Jim Carna was an underrated rider, exceptionally fast at very low speeds, with his unique riding style, of what would later be referenced as, 'Jim Carna Style'.
Just in this one episode. Neevesy has done more dream rides/trips than I could ever imagine. 👍 I used to watch the early MCN videos. Shocking quality, but bike output on the RUclips then was scarce.
It should be mandatory for everyone to ride a Honda 90 round the woods and across wet grass at the age of 14 😂 you learn a lot about slow speed riding naturally then
And you find out a hell of a lot in a big hurry what TRACTION means with bald Road tires on wet dirt. Edit No surprise Kenny Roberts training ranch used to run dirt bikes on slicks.
I am the opposite, I buy when it looks fantastic. A 2018 Aprilia RSV4 RF LE!😍🍻👍 The first bike with GP wings and I got the first one sold. Not a big deal for anyone else but it is for me. The first on track, and everyone laughed at me. Next year they all wanted wings. The frame rides like a ballerina, and it's engine makes me glad to be alive. 💌
One thing about slow speed corners, which helped me tremendously: Practice practice practice! Just go to a parking lot and try to tighten up your u-turn closer and closer. The gymkhana style you mention works very well at low speed. The biggest tip I have found for low speed is that if you feel like the bike is going to drop, try to train yourself not to even think about touching the brakes. Instead, release the clutch a bit and it will stand up a bit. Just keep the gas on a constant level and use clutch (and to some extent rear brake) to regulate the speed. For me practicing this a couple of times a week for a month or 3 made me go from not being able to U turn on a double road confidently, to being able to lay the bike flat and do it in a single lane. More importantly, slow speed practice like that is quite challenging and hella fun! Plus not that much risk on getting injured if something goes wrong either. And lastly, you will look cool in front of your buddies with your superior low speed maneuvers ;)
When I was young looks were everything and I went through the usual suspects from Aprilia, Ducati, Triumph, et al. Now I'm an old git, surprise, surprise, I ride an RT1250. I don't use the panniers to keep it looking a bit slimmer but - you know - few would say it's a tart-puller. But I've learned to love it for it's sheer ability. Everything is superbly designed: it's comfortable, nimble and fast and it brings me joy on a different level. The only embarrassing moments are when I park it next to the pocket-rockets at Ponderosa (local bike meet) and slope off to the cafe like an escapee from Jurassic Park.
Could listen to this all day , your experience and the bikes you’ve got to ride , you just real them off. Thanks for doing these vids, truly excellent 👌
Just want to say thanks for so many useful tips and tricks through the 'Thanks for asking series'. Oh, and I bought a GSXR 750 k series off the back of it for scratching and track days :)
Another good 'un. Best bit for me was thinking you don't have that much 2 stroke experience and then coming up with a who's who and what's what, bucket list of epic proportions level 2 stroke outings. Priceless! And how about a 350 LC "what makes this bike great" episode. Loved my early bike days on one.
@casterofchaos: It has to do with vision and the line. You really have to take the latest possible apex and you need to really turn your head. The tip with the back brake is mainly for downwards turns.
Not just downhill or uphill, the back brake is for all corners. Really helps to tighten the bike line and pull it into the corner. Try it carefully, just a little bit of rear brake. It's just a slight drag on the rear brake, that's all you want. That slight drag somehow makes the front turn a bit tighter. Chaos Dude or Dudette, try what Neevesie said. Carefully 🙂 I love the rear brake. I too use it gently to turn a bit tighter. Very gently applying slight pressure. Just enough to feel it a little. Not trying to stop, it's just very slight pressure. Maybe there is an empty car park and you can set a few tiny cones and practice. Corner approach, lane position, entry with slight rear brake, mid corner still with slight rear brake, corner exit so as Neevesie said reduce the rear brake usage gently to nothing as you then get on the power a bit. Walk yourself through it in your mind. Even sketch it on a sheet of paper. Make the hand movements, foot movement, body, everything. Give yourself lots of time when you start something new. That's what I do. Otherwise I make a muddled rush 😁. So I've learned to go a bit slower and start earlier the process I'm trying to master. The rear brake is still useful for cornering. It's why the racers, even with injuries, want a rear brake, even a thumb rear brake lever. As a kid I learned on the dirt so I started off with lots of rear brake. And I found it really weird when some riders would say they never ever use the rear, because it offers so much control and affect. Of course it's now as powerful as stopping, but it's so useful for cornering and control. And how lucky you are to be there having a blast!
I currently ride a 3rd gen Mt09 sp. Not a fan of the looks but i cant see it when riding! Absolutely stunning bike to ride ! Its been 2 years and a half
I don’t worry as much about looks considering I like sporty naked bikes. I’d say what you find least offensive for your wallet and if the bike has an aftermarket look at what’s affordable and available that fits the body lines to make it come together better. If I went off of looks I’d be broke because the Streetfighter and Tuono are the only bikes I completely like the look of. Street Triple is a consideration but I went with even more affordable and what I could make not as offensive and got the gen 3 MT-09, put the Puig windscreen and a tail tidy, removed all stickers and reflectors and it was enough to make it easy to look at and I love to ride it more than I would have with a Street Triple. I also get compliments on it all the time. So an offensive looking bike doesn’t have to stay offensive looking with small and easy changes
What are your favourite riding roads in the UK and do you prefer riding abroad? My experience living in Cornwll is that the roads worth riding are stacked during the holiday seasons and although nothing can beat riding a motorbike, the enjoyment is somewhat dampened.
Funny you brought up 2 strokes! Last week picked up a 2009 Aprilia RS 125 U.S. spec cup bike with 1200 miles fitted with the street legal bits from original selling dealer. It needed a good detail cleaning, and leaky exhaust manifold attended to. Previous owner fitted a TYGA exhaust, VForce Reed, 34mm carb, and Pneumatic power valve. It’s my first Aprilia, and am over the moon with this beauty! Always have wanted one since they announced the news of the importing back in the day. Out of the 28 bikes I have owned, this might be the funniest of them all. 😊
Looks definitely matter, especially when you're forking out hard earned money for an expensive bike. It HAS to look, and sound good. When will yamaha make a good looking MT-10? An xsr_999 maybe? They've now made 2 good looking alternative versions of the ugmo MT-09, when will they realise that if the give the MT-10 the same treatment they'll sell truck loads??
