IMPORTANT Dakar have hit me with a copyright strike so ive had to delist some of the videos just in case i guess they got pissed that mine were better because of the MOTOGP one before xmas that means im really vulnerable now and the channel could be removed at any time I have set up this backup channel so please go and follow it NOW, this could all be removed at any moment now so it is critical to stay in touch via the backup channel here ruclips.net/channel/UCCSl6i-tZJNC5DQ38vgCtvw sorry for this if i get another strike it wipes out all my work all my old videos will be removed I wont be posting anything much on the new channel unless this goes down but this is a just in case because it really could go down at any point the videos are still visible if you have a link so if you have problems message me for links so you can still watch them, if you follow the channel and this one gets taken down you will be able to find me there sorry if thats a bit garbled ive just woken to this but i guess i could have had the channel taken down already so i should be thankful ride free everyone
great bikes 🙂 I featured them in part 1 here ruclips.net/video/WikCG7WxPy8/видео.html theres also a 15 year owners review here too ruclips.net/video/HNUKtXT2GgA/видео.html Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I've owned 28 bikes in my time, and the one I have now I've had the longest, 15 yrs. My Kawasaki ZZR600e has been a super-reliable fast mile munching sport-tourer, and has proved it's worth even two-up with three full Givis etc. Keep the vids coming, especially the 80s-90s bikes as they are the ones I remember the fondest.
The man who introduced me to motorbikes had a Honda Blackbird. The engine was opened at 140.000kms just to see, what needs to be replaced. The mechanic took the head off, changed the cam chain and said the rest to be almost in factory spec. He suggested to come back after next 100.000kms to check it again.
My Blackbird currently has 56k miles (90k kms) and has never been sweeter. Bar some rubbish fuel (over winter in the garage, my fault) and some resultant throttle hesitation that has magically disappeared, she’s been brilliant.
Bikes if properly used and cared for can last almost as long as the rider. Starting in the early 60s the big four Japanese brands are works of art mechanically. Now a number of other brands are catching up.
RE longitudinal V-4s: remember the cruiser-style ST1300 variant - the CTX1300. The engine was detuned for cruising. Its rear tyre was a bit odd, and options limited. A nice looking bike, but for my money the better-performing ST would be the choice. ('99 ST1100 owner)
Happy to finally see the GSX750f make the list! I bought a 2006 3 years ago for 2000$ CDN, with two brand new (0km) Michelin road 5 tires and only 10k KM on it. I didn't want to spend a lot but wanted to ride. At the time I thought I was making a HUGE compromise as I've owned dozens of "better" bikes. Turns out the GSX is one of my all time favorites, especially for the money. There is absolutely nothing special about any aspect of this bike but it does everything well enough that I don't plan on buying another bike until this one dies, which won't be for a long time.
Great story 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. The best at one thing is rarelu the best all round lol Ride Free 🙂 sounds a bit like i talk about the Wee Strom lol
Have to agree, GSX75F (and 600F) massively underrated. Which is great, because they are still super cheap to buy. Can get a fantastic 750 for £1500 easily.
great bikes and probably in the position now that the EXUP was 5 years ago, Im sure they will follow an upwards trend now on prices, they cant get any cheaper 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Totally agree! I paid $1200 AUD a year ago for an 89 750, just wanted a (cheap) bike to ride. Reliable, comfortable, fast enough for me. I like it waaaaay more than I thought I would....😄
I did 53,000 miles on my 600 Bandit in my 10 years of ownership and have just pensioned it off with a total of 65,000 miles up. It never let me down despite being ridden all year round in all weathers. It was basically worn out and not being able to guarantee finding E5 petrol was the final straw,it was plain nasty to ride on E10 in cold weather. Loads still about and plenty of spares that are very cheap if you're patient and shop around. The old CB500 twin was a superb bike and great fun for thrashing around the twisties where despite it's staid appearance a good rider could get places very quickly. I rode from Exeter to Plymouth years ago on my faired S version and it comfortably held over 90 for most of the way back,try that now and you'd get a NIP through your letterbox very quickly. I have 2 mates who owned them for years and clocked up massive mileages, both could afford "much better" bikes but grew quite attached to their CBs.
the 600 Bandit were great bikes, they will find their place, was chatting to one of replies about the 500 Twin yesterday funnily enough, as a better option than an XS650 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I have been riding motorcycles since the mid '70's, and have owned 2 Honda ST models and still have one, and they are great. I have also ridden a Honda VFR 800, which is too cramped for me, and a Honda blackbird, which is wicked fast, but i found the reach to the handlebars long, but still a legend from Japan ! I have also owned 2 Suzuki 750's from the 70's and 80's and they were top quality bikes too !
The opening comments about the R6 could be copy and pasted onto Honda CVBR600F4i II am one of those long-term owners of a VFR800 ( 21years and counting from new.) but the day I rode a mate's F4i I was very impressed.
great bikes,i featured the F2 here ruclips.net/video/ZBbf0xF7TbU/видео.html and the F4 yes, could have fitted here, but i have to stop somewhere, it will find its place at some point 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
The 750F was a supremely smooth and bulletproof Bike and I will forever regret it’s passing. What a Bike for all around touring at speed! Not too big or small but big enough to take one across the U.S. as many times as your heart desires. I also had a ZRX1200 and it was bulletproof as well although it did have very irritating vibration right at highway speed which I never could tune out of it. Other than the vibes it was a peach. I’m really surprised that the Yamaha FJ1200&1300 and ST1200 aren’t here as their 2 of the most reliable Bikes ever built and can still be had very cheaply with low miles. Great video my friend.
glad you enjoyed it mate, I featured the FJ 1100 here ruclips.net/video/c4n0iL9mUW8/видео.html re ST1200? the ST to me is the Pan European as in video but it was 1100 and 1300, did you mean XT1200? The Super Tenere is a damn good and overlooked bike in many ways, could just do with loosing a few pounds like me lol 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Another great video 👏🏼 I have (after 35 years owning and riding) just purchased a mint ‘91, white VFR750 RC36, with 14k miles.. It’s all original, including the side stand cover, rear seat cowl and long rear mudguard/fender 😁 It goes with my other bikes, ZXR750 H2, GSXR750 SRAD, ZX12R, CBR900RR, CBR1000F, & Suzuki TLR.. Happy days! 😁👍🏼
I had a 2001 GSX600F from new. In many ways a great bike as a commuter, motorway muncher, all-season rider, and fun enough to ride as a first "big bike". However, mine had a number of gremlins that were eventually traced to corroded ignition wires. It also got thru a few choke cables (they would sieze), leading me eventually to just put a zip tie around the choke on the carbs...bit of a contortion to use one hand to pull the zip tie out, one hand to pull in the clutch and a 3rd hand to press the starter button lol. It also rotted thru where the collector box met the endcan twice in 7yrs. So, bombproof engine certianly, but not trouble-free ownership. Still an awesome bike to have had and I regret selling it on during a house move. Will say, though, that I had a loaner ZZR600 for a brief spell - which was better in just about every way
The ZZR600 is another great bike, not had so much contact with the GSF600, but Suzuki metalware and fixings have never been the greatest, first jobs on the Vstrom was changing all the bolts made from unzinc and replacing the exhaust made from a lead lined coffin (i reckon 20-30kg minimum saved in weight even though all new headers and extended twin outlet silencer were all stainless
I owned an ST1300 Pan European for nine years after buying it new in 2012. I loved it both for touring and riding quickly on my favourite local lanes. The truth however is that my annual mileage has doubled since I traded it in for my current bike, a CB500X. The smaller bike is a more enjoyable touring bike one up and a joy to ride on real life roads at real life speeds. When you put the price and fuel economy into the picture it’s a fantastic package.
great bikesz, and a good point, i do like the 500X, but i worked out if i did what i wanted to with it it would cost me nearly as much as an AT, the 650 Vstrom serves a similar purpose and its better 2 up, after about 15 years it still gets used more than anything else lol 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I want them ALL! LOL. Thank you for making these videos. As a new rider, I really appreciate you sharing your experience. Until finding your channel I felt the only decent bike was a brand-new one, but now I know better. And I know which ones to focus on. Thank you again =)
Thanks for your support mate 🙂 the feedback does help me and i do appreciate it. Finding the bike that suits you and how you ride is key, there is no perfect bike for every situation, but i hope you enjoy the journey as much as i have over the years. I think there are few things that can shape someones life like motorbikes can
high praise mate 🙂 i do my best, i wish youtube was so appreciative lol they have been hiding stuff, blocking comments (even mine) and generally being a pain in the arts lol even had some people be unsubscribed without their knowledge, but does seem like they have started taking me off the naughty shelf again with the last couple of videos lol, they dont like my longer content videos though
@barebonesmc That's appalling to hear, my friend, I am terribly sorry. I don't understand why, either. I would think that you are one of the rare creators here. Just the facts Visionary content as far as I'm concerned. Most people stick to the tried and true, but you scale the heights. Take s virtual bow, you deserve one.
@@kiasax2 cheersnate, and kind words, i do my best, no point otherwise, but if you look you will notice that in general, sub 20 min videos are the ones that get pushed, more and more being empty photo collages with an AI voiceover, because they can make 10 videos before ive even finished one script, the joys of google lol, it is why i am trying to bring together real biker/creators to create an alliance,
This video includes legendary motorcycles and many of my personal favorites. I’m a big fan of the channel. Thanks for creating these great videos. Oh and if I have any voiceover work I’ll be calling.
Any XJ 900 Diversion would have to make the list. With their shaft drive and go forever motor what more could you want . In Australia they never really sold well either so prices are very low.
I took my 2009 Thruxton to the Bonneville Salt Flats a few times and stock it got 125.1 mph and modified it to 140 mph. My new 2016 Thruxton R stock 130 mph and modified 153.1 mph. I had a 2001 790 T100 which was sweet, 2006 865 Scrambler was interesting but the watercooled 2016 Thruxton R motor was easily the best motor in terms of reliability and power in my opinion . The Thruxton R has dispatched all sorts of sport bikes at the drag strip with more power and scared more than a few up through the eighth mile. Plenty of vids on the drag strip Bonneville.
enjoy it mate, best line up, theyve announced the final edition. the reality is theyve sold so few that it will just be done as a string of Triumph marketing last chance specials now, theyve announced 2024 as the last, but what is the betting by 2026 there is another new limited edition version with some line of spiel attached lo 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂 a nice but very niche bike
@@barebonesmc You are absolutely correct on the low sales numbers and I was still shocked on the last edition announcement. The Thruxton R works well for me as I have four bikes that can do other types riding I like to do. Probably not a one bike in your garage bike.
