My Harley thing lasted 4 years and 50K miles. I built that bike in my living room. In hindsight, it was something I needed to experience--a belonging of a particular type, however loose in the scheme of things. And then I woke up one morning and knew it was over. Then I bought a pile of vintage bikes and restored them; which taught me a lot about why the technology has moved on from there. Then I bought a big BMW, then a high-revving Yamaha (and a few others), then a series of dirtbikes. It tickles me that now I ride a 300L and I absolutely love it and it's my only bike. To me it's the acceleration on two wheels, feeling the movement through space, leaning into corners, turning off the road onto dirt and single-track. I no longer care about the sound; my performance needs are for adequacy; and I usually ride alone, and prefer to. I really look forward to your posts.
I think the character of the bike, if it’s a good fit for you, it’s reliable and you absolutely love it, builds over time and with each adventure. A bond forms between you and your bike with each passing mile, and I don’t think it’s a stretch to say its character builds at the same pace.
That's what's happening with me and the Tiger. I didn't connect with its character out-of-the-box, but as the miles add up, I'm falling in love with it.
Happy Christmas to you too. Great video again. Nailed it…again. After 48 bikes over 50 years of riding, I agree with you. I’m a senior now and my bike that I absolutely adore, is a 2024 Triumph Bonneville Speed 900. So much of that character you speak of. At 65 years old, it may be my last bike. And that’s perfectly fine with me. It makes a 65 year old man feel like the young man I once was. It’s the kind of motorcycle that got me excited back in the day when riding a motorcycle was magical. Thanks again Bug. Always look forward to your work.
Thank you and Merry Christmas! The Speed 900 is an amazing bike. I wish I had gone for that instead of the T120. Loved the T120 but the 900s are where it's at.
@ you are so right. My best buddy took my speed 900 for a ride. That was in September. Last weekend December 14, we took his Speed 400 in for a trade up to the 2024 T100. Why? Character. That’s what he said. So yes Bug, you are right.
You’re spot on. attraction to the motorcycle is personal. The looks, feel, sound. Same as watches. Size, feel, looks, mechanical beauty. If you know, you know. Character.
I ride a 2011 Triumph Thunderbird Storm. I bought it 12 years ago because it did exude character and still does. It is one of those bikes where when you walk away YOU have to look back (at least I do). It is a keeper. Being 65 next birthday it brings the joy for me of riding, either around town or on a long 3000mile trip. Character is important to me as well.
Character is like feeling the heart beat of a motorcycle. It's soothing and relaxing and can't be replaced by adrenaline and thrills. It's like the motorcycle is humming and producing a therapeutic tone that triggers serotonin and dopamine in the mind. It's like the spirit of a motorcycle, you can feel it and sense it but can not measure it with numbers or an instrument.
I have been saying the same thing now for a while. The Harley world has gone over board with horse power and specs. I think the aesthetic of a motorcycle and the character is everything. It is how it makes you feel and NOT how fast it goes. As an audio engineer the sound is what drew me in. Everyone has different idea of what a motorcycle means to them. To me it is how my retro bike brings back the glory days of motorcycling. I think a lot of us miss the "old days".
No point riding if your bike doesn't have character - which of course is very subjective. I've just swapped my Tiger 1050 for a new BSA Goldstar- bags of character and massively fun to ride. Congratulations on your first year on YT.
Character IS everything in a motorcycle. It's why I chose a bike. I'm not interested in 0-60 times or power figures. How does it make me FEEL. That is what I want. And if Yammynoob doesn't understand that, then yes, he doesn't 'get' it. The 900 Scrambler would be my next choice when I go to get a bike. I love it.
I look for bikes with character, some may say a soul, a connection with my heart, much like finding a partner. I want a relationship with the thing that makes my heart beat. My 2019 Guzzi V7 and 2018 Himalayan definitely do that. My 1965 BSA Bantam is so simple, free of all technology even a battery and it just works, topping out at 50mph makes no difference, we're together on the road and I look out for it as it looks out for me. All 3 do different things for me, evoke different emotions each time I ride them down the same road and make memories I'll never forget. They have become part of me.
When it comes to character for me, my 2006 Yamaha Vmax will always have a spot in my garage. From the ghost flames on the black gas tank, the aluminum scoops on each side, or the sound the V4 makes when she goes from the rumble to the roar as the VBoost kicks in at 6,000RPM, she always puts a smile on my face.
