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flatgrind rides
Приєднався 2 тра 2021
Vespa - Where Have You Been?
Just a quick update. I've been off the Vespa for months, but I'm still alive!
Переглядів: 1 188
Відео
Tail of the Dragon - Full Run on Vespa
Переглядів 3,8 тис.8 місяців тому
I've had a couple requests to post video of the full run I did on the Tail of the Dragon early in the morning with no traffic, so here it is. This was my first time to ride the Dragon. This video is the full run with no edits (other than a few still photos inserted). Hope you enjoy it! Bike is a Vespa GTS300 HPE
Tail of the Dragon - on a Vespa?!
Переглядів 39 тис.8 місяців тому
The Tail of the Dragon is a mountain road on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina with 318 curves in 11 miles. One of the most popular roads in the USA for motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, it is also billed as one of the most dangerous. Join me as I ride my Vespa GTS 300 on the Tail of the Dragon. 0:00 Intro 4:56 Early morning run with no traffic 5:17 Deal's Gap 6:18 South to Nor...
Happy T-Dub New Year!
Переглядів 65211 місяців тому
Wishing you all a happy 2024! Took the TW200 out for a New Year's Eve ride after a suspension upgrade. Suspension upgrade included a Bradley Performance HD rear shock, 3/4" fork spacers for added preload, and increase in the fork oil level from 145mm (stock) to 130mm. Ride is in NE Oklahoma. Cherokee County, not far from the Arkansas border.
Indian Summer - A Vespa Ride on a Warm Winter Day
Переглядів 1,5 тис.Рік тому
A motovlog style Vespa ride and chat. Bike is a 2022 Vespa GTS300 HPE. #scooter #motorcycle #vespa #colorado
Death by Sand - New Mexico Day 4
Переглядів 659Рік тому
Chapters 02:15 Into the sand 03:15 First drop 05:25 Second drop 11:21 Lay it over and drag 15:36 Strategizing to get out Solo ride on part of the New Mexico Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR). Bike is a 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere 1200. First week of November, 2023. I'm riding North to South. Didn't have time to put on dirt tires before the trip, so I modify the route to skip the sandier sections a...
New Mexico Trip - Day Three
Переглядів 1 тис.Рік тому
Solo ride on part of the New Mexico Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR). Bike is a 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere 1200. First week of November, 2023. I'm riding North to South. First video in a series. Didn't have time to put on dirt tires before the trip, so I modify the route to skip the sandier sections and to fit my schedule. I'm planning a second trip to complete the full BDR. ridebdr.com/nmbdr/ #...
Lost in the Desert & Chaco Canyon - NM Day Two
Переглядів 485Рік тому
Side trip from the New Mexico Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR). Bike is a 2102 Yamaha Super Tenere 1200. Filmed in the first week of November, 2023. Didn't have time to do a tire swap before I started the trip, so I am running Continental Trail Attack 3 tires, which is why I am nervous in the sand. They are OK on hardpack, rocky hardpack, and light gravel. They get squirrely on anything soft a...
New Mexico BDR Trip - Day One
Переглядів 2,5 тис.Рік тому
Solo ride on part of the New Mexico Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR). Bike is a 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere 1200. First week of November, 2023. I'm riding North to South, so this is Section 8. First video in a series. Didn't have time to put on dirt tires before the trip, so I modify the route to skip the sandier sections and to fit my schedule. I'm planning a second trip to complete the full BDR...
100 Seconds of the Wyoming BDR
Переглядів 420Рік тому
Last year I snuck away for a couple days solo on the Wyoming BDR. Here's 100 seconds of that trip! Motorcycle is a 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere 1200. For more information about the Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR) visit www.rideBDR.com. @RideBDR
Dammit Joe, Get a Vespa!
Переглядів 3,6 тис.Рік тому
Responding to a viewer's comment. Joe, we're looking forward to seeing your new Vespa!
