Front brake loads the front up, rear wheel brake for cornering sliding but if it's wet use it more. Carl's a cracking bloke, first met him while talking to Keith Flint in the scruinteneers in 2014. First met Michael at the southern 100 while he was sitting in the back of a transit sorting out his odd socks.
I think you hit the nail on the head. Dragging and trail braking with the rear brake gives you a lot of control over the handling of the bike. But a majority of people hammer the rear brake, its not a controlled thing, and they end up locking up the rear. what most people dont realize is if you lock your rear up, especially in an emergency braking scenario, you take away steering or manourvability. Or they depend on the rear to do way more braking than its capable of, without using the fronts. in the few racing schools I have done, it has been advised to hard brake with the front, get good at that and then add, some rear brake and practice that. Most road riding schools teach applying both and people I think get used to using way too much rear.
Also locking the rear can help you steer by sliding it. It depends. I learned as a kid on dirt bikes. Lock the rear, lean or steer a bit, the sliding rear helps to swing the rear around, release the rear brake and rev and you can power, maybe even power slide, out of the corner. I think it's really worth having a go on grass or dirt and sliding the front and rear at low speeds. Probably with road tyres on grass, for low speed skid and slide practice and recovery. I like the rear brake. It helps the bike turn. Gently using rear brake seems to tighten up the turning circle.
I agree with everything you say, but would add what is probably totally obvious: the rear comes into its own in slow riding, and is especially useful for the last few yeards before coming to a stop, thereby avoiding fork dive.
I've been listening to big Carlos since I was a teen in the early 90s. Man was a game changer who set the standard for a lot of what was to follow. And he's a biker! Sooooperb.
Hi Neevesy I owned a Tre-k Amazonas in America parts are non existent. Love your channel. I’ll always believe your journalistic opinion. Thank you for everything.
Thanks Neevsey, another great video, doing your best Plater with the bikes going past, lol. I’ve never seen a bad or indifferent interview with Carl Cox, what an utter gent, we’re very honoured to have him aligned to “our” sport, and supporting it for so long.
that is true for any motorcycle, it can always be improved. For me the 1200RS is the best supernaked at the moment. And I own a Tuono V4. It's the same with the Aprilia Tuareg 660, arguably the best middleweight ADV, but usually overlooked by the press.
Nooo, I am sure everyone would love to see you on the highside lowside podcast.😢 if you haven't seen it check it out. How can you resist the engine sound guessing game?
Neeve, mind blowing to see your TT backdrop, what a legend you are! This is Rafa from Brazil / USA. I've realized that elbow dragging became really popular around the Americas. I feel like it is extremely aesthetic, appealing and sexy, but I suspect it ends there. I'm sure it must have started with the aesthetical knee dragging which I was once a huge fan of, in the belief that it meant I was a good rider only if I dragged. Binge watched TT 2024 and not a single elbow drag, didn't actually see any knee dragging. Are most enthusiasts just putting aesthetics before efficiency? Thank you so much for even reading this and God bless you, long live Neev!
Possibly the coolest backdrop ever for one of your vids & on a momentous day with Michael breaking the TT wins record. Carl also seems like a top bloke too. Great & essential that people like him are involved in motorsport & putting their money where there mouth is to help make these events possible.
necessary for quick riding and way safer, but most are not able to fully appreciate what their bike will do - most are pleasure riders who dont really know the bikes and how they really work
Always enjoy these q&a videos from you Michael. It gives another angle of conversation to the usual motorbike review content etc. My question to you is about puncture repairing tyres and your take on them? I recently got myself out of a pinch using a puncture repair kit on my rear tyre. I was then able to ride my 08 cb1000r home. I do however consider myself a bit lucky having rode back rather spiritedly & somehow forgetting that I had just plugged my rear tyre. Have you ever had to use a puncture repair kit on a tyre and did it last you a while on a trip or did you have it replaced as soon as possible? Did you keep under a certain speed or were you like me where it became an afterthought? Btw, I have ordered a replacement pair of Michelin Road 6's after your recommendation of touring tyres being used on the fireblades during your time at the Ron Haslam Race school. Thanks Jonny
Another great episode! On the HSLS thing; reckon it's a great idea. I know you watch as I've seen you in the comments. And I'm sure you've crossed paths on launches. But mostly as you seem kindred spirits in terms of racing and journo backgrounds now producing content too. Often there is a cultural gap between European and US motorcyclists that I think you guys could transend and have an interesting sharing of thoughts on an issue.
I had a 2010 1130 Trek. It was a fab bike grunty as hell, handling was excellent, the engine sound was amazing. If you get a good un they are brilliant. Bad ones are horrendous. Mine was a right mare trashing coil packs regularly (at £110 each for the OEM ones). It also would screw fuel mapping up and run rich this caused under seat exhaust would get so hot that it melted the rear wiring, Benelli replaced this wring with PTFE insulated wiring. If you do buy one make sure the frame has been moded as the top engine mount would crack. Avoid ethanol rich fuel as the tank is plastic and the ethanol makes it swell and its a bugger to get back on if you take it of the bike. I loved it and hated it in equal proportions.