1-It feels strange to me seeing you, Dan, being serious and not joking like you do on your scooter videos. 2-I feel the same as you about the Vespa GTS, but I love my Primavera 150. Sold the GTS. 3-About couple months ago, I test rode a Royal Enfield Meteor 350. A couple weeks later I own one. My neighbors, all owning big cruisers, don't understand why. It has character!!! 4-As you talked through this video, I could feel what you meant with each statement. Short, on point, and either the listener gets it or doesn't. Can't explain it more. 5-Good video Dan!!!!!
I appreciate it! Sad about the GTS. I really did love it, and I do miss it. I'm trying, every once in awhile, do add some humor to this stuff. I have plans to revive the scooter channel. I miss goofing around over there so much. It's like a piece of me is gone...
As an older rider, you and your videos speak to me. I ride just to ride. I daydream about riding even when I can’t ride everyday due to weather or commitments. I ride triumph Tiger as well. It’s been awhile since I’ve ridden a simpler bike. Maybe 2025, I’ll add another bike to my garage. Keep doing what you do and Thank You
...I've had a lot of bikes... And bought Versys 650, never thought about that bike in my life, and bought it off from a friend how needed money... I felt in love in that machine almost instantly! Never had bike that agile and somehow LIVE... YES it sounds like bucket full of screws, it vibrates and buzz all the plastics... But somehow... It's magic! 😊
I have a Scrambler 400X and a Tiger 900 GT. Even though the Tiger is much more capable, more often than not, when I reach for the keys, it’s for the Scrambler. The Scrambler speaks to my soul, while the Tiger is more appliance-like. It does everything really well, but it just doesn’t bring a smile to my face the way the Scrambler does. Thanks for the great channel! I really enjoy your content and look forward to year two. Happy holidays!
Agreed. The thing about the Tiger that does bring a smile to my face is ... It gets me far away, with lots of stuff, and it allows me to venture into places other bikes, including the Scrambler, won't. But I still end up grabbing the Scrambler keys more often than not.
You nailed it. I have a scrambler 900 too. I am also a guitarplayer and i like primitive guitars like strats and teles because of character. Thats why i like your soundtracks so much. All the best to you and greetings from Germany.
I'm not sure if it's character but my first bike is the 2022 g310gs. I swapped the front sprocket from its 16tooth to a 17tooth after it's first 32 miles and every time I ride it I fall back in love. The only I don't like is the sound. The engine and the exhaust both sound sad and horrific and the same time so earplugs and my Cardo pumping music mean the sound of MUDHORN's screaming and whining mean nothing other than suck it up and enjoy the ride. It's a great bike that gets me everything I need from 80 on the highway all day with full luggage to trails when my main plan is BDR and moto camping. Not sure if it's character or just knowing what relaxing truly is. Great vids Bug.
Great video! I’ve been riding for 40 years. Currently have a 2009 KLR650, and a 1964 BSA Lightning Rocket. The KLR is my daily driver, but my BSA is the one I ride on those Sunday afternoons when time doesn’t matter and I want to just feel the wind, smell the exhaust, and just….ride. Speaking of time, I wear a Tissot automatic.
You are right, character is subjective. For me, it is a combination of how the bike looks, feels when riding, and how much I want to get back on it after the ride is over. It is not the size of the motor or the top speed that does it for me. My two Chinese motorcycles did not cost much combined compared to some single bikes alone. One is only 229 cc and the other is 450 cc. However, I get on each one and ride every chance I get. Both bikes have done several 1000 mile + trips and I do not hesitate to get on them. Their character draws me in......
Hadn’t ridden for years for all of the usual reasons, then decided one day that I wanted a bike. I was buying new and could have picked anything, but deep down I really wanted a Moto Guzzi V7 Special. It has bags of character, a large tank and shaft drive; but fundamentally I always look back at it as I’m walking away. I couldn’t care less about its top speed. Every ride is an occasion and there aren’t many on the roads. It makes me feel cool (I’m not) and I think I look cool (I probably don’t) but I wouldn’t change it for anything.
Great comment about simplicity and character. To me, the character of a bike is defined by the way I ride it. My Sean Wotherspoon crazy tricked out Vespa has its own character. I add nothing to it. The “bits” I added to it by many who gaze in wonder and quietly think:”Who the heck made that, but it is novel and really unique and cute.” So, it defines its own character. My Triumph 2023 T120 Gold Line Edition is a beautiful classic however, the bike and the way I ride it vastly changes its character depending on my mood. So character of a bike is defined by my mood. The “Bonnie” and I, blend into a symphony of moods by the roar of the 1200cc engine and the gurgling exhaust note just as a Musician defines the instrument by how it is played. And finally, the bikes character can only come alive when you start the engine and translate your unique mood into your ride and “marry’s” the two of you as one.
