If you want to check out the podcast head on over to Common Tread for the uncut version of the episode! www.revzilla.com/common-tread/lemmy-spurgeon-and-joe-talk-small-motorcycles

@LITTLEBRAT775081

5 жыл бұрын

in my position I can't learn on a small bike . I took msg course but I need one that can do highway speeds . so for crusisers I needed above 750 and sportbike above 400 . therefore I ended up getting a ninja . if I had the luxury I would have gotten a smaller bike

@samehsouissi6986

5 жыл бұрын

I am sorry but you don't not read all the comments because I said hi to Lemmy and invited him to come to Malaysia to ride with me but he didn't say hi back, come on 😥

@moto_jojo

5 жыл бұрын

Followed!

@samehsouissi6986

5 жыл бұрын

@ZLA Lemmy hahahah, thanks for the comments Buddy, I hope u consider coming to Malaysia for a ride. We can do the thousand corner road trip. Keep up the good work guys. Cheers

@RobertBrockmann

5 жыл бұрын

Guys I enjoy your talks, but I never cease to wonder how spoiled American users generally are. Here in South America I knew a girl who is crossing the continent in a 125cc. She is not a mainstream case, but by no means is she an exception. I have a 250 and a 800cc. I enjoy my 250 more and I cannot imagine why would anybody need anything bigger than 800.

I toured over 6000 miles on a 50cc bike. It was slow and at times wished I had something bigger... like 90cc.

@ajwasp3642

5 жыл бұрын

Which bike? I've done 400 miles on a Derbi Variant 49cc.

@nconnelly

5 жыл бұрын

@@ajwasp3642 Honda Super Cub.

@danmanthe9335

5 жыл бұрын

Makes me wish I still had my CL100... that never ran. Im glad that pile of crap is gone

@nconnelly

5 жыл бұрын

@@danmanthe9335 Reminds me of the Trail 90 that I got running just long enough to bust a gasket... good times.

@dannygatland1353

5 жыл бұрын

my next bike will probably be a cub 90, my previous bike was a 1200...

I retired at 71 and because I finally have the time I decided to learn to ride a motorcycle. After watching videos on "bikes for beginners" I settled on a Suzuki TU-250--mostly because I really like the look of the thing. For years I rode a bicycle to work, the TU-250 is certainly bigger than my ten speed. I had never been on a motorcycle before, so even after taking the MSF course I had to practice for a month before I could get my licenses. Over the past year, and almost 2000 miles of just riding around the city, I have come to love my TU-250. I think about bigger bikes, but the TU-250 really is just about all I need. Perhaps it is no surprise the bike gets better as I become a better. You mentioned older guys not wanting to wrestle with heavier bikes. At 72 years, six feet tall at 160, I really understand that idea. My dream bike is a ZERO S, and if there were more good riding days in Oklahoma (like today--low 70s, sunny and no wind) I would probably own one. I'm sure the good guys at Brookside Motorcycles in Tulsa will be happy to hook me up once I feel I am ready to make that leap. Meanwhile, I feel privileged to be tooling around in my TU-250x.

@SuckerPunchTheClown

5 жыл бұрын

I really think zero throws a new dynamic into riding with the option to program all of the motor output and braking parameters. I've ridden the zero s and dsr and I'll definitely have one someday.

@drakeb6168

11 ай бұрын

whenever I replay this video I see your comment. I am in the midst of restoring my favorite motorcycle. A 1982 Honda CB 650SC Nighthawk. There is nothing wrong with sticking with one bike and your comment only reinforces the idea and inspires myself and my friends.

My husband had used this video to help explain things to our son who was getting his first bike. Not only that but as an overview for myself. I grew up around bikes And have had my endorsement for over 10 years but had never drove as I am only 5 ft and could not reach the pegs on my husbands Harley. And to be honest I did NOT want to ride his Harley. He just got me a Honda Super Cub and I am in love!! Now I have been looking for what to get next when I'm ready to move up. The "size" kept coming up. This had helped me decide that my next bike will be a Honda Rebel 250cc. You guys are great and we love the information yoy provide!! Your reviews and information have been very helpful with this riding family and passing down the tradition the right way.

@RevZilla

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Melinda. And congrats on the new ride! -DrewZilla

It always, always, always comes down to what you want to use the bike for. I ride a 310gs, and I use it for commuting as well as double track offroading. Is this a bike that's good for highway miles? No, a bigger bike would be better. Is this a good bike for serious offroading? No, a smaller (less heavy) bike would be better. Think about what you want to DO with that bike and let that single factor dictate how big it should be.

@MattLaidlaw

5 жыл бұрын

Film Herald well said. Amen.

@theburge4796

5 жыл бұрын

Bro, I also have a 310gs, I want to change the front sprocket, any idea which will fit? Searched high and low.

@brianmorse8811

5 жыл бұрын

@@theburge4796 YO man, same bike I'd go 3 more teeth on rear.

@theburge4796

5 жыл бұрын

Brian morse I’m game with that, I assume the rear sprocket is a little bit more universal?

@carstengerm

5 жыл бұрын

I got 310GS aswell and i love it.

I'm 65 and disabled due to spinal chord issues and I still ride. Up to three years ago I rode a Honda Valkyrie (still have 3 in my garage). I've been riding since 1971 and have had about 40 bikes since I started my obsession. My wife is a certified MSF rider coach and she has always ridden large bikes her (first was a GL100 GoldWing). My wife suffers from MS and cannot handle stress and excessive heat without causing physical weakness. We demoed Indian Scouts in 2015 at Daytona Bike Week and were amazed at the power and controlablity of the Scouts. And in 2016 at Bike Week we demoed the Octane, Scout and Scout 60's. We came to the conclusion that the 60's were the perfect bikes for our needs. We purchased the first two 60's at the local Indian dealer (had to wait two days for hers). After nearly 50 years and hundreds of thousands of miles, we now found the perfect size motorcycles for our physical need/capabilities and experience.

These podcast style discussions are awesome. I'd like to see more of these. I'd probably watch you guys every day if you made this a daily podcast. There is no good motorcycling podcasts out there that I know of. It's entertaining, informative and it's good for the motorcycle industry in general. Spurgeon and Lemmy you're why I keep coming back to Revzilla you're awesome. Thanks for everything and keep it up!

My first, and current, bike is the Honda Rebel 300. I wanted to get into motorcycling, but I wanted to do it right. The way I looked at it, I wanted a bike my skills would "grow on" and not "grow into." Sure, after two years and 10,000 miles, my skills have grown and now probably exceed the bike's capabilities. But I'm glad I went with the 300, mainly because I made plenty of mistakes during that two year period and riding a "small bike" was very forgiving in those situations, and I learned from those mistakes without horrifying consequences. Awesome topic...love this new series...keep it up.

@MrRepid

5 жыл бұрын

@Sakura Dragonoid I want to get it soo bad but it's going to be my first bike so idk. Maybe a used one would be better but it looks so good

@kleinbottled79

5 жыл бұрын

You are putting it well. The small bike forgives our worst learner errors. If I think of a couple dumb errors I made in my first 10,000 miles; it makes me very glad indeed to have started on a 300. Could I have started on a R6? Sure, it would have been fine... except, maybe, for those handful of times.

