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After 25 years riding, across 10 bikes of different styles, i just got my first bike with an electronic cruise control. What a game changer. Love my RnineT.
@@dreamcrusher112 F900R rider here too! Got the full option 2024 and cruise control & QuickShifter are those things you never knew you needed in your life. Ill never go back to one without.
+1 for helmet lock. But also every bike should come with a radiator guard, it should also be the first mod for every bike that isn't just a track toy. I'm a bit surprised it wasn't mentioned in this video at all, it is a cheap and easy mod that greatly improves the ease of cleaning and protection. Bonus that it's a great way to learn about how your bike is put together without changing anything critical; anyone can do it!
Yes, I had a SV650S many years ago and there was a metal hook under the passenger seat that thr D ring would hook onto, then there was a small notch in the plastic so you could lock the seat in place and you would be locking the helmet without anything additional, I was surprised my new bike doesn't have anything like that, then I look into it more and find out most don't have a spot to lock the helmet
+1 even if my air cooled motorcycle has no radiator. But I did install an optional (and pretty pricey for a piece of sheet metal ...) part called a sump guard. It's really just a mud guard for the engine that bolts to the botom front portion of the frame and it was my very first mod! Followed by bar end mirrors so I can see more than just my elbows and heated grips. And that's pretty much it!
38:50 "We're a couple of hours into the podcast" 😂 I *do* wonder sometimes how much recording time is actually required in order to make these ~2 hour episodes. Whatever it is it's appreciated, helps to wake my brain up while I have my coffee on a Saturday morning and scratches that "motorcycle talk" itch, even if I'm just listening.
I am baffled about why a motorcycle manufacturer hasn’t partnered with QuadLock to build a system into a bike. Every single motorcycle has some kind of phone mount installed. Motorcycle manufacturers have historically been about 7-10 years behind the times, so maybe around 2030 we’ll start seeing them installed on bikes from the factory.
I'm a 67 year old rider with a Kawasaki Vulcan S bought brand new last year. The only mods are Puig Naked New Touring windscreen and crash bars and a R&S Racing fender eliminator. The later is helpful in actually keeping the turn signals in place that fall of if brushed against a couple of times a season. I commute on it in the season here in Maryland and it's really turned out to be a nice ride.
@@TheSlowbomb Then you are a rare breed, most people are totally dependent on modern crap. I used to remember up to 10 phone numbers, now I have like 2 or 3 in my head. Pathetic I know.
1:18:00 Turn your head! Developing the habit makes you an all around better driver. It also makes you a more aware human. Even at the grocerybstore, I always check my blind spot before changing direction. It's just a good habit and requires 0$
very nice episode, the first mods I did was to get a small tankbag that holds first aid kit and flat tire kit, crashprotection mostly for the peace of mind and phone mount.
As a tallish glass of water, the first thing I modify is ergos, bar risers for standing off road and slightly lower/wider pegs for some leg room, beefy hand guards also a must for off road. I will pretty much always bend the stock bars straight away, they always seem to be made out of cheese
Most fascinating thing to me about the hydrogen fuelled H2 is the fact that it still utilizes internal combustion. All other hydrogen powered vehicles as far as I know use a fuel cell to produce electricity for an electric motor.
Not a bike mod but I recently got a set of earplug earbuds, absolutely awesome game changer. They reduce wind and background noise by 25 db and actually sound good, plenty of bass and I don’t have to crank em to full volume to hear them. If you like listening to music while riding I can’t recommend them enough.
I bought a 2005 Honda VTX1800C last summer. Came with a Mustang seat, switchblade windshield, sissy bar and rack, light bar, and engine guards. Mods since purchase: LED lighting upgrade for all lights. Aftermarket Exhaust ** Both of these mods were to make seeing deer here in the Midwest easier and to let them know I'm coming. Front fork spring upgrade Rear shock upgrade Saddlebags and top case Stainless bolt upgrades Desmog kit Mirror Extensions Phone mount Fabricated a sleeker license plate mount Still planning: Shorter or taller windscreen as buffeting is a problem Throttle lock or cruise control Heated grips. Maybe some highway pegs for the engine guards. Considering handlebars to give me an easier reach to the grips. I have all of the paint to black out some of the chrome but just need the time and the courage. 😂
As I tall rider, the bane of my riding existence are windshields...they all send turbulent air to my head. The only solution I've found is a tiny windshield, or no windshield. Clean air is surprisingly tolerable and pleasant after I've ridden with a bad windshield that makes me feel like someone's playing my helmet like a bongo.
The biggest problem with Hydrogen as a transportation fuel is that there’s no fueling infrastructure in place in America. And storing & transporting hydrogen is hard! The second problem is most hydrogen is made from natural gas so it’s not carbon neutral. It could be, but it isn’t now.
1:21:40 A quality throttle lock that is properly adjusted should release when you go for the brakes. Having used both, I can definitely say that a throttle lock is not a replacement for cruise control. If you try to use a throttle lock for too long, you will find that your speed will get out of control in certain circumstances, like going downhill. It doesn't adjust to keep the speed the same. The only thing they are good for is to be able to rest your right hand for a bit on a flat straightaway. Better than nothing, but a cruise control is definitely superior.
I have a Tiger 900 GT Pro required both a front fender extender and has a useless rear mudguard. Looking at the Moto Guzzi V100, but has virtually no front mudguard. Owners complaining about corrosion on the front of the engine.
