV regardless of whether I get another bike or not. It’s that good! Two up though? Hmm…I think 30HP would not struggle, but be a little frustrating. Kinda like towing a caravan, which as we know, is a version of hell 😀 Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Hey Phil. Yes just me on the bike and enjoying the scenery and no rush. Hoping to go to scotland and Europe so Thankyou so much for the advice. Best wishes
Great stuff! Im a motorcycle rider since the 70's thinking about trading in my Honda Click 160abs and NX500 big bike for one bike after i saw many local riders here touring on their ADV350. I had to upgrade both my Honda's suspension front and back to YSS which is not too expensive and its made them much more rideable and i wonder if its the same story on your ADV. Perhaps progressive springs on the front and rebound adjustability on the shock may make the bike more pleasant on you back. I need to rent an ADV360 for a few days to get the gist of whether it has the flickability of my Click 160 or close to it. I live in Thailand and both my big bike and scooter are great here but owning one bike makes a lot more sense in some regards so i am pretty curious whether the ADV could be both a "big touring bike' and a 'daily about town " scooter. Of course it wont as 'good' as either but the convenience of owning one bike might outweigh the bother of owning two bikes
Good morning Dr D, great to hear from you & thanks for your comments and thoughts. On the ADV suspension you're probably right actually - it wouldn't take too much to make it more compliant / progressive and keep the roadholding. Like you, I've used YSS on other bikes and found them to be a good balance of performance and cost, plus of course any adjustability is a good thing so at least you can tune it for yourself. I won't be changing the suspension on the ADV as I've got used to it, the Michelin City Grips have improved the 'feel' and also I found when the scooter was fully loaded on my recent tour to Europe, the suspension was much better! I can definitely vouch for the ADV being a good touring bike, it fact it's close to being brilliant and it just swallowed up the miles, the luggage and the conditions during my 1,800 mile tour so easily. And it was fun. I find it great around town but I don't have any reference points to smaller scooters - it is of course, much wider I guess and the handling to me is light but neutral and more "bike-like" Have a look t my ADV touring videos - especially the one on the Grimsel Pass! Anyway, once you've had a test ride - let me know what you think - I'd be interested to know! All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Hi Phil, a quick thank you for your comment and yes i will dig through your other video's they are very watchable and high quality. I actually am surprised that i find my little Honda 160 scooter more fun to ride than my NX500. I have been riding many types of bikes but I really do enjoy the scooter although its a little small for me at 6' 220lbs i look like a gorilla on a tricycle at a circus haha. The modern scooters have totally changed the game and my last scooter here with rear drum brakes gave me a scare so the new scooter with dual disc brakes feels like a big step up. Its also quick off the line. My Click 150 is 116kg vs the 350ADV which is 186kg so I imagine it will feel different around town but the weight would be important for touring. I nearly bought the 160ADV but thought it a bit bulky for town but now see the wisdom of a 350 engine with the same size chassis as perhaps being perfect for Thailand. The NX500 is just too big for exploring towns here where the roads are tiny and set up for scooters and very very busy. A scooter is just so much easier in towns down here to ride in what looks like chaos. There is not much parking space for a big bike either here. I added Pirelli Angel Scooter tires right off the bat and it made a big difference. I run Michelin Road 6 tires on the NX500 and they are mind boggling how good they are. Premium tires are my go to upgrade especially because where i ride has heaps of rain. I found a local rental shop today in town with the 350 ADV so i will take one out for the day. The amount of storage under the seat and a top box should do me fine but I have seen one fellow here in Thailand with aluminum side boxes mounted on his 350ADV. Its the Thai guys here that ride them 2 up cross country and they have really got me curious because they keep up to me in the twisties on m y NX500. I am not the fastest rider and can certainly pull away from them on straight stretches but I was surprised. Cheers!
Hello and good morning - great to know you enjoyed the review. If I get the chance to ride the XMAX, I will! All the best and have a great day, cheers, Phil.
Hey Phil, glad you're enjoying your ADV. It sounds like a pretty good package and most importantly, it has 2 wheels ........ one in front of the other! If it gets you back out and about, as you say, what's not to like. Not one upmanship but my new Hunter 350 is repeatedly returning about 110 mpg but you've definitely pipped me on top speed by quite a margin 😁👍 All the best, Phil
Morning! Thanks for stopping by. Yes, two wheels in front of each other is always a good thing..especially compared to side by side 😀 OK, you win completely on the Hunter and MPG (I do like the look of them btw) and of course I won’t mention the under seat storage for the 1000th time otherwise it could get to be a bit boring 🥱 Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
Hello and good morning - many thanks for dropping by and it's good to know you enjoyed the review. And yes, whizzing around Europe with my own toaster (and perhaps a kettle) just seems to me to be the absolute epitome of luxurious travel. I may even take my own biscuits. All the best, cheers, Phil.
I hate the bus as well, but don't you feel the ADV350 is a bit large for a scooter? I think a PCX125 or SR 200 GT looks a bit more my alley, takes up less yard space, and looks more flickable into turns, with less mass to decelerate as well.. I'd still grab a ADV350 if given. Hunter 350 rolling now, but I want an automatic, lol.
Morning, thanks for stopping by - as for your question is the ADV too large? Well, I guess it comes down to use case really. If you need a scooter for exclusively cross town / city use then yes, I'd agree something smaller and slimmer would be more effective. Not that the ADV 350 is any way unwieldily but it is a wide as a motorcycle and yes, it does take up some space in the shed. For longer distance trips, fast riding and roadholding and massive storage capacity then the ADV 350 is just brilliant. It's size and speed also means you ride any road and not feel the other traffic is bullying you into the gutter...I do like those SR200's though! All the best, if you do get an ADV 350, let me know how you get on with it. Cheers, Phil.
I have a Forza 350. Bought new March 2022. The suspension was really harsh at first but now it's got 8000 miles on it it has softened up quite a bit and is a lot more comfortable. I have changed the screen on it to reduce the buffeting at speed (I think the aerodynamics aren't the best). How is the small screen on the adv, at say 70mph?
Hey Alex, thanks for stopping by and that’s good information. I ride a lot on very bumpy / badly maintained roads (as I enjoy it!) so a little more forgiveness from the rear shocks at least would be good. I’ll see what happens. As for the screen on the ADV I have to admit I’ve only used it in its lowest position and not done any sustained high speed riding, but so far so good and I’ve not noticed any buffeting or anything. I’ll report back when I’ve done a few more miles on it. Great to hear from you Alex, hope you get many more miles on your Forza, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Toasted crumpets, squished ez peelers/bruised plums (lol), … omg hilarious, Phil. But riding a hard suspension scooter on 100+ mile excursions??? Hmmm don’t think my 60yr old butt - nor plums - would be happy. Great vid, as always. Cheers!
Hey Stephen, it all happens in the wilds of Northumberland, what can I say 😀 I haven’t done a long trip on the scoot yet, so I will report back on how the easy peelers do over a distance. I’m 56 so a little delicate on occasion also 😀 Will let you know…Great to hear from you again, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Hey Paul, hope you had a good thanksgiving. But yes, it’s true! 48L of storage! It’s incredible! I’ve lost count of how many folk from the US wish it was available so it must be time to start a petition! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Thank You very much for your Chanel and humble opinion and effort you put into this Just a quick question Phil As l am very interested in this Honda scooter,l m 6'3 Is it feels that it's enough leg room on this from your experience for taller man like me? Thank You 👍
Hey Darius, great to hear from you and many thanks for your comments. With respect to your question, there is plenty of room on the ADV with a very flexible range of riding positions as you can see on the video - certainly more than most standard bikes. Of course, if you get chance to sit on then you should try it, just to make sure. Hope that helps, all the best, Phil.
Good morning & thanks for the support - it’s sooo nice to be out! As for the Guzzi, I reluctantly decided to sell it (and my CRF) as my current mobility doesn’t allow me to get my right leg on a normal bike foot peg and reach the brake. I did experiment with a bolt on peg, mounted forward but it was really uncomfortable plus my knee was right up against the cylinder head. I’m hoping that after further surgery this year, I’ll be able to get back on a bike and another Guzzi will be right up there! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Hey Neil, thanks for stopping and good to hear from you. As for snobbery about engine size...I think you're right in some circumstances although I'd probably describe it more as a 'dismissive' attitude and actually it's also combined with machines that are perceived to be not as 'premium' or at the 'pinnacle' of whatever type of machine is being discussed. I don't think the manufacturers help though in their inexorable push towards huge bikes with huge horsepower - which isn't a problem in it's own right but more how they are marketed as the only solution for touring, off-road, adventure or whatever. Now, as enthusiasts we all want the 'best' but in terms of what the best is for a particular rider is entirely personal! Having said that though, things are changing alongside the ageing demographic so we're seeing much smaller bikes being developed. It's funny though, back when I was getting into bikes (early '80s) a 400cc bike was seen as mid-capacity now it's regarded as a 'small' bike. Scooters are not really seen as real bikes either (whatever that means) but I can honestly say they most certainly are! All the best Neil, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Cheers for responding Phil, I will be ordering a Honda ADV 350 after watching yours and other reviews. That is big enough for me and my needs for now. All the very best Neil
@@neiluk78 Morning Neil ,no worries and great to know you've got one on order. To be honest with you I think the ADV is as much scooter as anyone would need in reality. I whizzed down to Manchester the other day (over 400 miles for me) and a lot of it on the M6. It was great - cruised at an easy indicated 75-80 all the way, never got bullied by traffic and nice in the bends on the A7. Plus 65MPG!! When it comes time to change your tyres, I can recommended the Michelin City Grip 2's - they are brilliant. There's nothing wrong with OEM Karoo's at all but the Michelins have a load more feel. Anyway, let me know how you get on Neil and fingers crossed you get some dry weather for your first few miles, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Good on ya buddy for the advice, I will bear it mind. I am like you, I had a injury (not through riding) and it has prevented me from riding gears. I had a spinal injury and it has left me with drop foot aswell as other complications. Great to hear you are having fun on the ADV, it appears to be a great bike. Going back to the initial point, snobbery in the biking community. I guess we have snobbery in the car community and every other facet of life come to that. The moral of the story is do not let judgemental people concern us in anyway and enjoy the ride whatever is under there. Keep a smile on your dial and move safely. All the very best Phil.
After seeing your video I would have taken the Forza 350. It seems to be more what you really want. More storage space, better wind protection. What is there not to like, as you would say. By the way, how tall are you?
