These bikes are actually really well priced for being hand built. Small displacement aside, theyre worth it from what people who own them have told me. Ive been saving up for a Phoenix cafe racer for a while and I cant wait to pull the trigger.
@@motorcycleislife8296 could it be that people who arent you maybe prioritize other things like craftsmanship or aesthetics over horsepower? I know its a strange concept.
John Regan Oh shut up quality and craftsmanship can’t come with a REASONABLE engine? I’d first get a true vintage bike or a modern quality bike before a compromise between the two.
@@motorcycleislife8296 14 hp in a bike that weighs nothing is more than sufficient power for cruising around a city or carving up some back roads. Again, everyones personal preference isnt based off of your own.
I saw my first Janus Motorcycle at the VA Hospital about 4 years ago. It looked splendid. It is a small bike to be sure but for the price it is and looks I think it far exceeds the Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki offerings. Besides the 250 cc size is kind of hard to get this day and age. You can tell the machine isn't trying to pretend to be anything but what it is, a simple relaible bike to have fun with in the countryside . It would be a great learners bike as well. What's not to like with this machine?
I have the Halcyon (the bike Jay rode). It is one of 6 motorcycles in my garage, from the 1000lb full fairing V-twins on down and it is a favorite for the sheer simplicity. Something that is different about this bike is that it is really a piece of American craftsmanship first. I have no problem with the sourcing of the engine, and in fact I like have a simple carbureted engine that I can easily perform all maintenance. Admittedly, with my other bikes the first thing I am drawn to is the engine - TS111, Revolution, Evo, etc., but the Janus just has a very different vibe and is an absolute blast to ride around town.
I was looking at these bikes but at the time they could not sell in California. I asked if they could do a demo day in Los Angeles but they only did the demo days in the Midwest. I ended up getting a restored 1969 350 Honda Scrambler. I liked they were American made and I liked their design.
The fact these guys have a youtube where they help show you to do things such as bleeding the brakes etc is so good as well! These guys have all they need to succeed!
@@forrestbedford5603any independently owned mechanic shop will work on just about anything. A motor is a motor, especially something with no electronics
And there’s more than that. The simple pleasure of a vehicular thing that just does what you ask- nothing more, nothing less- and doesn’t make a show of it or break down... Thats why I have a jeep and drive trails that aren’t even roads, and a CB350F. The elegance in simplicity. Yet still conquering their intended prey. I’m certainly curious if the visual couldnt take a cue from Harley’s Softail and provide rear suspension. Suspension isn’t there for comfort, it’s there for road control. Here in Vermont suspension does more for safety and control on a motorcycle than it does for comfort anyways.
my first car (1990s) was a 1968 VW camper top bus and the slow vehicle fast thing is so true. We had a lot of winding, hilly roads in southern Ohio. Going 50 on some of them was exhilarating. I had a lot of muscle car friends so there were plenty of times of ripping through gears up into 120+ mph but the bus was just as fun.
It sounds good, but as a persons "value", it sure lacks commitment by people saying it. If you consume/use/buy more manufactured goods than one person can make by hand per year, you are directly or inadvertently demoting the "value". And I like Jay, he seems a person who really likes the idea of the "value" and that is great. So do I.
I love these bikes! I don't think he mentioned their exact location, but they are in Goshen, Indiana. I live in Goshen and one of these machines will soon be my retirement present to myself. These guys are great!
@@jimmagnus1200 I've no idea. All I saw when I searched were Goshen and Eaton. I just finished looking at the Heindl website and did not see anything about the Janus bikes. Something isn't right about that. Good luck finding and buying the bike you want. My bike days are over- ask my wife! Actually, I sold my Harley 10 years ago on my own.
Carburettor, kick starter, hard tail. Definitely going against 21st century mc trends. Hope the "Leno Bump" is a good one for these enterprising young men. Surprised I didn't see a "Made in U.S.A." sticker on those Amish frames. A lot of us look for that.
There are many other companies here in the US that import this 250cc honda clone engine and sell them anywhere between $2000-$5000. They're in a steep competition at the price point they're asking for. I have a CSC SG250 that uses this same engine for $2500 and there's a Dual Sport version of it too. They even have an Adventure bike version fully liquid cooled and fuel injected. I do have to give Janus credit for paying attention to the finish of the bikes, but at $7000 there are brand new Japanese bikes at that priced with modern design and just as good of a finish.
the crazy thing is I bought a royal enfield and it's great and all but now royal enfield has stopped making the classic 500 I bought so who fixes it and where do we get parts? I say stick with a bike that you have parts for and someone to work on
Awesome! I really like the green one on the end with full suspension. That bike would look nice sitting between my Olive Gold Road Glide and my funky Suzuki Van Van 200.
@@Dave-sw2dm Is your Suzuki van one of those tiny box Kei car type? I live in the Philippines, and those things are everywhere. Importation, customization and re-sale of older Suzuki vans is a huge industry, here. I love those little things, even though they don't offer much protection in a collision. After I return to the US, I would love to get one of those and build a full cage inside it to make it much safer, and maybe install a wide body kit and nice fat wheels and tires would be really cool.
Nice 👍 The Blue GRYFFiN is sweet, The GRYFFiN is the style I like best but the Tan & Black on The HALCYON is a sweet look. Tan & Black on The GRYFFIN is what I really want to see, that mite me the 1. What did you get?
@@ricardomierz8467 You may be unfamiliar with how smog tests work. To import a motorcycle, it must pass the CalEPA standards before it can be registered in California. Unless the motorcycle is cited for having illegal emission modifications, there is no other smog check required for the life of that model. The Janus engine appears to be a clone of the Honda engine that is also used in the CSC TT250. They are an extremely reliable engine and no reason that they would go out of spec.
