As for sports bikes... I think the other factor at play is that society has become a lot more scared of everything. It all seems to be heading into absolute zero risk living. Even in cars you barely see any overtaking and if you dare do it, you'll get flashes and hand gestures as if you've just shot someone. Society is very willing to punish risk takers and worry themselves into a stuper. The cool renegade attitude of fast motorcyclists is dead. Superbikes epitomise that wreckless love of life and screw it all attitude, which has been well and truly quashed by smart motorway, EV autonomous driving, latte drinking, bicycle riding, flag waving wetwipes. But I still bloody love them ❤️
BVG, I like to think that sports bike and super nakeds are still there for spanking and naughtiness, there are still places where this can be done, and really the selection of these machines and their capabilities are about as good as it gets - I reckon we are now in the golden age of jizz machines, to use a terms someone once used. Yes, it will come to end, but being completely self absorbed, there will be long enough for this mid 50s chap. Sad for the younger folk, however.
@@neevesybikes Thanks for your answer Michael, and as Chris said there's the adversity to risk, too. On comfort, I decided to train on road bicycles so my track ready bike (Aprilia RSV4) is much more comfortable than a head down arse up road bicycle (Pinarello). Riding a bicycle on UK public roads is quite risky due to the general standard of driving and negligible enforcement of the law. The other factor has been excessive regulations on emissions which are much more 'because we can' than due to a significant impact. Making the regulatory environment expensive just pushes the manufacturers towards models they can sell in volume or for high cost. The effect is more people in cars which is both unsustainable and a bad use of limited road space. The next generation is a problem affected by Cost and Risk, so e-bikes and scooters don't seem like a logical path to ICE sports bikes... Ride safe!
And then wonder why there's a mental health crisis. If nothing dangerous happens then your tolerance decreases and safer and safer things seem more and more dangerous over time. You can have too much of a good thing, safety is good providing you live a bit before you die safely in old age.
turned 63 last month, riding a '04 R1, touring through europe every year for a couple of weeks the past 3 years. fitted a quick shifter and aftermarket clip-ons for a slightly more comfortable ride and can do that all day long. every now and then there is a meeting with some fb group and we trash the road with some very high illegal speeds, truly love the adrenalin. next bike is hopefully again a R1, love that bike.
Yeah , I get you my friend .I turned 69 last month and I still ride my sportsbikes like a bat out of hell on occasion . My trusty steeds a 2015 Panigale 1299s and a 2006 GSXR 1000 always make me feel young again despite the age and injury related pain and soreness . No pain , no gain .
@@P.DuncanMonk nice bikes! after owning a thunderace I tried a zx10r, an mt 10, but settled for the R1, would love to have a gsxr 750 on the side though, best balance in performance and agility, just for fun.
I just love listening to you talking about your experiences and opinions. I am a big sportsbike enthusiast and will always keep a sports bike in my garage.
Re sportbikes, I've been riding for about 5 years. Bought a street triple 675r as the first bike loved it. Wanted a sports bike, got a Daytona 675r, loved it more. That's now a track bike, and I got a KTM RC8R for something fun and different for the road. I sort of need something sensible for the odd commute to the office. Every time I look on auto trader aiming to get something for the job with panniers etc gsx1000gt or similar I end up looking at s1000rr's trying to tell myself I can fit everything i need in a rucksack. Nothing else just excites me as much as a sportsbike does. If I wasn't bothered about excitement, I'd buy a fiesta... I know I'm in the minority but what I want is more competition fornthe likes of the ducati V2 more middle weight sportsbikes.
Hi Abhi, Michael is a diplomat obviously but I don't confuse 'Influencers' with an enthusiast like you who shares his passion for bikes. Long may you continue...
@@lonpfrb wow, thank you very much .. such a lovely comment there . Truly appreciated mate, that’s made my Sunday big time . This is the kind of stuff which motivates me to make quality content too . Thank you
@@ChasingTenths be a racer and you are, also a great communicator too. I guess there's no room for all that on our RSV-4s so 'be a racer' will have to do...
I’m past 60 and still ride a TL1000S I bought new. I find the comfort acceptable but my only issue with sport bikes are their practicality. I know they aren’t made for that but I do like to ride long distances and haul my stuff with me. The great thing about bikes is it is easy to collect more of them for other uses, which I’ve done.
Daily sportsbike rider since 2003, then around 2014 I fancied a change & bought a KTM 990 SM (such a hoot) then transitioned to naked bikes (2 x S1000R's) then a middleweight adventure bike (KTM 790 Adventure S) but then last year, I really felt the need to scratch the superbike itch again & have no comfort, no luggage space etc but have that focus on performance above all else. Bought a 2020 Ninja H2 Good f*#king Jesus, it's bonkers. It's completely impractical for everything but I love it. Every time I get off it, I look back at it & smile. Sportsbikes may have had their hey day, but I'm glad bikes like the H2 are still being built (just not for Europe anymore due to Euro 5).
I'm probably your age... and I love sport bikes.. and when I come to the point when I can't ride them, I most likely just give it up and ride my road bicycle. SPORT BIKES RULE!!!!
That's hilarious. I lived in Hollyweird for about 20 years but never felt more starstruck than when I heard you mention my question about your helmet. My heart has always been w sportbikes/racing 💓!
I think the demise of Sports bikes could have something to do with the price of them and mainly only being offered by the "premium" brands like Ducati etc. Gone are the days of Suzuki Gsxr 750 or 1000, Even the Honda Fireblade is a track focused crazy high revving beast, The R1 is probably living on borrowed time (I hope not as it has one of the best sounding engines/exhaust notes). Bikes are so expensive now, they seemed to be cheaper years ago....Or is that my rose tinted glasses......
I love motorcycles and have ridden a Superbike for 35 years. I’ve ridden my other bikes, but why when literally your life depends on them, would I not want the best brakes, suspension and chassis. When I get off adventure bikes, naked bikes or the current crop of budget Sportsbikes they are always a compromise too far, just so the manufacturers can make more profit. And as for Superbikes being uncomfortable, 20 miles on a naked at more than 50 mph is literally a pain in the neck (as well as ruining your leathers and helmet with all the road detritus) the motorcycle press, have promoted the a current tends of bike, overlooking their compromises instead of reporting them and asking for Superbikes with less extreme geometry.
Sports Bikes. I "came of age" on motorcycles around the 2005 Gixxer era, and prior to that I just read all the magazines that seemed to prominently feature the Fireblades and ninja's etc. So sports bikes to me are whee my motorcycling love started. I took a break from riding for 7 years due to moving to London, and job etc. Then when returning bought a K7 Gixxer 1L. Loved it, uncomfortable as anything, questioned wether it was the right choice for me. Deer jumped on my front wheel 7 weeks into owning it. Which wrote it off. I walked away unscathed (cheers Alpinestars and aria). Few months later bought another Gixxer 1L this time a 2018 GSXR1000r - I now live on that damn thing. It's the best. Sure it's not exactly a glowing in comfort levels, but I can ride it 8 hours a day. I'm 40 this year. My body does indeed ache. But I just LOVE sports bikes, I'd have prob bought and or tried more if the newer ones weren't "mortgage deposit" level in price. I am wholeheartedly saddened by no more Gixer thous in the UK and the disappearance of the 600s - an era that will be fully missed by myself. But hey, bike trader exists, so there's that. Cheers for all the awesome content over the years Neevesy - you're legend
Ninja 400 hit the spot for me for an affordable bit of fun for a returning rider. What a cracking little sports for the tight UK roads. I plan to get a R7 for the 6 months a year I spend in the USA. The only naked bike I may consider at some stage is a Triumph Street Triple.
My opinion about the state of the sportbike..? I absolutely love them! I've been riding sportbikes since the mid '90s and hope to be able to do so for many years to come. I'm 47 and don't have any problems at all with the sportbike riding position. I consider the demands of a sportbike to be one more good reason to keep my body supple and in good shape. I've owned a 996 for twenty years now, supposedly one of the most uncomfortable bikes out there, but I say rubbish to that. Last season I did many 500+ km days for a total of about 14000 km. I consider nakeds like the Street Triple RS , ktm 890r etc., and the super nakeds to be sportbikes, but personally I like having a fairing to divert the wind, and I prefer clip ons as I don't like feeling like my body is a sail like you do on a naked. I don't know, I guess I'm just one of those weirdos who thinks that a sportbike is a totally reasonable motorcycle. Any other kind of bike just feels wrong to me, they tend to feel heavy, cumbersome, and unresponsive in comparison. That being said, I do wish less track oriented sportbikes were available, something along the lines of the Speed Triple RR. Or a Yamaha r9 would be pretty damn cool ( mt-09 with clip ons and fairing ). Actually, i really wish Yamaha would make a cross plane crank inline four 750. Something with 150 ish hp, and a proper back seat, a modern yzf 750 if you will. Yeah, I miss the 750s from the '90s, bikes that would do road and track equally well. A modern version of those 750s would be my ideal modern sportbike. Anyway Neevesy, thank you for the content, I always enjoy it
I've owned a 2000 r6 and 2004 r1 which both split their time on the road and track. Had a go on a cb500 on the track and realised it wasn't all about power and I had just as much fun so I bought one. Plus I didn't need to remortgage the house for tyres every other day. I'm 28 and with a one year old. I now only own a humble 2006 hornet. Scaled down track time last year only doing 3 days, but the hornet held its own and is 'all' day comfy for commuting and pottering around. Would love an S1000R or RR but lots and lots of money to cartwheel into the gravel. I squeezed in my licence 10 years ago when you were 'restricted' to 33hp but could ride more or less anything. New licence rules have ruined it for those younger than me I think. Why spend lots doing tests when you could finance a nice car instead? Money no object I'd love a new superbike but life gets in the way. Love these videos.