Good afternoon, thanks for stopping by. Between the Forza and the ADV, to be honest there isn’t (or wasn’t) much in it for me. The storage space as far as I understand is the same on both machines and as wind protection isn’t a big deal for me (I like touring on unfaired bikes for instance) it came down to what feels / looks like a better front end on the ADV and that I would be spending most of riding on bumpy B-Roads. Despite that I’m sure I’d like Forza just as much as the ADV. I would prefer the twin clocks on the Forza though. Mobility wise (getting on / off) I found no real difference between them. Should I ever end up with the 750 versions though I’d probably go for the Forza 750 as with that engine package if sort of seems to make more sense. As for height I’m 5’10 / 1.78m Hope that helps, have a good day, cheers, Phil.
Good afternoon Mr. Drady and good to hear from you. I'm 178cm and 76KG and you can see how I fit on the scoot in the later review video. I'm thinking you should fit OK and be comfortable on the scooter as there's lots of positions for your legs. All I would say is that it's not possible to slide further back in the seat as it has a pronounced step up to the pillion. It would be well worth sitting on one in the showroom if there's one near you. Hope that helps, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Good review but wrong about the suspension when compared to the forza. Forza suspension is complete garbage when compared to this. You feel all the holes in a forza
Hello & thanks for stopping by. Actually that’s the reason I chose the ADV over the Forza, but I figured it might be more comfortable on less challenging roads. Next review I’ll mention! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Hey Chris, good to hear from you again, hope all is well with you. Fuel economy seems quite good, averaging around 75mpg so far after 500 or so miles. Range wise that means you can push to around 170 miles are so. And yeah, it is quite good fun and certainly a good thing for zipping around and exploring, especially if you get hungry on the way 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Hello Jason, er what, now? 2024? If you mean the bike it was new in 2023 and as it hasn’t changed since being introduced (aside from colours) MY is immaterial so I didn’t bother saying anything. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Would you consider the 750 version? I don’t have mobility issues to guide my decisions but as a motorcyclist I do keep looking at twist and go but never had the courage to buy… maybe a second bike?! I wish there were more hybrid motorcycles with the ease of scooters… like what Honda did with the NC… I also look at electric, but think they are still in their infancy. Pleased you’re back on two wheels…
Good evening & thanks for stopping by. Hmmm…The 750…I think I would but only in a “needs must” situation, for example if riding a bike is out of the question & the extra power was needed. But at twice the price of the 350 it’s some decision! You can probably tell that for me, scooters are not objects of desire (like bikes) but I do genuinely wish I had tried and bought one years earlier - for commuting and general usefulness they are cracking. So yeah, second bike material I’d say. As for electric, like you I’m really keen to try them but as you say, they are not quite there yet. It won’t be long though. Either way, two wheels are best. Thanks for watching, all the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews I bought a Forza 300 for to knee issues. I've done 10,000 miles in 3 years. I'm never going back to using a motorcycle for touring. I wish I'd done it years ago. The 300/350 is more than powerful enough for UK roads.
Well, of course - very carefully and make sure they are laid on something soft, oh and watch the lid of the storage compartment when you close it. Otherwise, it could be very nasty :-)
Hey Ian! Whaaattttt!!!! You mean I didn't mention the incredible 48 LITRES of underseat storage on the ADV??? Well, let me correct that - it has 48 LITRES of underseat storage which is so cavernous it has its own echo. So, yes the 48 Litres of storage is just brilliant. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Ah, okay. So if I've interpreted your hints correctly, Phil, this scooter has just under 50 litres of underseat storage, right? I just wish you'd mentioned it, because storage is an important consideration for many of us considering buying one of these. Perhaps you could bear it in mind for future videos.
@@pianoyan Morning Ian, I'm hanging my head in shame on this - you've got me bang to rights....Yes, it has just under 50 litres of underseat storage and with the glove compartment another 2.5 litres. Which, by my Einstein-esque calculations makes a glorious 50.5 Litres of lovely storage. Perfect for soft fruit, toasters and other kitchen essentials. Going forwards, I'll bear this in mind as you quite rightly say Ian. Indeed, if I were of a particular persuasion I'd be off to confession even as we speak. Yours sorrowfully, Phil. p.s. Just so there is no confusion : It has 48 LITRES of underseat storage or just over 10.5 Gallons. It's a good place for keeping bats also.
Hi I'm thinking about getting the adv for the reasons people have said. as never ridden a scoot do they corner as good as a bike thinking the wheels are a lot smaller.
Good afternoon, thanks for stopping by. Personally speaking, I think the ADV handles exceptionally well and I don’t really notice or think about the small wheels. It’s very manoeuvrable at low speed as you’d expect, but once up to speed it’s stable and nice and neutral when going through corners. Even on faster corners it holds a line very well. You do miss a little feedback from the front tyre compared to a bike but it’s something you quickly get used to. Hope that helps, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Morning Christian, good to hear from you. Yeah, I came to scooters way too late! Either the ADV will be my keeper for ever or like you I'll get more as the years progress. And yes, get another one quick! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Afternoon, thanks for stopping by. Well, in a perfect world I’ll be getting back on a bike again in the future at which point, I’ll probably keep the ADV for shopping trips and/or moonlighting for Deliveroo 😀 Quite like the T Max tbh but the price and the fact scooters are for me a necessity as opposed to a ‘want’ preclude one for now! All the best, cheers, Phil.
And with a price difference like that it’s quite hard to justify from a value perspective. I keep thinking about the X-ADV but again for another £6K what will it give me. Now with bikes I think it’s a little different….that’s more about ‘want’ as opposed to ‘need’ or at least it is for me! Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews I cannot remember if you said you tried the X-ADV but as I have right knee injuries and it is the only bike I can mount happily, it is an astonishing piece of kit which possibly i never need give up and satisfies the 'bike' credential! All the best with wh'ever!
Hey John, well, to be honest, at least in the UK, it would be fine for long motorway/highway trips as it will do 75mph forever and is super comfortable! I am a big fan of long distance on small bikes though 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Hey Edward, thanks for stopping by - I've had plenty of comments from folk in US saying exactly the same thing - it's time to start a petition I reckon! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Morning & good to hear from you...Soggy grass...Yeah, me neither - gravel is fine but not much more than that. All the best and hope you're enjoying your ADV, cheers, Phil.,
I’ve owned 5 different scooters in the last 45 years and 19 motorcycles.I Can only compare the ADV 350 to my Tmax.Because you’ve got the best of the bunch first time round you are spoilt Vespa’s xmax Yamaha’s Piaggio’s will disappoint Where as the ADV has superior suspension steering and handling. I’ve had 3 back operations and am not ready to give up riding just yet. Anyway coming back to Tmax it’s a lot lot faster than the ADV but ADV is a lot lighter. I’ve done 450 miles and love it carnt wait for it to be run in so i explore its true potential. Anyway enjoy and ride safe.
Hey Neil, good to hear from and thanks for your interesting comments an comparisons. I think for me, it’s the handling that is so much better than I expected - while the steering is light, it’s also very stable and neutral round bends. I was half expecting to have to wrench it upright coming out of corners but there’s none of that - it just glides round beautifully. Hope you continue to enjoy yours over the next few months of Summer, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Evening Jim, good to hear from you. Well, er, given what the video was supposed to be about i.e. "First Impressions from someone who has never ridden a scooter before" I think I know EVERYTHING about it in that context! (Sorry for shouting). Now if the title of the video was "long term review from some bloke who's owned 72 scooters" then yeah, you might have a point. Most 'first ride' videos are exactly that and probably much shorter in terms of miles traveled - press launches 200 miles maybe and a lot of folk give their impressions after a dealer demo ride for an hour or so. Anyway, see the subsequent video @ the 3000 mile mark. I've still only ever owned one scooter though :-) Millions of bikes though! And lots of toast! All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews 3000 miles is NOTHING , but my main complaint is ..... if you havnt owned a few maxi scooters or even ANY scooter before ........ then technically HOW can it be of use to someone who wants to know the usual question like ...."is it any good"? ...you have nothing to compare it to. Lets face it, the type of person who watches this wants to know whether to consider buying one.
Fantastic machine... Practical fun. I think it's gem. And 9/10, 40 year olds getting a bus are a failure. Maggie spoke the truth. Which politician does that these days? None! Like her or not, truth is truth! Yes Kier, men have dicks. Anyhoo, good review - great machine.
Hey Andrew, thanks for stopping by, and good to hear from you. Ha ha yeah, exactly - just say what you see, it’s always the best policy! Right, I’m off to “get on my bike” 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Look at any traffic queue in urban areas and you'll find a bus at the start of it. They float around like blood clots, jamming the flow, slow, noisy, smelly and filled to the brim with 3 people - outside of peak traffic. Blocking your way, holding everyone up in a haze of diesel exhaust and green wishful thinking. They're not the answer, they are the problem. Together with bus lanes, cycle lanes bloody dog walking lanes and prams, if the mad buggers in the council get their way. Anything to squeeze the arteries and then feign surprise that air quality is deteriorating. They've caused it to happen. Grump.....
Ha ha so I’m getting the feeling that a National Express coach holiday might not be on your bucket list. But yeah…The buses in Edinburgh and folks queuing on the pavements are horrendous. The bus journeys I really don’t like are when it’s cold and wet outside and the inside of the bus is all damp and smelly with condensation running down the windows….Ugh. That and 20 mph speed limits, people with huge golfing umbrellas, cars with “little princess onboard” stickers or those with cutout pictures of horses heads in the back window…Grumble, mumble, grumble. Blimey, you’ve started me off now! All the best, cheers, Phil 😀
Hello! That’s around £6,300 in GBP I think, so yeah, it’s a bit more expensive and that’s unusual as we usually get ripped here! Would I have bought it for £6.3K here in the UK…Hmmm…not sure to be honest. As for the top box, er, yeah, it’s mad! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Good afternoon Swiss Oliver, ha ha well, actually, it's a very real toaster and it's still going strong! I made some toast with it this morning! Now, it may or may not be "USB Powered" - but I couldn't spoil the illusion could I ? All the best, great to hear from you, cheers, Phil.
@SwissOliver Hello again, yes, I’ve still got the ADV and very happy with it. It has now got over 6,000 miles on it, it took me on a 1,800 mile trip to Europe a few months back and it was brilliant! Great machine! Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews hi Phil, oh wow, i'll need to watch more of your videos. Didn't know that a 350 cc would be adequate for trips. Hope you where also in my country ;-)
Hello again, yes, the ADV was more than adequate! It easily cruised at 120KM/H when needed, handled great, was super comfortable and economical. It did great! And yes, I went to the Bernese Oberland and it was great, but aside from one day the weather was very cold and wet. Still good fun though! Cheers, Phil.
Hey John, I'm 5ft 10 (1.77 metres) and find it really comfortable to be honest. Then again, I can sit on broken glass and find it OK, so perhaps it's just me. All the best, cheers, Phil.
