I'm 76, have mild tinnitus...(other cause rather than Biking)... l always wear ear protection... l currently use the Alpine 'red filter' version..but have used the 'black' filtration...( its a matter of decibels filtered).. also.Senna and other types in the past. Riding a naked or faired bike means some degree of choice decision ..Everybody has a different ear canal, even from left to right so l would suggest its a matter of trial and error.. The fact is hearing cannot be regained once damaged...Prolonged sound above 70/80 decibels can damage hearing. A motorcycle is above that, not including wind noise, so Bikers get in the habit of wearing ear protection
Absolutely correct regarding getting the right bike that suits. I had not had a bike for a few year's due to wife 🙄 and children etc. I decided to risk an argument with my wife and bought a great value bike which was a Benelli TRK 502. It was a lovely comfortable bike but very big and heavy and lot's of wind protection so felt slow. Once my wife accepted it I swapped it for a Yamaha FZ1S which had a Miv exhaust and sounded like a drive by shooting 😂 lots of fun but didn't particularly like the looks and was uncomfortable as I'm 50 year's old. My preference visually are vintage bikes so I bought a Triumph 1200 Thruxton R in silver with bikini fairing. Stunning looking to me but had a clucky gearbox and wasn't that comfy. I got rid of this and bought a ZZR1400 200hp rocket ship reasonably comfortable but this is when the penny dropped! I'd watched your video about the Royal Enfield classic 350 and I loved it. I now own one and during this good weather I've been going to work on it every day. It's easy to manoeuvre and get in and out. Super smooth and the look is unique. People who aren't even into bikes talk to me about it. It's the cheapest and slowest bike I've had but it gets so much attention. I might only do 2 longish trip's a year to the seaside the rest of the time just to and from work or trip to the pub. Honestly the best bike I've had . 100% great recommendation by yourself. It's a keeper like your Triumph!
For a new biker, the rungs up the ladder are an enjoyable discovery of just what bikes are capable of. When I first passed my test, like many I was constantly seeking the next thrill. The next move up the ladder in terms of engine size and performance was only a brief pause before the next rung. Whatever bike it was, it wasn't long before it felt slow and the next upgrade came along. Many years later, the gentle climb back down has actually been more enjoyable. And now, 43 years later I've recently bought a Classic 350. Strangely, it's actually recaptured the spirit of those early years. Sometimes, in the search for the next big thrill we forget what's really important about biking and you nailed it!
@@PhilipBallGarry yes I can't believe what a fantastic little bike it is. Some of my friends thought I was mad getting rid of my ZZR 1400 for the little 350 but it's so enjoyable to ride. Because of the style and power of the bike you don't do those silly overtakes that put you in danger . You catch up at the lights and go to the front of the queue anyway. You mentioned it reminds you of your early biking days, I agree. It's the best bike I've had and so easy to work on. 👍
Great words about the joy of biking. I have ridden for over 30 years and it is my only form of transport (I don't drive). Every day I enjoy riding, even though my commute is on city streets. Some of my most spiritual, Zen like moments have been on a bike. I could not imagine life without a bike.
Hey Freddie, amazing episode as always! Just one small itty bitty ask, can you please add chapters just so to know which topic you're on and to easily track back to a previously tackled one. Other than that congrats on concluding your trip to Morocco! ❤
Thanks for this tip- a few others have asked this in the past and I’ve never done it (laziness is my only excuse). I’ll try and put chapters in from now on🙂
I just want to say a quick thank you to Dave. The gentleman with the nerve damage and hearing loss. I have been riding for just over a year, and I have never really considered wearing ear plugs before. I know it came up on here last week, but I simply shrugged it off. I honestly did not think it was loud enough to cause hearing loss. I still don't think it is that loud at all, but now I know how it has affected Dave I will get a pair and wear then as a precautionary measure.
Ear plugs; started using them after I saw you using them. Good idea, to say the least. It's been years since I've ridden without wind protection; noise-wise they make a big difference. Also bought a RE Classic 350 thanks to your review.
Another superb podcast Freddie 👍 They make my Wednesday early mornings start fresh & busting to go for a ride to the cafe shop🙌😎 Great to see you back & enjoy summer 👌
I had a deer run into the side of my front wheel on my three year old HD Sportster. The bike cost me new and $ 11,000 Progressive Insurance paid me $8,200 for the bike plus they paid the cost when new for all my damaged safety gear, my helmet, leather jacket and boots and they never raised my rates. I am still with them today and my rates never went up, but they went down as my bikes aged!
Riding for 40 years: My mate has older Ducati's and he says his ears ring, but I've never experienced it. Back in 2014 I remember reading\ watching news about ear plugs for bikers. Following that I went and got me some CFG ear plugs in preparation for my first London to NC500 run. When I got to Penrith I took my helmet off (Shuberth) I heard ringing in my ears for the first time ever. I went back to CFG and had them done again as a precaution, but when I wore them on long runs I got ringing. Anyhoo, CFG went in drawer, and I've done the London to NC500 run 2 more times since without plugs (HJC lid). No issues since and I do 10K mikes a year. I accept that I'm slightly deafer in one ear than the other, but I have been since I could remember. The answer may depend on how much you ride per year.
I totally agree with you suggesting the Classic 350 as being the best choice for the person who has never ridden a bike but wants to. I purchased a red and chrome classic a year ago and have loved every minute on it. It had been almost 30yrs since I had ridden a bike and I was a bit worried about how I would go, but the Classic is such a steady bike on the road, suitable brakes and handles well. I have since bought a second bike, a 2000 Kawasaki W650 which I love riding as well but I still reach for keys to the 350 more often than not.
Getting a bike that fits you is such a personal quest we all have to go on. You can read as many reviews and watch as many videos as u want but the only way to know is either by getting a rental for atleast a few days or just ownership to know if a motorcycle really suits you. And sometimes our goals change and then the motorcycle has to change. I have swapped a few motorcycles in the last few years and now I finally found THE ONE for me, honda transalp 750. It ticks all my boxes and it makes me feel a way no other motorcycle has done.
Freddie your comment about moving from the Speed Triple to the Bonnie really resonates. I'm a similar age and spent my 20s on a litre bike which I do not regret but it became a case that it became a bike I only took out on Sunday and only when various stars aligned. Now I have a Moto Guzzi V7 and it has reinvigorated my love of riding and I find myself finding excuses to go for a ride as even going to get the milk puts a smile on my face. One of my mates has just traded his CBRRRRRR in for a Triumph T120 so I think our generation is beginning to shift.
If you have any doubts about your ability to ride (and maybe even if you don't) take a "Safe Rider" or similar course. There are things you'll need to learn that don't always come naturally. It only takes one mistake to become seriously injured (or worse).
Rear facing opening Ear flaps on skull caps....keeps wind noise at a minimum ...Like in WW 2 Pilots and crew had leather skull caps with ear cover that opening faced backwards... it works...
Great channel, love the format and content. The title of this one rings especially true for me about "garage queens" as after many years of biking I found myself falling into that trap when i bought my "dream bike" (and it really was!) a brand new Kawasaki Z900RS (think you rode one in Bali???). It was indeed a thing of beauty but it seldom saw the light of day if the weather looked even slightly inclement or even threatening (which it does a LOT in Ireland where I live) and consequently spent most of it's life mothballed in the garage.......yes, I had really "lost my way" as to what biking was all about. Ultimately it isn't all about the bike, but it's about RIDING the bike and the enjoyment and pleasure and special memories you get from doing that. Something had to change. So what did I do, yes, I sold the "garage queen" and started looking for something "cheap and cheerful".......something that I wouldn't be too "precious" about yet would still give me pleasure riding. What did I finally settle on? Somewhat strangely a bike that has very much gone under the radar in this country, mainly i think as it had a reputation as being "a jack of all trades yet master of none" and even being a tad "boring" dare I say it? The bike in question, a 2009 model Honda CBF 600 S, the half faired one not the naked N model (no, not it's famous brother the CBR600) this is a much less sports oriented bike than the CBR600 and has a much more upright and thus more comfortable riding position. As the 2009 model is the "second generation" of this bike (second gen from 2007 onwards till it finished production in 2013 the first gen ran from 2004) it has the fuel injected and de-tuned for midrange CBR600 engine whereas the first gen had the carburated Hornet engine. What a revelation this bike has been to me and it ticks all the boxes I need for my biking style ie. nothing outstanding to look at (so i don't get "precious" about it) yet with 76bhp from it's fuel injected four cylinder engine it can keep up with anything on the road and still be supremely comfortable all day long. Good fuel economy, smooth and tractable engine which pulls cleanly from 30mph even in top gear, it's an absolute pleasure to ride and one of the most underestimated bikes EVER in my opinion. Yes, I'm happy to say I've found my biking mojo again and it's all down to the humble yet supremely capable Honda CBF 600 S
Another interesting option could be the previous Ducati 1100 Scrambler because, the current model has both exhausts on the right preventing hard luggage. Classic looks and very comfortable- check out that seat. I’m a fan of Hepco Becker luggage,. Was able to order all those little items that needed replacement after damage through foult of my own. Thanks for your vlogs and tips from everyone else, ride safe…..