Now i have been watching your channel for aq while now and i need to comment on the st1100 and the st300 . The corrosion issues could make these bike a very expencive option . swinging arms rot like you would never believe . The altenators give major problems crumbling and falling apart making the engine lock up .To replace the altenator will take major open heart surgery and if you cant do it your self which i have 3 time now . Dont even think about taking it to the dealer because he will just laugh at you .The bike is a right off. I have owned 4 of these bikes and have to say your 100% correct about reliabilty and MPG is outstanding . But now they are not a good buy . Sorry mate .I love your streams and i just had to say please worn people about this and tell them to take some one who knows the pit falls of the pan .The Blackbird every day faultless.
being honest, its not something i had heard of on the early ones, although i do vaguely remember stator conversations on the later one. the one i had for a bit was an early 1100, but as always, i happily defer to those with more personal experiences than me, RUclips had held the comment for spam review and i only just saw it so apologies for not responding earlier too. and you have said it now so to anyone who reads this, best to check first, both on forums and any other rider groups. They are the place to find particularly pointed advice. Always DYOR. A bike that suits me, might not be one that suits you, It was just too big for my liking, and i rarely need more than the 650 Vstrom. speed is no longer my primary need from a bike, when it is, i take one of the others out,. as i have often said, if we could amass the combined knowledge of all the subscribers we would have the most comprehensive motorcycle encyclopedia ever 🙂 I will pin the comment so its at the top too
Not surprised to see many Japanese bikes. One note for the VFR, electrical issues do occur. My friend had 800 that would not start a couple times a year. We ended up replacing the ENTIRE wiring with a kit made by a guy we found on the web. He purposely built VFR kits to remedy the issue. If you like adventure models, the Vstrom are hard to beat. Low prices, super easy to work on, no complicated tech or gadgets, it is perfect for many riders the 650 is smooth for new riders. I was surprised to see an Aprilia in the list. I am in Canada, poor dealer support and parts availability plague the brand. I guess it’s better in Europe.
glad you enjoyed it mates, only major electrical issue ive come across on the VFR is the reg rec, but ill bow to your experience. as to the Vstrom 650, youll see from my 15 year review i think its hard to beat, ive been searching for a replacement for many years. tried and bought many, but the Vstrom always gets used most, a real gem of a bike. 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
When I worked at a 5 star honda dealership I had a carbonated cbr1100xx blackbird. I did so many mods that the dealership put the Duncan special on the work orders it was a total rework of the crabs...... I'm taking standup power wheelies in 4th gear !! I changed the cam overlap to take the power to redline and on my personal bike built a ram air system that came on the fuel injection injected over heating crap. With the float bowls connected to the air box and a wiff of extra fuel and nitrous I think I was getting 180 hp no way of knowing as the dyno only showed 155hp with the small jet. That said it would berry the speedo in 6th we also had a turbo changed blackbird a friend and I built that was in the 7s in the quarter. This was before apr made studs for everything. He worked for a defense Contractor who he had make some studs for it with rolled threads it never lifted the head again and I tigged up the swing arm and the triple trees after we racked it out. Cop friend clocked it ar 235ish mph!!! This was on 635 in Dallas. We are crazy here in Texas and proud of it. I used to ride every day unless it was ice outside and I learned that the hard way. I always said there are 2 kinds of riders those who have gone down and those who will. It's just a matter of time 😂I miss my younger days though my 450whp s2000 Sloth2k racecar is a nice replacement with vmount supercharger setup and more areo than it will ever need I outrun bikes all the time. I have 3.9 diff with Cabon clutches that will hit 178mph at 9k rpm and 21 psi of boost. I usually shift at 8500rpm or less. Thanks for the videos I've had fun watching. Oh I still have a Suzuki gs1100e that was raced in 82-84 I rebuilt it and it is a 1167cc with 10 to 1 compression mega Cycle cams and a falicon crank trued and welded with titanium rods. It will do 185 mph due to chain swap to 535 size . It is a scary bike too!! Keep it pavement down out there.
I had one of the "cheese" cam V-4s in a 1982 V45 Sabre. Cams destroyed in one season. Hard surfacing gone from the cam lobes. Honda were so slack I didn't even get an oil filter until I had more than 10,000 miles on the bike. Then it swallowed valve at 13,000 miles. I sold it in the spring of 1983 in milk crates for $200 for parts. I haven't spent one penny on a Honda since. And I won't until they reimburse me for the Sabre.
Yaayy, SuperBlackbird, got to be one of the best bikes ever made. Don't believe everything said about comfort though, the seat is bloody awful (I did more than 40k miles on my 1998 in less than 2 years, including a 980 mile day from Lyon to Wales). Gets more stable the faster you go, aerodynamics were amazing, reliability superb (mine was over 80k miles when I sold it). I've owned probably 50 bikes over the last 40 years, and the BBird is definitely my favourite. Not cheap to run, best mpg I ever got was 48mpg (more usually around 40), back tyres might last 4000 miles if careful (could wreck one in a couple of weekends though if you' re in the right mood 😂). Eats brake pads and chains as well if like (ahem) spirited riding. Replaced mine with a 1000 Versys, which was a great bike but not in the same league as the BBird. Great video m8, enjoyed watching that.
I had a VFR -92 RC36, best bike I ever owned. And so good looking. Red, with red saddle and white wheels. But then I was turning 50 and got the stupid idea in my head that I would quit riding as life at that time did not leave much time for riding and I sold that bike. Got back soon enough but it has been cruisers after that and that is ok but confess to missing a good sport bike from time to time.
great bikes and i can relate lol, i miss the bikes but not trying to fold myself into position lol, i prefer a more relaxed upright ride these days 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
My favourite is the Honda VFR800 with EFI, just for "better" more controlled fuel management. I love the sound of that Vee engine and gear driven cams, but the complicated engine layout scares me. So my choice for plodding around the local patch would be the wee Kawasaki W800 twin, just for its simplicity , reliability and ease of maintenance.
I’m just biased with carbs mate. I can set them up and tune them. Fuel injection never feels right at take off for me. It’s always snatchier than a set of well set up flat slides. But that is just my taste😊
True nuff. I got spoiled with fuel injection when I started playing with Power Commander piggy back EFI fuel modules and how much easier they are, to simply connect up a few wires (plug and play) to totally change the mixture and fueling through the rev range on a laptop or even cell phone now, plus easy setup of a quick shifter which I love on any bike. This was on my 2001 GSXR 1000 track bike which I dearly loved. EFI is just so much more responsive. I never understood the intricacies of all the fuel jetting to tune up on exhaust and intake changes.
@@alant383 cheers for adding mate. I guess it’s what I learned with so it’s what I know best. I just describe a carb as a bucket with holes in lol. Easy for my simple mind to understand 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Hey barebones, I tell ya what I would like to see from you is a top ten 250cc and up to 400cc most reliable maxi scooters in your area and the states that can still be purchased for a reasonable price. Whether it be a Tiawan brand or Japanese brand no matter what the year is of the scooter. Later man, gotta go for a scooter ride!!😁
enjoy it mate 🙂i will have a think, its not my best area so would need some research, but im sure ill get there at some point. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Great selection! I’d like to throw in a few others if I may? All reliable and great bikes in their own right which are great vfm now. All of these I’ve owned or ridden: 1. Triumph Trident 750 from the lated 90’s: smoother and arguably better version of the larger 900. Bags of character, predictable handling and very comfortable naked genuinely good for 100,000 plus miles if regularly serviced. Better made than today’s Triumphs and cheap if you can find one; 2. Ducati 998 beating Aprilia RSVR mille: beautifully sculpted and made, sublime handling vee twin with one of the most grunty characterful Rotax vee twins which remains a reliable bike today. 2001 to 2004 gen 1 models the best as gen 2 models suffered from stator and other electrical failures. Insane value and genuine 165mph performance which a decent rider could keep with any sports bike on the planet in the twisties. Huge fun; 3. Suzuki DL650 Veestrom: hugely underrated massively reliable, capable and comfortable all round adv bike which for many people does everything an expensive Bmw adv bike does at a fraction of the price. Many go on to over 100k miles . Good handling and all day comfort, nimble and spritely. Cheap motoring and utterly dependable. SV 650 sibling a hugely popular sporty mild mannered option using the same motor. 4. Late 1970s or 1980s bmw R100RS. Capable and comfortable intercontinental bashing air cooled boxer which is fast appreciating which saved bmw. Hugely reliable, easy to home maintain characterful twin with adequate performance from its 70 bhp motor it’s just starting to rise in used value as people begin to realise what a pleasurable, well made and dependable sporty classic it is. Doesn’t mind running on Ethanol petrols either. Comfortable and stylish with bags of character. 5. Early Honda CBR900RR fireblades starting with the RRT “Tiger eye” model ( last of the 898cc carbed bikes). A comfortable good looking sports-bike with its distinctive drilled fairing sides, fairly upright sports touring riding position as happy popping to the shops as it was on the racetrack or touring in comfort. Reliable, well made bike best sought in looked after standard trim. First of the new breed of lightweight sports bikes which broke the mould when released offering a genuine 125bhp (dyno stage 2 bikes made that at the rear wheel too) which were lighter than the opposition and better handling. Dependable Honda engineering means they’re a cheap alternative to ludicrously priced over powered sportsbikes today. 6. KTM 640 Duke II. The super motard inspired big twin port single which started it all off in the super motard style of big thumpers. Insanely good fun, generally reliable big Rotax made 625cc single that could run rings around just about any spirts bike on a b road, and regularly seen on one wheel! A pig to kick start when inevitably the battery gave up the ghost but a lightweight punchy b road tour de force with unique styling and quality WP suspension that’s a cheap buy today. Avoid thrashed high milers and look for well cared for low miles bikes and you can’t go wrong. Not for the short of leg. Riders often seen giggling hysterically whilst out for a thrash. Not slow either for a big single with 110mph on tap but a low 7500 red line needs to be adhered to to prevent premature engine rebuilds. Regular oil changes a must. 7. FJ1100/1200. Super refined torquey big sports tourer which had excellent comfort and would cover huge miles, especially in its evolved FJR130O shaft drive version. These bikes handle well and proved reliable and were a good two up tourer and a good alternative to the Pan European with a less complex but no less capable motor in thst big IL4 lump, itself evolved from the air cooled XS1100 of the early 1980s. FJ1200 cheap used buy but make sure it’s a cosseted example. FJR more costly used. There’s a few more but these above are some of the stand outs from my own ownership list. You really don’t have pay big bucks for any of the above with the R100RS about the priciest one discounting newer FJR models. R100RT no less capable but not as sought after so makes for a cheaoer alternative with a good one to be had under £4K today. Most can be had for 2.5 to 3.5K used if you shop around. You do pay up to double that for the older RS or newer FJR.
You mention some great bikes 🙂 A lot i have featured in the 3 videos linked in the description, personally i would take the 900 triple every time though, my 900 trophy 3 (95) sounded like a Lancaster Bomber coming in to land and was a glorious ride with an addictive power curve, but some great choices . Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I actually own an 85 Honda Interceptor. It belonged to my older brother when he bought it new to get him to and from college. When we moved back to Hawaii from Japan I was 16 my dad pulled it out of storage in 2018. It had been wrapped and sealed in military style so it looked like the day it was sealed. Got new paint, rebuild and new rubber and was given to me for my 16th birthday to get to and from school. Still have it and still looks good.
