My favorite riding is just meandering around in the countryside at dusk. No crazy fast corners, no high speeds. Just zooming along taking in the sunset and the cool air.
Yep, indiana countryside on a little 250 dual sport. 60mph feels like a rush out there at night on a county road. Not a headlight for miles :) stars all around, after the sun sets. Makes we debate whether I need a KLR650, or mt07 as a second bike. I don't see many hills/mountains/single tracks in Indiana. So an mt07 cld handle the majority. But the KLR could play in the fields in the fall/spring really well. Idk 🤷♂️
I'm a dawn rider, but I do work nights so I'm naturally nocturnal. I'll leave the house at 2 or 3 am ride until I find a nice spot for the sunrise then chill making a fresh pot of coffee before the ride home and traffic starts to pick up. Not going to lie, having those empty roads does make me push it on some roads but it's mostly relaxed riding.
Just remember, there’s life after Goldwing. I got rid of my Goldwing for a Victory vision and now my stable is an SV 650 and an MT-09SP I think they call it the circle of life.
You’re not a boring old fogie…you’re just doing what the rest of us have done about 30 years ahead of you. It’s called life. When you’re young, you yearn for life’s experience and the adventure that come along with it all. If it’s motorcycles, airplanes, skydiving, travelling or whatever, you’ll yearn until the experience has been completed. If you are the ambitious type, you’ll get over it pretty quickly and set your sights on another one of life’s goals. It’s great and I’m going to guess that in 30 years, you’ll be searching for the old vintage bikes from 2019 that nobody wants anymore and start doing restorations because it reminds you of the good old days of your youth. Ask me how I know…
Yep, and of course all the youngsters here will proclaim it’ll never happen to them because they are so different. If they’re lucky, and they manage to live long enough while continuing to enjoy this lifestyle they too will come to a point where adding a risk just for the sake of doing so or worse for ego doesn’t make sense anymore
Retired motorcycle racer here... im 34. I totally get what you mean and it's fine. No need to rip it every single time and not having to prove anything to anyone is really liberating. Now I currently own a triumph tiger 900 and usually just travel long and mid distance weekend trips and have to say it's so fun. Enjoying the cool breeze, the smell of fleshly cut grass and the general scenery. ❤
I started to ride motorcycles in Germany at 27 when my son was just one year old. I rode for 12 years, stopped for 15 years, and began to ride again here in the US two months ago after my oldest son decided he wanted an MC license. Being 59 now, I switched from Yamaha 850, Kawasaki 750, and Kawa 1200ZRX years ago to an Indian Scout to get back into it. Six weeks later, I added an Indian Chieftain because I plan a Rt 66 tour with family and friends next year. The best motorcycling are the multiple-day / cross-country trips. It's nice to ride during the week and on weekends, but packing up and going out for days or weeks makes my stomach tingle pleasantly. I've been following my heart since I was very young and didn't care about 'proving' anything. It's the most freeing feeling and gives me joy.
Honestly mad respect for making an honest video like this. I feel like the sportbike community has gotten too serious about pushing limits every time we ride. That’s good for progressing, but honestly sometimes makes you lose sight of why you started ride in the first place. Maybe the reason wasn’t to be the fastest, but just to enjoy the roads in a new way. It’s nice to take a step back once in a while and enjoy the experience
You've mentioned mutliple times getting a facebook bike from CA or somewhere and riding it back. You should absolutely do that. I think it would make for a phenomenal video and be something new for you.
I’m 56 years old now been riding since I was 6 . I have rode almost every kinda bike out there. No matter what I’ll never get a Harley or Gold-wing . I don’t ride fast anymore but I ride quickly if that makes sense. I do however just cruise around a lot . I recently bought a XSR 900 and it’s the best of all worlds really . I enjoy cruising and riding through the mountains at a decent pace but nothing crazy anymore. It’s definitely about the experience now for me and just being out there on two wheels . Staying safe is my concern as well and I want to live to see another day. So I take it easy 95 % of the time. Be safe everyone ✌🏻
Rode a 125cc 1967 Ducati on road and on scramble tracks from 1969 onward. Then a BSA Victor in 1971. Married in 1977, two kids for which I stopped riding for about 18 years, 1983 to 2001. Fired up some new bikes after they started college. At the tender age of 57 began trackdays on a 2003 Buell XB9S, just having a hoot. Got my CCS race license and doing track days from Michigan to Florida on that bike, still ride it street and track. Motorcycling at street speeds, being careful, correctly suited/booted and covering the front brake is also a hoot. Wouldn't change a thing. I am now officially 80, getting ready for my track day with N2 racing at NCCAR track in Garysburg, NC. Yes there really is enough time, so be careful when you ride it like you stole it. Great vid YN.
Couldn't agree with you more yammie. Do whatever you want to do. Going fast is not always the most enjoyable thing about motorcycles. I find just cruising and enjoying the scenery to be much more fun. I'm also getting old
Man, this is awesome. I have a feeling your best riding days and best content is ahead of you. Looking forward to what’s to come. Now … don’t get a Harley. Get a Triumph ;)
You've matured, this was actually the point for me when i got back into bikes. Didnt have one for +-10 years, i noticed my maturing with adrenaline and thrill for speed too. Used to ride my cars 160mph+ but the need for it became less and less. Occasionally i still throttle it but i noticed that i pick those moments way better than i used to too. Just when and where its possible to have a little fun. For me it was good that i got back into bikes when this maturing process happened. Think i would have had a stupid speeding accident if i wouldve kept riding fast bikes in my young years.
PapaYam, I'm turning 44 this month. Never rode a bike till I was 27. Fell in love with big bikes at 32 and I've rode almost everywhere on a bike since. Never done tracks. Did some "touring" across Singapore to Malaysia and into Thailand Krabi, and Koh Samui... yeah I feel ya brother.... I've got a '23 XSR900 and I love just chilling... and as you say... the demons come out once in a while.. then I remember the cost of tyres, brakes, oils, etc etc.. and I slow down! Gots a cat that depends on me!
Really like these videos. Watching Pappa Yam go through the ups and downs of motorcycle ownership and balancing it with life. I see this a lot working at a Triumph dealership with riders going through this same change. It takes a bigger man to understand himself that he is happy with slowing down. I have a Honda cb1000r that I probably ride slower than I did my Triumph Daytona 675 a few years back.
I'm in the same position . I've got a ZX-14 and the thing is just way, way too fast for the road. I don't enjoy accelerating that fast that my helmet is coming off. I'm losing the enjoyment of motorcycling and the roads are not made for it. Too many pot holes in the UK and I got caught speeding last month only 35 in a 30. Lucky as I hit 150 week before on the 14 and I was still in 3rd gear. I wanna roll and enjoy it now and travel. It's called maturity lol.
Being 33,the mt07 has been the perfect fit for me; I got it because I didn’t want some hippo of a cruiser either. The naked sport segment has been comfortable, they can handle spirited rides just as well as just chill rides
Last year of the Thruxton is '25. We know you love a Triumph. Do it brother. I have zero regrets with my '22 Speed Twin. After some simple mods and an ECU tune, they're plenty fast, and capable. Get a Corbin seat and hit the road boss. Become a distinguished gentleman. Peace!
@@christophervincent77 You might wanna hold off till the '26 models come out. Good chance they'll be a Speed Twin RS version coming after the Thruxton is discontinued. Basically a Speed Twin with Thruxton suspension. Should be a nasty little thing.