Hiya Mate. Well if it’s any comfort I’m the same age 🤣🤣 sounds like we’ve seen our day by the comments 😂. Keep up the cracking vlogs, these really are a joy to watch each week, such a refreshing change 👍🏽😎🏍 Take it easy mate 👍🏽
Thanks Neevsy for answering my question about 2 strokes much appreciated. I have built a Wayne Rainey 1991 YZR500 replica and completed 7000km now, cant beat the sound and smell, theres nothing like it.👍
Another very interesting video, thank you. I remember that parade lap at TT 2011, it prompted me to buy the Arai Doohan TT rep. As for modern Kawasaki's, the fronts fairings remind me of fairground dodgems, perhaps they have a recycling plant for them.
I had the MBX125 which had the 16" front wheel which was weird to get used to at the start. I remember lying in a hospital bed reading a test report on it that said if you touch the foot peg hangers down the rest of the bike will follow. They were right 🥲😛
Thanks for selecting my question and loved the tt lap story… on the older group test, I remember one from Blyton park featuring new (at the time) Tuono v4 against Ducati street fighter 1098, mv brutali, superduke 990.. can’t remember the other bike. I bought the Aprilia and it was everything you said and more..it is sadly missed.
For views on older bikes, the MCN website review section has a lot of them. It is always my go to if I want to look up about an older model. OK, doesn't have every bike made, but it is pretty extensive. Also has the specs, and rider reviews.
I've often looked there as well. Great reviews and the owners reviews are very good too. It's like the owners are totally into giving an honest review. Very useful.
There is a guy that used to be a regular at our local bike meet near Rasen (not seen his fore while now) and he has a whole host of late 80's sports 750s (and a tin of other bikes) including the gsxr750rr that you mentioned - it caught my eye more so than his OW01 simply because there was two yamaha OW01s there on that day!! However, if I do get to see him there again I will make a mention of your name to him... who knows, you might even be one of his heroes (bte, 8t is often known that he takes two or more bikes to meets and has his friend/s ride his bikes there too!)
Here's a question : If you splurge $18k+ on a super capable sports motorcycle and want to ride it properly, you need to do trackdays, but to get it to run the way it should you need to chuck titanium exhausts and all sorts of tuning on it, but now you can hardly ride it on the street because it wants to go hard everywhere and everytime, and the cops don't like the noise. A lot of tracks don't like the noise either. Where is motorcycling going if you have to go (far) abroad to a racetrack with no noise limits when there are bangers like the TT Assen and Donington nearby? Isn't the very point of a racetrack that you can take heavily modified vehicles to it and go as fast as you dare?
For the first question, it depends is the answer. I own a Z-H2 which is not exactly a looker, but the absolutely bonkers performance and sublime engine more than makes up for it.
Not specifically GS riders, honest! But I am unashamedly judgy because I think I’m invited to be. Rule of cool, the rider on a 02 ZX6R A1P is likely going to be more interesting over a pint than a barely ridden Panigale bike rider, and Adventure bikes can be 50/50 as to the rider who’s either taken it off road, or likely not. We seem to project ourselves through our bikes faces, insect faces like MT10 don’t help.
My Ducati 1198s was beautiful and I couldn’t get away from it fast enough. I’m on my third GSXR 1000, a 2019 R, and it’s a very homely bike (looks like a GS500) but I love it. When I’m riding around the track I can’t see it anyway! ;-)
I once bought a bike because I liked the way it looked so much. I still have it, 25 years later, and it still sucks. Still looks good tho. 1998 XL1200S.
Of course looks matter to me at least but apparently it doesn't to all those adventure bike buyers as they all look hideous. I could never grow to love a bike that has a beak front end and a load of scaffolding or boxes at the side. Plus you have to be about 6'5" and a bodybuilder to manage one at low speeds also another downside is because everyone has one. I own some beautiful bikes and it pleases my ego when people come up to me giving compliments or eyes popping out of their heads looks as I pass by.
I went as far as going on 3 separate test rides on the MT10 trying to convince myself I could get past how ugly it was. In the end I couldn't do it. I just bought a KTM Super Duke 1390R Evo.
Neevesy, if you ever find yourself in Detroit I’d love for you to have a ride on my EBR1190RS Carbon Edition-they are special and more people deserve to experience them. In case you weren’t aware, these were the hand built AMA racers (race shop ohlins worth more than the bike is today, Suter slipper clutch, fancy engine parts) to show what Erik Buell could do and to generate interest for the RX and SX bike that were coming later.
Regarding bad looking bikes. It would absolutely put me off buying one. I mean, you have to look at every day! Who remembers the old GSX 600 or the TDM850? Or the squishy Diversion 600?
Ah, but they’re there to get you in to biking, where looks is secondary to function. The reverse of how we choose our wives and girlfriends as we get older. I still think the Honda Blackbird is a great looking bike, what do I know?
I personally like the looks first generation MT10. The redesign not as much, as it became more "plain". Guaranteed to become a future collectable due to low sales. It may take 30 years though
Nice to see the Harada rep in the background wish I had kept mine instead of chucking it. Loved that lid. Good to see your still at it ,had quite a few years off the bikes. And just got back to riding,after getting my dad's 98 vfr800fi which hasn't been ridden in 10 years. I'm actually really enjoying it, but has actually made me think I wonder what it's like on a newer one. Plus, is it worth getting the vfr back to the new condition it was in when my dad got her new. Parts, etc. Thanks
If you don’t look at your bike and think it’s the coolest thing in the world, you’ve got the wrong bike 😅 I put up with my black & gold R6 13S because it’s the best looking thing you can get in my opinion 😁
Hi Michael, just finished watching the supersport comparison video on MCN and came right back here with my questions. Beginning of this year i got myself a 2009 zx6r for track only and been doing 5-6 track days (assen, spa, some smaller tracks in france) this year so far and slowly getting into intermediates. Despite that I have been enjoying my ninja a lot, I have been wondering why 1000cc bikes are selling like hotcakes while 600cc bike class is still trying to survive/reincarnate? I ride an mt10 on street and even its power is too much for the road. While on a track like assen the time differences between a 600 vs 1000cc bike could be very little in the hands of a good rider, I realized on spa i really needed more power. But then spa is a very fast and particular track. When you look at the cost of a superstock-ish bike vs a supersport for track, small price difference is hard to justify for 600s and it becomes even smaller for used track bikes. So price vs value wise for japanese bikes it makes sense but on the contrary performance wise 600cc is more than enough fun on track. I was wondering what is really the advantage or charm of getting a 1000 over 600 to really learn to ride fast and even race on track? Also I am curious why there is almost no wide media coverage on how easy it is to convert these superbikes or supersports into proper track weapons? Touch upon gytr packages or other race builders for kawasaki, bmw, ducati regarding their characteristics, costs, parts support, bike comparison after track prep etc.