@@desertdenizen6428 Really?.. Your so confident in Chinese made products?.. How's about you take a Chinese made plane ride over to Harbour Freight Tools..
A friend's kid has one. He is a full size human, like Jay sized. Bike has no problem keeping up with us on the back roads. Quality good, product solid and unique.
I would be the friend and my "kid" who is in his early 20's and over 200 lbs rides his Halcyon #032 and does keep up with us. He even rode through the Tail of the Dragon with it. I was stunned to look in my rear view mirror in the mountains and he was still there. No trouble climbing hills. Love to see Janus getting some more PR, it really is a cool little bike and a ton of fun.
JamesAlmond Must be rough hearing others say that guys kid has a huge Janis somehow. Others hearing that staring you down in disgust. Even if it is a nice bike. Women riding one may get popular ?
So proud to see Devin and Richards work pay off like this. Its a shame sometimes that Devins other venture, MLM doesnt get the same exposure, as he IS the bleeding edge of vintage moped tech as well. Being a Goshen Indiana business as well, we get the pleasure of joining forces with the MLM side of things testing new parts, then going over to the Janus shop on the other side of the block to see all the great progress theyve made. Everyone at Janus is so friendly and wonderful and dont seem to mind when the big loud moped guy comes over just to yak and check out the new bikes. Ive known devin for about 20 years and though we but heads over philosophy sometimes, hes an amazing person and i couldnt be more proud to call him a friend!
Absolutely fantastic episode! Love these guy's enterprising spirit and passion for something they truly love. Wish them all the success - they deserve it. Cool bikes!
I met Devin and Richard through the moped scene back when they were making moped exhausts. They are incredibly talented craftsmen and you can see it in their work. Had a few conversations with Devin- very friendly and genuine guy. Best of luck to them. Glad to see they are getting some serious recognition for their hard work.
Thanks Jay for doing a feature on these bikes. I wish these guys the best for bringing us a retro style, well made lightweight motorcycle that doesn't break the bank...and is made in the USA.
The bigger guy is an architect. Those are crazy freaks I tell you! During my studies, I made a semestral project covering the history of styling and constructions of motorcycles. I scored "5", which would be "A" in your money.
Man, if they could build a car like that they'd sell millions. Just imagine...NO computers, NO printed circuits, NO abs. Back to basics. That's what the people want.
That is what a grandpa would say. Even Harley Davidson have brought out an electric bike. They know their sales are dwindling. Everyone knows that the newer generation is very tech savvy and doesn't have a problem dealing with it. This is the way the industry is rolling. There is no way they will sell millions. Despite this, there would always remain a niche demand for purely mechanical cars and bikes.
Renault car mfg. Was comming out wt basic car every thing mechanical no power steering no power brakes no air conditioning no computers and they had people lining up to buy this has been a few years ago don't know what happened??!!
Been following these guys for awhile, nice to see them hang with Jay! If I was in the market for a small displacement bike, I'd totally buy one of these.
@MichaelKingsfordGray No problem! If they expand and build something that can out more like 100hp, then that will get my purchasing attention. For now, I will admire the superior craftsmanship, and revel in their success.
Tom Raider Ya but 100HP bikes are a totally different animal. These guys aren’t into that, they said so. And neither am I really 300cc might be interesting though.
That's a bike I would like to get. Looks amazing. Retro old school but in a modern package and not too powerful plus 77 mpg per mile.. I would like one.
I owned stock in the Excelsior Henderson Motorcycle Company. Big mistake. The company folded. My stock is worthless. The state loan has been defaulted on. We, the taxpayers, are paying that back. I hope the Janus bikes do better than Excelsior Henderson.
I remember watching this video and then going on a motorcycle camping trip with my Dad. He was working on an older Porsche 911 Targa at the time. While we were sitting around the campfire we started talking about what was a new motorcycle we could buy that was like his 911. Because we had just watched this, we thought of the Janus. After we rode home, we put a deposit down and then picked it up in Goshen almost a year later. It was a great trip and a wonderful bike. I love looking at it in my shop and it is such a joy to ride! Great company to work with a real great motorcycle.
I've been around bikes all of my life, from racing motocross in the early 70's to riding Harleys by 1980. Back then the whole attraction to motorcycle riding was, the freedom and simplicity that two wheels gave you. Put a kid on a mini bike for the first time, and just watch the smile that instantly appears; trust me, video games and smartphones will never come close to that incredible rush! Devin and Richard, please consider at least a 500cc to 650cc model for guys like myself. I am 6' 4" and weigh 300 lbs...now just picture me on a 250cc, and think about that for a moment. If you can design and build one as simple as possible for under $10K, I'll be your first customer!!!!
jake cardin Underpowered is part of the joy and beauty! I have an ancient CB350F. What a ball! A super basic low cc two wheeler like these Janus’ is just what it takes to make me want it.
Jay, you should do a follow up to this story. For the Summer of 2022, Janus has just introduced a Halcyon 450! 30HP! More than double the 250's 14. Would like to hear your impressions of the new model. 👍
This is not the kind of bike I like, but I have to congratúlate these guys, because the had an idea and they created something different. You have all my respect. Good luck!!!
For all the debbie-downers commenting, why don't you create something instead of knit-picking someone's great achievement. Mose's sandels! Sounds like a cluster of skinny arm, blue haired, nose ring, man bun, nasal voice, 4th string community activists.
