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As a Spanish, advice: -Dont come here in July or August, is just too hot - If you want to come in July or August, visit only the north, is not as warm as the rest of Spain - If you still want to ride in the half south, try to ride very early on the morning and try to take montain roads (it wornt be as warm)
I was in the north just last month, weather was perfect. Around the Picos. What an amazing place to ride a bike. Great roads, no traffic, no speed cameras..... just hours and hours of riding every day. Can't wait to go back, what a lovely place.
Thank you John for your selflessness to go through that journey and pushed the bike (and yourself) to the limits to show us how it performs. You're a legend.
Spain is probably the very best motorcycling country in the world! North, South, East or West, it doesn't matter where but if you like having the roads to yourself the eastern part - inland from the coast - is the most sparsely populated in Europe. Done loads of riding there during the hottest months and I love it. Just one thing: don't put sun protection on your forehead before you ride out, it will completely blind you in a nasty way when you start sweating.
I live in Malaga and the road right behind are also empty as can be. Its a true dream coming from the Neterlands, where theres no corners and cars everywhere
Riding in Spain is a dream - and I recognised the scenery of the Serenia de Cuenca, my favourite place for riding. I loved your video, thank you for posting it.
I'm pretty sure that Zontes sells large numbers of machines here in Spain, so you'd probably have no problem with spares. And the reason why Spain is so welcoming to biukes is that most middle-aged people rode when they were young. I must know 60 or 70 people who are 40 years old or older, and I can only think of one who hasn't had a bike. It should come as no surprise rthat Spain has 4 rounds on the MotoGP Calendar, and they ALL get attendances of over 100,000.
Spain is one of the best countries in Europe to ride, I live in Murcia and we are still in a long drought. Me and my wife have ridden all summer about 5k in total but July and August can be brutal. We see 40c plus regularly inland so morning riding is a must. But with 320 days of sunshine it's no wonder they call Murcia the California of Europe. We tend to think of July and August in similar terms to the UK winter. Not ideal riding weather. The other 10 months is perfect. ,☀️🌞
Great to see how many people love Spain for bike tours/trips. It really is this good and even more when you know where and how to go. I also great to see how many spaniards are here offering help.You could plan to ride for weeks non stop and not touch a freeway for a mile, millions of curves and breathtaking views. Never hesitate to ask for help, a little humbelness and good will takes you to the end of the world. The biking community is top, and this is a top channel.
@@bennettsbikesocial after the video and comment, I reviewed your routes. I completely understand there was a purpose which was getting from A-B in a relative fast time, but.... you missed so many GREAT roads adjacent to yours. Next time never hesitate to reach out to the local community. All the best to you, Julio
Been riding to Spain since mid 1990's, so agree July & Aug can be far too hot in Spain, ive found the best months for riding are March-May & Sept-Nov, if you travel earlier & later than those dates you may find out what the stripey poles alongside the roads are for in the hills & on higher ground 🌨️ Portsmouth Bibao or Santander are the best crossings, assuming theres no bad weather in the Bay of Biscay 😮 Beats all those French speed cameras, fuel bills & unwelcome overnight stopovers. Travel overland & stop in the many villages & eat & drink well with the locals 👌
The ride down through France can be fabulous, if you stick to the twisty back roads, go via the hilly parts and take 3 - 4 days to get to Spain...(went to the Picos) I just did that very thing and had a blast... sadly, got the ferry home and wished I'd ridden both ways! (but you need a lot more time... :( )
Blimey John, I've been awaiting this vlog for ages and wow, what a stunner! Trouble is, when is the next block buster, i cannot wait? Very glad all back in one piece!
Great video - thanks, a really enjoyable watch. Brave of you to take the Zontes, my first bike was a Zontes 125 G1 that was superb so a fan of the brand. Kit looked great, stuff I'd never heard of so will look up for next season.
Good man. Spain is a riders paradise. Lovely, empty roads and great economical places to eat. I had always avoided Spain due to a snobbish elisitm against the likes of Bendorm but was blown away by the reality of Spain away from the Costa Blanca. Your report capture the highs & lows of lon journeys; strangely the "lows" and unplanned incidents stick in the memory more and recovering from the unplanned incidents really makes the journry. Just do it. PS: The Parador at Toledo is expensive but the view of the city from there is sublime.
Thanks! Yes - plan to stay there with my wife next time. I know what you mean - I don't like the touristy beach places (Benalmadena was for the kids, and was fun but I prefer quieter places), but there's so much to Spain. I love it! Cheers, John
I live in Catalunya, between Barcelona and Girona. If anybody has a specific question about living, riding, or working here, I'll do the best I can to answer. And I can certainly recommend some routes in the area as well.
I love Spain. I have been a lot of times in Roses. Visited Cadaqués. I wished I could live in this area.I drive a Honda CRF300L , but here in Germany most of offroad riding is forbidden.
@@retrowarp6528 TBF, you're not legally allowed to ride off road if the track is less than 2m wide in Spain. That does still leave a lot of opportunities, though. Where I live , we also have one of the absolute best MX tracks in Spain (at Santa Coloma de Farnés). It's not homologated for international events, but is extremely good with enormous elevation changes. Riding off road here can be a real challenge, not only because of the heat, but because many of the tracks (most) end up with a thick (3-4cm) layer of fine dust on the surface, which provides virtually zero grip and washes out the front or spins the rear! Maybe this is why we have so many great enduro riders coming from Spain. One of my current students is competing in the Spanish championship for 17-18 y.o.s, and he's only 13! Last year he finished 3rd but could have won right up to the last event. So yeah, riding off road here is good.
Stopped using panniers years ago! 35-50lt roll bag strapped across rear seat and tank bag for valuables, empty top box for helmet and jacket when stopped to explore towns etc. Cool Cover on seat, if your arse is cool, you are! If it’s really hot, look at what the Italian police wear and mimic that. You’re far more likely to have an accident if you’re overheating due to loss of concentration then being comfortable and cool. If it’s over 38degC don’t ride if you’re uncomfortably hot, in my experience you gain heat as you ride and just dehydrate, an accident waiting to happen!
We've just returned from a 2000+ mile trip to Spain and Portugal (last two weeks of August). Agree that its really too hot. But we spent most of our time in the mountains in the north taking the back roads. Scenery is stunning. We were riding a 20+ year old Aprilia Caponord two up with paniers and top box. Lovely to ride, eats the miles up, a big bike but handles the switch backs well enough. Importantly my partner finds it more comfortable than the other big adventure bikes we've tried even with her dodgy hip, we usually need to stop every two hours for a drink and a pee long before she's uncomfortable. Agree get the ferry to Bilbao or Santander. Done the ride through France before and wouldn't bother again. Food is lovely. Try the Hotel Rurals for accommodation - some lovely interesting places to stay with character.
As soon as any gadget exists, we suddenly can't live without it and, like, nobody goes anywhere without their tomtom. I went from Calais to Marseillan Plage using a photocopied page from an atlas to navigate south from major town to major town and didn't even use that coming back up. It'd be far more useful (and zero cost) prep to learn French or Spanish over the winter than fork out on gadgets. Not having a go cuz each to their own, but you and other riders who lavish an absolute bomb on these trips seem a bit detached from the elemental fun of motorbikes. I haven't been away since 2019 due to work/family/money/enertia based on the three previous reasons but this vid's properly incentivised me to do it next year. Current bike is a cbf250, me having gone full circle via all the 600cc+ and back to where I started! Thanks for the vid, been a good watch.
Thanks for watching! I think that any nav device (and keep in mind I just intended to use my phone) should be considered as a tool. If that tool adds to your enjoyment, if it helps you go on a more diverse route, if it allows you to get away more frequently or go further because it saves you time, then great!
@@bennettsbikesocial A decent nav is worth it's weight in gold, IMO and agreed it's just a tool!! I design the routes before I go away, to ensure good riding roads (often a bit off the beaten track) and can be very useful for finding fuel in the boonies (especially useful for an MT10 ;) ). In the old days I used a paper map, and I view the nav as just a more modern replacement for that! :) (and one you usually never have to stop moving to figure out where you are going next... :) )
Thank you for your excellent and informative video. Your tips are spot on. I moved to the south of Spain a couple of years ago . Bike and motorcycle riding is absolutely fantastic, and, with the right precautions, is quite manageable and enjoyable even in the hottest months of the year. You can't beat the rides into the coastal mountains.