Wow Bugmoto once again you are right on the money with your comments, I hope you have a great Christmas, and I look forward to your channel next year, 😎🇦🇺
I fell in love with my xtz 125 i can do offroad on the weekends, lightweight, I use it daily on pavement no issues, great gas mileage, I definitely agree its all about character but I will also add that it also needs to match your personality.
You are spot on ,I own a Royal Enfield Electra Cast Iron and KTM Adventure 390, while ADV 390 is efficient and will take me to destinations quickly, with the Enfield you are already on a tour when you are 1st km in, RE will be a keeper.
It’s funny, hearing other content creators defining themselves as a value over some other negotiable attribute. What they’ve actually done is defined their character. It’s all feelings based, value, such as bang for buck, cheap bargain is a feeling one obtains from a neuro chemical process we experience. So is buyers remorse. That persons character is focused on money and an arbitrary feature and benefits gain for that value. Character equals the feeling associated to a value.
Mr. Bug, character and reliability have to live side by side with me. Yes, I love the howl of a triple, but it better get me home, too. My first bike (1973) was a CB350. If I remember correctly, it was great! Jump ahead 40 years. Was dating a lady whom I helped bring a CB400 back to life. Talk about character! My God that CB would make me laugh and cry at the same time! What a fun time ... but not so sure I trusted the beast other than around town. Yep, lots of character, but not so sure it was totally reliable. Ned in SC
Motorcycles are about feelings and emotions that I can't get from anything else and words ... simple words can barely describe those feelings and emotions though you do better than most to get at the heart of what's driving us as bikers. Oddly perhaps I can't get into watches as now that I've reached retirement knowing what time it is, precisely, is not something I value, hell, I don't even care what day it is. 😅 For example, I've just planned and booked to spend a week riding in Sardinia. I have four ferries to catch, the days and times are constraints thrust upon me and all my planning is about minimising the effects of those constraints and maximising the sense of me being free to travel on my bike. The time is everywhere ... on my bike, on my phone, on the sat nav, at every hotel check in desk. I just can't waste time looking at a watch or even feel it on my body. I plan in air around every time constraint in order to minimise the stress of being at a given place by a certain time. Time ... time is the enemy after all, why strap a constant reminder of it to my wrist? The sun is where it is in the sky, that's all I need to know about time. Every day I get to see it is precious ... not that it's 13:45 on something called Tuesday.
Just watched your video 👍 and what a coincidence - Yesterday I filled out a survey Triumph sent me (I bought a T120 about a month ago) and one of the questions was what was the main reason I bought the bike 🏍️ and I checked the box which said style and looks. I know you’d agree that the Bonneville has character! 🤠
I own and ride a 2001 carbureted Harley Fatboy for a couple of reasons… it’s been in my family since it was new, I have an old photo of my 90 year old dad sitting on it grinning ear to ear (Dad rode Indian Motocycles the 1940’s, and he hated Harleys)… and because it’s black and chrome and shiny and loud, and fun. It has CHARACTER! I also have both an Apple Watch and a Hamilton Field Khaki. Maybe occasionally great minds do think alike?! 😀
It's a great watch, right??? Truth is, I had to show a photo of it instead of shooting video because I seem to have misplaced it sometime in the past week or two and it's driving me CRAZY!
Thanks for the video! I completely agree with you about the character of a motorcycle. It seems to me also that the search for character in a bike is often linked to the number of years of riding (or the age of the rider ? 😉 ) Happy Christmas to everyone!
Wonderful video and very much agrees with my philosophy of motorcycle riding and ownership. My first bike after passing my test was an SRX600, which was brim full of character, loud, light, narrow, distinctive and no electric start. I loved it. Then an SZR660, a love hate type bike, then in 2003 I wanted to replace it. I tried a few, but they lacked character and charm. The Moto Guzzi Breva 750ie had huge character. And it's now 20 years on the same bike, to be replaced in 2025...with another Guzzi😊 Unique sound, feel and looks, plus long distance capability. Spec numbers mean little to me. Top speed? Meaningless. It's got to have soul.