Hi Neevsey, Thanks for doing these videos, it's great to have them to listen to on my drive to work! I wanted to ask your opinion on the recent crop of luke warm semi sports bikes like the r7, rs660, gsx8r. My problem with these bikes is whilst I have no doubt that they are perfectly fun and reliable, they have come at a time when manufacturers are capable of such incredible feats of technology with amazing rider aids, engine power and chassis technology. I feel these little bikes are cheaply made ( I don't think people realise the detriment to bikes having no shock linkages with directly mounted rear shocks) with wheezy asthmatic parallel twin engines with cheap plasticity finish. They look like Chinese copies of sports bikes. And it's sacrilege to re use the r7 name! I think we should demand more but people seem to be embracing it! Would love to hear your thoughts
Because I'm old and spent decades on bikes before ABS became standard, I was prejudiced against the back brake because in early years in emergency situations I'd give it too much, lock up the back and slide off. I then avoided it, until I started carrying passengers a lot when it becomes obvious you need to use both brakes to keep the bike level. Nowadays with ABS we're spoiled and using both is second-nature. I don't have racing experience so your race-track observations were very interesting.
Thanks for the videos and sharing your wealth of knowledge! You have encouraged me to continue to "mod" the most important part of the bike -- myself (the rider) -- through continual learning and training. Speaking of modifications, you've often mentioned one of the best ways to transform a motorcycle is through upgraded suspension. In that case, when is it recommended to go after the bike model with electronic suspension versus standard suspension ? The standard suspension model are often more affordable so using the saved bucks on upgraded suspension components could make sense in some cases versus shelling out more upfront for the electronic suspension model. Is it really a question of where you're riding the most (street vs track) or should other factors be considered?
Awesome video! I really enjoyed that. You were not wearing earplugs? Seems loud. I love the TT and would like to go there one day. I would be further away though. Geez those guys are fast. Carl is great! Best1
I rarely use the back brake as I find them ineffectual, whereas in the late 70’s the rear drums could produce what we called then a broady ( back end coming round) Beautiful back drop on the video 👍🏻
There was one time back when I had my r1 I was on my way riding up to Durham from Essex and stopped service station near Cambridge and a lad there on a sports bike had been on a track day near by and had fallen off damaged his bike. He had no van and was riding his bike back to London. He had snapped off his front brake lever. So only had a back brake. I tried to advise him to get recovery aa or something but he was a adamant he was going to go ride down with only a back brake. I often wonder how that went lol I agree with both breaks if only one though it has to be front . A rear break alone on that journey would be horrendous
Question/s for your consideration Neevesy. What makes a bike more fun, power or character? Does a bike have to be fast to be fun? And how would you define character, as often it seems to loosely allude to the sound a vehicle makes and in many cases it's lack of reliability! Linked in with this, do you think modern, often more competent and reliable machinery has less character than older bikes? Are there any standout bikes that you feel to be full of, or conversely lacking in, character. Cheers for your thoughts, Glenn
I dont ride trackdays or even on smooth tarmac much. Potholed, rutted, gravelly, shite covered roads are my back yard, and front brake only would have me losing the front on a regular basis. It has taught me how to feel the back brake working. If you never use it you will never develop that feel, and when you hit the gravelly downhill hairpin scenario, you may be in for a surprise.
ABS has made the brake viable and I use it for all general slowing down and at the stopping point to reduce fork dive. PS - I like your low key, no BS presentation style.
I came from the gen 3 superduke to the 1200rs and didn’t notice anything with suspension being too stiff I think it’s as plush as the KTM. I reckon they were either set up stiff for the launch or they have changed the spring rate since. Love the thing!
Was taught to ride in 2005 by a riding instructor who was a ex police motorcyclist. I was taught to ride mostly using the front brake and hardly ever touching the back brake . I would go as far as to say i think my first 10 years of riding i never even used the back brake. Its only in the last 5 years i have started using the back brake more mainly due to the fact i carry my wife as a pillion. I find it gives me more control and balance using the back and front brake to slow the bike with the extra weight of a pillion. I now also ride solo using the back brake alot more and feel more in control, but would allways grab the front brakes if i ever neaded to stop the bike in an emergency situation.
There's a video on Sylvain Guintoli's channel in which he confesses to never touching the rear brake pedal in his 2014 WSBK championship winning camaign. What worked then wouldn't necessarily work now.
Yes, I was looking for someone to make this comment. I believe Carl Forgarty also said the same. I believe some racers also use to run just an aluminium rear disc, to save on weight, because they never use to use the rear brake. I guess styles of riding have evolved. I believe during the two stroke days the rear brake was used extensively. But when 4 strokes came on the scene, with far more engine braking, racers stopped using the rear brake. But now we've gone full circle, and began using the rear brake again. Interesting.
Great location for the latest Q&A. On the subject of the tt, Have you ever done a closed road lap around the island ?and secondly, were you there in 2009 when Rossi did the parade lap on the new R1? I noticed Mark Potter and Chad there.
One thing I never here about in bike tests is the cost of ownership. I remember back in the 80s and 90s the bike mags would talk about service cost and intervals. For instance a service on an Aprilia is much more than a cost of a Japanese bike I would like to see more on cost of ownership. Cheers
Enjoying your videos. I have two questions… 1) In a situation where the leader of a race has two-(2) riders on his/her tail as he/she heads into the last turn before the checkered flag, what techniques can be used to prevent them from passing. 2. I have seen multiple videos of super bike racers purposely bowling down multiple competitors . What’s with that?! Are there not rules against purposely endangering other racers?
Hey Michael. Thanks for these great videos. I remember a long time ago watching a lad that looked very like you, slightly more hair, speaking about how he didn’t oil his chain but cleaned it after every ride. Could you explain the thinking on this please? Thanks again.