I can’t stop riding my Moto Guzzi California 3 to be honest. Last of the carbed Californias. I’ve put pod filters on the carbs, upjetted it throughout the rev range and swapped the staggeringly restrictive silencers for some Norton Commando STR8-thru peashooters. By ‘eck, does it go well. And a great all-rounder as well.
great bikes, sounds like youve got same cans i put on my Laverda lol. did you see the 750 Guzzi in this vid? ruclips.net/video/dvI7bb0MlX4/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I'm taking notes b/c you just never know what kinda of bike you might find..... just sitting in a garage/barn or under a tarp in a yard. Great content & I am making lists to do further research so I know how to ID bikes I come across. peace
Another great list. Although I strongly disagree with your assertion that stainless steel bolts make for easy maintenance, quite the contrary, I would suggest. SS and aluminium are not compatible at all. Aluminium gives up electrons to SS in a process called galvanic corrosion. Copper slip/dielectric grease isn't always used by people when they install these kits, often resulting in a nightmare. And if these products are used, fasteners are often over torqued. Tread with caution when either installing these or removing them.
good point well put mate, I always use copper slip, if i didnt say it then that was a mistake, I do my best, ill pin the comment so its at the top, and yes, overtightening is as bad as undertightening so both good points 🙂Cheers for the comment. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc Thanks. I'll just add that as a rule of thumb (very loose!), when using dielectrics where they are not specified, knock about 30% off torque specifications to take into account the reduction of friction between the fastener and the thread. This is especially the case with aluminium. In cases where fasteners have been used and a dielectric has not been applied and you are struggling to remove the fastener due to corrosion, a small torch or a 50 watt soldering iron can be applied to the fastener. This has the effect of expanding the fastener and compressing and effectively breaking up any corrosion. It's not a guaranteed solution, but it will often work, just the same. One last thing. Aeronautical engineers generally keep a product called "Mouse Milk" in the storeroom. This is the gold standard for penetrating oils when dealing with these kinds of problems. It's expensive, but you'll never use CRC or WD40 again for these types of jobs. Please note: I am not an engineer and I do not advocate straying from manufacturers specifications as complications resulting in failure or injury may arise. Cheers, hope this helps.
@@davidbrayshaw3529 nice one mate, personally i was always a "duck oil" user rather than WD, but yes, i have a small gas soldering iron i use at times, another thrick ive seen and used is when they wont undo, s VERY slight tighten (less than 5 degrees, literally, stop as soon as it moves) will release it, for what i imagine is the same reason, but yes, before you say it, not to put any movement in as it will spread the threads. I also discovered something called Jakuput (jakopit maybe) oil, which is from a carribean plant apparently, and have to say, it shifted a bolt i had given up on and thought i had tried everything other than heating the whole casing up. never been able to find any since that first lot i got though and thats well used now sadly, so ill see on the one you mentioned, cheers again for adding your bit though mate
I was writing road tests when the W650 and Bonneville 790 were first on the market. In a twin test we all fell in love with the Kawasaki. Although we’d had no experience of the original Bonnies, it was obvious that the W659 was more of a Triumph, and more of a triumph, than the Triumph. It really did make you feel like Steve McQueen. The one bike on this list I owned - the VFR800 Fi - is the best all-rounder I ever rode. A cliche but hey.
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 The W650 is a special bike. Theres plenty more on the channel, hope you will look around and find something your interested in. there is more on the website too. and there will be more to come. I would very much appreciate some feedback from someone who has worked in the industry. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc Your knowledge and experience far outstrip mine mate. I was just a writer/editor who fancied playing with bikes if someone would pay me to. I’ve moved away from it now and other people (like BBMC) do this YouTubing on two wheels thing better than I ever could.
@@somebloke4027 bless you mate, compliments indeed. I do my best, and accept that as much as i try, im bound to get some stuff wrong sometimes 🙂 thanks for the feedback, and it is people like you that make this community what it is. as i have said many times. if we could amass the entire knowlede of all the subscribers, we would have the best motorcycle encyclopedia ever
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel and the website, let me know what you think. hope youll climb aboard. We do have a great bunch as subscribers and i can thoroughly recomend reading some of the comments too, some funny and most informative too. Cheers for watching. 🙂
they do seem a good engine, i guess we will really start to see in another 5 to 10 years how they last long term, any corrosion gripes on the MT07? I know there have been moans on the T7 and wonder if it goes across all the bikes with that engine
@barebonesmc the only rust I have is on the rear swing arm and it's not that bad. MT07 is a on a cheaper side so the paint job wasn't a priority for Yamaha. I also have a Ducati Monster 796 with a aluminum single sided swing arm and a beautiful paint job but it's a pain in the ass to maintain and don't get me started with the valve adjustment $$$
How about doing one where all the seat heights aren’t 31 plus inches. For women and shorter guys or just folks that like a lower seat to feel secure. Every bike you mentioned has a seat height over 31 inches. This excludes a lot of people that can’t or won’t ride a bike that sits that high, regardless of how bomb proof it is.
Im damn sure i can do that one mate, i did that search when i couldnt ride a bigger one. The first that comes to mind is the Honfa Shadow VLX600 or VT600C depending which side of the pond you are, and cant recomend them enough. it will take time, but its on the list now
@@barebonesmc Really like your contents. I’ll be watching for the low seat edition my friend from across the Atlantic in the US where we drive on the right side of the road. And not all cruisers. I’ve gotta make it somewhat challenging for you. Ride on brother!
@@123danvc actually doing the video editing is still the biggest challenge 🙂 well, that and the balancing act of creating titles that mean something but are also picked up by the dreaded RUclips algorithm lol Glad you enjoyed it mate and thanks for the support, Have a great weekend
Had a Kawasaki ZRX 1200 for 15 years as a messenger in Los Angeles. After260k troublefree miles five valves decided to disintegrate all at once. Had it fixed and sold it. I think its still on the road.
Gday mate I'm afraid that I will have to disagree with your vfr 800 , I had to ride one for a friend for about 6hours and I can honestly say that it's a terrible ride position that needs you to bend your head up as high as possible to be able to see the road. You have to look under your arms to change lanes. The fairing doesn't do much to keep your legs warm as it's a water cooled motor with no warmth coming from the motor for the rider on a cold day. Hay don't get me wrong thinking that I'm knocking Honda around I've owned many of them and one I would recommend is 2010 cb 1100 reto absolutely fantastic to ride and so much more comfortable than the vfr, and no it's air oil cooled and won't corrode out like your water cooled motor can. Anyway thanks for your videos and I hope that you all enjoy your motorcycles for years to come, I'm coming up 70 and still own a few take care mate andy
thanks for adding your bit, it illustrates a point i have made in various videos, finding the bike that suits YOU is the key, different body shapes and riding styles all have an effect. and i agree the CB1100 is another great bike, and if we all thought the same it would be a boring world , 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
As always, it's a very good video. It gives you an idea of a second bike. Kawa W650/800 is interesting. I've just bought a 2016 Triumph Trophy SE. I've gone from a newer 2020 Tiger, as my wife struggles to get on it, the Trophy is a gem of a bike as it got overlooked by the BWM RT, looking at reviews on the tube bought it, it does it all with ease and its fab at riding the twisties in the Lake District and North Pennines where i live and touring with my wife to Europe & Ireland. There is no need to spend 1000s more on a RT or get carried away buying new, now I have more money to enjoy on other things..
I still think the xj900 diversion. I one of the best bikes for every kinds of things wich you mentioned at the start of this Video. By the way great Videos!
GSX750F brilliant bike suspension service and bearings produced a gem do anything road bike only problem if your 6ft 2” tough on the knees especially as you get older 😢also change header and exhaust system definitely helps with performance
I think the Suzuki Hayabusa (especially the early ones) would have been a worthy inclusion here, as well . . . . . Car racers, sprinters, specials, buggies and custom builders *STILL* seek that legendary motor out TOO. 170+ reliable, smooth horses, riding on a sea of 'big-figure torque' . . . . enough to ripple the tarmac Plus an ability to do very-high mileages without issue Good video BTW
The problem isnt as much the bike as to what has been done to hayabusas. Because of the popularity, the market is flooded with very low quality parts, bad customizations, and bikes with no service past the first oil change. A Hayabusa will stand up to alot of punishment but the prices are still not worth it.
great bikes, I had to stop somewhere though and i featured the Hyabusa here ruclips.net/video/eR_XGU_DcAQ/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
How about easy maintenance bikes? Goldwing 1500, has hydraulic valves, same with a lot of cruisers. The vfr is a nightmare to work on, in comparison.. Moto guzzi, are easy to maintain, ('till you need to made the clutch).. Air coold ducati are reliable, but a lot of work.... I'll be happy to hear your take, on that subject... Thanks a lot Amazing content 👌
I featured the ease of maintenance bikes in the original video here ruclips.net/video/WikCG7WxPy8/видео.html and there is more Guzzi's coming, I did feature some in the Italian videos here ruclips.net/video/9frunVVZcHI/видео.html and here ruclips.net/video/dvI7bb0MlX4/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
With regard to bullet proof bikes, when did you cover the Yamaha FZS 1000?? I've had 2 now, and few bikes match them for economy, performance and reliability. OK, yes, I'm biased. But l love them. PS RRV Blade deserves an honourable mention, even chasing Blackbirds didn't break mine :)
Honda 750 ace is the one I have and it has been a very dependable it is a 2001 model and the only thing I have done is regular maintenance and it is a great bike to ride and I am 70 years old
Nice vid, i own a w (2000) reg vfr 800fi and a 1990 st1100 which im told was the first one in the uk. St needed sub frame sorting and ive had an issue with an oilseal on the final drive but apart from that all good. Not bad for a 33yr old bike. Oh ive also changed the original back topbox luggage as it was a bit small for two up touring.
Last year was looking for zrx in the $5k range .the mint ones were more towards $7k and some rougher ones were as low as high $3k ($3850 one and was only few miles from me) ..it looked a bit rough in pics so I decided to wait and see if others came down in price …. Well couple months later the 3850 one sold and the higher priced ones stayed the same /sold /or even slightly increased in price it seemed… so I got what I thought was bullet proof fz1 (2009) that was made into a n after a lay down that looked to be small …well the fz1 has been a money pit of sorts and spent more time broken down than ridden the last year ….its under the tarp now waiting for a clear day for me to fix , again…so went back to find a zrx as I was in full buyers remorse… but early searches have only re affirmed I made a big mistake last winter …now can’t seem to find a half decent one anywhere near me for less than $7k …I have few regrets , this being a prominent one
Wow, is that US $ ? if so, maybe we need to start bringing old Goldwing over here and swapping the containers for ZRX's to send back over, sometimes the price differentials are completely bonkers
@@barebonesmc yeah in the north east ….i had been off two wheels for 20 years , maybe I’m too rusty at finding the deals .. but I spent over 3 months from around this time+/- 2022 till Xmas 2022 just googling ,Cycle trader , Facebook market ,etc away …maybe the old 80’s and 90’s rule of thumb about cold months is when bike deals happen has changed ? lol … I. Still keeping an eye out for “ the deal I can’t let go” but like I said it seems prices are going the wrong direction where I’m looking…
Here in N.C usa they average 4500-5k for garage kept condition. I just got one myself with 30k miles on it for 5k. Silver with black decals, all factory accept for the pipe which is a yoshi. All of the ZRXs with "deleted" fenders, cracked tail, missing or replaced bikini fairing, and cheap pod filters run about 4k.
@@johnwirk its been a minute , but i think i did notice some in different areas of the country (far from me) were more reasonably priced ….and due to new england weather (to cold) im still waiting for a stretch of weather when i can find electrical problem on my fz1
hope it helps the search, the other videos linked in description might too if you get chance. glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Lol, Glad I surprised you mate, personally i prefer the older 650, but i am more of a plodder these days but they are both great bikes 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
as i have often said, if we could amass the combined knowledge of all the subscribers we would have the most comprehensive motorcycle encyclopedia ever 🙂
@@barebonesmc true, especially us older folk that have not only read about these bikes but owned many or all of them. In the 70’s and 80’s motorcycles were our fun and escape and a lot of us had to learn to work on them or we didn’t get to ride. That was incentive enough for me, plus tinkering is my therapy too. Thanks again
The VF750F was released the same month i got my very first job, on the parts counter at the local Honda dealer in 83, I remember the debacle that followed very well. The fastest i ever saw one eat its own cams, was before it even had its first service, (1000km 600miles).