Sounds like a Versys with a custom seat and a tune is in your future! It's been perfect for my 280 mile mountain tooling. My mt09 satisfies the rally days. I'm 57 yo btw, riding never gets old.
I'm 41 and this is my first year with a bike. I'm a grandpa cruiser style rider and I believe I would have been at 30 and 20 also. I never got into bikes because I grew up with my dad shunning bikes and effectively begging me/convincing me to never get into them. So I just didn't because of danger potential. I just want to cruise on a powerful bike that has the ability to unleash when needed. I let it rip when getting on highway onramps or if I need to overtake but that is it. I just don't care, nor do I want the increased danger of taking every twister and corner as fast as possible. I'd rather just cruise through and enjoy the breeze. The 'ZEN' ride he is talking about is exactly what I'm doing. For me the ride should be as relaxing as possible, meditative, feel nature, on my mechanical steed. Like going for a great VERY FAST hike.
I get exactly what you are talking about , A lot of people think that ohh you have to go fast to have fun or it wont be fun if im not going fast but thats not really the case I am 18 and me Myself I dont really Speed Anywhere even in the twistys it just much more Fun to Just glide in the corners and see the scenery around you , I Think thats the best Kind of riding
Lol, it took me one motorcycle accident 14 years ago, two marriages, four kids and 54 years of age to date. And selling my Harley because it was too lumbering to get to where you are now but I'm also now looking into a sport touring motorcycle, wearing an airbag for street riding and just riding to enjoy the scenery. Great video and good job growing up and growing old. Lol.
Good stuff, Yam! Change is the only constant. Feeling and flowing (skillfully as best as possible) with the curves on the road and in life is where it’s at. Sounds like you’re taking another step in maturity (which is defined differently for each of us at different times). I have to smile when i hear you say you’re getting old at 32. I’m 62, almost twice your age. what you say rings true and i applaud you for being honest with yourself and your audience/community.
Yammie, I got back into riding last year after 30+ years. I got back into it on a 2002 Triumph Tiger 955i. I have ridden that and my Buell XB9SX and am now looking at a Sport Tourer. I've been buying them cheap until I figure out where I feel right. Glad you are coming into yours and looking forward to more of your content.
I am in my 50's and started riding over thirty years ago. I never had a cruiser, I currently have a 2003 BMW F650 CS and enjoy back roads cruising at 45-50mph. Even years ago when I had my Kawasaki GPZ750 I was a laid back rider. The freedom of the road and taking it easy has always been my groove.
Its interesting, as im getting into track riding currently, the feeling of wanting to prove yourself and be the absolute best rider you can be steadily grows. That innate competitiveness that pretty much applies to most of my hobbies. Mastering my own 675 Streety is my current goal and plan to go to Barber soon. Seeing someone on the other end of that is kinda cool. As one gets in another gets out, a neat little cycle. Congrats on your daughter!
When I was young I was a very fast and aggressive driver, and it was all about proving to the world, and more importantly proving to myself that I wasn’t a loser. Then I went to university, and got a first class honors degree in physics. After that I felt that I didn’t have to prove anything to anybody.. Even if other people don’t necessarily understand what I accomplished, I do and that’s enough. Perversely though, now that I’ve been retired for a few years, I find myself spending more time on the bike and it’s just so ridiculously easy to go stupid fast on the darn thing.
I remember that same moment. I’d spent the weekend visiting my mum, and I was taking the old high way/long way home. I was riding a 1982 Oldwing, it was 10 in the morning, and already 25 degrees Celsius. For the first time in my life, I pulled over and took off my riding jacket, and experienced the joy of riding in a t shirt on a completely empty road, with nothing but the scents of wild flowers and cow shit. Averaging 80kph tops on this twisty old road, in no hurry whatsoever… that’s what riding is all about for me these days. By the way, the Goldwing will go more places than you might think; pavement or not.
It’s the ebb and flow ol papa yam. Granted I’ve only been riding for about 5 months, but some days I get out and rip every moment possible, and some days I get out and barely do the speed limit. Enjoy the ride and the vibe man, it’s all about getting home safe with a smile on your face.
Went on my first big trip last year and it was more amazing than I even thought it would be. Chicago to Southern AZ and back 4600 mi round trip. Do it Yam!
Your past accomplishments are still yours, but inevitably we all live differently as we grow and age. There ain’t nothing wrong with easy riding. Appreciate you sharing this perspective with your audience, as it’s often easy for the younger generations to rush to judgment about the older generations and how they live and ride. Cheers!
At 43, after a 10-year motorcycle hiatus, I purchased a Harley RH1250S(Sportster S). I live up a canyon through the countryside and believe in throttle therapy.
Sport bike guy for years, bought a street glide and its the only bike I ride now. Trying to nail every shift and be as smooth as possible is just as fun as doing the same thing at mach 10. Also being comfy at the same time is a huge plus.
I think you covering the evolution is good to see and for viewers to experience. Long tour content would be cool! Heading to Colorado tomorrow to ride the Million Dollar Highway and Wolf Creek Pass… just got off ECR this weekend! Your content has gotten me into track, sport, and even adventure riding! Thanks for being an excellent source of insight across the spectrum of motorcycle riding!
I’m 31 years old and have a 2024 s1k, and I get where you’re coming from, I’ve been the same way recently over the last couple years. I’ve just been enjoying the ride and no longer pushing myself. Live to ride another day. I just enjoying riding, enjoying the scenery, relaxing. That’s my type now
@@sk8orhate55 If I was you I’d go with the Mt-09 or mt10, they’re very tame bikes when you want them to be and quick when you want that. I was actually about to get an mt10 before I got the s1000
@@sk8orhate55 I wouldn’t listen to anyone that says to go small, if you’re a bigger dude, it’ll help even out. Plus, just got to be smart and not hammer on it too much haha. Be safe, have fun man
Time to smell the roses my friend! Long distance is nice, but can suck depending on weather etc. Coming home in one piece to loved ones is important man. Enjoy the ride, we all hit squid mode sometimes. Cheers. 🇦🇺
Just turned 54 and buying a used Z900. I wanted power on tap if I need it, and may do some track days to improve. But mostly enjoy sunrise/sunset cruises in the Texas hill country.
I have an s1000rr and a road glide. Best of both worlds for me. Attack the twisties when i feel that way and cruise and explore other times. The key is keep riding as long as you can.
The Yamm has evolved. There’s nothing wrong with growing and improving your own life. It’s like a garden, eventually you want to grow something different.
I'm a new rider and I got my bike because I just wanted one. I bought one that I could afford and that was a great bike to learn and grow on, and was reliable and easy to work on. So, I got a 2022 SV650. Guess I was lucky to never really have anything to prove, I already reach that age before beginning my journey in riding.
I didn't start riding until after I had kids, so I feel like I missed that period where I would have tried riding closer to my limits. Now at 55, I continue to enjoy just cruising along seeing the sights. I just rode that same route today that you rode in the video, from CP to MF and then further to Inks. So fun, even on my "ancient" 2007 F650 GS! Ride safe, and enjoy!
@@spinnetti those look pretty cool. I was intrigued by the kymco dt360 I think it was that came out before these. Don't think it ever came to the USA though.