I just clean my chain with GT-85. The only time I use lube is to stop it going rusty during the winter or long road trips where I'm not able to clean the chain regularly. An O-Ring chain has its own lubrication, anyway...
I'm pretty sure when I did the California Superbike School back in '91 the ZX-6's we rode had no rear brake at all. I mostly cover my rear brake for wheelies and turn up the engine braking but you know what they say about teaching an old dog new tricks yeah?
Another fabulous video I don’t know if you can assist or whether this could be classed as a question but I have a 2003 Yamaha R1 Yamaha discontinued parts is there anywhere that you would know or through your magazine would be able to assist me with this would be greatly appreciated again great content keep it up
Neevesy, really important question for you....what's your technique for cleaning your chain to get all the grease and dirt off it. I bought a can of muc-off chain degreaser and i used the full can, but ive still get grease, dirt etc. Are there any cheaper methods yo know of that can produce a nice and clean chain, cheers :) Great vid as always, Carl Cox - what a legend!
for emergency Stopping more Front than Rear, in fact on emergency stop I forego the rear, its useless on emergency stopping, the rest of the time, I use both, the rear and front when slowing down or adjusting lines, of course slow parking lot style maneuvers just rear brakes, use the front on slow parking lot maneuvers, you will get intimate with the ground.
I learned to ride on a honda cd175, drum brakes front and rear, had to use rear brake for obvious reasons. Obviously to stop wheelies. 😂 . Was this filmed at Willingham Woods? 😂
@neevesybikes ....this question is completely unrelated to anything in this video but I have to ask. Getting back into biking on the road and want to buy a budget bike to get through the test but want a good all rounder at the same time ie. Something that can commute in reasonable comfort and do track days. Currently looking at fazers and hornets but would like your opinion. Bearing in mind I'm 6'3 and 15 odd stone. Any input would be appreciated.
Hi Michael, just finished watching the supersport comparison video on MCN and came right back here with my questions. Beginning of this year i got myself a 2009 zx6r for track only and been doing 5-6 track days (assen, spa, some smaller tracks in france) this year so far and slowly getting into intermediates. Despite that I have been enjoying my ninja a lot, I have been wondering why 1000cc bikes are selling like hotcakes while 600cc bike class is still trying to survive/reincarnate? I ride an mt10 on street and even its power is too much for the road. While on a track like assen the time differences between a 600 vs 1000cc bike could be very little in the hands of a good rider, I realized on spa i really needed more power. But then spa is a very fast and particular track. When you look at the cost of a superstock-ish bike vs a supersport for track, small price difference is hard to justify for 600s and it becomes even smaller for used track bikes. So price vs value wise for japanese bikes it makes sense but on the contrary performance wise 600cc is more than enough fun on track. I was wondering what is really the advantage or charm of getting a 1000 over 600 to really learn to ride fast and even race on track?
Hi neevesy, Aussie here, hope you could answer my question, purchased a 2011 gsxr 600 brand new just for track days at Phillip island, it has 4,700 kilometres on it all from the the island, I ride in the slow group. Do you think tracking devalues the bike? My opinion is no, what do you think. The bikes in like new condition as it had a race fairing most of it life, I only just registered it for the first time this year. I’m now 63 and it’s a bit quick for me now and thinking of selling & getting something smaller, would love to here your thoughts on value because it been tracked.
I have a long-time appreciation for the Speedy, especially later models, and then the 1200. I wish it got more attention. Funny the Neevesy says the suspension is stiff ... it's got the electronic adjustments that you'd think would help it adjust to the road (speaking of the naked version). Sounds like they got the spring rate wrong, which is a surprise.
Journalism is essential to a life free from tyranny which is why my handle is Neil Julian Assange Davies. Keep up the great work. Totally agree with rear brake usage. I learned to ride on trail bikes with big bouncy suspension, rear brake is a massive help into corners. LOL Chris Harris drives a Porsche RS3 daily driver with empty cans and food wrappers in the passenger footwell and dog hairs all over everything, hero status
Can't someone tells those bikes to "keep the noise down" LOL I actually wear my rear pads down more than the front, because I drag the brake for stability fast bends and slow walking speed (town).
Have you came to North Carolina/Tenn border MOuntains and ride the Tail of the Dragon ???? please come to motorcycle community here and ride this and all roads around here - thanks welcomed have a pow wow community thing here band and cabin fire in the mountains bike life ! thanks
I think there are some good honest journalists who report with integrity, but there also are many journalists that let their own personal agendas or finances dominate their bias. It’s the same with all types of journalism….You only have to watch the BBC news to see the latter! 😂 However, having read your work for years I have no doubt that you’re the former 👍
Always ask yourself, especially with print journalism, if the business is making a huge loss every year, who is funding/underwriting it, and why. Most of the British papers are funded by people who have no interest in you, me or Britain’s future. People enjoy simple lies, rather than complicated truths, and the newspaper owners know this.
Haha if I was at a gig in Ibiza & turned around to see MD cutting shapes on the dance floor, I'm not sure id believe it .... then again, many years ago i was at the Kumeu Hot Rod Show with my mate Chris (You know that guy who rides a KTM adventure bikes) & both being into electronic music we saw this Guy that looks just like Carl Cox.... Na surly not ... Oh yea turned out he's a massive petrol head.
