I have to say that this Highside Lowside episode is way better on UA-cam than the podcast. Just to check out the pics of the bikes they were talking about is worth it. Boy, I’m going to miss Lem!!
Lemmy, I've got a 4 hour commute between Portland and Seattle once a week. Chill out about running over. This is a podcast. Even if I didn't, I don't have to listen no one has to listen to this through one sitting. Don't stop Spurge, let him drone on and on. If it's about motorcycles, everyone who listens wants to hear it.
1:38 “fringe-fully honest”. I was hooked from there. Great session. Just sold my ‘82 Magna750 last month. Not really a cult bike but lots of loyal owners around the country. Learned a lot about repairs thanks to Maggie!
How good was the Magna at touring? Was it a comfortable bike to cruise on the freeway with? Would you say it's accessible to newer riders looking to upgrade? Thanks.
@@cesartapia610 the older gent that owned it first toured it to Great Smokies and Canada with a trailer. Yeah, a trailer! He was 80 when he sold it. Put 30k miles on it.
You are so young! I thought of Vincent, Triumph Trident/BSA Rocket 3, BSA Gold Star, Guzzi 750 Sport and S3, Honda CB 750 and 500, Norton Manx and so on. However; you made a good episode! Yours Leif i Sweden, age 62
Cult: a misplaced or excessive admiration for a particular person or thing. That’s the definition but I would add “it doesn’t particularly excel or deserve the admiration or following, but has it anyway.” First bike I think of is the KLR 650.
I owned and loved my 2001 Kawasaki ZRX 1200R and the forums were full of wonderful people that loved and tinkered with the ZRX. I rode mine out of state to meet up with another owner and he helped my wrench on it a bit. Great bike.
I know you don't think a Harley is a cult bike, but I think the Sportster qualifies. Harley riders either get it or they don't, but their following is pretty rabid.
@@chrisevenson4263 Exactly Chris .. when the Hawk 650 came out, the magazines were like "... this is so cool. Too bad Americans wont buy it. Future cult bike for sure!" They knew even then .... I bought a leftover one new in "91. $2600 out the door!
Most "bike guys" laugh and look down on the Grom... which makes it a cult bike. I think cult status starts with the mainstream people not buying them and have a negative opinion of them.
Bike guys I know who have RIDDEN a Grom love it. In fact, one of them has 2 bikes in his garage, a Grom and a Panigale 1098, and the Grom has more miles on it.
1984-86 CB700sc Nighthawk S is one of the best motorcycles ever made. Sucker was 30 years old and made a 2000 mile round trip in three days. Motorcycles don't get any more solid and reliable.
You can easily cruise along at 75mph on a KLR - I don't think speed is the issue. Those vibes, though. You'll feel it in your hands and back for a couple days after.
Great episode! My personal cult classic is the 2003-2004 ZX-9R. From track days to touring halfway across US, still one of my faves. KLR650 is definitely a street-capable bike btw!
I was waiting for someone to mention the Triumph Trophy. This old sport tour is still a hit in England even though they are still hard to find (in good condition) in North America. You can still find them occasionally in local ads, but if you own one, you had better be skilled in the garage! Mikuni CV flat slide carb, vacuum line madness, ignition coils, one killer wiring harness, and 11 panel bolts per side. What's not to love? When you get it right they are still one of the most comfortable touring bikes on the planet. Not the fastest bike to own, but nostalgic nonetheless. I had fun when I owned mine. I sold it in three days after. A lot of older British gentlemen love these for good reason.
Started on a CX500. Great bike. Cool features too. Liquid cooled and shaft drive with one less point of power loss because they turned the whole engine. Also had a turbo option.
@@cesartapia610 I found it underpowered for interstate use if I'm being honest. It could do 65, 70 but that was starting to push it so you didn't have a lot left if you found yourself in a tight spot. I did ride it on longer trips on smaller highways that were 55mph with no problems though. Some people just want to drive 85 or 90 on the interstate and it can't keep up
Absolutely love my XR1200 and the owners are diehards for them.....so many forums and support for them its insane. The bike turns so many heads everywhere i go.
At 32:00 the Kawi Triples came up. I had a '76 KH400 [not mentioned] that had trouble keeping the middle cylinder free, and was a vibrating, scary mini-rocket. I traded it for the original '81 GPz550 [new] and smiled everyday from then on. Now at 60, I've got an '03 ZRX1200r. Let the good times roll me a fatty.
I think the Versys 300 is on it's way to becoming a cult bike in the US. Dealerships don't seem to know how to sell them, they're already being cut from European markets. But the people who buy them are passionate about them.
Kinda my thought. The big Harley fans always seem to shit on the Sportster. The whole "girl's bike" joke that never dies. But holy crap people have customized the hell out of these things. So those that only ride them as the "starter Harley" then trade up, maybe not part of the cult, but those that keep them and go nuts with them? Kinda culty.
Haters are gonna hate. Block them or ignore them. Happy to see Lemmy getting healthier and healthier. I LOVE this series! Please keep it up!! That said, unless a pinned note from you guys identifies who you are interviewing on the podcasts, or unless you mention it on the video, I'm not going to check out the podcast just to see. Call me lazy, but it's too much work for me, with little potential gain. That said, I very much enjoyed the interview with Ari Henning. Keep up the great work!!
Good call on the 749 and 999! I think the Terblanche design is aging really well. Put a clean example in front of a casual biker and you could probably fool them into thinking the bike is a current production model.