Im a triumph T120 rider. Its been modified to sound like the best motorbike ive ever heard. Its not fast, its heavy, but its so much fun to hooligan around
Your fine bro. Your just going through life and well. Learning the part of just taking a ride for what it is. I use to be exactly like you with the wide open no matter where I went. It use to be the high for me. The full on speed was an adrenaline rush that was a high for me. But over time you begin to view life differently. You begin to realize that slowing it down and taking it all in is far more pleasing then being on the edge all the time. Welcome to growing up. Because that's all it is my brother.
Totally agree Yammie, Ive had a lot of bikes over the years and each one has been awesome in it's own way. From my first bike (CG125) to the 1985 OG GSX-R 750 to the Bandit 1200. Now at 48 I prefer the 60 bhp Yamaha Diversion. Its comfortable, reliable, costs very little and is enough for the roads I ride on.
When I turned 50 I felt like I didn't have to prove anything to anyone. I felt I've made it. I got a tattoo and my ear pierced. At that point I was so much more relaxed. That being said now that I'm 70 I needed a little more excitement so I bought a ZX4RR. I now own 2 Harleys, a duel sport, my ZX4RR, and an old hard tail chopper. I truly enjoy romping on the ZX4RR along with cruising on my Harley's and exploring single tracks on my XT250. Just don't buy a Bonneville. That will make you feel old.
@@logangodofcandy I owned a 2015 Bonny and enjoyed it. I turned it into cafe racer but it was about 50 lbs too heavy. I enjoyed it but it did make me feel old.
At 63 years young, I still enjoy doing 5-6 track weekends a year, and I am still managing to get quicker in my old age. I have two street bike, Aprilia Tuono 1100 factory which is a total hooligan machine. On lonely back roads where no one lives and no intersections are around spirited riding still takes place. Then when I feel like kicking it down a notch or two the Guzzi V100 Stelvio is my other ride. While I still love the feel of the rush the Tuono offers, I do find myself selecting the Guzzi more and more of everyday rides.
I recently downgraded from an FJR1300 to a Versys X300. Totally different experience. I still have the FJR but I am really enjoying this little bicycle of a Versys. I can romp it through the gears and actually RIDE it. Vs breaking every speed limit in 2nd.
Yamms, if you know you've exceeded what you set out for, THEN ITS TIME TO TEACH. You've learned that you know nothing. Meaning that you know what you know, and what you don't know, you absolutely don't. Now you know where the lines are. Try those things out. It's called being humble and very satisfying. I love my 2023 sv650 for it. Slow enough to be enjoyable chasing that feeling of danger. But fast enough to enjoy its limits with expert control.
I'm a father of 2 daughters so i can relate. Parenthood is new to you. Ride whatever puts a smile on your face(please don't get a Harley lol). I love watching your content- Triumphs, figuring out which health shirt you're wearing. You'll probably end up taking her to a track, sorry to say. Just to see if it puts a smile on her face also. Life is dangerous and we want to smile. Your daughter might smile going fast
Sounds like it’s time for an adventure bike and some BDRs 😂. In all seriousness, I love adv moto camping and riding BDRs. I love the adventuring, traveling, hanging by the campfire with friends drinking beer at the end of the day. I have the best stories and memories from it. Plus it’s always full of new routes, trails, terrain challenges, navigation…it’s always novel.
I did my last XS650( bigger sleeves to 750 and rephased to 277/83) a few years ago before I lost my vision. I loved working on bikes and getting the twins to run viciously and I finally for the time, laid one down. I know it was time to grow up. I was in my 50s and it was time. I was in an incident at work that took my vision to the point I to give up my license. I’m in my 60s now and I miss it really bad. But enjoy it and remember.
This resonates a bit, had a ~20 year break, been back on for about 10 years, most recently commuting on a gsx-s125, I'm old, want comfort, safety and luggage capacity so a second bike is afoot ;) I respect the break, understand mortality a bit better now.
You haven't lost your identity. You've had experiences, lived and learned. After having 20 some odd years of riding experience and many bikes it hits differently when I swing a leg over. The joy is there but in a different form. It used to be about getting the blood pumping and pushing the bike. Now it's nice to just ride. It started happening a few years ago but I'd notice some other rider ,for a few months, hooning and acting out and then I didn't see them again. This city is small enough that you see the same people quite often on the regular. This has happened a lot lately. Not sure if they wrecked out or screwed their ride up but I'm getting too old and been too fortunate to have been going this long and not had an incident or blown an engine.
The 101 is a great bike. I was lucky and got one of the first ones, and it rips pretty good. Especially for a cruiser. Which is great since you can chill or get a bit of excitement depending on what your'e in the mood for.
I rolled over a mustang through a telephone pole and into grapevines and 6 years later I hopped on an R3 as my first bike and dont go past 70 intentionally. I feel you just enjoying scenery and listening to the engine and the feeling that comes with
You are mighty young to arrive at adulthood; congratulations. I'm 59 and still not quite ready to sell the race car and sports car. We got a scooter and enjoy putting around for a couple hours on it. We do spend more time on our bicycles though (road and mountain).
On September the 13 is my birthday and I haven’t rode a bike in 43 years and I still want to ride a bike but because of my age yam the main thing is that you come home safely and your family depends on daddy to come home safe and put your baby in your arms and have some lovingly hold your wife in your arms and share the love with your family that is the main thing taking care of yourself and your family
Coming from a MT-10sp, I stepped down to a 24’ MT-09sp and love that it’s lightweight, power when I’m 2 up, great in city & hwy. I was considering the MT-07, but suspension is meh, and just can’t fathom lack of power on low end when needed. Plus no cruse control. XRS 900 was a great option too.
This is me. I rode fast in my early 20s. Had a bad crash. That was kind of a reset and reevaluate how I ride moment. In my 30s I caught myself riding pretty ridiculous again then over time I see myself riding to just relax without having to push it. I have a set of tires with 3k miles that still have nubs in the center and 1.5" chicken strips. I still love to ride. I don't need to ride aggressively to live riding anymore. I go fast every once and a while I just don't need to push it.
I've been considering trading the Street Triple in on a Bonneville T120, but I fall in love with the 765 all over again whenever I take it out. It's just a matter of time.
I am about 5 years ahead of you on this journey... quite a bit older in age though. I went from a race bike to a sport touring which just didn't do it for me. Now I have a Harley touring bike and a Street Triple 765 RS.
Welcome to the club. There are plenty of ways to have fun under 60 mph. Accelerating quickly from 20 to 60 is just as much fun as from 60 to 100 (and safer).
Two years ago I was 48 and thought I wanted to do some long distance riding so I bought a 2014 Kawi 1400 Concours sport touring bike. I had it for just a few months before selling it. I never took a long ride and it was just so freaking heavy! I went back to my true love which is a supersport ZX10R. I am 50 now and I ride it everyday I can, weather permitting.
I think a lot of young motorcyclists start as adrenaline junkies but eventually you reach a level of maturity when they realize that non-one actually cares about how good they think they are. I started riding at 17 and now speaking as a 63 year old, what you are experiencing has happened to most if not all of us. Eventually it becomes more about the sensory experience and fun of riding a bike and taking in the surroundings rather than trying to put a knee down on every corner. Having a kid definitely makes you slow down - I really noticed the effect it had on me. You're entering a new phase of life. I was an RD400 squid at 18. Now I'm an FJR1300 dad. I took a Harley for a test ride the other day but I don't think I'm quite ready for that yet. The old squid demon never goes away! With a family make sure you have decent life insurance - ride safe.