You’re not fooling me Phil. I can tell you’re smitten! It’s scooters all the way from now on, I can tell. Mind you I stopped watching at the first mention of 4 to 8 litres…………😮
Evening Jon…Fool you? I’d never even try. But it’s true yes. Why, I’ve just photoshopped an image of David Hasselhoff onto an ADV 350 and am using it as my wallpaper. It’s a beaut. Did you know he single-handedly brought down the Berlin Wall on a Vespa? Respect! I hear you may have 11 litres Jon. Is this true?
What's not to like? The small fuel tank. Why when they make a bike or scooter with good miles per gallon do they put such a small bas tank in it. Should be at least 15 liters or a 18 liter would be great. They call it a ATV witch means great for back roads, where gas stations are few and far between, WAKE UP HONDA. At least they did it right on the CB 500X that is why I added on to my stable, I would like to add a scooter, but want a minim of 400 km per tank of gas, before having to look for a gas station, HONDA DO YOU NOT KNOW WHAT ADVENTURE TOURING IS ALL ABOUT.
Morning, well, it would be nice yes but I guess Honda, when looking at the usual demographic and use case, probably felt the need for 400KM range was relatively niche / small for a vehicle like this.. Perhaps they sacrificed petrol capacity for the storage ability, which at 48L is just brilliant and is perhaps what more customers want? Dunno. As it is you can get 300KM out of it which for most bikes outside of proper ADV bikes and/or tourers is pretty good I guess. I'll certainly be heading off for a Euro-Tour on mine at some point. Ultimately, it's the naming of the scooter which is probably at fault - it's ADV in name only really even iff it can handle dusty backroads really well. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews There are to many bikes that do not get good miles per tank of gas. I live in the country, and in two years had two bikes run out of gas, near my house and had to take gas to them. I have been riding for over 50 years and have had many bikes. Love to tour the back roads, seldom traveled, and many times, just making it to a gas station and once running out of gas and was lucky there was a friendly farmer there who gave me more than enough to get to a gas station. Many great rides spoiled by having to go out of my way to get gas for me or who I was riding with. There are many more advantages to having good range out of a tank of gas. A bike or scooter with that short range should never have the ATV in its name or description. I have ridden with many people who wish there bikes had larger gas tanks. Also talked to some at gas stations wishing thy did not have to fill up just to finish there ride, or get to ware they are going.
Morning, thanks for stopping by. It’s not a scooter? What is it then? It’s in the scooter section of the Honda website. Either way though, regardless of shape or name, it’s a good thing! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Nobody likes bruised plums 😂😂 saucy.. I am thinking about getting another 350 Forza. I regret getting rid a couple years ago. I ride a Kawasaki vulcan now.
Ha ha no they don’t, it can be very nasty. Anyway moving on….I think it’s impossible to go wrong with the Honda mid-range scoots, Forza or ADV, both great machines. I’m impressed! All the best, cheers, Phil.
As a new ADV owner who also has bikes this is the best and most accurate review I've seen on RUclips. You sum it up perfectly, I really like mine and am growing to love it as my experience grows.
Good afternoon Mr ChromeFreeDisco (great handle BTW!) - thanks so much for stopping by - great to know you enjoyed the video and that you to, are also enjoying the ADV350. As per the video my eyes have been opened and I'm really looking forward to going on a longer tour with it later this year.
All the best, cheers, Phil
That bit at the end, with you hobbling about and grabbing your leg to haul it through the tunnel, that's me, that is ! I've just bought one too Phil, for the same reasons as yourself. Had to sell my Tiger 900 and Z900RS SE because I can't ride conventional bikes at the moment. Also, like you, I am considering using the scoot to do our regular tour the Pyrenees and Picos this year.
Hey Vic, ha ha, it's good to know it's not just me then. I did try swinging my leg over a few weeks ago and then got kinda stuck with my leg at 90 degrees on the seat. And as you know the seat has quite a bit of friction on it, so it took some time to unhinge myself. A few people walked by as I tried to be nonchalant :-)
Whether it's age, injury or both Vic, sorry to hear you had to sell your bikes though - especially the Z900RS-SE....What a gorgeous bike that is. I really miss mine but having said that I'm quite liking the new "low power" and "ease of use" world and now jump (not literally) at any chance to ride. I've got my touring plans sorted and will be heading across to Amsterdam on the Newcastle ferry in September for 10 days of humming around the low countries, black forest and the Alsace. Kinda nervous but excited also. Let me know how you get on if you do decide to head over to Spain this year.
All the best, thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
I love this..!! Such deprecating humour & honesty. You're a star, and a great review. Well done.
Hello! Good to hear from you and what great avatar name you have! Thanks very much for your comments, much appreciated. All the best, have a nice day, cheers, Phil.
Great review! I recently took delivery of an identical ADV from the same dealer, after starting to become shall we say 'increasingly aware of my own mortality' riding fast bikes. As you say, the bike is just fast enough, and ideal for pottering around the Northern countryside. Very easy to ride, stable and handles very well, and you don't have to worry about putting down too much power coming out of bends! 🙂
Hey Paul, thanks for that. I think the scoots are flying out of the Newcastle showroom at the moment! Then again I guess that’s not surprising as unfortunately the biking demographic isn’t exactly getting any younger. And as you say, with that comes a few more practical realities. Despite that though for zipping around lovely little roads and picking up cheese scones and a nice bottle from M&S on the way back (the supermarket / not the bike shop on Westgate road) it’s really quite perfect. Plus it’s great pinning it out of corners and never being surprised.
If I see an identical scoot on the A1 I’ll wave! As let’s face it, no one else will 😀
All the best, cheers, Phil.
Just bought mine a couple of weeks ago and agree with your assessment! Had a 125 cc for 9 years we rode when on vacation when at our summer home on one of the Portuguese islands. This bike really steps up the ease of getting around in the cities and is really appreciated when going from one side to the other at a very nice clip. Super happy with the upgrade, would definitely recommend! ❤
Afternoon Michael - great to hear from you & thanks for taking the time to comment. Great to know you’re enjoying your ADV…I can’t think of anything better for whizzing around at either your summer or winter home!
And yes, they do handle quite well 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Your report speaks from my heart, I feel the same way about the ADV350 as you do, a great, sporty scooter suitable for everyday use with good handling and a lot of fun, thank you very much for your great report, I love it 😍 many greetings from Germany
Thank you very much and greetings from the UK. It great to know you really enjoy your ADV and also enjoyed the video, thanks so much. Have a good evening, ride safe, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Well done Phil a really calm considered and honest review …reeks of an experienced biker and what we are really interested in. Keep up the good work and take good care of those easy peelers !
Hey Roddy, thanks for the feedback - much appreciated! As for the easy peelers, they are being very well looked after :-)
Hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.
Glad to see you well enough to be back on, and enjoying, two wheels
Thanks very much Jim! Most appreciated!
Hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviewso
Bought a Forza 350 and love it. Used too ride sportsbikes but now have knackered knees.So mounting the bike by putting leg through super helpful.once on.no problem.Great review thank you.
Hey Simon, thanks for stopping by. Knackered knees…Yeah I sympathise! When I was riding bikes on long tours / fast rides part of the allure was always getting to the other end, feeling tired and aching - these days I much prefer gliding around in perfect comfort on something which is so easy to use and practical. Getting on and off easily also helps! As does no drive chain…
Anyway, glad you enjoyed the review and good to know that you’re enjoying the Forza, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Obviously not from someone 'sponsored' by a manufacturer, so thanks for your honesty ,great review and has helped me, old big bike rider for over 50 years, decide to take the plunge... I had a test ride yesterday and tried the forza and ADV, both brought a big grin, but the ADV handled much better on the twisty back roads and gave a great feeling of being well planted ..... The order is in, looking forward to a new chapter, thanks for the video, it made a difference...
Hey Adrian, 'sponsored' ? Ha ha, no way. Everything is bought and paid for! It's really good to hear your views on the ADV / Forza though - I only sat on the Forza in the showroom and immediately felt it was a good city scooter - but the ADV, with its bike like front end felt like it would deliver proper handling and road holding. Which it does. It's not perfect, but I'll take good handling any day!
Let me know how you get on with yours when it arrives, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Will do Phil, many thanks....
Just signed up, pick up a nice white ADV Monday. Some great feedback from others who follow you regarding touring .... never done any great distance on anything other than a 'big bike', so looking forward to planning a little trip ... As romised. i'll keep you posted mate ...
@@adrianmccabe6107 Hey Adrian, excellent news 😀 I'm heading off in September for my Euro-Tour on the ADV and I'm really looking forward to it - especially the lack of preparation! Just sling everything under the seat! And 70 MPG! Brilliant. Good luck with your trip Adrian, cheers, Phil.
Looking forward to the September trip review Phil... cheers.
You are probably the most off-beat presenter on here. That's a compliment. I have got a yearning for one of these, so watching it again. I really enjoy riding my 155cc twist and go, a Yamaha Aerox.
10:14 What a nice town. Berwick? Nick J
Ha ha I'll definitely take that as a compliment - thank you! Have a look at the six month video and you'll see I've become quite smitten by the ADV.
As with anything, 'specs' say absolutely nothing and it is, as you say, about what you enjoy, so I'm sure the Aerox is a blast. I spent a year commuting in the snow on a CG125 and it was brilliant fun!
And yes, that is Berwick - it's a shame the that the notional town centre is a bit rubbish as all the little side streets, the walls, quayside, riverside etc, are all lovely. It's well worth a visit.
All the best Nick, thanks for dropping by, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews I have seen the six months one, Phil. Hope the leg is getting better. Nick
Hey Nick, ah! It’s you! There’s something about these new YT handles that means I don’t really know who I’m speaking to! Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
You nailed what this bike is for and thus far it seems to do them all well. Plus it's a great looking unit. That's a great plan to use it for the tour around Europe too. Toaster bit was absolutely priceless, thanks for the early AM laugh 😅
Mr Neutral, great to hear from you again. Has the temperature reached 💯 yet?
I’m thinking of doing a series based around “Scooter breakfasts from around the world” so if you let me know what a good Florida breakfast is, I’ll see what I can do. If it involves ribs or a visit to Denny’s though, I might struggle 😀
All the best, washing machine test coming soon, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Not 100... but 90 🥵. Hmmm a southern breakfast thang' 🤔. How's about some grits?
Hmmm..grits…er…I might need a recipe for that. To be honest I was hoping for pancakes 🥞 😋
@@80eightReviews Pancakes 🥞 it is. You can put frozen ones in a toaster too. But you've got to bring some butter in a cooler bag... and maple 🍁 syrup.
I sold my V Strom 1000 because getting my leg over was becoming difficult due to knee and hip arthritis. I bought a Honda SH350i (same drive train as yours) and have been having a great time with it. If you get the chance, try one. Getting on and off is a doddle compared to the ADV and Forza. Can't quite get a toaster in, but I can get a coolbag in the topbox and a takeaway bag on the "curry hook". Just did a 178 mile ride with a couple of pals on sporty motorcycles - no problem!