Neevesy, I’d love to know who you watch on RUclips in terms of influencers? I think Lamb Chop Rides has to be my favourite. I watch his stuff, over and over again and if I want to know what a bike is like from a real world perspective, I value his opinion. I’m so glad you’ve stuck up for some of these independents, because like Chops, some of them really know what they are doing with a bike. Here, here.
Thanks Michael for your comments re: carbon fibre wheels! It's awesome to have some expert opinion on the subject which helps drive my potential spending in the right direction! My R1250R could certainly use some help on the suspension side as the electronic damping only really works well for me in it's highest preload setting , otherwise it's a bit boingy! With regards to sports bikes, I recently reviewed (as a YT influencer lol) an MV F3 800 Rosso... I'd love one of those in my garage that's for sure. Being an 800 means you can use more of the performance on the road too and it's a torquey little thing :)
Hi Rikky, Have enjoyed watching your videos on your R1250r, vastly underrated bike, I prefer it to any GS, I’ve got it’s granddad, an R1100r which I’ve had from new and it’s got 45,000 miles on it now, I’ve got Ohlins shocks F&R on it and it’s just a hoot to ride, handles way better than you’d ever think 😂! Anyhow, I digress,…carbon wheels…I’ve also got a Panigale 899 ( and a Ninja 1000SX 🙄 !) which I’ve had from new and last year I fitted a set of BST carbon wheels on it and a K-Tech dds pro shock,..it’s a totally different bike now 😳! The carbon wheels removed 6.2 kgs of unsprung mass in total ( the rear alone saved 4.4 kgs ! ) it has made a massive difference to every dynamic aspect of the bike, don’t forget in this video Michael is comparing carbon wheels with forged aluminium ones like on his V4 S long termer, there will only be a negligible difference there as the forged wheels on the V4S are already pretty bloody light. In my case, the standard 899 rear wheel weighed a ton! So I felt the difference immediately, accelerates quicker, brakes quicker, flicks from side to side faster and you can distinctly feel how much more time the wheels spend on the road rather than being bounced off it as per the cast wheel / std shock combo, the bike just feels glued to the road now . Not sure if I’d fit them to your 1250r though 🤔?..don’t get me wrong, I like the R bikes, genuine Wolf in sheep’s clothes, BUT I’m not sure how much the weight of the shaft drive on the BM would negate any improvement you would feel 🤷🏻♂️? You know as well as I do that the shaft drive is quite a weighty item and that’s all unsprung weight, it’s a difficult one, you might splash a load of cash and not notice much difference ?? Good luck whatever you choose 👍
@@1956colinb Hey Col thanks for you thoughts and experiences with CF wheels! You have made a really good point regarding the shaft drive... I hadn't considered the weight of that bad boy when thinking of switching to CF wheels. I wish I could somehow have a trial run of the BST wheels that I can get for my model... I might just drop BST a line... what have I got to lose! The 899 sounds really, really good! You must be over the moon with the different to the stock wheels, good work! I read another comment recently that an ECU flash livens up the Z1000SX... they are great bikes and might still be on a future shopping list along with the latest gen GSX-S1000 👍 And I'm sure I would be pleasently surprised if I get to ride some of the older BMW boxer bikes too, such as your R1100 😊
Rikky I’ve loved every ride on the R1100r, amazingly capable little bike, still looks like brand new after 45,000 miles and it’s 23 years old this June! I saw a test on the Ninja 1000 SX where they got another 8 bhp up top, but it had a cat delete pipe fitted and I really don’t want a noisy bike for touring on, I might just see if they can stop the ecu shutting the throttle at 9- 9.5k revs, that’ll do for now. Absolutely love the 899, with the BST’s and the K-Tec shock it’s just so accurate on the road, I’ve thought about changing it a few times, but after testing Tuono’s , 1290 Superduke etc, I was never disappointed to get back on it , so I decided to splash out on the trick parts and it’s even better now, so it’s a keeper 👍
The overwhelming reason sportsbikes are dying off is the strict policing (including fixed cameras) of speed limits. You cannot have fun on a panigale etc at 50mph.
I have just replaced my stolen ZX10R with a nearly new ZX10R KRT. its my first litre bike. the foot pegs are so high its a bit uncomfortable, I remember your review and said the same thing thing. but I love it, even though its the cheapest new generation sports bike its such a special thing, lovely smooth engine and lean angle safety systems.i live in a place that has no good roads locally (Berlin Germany) so to ride a couple of hours for a ride has me hanging out of my arse. everyone here has adventure or touring bikes, and in the city a lot of Harleys. I will trade in to get a GS or Triumph at some point. but I live on the ground floor and park my bike in my front room I just love looking at it. if I can get some rear sets to give my knees an easier time il keep it, I have a Puig screen it has heated grips, its heavy but a flowing bike for mid speed corners. it stops really well. sports bike just feel special. to get that feeling in a car you have to spend money I dont have. keep up the great work.
Another cracking video Michael. On the subject of Sportsbikes i just sold my 2004 GSXR600 was my first bike when i passed my test 3 years ago, loved the looks (it was a rare black/orange one), style, sound, weight and handling, sadly i just grew to hate the riding position, doesn't help that I'm 52, only used it three times last year, was still sad to see it go as i probably wont own another sportsbike. I also have a 2006 Gen 1 Hayabusa which was still slightly wristy but much better after i fitted a 1" bar riser, that's just lovely to ride. I have replaced the GSXR with a full power 95 Yamaha 1200 V Max which I'm looking forward to getting to grips with in the better weather.
Legislation is the biggest influence on bikes these days. I aged out of Sports bikes, my youth was GS750 (pre GSXR), RD350LCs (2 of those) then FZ750. I'm too old and fat to sit on those types for any length of time. Happy with my sit up and beg KTM1290S.
Always great content. I’m 52 and still folding myself onto my Mille RSV R and my duc 750 F1 . A love of bikes and going out raving is what motivates me to look after my aging carcass enough to continue both. If more older guys just did a little bit of stretching and skipped that 3rd pint they wouldn’t have to give up their precious sports bikes so soon. Have to say my Millie has as much power as I’ll ever need on the road. Love that low end grunt out of a corner. All the best to you mate.
Brilliant, just found you trawling for something decent and there you were! As I enjoy you doing your MCN productions, win-win and thank you for what you do for us!
I’ve only done 100 miles on my S1000RR M Sport but having only ever ridden 600’s, the BM knocks the arse off of everything I’ve ever ridden. Ideal for the road, even better for track. Awesome.
I enjoyed listening to your response to Rikky Tang’s question regarding carbon wheels and I also enjoy watching Rikky’s channel. I am at the moment riding a Suzuki Hayabusa 2022 which I would consider to be a sports bike and I would like to add you were one of the responsible parties which encouraged me to buy it. On the way to nearly 2 million views now congratulations!! Loving the bike and the sports bike look. Thanks Michael always nice to listen to you.
im over forty and i have a '18 zx10r and a 06 zx6r , uncomfortable but i dont care ,i dont ride to be comfortable .You can have fun on public roads , you just need to be smart and experienced.Its a serious senario.
Along with speed restrictions, discomfort and not getting out of second on a litre sportsbike, you could add poor road conditions. The roads are abysmal in my neck of the woods. I think a middleweight twin is about right for the road, in my opinion. I agree with the uncomparable sound and the looks of a superbike, though. The sexy essence of biking. Great stuff, keep em coming, please!
Regarding the sports bike question, I've ridden all sorts of bikes but keep coming back to sports bikes. I'm 55, so of that generation I suppose. For me it's sports bikes forever 😁
Genuine Bikers and Vlog channels aren’t classed as influencers. We just provide everyday real world feedback on the bikes we love so the general public can make informed decisions. We still need real world motoring journalists to properly test bikes on roads and tracks that us normal vloggers can’t test them without purchasing one.
I passed the bike test in 1998, previous to that I had an NS125R. First big bike was a 97 Fireblade, 06 R1. Then a new 2017 xsr900 which I hated and kept less than a year. 2016 959 Ducati, kept that 4 years. Now a 2019 Panigale v4 I got this last September. Not many bikes over the time, but I have never been without one.