I have a BMW K1300s, it's the only non sports/super bike that i own although BMW did intend for it to be a precursor into that segment before the S1000RR came out. It's a great bike & much improved over the previous K1200s. I've done many miles on it including the NC500 up in scotland & it never let me down...apart from being reversed into by someone in a VW golf, was still able to continue! It's a great supertourer with good range from a full tank & power when you need it.
Earplugs or some other option to block noise is 100% required on a bike. In general when you're near noise. I'm middle aged but have always been paranoid about noise and as a result I can still enjoy music, and only have very minor issues understanding speech in a crowd (lots of people have enough damage where they find it very hard to differentiate voices in something like a bar setting, and aren't really aware yet their ears are damaged). Anything works, really. I like foam disposables, and as long as you insert them right - there is a technique, where you pull your ear up and back, and roll the foam tight tight, and then push them in uncomfortably deep and let them expand - they can do 30 db reduction very comfortably. I will admit that on long rides, I use a pair of small Shure SE215 in-ear monitor headphones, with foam tips from Comply; Comply has their P-Series which are extra long and girthy. You get very nearly the same 30 db, but now you can pipe in music at a reasonable volume and enjoy that which helps with motorway fatigue for me. I still keep them in in town - but with the music turned off, just using them as ear plugs there for greater situational awareness. The legality of riding with headphones varies from place to place, though. And some people frown on it. I for one find it helps avoid fatigue and helps concentration.
The first time I tried earplugs was after an hour plus motorway ride 2 up (1st time)on a very windy day. Arrived feeling shattered. Tried sponge plugs on the way home and the noise and tiredness difference was such that I haven’t ridden with out since. I use the Howard Leight Laser Lite (pink and yellow). As a commuter I generally wear the same pair for a week twice a day.
Great podcast as always. To the new rider worried about being a statistic....ride defensively, in other words.... Assume that other cars are going to pull out on you, Assume that cars will turn across the road, NEVER ride past a junction faster than 40 mph, assume that there is a car (or bike) there just about to pull out! NEVER race cars, they're taking much much less risk than you are. Keep to 30mph in towns and villages, there are too many hazards and lots of people just trying to get to the shops 20 secs fast than they might have done. Apart from that, as Freddie says, just enjoy it and have fun its one of the best things I've ever done. It's all about freedom and adventure, welcome to the pack.
The BMW's have ABS issues that cost a lot of money to fix. It put me off buying one a few years ago. I had a Dyna Superglide for 10 years and lost only £1k in depreciation when I sadly had to sell it. Buy a Moto Guzzi V100 Freddie, you can get panniers for it and it is a superb motorcycle
Hi Freddie! Short story: in June 2021, I bought a new-ish Speed Triple - in Sept 2021, I destroyed it beyond repair in a silly but scary accident (I fractured my pelvis, but I was all restored by early spring 2022). I did not have Comprehensive on that bike, what an idiot I was, just to save maybe 50 pounds a year on the insurance? Now I got a BMW R9T with all the insurance perks. I pay a little more, but the piece of mind is something else. Always go Comprehensive, y'all out there!
Underrated motorbike for commuting and day trips is a Honda CB300R. It looks like the Honda CB125/150R but has a big engine in relation to its size so narrow, short wheel base and tight turning circle so ideal for filtering through jammed up traffic. Less than 300cc makes it economical on fuel.
I had the large Viking hard panniers on my 1200 Speedmaster. A Corbin dual touring seat with backrest was enough to make my wife happy after the sale of our GL 1800 GoldWing.
I have used ear plugs for about 30 years. I could not now ride without them. I have always used the soft foam type. I keep them in the plastic case kinder egg toys come in. They are large enough to hold 2 pairs of ear plugs . I get mine from work but box's of them don't cost much.
The KLE 500 was a 400 in Japan when I lived there in the early '90s. Nice bike. Flat as a f4rt, though. I love the Triumph T120. 76-year-old mother on the back seat. Blimey! Earplugs: I wear the cheap yellow jobs. Keep the Bonneville. But if you do change it, the T120 shouldn't be rejected because it's too like the outgoing bike, because you love the current one so much. I agree with you: panniers that lock. A discounted BMW R18 would be a great bike. You'd love it, Freddie. The 'Ol Man loves his. I've sold the MT-01, Freddie. All motorcycle insurance in Portugal is TPFT. I thoroughly enjoy this channel.
I think O may go back to the cheap yellow plugs for now. I love watching and Darcy’s channel and he does an extremely good job of promoting the BMW👌🏻 The MT-01’s gone! What’s replaced it?
@@tuesdayatdobbs I am looking towards moving to northern Thailand full-time as I live with a woman there, so no bike is replacing it here, although I have a Can-Am F3-S for use here until I sell up. In Thailand it's a Yamaha Aerox 155, KTM 390 Duke Mk2 and a Yamaha SCR950. I felt a sense of loss as the MT-01 pulled away post-sale.
Freddie I had that K1300s in that very colour in the Grey and Red it was as comfortable as to ride and the power and sound from the engine induction ❤❤❤
I've bought a giant box of disposable moldex earplugs. As you mentioned, I find those work the best (noise reduction wise). I've tried motorcycle-specific ones with fancy filters, but didn't like those as much. Also, I tend to lose and drop earplugs often. So rather than trying to clean them, I just use another set of 20-cent disposable earplugs. I never ride without earplugs, I find it much more comfortable with them. I've done so pretty much from the beginning, after I was amazed be the amount of wind noise first time riding faster than parking lot speeds during my tests.
Ear plugs - Custom all the way and if you can get the ones which will allow music and comms to be used as an option would be handy when ur are on those long trips. I had a set cost £150 lasted around 5 years before I replaced…. Good pay back
Hi i have tinitus from army tank use in the 70,s and 80s , now being 66yrs old and damaged hearing from prolonged noise, i always use ear plugs #howard"type soft and got a pkt of 20 every 2 yrs and they are the best , no fatigue no headache and not worn out or tired at the end of the ride out, i have toured around europe and no issues, have tryied most other types even had them made when up at the bike show at the nec about 10yrs go but always found the manufactured for motorbike have short coming and the bigget problem i fond id when fitted and worn they seem to produce pressure in the ear canal from the helmet speakers push inwards , so i find the foam the as the contor veay easly i never ride without them and will always stop to put in or replace , as once your hearing is damaged you cant get it back, The best advice i was told and ride accorinly to is that the throttle goes both ways and do all the speed and road position while upright and before the bend
Hi Freddie I had a K1300S bought new in 2014, I only kept it a year and here's why. Exocet fast in a straight line but was very heavy with the turning circle of an oil tanker, consequently handled slow and was a nightmare on twisting UK B roads. Also, drank oil for fun and the brakes were always binding. I swapped it for an S1000R and took a big financial hit. Worst BMW I've owned.
A quick one about protected no claims bonus. I have always protected my ncb and about 5 years back the Audi i had at the time was written off. Some little bleep bleep bleeps vandalised it outside my mother's home in Slough. I purchased the car for £10k 2 years prior to the incident. I was paid out by the insurance company a pathetic sum of money that was not even close to what it would have cost me to replace the car, but that is for another day. The key point here was that i kept my 12 years no claims, so when I insured my next vehicle the insurance wasn't increased that much at all. I figured it went up by around 10 to 15%. When speaking to the broker's, they said that my premium had increased due to the wright off, but it would have been a lot worse if i had lost my ncb as well. With most insurance companies ncb discounts max out at 9 years so I was recieving the highest discount possible. I believe that i was receiving similar quotes to before the incident within 3 years. I know this is anecdotal but I thought it might be useful in response to last weeks statemet that protected ncb seems to be a con. P.s. its late and i really should have gone to sleep by now 😂. If you can find a way to say this more succinctly i won't be offended 😂😂😂.
I almost got the XSR700 before buying my Bonneville 865. The Bonnie has been great. FYI, I put the Bonnie on Tune ECU this weekend and balanced my throttle bodies. I never would have thought there was anything wrong, but after the balance, it ran so smoothly on my ride to and from work today. Wow!
I know I’m a bit lagging on the comments, but just got around to catching up on the episode. Still curious to see you throw a leg over a Triumph Tiger 900. I have yet to try one myself, but I’ve been very intrigued from all the reviews I’ve seen, and I’m a Triumph fan. First was a 2015 air cooled mag wheel Bonnie, similar to yours, and now I have a 2020 T120. Despite the similarities to the 2015, it’s really been a fantastic upgrade in every way - more power, more stability, fuel gauge, heated grips, cruise control, plus multiple different pannier options. And finally, for the new rider, my first bike was a Suzuki TU250, which I think flies under the radar. 17 HP but the bike only weighs about 350 lbs. Power is one consideration for the new rider, but seat height and weight often get overlooked. I’m only 5’ 8” and 155lbs, so those were important considerations for me. The Suzuki was a great first step until I moved up to the Bonnie. The REs all seem a little tall for me, especially when I was a new rider. Another good consideration if a new rider prefers the cruiser look is the Honda Rebel 350 or 500. Great stuff as always, both here and on your other channel. (US viewer here)
I never used earplugs when riding. The sound in my full-face helmets never seemed that loud. I probably should have used them while playing drums though as i now have a pretty good case of tinnitus. I think if i were buying a bike today, considering price and type, i'd go for either a new Royal Enfield Interceptor or a used Triumph Bonneville SE.