What a fantastic entertaining video John. On the ferry to Santander on 13th September for two weeks around northern Spain with the highlight being a couple of nights at the restored Canfranc station hotel. Thanks for the advice.
just completed, spain france italy coast to amalfi dubrovnic croatia bosnia herzegovina Slovakia back in italy switzwerland germany holland belguim back to scotland ,,, all on a solo trip f850gsa over 5 weeks, loved it temp reached mid 40 degrees, cant wait for next year.
Glad you increased rear preload as suggested, the machine did the distance without any break downs and I agree the seat is hard as are so many other machines which costs three to four times more and will they offer 70+ MPG?
I always liked Spain. Changed a bit since I first went there in the 1960's. The ride looked awesome. Great trip. Not sure I could do long rides anymore. When I was younger knocking out a few hundred miles a day no problem. Not now.
Man, I live in Torremolinos, at a side of Benalmádena and you are one of my favourite biker youtubers! So close man! I enjoyed a lot the video. I'll save it for checking some of the links!
Thanks so much! Sorry I missed you. Though if you noticed some fat bald bloke flailing around on the inflatable near the port, that was probably me! Cheers, John
Great video thanks. You are a braver man than me. Frankly amazed you made it with no break down. It pretty much told me what I knew already, for the 4k you paid for this bike I’d much rather have taken any number of second hand Japanese bikes, my preference a Honda, been comfortable and not seen an engine management light or had stalling issues. Nothing the Chinese have produced has made me want to switch brands.
Great video.We discovered Northern Spain and Portugal by motorcycle, a few years ago and I wish we'd discovered it a long time ago.. Going again next year, our third time. We always take the ferry from Plymouth to Santander. Riding through France isn't any quicker or cheaper. We make the ferry part of our holiday.
@@turningwheels2584 I paid £670 this year and £600 last year. This year was more expensive because we're going a little later. That is Plymouth to Santander, 2 people with a bike. A double cabin both ways. You have to book as soon as dates become available to get the best price. We booked in July for June next year. This crossing is 23hours on the Pont Aven.
I ALWAYS take a spare key but bury it in my luggage so it'll NEVER be found/stolen. I've seen too many mates lose their key, or bend it in the tank and subsequently snap it in the lock (especially mid-2000s Hondas with those stupid skinny keys they used to have). Along similar lines, jump pack (Noco), puncture repair kit (under the seat at all times anyway), compressor, "optimised" (tiny) tool kit (plus wheel nut spanner), first aid kit, drugs (painkillers, Immodium ;) ), cable ties/tape, spare fuses, latex gloves, zip-lock/plastic bags. Not forgetting V5, passport, MOT, Insurance/"green card" (bike and travel)... ;) :D
For the heat, vented jackets, pants and gloves, a white necktube to protect your neck from the sun, and immerse your t-shit and necktube in water each 90 minutes or so. This is the air conditioning of motorbikes.
Vented pants? I've tried looking but can't seem to find much online, can't really tell if they're full size overtrousers or actually thin summer lightweight trousers (but obviously not jeans because they're too hot around the 30 degree mark)
Having just returned from a 2 week, 3000 mile trip to France & Spain, I can identify with the heat issue as the air temperature was 38.5 degrees up as far as Paris on the return journey & around 35 degrees whilst in the Pyrenees. Your trip was more challenging though because of the shorter timescale & the inappropriate bike so well done 👍
You should definitely come around the eastern part of France next time to discover some of the real gems of beautiful roads : from Cantal to Vercors and all the way to the Alps then down towards Nice on the "La route des grandes alpes" 😏 That would give you a really different vibe from the "flat" part of the west...
@@bennettsbikesocial This is what I did, and I too recommend it, BUT, it does take a LOT longer.. (we got to Pamplona on day 5). If you have the time, it's the way to do it!! :)
Man, that’s crazy on a small capacity Chinese bike. I own a Voge 900 DSX (same engine as the the BMW f900gs) superb bike. But I would have chosen my Royal Enfield SM 650 or something like a CF moto MT 450 over what you chose. The fact that you paid for the zontes out of your own money is admirable, the fact it did the round trip just shows the Chinese are coming. Great video despite your lack of confidence in your purchase ✌️
Excellent video John! Having just got back from a 2 week France and Picos trip the other day, this was a really interesting comparison video for me. I, like you, have been riding some decades and touring most of that time (predominately on sports bikes, now an MT10). I've been refining my kit and luggage over that time and would agree with most of your points! :) We had 30+ degrees most days, and the kit I took worked fine for that (as did the summer waterproofs I took with me for day 1 and day 13 in the UK where I got pissed on by heavy rain). In case you're interested, Held Airstream gloves, Hideout Air/mesh jacket, Crowtree leather trousers (I have some similar Hideout ones also), Daytona Evo/G3 sports boots, Knox silver base layer (trousers and top, used to use EDZ), super old Rukka, plastic waterproof over trousers (now baggy, to be replaced by Hideout breathable over trousers when they become available...). I stick with long sleeved summer base layer top and bottoms as I find it's actually still cooler/more comfortable than going short sleeved... I'm also trialling the forthcoming Hideout summer waterproof over jacket which ROCKS, both as a windproof over jacket for the chilly start of days, plus perfect in the rain!! :) I also swear by the Klim Zepher windproof under jacket for when it's not quite time for full mesh, but the outer windproof/waterproof is too hot... LOVE that bit of kit, highly recommended!! :) HTH!! :)
@@bennettsbikesocial Result of MUCH trial and error (and some failures/poor purchasing choices too! ;) ). I also ALWAYS take 2x pairs of summer waterproof gloves on a trip too, for a) early mornings/colder days b) so on a bad/very wet day, if one pair get saturated/leak, I have a backup/dry pair! My current choices for those are Rukka Virium 2.0s (great choice, good to have a pair of laminated gloves) and Racer shorty "Multi-Top". On a winter/spring/autumn trip it's Hideout winter laminate jacket with Keis 601 heated gloves with Halvarsson Ljusdal as the thinner option.. ;) I always go for a gauntlet of some kind, as mates who have crashed found out the hard way not to have ANY skin exposed anywhere!! (I always zip my jacket to my trousers in whatever combo I'm using at the time too!!!). Warm & Safe heated baselayer FTW for non-summer trips, makes ALL the difference!! :) ). I can't fit the Held dual-pocket gloves over my boney/fat wrists or I'd take 2 pairs of those (one each of the "winter" and "summer" ones) on a trip instead (to cover all 4 bases/options... :) ). I also tend to use/buy whatever Kate @ Hideout recommend/uses herself, she knows what she's talking about!! :)
Great video! Thanks for taking us along. Even though I can't see riding in Spain anytime soon (I live in California), some great general travel tips and entertaining to boot! I'm surprised at the very affordable yet seemingly rather nice rooms.
Awesome review, thanks John, just spent an hour enjoying the scenery, the journey - and nothing wrong with a pastie outside a church eh?! Definitely makes me want to get our next bike sorted and get out on the road! Top job! :)
I've done the same ride on my Honda CL500 and am doing the same next year on my Honda CRF300L Rally. These big capacity touring machines just don't do it for me. I don't need 40 different buttons and a built-in Sat nav. My Honda CL500 smashed the trip and left the bulky bikes in my group behind. Loaded down with panniers and top boxes. Me, I just had my trusty Rockbro's 55L waterproof roll bag. Mounted right to the seat, no need for a rack.