I like Yammie. A big part of why he 'doesn't get' Harley is that he is a sports bike rider through and through, and he also appears to have had several negative experiences with harley riders. On a technical level, he does not like harleys period; and he's right, they are by the displacement, technically worse machines than a lot of sports bikes and japanese brands. It appears he also doesn't really like the cruiser position on a lot of bikes. He often laments how Harley projects an image of working class while offering extremely expensive bikes that can't outpace a standard Japanese cruiser. I believe he 'sees' the character of HD bikes, but can't get past the value proposition. Me, personally. I'm not too sure yet. I only have a ninja and I love her, but as for character I feel like I am most of the character of the bike. Maybe some day I'll get something that has more of a personality.
I watch a lot of Yammie's stuff, and take it with a grain of salt because I realize he sort of has an ax to grind with older riders. He's a kid, so I get it. I've never ridden a Ninja but I can already see myself falling in love with one. I do think they have character... I've always been drawn to them...
I strongly agree with this, regarding Yammie Noob, they are just trolling the Harley Fanboys because they're the usual assholes on their country, these riders think they are superior to everyone riding a motored bike.
Just about any new motorbike has enough performance for me. I can hardly hang on to my V7 Special when I open up that throttle. Character is style and simplicity. I was just about ready to drop the cash for a new Royal Enfield Interceptor when I saw they came out with the Bear. Too cool for my eyes.
This just sums up my thoughts for the last year after selling a modern Vespa (which was my first bike) and loving every moment with my Guzzi V7, if I”m not on my SV650, a Speed Twin 1200 or Royal Enfield Meteor 350. I admit, all of my bikes are genuinely flawed one way or another: the V7 is too slow for an 850, the SV650 is too old, the Speed Twin is not genuinely British and the Enfield is, well, an Enfield. But I guess, each one is imbued with a character so distinct and different from much more common bikes.
wow, how to define character? Lack of perfection? Quirkiness? Idiosyncrasies? All 3 of these could be negative attributes of course, it's sort of how the dish is served. I think if you can forget about the bike you're on, and simply enjoy the trip, maybe that bike lacks a little character. Some people chose less character, and really just want to enjoy the trip/ride. Nothing wrong with that. I want 'some' character. Waiting for weather to improve a bit, and plan on doing some Riders-share trips locally. A V85TT is calling my name. Maybe it's for me. Maybe not.
"Lack of perfection." "I think if you can forget about the bike you're on, and simply enjoy the trip, maybe that bike lacks a little character." Love this. Perfect!
Mmm character 🤔. Is it imperfections, faults or annoying traits that you sort of hate but not soo much that it overwhelms the enjoyment of the bike ? I to have a mechanical watch that I need to wear for it to work but I find myself looking at it not to tell the time but …. well I guess it’s mechanical beauty. My bike is old, reliable and has enough speed and again I find myself just looking at it and not questioning why I don’t buy a more efficient bike. I just don’t want one, I’m happy with my bike.
Hiya m8! I trust and pray you and yours are well. Ya know how the Doc is currently rollin’, yet; been looking hard at adding a Honda Dream CA77 to my collection, which captures this doc’s character. Have a looksie. Be young. Be foolish. Be happy. 🛵🏁🎯 Ride safe. Cheers!
Oh yes. I've never seen one in person, but I'd love to take one for a spin. There's a few on Facebook Marketplace... One is $750 and in real rough shape, but it'd be a fun project!
Character in a bike, I have always found, is only truly illuminated when one includes the character who sits upon it. They are one in the same.
My Harley thing lasted 4 years and 50K miles. I built that bike in my living room. In hindsight, it was something I needed to experience--a belonging of a particular type, however loose in the scheme of things. And then I woke up one morning and knew it was over. Then I bought a pile of vintage bikes and restored them; which taught me a lot about why the technology has moved on from there. Then I bought a big BMW, then a high-revving Yamaha (and a few others), then a series of dirtbikes. It tickles me that now I ride a 300L and I absolutely love it and it's my only bike. To me it's the acceleration on two wheels, feeling the movement through space, leaning into corners, turning off the road onto dirt and single-track. I no longer care about the sound; my performance needs are for adequacy; and I usually ride alone, and prefer to. I really look forward to your posts.
I've been known to say "it was something I needed to experience" as well. It's sorta how I live my life, for better or for worse.
Another fine essay. Enjoying your posts very much, thanks!
I think the character of the bike, if it’s a good fit for you, it’s reliable and you absolutely love it, builds over time and with each adventure. A bond forms between you and your bike with each passing mile, and I don’t think it’s a stretch to say its character builds at the same pace.