I'm a fan of your shows. I'm off road guy that lived a 1/2 mile or so Atco race way. Spurge will know this area well. However this is a sore subject for me. People spend/waste more money on upgrades than makes any sense. I use to to love running in the front of the pack of the Jersey Hammer run. Of course I did upgrade this 97 DR350. I did some self porting, flat side card and a RM 250 front and rear suspension. My investment was a 1/4 of all the fancy KTM and Gas Gas guys. Their stock bikes on paper were much better than my modified DR350. Still I passed most of them with ease. My point is most of these guys on expensive bikes loaded with mods couldn't even ride a DR400 to it's capability. Yet they dump thousands on a 12k bike. You want the best mod? Learn how to ride, it's free
I definitely agree. Sometimes I think it's a case of having money but not time to ride. So you throw money at it because that's where you want to be. Of course, some people are just posers. 😂
Hard agree with Spurg on late summer and fall being the best time to ride. I just got done with my first big trip after riding for about a year, 1500 miles round trip for a motorcycle rally in SW Colorado. Super hot during the day and freezing going back to our campsite at night in the mountains. Just kept thinking if it was one temp or the other, I could have brought a lot less clothes! Edit: another good point on seats. My Enfield Interceptor stock seat looked very cool for 1500 miles but didn't feel great about an hour in. Lmao
Stock suspension components are probably good enough for most riders, but check your spring rates. If you're over 200-210 lbs and the manufacturer springs the bike for a 140-190 lb rider, the bike isn't going to handle as designed with you on it. Spend the money to drop some stiffer springs in there.
This is Dual Purpose specific but a bigger aftermarket fuel or an auxiliary tank (IF legal where you live) is a great mod for your bike that came stock with a 3 gallons fuel capacity.
A Spurgette? A Spurgetto? Conrats to you both on whatever you got. (Typing this at the start of the vid) Disappointed my Triumph 660 Sport doesn't have cruise control. Still love it though. I used to use lollipop sticks on the Kawasaki 500 as 'cruise control'. Put a hole in it and used fishing line to hold it to the handlebar.
Hi, you mentioned that Honda made the CBX1000 as a six cylinder, what about the Kawasaki KZ1300?, or the Benelli SEI 750 & 900?, as a Honda fan bit, the cbx is a stunning looking bike, they also sound SO good with 6 into 6 pipes
Agee with Spurge 100% ninja 400 or whatever you have if you want to go, get on and go you might need a break now and then but you won’t ever regret taking the ride .
I just wish Yamaha would set a new trend with the MT-07 and give it 100ish hp, forks and swing arm from the MT-09, slipper clutch, radially mounted calipers and master, and cruise control. Make it $10k and let the blood bath of people fighting to get their hands on one begin. They already have all the cheap parts in high production with the base MT-09
This is underrated. So are skills, I feel like in high school when were taught CPR we should also learn the basics of applying a tourniquet or the basics of doing stitches.
@@nickb638 The skills more so that the kit...at least when touring. Back-country/solo survival training means you have almost anything you need on the bike already. I only carry bandaids, antibiotic ointment, skin adhesive, a little gauze and emergency butterfly "sutures". For those not willing to go that deep into training, an inflatable emergency splint is about all I would add plus minimal first aid training. Yeah, I have NSAIDS, Imodium, etc but that is not usually first aid.
Really good point! I didn't think to say this in my list of mods, but as a physician it is such an ordinary piece of kit that it's automatic. It should be first.
I feel those are both very subjective. I would never want heated grips where I ride. Cruise control is a 10 dollar clip on plastic part if I really need it.
Tool kits...Old school R1100GS could do anything but the final drive or swingarm removal but interestingly enough, also has the only wrench I have found that can remove the spark plugs. Does a thinwall socket exist that can do it...I am sure there is but I have not found it yet. Conversely for new bikes it can run the gammut. 2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 came with not a damned thing for tools. My 2019 Z400 had a pretty standard UJM-grade tool kit with various wrenches including everything needed to adjust the chain, preload on the shock and adjust the mirrors. The latter was also the easiest bike ever in the history of the world to do an oil change on.
1999 Buell X1 when you locked the bars to the left it seemed that they were unlocked very very misleading,,, found that out the hard way and blasted into my beer garden fence ohh it was a good one 😅
can I just say, with the hydrogen bikes; the Big 4 should just lean into the Akira styling at that point. I mean, anyone old enough to remember that movie/anime (but mostly movie) wants that red bike, wants to do the Akira slide (or maybe that's just me?) Besides, in the film, the bikes appear to have been built by Michael Bay, what with all the explosions, but maybe they were all just running on hydrogen?! 10k PSI is, in scientific terms, a fuck load of pressure so any rupture in that tank would, I assume, get it to...POP. Love these new ideas for sustainable biking but we definitely have some ways to go.
Heated grips make chilly mornings much more comfortable and cold winter days possible. They're always ready to go and always with you when you may need them unlike heated gloves. Heated gear is great too though :)
41:50 Perfect call out on the Ninja 1000. I own one, and it is truly awesome. But the stock screen is too short. The optional OEM extended screen is perfect.
I recently purchased a leftover 2023 Royal Enfield Scram 411 (with an excellent factory discount!) and was pleasantly surprised to find a tool kit under the seat. I’ve used some of it to adjust the rear shock pre-load and as part of the first oil change/tappet adjustment. Great quality, approachable, and fun at a bargain basement price.
@@JW20236 I’ve really enjoyed my time with the bike but I’ve only put about 600 miles on it to date. I’m a big fella and have found it to be quite comfortable with adequate power for side road trips here in the US as the highway speeds these days are outrageous. The suspension is setup well and find the handling to be more nimble than my Bonnie T120. I’m in the process of kitting it out with a windscreen, hand guards and bags for some light touring. It’s tough to beat for the price and versatility it offers, imo.
I remember the old bikes with the helmet locks and almost all of them had a hinged seat. I also prefer the steering lock integrated into the ignition instead of being separate. I love cruise control and believe in extra lighting to be seen and being able to see after dark. For touring I would add some type of secondary foot pegs so you can change your foot position for longer rides. One of the worst mods ever is the integrated tail light and blinkers. They are really hard to distinguish what is going on for someone behind you. I like for the person behind me seeing exactly what I'm doing. The CBX sounded like an inline 4 while revving, but it almost sounded like a V-8 when idling. I knew something was different, but didn't come up with the CBX either.