I have a BMW K1200GT an unbeliveable bike 150+ at the back wheel 160mph sitting upright 500 mile comfortable, pukka luggage, but nobody is going to look at it at the bike meet. a Ducati V4 is a cracking looking bike, but not if your six foot four. i tend to find the people who buy bikes for looks rarely keep them. Also im old enough to remember how few Katanas were sold, thats now considered a style icon.
I think looks are the reason more people don't buy the MT09 over street triples even though they're probably a better road bike. Nice to hear you talking about 2 strokes. I own a TZR250 and still love it. Stared out on an AR50 back in the 80s and like you with your MB50 still have a lot of love for that bike because it was my first. I followed this up with an RD125 an RG125 and a TZR125 which I took my test on. Still love all this old 80's 2 strokes
Would how a piece of clothing looks effect your desire to wear it? Yes even where its primary use is as a utility to prevent getting cold. There's just so many reasons why it's going to effect not only your desire to spend a small fortune, but how you feel in yourself while riding it. And in this very shallow world, much like the way we are dressed, will have a significant effect on how we are perceived and treated.
As much as I dont like to admit it , I agree 'looks' play a huge part if I'm honest. Unless you're purely about performance perhaps. I bought a Z900 rs cafe based on looks - I wish they did a performance version like the yellow ball but I'm just gonna have to start down the expensive upgrade path with shocks, brakes etc. - its just the price you pay for looks I guess.🤔
Hi Michael - really appreciate and enjoy the Q&A series. I have a question for you please. Can we shift down while going through a corner with and without a quick-shifter? Case being where through the corner you realise you're in a higher gear. Thanks in advance.
The looks of modern exhausts really put me off, especially when there are better looking, lighter, homologated aftermarket options - why not just do it right in the first place? So what if it adds are few hundred £ to the cost of a bike? At least BMW (and Honda) now do this quite a bit more. Also please point me in the direction of these cracking deals! Because ten year old Street Triples are up for sale for £6K! The price of used bikes nowadays is insane.
Great to hear your stories of some fun times i wonder if anyone will EVER ask their subscriber's Do you have a 2009 Bandit 650 i could ride around the Block 😜 well i have one here , waiting but the Phone isnt ringing . looking forward to your next vlog would you say you have a preferred Make of Motorcycle , regardless of what you currently ride ?
Another great weekly Q and A 🍻 I don't think you're old Michael, me being a couple of years older than you might have something to do with it 🙂 Hope you track down a gsxr750 rrk, as a lover of oil cooled GSXR s that's the pinnacle, rare beasty now.
Hello Mate from Bavaria! Awesome work, like it very very much. One question for you: did you ever ride a BMW HP2? How was it for you? I bought a R 1250 R Sport and i think it‘s at this Moment the closest you get to this kind of sporty boxer BMWs. Although it’s obviously not as raw and hard than this i love it. Cheers!
Thanks for Asking question submission...what percentage of pro riders, ride on public roads? I realize racing's goal is to sell motorcycles, advertisements and TV rights...but in usa I find many racers in Motamerica series do not ride on public roads for safety concerns. Sure it is also in their contracts, but generally wanted your comments on this subject.
Love your videos neevesy and really enjoying your gsxr 750 series. I have a question but not sure where I'm supposed to ask so here goes. I am looking into doing some track days and get into some racing as soon as possible. I have lusted over the gsxr-750 for some time but checking the regs of a few websites it seems the 749cc 4 cylinder would be outgunned against 1000cc's and unable to run in the 600cc group. Would the gsxr 600 be a better buy or would you recommend something else looking at 2000-2010 price wise. Thank you for all the knowledge you share with us, long live your channel 👍
The Street Triple would probably be the perfect bike for me but I just cannot get over the insect look. Bought the 2024 MT09 and I don’t love the look. Was much more fond of my old RS660. Solution? R9
Hello Michael, I understand that you and MCN can only review bikes as they arrive from the factory. However, certain motorcycles can have deficiencies or be so transformed by an ECU Flash that it takes the bike to a whole other level. Have you ever ridden a bike that has been tuned or flashed or otherwise that has completely sorted out all of the manufacturers issues, like throttle control etc? (Early FZ09 comes to mind) Or perhaps a mad power ECU flash for something like a Kawasaki H2 series motorcycle where flashing and putting a full system on the bike gives you 50 extra horsepower?
"With my MCN hat on, we never talk about a bikes looks really, because style and taste and all the rest of it is very subjective......we just kind of deal in the facts when we road test, about what a bike is and what it's like to ride..." ??? (sic) Can you explain how a bikes riding characteristics are not also subjective? I think they are, I believe setup and the feel you get from a motorcycle is just as subjective as its appearance. The spec sheet is a list of details, components and measurements that can be reported objectively, but the way they combine to interact with the rider is not. By virtue of throwing a leg over a bike the rider adds myriad variations, preferences and inputs that are unique to them AND the time and place they are riding. Sure, reviewers can reach a consensus that a bike is "good to ride" but these are still personal opinions and thus by definition subjective. So clearly wanting to avoid 'subjectivity' isn't the reason you're reticent to talk about a bike's styling. I'd hazard a guess you don't want to offend anyone's taste, and that's ok. Edit: 1989 GSXR750RRK with the alloy tank and Keihin flat slides. What a bike! This means you'll have to do an OWO1, an 851/888 and a RC30 vid too. Maybe even a ZXR750RR too 😁
I grew up in Thanet in the early 80s, I also had a black MB5 with a micron exhaust. I don't recall seeing another one, so maybe it was the same one? The registration number was MKR 824W. I keep telling myself I'll get another one but at the moment, I've got too many bikes. My partner also has tolerance limits to my addiction 😁
@@neevesybikes Hi, I'm sure it was '83, had it for a couple of years. Had so much fun, must have lapped Thanet a thousand times 😆. I was a regular at Bike Bits in Ramsgate, changing sprockets and all sorts. It did 25 mph when I got it, after months of "development" I achieved a whopping 45 mph, which my mate's Simpson 50 did out of the box 😄
I took my S1000RR up some very twisty mountain roads bends with combined severe gradients. The bike was a nightmare to manage because of its weight and poor turning circle. Never again doing that with that bike. My Monster 937 is the ideal bike for that type of riding.
Cool T-shirt. Attended their concert at Royal Albert Hall. One of my top three concerts of all time. Question: you had a Streetfighter 848 as a longtermer. Which is one of the reasons I got one (four years ago). Can you give an updated assessment of it?