Afternoon, what - the toaster won’t fit in? Well, that’s a deal breaker right there 😀 I’m slightly jealous about the “curry hook” though, I’m not sure if the ADV has one? I need one, or two! It’s great to hear you’re comfortable and able to get out and about easily on the SH though - I may very be following you at some point. I’ll also be getting a top box soon…I mean you have to don’t you 😀
As you say, the engine and CVT on these machines are really good - I’m very impressed tbh. Must dash - it’s a beautiful evening 🛵
All the best, cheers, Phil.
Excellent review, it’s not as you say for real off roading, mines going in for it’s first service next week, surprisingly nimble and agile, suspension is firm, under-seat storage is a great bonus.
Hey Adrian, thanks so much, glad you enjoyed the review and are enjoying the ADV. I think the handling overall was the biggest surprise and bonus for me - as you say, it’s very nimble yet sure footed at the same time. Don’t get me started on the storage though 😍 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Good to see you're enjoying the ADV Phil....but a crumpet without butter? Shocking..
Thanks Mark and yes, I know - it’s sacrilege. And no Marmite either….One thing that’s missing from the ADV - a chilled glove compartment. What were the designers thinking of by missing that out? All the best, cheers, Phil.
I agree how can you eat a crumpet without butter 😊
@davideccles1617 Very true David, it’s not right but it all comes down to logistics and practicalities. Carrying and then smearing butter on a cold crumpet that had the consistency of memory foam seemed a bridge too far 😀
I’ll do better next time & bring the Marmite 😋
All the best, Phil.
@@80eightReviews if you keep the butter under the seat it will be easier to spread 🤔
Very true David, just, I dunno - then I’d need the butter dish, a special knife, some kind of plate and it all gets complicated….Still, you know what, you’re right. Next video will be proper!
Thanks for the challenge!
Thank you for that review.Nice to see that you are on two wheels again. I've been looking at what I could potentially get to stay on two wheels after I recently developed osteoarthritis in my right hip and knee which causes huge problems (and pain) when trying to get on and off a motorcycle. I'm having to sell my beloved KTM 790 and I think I'll be seriously looking at this Honda :)
Good evening Mr.Motomuso, great to hear from you and thanks for your kind comments - most appreciated.
Sorry to hear about your OA and how it’s affecting you. I now have a bike in addition to the ADV but like you, swinging my leg over the bike (even though it’s small) is difficult as is keeping my knee bent so I can reach the footpeg.
The ADV is so much easier and so much more comfortable - while it’s not a pure “step through” I find it much easier to get on / off and while riding I hardly notice my knee at all. And to be completely honest if you keep it on the roads where it works well, it’s a lot of fun. Yes, it’s not as visceral as a bike, but it still has a lot going for it. And while practicality can be seen as boring perhaps it is a really useful machine.
If you love the sensation of two wheels I think anything which can extend that for you is worth it. Let me know how you get on!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
Good to see you out enjoying a two wheeler again! Seems a well designed product that is all most of us would ever need. I’ve long been a big Honda fan and if I had room for more than one bike I would probably include a Honda scoot. Thanks for another brilliant video.
Good morning and thank you very much 😀 You’re right in that the scoot is probably as much as anyone would need in reality, it’s just the thing about bikes is having more than you need - whether that’s in terms of speed, power, looks and tech. Bikes are much more aspirational I guess. As a means of getting about though, they are really good.
Great to hear from you again, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for the video. It always impressed me how the prices in the UK and USA are so much lower than the rest of the world. In Ireland a used one is around 7200€ and in Brazil the price is prohibitive.
Hello EddieInTrouble - thanks for stopping by. Prices are mad everywhere as you say - like the ADV 350 seems sort of reasonable in the UK, but then the higher end machines are crazy prices, while insurance and service / parts costs can be insane. I totally get profit motive and that manufacturers charge what the market can handle, but yeah, it's not fair!
Anyway, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Great to see you back on the bike. Wishing you well on this super scooter. I thought that toaster was going to be a beer cooler 😀
Thanks very much! Really appreciate the comments and yes, a beer cooler would be nice. I think that’s what I’ll do when I get a top box 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
i have experience with many different bikes but i always say the fastest machine i have and ever ridden is my sh300i. For real world use, commuting and city traffic the combination of light weigh, 27 instant hp and the cvt geabox is unbeatable. Also, with a nervous right wrist i can still do 3,6l/100km every tank and riding like a hooligan sometimes. Scooters are amazing, not emotional but extremely effective and this motor is bombproof (mine is the 300cc but basically the same with 75000km and counting)
You’re so right and if I had my commuting in the city time again I would so go for a scooter. Even now, I really value being able to jump on it, carry stuff with no hassle and keep up with traffic plus have a good time in the corners. As you say, they are not emotional vehicles in themselves, but are so practical for doing real world stuff. And 75K on yours….! Yeah, I think I’m keeping mine regardless of what happens in the future. And I won’t compare it to an XT500 ha ha ha. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Just found your channel via the CL500 which is in my radar. An ADV is also of interest, I've had many scooters and an ADV could well be next. I also watched your accident video and wish i hadn't! I've been riding 45years and of course feel I'm invincible, to see I'm not is sobering!
Anyway.... About your channel, I see you're not new to video, but your delivery, editing and depth of content is really excellent. I look forward to more of the same - but no more accidents please....😬
Hey Rog, well, I'm very pleased to hear from you and very pleased that it's not just me who enjoys the slightly odd combo of the CL and the ADV! I definitely should have owned a scoot before though - I feel I've missed out a lot. As for feeling invincible, yeah I knew that feeling also. It's an odd thing...I made a tiny mistake that 999 times out of a 1000 wouldn't have had any consequences, but this time it did. Still, there's so much to be positive about and I'm enjoying and appreciating my riding so much without the need for speed, huge lean angles or anything. It's just nice to be out and have 48 litres of underseat storage :-)
As for the video content - well, to be honest, that's what the channel is about really - the filming, editing, colour grading and getting feedback on it, so I really appreciate your comments and it's good to know the work is appreciated. Still lots to improve though.
I've got another CL video coming up at some point - I won't say soon though ha ha ha. And yeah, no more accidents - for either of us. Ride safe, all the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews we do indeed have similar taste in motorcycles. I had z900rs and my current daily is a V85tt. In my effort to slow down I bought a very rough R100 with the intention to refresh it. I then saw another R100 fully refreshed for silly money....do I now have two. Both tax/ MOT free but very satisfying to ride.
Informative and enjoyable from beginning to end. Well done indeed. Thank you.
Hey Maurizio, great to hear from you & thanks for stopping by. It's really good to know you enjoyed the video - thanks so much.
All the best, cheers, Phil.
This Honda ADV is something else, rides like a bike, raised wide bars perfect screen if you enjoy the ride, feet forward back press against the back rest and lock in for the twisties. Its quick off the mark and a top speed of 90 (thats where bike feel counts) Looks good And other bikers nod which is a small bonus. Even the stock exhauste has a good note.
Hello! Thanks for stopping by. Totally agree on the ride aspect - it really does ride like a bike at all speeds as you say. And when you use both brakes it stops brilliantly. I tell you what, it’s kinda growing on me!
Two things I slightly disagree with though 1) looks…hmmm…but it’s loads better than the city scoots 2) Bikers waving…everyone looks straight through me when I zoom by…I’ve got over it though 😀
Anyway, hope you’re well, cheers, Phil.
Very entertaining video and beautifully edited.
Hello again Alan! How are you doing? Great to know you like this video - you must be a fan of easy peelers, toast and crumpets also? It's good to know the work is appreciated though so thanks very much for taking the time to comment. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Thank you for the great review. I am very nearly 60. . . and have been riding and have been riding from 16 (I think it was a Honda MT5). I never ridden a scooter? Due to arthritis legs aren't as flexible these days. . . As a result I have a Honda Hornet 750 twin 8 months old as new never ridden 0 miles. I think the ADV is the way forward. Thanks again, Andy.
Hey Andy, great to hear from you and very sorry to hear about the arthritis and impact on your riding. My mum had arthritis and I’m getting a bit in my hands so have a sense of what it’s like.
You’ll know my right knee is pretty compromised these days but the ADV gave me a new lease of riding life plus it opened my eyes to a different way of approaching things. And the ease of use means it gets used all the time as opposed to “putting it off”. If you do get one you’ll be able to enjoy the places and people you did before and you’ll notice much more and get wherever you’re going comfortably and I guarantee it - just as quick as before.
Let me know what you decide to do and thanks for your feedback Andy - much appreciated, cheers, Phil.
great to see the review and yes spring is here loving the bird song
Mr Lawson, good to hear from you again, hope all is well. Yes, it’s a fabulous time of year here in the UK and there’s nothing better than the dawn chorus especially. All the best, cheers, Phil.
I've had mine for almost one year, clocked up 18,000 km . I've rode some amazing rides in Thailand.
The shock I got when I saw how much they are in UK. Well over £1000 , more in UK than in Thailand.
Hey Paul, thanks for stopping by and good to hear about your experiences on the ADV. As for the price in the UK, well, yeah. We always get ripped - even a cabbage costs £17 these days 😀
Hope all is well in🇹🇭, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Well how much is average salary in Thailand and how much is it in UK ?
Simple but thorough review. I can only wish that Honda brings it here in the Philippines.
Thanks very much Kevin, glad you enjoyed the review. And yes, there are some odd commercial decisions being made - another example is Honda not bringing over the CB350 to the UK, given the success of the smaller Enfields, it would be massive. All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews it's either Honda is just plain arrogant or very conservative not covering all it's bases. Anyhow I do hear good reviews of the R. E., It was just unfortunate that a friend encountered a lemon unit from them that was resolved through a lengthy process. Anyhow, loved that part about your Al Fresco breakfast and inspired me to do my own version minus the toaster. Cheers! And looking forward to your next reviews, Phil!
Thanks Kevin, cheers, Phil.
Sympathetic and very british review! 👍
Thanks you very much! Hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.
Good to see you back on two wheels. Best wishes, Peter
Morning Peter, thanks very much! Hope you're doing well and good to hear from you again, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Yes doing well and travelling a lot on two wheels over the last year (Africa, Central America, Australia, throughout Europe...). Keep up the reviews please.