Hi Freddy . I was happy to hear you read out my comment on my R18 . They are a bit marmite i must admit . If you ever want to do a ride/review on mine you are more than welcome . Im just down the road near Chelmsford
Hi Freddie, When looking at ear plugs, the SNR (single number rating) is important. I wear 3m Ear Soft FX plugs, the yellow ones. They have an SNR of 39, and I've yet to find a plug with a higher rating. If anyone knows of a disposable plug with a better rating ,please let me know, as I suffer badly with tinnitus, from years of riding without ear protection. Protect your ears with the best you can Freddie, it's worth it, no matter the cost.
I recommend advanced training immediately after passing the test and getting that first bike. There will likely be a local advanced rider group within most areas.
When l first started out it wasn't so necessary because traffic not to mention road rage wasn't an issue....not so much anyway!...However l concur, there is a great deal more experienced riders can pass on to novice riders. l habitual watch fast track riders on RUclips. Very much can be gleaned, not the speed so much but the use of controls, observation, target fixation, use of the throttle and brakes.... staying aware and observant on a motorcycle is all..
I've also made and adjustment and sold my 2017 Harley Davidson, street rod 750, was a good bike for me, but it sat in the garage to much and I could not ride it on some gravel roads for the fear of damaging it too much. I've managed to sell it for an even higher price that I bought it and then bought and rebuilt a HONDA NX 650 Dominator 1995, which I rode to Iceland and back this year. This could have not been a better decision for myself.
To start with, well done on your Morocco trip. It is something my wife and i are seriously looking at for next March. I have a Tenere World Raid, she has a Tracer. Me, with the Tenere am very tempted to do some sandy desert offroady stuff. Is it something you considered doing in general whilst there - albeit you need the bike and the tyres for that? Earplugs at anything over 50 mph, squidgy ones work absolutely fine from German autobahns to windy twisties. Also buying them K1300S and Harleys is one thing, owning them is an absolute different beast in terms of cost. FInally, i totally agree with Paul (Tenere). I went from an R1200GSA that only saw Starbucks in it's 3 yrs despite massive adv plans, and a Tracer 9GT with all bells and whistles (would have kept it but no room) - and gone to a Tenere World Raid, and it's absolutely brilliant. The 700 engine is strong all the way upto 100 mph - which i really wouldnt wanna do on a loaded adv bikes doing long distance. The Tenere is the swiss knife of bikes for sure.
I've been using MEE M6 pro earphones. They're a cheaper copy of musician in-ear monitors and work pretty well. I have to wear a balaclava or they'll be pulled out, but they allow me to listen to music and don't give that underwater feeling you can get from some plugs.
I'm currently riding a 2004 Yamaha xv1700 road star, bought it in 2020 for £5500 with 4000 miles on the clock in absolute mint condition, thrown a batwing, crash bars and a riders back rest on it, it's air cooled and carbed and extremely easy to work on and at 6'2" hands down it's the most comfortable and best bike i've ever had.
Freddie. It's always worth checking out the cost of fully comprehensive cover as these days it's often cheaper than tpft. I'm not sure why, but it may be that the underwriters value your commitment to responsibility and adjust risk accordingly?
Freddie, enjoy your podcasts and it was from that source I came to this video. Generally agree with much of what you say, however, you are mistaken when it comes to the 'No Claims Bonus' (aka NCB). NCB is a discount off of the top-line cost of an insurance policy. NCB, for those who don't know, is built up each year when the policyholder doesn't make a claim. When you protect your NCB, if YOU make a claim against YOUR policy, you won't lose that discount. If a 3rd party causes an accident against you, it should not affect your NCB discount. Having an NCB does not stop your insurance policy cost from going up - the NCB is simply a discount off of the top-line cost of the policy. So, as an example, if you have an insurance policy that costs £1000, and you have NCB equating to 50%, you end up paying £500 for the policy. If you make a claim against your policy because you came off your bike, if you have protected the NCB when you renew although the policy itself might have gone up to, say, £1200 per annum (as you are riskier in the eyes of the underwriter), you have your NCB equating to 50% discount, therefore you will pay £600 per annum. If you had not protected your NCB, then when you renew, not only will the policy renewal go up to £1200, but you have no discount to apply to that top-line cost therefore you will end up having to pay £1200. Hope that makes sense, and why in my eyes, it makes sense to protect your NCB. Of course, I could be wrong, and it would be helpful to hear from others if I have misunderstood this over the past 35 years of riding and driving.
Happy earplugs are good. I paid $250 CAD for a custom pair at audiologist they are not comfortable at all. I also use loops they are filtered so they give a little less protection than Happy so I tend to use loop in traffic so I have a bit more awareness.
For new riders ,biking risks are manageable: 1. Other road users are not looking for you. Be prepared. 2. Reduce your speed when other road users are about. 3. Use the safety gear that matches your riding style. AA and level 1 are a good start The only high vis gear i have is my rain gear.
I know I'm 2 months late to this one, but I have to add on to what you said about protected no claims bonus. I had a beautiful Audi A4 convertible (2009) (the last year they made a convertible A4). The car was vandalised by some, let's say, humans.... It was a write-off. I had protected no claims bonus of 12 years (discount maxes out at 9 years). When insuring my new vehicle there was a premium added due to the fact you have to disclose if you have been involved in an accident in the past either 3 or 5 years, I can't remember exactly. So, they do add a premium for the accident, but then they discount your premium with your no claims. I paid a small premium over what it would have been had I not made a claim, but the premium would have been far, far higher if I had also lost my no claims bonus. What I am poorly trying to explain is that your NCB is separate in the insurance companies' eyes to if you have made a claim in the past x amount of years. Two separate ways for them to increase your premium.
I had a 08 K1200s and it was a rocket ship but l couldn’t get used to the isolated front suspension, lacked feel around roundabouts etc My old model softail slim was £14750 from a dealer 16 months ago, offered me £10-11k for it last month. Wasn’t impressed.
Hi Freddy Question, RE the Triumph modern classics, if you had the choice to buy a new Speed twin 900 or a Bonneville T120, which would You choose, why? I have a Street twin 900 currently and have been considering the upgrade. Tks
I've sat on the BMW 'cruiser' and it's not a cruiser, you can't stretch your legs out, that engine is in the way. Looks great but isn't what it claims. Now Moto Guzzi can do it as they don't use an airplane engine in their bikes, the Califonia was a great cruiser 😄
Hi freddie! Long time fan of the channel and wanted to ask you a question which I am hoping you could help me with. It is a bit of a challenge. 'As a new rider at 25 who has just done my DAS, I have a budget of £3,000 as I have only just graduated and got a job. I am not a big fan of naked / sports bikes. What would you recommend I look into ? People are constantly advising me not to get carbed motorcycles as a new rider. Not sure what to be looking at if not old retros' I am hoping to get any input you have at all! Cant wait to hear from you.
Hi Sundar, Great question and I’ll make sure to cover this in next week’s episode🙂 The Honda comment below is extremely hard to argue with. And the carved advice I’d also agree with👌🏻👌🏻
A mate had a kle500 but as we are both over 6 foot neither of us could get comfortable on it due to set back pegs, as i'm a returning rider (partly down to your channel) I don't have any no claims am insured third party as well due to price and like you have a low value bike and i dont see the point in fully comp for me maybe when i have some no claims and the premium goes down.
The biggest problem with owning a 1991 Kawasaki KLE 500 is finding parts. Limited production equals limited parts. I don’t want to own a museum piece I want to be able to ride it. 😜😜👍👍
Insurance is absolutely crucial. For Americans especially, if you ride with poor insurance in America you're a certifiable lunatic. The costs can be absolutely preposterous, and if you lack un/underinsured coverage that covers everything you need done if you get run over by someone else with inadequate or non-existing insurance, you can go bankrupt. Not all health insurance covers traffic injuries either. Where I live we have universal health care, but you can still wind up with high liability if you, say, ride right into a Bugatti... and the occupants start screaming "whiplash" and unleash a pack of lawyers at you. Good traffic insurance, *especially* for long tours, is just not optional. Not a risk worth taking.
We Really enjoyed watching your Morocco adventure. The R18 is a beautiful piece of art. But BMW missed the trick by going too big heavy and pricey a 1200 boxer with similar pricing to the speed master would have been a better option. They are being heavily discounted in dealerships with low finance. Second hand…… well? Can see it being discontinued.