The JOY is in the ride itself, the Adrenalin fix comes from pushing. It's good to not be totally addicted to the adrenaline. Addiction by nature creates problems. Moderation is the key.
Just get a Road Glide already man. You can put a 10” sub in the saddlebags and still have plenty of room to bring everything you need with you. Big bikes aren’t as hard to ride as you think they are and they handle bumps on the road much better.
People and priorities change man. I much prefer to enjoy the ride and my surroundings. got my 900f running (more of a sport touring bike these days) so once shes buttoned up, i will be planning a cross country trip to visit my pops back in vegas. It would be cool to meet you over the course of that round trip from indana - nv and back
You really really need to try a 2023 or newer Vespa GTS 300. Its so unlike most bikes because of how practical it is, how civilized it is. I feel like you would still appreciate how fast it gets up and goes and how it handles. They are crazy popular in europe for a reason.
Metropolitan 49cc here, do what you like. Speed isn't all that and a side of fries. I'm 57, Had my times with bigger bikes. I'm at that point where low and slow is what it's all about. Great little adventures I have had with the Metro. The most memorable times were with this scooter. Thinking back, having land whip by me and not really taking it in, and not really remembering much of those trips other than the destination made me realize how much of the scenery I missed. With the little Honda, I have taken in some very serene landscapes I would have missed on a faster bike. I realize many wouldn't want such a low powered bike, but for ME, it's perfect. I have my fishing pole mounts, and a cooler on the back rack, and go fishing here in Queens, NY. with it, and when not doing that, I'm just riding around everywhere and seeing new places I have never been to before.
Been riding fast since i was 16. Im 50 now and startd with a supermoto. Got another one. Then a harley-davidson. Still have them. Just bought a 2023 klx230sm. Slow'd down on the harley-davidson after about 1k miles on it. Now i really enjoy a slow supermoto on tight twisty mountain gravel roads just going speed limits which are stupid low and can go full throttle into 4th geat and im not doing 100mph. Heading out right now!
86 now and I have finally found the perfect bike for me. I love to ride my Ninja 650 and I even like to sit in my garage with a cup of coffee and just look at it.
I’m 56 and my kids are teens and 20, I can afford a couple bikes and you will see one day my friend - maybe in 20 years - you will realize “having something to prove” is a young man thing and you will go fast again for the love. I started riding when I was 6 and rode every size and type of bike from dirt to street to full on touring bike by the time I was in my early 20’s… then gave it up, all together for 20 years and here I am back again on 150+ hp naked and a 700 dual sport…because I can. In the meantime…it is fun hearing you as a young dad / young man just explaining yourself. When you no longer have to explain yourself, you have no destination and have no time to arrive, you will rediscover a new reason to ride.
NGL, multi day road trips are amazing. Stop at hotels, check out random restaurants because they look interesting, go somewhere but don't push too hard or set firm planning requirements. Bonus points if you've got a midsized adv bike, take some dirt roads. Not hard offroad, just a couple dirt roads along the way. I'll pick somewhere kind of dumb, just some random destination like a fun touristy place or to visit someone I know for just an evening - about 2-3 days away, ride there and back. Best way to spend a week just chilling.
I am pretty sure you'll be getting a mid weight adv like the new more off-road version of the Ducati DesertX or who knows maybe a Honda Nx500 to just cruise around or a tracer 9 GT... (I actually put that there before watching half of the video haha) Totally agree on the traveling part, so much to see out there and there is something very relaxing about riding around knowing that you are taking it easy and enjoying the landscape 😊. Well I am 35 still doing dumb pulls from time to time as you said we all got demons inside hahahah Been considering the airbag too. Looking forward to some mid to long distance trip videos around the US. Cheers!
I thought I wanted to tour the country on a motorcycle. Bought a Street Glide. Just going on longer day rides I realized I’m not as interested as I thought. Now I have an MT-09 and just enjoy having fun. Even that I question if it’s too much because I don’t have self control as I’m about to turn 40
welcome to life. you dont have to dominate everything everyday. just enjoy. welcome to a sport tourer. where you get to enjoy and/or have a play when you feel like it. although I suspect a ~700 adv is on the way.
I thought the same .... recently ended my 2 decade love affair with sporty naked bikes and got meself a big, fully loaded, 1100cc touring bike for the first time in my biking life. The thing is ... now that I have awesome wind and weather protection and excellent riding comfort I'm finding I ride at higher speeds more often ... as it's far easier than trying to hang on to a naked bike with all the extreme wind blast at high speed!! It's not through trying either ... just find myself riding a lot faster than I think I'm riding due to how easy it is compared to the style of bike I'm very used to 🤣😂
My favorite riding is just meandering around in the countryside at dusk. No crazy fast corners, no high speeds. Just zooming along taking in the sunset and the cool air.
Ahh yes dusk, I’m definitely on board when the sun starts setting the helmet goes on, cools off traffic is done. Agreed 💯
Yep, indiana countryside on a little 250 dual sport. 60mph feels like a rush out there at night on a county road. Not a headlight for miles :) stars all around, after the sun sets. Makes we debate whether I need a KLR650, or mt07 as a second bike. I don't see many hills/mountains/single tracks in Indiana. So an mt07 cld handle the majority. But the KLR could play in the fields in the fall/spring really well. Idk 🤷♂️
I'm definitely a pleasure cruiser , not pleasant? Ummm probably not riding lol
I'm a dawn rider, but I do work nights so I'm naturally nocturnal. I'll leave the house at 2 or 3 am ride until I find a nice spot for the sunrise then chill making a fresh pot of coffee before the ride home and traffic starts to pick up. Not going to lie, having those empty roads does make me push it on some roads but it's mostly relaxed riding.
Ahhhh dusk in Alberta. Nothing like swerving through the deer and moose. Makes you appreciate life
Welcome to life. Let the countdown to Goldwing begin.
Mates Mrs got a lowered KTM 390 with abs and cruise control. I thought, map it with new exhaust and I'm good to go. But there's always the Goldwing 😅
let's hope he doesn't get the 1800cc Goldwing, as that bike got a bigger engine displacement than my car 😂 2011 VW Passat 1.6 TDI
When my hair gets a bit more gray, I totally see myself getting a Goldwing 😂
Just remember, there’s life after Goldwing. I got rid of my Goldwing for a Victory vision and now my stable is an SV 650 and an MT-09SP I think they call it the circle of life.
@@larrysacks8927 So....an R1M next. Followed by a H2R ;)
You’re not a boring old fogie…you’re just doing what the rest of us have done about 30 years ahead of you. It’s called life. When you’re young, you yearn for life’s experience and the adventure that come along with it all. If it’s motorcycles, airplanes, skydiving, travelling or whatever, you’ll yearn until the experience has been completed. If you are the ambitious type, you’ll get over it pretty quickly and set your sights on another one of life’s goals. It’s great and I’m going to guess that in 30 years, you’ll be searching for the old vintage bikes from 2019 that nobody wants anymore and start doing restorations because it reminds you of the good old days of your youth. Ask me how I know…
Ya right
He will finally appreciate the good ole ninja 650 and versys.
No
Yep, and of course all the youngsters here will proclaim it’ll never happen to them because they are so different. If they’re lucky, and they manage to live long enough while continuing to enjoy this lifestyle they too will come to a point where adding a risk just for the sake of doing so or worse for ego doesn’t make sense anymore
@@particleinthewave8378 ya right 👉
Yammie is ready for a royal Enfield lol
😂
Yeah and not even the 450's, just the 350 with 19 bhp😃
I love my int650 and shotgun 650
Speed twin 1200 with matching triumph leathers .