Hey Peter, will do and your own travels sound very exciting! I was hoping to whizz around Greece and Albania last year on the Guzzi but maybe 2024 on the Scoot! If you’ve been to Albania, let me know your thoughts, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Okay, I'll confess, I bought a Himalayan rather than a Guzzi. I rode a Him. around in East Africa where I accidentally found myself off-road at times, and then had some off-road misadventures in Central America on a Honda 250 Tornado. So, my Him. is to practice on trails for future off-round experiences (perhaps in the Caucasus). However, a few years ago I did ride from York to Albania on a Guzzi V7 ii and it managed the journey well (especially when filtering in chaotic traffic there). Albania is well worth visiting and of course you could pop over into Greece. The Guzzi v7 850 Stone may be an option soon - but that awful digital clock!
Ha ha confession accepted Peter! And to be honest, I wouldn’t have chosen a Guzzi for East Africa 😀 Back when I used to whizz around the middle east and Africa my DR350 was a cracker so the Him is a kind of spiritual successor I guess. Worst bike was my 1150GS ADV - too heavy, too ponderous and I felt like a rich voyeuristic westerner on it when riding through Syria. Not good - the Him is spot on though!
Thanks for the info on Albania and as for the Guzzi clocks - well, there’s always duct tape….
Cheers, Phil.
I test rode one yesterday to find if it would be capable of european touring. It is, comfortably
Good morning and that's good to know...I'm off on my travels in September and can't wait. All the best, cheers, Phil.
I bought the Forza after getting smashed off my Speedmaster.. The Forza got me out and about and served well until I could ride a bike again. Never thought I’d own a scooter, but I can really see the benefits of these things now that I’ve had one..👍
Hello - great to hear from you and that's an interesting parallel to my situation. Yes, they are very useful and while nowhere near as involving / visceral as a bike, I'm warming to it! Either way as the first stage back to riding a bike and getting used to two wheels again, they are really good. Think I might keep mine.
All the best, cheers, Phil.
Wish it was available in the USA Great review!
Thank you very much Hector and glad you enjoyed the review. It's time to start a petition with Honda USA! All the best, cheers, Phil.
I've had mine for over a year now and i have just recently fitted a Polini variator, and it's certainly made it a bit peppier.
Hello, thanks for stopping by & many thanks for the info, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Very good review Phil, clear & concise, no booming music & nicely edited. What do you have to say about the weight attached to the back wheel especially over cobbled streets, I have the Burgman 400 and slow speed it sounds worrying, I found it best to gun it and it rides it so much better 😃
Hey Mark, good to hear from you & glad you enjoyed the review. My next video was going to feature a pounding 120BPM soundtrack together with 27 minutes of on-bike GoPro footage but as it’s you, I’ll scrap that and do something else 😀
As for your observation about rearward weight, as you suggest, scooters are probably not the best for weight distribution and my ADV over cobbles (plenty in Berwick) and bumpy roads does sound rather rattly - although that could also be all the stuff I’ve got under the seat shaking about, you know like bits of old wood, a harmonica, a toy bus and some teaspoons 😀
Gun it? Yeah that’s the best option I reckon - when I first started to ride off-road many years ago and faced with something snotty, the old adage was “if in doubt, nail it” Works every time! Mostly…
Hope you’re enjoying the Bergman, all the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews The more I ride the Burgman, the more I appreciate it for what it is. This weekend I'm accompanying a friend who's test riding the ADV 350 so it will be interesting to see what he thinks of it. He's thinking of downsizing from a NC750S DCT.
Ride smoothly, ride quick and ride safely 😉
@@marktaylor4277 Thanks Mark - let me know what your friend thinks about the ADV. The crashy suspension on will probably come up, especially as he's used to the NC I imagine! It does get (a bit) better though, promise 🙂 Cheers, Phil.
Glad to see Jon's script writing is still bang on, Phil. All the usual gags were there - Peter Fonda's chopper, bruised plums, even a Maggie Thatcher quote - excellent!
Just so pleased you're out & about on two wheels again, regaling us with food-related adventures.
Right, I'm off to flog the Guzzler & buy a Yamaha Xmax 300. Or possibly not.
Morning Hugh, er yes, I dipped deep in to Jon’s big book of quips and only just managed to pull it back from the full “Carry on up the Khyber” mode. Next time will be different, I won’t be influenced by his punning presence. Though I am thinking of changing the channel name to the “grand khazi”.
Moving on. Yes, it’s nice to be out and about. The aim this summer is to do plenty of miles on the washing machine in order to get my eye and stamina back in, then see where I’m at later on in the year. The next food plan is to put a hot plate under the seat, waterproof it and store 48 litres of soup for sale at various lay-bys on the A1. “Scoot soup” £2 a cup. Bargain.
Must dash, I need to scan the classifieds for Griso’s in the MK area.
Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews "Scoot soup" - presumably made by the one you referred to (a long time ago) as the "Soup Dragon?" Different flavours available? Which day is stilton & parsnip?
Absolutely Hugh, she’s been slaving over a hot stove for the last three days - in between scrubbing the step. I’m thinking Tuesdays for Stilton & Parsnip? If that works, I’ll see you on the Haggerston Castle lay-by. It’s around 300 miles from Mk but well worth it for soup. Why, I’ll even throw in a bap. Bargain!
@@80eightReviews If they're big baps, I might make the journey.
@@mrsilbo6499 Size of your head Hugh and nice and floury. Jon tried to get me to refer to Babs, but I resisted.
I'm kind of the opposite coming from zero riding to riding a 125 Yamaha NMax. I'm now coming round to the idea that a bigger faster bike is actually safer on the roads. That is for one reason, the car drivers riding up your backside. Better off being able to ride at least as fast as most cars.
Good afternoon - you make a very valid point - also on bigger and faster machines everything is designed for those parameters, be it brakes, chassis or suspension, so the machines inherently are built stronger and safer in many ways. Personally I would never want to go back to a bike that could not stay ahead of traffic, unless I was was after something for very short town journeys only. Anyway, great to hear from you, hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
The ADV 160 is at the top of the scooter selection in the Philippines. It has plenty of power for 2 up riding there.
Morning - I'm sure it does as does the 350.
Purely from my perspective though, when I think of two up touring (going back to the original comment) I think of two people with luggage heading up a 8000ft mountain pass in The Alps and 30HP will only do so much. It will certainly get you to the top no problem, but I think you would get that feeling of pinning the throttle and waiting for something to happen. So yeah, it could do it easily but if that was the main use for it, then something else might be better. Despite that, I'll be heading off for a long tour at some point on it - it's great!
Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
The exhilaration of anything that gets you up a hill that you used to ride a push bike up is universal for all two wheeled motorized transport .You are out in the wind and something else is getting you up that hill . AT first I thought you were making a circle around Bridgend but then realized there was no circle there .I will have to Google the town to figure out that spot .. (Late night fun for the elderly) . In New England we have "Thomas's English Muffins" to fill in for a crumpet .. So glad to bike started ... More More !!
Morning Guy, exactly and perfectly put. Now I do like a push bike, but as you say when you have an engine to do the hard work and take you further, what more do you need. As for the riding circle and not to spoil your late night fun (don’t worry I street view my around Bantam and Litchfield 😀) it’s a little square (triangle) on Palace Street, with the fabulously named “Foul Ford” off to one corner, which I’ve always imagined / wanted to be a den of iniquity and desperados back in the days of Dickens.
Thomas’s English Muffins, mmm…I’m like the sound of those 😋
More coming soon, hope you and the family are well Guy and that bell keeps on ringing…Well, at least in daylight hours. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Phil, it certainly was a wrench⁷ letting the Tiger, and especially the Yellowball go. I only managed to put 211 miles on it in a year. Not even run in.The hip is a nightmare. Most of the time it is bearable, but really gives me grief after about 15 minutes when I sit on conventional bikes (thats if I can get on them in the first place!). I'm still hanging on to my Ninja z1000sx in the hope things might improve, but I doubt it.
If I take the scoot to Spain this year, I will certainly let you know how I get on. Ride safe mate.
Hey Vic, really sorry to hear that. Is the hip wear and tear, product of a mis-spent youth or injury? Any chance of it improving at all? But yeah pain while riding is horrible. I can do around 2 hours on the CL then I'm toast. I went out at the weekend for a few hours and the day after I felt like I'd been thrown the stairs, kicked in the ribs then pushed in front of bus. The ADV is totally comfortable though and even better, I won't have to carry bungee's when I go away on it. Anyway, here's hoping you can get back on the Z1000SX, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews general wear and tear from too many wet and cold trail rides in the past several decades I think.
I did have a major get-off in 2000, when my XR650R spat me off along the Ridgeway, but that didnt affect my hips. Just a collarbone broken in two places, shoulder blade cracked in half north to south, and 3 broken ribs. Nothing serious, haha ! But I did have to sleep sitting up for 8 weeks !
Ah mis-spent youth then! Respect for riding the 'Big red pig' on the Ridgeway though! I thought I was doing well on my XR600R back in the day but that was a lightweight pussycat compared to your 650. I stupidly sold the XR for a CCM604...Now that was the devil incarnate, especially when the electric start failed partway through an enduro.
Had to sleep sitting up for 8 weeks...Blimey. Yeah, I'm feeling that Vic! Look after yourself, I'm just off to find some Radox :-) Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews jeez ! Lot of parallels going on here. I sold my XR600R to get the 650R. Eventually realised it was a mistake. Too much power, wrong weight distribution = spin up the rear tyre instead of traction.
The XR600R, with a few Thumper Racing mods that worked for Scott Summers, was a very underrated woods bike, and I always remember how it plodded up Grwynne Fawr like a trials bike. Superb. Big regret selling that. After the 650R I went with a couple of Husky 510's. The Italian made one with the KYB suspension was the best handling dirt bike I ever had, BUT, had to worry about fuel at about 60 miles ! Mad. Enough of my rambling !
Ha yeah - very similar - the CCM was like 12 inches longer than the XR and wouldn’t turn in the woods. Horrible thing. Sold it to a guy who was taking it to India to use the engine as a replacement well pump. True story!
Had a SuperTrapp on my XR600 and it sounded beautiful 🤩 Thought I was Scott Summers up until the point reality hit home - which was most days 😀 Had Supermoto wheels on mine also and stuck a big tank on it and rode it to Egypt. What a bike!
Great vid Phill,I keep toying with the idea of swapping my vstrom for a forza/ADV 350 because I get fed up with changing gears all the time but I do struggle with the stigma that seems to be attached to scooter riders from other bikers..
Hey Mick, thanks for the comments and hope you’re doing well. Must admit I miss using a gearbox on the ADV but I have to say it’s all super easy! I’ve probably been just as guilty with respect to scooters mainly because they are more about usefulness than outright desire. I can honestly say that I wished I’d had one when I was doing a regular commute to work, as opposed to ruining whatever bike I had at the time. For me the stigma is more self-created I guess and it’s only because I’m still holding out for a bike at some point.
Let me know what you decide to do Mick and if you do get a scoot, we can compare storage space 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Don’t worry what other people think.. here’s a home truth for all of us… nobody is actually thinking about us!! 😂
@@kramnam4716 maybe the family ?