I would Strongly disagree with the "If you're going to your first track day, i wouldn't worry about tires". I went to my first track day with my (at the time) new 2022 Honda CBR650R. A fine bike for a first track day. But the OEM Dunlop D214 tires on it was HORRIBLE! They felt oily/greasy from the very first corner. And to make matters worse. Half way into the track day, it started raining. Those tires should be illegal to make, sell, and equip on Any bike. I was not only the slowest guy on track. I was barely able to corner at all, as the tires were sliding like a wet fish on ice. I switched the tires out with a set of Metzeler M7RR's and two weeks later, i was back. Again it started raining, and i was now the fastest on track in the wet. Same bike. Two sets of tires, as different as a 250cc off-road bike is to a 1000cc sport bike.
1:16:38 just yesterday I was on a mellow cruise on the 890 and was in the left lane on city streets about 25-30mph and felt something on my right boot. An older woman apparently didn’t see me and started coming over on me! Boots took most of the scuffing, but I’m thinking a proximity detector might have alerted me that she was headed my way!
Spurgeon, "What are the common short coming in modern motorcycles" Zack, "Gearing and mirrors man, let me tell ya... could be an entire podcast..." /s 😂 Edit: autocorrect is a bit of a moron
23:40 Someone in Oakland area cut my D-ring off my helmet to steal it from the helmet lock. Not even a good helmet! Now I just cable it to my alarm disk lock, or take it in with me.
Personally I have no interest in cruise control on a motorcycle, anything that stops the rider from concentrating is dangerous. Quickshifters have their place and for any powerful motorcycle that place is a racetrack. For small capacity ‘sporty’ bikes like a KTM 390 they are probably OK on the road but for anything bigger all they do is help you to break the law a few milliseconds quicker than with a conventional gearbox. I actually enjoy changing gear manually on my motorcycles and and in my cars, it’s a big part of the driving experience.
I have a heavily modded ex500 that's been turned partway into an adventure bike. front end has been lifted, and as a result when the back is loaded, the bike will occasionally wobble when you drop the throttle at moderate speeds (40-50ish mph.) I don't plan to put a damper on this bike. I've taken the bike to 120, and it's rock dead stable. As long as have my hands on the bars, the bike isn't going to do anything crazy.
Why do you need cruise control on every bike? If you do a lot of long distance touring, then yes I see the benefits, but for everyday rides you don't need it
I happen to have purchased the chassis from the $1k special track Blackie CBR300R. I got it minus the engine as I was looking for spare parts for my CBR250R track motorcycle.
I had a feeling the mystery bike sounded a bit like an inline Honda - I have a '79 CB750F and there's a similar feel about the sound, particularly that slight rattle from the cam chain. That said, the "6 into 1 exhaust" hint did have other possibilities, like the Benelli 750 Sei, and the Kawasaki z1300. Incidentally, the CBX is 1047cc - not as large as you'd think for such an imposing-looking engine. And yes, you can balance a cigarette or a coin on edge, then start the engine and give it a rev without anything falling over. They really are that smooth.
#1 should not add...wait 4 it......LOWERING KIT. I'm a motorcycle mechanic and when people want me to install those, i cringe. I get it you're short, you like your bike, you want to be able to put both feet down at the stoplight, but absolutely forget about the lowering kit. It changes the dynamic can even make it dangerous to ride. My 2 ¢.
Mods currently on my bike (duke 390). Crash bars and usb power from ktm parts. Rear wheel bobbins, Dna air filter, fuelx dongle, swmotech tailbag with tools and airpump and a basic waterproof phone holder. And fitted Dunlop Mutants but it wasn't really a mod because the OEM tyres needed replacing.
Hey guys asking for a little insight. I’m 5’9 150 pounds and have been racing motocross since I was 5, so more than 20 years. I could run the pro class at local races and do alright. I’m 27 now and don’t really care to race anymore so I’m turning to other 2 wheeled vehicles to help with the fire I still have inside to do so such as mountain bikes and ADV bikes as of late. The question is what ADV bike should I look at for around $7500? With the way I tend to ride I’ll most definitely need to get the suspension done. I can find used Yamaha Tenere around my budget but that doesn’t leave room for suspension upgrades. And after riding 2 different ones I already know it would have to be done. So should I go for something older so I can afford to get the suspension done? I’ve seen KTM 990’s and BMW 800s in my area for reasonable prices that I’d be able to get the suspension done on. should I even entertain buying them? Or just buy an old Honda Transalp and put a rally kit on it and do the suspension for cheaper than all of them. Thanks guys I really enjoy the podcast!
Hey guys asking for a little insight. I’m 5’9 150 pounds and have been racing motocross since I was 5, so more than 20 years. I could run the pro class at local races and do alright. I’m 27 now and don’t really care to race anymore so I’m turning to other 2 wheeled vehicles to help with the fire I still have inside to do so such as mountain bikes and ADV bikes as of late. The question is what ADV bike should I look at for around $7500? With the way I tend to ride I’ll most definitely need to get the suspension done. I can find used Yamaha Tenere around my budget but that doesn’t leave room for suspension upgrades. And after riding 2 different ones I already know it would have to be done. So should I go for something older so I can afford to get the suspension done? I’ve seen KTM 990’s and BMW 800s in my area for reasonable prices that I’d be able to get the suspension done on. should I even entertain buying them? Or just buy an old Honda Transalp and put a rally kit on it and do the suspension for cheaper than all of them. Thanks guys I really enjoy the podcast!