We did Spain Portugal this July and August on a 1300GS and we had to stop every hour so the wife could recover from the discomfort, when ever possible I soaked my t shirt in a fountain or spring which seemed to help, great vid 👍👍
Glad its you testing this bike , i wouldn't take it further than 20 miles from My local area, i would be panicking, Well done for doing it ,and entertaining us , countryside and the quieter roads look brilliant for bikes, the bike done it i was wrong thought it would of failed ,😊,
Great ride thru Spain , nice to see the Chinese bike on the road and issues , I have to say the filming is great with both camera. thanks for the video Alain & Yellow
Loved my time working and tutoring around Spain sadlylee in a car and not on a bike Lovely people & great roads, i'm now living in the Philippines riding and driving. Philippine drives can be a bit scary my best wishes to you 🤔💭❤️💪👍🙂😉😀😁🏁🛺🏍️🐑🇵🇭🏴
I have a Campervan with rack for my Fantic Cabal Scrambler 500. I plot up on a site, or wild camp....explore the roads daily on the bike.....then move on.I I've done 14,000 miles on it with zero faults. Chinese engine - no problems! The Picos mountains are great, fantastic rides too around Malaga, Ronda & Marbella. Shame we only get 90 days at a time......I (Retired rider)
I’ve had a few bike trips through Europe (inc. Spain and Portugal in the heat of Summer) for many years John and your advice regarding taking the ferry to Spain and having kit ready for the next day etc is spot on 👍
That is a great round-up. I'd been following the blog and was waiting for the video. People have already said in the comments about the heat in July/August. Also bear in mind that every man and his dog take their holidays at this time. I'm French side Pyrenees and third week approx in July and we have the Tour de France coming through with the associated tourism. Roads are full of bicycles which is fine, until you get a camper try to pass one on country roads and the obligatory backing up of other cars. Shoulder season (May/June or September/October) would be wiser. Temps are still good and everyone has gone back to school/work. The takeaway for me from this vid was the bike: would you trust it? and you didn't sound sure. ISTR that you also have a 26yr old 100k VFR800fi in the garage which would also have value in a trip like this, no? Maybe for the next time... ;o)
Thanks for the date tips - I'm hoping to do September next time, for a holiday. If something had gone wrong with the Zontes I was going to take the VFR, but when I go back for myself it'll be (predictably) on my GS. Cheers!
Cheers John, done lots of Europe from hull/Rotterdam port, and we are considering Portsmouth Santander for Spain.... This has been really informative 😊😊
I keep my firebalde around Valencia all year round, as the driving experience is sublime. High quality roads, twisties in the mountains, minimal traffic, hardly any speed cameras. It is a stark contrast to the experience I have riding in South East England. For the hot season, local riders will pretty much only wear the helmet as protective equipment. Simply too hot for other protective equipment. On the highway I'll wear the thinnest mesh jacket from Dainese with summer gloves and protective jeans. But once I get to the destination I have to change into summer clothing. The air around here doesn't even cool you down over summer, it feels like a hairdryer. So for the helmet I have a merino liner to protect the inside of the helmet from sweat.
I did a RTW back in 2000 and the vbest bit of kit for a sore arse is silk boxer shorts. If calimoto did android auto I'd get it, fingers crossed they add it soon. Great video BTW
I live in Yorkshire so sun is a gift to me. I've ridden across Spain in June & July from Bilbao to Malaga on a motorbike and on a bicycle, can you imagine how much easier it is on a motorbike? On a motorbike it's a nothing.
My partner and I just got back from a tour of Croatia and Italy. Great advice to be fair as we do all what you say plus more, as we moto camped plus hotel hopped. Once you start touring Europe, everywhere doesn't seem as far. I would say though a "Bip&go" toll tag is an awesome investment for travel across Europe, as it makes the toll motorway's a breeze. Great advice especially if your looking to have a go abroad for the first time 👍
I can relate to so much on your trip. I too complain, my ass usually hurts after a few hours and so does my back and so on, I also prefer hotels (with AC). But with a humorous attitude my travels always are something one remembers. Subscribed.
Couldn’t agree more about the discomfort in high temp. My wife and I have just come back from a 6000km trip around Europe on our RT. Living in the Loire valley into the Dolomites, Slovenia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro (again). , Croatia, Slovenia (again), Austria, Germany and then finally back home to France 🤯😱🥵🥵🥵🥵. Most days until 38:35 we got into Austria it was hitting high 30s to low 40s. 43c riding through stop start traffic in Sarajevo was not my favourite moment of the trip 😏. However fantastic trip but definitely wearing the right gear is a must. The more that you sweat the more you need technical base layers. Anyway thanks for the video, really enjoyed it. 👏👏
I fear you won't get what you deserve for this challenging trip on a questionable bike. Hat-tip to you though because this is the sort of expert detail we all look for on YT. Let's hope that Bennets and Calimoto are happy with the results too.
In regards to baselayers I’ve not found anything that beats a bamboo long sleeve baselayer under an armoured mesh jacket to keep you cool. Only ridden mine up to about 31 degrees but man, the benefits over other materials was quite staggering. As always, good video John. Touring on a bike, any bike, is just lovely. I’ve held off using a water bladder ever since I got out of the army. Might need to start if these heat waves keep up.
Well done John. Looks amazing. Think I’ll bring my Suzuki 8S over from Ireland to North Spain for a week. I hope you be are getting sponsorship from the Espana Tourist Board! Cheers.
@@bennettsbikesocialThank goodness! Especially as you took, what is effectively, much the same route I hope to take … on a Super Meteor 650 (which ought to be vastly more comfy)😉🤞✌️
Loved the video, very interesting as I go into St Malo quiet often and recognised the roads you rode. I'd love to see you do this trip again on a CF MOTO MT450 as I'm interested in one of those and hope that the twin cylinder engine would feel nicer on the road. The fact that they are £5800 new sounds like a bargain if they are decent quality, comfortable and reliable. Please pencil in a repeat trip next year (or maybe the Italian lakes...🤔) and let us know how you get on😉👍👍
am off to Pyrenees next week temperatures have come down a bit about 24 c at night 14 c , it’s currently 35 each day to hot to ride unless you leave at 8 in morning till maybe midday then seek the shade 🤣🤣 i live here !
Definitely take some waterproof clothing. The second half of August gets plenty of storms especially in the afternoon and they can be like the Monsoon. Word of Spaniard 😉
I live in Asturias northern Spain. Just done 5 weeks back in UK and been asked when im moving back , but sorry but the traffic,, roads & motorways nightmare to many vehicals and people, glad you enjoyed the time here .
What an epic video, I followed you online, but to see it in video is even better. I recently bought a CF Moto 450MT and I think it is as good as my Tenere. Zontes, maybe not so much......although it got you there and back.
Cheers! When choosing a bike to buy for this series we soon dismissed a CF Moto as, besides being out of budget, they're just too well established and, well, good!
Great video and advice, we love riding in Spain the roads are amazing and also the weather but always have cash as many remote stops have no internet so no banking and the locals prefer cash so why give the banks more money using cards . Must admit we cheat getting to Portsmouth or Plymouth as we live in Liverpool we put the bike in my van and leave the van near the ferry port , just can’t stand the ride down or the possibility of getting soaked am 60 now so am a bit of a wimp . Love the ferry to and from Santander it’s very relaxed and you can have a beer and a sleep if it’s not to choppy . Dave
I really enjoyed your journey, even though there was a lot of suffering and angst….. but I guess everyone wants to be sure they’re going to get there…. I thought it was a genuinely brave thing crossing the water on the outward journey knowing the bike was playing up electronically if nothing else….. just give people an idea of what you can do if you took it a bit more easy and how far you can go with shorter daily rides on a small bike…. I commend you for that…. I’ve been searching for another motorcycle coming back to it after a little bit of a layoff even though I still have my 45 year old 800 BMW which back in the day happily ate journeys like that….. great memories of riding through Europe…. But I want to do it again but this time possibly on a 650 Enfield…. I know there will be doubters but I was born in an age when 650 was plenty and it did everything you wanted….. Next post, buddy, brilliant
I didn't know about this ferry good to know, I mostly take night ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe with DFDS as mostly is cheaper than tunnel (also save me time as I'm off on Friday night) and you can have couple hours of mid sleep and start your journey through France from early morning
My engine management light came on during my Euro-tour in early July. Was because i put bad fuel in it. 1 pump station out in the middle of the Pyrenees. 85 octane :( All good now though.
Got back yesterday from Fuengirola. Used Portsmouth- Santander, Scrambler 1200 xe run like a dream and comfortable. 50 mpg only used a roads. Omg how hot was it,good luck John
@@bennettsbikesocialhi John i used to live there and grew to dislike sitting in the sun all day unlike all my family who were there on holiday. The bike ride was my holiday. Also done Lemans gp,and IOM this year.didn’t want to look at the scram for 2 weeks last night, but washed it today and already thinking about doing it again next year. Glutten for punishment or just doing it Before I get too old. You have big balls doing it on that bike solo. Love your content keep it coming 💪
Just did 6 hours back from Wales on my Tracer 9, moaning about how sore my rear end is. I will be quiet now I've seen the torture you've put yourself through! I definitely wouldn't trust this to take me across Europe...