Vespa on Highest Road in North America
Переглядів 32 тис.Рік тому
Vespa on Highest Road in North America
First Ride of Spring (Vespa chases Harley Davidson)
Переглядів 2,3 тис.Рік тому
First Ride of Spring (Vespa chases Harley Davidson)
Backwards BDR - Wyoming Sections 2 & 1
Переглядів 1 тис.2 роки тому
Backwards BDR - Wyoming Sections 2 & 1
Vespa Oil Change & First Service (GTS 300 HPE)
Переглядів 52 тис.2 роки тому
Vespa Oil Change & First Service (GTS 300 HPE)
Hey Flatgrind, I understand why you pulled the video, but I think you would have provided better service to your viewers by just placing some captions up on the screen during the scene where you misspoke. I watch many channels involving repairs, and that is a perfectly acceptable means of correcting the narrative without having to reshoot a scene. If you decide to do that, and then re post the video, I will certainly watch it
Thank you. It’s been a while so it’s a little bit fuzzy in my memory, but I think I thought about doing that and may have even done an edit, but in the end as I recall, I decided to pull it because so many people watch just part of the videos, and I think my concern was that too many people doing this might be misled. It’s been a while and I don’t remember it well, but I think there were a number of comments on the original video that made me concerned enough about it that I decided to delete it. I’ll look at it again and maybe repost. Merry Christmas and happy new year!
@@flatgrindrides And to you as well. I am looking forward to the new riding season, and new videos. I am buying a motorcycle in the Spring, and am leaning towards the Royal Enfield Classic 350. It weighs 110 lb more than your Vespa, and has 3.8 fewer horsepower, but a hair more torque. I don't care about speed, so we will see how things go when I start climbing passes here in Washington State. I would love to ride the Mt Evans, scuse me, Mt Blue Skies Scenic Byway, some time. I just hope that I can remain conscious at 14,000 feet. LOL
@ Sweet! I think you are going to have a lot of fun. 👍
Happy winter solstice and merry Christmas! Right now life has me on the move, but hope to be back on the Vespa soon.
150cc ?
300cc. 5,000 feet elevation (in the mountains)
Cool pics 🙌
Oil color is actually a good indicator of oil condition. It will not tell you the condition of the oil additive package, but it will give a good idea of the overall oil condition.As to the people with oil consumption issues, I wonder if they have followed the proper breakin procedure, as you did.
One thing I notice about the Vespa is that the engine sounds very smooth, when you can hear it at all. The mirrors appear to be completely clear regardless of speed.
Yep, it’s pretty smooth and quiet. Very little vibration or buzziness.
Seriously People! Don't accelerate when someone tries to pass you. Driving on the roads is not a competition, and you can get someone killed doing that.
I have experienced wobble only 1 time. It was on a mid 70s Honda 350 twin enduro, at about 35mph, on a gravel road. I was not able to damp it with my arms, but it grew to a point, and then remained steady. I just gradually slowed the bike, and it went away. I never experienced it again on that bike, nor on any other. I have seen videos showing progressive wobble that ended up throwing the rider off the bike. This happened at freeway speed. By the way, you can get 13" wheels for the GTS, and they are supposed to significantly enhance the handling, and reduce steering radius. For anyone who does not know, Vespa means wasp. It does sort of have a low waspish drone, which I find to be relaxing, though I also like the slower thump of the Royal Enfield 350s.
I take it the new Vespa is fuel injected ??? Had a meeting with bikers on Maui pulled over at the 8500 above sea level area. Some were adjusting their carbs for the haul to 1200 or something near that. The others had fuel injected sport bikes. Your Vespa handled that climb with ease. Cheers Ed
Yup. FI makes it easy!
I had my first Vespa ride back in 1966. Life Guard at our local swimming hole took me for a scoot to find some Ginger Beer. Two things embedded in my mind after that ride. I need a Vespa and I need more Ginger beer. Riding motorbikes are antisocial to me. I ride my bikes to get away from people and to go out and explore the world. I kept a Honda trail bike on my ship I was Captain on. The Vespa would be a better ride and would accomplish everything that the trail did. Joe just needs to ride for himself and ignore what others think. Great video. Cheers Ed
I did the dragon in September when it was vacant. I was in my 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV2000. No one was on the road but me. Riding the Dragon on a Vespa appeals to me. Another iconic Italian Motorsport builder that makes the trip enjoyable and leaves the drama to others. I really enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work. Cheers Ed
Thanks Ed!!