For a long trip, my first mod would be alternate (highway) footpegs - where possible, of course. No having leg cramps makes any trip better, especially when you eventually have to stop for fuel and find you can't get your leg to unbend and a foot on the ground before the bike takes a nap on top of you. My second mod would be a wrist rest on the throttle grip to let me hand relax a little. (My zero-eth mod was a comms system and phone mount, but I don't count that because I feel that a GPS you can hear more of a safety feature/necessity than a creature comfort on long trips.) I don't mind going sans windshield (I tend to stick to back roads with lower speed limits anyway) and I can strap a duffel over the pillion seat without too much trouble. Happily, my daily rider ('79 Honda CB750-F) came with a decent tool kit from the factory, and a centre stand, and a helmet lock, and a fork lock, and good mirrors...and a 5.2 gallon tank so I don't have to stop too often for fuel.
Helmet lock! What a great thing I never think about. And I install them on every bike I own. I usually get the slick Brogue locks that go under the saddle. Every bike should have REVERSE
I think you did miss an important aspect of modifying bikes: Ergonomics. Shorter riders lower their bikes or get low seats. Tall riders get lower pegs, taller seats or raise handlebars. I just bought myself a Tracer 9GT plus. It's great, except for the seat. It's way too hard. I'm going to get a custom seat made. I will have them raise it up at least an inch. That might make me decide to get risers for the handlebars. The windscreen is too tall. I'm going to get a shorter one. I have a DR650, but this is just a comment. I'm not going to list the MANY modifications that have been made to that bike comfy. I surprised you didn't address this very practical aspect of modifying bikes.
All my street bikes get a washable & reusable air filter like BMC/K&N/Sprint etc. Factory ones are over priced and the higher flow ones can give you a little performance boost too with the exhaust & remap.
Communication is key. I had to skips some parts, because of the friendly arguments and cut each other off You guys said it! @31:21. That said, this video was helpful. Thx! :D
What is fueling problems? Like when you put the fuel nozzle in the tank and it sprays and spritzes gas all over the paint job on your fuel tank? That's the only fueling problem I have with my CBR..
Fueling- you can blame environmental regulations, but think that’s just exposed manufactures who get lazy and don’t invest the resources into the fuel maps. Auto manufacturers meet strict regulations and when was the last time you noticed it when driving? Do we let the motorcycle makers get away with it by just getting a reflash ECU instead of complaining about it to the dealers making them run it up to the chain of command? A $30k car will taken back to the dealer until it’s fixed or bought back.
@@jimstenlund6017 Yeah it was adjustable. The feeling of the throttle sticking in its open position just didn't sit right with me. I also didn't find it terribly useful for maintaining a constant speed. His bike is an fjr1300 and that engine seems to just slowly climb in revs even if you throttle lock at a reasonably closed throttle position. I'm pretty happy to just hold the throttle open. I'm usually taking a break every 90 minutes or so anyways to stretch my legs.
Hey Zack, I have a question about my next bike choice. Possible to send that to you and maybe your co-vloggers for consideration? f so, what would that email address be?
On mirrors, what are your thoughts about "fish-eye" mirrors? I put them on everything and even have the little ones Cycle Gear sells on my ZZR, I love them!
1:36:06 I'm calling it before I hear the answer. Turbo Busa. Sure as heck sounds like a wastegate at the top of the rev range there. EDIT: Nuts! Didn't get it.
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After 25 years riding, across 10 bikes of different styles, i just got my first bike with an electronic cruise control. What a game changer. Love my RnineT.
Cruise is so good. I love that my F900 can be set at 20mph and 2nd gear.
Even the old throttle lock is nice.
@@dreamcrusher112 F900R rider here too! Got the full option 2024 and cruise control & QuickShifter are those things you never knew you needed in your life. Ill never go back to one without.
+1 for helmet lock. But also every bike should come with a radiator guard, it should also be the first mod for every bike that isn't just a track toy. I'm a bit surprised it wasn't mentioned in this video at all, it is a cheap and easy mod that greatly improves the ease of cleaning and protection. Bonus that it's a great way to learn about how your bike is put together without changing anything critical; anyone can do it!
Why would you guard a thing that's not on yer bike....
Yes, I had a SV650S many years ago and there was a metal hook under the passenger seat that thr D ring would hook onto, then there was a small notch in the plastic so you could lock the seat in place and you would be locking the helmet without anything additional, I was surprised my new bike doesn't have anything like that, then I look into it more and find out most don't have a spot to lock the helmet
+1 even if my air cooled motorcycle has no radiator. But I did install an optional (and pretty pricey for a piece of sheet metal ...) part called a sump guard. It's really just a mud guard for the engine that bolts to the botom front portion of the frame and it was my very first mod! Followed by bar end mirrors so I can see more than just my elbows and heated grips. And that's pretty much it!
It's great to see you back. Congrats, Spurg, on the little bundle of joy.
Ktms come with good tool kits because they know your going to need them
🤣
38:50 "We're a couple of hours into the podcast" 😂 I *do* wonder sometimes how much recording time is actually required in order to make these ~2 hour episodes. Whatever it is it's appreciated, helps to wake my brain up while I have my coffee on a Saturday morning and scratches that "motorcycle talk" itch, even if I'm just listening.
I am baffled about why a motorcycle manufacturer hasn’t partnered with QuadLock to build a system into a bike. Every single motorcycle has some kind of phone mount installed. Motorcycle manufacturers have historically been about 7-10 years behind the times, so maybe around 2030 we’ll start seeing them installed on bikes from the factory.
Yeah why would they do that. You can buy one
I'm a 67 year old rider with a Kawasaki Vulcan S bought brand new last year. The only mods are Puig Naked New Touring windscreen and crash bars and a R&S Racing fender eliminator. The later is helpful in actually keeping the turn signals in place that fall of if brushed against a couple of times a season. I commute on it in the season here in Maryland and it's really turned out to be a nice ride.
Oh yeah, let's go 🎉
Have you watched the accident video on my channel? The worst accident in the world 🥲
We need a chime and a drink counter in the corner. Also I'm going to add every time Zach says "Fair enough" we have to drink. 🍻
As an old school person.... I memorize maps.