I’ve just turned 54 and got a Panigale V4 SP2 last year. Stupidly quick and gorgeous to look at. The last bike I bought prior to this one was a new FZR600R… a bit of a break between bikes. 😂 Happy to be back on a bike, looking forward to track days this year and wondering why I went so long without a bike. I was only ever interested in sports bikes. It’s a hell of a lot easier to ride than expected - I remember litre bikes of my youth wanting to kill you just for looking at them, even with half the power that they have these days. Maybe too easy to ride? I got rid of a modern sports car because I found it boring on the road and went for a version 30 years older, which is much more fun on the road. The same probably applies to bikes, although I’m thankful for the electronics with so much power available. I’m toying with the idea of a SportsClassic for the road and leave the SP2 for track days. I’d be interested to hear what you thought of the SportsClassic. Love these chats you are doing. 👍
Hi Michael, love the channel. With regard to sportsbikes, I've loved them since I first started riding in the mid 60s and still love them now, but my wrists, elbows, shoulders, back, knees and hips have a different opinion! I still love the look of a sleek, faired sportsbike with all the goodies and clip-ons down by the front wheel spindle, but riding one would be fun for five minutes but torture for the rest of the time. I'm sure as the UK's biking population ages that this is a large part of the driver towards nakeds and Adv bikes. I think that there could definitely be a niche in the market for bikes that still had the sports bike look, but with much more relaxed ergos that would allow old gits like me to still enjoy the sports bike vibe, minus the pain. Could this actually be A Thing?
Even the word "influencer" gives me the shivers. Unfortunately some of them are hired by the manufacturers directly. A certain Italian brand (who produces a retro styled twin...scrambler) seems to encourage certain "internet celebrities" who frankly don't know much about motorcycles at all. Can't deny that some of them are damn good at using social media, and I feel that they're aimed at new riders, so as you say, they may not be targeting "us" but more the trendy types who love the biker image rather than the machine itself or emotions they bring. But each to their own...It can be difficult for some enthusiasts to remember that manufacturers are seeking a profit, not admiration.
Thanks for your great videos Neevesy, been buying MCN since I was 16 in 2008! Having had Honda sport bikes (RVF400, 600RR, Fireblades (05/08/18) most of my riding life I'm considering something more comfortable (I have a rotator cuff problem at 30!). Like you, I just love sportsbikes and I'm finding it difficult to get excited about anything else. I have a couple of options for this year that I'd love to get your thoughts on; buy another Fireblade/sportsbike and fit adjustable bars (Gilles), or look into a Triumph Sprint ST 1050 or similar. Thanks!
I rode an ST 1300 for 9 years and much preferred it to the sports bike that I’d owned before it as it was just as good for a Saturday afternoon out on the local roads but was so much better for touring. I’ve recently downgraded to a CB500X and it’s been a real eye opener, great fun to ride and a good tourer. Since I bought it my annual mileage has virtually doubled.
Such a treat. I so look forward to these videos. And when I saw it now I was like yes! Happy days! Thank you very much. So informative and interesting as always. And the way you present is superb. Reminds me of Bald and Bankrupt on RUclips. It just works.
Neevsey another great video, your experience and honest answers are superb!your making the winter seem shorter👍 can't wait to get out on my bike again, keep the vids coming👍
Still love sports bikes. I own a Suzuki GSXR-750. Owned many different GSXR's over the last 25 years from 600, 750 and 1000's. 750 is definitely my favourite and gutted that Suzuki has stopped producing any GSXR's in the UK now. SAD TIMES !! !! !!
I love the look of sportsbikes but my back & wrists don't thank me for longer than 10 minutes on them. S/Nakeds are the best of all worlds & the lack of protection is a reminder my license is on the line so I'm fine with that.
I’m now 45 and only did my CBT in DEC21. My first ‘big bike’ in Jul22 was a 748 and I ABSOLUTELY love it. Obviously I’m going to get a GSA soonish but my 748 has been toured, commuted and enjoyed year round and if I stop using it, I’ll park her in my lounge. I’m getting divorced (woohoo!) so I can get away with it.
I have a bimota db8 that I never ride and just own because I love it. I like to look and touch it but it is not a great road bike but I love it all the same.
Love these chats, as someone who is only really getting back into bikes after 15yrs, I still lust after sports bikes. I agree there’s nothing quite like a well set up superbike to get the blood flowing!
At 2000 i had TLS. 2004 954rr. Hated the riding position on both but to get light and good bike you had to get a sportsbike. People build street fighters but it was just starting. Then came 2005 speed triple i bought one 2007. I still have it. It suits my riding even at track. 4years ago i got 2010 gs. +odd bikes that dont last long.
I am in the USA I am now 60 and have been riding sport bikes since my 1993 GS750ESD. Had 1987 GSXR 1100, 1993 ZX7R limited, and still have my 2004 ZX10R. Last year bought a Yamaha MT-10 and I love riding it more than my fully modded ZX10R. More comfortable for my old bones.
Cracking video again..I've just gone from a gsx s 1000 to a mt07 and to be honest I'm loving the small bike..Also bring on the new race season can't wait!!
Great watch Michael! I love sports bikes of yaw..owned loads! I Can’t get on them anymore. I now ride a triumph 1050 Speed triple RS.. which is just brilliant. So much so I’ve had it 5 years and it’s the only bike I’ve had so long! It’s a genuinely a great road bike. I also own the KTM SAS.
Another very enjoyable vid - thanks. Re your comments about journalists influencing manaufacturers, I remember reading that the late Kevin Ash's initial review of the K1200S stopped BMW releasing the bike for general sale in the UK until they'd undertaken a further year's development work on it. Do you know if that was true?
I miss the sport 600's. They were fast enough and in my opinion tended to look better than their litre siblings. I got another bike recently after 10 years away, got a cb1000r. It handles well, and is comfortable, but wish I'd got myself an old gixer, r6, or CBR 6rr
Micheal, IMO, it’s not that sportbikes are dead - it’s that all forms of motorcycling has seen a huge stratification of product where you basically only have a choice between an entry level sports bike, adventure bike etc, or a high end bike that only a mature and well-heeled rider can afford.
I'm in my 40s and grew up lusting over 90s sports bikes I own 3 of my faverates 98, gsxr600srad 98,cbr1100xx and a 96,rf900r yes there are others I'd like but that's the ones i had on my wall, all carbs and no cats , sound great . can't justify spending huge amounts on a sports bikes that gets used as a toy . If I was buying new or spending money on a bike I'd be buying mid/large size practical bikes for daily use. With all the aids to help in the poorer weather. Thinking lots of people are moving towards bikes being more of daily transport as cars and petrol is so expensive. My kids can't even Imagen running a car due to low wages and high costs .
Thanks for the info re your helmet. I used to like helmets that were a bit more stealth, but the more I ride the more I like the idea of a crazy flashy bright design. My very first helmet that I bought when I got my first M2 licence here in Canada back in 2006 was black. At the time I thought it looked cool. I didn't like the helmets which had, what I thought at the time, garish, silly look at me I am a lunatic racer type designs. Too flashy and silly I thought. I want to be cool, dark and mysterious. Well, my ideas about that have changed. Bright flashy helmets are also good, provided the design looks really good. Done properly, I think bright imaginative helmets can look cool and fun, and it gets you noticed so you don't blend into the background. Also, here is another question. Without accidents or any significant drops, smacks or falls, how long do you think the typical helmet is good for? How many years should one use the same helmet?
Great diplomacy Michael. Everyone is different. If you are happy with a basic 125 or the new M1000r …………so be it. Enjoyment has to be the key factor !👍
I got a bmw k1300r, 12 years old now. It’s not a sports bike, but for me, when I got it, it was that bike that ticked all the boxes in terms of power, character, looks… and looks… and looks 😂 Instill love it, commute with it, take 1 or 2 trips a year with it, but my back starts complaining (happens when you’re 56) and I start looking at not so hard sporty bikes… like the mandello v100 😅 Anyways, just a rant. Love watching your videos, man.
As an American who's spent time (likely too much) watching 'influencers' from various nations and continents, I can say that nationality has little to do with whether the creator has anything substantive to say. ✌
I’ve always looked at sports bikes as great looking and the pinnacle of all bikes and even though I came to biking in my late 30’s I’ve never owned one. I’ve taken a few for test rides but I’ve suffered from lower back pain for years and just can’t get on with them. The nearest I can get is having a Yamaha MT10 SP and now I’ve got a Ducati Streetfighter V4S and I’m 58 this year, they don’t lookout as good but are great nonetheless.