That's what's happening with me and the Tiger. I didn't connect with its character out-of-the-box, but as the miles add up, I'm falling in love with it.
Happy Christmas to you too. Great video again. Nailed it…again. After 48 bikes over 50 years of riding, I agree with you. I’m a senior now and my bike that I absolutely adore, is a 2024 Triumph Bonneville Speed 900. So much of that character you speak of. At 65 years old, it may be my last bike. And that’s perfectly fine with me. It makes a 65 year old man feel like the young man I once was. It’s the kind of motorcycle that got me excited back in the day when riding a motorcycle was magical. Thanks again Bug. Always look forward to your work.
Thank you and Merry Christmas!
The Speed 900 is an amazing bike. I wish I had gone for that instead of the T120. Loved the T120 but the 900s are where it's at.
@ you are so right. My best buddy took my speed 900 for a ride. That was in September. Last weekend December 14, we took his Speed 400 in for a trade up to the 2024 T100. Why? Character. That’s what he said. So yes Bug, you are right.
You’re spot on. attraction to the motorcycle is personal. The looks, feel, sound.
Same as watches. Size, feel, looks, mechanical beauty. If you know, you know. Character.
I ride a 2011 Triumph Thunderbird Storm. I bought it 12 years ago because it did exude character and still does. It is one of those bikes where when you walk away YOU have to look back (at least I do). It is a keeper. Being 65 next birthday it brings the joy for me of riding, either around town or on a long 3000mile trip. Character is important to me as well.
I look back at my Scrambler when I park it and pretend I'm looking to make sure it's safe... But really I'm just admiring it.
💯. Love the Storm Oozes character
Character is like feeling the heart beat of a motorcycle. It's soothing and relaxing and can't be replaced by adrenaline and thrills. It's like the motorcycle is humming and producing a therapeutic tone that triggers serotonin and dopamine in the mind. It's like the spirit of a motorcycle, you can feel it and sense it but can not measure it with numbers or an instrument.
Yes! Perfectly said.
I have been saying the same thing now for a while. The Harley world has gone over board with horse power and specs. I think the aesthetic of a motorcycle and the character is everything. It is how it makes you feel and NOT how fast it goes. As an audio engineer the sound is what drew me in. Everyone has different idea of what a motorcycle means to them. To me it is how my retro bike brings back the glory days of motorcycling. I think a lot of us miss the "old days".
I love the simplicity of my single cylinder Speed 400. At 59 don't need anything more...yet! 😊
I rode one a few months back. It spoke to me. The Scrambler 400 too.
No point riding if your bike doesn't have character - which of course is very subjective. I've just swapped my Tiger 1050 for a new BSA Goldstar- bags of character and massively fun to ride. Congratulations on your first year on YT.
I've been thinking about trading my 1050 sport in for a 660 Tenere but 120+hp down to 48hp. Not sure. But watching this has made me think again.
That was a superb piece!
Thank you, and Happy Holidays to you, too!
From California by the sea ~ Ride Forever! 🦅
Character IS everything in a motorcycle. It's why I chose a bike. I'm not interested in 0-60 times or power figures. How does it make me FEEL. That is what I want. And if Yammynoob doesn't understand that, then yes, he doesn't 'get' it. The 900 Scrambler would be my next choice when I go to get a bike. I love it.
I look for bikes with character, some may say a soul, a connection with my heart, much like finding a partner. I want a relationship with the thing that makes my heart beat. My 2019 Guzzi V7 and 2018 Himalayan definitely do that. My 1965 BSA Bantam is so simple, free of all technology even a battery and it just works, topping out at 50mph makes no difference, we're together on the road and I look out for it as it looks out for me. All 3 do different things for me, evoke different emotions each time I ride them down the same road and make memories I'll never forget. They have become part of me.
When it comes to character for me, my 2006 Yamaha Vmax will always have a spot in my garage. From the ghost flames on the black gas tank, the aluminum scoops on each side, or the sound the V4 makes when she goes from the rumble to the roar as the VBoost kicks in at 6,000RPM, she always puts a smile on my face.
That sounds amazing.
1-It feels strange to me seeing you, Dan, being serious and not joking like you do on your scooter videos.
2-I feel the same as you about the Vespa GTS, but I love my Primavera 150. Sold the GTS.
3-About couple months ago, I test rode a Royal Enfield Meteor 350. A couple weeks later I own one. My neighbors, all owning big cruisers, don't understand why. It has character!!!