@STho205

5 жыл бұрын

I really doubt if skills grow beyond a 300cc full scale frame bike. Ego may, but not typically skill. There are professional competitive riders that still haven't mastered their class of 300s. The bigger engine will give you a smoother ride at 75mph on an interstate/motorway (typically frame weight) and it will dragstrip out accelerate in a straight line. Bikes above 250/300 do have more features for comfort or safety (ABS and traction control) or possibly more modern frames. Carburetors are about gone today in all sizes. Depends on your main ride. Five miles to work every day, a CB 300. 1000 mile trips, a Goldwing, Indian or big Harley. Twisty back roads depends on how lucky you feel between 300 and 1200. Track Bike should be ON THE TRACK. Few ever see a track, like few SUVs ever see mud.

@battlejitney2197

5 жыл бұрын

Moto Noir You are 100% correct. I did the same thing but started on Kawasaki KL250 Super Sherpa. Best decision I ever made for exactly the reasons you state. I made a 1,600 road/camping trip on it my first year. Learned on and off road on it. After 8 months, I moved to a 650 V-Strom. Like they say in the vid, different tools for different jobs. A couple years ago I gave the Sherpa to my 16yo son and I bought WR250R, which I used on the WABDR last year. Even for ADV riding, light is right. I’ll never go bigger than around 600cc for ADV riding.

@jessaphillips2846

5 жыл бұрын

If I was to start on a Rebel 300 I think the bike I would step up to from there would actually be just the Rebel 500. Its all familiar with just a little more oomph.

Love this format. Revzilla needs to keep doing these. If there is anything motorcyclist like more than riding, it’s talking about riding. Very thoughtful discussion with varying points of view! Keep it up.

I was at Del Amo Motorsports in Long Beach a few years ago and watched a young guy, maybe 20ish come in and specifically told the salesperson he was a new rider. A little while later somehow they ended up over at a Hayabusa and the douche sales guy was trying to sell him that bike. Now I'm not sure if he did indeed buy it but I made it a point to go over and say something before I left. I felt a sense of responsibility to do so and don't regret it in the least. Needless to say, I'll never go back there again.

@lm2487

5 жыл бұрын

Del Amo Motorsports is a rip-off mill. All of their locations they have "sales people" who are only taught to sell something --- anything. They have little knowledge of motorcycling. I will never buy anything there.

@thanksmark

5 жыл бұрын

If anyone is looking for a motorcycle dealer in Long Beach area - check out www.occycle.com/ owned by 1 guy that sells bikes at their original price pretty much. No fees and rip-offs. Just got my 2013 Ninja 300 for $3400

@Mark-vl3zm

5 жыл бұрын

I only trust one salesman in Del almo Redondo beach, my friend bought a ninja 300 with them, I bought my Yamaha mt09 with them and we were given no bullshit. but I do agree that there are some shady sales people. Like I said I only trust ONE guy and always go to him.

@takecare6832

5 жыл бұрын

Del Amo Motorsports is bad. They prey on people who are just starting out. Please go to a reputable dealer. Not that place!

@timothy9596

5 жыл бұрын

@@takecare6832 I only go there for things like gloves and jackets. And even then it was once every couple of years.

I rode a 78 Suzuki GS 850 for several years in the early 90’s when I was in my early 20’s. In 2015, I took a motorcycle basic riding safety course and got my license for the first time in my life. So, 27 years of not riding, I was thinking that I should be looking for a 900cc bike or even a 1200 Sportster. I test rode several bikes including a 1200 Sportster. Then, a HD salesman called me and said that they took in a bike on trade that I might be interested in. It was a Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. My immediate thought over the phone was disappointment just because of the displacement. I test rode it anyway though and bought it immediately. I love it! So much fun to ride this perfect bike.

I think it breaks down to "am I having fun riding?". I have a 500 cruiser and I enjoy it.

@KiRiTO72987

4 жыл бұрын

Personally i ride a 900 sport cruiser runs great, somtimes feels like a little too much

@KrazyMCGaming

3 жыл бұрын

Gabriel Dombach i have an 805cc cruiser and to me it’s too small. has a hard time keeping up in 90mph socal traffic

Lemmy said it.... "It's much more fun to ride a slow bike fast , than a fast bike slow"... I teach it every class I have!

@mrvwbug4423

5 жыл бұрын

I do get a certain amusement when I am coming around a corner on my Versys 650 and actually have to slow down because of some noob on a 600 who is afraid of their bike.

@rmtheg234

5 жыл бұрын

@@mrvwbug4423I know how that feels, I used my ninja 500 and along with a zx6r rider I was with and I was out-cornering him but of course in a straight line I was beaten easily.

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

A slow bike going fast sounds like a oxymoron

@annabanna666

5 жыл бұрын

Still more fun to ride a fast bike fast . If u riding around slow on fast bike u dont need it

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

@@annabanna666 i find fast bikes don't even let you ride slow there all jerky in the low revs like a misfire.

Thank you for making this video! In my late teens/early 20’s I got my first “big” bike (a cruiser) from my brother. I needed a bike to commute to and from school and he sold it to me on the cheap. I had a blast riding it until it got the better of me as a new street rider (was a dirt rider for years before that) and I crashed - luckily at low enough speeds to not get hurt terribly, but hurt enough that I stopped riding. In my late 30’s the same brother and I hatched a plan for a big motorcycle trip through the blue ridge mountains and on the tail of the dragon, etc. almost 5000 miles of riding over a couple of weeks. After much “advice” from a lot of people I bought a used Ninja 250. I learned how to fully disassemble and reassemble that bike. I made upgrades to the bike to help it perform better and be more comfortable. I loaded that bike up with soft luggage and a custom seat and had a BLAST on our big trip. The short runs of highway we did, my brother on his VSTROM would have to wait sometimes for me to catch up, but most of our riding was in the twisties. Most of the time, I was outriding my big brother because I wasn’t having to tame my bike. Fast forward another 5 years and I decided I wanted to take another big trip across country. I picked up a brand new Ninja 300. Loaded with soft luggage I did a coast to coast ride. Was it the most comfortable trip I could have taken, no... BUT every day I felt like I was truly on an adventure AND I knew I could fix anything that might go wrong. Now I have a Versys X-300 and a Triumph Tiger 800 XCA in my garage. That little Versys is the bike I’ve been looking for for years for banging around town and going on fire roads. My Tiger... she’s for comfort when I need to crank miles. I take her off the pavement too, but I really don’t have as much fun as I do with the Versys. So again... thank you for this video. In my opinion no bike is too small or too big. It either fits and works for the purpose you are setting forth or it doesn’t and most of the time it’s more about the rider skill and adaptability/creativity as to whether or not the bike can do the deed. Cheers!

Joe nailed it with his comment about mindset. A bike which is physically small makes you ride differently and go on different kinds of trips. It can lead you to be more spontaneous. Most of us these days are guilty of over-thinking.

I really appreciate this conversation, and I'm glad the industry is shifting to embrace smaller bikes as more than stepping stones. My dad has been preaching the small bike gospel since he taught me to ride as a kid. He always says he had as much fun on his department store mini bikes as he did on his full sized Hondas and Yamahas. Anything with an engine and a throttle is a thrill. I did most of my riding as an adolescent on a TTR-125 with seven (7!) horsepower. I loved ripping that thing through sandy NC trails. Let us never get swept up in cultural norms such that we forget the simple pleasures of motorcycling.

You guys mentioned a bit on the 400. At 41 I picked it it up as my 1st bike. Perfect size, perfect weight, perfect power to satisfy MY needs. To and from, bouncing around town. Sure I love the sound the 4cyl ninjas put out but the power is useless for my needs. The hell with others opinions, get what ya want.