Hi Michael, Great series of videos these, enjoying them, keep it up 👍 Combining two subjects mentioned here,..sports bikes and carbon wheels, I’ve had my 2014 899 Panigale from new and have added some nice parts to it, loads of carbon including a set of BST carbon wheels, K-Tec dds pro shock etc and the wheels in particular transformed this bike 😳! In total I removed 6.2 kgs of unsprung weight ( saved 4.4 kgs on the back wheel alone !! ) dynamically on the road it’s better in every way, feels like it’s glued to the road now as the wheels spend more time on the road instead of being bounced about and I still think that the first gen Panigale’s are the best looking sports bike ever 😍! I’ve used it loads, 30,000 miles and don’t find it uncomfortable and I’m 66..ffs! But then I do ride a race bicycle for hours on end so anything’s comfy after that 😂 I call the Panigale my “ show pony “ and just do sunny weekend hoons on it now, I have a “ workhorse “ Ninja 1000SX that I use for big European tours and don’t mind how many miles I bang on it really. Adventure bikes do absolutely nothing for me, don’t stir any emotions they are just a transport device 🙄, I could fancy a Panigale V4S, but what would I do with it 🤷🏻♂️?? Waaay too fast for the roads and waaay too expensive for a track bike, it would end up just being a garage Queen, at least with my 899 I can use some of its potential on the road, quite happy with the pair I’ve got. Best time for sportsbikes was early 2000’s…everyone had Blades or something like that and they were relatively affordable 👍
@brian glendenning yes the bmw is a lovely bike but I'm 6ft3 and the v4 seems to have more room. I liked the latest blade as well but couldn't fit on it at all.
I absolutely love these videos, you've got such a kind demeanor and clear delivery. Nice antithesis to the usually hyped up RUclips style. I really enjoyed the first answer about influencers and the comments about sports bikes. With the influencers point I think something that was missing from the answer was perhaps the objectivity of influencers when the are reliant on brands to make content and get paid. Often all new bikes are always fantastic on these reviews or any negatives are carefully phrased or based upon something a potential purchaser won't be impacted by for example it's easy to state a Royal Enfield Meteor 350 isn't a powerful bike but they will stay away from important topics like poor fit and finish, corrosion and reliability, that they know the brands will not like being aired. I actually have a channel myself albeit small I've ridden quite a few bikes and noticed things that a lot of channels didn't mention. The other thing is that everyone watches everyone else's content so once a particular idea gets circulated it becomes very hard to change perceptions for example the radiator on the BSA Goldstar 2023... Is that a problem to the eye or is it just all channels (including mine perhaps without intending to) have parroted it back and so it becomes gospel. Now no one can mention the Goldstar without the rad coming up. It's crazy. Finally on sports bikes I would also raise the point that as well as an older population young people are becoming more risk averse and perhaps a 600 is not what they want anymore. Lots of you people buying electric bikes and retros like Mutt Mongrel etc. Thanks for a great video 👍😊
Hello from Romania, Mr. Neeves! For a new rider like myself, got my licence in 2021, you are an absolute godsend. Looking at new bikes, not only superbikes, I don't like the race for horsepower that manufacturers are on. I would like to see better suspension and less plastic, rather than more hp. Am I right in thinking that 100bhp are more than enough for the road and that torque curve is more important? And can we get some more "ride like a pro" videos or maybe even just tips and tricks for safer riding? Thank you, you're the best!
I had forgotten at the end of every season, you used to get manufacturers letting some journalist ride their bikes. It would always be interesting which ones capped the power output.
My take on an influencer is someone who won't say a bad thing about a product because they are either sponsored or getting a kickback. They are trying to influence you to buy that product even if it's rubbish. Influencing ran riot years back when when magazines were chasing the advertising dollar ( and still do ). A common theme was testing 4 different manufacturers bike and have 4 testers each going for a different bike. Can't upset anyone in that scenario.
Hey Neevsey love your work I am 55 years old had major neck surgery last year and still own my 99 zx6r can’t give it up still enjoy the thrill I chasing bends and giving it the hurry up but am looking at getting a z900rs as a everyday rider just to be a bit more calmer and upright riding position
Your comment re Litre Plus bikes made me smile. I completely understand where you're coming from with that comment. I know that all vehicles are moving towards "Rider and Driver Aids" but, I don't really like them. In a lifetime of "motoring, I can count on the fingers of one hand the number of times an "Aid" (Lorry, Car or bike) has kicked in and even on those occasions they weren't necessary - nannying it you will. I'm sure they'll be useful as I slide recklessly towards my dotage, but I'd rather not have them.
Great vid. Very enjoyable as ever. I know you love the GSXR750, as do I. Out of interest do you think there's still a place for it in the modern market if Suzuki were to bring it back, especially with the absence of the GSXR1000 now. Seems a no brainer to me.
Mate always a pleasure. I'm 51. I have a dedicated RS660 track bike, dedicated V2 Pani track bike, a V2 Bayliss for the street with rear sets 😊, oh and a Multistrada. But I love riding my proper sport bikes on the street too. I just picked up the new Monster SP btw. Are you planning to review one?
Hi Michael, always enjoy your videos. What do you think the future of BSB & WSB is, when the championships are based (loosely) on bikes that do not well anymore?
Regarding carbon wheels - there are some issues to be aware of. They are more prone to hidden damage that can cause sudden collapse of the wheel itself. I.e if you hit å curb you may just see a small damage that would not be a problem with normal cast or forged wheels, but may hide structural damage. This is the reason why Gordon Murray does not sell the street version of the T50 supercar with carbon wheels, and says that for the track version you will normally throw away a wheel that has signs of damage (somewhere in the following interview - ruclips.net/video/NT8PMXCMrsM/видео.html). He also point out that there is minimal difference between lightweight forged wheels (a good set for a motorcycle is about £2000) and the carbon wheels. There has also been nasty accidents with bicycles with carbon forks where you get sudden collapses of the forks. So - if you cannot afford to replace them in the event of minor damage that you can safely ignore with normal wheels, maybe stay away.
Hey Neevesy, hope you're well. Would love to hear about some of your favorite "unsung hero" bikes. Some bikes that might not grab big headlines or get a lot of press but are worthy of some love.
Advice please. Itching again to get back on 2 wheels. 15 years since I last rode. Previous bikes GPZ100RX GS1000 GPZ600R RD400 the list goes on. Last bike I had was a Kawasaki ZXR600J2. Fantastic experience. Toured Spain and ended up in Barcelona Fantastic. Question. At the ripe old age of 61 would you say my choice of buying a new 2023 Triumph 765R seem sensible. I like the option of a low seat height being available. I once tried to get my leg over a Ducati V4 once at Brands hehe. Would you say yes and also would you recommend a refresher course from a local teaching school. Keep up the great work matey.
In relation to the 'sport bike demise topic', as one of the new and younger riders - the appeal was never there simply based on vehicle overpopulation and poor road conditions. For the entirety of the time I've been riding (4 years now) I've used dual sport tyres - either maxxis or pirelli. I wouldn't trust anything that remotely resembled a slick on UK roads, especially in Yorkshire. Given the disposition of those bikes to be overly sensitive to input - that was another deterrent. So much as sneeze and some of these top performance bikes would throw you off XD Also there are just too many vehicles on the roads now. Don't get me wrong I enjoy the national parks in the summer, but I'm happiest riding in the middle of the night, empty roads, go at my own pace... Bliss 👌
Neevesy's into glow sticks drumming ... who knew! Being a techno fan myself (Joris Voorn, Amelie Lens ...), I'd like more details, despite being off topic. 😁🤘
I had carbon wheels on my track gsxr 1000 and the front failed, I had a forensic engineers report to hand as well. I'd stay well clear and go for forged aluminium wheels
As for sports bikes... I think the other factor at play is that society has become a lot more scared of everything. It all seems to be heading into absolute zero risk living. Even in cars you barely see any overtaking and if you dare do it, you'll get flashes and hand gestures as if you've just shot someone.
Society is very willing to punish risk takers and worry themselves into a stuper. The cool renegade attitude of fast motorcyclists is dead. Superbikes epitomise that wreckless love of life and screw it all attitude, which has been well and truly quashed by smart motorway, EV autonomous driving, latte drinking, bicycle riding, flag waving wetwipes. But I still bloody love them ❤️
Amen to that, brother 👊
Absolutely, I was thinking about changed attitudes too, well described.
BVG, I like to think that sports bike and super nakeds are still there for spanking and naughtiness, there are still places where this can be done, and really the selection of these machines and their capabilities are about as good as it gets - I reckon we are now in the golden age of jizz machines, to use a terms someone once used. Yes, it will come to end, but being completely self absorbed, there will be long enough for this mid 50s chap. Sad for the younger folk, however.
@@neevesybikes Thanks for your answer Michael, and as Chris said there's the adversity to risk, too.
On comfort, I decided to train on road bicycles so my track ready bike (Aprilia RSV4) is much more comfortable than a head down arse up road bicycle (Pinarello). Riding a bicycle on UK public roads is quite risky due to the general standard of driving and negligible enforcement of the law.
The other factor has been excessive regulations on emissions which are much more 'because we can' than due to a significant impact. Making the regulatory environment expensive just pushes the manufacturers towards models they can sell in volume or for high cost. The effect is more people in cars which is both unsustainable and a bad use of limited road space.
The next generation is a problem affected by Cost and Risk, so e-bikes and scooters don't seem like a logical path to ICE sports bikes...