As a young person... I memorize google maps before the ride. Skip the phone mount
@@TheSlowbomb Then you are a rare breed, most people are totally dependent on modern crap. I used to remember up to 10 phone numbers, now I have like 2 or 3 in my head. Pathetic I know.
1:18:00
Turn your head!
Developing the habit makes you an all around better driver. It also makes you a more aware human. Even at the grocerybstore, I always check my blind spot before changing direction. It's just a good habit and requires 0$
very nice episode, the first mods I did was to get a small tankbag that holds first aid kit and flat tire kit, crashprotection mostly for the peace of mind and phone mount.
Congratulations on becoming a father Spurg! Keep riding, Keep shining!
Seat can make a big difference. After going numb after riding to work, it was critical.
The guys are back, hours at work will go much faster 😂😂❤❤.
Great podcast keep up with great work and greetings from sLOVEnia 😊❤
A big game changing mod that I added to my Heritage Classic was a rider back rest for my messed up back oh lord is it infinitely better.
If not for the seating position of the Heritage Classic you wouldn't need the back rest.
@@jameshisself7375True. Most cruisers are hell on the back. No support from your legs.
Best touring mods I made for my SV1000S
1. Corbin Seats
2. Double Bubble Speedscreen
3. Givi Bags
4. Heated Grips
5. Heli Bars
6. SV650 rearsets.
As a tallish glass of water, the first thing I modify is ergos, bar risers for standing off road and slightly lower/wider pegs for some leg room, beefy hand guards also a must for off road. I will pretty much always bend the stock bars straight away, they always seem to be made out of cheese
If you are the fastest thing on the road why do you need mirrors?
Most fascinating thing to me about the hydrogen fuelled H2 is the fact that it still utilizes internal combustion. All other hydrogen powered vehicles as far as I know use a fuel cell to produce electricity for an electric motor.
Not a bike mod but I recently got a set of earplug earbuds, absolutely awesome game changer. They reduce wind and background noise by 25 db and actually sound good, plenty of bass and I don’t have to crank em to full volume to hear them. If you like listening to music while riding I can’t recommend them enough.
You should have had Barry henning on and have him list anodized bolt on bits
First 3 Mods for me:
1) Short Levers for two finger action
2) Radiator guard
3) Phone / GPS mount
I bought a 2005 Honda VTX1800C last summer.
Came with a Mustang seat, switchblade windshield, sissy bar and rack, light bar, and engine guards.
Mods since purchase:
LED lighting upgrade for all lights.
Aftermarket Exhaust
** Both of these mods were to make seeing deer here in the Midwest easier and to let them know I'm coming.
Front fork spring upgrade
Rear shock upgrade
Saddlebags and top case
Stainless bolt upgrades
Desmog kit
Mirror Extensions
Phone mount
Fabricated a sleeker license plate mount
Still planning:
Shorter or taller windscreen as buffeting is a problem
Throttle lock or cruise control
Heated grips.
Maybe some highway pegs for the engine guards.
Considering handlebars to give me an easier reach to the grips.
I have all of the paint to black out some of the chrome but just need the time and the courage. 😂
As I tall rider, the bane of my riding existence are windshields...they all send turbulent air to my head. The only solution I've found is a tiny windshield, or no windshield. Clean air is surprisingly tolerable and pleasant after I've ridden with a bad windshield that makes me feel like someone's playing my helmet like a bongo.
Yeah bro, I’m 6’5… same deal. Small or none is the smoothest air, but sadly tough to ride at high speeds for long periods of time.
The biggest problem with Hydrogen as a transportation fuel is that there’s no fueling infrastructure in place in America. And storing & transporting hydrogen is hard!
The second problem is most hydrogen is made from natural gas so it’s not carbon neutral. It could be, but it isn’t now.
1:21:40 A quality throttle lock that is properly adjusted should release when you go for the brakes. Having used both, I can definitely say that a throttle lock is not a replacement for cruise control. If you try to use a throttle lock for too long, you will find that your speed will get out of control in certain circumstances, like going downhill. It doesn't adjust to keep the speed the same. The only thing they are good for is to be able to rest your right hand for a bit on a flat straightaway. Better than nothing, but a cruise control is definitely superior.
What is wrong with modern bikes? None of them have effective mudguards/fenders
RE Classic 350, but hard to call it modern.
I have a Tiger 900 GT Pro required both a front fender extender and has a useless rear mudguard. Looking at the Moto Guzzi V100, but has virtually no front mudguard. Owners complaining about corrosion on the front of the engine.
@@gemcayuse Because they’re meant to be luxury items, not daily transport apparently.
I'm a fan of your shows. I'm off road guy that lived a 1/2 mile or so Atco race way. Spurge will know this area well.
However this is a sore subject for me. People spend/waste more money on upgrades than makes any sense. I use to to love running in the front of the pack of the Jersey Hammer run. Of course I did upgrade this 97 DR350. I did some self porting, flat side card and a RM 250 front and rear suspension. My investment was a 1/4 of all the fancy KTM and Gas Gas guys. Their stock bikes on paper were much better than my modified DR350. Still I passed most of them with ease.
My point is most of these guys on expensive bikes loaded with mods couldn't even ride a DR400 to it's capability. Yet they dump thousands on a 12k bike. You want the best mod? Learn how to ride, it's free
I definitely agree. Sometimes I think it's a case of having money but not time to ride. So you throw money at it because that's where you want to be. Of course, some people are just posers. 😂
Hard agree with Spurg on late summer and fall being the best time to ride. I just got done with my first big trip after riding for about a year, 1500 miles round trip for a motorcycle rally in SW Colorado. Super hot during the day and freezing going back to our campsite at night in the mountains. Just kept thinking if it was one temp or the other, I could have brought a lot less clothes!
Edit: another good point on seats. My Enfield Interceptor stock seat looked very cool for 1500 miles but didn't feel great about an hour in. Lmao
I’ve always said that half the fun of owning a bike is messing with it.