There were many riders from Spain and Italy in Norway. They said it was too hot to ride in their countries. From my experiences I agree as it was riding in a sauna. There are cooling vest available if you must ride south Europe in summer.
Excellent video, very informative and enlightening. The only thing wrong was the boat anchor you rode on. I love and own odd ball bikes, but that heap is a step too far even for me.
A really great video John. I suspect those Shad panniers are the best thing on that bike. We loved ours on our Pyrenees trip. Wish we had a bit of that heat back in June. Riding in Spain is so much better than the UK, even on a Chinese bike. Its a bit of a treat having a decent hotel after a long hot slog. We used the premium cabin which came with lounge access on the two night trip Portsmouth to Santander. It was class.
Oooh, is that the two berth Club cabin? If so, did you video it? Or if you have pics, please can you pop them on the FB group? I'm tempted to book one for a trip with Helen on the GS. Cheers, John
@bennettsbikesocial Not sure if your channel will accept a link to mine but from 9 mins in, is the club lounge and two berth cabin ruclips.net/video/8zHvEddsMIs/видео.htmlsi=oydyCQv-WIYOshKw
Not seen all the videos, but have you done the valve clearances? Stalling and power loss are classic signs of this. Just watching the fork dive, some upgraded springs should be on the shopping list!
The problem is the bike is not made to do long rides like this. OK for going back and thourth to work and maybe 200 trip once a year. I rode a Himalayn in north and western France. OK for RN roads but hit a motorway and regret it. Any bike around 650 is better for trips like yours.
I had similar issues with my MT09 on a trip, it turned out to be a TPS sensor issue (common fault), for me it was completely solved by cleaning the connector with contact cleaner and letting it dry. Suspect moisture stuck in the connector affected the voltages. I just did southern portugal on a transalp in 34deg peak temps. Revvit eclipse mesh gear was great, sweaty but never too uncomfortable to not enjoy it. Travel light, big topbox, swmotech holdall on back seat and no backpack 🤮! It’s an amazing part of the world, empty amazing roads, and the little/medium sized towns that you come across are so cultured and unspoiled by hoards of low cost airline tourists. And no worries of the bike getting nicked!
@@bennettsbikesocial for me it wasn’t obvious there was anything in there, but it was night and day different after disconnecting, spraying in contact cleaner and leaving it unconnected to dry. 1000 miles now with no issues. Good luck 👍🏻
Good video, I've done quite a few hot rides in Europe, drink lots of water and stay hydrated. Regarding your embarrassing moment when buying Coke, how on earth did you not have any Euros on you? 😮 34:27
I wouldn't buy one but i subscribed a while back, just for the updates on this bike 🤣🤣 i like the idea of a value for money bike, i own the RE Himalayan 411.
I enjoyed watching your vlog John, even in the UK some places don't do cards (ie Grindleford Cafe ((Derbyshire)) due to no internet connection) so a few pennies euro's saves embarrassment, the 350 Zontes managed well, a bit of pouf you don't need to be on BMW 1200 + tourer. Back in the 1970's I toured on a Suzuki X7 and also watched Fat Man on a Small Motorcycle do the NC500 on a 125 Yamaha 2 stroke. We seem to be part due to mags / adverts stuck on large CC motorcycles. The Cf450MT Royal Enfield Hymie are just as good if not better for the bends
Great video diary of you trip on the Chinese beast 😉 Have you done the Pico's De Europa mountain range in Northern Spain?? An absolute bikers heaven !!!!!
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As a Spanish, advice:
-Dont come here in July or August, is just too hot
- If you want to come in July or August, visit only the north, is not as warm as the rest of Spain
- If you still want to ride in the half south, try to ride very early on the morning and try to take montain roads (it wornt be as warm)
Have a watch right through when you get time, as I did explain how I tackled the heat. Cheers! John
Great advice.
Going in October hoping for mid weather at north but good at south :D
I was in the north just last month, weather was perfect. Around the Picos. What an amazing place to ride a bike. Great roads, no traffic, no speed cameras..... just hours and hours of riding every day. Can't wait to go back, what a lovely place.
My God what are you talking about, i am living in Galicia and in July and August here is so damn hot many times more hot up here than in Malaga 🙂
Thank you John for your selflessness to go through that journey and pushed the bike (and yourself) to the limits to show us how it performs. You're a legend.
Cheers, though getting to ride almost anything in Spain is an absolute privilege! I'm not that hard done by!
Spain is probably the very best motorcycling country in the world! North, South, East or West, it doesn't matter where but if you like having the roads to yourself the eastern part - inland from the coast - is the most sparsely populated in Europe.
Done loads of riding there during the hottest months and I love it. Just one thing: don't put sun protection on your forehead before you ride out, it will completely blind you in a nasty way when you start sweating.
Good call - sounds like you're speaking from experience! Cheers, John
I live in Malaga and the road right behind are also empty as can be. Its a true dream coming from the Neterlands, where theres no corners and cars everywhere
*Nope* Spain is fab, however .. *Portugal is better in every way*
Better beaches, better food, better tarmac and definitely better trails.
Riding in Spain is a dream - and I recognised the scenery of the Serenia de Cuenca, my favourite place for riding. I loved your video, thank you for posting it.
Thanks so much for watching! Cheers, John
I'm pretty sure that Zontes sells large numbers of machines here in Spain, so you'd probably have no problem with spares.
And the reason why Spain is so welcoming to biukes is that most middle-aged people rode when they were young. I must know 60 or 70 people who are 40 years old or older, and I can only think of one who hasn't had a bike. It should come as no surprise rthat Spain has 4 rounds on the MotoGP Calendar, and they ALL get attendances of over 100,000.
Spain is one of the best countries in Europe to ride, I live in Murcia and we are still in a long drought. Me and my wife have ridden all summer about 5k in total but July and August can be brutal. We see 40c plus regularly inland so morning riding is a must. But with 320 days of sunshine it's no wonder they call Murcia the California of Europe. We tend to think of July and August in similar terms to the UK winter. Not ideal riding weather. The other 10 months is perfect. ,☀️🌞
Very entertaining video. You’re a braver man than I😊
Thanks very much! Yeah - I'd love to go back to Spain, but on something else... Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocialmay I suggest a 2024 Honda Goldwing with the optional air conditioning and drinks bar?
@@RocketMan_Moto Tempting, but I want to take my R1250GS next time... wife is up for it too! Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial I can recommend a Ninja 1000SX .. 😁 - oh, you want to bring the wife ... then maybe not
"It hasn't been a holiday, honest" we believe you, really 😅
Ha! If it had been a holiday, I wouldn't have rushed it so much, and I would have taken my own bike!
Great to see how many people love Spain for bike tours/trips. It really is this good and even more when you know where and how to go. I also great to see how many spaniards are here offering help.You could plan to ride for weeks non stop and not touch a freeway for a mile, millions of curves and breathtaking views. Never hesitate to ask for help, a little humbelness and good will takes you to the end of the world. The biking community is top, and this is a top channel.
Thanks so much! All the best, John
@@bennettsbikesocial after the video and comment, I reviewed your routes. I completely understand there was a purpose which was getting from A-B in a relative fast time, but.... you missed so many GREAT roads adjacent to yours. Next time never hesitate to reach out to the local community. All the best to you, Julio
Been riding to Spain since mid 1990's, so agree July & Aug can be far too hot in Spain, ive found the best months for riding are March-May & Sept-Nov, if you travel earlier & later than those dates you may find out what the stripey poles alongside the roads are for in the hills & on higher ground 🌨️ Portsmouth Bibao or Santander are the best crossings, assuming theres no bad weather in the Bay of Biscay 😮 Beats all those French speed cameras, fuel bills & unwelcome overnight stopovers. Travel overland & stop in the many villages & eat & drink well with the locals 👌
The ride down through France can be fabulous, if you stick to the twisty back roads, go via the hilly parts and take 3 - 4 days to get to Spain...(went to the Picos) I just did that very thing and had a blast... sadly, got the ferry home and wished I'd ridden both ways! (but you need a lot more time... :( )
Blimey John, I've been awaiting this vlog for ages and wow, what a stunner! Trouble is, when is the next block buster, i cannot wait? Very glad all back in one piece!
Thanks SO much! I've never done anything like this before, and really didn't know how it'd go. Glad you liked it. Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial One Q - what WERE the temps you talked about (but didn't give us the details of... ;) :) :D )
Thanks for the honest review John.I guess you like a challenge!glad you saw it thru till the end.