No problem at all. I've only had mine a year, so remember reading something about the gear driven cams being dropped due to cost. I do love hearing them whine though. Mine has had the Mosfet conversion and runs really nicely. It has the original can but has stainless headers. Oh, and it's black, not red 👍😁
@@ianl4518 another case of progress in the wrong direction lol they do have an equally reliable reputation though from what i know, cheers anyway mate, im not frightened of being wrong lol, unlike many 🙂
I got the 03 GSXR1000 the early engines where solid I just did a valve adjustment on it but it could use a good cleaning right now I also need to get a rear tire now too before I go for another ride
some is in the Dolomites but there are clips from several places, some in Northern Spain too, sorry i cant remember them all 🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
While its a solid list, omitting the ZZR11/1200 (US ZX11/1200) which is directly on par with the blackbird (exceeded by the BB by a mere 3 mph) is a error. While the ZRX is on par with these bikes it is air cooled, not water cooled like the ZZR model was which was capable of greater feats in the hands of a good carb/ecu tuner.
great bikes, the 12 is my personal favourite of that whole line to be honest. I had to stop somewhere though mate. they will find their place in time 🙂 Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
being honest i had never even heard of it mate so cheers. ive never seen one here . i just looked and we did get them, but tbh, i have never seen one out on the roads at all
motorcycle magazine writer on BMW in Germany taking offer of touring Europe he broke down while in Germany .A group of german bikers stopped to help fixed BMW quickly waved goodbye all on Honda,s hahaha
No DRZ400 in the list 😮 it’s a tank, nothing will kill it apart from its owner. Use on road, off road and yes you can travel long distances. Huge amount of spares and aftermarket (in US). Performance can’t be compared to modern bikes but the fun per miles and money spent it would be on my list but I am biased 😂
great bikes, but to be fair i found that seat like sitting on a piece of 2 x 4, and I just preferred my old DR600 except for starting the damn thing when it was hot 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel, hope you will look around and find something your interested in. there is more on the website too. and there will be more to come. Cheers for watching.Hope you will climb aboard. Ride Free 🙂
The Triumph, Yamaha mt 01, and the Kawa’s are my favourites. That Yammy is a beast and a good sounding one too. The rest is either to fast, to plastic or to large. I would want to ride them ones though. Direction Hamburg or Berlin or something….. Just to see how white my old knuckles and face can get. (The Pan eu I did ride and it’s excellent but it’s to plasticy for me)
strong and solid engine and i do like the look of it, its just bigger and heavier than i want. probably a close comparison on the ZRX in many ways, more modern version of the XJR and GSX1400 in many ways, plenty of muscle and a nice ride, hope that helps
You're still leaving out theVictory line of motorcycles. Have been riding since '64 ridden nearly every brand and Victory is truly the motorcycle I've always wanted.
they will find their place, they just never really succeeded outside of the states, and not enough there to keep them going there from what i understand. And with Polaris prioritising Indian over Victory it doesnt look like there is a comeback on the horizon. I think their only real claim to fame was having the fattest back tyre on a production bike, until Triumph took that title away with the rocket 3 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I feature some in different places, they just didnt find a place here, the Sporty is here ruclips.net/video/svoWJ4pDQso/видео.html and the FXDX here ruclips.net/video/ZBbf0xF7TbU/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
great bikes, good following too from what i know, they are just a bit overpriced now from my view, but that will depend where you are i guess too. they are a solid lump, I just always preferred the Honda CB500T from the early 80s to the 650 Yamaha twin, but thats just about my taste really, I went for the 500 four at the time to be clear rather than either of the twins 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
If you like vibrations you'll be happy with the XS 650. I had one a long time ago for a very short time. The engine is rather reliable for a seventies bike but all the remaining is very seventies, with approximate brakes, funny suspensions, and erratic handling. You can accommodate of that riding slowly, but the vibrations are extremely present even after a work on the sync of the carburetors. Some are not bothered, others hate the vibes of the XS 650. Extremely expensive, very hard to find spares. Good for hard collector.
@@barebonesmc I would do the same choice as you. There are plenty of good twins. The problem with the XS, except the magnificent engine to see (but not to live with), there is no good rational reason, except pure collection, to own a XS. Already to find parts is a problem as Yamaha, at the difference of Honda, never keeps parts of bikes. Maybe 20 years but 40 years no hope. That explains partly why you see so many 50 or 40 years old Hondas as you can rebuild them, and almost none Yamaha or Suzuki, except for models you can find in abundance in the barns, so you buy 3 to make 1.
Had both the 1100 and 1300 pan Europeans absolutely great bikes although a bit heavy. I don’t know why they stopped making them or introduce a replacement. They ended up losing me to BMW
Im not a fan of Kyska designs either to be honest, hope you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel and the website, let me know what you think. hope youll climb aboard. We do have a great bunch as subscribers and i can thoroughly recomend reading some of the comments too, some funny and most informative too. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
You will notice Honda do feature a lot in my videos lol, but there are some less well known gems too. Glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel and the website, let me know what you think. hope youll climb aboard. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
PMSL I know that addiction well 🙂 I have to say, i have finally reached the point where i am starting to clear them out, but its a slow hard process 🙂🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc My wife is 5 foot tall an walks faster than an ant with extra legs , there is no hiding anything from a creature like that 🙄 nicest person I have ever met though in case she reads this 🙂
You amaze me with every vid You put out. I rarely dissagree with anything you say .Could it possabley be a genaration thing . Or just the fact that we both have been rideing for too many years ? lol
Not as bad as you might think mate, although im 6ft i only have a 30" inside leg (long body lol) the Blackbird has a fairly low seat and the MT01 isnt high either. Having said that, a video has been requested for some low seat bikes (that arent all cruisers) so there will be something coming. In the first video there are some that have lower seats too ruclips.net/video/WikCG7WxPy8/видео.html
IMPORTANT
Dakar have hit me with a copyright strike so ive had to delist some of the videos just in case
i guess they got pissed that mine were better
because of the MOTOGP one before xmas that means im really vulnerable now and the channel could be removed at any time
I have set up this backup channel so please go and follow it NOW,
this could all be removed at any moment now so it is critical to stay in touch via the backup channel here
ruclips.net/channel/UCCSl6i-tZJNC5DQ38vgCtvw
sorry for this if i get another strike it wipes out all my work
all my old videos will be removed
I wont be posting anything much on the new channel unless this goes down
but this is a just in case because it really could go down at any point
the videos are still visible if you have a link so if you have problems message me for links
so you can still watch them,
if you follow the channel and this one gets taken down you will be able to find me there
sorry if thats a bit garbled
ive just woken to this but i guess i could have had the channel taken down already
so i should be thankful
ride free everyone
Sad😢
Happy with my vstrom650. Ive seen them with 150,000miles and still going
great bikes 🙂 I featured them in part 1 here ruclips.net/video/WikCG7WxPy8/видео.html theres also a 15 year owners review here too ruclips.net/video/HNUKtXT2GgA/видео.html Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I've owned 28 bikes in my time, and the one I have now I've had the longest, 15 yrs. My Kawasaki ZZR600e has been a super-reliable fast mile munching sport-tourer, and has proved it's worth even two-up with three full Givis etc. Keep the vids coming, especially the 80s-90s bikes as they are the ones I remember the fondest.
Thanks for your support mate. The ZZR600 is a damn good bike 🙂 the feedback does help me and i do appreciate it
The man who introduced me to motorbikes had a Honda Blackbird. The engine was opened at 140.000kms just to see, what needs to be replaced. The mechanic took the head off, changed the cam chain and said the rest to be almost in factory spec. He suggested to come back after next 100.000kms to check it again.
Great story 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. Ride Free 🙂
My Blackbird currently has 56k miles (90k kms) and has never been sweeter. Bar some rubbish fuel (over winter in the garage, my fault) and some resultant throttle hesitation that has magically disappeared, she’s been brilliant.
Bikes if properly used and cared for can last almost as long as the rider. Starting in the early 60s the big four Japanese brands are works of art mechanically. Now a number of other brands are catching up.
I've heard the same story about the vfr engines after 250k miles 👍
RE longitudinal V-4s: remember the cruiser-style ST1300 variant - the CTX1300. The engine was detuned for cruising. Its rear tyre was a bit odd, and options limited. A nice looking bike, but for my money the better-performing ST would be the choice. ('99 ST1100 owner)
The cycle was. An oddity. One of those marmite bikes😂
Happy to finally see the GSX750f make the list! I bought a 2006 3 years ago for 2000$ CDN, with two brand new (0km) Michelin road 5 tires and only 10k KM on it. I didn't want to spend a lot but wanted to ride. At the time I thought I was making a HUGE compromise as I've owned dozens of "better" bikes. Turns out the GSX is one of my all time favorites, especially for the money. There is absolutely nothing special about any aspect of this bike but it does everything well enough that I don't plan on buying another bike until this one dies, which won't be for a long time.
Great story 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. The best at one thing is rarelu the best all round lol Ride Free 🙂 sounds a bit like i talk about the Wee Strom lol
Have to agree, GSX75F (and 600F) massively underrated. Which is great, because they are still super cheap to buy. Can get a fantastic 750 for £1500 easily.
great bikes and probably in the position now that the EXUP was 5 years ago, Im sure they will follow an upwards trend now on prices, they cant get any cheaper 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Totally agree! I paid $1200 AUD a year ago for an 89 750, just wanted a (cheap) bike to ride. Reliable, comfortable, fast enough for me. I like it waaaaay more than I thought I would....😄
@@dez_au_lait394 A bike always feels nicer when it was a bargain 🙂
I did 53,000 miles on my 600 Bandit in my 10 years of ownership and have just pensioned it off with a total of 65,000 miles up. It never let me down despite being ridden all year round in all weathers. It was basically worn out and not being able to guarantee finding E5 petrol was the final straw,it was plain nasty to ride on E10 in cold weather. Loads still about and plenty of spares that are very cheap if you're patient and shop around.
The old CB500 twin was a superb bike and great fun for thrashing around the twisties where despite it's staid appearance a good rider could get places very quickly. I rode from Exeter to Plymouth years ago on my faired S version and it comfortably held over 90 for most of the way back,try that now and you'd get a NIP through your letterbox very quickly. I have 2 mates who owned them for years and clocked up massive mileages, both could afford "much better" bikes but grew quite attached to their CBs.
the 600 Bandit were great bikes, they will find their place, was chatting to one of replies about the 500 Twin yesterday funnily enough, as a better option than an XS650 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Your videos are top quality! I long for many of the machines you present.
thanks for your support mate 🙂Cheers for adding your bit too, Ride Free 🙂
I have been riding motorcycles since the mid '70's, and have owned 2 Honda ST models and still have one, and they are great. I have also ridden a Honda VFR 800, which is too cramped for me, and a Honda blackbird, which is wicked fast, but i found the reach to the handlebars long, but still a legend from Japan ! I have also owned 2 Suzuki 750's from the 70's and 80's and they were top quality bikes too !
