2019 Yamaha Niken GT Review
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- Опубликовано: 25 июн 2019
- Seldom does a "motorcycle" come along that rattles people's cages as much as the brand new 2019 Yamaha Niken GT. Love it or loathe it you have to take your hat of to Yamaha for dipping it's toes into some very different water with this one. It's been a long time coming but I at last got to ride the touring version of the Niken (the GT) thanks to those nice guys at Brian Gray's Powerbiking in High Wycombe. Here's my first impressions review.
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Развлечения
Everyone loves to hate on this “bike”, which is not unusual in the conservative motorcycle world. I think Yamaha is really pushing the suspension technology and doing it rather well.
Yeeessssss been waiting for this review to drop from you TMF!!!
I test rode one of these a few weeks ago and have to say that I was thoroughly impressed with it and the confidence it inspires going into bends is just phenominal. I tried my best to upset the front end by going over uneven ground but the bike was having none of it. What a hoot! On the downside I would say they do look a bit odd when traveling behind one, like the rider is dangling their legs. 😁 Another great review, cheers TMF. 👍
You didn't buy it did you says it all about this machine a novelty motorcycle
Like you I love he front end looks, like the looks altogether actually. Great review TMF, thanks for sharing this was looking forward to it! Cheers.
I love different stuff, and the Niken certainly ticks that box. Can see myself on one in later years when my F4 gets to much for my weary bones! I Like the fact that Yamaha are doing something left field. Remember the GTS 1000?
Good fair review.
Fred
Thanks again for a fab review a great start to the day thanks tony
Cheers Tony - appreciate the kind comment!
Hi TMF, I've been looking forward to this review just to read the comments section. As someone who spent many years designing special purpose vehicles and equipment, I applaud Yamaha for working outside the box and bringing what I regard as a fun revolutionary motorcycle. Everyone thought nothing more could be done with scooters, then along came Piaggio with two wheels at the front of the MP3. Other poor sods have tried introducing automatic gearboxes and electric motors on motorcycle. God help the motorcycle industry as it tries to move forward from two wheels and the internal combustion engine. It's not an MT09 or a MT10 because it's a Niken with 3 wheels. Another excellent video and I enjoyed your usual impartial, unbiased review.
Fantastic reviews Niken GT and FJR 1300 2019. Thank you
Great option for touring purposes and also for a private collection.
In a few years it will a high value exotic motorcycle.
Nice review.
Yeah maybe because no body wants to buy one now
Great review as always sir enjoyed it so much that it convinced me to buy one,second hand mind but still a fantastic machine,thanks and keep up the great work...
I think this might be my future old person bike instead of the normal GS. Looks like it would do well in shit weather on slippery roads.
as own one; in rain tired behavious ou may not like; front grip amazing; but rear drives on direct wet surface unlike regular bıke; my friends didnt like it; but ı get used to it. great machine.
go for a Can AM, as this bike will give you a false sense of stability.
I'm in my 60s no thanks stick to my DCT Africa Twin and CB1300
yeah it has 60% more grip than a normal bike so ive been told by Yamaha , ive not ridden one as yet they are a huge beast though lol, bigger than my R1250 GS , and i own a 2019 tracer 900 GT as well
Another great review Andy. In my garage I have a little Piaggio MP3 300cc. You hit the nail right on the head in 2 ways. First about these 3 wheelers feeling "planted" at the front end, especially on poorer or wet surfaces. I have yet to have a go on one of these Nikens, but your last 'nail on the head' for me was, 'would you buy one of these or an MT10'. Well, I've got one and the only way I'd consider getting rid of the MT10, is if they put an MT10 engine into a Niken. Now, there's a thought!
Good first review, it will be good to hear your final summing up when you've had more time with it.
This bike is absolutely unique gives awesome sound from triple engine and a solid grip in wet or dry. The biggest worry for any ride is loosing the front end. Yamaha sorted 😍😊 awesome revue as always 👌😋
It's actually pronounce KNEE KEN, accent on the KNEE. In Japanese, NI means two and KEN means blade, so Two Blades, referring to the front end......
Thanks for enlightening me on that - mystery solved!
- RunningWithScissors - They are supposed to be “Journalist”, and they cant even get the name right?
Interesting. Good looking bike and a very complete review, as usual!
Thanks!
Thank you!
I was primed to append an 'oh, no, no, no comment' but was positively surprised by your review. As a tourer, it makes a good bit of sense as for every day, I'm not so sure. I'll await TMF part deux. Thanks again.