Theyre one of the fastest growing bike companies in the world so a lot of people would disagree. 7k for a handcrafted work of nostalgia is an incredible value.
As someone who values.. uh... value, to me it's more like an Indian/ Chinese $1200 bike with a custom frame. It's a Hawk 250 engine/ transmission, there's no getting around that. For $7000 they could have a better engine in there.
I was watching late in the evening. So I was using headphones to allow my kids to sleep. But when Jay told that hemorrhoids joke I accidentally belted out a huge laugh! Oh well, great video Jay!
I like that the very large looking Richard dudes background is in 50cc Italian mopeds. Just goes to show that this displacement race isn’t that important. Best of luck to these guys and their company, and thanks Jay Leno for helping small business get a word out.
19min Commercial...and i loved each minute of it. That´s how it´s done! So cool to give small companys the same chance like Porsche etc. Since i am not even allowed anymore to buy a Suzuki RV200 because of emissions over here in Europe (and thus have to commute with a 6-Cylinder Engine that tells you how dumb those regulations are) i'd buy one of those in a heartbeat.
I started riding motorcycles 3 years ago and it was the best decision of my life, grew up with all the stories of people and the fear of riding them and once I started riding it was so much better than what people say it is. I encourage anyone to give it a try, it truly becomes a life long hobby
I bought my Enfield 2 years ago and I was on fence about buying a motorcycle because they are dangerous compared to cars. The deciding factor was Leno, Schwarzenegger, Springsteen and Joel. I figured all those people have something to live for and try to live their lives. I bought an Arai because of all of Jay's video's. I figured if he likes them, then so will I.
I fought with my Mom over getting a motorcycle, and once I turned 18, I bought my first bike in 1984. I bought it from the loan manger at the local bank, and was guaranteed a loan for a whopping $1800, a 1983 Kawasaki 750 LTD twin belt drive. I even rebuilt the engine. Sold it in 2004 for $800. Crashed my 1983 Honda CB 900 C, chose to hit the car in front of me, as I was on a bridge and no maneuver room. Bought my HD in 1996, a brand new 1996 XL1200S, still have it. I have done over 100,000 miles by motorcycle. Bike Trip 1999, my girlfriend and I did over 11,000 miles through the US and Canada. Two months, 200 hours in the saddle, and lots of good times. Our wedding was a motorcycle affair, 80 people and 21 bikes. We never invited anyone, just the word went out. Our wedding procession stole all the glances. The local HD dealer lent us a bike for my Best Man to ride. Riding motorcycle is the only thing that clears my ADHD brain.
Good to see some young optimistic guys who are exicited about building motorcyles. I like the fact that they're using local labor to build a quality product. A fun video.
@@janusmotorcycles AMATEUR COMMENT : I've never seen this before. During the intro I was thinking "Is something loose in the front ?". Silly me. Looks very strange. But instead of just up and down, it appears to "pivot" out the bumps. Looks very cool ! I'd love one of these ! But I live in Europe. And I've never ridden a motorbike. But this is the one I'd buy. Wishing you continued success
Random. I just googled motorcycle manufacturers and was reading the wiki page for North American manufacturers and came across Janus Motorcycles. Loved how they looked on their website so I went to see them in action and saw Leno posted this just 3 days ago. I love these bikes and always wondered why no one makes vintage-esque bikes like these. Hopefully, one day I'll own one. Vroom.
Glad to see Jay do a video on Janus. I bought my Halcyon used back in May of 2019, and have put over 1,000 miles on it since then. Whenever I've needed anything they've been very helpful, despite the fact that the bike is out of warranty. I get about 65-70mpg, as far as speed goes I have seen 70, but I wouldn't recommend staying there for too long. Real leather means real care, you can't ignore the seat and bags or there will be trouble later on. All in all I can say that I'm very satisfied with the bike and the people.
While having the closed captioning on it was a little ironic that it typed out Rifles when Jay said Royal Enfeilds, considering that’s what Enfeild originally made before motorcycles. These are beautiful bikes but $7k for a new 250cc is far too expensive especially when you can make a bike with a 216cc 6.5hp lawnmower engine that’ll do 60 mph for 700$ or less
I realize MAGA is still a thing, but these are cheap Chinese motors, and carburetors and hard tails are just crap bikes. These bikes would not be legal to sell in most countries. Drag a 40 yr old Japanese bike out of a dumpster and fix it up and you'll have a better bike. It's disgusting and embarassing they try and brand this as American.
My Honda 350 Four seems underpowered with 33 HP, can't imagine running around with 14. I like small, light, vintage bikes, but I think 450 to 500cc is the sweet spot. Their bikes do look well-designed and high quality though.
@gemini232003 I've had a number of Honda Twins over the years, they really are great bikes. My favorite was a CL 450 Scrambler. It was still reasonably light, but had great power.
@@Mrdoctile $13,000+. For a 30hp 450. One-lunger. I like the bikes, I really do. But they're way underpowered, and WAY overpriced. Still, I suppose there's a market for 'em. Somewhere.
I am way too old for that hardtail stuff, but there are other models to choose from. One down, four up says the U S government. Not a bad deal. I like 'em simple. My '78 Goldwing is about as complicated as I care to deal with. Not bad for $7,000.
particularly Brazilian rapid intervention cops we often see on liveleaks, giving the scumbags a run for their money. Actually they work wonderfully in an urban environment.
Yes, the engine is Chinese, but it's supposed to be a good, reliable motor. A lot of stuff made in China sucks, but there are some well made things, too. For example, the Yong Heng high pressure PCP air compressor is so good that there are Chinese copies of a Chinese motor.