Question. Hi Neevesy, I have a 2020 GSX-S750. I like the bike, but when pushing on through the lanes it feels like I have grip in abundance from the Batlax S21's but can't use it as the bike feels a bit unstable over the bumps. Is it me or the bike. I hear the suspension is pretty low budget and considering upgrading it. Maybe Nitron rear shock and Andreani front but a lot to spend if it doesn't make the difference I'm looking for. What do you think of the stock suspension and is it worth upgrading?
I’m looking for a new or used street bike that I’ll occasionally take to the track. I have a GS for touring so this bike would only be for fun. My budget is around €13,000. I’m quite large (187cm/100kg) so I need to have relatively good legroom. I have 4 bikes in mind and would like to hear your opinion which one to pick Street triple 765 RS, BMW S1000R,Tuono V4 factory, KTM 890 Duke R Best regards from Sweden
I haven't found a good answer yet, and I've been looking for a while, so I thought I would ask you, since you're answering questions in your videos. I love my 2023 GSX-R750, but it annoys me that the speedometer reads about 9% higher than my actual speed. Not that it matters all that much, because the speedometer should be reading "Do not pass Go. Go directly to Jail". It still bugs me. I saw a guy on RUclips (Sacramaniac) that had a 2011 Gixxer with a "speedohealer" . Unfortunately, in later videos his tachometer didn't work he needed a new dash. Question: How can I make my speedmeter accurate?
if i've had made my purchase based on looks i would have miss a lot of amazing ride experience most of the naked have an ugly front anyway (except the ducati street fighter)
Hi Neevesy, Thank you for the Q&A's Ive watched a few and picked up some tips. A question as a new rider (26yrs old), I passed my DAS in May 2023, I bought my first bike, a Honda cbr650f 2017 and I really enjoy it, only done around 600miles so far so lots to learn. A two part question, The bike is quite heavy which I am getting used to still, but I am having some control issues going round corners, what do you advise a new rider to get more comfortable with corners? Secondly, when setting off I put the bike intro first, I hear a click like its going to gear but when i release the clutch it is not engaged, so I then must click it in again, I have also been getting a few neutrals when shifting from 1st to 2nd. I know it is a daft question but just thought I'd ask for someone with a lot of experience if they have come across this before. Thank you in advance.
Hey Neevesy, love these q&a vids that pick at your knowledge and make the thoughts of a rider whos done it all available to those who haven't. As far as old reviews go, i've found some discrepancies between the star rating on the current website and the older tests. For example, on the 2005 supernaked comparo, the mv brutale has 5/5 and the kawi z1000 has 3/5 yet on the current website both are at 4/5. Has there been a shift in opinion after getting more runs on the machines after the test? Like you said in the video, finding older artickes is a bit of a pain so i can't exactly dig back and figure this out like that unfortunately. Secondly, whats your thoughts on the 1st gen air-cooled monsters? I feel like the simplicity, charm and total lack of unnecessary gizmos and electronics (only button start & efi on later models) wrapped up in such light package with actual power (at least the high cc ones) represents what riding is all about and, arguably is what most riders actually need. The closest modern bikes to this right now seem to be the bonnie variants, which are heavier, the r9t, same issue, and the v7, which lacks some power to make it a true do it all.
Hey Michael. Thanks for these videos. Always interesting and informative. Thinking of heading to Pyrenees for a week next year. Should I bring my own bike (brand new GSX8S) or rent? Costs about the same to ship it over or rent one there. But at least there is no insurance excess on my own bike. Any route tips or places to visit? I hear that I should stay south side of the Pyrenees to avoid the rain. Cheers. Garret
Hi Neevesy, if you see this, thanks. Love this kinda of format tbh. I am from down south, like bottom of Dorset, and I've found that trackdays seem to all be northwards (which they'd have to be given how south I am) but to your knowledge is there anything around down this way that is good for someone that wants to dip their toe in? Everytime I look I have to travel half the country... :( And is there any physical exercise you'd recommend for a biker, particularly if you do want to do track focused riding? I feel like I never hear about how the rider needs to stay in shape, and being a recent convert to being a thin person, I'm keen to do my best.
Excellent as always Nevesy !
Thanks!
100%, it could have the best engine, chassis, suspension etc but a face like a dropped meat pie and that would stop most from buying it.
Jim Carna was an underrated rider, exceptionally fast at very low speeds, with his unique riding style, of what would later be referenced as, 'Jim Carna Style'.
my girlfriend and i laughed out loud at "elderly", the expression on your face was fantastic 😂
🤣
Tips for low speed corners. #5. look over your shoulder to where you are going. It feels a bit strange, but really works. This helped me a lot.
For a mountain road ?
U - turn definitely.
Mountain road. Yes.
Just in this one episode. Neevesy has done more dream rides/trips than I could ever imagine. 👍
I used to watch the early MCN videos. Shocking quality, but bike output on the RUclips then was scarce.
It should be mandatory for everyone to ride a Honda 90 round the woods and across wet grass at the age of 14 😂 you learn a lot about slow speed riding naturally then
I dreamt of 90cc…I had a 50cc😂
Seriously teaches you skid control, slides, power slides, and how to steer in many ways. At 5 to 15 mph 😁
At "14"?
Why so late in life 😁
And you find out a hell of a lot in a big hurry what TRACTION means with bald Road tires on wet dirt.
Edit
No surprise Kenny Roberts training ranch used to run dirt bikes on slicks.
Or you learn that you crash and get put off riding completely, as happens to people.
The sight of the bikes sitting in the garage when I walk in wearing my kit, is a non-trivial part of enjoying biking for me.
Nailed it.
Yes sir
The look after the elderly comment had me howling! Love it. Thanks Neevesy!
I am the opposite, I buy when it looks fantastic. A 2018 Aprilia RSV4 RF LE!😍🍻👍 The first bike with GP wings and I got the first one sold. Not a big deal for anyone else but it is for me. The first on track, and everyone laughed at me. Next year they all wanted wings.
The frame rides like a ballerina, and it's engine makes me glad to be alive.
💌
I bought a '23 RSV4 base in Feb. I don't have a better way to describe it other than it is a special experience every time.
@@otter7467 yes, I understand
I feel the same
5:11 Previous gen MT10 had beautiful robotic sharp look.... but this one.... even i couldn't describe it....👁️👄👁️
One thing about slow speed corners, which helped me tremendously: Practice practice practice! Just go to a parking lot and try to tighten up your u-turn closer and closer. The gymkhana style you mention works very well at low speed. The biggest tip I have found for low speed is that if you feel like the bike is going to drop, try to train yourself not to even think about touching the brakes. Instead, release the clutch a bit and it will stand up a bit. Just keep the gas on a constant level and use clutch (and to some extent rear brake) to regulate the speed.