Absolutely!
More time in the saddle is better value.
@@davidmatthews3093 It's all good.
Stock suspension components are probably good enough for most riders, but check your spring rates. If you're over 200-210 lbs and the manufacturer springs the bike for a 140-190 lb rider, the bike isn't going to handle as designed with you on it. Spend the money to drop some stiffer springs in there.
took my 1200 RS Thruxton to track a bunch of times. worked great; also use it to commute.
38:17 wow zack, calling out the extra parking light draining battery - we all learn this the hard way lol - why is this even a thing?
This is Dual Purpose specific but a bigger aftermarket fuel or an auxiliary tank (IF legal where you live) is a great mod for your bike that came stock with a 3 gallons fuel capacity.
I think putting on spike handlebar weights is the best mod for the discerning rider.
RE: Tool kits. My 2021 RE came with a tool kit.
Yes, I have needed it, it's an RE.
Engine game before the reveal, guessing GSXR1100 or bandit, sounds like my 1200
A Spurgette? A Spurgetto? Conrats to you both on whatever you got. (Typing this at the start of the vid)
Disappointed my Triumph 660 Sport doesn't have cruise control. Still love it though.
I used to use lollipop sticks on the Kawasaki 500 as 'cruise control'. Put a hole in it and used fishing line to hold it to the handlebar.
He did a such a wonderful pronoun dance at the beginning it shocked me when he said "my son" about 47 mins in. So, I guess Spurge Jr. Jr. it is lol!
After 50 years of doing probably as many bad mods as good ones, I’ve settled on these top three;
1) Tank bag
2) Frame sliders
3) Radiator guard
My new dr650 came with a tool kit🤣. They haven't changed
Hi, you mentioned that Honda made the CBX1000 as a six cylinder, what about the Kawasaki KZ1300?, or the Benelli SEI 750 & 900?, as a Honda fan bit, the cbx is a stunning looking bike, they also sound SO good with 6 into 6 pipes
Agee with Spurge 100% ninja 400 or whatever you have if you want to go, get on and go you might need a break now and then but you won’t ever regret taking the ride .
I just wish Yamaha would set a new trend with the MT-07 and give it 100ish hp, forks and swing arm from the MT-09, slipper clutch, radially mounted calipers and master, and cruise control. Make it $10k and let the blood bath of people fighting to get their hands on one begin. They already have all the cheap parts in high production with the base MT-09
Well this was a nice suprise.
Z and I felt like we were getting a little lazy on our respective summer breaks. We missed each other’s company and biting jabs!
@@spurgeondunbar879 As did we.
No more bike without a quickshifter for me. AND cruise control.... I need BOTH
Yes new seasonnn!!! Been waiting for so long! Haha
One thing missed, First Aid kit.
This is underrated. So are skills, I feel like in high school when were taught CPR we should also learn the basics of applying a tourniquet or the basics of doing stitches.
@@nickb638 The skills more so that the kit...at least when touring. Back-country/solo survival training means you have almost anything you need on the bike already. I only carry bandaids, antibiotic ointment, skin adhesive, a little gauze and emergency butterfly "sutures". For those not willing to go that deep into training, an inflatable emergency splint is about all I would add plus minimal first aid training.
Yeah, I have NSAIDS, Imodium, etc but that is not usually first aid.
Really good point! I didn't think to say this in my list of mods, but as a physician it is such an ordinary piece of kit that it's automatic. It should be first.
Nice. Perfect timing as I'm packing to move across the country to the desert.
Every single motocycle should come with HEATED GRIPS and CRUISE CONTROL! this makes any/every bike better! HANDS DOWN!!!
I feel those are both very subjective. I would never want heated grips where I ride. Cruise control is a 10 dollar clip on plastic part if I really need it.
Also a tire pressure monitoring system
@@jameshisself7375throttle locks are not cruise control
@@sociopathmercenary I was waiting for this. They are if you want them to be. Man up and stop leaning on your crutches.
Wooohoo, you guys are back! I've been missing you fellas!
Better lighting front and rear
One of my first modifications on the bike are a set of tank pads for extra grip.
Tool kits...Old school R1100GS could do anything but the final drive or swingarm removal but interestingly enough, also has the only wrench I have found that can remove the spark plugs. Does a thinwall socket exist that can do it...I am sure there is but I have not found it yet.
Conversely for new bikes it can run the gammut. 2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 came with not a damned thing for tools. My 2019 Z400 had a pretty standard UJM-grade tool kit with various wrenches including everything needed to adjust the chain, preload on the shock and adjust the mirrors. The latter was also the easiest bike ever in the history of the world to do an oil change on.
Gentlemen, one person speaks, we listen. When you both raise your voice for control, we reach through our screens and slap you both. Good show…
It's Spurge. Spurge tries to compete with Zach. I find him super annoying. Zach, on the other hand, great sense of humour and articulate.
1999 Buell X1 when you locked the bars to the left it seemed that they were unlocked very very misleading,,, found that out the hard way and blasted into my beer garden fence ohh it was a good one 😅
You guys missed the biggest advantage that hydrogen gas over battery electric! You can fill up in 3 minutes!
I always thought bar end mirrors were for style only but wow. Get ones with slightly convex lenses and holy shit the visibility increase is awesome.
can I just say, with the hydrogen bikes; the Big 4 should just lean into the Akira styling at that point. I mean, anyone old enough to remember that movie/anime (but mostly movie) wants that red bike, wants to do the Akira slide (or maybe that's just me?)
Besides, in the film, the bikes appear to have been built by Michael Bay, what with all the explosions, but maybe they were all just running on hydrogen?! 10k PSI is, in scientific terms, a fuck load of pressure so any rupture in that tank would, I assume, get it to...POP.
Love these new ideas for sustainable biking but we definitely have some ways to go.