Hi Geoff, it’s last season’s shirt, but I found it still available here: www.zalando.co.uk/abercrombie-and-fitch-shirt-tan-a0f22d03j-b11.html?size=L&allophones=0&wmc=SEM440_NB_GO._3909818306_605707574_24315859821.&opc=2211&mpp=google%7Cv1%7C%7Cpla-293946777986%7C%7C1006826%7C%7Cg%7Cm%7C%7C107769544221%7C%7Cpla%7CA0F22D03J-B11000L000%7C293946777986%7C1%7C&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADM17YZzjjgzdFyh5VHb-KTcsLYig&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4NujBhC5ARIsAF4Iv6dfNAxd0JepkiqcyqInELjBBRZPwlOHTbIXdrqc2-Lsa2WRwUNe2eYaAjYNEALw_wcB
Earplugs, I don't hear you mention the helmet, I used to ride with BMW System helmets and Shoei's Neotecs and never felt the need for earplugs but at the moment I ride a naked bike and more "cool" helmets and I do realise things get noisy! I'll try some of the options you suggest.
Safety on a motorcycle - take training courses, read up on advanced riding and then practice, practice, practice. Safety has a lot to do with how you ride - control your speed, no drinking/drugs & driving. Ride defensively, pay attention to what is going on around you and always assume the other guy will do something unanticipated.
Ear plugs. I've got really furry ears which makes ear plugs a nuisance, however With my tube scarf fitted up over my ears it really quietens down the wind noise. Cheers from NZ
The need for hearing protection cannot be overstressed. I’m mid 50’s with 40 years riding and have lost most of the hearing in my left ear. Even now I don’t always fit them and should. Bike wise the perfect bike isn’t the posers solution of a harley, the best imho after owning over 35 bikes bar none is the bmw r1250rs. Sporty but upright and can come with hard luggage for touring. That or the naked R1250 or 1200. Better bikes than most trumpets hands down. Better balanced, more reliable and seriously capable. Yet have character in spades. There’s a reason they’re popular but haters will hate. I’ve had two Harley sportsters, the last being the gorgeous looking 1200 Classic in black. Utterly useless and unreliable. Heavy, appallingly bad handling, poor brakes. Appalling build quality. Don’t be tempted. I’d never own another. Agree with you regarding safety. People do NOT ride defensively enough. I watch other bikers riding headlong into opportunities every day….opportunities for accidents. Much is down to appalling observation , failure to respect hazards and a sense of invulnerability which disappears after its too late. Riding too fast fir road conditions is the most common fault, then comes poor observation and mitigation, then poor road positioning and riding too close to vehicles in front. You need two bikes, ideally, a small urban commuter with inbuilt fun like a good used Ktm Duke, and a fun sporty tourer, naked or half faired long haul sporty comfortable tourer. If budget is stretched then a good shout is an R12000R ysed then add pannier fittings, small screen and you have the do it all but hugely capable fun bike. Yam is overweight and imho not a great bike compared with the newer Honda Transalp or MT07. Any big trail bike will do similar though.
It actually goes even deeper than making a claim, they will log or flag you account even if you phone them and let them know there has been an incident and that ramps up your premium, I had a sat nav stolen from my van, they had smashed the small triangular window to get at it (silly me for leaving it out) but I phoned my insurance to ask was it worth making a claim or was window cover included etc, just to weigh up my options. Turned out it was cheaper to just find a secondf hand one and fit it m,yself didnt need to claim. Renewal comes round and my premium is nearly double. I questioned why, and they said with the date that i had a recorded incident that year. Do not tell them anything unless you are making a claim.
Excellent watch very interesting stuff Freddie I never protected my no claims as you say it is pointless I did however go for legal protection this time but I am not really sure if this is worth doing either it cost me I think around an extra £40 pounds or so .I have no doubt that insurance companies are just thieving rogues who just pray on peoples fears /concerns .However as you say the third party idea although having the advantage of saving money probably is a little risky , for this reason I always go fully comp .😉👌👍
Triumph Rocket III Touring. Hard panniers, awesome ride quality. No top box, but you can buy a nice bag to mount to a luggage rack to supplement the bags. Harley... pfft. 😀
as to the one do it all bike, I'm far more likely to jump on a smaller bike at the drop of a hat than one designed to only travel cross country on an interstate highway or only designed to race around a track
Freddie is doing an Intensive Direct Access Course worth it? What do you think are the statistics of persons passing both Mod 1 & Mod 2 first time in under a week on bikes over 550cc having never touched a bike except on the CBT course?
Hello. I know your question is aimed at Freddie but I did exactly what you ask about. Except that I failed my first test ( through absent mindedness) but I did pass the second time. It is thoroughly important to choose a good school though, my instructors were still very passionate about biking and showed us early on skills to be envied.
Really interesting question. I think it’s 100% worth doing a DAS but JW’s spot on- picking a good DAS school makes a huge difference to the enjoyment and amount you learn. I’d never touched a bike before my DAS and I failed Mod 1 first time around. It is painful (financially and to one’s ego) when you fail😆
Thank you Freddie and others for your replies and also for including me in this weeks Podcast. Over the past week I’ve bought myself a 125 to learn on and have decided rather than do an intensive course, I’ll do my lessons over a longer period. I feel this way will make me a more confident, competent and safer rider. I’ve followed the Channel for quite some time but never commented, for you to reply has made my week. I wish both you and Monika the greatest success for all your hard work and commitment.
Hi Freddie, I am very tempted to move from my KLV1000 to a nice retro style machine. The one thing holding me back is the level of wind/ weather protection. Irish weather is chronic bar 3 months. Can a retro style bike be fitted with decent weather protection without ruining the looks and vibe? Thanks for the entertainment. By the way, did you master the long drop toilet?
A very very good question re wind protection and retro bikes that I often look into, Richard. I think this is where cruisers come in, as they wear the wind protection setup (big screen etc) more naturally than modern classics. I’ll look into this further. Long drop toilets… I somehow managed to not use them once!!
They do but hard to fit under a helmet. Noise cancelling works on persistent noise, like engine noise. If the computer in them can anticipate the sound, it can play the "counter sound" and it cancels out. However, for a motorcycle, you're better off with passive noise isolation. A pair of Shure SE215 headphones with Comply P-Series foam tips (the tips are too expensive but sadly the best so I pay it) you get earplugs - with music. Just keep the volume down.
Take it seriously with ear protection. I was in only one rock concert without ear plugs and my hearing is permantly damaged. Not just loss of hearing but painful hypersensitivity too. I wish I knew it only takes a few minutes to do so much damage.
I didn’t understand the story about no claims bonus. Didn’t his dad make a claim - therefore would lose the no claims bonus? He didn’t in fact protect the no claims bonus…. Or did I misunderstand?
Sorry if I wasn’t clear; My dad had no claims bonus protection. He then had a crash and made a claim. The insurer kept his No claims bonus but still hugely hiked up his premium because he’d crashed. I.e, protecting NCB is pointless because your premium still shoots up anyway
I'm 76, have mild tinnitus...(other cause rather than Biking)... l always wear ear protection... l currently use the Alpine 'red filter' version..but have used the 'black' filtration...( its a matter of decibels filtered).. also.Senna and other types in the past. Riding a naked or faired bike means some degree of choice decision ..Everybody has a different ear canal, even from left to right so l would suggest its a matter of trial and error.. The fact is hearing cannot be regained once damaged...Prolonged sound above 70/80 decibels can damage hearing. A motorcycle is above that, not including wind noise, so Bikers get in the habit of wearing ear protection
Alpine plugs are great. I’ve been using them for years👍
They would boost your premium anyway so if they doubled your premium and you also list your No claims bonus it would be doubly sore!
Absolutely correct regarding getting the right bike that suits. I had not had a bike for a few year's due to wife 🙄 and children etc. I decided to risk an argument with my wife and bought a great value bike which was a Benelli TRK 502. It was a lovely comfortable bike but very big and heavy and lot's of wind protection so felt slow. Once my wife accepted it I swapped it for a Yamaha FZ1S which had a Miv exhaust and sounded like a drive by shooting 😂 lots of fun but didn't particularly like the looks and was uncomfortable as I'm 50 year's old. My preference visually are vintage bikes so I bought a Triumph 1200 Thruxton R in silver with bikini fairing. Stunning looking to me but had a clucky gearbox and wasn't that comfy. I got rid of this and bought a ZZR1400 200hp rocket ship reasonably comfortable but this is when the penny dropped! I'd watched your video about the Royal Enfield classic 350 and I loved it. I now own one and during this good weather I've been going to work on it every day. It's easy to manoeuvre and get in and out. Super smooth and the look is unique. People who aren't even into bikes talk to me about it. It's the cheapest and slowest bike I've had but it gets so much attention. I might only do 2 longish trip's a year to the seaside the rest of the time just to and from work or trip to the pub. Honestly the best bike I've had . 100% great recommendation by yourself. It's a keeper like your Triumph!