For me practicing this a couple of times a week for a month or 3 made me go from not being able to U turn on a double road confidently, to being able to lay the bike flat and do it in a single lane.
More importantly, slow speed practice like that is quite challenging and hella fun! Plus not that much risk on getting injured if something goes wrong either. And lastly, you will look cool in front of your buddies with your superior low speed maneuvers ;)
When I was young looks were everything and I went through the usual suspects from Aprilia, Ducati, Triumph, et al. Now I'm an old git, surprise, surprise, I ride an RT1250. I don't use the panniers to keep it looking a bit slimmer but - you know - few would say it's a tart-puller. But I've learned to love it for it's sheer ability. Everything is superbly designed: it's comfortable, nimble and fast and it brings me joy on a different level. The only embarrassing moments are when I park it next to the pocket-rockets at Ponderosa (local bike meet) and slope off to the cafe like an escapee from Jurassic Park.
Ponderosa cafe - Horseshoe Pass. Great little ride!
Could listen to this all day , your experience and the bikes you’ve got to ride , you just real them off.
Thanks for doing these vids, truly excellent 👌
Just want to say thanks for so many useful tips and tricks through the 'Thanks for asking series'. Oh, and I bought a GSXR 750 k series off the back of it for scratching and track days :)
Another good 'un. Best bit for me was thinking you don't have that much 2 stroke experience and then coming up with a who's who and what's what, bucket list of epic proportions level 2 stroke outings. Priceless! And how about a 350 LC "what makes this bike great" episode. Loved my early bike days on one.
Now that's a good idea!
I keep a Couple of Coins in my Tool Bag Now . had that problem getting Air Once & You Need 20p to use the Public Toilets in Kettering Shopping Mall..😖
@casterofchaos: It has to do with vision and the line. You really have to take the latest possible apex and you need to really turn your head. The tip with the back brake is mainly for downwards turns.
Not just downhill or uphill, the back brake is for all corners. Really helps to tighten the bike line and pull it into the corner. Try it carefully, just a little bit of rear brake.
It's just a slight drag on the rear brake, that's all you want. That slight drag somehow makes the front turn a bit tighter.
Chaos Dude or Dudette, try what Neevesie said. Carefully 🙂
I love the rear brake. I too use it gently to turn a bit tighter. Very gently applying slight pressure. Just enough to feel it a little. Not trying to stop, it's just very slight pressure.
Maybe there is an empty car park and you can set a few tiny cones and practice.
Corner approach, lane position, entry with slight rear brake, mid corner still with slight rear brake, corner exit so as Neevesie said reduce the rear brake usage gently to nothing as you then get on the power a bit.
Walk yourself through it in your mind. Even sketch it on a sheet of paper. Make the hand movements, foot movement, body, everything.
Give yourself lots of time when you start something new. That's what I do. Otherwise I make a muddled rush 😁. So I've learned to go a bit slower and start earlier the process I'm trying to master.
The rear brake is still useful for cornering. It's why the racers, even with injuries, want a rear brake, even a thumb rear brake lever.
As a kid I learned on the dirt so I started off with lots of rear brake. And I found it really weird when some riders would say they never ever use the rear, because it offers so much control and affect. Of course it's now as powerful as stopping, but it's so useful for cornering and control.
And how lucky you are to be there having a blast!
I currently ride a 3rd gen Mt09 sp. Not a fan of the looks but i cant see it when riding! Absolutely stunning bike to ride ! Its been 2 years and a half
I don’t worry as much about looks considering I like sporty naked bikes. I’d say what you find least offensive for your wallet and if the bike has an aftermarket look at what’s affordable and available that fits the body lines to make it come together better. If I went off of looks I’d be broke because the Streetfighter and Tuono are the only bikes I completely like the look of. Street Triple is a consideration but I went with even more affordable and what I could make not as offensive and got the gen 3 MT-09, put the Puig windscreen and a tail tidy, removed all stickers and reflectors and it was enough to make it easy to look at and I love to ride it more than I would have with a Street Triple. I also get compliments on it all the time. So an offensive looking bike doesn’t have to stay offensive looking with small and easy changes
What are your favourite riding roads in the UK and do you prefer riding abroad? My experience living in Cornwll is that the roads worth riding are stacked during the holiday seasons and although nothing can beat riding a motorbike, the enjoyment is somewhat dampened.
Funny you brought up 2 strokes! Last week picked up a 2009 Aprilia RS 125 U.S. spec cup bike with 1200 miles fitted with the street legal bits from original selling dealer. It needed a good detail cleaning, and leaky exhaust manifold attended to. Previous owner fitted a TYGA exhaust, VForce Reed, 34mm carb, and Pneumatic power valve. It’s my first Aprilia, and am over the moon with this beauty! Always have wanted one since they announced the news of the importing back in the day. Out of the 28 bikes I have owned, this might be the funniest of them all. 😊
Accelerating against dragging back brake was the only way I could ride my GSXs 1000 before the remap 😂 great advice tbf
Looks definitely matter, especially when you're forking out hard earned money for an expensive bike. It HAS to look, and sound good.
When will yamaha make a good looking MT-10? An xsr_999 maybe?
They've now made 2 good looking alternative versions of the ugmo MT-09, when will they realise that if the give the MT-10 the same treatment they'll sell truck loads??
Hiya Mate. Well if it’s any comfort I’m the same age 🤣🤣 sounds like we’ve seen our day by the comments 😂. Keep up the cracking vlogs, these really are a joy to watch each week, such a refreshing change 👍🏽😎🏍 Take it easy mate 👍🏽
Thanks Neevsy for answering my question about 2 strokes much appreciated. I have built a Wayne Rainey 1991 YZR500 replica and completed 7000km now, cant beat the sound and smell, theres nothing like it.👍
Very cool!
@rockyorchid Looking at your profile pic...that looks beautiful! Hats off to you 👍
Another very interesting video, thank you. I remember that parade lap at TT 2011, it prompted me to buy the Arai Doohan TT rep. As for modern Kawasaki's, the fronts fairings remind me of fairground dodgems, perhaps they have a recycling plant for them.
I had the MBX125 which had the 16" front wheel which was weird to get used to at the start. I remember lying in a hospital bed reading a test report on it that said if you touch the foot peg hangers down the rest of the bike will follow. They were right 🥲😛
Thanks for selecting my question and loved the tt lap story… on the older group test, I remember one from Blyton park featuring new (at the time) Tuono v4 against Ducati street fighter 1098, mv brutali, superduke 990.. can’t remember the other bike. I bought the Aprilia and it was everything you said and more..it is sadly missed.