Thanks! All the best, John
I went to Marseillan Plage on a Honda rs250 in 1988. Back then you could turn up on spec at Calais and board a ferry for about a tenner.
Awesome! About ten years ago I came back early from Belgium and was able to hop on a ferry. Cheers, John
Great video - thanks, a really enjoyable watch. Brave of you to take the Zontes, my first bike was a Zontes 125 G1 that was superb so a fan of the brand. Kit looked great, stuff I'd never heard of so will look up for next season.
Thanks very much! What do you have now? Cheers, John
Good man.
Spain is a riders paradise. Lovely, empty roads and great economical places to eat. I had always avoided Spain due to a snobbish elisitm against the likes of Bendorm but was blown away by the reality of Spain away from the Costa Blanca. Your report capture the highs & lows of lon journeys; strangely the "lows" and unplanned incidents stick in the memory more and recovering from the unplanned incidents really makes the journry. Just do it.
PS: The Parador at Toledo is expensive but the view of the city from there is sublime.
Thanks! Yes - plan to stay there with my wife next time.
I know what you mean - I don't like the touristy beach places (Benalmadena was for the kids, and was fun but I prefer quieter places), but there's so much to Spain. I love it! Cheers, John
Love your videos and this one is exceptional. Thanks for what you do for the biking community
Thanks SO much! I'd never made anything like this, so was really worried about it, but glad you enjoyed it. Cheers, John
I live in Catalunya, between Barcelona and Girona. If anybody has a specific question about living, riding, or working here, I'll do the best I can to answer. And I can certainly recommend some routes in the area as well.
Fantastic, thank you! It'd be awesome to have you on BikeClub.bennetts.co.uk too! Cheers, John
I love Spain. I have been a lot of times in Roses. Visited Cadaqués. I wished I could live in this area.I drive a Honda CRF300L , but here in Germany most of offroad riding is forbidden.
@@retrowarp6528 TBF, you're not legally allowed to ride off road if the track is less than 2m wide in Spain. That does still leave a lot of opportunities, though.
Where I live , we also have one of the absolute best MX tracks in Spain (at Santa Coloma de Farnés). It's not homologated for international events, but is extremely good with enormous elevation changes.
Riding off road here can be a real challenge, not only because of the heat, but because many of the tracks (most) end up with a thick (3-4cm) layer of fine dust on the surface, which provides virtually zero grip and washes out the front or spins the rear! Maybe this is why we have so many great enduro riders coming from Spain. One of my current students is competing in the Spanish championship for 17-18 y.o.s, and he's only 13! Last year he finished 3rd but could have won right up to the last event.
So yeah, riding off road here is good.
Hi I live in Torella thinking about bringing my bike over soon
@@johnspencer3193 Is that Toroella? Or Torelló?
What a great informative and interesting video. Hopefully my wife and I plan to do Spain next year.
Brilliant! Hope you enjoy it - a fantastic place to ride. Cheers, John
Stopped using panniers years ago! 35-50lt roll bag strapped across rear seat and tank bag for valuables, empty top box for helmet and jacket when stopped to explore towns etc. Cool Cover on seat, if your arse is cool, you are! If it’s really hot, look at what the Italian police wear and mimic that. You’re far more likely to have an accident if you’re overheating due to loss of concentration then being comfortable and cool. If it’s over 38degC don’t ride if you’re uncomfortably hot, in my experience you gain heat as you ride and just dehydrate, an accident waiting to happen!
Agree with panniers tip...unneccessary weight and bulk. What about tools...do you bother...just spares like bulbs maybe
We've just returned from a 2000+ mile trip to Spain and Portugal (last two weeks of August). Agree that its really too hot. But we spent most of our time in the mountains in the north taking the back roads. Scenery is stunning. We were riding a 20+ year old Aprilia Caponord two up with paniers and top box. Lovely to ride, eats the miles up, a big bike but handles the switch backs well enough. Importantly my partner finds it more comfortable than the other big adventure bikes we've tried even with her dodgy hip, we usually need to stop every two hours for a drink and a pee long before she's uncomfortable. Agree get the ferry to Bilbao or Santander. Done the ride through France before and wouldn't bother again. Food is lovely. Try the Hotel Rurals for accommodation - some lovely interesting places to stay with character.
Sounds great, and thanks for the tip on Hotel Rurals! Cheers, John
As soon as any gadget exists, we suddenly can't live without it and, like, nobody goes anywhere without their tomtom. I went from Calais to Marseillan Plage using a photocopied page from an atlas to navigate south from major town to major town and didn't even use that coming back up. It'd be far more useful (and zero cost) prep to learn French or Spanish over the winter than fork out on gadgets.
Not having a go cuz each to their own, but you and other riders who lavish an absolute bomb on these trips seem a bit detached from the elemental fun of motorbikes.
I haven't been away since 2019 due to work/family/money/enertia based on the three previous reasons but this vid's properly incentivised me to do it next year. Current bike is a cbf250, me having gone full circle via all the 600cc+ and back to where I started!
Thanks for the vid, been a good watch.
Thanks for watching!
I think that any nav device (and keep in mind I just intended to use my phone) should be considered as a tool. If that tool adds to your enjoyment, if it helps you go on a more diverse route, if it allows you to get away more frequently or go further because it saves you time, then great!
@@bennettsbikesocial A decent nav is worth it's weight in gold, IMO and agreed it's just a tool!! I design the routes before I go away, to ensure good riding roads (often a bit off the beaten track) and can be very useful for finding fuel in the boonies (especially useful for an MT10 ;) ). In the old days I used a paper map, and I view the nav as just a more modern replacement for that! :) (and one you usually never have to stop moving to figure out where you are going next... :) )
Thank you for your excellent and informative video. Your tips are spot on. I moved to the south of Spain a couple of years ago . Bike and motorcycle riding is absolutely fantastic, and, with the right precautions, is quite manageable and enjoyable even in the hottest months of the year. You can't beat the rides into the coastal mountains.
Thanks for watching! It is an incredible country... I'm very envious. Cheers, John
That bath & beer shot 😂
I had to shoot that twice as the first time I had the camera too high... 😱
@@bennettsbikesocial 🤣🤣🤣. Thank God you noticed that before uploading it
Very enjoyable and informative. Thanks.
Thanks! All the best, John
Looks awesome, really enjoying the videos, cheers from Albany WA
Thanks for watching! Cheers, John
The timing of that sponsor was hilarious. "Calimoto doesn't work with Android Auto... A Big thanks to Calimoto for sponsoring this video!"
It's still good, but with Android Auto it'd be perfect!
What a fantastic entertaining video John. On the ferry to Santander on 13th September for two weeks around northern Spain with the highlight being a couple of nights at the restored Canfranc station hotel. Thanks for the advice.
Thanks for watching! Have a great trip, and I'd love to see some pics on our Facebool group: facebook.com/groups/bikesocial Cheers, John
Just got a 310T2 as a commuting/short trip bike. Just also watched your other videos on this brand and very useful! Thank you very much!
Thanks for watching! Cheers, John
just completed, spain france italy coast to amalfi dubrovnic croatia bosnia herzegovina Slovakia back in italy switzwerland germany holland belguim back to scotland ,,, all on a solo trip f850gsa over 5 weeks, loved it temp reached mid 40 degrees, cant wait for next year.
Wow, that's a hell of a trip. Top work!
@@bennettsbikesocial loved every minute didn’t want too come home lol 👍
camping or hotels?
@@dreamcrusher112 a bit of both , sometimes the hotel was same or €10 more than camping
This is brilliant, I'd love to do this on my benelli.
One day it'll happen..... 🤞
Glad you increased rear preload as suggested, the machine did the distance without any break downs and I agree the seat is hard as are so many other machines which costs three to four times more and will they offer 70+ MPG?
I always liked Spain. Changed a bit since I first went there in the 1960's. The ride looked awesome. Great trip. Not sure I could do long rides anymore. When I was younger knocking out a few hundred miles a day no problem. Not now.
Man, I live in Torremolinos, at a side of Benalmádena and you are one of my favourite biker youtubers!
So close man!
I enjoyed a lot the video. I'll save it for checking some of the links!