For a new biker, the rungs up the ladder are an enjoyable discovery of just what bikes are capable of. When I first passed my test, like many I was constantly seeking the next thrill. The next move up the ladder in terms of engine size and performance was only a brief pause before the next rung. Whatever bike it was, it wasn't long before it felt slow and the next upgrade came along. Many years later, the gentle climb back down has actually been more enjoyable. And now, 43 years later I've recently bought a Classic 350. Strangely, it's actually recaptured the spirit of those early years. Sometimes, in the search for the next big thrill we forget what's really important about biking and you nailed it!
@@PhilipBallGarry yes I can't believe what a fantastic little bike it is. Some of my friends thought I was mad getting rid of my ZZR 1400 for the little 350 but it's so enjoyable to ride. Because of the style and power of the bike you don't do those silly overtakes that put you in danger . You catch up at the lights and go to the front of the queue anyway. You mentioned it reminds you of your early biking days, I agree. It's the best bike I've had and so easy to work on. 👍
Great words about the joy of biking. I have ridden for over 30 years and it is my only form of transport (I don't drive). Every day I enjoy riding, even though my commute is on city streets. Some of my most spiritual, Zen like moments have been on a bike. I could not imagine life without a bike.
Hey Freddie, amazing episode as always! Just one small itty bitty ask, can you please add chapters just so to know which topic you're on and to easily track back to a previously tackled one. Other than that congrats on concluding your trip to Morocco! ❤
Thanks for this tip- a few others have asked this in the past and I’ve never done it (laziness is my only excuse). I’ll try and put chapters in from now on🙂
I just want to say a quick thank you to Dave. The gentleman with the nerve damage and hearing loss.
I have been riding for just over a year, and I have never really considered wearing ear plugs before. I know it came up on here last week, but I simply shrugged it off. I honestly did not think it was loud enough to cause hearing loss. I still don't think it is that loud at all, but now I know how it has affected Dave I will get a pair and wear then as a precautionary measure.
Ear plugs; started using them after I saw you using them. Good idea, to say the least. It's been years since I've ridden without wind protection; noise-wise they make a big difference. Also bought a RE Classic 350 thanks to your review.
I’m so happy to hear this- on both points!🙂
Another superb podcast Freddie 👍 They make my Wednesday early mornings start fresh & busting to go for a ride to the cafe shop🙌😎 Great to see you back & enjoy summer 👌
I’m so happy to hear it, Steve!🙂
I had a deer run into the side of my front wheel on my three year old HD Sportster. The bike cost me new and $ 11,000 Progressive Insurance paid me $8,200 for the bike plus they paid the cost when new for all my damaged safety gear, my helmet, leather jacket and boots and they never raised my rates. I am still with them today and my rates never went up, but they went down as my bikes aged!
Riding for 40 years: My mate has older Ducati's and he says his ears ring, but I've never experienced it. Back in 2014 I remember reading\ watching news about ear plugs for bikers. Following that I went and got me some CFG ear plugs in preparation for my first London to NC500 run. When I got to Penrith I took my helmet off (Shuberth) I heard ringing in my ears for the first time ever. I went back to CFG and had them done again as a precaution, but when I wore them on long runs I got ringing. Anyhoo, CFG went in drawer, and I've done the London to NC500 run 2 more times since without plugs (HJC lid). No issues since and I do 10K mikes a year. I accept that I'm slightly deafer in one ear than the other, but I have been since I could remember. The answer may depend on how much you ride per year.
I totally agree with you suggesting the Classic 350 as being the best choice for the person who has never ridden a bike but wants to. I purchased a red and chrome classic a year ago and have loved every minute on it. It had been almost 30yrs since I had ridden a bike and I was a bit worried about how I would go, but the Classic is such a steady bike on the road, suitable brakes and handles well. I have since bought a second bike, a 2000 Kawasaki W650 which I love riding as well but I still reach for keys to the 350 more often than not.
Getting a bike that fits you is such a personal quest we all have to go on. You can read as many reviews and watch as many videos as u want but the only way to know is either by getting a rental for atleast a few days or just ownership to know if a motorcycle really suits you. And sometimes our goals change and then the motorcycle has to change. I have swapped a few motorcycles in the last few years and now I finally found THE ONE for me, honda transalp 750. It ticks all my boxes and it makes me feel a way no other motorcycle has done.
Freddie your comment about moving from the Speed Triple to the Bonnie really resonates. I'm a similar age and spent my 20s on a litre bike which I do not regret but it became a case that it became a bike I only took out on Sunday and only when various stars aligned. Now I have a Moto Guzzi V7 and it has reinvigorated my love of riding and I find myself finding excuses to go for a ride as even going to get the milk puts a smile on my face. One of my mates has just traded his CBRRRRRR in for a Triumph T120 so I think our generation is beginning to shift.
Very interesting to hear this!
If you have any doubts about your ability to ride (and maybe even if you don't) take a "Safe Rider" or similar course. There are things you'll need to learn that don't always come naturally. It only takes one mistake to become seriously injured (or worse).
Rear facing opening Ear flaps on skull caps....keeps wind noise at a minimum ...Like in WW 2 Pilots and crew had leather skull caps with ear cover that opening faced backwards... it works...
Great channel, love the format and content. The title of this one rings especially true for me about "garage queens" as after many years of biking I found myself falling into that trap when i bought my "dream bike" (and it really was!) a brand new Kawasaki Z900RS (think you rode one in Bali???). It was indeed a thing of beauty but it seldom saw the light of day if the weather looked even slightly inclement or even threatening (which it does a LOT in Ireland where I live) and consequently spent most of it's life mothballed in the garage.......yes, I had really "lost my way" as to what biking was all about. Ultimately it isn't all about the bike, but it's about RIDING the bike and the enjoyment and pleasure and special memories you get from doing that. Something had to change. So what did I do, yes, I sold the "garage queen" and started looking for something "cheap and cheerful".......something that I wouldn't be too "precious" about yet would still give me pleasure riding. What did I finally settle on? Somewhat strangely a bike that has very much gone under the radar in this country, mainly i think as it had a reputation as being "a jack of all trades yet master of none" and even being a tad "boring" dare I say it? The bike in question, a 2009 model Honda CBF 600 S, the half faired one not the naked N model (no, not it's famous brother the CBR600) this is a much less sports oriented bike than the CBR600 and has a much more upright and thus more comfortable riding position. As the 2009 model is the "second generation" of this bike (second gen from 2007 onwards till it finished production in 2013 the first gen ran from 2004) it has the fuel injected and de-tuned for midrange CBR600 engine whereas the first gen had the carburated Hornet engine. What a revelation this bike has been to me and it ticks all the boxes I need for my biking style ie. nothing outstanding to look at (so i don't get "precious" about it) yet with 76bhp from it's fuel injected four cylinder engine it can keep up with anything on the road and still be supremely comfortable all day long. Good fuel economy, smooth and tractable engine which pulls cleanly from 30mph even in top gear, it's an absolute pleasure to ride and one of the most underestimated bikes EVER in my opinion. Yes, I'm happy to say I've found my biking mojo again and it's all down to the humble yet supremely capable Honda CBF 600 S
Nice chat Freddie, good point when answering Dave’s question about safety riding. Thanks ❤
Another interesting option could be the previous Ducati 1100 Scrambler because, the current model has both exhausts on the right preventing hard luggage.
Classic looks and very comfortable- check out that seat.
I’m a fan of Hepco Becker luggage,. Was able to order all those little items that needed replacement after damage through foult of my own.
Thanks for your vlogs and tips from everyone else, ride safe…..
Ear plugs reduce the stress on a bike. Better for hearing protection too.
I have a BMW K1300s, it's the only non sports/super bike that i own although BMW did intend for it to be a precursor into that segment before the S1000RR came out. It's a great bike & much improved over the previous K1200s. I've done many miles on it including the NC500 up in scotland & it never let me down...apart from being reversed into by someone in a VW golf, was still able to continue! It's a great supertourer with good range from a full tank & power when you need it.
Earplugs or some other option to block noise is 100% required on a bike. In general when you're near noise. I'm middle aged but have always been paranoid about noise and as a result I can still enjoy music, and only have very minor issues understanding speech in a crowd (lots of people have enough damage where they find it very hard to differentiate voices in something like a bar setting, and aren't really aware yet their ears are damaged). Anything works, really. I like foam disposables, and as long as you insert them right - there is a technique, where you pull your ear up and back, and roll the foam tight tight, and then push them in uncomfortably deep and let them expand - they can do 30 db reduction very comfortably. I will admit that on long rides, I use a pair of small Shure SE215 in-ear monitor headphones, with foam tips from Comply; Comply has their P-Series which are extra long and girthy. You get very nearly the same 30 db, but now you can pipe in music at a reasonable volume and enjoy that which helps with motorway fatigue for me. I still keep them in in town - but with the music turned off, just using them as ear plugs there for greater situational awareness. The legality of riding with headphones varies from place to place, though. And some people frown on it. I for one find it helps avoid fatigue and helps concentration.