@@Spy_Pigeon_2 How reliable have they been?
Retired motorcycle racer here... im 34. I totally get what you mean and it's fine. No need to rip it every single time and not having to prove anything to anyone is really liberating.
Now I currently own a triumph tiger 900 and usually just travel long and mid distance weekend trips and have to say it's so fun. Enjoying the cool breeze, the smell of fleshly cut grass and the general scenery. ❤
I started to ride motorcycles in Germany at 27 when my son was just one year old. I rode for 12 years, stopped for 15 years, and began to ride again here in the US two months ago after my oldest son decided he wanted an MC license. Being 59 now, I switched from Yamaha 850, Kawasaki 750, and Kawa 1200ZRX years ago to an Indian Scout to get back into it. Six weeks later, I added an Indian Chieftain because I plan a Rt 66 tour with family and friends next year. The best motorcycling are the multiple-day / cross-country trips. It's nice to ride during the week and on weekends, but packing up and going out for days or weeks makes my stomach tingle pleasantly. I've been following my heart since I was very young and didn't care about 'proving' anything. It's the most freeing feeling and gives me joy.
Honestly mad respect for making an honest video like this. I feel like the sportbike community has gotten too serious about pushing limits every time we ride. That’s good for progressing, but honestly sometimes makes you lose sight of why you started ride in the first place. Maybe the reason wasn’t to be the fastest, but just to enjoy the roads in a new way. It’s nice to take a step back once in a while and enjoy the experience
FELLAS...I think I've FINALLY Slowed Down...for the 36th time again on the channel !
KEPR WERTHING YAMMER BOOB insert frog techomusizik
You've mentioned mutliple times getting a facebook bike from CA or somewhere and riding it back. You should absolutely do that. I think it would make for a phenomenal video and be something new for you.
I definitely want to do that series!! Time is a scarce commodity rn
@@yammienoob Time to start touring.
I’m 56 years old now been riding since I was 6 .
I have rode almost every kinda bike out there.
No matter what I’ll never get a Harley or Gold-wing .
I don’t ride fast anymore but I ride quickly if that makes sense.
I do however just cruise around a lot .
I recently bought a XSR 900 and it’s the best of all worlds really .
I enjoy cruising and riding through the mountains at a decent pace but nothing crazy anymore.
It’s definitely about the experience now for me and just being out there on two wheels .
Staying safe is my concern as well and I want to live to see another day. So I take it easy 95 % of the time.
Be safe everyone ✌🏻
Xsr 900 seems like the finisher bike
Retro styling
Triple power plant
Tech for safety
Great choice. I love the blue and bronze wheel combo
I don't race. I commute with enthusiasm.
40 years old. Got myself a CB650R and it's the best fun i ever had.
A honda inline four has been a great answer for a heck of a long time. Nice bikes
Hell Yeah!!!.....me too!!!
At my age I pick & choose when to go fast, only when people aren't around I rip it
Rode a 125cc 1967 Ducati on road and on scramble tracks from 1969 onward. Then a BSA Victor in 1971. Married in 1977, two kids for which I stopped riding for about 18 years, 1983 to 2001. Fired up some new bikes after they started college. At the tender age of 57 began trackdays on a 2003 Buell XB9S, just having a hoot. Got my CCS race license and doing track days from Michigan to Florida on that bike, still ride it street and track.
Motorcycling at street speeds, being careful, correctly suited/booted and covering the front brake is also a hoot.
Wouldn't change a thing. I am now officially 80, getting ready for my track day with N2 racing at NCCAR track in Garysburg, NC. Yes there really is enough time, so be careful when you ride it like you stole it. Great vid YN.
Yammie, never stop this kind of motovloging .
FELLAS...I think I've FINALLY Slowed Down...for the 36th time again on the channel !
KEPR WERTHING YAMMER BOOB insert frog techomusizik
Ironically, the confidence of knowing your fast means you don't have to gas it everywhere you go. Congrats. You have graduated to the expert class.
Couldn't agree with you more yammie. Do whatever you want to do. Going fast is not always the most enjoyable thing about motorcycles. I find just cruising and enjoying the scenery to be much more fun. I'm also getting old
Man, this is awesome. I have a feeling your best riding days and best content is ahead of you. Looking forward to what’s to come.
Now … don’t get a Harley. Get a Triumph ;)
You've matured, this was actually the point for me when i got back into bikes. Didnt have one for +-10 years, i noticed my maturing with adrenaline and thrill for speed too. Used to ride my cars 160mph+ but the need for it became less and less.
Occasionally i still throttle it but i noticed that i pick those moments way better than i used to too. Just when and where its possible to have a little fun.
For me it was good that i got back into bikes when this maturing process happened. Think i would have had a stupid speeding accident if i wouldve kept riding fast bikes in my young years.
PapaYam, I'm turning 44 this month. Never rode a bike till I was 27. Fell in love with big bikes at 32 and I've rode almost everywhere on a bike since. Never done tracks. Did some "touring" across Singapore to Malaysia and into Thailand Krabi, and Koh Samui... yeah I feel ya brother.... I've got a '23 XSR900 and I love just chilling... and as you say... the demons come out once in a while.. then I remember the cost of tyres, brakes, oils, etc etc.. and I slow down! Gots a cat that depends on me!
Really like these videos. Watching Pappa Yam go through the ups and downs of motorcycle ownership and balancing it with life. I see this a lot working at a Triumph dealership with riders going through this same change. It takes a bigger man to understand himself that he is happy with slowing down. I have a Honda cb1000r that I probably ride slower than I did my Triumph Daytona 675 a few years back.
I'm in the same position . I've got a ZX-14 and the thing is just way, way too fast for the road. I don't enjoy accelerating that fast that my helmet is coming off. I'm losing the enjoyment of motorcycling and the roads are not made for it. Too many pot holes in the UK and I got caught speeding last month only 35 in a 30. Lucky as I hit 150 week before on the 14 and I was still in 3rd gear. I wanna roll and enjoy it now and travel. It's called maturity lol.
Being 33,the mt07 has been the perfect fit for me; I got it because I didn’t want some hippo of a cruiser either. The naked sport segment has been comfortable, they can handle spirited rides just as well as just chill rides
Last year of the Thruxton is '25. We know you love a Triumph. Do it brother. I have zero regrets with my '22 Speed Twin. After some simple mods and an ECU tune, they're plenty fast, and capable. Get a Corbin seat and hit the road boss. Become a distinguished gentleman. Peace!
He did rave about the one He reviewed years ago.
Speed Twin is on my short list as well. Test rode a 24 and loved it.
@@christophervincent77 You might wanna hold off till the '26 models come out. Good chance they'll be a Speed Twin RS version coming after the Thruxton is discontinued. Basically a Speed Twin with Thruxton suspension. Should be a nasty little thing.
@@andrewbecker3700 solid advice - thank you, sir :)
Sounds like a Versys with a custom seat and a tune is in your future!
It's been perfect for my 280 mile mountain tooling. My mt09 satisfies the rally days. I'm 57 yo btw, riding never gets old.