For views on older bikes, the MCN website review section has a lot of them. It is always my go to if I want to look up about an older model. OK, doesn't have every bike made, but it is pretty extensive. Also has the specs, and rider reviews.
I've often looked there as well. Great reviews and the owners reviews are very good too. It's like the owners are totally into giving an honest review. Very useful.
There is a guy that used to be a regular at our local bike meet near Rasen (not seen his fore while now) and he has a whole host of late 80's sports 750s (and a tin of other bikes) including the gsxr750rr that you mentioned - it caught my eye more so than his OW01 simply because there was two yamaha OW01s there on that day!! However, if I do get to see him there again I will make a mention of your name to him... who knows, you might even be one of his heroes (bte, 8t is often known that he takes two or more bikes to meets and has his friend/s ride his bikes there too!)
Here's a question : If you splurge $18k+ on a super capable sports motorcycle and want to ride it properly, you need to do trackdays, but to get it to run the way it should you need to chuck titanium exhausts and all sorts of tuning on it, but now you can hardly ride it on the street because it wants to go hard everywhere and everytime, and the cops don't like the noise. A lot of tracks don't like the noise either. Where is motorcycling going if you have to go (far) abroad to a racetrack with no noise limits when there are bangers like the TT Assen and Donington nearby? Isn't the very point of a racetrack that you can take heavily modified vehicles to it and go as fast as you dare?
For the first question, it depends is the answer. I own a Z-H2 which is not exactly a looker, but the absolutely bonkers performance and sublime engine more than makes up for it.
I made the same choice for the same reasons. :)
H2 has functional looks though. It is what it says it is.
I look at other bikes out riding, the looks define what you expect of the rider.
@@BRMCaptChaos Fair point. Referring to GS riders by any chance? 😄
I used to own a 1250 GS. Lovely bike but people do judge 🙂
Not specifically GS riders, honest! But I am unashamedly judgy because I think I’m invited to be.
Rule of cool, the rider on a 02 ZX6R A1P is likely going to be more interesting over a pint than a barely ridden Panigale bike rider, and Adventure bikes can be 50/50 as to the rider who’s either taken it off road, or likely not.
We seem to project ourselves through our bikes faces, insect faces like MT10 don’t help.
The faster it goes the better it looks!
My Ducati 1198s was beautiful and I couldn’t get away from it fast enough. I’m on my third GSXR 1000, a 2019 R, and it’s a very homely bike (looks like a GS500) but I love it. When I’m riding around the track I can’t see it anyway! ;-)
Tell us why you didn't want the Ducati?
It ate two crankshafts and was a maintenance nightmare. Clearly a Friday afternoon engine. 😂
@@MotoLen51 2 crankshafts, how long did it take them to fix that?
A new engine or was it rebuilds?
I once bought a bike because I liked the way it looked so much. I still have it, 25 years later, and it still sucks. Still looks good tho. 1998 XL1200S.
Of course looks matter to me at least but apparently it doesn't to all those adventure bike buyers as they all look hideous. I could never grow to love a bike that has a beak front end and a load of scaffolding or boxes at the side. Plus you have to be about 6'5" and a bodybuilder to manage one at low speeds also another downside is because everyone has one. I own some beautiful bikes and it pleases my ego when people come up to me giving compliments or eyes popping out of their heads looks as I pass by.
🎉 thanks a lot! Got some things to try out this week! 😁
I agree with Neevesy. I found using the back brake on Austrian/Swiss hairpins works brilliantly.
Glad you enjoyed your trip over here 🇮🇲🏁🏍️
I went as far as going on 3 separate test rides on the MT10 trying to convince myself I could get past how ugly it was. In the end I couldn't do it. I just bought a KTM Super Duke 1390R Evo.
With an even uglier bike with a vagina looking headlight... niceee.
Neevesy, if you ever find yourself in Detroit I’d love for you to have a ride on my EBR1190RS Carbon Edition-they are special and more people deserve to experience them. In case you weren’t aware, these were the hand built AMA racers (race shop ohlins worth more than the bike is today, Suter slipper clutch, fancy engine parts) to show what Erik Buell could do and to generate interest for the RX and SX bike that were coming later.
Nice story from the TT.
Regarding bad looking bikes. It would absolutely put me off buying one. I mean, you have to look at every day! Who remembers the old GSX 600 or the TDM850? Or the squishy Diversion 600?
Ah, but they’re there to get you in to biking, where looks is secondary to function. The reverse of how we choose our wives and girlfriends as we get older.
I still think the Honda Blackbird is a great looking bike, what do I know?
I liked the original TDM not the later bug eye
I personally like the looks first generation MT10. The redesign not as much, as it became more "plain".
Guaranteed to become a future collectable due to low sales. It may take 30 years though
Thank you, for doing the q&a's.
Your mates are right about the H2SX, Kawasaki always made the best looking Japanese bikes, I had a ZX-7 drop dead gorgeous
Great video and tips on riding. Love the TT story.
Another great episode your a legend neevsey 😉👍
The first answer is "Of course"
1:35 ... this is why good looks are so important in life :)
Nice to see the Harada rep in the background wish I had kept mine instead of chucking it. Loved that lid. Good to see your still at it ,had quite a few years off the bikes. And just got back to riding,after getting my dad's 98 vfr800fi which hasn't been ridden in 10 years. I'm actually really enjoying it, but has actually made me think I wonder what it's like on a newer one. Plus, is it worth getting the vfr back to the new condition it was in when my dad got her new. Parts, etc. Thanks
I can’t believe you have to pay to pump your tyres up here in NZ they are free. Love your videos!
They used to be free. Covid killed free tyre pumps, in the same way it killed 24.7 shops and many other things we took for granted!
If you don’t look at your bike and think it’s the coolest thing in the world, you’ve got the wrong bike 😅 I put up with my black & gold R6 13S because it’s the best looking thing you can get in my opinion 😁
Absolutely it would , always has and always will 🏍️🏴🏍️🏴🏍️🏴
Always entertaining and lots of useful tips on riding,thanks mate!
Hi Michael, just finished watching the supersport comparison video on MCN and came right back here with my questions.
Beginning of this year i got myself a 2009 zx6r for track only and been doing 5-6 track days (assen, spa, some smaller tracks in france) this year so far and slowly getting into intermediates. Despite that I have been enjoying my ninja a lot, I have been wondering why 1000cc bikes are selling like hotcakes while 600cc bike class is still trying to survive/reincarnate? I ride an mt10 on street and even its power is too much for the road. While on a track like assen the time differences between a 600 vs 1000cc bike could be very little in the hands of a good rider, I realized on spa i really needed more power. But then spa is a very fast and particular track.