The first time I tried earplugs was after an hour plus motorway ride 2 up (1st time)on a very windy day. Arrived feeling shattered. Tried sponge plugs on the way home and the noise and tiredness difference was such that I haven’t ridden with out since. I use the Howard Leight Laser Lite (pink and yellow). As a commuter I generally wear the same pair for a week twice a day.
Great podcast as always. To the new rider worried about being a statistic....ride defensively, in other words....
Assume that other cars are going to pull out on you,
Assume that cars will turn across the road,
NEVER ride past a junction faster than 40 mph, assume that there is a car (or bike) there just about to pull out!
NEVER race cars, they're taking much much less risk than you are.
Keep to 30mph in towns and villages, there are too many hazards and lots of people just trying to get to the shops 20 secs fast than they might have done.
Apart from that, as Freddie says, just enjoy it and have fun its one of the best things I've ever done. It's all about freedom and adventure, welcome to the pack.
The BMW's have ABS issues that cost a lot of money to fix. It put me off buying one a few years ago.
I had a Dyna Superglide for 10 years and lost only £1k in depreciation when I sadly had to sell it.
Buy a Moto Guzzi V100 Freddie, you can get panniers for it and it is a superb motorcycle
Researching the V100 now!🙂
Hi Freddie! Short story: in June 2021, I bought a new-ish Speed Triple - in Sept 2021, I destroyed it beyond repair in a silly but scary accident (I fractured my pelvis, but I was all restored by early spring 2022). I did not have Comprehensive on that bike, what an idiot I was, just to save maybe 50 pounds a year on the insurance? Now I got a BMW R9T with all the insurance perks. I pay a little more, but the piece of mind is something else. Always go Comprehensive, y'all out there!
Underrated motorbike for commuting and day trips is a Honda CB300R.
It looks like the Honda CB125/150R but has a big engine in relation to its size so narrow, short wheel base and tight turning circle so ideal for filtering through jammed up traffic. Less than 300cc makes it economical on fuel.
A lot of people just don't know about the R 18, that BMW makes a cruiser. I've been told as much.
*It has a shaft instead of a chain or belt. While it might be longer lasting, it's complexity does scare potential owners.*
First Tuesday at Dobbs....loved it...👍👍🏼
I had the large Viking hard panniers on my 1200 Speedmaster. A Corbin dual touring seat with backrest was enough to make my wife happy after the sale of our GL 1800 GoldWing.
I have used ear plugs for about 30 years. I could not now ride without them. I have always used the soft foam type. I keep them in the plastic case kinder egg toys come in. They are large enough to hold 2 pairs of ear plugs . I get mine from work but box's of them don't cost much.
The KLE 500 was a 400 in Japan when I lived there in the early '90s. Nice bike. Flat as a f4rt, though. I love the Triumph T120. 76-year-old mother on the back seat. Blimey! Earplugs: I wear the cheap yellow jobs. Keep the Bonneville. But if you do change it, the T120 shouldn't be rejected because it's too like the outgoing bike, because you love the current one so much. I agree with you: panniers that lock. A discounted BMW R18 would be a great bike. You'd love it, Freddie. The 'Ol Man loves his.
I've sold the MT-01, Freddie.
All motorcycle insurance in Portugal is TPFT.
I thoroughly enjoy this channel.
I think O may go back to the cheap yellow plugs for now.
I love watching and Darcy’s channel and he does an extremely good job of promoting the BMW👌🏻 The MT-01’s gone! What’s replaced it?
@@tuesdayatdobbs I am looking towards moving to northern Thailand full-time as I live with a woman there, so no bike is replacing it here, although I have a Can-Am F3-S for use here until I sell up. In Thailand it's a Yamaha Aerox 155, KTM 390 Duke Mk2 and a Yamaha SCR950.
I felt a sense of loss as the MT-01 pulled away post-sale.
Freddie I had that K1300s in that very colour in the Grey and Red it was as comfortable as to ride and the power and sound from the engine induction ❤❤❤
I've bought a giant box of disposable moldex earplugs. As you mentioned, I find those work the best (noise reduction wise). I've tried motorcycle-specific ones with fancy filters, but didn't like those as much. Also, I tend to lose and drop earplugs often. So rather than trying to clean them, I just use another set of 20-cent disposable earplugs. I never ride without earplugs, I find it much more comfortable with them. I've done so pretty much from the beginning, after I was amazed be the amount of wind noise first time riding faster than parking lot speeds during my tests.
Ear plugs - Custom all the way and if you can get the ones which will allow music and comms to be used as an option would be handy when ur are on those long trips. I had a set cost £150 lasted around 5 years before I replaced…. Good pay back
Hi i have tinitus from army tank use in the 70,s and 80s , now being 66yrs old and damaged hearing from prolonged noise, i always use ear plugs #howard"type soft and got a pkt of 20 every 2 yrs and they are the best , no fatigue no headache and not worn out or tired at the end of the ride out, i have toured around europe and no issues, have tryied most other types even had them made when up at the bike show at the nec about 10yrs go but always found the manufactured for motorbike have short coming and the bigget problem i fond id when fitted and worn they seem to produce pressure in the ear canal from the helmet speakers push inwards , so i find the foam the as the contor veay easly i never ride without them and will always stop to put in or replace , as once your hearing is damaged you cant get it back, The best advice i was told and ride accorinly to is that the throttle goes both ways and do all the speed and road position while upright and before the bend
Hi Freddie I had a K1300S bought new in 2014, I only kept it a year and here's why. Exocet fast in a straight line but was very heavy with the turning circle of an oil tanker, consequently handled slow and was a nightmare on twisting UK B roads. Also, drank oil for fun and the brakes were always binding. I swapped it for an S1000R and took a big financial hit. Worst BMW I've owned.
A quick one about protected no claims bonus.
I have always protected my ncb and about 5 years back the Audi i had at the time was written off. Some little bleep bleep bleeps vandalised it outside my mother's home in Slough.
I purchased the car for £10k 2 years prior to the incident. I was paid out by the insurance company a pathetic sum of money that was not even close to what it would have cost me to replace the car, but that is for another day. The key point here was that i kept my 12 years no claims, so when I insured my next vehicle the insurance wasn't increased that much at all. I figured it went up by around 10 to 15%.
When speaking to the broker's, they said that my premium had increased due to the wright off, but it would have been a lot worse if i had lost my ncb as well. With most insurance companies ncb discounts max out at 9 years so I was recieving the highest discount possible.
I believe that i was receiving similar quotes to before the incident within 3 years.
I know this is anecdotal but I thought it might be useful in response to last weeks statemet that protected ncb seems to be a con.
P.s. its late and i really should have gone to sleep by now 😂. If you can find a way to say this more succinctly i won't be offended 😂😂😂.
I almost got the XSR700 before buying my Bonneville 865. The Bonnie has been great. FYI, I put the Bonnie on Tune ECU this weekend and balanced my throttle bodies. I never would have thought there was anything wrong, but after the balance, it ran so smoothly on my ride to and from work today. Wow!
Wow… I’d never even known this was a thing to do. Thanks for the heads up🙌🏻🙌🏻
I know I’m a bit lagging on the comments, but just got around to catching up on the episode. Still curious to see you throw a leg over a Triumph Tiger 900. I have yet to try one myself, but I’ve been very intrigued from all the reviews I’ve seen, and I’m a Triumph fan. First was a 2015 air cooled mag wheel Bonnie, similar to yours, and now I have a 2020 T120. Despite the similarities to the 2015, it’s really been a fantastic upgrade in every way - more power, more stability, fuel gauge, heated grips, cruise control, plus multiple different pannier options. And finally, for the new rider, my first bike was a Suzuki TU250, which I think flies under the radar. 17 HP but the bike only weighs about 350 lbs. Power is one consideration for the new rider, but seat height and weight often get overlooked. I’m only 5’ 8” and 155lbs, so those were important considerations for me. The Suzuki was a great first step until I moved up to the Bonnie. The REs all seem a little tall for me, especially when I was a new rider. Another good consideration if a new rider prefers the cruiser look is the Honda Rebel 350 or 500. Great stuff as always, both here and on your other channel. (US viewer here)
I never used earplugs when riding. The sound in my full-face helmets never seemed that loud. I probably should have used them while playing drums though as i now have a pretty good case of tinnitus.
I think if i were buying a bike today, considering price and type, i'd go for either a new Royal Enfield Interceptor or a used Triumph Bonneville SE.
Hi Freddy . I was happy to hear you read out my comment on my R18 . They are a bit marmite i must admit .
If you ever want to do a ride/review on mine you are more than welcome . Im just down the road near Chelmsford
Hugely appreciated, thank you so much Stuart🙂
Hi Freddie,
When looking at ear plugs, the SNR (single number rating) is important. I wear 3m Ear Soft FX plugs, the yellow ones. They have an SNR of 39, and I've yet to find a plug with a higher rating. If anyone knows of a disposable plug with a better rating ,please let me know, as I suffer badly with tinnitus, from years of riding without ear protection. Protect your ears with the best you can Freddie, it's worth it, no matter the cost.