I'm 41 and this is my first year with a bike. I'm a grandpa cruiser style rider and I believe I would have been at 30 and 20 also. I never got into bikes because I grew up with my dad shunning bikes and effectively begging me/convincing me to never get into them. So I just didn't because of danger potential. I just want to cruise on a powerful bike that has the ability to unleash when needed. I let it rip when getting on highway onramps or if I need to overtake but that is it. I just don't care, nor do I want the increased danger of taking every twister and corner as fast as possible. I'd rather just cruise through and enjoy the breeze. The 'ZEN' ride he is talking about is exactly what I'm doing. For me the ride should be as relaxing as possible, meditative, feel nature, on my mechanical steed. Like going for a great VERY FAST hike.
I get exactly what you are talking about , A lot of people think that ohh you have to go fast to have fun or it wont be fun if im not going fast but thats not really the case I am 18 and me Myself I dont really Speed Anywhere even in the twistys it just much more Fun to Just glide in the corners and see the scenery around you , I Think thats the best Kind of riding
Lol, it took me one motorcycle accident 14 years ago, two marriages, four kids and 54 years of age to date. And selling my Harley because it was too lumbering to get to where you are now but I'm also now looking into a sport touring motorcycle, wearing an airbag for street riding and just riding to enjoy the scenery.
Great video and good job growing up and growing old. Lol.
Good stuff, Yam!
Change is the only constant. Feeling and flowing (skillfully as best as possible) with the curves on the road and in life is where it’s at. Sounds like you’re taking another step in maturity (which is defined differently for each of us at different times). I have to smile when i hear you say you’re getting old at 32. I’m 62, almost twice your age. what you say rings true and i applaud you for being honest with yourself and your audience/community.
LoL 😂 🤣
I'm 66 been riding for 50 years!
I have a Ducati Monster 1200s and a HD. Never slow down. I watch you every day!
USAF retired
You slowed down the day you bought that HD.
Maverick?
Yammie, I got back into riding last year after 30+ years. I got back into it on a 2002 Triumph Tiger 955i. I have ridden that and my Buell XB9SX and am now looking at a Sport Tourer. I've been buying them cheap until I figure out where I feel right. Glad you are coming into yours and looking forward to more of your content.
I am in my 50's and started riding over thirty years ago. I never had a cruiser, I currently have a 2003 BMW F650 CS and enjoy back roads cruising at 45-50mph. Even years ago when I had my Kawasaki GPZ750 I was a laid back rider. The freedom of the road and taking it easy has always been my groove.
Its interesting, as im getting into track riding currently, the feeling of wanting to prove yourself and be the absolute best rider you can be steadily grows. That innate competitiveness that pretty much applies to most of my hobbies. Mastering my own 675 Streety is my current goal and plan to go to Barber soon.
Seeing someone on the other end of that is kinda cool. As one gets in another gets out, a neat little cycle.
Congrats on your daughter!
When I was young I was a very fast and aggressive driver, and it was all about proving to the world, and more importantly proving to myself that I wasn’t a loser. Then I went to university, and got a first class honors degree in physics. After that I felt that I didn’t have to prove anything to anybody.. Even if other people don’t necessarily understand what I accomplished, I do and that’s enough. Perversely though, now that I’ve been retired for a few years, I find myself spending more time on the bike and it’s just so ridiculously easy to go stupid fast on the darn thing.
I remember that same moment. I’d spent the weekend visiting my mum, and I was taking the old high way/long way home. I was riding a 1982 Oldwing, it was 10 in the morning, and already 25 degrees Celsius. For the first time in my life, I pulled over and took off my riding jacket, and experienced the joy of riding in a t shirt on a completely empty road, with nothing but the scents of wild flowers and cow shit. Averaging 80kph tops on this twisty old road, in no hurry whatsoever… that’s what riding is all about for me these days. By the way, the Goldwing will go more places than you might think; pavement or not.
It’s the ebb and flow ol papa yam. Granted I’ve only been riding for about 5 months, but some days I get out and rip every moment possible, and some days I get out and barely do the speed limit. Enjoy the ride and the vibe man, it’s all about getting home safe with a smile on your face.
Congrats on the addition to your family, Yam.
Went on my first big trip last year and it was more amazing than I even thought it would be. Chicago to Southern AZ and back 4600 mi round trip. Do it Yam!
Your past accomplishments are still yours, but inevitably we all live differently as we grow and age. There ain’t nothing wrong with easy riding. Appreciate you sharing this perspective with your audience, as it’s often easy for the younger generations to rush to judgment about the older generations and how they live and ride. Cheers!
At 43, after a 10-year motorcycle hiatus, I purchased a Harley RH1250S(Sportster S). I live up a canyon through the countryside and believe in throttle therapy.
Sport bike guy for years, bought a street glide and its the only bike I ride now. Trying to nail every shift and be as smooth as possible is just as fun as doing the same thing at mach 10. Also being comfy at the same time is a huge plus.
I think you covering the evolution is good to see and for viewers to experience. Long tour content would be cool! Heading to Colorado tomorrow to ride the Million Dollar Highway and Wolf Creek Pass… just got off ECR this weekend! Your content has gotten me into track, sport, and even adventure riding! Thanks for being an excellent source of insight across the spectrum of motorcycle riding!
I’m 31 years old and have a 2024 s1k, and I get where you’re coming from, I’ve been the same way recently over the last couple years. I’ve just been enjoying the ride and no longer pushing myself. Live to ride another day. I just enjoying riding, enjoying the scenery, relaxing. That’s my type now
I just got to the part in the video where you said you’re almost 32, guess we’re the same age! Haha
@@sk8orhate55 If I was you I’d go with the Mt-09 or mt10, they’re very tame bikes when you want them to be and quick when you want that. I was actually about to get an mt10 before I got the s1000
@@sk8orhate55 I wouldn’t listen to anyone that says to go small, if you’re a bigger dude, it’ll help even out. Plus, just got to be smart and not hammer on it too much haha. Be safe, have fun man
@@sk8orhate55Get either MT-09sp or XRS 900, you’ll thank me later, especially 2 up.
I ride 2 up on my 24’ MT-09sp & get comfort seat.
@@sk8orhate55Don’t get MT-10!! Gas guzzler & heavy!!
I went from Triumph Speed Triple R, to Yamaha Super Tenere 750 and now I ride a 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, i´m getting old 😁
I’m also on a svartpilen 401 but for me it’s my first bike
Papa Yam, I respect you were trying to tell us ur feelings and justifications. Really no need to 😀 you are awesome.
Time to smell the roses my friend! Long distance is nice, but can suck depending on weather etc. Coming home in one piece to loved ones is important man. Enjoy the ride, we all hit squid mode sometimes. Cheers. 🇦🇺
Just turned 54 and buying a used Z900. I wanted power on tap if I need it, and may do some track days to improve. But mostly enjoy sunrise/sunset cruises in the Texas hill country.
I have an s1000rr and a road glide. Best of both worlds for me. Attack the twisties when i feel that way and cruise and explore other times. The key is keep riding as long as you can.
The Ninja 400/ Z400 is a great all around bike. Just fast enough to be fun, but nothing crazy. Plus, you get lots of full throttle time.
The Yamm has evolved. There’s nothing wrong with growing and improving your own life. It’s like a garden, eventually you want to grow something different.
I'm a new rider and I got my bike because I just wanted one. I bought one that I could afford and that was a great bike to learn and grow on, and was reliable and easy to work on. So, I got a 2022 SV650. Guess I was lucky to never really have anything to prove, I already reach that age before beginning my journey in riding.