Why there even ever was a debate about rear breaks, it's a part of control systems of a motorcycle, it's not useless after thought. Just because people choose not to or don't know how to utilize it does not mean there needs to be a debate about it. Rear breaks are very useful in ALL possible kinds of raiding, there's nothing to debate. People should learn how to use them, it's part of motorcycle controls and addition to riders skill set . If they use them or not up to the rider but there's no reason to start debates based on preference or opinion, or worse yet "this guy is not using them" nonsense.
ktm lc8c engine in 790, 890 and norden 901.... you must be aware of the camshaft wear problem..... ktm are throwing out of warranty owners under the bus and refusing to accept liability..... you must be aware of this problem, but it is not reported in the mainstream motorcycle media...... why not
Michael.... Its bikes from all years and mileage from 5000 miles and up.... I keep trying to comment with more information but my comment is being removed
Hi mate, there’s no reason why your comments are being removed. Very odd? I’ve spoken to KTM who told me there were some issues with some early 790s that hadn’t followed their service schedule, but later models aren’t affected. The only thing to do if you have a problem is to contact your local KTM dealer and go from there. They’re aware of issues and want to resolve them. M
Come on now, those who routinely cast a critical eye on the media are often the people who understand the importance of journalistic integrity the most.The other people who understand its importance are those who'd co-opt it as a means to achieving their ends. To dismiss those who identifying systemic bias and the application of "soft influence" as "conspiracists" does a disservice not only to those who rely on journalistic integrity to inform their world view, but to journalism itself. Edit: Funny that Chris Harris' name should pop up. Some years ago I remember him lamenting the consequences of doing a harsh/honest Ferrari review. For some time (a few years, if I remember correctly) he wasn't invited to test their new models. These days his Ferrari reviews are much more "diplomatic" and coincidently (I'm sure) he's always got access to Ferrari's new offerings. 🤔
I too like the SP31200RS. I think it's one of the pure nakeds. I 100% disagree, as have a geat many commenters over the past couple of years I've read, that the Tuono is a naked. Had a bit of an eye roll when you said it was a real naked, sorry mate. It's a half-faired sport bike, similar to that old '85 Suzuki GS550ES, or even the first VF750 Interceptors. You'd never ever classify those as nakeds.
There was one time back when I had my r1 I was on my way riding up to Durham from Essex and stopped service station near Cambridge and a lad there on a sports bike had been on a track day near by and had fallen off damaged his bike. He had no van and was riding his bike back to London. He had snapped off his front brake lever. So only had a back brake. I tried to advise him to get recovery aa or something but he was a adamant he was going to go ride down with only a back brake. I often wonder how that went lol I agree with both breaks if only one though it has to be front . A rear break alone on that journey would be horrendous
How fabulous is it to see a sponsor like Carl so full of enthusiasm and respect for his rider, friend and the sport they love. Hats off.
I’d also like to cast my vote for you joining in on an episode of Highside Lowside
Met Michael and Carl in a local pub a couple of days ago. Both absolute gents.
Good to meet you 😊👍
Front brake loads the front up, rear wheel brake for cornering sliding but if it's wet use it more.
Carl's a cracking bloke, first met him while talking to Keith Flint in the scruinteneers in 2014.
First met Michael at the southern 100 while he was sitting in the back of a transit sorting out his odd socks.
The greatest introduction you can have on a video...
"Love the smell of race fuel in the morning" Yes, and the screaming sound of bike's to! thanks for this great q&a in this setting, enjoyed it a lot!
best backdrop and background noise ever, period.
Neaveys totally disagree, it would be great to see you on the high Side Podcast, about time a brit was on there, with such a great history
They overcame the time zone difference a couple of years back Al Fagan from 44 teeth was on there,it would be good to hear Neavsey on there.
Agreed. If only to see how you do with the engine guessing game! :))
Thanks for your response Michael!
Highly appreciated 👌
Background is epic too, music for the biker ears..
Great location and occasion and I enjoyed your chat with Carl who comes across as a true gent. Awesome episode.
I think you hit the nail on the head. Dragging and trail braking with the rear brake gives you a lot of control over the handling of the bike. But a majority of people hammer the rear brake, its not a controlled thing, and they end up locking up the rear. what most people dont realize is if you lock your rear up, especially in an emergency braking scenario, you take away steering or manourvability. Or they depend on the rear to do way more braking than its capable of, without using the fronts. in the few racing schools I have done, it has been advised to hard brake with the front, get good at that and then add, some rear brake and practice that. Most road riding schools teach applying both and people I think get used to using way too much rear.
Also locking the rear can help you steer by sliding it. It depends.
I learned as a kid on dirt bikes. Lock the rear, lean or steer a bit, the sliding rear helps to swing the rear around, release the rear brake and rev and you can power, maybe even power slide, out of the corner.
I think it's really worth having a go on grass or dirt and sliding the front and rear at low speeds. Probably with road tyres on grass, for low speed skid and slide practice and recovery.
I like the rear brake. It helps the bike turn. Gently using rear brake seems to tighten up the turning circle.
I agree with everything you say, but would add what is probably totally obvious: the rear comes into its own in slow riding, and is especially useful for the last few yeards before coming to a stop, thereby avoiding fork dive.
What a video! Smashing work as always mate
Great, as always, thanks. And soooooo good with those bikes going by. Awesome mate.
Thanks for your advice, and thanks for taking my question!