@Rossmerk

5 жыл бұрын

I also have the 400 it's very comfortable to ride I tried out my buddy's 600 and felt it would play hell on your back I sure love that inline 4 sound but the 400 is way more user friendly

@cwdiaz22554

5 жыл бұрын

I'm with you, 44 and got my 1st bike last July. I picked up a BMW G310R and I can't ride it without a big ole smile, even in 25 degree weather.

@DwayneLoudon

5 жыл бұрын

@@cwdiaz22554 😂 Me too! Same age, same bike, same month! Mid life crisis rocks!👍

@mrvwbug4423

5 жыл бұрын

The biggest problem with 600s is that they produce all their power above 10,000rpm, and are gutless below 8000. My 650 pulls smooth at pretty much any rpm, and I've run down more than a few 600s around a corner.

@cwdiaz22554

5 жыл бұрын

@@DwayneLoudon great choice! Waaayy too much fun! Haven't run into another out in the wild yet. I got mine to make help my 12 year old Jeep last longer. Jeep became a money pit and just got turned for a "regular" car. Still got the bike though!!

I'm 5'10" and rode a Sportster Iron 883 4500 miles round-trip on a Route 66 ride. I documented the trip with 40 episodes on KZread. Like Spurgeon, other riders told me I couldn't do it because the bike is too small. It's very satisfying to prove those riders wrong, prove myself right, and get the respect along the way. I'll own a "bigger" bike someday, but I will continue to tour on my 883 Sporty! I will never outgrow my Sporty and it will always be part of my stable.

@SpurgeonDunbar

5 жыл бұрын

Love it.

@HeadUpKneeDown

5 жыл бұрын

I have a 900cc Bonneville and constantly read online about how it can’t do highway miles. This is such BS, all of my riding is interstate and highway at 70+ MPH. I’m riding 550 miles to Pikes Peak this summer in one day. Great Egret I’m going to check out your Route 66 videos.

@joereachor2739

5 жыл бұрын

Love "crap" bikers believe. Look down at bikes that aren't like theirs. 62 years old, don't want a bike that weighs 3x my weight . Looked at a iron883 other day at H&D and told me i was too old for that bike! Really? Went to different Harley dealer.

@graymaneracing53

5 жыл бұрын

@@joereachor2739 Check out one of the New Indian Scouts, 536lbs with fluids and 100HP, but I'm a little biased as I bought one.

@GreatEgret

5 жыл бұрын

@@HeadUpKneeDown I had so much fun riding 85 mph down I-40 through NM and AZ passing semi trucks. Even with only a 5-speed transmission and a 29-tooth front pulley. I was pushing 3900 rpms at 85-mph, but the Sporty can handle those RPMs. Thanks for checking out the series, man. I had a lot of fun putting it together!

"New riders get hung up on the displacement number" -- I certainly did when I was a new rider. Thankfully I had a good guide at the dealership. Liked the way you tackled this topic, guys.

Lemmy might be spot on. There does seem to be a trend for younger riders to gravitate to the smaller bikes. Cost of ownership a big factor but that is ok. Grows our base of riders and reinforces motorbikes as practical transportation.

I am impressed with how many people are taking riding classes to find out whether they want to ride at all... the net is that they are more likely to pick a good bike for them once they have taken those classes. Often they get a rider endorsement and have no bike at all, but they MIGHT want to get one... I love this trend and think we should all support it...

Been riding on the street for 23 years now, and I’ve come to love the middleweight class of bikes. I’m not large in stature at 5’8”. These bikes fit me physically and have plenty of power to get you in trouble. My Bonneville at 900cc has the largest displacement I’ve ever owned and except for my 125cc is the least powerful.

Love you guys! I got back into riding on a Versys 650 after 23 years away. I was fç%&ing terrified. Stalled the thing in traffic, had to get off to calm down, eventually left it on the sidewalk and took the bus. Eventually I got used to it and now own a 990 SMT as well, which I absolutely love. BUT, I get exactly the same feeling that Joe does, that it eggs you on to doing stupid things and being constantly irritated, to the point that I don't ride it if I'm not in a calm mood. I tour on the Versys because it's smoother and more docile. If I get a bike for town, it would probably be a Honda CRF250L or Kawa KLX250, because seeing over the cars and being narrow and light is FAR more important in traffic where you have to be on your toes all the time because cars are trying to kill you.

5'7" female. I have KTM Duke 390 and husqvarna fe250. 3 yr into riding, I enjoy it.

@SpurgeonDunbar

5 жыл бұрын

Em Ker both of those bikes are super rad. That Husky is a killer mount. What generation 390? I got to ride the new one in Italy and to this day it was one of my favorite trips!

@johnny3856

5 жыл бұрын

Love my 390 rode it to a dealership to trade for an fz07 but had too much fun backed out of the deal

@tankerbruja

5 жыл бұрын

Actually best comment I've seen yet. Seems like everyone I've watched is like 6 foot and talking about 300cc and below street/touring bikes like they are "too small" meanwhile, 600cc bikes in person seem massive to me. Just physically very imposing and I don't see myself being comfortable on them.

@Dugauntlet

5 жыл бұрын

I have been considering getting a bike and the 390 Duke is one of the machines I'm considering. Would you consider it a good first bike, or at least something in this displacement range a good starting point for somebody with dirt experience?

@LT-us5qt

5 жыл бұрын

5'7 male 160lbs, 675 street triple first bike. the salesman said a few years I will outgrow it and get trade it in for a 1000cc. 3 years into riding and I'm nowhere close to outgrowing it

Loving the format of these conversational videos, absolutely awesome! You guys are the best motorcycle culture channel, big shout out all the way from the UK!

I'm 6'2" and weigh 250lbs. I ride a CF Moto v5/q link legacy. It's just a 250cc, automatic. It's a combination of a motorcycle and scooter. It takes me 70mph and I'm ok with that.

Little bikes rock, and it’s awesome to see so many smaller displacement bikes being made. Wish I started out during this era!

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

Around 1985 honda had around 16 125's. 12 250's in there line up around 7 500's. Cx500 vt500 vfr500 cd500. Not just the same engine in different bikes like we have now.

@ridevirginia862

5 жыл бұрын

I think you rock Sarah...

I'm so excited that you're making this into a podcast. Between the three of you guys there's a wealth of information for newer riders to benefit from, but so much of RevZilla's content revolves around gear, individual bike reviews, and retail. I get that it's a business, but this kind of content will help to inform new riders and help build a loyal customer base.

I have a ninja 400 everyone I ride with says it's too small your gonna out grow it for what I do it's perfect riding around town and to work. It's my first bike and I also have a CDL so I really need to stay away from crazy fast bikes I'll just get myself in trouble.

@mikethefz07guy79

5 жыл бұрын

I ‘m in the same boat/mindset. Being in my late 30’s , starting to ride now I don’t care much about speed. I had my 390 Duke for the last 5 months and I still loving it.

@pnwgreg300

5 жыл бұрын

Ninja 400 is plenty of bike. A ninja 250 is pretty laboured at freeway speeds but the 300 and even more so the 400 is a great bike. You can do trackdays, throw a small luggage on it, do group rides, etc.

@Rossmerk

5 жыл бұрын

@@pnwgreg300 I like hearing this nice change from all the negative talk I hear because it isn't a 600. So many people are hung up on cc size

@rmtheg234

5 жыл бұрын

I started riding around late 2008 to 2010 than came back again in fall 2017, I own a 2013 ninja 300 with 9500 miles on it that I had for about 1 1/2 years now but I am hesitant to sell it because I actually love it along with my 03 ninja 500 as well.