Watching the white man version of yuru camp😆 /pos /jk
“Off-Season is the best. I’m the only one here…” Rin Shima
18:16 no, you don't need your slingshot right now
😂
Oooh next camping, bring ramen cup and egg. Super good🤩
Hey I’ve been watching a few of your Vespa videos, and recently watched the first service one as I just bought myself a 2025 Gts 300 HPE and I know I’ll have to do that soon. I wanted to ask whats your gas mileage like for your Vespa, I fill mine and it says about 130mpg and my commute to work is typically 45-65mph but I actually feel like I burn fuel quicker than expected.
It’s been months since I’ve done much riding (moved and life got crazy). It’s been a really long time since I actually calculated my miles per gallon, but as I recall, I was getting pretty close to 70 around town. If I did a lot of wide-open, highway-speed riding it dropped noticeably, but I don’t know if I ever calculated it. Congratulations on the new bike! I hope you are enjoying it. 👍
I did this on my Sym HD 200 about 10 years back and it was a blast though I had to take it slow on the tighter turns than the people behind me liked due to the center/kick stand dragging. I do intend to go revisit it with the same scooter but will most likely modify a different kickstand so I can lean more into the turns. Scooters are very good for many beginners to do this with due to not having to shift gears but make sure if you guys do this that you know how far you can lean your bike both directions so you don't get a nasty surprise in the sharper turns as it may slide out from you.
Good advice. 👍
Drive slow there is no reason to go fast on that road
Yes, but you know that boys like to have fun and make trouble…
Where was this at i truly enjoyed the video and subscribed
Thanks!! maps.app.goo.gl/UBJ55AWk84DuJTMj9
A lil plastic bag with white powder. Hunter Biden 👀
Really good video thx 🙂 omg im totaly in love with the landscape...amazing. lg from aut
Glad you enjoyed it!
Top speed on my 63 Vespa was 45.
This place is so amazing! Where did you go? You said Colorado I'm wondering if this is it further north of Pueblo West or something play be close to Durango Southern Colorado, definitely beautiful country
Thank you. It’s west of Fort Collins maps.app.goo.gl/SQxTS9p32R6VXsYU7
How do Harley riders react to you pulling up on them in that
They pretend not to see me so that they won’t “be seen” with me. The ole’ ostrich head in sand trick. 😉 Actually, most other motorcyclists are usually very friendly and if the situation allows it, will often ask me questions about the engine size, top speed, etc.
Great video, all well explained ! And btw a great garage .... I would like to have 😏
Thanks! 👍
Meanwhile there is an employee at the mobility scooter shop wondering how this guy is burning through these 1 year warranty tires.
😂😂😂
Great video, and the greatest camp ground I've ever seen ! When I look at your knees while you ride, I notice a very comfortable sitting position. How tall are you ?
I’m about 6’2” used to be a bit taller. 34” to 36” inseam on pants. 👍
@@flatgrindrides That helps ! Im 6'1" and hope similar space.
@@remarkableflooty7476 it’s still a small bike, but it’s easily doable, I think.
Nice ride keeping up with those sport cars.
My tank 200 efi could do this easy.
Awesome country Definitely replace those tires A 50/50 of anything would be an improvement 😎🍻
Is this their 300 cc model? Looks so nice cruising around like that!
Yes, 300gts. Thanks!
@@flatgrindrides do you think a two-stroke Vepsa Sprint 50 cc is worth it to start with? found one for about 1700 euro... I could tune it to 83 cc and put some Winter tyres on I guess.. but not sure is worth it, is a two-stroke from 2015, and looks in great shape... what do. you think?
@@SimplicityForGood I wish I could offer you some advice, but I really can’t in this situation. I don’t have any experience with the two-stroke Vespas or any Vespa other than this one. You’re probably better off asking one of your mates there. Best of luck!
Boy is it incredible. I also plan to buy a Vespa and go on a trip to Europe. I have a few questions: how much can you actually drive in a day and what were the problems with the Vespa during the trip
Sounds like fun. I haven’t really had any problems. As to how much you could ride in a day, I think that’s really up to you and your comfort. You could ride all day or longer if you’re up for it and you have fuel available. 😉
Nice colour bike 😅
I have also ridden Harleys from age 16 to 65, and still have a carbureted Sportster 1200. I also have a Vespa GT200. I chose the GT 200 because it is carbureted. I have never owned a computer bike, and have no intention of ever owning one. The GT200 is just as fast as the GTS300, without all the TRASH technology. I have taken 500 mile trips on it with no problems. It only requires half the major maintenance that the new GTS300 HPE models have. I have never had a broken belt on it, the new Vespa HPE models have been breaking belts at under 6000 miles.