Ride safe!
And then wonder why there's a mental health crisis.
If nothing dangerous happens then your tolerance decreases and safer and safer things seem more and more dangerous over time.
You can have too much of a good thing, safety is good providing you live a bit before you die safely in old age.
55yr old, 19.5st, 2020 S1000RR M-Sport with Carbon wheels - I can't ride it to 20% of its capability - BUT - I'm on a Superbike!
turned 63 last month, riding a '04 R1, touring through europe every year for a couple of weeks the past 3 years. fitted a quick shifter and aftermarket clip-ons for a slightly more comfortable ride and can do that all day long. every now and then there is a meeting with some fb group and we trash the road with some very high illegal speeds, truly love the adrenalin. next bike is hopefully again a R1, love that bike.
Yeah , I get you my friend .I turned 69 last month and I still ride my sportsbikes like a bat out of hell on occasion . My trusty steeds a 2015 Panigale 1299s and a 2006 GSXR 1000 always make me feel young again despite the age and injury related pain and soreness . No pain , no gain .
@@P.DuncanMonk nice bikes! after owning a thunderace I tried a zx10r, an mt 10, but settled for the R1, would love to have a gsxr 750 on the side though, best balance in performance and agility, just for fun.
Totally agree with you. I can only get excited at the sight of a sports bike.
I just love listening to you talking about your experiences and opinions. I am a big sportsbike enthusiast and will always keep a sports bike in my garage.
Agree, but still want to ride it 😅
Re sportbikes, I've been riding for about 5 years. Bought a street triple 675r as the first bike loved it. Wanted a sports bike, got a Daytona 675r, loved it more. That's now a track bike, and I got a KTM RC8R for something fun and different for the road. I sort of need something sensible for the odd commute to the office. Every time I look on auto trader aiming to get something for the job with panniers etc gsx1000gt or similar I end up looking at s1000rr's trying to tell myself I can fit everything i need in a rucksack. Nothing else just excites me as much as a sportsbike does. If I wasn't bothered about excitement, I'd buy a fiesta... I know I'm in the minority but what I want is more competition fornthe likes of the ducati V2 more middle weight sportsbikes.
So refreshing these videos, truly enjoy them with a cuppa
Hi Abhi, Michael is a diplomat obviously but I don't confuse 'Influencers' with an enthusiast like you who shares his passion for bikes. Long may you continue...
@@lonpfrb wow, thank you very much .. such a lovely comment there . Truly appreciated mate, that’s made my Sunday big time . This is the kind of stuff which motivates me to make quality content too . Thank you
@@ChasingTenths be a racer
and you are, also a great communicator too.
I guess there's no room for all that on our RSV-4s so 'be a racer' will have to do...
@@lonpfrb hahaha well said that on “be a racer”
Thank you mate for the lovely words
Truly made my weekend that
I’m past 60 and still ride a TL1000S I bought new. I find the comfort acceptable but my only issue with sport bikes are their practicality. I know they aren’t made for that but I do like to ride long distances and haul my stuff with me. The great thing about bikes is it is easy to collect more of them for other uses, which I’ve done.
Daily sportsbike rider since 2003, then around 2014 I fancied a change & bought a KTM 990 SM (such a hoot) then transitioned to naked bikes (2 x S1000R's) then a middleweight adventure bike (KTM 790 Adventure S) but then last year, I really felt the need to scratch the superbike itch again & have no comfort, no luggage space etc but have that focus on performance above all else.
Bought a 2020 Ninja H2
Good f*#king Jesus, it's bonkers. It's completely impractical for everything but I love it. Every time I get off it, I look back at it & smile.
Sportsbikes may have had their hey day, but I'm glad bikes like the H2 are still being built (just not for Europe anymore due to Euro 5).
56 yr old still riding my 92 Gixxer. Sentimental attachment, not to mention it's so f-ing cool.
Made my day this did.just seeing the thumbnail pop up .cheers Neevsy
I'm probably your age... and I love sport bikes.. and when I come to the point when I can't ride them, I most likely just give it up and ride my road bicycle. SPORT BIKES RULE!!!!
That's hilarious. I lived in Hollyweird for about 20 years but never felt more starstruck than when I heard you mention my question about your helmet. My heart has always been w sportbikes/racing 💓!
I think the demise of Sports bikes could have something to do with the price of them and mainly only being offered by the "premium" brands like Ducati etc. Gone are the days of Suzuki Gsxr 750 or 1000, Even the Honda Fireblade is a track focused crazy high revving beast, The R1 is probably living on borrowed time (I hope not as it has one of the best sounding engines/exhaust notes). Bikes are so expensive now, they seemed to be cheaper years ago....Or is that my rose tinted glasses......
I love motorcycles and have ridden a Superbike for 35 years. I’ve ridden my other bikes, but why when literally your life depends on them, would I not want the best brakes, suspension and chassis. When I get off adventure bikes, naked bikes or the current crop of budget Sportsbikes they are always a compromise too far, just so the manufacturers can make more profit. And as for Superbikes being uncomfortable, 20 miles on a naked at more than 50 mph is literally a pain in the neck (as well as ruining your leathers and helmet with all the road detritus) the motorcycle press, have promoted the a current tends of bike, overlooking their compromises instead of reporting them and asking for Superbikes with less extreme geometry.
Sports Bikes. I "came of age" on motorcycles around the 2005 Gixxer era, and prior to that I just read all the magazines that seemed to prominently feature the Fireblades and ninja's etc. So sports bikes to me are whee my motorcycling love started. I took a break from riding for 7 years due to moving to London, and job etc. Then when returning bought a K7 Gixxer 1L. Loved it, uncomfortable as anything, questioned wether it was the right choice for me. Deer jumped on my front wheel 7 weeks into owning it. Which wrote it off. I walked away unscathed (cheers Alpinestars and aria). Few months later bought another Gixxer 1L this time a 2018 GSXR1000r - I now live on that damn thing. It's the best. Sure it's not exactly a glowing in comfort levels, but I can ride it 8 hours a day. I'm 40 this year. My body does indeed ache. But I just LOVE sports bikes, I'd have prob bought and or tried more if the newer ones weren't "mortgage deposit" level in price. I am wholeheartedly saddened by no more Gixer thous in the UK and the disappearance of the 600s - an era that will be fully missed by myself. But hey, bike trader exists, so there's that. Cheers for all the awesome content over the years Neevesy - you're legend
Ninja 400 hit the spot for me for an affordable bit of fun for a returning rider. What a cracking little sports for the tight UK roads. I plan to get a R7 for the 6 months a year I spend in the USA. The only naked bike I may consider at some stage is a Triumph Street Triple.
My opinion about the state of the sportbike..?
I absolutely love them! I've been riding sportbikes since the mid '90s and hope to be able to do so for many years to come. I'm 47 and don't have any problems at all with the sportbike riding position. I consider the demands of a sportbike to be one more good reason to keep my body supple and in good shape. I've owned a 996 for twenty years now, supposedly one of the most uncomfortable bikes out there, but I say rubbish to that. Last season I did many 500+ km days for a total of about 14000 km.
I consider nakeds like the Street Triple RS , ktm 890r etc., and the super nakeds to be sportbikes, but personally I like having a fairing to divert the wind, and I prefer clip ons as I don't like feeling like my body is a sail like you do on a naked.
I don't know, I guess I'm just one of those weirdos who thinks that a sportbike is a totally reasonable motorcycle. Any other kind of bike just feels wrong to me, they tend to feel heavy, cumbersome, and unresponsive in comparison. That being said, I do wish less track oriented sportbikes were available, something along the lines of the Speed Triple RR. Or a Yamaha r9 would be pretty damn cool ( mt-09 with clip ons and fairing ). Actually, i really wish Yamaha would make a cross plane crank inline four 750. Something with 150 ish hp, and a proper back seat, a modern yzf 750 if you will. Yeah, I miss the 750s from the '90s, bikes that would do road and track equally well. A modern version of those 750s would be my ideal modern sportbike.
Anyway Neevesy, thank you for the content, I always enjoy it
I've owned a 2000 r6 and 2004 r1 which both split their time on the road and track. Had a go on a cb500 on the track and realised it wasn't all about power and I had just as much fun so I bought one. Plus I didn't need to remortgage the house for tyres every other day. I'm 28 and with a one year old. I now only own a humble 2006 hornet. Scaled down track time last year only doing 3 days, but the hornet held its own and is 'all' day comfy for commuting and pottering around. Would love an S1000R or RR but lots and lots of money to cartwheel into the gravel. I squeezed in my licence 10 years ago when you were 'restricted' to 33hp but could ride more or less anything. New licence rules have ruined it for those younger than me I think. Why spend lots doing tests when you could finance a nice car instead? Money no object I'd love a new superbike but life gets in the way. Love these videos.
Neevesy,
I’d love to know who you watch on RUclips in terms of influencers?