Great story 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. Ride Free 🙂
A good friend owned two blackbirds. One of the smoothest, fastest big bikes i ever rode
great bikes 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
The opening comments about the R6 could be copy and pasted onto Honda CVBR600F4i II am one of those long-term owners of a VFR800 ( 21years and counting from new.) but the day I rode a mate's F4i I was very impressed.
great bikes,i featured the F2 here ruclips.net/video/ZBbf0xF7TbU/видео.html and the F4 yes, could have fitted here, but i have to stop somewhere, it will find its place at some point 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
The 750F was a supremely smooth and bulletproof Bike and I will forever regret it’s passing. What a Bike for all around touring at speed! Not too big or small but big enough to take one across the U.S. as many times as your heart desires. I also had a ZRX1200 and it was bulletproof as well although it did have very irritating vibration right at highway speed which I never could tune out of it. Other than the vibes it was a peach. I’m really surprised that the Yamaha FJ1200&1300 and ST1200 aren’t here as their 2 of the most reliable Bikes ever built and can still be had very cheaply with low miles. Great video my friend.
glad you enjoyed it mate, I featured the FJ 1100 here ruclips.net/video/c4n0iL9mUW8/видео.html re ST1200? the ST to me is the Pan European as in video but it was 1100 and 1300, did you mean XT1200? The Super Tenere is a damn good and overlooked bike in many ways, could just do with loosing a few pounds like me lol 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Another great video 👏🏼 I have (after 35 years owning and riding) just purchased a mint ‘91, white VFR750 RC36, with 14k miles.. It’s all original, including the side stand cover, rear seat cowl and long rear mudguard/fender 😁
It goes with my other bikes, ZXR750 H2, GSXR750 SRAD, ZX12R, CBR900RR, CBR1000F, & Suzuki TLR.. Happy days! 😁👍🏼
that is some collection there my friend 🙂 ride free brother
I had a 2001 GSX600F from new. In many ways a great bike as a commuter, motorway muncher, all-season rider, and fun enough to ride as a first "big bike". However, mine had a number of gremlins that were eventually traced to corroded ignition wires.
It also got thru a few choke cables (they would sieze), leading me eventually to just put a zip tie around the choke on the carbs...bit of a contortion to use one hand to pull the zip tie out, one hand to pull in the clutch and a 3rd hand to press the starter button lol.
It also rotted thru where the collector box met the endcan twice in 7yrs.
So, bombproof engine certianly, but not trouble-free ownership. Still an awesome bike to have had and I regret selling it on during a house move. Will say, though, that I had a loaner ZZR600 for a brief spell - which was better in just about every way
The ZZR600 is another great bike, not had so much contact with the GSF600, but Suzuki metalware and fixings have never been the greatest, first jobs on the Vstrom was changing all the bolts made from unzinc and replacing the exhaust made from a lead lined coffin (i reckon 20-30kg minimum saved in weight even though all new headers and extended twin outlet silencer were all stainless
I owned an ST1300 Pan European for nine years after buying it new in 2012. I loved it both for touring and riding quickly on my favourite local lanes. The truth however is that my annual mileage has doubled since I traded it in for my current bike, a CB500X. The smaller bike is a more enjoyable touring bike one up and a joy to ride on real life roads at real life speeds. When you put the price and fuel economy into the picture it’s a fantastic package.
great bikesz, and a good point, i do like the 500X, but i worked out if i did what i wanted to with it it would cost me nearly as much as an AT, the 650 Vstrom serves a similar purpose and its better 2 up, after about 15 years it still gets used more than anything else lol 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Ah! I just posted a comment about the Vstrom being a great option, seems we think alike and m this one.
great bikes, my 15 year review is here ruclips.net/video/HNUKtXT2GgA/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I want them ALL! LOL. Thank you for making these videos. As a new rider, I really appreciate you sharing your experience. Until finding your channel I felt the only decent bike was a brand-new one, but now I know better. And I know which ones to focus on. Thank you again =)
Thanks for your support mate 🙂 the feedback does help me and i do appreciate it. Finding the bike that suits you and how you ride is key, there is no perfect bike for every situation, but i hope you enjoy the journey as much as i have over the years. I think there are few things that can shape someones life like motorbikes can
I always enjoy your videos, they're well made, with no fluff, and are heavy on facts.
Ride on, my friend, ride on.
high praise mate 🙂 i do my best, i wish youtube was so appreciative lol they have been hiding stuff, blocking comments (even mine) and generally being a pain in the arts lol even had some people be unsubscribed without their knowledge, but does seem like they have started taking me off the naughty shelf again with the last couple of videos lol, they dont like my longer content videos though
@barebonesmc That's appalling to hear, my friend, I am terribly sorry.
I don't understand why, either. I would think that you are one of the rare creators here. Just the facts
Visionary content as far as I'm concerned. Most people stick to the tried and true, but you scale the heights.
Take s virtual bow, you deserve one.
@@kiasax2 cheersnate, and kind words, i do my best, no point otherwise, but if you look you will notice that in general, sub 20 min videos are the ones that get pushed, more and more being empty photo collages with an AI voiceover, because they can make 10 videos before ive even finished one script, the joys of google lol, it is why i am trying to bring together real biker/creators to create an alliance,
This video includes legendary motorcycles and many of my personal favorites. I’m a big fan of the channel. Thanks for creating these great videos. Oh and if I have any voiceover work I’ll be calling.
thanks for your support 🙂Cheers for adding your bit too mate.and you are welcome to ask lol, Ride Free 🙂
Any XJ 900 Diversion would have to make the list. With their shaft drive and go forever motor what more could you want . In Australia they never really sold well either so prices are very low.
great bikes,i featured them here ruclips.net/video/ZBbf0xF7TbU/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I took my 2009 Thruxton to the Bonneville Salt Flats a few times and stock it got 125.1 mph and modified it to 140 mph. My new 2016 Thruxton R stock 130 mph and modified 153.1 mph. I had a 2001 790 T100 which was sweet, 2006 865 Scrambler was interesting but the watercooled 2016 Thruxton R motor was easily the best motor in terms of reliability and power in my opinion .
The Thruxton R has dispatched all sorts of sport bikes at the drag strip with more power and scared more than a few up through the eighth mile. Plenty of vids on the drag strip Bonneville.
enjoy it mate, best line up, theyve announced the final edition. the reality is theyve sold so few that it will just be done as a string of Triumph marketing last chance specials now, theyve announced 2024 as the last, but what is the betting by 2026 there is another new limited edition version with some line of spiel attached lo 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂 a nice but very niche bike
@@barebonesmc You are absolutely correct on the low sales numbers and I was still shocked on the last edition announcement. The Thruxton R works well for me as I have four bikes that can do other types riding I like to do. Probably not a one bike in your garage bike.
a good point well put mate 🙂Cheers for the comment. Ride Free 🙂
Now i have been watching your channel for aq while now and i need to comment on the st1100 and the st300 . The corrosion issues could make these bike a very expencive option . swinging arms rot like you would never believe . The altenators give major problems crumbling and falling apart making the engine lock up .To replace the altenator will take major open heart surgery and if you cant do it your self which i have 3 time now . Dont even think about taking it to the dealer because he will just laugh at you .The bike is a right off. I have owned 4 of these bikes and have to say your 100% correct about reliabilty and MPG is outstanding . But now they are not a good buy . Sorry mate .I love your streams and i just had to say please worn people about this and tell them to take some one who knows the pit falls of the pan .The Blackbird every day faultless.
being honest, its not something i had heard of on the early ones, although i do vaguely remember stator conversations on the later one. the one i had for a bit was an early 1100, but as always, i happily defer to those with more personal experiences than me, RUclips had held the comment for spam review and i only just saw it so apologies for not responding earlier too. and you have said it now so to anyone who reads this, best to check first, both on forums and any other rider groups. They are the place to find particularly pointed advice. Always DYOR. A bike that suits me, might not be one that suits you, It was just too big for my liking, and i rarely need more than the 650 Vstrom. speed is no longer my primary need from a bike, when it is, i take one of the others out,. as i have often said, if we could amass the combined knowledge of all the subscribers we would have the most comprehensive motorcycle encyclopedia ever 🙂 I will pin the comment so its at the top too
Thanks mate take care ride safe . Great streams love them .
@@cbrider726 you too mate, glad you are enjoying the journey with me 🙂
Swingarm not an issue on ST1300 (aluminium) and ST1100 alternator sorted after 1996 model update.
@@jonm7272 cheers for adding mate, useful information always gets my attention most 🙂
Not surprised to see many Japanese bikes.
One note for the VFR, electrical issues do occur. My friend had 800 that would not start a couple times a year. We ended up replacing the ENTIRE wiring with a kit made by a guy we found on the web. He purposely built VFR kits to remedy the issue.
If you like adventure models, the Vstrom are hard to beat. Low prices, super easy to work on, no complicated tech or gadgets, it is perfect for many riders the 650 is smooth for new riders.
I was surprised to see an Aprilia in the list. I am in Canada, poor dealer support and parts availability plague the brand. I guess it’s better in Europe.
glad you enjoyed it mates, only major electrical issue ive come across on the VFR is the reg rec, but ill bow to your experience. as to the Vstrom 650, youll see from my 15 year review i think its hard to beat, ive been searching for a replacement for many years. tried and bought many, but the Vstrom always gets used most, a real gem of a bike. 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
When I worked at a 5 star honda dealership I had a carbonated cbr1100xx blackbird. I did so many mods that the dealership put the Duncan special on the work orders it was a total rework of the crabs...... I'm taking standup power wheelies in 4th gear !! I changed the cam overlap to take the power to redline and on my personal bike built a ram air system that came on the fuel injection injected over heating crap. With the float bowls connected to the air box and a wiff of extra fuel and nitrous I think I was getting 180 hp no way of knowing as the dyno only showed 155hp with the small jet. That said it would berry the speedo in 6th we also had a turbo changed blackbird a friend and I built that was in the 7s in the quarter. This was before apr made studs for everything. He worked for a defense Contractor who he had make some studs for it with rolled threads it never lifted the head again and I tigged up the swing arm and the triple trees after we racked it out. Cop friend clocked it ar 235ish mph!!! This was on 635 in Dallas. We are crazy here in Texas and proud of it. I used to ride every day unless it was ice outside and I learned that the hard way. I always said there are 2 kinds of riders those who have gone down and those who will. It's just a matter of time 😂I miss my younger days though my 450whp s2000 Sloth2k racecar is a nice replacement with vmount supercharger setup and more areo than it will ever need I outrun bikes all the time. I have 3.9 diff with Cabon clutches that will hit 178mph at 9k rpm and 21 psi of boost. I usually shift at 8500rpm or less. Thanks for the videos I've had fun watching.
Oh I still have a Suzuki gs1100e that was raced in 82-84 I rebuilt it and it is a 1167cc with 10 to 1 compression mega Cycle cams and a falicon crank trued and welded with titanium rods. It will do 185 mph due to chain swap to 535 size . It is a scary bike too!! Keep it pavement down out there.
glad it jogged some good memories mate 🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment. Ride Free 🙂
I had one of the "cheese" cam V-4s in a 1982 V45 Sabre. Cams destroyed in one season. Hard surfacing gone from the cam lobes. Honda were so slack I didn't even get an oil filter until I had more than 10,000 miles on the bike. Then it swallowed valve at 13,000 miles. I sold it in the spring of 1983 in milk crates for $200 for parts. I haven't spent one penny on a Honda since. And I won't until they reimburse me for the Sabre.