😀
Just get one mate, you will never look back, I have several bikes in the garage also scooter comes out 1st so dam easy to ride.
Fantastic Review. Thank you.
Thanks very much Jonathan, glad you liked it. Six month update coming soon! All the best, cheers, Phil.
I've had mine about a month now and it's just about to go in for it's 600 mile service...I'd agree with your thoughts on it and am enjoying mine....a note to all Adv owners though...check your welds on the tubular chassis and in and around the headstock...the paint around the welds on mine hasn't adhered properly and the dealer is currently dealing with Honda to have it rectified...it's not something you would easily notice without a torch or light so check yours carefully...possibly not all Advs...maybe I'm just unlucky...easily rectified with some anti rust paint or acf50 but shouldn't have to be done on a brand new bike.
Hey Alan, good to hear from you and thanks for the tip - I’ll get my torch and check it out! Thanks for watching, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Great review of this 350 ADV , had my head turned by these scooters would be great 2nd commuter bike to keep my cb1000r company 👍👍👌
Afternoon and thanks for stopping by. Glad you enjoyed the review! Like you I’m thinking these machines are great 2nd bikes and if I had my time again (back when I needed to commute) I would have had one years ago. I’d still keep the bike though 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
That's what a neighbour thought when he bought one but guess which bike hardly ever leaves the garage.
Hmm…let me guess….😀
Glad you like it. Very easy and cheap to tune up, I'm, reliably told. I'm a fan of the ADV750.
Hey Nick, good to hear from you and hope all is well in Southern Europe / the far East or wherever you are. Yeah, it’s a nice little thing the ADV and like you I’ve heard a bit of tweaking with the CVT and airbox can make a world of improvement. All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Portugal at the moment, Phil. Just got back last night. MT-01 and Can-Am F3-S started first time after seven months.
@@1990-t1j Brilliant!
Thanks for a useful bike review, i am deciding between another Forza 350 and an ADV 350 if i can get hold of one in Thailand!
Hello and thanks for stopping by - glad you found the review useful. Good luck with your decision making - both are great scoots so you're not going to go wrong with either. Let me know what you decide! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Nice video and good looking bike. In your opinion could you tour on it say around Scotland and say a 200 Mike journey for example. Thankyou
Hey Jonathan, good to hear from you and glad you liked the review. As for your question…Easily! Although to clarify, I’m assuming you mean one-up only? The scoot easily cruises at 75mph, handles well in the corners and even as standard, carries tons of luggage. It’s comfortable plus not so fast that you miss everything. If your aim is to see stuff the ADV is great. Going uphill it doesn’t exactly ‘struggle’ but you just have to accept it is what it is. And the economy is great.
I think it all depends on why you tour - is it about carving around great tarmac and using all yours and the bikes abilities or is it about seeing new places and enjoying the ride. If the latter, the ADV is spot on, if not, then get something else.
Either way, I’m hoping to get to Europe next year on the ADV regardless of whether I get another bike or not. It’s that good!
Two up though? Hmm…I think 30HP would not struggle, but be a little frustrating. Kinda like towing a caravan, which as we know, is a version of hell 😀
Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Hey Phil. Yes just me on the bike and enjoying the scenery and no rush. Hoping to go to scotland and Europe so Thankyou so much for the advice. Best wishes
Great stuff! Im a motorcycle rider since the 70's thinking about trading in my Honda Click 160abs and NX500 big bike for one bike after i saw many local riders here touring on their ADV350. I had to upgrade both my Honda's suspension front and back to YSS which is not too expensive and its made them much more rideable and i wonder if its the same story on your ADV. Perhaps progressive springs on the front and rebound adjustability on the shock may make the bike more pleasant on you back.
I need to rent an ADV360 for a few days to get the gist of whether it has the flickability of my Click 160 or close to it. I live in Thailand and both my big bike and scooter are great here but owning one bike makes a lot more sense in some regards so i am pretty curious whether the ADV could be both a "big touring bike' and a 'daily about town " scooter. Of course it wont as 'good' as either but the convenience of owning one bike might outweigh the bother of owning two bikes
Good morning Dr D, great to hear from you & thanks for your comments and thoughts. On the ADV suspension you're probably right actually - it wouldn't take too much to make it more compliant / progressive and keep the roadholding. Like you, I've used YSS on other bikes and found them to be a good balance of performance and cost, plus of course any adjustability is a good thing so at least you can tune it for yourself.
I won't be changing the suspension on the ADV as I've got used to it, the Michelin City Grips have improved the 'feel' and also I found when the scooter was fully loaded on my recent tour to Europe, the suspension was much better!
I can definitely vouch for the ADV being a good touring bike, it fact it's close to being brilliant and it just swallowed up the miles, the luggage and the conditions during my 1,800 mile tour so easily. And it was fun. I find it great around town but I don't have any reference points to smaller scooters - it is of course, much wider I guess and the handling to me is light but neutral and more "bike-like" Have a look t my ADV touring videos - especially the one on the Grimsel Pass!
Anyway, once you've had a test ride - let me know what you think - I'd be interested to know! All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Hi Phil, a quick thank you for your comment and yes i will dig through your other video's they are very watchable and high quality.
I actually am surprised that i find my little Honda 160 scooter more fun to ride than my NX500. I have been riding many types of bikes but I really do enjoy the scooter although its a little small for me at 6' 220lbs i look like a gorilla on a tricycle at a circus haha. The modern scooters have totally changed the game and my last scooter here with rear drum brakes gave me a scare so the new scooter with dual disc brakes feels like a big step up. Its also quick off the line. My Click 150 is 116kg vs the 350ADV which is 186kg so I imagine it will feel different around town but the weight would be important for touring. I nearly bought the 160ADV but thought it a bit bulky for town but now see the wisdom of a 350 engine with the same size chassis as perhaps being perfect for Thailand.
The NX500 is just too big for exploring towns here where the roads are tiny and set up for scooters and very very busy. A scooter is just so much easier in towns down here to ride in what looks like chaos. There is not much parking space for a big bike either here.
I added Pirelli Angel Scooter tires right off the bat and it made a big difference. I run Michelin Road 6 tires on the NX500 and they are mind boggling how good they are. Premium tires are my go to upgrade especially because where i ride has heaps of rain.
I found a local rental shop today in town with the 350 ADV so i will take one out for the day. The amount of storage under the seat and a top box should do me fine but I have seen one fellow here in Thailand with aluminum side boxes mounted on his 350ADV. Its the Thai guys here that ride them 2 up cross country and they have really got me curious because they keep up to me in the twisties on m y NX500. I am not the fastest rider and can certainly pull away from them on straight stretches but I was surprised.
Cheers!
Hi, nice review. Here is hoping you will also try the Yamaha Xmax 300! Would love a little comparison.
Hello and good morning - great to know you enjoyed the review. If I get the chance to ride the XMAX, I will! All the best and have a great day, cheers, Phil.
Hey Phil, glad you're enjoying your ADV. It sounds like a pretty good package and most importantly, it has 2 wheels ........ one in front of the other! If it gets you back out and about, as you say, what's not to like. Not one upmanship but my new Hunter 350 is repeatedly returning about 110 mpg but you've definitely pipped me on top speed by quite a margin 😁👍 All the best, Phil
Morning! Thanks for stopping by. Yes, two wheels in front of each other is always a good thing..especially compared to side by side 😀 OK, you win completely on the Hunter and MPG (I do like the look of them btw) and of course I won’t mention the under seat storage for the 1000th time otherwise it could get to be a bit boring 🥱 Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Can't remember ........ did you mention the under seat storage on your ADV??? 🤣😂😁
@@PAGallagher Just in case I didn’t, it’s 48 litres or 10.5 gallons in old money. Let me know if you need any further information or conversions 😀
@@80eightReviews Hey Phil, just imagine the range you could get if you converted all that under seat storage in a reserve fuel tank??? 😁
Moon and back I reckon. I mean I’d suffocate and re-entry might be tricky but hey 😀
Great review. Hope you get to ride in Europe with your USB toaster.
Hello and good morning - many thanks for dropping by and it's good to know you enjoyed the review. And yes, whizzing around Europe with my own toaster (and perhaps a kettle) just seems to me to be the absolute epitome of luxurious travel. I may even take my own biscuits.
All the best, cheers, Phil.
I hate the bus as well, but don't you feel the ADV350 is a bit large for a scooter? I think a PCX125 or SR 200 GT looks a bit more my alley, takes up less yard space, and looks more flickable into turns, with less mass to decelerate as well.. I'd still grab a ADV350 if given. Hunter 350 rolling now, but I want an automatic, lol.
Morning, thanks for stopping by - as for your question is the ADV too large?
Well, I guess it comes down to use case really. If you need a scooter for exclusively cross town / city use then yes, I'd agree something smaller and slimmer would be more effective. Not that the ADV 350 is any way unwieldily but it is a wide as a motorcycle and yes, it does take up some space in the shed. For longer distance trips, fast riding and roadholding and massive storage capacity then the ADV 350 is just brilliant. It's size and speed also means you ride any road and not feel the other traffic is bullying you into the gutter...I do like those SR200's though!
All the best, if you do get an ADV 350, let me know how you get on with it.
Cheers,
Phil.
I have a Forza 350. Bought new March 2022. The suspension was really harsh at first but now it's got 8000 miles on it it has softened up quite a bit and is a lot more comfortable. I have changed the screen on it to reduce the buffeting at speed (I think the aerodynamics aren't the best). How is the small screen on the adv, at say 70mph?
Hey Alex, thanks for stopping by and that’s good information. I ride a lot on very bumpy / badly maintained roads (as I enjoy it!) so a little more forgiveness from the rear shocks at least would be good. I’ll see what happens. As for the screen on the ADV I have to admit I’ve only used it in its lowest position and not done any sustained high speed riding, but so far so good and I’ve not noticed any buffeting or anything. I’ll report back when I’ve done a few more miles on it.
Great to hear from you Alex, hope you get many more miles on your Forza, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Brilliant Phil....2 wheels are always best
Morning Stephen, they certainly are and regardless of the shape of those wheels, getting out and about is so important. All the best, cheers, Phil.
Toasted crumpets, squished ez peelers/bruised plums (lol), … omg hilarious, Phil. But riding a hard suspension scooter on 100+ mile excursions??? Hmmm don’t think my 60yr old butt - nor plums - would be happy. Great vid, as always. Cheers!
Hey Stephen, it all happens in the wilds of Northumberland, what can I say 😀 I haven’t done a long trip on the scoot yet, so I will report back on how the easy peelers do over a distance. I’m 56 so a little delicate on occasion also 😀 Will let you know…Great to hear from you again, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Did you say 48 litters wow I wish Honda would bring it to USA
Hey Paul, hope you had a good thanksgiving. But yes, it’s true! 48L of storage! It’s incredible!