Heated grips make chilly mornings much more comfortable and cold winter days possible. They're always ready to go and always with you when you may need them unlike heated gloves. Heated gear is great too though :)
41:50 Perfect call out on the Ninja 1000. I own one, and it is truly awesome. But the stock screen is too short. The optional OEM extended screen is perfect.
I recently purchased a leftover 2023 Royal Enfield Scram 411 (with an excellent factory discount!) and was pleasantly surprised to find a tool kit under the seat. I’ve used some of it to adjust the rear shock pre-load and as part of the first oil change/tappet adjustment. Great quality, approachable, and fun at a bargain basement price.
Hello, how are you finding the bike please? I've been looking at the scram to slow myself down here in the UK with its ever decreasing speed limits.
@@JW20236 I’ve really enjoyed my time with the bike but I’ve only put about 600 miles on it to date. I’m a big fella and have found it to be quite comfortable with adequate power for side road trips here in the US as the highway speeds these days are outrageous. The suspension is setup well and find the handling to be more nimble than my Bonnie T120. I’m in the process of kitting it out with a windscreen, hand guards and bags for some light touring. It’s tough to beat for the price and versatility it offers, imo.
@@one.man.scram411 thanks for your feedback. Enjoy.
I remember the old bikes with the helmet locks and almost all of them had a hinged seat. I also prefer the steering lock integrated into the ignition instead of being separate. I love cruise control and believe in extra lighting to be seen and being able to see after dark. For touring I would add some type of secondary foot pegs so you can change your foot position for longer rides. One of the worst mods ever is the integrated tail light and blinkers. They are really hard to distinguish what is going on for someone behind you. I like for the person behind me seeing exactly what I'm doing. The CBX sounded like an inline 4 while revving, but it almost sounded like a V-8 when idling. I knew something was different, but didn't come up with the CBX either.
As a 6’5 dude, the mods I do most often are comfort mods.
I would Strongly disagree with the "If you're going to your first track day, i wouldn't worry about tires". I went to my first track day with my (at the time) new 2022 Honda CBR650R. A fine bike for a first track day. But the OEM Dunlop D214 tires on it was HORRIBLE! They felt oily/greasy from the very first corner. And to make matters worse. Half way into the track day, it started raining. Those tires should be illegal to make, sell, and equip on Any bike. I was not only the slowest guy on track. I was barely able to corner at all, as the tires were sliding like a wet fish on ice. I switched the tires out with a set of Metzeler M7RR's and two weeks later, i was back. Again it started raining, and i was now the fastest on track in the wet. Same bike. Two sets of tires, as different as a 250cc off-road bike is to a 1000cc sport bike.
My biggest takeaway from this is that Zack has nice shirts,
For sure a dyno tune
1:16:38 just yesterday I was on a mellow cruise on the 890 and was in the left lane on city streets about 25-30mph and felt something on my right boot. An older woman apparently didn’t see me and started coming over on me! Boots took most of the scuffing, but I’m thinking a proximity detector might have alerted me that she was headed my way!
1:19:57 😂 my xsr900 gives mpg in 40s, but ecu flashed, full exhaust guys get upper 30s
Spurgeon, "What are the common short coming in modern motorcycles"
Zack, "Gearing and mirrors man, let me tell ya... could be an entire podcast..."
/s 😂
Edit: autocorrect is a bit of a moron
23:40 Someone in Oakland area cut my D-ring off my helmet to steal it from the helmet lock. Not even a good helmet! Now I just cable it to my alarm disk lock, or take it in with me.
Personally I have no interest in cruise control on a motorcycle, anything that stops the rider from concentrating is dangerous. Quickshifters have their place and for any powerful motorcycle that place is a racetrack. For small capacity ‘sporty’ bikes like a KTM 390 they are probably OK on the road but for anything bigger all they do is help you to break the law a few milliseconds quicker than with a conventional gearbox. I actually enjoy changing gear manually on my motorcycles and and in my cars, it’s a big part of the driving experience.
My CB500X doesnt have any fueling issues. I think its hit or miss with them for whatever reason
I have a heavily modded ex500 that's been turned partway into an adventure bike. front end has been lifted, and as a result when the back is loaded, the bike will occasionally wobble when you drop the throttle at moderate speeds (40-50ish mph.) I don't plan to put a damper on this bike. I've taken the bike to 120, and it's rock dead stable. As long as have my hands on the bars, the bike isn't going to do anything crazy.
Why do you need cruise control on every bike? If you do a lot of long distance touring, then yes I see the benefits, but for everyday rides you don't need it
I swear I thought bruh was "Welcome to BiggerPockets, I'm Brandon Turner..."
The path is in a on board hydrogen generator and not storage.
I happen to have purchased the chassis from the $1k special track Blackie CBR300R. I got it minus the engine as I was looking for spare parts for my CBR250R track motorcycle.
I had a feeling the mystery bike sounded a bit like an inline Honda - I have a '79 CB750F and there's a similar feel about the sound, particularly that slight rattle from the cam chain. That said, the "6 into 1 exhaust" hint did have other possibilities, like the Benelli 750 Sei, and the Kawasaki z1300.
Incidentally, the CBX is 1047cc - not as large as you'd think for such an imposing-looking engine. And yes, you can balance a cigarette or a coin on edge, then start the engine and give it a rev without anything falling over. They really are that smooth.
#1 should not add...wait 4 it......LOWERING KIT. I'm a motorcycle mechanic and when people want me to install those, i cringe. I get it you're short, you like your bike, you want to be able to put both feet down at the stoplight, but absolutely forget about the lowering kit. It changes the dynamic can even make it dangerous to ride. My 2 ¢.
Mods currently on my bike (duke 390). Crash bars and usb power from ktm parts. Rear wheel bobbins, Dna air filter, fuelx dongle, swmotech tailbag with tools and airpump and a basic waterproof phone holder.
And fitted Dunlop Mutants but it wasn't really a mod because the OEM tyres needed replacing.
dont open the accessory parts catalogue and order all the reflectors, and proceed to install all of them on the bike.