4-As you talked through this video, I could feel what you meant with each statement. Short, on point, and either the listener gets it or doesn't. Can't explain it more.
5-Good video Dan!!!!!
I appreciate it! Sad about the GTS. I really did love it, and I do miss it.
I'm trying, every once in awhile, do add some humor to this stuff. I have plans to revive the scooter channel. I miss goofing around over there so much. It's like a piece of me is gone...
The experiment of the machine is the happiness it brings you. There is no other experiment. I seen that video. It was a very good video. Adam is cool
As an older rider, you and your videos speak to me. I ride just to ride. I daydream about riding even when I can’t ride everyday due to weather or commitments. I ride triumph Tiger as well. It’s been awhile since I’ve ridden a simpler bike. Maybe 2025, I’ll add another bike to my garage. Keep doing what you do and Thank You
Thank you! Yup, the Tiger is fantastic, and you appreciate it even more when you have a simpler bike to fall back on.
...I've had a lot of bikes... And bought Versys 650, never thought about that bike in my life, and bought it off from a friend how needed money...
I felt in love in that machine almost instantly! Never had bike that agile and somehow LIVE...
YES it sounds like bucket full of screws, it vibrates and buzz all the plastics... But somehow... It's magic!
😊
Absolutely, character is everything ❤
I have a Scrambler 400X and a Tiger 900 GT. Even though the Tiger is much more capable, more often than not, when I reach for the keys, it’s for the Scrambler. The Scrambler speaks to my soul, while the Tiger is more appliance-like. It does everything really well, but it just doesn’t bring a smile to my face the way the Scrambler does.
Thanks for the great channel! I really enjoy your content and look forward to year two. Happy holidays!
Agreed. The thing about the Tiger that does bring a smile to my face is ... It gets me far away, with lots of stuff, and it allows me to venture into places other bikes, including the Scrambler, won't. But I still end up grabbing the Scrambler keys more often than not.
You nailed it. I have a scrambler 900 too. I am also a guitarplayer and i like primitive guitars like strats and teles because of character. Thats why i like your soundtracks so much. All the best to you and greetings from Germany.
Agree, my f800r 2015 BMW leaves me cold unlike my previous triumph legend 1999.
Merry Christmas Bug,I love your warm and fuzzy videos.
Love your stuff!
Thank you!!!
I'm not sure if it's character but my first bike is the 2022 g310gs. I swapped the front sprocket from its 16tooth to a 17tooth after it's first 32 miles and every time I ride it I fall back in love. The only I don't like is the sound. The engine and the exhaust both sound sad and horrific and the same time so earplugs and my Cardo pumping music mean the sound of MUDHORN's screaming and whining mean nothing other than suck it up and enjoy the ride. It's a great bike that gets me everything I need from 80 on the highway all day with full luggage to trails when my main plan is BDR and moto camping. Not sure if it's character or just knowing what relaxing truly is. Great vids Bug.
I was hours away from buying a g310gs a few months back, before I bought the Tiger. The deal didn't work out so I moved on. Love that bike though.
Great video! I’ve been riding for 40 years. Currently have a 2009 KLR650, and a 1964 BSA Lightning Rocket. The KLR is my daily driver, but my BSA is the one I ride on those Sunday afternoons when time doesn’t matter and I want to just feel the wind, smell the exhaust, and just….ride. Speaking of time, I wear a Tissot automatic.
Amen brother. I wear an Oris swiss watch Ive had since the 90's and I ride a Royal Enfield - both have character and a sole of their own.
You are right, character is subjective. For me, it is a combination of how the bike looks, feels when riding, and how much I want to get back on it after the ride is over. It is not the size of the motor or the top speed that does it for me. My two Chinese motorcycles did not cost much combined compared to some single bikes alone. One is only 229 cc and the other is 450 cc. However, I get on each one and ride every chance I get. Both bikes have done several 1000 mile + trips and I do not hesitate to get on them. Their character draws me in......
Hadn’t ridden for years for all of the usual reasons, then decided one day that I wanted a bike. I was buying new and could have picked anything, but deep down I really wanted a Moto Guzzi V7 Special. It has bags of character, a large tank and shaft drive; but fundamentally I always look back at it as I’m walking away. I couldn’t care less about its top speed. Every ride is an occasion and there aren’t many on the roads. It makes me feel cool (I’m not) and I think I look cool (I probably don’t) but I wouldn’t change it for anything.