@pnwgreg300

5 жыл бұрын

@@rmtheg234 I would keep the 300. I learned to ride on a 2006 Ninja 500, and looking back the bike was pretty ancient design-wise, didn't handle great, heavy, etc. Never felt confident riding it until I got my next bike

I think size is not all it's cracked up to be. The most important question is, what kind of riding to you plan to do? I ride a Honda Forza {scooter} yes. It's a 2014 and I have 23,000 miles on it. I love it. Have taken two trips one was 7 days and 2300 miles, the next on was 1400 miles. I don't care to ride the highways, but I can and have just don't care too. It all comes down to JUST GET OUT AND RIDE

i cant watch this video without this dude on the right cutting everybody off and not letting people get there points across!!

As someone who has been wanting for YEARS to take the plunge into this, and actually get a bike, talk about what's good for beginners is always great and useful to hear. (I'm looking at you, versys 300...) The more I listen to you guys have these discussions, the more I wish I could get you and Ryan into the same bar just to listen for hours. Spurg, a teacher? Oh, to have had teachers THAT interesting!

@oldtimer3824

5 жыл бұрын

Dkyte01 I bought the Versys 300 after a 27 year break from Mc riding. Fantastic versatile machine you, suitable for a beginner and a more experienced riders with the high rev engine, you won’t regret it.

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

It's a big bike physically that 300x.

@David_Kyte

5 жыл бұрын

I am nowhere near Spurge's size vertically, nor Lemmy either, come to that, but I have looked at a versys 300 in person and I sat on one while the side stand was out. It's a little high, but I am coming to this from a complete vacuum, so I'd have a better idea after I took the MSF course and all that. It's certainly more to my size liking than the 650 I saw sitting next to it. I definitely can vouch that there are some people who just don't like the idea of a tank of a motorcycle like some of those big cruisers. I have an hour commute to work, partly on interstate, so I'd rather have something that doesn't have a problem with highway traffic, and the idea of one a little sport tourer kind of bike with the hard bags appeals to me aesthetically, too. It's just a hard hobby to get into when you're a) kind of on the poor side and b) nobody around you, period, rides a bike, and the general consensus is "OMG, you'll die!" At least I had the sense to not get a boat, like my buddy-- talk about a money pit, there!

@oldtimer3824

5 жыл бұрын

It sounds like you’ve never ride a MC before. Be safe, buy a used smaller inexpensive MC for fun, get some basic road skills and miles logged on less congested backroads before you do any significantly more dangerous freeway commuting.

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

@@David_Kyte if you mean the 650 versy's that thing has got huge it's grown to 217kg and is as tall if not taller than a ktm 1290 super adventure. To me the 300x reminds me of a mk1 versey's 650. Those things are ugly though. But great ergo's

"get a bigger one or you'll outgrow it" for crying out loud, you're supposed to outgrow it... that's how this is all supposed to work! literally think about the phrase... in order to outgrow it means that it actually does fit you right now. are you gonna buy an adult jacket for your five year old so that he'll never have to buy another one? of course not. buy the right bike for right now, and trade it in when it's time. if you're on a budget, buy what fits you right now and just suck it up for another couple of years until you can afford something else, instead of maybe killing yourself or wrecking the bike. it's not the end of the world to have to wait a little longer. at least you're riding. if you're not having a blast, it's your fault. enjoy it for what it is. i like what the bald dude said, that the ktm dude told him... you want to be able to master your bike. that's how you get better. and confidence is a big part of motorcycling for a beginner. if you're not afraid of your bike, you'll get better a LOT faster.

@amyclick6214

5 жыл бұрын

John David Dunson Yes! All of this is so true.

@Velsethen

5 жыл бұрын

when i went to buy my first bike, I settled on a used xl1200n sporty. Not just because it was what I could afford. I think in the 2 weeks leading up to that purchase I rode over a dozen bike from 500cc to 1600cc, a bunch of of styles from multiple manufactures. Now I had taken my dads goldwing out and could handle it no problem, but it would not be a bike I would choose off the bat for a first bike not because it would suck for commuting to work but for around NY city where i worked at the time.

@joejojo4751

5 жыл бұрын

Best explanation and advice I’ve heard! Well said.

My first motorcycle was a 950 V-Star. Made a few modifications to it to make it mine and rode it Sturgis 76 from Missouri. The bike never seemed too small, but I avoided the super slab where I had the option. I traded it off a couple of years back for an Indian Springfield as I figured I would do a lot more two-up riding with my now wife. Turns out she falls asleep really easily, so she doesn't ride with me very much. That leaves me with a motorcycle that's much bigger than I need for commuting to work or blasting down Ozark back roads. So in the interest of both myself and my wallet, I'll be looking to downsize to a Sportster (or something similar) later this year. There's something to be said for a (relatively) light bike that can go just about anywhere.

@MrLewisTan

5 жыл бұрын

ive sat on a few of harley's brand new models and quite a few of them feel lighter than my 1200 48. i know they are not actually lighter but the weight balancing and keeping things low really gives the illusion of a lighter bike. notably are the new fxdr and 750 street.

My first bike was a 390 Duke and I found that it was a perfect ride for learning on and a blast to ride around town. I found that I wanted to hit longer rides and highways but still wanted the fun. Riding the 690 Duke now and loving it. Glad I didn't start with the 690 as the 390 allowed me to learn and make some mistakes without heavy consequences. Thanks for all the advice gents!

You guys made me feel great about my 2014 black ninja 300. First time streetrider, bought it last April for 3k with 6700 miles on it. I live in the city, spend a fair amount of time in the burbs and this bike is absolutely perfect for my size, experience and riding style. Nothing beats the feeling of cleaning it up and zipping around town in the warm Maryland weather. I'm now ready to trade it for the new 400, but I'll be more than happy to keep buzzing around town until I see a price that I can't afford to pass up. After that, I'll be done for the foreseeable future. Maybe add a cruser somewhere down the road. The vulcans are nice, but definitely something manageable. I love these sit downs. Please keep'em com'in!😎🏍

You guys are making me want to get in the garage and finish putting my ‘79 XS400 back together!

I just crested 1000 miles on my first bike. I love my 2019 R3; I think it's perfect to learn on.

Glad TU250X got recognized by you guys. It's very appropriate for the Asian Market.

@DanRuckus0

5 жыл бұрын

That thing is appropriate for all markets. I learned on a TU250X, and if I could find a reasonably priced on in good condition I would own it.

I think this format of discussion while hectic at times is one of my favorite type of videos from you guys.

250cc and up are already big bikes in some countries in asia..

@stephencartwright5046

5 жыл бұрын

Yes, here in Indonesia most people ride 150cc or less. First issue is price. Second issue is the state of the roads. We cannot take bikes on the tol (freeway, motorway) here. Since I have been living here I have been riding these "small"" bikes for the first time in my 45+ years of riding and I have to say they are great fun, and you can do everything you can on a big bike, it just takes longer and perhaps needs more dedication.

@performingartist

5 жыл бұрын

Yep. Here in Thailand 250 will let you park in most big bike lots

@hdinthephilippines3610

5 жыл бұрын

Here in the philippines it like 100 to 200cc avg bike size but a 400cc is a big bike here

@baecchi4153

5 жыл бұрын

@@hdinthephilippines3610 maybe because of the expressway law .. that only 400cc bikes are allowed so it grows on people mind that 400cc above is the big bike .. but what about the 250cc i4 or v4 bikes of the old days ?