Thanks so much! Sorry I missed you. Though if you noticed some fat bald bloke flailing around on the inflatable near the port, that was probably me! Cheers, John
Great video thanks. You are a braver man than me. Frankly amazed you made it with no break down.
It pretty much told me what I knew already, for the 4k you paid for this bike I’d much rather have taken any number of second hand Japanese bikes, my preference a Honda, been comfortable and not seen an engine management light or had stalling issues.
Nothing the Chinese have produced has made me want to switch brands.
"This has been a test of the bike, not a holiday." Mate you have the best job ever 😂
I can't argue with that! Cheers, John
Great video.We discovered Northern Spain and Portugal by motorcycle, a few years ago and I wish we'd discovered it a long time ago..
Going again next year, our third time.
We always take the ferry from Plymouth to Santander. Riding through France isn't any quicker or cheaper. We make the ferry part of our holiday.
Fantastic, thank you, and hope you have many more great trips. Cheers, John
How much is the ferry nowadays?? I'd like to do this but every time i look at ferry prices they are near the grand mark....... For a ferry!!
@@turningwheels2584
I paid £670 this year and £600 last year. This year was more expensive because we're going a little later.
That is Plymouth to Santander, 2 people with a bike. A double cabin both ways.
You have to book as soon as dates become available to get the best price. We booked in July for June next year.
This crossing is 23hours on the Pont Aven.
great video, John, you are a very brave man. We have a Zontes, and it is OK for tootling around town, but I wouldn't use it for long journeys.
Cheers, and totally agree - it's brilliant for shorter journeys. All the best, John
Tip: always have a spare key on a cord around your neck on long trips. If you lose your key thousands of kms from home, you'll be fine.
That's a very good call! Cheers, John
I ALWAYS take a spare key but bury it in my luggage so it'll NEVER be found/stolen. I've seen too many mates lose their key, or bend it in the tank and subsequently snap it in the lock (especially mid-2000s Hondas with those stupid skinny keys they used to have). Along similar lines, jump pack (Noco), puncture repair kit (under the seat at all times anyway), compressor, "optimised" (tiny) tool kit (plus wheel nut spanner), first aid kit, drugs (painkillers, Immodium ;) ), cable ties/tape, spare fuses, latex gloves, zip-lock/plastic bags. Not forgetting V5, passport, MOT, Insurance/"green card" (bike and travel)... ;) :D
For the heat, vented jackets, pants and gloves, a white necktube to protect your neck from the sun, and immerse your t-shit and necktube in water each 90 minutes or so. This is the air conditioning of motorbikes.
Vented pants? I've tried looking but can't seem to find much online, can't really tell if they're full size overtrousers or actually thin summer lightweight trousers (but obviously not jeans because they're too hot around the 30 degree mark)
Having just returned from a 2 week, 3000 mile trip to France & Spain, I can identify with the heat issue as the air temperature was 38.5 degrees up as far as Paris on the return journey & around 35 degrees whilst in the Pyrenees. Your trip was more challenging though because of the shorter timescale & the inappropriate bike so well done 👍
Blimey, that's good going to have covered 3,000 miles - nicely done. Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial not as impressive as your adventure!
You should definitely come around the eastern part of France next time to discover some of the real gems of beautiful roads : from Cantal to Vercors and all the way to the Alps then down towards Nice on the "La route des grandes alpes" 😏
That would give you a really different vibe from the "flat" part of the west...
Sounds good, I'll have a look - thanks! John
@@bennettsbikesocial This is what I did, and I too recommend it, BUT, it does take a LOT longer.. (we got to Pamplona on day 5). If you have the time, it's the way to do it!! :)
Man, that’s crazy on a small capacity Chinese bike. I own a Voge 900 DSX (same engine as the the BMW f900gs) superb bike. But I would have chosen my Royal Enfield SM 650 or something like a CF moto MT 450 over what you chose. The fact that you paid for the zontes out of your own money is admirable, the fact it did the round trip just shows the Chinese are coming. Great video despite your lack of confidence in your purchase ✌️
Thanks! We'll see when it comes to trying to sell it though... Cheers, John
Excellent video John! Having just got back from a 2 week France and Picos trip the other day, this was a really interesting comparison video for me. I, like you, have been riding some decades and touring most of that time (predominately on sports bikes, now an MT10). I've been refining my kit and luggage over that time and would agree with most of your points! :) We had 30+ degrees most days, and the kit I took worked fine for that (as did the summer waterproofs I took with me for day 1 and day 13 in the UK where I got pissed on by heavy rain). In case you're interested, Held Airstream gloves, Hideout Air/mesh jacket, Crowtree leather trousers (I have some similar Hideout ones also), Daytona Evo/G3 sports boots, Knox silver base layer (trousers and top, used to use EDZ), super old Rukka, plastic waterproof over trousers (now baggy, to be replaced by Hideout breathable over trousers when they become available...). I stick with long sleeved summer base layer top and bottoms as I find it's actually still cooler/more comfortable than going short sleeved... I'm also trialling the forthcoming Hideout summer waterproof over jacket which ROCKS, both as a windproof over jacket for the chilly start of days, plus perfect in the rain!! :) I also swear by the Klim Zepher windproof under jacket for when it's not quite time for full mesh, but the outer windproof/waterproof is too hot... LOVE that bit of kit, highly recommended!! :) HTH!! :)
That's a properly refined set-up... Thanks so much for this! All the best, John
@@bennettsbikesocial Result of MUCH trial and error (and some failures/poor purchasing choices too! ;) ). I also ALWAYS take 2x pairs of summer waterproof gloves on a trip too, for a) early mornings/colder days b) so on a bad/very wet day, if one pair get saturated/leak, I have a backup/dry pair! My current choices for those are Rukka Virium 2.0s (great choice, good to have a pair of laminated gloves) and Racer shorty "Multi-Top". On a winter/spring/autumn trip it's Hideout winter laminate jacket with Keis 601 heated gloves with Halvarsson Ljusdal as the thinner option.. ;) I always go for a gauntlet of some kind, as mates who have crashed found out the hard way not to have ANY skin exposed anywhere!! (I always zip my jacket to my trousers in whatever combo I'm using at the time too!!!). Warm & Safe heated baselayer FTW for non-summer trips, makes ALL the difference!! :) ). I can't fit the Held dual-pocket gloves over my boney/fat wrists or I'd take 2 pairs of those (one each of the "winter" and "summer" ones) on a trip instead (to cover all 4 bases/options... :) ). I also tend to use/buy whatever Kate @ Hideout recommend/uses herself, she knows what she's talking about!! :)
Great video, I’d taken a break from watching motorcycle tours on RUclips but this really inspired me to get planning that next trip to Europe. Thanks
Thank YOU! Cheers, John
Great video. Appreciate you explaining the reasons why you chose your kit, not just what you are using. I miss Spain. No place like it for biking. 👍
Thanks! Yeah, I can't wait to go back! Cheers, John
Great video! Thanks for taking us along. Even though I can't see riding in Spain anytime soon (I live in California), some great general travel tips and entertaining to boot! I'm surprised at the very affordable yet seemingly rather nice rooms.
Thanks! You have some incredible roads and scenery of your own, but yeah, there are some great value hotels here. All the best, John
Awesome review, thanks John, just spent an hour enjoying the scenery, the journey - and nothing wrong with a pastie outside a church eh?! Definitely makes me want to get our next bike sorted and get out on the road! Top job! :)
Fantastic, thanks so much! All the best, John
Been looking forward to this one. You’re a brave man riding a cheap Chinese bike in foreign lands over such a distance. My cap off to you 👍
Thanks so much! GS next time... Cheers, John
so you went on 2k miles trip with horrible bike having much better in garage? masochist ;-)
Ha! Riding a GS to Spain wouldn't be a challenge though!
@@bennettsbikesocial if you prefere challenge than pleasure... ;-)
Could have bought a Honda pan European for £2250 and had a great time😃
I've done the same ride on my Honda CL500 and am doing the same next year on my Honda CRF300L Rally. These big capacity touring machines just don't do it for me. I don't need 40 different buttons and a built-in Sat nav. My Honda CL500 smashed the trip and left the bulky bikes in my group behind. Loaded down with panniers and top boxes. Me, I just had my trusty Rockbro's 55L waterproof roll bag. Mounted right to the seat, no need for a rack.