Thank you!
You are spot on with your review 👍 What a nice sound you have in your Triumph! 😉
Thanks for a very good youtube Clip.
Cheers 🇸🇪
Great comment about simplicity and character. To me, the character of a bike is defined by the way I ride it. My Sean Wotherspoon crazy tricked out Vespa has its own character. I add nothing to it. The “bits” I added to it by many who gaze in wonder and quietly think:”Who the heck made that, but it is novel and really unique and cute.” So, it defines its own character. My Triumph 2023 T120 Gold Line Edition is a beautiful classic however, the bike and the way I ride it vastly changes its character depending on my mood. So character of a bike is defined by my mood. The “Bonnie” and I, blend into a symphony of moods by the roar of the 1200cc engine and the gurgling exhaust note just as a Musician defines the instrument by how it is played. And finally, the bikes character can only come alive when you start the engine and translate your unique mood into your ride and “marry’s” the two of you as one.
Wow Bugmoto once again you are right on the money with your comments, I hope you have a great Christmas, and I look forward to your channel next year, 😎🇦🇺
Thank you! Next year is gonna be fantastic. Can't wait.
This boy loves to motorcycle!
I watched you ride the T120 home and was sort of disappointed when you moved it on! The black had character! Great video mate!
I fell in love with my xtz 125 i can do offroad on the weekends, lightweight, I use it daily on pavement no issues, great gas mileage, I definitely agree its all about character but I will also add that it also needs to match your personality.
You are spot on ,I own a Royal Enfield Electra Cast Iron and KTM Adventure 390, while ADV 390 is efficient and will take me to destinations quickly, with the Enfield you are already on a tour when you are 1st km in, RE will be a keeper.
It’s funny, hearing other content creators defining themselves as a value over some other negotiable attribute. What they’ve actually done is defined their character.
It’s all feelings based, value, such as bang for buck, cheap bargain is a feeling one obtains from a neuro chemical process we experience. So is buyers remorse. That persons character is focused on money and an arbitrary feature and benefits gain for that value.
Character equals the feeling associated to a value.
Mr. Bug, character and reliability have to live side by side with me. Yes, I love the howl of a triple, but it better get me home, too. My first bike (1973) was a CB350. If I remember correctly, it was great! Jump ahead 40 years. Was dating a lady whom I helped bring a CB400 back to life. Talk about character! My God that CB would make me laugh and cry at the same time! What a fun time ... but not so sure I trusted the beast other than around town. Yep, lots of character, but not so sure it was totally reliable.
Ned in SC
Agreed. Character doesn't mean a whole lot if the thing is dripping oil all the time...
Motorcycles are about feelings and emotions that I can't get from anything else and words ... simple words can barely describe those feelings and emotions though you do better than most to get at the heart of what's driving us as bikers. Oddly perhaps I can't get into watches as now that I've reached retirement knowing what time it is, precisely, is not something I value, hell, I don't even care what day it is. 😅 For example, I've just planned and booked to spend a week riding in Sardinia. I have four ferries to catch, the days and times are constraints thrust upon me and all my planning is about minimising the effects of those constraints and maximising the sense of me being free to travel on my bike. The time is everywhere ... on my bike, on my phone, on the sat nav, at every hotel check in desk. I just can't waste time looking at a watch or even feel it on my body. I plan in air around every time constraint in order to minimise the stress of being at a given place by a certain time. Time ... time is the enemy after all, why strap a constant reminder of it to my wrist? The sun is where it is in the sky, that's all I need to know about time. Every day I get to see it is precious ... not that it's 13:45 on something called Tuesday.
Just watched your video 👍 and what a coincidence - Yesterday I filled out a survey Triumph sent me (I bought a T120 about a month ago) and one of the questions was what was the main reason I bought the bike 🏍️ and I checked the box which said style and looks. I know you’d agree that the Bonneville has character! 🤠
Brilliant
Spot on!
I own and ride a 2001 carbureted Harley Fatboy for a couple of reasons… it’s been in my family since it was new, I have an old photo of my 90 year old dad sitting on it grinning ear to ear (Dad rode Indian Motocycles the 1940’s, and he hated Harleys)… and because it’s black and chrome and shiny and loud, and fun. It has CHARACTER!
I also have both an Apple Watch and a Hamilton Field Khaki. Maybe occasionally great minds do think alike?! 😀
It's a great watch, right??? Truth is, I had to show a photo of it instead of shooting video because I seem to have misplaced it sometime in the past week or two and it's driving me CRAZY!