A sad story. Their reputation took much rebuilding, nevertheless, the VF will always be an iconic bike, 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. Ride Free 🙂
Yaayy, SuperBlackbird, got to be one of the best bikes ever made. Don't believe everything said about comfort though, the seat is bloody awful (I did more than 40k miles on my 1998 in less than 2 years, including a 980 mile day from Lyon to Wales). Gets more stable the faster you go, aerodynamics were amazing, reliability superb (mine was over 80k miles when I sold it). I've owned probably 50 bikes over the last 40 years, and the BBird is definitely my favourite. Not cheap to run, best mpg I ever got was 48mpg (more usually around 40), back tyres might last 4000 miles if careful (could wreck one in a couple of weekends though if you' re in the right mood 😂). Eats brake pads and chains as well if like (ahem) spirited riding. Replaced mine with a 1000 Versys, which was a great bike but not in the same league as the BBird. Great video m8, enjoyed watching that.
Great story 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. Ride Free 🙂
I had a VFR -92 RC36, best bike I ever owned. And so good looking. Red, with red saddle and white wheels. But then I was turning 50 and got the stupid idea in my head that I would quit riding as life at that time did not leave much time for riding and I sold that bike. Got back soon enough but it has been cruisers after that and that is ok but confess to missing a good sport bike from time to time.
great bikes and i can relate lol, i miss the bikes but not trying to fold myself into position lol, i prefer a more relaxed upright ride these days 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
My favourite is the Honda VFR800 with EFI, just for "better" more controlled fuel management. I love the sound of that Vee engine and gear driven cams, but the complicated engine layout scares me.
So my choice for plodding around the local patch would be the wee Kawasaki W800 twin, just for its simplicity , reliability and ease of maintenance.
I’m just biased with carbs mate. I can set them up and tune them. Fuel injection never feels right at take off for me. It’s always snatchier than a set of well set up flat slides. But that is just my taste😊
True nuff. I got spoiled with fuel injection when I started playing with Power Commander piggy back EFI fuel modules and how much easier they are, to simply connect up a few wires (plug and play) to totally change the mixture and fueling through the rev range on a laptop or even cell phone now, plus easy setup of a quick shifter which I love on any bike. This was on my 2001 GSXR 1000 track bike which I dearly loved. EFI is just so much more responsive. I never understood the intricacies of all the fuel jetting to tune up on exhaust and intake changes.
@@alant383 cheers for adding mate. I guess it’s what I learned with so it’s what I know best. I just describe a carb as a bucket with holes in lol. Easy for my simple mind to understand 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Hey barebones, I tell ya what I would like to see from you is a top ten 250cc and up to 400cc most reliable maxi scooters in your area and the states that can still be purchased for a reasonable price. Whether it be a Tiawan brand or Japanese brand no matter what the year is of the scooter. Later man, gotta go for a scooter ride!!😁
enjoy it mate 🙂i will have a think, its not my best area so would need some research, but im sure ill get there at some point. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
I had a VTR 1000. Not a scrap of trouble from it. Started 1st time every time. Just hop on & ride.
great bikes they truly are 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Great selection! I’d like to throw in a few others if I may? All reliable and great bikes in their own right which are great vfm now. All of these I’ve owned or ridden:
1. Triumph Trident 750 from the lated 90’s: smoother and arguably better version of the larger 900. Bags of character, predictable handling and very comfortable naked genuinely good for 100,000 plus miles if regularly serviced. Better made than today’s Triumphs and cheap if you can find one;
2. Ducati 998 beating Aprilia RSVR mille: beautifully sculpted and made, sublime handling vee twin with one of the most grunty characterful Rotax vee twins which remains a reliable bike today. 2001 to 2004 gen 1 models the best as gen 2 models suffered from stator and other electrical failures. Insane value and genuine 165mph performance which a decent rider could keep with any sports bike on the planet in the twisties. Huge fun;
3. Suzuki DL650 Veestrom: hugely underrated massively reliable, capable and comfortable all round adv bike which for many people does everything an expensive Bmw adv bike does at a fraction of the price. Many go on to over 100k miles . Good handling and all day comfort, nimble and spritely. Cheap motoring and utterly dependable. SV 650 sibling a hugely popular sporty mild mannered option using the same motor.
4. Late 1970s or 1980s bmw R100RS. Capable and comfortable intercontinental bashing air cooled boxer which is fast appreciating which saved bmw. Hugely reliable, easy to home maintain characterful twin with adequate performance from its 70 bhp motor it’s just starting to rise in used value as people begin to realise what a pleasurable, well made and dependable sporty classic it is. Doesn’t mind running on Ethanol petrols either. Comfortable and stylish with bags of character.
5. Early Honda CBR900RR fireblades starting with the RRT “Tiger eye” model ( last of the 898cc carbed bikes). A comfortable good looking sports-bike with its distinctive drilled fairing sides, fairly upright sports touring riding position as happy popping to the shops as it was on the racetrack or touring in comfort. Reliable, well made bike best sought in looked after standard trim. First of the new breed of lightweight sports bikes which broke the mould when released offering a genuine 125bhp (dyno stage 2 bikes made that at the rear wheel too) which were lighter than the opposition and better handling. Dependable Honda engineering means they’re a cheap alternative to ludicrously priced over powered sportsbikes today.
6. KTM 640 Duke II. The super motard inspired big twin port single which started it all off in the super motard style of big thumpers. Insanely good fun, generally reliable big Rotax made 625cc single that could run rings around just about any spirts bike on a b road, and regularly seen on one wheel! A pig to kick start when inevitably the battery gave up the ghost but a lightweight punchy b road tour de force with unique styling and quality WP suspension that’s a cheap buy today. Avoid thrashed high milers and look for well cared for low miles bikes and you can’t go wrong. Not for the short of leg. Riders often seen giggling hysterically whilst out for a thrash. Not slow either for a big single with 110mph on tap but a low 7500 red line needs to be adhered to to prevent premature engine rebuilds. Regular oil changes a must.
7. FJ1100/1200. Super refined torquey big sports tourer which had excellent comfort and would cover huge miles, especially in its evolved FJR130O shaft drive version. These bikes handle well and proved reliable and were a good two up tourer and a good alternative to the Pan European with a less complex but no less capable motor in thst big IL4 lump, itself evolved from the air cooled XS1100 of the early 1980s. FJ1200 cheap used buy but make sure it’s a cosseted example. FJR more costly used.
There’s a few more but these above are some of the stand outs from my own ownership list.
You really don’t have pay big bucks for any of the above with the R100RS about the priciest one discounting newer FJR models. R100RT no less capable but not as sought after so makes for a cheaoer alternative with a good one to be had under £4K today. Most can be had for 2.5 to 3.5K used if you shop around. You do pay up to double that for the older RS or newer FJR.
You mention some great bikes 🙂 A lot i have featured in the 3 videos linked in the description, personally i would take the 900 triple every time though, my 900 trophy 3 (95) sounded like a Lancaster Bomber coming in to land and was a glorious ride with an addictive power curve, but some great choices . Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I actually own an 85 Honda Interceptor. It belonged to my older brother when he bought it new to get him to and from college. When we moved back to Hawaii from Japan I was 16 my dad pulled it out of storage in 2018. It had been wrapped and sealed in military style so it looked like the day it was sealed. Got new paint, rebuild and new rubber and was given to me for my 16th birthday to get to and from school. Still have it and still looks good.
Great story 🙂Cheers for adding your bit . Ride Free 🙂
I can’t stop riding my Moto Guzzi California 3 to be honest. Last of the carbed Californias. I’ve put pod filters on the carbs, upjetted it throughout the rev range and swapped the staggeringly restrictive silencers for some Norton Commando STR8-thru peashooters. By ‘eck, does it go well. And a great all-rounder as well.
great bikes, sounds like youve got same cans i put on my Laverda lol. did you see the 750 Guzzi in this vid? ruclips.net/video/dvI7bb0MlX4/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I'm taking notes b/c you just never know what kinda of bike you might find..... just sitting in a garage/barn or under a tarp in
a yard. Great content & I am making lists to do further research so I know how to ID bikes I come across. peace
enjoy mate, sometimes the ones you hadnt considered turn out to be the best :-) have a great day
Another great list. Although I strongly disagree with your assertion that stainless steel bolts make for easy maintenance, quite the contrary, I would suggest. SS and aluminium are not compatible at all. Aluminium gives up electrons to SS in a process called galvanic corrosion. Copper slip/dielectric grease isn't always used by people when they install these kits, often resulting in a nightmare. And if these products are used, fasteners are often over torqued. Tread with caution when either installing these or removing them.
good point well put mate, I always use copper slip, if i didnt say it then that was a mistake, I do my best, ill pin the comment so its at the top, and yes, overtightening is as bad as undertightening so both good points 🙂Cheers for the comment. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc Thanks. I'll just add that as a rule of thumb (very loose!), when using dielectrics where they are not specified, knock about 30% off torque specifications to take into account the reduction of friction between the fastener and the thread. This is especially the case with aluminium. In cases where fasteners have been used and a dielectric has not been applied and you are struggling to remove the fastener due to corrosion, a small torch or a 50 watt soldering iron can be applied to the fastener. This has the effect of expanding the fastener and compressing and effectively breaking up any corrosion. It's not a guaranteed solution, but it will often work, just the same. One last thing. Aeronautical engineers generally keep a product called "Mouse Milk" in the storeroom. This is the gold standard for penetrating oils when dealing with these kinds of problems. It's expensive, but you'll never use CRC or WD40 again for these types of jobs. Please note: I am not an engineer and I do not advocate straying from manufacturers specifications as complications resulting in failure or injury may arise. Cheers, hope this helps.
@@davidbrayshaw3529 nice one mate, personally i was always a "duck oil" user rather than WD, but yes, i have a small gas soldering iron i use at times, another thrick ive seen and used is when they wont undo, s VERY slight tighten (less than 5 degrees, literally, stop as soon as it moves) will release it, for what i imagine is the same reason, but yes, before you say it, not to put any movement in as it will spread the threads. I also discovered something called Jakuput (jakopit maybe) oil, which is from a carribean plant apparently, and have to say, it shifted a bolt i had given up on and thought i had tried everything other than heating the whole casing up. never been able to find any since that first lot i got though and thats well used now sadly, so ill see on the one you mentioned, cheers again for adding your bit though mate
@@barebonesmc Cheers. All good tips, by the way.
@@davidbrayshaw3529 thanks to you too mate for pointing out i had missed the copper slip addition, and your other comments
I was writing road tests when the W650 and Bonneville 790 were first on the market. In a twin test we all fell in love with the Kawasaki. Although we’d had no experience of the original Bonnies, it was obvious that the W659 was more of a Triumph, and more of a triumph, than the Triumph. It really did make you feel like Steve McQueen. The one bike on this list I owned - the VFR800 Fi - is the best all-rounder I ever rode. A cliche but hey.