Next bank holiday is in august you got me excited thought i was going to have a day off work soon😔😔😔😔
Sorry - I recorded this a fair few weeks ago...
Marmite but the point is 80% more grip and most riders me included always worry about front end going. This machine takes that worry away and I for one cannot wait to buy one. Cracking review Andy😎👌😀🏍
Thank you
"...looking at me with incredulity" lol - TMF is the best!
I made a similar comment without seeing this one. It was my favourite line in the review. TMF has super powers to see through helmets as well!
I love the look of it, and the engineering alone is a thing of beauty. My heart wants one, but my head says "no"! But then again I said years ago that I wouldn't have ANY bike again....
I'm intrigued; must test ride some day
Great Review :)
Cool review. Thanks.
Great review as always TMF. I can't see why people slag these off so much. Anything that gets people onto bikes, 2 or 3 wheels, is alright with me. If people feel more confident with 3 wheels then why not?
Long awaited is your dip of a metaphoric toe into the three wheel market. The Niken massively appeals to my "square peggedness" if that is a recognised term for it. Now I hope you can get a ride/review on the Peugeot Metropolis, which is a lot nearer my price range.
I’m really intrigued as to why this bike actually exists, I understand it may offer a stable platform, but other than the novelty of it, I don’t think it has any real life merit.
It was nice to get to know it a bit better via your first impression review, as always well executed and informative. Thanks TMF.
Jeez, how many more times. **80% more grip at the front**
Welcome to the 3 wheel community TMF...
Interesting review, and def a bike I would have been interested in. What class does it come under? is it a Bike or a Trike??
Twin wheeled front end does give a more planted feel when riding, and it's surprising how far you can leen into corners... Looking forward to the other Niken video :)
Another brilliant answer to a question no one asked.
I've been waiting for your impressions on this bike TMF. I heard Suzuki was considering a bike with 3 wheels in the front.
Nice to see you go pass my old school 🏫😀
Good review Tmf for first ride not sure about it though .thanks danny
The bike that put's your brain in limbo. Can't decide either way!😊
I tried one out and was pleasantly surprised how easy it is to ride . Wet roundabouts in winter would be more reassuring to ride on, lovely sounding bike, about as wide as a gl1800 goldwing , people tend to move out of your way when filtering, but 15k, don't think I would buy one either.. good review similar to my thoughts tmf.
Thanks for the review. An interesting-looking vehicle! Did you notice whether the front wheels can be locked in an upright position like the Piaggio MP3 (very popular on the continent in cities) whilst a slow speeds? Apparently it assists with stability in stop/go traffic.
Hi, there's another fun way to activate the center stand: Remain seated. Touch left boot heel to the center stand foot protrusion/ lever. Grab underneath the seat, actually reaching fingers underneath the frame's top rails. .Then apply all body weight to left leg; while standing up. The m/c will pop right up. This method worked for all m/c with top rails for seating and dual shock absorbers. Probably no lo longer applies to all current m/cs. :)
Some engineering in that machine. Different. Nice
TMF I love your reviews, about Niken I'd like to ask if you have a flat tire in front is it possible to move on slowly, may be? Another thing about your reviews I'd like too see average consumption at least for your ride would be useful. Thanks
If it had a shaft instead of chaindrive, I would definitely wanted one of these. Love the look of the bike
So many people judging by the comments here and elsewhere have misunderstood the Niken. It should not in my view be regarded as a three wheeler at all but rather a motorcycle with a fat front end, the purpose of which is to hugely improve handling. For all practical purposes it's a two wheeler and has virtually nothing in common with three wheel vehicles like the Tricity scooter.
People may or may not like it but it's definitely designed by Yamaha to be a proper motorcycle for those want a proper motorcycle, not some weird vehicle for those not willing or able to handle a normal bike. You have to be happy riding mid/big bikes to be happy with a Niken. If for some reason an individual is unwilling or unable to handle any big bike, then the Niken is not for them.
Cost is a early problem then new design aceptance....but two up touring on bad crappy wet potholed roads it's amazing ....cheers from dave..
11.34: "Looking at me with incredulity". There aren't many RUclips sites that show such a command of the English language while riding a motorbike, especially one with 3 wheels. Nice review. Not sure about the 3 wheels but I like the colour! Better than orange or green I think!