Thanks for the video!
I completely agree with you about the character of a motorcycle.
It seems to me also that the search for character in a bike is often linked to the number of years of riding (or the age of the rider ? 😉 )
Happy Christmas to everyone!
Wonderful video and very much agrees with my philosophy of motorcycle riding and ownership. My first bike after passing my test was an SRX600, which was brim full of character, loud, light, narrow, distinctive and no electric start. I loved it. Then an SZR660, a love hate type bike, then in 2003 I wanted to replace it. I tried a few, but they lacked character and charm. The Moto Guzzi Breva 750ie had huge character. And it's now 20 years on the same bike, to be replaced in 2025...with another Guzzi😊 Unique sound, feel and looks, plus long distance capability. Spec numbers mean little to me. Top speed? Meaningless. It's got to have soul.
I like Yammie. A big part of why he 'doesn't get' Harley is that he is a sports bike rider through and through, and he also appears to have had several negative experiences with harley riders. On a technical level, he does not like harleys period; and he's right, they are by the displacement, technically worse machines than a lot of sports bikes and japanese brands.
It appears he also doesn't really like the cruiser position on a lot of bikes. He often laments how Harley projects an image of working class while offering extremely expensive bikes that can't outpace a standard Japanese cruiser. I believe he 'sees' the character of HD bikes, but can't get past the value proposition.
Me, personally. I'm not too sure yet. I only have a ninja and I love her, but as for character I feel like I am most of the character of the bike. Maybe some day I'll get something that has more of a personality.
I watch a lot of Yammie's stuff, and take it with a grain of salt because I realize he sort of has an ax to grind with older riders. He's a kid, so I get it.
I've never ridden a Ninja but I can already see myself falling in love with one. I do think they have character... I've always been drawn to them...
I strongly agree with this, regarding Yammie Noob, they are just trolling the Harley Fanboys because they're the usual assholes on their country, these riders think they are superior to everyone riding a motored bike.
Just about any new motorbike has enough performance for me. I can hardly hang on to my V7 Special when I open up that throttle. Character is style and simplicity. I was just about ready to drop the cash for a new Royal Enfield Interceptor when I saw they came out with the Bear. Too cool for my eyes.
I'm hoping to test ride the Bear before the holidays. I'm afraid to test drive it though because I know exactly what's going to happen...
This just sums up my thoughts for the last year after selling a modern Vespa (which was my first bike) and loving every moment with my Guzzi V7, if I”m not on my SV650, a Speed Twin 1200 or Royal Enfield Meteor 350. I admit, all of my bikes are genuinely flawed one way or another: the V7 is too slow for an 850, the SV650 is too old, the Speed Twin is not genuinely British and the Enfield is, well, an Enfield. But I guess, each one is imbued with a character so distinct and different from much more common bikes.
wow, how to define character? Lack of perfection? Quirkiness? Idiosyncrasies? All 3 of these could be negative attributes of course, it's sort of how the dish is served. I think if you can forget about the bike you're on, and simply enjoy the trip, maybe that bike lacks a little character. Some people chose less character, and really just want to enjoy the trip/ride. Nothing wrong with that. I want 'some' character. Waiting for weather to improve a bit, and plan on doing some Riders-share trips locally. A V85TT is calling my name. Maybe it's for me. Maybe not.
"Lack of perfection." "I think if you can forget about the bike you're on, and simply enjoy the trip, maybe that bike lacks a little character."
Love this. Perfect!
Bingo
Mmm character 🤔. Is it imperfections, faults or annoying traits that you sort of hate but not soo much that it overwhelms the enjoyment of the bike ? I to have a mechanical watch that I need to wear for it to work but I find myself looking at it not to tell the time but …. well I guess it’s mechanical beauty. My bike is old, reliable and has enough speed and again I find myself just looking at it and not questioning why I don’t buy a more efficient bike. I just don’t want one, I’m happy with my bike.
Hiya m8!
I trust and pray you and yours are well.
Ya know how the Doc is currently rollin’, yet; been looking hard at adding a Honda Dream CA77 to my collection, which captures this doc’s character.
Have a looksie.
Be young.
Be foolish.
Be happy.
🛵🏁🎯
Ride safe.
Cheers!
Oh yes. I've never seen one in person, but I'd love to take one for a spin. There's a few on Facebook Marketplace... One is $750 and in real rough shape, but it'd be a fun project!