I didn't start riding until after I had kids, so I feel like I missed that period where I would have tried riding closer to my limits. Now at 55, I continue to enjoy just cruising along seeing the sights. I just rode that same route today that you rode in the video, from CP to MF and then further to Inks. So fun, even on my "ancient" 2007 F650 GS! Ride safe, and enjoy!
Get a Scooter. I'll tell everyone to. It's fun to not worry about anything and chill. Besides some are still fast and all fun.
What kind of scooters do you guys have
@@rutukedarbhagwat1746 I have a Benelli Zafferano 250cc had since 2018. Also had Honda reflex 250cc, tao tao thunder 50cc, and Yamaha Tmax 500cc
That's what we did. I cart the wife around on it - Honda ADV160. Its enough (But I still have a racecar lol)
@@spinnetti those look pretty cool. I was intrigued by the kymco dt360 I think it was that came out before these. Don't think it ever came to the USA though.
better than a grom!
Im a triumph T120 rider. Its been modified to sound like the best motorbike ive ever heard. Its not fast, its heavy, but its so much fun to hooligan around
Your fine bro. Your just going through life and well. Learning the part of just taking a ride for what it is. I use to be exactly like you with the wide open no matter where I went. It use to be the high for me. The full on speed was an adrenaline rush that was a high for me. But over time you begin to view life differently. You begin to realize that slowing it down and taking it all in is far more pleasing then being on the edge all the time. Welcome to growing up. Because that's all it is my brother.
Totally agree Yammie, Ive had a lot of bikes over the years and each one has been awesome in it's own way. From my first bike (CG125) to the 1985 OG GSX-R 750 to the Bandit 1200. Now at 48 I prefer the 60 bhp Yamaha Diversion. Its comfortable, reliable, costs very little and is enough for the roads I ride on.
Say Yammie, Good to hear you got in touch with your inner self and realize what is really important to you ! 👍🇺🇸
When I turned 50 I felt like I didn't have to prove anything to anyone. I felt I've made it. I got a tattoo and my ear pierced. At that point I was so much more relaxed. That being said now that I'm 70 I needed a little more excitement so I bought a ZX4RR. I now own 2 Harleys, a duel sport, my ZX4RR, and an old hard tail chopper. I truly enjoy romping on the ZX4RR along with cruising on my Harley's and exploring single tracks on my XT250. Just don't buy a Bonneville. That will make you feel old.
🫡
The speed twin 1200, bobber 1200, and scrambler 1200 are Bonnevilles. They don't make me feel old, but I'm fairly young and feel great for my age
@@logangodofcandy I owned a 2015 Bonny and enjoyed it. I turned it into cafe racer but it was about 50 lbs too heavy. I enjoyed it but it did make me feel old.
Thnx for the advice
Holy crap, never thought i would see a 70-year young rider in a zx4rr.🫡
I'm double your age and still riding. It would be stupid not to adjust to your age. I just moved from a FZ-09 to a GSX-S1000GT+ for my back.
At 63 years young, I still enjoy doing 5-6 track weekends a year, and I am still managing to get quicker in my old age. I have two street bike, Aprilia Tuono 1100 factory which is a total hooligan machine. On lonely back roads where no one lives and no intersections are around spirited riding still takes place. Then when I feel like kicking it down a notch or two the Guzzi V100 Stelvio is my other ride. While I still love the feel of the rush the Tuono offers, I do find myself selecting the Guzzi more and more of everyday rides.
1:32
Time has come....
from what's in the 5th gear for me
to let's freaking enjoy and twist the 3rd gear....
I recently downgraded from an FJR1300 to a Versys X300. Totally different experience. I still have the FJR but I am really enjoying this little bicycle of a Versys. I can romp it through the gears and actually RIDE it. Vs breaking every speed limit in 2nd.
It gets us all Yam. After roadracing with Wera for a couple years I no longer needed to be cool on the street.
Congrats on your little girl!!!!
Yamms, if you know you've exceeded what you set out for, THEN ITS TIME TO TEACH. You've learned that you know nothing. Meaning that you know what you know, and what you don't know, you absolutely don't. Now you know where the lines are. Try those things out. It's called being humble and very satisfying. I love my 2023 sv650 for it. Slow enough to be enjoyable chasing that feeling of danger. But fast enough to enjoy its limits with expert control.
I'm a father of 2 daughters so i can relate. Parenthood is new to you. Ride whatever puts a smile on your face(please don't get a Harley lol). I love watching your content- Triumphs, figuring out which health shirt you're wearing. You'll probably end up taking her to a track, sorry to say. Just to see if it puts a smile on her face also. Life is dangerous and we want to smile. Your daughter might smile going fast
Sounds like it’s time for an adventure bike and some BDRs 😂.
In all seriousness, I love adv moto camping and riding BDRs. I love the adventuring, traveling, hanging by the campfire with friends drinking beer at the end of the day. I have the best stories and memories from it.
Plus it’s always full of new routes, trails, terrain challenges, navigation…it’s always novel.
I love this type of content it reminds me of when it was just yam on the channel and how he use to do content and I love it
Totally get you Yammie! You’re just being a mature, responsible rider. Have fun but gotta make it home to the family… to the Fammie Noob! 😬🙌🏼
I did my last XS650( bigger sleeves to 750 and rephased to 277/83) a few years ago before I lost my vision. I loved working on bikes and getting the twins to run viciously and I finally for the time, laid one down. I know it was time to grow up. I was in my 50s and it was time. I was in an incident at work that took my vision to the point I to give up my license. I’m in my 60s now and I miss it really bad. But enjoy it and remember.
This resonates a bit, had a ~20 year break, been back on for about 10 years, most recently commuting on a gsx-s125, I'm old, want comfort, safety and luggage capacity so a second bike is afoot ;) I respect the break, understand mortality a bit better now.
You haven't lost your identity. You've had experiences, lived and learned. After having 20 some odd years of riding experience and many bikes it hits differently when I swing a leg over. The joy is there but in a different form. It used to be about getting the blood pumping and pushing the bike. Now it's nice to just ride.
It started happening a few years ago but I'd notice some other rider ,for a few months, hooning and acting out and then I didn't see them again. This city is small enough that you see the same people quite often on the regular. This has happened a lot lately. Not sure if they wrecked out or screwed their ride up but I'm getting too old and been too fortunate to have been going this long and not had an incident or blown an engine.
I really enjoyed the honesty of this video. We all evolve.
The 101 is a great bike. I was lucky and got one of the first ones, and it rips pretty good. Especially for a cruiser. Which is great since you can chill or get a bit of excitement depending on what your'e in the mood for.
I rolled over a mustang through a telephone pole and into grapevines and 6 years later I hopped on an R3 as my first bike and dont go past 70 intentionally. I feel you just enjoying scenery and listening to the engine and the feeling that comes with
You are mighty young to arrive at adulthood; congratulations. I'm 59 and still not quite ready to sell the race car and sports car. We got a scooter and enjoy putting around for a couple hours on it. We do spend more time on our bicycles though (road and mountain).
On September the 13 is my birthday and I haven’t rode a bike in 43 years and I still want to ride a bike but because of my age yam the main thing is that you come home safely and your family depends on daddy to come home safe and put your baby in your arms and have some lovingly hold your wife in your arms and share the love with your family that is the main thing taking care of yourself and your family
Coming from a MT-10sp, I stepped down to a 24’ MT-09sp and love that it’s lightweight, power when I’m 2 up, great in city & hwy.