I recommend advanced training immediately after passing the test and getting that first bike. There will likely be a local advanced rider group within most areas.
When l first started out it wasn't so necessary because traffic not to mention road rage wasn't an issue....not so much anyway!...However l concur, there is a great deal more experienced riders can pass on to novice riders. l habitual watch fast track riders on RUclips. Very much can be gleaned, not the speed so much but the use of controls, observation, target fixation, use of the throttle and brakes.... staying aware and observant on a motorcycle is all..
I've also made and adjustment and sold my 2017 Harley Davidson, street rod 750, was a good bike for me, but it sat in the garage to much and I could not ride it on some gravel roads for the fear of damaging it too much. I've managed to sell it for an even higher price that I bought it and then bought and rebuilt a HONDA NX 650 Dominator 1995, which I rode to Iceland and back this year. This could have not been a better decision for myself.
To start with, well done on your Morocco trip. It is something my wife and i are seriously looking at for next March. I have a Tenere World Raid, she has a Tracer. Me, with the Tenere am very tempted to do some sandy desert offroady stuff. Is it something you considered doing in general whilst there - albeit you need the bike and the tyres for that?
Earplugs at anything over 50 mph, squidgy ones work absolutely fine from German autobahns to windy twisties.
Also buying them K1300S and Harleys is one thing, owning them is an absolute different beast in terms of cost.
FInally, i totally agree with Paul (Tenere). I went from an R1200GSA that only saw Starbucks in it's 3 yrs despite massive adv plans, and a Tracer 9GT with all bells and whistles (would have kept it but no room) - and gone to a Tenere World Raid, and it's absolutely brilliant. The 700 engine is strong all the way upto 100 mph - which i really wouldnt wanna do on a loaded adv bikes doing long distance. The Tenere is the swiss knife of bikes for sure.
Hi Freddie my bonneville 865 is being delivered today 😊it's 7 years older than my gs but I know it's right for me and will get used unlike the gs
I've been using MEE M6 pro earphones. They're a cheaper copy of musician in-ear monitors and work pretty well. I have to wear a balaclava or they'll be pulled out, but they allow me to listen to music and don't give that underwater feeling you can get from some plugs.
Had the anniversary model,brilliant bike the k1300S
Dave - superglue an ear plug to your ignition barrel or clocks as a reminder.
I'm currently riding a 2004 Yamaha xv1700 road star, bought it in 2020 for £5500 with 4000 miles on the clock in absolute mint condition, thrown a batwing, crash bars and a riders back rest on it, it's air cooled and carbed and extremely easy to work on and at 6'2" hands down it's the most comfortable and best bike i've ever had.
Hepco & Becker Junior hard cases are great. I now have a 2023 V7 special 850 coming from a 2013 Bonneville.
Freddie. It's always worth checking out the cost of fully comprehensive cover as these days it's often cheaper than tpft. I'm not sure why, but it may be that the underwriters value your commitment to responsibility and adjust risk accordingly?
I’ll check this out- I’m curious about this. Thank you🙂
Despite all I will put my money on the Tenere.
I think you should consider the Triumph scrambler xc. With that one you wouldn’t had to turn around on the gravel road.
Freddie, enjoy your podcasts and it was from that source I came to this video. Generally agree with much of what you say, however, you are mistaken when it comes to the 'No Claims Bonus' (aka NCB). NCB is a discount off of the top-line cost of an insurance policy. NCB, for those who don't know, is built up each year when the policyholder doesn't make a claim. When you protect your NCB, if YOU make a claim against YOUR policy, you won't lose that discount. If a 3rd party causes an accident against you, it should not affect your NCB discount. Having an NCB does not stop your insurance policy cost from going up - the NCB is simply a discount off of the top-line cost of the policy.
So, as an example, if you have an insurance policy that costs £1000, and you have NCB equating to 50%, you end up paying £500 for the policy.
If you make a claim against your policy because you came off your bike, if you have protected the NCB when you renew although the policy itself might have gone up to, say, £1200 per annum (as you are riskier in the eyes of the underwriter), you have your NCB equating to 50% discount, therefore you will pay £600 per annum.
If you had not protected your NCB, then when you renew, not only will the policy renewal go up to £1200, but you have no discount to apply to that top-line cost therefore you will end up having to pay £1200.
Hope that makes sense, and why in my eyes, it makes sense to protect your NCB. Of course, I could be wrong, and it would be helpful to hear from others if I have misunderstood this over the past 35 years of riding and driving.
Happy earplugs are good. I paid $250 CAD for a custom pair at audiologist they are not comfortable at all. I also use loops they are filtered so they give a little less protection than Happy so I tend to use loop in traffic so I have a bit more awareness.
A side effect of getting into motorbikes is for sure scouring the Internet for other motorbikes all the time
For new riders ,biking risks are manageable:
1. Other road users are not looking for you. Be prepared.
2. Reduce your speed when other road users are about.
3. Use the safety gear that matches your riding style. AA and level 1 are a good start
The only high vis gear i have is my rain gear.
I know I'm 2 months late to this one, but I have to add on to what you said about protected no claims bonus.
I had a beautiful Audi A4 convertible (2009) (the last year they made a convertible A4). The car was vandalised by some, let's say, humans.... It was a write-off. I had protected no claims bonus of 12 years (discount maxes out at 9 years). When insuring my new vehicle there was a premium added due to the fact you have to disclose if you have been involved in an accident in the past either 3 or 5 years, I can't remember exactly. So, they do add a premium for the accident, but then they discount your premium with your no claims. I paid a small premium over what it would have been had I not made a claim, but the premium would have been far, far higher if I had also lost my no claims bonus.
What I am poorly trying to explain is that your NCB is separate in the insurance companies' eyes to if you have made a claim in the past x amount of years. Two separate ways for them to increase your premium.
As far as earplugs go, I like Mack's purple foam ones that are good up to 31 decibels.
I have used softvox ear plugs . But cleaning is required . I got an ear infection. Be careful.
I had a 08 K1200s and it was a rocket ship but l couldn’t get used to the isolated front suspension, lacked feel around roundabouts etc
My old model softail slim was £14750 from a dealer 16 months ago, offered me £10-11k for it last month. Wasn’t impressed.
Wow- that’s eye opening regarding the Slim😳
Hi Freddy
Question, RE the Triumph modern classics, if you had the choice to buy a new Speed twin 900 or a Bonneville T120, which would You choose, why?
I have a Street twin 900 currently and have been considering the upgrade.
Tks
I've sat on the BMW 'cruiser' and it's not a cruiser, you can't stretch your legs out, that engine is in the way. Looks great but isn't what it claims. Now Moto Guzzi can do it as they don't use an airplane engine in their bikes, the Califonia was a great cruiser 😄
The Guzzi V7 850 is a fantastic bike with a confortable seat
@@Victor-vf1fi yes, I have the 750 and tried the 850, a lovely bike
If you check the majority of cruisers have had very little depreciation, some have lost as little as £1000 in 20 years
Hi freddie!
Long time fan of the channel and wanted to ask you a question which I am hoping you could help me with. It is a bit of a challenge.
'As a new rider at 25 who has just done my DAS, I have a budget of £3,000 as I have only just graduated and got a job. I am not a big fan of naked / sports bikes. What would you recommend I look into ? People are constantly advising me not to get carbed motorcycles as a new rider. Not sure what to be looking at if not old retros'
I am hoping to get any input you have at all! Cant wait to hear from you.
Any Honda with a service history in good condition should serve you very well as a starter big bike. CB500 through to NC750.
Hi Sundar,
Great question and I’ll make sure to cover this in next week’s episode🙂
The Honda comment below is extremely hard to argue with. And the carved advice I’d also agree with👌🏻👌🏻
Must say your Triumph did you proud on your Africa trip, well impressed.
Thanks Christopher- it’s been superb!
A mate had a kle500 but as we are both over 6 foot neither of us could get comfortable on it due to set back pegs, as i'm a returning rider (partly down to your channel) I don't have any no claims am insured third party as well due to price and like you have a low value bike and i dont see the point in fully comp for me maybe when i have some no claims and the premium goes down.
The biggest problem with owning a 1991 Kawasaki KLE 500 is finding parts. Limited production equals limited parts. I don’t want to own a museum piece I want to be able to ride it. 😜😜👍👍
Insurance is absolutely crucial. For Americans especially, if you ride with poor insurance in America you're a certifiable lunatic. The costs can be absolutely preposterous, and if you lack un/underinsured coverage that covers everything you need done if you get run over by someone else with inadequate or non-existing insurance, you can go bankrupt. Not all health insurance covers traffic injuries either. Where I live we have universal health care, but you can still wind up with high liability if you, say, ride right into a Bugatti... and the occupants start screaming "whiplash" and unleash a pack of lawyers at you. Good traffic insurance, *especially* for long tours, is just not optional. Not a risk worth taking.