American's being creative, I love your patriotic spirit Jay. Thank you for only sharing ideas that are completed and that regular guys like me can also purchase. I am glad to see people from any part of the world innovate. That's the human spirit in action. (:
One of the best looking retro styled motorcycles on the market
Yeah Jay never mentioned the styling which is so cool. Its maybe hipster but its so retro cool its timeless. Like an antique.
$16,000
@@tj-kv6vrShoot man thats harley money and at least i know that these are pure American. Also small business are Americans backbone.
@@tj-kv6vr This bike is not built for necessity, practicality, or frugality.
These bikes are actually really well priced for being hand built. Small displacement aside, theyre worth it from what people who own them have told me. Ive been saving up for a Phoenix cafe racer for a while and I cant wait to pull the trigger.
14 hp is a joke for $7k
@@motorcycleislife8296 could it be that people who arent you maybe prioritize other things like craftsmanship or aesthetics over horsepower? I know its a strange concept.
@@johnnyregs2378 I'd rather ride a bike than look at it all day.
John Regan
Oh shut up quality and craftsmanship can’t come with a REASONABLE engine? I’d first get a true vintage bike or a modern quality bike before a compromise between the two.
@@motorcycleislife8296 14 hp in a bike that weighs nothing is more than sufficient power for cruising around a city or carving up some back roads. Again, everyones personal preference isnt based off of your own.
Beautiful machines. Nice work, guys!
I saw my first Janus Motorcycle at the VA Hospital about 4 years ago. It looked splendid. It is a small bike to be sure but for the price it is and looks I think it far exceeds the Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki offerings. Besides the 250 cc size is kind of hard to get this day and age. You can tell the machine isn't trying to pretend to be anything but what it is, a simple relaible bike to have fun with in the countryside . It would be a great learners bike as well. What's not to like with this machine?
Personally I would like to see a 500cc in this sort of project but amazing looking bikes. Very cool.
Great seeing a couple guys do it right. Wish them the best.
I have the Halcyon (the bike Jay rode). It is one of 6 motorcycles in my garage, from the 1000lb full fairing V-twins on down and it is a favorite for the sheer simplicity. Something that is different about this bike is that it is really a piece of American craftsmanship first. I have no problem with the sourcing of the engine, and in fact I like have a simple carbureted engine that I can easily perform all maintenance. Admittedly, with my other bikes the first thing I am drawn to is the engine - TS111, Revolution, Evo, etc., but the Janus just has a very different vibe and is an absolute blast to ride around town.
Just here to make sure Jay is wearing his Canadian Tuxedo.
“The nice thing about Hardtails is, if you have hemorrhoids, it’ll knock ‘em back in” Ha! Only Jay!
Gorgeous bike! Waiting on mine. Hand made. Like a work of art.
Cool retro bike.. 😍😍
I was looking at these bikes but at the time they could not sell in California. I asked if they could do a demo day in Los Angeles but they only did the demo days in the Midwest. I ended up getting a restored 1969 350 Honda Scrambler. I liked they were American made and I liked their design.
Dr. Leno's best medical tip,,,
If you ride one of theese you knock your hemorrhoids back in. 😁😂🤣
I like their spirit. Jay never did say what the top speed was. He just said stay off the freeway..
I have a CSC SG 250 with the same engine. It screams like a banshee.
Jesus, the size of that one guy. Jay is not short by any means - 5 ft 11 - but that one dude has to be damn near 7ft!!
Janus should get with Dennis Franz and put a small V8 in their bikes similar to the one on the Franz Flyer.
The fact these guys have a youtube where they help show you to do things such as bleeding the brakes etc is so good as well! These guys have all they need to succeed!
They do this because there is no other way to fix the bike. Few mechanics will work on them. You are on your own.
@@forrestbedford5603any independently owned mechanic shop will work on just about anything. A motor is a motor, especially something with no electronics
@@forrestbedford5603 bro anyone can work on these bikes if your mechanic can't then you shouldn't take any bike there
A new take on an old trope: Riding a slow bike fast is more fun than riding a fast bike slow.
The older I get the more true that rings!
And there’s more than that. The simple pleasure of a vehicular thing that just does what you ask- nothing more, nothing less- and doesn’t make a show of it or break down...
Thats why I have a jeep and drive trails that aren’t even roads, and a CB350F. The elegance in simplicity. Yet still conquering their intended prey.
I’m certainly curious if the visual couldnt take a cue from Harley’s Softail and provide rear suspension. Suspension isn’t there for comfort, it’s there for road control. Here in Vermont suspension does more for safety and control on a motorcycle than it does for comfort anyways.
That's how I see motorcycling. I ride a Honda Super Cub and this is the type of bike I'd be interested in...
i have more fun on my grom than my full size
my first car (1990s) was a 1968 VW camper top bus and the slow vehicle fast thing is so true. We had a lot of winding, hilly roads in southern Ohio. Going 50 on some of them was exhilarating. I had a lot of muscle car friends so there were plenty of times of ripping through gears up into 120+ mph but the bus was just as fun.
“I like people who make things with their hands, and make them in America.” Jay has the right values.
It sounds good, but as a persons "value", it sure lacks commitment by people saying it. If you consume/use/buy more manufactured goods than one person can make by hand per year, you are directly or inadvertently demoting the "value". And I like Jay, he seems a person who really likes the idea of the "value" and that is great. So do I.
With Chinese engine.
chinese engine is crap.
@@Edgar-Friendly as opposed to a US built motorcycle engine? Chronically out of balance, no power and leaking oil?