I’ve lost count of how many folk from the US wish it was available so it must be time to start a petition!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
Thank You very much for your Chanel and humble opinion and effort you put into this
Just a quick question Phil
As l am very interested in this Honda scooter,l m 6'3
Is it feels that it's enough leg room on this from your experience for taller man like me?
Thank You 👍
Hey Darius, great to hear from you and many thanks for your comments. With respect to your question, there is plenty of room on the ADV with a very flexible range of riding positions as you can see on the video - certainly more than most standard bikes. Of course, if you get chance to sit on then you should try it, just to make sure. Hope that helps, all the best, Phil.
Also just to say, the guy on this video is 6’5 and seems to be than ok on it : ruclips.net/video/Wbr65CvbZ3o/видео.html
@@80eightReviews Thank You 👍
Good to see you out nbout Phil . You still have Guzzi right?
Good morning & thanks for the support - it’s sooo nice to be out! As for the Guzzi, I reluctantly decided to sell it (and my CRF) as my current mobility doesn’t allow me to get my right leg on a normal bike foot peg and reach the brake. I did experiment with a bolt on peg, mounted forward but it was really uncomfortable plus my knee was right up against the cylinder head. I’m hoping that after further surgery this year, I’ll be able to get back on a bike and another Guzzi will be right up there!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews hey ho! I’m looking for a Guzzi for here on Isle of Wight, probably a v7 stone 3 😊hope the legs eases off!
Hope they bring it to the USA
It would do brilliantly I’m sure! All the best, cheers, Phil. Oh and belated happy Independence Day!
I am a relatively newcomer in the World of bikes, I find there is a hell of alot of snobbery between the CC`s. Correct me if I am wrong.
Hey Neil, thanks for stopping and good to hear from you. As for snobbery about engine size...I think you're right in some circumstances although I'd probably describe it more as a 'dismissive' attitude and actually it's also combined with machines that are perceived to be not as 'premium' or at the 'pinnacle' of whatever type of machine is being discussed. I don't think the manufacturers help though in their inexorable push towards huge bikes with huge horsepower - which isn't a problem in it's own right but more how they are marketed as the only solution for touring, off-road, adventure or whatever. Now, as enthusiasts we all want the 'best' but in terms of what the best is for a particular rider is entirely personal!
Having said that though, things are changing alongside the ageing demographic so we're seeing much smaller bikes being developed. It's funny though, back when I was getting into bikes (early '80s) a 400cc bike was seen as mid-capacity now it's regarded as a 'small' bike.
Scooters are not really seen as real bikes either (whatever that means) but I can honestly say they most certainly are!
All the best Neil, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Cheers for responding Phil, I will be ordering a Honda ADV 350 after watching yours and other reviews. That is big enough for me and my needs for now. All the very best Neil
@@neiluk78 Morning Neil ,no worries and great to know you've got one on order. To be honest with you I think the ADV is as much scooter as anyone would need in reality. I whizzed down to Manchester the other day (over 400 miles for me) and a lot of it on the M6. It was great - cruised at an easy indicated 75-80 all the way, never got bullied by traffic and nice in the bends on the A7. Plus 65MPG!!
When it comes time to change your tyres, I can recommended the Michelin City Grip 2's - they are brilliant. There's nothing wrong with OEM Karoo's at all but the Michelins have a load more feel.
Anyway, let me know how you get on Neil and fingers crossed you get some dry weather for your first few miles, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Good on ya buddy for the advice, I will bear it mind. I am like you, I had a injury (not through riding) and it has prevented me from riding gears. I had a spinal injury and it has left me with drop foot aswell as other complications. Great to hear you are having fun on the ADV, it appears to be a great bike. Going back to the initial point, snobbery in the biking community. I guess we have snobbery in the car community and every other facet of life come to that. The moral of the story is do not let judgemental people concern us in anyway and enjoy the ride whatever is under there. Keep a smile on your dial and move safely. All the very best Phil.
After seeing your video I would have taken the Forza 350. It seems to be more what you really want. More storage space, better wind protection. What is there not to like, as you would say.
By the way, how tall are you?
Good afternoon, thanks for stopping by. Between the Forza and the ADV, to be honest there isn’t (or wasn’t) much in it for me.
The storage space as far as I understand is the same on both machines and as wind protection isn’t a big deal for me (I like touring on unfaired bikes for instance) it came down to what feels / looks like a better front end on the ADV and that I would be spending most of riding on bumpy B-Roads. Despite that I’m sure I’d like Forza just as much as the ADV. I would prefer the twin clocks on the Forza though. Mobility wise (getting on / off) I found no real difference between them.
Should I ever end up with the 750 versions though I’d probably go for the Forza 750 as with that engine package if sort of seems to make more sense.
As for height I’m 5’10 / 1.78m
Hope that helps, have a good day, cheers, Phil.
How tall are you? Will it be confortable for somebody 1,86m and 95kg?
Good afternoon Mr. Drady and good to hear from you. I'm 178cm and 76KG and you can see how I fit on the scoot in the later review video. I'm thinking you should fit OK and be comfortable on the scooter as there's lots of positions for your legs. All I would say is that it's not possible to slide further back in the seat as it has a pronounced step up to the pillion. It would be well worth sitting on one in the showroom if there's one near you.
Hope that helps, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Good review but wrong about the suspension when compared to the forza. Forza suspension is complete garbage when compared to this. You feel all the holes in a forza
Hello & thanks for stopping by. Actually that’s the reason I chose the ADV over the Forza, but I figured it might be more comfortable on less challenging roads. Next review I’ll mention!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
Looks like a fun machine for exploring. How is the fuel economy?
Hey Chris, good to hear from you again, hope all is well with you. Fuel economy seems quite good, averaging around 75mpg so far after 500 or so miles. Range wise that means you can push to around 170 miles are so. And yeah, it is quite good fun and certainly a good thing for zipping around and exploring, especially if you get hungry on the way 😀
All the best, cheers, Phil.
What YEAR is it!!??!??
Hello Jason, er what, now? 2024? If you mean the bike it was new in 2023 and as it hasn’t changed since being introduced (aside from colours) MY is immaterial so I didn’t bother saying anything.
Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Would you consider the 750 version? I don’t have mobility issues to guide my decisions but as a motorcyclist I do keep looking at twist and go but never had the courage to buy… maybe a second bike?! I wish there were more hybrid motorcycles with the ease of scooters… like what Honda did with the NC… I also look at electric, but think they are still in their infancy. Pleased you’re back on two wheels…
Good evening & thanks for stopping by. Hmmm…The 750…I think I would but only in a “needs must” situation, for example if riding a bike is out of the question & the extra power was needed. But at twice the price of the 350 it’s some decision! You can probably tell that for me, scooters are not objects of desire (like bikes) but I do genuinely wish I had tried and bought one years earlier - for commuting and general usefulness they are cracking. So yeah, second bike material I’d say.
As for electric, like you I’m really keen to try them but as you say, they are not quite there yet. It won’t be long though.
Either way, two wheels are best. Thanks for watching, all the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews I bought a Forza 300 for to knee issues. I've done 10,000 miles in 3 years. I'm never going back to using a motorcycle for touring. I wish I'd done it years ago. The 300/350 is more than powerful enough for UK roads.
Can I ask how you put your plums in the 2,5L storage to prevent them from bruising?
Well, of course - very carefully and make sure they are laid on something soft, oh and watch the lid of the storage compartment when you close it. Otherwise, it could be very nasty :-)
@@80eightReviews lol! The in between jokes made me spit out my coffee yesterday. Also great review!
Thanks! Have a good day!
Crumpets without butter?
Morning, yeah I know - I’m quite ashamed really. Now if only Honda had included a refrigerated glove compartment….All the best, cheers, Phil.
What's the underseat storage like?
Hey Ian!
Whaaattttt!!!! You mean I didn't mention the incredible 48 LITRES of underseat storage on the ADV??? Well, let me correct that - it has 48 LITRES of underseat storage which is so cavernous it has its own echo.
So, yes the 48 Litres of storage is just brilliant.
Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Ah, okay. So if I've interpreted your hints correctly, Phil, this scooter has just under 50 litres of underseat storage, right? I just wish you'd mentioned it, because storage is an important consideration for many of us considering buying one of these. Perhaps you could bear it in mind for future videos.
@@pianoyan Morning Ian, I'm hanging my head in shame on this - you've got me bang to rights....Yes, it has just under 50 litres of underseat storage and with the glove compartment another 2.5 litres. Which, by my Einstein-esque calculations makes a glorious 50.5 Litres of lovely storage. Perfect for soft fruit, toasters and other kitchen essentials.
Going forwards, I'll bear this in mind as you quite rightly say Ian. Indeed, if I were of a particular persuasion I'd be off to confession even as we speak.
Yours sorrowfully, Phil.
p.s. Just so there is no confusion : It has 48 LITRES of underseat storage or just over 10.5 Gallons. It's a good place for keeping bats also.
@@80eightReviews phew. Clarity, finally.
@@pianoyan Thanks Ian. Appreciate your patience. No, really, I do 😀
Hi I'm thinking about getting the adv for the reasons people have said. as never ridden a scoot do they corner as good as a bike thinking the wheels are a lot smaller.
Good afternoon, thanks for stopping by. Personally speaking, I think the ADV handles exceptionally well and I don’t really notice or think about the small wheels. It’s very manoeuvrable at low speed as you’d expect, but once up to speed it’s stable and nice and neutral when going through corners. Even on faster corners it holds a line very well. You do miss a little feedback from the front tyre compared to a bike but it’s something you quickly get used to.
Hope that helps, all the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews hi. Thanks for reply and any information is helpful thanks. 👍
First scooter?
How about my third, which I need another. Soon!
Morning Christian, good to hear from you. Yeah, I came to scooters way too late! Either the ADV will be my keeper for ever or like you I'll get more as the years progress. And yes, get another one quick! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Very good, now get Thee on a 2023 Yamaha T Max and tell us all about that please - you'll bin the ADV then!
Afternoon, thanks for stopping by. Well, in a perfect world I’ll be getting back on a bike again in the future at which point, I’ll probably keep the ADV for shopping trips and/or moonlighting for Deliveroo 😀
Quite like the T Max tbh but the price and the fact scooters are for me a necessity as opposed to a ‘want’ preclude one for now!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
But your bank balance will be £5-6k lighter. The T-Max is great but the price! 😲
And with a price difference like that it’s quite hard to justify from a value perspective. I keep thinking about the X-ADV but again for another £6K what will it give me. Now with bikes I think it’s a little different….that’s more about ‘want’ as opposed to ‘need’ or at least it is for me! Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews I cannot remember if you said you tried the X-ADV but as I have right knee injuries and it is the only bike I can mount happily, it is an astonishing piece of kit which possibly i never need give up and satisfies the 'bike' credential! All the best with wh'ever!