We Really enjoyed watching your Morocco adventure.
The R18 is a beautiful piece of art. But BMW missed the trick by going too big heavy and pricey a 1200 boxer with similar pricing to the speed master would have been a better option. They are being heavily discounted in dealerships with low finance. Second hand…… well? Can see it being discontinued.
freddy great shirt ,any details to buy thanks,fellow t100 owner geoff
Hi Geoff, it’s last season’s shirt, but I found it still available here:
www.zalando.co.uk/abercrombie-and-fitch-shirt-tan-a0f22d03j-b11.html?size=L&allophones=0&wmc=SEM440_NB_GO._3909818306_605707574_24315859821.&opc=2211&mpp=google%7Cv1%7C%7Cpla-293946777986%7C%7C1006826%7C%7Cg%7Cm%7C%7C107769544221%7C%7Cpla%7CA0F22D03J-B11000L000%7C293946777986%7C1%7C&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADM17YZzjjgzdFyh5VHb-KTcsLYig&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4NujBhC5ARIsAF4Iv6dfNAxd0JepkiqcyqInELjBBRZPwlOHTbIXdrqc2-Lsa2WRwUNe2eYaAjYNEALw_wcB
I traded my BMW R1200R after 14 years of great riding for a Moto Guzzi v7 850 Special and I am loving it!
Earplugs, I don't hear you mention the helmet, I used to ride with BMW System helmets and Shoei's Neotecs and never felt the need for earplugs but at the moment I ride a naked bike and more "cool" helmets and I do realise things get noisy! I'll try some of the options you suggest.
I’d never considered this- really appreciate the heads up on it
My Kle 50 bhp.70 plus mpg,seat a bit of a razor blade though.Reliable as anything.
Safety on a motorcycle - take training courses, read up on advanced riding and then practice, practice, practice. Safety has a lot to do with how you ride - control your speed, no drinking/drugs & driving. Ride defensively, pay attention to what is going on around you and always assume the other guy will do something unanticipated.
🌟Great video Dobbs's lad🌟
Ear plugs. I've got really furry ears which makes ear plugs a nuisance, however With my tube scarf fitted up over my ears it really quietens down the wind noise. Cheers from NZ
The need for hearing protection cannot be overstressed. I’m mid 50’s with 40 years riding and have lost most of the hearing in my left ear. Even now I don’t always fit them and should. Bike wise the perfect bike isn’t the posers solution of a harley, the best imho after owning over 35 bikes bar none is the bmw r1250rs.
Sporty but upright and can come with hard luggage for touring. That or the naked R1250 or 1200. Better bikes than most trumpets hands down. Better balanced, more reliable and seriously capable. Yet have character in spades. There’s a reason they’re popular but haters will hate.
I’ve had two Harley sportsters, the last being the gorgeous looking 1200 Classic in black. Utterly useless and unreliable. Heavy, appallingly bad handling, poor brakes. Appalling build quality. Don’t be tempted. I’d never own another.
Agree with you regarding safety. People do NOT ride defensively enough. I watch other bikers riding headlong into opportunities every day….opportunities for accidents. Much is down to appalling observation , failure to respect hazards and a sense of invulnerability which disappears after its too late. Riding too fast fir road conditions is the most common fault, then comes poor observation and mitigation, then poor road positioning and riding too close to vehicles in front.
You need two bikes, ideally, a small urban commuter with inbuilt fun like a good used Ktm Duke, and a fun sporty tourer, naked or half faired long haul sporty comfortable tourer. If budget is stretched then a good shout is an R12000R ysed then add pannier fittings, small screen and you have the do it all but hugely capable fun bike.
Yam is overweight and imho not a great bike compared with the newer Honda Transalp or MT07. Any big trail bike will do similar though.
It actually goes even deeper than making a claim, they will log or flag you account even if you phone them and let them know there has been an incident and that ramps up your premium, I had a sat nav stolen from my van, they had smashed the small triangular window to get at it (silly me for leaving it out) but I phoned my insurance to ask was it worth making a claim or was window cover included etc, just to weigh up my options. Turned out it was cheaper to just find a secondf hand one and fit it m,yself didnt need to claim. Renewal comes round and my premium is nearly double. I questioned why, and they said with the date that i had a recorded incident that year.
Do not tell them anything unless you are making a claim.
I had a KLE in the early 90s, superb bike but man that seat was undoubtedly the most uncomfortable torture device ever invented by man 😂
Interesting!😆
Good replies to that wannabe rider. RE classic perfect for him….and I’m a new rider with a T100 …. But I do need to ride on the motorway regularly
Excellent watch very interesting stuff Freddie I never protected my no claims as you say it is pointless I did however go for legal protection this time but I am not really sure if this is worth doing either it cost me I think around an extra £40 pounds or so .I have no doubt that insurance companies are just thieving rogues who just pray on peoples fears /concerns .However as you say the third party idea although having the advantage of saving money probably is a little risky , for this reason I always go fully comp .😉👌👍
Had to pause a minute or so into this video to go ride my speed twin to go get some coffee :)
Also RE 350 HNTR as alternate to classic 350 worth a try
Triumph Rocket III Touring. Hard panniers, awesome ride quality. No top box, but you can buy a nice bag to mount to a luggage rack to supplement the bags. Harley... pfft. 😀
for me third party fire and theft was more than fully comp!
as to the one do it all bike, I'm far more likely to jump on a smaller bike at the drop of a hat than one designed to only travel cross country on an interstate highway or only designed to race around a track
Freddie is doing an Intensive Direct Access Course worth it? What do you think are the statistics of persons passing both Mod 1 & Mod 2 first time in under a week on bikes over 550cc having never touched a bike except on the CBT course?
Hello. I know your question is aimed at Freddie but I did exactly what you ask about. Except that I failed my first test ( through absent mindedness) but I did pass the second time. It is thoroughly important to choose a good school though, my instructors were still very passionate about biking and showed us early on skills to be envied.
Really interesting question. I think it’s 100% worth doing a DAS but JW’s spot on- picking a good DAS school makes a huge difference to the enjoyment and amount you learn.
I’d never touched a bike before my DAS and I failed Mod 1 first time around. It is painful (financially and to one’s ego) when you fail😆
Thank you Freddie and others for your replies and also for including me in this weeks Podcast. Over the past week I’ve bought myself a 125 to learn on and have decided rather than do an intensive course, I’ll do my lessons over a longer period. I feel this way will make me a more confident, competent and safer rider.
I’ve followed the Channel for quite some time but never commented, for you to reply has made my week. I wish both you and Monika the greatest success for all your hard work and commitment.
Speed master not have a small tank?
Hi Freddie, I am very tempted to move from my KLV1000 to a nice retro style machine. The one thing holding me back is the level of wind/ weather protection. Irish weather is chronic bar 3 months. Can a retro style bike be fitted with decent weather protection without ruining the looks and vibe? Thanks for the entertainment. By the way, did you master the long drop toilet?
A very very good question re wind protection and retro bikes that I often look into, Richard. I think this is where cruisers come in, as they wear the wind protection setup (big screen etc) more naturally than modern classics. I’ll look into this further.
Long drop toilets… I somehow managed to not use them once!!
Disposable plugs - cheap and effective.
do you know if sound cancelling earbuds would actually work?
They do but hard to fit under a helmet. Noise cancelling works on persistent noise, like engine noise. If the computer in them can anticipate the sound, it can play the "counter sound" and it cancels out. However, for a motorcycle, you're better off with passive noise isolation. A pair of Shure SE215 headphones with Comply P-Series foam tips (the tips are too expensive but sadly the best so I pay it) you get earplugs - with music. Just keep the volume down.
Take it seriously with ear protection. I was in only one rock concert without ear plugs and my hearing is permantly damaged. Not just loss of hearing but painful hypersensitivity too. I wish I knew it only takes a few minutes to do so much damage.
Been riding for 50 years without earplugs I think they are a waste of time, just one thing Freddie, can you speak up I can't hear you very well.
I bought the Aprilia Taureg 660. Far better than the Tenere 700.
Truth, love mine over 7k mi & a beast off-road, it's been super reliable
Interesting!
Teneres are cool but i prefer the norden 901
Tenere for commmuting? To each their own......
Just forget the earplugs in your pockets and they get washed with the laundry 😂. You just have to put up with some pocket fuzz in your ears🤣😂😅.
I didn’t understand the story about no claims bonus. Didn’t his dad make a claim - therefore would lose the no claims bonus? He didn’t in fact protect the no claims bonus…. Or did I misunderstand?
Sorry if I wasn’t clear;
My dad had no claims bonus protection. He then had a crash and made a claim. The insurer kept his No claims bonus but still hugely hiked up his premium because he’d crashed. I.e, protecting NCB is pointless because your premium still shoots up anyway
@@tuesdayatdobbs ohhhhhh now I get it.
That looks like a Honda Dominator NX650