"I like people who buy things in China and sell them on Amazon"
I love these bikes! I don't think he mentioned their exact location, but they are in Goshen, Indiana. I live in Goshen and one of these machines will soon be my retirement present to myself. These guys are great!
Heindl Engineering in Ohio also sells them.
@@jeffryblackmon4846 Thanks for the info. I wondered if they sold through any other locations or dealers.
@@jimmagnus1200 I've no idea. All I saw when I searched were Goshen and Eaton. I just finished looking at the Heindl website and did not see anything about the Janus bikes. Something isn't right about that. Good luck finding and buying the bike you want. My bike days are over- ask my wife! Actually, I sold my Harley 10 years ago on my own.
@@jimmagnus1200 they say no dealers, they sell direct to save money!
How did your bike go? Please update :)
Carburettor, kick starter, hard tail. Definitely going against 21st century mc trends. Hope the "Leno Bump" is a good one for these enterprising young men. Surprised I didn't see a "Made in U.S.A." sticker on those Amish frames. A lot of us look for that.
There are many other companies here in the US that import this 250cc honda clone engine and sell them anywhere between $2000-$5000. They're in a steep competition at the price point they're asking for. I have a CSC SG250 that uses this same engine for $2500 and there's a Dual Sport version of it too. They even have an Adventure bike version fully liquid cooled and fuel injected. I do have to give Janus credit for paying attention to the finish of the bikes, but at $7000 there are brand new Japanese bikes at that priced with modern design and just as good of a finish.
Pukes.
the crazy thing is I bought a royal enfield and it's great and all but now royal enfield has stopped making the classic 500 I bought so who fixes it and where do we get parts? I say stick with a bike that you have parts for and someone to work on
G D
Umm. Just so as you know, this bike isn’t made for you.
Amish?
Mr. Leno, thank you for introducing Janus Motorcycles to me. Best wishes to all, nice bikes.
I bought one yesterday!!! I can't wait to ride it.
Awesome! I really like the green one on the end with full suspension. That bike would look nice sitting between my Olive Gold Road Glide and my funky Suzuki Van Van 200.
@Daniel Hayes
Nice! Which model did you get?
@@Dave-sw2dm Is your Suzuki van one of those tiny box Kei car type?
I live in the Philippines, and those things are everywhere.
Importation, customization and re-sale of older Suzuki vans is a huge industry, here.
I love those little things, even though they don't offer much protection in a collision.
After I return to the US, I would love to get one of those and build a full cage inside it to make it much safer, and maybe install a wide body kit and nice fat wheels and tires would be really cool.
@@TimothyArcher, no the Suzuki Van Van 200 is a motorcycle with a retro look.
Nice 👍
The Blue GRYFFiN is sweet, The GRYFFiN is the style I like best but the Tan & Black on The HALCYON is a sweet look.
Tan & Black on The GRYFFIN is what I really want to see, that mite me the 1.
What did you get?
I wonder if they have factory tours. Janus is only like two hours from us in chicagoland
They have awesome tours and you can test ride the bikes. They call them Discovery Days. Cheers!
www.janusmotorcycles.com/discoverydays
They totally do and going on one was a definite blast
@@ScoutingForZen I will check into that , could also be in a video if they allow filming there
They are just lovely. I wish those guys a lot of success.
Thank you!
These guys seem nice and genuine. Glad to see Jay bring these types of guys on.
A carbureted bike that meets new smog standards, that is very impressive!
Like the CSC TT250, same engine, 50 state legal @ 1/3 the price. Not knocking the Janus but definitely a niche bike.
Yeah, it will pass the first smog test then it will be parked as a lawn ornament after failing the second smog test...
@@ricardomierz8467 You may be unfamiliar with how smog tests work. To import a motorcycle, it must pass the CalEPA standards before it can be registered in California. Unless the motorcycle is cited for having illegal emission modifications, there is no other smog check required for the life of that model. The Janus engine appears to be a clone of the Honda engine that is also used in the CSC TT250. They are an extremely reliable engine and no reason that they would go out of spec.
@@desertdenizen6428 Really?.. Your so confident in Chinese made products?.. How's about you take a Chinese made plane ride over to Harbour Freight Tools..
@@ricardomierz8467 Way to stay on topic.
A friend's kid has one. He is a full size human, like Jay sized. Bike has no problem keeping up with us on the back roads. Quality good, product solid and unique.
I would be the friend and my "kid" who is in his early 20's and over 200 lbs rides his Halcyon #032 and does keep up with us. He even rode through the Tail of the Dragon with it. I was stunned to look in my rear view mirror in the mountains and he was still there. No trouble climbing hills. Love to see Janus getting some more PR, it really is a cool little bike and a ton of fun.
I love this OP
@Frank L Who asked you ?? 👎
JamesAlmond Must be rough hearing others say that guys kid has a huge Janis somehow. Others hearing that staring you down in disgust. Even if it is a nice bike. Women riding one may get popular ?
@Frank L - American sized person
With motorcycles, ORV's and everything just getting bigger and bigger, it's nice to see someone going in the other direction.
"It'll knock your haemorrhoids back in!" - Now that's a slogan right there!
Killed me lol
J-anus ... I don't tell you what the 4 last letter mean in my french
I had to laugh at that bit. Could be their Sales slogan. "The Janus, it'll knock your haemorrhoids right back in place".
That olive drab with leather look is beautiful.