There’s definitely something to be said for tried and true simplicity. I have a carbureted TW200 with a drum break on the rear. Yes, it’s just a simple farm bike, but it’s dead, reliable and loads of fun. Ride what speaks to you and have a good time. 👍
@@flatgrindrides I had a Yamaha XT225 for almost 20 years. It was bulletproof, and super easy to do maintenance on. But I reached the point where I could no longer get on and off of it without standing on something, and I could no longer fix a flat tube type tire by myself, so I sold it.
YOU WOULD LOVE THE ISLE OF WIGHT SCOOTER RALLY HERE IN BRITAIN THE WORLD'S LARGEST SCOOTER RALLY
Yes I would. 😉👍 I’m assuming that you will be going? If so, have some fun for me. 🍻
another video where you only see the dashboard
🤷♂️
@129 and 72 is a great place dragon city... great food
I was nervous watching. Well done 'escaping'!
I'm glad I found your channel! I bought a S-10 about a year ago and I'm planning some off-pavement riding for next summer. I'm very experienced off-road, but on dirt bikes. I'm pretty inexperienced riding a big bike off road. Our season here is pretty much wrapping up for any mountain travel as I'm in Alberta Canada, just about 100km from the east slopes of the Rockies. Unrelated to the riding, may I ask what you use for a microphone and camera setup? Your audio is very clear. Thanks!
Never mind haha. I just found your (very helpful) video that explains your setup.
S10 is a big bike for off-road but I like it. I find you do certain things differently than you would on a smaller dirtbike. Chris Birch has an adventure bike video series for purchase that’s actually pretty good. Don’t know your skill level, but I found them to be interesting and helpful. He shows some techniques that I didn’t know or think about that made handling the big bikes off-road easier. Have fun!
Thanks for the video I’ve just bought a 2024 Vespa gts 300 in the same colour
Good choice! 😉
Yes more vids please.
You should never check your oil in a warm engine. So the exhaust is never an issue…
I just got home yesterday following a ride from Poplar Bluff, MO back to AZ. I spent my first night in Eureka Springs, AR. Riding in the Ozarks was absolutely amazing
It’s pretty out there. 👍
I took a Prius through there and got 2 folks to move aside and was challenged by no one. Also turned the cashiers head when I filled up 😂. Good times
I just retired and I'm wondering what the best machine would be to ride the Tail bc I heard that the Grom is best and I no longer have one. Should I haul my practical Piaggio out there from the Charlotte area? It's faster than a Grom (top end) but no gears to work with. Maybe I should just throw my list away and kick the bucket when it's time. Nice video.
I would ride whatever you like. Don’t think it matters much. CVT vs clutch and gears will be a different experience, but just preference in the end. Have fun!
Good to see you back and looking forward for more videos. Thanks
Joe, I own two HD 3-wheelers but the Vespa is me go to bike. Run errands, take short hour rides in evening to unwind or do 100 miles on a nice afternoon just exploring. 70+ miles to gallon, light weight, twist and go, actually turn on a dime. But do not stop at places where people can walk up and talk because you get bogged down answering a multitude of people’s questions.
Good seeing you back on the Vespa!
the roads look nice for a scooter. will you get a windscreen now that their are so many bugs out?
No, I like it naked. 😉
Just so we're clear, I'll watch any of your videos. The perspective of the rider looking out over a Vespa at the scenery is great.
Thank you.
I’ve always ridden ‘proper bikes’ from a Harley to a GSXR. Sold my Triumph this year to buy a VW camper but still wanted something on 2 wheels. Always loved Vespa’s so got a GTS300. Absolutely love it. I’d say you get less excitement but more enjoyment if that makes sense. So easy to ride, nimble and quick off the mark, storage space and running costs etc are great. I get more interest from friends, family and strangers with the Vespa than I did with any of my other bikes. In the UK there are a lot of 125 scooters ridden by learners, you don’t see many Vespa’s outside the city so I think you get a bit more appreciation. In the future I’ll get another bike but I don’t think I’ll sell my Vespa.
Less excitement, but more enjoyment is a great way to summarize it! ❤️