I did sit on it yes, and I fitted well! Maybe next year 😀
Ok for short Trips..not for longer Highway Trips 😊
Hey John, well, to be honest, at least in the UK, it would be fine for long motorway/highway trips as it will do 75mph forever and is super comfortable! I am a big fan of long distance on small bikes though 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
❤
Thanks! Cheers, Phil.
Absolutely! Nobody wants bruised plums!
Mr SavageBolt, you speak the absolute truth! It could er, really ruin your day 😳 All the best, cheers, Phil.
Come on Honda...it's time to bring this to the USA
Hey Edward, thanks for stopping by - I've had plenty of comments from folk in US saying exactly the same thing - it's time to start a petition I reckon!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
Amazing bro! Live to ride ride to live
Thanks Francis, good to hear from you and yes, absolutely! Hope you’re well, cheers, Phil.
Wouldn’t cross a soggy field on mine
Morning & good to hear from you...Soggy grass...Yeah, me neither - gravel is fine but not much more than that. All the best and hope you're enjoying your ADV, cheers, Phil.,
Want a crumpet now...
Hey Noddy, well, it's midday so why not? Jam, marmite or just butter?
🌱🌿☘🍀
I do like a bit of natural shrubbery 😀
I’ve owned 5 different scooters in the last 45 years and 19 motorcycles.I Can only compare the ADV 350 to my Tmax.Because you’ve got the best of the bunch first time round you are spoilt Vespa’s xmax Yamaha’s Piaggio’s will disappoint Where as the ADV has superior suspension steering and handling. I’ve had 3 back operations and am not ready to give up riding just yet. Anyway coming back to Tmax it’s a lot lot faster than the ADV but ADV is a lot lighter. I’ve done 450 miles and love it carnt wait for it to be run in so i explore its true potential. Anyway enjoy and ride safe.
Hey Neil, good to hear from and thanks for your interesting comments an comparisons. I think for me, it’s the handling that is so much better than I expected - while the steering is light, it’s also very stable and neutral round bends. I was half expecting to have to wrench it upright coming out of corners but there’s none of that - it just glides round beautifully. Hope you continue to enjoy yours over the next few months of Summer, all the best, cheers, Phil.
if its your "first scooter" and you have done only "500 miles" .................. then HOW would you have ANY IDEA about the subject?
Evening Jim, good to hear from you. Well, er, given what the video was supposed to be about i.e. "First Impressions from someone who has never ridden a scooter before"
I think I know EVERYTHING about it in that context! (Sorry for shouting). Now if the title of the video was "long term review from some bloke who's owned 72 scooters" then yeah, you might have a point.
Most 'first ride' videos are exactly that and probably much shorter in terms of miles traveled - press launches 200 miles maybe and a lot of folk give their impressions after a dealer demo ride for an hour or so.
Anyway, see the subsequent video @ the 3000 mile mark. I've still only ever owned one scooter though :-) Millions of bikes though! And lots of toast!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews 3000 miles is NOTHING , but my main complaint is ..... if you havnt owned a few maxi scooters or even ANY scooter before ........ then technically HOW can it be of use to someone who wants to know the usual question like ...."is it any good"? ...you have nothing to compare it to. Lets face it, the type of person who watches this wants to know whether to consider buying one.
I THINK JIM HAS LEARNED HOW TO TYPE IN UPPER CASE.
@@vicprice1666 WOW
@@vicprice1666 A sticky CAPS Lock key is a dangerous thing.... 😀
Fantastic machine... Practical fun. I think it's gem.
And 9/10, 40 year olds getting a bus are a failure. Maggie spoke the truth. Which politician does that these days? None! Like her or not, truth is truth! Yes Kier, men have dicks.
Anyhoo, good review - great machine.
Hey Andrew, thanks for stopping by, and good to hear from you. Ha ha yeah, exactly - just say what you see, it’s always the best policy! Right, I’m off to “get on my bike” 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.
You certainly don’t want bruised plums 😂
Hey Ian, never, ever…There’s nothing worse 😬
Look at any traffic queue in urban areas and you'll find a bus at the start of it.
They float around like blood clots, jamming the flow, slow, noisy, smelly and filled to the brim with 3 people - outside of peak traffic.
Blocking your way, holding everyone up in a haze of diesel exhaust and green wishful thinking.
They're not the answer, they are the problem. Together with bus lanes, cycle lanes bloody dog walking lanes and prams, if the mad buggers in the council get their way.
Anything to squeeze the arteries and then feign surprise that air quality is deteriorating.
They've caused it to happen.
Grump.....
Ha ha so I’m getting the feeling that a National Express coach holiday might not be on your bucket list. But yeah…The buses in Edinburgh and folks queuing on the pavements are horrendous. The bus journeys I really don’t like are when it’s cold and wet outside and the inside of the bus is all damp and smelly with condensation running down the windows….Ugh. That and 20 mph speed limits, people with huge golfing umbrellas, cars with “little princess onboard” stickers or those with cutout pictures of horses heads in the back window…Grumble, mumble, grumble. Blimey, you’ve started me off now!
All the best, cheers, Phil 😀
7300 euro in Greece!! in dont know who is the thief here, for the price in Greece!! with the top box the price go to 7800 euro.
Hello! That’s around £6,300 in GBP I think, so yeah, it’s a bit more expensive and that’s unusual as we usually get ripped here! Would I have bought it for £6.3K here in the UK…Hmmm…not sure to be honest.
As for the top box, er, yeah, it’s mad!
All the best, cheers, Phil.
ha ha ha the toaster that's fake right?
Good afternoon Swiss Oliver, ha ha well, actually, it's a very real toaster and it's still going strong! I made some toast with it this morning!
Now, it may or may not be "USB Powered" - but I couldn't spoil the illusion could I ?
All the best, great to hear from you, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews 😂
So regarding the ADV 350. Do you still own it and are you still happy with it?
@SwissOliver Hello again, yes, I’ve still got the ADV and very happy with it. It has now got over 6,000 miles on it, it took me on a 1,800 mile trip to Europe a few months back and it was brilliant!
Great machine! Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews hi Phil, oh wow, i'll need to watch more of your videos. Didn't know that a 350 cc would be adequate for trips. Hope you where also in my country ;-)
Hello again, yes, the ADV was more than adequate! It easily cruised at 120KM/H when needed, handled great, was super comfortable and economical. It did great! And yes, I went to the Bernese Oberland and it was great, but aside from one day the weather was very cold and wet. Still good fun though! Cheers, Phil.
The Seat is not good for Persons 1,75 m +
Hey John, I'm 5ft 10 (1.77 metres) and find it really comfortable to be honest. Then again, I can sit on broken glass and find it OK, so perhaps it's just me. All the best, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews confortable...no, ever Back and Butt Pain :( With my previous one not (Honda SW-T 400)
You’re not fooling me Phil. I can tell you’re smitten! It’s scooters all the way from now on, I can tell. Mind you I stopped watching at the first mention of 4 to 8 litres…………😮
Evening Jon…Fool you? I’d never even try. But it’s true yes. Why, I’ve just photoshopped an image of David Hasselhoff onto an ADV 350 and am using it as my wallpaper. It’s a beaut. Did you know he single-handedly brought down the Berlin Wall on a Vespa? Respect!
I hear you may have 11 litres Jon. Is this true?
@@80eightReviews I can’t possibly comment on the size Phil. But my wife is quite content. But she does giggle a lot! 🤔🤭
Sigh…I invited that one I guess….
@@80eightReviews Go on say it Phil. I’m boringly predictable. Am I? I’m getting paranoid now. But am I paranoid enough???!!!!
186 kg / 29hp 350cc bike? I rather keep my 1988 XT600. 153 kg / 45hp work horse.
i am sure your 1988 bike is as confortable, fuel efficient and easy to ride as this scooter...comparing apples to oranges!
Evening Jose, thanks for stopping by. And er, yeah, but does an XT600 do toast? I rest my case 😀
Or apples to easy peelers at any rate 😀 Thanks for watching 😀 Cheers, Phil.
What's not to like? The small fuel tank. Why when they make a bike or scooter with good miles per gallon do they put such a small bas tank in it. Should be at least 15 liters or a 18 liter would be great. They call it a ATV witch means great for back roads, where gas stations are few and far between, WAKE UP HONDA. At least they did it right on the CB 500X that is why I added on to my stable, I would like to add a scooter, but want a minim of 400 km per tank of gas, before having to look for a gas station, HONDA DO YOU NOT KNOW WHAT ADVENTURE TOURING IS ALL ABOUT.
Morning, well, it would be nice yes but I guess Honda, when looking at the usual demographic and use case, probably felt the need for 400KM range was relatively niche / small for a vehicle like this.. Perhaps they sacrificed petrol capacity for the storage ability, which at 48L is just brilliant and is perhaps what more customers want? Dunno.
As it is you can get 300KM out of it which for most bikes outside of proper ADV bikes and/or tourers is pretty good I guess. I'll certainly be heading off for a Euro-Tour on mine at some point.
Ultimately, it's the naming of the scooter which is probably at fault - it's ADV in name only really even iff it can handle dusty backroads really well.
Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews There are to many bikes that do not get good miles per tank of gas. I live in the country, and in two years had two bikes run out of gas, near my house and had to take gas to them. I have been riding for over 50 years and have had many bikes. Love to tour the back roads, seldom traveled, and many times, just making it to a gas station and once running out of gas and was lucky there was a friendly farmer there who gave me more than enough to get to a gas station. Many great rides spoiled by having to go out of my way to get gas for me or who I was riding with. There are many more advantages to having good range out of a tank of gas. A bike or scooter with that short range should never have the ATV in its name or description. I have ridden with many people who wish there bikes had larger gas tanks. Also talked to some at gas stations wishing thy did not have to fill up just to finish there ride, or get to ware they are going.
It's not a scooter..take off your blindfold.
Morning, thanks for stopping by. It’s not a scooter? What is it then? It’s in the scooter section of the Honda website. Either way though, regardless of shape or name, it’s a good thing! All the best, cheers, Phil.
Bad review from someone who doesn’t know what he is speaking about
Nice fella you
Ha ha yeah 😀
Nobody likes bruised plums 😂😂 saucy.. I am thinking about getting another 350 Forza. I regret getting rid a couple years ago. I ride a Kawasaki vulcan now.
Ha ha no they don’t, it can be very nasty. Anyway moving on….I think it’s impossible to go wrong with the Honda mid-range scoots, Forza or ADV, both great machines. I’m impressed! All the best, cheers, Phil.