We did Spain Portugal this July and August on a 1300GS and we had to stop every hour so the wife could recover from the discomfort, when ever possible I soaked my t shirt in a fountain or spring which seemed to help, great vid 👍👍
Cheers! Sorry the 1300 wasn't comfortable. I'm waiting to get Helen out on one to try. She loves my 1250. All the best, John
Absolutely loved this trip mate, stunning scenery , bike I think did great from what we could see and price point 👍🏽😎🏍🌞, more like this please 🙏🏽. 👍🏽
Thanks for watching! Cheers, John
Glad its you testing this bike , i wouldn't take it further than 20 miles from My local area, i would be panicking, Well done for doing it ,and entertaining us , countryside and the quieter roads look brilliant for bikes, the bike done it i was wrong thought it would of failed ,😊,
Thanks for watching! Cheers, John
Absolutely awesome video, brave man!!! Thanks as always for sharing, appreciated and enjoyed 🙂🏍️👍🏻
Thanks so much! All the best, John
Great ride thru Spain , nice to see the Chinese bike on the road and issues , I have to say the filming is great with both camera. thanks for the video Alain & Yellow
Thanks so much! Cheers, John
Loved my time working and tutoring around Spain sadlylee in a car and not on a bike Lovely people & great roads, i'm now living in the Philippines riding and driving. Philippine drives can be a bit scary my best wishes to you 🤔💭❤️💪👍🙂😉😀😁🏁🛺🏍️🐑🇵🇭🏴
Great video lots of of advice looks the place to go Spain
Definitely! Cheers John
I have a Campervan with rack for my Fantic Cabal Scrambler 500.
I plot up on a site, or wild camp....explore the roads daily on the bike.....then move on.I
I've done 14,000 miles on it with zero faults.
Chinese engine - no problems!
The Picos mountains are great, fantastic rides too around Malaga, Ronda & Marbella.
Shame we only get 90 days at a time......I
(Retired rider)
Sounds awesome! Cheers, John
I’ve had a few bike trips through Europe (inc. Spain and Portugal in the heat of Summer) for many years John and your advice regarding taking the ferry to Spain and having kit ready for the next day etc is spot on 👍
Thanks so much! I still have a lot to learn, but planning on going back soon.
That is a great round-up. I'd been following the blog and was waiting for the video. People have already said in the comments about the heat in July/August. Also bear in mind that every man and his dog take their holidays at this time. I'm French side Pyrenees and third week approx in July and we have the Tour de France coming through with the associated tourism. Roads are full of bicycles which is fine, until you get a camper try to pass one on country roads and the obligatory backing up of other cars. Shoulder season (May/June or September/October) would be wiser. Temps are still good and everyone has gone back to school/work.
The takeaway for me from this vid was the bike: would you trust it? and you didn't sound sure. ISTR that you also have a 26yr old 100k VFR800fi in the garage which would also have value in a trip like this, no? Maybe for the next time... ;o)
Thanks for the date tips - I'm hoping to do September next time, for a holiday.
If something had gone wrong with the Zontes I was going to take the VFR, but when I go back for myself it'll be (predictably) on my GS. Cheers!
Cheers John, done lots of Europe from hull/Rotterdam port, and we are considering Portsmouth Santander for Spain.... This has been really informative 😊😊
Thanks very much! Have a great time - you'll love it I'm sure. All the best, John
I keep my firebalde around Valencia all year round, as the driving experience is sublime. High quality roads, twisties in the mountains, minimal traffic, hardly any speed cameras. It is a stark contrast to the experience I have riding in South East England. For the hot season, local riders will pretty much only wear the helmet as protective equipment. Simply too hot for other protective equipment. On the highway I'll wear the thinnest mesh jacket from Dainese with summer gloves and protective jeans. But once I get to the destination I have to change into summer clothing. The air around here doesn't even cool you down over summer, it feels like a hairdryer. So for the helmet I have a merino liner to protect the inside of the helmet from sweat.
I did a RTW back in 2000 and the vbest bit of kit for a sore arse is silk boxer shorts. If calimoto did android auto I'd get it, fingers crossed they add it soon. Great video BTW
Good call on the silk boxers! Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial I might try that - I currently swear by Bamboo ones (NEVER moisture absorbing cotton!!) from the brand, Bam... :)
I live in Yorkshire so sun is a gift to me. I've ridden across Spain in June & July from Bilbao to Malaga on a motorbike and on a bicycle, can you imagine how much easier it is on a motorbike? On a motorbike it's a nothing.
Blimey, I bet that was tough on the bicycle. Nice one. John
@@bennettsbikesocial Tip, when you are cycling you generally only feel the heat when you stop cycling.
My partner and I just got back from a tour of Croatia and Italy. Great advice to be fair as we do all what you say plus more, as we moto camped plus hotel hopped. Once you start touring Europe, everywhere doesn't seem as far. I would say though a "Bip&go" toll tag is an awesome investment for travel across Europe, as it makes the toll motorway's a breeze. Great advice especially if your looking to have a go abroad for the first time 👍
Thanks for this! I've never ridden in Italy, but I have been lucky enough to ride in Croatia, and that was stunning! Cheers, John
I can relate to so much on your trip. I too complain, my ass usually hurts after a few hours and so does my back and so on, I also prefer hotels (with AC). But with a humorous attitude my travels always are something one remembers. Subscribed.
Thanks very much! Yeah, air-con is a joy after a long ride! All the best, John
Couldn’t agree more about the discomfort in high temp. My wife and I have just come back from a 6000km trip around Europe on our RT. Living in the Loire valley into the Dolomites, Slovenia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro (again). , Croatia, Slovenia (again), Austria, Germany and then finally back home to France 🤯😱🥵🥵🥵🥵. Most days until 38:35 we got into Austria it was hitting high 30s to low 40s. 43c riding through stop start traffic in Sarajevo was not my favourite moment of the trip 😏.
However fantastic trip but definitely wearing the right gear is a must. The more that you sweat the more you need technical base layers. Anyway thanks for the video, really enjoyed it. 👏👏
That sounds like an incredible trip! Please do join the BikeSocial Facebook Group if you can, and share some pics. Cheers, John
I fear you won't get what you deserve for this challenging trip on a questionable bike. Hat-tip to you though because this is the sort of expert detail we all look for on YT. Let's hope that Bennets and Calimoto are happy with the results too.
Thanks very much! Cheers, John
In regards to baselayers I’ve not found anything that beats a bamboo long sleeve baselayer under an armoured mesh jacket to keep you cool. Only ridden mine up to about 31 degrees but man, the benefits over other materials was quite staggering.
As always, good video John. Touring on a bike, any bike, is just lovely. I’ve held off using a water bladder ever since I got out of the army. Might need to start if these heat waves keep up.
Good call! Cheers, John
Well done John. Looks amazing. Think I’ll bring my Suzuki 8S over from Ireland to North Spain for a week. I hope you be are getting sponsorship from the Espana Tourist Board! Cheers.
I don't think they need to sponsor anyone - we all know how good it is! Cheers, John
Great video. Good to see a small bike doing something exciting.Shame its a bit naff though
Ha! Yeah, the capacity wasn't a problem, but the small physical size was for me. Cheers, John
It’s a cheap bike for a reason, up there with the likes of RE etc. Certainly a great trip and spot on video John.
Thanks very much! Personally, I'd put the Royal Enfields above this, not least because of the global dealer network
@@bennettsbikesocialThank goodness! Especially as you took, what is effectively, much the same route I hope to take … on a Super Meteor 650 (which ought to be vastly more comfy)😉🤞✌️
@@razzle1964 Have a brilliant trip, and pleased do share in on bikeclub.bennetts.co.uk
I have 3 types of gear - depends on the temperature - heat stroke and dehydration is also a risk🤓
Too cool! 😎
Loved the video, very interesting as I go into St Malo quiet often and recognised the roads you rode. I'd love to see you do this trip again on a CF MOTO MT450 as I'm interested in one of those and hope that the twin cylinder engine would feel nicer on the road. The fact that they are £5800 new sounds like a bargain if they are decent quality, comfortable and reliable. Please pencil in a repeat trip next year (or maybe the Italian lakes...🤔) and let us know how you get on😉👍👍
Thanks, and really glad you liked it! Sounds like I need to talk nicely to my boss...
Great video, wet my appetite for a cruise down to Santander and south on the bike!