So proud to see Devin and Richards work pay off like this. Its a shame sometimes that Devins other venture, MLM doesnt get the same exposure, as he IS the bleeding edge of vintage moped tech as well. Being a Goshen Indiana business as well, we get the pleasure of joining forces with the MLM side of things testing new parts, then going over to the Janus shop on the other side of the block to see all the great progress theyve made. Everyone at Janus is so friendly and wonderful and dont seem to mind when the big loud moped guy comes over just to yak and check out the new bikes. Ive known devin for about 20 years and though we but heads over philosophy sometimes, hes an amazing person and i couldnt be more proud to call him a friend!
I was also very excited to see this come about. I definitely need to make my way though this part of the state and check them out. :D
Absolutely fantastic episode! Love these guy's enterprising spirit and passion for something they truly love. Wish them all the success - they deserve it. Cool bikes!
I met Devin and Richard through the moped scene back when they were making moped exhausts. They are incredibly talented craftsmen and you can see it in their work. Had a few conversations with Devin- very friendly and genuine guy. Best of luck to them. Glad to see they are getting some serious recognition for their hard work.
Thanks Jay for doing a feature on these bikes. I wish these guys the best for bringing us a retro style, well made lightweight motorcycle that doesn't break the bank...and is made in the USA.
Cool! Like the fact that these Guys know some Bike History too!! Best of Luck toYou!! :-)
The bigger guy is an architect. Those are crazy freaks I tell you! During my studies, I made a semestral project covering the history of styling and constructions of motorcycles. I scored "5", which would be "A" in your money.
I've been waiting for Jay to do a show on Janus FOREVER. It's a company and bikes right up his alley.
Ditto! Glad to finally see it!
I actually thought he already had. I remember seeing their early bikes (the Halcyon) years ago at the Mods V Rockers show in Chicago.
Sounds like the seat was going right up his alley ! I'll get my coat ...
Man, if they could build a car like that they'd sell millions. Just imagine...NO computers, NO printed circuits, NO abs. Back to basics. That's what the people want.
That is what a grandpa would say.
Even Harley Davidson have brought out an electric bike. They know their sales are dwindling.
Everyone knows that the newer generation is very tech savvy and doesn't have a problem dealing with it.
This is the way the industry is rolling.
There is no way they will sell millions.
Despite this, there would always remain a niche demand for purely mechanical cars and bikes.
Be a cheaper alternative most people like me just care about getting to point a-b
Renault car mfg. Was comming out wt basic car every thing mechanical no power steering no power brakes no air conditioning no computers and they had people lining up to buy this has been a few years ago don't know what happened??!!
Hankorama yes! However safety regulations make that very difficult.
A car with no standard features? Yea, it’ll sell great in the US...
These look like alot of fun! I love the obvious pre war bike inspiration they have
🎯
Super cool! Congrats to Janus Motorcycles for your ingenuity and perseverance. Continued success!
The front suspension immediately reminded me of the old 70's DKW 125cc motocrossers! Nice bike for $7000!
The Brits stopped putting license plates over the front mudguard when they found out it acted like a meat cleaver in accidents.
Yikes.
yeah same here in OZ front plates act like scalpels
Gross
In the netherlands we switched them to plastic to indicate it was a moped. Yellow for 45 kmh and orange for 25.
@@Mr_Fancypants those plates aren't mandatory anymore.
Been following these guys for awhile, nice to see them hang with Jay! If I was in the market for a small displacement bike, I'd totally buy one of these.
@MichaelKingsfordGray Not into small displacement bikes.
@MichaelKingsfordGray No problem! If they expand and build something that can out more like 100hp, then that will get my purchasing attention. For now, I will admire the superior craftsmanship, and revel in their success.
Tom Raider
Ya but 100HP bikes are a totally different animal. These guys aren’t into that, they said so. And neither am I really
300cc might be interesting though.
@@fishhuntadventure totally get that... Just saying that is where I am at. Their beautiful machines fill a niche, that I am not in. 😎
That's a bike I would like to get. Looks amazing. Retro old school but in a modern package and not too powerful plus 77 mpg per mile.. I would like one.
Lenny and Squiggy have done alright long after Laverne and Shirley.
These guys are literally across the parking lot from my recording studio - they're great!
Hi Nate!
Hi Nate!
Hi Nate!
Hi Nate !
Hi Nate!
I owned stock in the Excelsior Henderson Motorcycle Company. Big mistake. The company folded. My stock is worthless. The state loan has been defaulted on. We, the taxpayers, are paying that back. I hope the Janus bikes do better than Excelsior Henderson.
I remember watching this video and then going on a motorcycle camping trip with my Dad. He was working on an older Porsche 911 Targa at the time. While we were sitting around the campfire we started talking about what was a new motorcycle we could buy that was like his 911. Because we had just watched this, we thought of the Janus. After we rode home, we put a deposit down and then picked it up in Goshen almost a year later. It was a great trip and a wonderful bike. I love looking at it in my shop and it is such a joy to ride! Great company to work with a real great motorcycle.
I've been around bikes all of my life, from racing motocross in the early 70's to riding Harleys by 1980. Back then the whole attraction to motorcycle riding was, the freedom and simplicity that two wheels gave you. Put a kid on a mini bike for the first time, and just watch the smile that instantly appears; trust me, video games and smartphones will never come close to that incredible rush! Devin and Richard, please consider at least a 500cc to 650cc model for guys like myself. I am 6' 4" and weigh 300 lbs...now just picture me on a 250cc, and think about that for a moment. If you can design and build one as simple as possible for under $10K, I'll be your first customer!!!!
@pete smyth And he rode one all the way across the country in only 6 days!