What are your thoughts on an adventure version of this thing? Spoked wheels, off-road tyres...it looks like the two front wheels would help a lot with stability and traction on dirt and rough terrain. It would still be a freak, but at least it would be a freak with real purpose then. I can imagine a fully kitted out black or khaki one looking quite formidable too. Maybe even a big shark mouth like an attack aircraft. Cannons. Ok but you get the idea.
Great video, only one question; does it counter-steer above 30mph like a normal bike? cheers
Nice review as always TMF.
I think the answer to the repeated question Why?; is the great improvement in handling over a normal two wheeled bike. I've not ridden one but this is what comes across from your review and others who have pushed it much harder on the track etc.
Against that there are downsides like increased cost, of both purchase and maintenance, against aTracer GT or similar and additional weight too.
As everyone says, it's unlikely to sell in great volume but I think it's great. I've noticed too that a lot of online comments come from people who don't understand it, thinking it can stand up unaided when parked or that it's some sort of older weaker person's bike. In fact you have to treat it the same as a normal two wheeler but as you say one that feels more planted on the road and with outstanding handling.
Would I buy one? (and I'm someone who changes bikes frequently and have three at present. Tiger 800, Kawa Z900RS, Honda Supercub 125) Probably not but I won't rule it out entirely.
It just has the alien look to it. I’ll have to ride one before they disappear from no sales.
I think the biggest advantage of this is the safety of having two contact patches on the front. It could save your ass in a sand strewn corner or in a panic braking situation. I demoed one. The front suspension was awesome. The rear felt crude by comparison. It was super comfortable. I'm personally not a fan of the 900 engine. I find it to be buzzy. This would be awesome with the MT10 engine.
Elegant and subtle design 😁
I quite like it in a quirky kind of way. Pretty stable in the wet when braking I'd imagine.
Fine initial review. Thank you. Please try and find a pillion for a decent ride. Would really, really appreciate your thoughts on the balance, touring ability, ride, comfort, etc on the GT. Had a quick look and the Niken is 885mm wide, found the width of the BMW GSA as quoted by BMW as 990mm, interesting if those dimensions are correct. I'm sure someone will correct me if this is inaccurate. Ride safe, cheers.
Love all your videos mate and always look forward to your reviews cheers.
Everyone appears to be so negative about this bike. I think you should ride it before you bag it. I always said: "I'd never buy one of those GS bikes. They just look huge & hideous". Then I jumped on one, a GSA 1250 Rallye. She's 6 months old now! Nudge nudge, wink wink, say no more! Fanx fliesy! Good to see someone had a go of her. Nice review. Cheers groovers ;-)
Great review as ever TMF, it's an interesting bike...BUT....it's a three wheeler!, just can't see the point of it!. Looking forward to seeing your review of the Tenere 700 when it's available, and more of the Triumph XC you have....? Cheers, Steve
I think it's GREAT that designers and engineers are broadening the available choices. This "riding season" (I actually ride all year), I have been noticing more and more three-wheeled vehicles out on nice days: Spyders, Slingshots, TRiOs, HD Freewheelers and Trio Ultra-Glides, you name it. It's obvious Yamaha has ignored the naysayers and are looking to expand into a growing category. Another thing I've noticed is that riders on traditional motorcycles acknowledge these alternative powersport riders with the usual "wave" of comraderie.
You are only negative about this bike until you ride it. ;) The handling is superb, stability and grip on a rainy winter day is simply unreal, it pisses on sport bikes when it comes to cornering speed...
Shaft drive would be good on this as a tourer, it also needs some sort of lock system on the forks so when stopped it will stay up on its own, that would make it more appealing.
I agree about the fork lock system so you could do away with the side stand. My only reservation would be the risk of it failing and somehow activating whilst moving, resulting in you not being able to lean/tilt into the corner. Ouch! Also it would then need some sort of handbrake to stop it rolling away, or leave in gear all the time when parked and risk damaging the gearbox.
I wholeheartedly think all these big high mileage aimed tourers should be a shaft. I don’t want to be pratting around with chain lube and adjustment every week. Rather be riding than fixing it. IMHO.
Keep up the great work TMF.
Wild card looks. She’s a beaut!
Top review, again.
Any update on a date for that Scrambler XC review? Super keen to here your thoughts.
Cheers, 👊
Currently scheduled for October the 28th...I know, I know, really sorry.....lots to get through before then...I may move it forward...
TheMissendenFlyer no need to apologise at all mate. I’m a fan of your content. You’re top notch.
Thanks for the heads up.