@paulgianni

5 жыл бұрын

I'm in Viet Nam and most of the bikes are 150cc or smaller scooters. I'm currently considering a Honda Rebel 300.

I'm glad to see someone address this subject. I'm 70 not in very good health but street riding was on my bucket list. I decided l'd get a 250cc scooter. At the time there were a lot of guys my age riding them around town. After careful consideration l realized how boring it would be not to be able to shift. I ended up with a 250 Yamaha Vstar. Far from perfect but exactly adequate to fulfill my needs. After 5 years I still ride it every time l get a chance. I never see those old guys on their scooters anymore. I also have an 800cc bike now but plan to sell it this spring. I've enjoyed running it through some mountain roads near my house but l've had enough of that. If l kept pushing it like l was l had a good chance of a fall which l don't need. I did learn a lot about increasing corner speed though. Man, if l had discovered that when l was young . . . .

@nyrussell

5 жыл бұрын

Leonardo, Almost in the same position. I have a 250cc Dragstar that is great. Possibly getting a 400cc Dragstar (same as VStar) only because of riding double. And yes, I do take it on the highways here as well. :D

@leonardodahumanoid4344

5 жыл бұрын

@@nyrussell l had never heard of a Dragstar. It looks quite a bit bigger than the VStar. It almost looks like the V angle is greater but l'm not sure. I see several differences but the specs are similar. I actually get 70-80 mpg and specs on the Dragster say 65mpg. They are both very reliable.

@nyrussell

5 жыл бұрын

@@leonardodahumanoid4344 yep, they are similar. Seems to be mostly a name convention thingy... I get around 100 km on the roads here at between 30-50 km/hr before I get antsy and fill. No fuel gauge so I give a bit of leeway. highway limit here is between 60-80 km/hr for the most part. Just replaced the shocks and front tire last week. This week new mirrors. Then done for a bit (I hope)

I'm in my second year riding, 57 years young on a CB500X

Riding a small bike fast is more fun than riding a big bike slow. True! I can redline 1st four gears, hear the engine screaming on my Versys X 300 and only 75 mph. My friends on 1,000 cc bikes rarely get to hear feel their bike bounce near rev limiter through several gears. It’s exciting and fun to be able to wind it up. Around town and on two lane back roads, it’s perfect for me. And lighter weight with limited power means no worry on dirt and gravel roads. It all depends on where you ride.

You know how you can tell if a guy is over 6 feet tall? Don't worry.....he'll tell you.

@RedneckBAMF330

5 жыл бұрын

You know how to tell someone is shorter than 6ft tall? Hell complain about someone saying they're 6ft tall

@lewerim

5 жыл бұрын

That's not true, I'm 6'4" and I didn't say.... oh, I see it now...

@jwinaz

5 жыл бұрын

@@lewerim Best reply yet...thanks man.

@allanmacbadger5692

5 жыл бұрын

You can tell if someone is under 6 foot tall as they carry a chip on their shoulder.

@qq7647

5 жыл бұрын

lol

I'd say a 125cc/400cc is a small engine bike (depending on the type of bike. A 400cc scooter is a Big bike), but if we're looking to define "a small bike", that's hard....

really enjoy your guys channel, I just started to watch you guys and I'm even enjoying videos from 3 - 4 years ago. I really love the mod vids. I'm just starting to get into riding and this channel is very helpful.

I have many motorcycles and my 1982 Honda CM200 Twinstar makes me smile like no other bike can.

I've been debating upgrading my gs500 for the last year, but lately I've been liking the idea of keeping it around, and upgrading the handling components. This episode really hit home for me because it reinforced how I feel about my bike. Yeah it's a little small for me (6'2 190) but I still have a blast beating the shit out of it, it's cheap as hell, and a lot of fun to work on. What else can I ask for? This season I'm going to throw some love at it. instead of lusting after bigger and more powerful bikes, I'm going to appreciate the one I have, and make it my own. Thanks guys for the great content, can't wait to listen to the podcast!

@SpurgeonDunbar

5 жыл бұрын

Joel thanks for the thoughtful reply!

@marquee6

4 жыл бұрын

Joel. I love my GS 500. I am keeping mine and have been thinking along your lines. You are not alone!

I’ve been riding under a year. Got a Suzuki savage 650 for my first bike. The power is just right, can cruise no problem at 60 on country roads but also great for going around town. The bike is under 400 pounds which I really like. It’s a little small in stature for some one 6’3 though. Had a custom seat put on it and I don’t feel squished anymore.

@heythere6983

5 жыл бұрын

what's the horsepower and torque on that?

6'5" 250 pounds here. Just wanted to say that the only (physically) small motorcycles are the ones you aren't willing to adjust to. Displacement-wise, I think everything under 100 horsepower is an absolute blast... I've got almost 30000 miles on a Gladius and am looking to either purchase a new SV650 or the Z400 if they ever show up in dealerships. Both have more than enough power and are more than enough fun

I had an absolute ball on a Honda Rebel 250, but I outgrew it for the type of riding I was doing. Fastforward, I bought and sold a Harley Davidson 883. This bike was great and had more than enough power to do everything I needed. Cruising the city streets, ride the highways, do long trips with my girlfriend on the back. No problems. I got rid of that one because I needed a car that wasn't crap. Fast forward again, I now have an Indian Scout that's about 1100cc and it's way more than I need, but I love the style. I'm thinking about getting a Honda Grom, Ruckus, or Monkey now.

There are a ton of “that’s what she said” moments in this video!

@SpurgeonDunbar

5 жыл бұрын

Michael Scott would be proud.

As a 24yr old, I chose the bike I have for fuel economy, insurance prices, and ergonomics, bike weight (I'm a small guy). I got a small sport bike first (70mpg), and switched to a naked bike (48mpg-twice the power). Both used regular octane fuel. I would have been terrified to start on my 2014 street triple vs the 2015 cbr500r I first got. Way more things to have rider error with, I'm still on a beginner riding curve, only been riding the last couple years. But the triple's quality and suspension, little more power gives me a sense of defensive action

@richards1816

5 жыл бұрын

That's my requirement in a bike... enough power so im not at the mercy of uncooperative traffic when passing, hills... I like not having to pin the throttle all the time just to keep up or get ahead of cars... I'm sure a modern midsize naked bike would be enough and a litre too much though.

@Sup3rCRF

5 жыл бұрын

I am intrigued by electronic speed control, but most bikes with that are liter bikes. Mt-10, speed triple etc. But insurance spikes not really worth it to me at the moment 😂

@STho205

5 жыл бұрын

Yes the mfgs do not place good suspension on bikes under 450cc. Even good double stage shocks. They, until recently, were still giving you 1975 frames and swingarms. Replacing just the shocks and reworking the forks on a 300 makes night turn to day. Putting tuned tires on it instead of Dunlop generics too. Old drum brakes to boot. New even 125s are coming with fuel injection, water cool, disk brakes, electronic ignition. Price shot up, but they are better bikes. So it is now going to come down to do you really need 750cc, as you are getting an advanced bike at 300.

There's a certain level of maturity that brings appreciation for small bikes. Everyone assumes my daily-driver Grom is my first bike. It's my 5th on the street, and among the most fun. Anyone who is on their first or second bike, or has never had one, is eager to hate on the Grom; meanwhile the people who have been riding for years on many bikes have nothing but love for it.

For the last 25 years I've been riding R1s, Fireblades and GSX-Rs but last year when I left my GSX-R1000R in for a service the only bike the dealer had to lend me was an SV650, which I must admit disappointed me, until I'd ridden it for 5 minutes and I loved it, I couldn't believe you could have so much fun on a little 650 V-twin with just 75bhp at the back wheel, I enjoyed it so much that there's now a little SV keeping my Gixxer company in the garage.