I've been listening to big Carlos since I was a teen in the early 90s. Man was a game changer who set the standard for a lot of what was to follow. And he's a biker! Sooooperb.
Best yt content for people that are in the world of motorcycles.
Thanks mr. N for sharing that with all of us
Hi Neevesy I owned a Tre-k Amazonas in America parts are non existent. Love your channel. I’ll always believe your journalistic opinion. Thank you for everything.
Thanks Neevsey, another great video, doing your best Plater with the bikes going past, lol. I’ve never seen a bad or indifferent interview with Carl Cox, what an utter gent, we’re very honoured to have him aligned to “our” sport, and supporting it for so long.
Absolutely class as ever mate
😎😎😎😎👍🙌
Best you tube reviewer by miles 👌
Thank you, sir!
Best “thanks for asking “yet. Set at the TT and Carl Cox came across amazing..
MN at the IoM, braving the noise on Joey and Michael. Superb. CC is modest & real.
Always look forward to your opinions and comments,brilliant back ground mate.
Thanks my brother
What a venue to do your Q and A 👍🏻 I hope Triumph do a mk2 ST1200rs and rr, their short comings are known and fairly easy to improve .
that is true for any motorcycle, it can always be improved. For me the 1200RS is the best supernaked at the moment. And I own a Tuono V4. It's the same with the Aprilia Tuareg 660, arguably the best middleweight ADV, but usually overlooked by the press.
Nooo, I am sure everyone would love to see you on the highside lowside podcast.😢 if you haven't seen it check it out. How can you resist the engine sound guessing game?
Neeve, mind blowing to see your TT backdrop, what a legend you are! This is Rafa from Brazil / USA. I've realized that elbow dragging became really popular around the Americas. I feel like it is extremely aesthetic, appealing and sexy, but I suspect it ends there. I'm sure it must have started with the aesthetical knee dragging which I was once a huge fan of, in the belief that it meant I was a good rider only if I dragged. Binge watched TT 2024 and not a single elbow drag, didn't actually see any knee dragging. Are most enthusiasts just putting aesthetics before efficiency? Thank you so much for even reading this and God bless you, long live Neev!
There is a YT. video o Triumph1200 doing really fast laps on the Ring. It’s from 2022 really worth seeing 😉👍
Nobody's denying it's a fast bike :)
Possibly the coolest backdrop ever for one of your vids & on a momentous day with Michael breaking the TT wins record. Carl also seems like a top bloke too. Great & essential that people like him are involved in motorsport & putting their money where there mouth is to help make these events possible.
🙏🏽 Another awesome vlog mate, and great to see Carl Cox on the channel 👍🏽😎 2 Legends for price of 1 👍🏽, take it easy mate
Thanks Neevesy! And yes, rear brake gives you a lot more control.
necessary for quick riding and way safer, but most are not able to fully appreciate what their bike will do - most are pleasure riders who dont really know the bikes and how they really work
Always enjoy these q&a videos from you Michael. It gives another angle of conversation to the usual motorbike review content etc. My question to you is about puncture repairing tyres and your take on them?
I recently got myself out of a pinch using a puncture repair kit on my rear tyre. I was then able to ride my 08 cb1000r home.
I do however consider myself a bit lucky having rode back rather spiritedly & somehow forgetting that I had just plugged my rear tyre.
Have you ever had to use a puncture repair kit on a tyre and did it last you a while on a trip or did you have it replaced as soon as possible?
Did you keep under a certain speed or were you like me where it became an afterthought?
Btw, I have ordered a replacement pair of Michelin Road 6's after your recommendation of touring tyres being used on the fireblades during your time at the Ron Haslam Race school.
Thanks Jonny
Another great episode! On the HSLS thing; reckon it's a great idea. I know you watch as I've seen you in the comments. And I'm sure you've crossed paths on launches. But mostly as you seem kindred spirits in terms of racing and journo backgrounds now producing content too. Often there is a cultural gap between European and US motorcyclists that I think you guys could transend and have an interesting sharing of thoughts on an issue.
Thumbs up from me for using the rear brake........it just adds so much extra control when getting a lick on.
Best sound track on a video ever 🥰🥰
I had a 2010 1130 Trek. It was a fab bike grunty as hell, handling was excellent, the engine sound was amazing. If you get a good un they are brilliant. Bad ones are horrendous. Mine was a right mare trashing coil packs regularly (at £110 each for the OEM ones). It also would screw fuel mapping up and run rich this caused under seat exhaust would get so hot that it melted the rear wiring, Benelli replaced this wring with PTFE insulated wiring. If you do buy one make sure the frame has been moded as the top engine mount would crack. Avoid ethanol rich fuel as the tank is plastic and the ethanol makes it swell and its a bugger to get back on if you take it of the bike. I loved it and hated it in equal proportions.
Hi Neevsey,
Thanks for doing these videos, it's great to have them to listen to on my drive to work!
I wanted to ask your opinion on the recent crop of luke warm semi sports bikes like the r7, rs660, gsx8r.
My problem with these bikes is whilst I have no doubt that they are perfectly fun and reliable, they have come at a time when manufacturers are capable of such incredible feats of technology with amazing rider aids, engine power and chassis technology.
I feel these little bikes are cheaply made ( I don't think people realise the detriment to bikes having no shock linkages with directly mounted rear shocks) with wheezy asthmatic parallel twin engines with cheap plasticity finish.
They look like Chinese copies of sports bikes.
And it's sacrilege to re use the r7 name!