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 The W650 is a special bike. Theres plenty more on the channel, hope you will look around and find something your interested in. there is more on the website too. and there will be more to come. I would very much appreciate some feedback from someone who has worked in the industry. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc Your knowledge and experience far outstrip mine mate. I was just a writer/editor who fancied playing with bikes if someone would pay me to. I’ve moved away from it now and other people (like BBMC) do this YouTubing on two wheels thing better than I ever could.
@@somebloke4027 bless you mate, compliments indeed. I do my best, and accept that as much as i try, im bound to get some stuff wrong sometimes 🙂 thanks for the feedback, and it is people like you that make this community what it is. as i have said many times. if we could amass the entire knowlede of all the subscribers, we would have the best motorcycle encyclopedia ever
Loved it mate,
I'm looking at an MT01 at the moment but they are starting to get a bit exie over here in Oz.
Cheers mate.
they will just keep rising now i think, a very well made bike
Never owned or rode a bike but I do know a well put together vlog ,very informative well made ,loved it
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel and the website, let me know what you think. hope youll climb aboard. We do have a great bunch as subscribers and i can thoroughly recomend reading some of the comments too, some funny and most informative too. Cheers for watching. 🙂
Glad you included the Honda Super Blackbird. Any thoughts on the CB1300SA ?
I still have my Yamaha MT07 2016 model with almost 17k miles on it never broke down or let me down and all i do is change the oil one's a year
they do seem a good engine, i guess we will really start to see in another 5 to 10 years how they last long term, any corrosion gripes on the MT07? I know there have been moans on the T7 and wonder if it goes across all the bikes with that engine
@barebonesmc the only rust I have is on the rear swing arm and it's not that bad. MT07 is a on a cheaper side so the paint job wasn't a priority for Yamaha. I also have a Ducati Monster 796 with a aluminum single sided swing arm and a beautiful paint job but it's a pain in the ass to maintain and don't get me started with the valve adjustment $$$
@@boris2997 Cheers, I suffer with Suzuki metal and finishing so no different lol, i just wondered if the MT faired any better than the Tenere
Great video as always! Please keep up the great work and long may you run. Thanks and as always: Ride Free.
🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. what were your favourite bits? Ride Free 🙂
How about doing one where all the seat heights aren’t 31 plus inches. For women and shorter guys or just folks that like a lower seat to feel secure. Every bike you mentioned has a seat height over 31 inches. This excludes a lot of people that can’t or won’t ride a bike that sits that high, regardless of how bomb proof it is.
Im damn sure i can do that one mate, i did that search when i couldnt ride a bigger one. The first that comes to mind is the Honfa Shadow VLX600 or VT600C depending which side of the pond you are, and cant recomend them enough. it will take time, but its on the list now
@@barebonesmc
Really like your contents. I’ll be watching for the low seat edition my friend from across the Atlantic in the US where we drive on the right side of the road.
And not all cruisers. I’ve gotta make it somewhat challenging for you.
Ride on brother!
@@123danvc actually doing the video editing is still the biggest challenge 🙂 well, that and the balancing act of creating titles that mean something but are also picked up by the dreaded RUclips algorithm lol Glad you enjoyed it mate and thanks for the support, Have a great weekend
Honda shadow
Cheap
Quality
Reliable
Low seat
I saw many of my favorites on your list; I have a BMW K1200R. it is a 2008 and has been a beautiful reliable naked with over 160hp; take care.
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Had a Kawasaki ZRX 1200 for 15 years as a messenger in Los Angeles. After260k troublefree miles five valves decided to disintegrate all at once. Had it fixed and sold it. I think its still on the road.
They are great bikes 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Gday mate I'm afraid that I will have to disagree with your vfr 800 , I had to ride one for a friend for about 6hours and I can honestly say that it's a terrible ride position that needs you to bend your head up as high as possible to be able to see the road. You have to look under your arms to change lanes. The fairing doesn't do much to keep your legs warm as it's a water cooled motor with no warmth coming from the motor for the rider on a cold day.
Hay don't get me wrong thinking that I'm knocking Honda around I've owned many of them and one I would recommend is 2010 cb 1100 reto absolutely fantastic to ride and so much more comfortable than the vfr, and no it's air oil cooled and won't corrode out like your water cooled motor can. Anyway thanks for your videos and I hope that you all enjoy your motorcycles for years to come, I'm coming up 70 and still own a few take care mate andy
thanks for adding your bit, it illustrates a point i have made in various videos, finding the bike that suits YOU is the key, different body shapes and riding styles all have an effect. and i agree the CB1100 is another great bike, and if we all thought the same it would be a boring world , 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Another superb video - much appreciated!
Thanks for your support mate 🙂 the feedback does help me and i do appreciate it
As always, it's a very good video. It gives you an idea of a second bike. Kawa W650/800 is interesting. I've just bought a 2016 Triumph Trophy SE. I've gone from a newer 2020 Tiger, as my wife struggles to get on it, the Trophy is a gem of a bike as it got overlooked by the BWM RT, looking at reviews on the tube bought it, it does it all with ease and its fab at riding the twisties in the Lake District and North Pennines where i live and touring with my wife to Europe & Ireland. There is no need to spend 1000s more on a RT or get carried away buying new, now I have more money to enjoy on other things..
Great story, and the Trophy is a great bike, loved mine 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. Ride Free 🙂
Great video but what about the triumph Thunderbird 900s I’ve got a legend and it’s amazing. I love it.
Interesting and well narrated 👍
Thanks for your support mate 🙂 the feedback does help me and i do appreciate it
Great video as always
cheers mate, glad you enjoyed it, you tube is hiding them at the moment so im glad it found its way to you 🙂 have a great week
I still think the xj900 diversion. I one of the best bikes for every kinds of things wich you mentioned at the start of this Video. By the way great Videos!
great bikes,i featured them here ruclips.net/video/ZBbf0xF7TbU/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching and for the support mate. Ride Free 🙂
GSX750F brilliant bike suspension service and bearings produced a gem do anything road bike only problem if your 6ft 2” tough on the knees especially as you get older 😢also change header and exhaust system definitely helps with performance
wise words lol 🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
I think the Suzuki Hayabusa (especially the early ones) would have been a worthy inclusion here, as well . . . . . Car racers, sprinters, specials, buggies and custom builders *STILL* seek that legendary motor out TOO.
170+ reliable, smooth horses, riding on a sea of 'big-figure torque' . . . . enough to ripple the tarmac
Plus an ability to do very-high mileages without issue
Good video BTW
The problem isnt as much the bike as to what has been done to hayabusas. Because of the popularity, the market is flooded with very low quality parts, bad customizations, and bikes with no service past the first oil change. A Hayabusa will stand up to alot of punishment but the prices are still not worth it.
great bikes, I had to stop somewhere though and i featured the Hyabusa here ruclips.net/video/eR_XGU_DcAQ/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
a good point well put @pb22221 🙂Cheers for the comment. Ride Free 🙂
@@pb222221 Certain Hayabusa owners and taste & style, parted ways a long time ago.🤣
How about easy maintenance bikes?
Goldwing 1500, has hydraulic valves, same with a lot of cruisers.
The vfr is a nightmare to work on, in comparison..
Moto guzzi, are easy to maintain, ('till you need to made the clutch)..
Air coold ducati are reliable, but a lot of work....
I'll be happy to hear your take, on that subject...
Thanks a lot
Amazing content 👌
Same problem with fairing toperwere.....
I featured the ease of maintenance bikes in the original video here ruclips.net/video/WikCG7WxPy8/видео.html and there is more Guzzi's coming, I did feature some in the Italian videos here ruclips.net/video/9frunVVZcHI/видео.html and here ruclips.net/video/dvI7bb0MlX4/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc 😊
A right trip down memory lane. Great.
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
With regard to bullet proof bikes, when did you cover the Yamaha FZS 1000?? I've had 2 now, and few bikes match them for economy, performance and reliability.
OK, yes, I'm biased. But l love them.
PS RRV Blade deserves an honourable mention, even chasing Blackbirds didn't break mine :)
Honda 750 ace is the one I have and it has been a very dependable it is a 2001 model and the only thing I have done is regular maintenance and it is a great bike to ride and I am 70 years old
great bikes they will find their place in time 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Nice vid, i own a w (2000) reg vfr 800fi and a 1990 st1100 which im told was the first one in the uk. St needed sub frame sorting and ive had an issue with an oilseal on the final drive but apart from that all good. Not bad for a 33yr old bike. Oh ive also changed the original back topbox luggage as it was a bit small for two up touring.
cheers mate 🙂 Thanks for adding your bit . Ride Free 🙂
Last year was looking for zrx in the $5k range .the mint ones were more towards $7k and some rougher ones were as low as high $3k ($3850 one and was only few miles from me) ..it looked a bit rough in pics so I decided to wait and see if others came down in price …. Well couple months later the 3850 one sold and the higher priced ones stayed the same /sold /or even slightly increased in price it seemed… so I got what I thought was bullet proof fz1 (2009) that was made into a n after a lay down that looked to be small …well the fz1 has been a money pit of sorts and spent more time broken down than ridden the last year ….its under the tarp now waiting for a clear day for me to fix , again…so went back to find a zrx as I was in full buyers remorse… but early searches have only re affirmed I made a big mistake last winter …now can’t seem to find a half decent one anywhere near me for less than $7k …I have few regrets , this being a prominent one
Wow, is that US $ ? if so, maybe we need to start bringing old Goldwing over here and swapping the containers for ZRX's to send back over, sometimes the price differentials are completely bonkers
@@barebonesmc yeah in the north east ….i had been off two wheels for 20 years , maybe I’m too rusty at finding the deals .. but I spent over 3 months from around this time+/- 2022 till Xmas 2022 just googling ,Cycle trader , Facebook market ,etc away …maybe the old 80’s and 90’s rule of thumb about cold months is when bike deals happen has changed ? lol … I. Still keeping an eye out for “ the deal I can’t let go” but like I said it seems prices are going the wrong direction where I’m looking…
Here in N.C usa they average 4500-5k for garage kept condition. I just got one myself with 30k miles on it for 5k. Silver with black decals, all factory accept for the pipe which is a yoshi. All of the ZRXs with "deleted" fenders, cracked tail, missing or replaced bikini fairing, and cheap pod filters run about 4k.
@@johnwirk its been a minute , but i think i did notice some in different areas of the country (far from me) were more reasonably priced ….and due to new england weather (to cold) im still waiting for a stretch of weather when i can find electrical problem on my fz1
Great video really enjoyed it and im in the market for a bike so very useful to👍🇳🇿
hope it helps the search, the other videos linked in description might too if you get chance. glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Well done Brad! Really enjoyed the history.
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂Cheers for watching.My names not Brad though, its Ian. Ride Free 🙂
The CB500 Sport has to be the best bike for the money ever . Very underrated little bike , and absolutely unburstable !
great bikes,i featured them here ruclips.net/video/ZBbf0xF7TbU/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
That W800 looks like a fantastic retro bit of kit, dammit, I am going to have to buy another toy! 😆
Lol, Glad I surprised you mate, personally i prefer the older 650, but i am more of a plodder these days but they are both great bikes 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
The VF’s have an engine block vs removable cylinders, still great.
as i have often said, if we could amass the combined knowledge of all the subscribers we would have the most comprehensive motorcycle encyclopedia ever 🙂
@@barebonesmc true, especially us older folk that have not only read about these bikes but owned many or all of them. In the 70’s and 80’s motorcycles were our fun and escape and a lot of us had to learn to work on them or we didn’t get to ride. That was incentive enough for me, plus tinkering is my therapy too. Thanks again
@@deborahchesser7375 my therapy AND my madness all in one package lol, and no problem, thanks for the support 🙂
I used to own a 1984 Honda VF750F Interceptor. It was pure sport bike back then.
great bikes, i talked about the VF family here ruclips.net/video/c4n0iL9mUW8/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
The VF750F was released the same month i got my very first job, on the parts counter at the local Honda dealer in 83, I remember the debacle that followed very well. The fastest i ever saw one eat its own cams, was before it even had its first service, (1000km 600miles).