@exexpat11

5 жыл бұрын

Just 75 horsepower. My Yamaha 1700 Warrior makes 85hp/100ftlbs torque in the shade as something that once competed with V-Rods on the drag strip. 75hp is nothing to sneeze at especially in a light motorcycle. Mine is a Pig in turns and is sluggish in the twistees.

6'2" 400#s. Learned on a cb300f. It would do 85 and could clutch up the front wheel. Now I'm on a fz8. So glad I started on a "small" bike.

@dylanmoe4320

5 жыл бұрын

Just started on that, how long did you keep it for ?

Dammit Spurgeon let Joe finish a point or story before you cut him off.

I had a guy tell me that on a 30 year old Honda Magna V30 I would NEVER make it to Sturgis, SD from Jacksonville, NC...until I brought him back a nice homemade book of 8X10 glossy pictures. I managed to tell him Honda gets you home...about the time I noticed his Harley Davidson hat sitting on his shelf. That was when he threw me out of his shop.

I love these mini podcasts you guys do. You all have great chemistry, a lot of charisma, and it’s fun to listen to you guys hash it out. Hope ya’ll have more planned for the future

There's no replacement for displacement. -Joe Dirt.

Out on the streets I hate when other riders try to make me second guess myself on my bike choice, or gear, especially hardcore ATGATTs. You do you

@alex_rodriguez777

5 жыл бұрын

Excuse me sir! Do you have some time to spare to talk about our Lord and Savior ATGATT!?

I bought my very first bike 4 years ago.....It's a Honda NT-700 and it has been the perfect bike for me. I have put 37K miles on it and not a single issue. Now for my second bike, I purchased the Honda CRF 250L ......it is so much fun here in Washington State....It's so easy to manage off-road. Great dialog guys

I think one of my favourite parts of this video is that it wasn't some sort of echo chamber. Watching you three debate and rebutt each others comments was really fresh and fun to watch :)

I’ve been on. Road King for years. I also have a BuellX1 that I’ve started campaigning at Bonneville and a Sporty I picked up last spring. Both the Buell and the Sporty are considered small compared to the Geezer Gliders my older friends are on and they refer to my Sporty as “the girls bike.” I love the Sporty. Unless I’m heading out on a tour, I’m on the Sporty these days. The younger guys I ride with all appreciate why I like the Sporty so much-my geezer friends, not so much. I know that compared to many of the bikes you mentioned, my Sporty is a big bike, but I get what your saying and agree.

@mrvwbug4423

5 жыл бұрын

The Road King hides its size pretty well since the weight down so low. It felt like a much smaller bike when I test rode one.

@scottshows9079

5 жыл бұрын

Ty Kiisel I sold my Road King and got an XL1200T Sportster. I live in town in Atlanta and the Road King became a pain to ride. Kind of like driving a school bus in traffic. The people I tell this story to think I’m crazy, but the Sportster suits me so much better. I liked the RK but after riding it six years I was done. I’m 5/10, 180lbs and 56 years old. This is my 5th bike in 18 years. I wish I had done this earlier, but so many people advised me against it...

@tykiisel8801

5 жыл бұрын

scott shows, the 1200 Sporty is a great bike. I don’t know if I’d want to cover 500 miles a day for three or four days in a row on it, but for just about everything else my XL has become my go-to ride.

@scottshows9079

5 жыл бұрын

Ty Kiisel It all depends on your riding style. As they said in the video you need the right tool for the job. Everything I need is within a 20 mile radius of my house and I never road my RK 500 miles a day for days on end either. Enjoy!

Some thoughts on "Why smaller bikes" Many people will always want big powerful bikes, and that is OK. Similarly OK is that a large segment of riders wanting smaller bikes. Some examples; -- Second bike; A quick trip to the store for milk is more fun on a bike, but many people don’t want to break out their best bike around shopping carts and harried homemakers. -- First bike; Many riders will agree, the first bike should be smaller, lighter, with lower power. -- Younger riders - Some locations will limit younger riders to smaller bikes. -- Smaller riders; Let’s face it, people come in all shapes and sizes. It is more difficult for a 5 foot person to ride a bike with 35” seat height. -- Challenged or weaker riders; Many people have limitations in strength and mobility that prevent them from handling a large beast. However, a smaller bike is manageable. -- Older riders; As I age, my need for speed is less. However, my need to ride is just as strong. -- Cost; People shouldn’t have to give up riding because of economic status. -- Smaller bikes are cheaper on tags, road tax and insurance Of course, there are outliers for each of the above groups who “can” manage a full liter (or more). However, they shouldn’t “have” to because of limited choices.

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

I looked at downgrading to a 125cc from my 800cc my insurance was going from £78 a year to £151 for the 125cc. Also it's cheaper for me to insure an R1 than a r125yzf.

Thank you guys for all you do for the motorcycling community! I am a new rider in search of my first bike and I've found one that fits my needs and my budget and has the style that I want but all too often I hear the rhetoric that I'll outgrow it or it's too small.... I should get the big bike yadda yadda yadda. I just wanted to say how much I appreciate your take on smaller displacement bikes for beginners. It's giving me confidence in my decision (or thoughts) and peace of mind in knowing I can work my way up.

I am a MSF 2-wheel instructor, H-D Riding Academy instructor as well as a S/TEP 3-wheel instructor. I have heard every comment that you mentioned from new riders. I could sit right on your couch and tell you stories for days. I've had 4'10" females riding liter bikes without a problem. Blew my mind. The biggest complaint is that I've had new students come to my Harley class where they have a $30k Ultra sitting in the garage and they expect me to make them a good rider over the weekend. Great subject guys. Can't be stressed enough......

As someone who rides a Honda GROM 125cc I can say I feel no need to get a bigger bike. And considering you can get a BBK to take it to 28bhp and 110mph is fast enough considering getting caught doing 99mph+ automatically loses you your license,

@true_cnstntn

5 жыл бұрын

how do you feel on a highway, when everyone is going 75 and 80 and you barely can do 60?

@650hpreventon

5 жыл бұрын

@@true_cnstntn on right lane ,I have seen people drive 45mph, usually 55-60.

@true_cnstntn

5 жыл бұрын

notiv i know the grom is a very cool bike and i was having a blast riding it. I’m just feel much safer if i’m riding a little bit faster than most of the cars and knowing i have more power if i need it. Grom just doesn’t have such power :(

@ashleywilliams4587

5 жыл бұрын

@notiv fastest i gone was 73 mph

@DanRuckus0

5 жыл бұрын

I don't care what you bolt on to your grom, it's not going 110 without a regearing that would make it unrideable. The grom is a great little bike, and probably more than enough for most riders, but let's not turn it into some mystery machine that goes over the ton with bolt ons. 80 on a grom would terrify me.

No one: Literally no one: Spurge: IM SIX FEET THREE, 220 POUNDS

@AGallegos288

5 жыл бұрын

@DASO MILITIA Tinie tiny

Living in the city with a small displacement (500cc) motorcycle has revolutionized the way I get around. I don't worry about parking. I don't worry about gas. I don't worry about rush hour and navigating crammed road ways. It's been one of the most practical decisions that I have made as a young adult. Plus you get the added bonus of the de-stressing you feel from riding.