I think we should demand more but people seem to be embracing it!
Would love to hear your thoughts
Because I'm old and spent decades on bikes before ABS became standard, I was prejudiced against the back brake because in early years in emergency situations I'd give it too much, lock up the back and slide off. I then avoided it, until I started carrying passengers a lot when it becomes obvious you need to use both brakes to keep the bike level. Nowadays with ABS we're spoiled and using both is second-nature. I don't have racing experience so your race-track observations were very interesting.
Thanks for the videos and sharing your wealth of knowledge! You have encouraged me to continue to "mod" the most important part of the bike -- myself (the rider) -- through continual learning and training.
Speaking of modifications, you've often mentioned one of the best ways to transform a motorcycle is through upgraded suspension. In that case, when is it recommended to go after the bike model with electronic suspension versus standard suspension ?
The standard suspension model are often more affordable so using the saved bucks on upgraded suspension components could make sense in some cases versus shelling out more upfront for the electronic suspension model.
Is it really a question of where you're riding the most (street vs track) or should other factors be considered?
Awesome video! I really enjoyed that. You were not wearing earplugs? Seems loud. I love the TT and would like to go there one day. I would be further away though. Geez those guys are fast. Carl is great! Best1
I think you should do the highside lowside podcast. You would be great on it.
Superb background to a vid. :)
I rarely use the back brake as I find them ineffectual, whereas in the late 70’s the rear drums could produce what we called then a broady ( back end coming round) Beautiful back drop on the video 👍🏻
There was one time back when I had my r1 I was on my way riding up to Durham from Essex and stopped service station near Cambridge and a lad there on a sports bike had been on a track day near by and had fallen off damaged his bike. He had no van and was riding his bike back to London. He had snapped off his front brake lever. So only had a back brake. I tried to advise him to get recovery aa or something but he was a adamant he was going to go ride down with only a back brake. I often wonder how that went lol I agree with both breaks if only one though it has to be front . A rear break alone on that journey would be horrendous
Question/s for your consideration Neevesy. What makes a bike more fun, power or character? Does a bike have to be fast to be fun? And how would you define character, as often it seems to loosely allude to the sound a vehicle makes and in many cases it's lack of reliability!
Linked in with this, do you think modern, often more competent and reliable machinery has less character than older bikes? Are there any standout bikes that you feel to be full of, or conversely lacking in, character. Cheers for your thoughts, Glenn
I dont ride trackdays or even on smooth tarmac much. Potholed, rutted, gravelly, shite covered roads are my back yard, and front brake only would have me losing the front on a regular basis. It has taught me how to feel the back brake working. If you never use it you will never develop that feel, and when you hit the gravelly downhill hairpin scenario, you may be in for a surprise.
ABS has made the brake viable and I use it for all general slowing down and at the stopping point to reduce fork dive. PS - I like your low key, no BS presentation style.
The man in the background, is he vaping Castrol R?
I came from the gen 3 superduke to the 1200rs and didn’t notice anything with suspension being too stiff I think it’s as plush as the KTM. I reckon they were either set up stiff for the launch or they have changed the spring rate since. Love the thing!
Was taught to ride in 2005 by a riding instructor who was a ex police motorcyclist. I was taught to ride mostly using the front brake and hardly ever touching the back brake .
I would go as far as to say i think my first 10 years of riding i never even used the back brake.
Its only in the last 5 years i have started using the back brake more mainly due to the fact i carry my wife as a pillion.
I find it gives me more control and balance using the back and front brake to slow the bike with the extra weight of a pillion.
I now also ride solo using the back brake alot more and feel more in control, but would allways grab the front brakes if i ever neaded to stop the bike in an emergency situation.
Your a true gentleman
💥💥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 brilliant x
Why, thank you, BSR 😍
There's a video on Sylvain Guintoli's channel in which he confesses to never touching the rear brake pedal in his 2014 WSBK championship winning camaign. What worked then wouldn't necessarily work now.
Yes, I was looking for someone to make this comment. I believe Carl Forgarty also said the same. I believe some racers also use to run just an aluminium rear disc, to save on weight, because they never use to use the rear brake. I guess styles of riding have evolved. I believe during the two stroke days the rear brake was used extensively. But when 4 strokes came on the scene, with far more engine braking, racers stopped using the rear brake. But now we've gone full circle, and began using the rear brake again. Interesting.
Great location for the latest Q&A. On the subject of the tt, Have you ever done a closed road lap around the island ?and secondly, were you there in 2009 when Rossi did the parade lap on the new R1? I noticed Mark Potter and Chad there.
I take it. He's a speed triple owner. He needs assurances. Bless.
Love your podcast mate, always great information and content, question what is that jacket you are wearing?
Looks like the Alpinestars “Purpose Mid-layer Jacket” in Camo print
Exactly!
One thing I never here about in bike tests is the cost of ownership. I remember back in the 80s and 90s the bike mags would talk about service cost and intervals. For instance a service on an Aprilia is much more than a cost of a Japanese bike
I would like to see more on cost of ownership. Cheers
You’d be terrific on high side low side, if it’s a possibility you should try to make it happen
I feel bad that you had to miss so much of the action to deliver us another episode. Cheers though
Read Michael's "It's in my blood". Really inspiring for human relationships, courage and persistence.
Enjoying your videos. I have two questions…
1) In a situation where the leader of a race has two-(2) riders on his/her tail as he/she heads into the last turn before the checkered flag, what techniques can be used to prevent them from passing.