@@uhtred7860 yep a flawed masterpiece i think is the best way to describe it lol
Course my current bike I’ve been riding since 2003 is a 2003 Kawasaki ZRX1200R . I’ve put 53,900 miles on it thus far and it still runs great.
@@aikidragonpiper71 Look after them and they will look after you 🙂
Great video, thanks. 👍
Glad you enjoyed it! Plenty more on the channel and more to come 😊 have a great weekend
I own a low mileage 1998 VFR800Fi. I love it. I didn't think the V-Tec had gear driven cams?
i thought they did, but could be wrong, i know the VF and VFR750 better than the 800, and there is only one of me, so mistakes do sometimes happen
No problem at all. I've only had mine a year, so remember reading something about the gear driven cams being dropped due to cost. I do love hearing them whine though. Mine has had the Mosfet conversion and runs really nicely. It has the original can but has stainless headers. Oh, and it's black, not red 👍😁
@@ianl4518 another case of progress in the wrong direction lol they do have an equally reliable reputation though from what i know, cheers anyway mate, im not frightened of being wrong lol, unlike many 🙂
I got the 03 GSXR1000 the early engines where solid I just did a valve adjustment on it but it could use a good cleaning right now I also need to get a rear tire now too before I go for another ride
Great bikes and a great story 🙂Cheers for adding your bit mate. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc thank you for the content brother
thanks for your support 🙂 it helps
The mt01 seems like a fun bike. But with 150Nm; how can it make less than 100hp?!
long stroke engine geared for acceleration. the engine produces the power low down and just doesnt rev like a multi or a Ducati twin does
Where is that ride at the start of the vid? Looks brilliant.
some is in the Dolomites but there are clips from several places, some in Northern Spain too, sorry i cant remember them all 🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
One of the best bike videos.thank you
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂High praise indeed. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
While its a solid list, omitting the ZZR11/1200 (US ZX11/1200) which is directly on par with the blackbird (exceeded by the BB by a mere 3 mph) is a error. While the ZRX is on par with these bikes it is air cooled, not water cooled like the ZZR model was which was capable of greater feats in the hands of a good carb/ecu tuner.
great bikes, the 12 is my personal favourite of that whole line to be honest. I had to stop somewhere though mate. they will find their place in time 🙂 Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Zrx1200r which is what I have has a fairly large radiator on the front behind the forks.
CTX1300 is also a longitudinal V4
being honest i had never even heard of it mate so cheers. ive never seen one here . i just looked and we did get them, but tbh, i have never seen one out on the roads at all
@@barebonesmc I think it’s based off the Honda ST1300 anyway so I guess they count as more or less the same bike :D
@@carlosandleon indeed lol, a Pan in a dress 🙂
Great video mate keep em coming, cheers, MB.
Thanks for your support mate 🙂 the feedback does help me and i do appreciate the support
motorcycle magazine writer on BMW in Germany taking offer of touring Europe he broke down while in Germany .A group of german bikers stopped to help fixed BMW quickly waved goodbye all on Honda,s hahaha
lol
I almost made it to one million miles on a VFR750.
thats a lot of miles, even for a courier 🙂
No DRZ400 in the list 😮 it’s a tank, nothing will kill it apart from its owner. Use on road, off road and yes you can travel long distances. Huge amount of spares and aftermarket (in US). Performance can’t be compared to modern bikes but the fun per miles and money spent it would be on my list but I am biased 😂
great bikes, but to be fair i found that seat like sitting on a piece of 2 x 4, and I just preferred my old DR600 except for starting the damn thing when it was hot 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc…. I didn’t keep my DRZ400 very long. That seat ! Fun bike though.
@@dougsmith7580 why oh why did they not do better lol
Try Laverda for a longitudinal V4, not many made though
the Laverda was a V6 though not a 4 , i have the book, a great, masterpiece of a bike 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Awesome reviews!😊
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel, hope you will look around and find something your interested in. there is more on the website too. and there will be more to come. Cheers for watching.Hope you will climb aboard. Ride Free 🙂
The Triumph, Yamaha mt 01, and the Kawa’s are my favourites. That Yammy is a beast and a good sounding one too.
The rest is either to fast, to plastic or to large. I would want to ride them ones though.
Direction Hamburg or Berlin or something…..
Just to see how white my old knuckles and face can get. (The Pan eu I did ride and it’s excellent but it’s to plasticy for me)
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc Ride free? It’s raining like there’s no tomorrow over here. No thanks! 😂😂😂
Thanks for the video Bare Bones, always a pleasure.
@@wolfdog7265 lol
ST1100a🙏 (love mine)
they are great bikes 🙂
Triumph bonneville but not triumph thunderbird 900?
What are your thoughts on the Honda CB1100 from the mid 2010s?
strong and solid engine and i do like the look of it, its just bigger and heavier than i want. probably a close comparison on the ZRX in many ways, more modern version of the XJR and GSX1400 in many ways, plenty of muscle and a nice ride, hope that helps
@@barebonesmc that definitely helped the only thing stopping me is the weight. I agree with all your statements
@@riship2500 weight is often the "NO" factor for me these days, i wont even buy a new Vstrom cuz they are heavier than my old one lol
The most contradicting about motobiking is, seeking curves and corners, only to cut them.
🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
You're still leaving out theVictory line of motorcycles.
Have been riding since '64 ridden nearly every brand and Victory is truly the motorcycle I've always wanted.
they will find their place, they just never really succeeded outside of the states, and not enough there to keep them going there from what i understand. And with Polaris prioritising Indian over Victory it doesnt look like there is a comeback on the horizon. I think their only real claim to fame was having the fattest back tyre on a production bike, until Triumph took that title away with the rocket 3 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
Why not cruisers? I’m not a big fan of sport bikes.
I feature some in different places, they just didnt find a place here, the Sporty is here ruclips.net/video/svoWJ4pDQso/видео.html and the FXDX here ruclips.net/video/ZBbf0xF7TbU/видео.html 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I'm thinking of a Yamaha xs 650 any thoughts????
great bikes, good following too from what i know, they are just a bit overpriced now from my view, but that will depend where you are i guess too. they are a solid lump, I just always preferred the Honda CB500T from the early 80s to the 650 Yamaha twin, but thats just about my taste really, I went for the 500 four at the time to be clear rather than either of the twins 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
If you like vibrations you'll be happy with the XS 650. I had one a long time ago for a very short time. The engine is rather reliable for a seventies bike but all the remaining is very seventies, with approximate brakes, funny suspensions, and erratic handling. You can accommodate of that riding slowly, but the vibrations are extremely present even after a work on the sync of the carburetors. Some are not bothered, others hate the vibes of the XS 650.
Extremely expensive, very hard to find spares. Good for hard collector.
@@pabloricardodetarragon2649 that sounds bang on to me mate 🙂 given the choice id go W650 or 800 anyday than the XS
@@barebonesmc I would do the same choice as you. There are plenty of good twins. The problem with the XS, except the magnificent engine to see (but not to live with), there is no good rational reason, except pure collection, to own a XS.
Already to find parts is a problem as Yamaha, at the difference of Honda, never keeps parts of bikes. Maybe 20 years but 40 years no hope.
That explains partly why you see so many 50 or 40 years old Hondas as you can rebuild them, and almost none Yamaha or Suzuki, except for models you can find in abundance in the barns, so you buy 3 to make 1.
good point well put mate 🙂Cheers for the comment. Ride Free 🙂
Great vid 👍
glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
i love my old H2
Sometimes they do just get it right lol 🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
Had both the 1100 and 1300 pan Europeans absolutely great bikes although a bit heavy. I don’t know why they stopped making them or introduce a replacement. They ended up losing me to BMW
Silly boy, buying a Break My Wallet tsk tsk
good point well put matem did you try the CrossTourer? 🙂Cheers for the comment. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc No, but looked at the NT1100 but decided against it
@@andrewdyson4255 i liked the crosstourer, but think the Varadero was a better bike in many ways, which was a pity
What about the brilliant Suzuki SV1000
great bikes, I had to stop somewhere though mate 🙂 They will find their place at some point. Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
It can be the most reliable bike ever built but if it looks like a transformer like most new bikes do I’m not interested.
Im not a fan of Kyska designs either to be honest, hope you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel and the website, let me know what you think. hope youll climb aboard. We do have a great bunch as subscribers and i can thoroughly recomend reading some of the comments too, some funny and most informative too. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
Honda's beautiful machine + reliable work horse 🌟🌟💯
You will notice Honda do feature a lot in my videos lol, but there are some less well known gems too. Glad you enjoyed it mate 🙂 Theres plenty more on the channel and the website, let me know what you think. hope youll climb aboard. Cheers for watching. Ride Free 🙂
We never got the MT-01 Stateside. Those bastards!!!
that is another one that surprised me. that and the X4 were perfect for the states from what ive seen
Don’t forget the Honda Magna V65
the VF family were featured in the 80s Bargains video here ruclips.net/video/c4n0iL9mUW8/видео.html
You sure are making it hard for an old guy with 5 bikes in the shed to pick a new -old one 🤣
PMSL I know that addiction well 🙂 I have to say, i have finally reached the point where i am starting to clear them out, but its a slow hard process 🙂🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
@@barebonesmc lol yep i was up to 7 for awhile but the wife noticed
@@pl7868 i have 2 garages that are away from the house lol
@@barebonesmc My wife is 5 foot tall an walks faster than an ant with extra legs , there is no hiding anything from a creature like that 🙄 nicest person I have ever met though in case she reads this 🙂
@@pl7868 the best things come in small packages 🙂 what is it they say, behind every great man theres an even greater woman 🙂
You amaze me with every vid You put out. I rarely dissagree with anything you say .Could it possabley be a genaration thing . Or just the fact that we both have been rideing for too many years ? lol
glad you enjoyed it mate, and its probably a bit of both in reality lol 🙂 Cheers for the support. Ride Free 🙂
Make a video on the most unreliable motorcycles
Who knows in time mate 🙂Cheers for watching and for the comment mate. Ride Free 🙂
COuld you do a who wants to come ride a free bike video please i need to get out
lol, i think you are right mate, you need to get out
first edition yamaha fazer 600.
great bikes they will find their place in time 🙂 Cheers for watching mate. Ride Free 🙂
I am six feet tall and my inside leg is 29 inches. All these bikes are quite useless to me.
Not as bad as you might think mate, although im 6ft i only have a 30" inside leg (long body lol) the Blackbird has a fairly low seat and the MT01 isnt high either. Having said that, a video has been requested for some low seat bikes (that arent all cruisers) so there will be something coming. In the first video there are some that have lower seats too ruclips.net/video/WikCG7WxPy8/видео.html