Got my first minibike at 7. One of these janus bikes would suit my 11 year old daughter quite well. But far too underpowered for me.
jake cardin
Underpowered is part of the joy and beauty!
I have an ancient CB350F. What a ball!
A super basic low cc two wheeler like these Janus’ is just what it takes to make me want it.
glenniz1 I'm 14 and have only ridden my uncles old 50cc Kawasaki. I'd love my own but there's no way my parents would let me get one
I am 230 wife 140 we cruise on our 250 65 to 70mph
Jay, you should do a follow up to this story.
For the Summer of 2022, Janus has just introduced a Halcyon 450!
30HP! More than double the 250's 14.
Would like to hear your impressions of the new model. 👍
This is not the kind of bike I like, but I have to congratúlate these guys, because the had an idea and they created something different.
You have all my respect.
Good luck!!!
Those bikes look good. Bottom line.
These are pretty damn awesome looking...
Thank you!
Janus Motorcycles
How do they do at 50mph, hilly terrain like Vermont?
For all the debbie-downers commenting,
why don't you create something instead of knit-picking someone's great achievement. Mose's sandels! Sounds like a cluster of skinny arm, blue haired, nose ring, man bun, nasal voice, 4th string community activists.
Cool idea but they're too expensive for what they are. $4000 - $5000 would be a much easier sell.
really tho? Making this by hand in the states
Theyre one of the fastest growing bike companies in the world so a lot of people would disagree. 7k for a handcrafted work of nostalgia is an incredible value.
Yea 7k is way too much. I’d imagine a lot of that cost is due to the Amish making the frame. They’re like 5 years too late to the hipster scene.
If you think it's so easy, let's see YOU build these at that price point.
As someone who values.. uh... value, to me it's more like an Indian/ Chinese $1200 bike with a custom frame. It's a Hawk 250 engine/ transmission, there's no getting around that. For $7000 they could have a better engine in there.
I was watching late in the evening. So I was using headphones to allow my kids to sleep. But when Jay told that hemorrhoids joke I accidentally belted out a huge laugh! Oh well, great video Jay!
Those tanks are gorgeous!
The company I work for builds parts for these little guys so cool to see it on Jay Leno show.
Those 50cc 2-strokes can be a BLAST to ride! Out of all the motorcycles i've owned, my 50cc, 5-speed HONDA MB5 is the most fun to ride!
Yes, someone who understands!
I like that the very large looking Richard dudes background is in 50cc Italian mopeds. Just goes to show that this displacement race isn’t that important. Best of luck to these guys and their company, and thanks Jay Leno for helping small business get a word out.
It's a very practical bike. It's nice to see that its made in USA.
Thank you!
Perfect design and seems a bargain for $7K. Good luck to these two
19min Commercial...and i loved each minute of it. That´s how it´s done! So cool to give small companys the same chance like Porsche etc.
Since i am not even allowed anymore to buy a Suzuki RV200 because of emissions over here in Europe (and thus have to commute with a 6-Cylinder Engine that tells you how dumb those regulations are) i'd buy one of those in a heartbeat.
I started riding motorcycles 3 years ago and it was the best decision of my life, grew up with all the stories of people and the fear of riding them and once I started riding it was so much better than what people say it is. I encourage anyone to give it a try, it truly becomes a life long hobby
I bought my Enfield 2 years ago and I was on fence about buying a motorcycle because they are dangerous compared to cars. The deciding factor was Leno, Schwarzenegger, Springsteen and Joel. I figured all those people have something to live for and try to live their lives. I bought an Arai because of all of Jay's video's. I figured if he likes them, then so will I.
Living up north, nothing is like the thrill of the first ride of the spring.
I fought with my Mom over getting a motorcycle, and once I turned 18, I bought my first bike in 1984. I bought it from the loan manger at the local bank, and was guaranteed a loan for a whopping $1800, a 1983 Kawasaki 750 LTD twin belt drive. I even rebuilt the engine. Sold it in 2004 for $800. Crashed my 1983 Honda CB 900 C, chose to hit the car in front of me, as I was on a bridge and no maneuver room. Bought my HD in 1996, a brand new 1996 XL1200S, still have it. I have done over 100,000 miles by motorcycle. Bike Trip 1999, my girlfriend and I did over 11,000 miles through the US and Canada. Two months, 200 hours in the saddle, and lots of good times. Our wedding was a motorcycle affair, 80 people and 21 bikes. We never invited anyone, just the word went out. Our wedding procession stole all the glances. The local HD dealer lent us a bike for my Best Man to ride.
Riding motorcycle is the only thing that clears my ADHD brain.
Good to see some young optimistic guys who are exicited about building motorcyles. I like the fact that they're using local labor to build a quality product. A fun video.
I love these bikes. Have wanted one since I heard of them.
I have had my eyes on this bike company for over a year. I would love to have one of their bikes that gives off a Vincent vibe.
Jay was unsure about them till he found out they were California compliant then he was all about it!
I’d love to have one of these mopeds.
Wish they talked about the founder Hugh Janus more.
FAST EDDIE
Well played
and more importantly; his pet snake. It was absolutely huge. Can't remember what species it was, but he called it Monty
Fast Eddie , well played sir 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🤣
Yawn.
Leading link front suspension returns 😁
about time, right?
@@janusmotorcycles AMATEUR COMMENT : I've never seen this before. During the intro I was thinking "Is something loose in the front ?". Silly me. Looks very strange. But instead of just up and down, it appears to "pivot" out the bumps. Looks very cool ! I'd love one of these ! But I live in Europe. And I've never ridden a motorbike. But this is the one I'd buy. Wishing you continued success
A better engine (one able to actually handle a highway) would probably be the best move here.