All the best. 👊
Thank you for posting. I get the feeling this bike will be a commercial failure (I hope I am wrong), but will become a cult/collectible favorite in a few years. I wonder how the suspension/bike would behave on a dirt road with a few bumps? Better or worse than a GS type bike? Regardless, kudos to Yamaha. Great job thinking outside the box!
It looks like the front half of a Lunar Rover that has been welded to an 'Adventure Bike' frame. Does it need power steering for shifty surfaces like sand and mud, there's a lot of added rolling resistance out front.
cruise is essential, try steering arm out, arms to left bike goes right, great fun
Hi TMF, great reviews. Any chance when you do your walk around the bikes you can start engine up so we can see what the daytime running lights look like and when a bike has twin headlights we can see if both are used or not. For me I find most bike headlights not as good as cars so using both is always a plus point for buying that bike. Cheers.
Good idea! Thanks for watching Alex!
Great review, my first visit to your channel. I’m intrigued by these, especially as I commute all year round in grotty weather, my only off in 25yrs of riding has been a low speed drop on an icy roundabout. I figure the Niken gives a lot more confidence in those sort of situations. Alas they haven’t sold well, I see Yamaha have a lot of heavily discounted pre-reg bikes on offer, which has piqued my interest.
May be now is the time to buy then Steve! Oh, and welcome to the channel....
Hi Steve. I’ve recently purchased one. Fantastic bike. Had a group of 3 guys stop and chat with me on Saturday just gone. All made the usual comments. They happened tom be heading the same way as me..about 10 miles of undulating twisting welsh tarmac on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. So I requested we all head to a well known spot, I lead and they follow. I’m an average biker ability wise. It was mixed road conditions as had rained about 30 minutes prior. At the prearranged spot I had time to dismount, take of gloves and helmet and get a drink out of the side bag as they arrived. One was riding a 1250gs and the other two were on litre bikes. I didn’t really push the bike, yet left them standing. Why? Because the bike walks all over other bikes when ridden in typical British weather and on typical British roads. With traction control (various modes, all can be tweaked), ABS, different rider modes, cruise control, heated grips, two power outlets, mind bending grip etc etc….for me it’s very VERY easy to spot in the comments section who has ridden one and who has decided what it’s like without even sitting on one. It’s not selling, which was great for me as got a barely used two year old GT for a great price, due to the general biking communities ‘caution’ or liking of more traditional bikes…..which in reality equates to most being narrow minded and opinionated. With electric soon being the only option and the inevitable March of technology that will no doubt change how bikes look and are made I worry the ‘Traditional Biker’ will be the cause of death of biking in the UK in the not too distant future. It’s a case of ‘Keep up or be left behind’….Get yourself a ride on one, make sure it’s for as long as possible. Give it as much stick as you can and I’m certain you’ll be left with a grin on your face.
All the best, Dean.
South Wales. 🏴🏴🏴
Hi TMF - I too have been waiting for your review of this bike. I’ve seen all the testing etc., that proves the extra front end grip and stability but (like your opinion) who is this aimed at? Yamaha must have spent a fortune on engineering and development costs so they must have a marketing view? Surely it’s aimed at more than support and camera platforms for cycle tour racing? In cities like Barcelona you see a lots of three wheeled scooters but do city users really need an MT09 bike? I just don’t understand it. Very balanced review (and thanks for that) but, as you say, expensive to cover all that engineering! Yours aye, Alan.
It mad, probably wouldn't buy one but would love to have a go..
The Yamaha Tri-City is probably the only reason my wife ever got into motorbiking. After she got comfortable, she traded up to a BMW C650 Sport. So, I do have a soft spot for Yamaha three wheelers for that very reason. I spent many hours following behind aTri-City when my wife was learning and verify how stable the Yamaha three wheelers are. More types and interesting experiments are great for motorcycling in general. I test drove one a month ago and it is definitely going on my list of machines to think about for when I replace my current bike.
I don't get the hate, no one is forcing you to buy one. If you think it is a stupid idea, DON'T BUY ONE!!
I ended up buying one. Got a 2019 GT with 4000km on the clock. I've had it for 7 months and put on 4000km. LOVE IT. For me it is the sweet spot in the sport touring spectrum. Comfortable and staple on the road but you can still push it hard in the twisty bits. It's not for everyone, but I think it is great.
Could only see myself renting this bike for a half day. Be fun to try.
When I rode one I thought it was great on rough roads and fantastic braking, found it didn't appear to stand the bike up braking while cornering (know you should have braked before the corner)
I would still take an MT09 or Tracer 900 GT over the Niken, it's just the weight, the cost and tank size which is too small to be a good tourer.