Good video. I'm 63 and got back on 2 wheels (5 years ago) after 32 years off. Worked my way up to a S10 , then worked my way back to a Vstrom 650. It's slow and comfortable. I love long distance and will try for my 4 th SS1000 this year on the 650. Revzilla is an awesome business that really care about riders!

Can you add the podcast to Google Podcast?

@SpurgeonDunbar

5 жыл бұрын

I'll have our team look into it. Thanks for the feedback.

@drutosmoove

5 жыл бұрын

@@SpurgeonDunbar Also other distributors. I use the "Pocket casts" app on my iPhone. Great podcasts so far btw.

@MotoAdventurer

5 жыл бұрын

@@SpurgeonDunbar Stitcher would be cool too.

@GreatEgret

5 жыл бұрын

@@MotoAdventurer I agree with putting it on Stitcher too!

@NickisWise

5 жыл бұрын

Google podcast please!!

You guys touched on everything and left nothing more to be said!

As a current 250 rider, I appreciate the good word here. Watching too many moto vlogs can really start to make that feel inadequate, but hell--I enjoy it. And on occasion I still make mistakes that make me VERY glad it happened on a small bike. Will probably "graduate" to something else eventually but I'm not complaining

I am not just making this comment because I feel validated for my first motorcycle purchase/ever, at age 35. But I completely identify, and agree with their sentiments on small bikes. I come from a riding family and spent years, decades, trying to find the right motorcycle and was on the verge of a new Honda CBR650R. Then I went another direction and grabbed a '19 KTM 390 Duke, having never put a leg over it, and I LOVE IT. It's rare in my area, because no one rides/knows KTM, and a total hoot! I ride in town, back-and-forth to work through the week, and then tear up twisty back roads on the weekends. It's so much fun and I [feel like] I can handle it. That said, I'm already looking down the road to a new 890 Duke R as the second in the garage.

Just a quick thought. Perhaps a "small" bike is anything that can't manage highway and/or safe passing speeds. No matter the wheel base or displacement, if you can't leave the city for fear of being run over in traffic, that's a small bike. Fun in town, a hazard on the freeway.

@joshuadine4110

5 жыл бұрын

Totally agree. Sorry gromers

@FrenchINHALE1

5 жыл бұрын

Exactly not everyone lives in a giant city and never leaves. Having the ability to leave and travel is important imo.

@KARMAkazeMoto

5 жыл бұрын

@@joshuadine4110 😁 👍

@KARMAkazeMoto

5 жыл бұрын

@@FrenchINHALE1 thanks for the assistance 👊

@patrickslusher844

5 жыл бұрын

You can still leave the city--you just get to do it on rural (non-interstate) highways where the speed limit's 50-60 mph. For me this is generally more scenic, less stressful, and actually a pretty great way to explore your area.

Its hard to appreciate small bikes until you have ridden the large bike.

Hit the nail on the head with this, I'm 26 and the first reason I bought my Honda shadow 500 was I was tired of paying for the maintance on my car and for gas. It was small but I took that thing from jersey to Miami in 2 days and had a blast. I eventually upgraded to my yamaha v star 1300 but really just cuss I needed more room for stuff and so I wasn't topping out at 75 for a trip to Cali I'm doing. If I had the room I'd have kept the shadow I loved that thing. Btw spurge what did you teach? I teach and the kids LOVE the bike, it's actually helped some of the kids who don't listen to start to focus in more. Motorcycling has honestly helped me teach.

I have to agree. I went from a 1250cc to a 250cc and don't regret the decision at all. It's so much fun riding a smaller bike. I could barely twist the throttle on my 1250 most of the time, but with this smaller bike I feel like I'm really riding it closer to its limits. The lower weight makes a great difference in being able to throw the bike around. If you are thinking about down sizing, I say go and do it, you won't be disappointed!

Y’all need a talking stick. Stop interrupting each other

@JumpingWatermelons

5 жыл бұрын

YES. There were a number of times someone was making what seemed like a good point and another guy would blurt something else out over the top of him.

@rjwz28

5 жыл бұрын

😂

@bwxmoto

5 жыл бұрын

Is that where when someone interrupts you, you get to smack them with a stick? LOL That would be entertaining.

@pawisangtulisan1248

5 жыл бұрын

Man, Spurg has done it the most times in the last couple of videos.

@Ari-zp4dd

5 жыл бұрын

This is men’s conversation, not morning housewife talk show ...

After watching your video I thought what the hell, put on the leathers and jumped on y wife's CBR500R and went for a 100km very twisty blast. When I got back I thought to myself "Im glad I got that out of my system," for the next year I will be sticking to my Tiger or Aprilia Shiver as that little CBR is fun but just way to cramped. I would happily do that loop on my 250 Motard though. Yes size matters, big styles but physical room is more important than displacement.

@mrvwbug4423

5 жыл бұрын

The Shiver isn't exactly a huge bike either, probably not much bigger than the Honda. I have a Versys 650 and is the perfect size for flogging in the twisties, it handles like a big supermoto, but is fairly comfy, but the legroom does get a little snug after a few hours, especially on the highway.

@WillPower46

5 жыл бұрын

@@mrvwbug4423 Its much roomier than the CBR500R but yes I agree when I do long rides I take the Tiger...I like the Versys, cool bike mate.

As a beginner, love this series and hearing the opinions of the motorcycle experts. Thank you gentlemen.

@terencemeehan8237

5 жыл бұрын

Rob , I still have mine, 1972 cb 450 twin, still ride it , mostly to rallies and vintage days. Still fun to ride, looks good and always get a lot of compliments on it. Although it's a great bike and fun to ride, in 72 it was a big bike and hard to ride compared to modern bikes, it can't compete with today's technology. As I said it's fun to ride at almost 50 years old and I'll never get rid of it

I put 3,000 miles on a 150cc scooter before I went for my first "real bike", a Ninja 650. Such a smooth transition, I really think more people should start on a scooter if they can. You learn to look out for traffic and be ware of others mistakes, you learn to lean into turns and counter steer, you get good at riding on the street without the stress and complexity of having to learn to work a clutch too.

Small bikes makes your life so much easier . It’s perfect easy to manage and cost . I think it’s worth to spend on a good 300 or 600 cc rather spending on a 1000 and don’t Riding it to its capacity

Spurge, stop interrupting. Let each other finish an idea. So annoying. Awesome series though guys. Keep it up.

@malvinacarabas5768

5 жыл бұрын

Spurgeon is perfectly fine . Stop pick up on him : smart , quick , white guy with his own opinions - Trump syndrome ?

@alfrede.neuman8611

5 жыл бұрын

@@malvinacarabas5768 WTF?

@tigercs1

5 жыл бұрын

It's the Spurge show!

@NickisWise

5 жыл бұрын

Sp does interrupt a bit much... Would love to hear Lemmy's thoughts fully without a interruption.

@Shreddinstan

5 жыл бұрын

Interuption..... you are wrong and my idea is better than yours! He is annoying!

Been riding since I was 3, about to turn 35, and just bought my first street legal bike in NJ, a TW200. I was happy to get a "bop around town" bike to take to Wawa. Great discussion guys!