MrCarGuy20 nah. These bikes are perfect for their intended purpose. City and back roads. No real reason to ride a motorcycle on the highway anyways.
@@thelasttaarakian Are you kidding? These can barely handle roads with a speed limit of 40 mph safely.
it is not worth 6 grand with a Chinese motor
@kuro neko let me clarify for you that Chinese motor is very weak and an old design but hey if you want to waste your money on junk go ahead
I have a Halcyon 250. Janus stands behind their products like a small company should. Well made and simple, and simply beautiful
May I ask how long it took to get your bike. I ordered mine today
@jakec2009 Good question. No idea. I bought mine used. I think it depends on how busy they are and parts availability
My respect for Mr Leno grows week by week. Thanks for another great vid.
"Penn and Teller" build motorcycles! Good work, guys!
Very interesting story on , how to start a motorcycle business. Thanks for showing these very Cool motorcycles by Janus ,Mr. Leno !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks!
$8800 in July 2023. Quite a price jump. 25% in 3 years, I guess it's really not that bad.
3 years of a certain senile kid sniffer in charge of the economy too..
wonder if there is a connection?🤔
I remember my first bike in 1969, a BSA Bantam 175, didn’t have a fuel gauge, you knew when you were running low when you had to switch to reserve.
ride until it starves, flip the switch, 30+ mile left, no fuss
from a brazilian who rides a 150cc honda
Random. I just googled motorcycle manufacturers and was reading the wiki page for North American manufacturers and came across Janus Motorcycles. Loved how they looked on their website so I went to see them in action and saw Leno posted this just 3 days ago.
I love these bikes and always wondered why no one makes vintage-esque bikes like these.
Hopefully, one day I'll own one.
Vroom.
Well now I "need" another motorcycle...
Best new bike brand- congrats guys, for getting on Leno, and thank you Jay for featuring them!
what? the amish actually do welding?!
A lot of Amish machinists too.
Yes. They're VERY good at it.
so.... what's too modern for them then?
Yeah-by candle light.
Their shops are lit by bright LED fixtures connected to an on-site generator.
Glad to see Jay do a video on Janus.
I bought my Halcyon used back in May of 2019, and have put over 1,000 miles on it since then.
Whenever I've needed anything they've been very helpful, despite the fact that the bike is out of warranty.
I get about 65-70mpg, as far as speed goes I have seen 70, but I wouldn't recommend staying there for too long.
Real leather means real care, you can't ignore the seat and bags or there will be trouble later on.
All in all I can say that I'm very satisfied with the bike and the people.
Looks like they did a fantastic job on the bikes. Very thoughtful and entertaining bikes.
I would like to see the big guy ride one of these motorcycle 🏍
Jays chin with that helmet 17:56
🤣😂🤣🤣😂😂😂🤣🤣
While having the closed captioning on it was a little ironic that it typed out Rifles when Jay said Royal Enfeilds, considering that’s what Enfeild originally made before motorcycles. These are beautiful bikes but $7k for a new 250cc is far too expensive especially when you can make a bike with a 216cc 6.5hp lawnmower engine that’ll do 60 mph for 700$ or less
Nice little bike if you've got the money for it. Thanks for the vid Jay!
I realize MAGA is still a thing, but these are cheap Chinese motors, and carburetors and hard tails are just crap bikes. These bikes would not be legal to sell in most countries.
Drag a 40 yr old Japanese bike out of a dumpster and fix it up and you'll have a better bike.
It's disgusting and embarassing they try and brand this as American.
My Honda 350 Four seems underpowered with 33 HP, can't imagine running around with 14. I like small, light, vintage bikes, but I think 450 to 500cc is the sweet spot. Their bikes do look well-designed and high quality though.
@gemini232003 I've had a number of Honda Twins over the years, they really are great bikes. My favorite was a CL 450 Scrambler. It was still reasonably light, but had great power.
they now have a 450
@@Mrdoctile $13,000+. For a 30hp 450. One-lunger. I like the bikes, I really do. But they're way underpowered, and WAY overpriced. Still, I suppose there's a market for 'em. Somewhere.
I am way too old for that hardtail stuff, but there are other models to choose from. One down, four up says the U S government. Not a bad deal. I like 'em simple. My '78 Goldwing is about as complicated as I care to deal with. Not bad for $7,000.
That engine powers pretty much every bike in South America.
That's good, lots of cheap parts then
@@CAPDude44 Super cheap.
particularly Brazilian rapid intervention cops we often see on liveleaks, giving the scumbags a run for their money. Actually they work wonderfully in an urban environment.
Yes, the engine is Chinese, but it's supposed to be a good, reliable motor. A lot of stuff made in China sucks, but there are some well made things, too. For example, the Yong Heng high pressure PCP air compressor is so good that there are Chinese copies of a Chinese motor.
Electric and kick start. That's pretty cool.
And like Richard said, you look cool kick starting a bike!😎
NGL im 12..
i read that as Anus Motorcycles the first time i saw this..
is it why i clicked?
not every mystery needs to be revealed..
American's being creative, I love your patriotic spirit Jay. Thank you for only sharing ideas that are completed and that regular guys like me can also purchase. I am glad to see people from any part of the world innovate. That's the human spirit in action. (:
America made with a Chinese motor
BuT iTs GoT a ChInEsE mOtOr...
The main reason why this a Fail is because we can go get a almost never used Harley For less money and actually American made. Not nock off crap!!!
Love those bikes
That hardtail is screaming for a lightweight, same-era, sidecar comparably priced.