When you look at the cost of a superstock-ish bike vs a supersport for track, small price difference is hard to justify for 600s and it becomes even smaller for used track bikes. So price vs value wise for japanese bikes it makes sense but on the contrary performance wise 600cc is more than enough fun on track.
I was wondering what is really the advantage or charm of getting a 1000 over 600 to really learn to ride fast and even race on track?
Also I am curious why there is almost no wide media coverage on how easy it is to convert these superbikes or supersports into proper track weapons? Touch upon gytr packages or other race builders for kawasaki, bmw, ducati regarding their characteristics, costs, parts support, bike comparison after track prep etc.
Absolutely
I dig the Saucerful of Secrets T-Shirt!
I have a BMW K1200GT an unbeliveable bike 150+ at the back wheel 160mph sitting upright 500 mile comfortable, pukka luggage, but nobody is going to look at it at the bike meet.
a Ducati V4 is a cracking looking bike, but not if your six foot four. i tend to find the people who buy bikes for looks rarely keep them. Also im old enough to remember how few Katanas were sold, thats now considered a style icon.
I think looks are the reason more people don't buy the MT09 over street triples even though they're probably a better road bike. Nice to hear you talking about 2 strokes. I own a TZR250 and still love it. Stared out on an AR50 back in the 80s and like you with your MB50 still have a lot of love for that bike because it was my first. I followed this up with an RD125 an RG125 and a TZR125 which I took my test on. Still love all this old 80's 2 strokes
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I love the look of my MT09! If you want to be happy for the rest of your life etc.. as the song goes..
Interesting take. The street triple is in my opinion the ugliest bike currently in production 🥴
Ditch your buddies, keep the Kawi!
Would how a piece of clothing looks effect your desire to wear it? Yes even where its primary use is as a utility to prevent getting cold.
There's just so many reasons why it's going to effect not only your desire to spend a small fortune, but how you feel in yourself while riding it.
And in this very shallow world, much like the way we are dressed, will have a significant effect on how we are perceived and treated.
'bike entertainment at it's very best. Good luck finding an RR to ride & thanks.
As much as I dont like to admit it , I agree 'looks' play a huge part if I'm honest. Unless you're purely about performance perhaps. I bought a Z900 rs cafe based on looks - I wish they did a performance version like the yellow ball but I'm just gonna have to start down the expensive upgrade path with shocks, brakes etc. - its just the price you pay for looks I guess.🤔
Hi Michael - really appreciate and enjoy the Q&A series. I have a question for you please. Can we shift down while going through a corner with and without a quick-shifter? Case being where through the corner you realise you're in a higher gear. Thanks in advance.
The looks of modern exhausts really put me off, especially when there are better looking, lighter, homologated aftermarket options - why not just do it right in the first place? So what if it adds are few hundred £ to the cost of a bike? At least BMW (and Honda) now do this quite a bit more.
Also please point me in the direction of these cracking deals! Because ten year old Street Triples are up for sale for £6K! The price of used bikes nowadays is insane.
Your Gixer may be an option for the Manx. Would make for a great series.
Great to hear your stories of some fun times
i wonder if anyone will EVER ask their subscriber's Do you have a 2009 Bandit 650 i could ride around the Block 😜 well i have one here , waiting but the Phone isnt ringing .
looking forward to your next vlog
would you say you have a preferred Make of Motorcycle , regardless of what you currently ride ?
Another great weekly Q and A 🍻 I don't think you're old Michael, me being a couple of years older than you might have something to do with it 🙂 Hope you track down a gsxr750 rrk, as a lover of oil cooled GSXR s that's the pinnacle, rare beasty now.
"Would a bike's looks put you off buying it?". Yes. See Tracer 9 GT. I went into the dealer half expecting to buy it. Couldn't get past the looks.
I was drooling at the Pedrosa 250 story 😂
Looool the ugly h2 that was funny.
I agree I personally feel sound and looks are important to me
Brilliant these mate
Love the content and delivery 😎😎😎😎🙌👍👌😁
Age is only a number Neevesy. 😂. It’s about how bikes make you feel. What are your thoughts on fitting a louder but still legal exhaust ?
Hello Mate from Bavaria! Awesome work, like it very very much. One question for you: did you ever ride a BMW HP2? How was it for you? I bought a R 1250 R Sport and i think it‘s at this Moment the closest you get to this kind of sporty boxer BMWs. Although it’s obviously not as raw and hard than this i love it. Cheers!
The way it feels when I'm riding it is all that matters.
👍
I'm a bit jealous of your t-shirt Neevesy, a fellow pink floyd fan I suppose :)
Not totally, it depends on comfort and numerous other factors. I always go function, performance and then looks
Thanks for Asking question submission...what percentage of pro riders, ride on public roads? I realize racing's goal is to sell motorcycles, advertisements and TV rights...but in usa I find many racers in Motamerica series do not ride on public roads for safety concerns. Sure it is also in their contracts, but generally wanted your comments on this subject.
Love your videos neevesy and really enjoying your gsxr 750 series. I have a question but not sure where I'm supposed to ask so here goes. I am looking into doing some track days and get into some racing as soon as possible. I have lusted over the gsxr-750 for some time but checking the regs of a few websites it seems the 749cc 4 cylinder would be outgunned against 1000cc's and unable to run in the 600cc group. Would the gsxr 600 be a better buy or would you recommend something else looking at 2000-2010 price wise. Thank you for all the knowledge you share with us, long live your channel 👍
Dragging the back brake has increased my confidence and skill as a rider, a tremendous tool/technique for riders
Japanese car and bike designers have one remit: "Make it look like Gundam".
The Street Triple would probably be the perfect bike for me but I just cannot get over the insect look.
Bought the 2024 MT09 and I don’t love the look. Was much more fond of my old RS660. Solution? R9
Hello Michael, I understand that you and MCN can only review bikes as they arrive from the factory. However, certain motorcycles can have deficiencies or be so transformed by an ECU Flash that it takes the bike to a whole other level. Have you ever ridden a bike that has been tuned or flashed or otherwise that has completely sorted out all of the manufacturers issues, like throttle control etc? (Early FZ09 comes to mind) Or perhaps a mad power ECU flash for something like a Kawasaki H2 series motorcycle where flashing and putting a full system on the bike gives you 50 extra horsepower?
Where did the half hour go, love hearing all your knowledge and experiences. How’s the Suzuki rebuild going?
Thank you, sir. 750 is almost done. Update video next Monday 😊👍
Why not do a cost of ownership of the GSXR750. end of the year round up, review, to live with etc.