2. I have seen multiple videos of super bike racers purposely bowling down multiple competitors . What’s with that?! Are there not rules against purposely endangering other racers?
Hey Michael. Thanks for these great videos. I remember a long time ago watching a lad that looked very like you, slightly more hair, speaking about how he didn’t oil his chain but cleaned it after every ride. Could you explain the thinking on this please? Thanks again.
I just clean my chain with GT-85. The only time I use lube is to stop it going rusty during the winter or long road trips where I'm not able to clean the chain regularly. An O-Ring chain has its own lubrication, anyway...
I definitely need rear brake on my st bob 😄
Aprilias of a certain generation: you guys have rear brakes?
😂
I'm pretty sure when I did the California Superbike School back in '91 the ZX-6's we rode had no rear brake at all. I mostly cover my rear brake for wheelies and turn up the engine braking but you know what they say about teaching an old dog new tricks yeah?
Another fabulous video I don’t know if you can assist or whether this could be classed as a question but I have a 2003 Yamaha R1 Yamaha discontinued parts is there anywhere that you would know or through your magazine would be able to assist me with this would be greatly appreciated again great content keep it up
Have you tried Padgett's?
Neevesy, really important question for you....what's your technique for cleaning your chain to get all the grease and dirt off it. I bought a can of muc-off chain degreaser and i used the full can, but ive still get grease, dirt etc. Are there any cheaper methods yo know of that can produce a nice and clean chain, cheers :)
Great vid as always, Carl Cox - what a legend!
Hi mate. I use GT-85. It’s a great cleaner…and smells nice, too 😊👍
@@neevesybikes Cheers mate, good shout. Haha it does smell good although my wife would disagree :)
👍
for emergency Stopping more Front than Rear, in fact on emergency stop I forego the rear, its useless on emergency stopping, the rest of the time, I use both, the rear and front when slowing down or adjusting lines, of course slow parking lot style maneuvers just rear brakes, use the front on slow parking lot maneuvers, you will get intimate with the ground.
Test of focus
Oh Yes, Oh Yes
these 🤐 moments when someone sweeps by..)
thinking of attending it.
I learned to ride on a honda cd175, drum brakes front and rear, had to use rear brake for obvious reasons. Obviously to stop wheelies. 😂 . Was this filmed at Willingham Woods? 😂
@neevesybikes ....this question is completely unrelated to anything in this video but I have to ask. Getting back into biking on the road and want to buy a budget bike to get through the test but want a good all rounder at the same time ie. Something that can commute in reasonable comfort and do track days. Currently looking at fazers and hornets but would like your opinion. Bearing in mind I'm 6'3 and 15 odd stone. Any input would be appreciated.
Hi Michael, just finished watching the supersport comparison video on MCN and came right back here with my questions.
Beginning of this year i got myself a 2009 zx6r for track only and been doing 5-6 track days (assen, spa, some smaller tracks in france) this year so far and slowly getting into intermediates. Despite that I have been enjoying my ninja a lot, I have been wondering why 1000cc bikes are selling like hotcakes while 600cc bike class is still trying to survive/reincarnate? I ride an mt10 on street and even its power is too much for the road. While on a track like assen the time differences between a 600 vs 1000cc bike could be very little in the hands of a good rider, I realized on spa i really needed more power. But then spa is a very fast and particular track.
When you look at the cost of a superstock-ish bike vs a supersport for track, small price difference is hard to justify for 600s and it becomes even smaller for used track bikes. So price vs value wise for japanese bikes it makes sense but on the contrary performance wise 600cc is more than enough fun on track.
I was wondering what is really the advantage or charm of getting a 1000 over 600 to really learn to ride fast and even race on track?
Hi neevesy, Aussie here, hope you could answer my question, purchased a 2011 gsxr 600 brand new just for track days at Phillip island, it has 4,700 kilometres on it all from the the island, I ride in the slow group. Do you think tracking devalues the bike? My opinion is no, what do you think. The bikes in like new condition as it had a race fairing most of it life, I only just registered it for the first time this year. I’m now 63 and it’s a bit quick for me now and thinking of selling & getting something smaller, would love to here your thoughts on value because it been tracked.
Michael - what Alpinestars jacket are you wearing? I love it but can't find it anywhere online. As always - exceptional content
It’s the Purpose mid layer jacket 👍
@@neevesybikes Thank you!
Funniest sofar😂😂❤👊
How many man points do I get for pretending to not use the rear brake 😂😂😂😂
I do not own a triumph i own a ktm but i do like the 1200rs. Because reasons I think its better than people give it credit for.
I have a long-time appreciation for the Speedy, especially later models, and then the 1200. I wish it got more attention. Funny the Neevesy says the suspension is stiff ... it's got the electronic adjustments that you'd think would help it adjust to the road (speaking of the naked version). Sounds like they got the spring rate wrong, which is a surprise.
I can’t find the MCN route to Nurburgring video. Can someone point me it be right direction.
ruclips.net/video/Fvfjb7GcMJY/видео.htmlsi=D0PSDF8WGQnupfgQ
@@neevesybikes sensational watch that. Inspiring tbh.
What alpine stars jacket is he wearing? Can't find online .
It’s the Purpose mid layer jacket
@@neevesybikes cheers bud!👍
what jacket are you wearing mate. looks ace
Hi mate, I asked the same question have you any idea what jacket hes wearing? Cant find it on the net.