According to Yamaha, it’s because those two front wheels “reduce the effects of changes in the ride environment and inspire front-end confidence when turning.” Which means that the bike will provide more grip on a road that’s slippery from rain or sand.
In a corner, if one tyre slips the other still has a fighting chance.
This is not a trike lol. But that turning confidence is an interesting concept. I’ve never low-sided before, but it seems this would lower the likelihood in slippery environments. Maybe put spiked ice track tires and take it out?! 🙂
@Rata 4U a trike is the other way round. Minimal front end grip.
From my view point- this is a really interesting concept. Having read a good number of comments it’s apparent it splits opinion widely and many bike riders dismiss it and wouldn’t take change. It’s more likely the first people to give this a good will be car drivers looking for a quicker commute but who don’t like the idea of a motorbike and crappy roads in the UK. Would seem to suit the idea of a decent sized engine with plenty of grunt.
It’s probably a pity really because I bet it would otherwise save a few serious injuries. Let’s see what the future brings....
Just can't really see the point in it, why not just get a mt09 tracer🤔
The purpose is that (especially if you ride on wet /slippery roads,) this is much safer and gives much more confidence.
The 80% more front end grip? The extra weight and mechanicals seems like a good trade for 80% more grip at the front. My biggest fear is always a low side crash, especially in the wet.
you see the point in wet and on shitty road. brilliant machine; well done yamaha.
Can TURK Just use experience and take care you won't need this monstrosity
If I was after a second bike to go touring on it would be a serious contender plus I love the looks of it, some people are too eager to slag things off even before riding a bike!
Just a quick hello…..I’ve got one. The GT version. Rode the other day with 3 guys, one on a 1250GS and the other two on litre sport bikes. Was on typical Welsh winding roads, in typical conditions…had rained 30mins earlier. To keep it short, I left them standing. I’m a very average rider, it was down to the bike. Folks ask who it’s for….it’s the ultimate British bike. Most of the time it’s raining or just crappy weather wise. This lets you ride at 100%, 100% of the time, rather than just in perfect conditions which we get 20% of the time.
@@Dean_Cooling iam going to be buying one shortly there a fantastic second hand buy. It's unique and does its job extremely well.
TFT is a form of LCD, what distinction are you making there, TMF?
As for filtering, I guess try the Mod1 test exercises of slalom twiddling through cones!
WOW what a future looking bike . i would be torn between the gs or this !!! WOW again .
Very interesting machine. You see loads of MP3 scooters here in Lyon. Powerful, practical and accessible with a drivers license. But I still prefer my Xmax in the city as it is way more manouverable and lighter. And my big bugbear is that all 3 wheel scooters are completely fugly. This Niken looks amazing and I even recognize my Xmax headlights in the styling. Would be very interesting for you to try this in the wet and again in the Winter. Got to respect the amazing engineering. Bet it makes an superb long distance tourer.
Great review and a very interesting bike. Hats off to Yamaha for putting it into production. Very different thats for sure ...
I wonder if the front wheel alingment will become an issue in the future ? Positives being more grip on wet roads. However it does look like a Ski-doo so can you swap the front wheels for skis / skids ? But seriously the price is almost a new basic Bmw R1250RT for example, almost the same weight but less practical and not the same quality... I suppose the question is what will the residuals be like on this bike ( trike ) when you get over the novelty and want to change to something with 2 wheels ? However, Piaggio are still selling their 3 wheeled scooters so people obviously like the concept.
Great thought.
The engineering is fascinating, but along with the extra wheel, does it have an ashtray (if you get my point)
Hello you said that you have 5'8 height? What's your inseam? Thanks!!
how would you compare the suppleness of the suspension to your GS? if its more supple, then it's a winner. A set of Bridgestone Battlax tyres might mean, perhaps, more than just tar?
I'm almost 100% sure this will be my next bike. I loved my Tricity and I just think this will do me, just the price is a lot more than I've ever spent on a vehicle.
@Rata 4U It's not a trike ffs
@Rata 4U idiot
what the Missenden Flyer bloke here failed to appreciate is the performance/safety advantage you get from the two front wheels. Yes it's plush (which is a result of many bumps being not absorbed but more ignored by the pivoting parallelogram lever control of the front wheel height) but what really nails it is you've either got a really freaking grippy and fast front end, or a really freaking safe front end, and you get to decide at every corner which it is. No shit, it's like a luxury starship cruiser which corners like a 600RR only unlike a sports bike it feels way more stable and planted and assured at the front while cornering and is likely faster through the corner than any bike you've ridden. Certainly once you've got a sticky rear tyre on it...and I have - it's fantasy motorcycling.