Great video. I went to the motorcycle show in DC last week. I am a new rider and am signed up for the MSF class next month. I am not a small guy (6'3" and 240 with a 35 inch or so inseam) and am over 50. I have asked those I know who have bikes what they suggest, and the vast majority gave me the "If you get a 250-500 cc bike, you'll quickly outgrow it" answer. My goal is to ride around the area near my house (suburban DC streets) with occasional trips to ride in scenic areas (I would transport the bike there) and explained this to both those I know AND those I met (vendor representatives and show attendees), and I mostly got the same answer. The biggest concern (outside of price) is my ability to fit on the bike comfortably and my feet (size 17) easily working the clutch pedal without getting stuck and dumping me on the ground (the vendor reps pretty much said "Well, we can likely make some adjustments for you" but did not elaborate). I want something relatively lightweight and nimble (too old to be wrestling heavy bikes), and I have no need for speed (can do that in a car if I want). Yet I got that "You'll quickly outgrow it" answer. People were pushing me to 750cc (like the Honda NC750X) and above. The Honda seemed nice when I sat on it (other than the tight room for my left foot on the clutch pedal, the extra 100 pounds, and the higher price). I have been considering (assuming I can actually fit on them OK) small bikes like the BMW G310R (it's reasonably priced, light in weight, and has a great warranty so I can focus on learning to ride). They sound perfect on paper. No BMW bikes were at the show, so I plan to go to a dealer and sit on one soon. Spurge provided a few suggestions in a response he sent me from another video you guys did. So the BMW and some of the bikes he mentioned are ones I've been researching. I just wanted to provide that "real world" (and recent) data point for you guys given what you said about less people saying that one will outgrow a smaller displacement bike. Any thoughts/advice you have will always be appreciated. Thanks!

Does size matter? Only if spurgeon is going to try squeeze into a size shhmedium tee shirt from his favorite clothing store, Auto Zone.

@PatYouells

5 жыл бұрын

The podcast listeners will never know of his 'on-fleek' fashion

@steve_kamrad5216

5 жыл бұрын

@@PatYouells they'll know, cause they'll have to go back to youtube to see it after hearing about it

500cc is way too high to define a "small bike". It should be more like 250-300cc

@iJarib

5 жыл бұрын

It really isn't. 500ccs, for all but dirt bikes, are really small.

@DanRuckus0

5 жыл бұрын

I tend to agree, but Honda makes a 500cc Rebel, and I call that a small bike. I ride a Himalayan 410cc and also have no problem admitting that it's small.

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

If it's a 500cc single that's a small bike for sure.

@russelldesoto9044

5 жыл бұрын

I have the triumph street twin as my first bike and it is 900cc but only 56hp, it's not slow and it's not super fast either.

@OnlyKaerius

5 жыл бұрын

@@iJarib Can't really agree, I've ridden CB500X around pretty extensively, I'd consider it a midsize bike, comfortably cruises at highway speed and 100mph topspeed lets you overtake easily on the highway too, can do long distance touring and go through the twisties like a sport bike, as well as being able to do light to medium offroad trails with that tractor factor. It's really close to my Versys 650, though you can't mix up seating position as much, there's no butt slide factor. Honestly even the ninja 400 should probably be considered a midsized bike.

This is in my humble opinion the single best discussion about small bikes! What a great watch! P.S...Love the shout out to the TU250x, one of the most enjoyable bikes out there regardless of age or experience!

My progression: 250 Rebel - just starting out, kinda' scary at first but no dumb mistakes (yet) Ninja 300 - feeling more confidant & make a few speed related mistakes - one left me feeling really lucky to not have any broken bones (target fixation) FJR 1300 - getting really cocky & taking more and more chances - a few leave me surprised that I'm not paralyzed or worse - just by commuting etc (Joe is spot on there) Versys 650 - trying to live longer so I downsized, find myself still taking really dumb chances with even more close calls - I'm done. This was all over 3-4 years so I didn't give myself enough time on the small bikes I think. Anyhoo, be safe out there!

His “howdy this is lemme from revzilla” is his signature. Just like Michael’s from vsaucs “ hey vsauce, Michael here “

Honda Grom for the win

Last season I started on a 95 Ninja 500. Parallel twin, and rode it up and down every single day. I put 6k miles on that bike before the electrical shit out. Never did I say "I wish I had more horsepower" but I did say "I wish I had something more efficient, safe and sturdy." I'm buying a new bike tomorrow and I can honestly say that Ninja scared the ever-loving shit out of me several times and one was an accidental clutch up wheelie off the line at a stop light that resulted in a mid-ride bathroom break. Honestly, I love the sub 600cc line of bikes that give new riders like me, a chance to learn, make mistakes, and feel comfortably uncomfortable on a motorcycle. The fundamentals are there for me now, and I was given solid advice to start small(ish) and work my way up. The biggest bike I want and could see myself riding is the one I'm buying tomorrow ('18 XSR700) and that bike will scare me a whole lot more than my Ninja ever did. The bump in power deserves my respect and some fear, but at least I won't constantly be wondering if my ignition is going to cut out on the freeway at 75.

I just found your channel, and really love your style, sense of humor, and the way you break things down. Keep up the good work gentleman!

Holy crap this was painful to watch. Spurgeon, quit interrupting!

@iSean1

5 жыл бұрын

Probably why he failed as a High School teacher. Kept asking the students questions and cutting them off before they could answer :)

@jsh3462

5 жыл бұрын

They would benefit from a director, even just another person in the room making sure each has their say

CB500X is a blast. 300 miles on 3.6 gallons

On thing you guys touched on that I really liked was the idea that younger people today are choosing motorcycles because they're an affordable form of transportation. I'm at the old end of the millenial generation, being 37 years old. I always thought motorcycles looked great, but I always felt I'd die or get hurt really quickly buying any of the ones all my coworkers rode (GSX-R, CBR, R1, etc). Time and again I was recommended by those same people to go out and buy something like an SV650. After going to school for a career change, I got tired of the parking situation and realized the motorcycle parking spots on campus were right outside the buildings most of my classes are in. I ran over to the closest brick and mortar store and got a jacket and helmet, jumped on Craigslist, bought the first SV650 I could find in reasonable condition (2001 naked), and took the MSF course as soon as the semester ended. While I don't know if this is necessarily a "small" bike, it does offer a seat height near the lower end of the spectrum compared to sportbikes, it's really narrow since it's a v-twin, and it's got really predictable power that doesn't get away from me before I realize I've made a mistake with throttle input.

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

Some bikes could be more expensive than cars depending on which one. The way they wear brakes tyres chains sprockets etc and expensive servicing that happens more often.

@shuvool1

5 жыл бұрын

@@chrisredfield3240 I agree, and with the availability of the internet and the prevalence of reviews and resources like forums for enthusiasts of just about anything, I'd wager a lot of millennials buying bikes for affordable transportation aren't going to be buying bikes in that category. At my university, I see a couple of big bikes like the R1200GS, but mostly I see a whole lot of Ninja 650s, Hornets, and a lot of dual sport or adventure bikes (sometimes I can't tell). The are also a couple of folks who park in the same strip as me who ride some sort of UJM looking bikes, but for the most part I see a lot of standard, dual sport, or adventure bikes here, mostly from the big 4.

@chrisredfield3240

5 жыл бұрын

@@shuvool1 can't really go wrong with a ninja 650 it's only 68hp and a good price for that bike. It's really a sheep in wolves clothing but it's a very good sheep possibly the best. Over a cbr500 the extra power and the extra brake disc and slightly better suspension is well worth the extra money.

Hey guys, another great vid. As a late 30 something with 0 experience I decided to try riding. Been riding about 2 years now. My first bike was a SV650. I personally never got too hung up on the "That bikes way too small" or "your gonna get tired of it" So far I still don't want anything different, and I commute about 40 mile to and from work on 70 mph 4 lane highways and 55 mph 2 lane state roads. My 650 v-twin is PLENTY.