Hey guys asking for a little insight. I’m 5’9 150 pounds and have been racing motocross since I was 5, so more than 20 years. I could run the pro class at local races and do alright. I’m 27 now and don’t really care to race anymore so I’m turning to other 2 wheeled vehicles to help with the fire I still have inside to do so such as mountain bikes and ADV bikes as of late. The question is what ADV bike should I look at for around $7500? With the way I tend to ride I’ll most definitely need to get the suspension done. I can find used Yamaha Tenere around my budget but that doesn’t leave room for suspension upgrades. And after riding 2 different ones I already know it would have to be done. So should I go for something older so I can afford to get the suspension done? I’ve seen KTM 990’s and BMW 800s in my area for reasonable prices that I’d be able to get the suspension done on. should I even entertain buying them? Or just buy an old Honda Transalp and put a rally kit on it and do the suspension for cheaper than all of them. Thanks guys I really enjoy the podcast!
Hey guys asking for a little insight. I’m 5’9 150 pounds and have been racing motocross since I was 5, so more than 20 years. I could run the pro class at local races and do alright. I’m 27 now and don’t really care to race anymore so I’m turning to other 2 wheeled vehicles to help with the fire I still have inside to do so such as mountain bikes and ADV bikes as of late. The question is what ADV bike should I look at for around $7500? With the way I tend to ride I’ll most definitely need to get the suspension done. I can find used Yamaha Tenere around my budget but that doesn’t leave room for suspension upgrades. And after riding 2 different ones I already know it would have to be done. So should I go for something older so I can afford to get the suspension done? I’ve seen KTM 990’s and BMW 800s in my area for reasonable prices that I’d be able to get the suspension done on. should I even entertain buying them? Or just buy an old Honda Transalp and put a rally kit on it and do the suspension for cheaper than all of them. Thanks guys I really enjoy the podcast!
For a long trip, my first mod would be alternate (highway) footpegs - where possible, of course. No having leg cramps makes any trip better, especially when you eventually have to stop for fuel and find you can't get your leg to unbend and a foot on the ground before the bike takes a nap on top of you. My second mod would be a wrist rest on the throttle grip to let me hand relax a little. (My zero-eth mod was a comms system and phone mount, but I don't count that because I feel that a GPS you can hear more of a safety feature/necessity than a creature comfort on long trips.)
I don't mind going sans windshield (I tend to stick to back roads with lower speed limits anyway) and I can strap a duffel over the pillion seat without too much trouble. Happily, my daily rider ('79 Honda CB750-F) came with a decent tool kit from the factory, and a centre stand, and a helmet lock, and a fork lock, and good mirrors...and a 5.2 gallon tank so I don't have to stop too often for fuel.
Helmet lock! What a great thing I never think about. And I install them on every bike I own. I usually get the slick Brogue locks that go under the saddle. Every bike should have REVERSE
I think you did miss an important aspect of modifying bikes: Ergonomics. Shorter riders lower their bikes or get low seats. Tall riders get lower pegs, taller seats or raise handlebars. I just bought myself a Tracer 9GT plus. It's great, except for the seat. It's way too hard. I'm going to get a custom seat made. I will have them raise it up at least an inch. That might make me decide to get risers for the handlebars. The windscreen is too tall. I'm going to get a shorter one. I have a DR650, but this is just a comment. I'm not going to list the MANY modifications that have been made to that bike comfy. I surprised you didn't address this very practical aspect of modifying bikes.
All my street bikes get a washable & reusable air filter like BMC/K&N/Sprint etc.
Factory ones are over priced and the higher flow ones can give you a little performance boost too with the exhaust & remap.
Communication is key. I had to skips some parts, because of the friendly arguments and cut each other off You guys said it! @31:21. That said, this video was helpful. Thx! :D
What is fueling problems? Like when you put the fuel nozzle in the tank and it sprays and spritzes gas all over the paint job on your fuel tank? That's the only fueling problem I have with my CBR..
Fueling- you can blame environmental regulations, but think that’s just exposed manufactures who get lazy and don’t invest the resources into the fuel maps. Auto manufacturers meet strict regulations and when was the last time you noticed it when driving? Do we let the motorcycle makers get away with it by just getting a reflash ECU instead of complaining about it to the dealers making them run it up to the chain of command? A $30k car will taken back to the dealer until it’s fixed or bought back.
I'm surprised under mods you don't need you didn't mention bar risers.
I finally got the rev trivia on my first guess! Soon as I heard it I thought CBX! Now where's the prize....?
My dads bike has a throttle lock on it and it seriously sketched me out. Was not a fan of how it felt.
Should be adjustable, mine is simple/easy to use.
@@jimstenlund6017 Yeah it was adjustable. The feeling of the throttle sticking in its open position just didn't sit right with me. I also didn't find it terribly useful for maintaining a constant speed. His bike is an fjr1300 and that engine seems to just slowly climb in revs even if you throttle lock at a reasonably closed throttle position. I'm pretty happy to just hold the throttle open. I'm usually taking a break every 90 minutes or so anyways to stretch my legs.
@@monawoka97 Oh yeah, mine’s on a torque-less GL500i lol.
I'm mostly a sport bike guy and, honestly, I don't think I could live with any of my bikes having that ugly OEM tail hanging around. 🤮
Hey Zack, I have a question about my next bike choice. Possible to send that to you and maybe your co-vloggers for consideration? f so, what would that email address be?
When I heard the engine sound, I was thinking 6 cyl Goldwing. Do I deserve and award? Well, I'm proud either way.
On mirrors, what are your thoughts about "fish-eye" mirrors? I put them on everything and even have the little ones Cycle Gear sells on my ZZR, I love them!
1:36:06 I'm calling it before I hear the answer. Turbo Busa. Sure as heck sounds like a wastegate at the top of the rev range there. EDIT: Nuts! Didn't get it.