I think Lamb Chop Rides has to be my favourite. I watch his stuff, over and over again and if I want to know what a bike is like from a real world perspective, I value his opinion. I’m so glad you’ve stuck up for some of these independents, because like Chops, some of them really know what they are doing with a bike.
Here, here.
Thanks Michael for your comments re: carbon fibre wheels! It's awesome to have some expert opinion on the subject which helps drive my potential spending in the right direction! My R1250R could certainly use some help on the suspension side as the electronic damping only really works well for me in it's highest preload setting , otherwise it's a bit boingy! With regards to sports bikes, I recently reviewed (as a YT influencer lol) an MV F3 800 Rosso... I'd love one of those in my garage that's for sure. Being an 800 means you can use more of the performance on the road too and it's a torquey little thing :)
Hi Rikky,
Have enjoyed watching your videos on your R1250r, vastly underrated bike, I prefer it to any GS, I’ve got it’s granddad, an R1100r which I’ve had from new and it’s got 45,000 miles on it now, I’ve got Ohlins shocks F&R on it and it’s just a hoot to ride, handles way better than you’d ever think 😂!
Anyhow, I digress,…carbon wheels…I’ve also got a Panigale 899 ( and a Ninja 1000SX 🙄 !) which I’ve had from new and last year I fitted a set of BST carbon wheels on it and a K-Tech dds pro shock,..it’s a totally different bike now 😳!
The carbon wheels removed 6.2 kgs of unsprung mass in total ( the rear alone saved 4.4 kgs ! ) it has made a massive difference to every dynamic aspect of the bike, don’t forget in this video Michael is comparing carbon wheels with forged aluminium ones like on his V4 S long termer, there will only be a negligible difference there as the forged wheels on the V4S are already pretty bloody light.
In my case, the standard 899 rear wheel weighed a ton! So I felt the difference immediately, accelerates quicker, brakes quicker, flicks from side to side faster and you can distinctly feel how much more time the wheels spend on the road rather than being bounced off it as per the cast wheel / std shock combo, the bike just feels glued to the road now .
Not sure if I’d fit them to your 1250r though 🤔?..don’t get me wrong, I like the R bikes, genuine Wolf in sheep’s clothes, BUT I’m not sure how much the weight of the shaft drive on the BM would negate any improvement you would feel 🤷🏻♂️?
You know as well as I do that the shaft drive is quite a weighty item and that’s all unsprung weight, it’s a difficult one, you might splash a load of cash and not notice much difference ??
Good luck whatever you choose 👍
@@1956colinb Hey Col thanks for you thoughts and experiences with CF wheels! You have made a really good point regarding the shaft drive... I hadn't considered the weight of that bad boy when thinking of switching to CF wheels. I wish I could somehow have a trial run of the BST wheels that I can get for my model... I might just drop BST a line... what have I got to lose!
The 899 sounds really, really good! You must be over the moon with the different to the stock wheels, good work!
I read another comment recently that an ECU flash livens up the Z1000SX... they are great bikes and might still be on a future shopping list along with the latest gen GSX-S1000 👍
And I'm sure I would be pleasently surprised if I get to ride some of the older BMW boxer bikes too, such as your R1100 😊
Rikky I’ve loved every ride on the R1100r, amazingly capable little bike, still looks like brand new after 45,000 miles and it’s 23 years old this June!
I saw a test on the Ninja 1000 SX where they got another 8 bhp up top, but it had a cat delete pipe fitted and I really don’t want a noisy bike for touring on, I might just see if they can stop the ecu shutting the throttle at 9- 9.5k revs, that’ll do for now.
Absolutely love the 899, with the BST’s and the K-Tec shock it’s just so accurate on the road, I’ve thought about changing it a few times, but after testing Tuono’s , 1290 Superduke etc, I was never disappointed to get back on it , so I decided to splash out on the trick parts and it’s even better now, so it’s a keeper 👍
The overwhelming reason sportsbikes are dying off is the strict policing (including fixed cameras) of speed limits. You cannot have fun on a panigale etc at 50mph.
I have just replaced my stolen ZX10R with a nearly new ZX10R KRT. its my first litre bike. the foot pegs are so high its a bit uncomfortable, I remember your review and said the same thing thing. but I love it, even though its the cheapest new generation sports bike its such a special thing, lovely smooth engine and lean angle safety systems.i live in a place that has no good roads locally (Berlin Germany) so to ride a couple of hours for a ride has me hanging out of my arse. everyone here has adventure or touring bikes, and in the city a lot of Harleys. I will trade in to get a GS or Triumph at some point. but I live on the ground floor and park my bike in my front room I just love looking at it. if I can get some rear sets to give my knees an easier time il keep it, I have a Puig screen it has heated grips, its heavy but a flowing bike for mid speed corners. it stops really well. sports bike just feel special. to get that feeling in a car you have to spend money I dont have. keep up the great work.
Another cracking video Michael. On the subject of Sportsbikes i just sold my 2004 GSXR600 was my first bike when i passed my test 3 years ago, loved the looks (it was a rare black/orange one), style, sound, weight and handling, sadly i just grew to hate the riding position, doesn't help that I'm 52, only used it three times last year, was still sad to see it go as i probably wont own another sportsbike. I also have a 2006 Gen 1 Hayabusa which was still slightly wristy but much better after i fitted a 1" bar riser, that's just lovely to ride. I have replaced the GSXR with a full power 95 Yamaha 1200 V Max which I'm looking forward to getting to grips with in the better weather.
Awesome. Feel what you’re saying at 4 years your junior. Gotta 05 blade but it’s hanging by a thread, sadly 👊
Legislation is the biggest influence on bikes these days. I aged out of Sports bikes, my youth was GS750 (pre GSXR), RD350LCs (2 of those) then FZ750. I'm too old and fat to sit on those types for any length of time. Happy with my sit up and beg KTM1290S.
I rode a 88' FZ750 just over 20 years ago, what a lady.
Always great content. I’m 52 and still folding myself onto my Mille RSV R and my duc 750 F1 . A love of bikes and going out raving is what motivates me to look after my aging carcass enough to continue both. If more older guys just did a little bit of stretching and skipped that 3rd pint they wouldn’t have to give up their precious sports bikes so soon. Have to say my Millie has as much power as I’ll ever need on the road. Love that low end grunt out of a corner. All the best to you mate.
Brilliant, just found you trawling for something decent and there you were! As I enjoy you doing your MCN productions, win-win and thank you for what you do for us!
I’ve only done 100 miles on my S1000RR M Sport but having only ever ridden 600’s, the BM knocks the arse off of everything I’ve ever ridden. Ideal for the road, even better for track. Awesome.
Love my 2007 CBR600RR. Bought it off the back of the MCN 2007 600 sports group test.
Nice, time for a cuppa 🍵 👍
Oh yeah!
I enjoyed listening to your response to Rikky Tang’s question regarding carbon wheels and I also enjoy watching Rikky’s channel. I am at the moment riding a Suzuki Hayabusa 2022 which I would consider to be a sports bike and I would like to add you were one of the responsible parties which encouraged me to buy it. On the way to nearly 2 million views now congratulations!! Loving the bike and the sports bike look.
Thanks Michael always nice to listen to you.
Hey WJ 🙋🏽♂😁
im over forty and i have a '18 zx10r and a 06 zx6r , uncomfortable but i dont care ,i dont ride to be comfortable .You can have fun on public roads , you just need to be smart and experienced.Its a serious senario.
Along with speed restrictions, discomfort and not getting out of second on a litre sportsbike, you could add poor road conditions. The roads are abysmal in my neck of the woods. I think a middleweight twin is about right for the road, in my opinion. I agree with the uncomparable sound and the looks of a superbike, though. The sexy essence of biking. Great stuff, keep em coming, please!
Regarding the sports bike question, I've ridden all sorts of bikes but keep coming back to sports bikes. I'm 55, so of that generation I suppose. For me it's sports bikes forever 😁
Genuine Bikers and Vlog channels aren’t classed as influencers. We just provide everyday real world feedback on the bikes we love so the general public can make informed decisions. We still need real world motoring journalists to properly test bikes on roads and tracks that us normal vloggers can’t test them without purchasing one.
Aren’t they?
I passed the bike test in 1998, previous to that I had an NS125R. First big bike was a 97 Fireblade, 06 R1. Then a new 2017 xsr900 which I hated and kept less than a year. 2016 959 Ducati, kept that 4 years. Now a 2019 Panigale v4 I got this last September. Not many bikes over the time, but I have never been without one.
Glad you're not against "influencers". I like content from journalists and youtube moto channels .