Thanks! Enjoy yourself! Cheers, John
am off to Pyrenees next week temperatures have come down a bit about 24 c at night 14 c , it’s currently 35 each day to hot to ride unless you leave at 8 in morning till maybe midday then seek the shade 🤣🤣 i live here !
Definitely take some waterproof clothing. The second half of August gets plenty of storms especially in the afternoon and they can be like the Monsoon. Word of Spaniard 😉
I live in Asturias northern Spain. Just done 5 weeks back in UK and been asked when im moving back , but sorry but the traffic,, roads & motorways nightmare to many vehicals and people, glad you enjoyed the time here .
Thanks! I'm very jealous - it's a fantastic country.
I agree, coming back from the continent the scariest part is the UK!
What an epic video, I followed you online, but to see it in video is even better. I recently bought a CF Moto 450MT and I think it is as good as my Tenere. Zontes, maybe not so much......although it got you there and back.
Cheers! When choosing a bike to buy for this series we soon dismissed a CF Moto as, besides being out of budget, they're just too well established and, well, good!
Great video and advice, we love riding in Spain the roads are amazing and also the weather but always have cash as many remote stops have no internet so no banking and the locals prefer cash so why give the banks more money using cards . Must admit we cheat getting to Portsmouth or Plymouth as we live in Liverpool we put the bike in my van and leave the van near the ferry port , just can’t stand the ride down or the possibility of getting soaked am 60 now so am a bit of a wimp . Love the ferry to and from Santander it’s very relaxed and you can have a beer and a sleep if it’s not to choppy . Dave
Sounds like a good idea to me - why endure that at the start and end of a great trip!
Cheers, John
I really enjoyed your journey, even though there was a lot of suffering and angst….. but I guess everyone wants to be sure they’re going to get there…. I thought it was a genuinely brave thing crossing the water on the outward journey knowing the bike was playing up electronically if nothing else….. just give people an idea of what you can do if you took it a bit more easy and how far you can go with shorter daily rides on a small bike…. I commend you for that….
I’ve been searching for another motorcycle coming back to it after a little bit of a layoff even though I still have my 45 year old 800 BMW which back in the day happily ate journeys like that….. great memories of riding through Europe…. But I want to do it again but this time possibly on a 650 Enfield…. I know there will be doubters but I was born in an age when 650 was plenty and it did everything you wanted…..
Next post, buddy, brilliant
Thanks very much! I'll be going back, but with shorter daily rides, more time, and a more comfortable bike! All the best, John
A great real world, honest review.
Could you give me a few words on the Arai Quantic? I’m about to pull the trigger.
Thanks! Here's the full review: www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/products/helmets/arai-quantic
Off to Picos next year in May, thanks for the top tips great video!
Thanks for watching! Cheers, John
I didn't know about this ferry good to know, I mostly take night ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe with DFDS as mostly is cheaper than tunnel (also save me time as I'm off on Friday night) and you can have couple hours of mid sleep and start your journey through France from early morning
My engine management light came on during my Euro-tour in early July. Was because i put bad fuel in it. 1 pump station out in the middle of the Pyrenees. 85 octane :( All good now though.
Got back yesterday from Fuengirola. Used Portsmouth- Santander, Scrambler 1200 xe run like a dream and comfortable. 50 mpg only used a roads. Omg how hot was it,good luck John
Glad you had a good trip! Planning on going back? Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocialhi John i used to live there and grew to dislike sitting in the sun all day unlike all my family who were there on holiday. The bike ride was my holiday. Also done Lemans gp,and IOM this year.didn’t want to look at the scram for 2 weeks last night, but washed it today and already thinking about doing it again next year. Glutten for punishment or just doing it Before I get too old. You have big balls doing it on that bike solo. Love your content keep it coming 💪
Just did 6 hours back from Wales on my Tracer 9, moaning about how sore my rear end is. I will be quiet now I've seen the torture you've put yourself through! I definitely wouldn't trust this to take me across Europe...
Bet it was worth it though! Cheers, John
There were many riders from Spain and Italy in Norway. They said it was too hot to ride in their countries. From my experiences I agree as it was riding in a sauna. There are cooling vest available if you must ride south Europe in summer.
I did try to get a cooling vest, but in the end - riding in the mornings - it was fine. Cheers, John
Dude as well as a UK sticker seeing those panniers you need a wide load one as well 😅
Ha! They look bigger on this small bike. Somehow I managed to compact them on the ride home!
I always avoid July and August for long travel unless I'm going to the northern part of Spain, I'm from the south
Next time I go will likely be the north and centre, but I'm planning September. Cheers, John
Excellent video, very informative and enlightening. The only thing wrong was the boat anchor you rode on. I love and own odd ball bikes, but that heap is a step too far even for me.
A really great video John. I suspect those Shad panniers are the best thing on that bike. We loved ours on our Pyrenees trip. Wish we had a bit of that heat back in June.
Riding in Spain is so much better than the UK, even on a Chinese bike.
Its a bit of a treat having a decent hotel after a long hot slog.
We used the premium cabin which came with lounge access on the two night trip Portsmouth to Santander. It was class.
Oooh, is that the two berth Club cabin? If so, did you video it? Or if you have pics, please can you pop them on the FB group? I'm tempted to book one for a trip with Helen on the GS. Cheers, John
@bennettsbikesocial Not sure if your channel will accept a link to mine but from 9 mins in, is the club lounge and two berth cabin ruclips.net/video/8zHvEddsMIs/видео.htmlsi=oydyCQv-WIYOshKw
Excellent, thanks! Looks similar to the Salamanca I was on. Looking at bookings next year, I don't think either are on the fleet.
Epic journey well done you & well done Zontes
Thanks! All the best, John
Not seen all the videos, but have you done the valve clearances? Stalling and power loss are classic signs of this. Just watching the fork dive, some upgraded springs should be on the shopping list!
Cheers. No, but I'll mention it when it goes in for service. For now, it's being dealer serviced to make sure we keep the warranty.
British people are always welcome in Spain, bienvenido
Muchas gracias
The problem is the bike is not made to do long rides like this. OK for going back and thourth to work and maybe 200 trip once a year. I rode a Himalayn in north and western France. OK for RN roads but hit a motorway and regret it. Any bike around 650 is better for trips like yours.
I had similar issues with my MT09 on a trip, it turned out to be a TPS sensor issue (common fault), for me it was completely solved by cleaning the connector with contact cleaner and letting it dry. Suspect moisture stuck in the connector affected the voltages. I just did southern portugal on a transalp in 34deg peak temps. Revvit eclipse mesh gear was great, sweaty but never too uncomfortable to not enjoy it. Travel light, big topbox, swmotech holdall on back seat and no backpack 🤮! It’s an amazing part of the world, empty amazing roads, and the little/medium sized towns that you come across are so cultured and unspoiled by hoards of low cost airline tourists. And no worries of the bike getting nicked!
I'll have a check around for damp in the connectors - thanks!
@@bennettsbikesocial for me it wasn’t obvious there was anything in there, but it was night and day different after disconnecting, spraying in contact cleaner and leaving it unconnected to dry. 1000 miles now with no issues. Good luck 👍🏻
Good video, I've done quite a few hot rides in Europe, drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
Regarding your embarrassing moment when buying Coke, how on earth did you not have any Euros on you? 😮 34:27
Cheers! I'd given them to my mate when I stopped off with my wife and daughter as I hadn't needed any before that!
I wouldn't buy one but i subscribed a while back, just for the updates on this bike 🤣🤣 i like the idea of a value for money bike, i own the RE Himalayan 411.
Good choice on the Royal Enfield, and thanks VERY much for the sub! Cheers, John
I enjoyed watching your vlog John, even in the UK some places don't do cards (ie Grindleford Cafe ((Derbyshire)) due to no internet connection) so a few pennies euro's saves embarrassment, the 350 Zontes managed well, a bit of pouf you don't need to be on BMW 1200 + tourer. Back in the 1970's I toured on a Suzuki X7 and also watched Fat Man on a Small Motorcycle do the NC500 on a 125 Yamaha 2 stroke. We seem to be part due to mags / adverts stuck on large CC motorcycles. The Cf450MT Royal Enfield Hymie are just as good if not better for the bends
Small capacity isn't a problem, but small geometry is...
Great video diary of you trip on the Chinese beast 😉
Have you done the Pico's De Europa mountain range in Northern Spain?? An absolute bikers heaven !!!!!
Next time! Cheers, John