Alpinestars Purpose Mid layer Jacket in black/navy/camo
Journalism is essential to a life free from tyranny which is why my handle is Neil Julian Assange Davies. Keep up the great work. Totally agree with rear brake usage. I learned to ride on trail bikes with big bouncy suspension, rear brake is a massive help into corners. LOL Chris Harris drives a Porsche RS3 daily driver with empty cans and food wrappers in the passenger footwell and dog hairs all over everything, hero status
Can't someone tells those bikes to "keep the noise down" LOL
I actually wear my rear pads down more than the front, because I drag the brake for stability fast bends and slow walking speed (town).
Have you came to North Carolina/Tenn border MOuntains and ride the Tail of the Dragon ???? please come to motorcycle community here and ride this and all roads around here - thanks welcomed have a pow wow community thing here band and cabin fire in the mountains bike life ! thanks
I'd love to visit one day!
Neevsy do you remember Stuart willets he raced against you he is a friend of mine, we ride out sometimes he now lives in Chelmsford
Name rings a bell…he was probably in front of me! 😊
He raced for Hawk Kawasaki
I think there are some good honest journalists who report with integrity, but there also are many journalists that let their own personal agendas or finances dominate their bias. It’s the same with all types of journalism….You only have to watch the BBC news to see the latter! 😂 However, having read your work for years I have no doubt that you’re the former 👍
Always ask yourself, especially with print journalism, if the business is making a huge loss every year, who is funding/underwriting it, and why. Most of the British papers are funded by people who have no interest in you, me or Britain’s future. People enjoy simple lies, rather than complicated truths, and the newspaper owners know this.
First!!
Helps with stability, but for decades , rear brakes had a wooden feeling.
DAm someone beat, but 2nd's OK
Warning... this episode is 68minutes long due to - noise interruptions.
Haha if I was at a gig in Ibiza & turned around to see MD cutting shapes on the dance floor, I'm not sure id believe it .... then again, many years ago i was at the Kumeu Hot Rod Show with my mate Chris (You know that guy who rides a KTM adventure bikes) & both being into electronic music we saw this Guy that looks just like Carl Cox.... Na surly not ... Oh yea turned out he's a massive petrol head.
Why there even ever was a debate about rear breaks, it's a part of control systems of a motorcycle, it's not useless after thought. Just because people choose not to or don't know how to utilize it does not mean there needs to be a debate about it. Rear breaks are very useful in ALL possible kinds of raiding, there's nothing to debate. People should learn how to use them, it's part of motorcycle controls and addition to riders skill set . If they use them or not up to the rider but there's no reason to start debates based on preference or opinion, or worse yet "this guy is not using them" nonsense.
It depends how much engine braking you have . My bike has epic engine braking so only touch the rear brake stopping at stop lines and t junctions
ktm lc8c engine in 790, 890 and norden 901.... you must be aware of the camshaft wear problem..... ktm are throwing out of warranty owners under the bus and refusing to accept liability..... you must be aware of this problem, but it is not reported in the mainstream motorcycle media...... why not
Hi mate. I know some early 790s suffered some cam problems, but not the latter bikes. Do you have any specifics? Cheers M
Michael.... Its bikes from all years and mileage from 5000 miles and up.... I keep trying to comment with more information but my comment is being removed
Hi mate, there’s no reason why your comments are being removed. Very odd? I’ve spoken to KTM who told me there were some issues with some early 790s that hadn’t followed their service schedule, but later models aren’t affected. The only thing to do if you have a problem is to contact your local KTM dealer and go from there. They’re aware of issues and want to resolve them. M
Come on now, those who routinely cast a critical eye on the media are often the people who understand the importance of journalistic integrity the most.The other people who understand its importance are those who'd co-opt it as a means to achieving their ends.
To dismiss those who identifying systemic bias and the application of "soft influence" as "conspiracists" does a disservice not only to those who rely on journalistic integrity to inform their world view, but to journalism itself.
Edit:
Funny that Chris Harris' name should pop up. Some years ago I remember him lamenting the consequences of doing a harsh/honest Ferrari review. For some time (a few years, if I remember correctly) he wasn't invited to test their new models. These days his Ferrari reviews are much more "diplomatic" and coincidently (I'm sure) he's always got access to Ferrari's new offerings. 🤔
I too like the SP31200RS. I think it's one of the pure nakeds. I 100% disagree, as have a geat many commenters over the past couple of years I've read, that the Tuono is a naked. Had a bit of an eye roll when you said it was a real naked, sorry mate. It's a half-faired sport bike, similar to that old '85 Suzuki GS550ES, or even the first VF750 Interceptors. You'd never ever classify those as nakeds.
Hello,
HONEST JOURNALISTS / NOT CORRUPT , DISHONEST JOURNALISTS. THE WORLD IS FULL OF CORRUPT .........
What
Many people think any journalist they disagree with are corrupt lol
There was one time back when I had my r1 I was on my way riding up to Durham from Essex and stopped service station near Cambridge and a lad there on a sports bike had been on a track day near by and had fallen off damaged his bike. He had no van and was riding his bike back to London. He had snapped off his front brake lever. So only had a back brake. I tried to advise him to get recovery aa or something but he was a adamant he was going to go ride down with only a back brake. I often wonder how that went lol I agree with both breaks if only one though it has to be front . A rear break alone on that journey would be horrendous
👍