I’ve just turned 54 and got a Panigale V4 SP2 last year. Stupidly quick and gorgeous to look at. The last bike I bought prior to this one was a new FZR600R… a bit of a break between bikes. 😂 Happy to be back on a bike, looking forward to track days this year and wondering why I went so long without a bike. I was only ever interested in sports bikes. It’s a hell of a lot easier to ride than expected - I remember litre bikes of my youth wanting to kill you just for looking at them, even with half the power that they have these days. Maybe too easy to ride? I got rid of a modern sports car because I found it boring on the road and went for a version 30 years older, which is much more fun on the road. The same probably applies to bikes, although I’m thankful for the electronics with so much power available. I’m toying with the idea of a SportsClassic for the road and leave the SP2 for track days. I’d be interested to hear what you thought of the SportsClassic. Love these chats you are doing. 👍
Hi Michael, love the channel. With regard to sportsbikes, I've loved them since I first started riding in the mid 60s and still love them now, but my wrists, elbows, shoulders, back, knees and hips have a different opinion! I still love the look of a sleek, faired sportsbike with all the goodies and clip-ons down by the front wheel spindle, but riding one would be fun for five minutes but torture for the rest of the time. I'm sure as the UK's biking population ages that this is a large part of the driver towards nakeds and Adv bikes. I think that there could definitely be a niche in the market for bikes that still had the sports bike look, but with much more relaxed ergos that would allow old gits like me to still enjoy the sports bike vibe, minus the pain. Could this actually be A Thing?
Even the word "influencer" gives me the shivers. Unfortunately some of them are hired by the manufacturers directly. A certain Italian brand (who produces a retro styled twin...scrambler) seems to encourage certain "internet celebrities" who frankly don't know much about motorcycles at all. Can't deny that some of them are damn good at using social media, and I feel that they're aimed at new riders, so as you say, they may not be targeting "us" but more the trendy types who love the biker image rather than the machine itself or emotions they bring. But each to their own...It can be difficult for some enthusiasts to remember that manufacturers are seeking a profit, not admiration.
Thanks for your great videos Neevesy, been buying MCN since I was 16 in 2008! Having had Honda sport bikes (RVF400, 600RR, Fireblades (05/08/18) most of my riding life I'm considering something more comfortable (I have a rotator cuff problem at 30!). Like you, I just love sportsbikes and I'm finding it difficult to get excited about anything else. I have a couple of options for this year that I'd love to get your thoughts on; buy another Fireblade/sportsbike and fit adjustable bars (Gilles), or look into a Triumph Sprint ST 1050 or similar. Thanks!
I rode an ST 1300 for 9 years and much preferred it to the sports bike that I’d owned before it as it was just as good for a Saturday afternoon out on the local roads but was so much better for touring. I’ve recently downgraded to a CB500X and it’s been a real eye opener, great fun to ride and a good tourer. Since I bought it my annual mileage has virtually doubled.
Same here. Picked up a low mileage '18 CB500X and ride it all the time.
Such a treat. I so look forward to these videos. And when I saw it now I was like yes! Happy days! Thank you very much. So informative and interesting as always. And the way you present is superb. Reminds me of Bald and Bankrupt on RUclips. It just works.
Neevsey another great video, your experience and honest answers are superb!your making the winter seem shorter👍 can't wait to get out on my bike again, keep the vids coming👍
Thanks Michael! That was so informative and valuable!
Great stuff, Cheers!
Still love sports bikes. I own a Suzuki GSXR-750. Owned many different GSXR's over the last 25 years from 600, 750 and 1000's. 750 is definitely my favourite and gutted that Suzuki has stopped producing any GSXR's in the UK now. SAD TIMES !! !! !!
I love the look of sportsbikes but my back & wrists don't thank me for longer than 10 minutes on them. S/Nakeds are the best of all worlds & the lack of protection is a reminder my license is on the line so I'm fine with that.
If you want a comfy sportsbike , buy a 1299. by the time you feel uncomfotable its ran out of petrol after 80 miles so you can have a stretch 🤣
I’m now 45 and only did my CBT in DEC21. My first ‘big bike’ in Jul22 was a 748 and I ABSOLUTELY love it. Obviously I’m going to get a GSA soonish but my 748 has been toured, commuted and enjoyed year round and if I stop using it, I’ll park her in my lounge. I’m getting divorced (woohoo!) so I can get away with it.
She said "it's me or the bike.."
You choose the bike
Good choice
I have a bimota db8 that I never ride and just own because I love it. I like to look and touch it but it is not a great road bike but I love it all the same.
I’m still a sports bike devote. Can’t bring myself to buy an “old man’s bike” even though my children have long branded me as an “Elderly!” 😂
Love these chats, as someone who is only really getting back into bikes after 15yrs, I still lust after sports bikes. I agree there’s nothing quite like a well set up superbike to get the blood flowing!
Keep them coming please. Can't get enough of these, so much interesting stuff.
At 2000 i had TLS. 2004 954rr. Hated the riding position on both but to get light and good bike you had to get a sportsbike. People build street fighters but it was just starting. Then came 2005 speed triple i bought one 2007. I still have it. It suits my riding even at track. 4years ago i got 2010 gs. +odd bikes that dont last long.
I am in the USA I am now 60 and have been riding sport bikes since my 1993 GS750ESD. Had 1987 GSXR 1100, 1993 ZX7R limited, and still have my 2004 ZX10R. Last year bought a Yamaha MT-10 and I love riding it more than my fully modded ZX10R. More comfortable for my old bones.
I always appreciate what this bloke has to say...more videos please
Cracking video again..I've just gone from a gsx s 1000 to a mt07 and to be honest I'm loving the small bike..Also bring on the new race season can't wait!!
Streetfighter and a tall-rounder now, sport bikes are fantastic but only for 15 minute track sessions as we age.
Great watch Michael! I love sports bikes of yaw..owned loads! I Can’t get on them anymore. I now ride a triumph 1050 Speed triple RS.. which is just brilliant. So much so I’ve had it 5 years and it’s the only bike I’ve had so long! It’s a genuinely a great road bike. I also own the KTM SAS.
Have a GSXR 750 first big bike and I’m under 35. Love it!
Brilliant series, I hope you keep it going
Another very enjoyable vid - thanks. Re your comments about journalists influencing manaufacturers, I remember reading that the late Kevin Ash's initial review of the K1200S stopped BMW releasing the bike for general sale in the UK until they'd undertaken a further year's development work on it. Do you know if that was true?
Being honest Neevesy Bautista swing arm is probably what 6k and his forks are 10k with his rear shock being maybe 5k or there abouts?
I miss the sport 600's. They were fast enough and in my opinion tended to look better than their litre siblings. I got another bike recently after 10 years away, got a cb1000r. It handles well, and is comfortable, but wish I'd got myself an old gixer, r6, or CBR 6rr
Micheal,
IMO, it’s not that sportbikes are dead - it’s that all forms of motorcycling has seen a huge stratification of product where you basically only have a choice between an entry level sports bike, adventure bike etc, or a high end bike that only a mature and well-heeled rider can afford.
Absolutely agree with you, nothing compares on looks to a sports bike but at my age 57, the nakeds are a more comfortable replacement 👊✊️✊️
I'm in my 40s and grew up lusting over 90s sports bikes I own 3 of my faverates 98, gsxr600srad 98,cbr1100xx and a 96,rf900r yes there are others I'd like but that's the ones i had on my wall, all carbs and no cats , sound great . can't justify spending huge amounts on a sports bikes that gets used as a toy . If I was buying new or spending money on a bike I'd be buying mid/large size practical bikes for daily use. With all the aids to help in the poorer weather. Thinking lots of people are moving towards bikes being more of daily transport as cars and petrol is so expensive. My kids can't even Imagen running a car due to low wages and high costs .
Thanks for the info re your helmet. I used to like helmets that were a bit more stealth, but the more I ride the more I like the idea of a crazy flashy bright design. My very first helmet that I bought when I got my first M2 licence here in Canada back in 2006 was black. At the time I thought it looked cool. I didn't like the helmets which had, what I thought at the time, garish, silly look at me I am a lunatic racer type designs. Too flashy and silly I thought. I want to be cool, dark and mysterious. Well, my ideas about that have changed. Bright flashy helmets are also good, provided the design looks really good. Done properly, I think bright imaginative helmets can look cool and fun, and it gets you noticed so you don't blend into the background.
Also, here is another question. Without accidents or any significant drops, smacks or falls, how long do you think the typical helmet is good for? How many years should one use the same helmet?
Great diplomacy Michael. Everyone is different. If you are happy with a basic 125 or the new M1000r …………so be it. Enjoyment has to be the key factor !👍
Fantastic insight once again Neevesy! We all love and appreciate your videos! Cheers
I got a bmw k1300r, 12 years old now. It’s not a sports bike, but for me, when I got it, it was that bike that ticked all the boxes in terms of power, character, looks… and looks… and looks 😂
Instill love it, commute with it, take 1 or 2 trips a year with it, but my back starts complaining (happens when you’re 56) and I start looking at not so hard sporty bikes… like the mandello v100 😅
Anyways, just a rant.
Love watching your videos, man.
As an American who's spent time (likely too much) watching 'influencers' from various nations and continents, I can say that nationality has little to do with whether the creator has anything substantive to say. ✌
I’ve always looked at sports bikes as great looking and the pinnacle of all bikes and even though I came to biking in my late 30’s I’ve never owned one. I’ve taken a few for test rides but I’ve suffered from lower back pain for years and just can’t get on with them. The nearest I can get is having a Yamaha MT10 SP and now I’ve got a Ducati Streetfighter V4S and I’m 58 this year, they don’t lookout as good but are great nonetheless.