"With my MCN hat on, we never talk about a bikes looks really, because style and taste and all the rest of it is very subjective......we just kind of deal in the facts when we road test, about what a bike is and what it's like to ride..." ??? (sic)
Can you explain how a bikes riding characteristics are not also subjective? I think they are, I believe setup and the feel you get from a motorcycle is just as subjective as its appearance.
The spec sheet is a list of details, components and measurements that can be reported objectively, but the way they combine to interact with the rider is not. By virtue of throwing a leg over a bike the rider adds myriad variations, preferences and inputs that are unique to them AND the time and place they are riding. Sure, reviewers can reach a consensus that a bike is "good to ride" but these are still personal opinions and thus by definition subjective. So clearly wanting to avoid 'subjectivity' isn't the reason you're reticent to talk about a bike's styling. I'd hazard a guess you don't want to offend anyone's taste, and that's ok.
Edit:
1989 GSXR750RRK with the alloy tank and Keihin flat slides. What a bike!
This means you'll have to do an OWO1, an 851/888 and a RC30 vid too. Maybe even a ZXR750RR too 😁
I grew up in Thanet in the early 80s, I also had a black MB5 with a micron exhaust. I don't recall seeing another one, so maybe it was the same one? The registration number was MKR 824W.
I keep telling myself I'll get another one but at the moment, I've got too many bikes. My partner also has tolerance limits to my addiction 😁
Hi mate. I got mine in '86 and fitted the Micron. Did you have yours first?
@@neevesybikes Hi, I'm sure it was '83, had it for a couple of years. Had so much fun, must have lapped Thanet a thousand times 😆. I was a regular at Bike Bits in Ramsgate, changing sprockets and all sorts. It did 25 mph when I got it, after months of "development" I achieved a whopping 45 mph, which my mate's Simpson 50 did out of the box 😄
I took my S1000RR up some very twisty mountain roads bends with combined severe gradients. The bike was a nightmare to manage because of its weight and poor turning circle. Never again doing that with that bike. My Monster 937 is the ideal bike for that type of riding.
Cool T-shirt. Attended their concert at Royal Albert Hall. One of my top three concerts of all time. Question: you had a Streetfighter 848 as a longtermer. Which is one of the reasons I got one (four years ago). Can you give an updated assessment of it?
BTW: I still love it. It’s sharper than, and has almost as much soul as my previous 2004 totally tricked out T100 ;)
Just hearing Pepsi Suzuki took me back to the 80s
Question.
Hi Neevesy, I have a 2020 GSX-S750. I like the bike, but when pushing on through the lanes it feels like I have grip in abundance from the Batlax S21's but can't use it as the bike feels a bit unstable over the bumps.
Is it me or the bike. I hear the suspension is pretty low budget and considering upgrading it. Maybe Nitron rear shock and Andreani front but a lot to spend if it doesn't make the difference I'm looking for.
What do you think of the stock suspension and is it worth upgrading?
I’m looking for a new or used street bike that I’ll occasionally take to the track. I have a GS for touring so this bike would only be for fun. My budget is around €13,000. I’m quite large (187cm/100kg) so I need to have relatively good legroom.
I have 4 bikes in mind and would like to hear your opinion which one to pick
Street triple 765 RS, BMW S1000R,Tuono V4 factory, KTM 890 Duke R
Best regards from Sweden
I haven't found a good answer yet, and I've been looking for a while, so I thought I would ask you, since you're answering questions in your videos. I love my 2023 GSX-R750, but it annoys me that the speedometer reads about 9% higher than my actual speed. Not that it matters all that much, because the speedometer should be reading "Do not pass Go. Go directly to Jail". It still bugs me. I saw a guy on RUclips (Sacramaniac) that had a 2011 Gixxer with a "speedohealer" . Unfortunately, in later videos his tachometer didn't work he needed a new dash. Question: How can I make my speedmeter accurate?
if i've had made my purchase based on looks i would have miss a lot of amazing ride experience
most of the naked have an ugly front anyway (except the ducati street fighter)
Yes. The Triumph Street Triple is one of the best overall packages on the market, but is so hideous I would never own one, even if given to me.
Hi Neevesy, Thank you for the Q&A's Ive watched a few and picked up some tips. A question as a new rider (26yrs old), I passed my DAS in May 2023, I bought my first bike, a Honda cbr650f 2017 and I really enjoy it, only done around 600miles so far so lots to learn. A two part question, The bike is quite heavy which I am getting used to still, but I am having some control issues going round corners, what do you advise a new rider to get more comfortable with corners? Secondly, when setting off I put the bike intro first, I hear a click like its going to gear but when i release the clutch it is not engaged, so I then must click it in again, I have also been getting a few neutrals when shifting from 1st to 2nd. I know it is a daft question but just thought I'd ask for someone with a lot of experience if they have come across this before. Thank you in advance.
Hey Neevesy, love these q&a vids that pick at your knowledge and make the thoughts of a rider whos done it all available to those who haven't. As far as old reviews go, i've found some discrepancies between the star rating on the current website and the older tests. For example, on the 2005 supernaked comparo, the mv brutale has 5/5 and the kawi z1000 has 3/5 yet on the current website both are at 4/5. Has there been a shift in opinion after getting more runs on the machines after the test? Like you said in the video, finding older artickes is a bit of a pain so i can't exactly dig back and figure this out like that unfortunately. Secondly, whats your thoughts on the 1st gen air-cooled monsters? I feel like the simplicity, charm and total lack of unnecessary gizmos and electronics (only button start & efi on later models) wrapped up in such light package with actual power (at least the high cc ones) represents what riding is all about and, arguably is what most riders actually need. The closest modern bikes to this right now seem to be the bonnie variants, which are heavier, the r9t, same issue, and the v7, which lacks some power to make it a true do it all.
Hey Michael. Thanks for these videos. Always interesting and informative.
Thinking of heading to Pyrenees for a week next year. Should I bring my own bike (brand new GSX8S) or rent? Costs about the same to ship it over or rent one there. But at least there is no insurance excess on my own bike.
Any route tips or places to visit?
I hear that I should stay south side of the Pyrenees to avoid the rain.
Cheers. Garret
Hi Neevesy, if you see this, thanks. Love this kinda of format tbh. I am from down south, like bottom of Dorset, and I've found that trackdays seem to all be northwards (which they'd have to be given how south I am) but to your knowledge is there anything around down this way that is good for someone that wants to dip their toe in? Everytime I look I have to travel half the country... :( And is there any physical exercise you'd recommend for a biker, particularly if you do want to do track focused riding? I feel like I never hear about how the rider needs to stay in shape, and being a recent convert to being a thin person, I'm keen to do my best.