I was considering the MT-07, but suspension is meh, and just can’t fathom lack of power on low end when needed.
Plus no cruse control.
XRS 900 was a great option too.
This is me. I rode fast in my early 20s. Had a bad crash. That was kind of a reset and reevaluate how I ride moment. In my 30s I caught myself riding pretty ridiculous again then over time I see myself riding to just relax without having to push it. I have a set of tires with 3k miles that still have nubs in the center and 1.5" chicken strips. I still love to ride. I don't need to ride aggressively to live riding anymore. I go fast every once and a while I just don't need to push it.
I've been considering trading the Street Triple in on a Bonneville T120, but I fall in love with the 765 all over again whenever I take it out. It's just a matter of time.
Take out a personal loan and get a used t120 with low miles. A $6k loan should be like $120 a month for 3 years.
@logangodofcandy difficult to find a good example for less than $8-9k, but that's something to consider.
I am about 5 years ahead of you on this journey... quite a bit older in age though. I went from a race bike to a sport touring which just didn't do it for me. Now I have a Harley touring bike and a Street Triple 765 RS.
Welcome to the club. There are plenty of ways to have fun under 60 mph. Accelerating quickly from 20 to 60 is just as much fun as from 60 to 100 (and safer).
Two years ago I was 48 and thought I wanted to do some long distance riding so I bought a 2014 Kawi 1400 Concours sport touring bike. I had it for just a few months before selling it. I never took a long ride and it was just so freaking heavy! I went back to my true love which is a supersport ZX10R. I am 50 now and I ride it everyday I can, weather permitting.
I’ve had 600s and recently bought a cfmoto 450 and this is the most fun I’ve had in a while… love the 450
Welcome to the flow zone! It is a moment of zen to ride in this zone.
I think a lot of young motorcyclists start as adrenaline junkies but eventually you reach a level of maturity when they realize that non-one actually cares about how good they think they are. I started riding at 17 and now speaking as a 63 year old, what you are experiencing has happened to most if not all of us. Eventually it becomes more about the sensory experience and fun of riding a bike and taking in the surroundings rather than trying to put a knee down on every corner. Having a kid definitely makes you slow down - I really noticed the effect it had on me. You're entering a new phase of life. I was an RD400 squid at 18. Now I'm an FJR1300 dad. I took a Harley for a test ride the other day but I don't think I'm quite ready for that yet. The old squid demon never goes away! With a family make sure you have decent life insurance - ride safe.
The JOY is in the ride itself, the Adrenalin fix comes from pushing. It's good to not be totally addicted to the adrenaline. Addiction by nature creates problems. Moderation is the key.
Just get a Road Glide already man. You can put a 10” sub in the saddlebags and still have plenty of room to bring everything you need with you.
Big bikes aren’t as hard to ride as you think they are and they handle bumps on the road much better.
People and priorities change man. I much prefer to enjoy the ride and my surroundings. got my 900f running (more of a sport touring bike these days) so once shes buttoned up, i will be planning a cross country trip to visit my pops back in vegas. It would be cool to meet you over the course of that round trip from indana - nv and back
LOL....Thats why I love my T-120.. and I got a trident when I want to be a little rowdy... good luck man!
You really really need to try a 2023 or newer Vespa GTS 300. Its so unlike most bikes because of how practical it is, how civilized it is. I feel like you would still appreciate how fast it gets up and goes and how it handles. They are crazy popular in europe for a reason.
Metropolitan 49cc here, do what you like. Speed isn't all that and a side of fries. I'm 57, Had my times with bigger bikes. I'm at that point where low and slow is what it's all about. Great little adventures I have had with the Metro. The most memorable times were with this scooter. Thinking back, having land whip by me and not really taking it in, and not really remembering much of those trips other than the destination made me realize how much of the scenery I missed. With the little Honda, I have taken in some very serene landscapes I would have missed on a faster bike. I realize many wouldn't want such a low powered bike, but for ME, it's perfect. I have my fishing pole mounts, and a cooler on the back rack, and go fishing here in Queens, NY. with it, and when not doing that, I'm just riding around everywhere and seeing new places I have never been to before.
Been riding fast since i was 16. Im 50 now and startd with a supermoto. Got another one. Then a harley-davidson. Still have them. Just bought a 2023 klx230sm. Slow'd down on the harley-davidson after about 1k miles on it. Now i really enjoy a slow supermoto on tight twisty mountain gravel roads just going speed limits which are stupid low and can go full throttle into 4th geat and im not doing 100mph. Heading out right now!
86 now and I have finally found the perfect bike for me. I love to ride my Ninja 650 and I even like to sit in my garage with a cup of coffee and just look at it.
I’m 56 and my kids are teens and 20, I can afford a couple bikes and you will see one day my friend - maybe in 20 years - you will realize “having something to prove” is a young man thing and you will go fast again for the love. I started riding when I was 6 and rode every size and type of bike from dirt to street to full on touring bike by the time I was in my early 20’s… then gave it up, all together for 20 years and here I am back again on 150+ hp naked and a 700 dual sport…because I can. In the meantime…it is fun hearing you as a young dad / young man just explaining yourself. When you no longer have to explain yourself, you have no destination and have no time to arrive, you will rediscover a new reason to ride.
It sounds like you have discovered the magic of flowing with the road and riding "The Pace" (by Nick Ienatsch).
NGL, multi day road trips are amazing. Stop at hotels, check out random restaurants because they look interesting, go somewhere but don't push too hard or set firm planning requirements.
Bonus points if you've got a midsized adv bike, take some dirt roads. Not hard offroad, just a couple dirt roads along the way.
I'll pick somewhere kind of dumb, just some random destination like a fun touristy place or to visit someone I know for just an evening - about 2-3 days away, ride there and back.
Best way to spend a week just chilling.
I am pretty sure you'll be getting a mid weight adv like the new more off-road version of the Ducati DesertX or who knows maybe a Honda Nx500 to just cruise around or a tracer 9 GT... (I actually put that there before watching half of the video haha)
Totally agree on the traveling part, so much to see out there and there is something very relaxing about riding around knowing that you are taking it easy and enjoying the landscape 😊.
Well I am 35 still doing dumb pulls from time to time as you said we all got demons inside hahahah
Been considering the airbag too.
Looking forward to some mid to long distance trip videos around the US.
Cheers!
I thought I wanted to tour the country on a motorcycle. Bought a Street Glide. Just going on longer day rides I realized I’m not as interested as I thought. Now I have an MT-09 and just enjoy having fun. Even that I question if it’s too much because I don’t have self control as I’m about to turn 40
welcome to life. you dont have to dominate everything everyday. just enjoy.
welcome to a sport tourer. where you get to enjoy and/or have a play when you feel like it. although I suspect a ~700 adv is on the way.
Ah yes 🙌🏾 now you can truly enjoy the beauty of motorcycling 🎉
I thought the same .... recently ended my 2 decade love affair with sporty naked bikes and got meself a big, fully loaded, 1100cc touring bike for the first time in my biking life. The thing is ... now that I have awesome wind and weather protection and excellent riding comfort I'm finding I ride at higher speeds more often ... as it's far easier than trying to hang on to a naked bike with all the extreme wind blast at high speed!! It's not through trying either ... just find myself riding a lot faster than I think I'm riding due to how easy it is compared to the style of bike I'm very used to 🤣😂