Interesting machine TMF, needs chucking rounds some twisties to test that front end handling and grip as I think this is the bikes USP.
I own its smaller powered Tricity your definitely in an exclusive club with these 3 wheelers. Certainly not taken more serious in UK whether it be scoot or motorbike
The styling always makes me think it looks like Clive Sinclair had a hand in it. Wonder what tyre wear is like given it will be expensive changing 3
This would probably be a fantastic machine - if no one had ever made a two-wheeled motorcycle. Very interesting review though.
I've had a couple of test rides on the Niken and where the front end comes into its own is in the wet or rough/pot holed roads. The stability in those conditions is impressive. Its the weight of a decent ADV bike but instead of "off road" ability you get extra on road ability. Let's face it the UK gets lots of rain and the state of the roads is shocking so in some ways its the perfect bike for the UK all weather rider. Its great to see Yamaha trying something different. I am tempted but need a little more time and another ride. Great review as always
Great review sir do feel its a bit like Marmite. :-)
Interesting. Would think an issue like wobbles are eliminated?
Hey Andy,im still to get one right now. 2021 model seems good value,should i pull the trigger ? Only for travelling outside,not london or city.
If you like it why not! (Cost of tyres/maintenance may be a reason….)
Mr. Flyer- You have done another fine job on this review. This is however the one bike out of all you have looked at which is least interesting to me. I reckon though that there must be only one winner is the contest for The World's Ugliest Motorcycle, and this machine may possibly be found desirable by the crowd who ride trikes and three-wheelers .
Good first look TMF. Strange idea for a Bike
I bet its an absolute brilliant continental cruiser
I'd much prefer the Niken over a CanAm three-wheeled bike.
I’d love a go on a can am though wouldn’t you?
@@TheMissendenFlyer I'd like to run the new model, I think it is the Ryker? Seems sportier, a bit more aggressive.
Getting pray mantis vibes from it 😂😂good review as allways great content 👍
Thank you Luke!
Great review. A strange stigma maybe and I don't know why really. Just very different from the norm i guess.
A little extra thing I'd like you to look at in your reviews would be to have a quick look under the seats to see what 'cargo' space there is, a small but significant thing for us guys that need a location for our Autocoms, small tool kit, puncture kits etc
Good idea! - I'll add it to my long term review list!
Nice review as usual TMF.
Just looks all wrong to me coupled with added burden/cost of maintenance: brake fluid/pads, fork oil/seals and tyres.
Wouldn't be so bad if it stood up on it's own... :-)
Minor added cost for ****80%***** more grip at the front, don't ya think? Same number of fork oil/seals, pads and brakes as a regular bike. The two front tyres don't wear as fast as a single front tyre.
If it’s about stability and safety for which this bike was engineered, i would not mind spending extra than going to the hospital from low end crash..
From an engineering , novelty viewpoint I’d give one a shot. Panniers wider than mirrors? Good to see it has a centre stand for adjusting and oiling chain. As a GT I would prefer shaft drive off the Super Tenere- your thoughts?
Did you ask dealer about off-road capability? Australia we go off road a lot with big bikes (Alpine Rally) . I wonder how it would go with a set of knobbies for extra grip on gravel or wallowing through muddy conditions? I’ve heard rear tyre grip is an issue?
Yes shaft always wins for touring bikes - I guess it’s all about the donor MT09 though....
You need to push & throw the NIKEN into some twist'es to fully understand what it truly is for. Get to feel that extra 80% grip over 2 wheel bikes then I'm sure you'll be raving more about it like others.
Rata 4U It just minimalizes the chances of you losing grip while doing this. Why not enjoy some more safety while risking your life?
This is probably a silly question, but can this be made A2 compliant? Something about this seems brilliant and I really want one, and obviously i cant ride it on a CBT.
I don't actually know - but I doubt it somehow....sorry!
For those wondering if a car license can be used for riding these in the UK...in short, no: the Niken's front track (centreline distance between the two front wheels) is 410mm. UK law specifies that if the front track is less than 460mm, then legally it's considered as one wheel and a full motorcycle licence is therefore required to operate it. The Piaggio MP3 LT front track is 465mm by way of comparison.