Hi Michael,
Great series of videos these, enjoying them, keep it up 👍
Combining two subjects mentioned here,..sports bikes and carbon wheels, I’ve had my 2014 899 Panigale from new and have added some nice parts to it, loads of carbon including a set of BST carbon wheels, K-Tec dds pro shock etc and the wheels in particular transformed this bike 😳! In total I removed 6.2 kgs of unsprung weight ( saved 4.4 kgs on the back wheel alone !! ) dynamically on the road it’s better in every way, feels like it’s glued to the road now as the wheels spend more time on the road instead of being bounced about and I still think that the first gen Panigale’s are the best looking sports bike ever 😍!
I’ve used it loads, 30,000 miles and don’t find it uncomfortable and I’m 66..ffs! But then I do ride a race bicycle for hours on end so anything’s comfy after that 😂
I call the Panigale my “ show pony “ and just do sunny weekend hoons on it now, I have a “ workhorse “ Ninja 1000SX that I use for big European tours and don’t mind how many miles I bang on it really.
Adventure bikes do absolutely nothing for me, don’t stir any emotions they are just a transport device 🙄, I could fancy a Panigale V4S, but what would I do with it 🤷🏻♂️?? Waaay too fast for the roads and waaay too expensive for a track bike, it would end up just being a garage Queen, at least with my 899 I can use some of its potential on the road, quite happy with the pair I’ve got.
Best time for sportsbikes was early 2000’s…everyone had Blades or something like that and they were relatively affordable 👍
im 55 and just purchased a panigale v4s...best looking bike ever
I agree, but I reckon the s1000rr is a very close second, the Ducati having a better back side than the BM.
@brian glendenning yes the bmw is a lovely bike but I'm 6ft3 and the v4 seems to have more room. I liked the latest blade as well but couldn't fit on it at all.
@@davehowlett7147 yes I have noticed that too - I am6’1+” and the Super Duke R looks better again, in terms of size. Tuono seems smaller, or feels it.
I absolutely love these videos, you've got such a kind demeanor and clear delivery. Nice antithesis to the usually hyped up RUclips style. I really enjoyed the first answer about influencers and the comments about sports bikes. With the influencers point I think something that was missing from the answer was perhaps the objectivity of influencers when the are reliant on brands to make content and get paid. Often all new bikes are always fantastic on these reviews or any negatives are carefully phrased or based upon something a potential purchaser won't be impacted by for example it's easy to state a Royal Enfield Meteor 350 isn't a powerful bike but they will stay away from important topics like poor fit and finish, corrosion and reliability, that they know the brands will not like being aired. I actually have a channel myself albeit small I've ridden quite a few bikes and noticed things that a lot of channels didn't mention. The other thing is that everyone watches everyone else's content so once a particular idea gets circulated it becomes very hard to change perceptions for example the radiator on the BSA Goldstar 2023... Is that a problem to the eye or is it just all channels (including mine perhaps without intending to) have parroted it back and so it becomes gospel. Now no one can mention the Goldstar without the rad coming up. It's crazy. Finally on sports bikes I would also raise the point that as well as an older population young people are becoming more risk averse and perhaps a 600 is not what they want anymore. Lots of you people buying electric bikes and retros like Mutt Mongrel etc. Thanks for a great video 👍😊
Hello from Romania, Mr. Neeves! For a new rider like myself, got my licence in 2021, you are an absolute godsend. Looking at new bikes, not only superbikes, I don't like the race for horsepower that manufacturers are on. I would like to see better suspension and less plastic, rather than more hp. Am I right in thinking that 100bhp are more than enough for the road and that torque curve is more important? And can we get some more "ride like a pro" videos or maybe even just tips and tricks for safer riding? Thank you, you're the best!
Neevesy, we need one of this ever week. Fooking brilliant, mate.
I had forgotten at the end of every season, you used to get manufacturers letting some journalist ride their bikes.
It would always be interesting which ones capped the power output.
Another refreshing, and throughly entertaining Q&A👍🏻 Cheers
This is my standard saturday startup 😌😀
My take on an influencer is someone who won't say a bad thing about a product because they are either sponsored or getting a kickback. They are trying to influence you to buy that product even if it's rubbish.
Influencing ran riot years back when when magazines were chasing the advertising dollar ( and still do ). A common theme was testing 4 different manufacturers bike and have 4 testers each going for a different bike. Can't upset anyone in that scenario.
Hey Neevsey love your work I am 55 years old had major neck surgery last year and still own my 99 zx6r can’t give it up still enjoy the thrill I chasing bends and giving it the hurry up but am looking at getting a z900rs as a everyday rider just to be a bit more calmer and upright riding position
Your comment re Litre Plus bikes made me smile. I completely understand where you're coming from with that comment. I know that all vehicles are moving towards "Rider and Driver Aids" but, I don't really like them. In a lifetime of "motoring, I can count on the fingers of one hand the number of times an "Aid" (Lorry, Car or bike) has kicked in and even on those occasions they weren't necessary - nannying it you will. I'm sure they'll be useful as I slide recklessly towards my dotage, but I'd rather not have them.
Great vid. Very enjoyable as ever. I know you love the GSXR750, as do I. Out of interest do you think there's still a place for it in the modern market if Suzuki were to bring it back, especially with the absence of the GSXR1000 now. Seems a no brainer to me.
Mate always a pleasure. I'm 51. I have a dedicated RS660 track bike, dedicated V2 Pani track bike, a V2 Bayliss for the street with rear sets 😊, oh and a Multistrada. But I love riding my proper sport bikes on the street too. I just picked up the new Monster SP btw. Are you planning to review one?
Can't wait to see what's next! Enjoyable videos as always.
Hi Michael, always enjoy your videos. What do you think the future of BSB & WSB is, when the championships are based (loosely) on bikes that do not well anymore?
Regarding carbon wheels - there are some issues to be aware of.
They are more prone to hidden damage that can cause sudden collapse of the wheel itself. I.e if you hit å curb you may just see a small damage that would not be a problem with normal cast or forged wheels, but may hide structural damage.
This is the reason why Gordon Murray does not sell the street version of the T50 supercar with carbon wheels, and says that for the track version you will normally throw away a wheel that has signs of damage (somewhere in the following interview - ruclips.net/video/NT8PMXCMrsM/видео.html). He also point out that there is minimal difference between lightweight forged wheels (a good set for a motorcycle is about £2000) and the carbon wheels.
There has also been nasty accidents with bicycles with carbon forks where you get sudden collapses of the forks.
So - if you cannot afford to replace them in the event of minor damage that you can safely ignore with normal wheels, maybe stay away.
Hey Neevesy, hope you're well. Would love to hear about some of your favorite "unsung hero" bikes. Some bikes that might not grab big headlines or get a lot of press but are worthy of some love.
Great show again keep it up from Australia
Classy dealing with the influencer question…
Advice please. Itching again to get back on 2 wheels. 15 years since I last rode. Previous bikes GPZ100RX GS1000 GPZ600R RD400 the list goes on. Last bike I had was a Kawasaki ZXR600J2. Fantastic experience. Toured Spain and ended up in Barcelona Fantastic.
Question. At the ripe old age of 61 would you say my choice of buying a new 2023 Triumph 765R seem sensible. I like the option of a low seat height being available. I once tried to get my leg over a Ducati V4 once at Brands hehe. Would you say yes and also would you recommend a refresher course from a local teaching school. Keep up the great work matey.
First off, grateful for your candid insights. I grew up on dirt bikes and love my nakeds, but my daily is a sport bike. Go figure 😮😂
In relation to the 'sport bike demise topic', as one of the new and younger riders - the appeal was never there simply based on vehicle overpopulation and poor road conditions. For the entirety of the time I've been riding (4 years now) I've used dual sport tyres - either maxxis or pirelli. I wouldn't trust anything that remotely resembled a slick on UK roads, especially in Yorkshire.
Given the disposition of those bikes to be overly sensitive to input - that was another deterrent. So much as sneeze and some of these top performance bikes would throw you off XD
Also there are just too many vehicles on the roads now. Don't get me wrong I enjoy the national parks in the summer, but I'm happiest riding in the middle of the night, empty roads, go at my own pace... Bliss 👌
Neevesy's into glow sticks drumming ... who knew! Being a techno fan myself (Joris Voorn, Amelie Lens ...), I'd like more details, despite being off topic. 😁🤘
Entertaining and informative as ever and so easy to listen to you. 👍🏻
The first bike that got me was the R9T. After getting on one I knew it wasn't for me. Now I'm AT man till I can ride no more
I had carbon wheels on my track gsxr 1000 and the front failed, I had a forensic engineers report to hand as well. I'd stay well clear and go for forged aluminium wheels
brilliant... bring back Neevesy's replica !! :)