I rode through town one day on the Silver Jubilee Triumph Bonneville I used to have and stopped in front of a local hotel that hosts a lot of events. What made me stop was a big line of Cushman scooters parked out there. I couldn't believe that many people had an interest in Cushmans. Talking to some of the owners I found a lot of them to be doctors, lawyers and other professional types who had spent ungodly amounts of money restoring these things. I wish I still had that Bonnie and also my RD350 and XS650. Maybe even my '64 Ducati 250 single. I've always lusted for a Norton Commando and a Honda 305 Super Hawk. My current ride is an '82 BMW R100 airhead.
I had a '75 KZ900 that got a cult following, especially in the African American community, in the 90's. Those 4 in 1 Hooker header sound was all over town here. I always had a hankering for the inline 4 400 with 4 in 1 headers.
Lemmy, I understand back in December you announced leaving revzilla, I get it, but is there anyway we can convince you to continue on hi side/low side? I know you said you’ll finish out season 2, but it won’t be the same without you. Continue on hi side low side and quit the rest.
I still own( and daily ride!) a "76 Yamaha XS650C, the one in French Blue, kept it very standard(except for upgraded electronic ignition and PM alternator)..and a " 82 Honda CB650SC Nighthawk that is my Street ET bracket-racing bike! I love these old beasts, glad to hear you mention them! Ride'em, Don't Hide'em! Great vid, guys! More like this, please! Thanks, Take Care, God Bless!
I had a 75 XS-650. I put a Windjammer 3 faring and Bates bags and trunk on it, then rode from Tulsa to the PCH in 77 and DC in 78. I miss my 82 Kawasaki 440 LTD. Riding a Versys 300 adv these day.
My first bike is a Honda Bros 400 - named Hawk in the US. They were in production from 1988-1991 I believe. EVERY older man who is into bikes that sees me comments on how they wish they never ever sold theirs. There's been a few times I've been slow riding in city traffic and I hear "oh look, a Bros!". My bike had 7 owners and was likely used my couriers. When I began researching aftermarket parts, I discovered a huge community for the love of the Bros/Hawk. I didn't even love the bike that much until I was reading about people's appreciation for their fun, ease to work on and reliabilty. Now I don't think I'll ever sell - it's so special.
I miss my 02' Buell M2 Cyclone. It wasn't the most mechanically sound bike but I loved it. I remember going into the showroom and drooling over the XB's and now you can pick them up for nothing. I'm pretty sure those bikes will go up in value someday.
Cult bikes either weren't popular when new or are old, but maintain really strong followings, such as the 69-78 Honda SOHC 500/550 and 750 (I don't include the 650, but that is my personal prejudice). The Sport Classic 1000 is a great pick.
I think the reason the Honda CB1100 didn't sell is because everyone wanted spoke wheels and 4 into 4 exhaust, plus they were about $2000 more than most of the other retro bikes.
I had a 79 Suzuki GS1000E, Vance and Hines exhaust, K&N pod filters. First bike, paid $300 for it in the late 90s. I really wish I still had it. I don’t think it is yet, but the Honda 919 has the potential to become one. Was a solid bike that was tons of fun and easy to ride. Lots of torque basically right off idle. Other than fuel injection was from the period before rider aids started taking over. Never was a big seller but those that own them love them and keep them.
That and the CB1 came to mind for me...as well as two of the bikes I own (Concours and PC800). TDM850 was another one that I expected and did not get it. My Nighthawk 650 (RIP) was also mentioned.
Could be something as easy as design. I'm a geezer who fell in love with Citroen cars as soon as I saw my first DS as a kid. It's easy to fall in love with something that you feel is beautiful and when it has cool technology like the hydraulic suspension you become a fan.
Cult bikes are the majority of my fleet. I've grown bored with and sold many bikes but there are a few I will never tire of, stop hunting for, or sell off because I've found and restored one. Suzuki GSF400 Bandit, VX800, Goose 350, GS1100G Honda PC800, Hawk NT650, VTR250 Interceptor, CB1, NX Dominator Yamaha TDM850, GTS1000, Fazer750, YZF750R, YZF1000 Thunder Ace Kawasaki KLX650R, ZL900 Eliminator, Zephyr 750
Lemmy lookin like a buff daddy DAYUM!! Haha always great vids, always learn about bikes I've never heard of with you guys. Much love from Puerto Rico, keep it up guys & stay safe ✌🏼
Wow. Last time I watched one of your videos was like 2 years ago. Fast forward to now, Lemmy looks lskinnier than Spurge. Good job man! Really proud of you!
Glad they brought up the Honda GB500 Tourist Trophy. Made only in 1989 and 90. One of the first "retro" bikes. It was 20 years before its time and didn't sell very well. Now it's hard to find one for a decent price.
KLR650 + 16 tooth front sprocket. I've wrecked mine and rebuilt it more times than I remember. Freakin' bullet proof. Not fast, and not the best at anything, but 'good enough' for just about everything.
@@colbynealy7200 wait until you have to adjust the valves and clean the carbs. Then, you will not like that bike. Drop the engine out of the frame jobs.
Great vid as always. My ultimate cult classics are the 70s BMW airheads when they switched to telescopic forks. My first motorcycle ever was a 1970 BMW R75/5. Loved that bike and wish BMW still made air cooled twins like them.
Oh definitely, I knew an old mechanic from Germany out here in Utah and he had about 15 of those old bad ass BMW bikes in his garage. Met him cause he was rebuilding my buddy's V.W. bus engine. Always thought those bikes were bad ass though and never really see them around much.
Gentlemen- Complete agreement on the Ducati 100 Sport Classics, although mention of them does open up the wound caused by my failing to buy one when they were inexpensive! Also please consider adding the BMW R90S to the list of cult bikes. Bob
I'm surprised none of you guys mentioned HONDA CBX1000/CBX1050SS, they have a sizeable cult following eventhough they aren't as fast as nimble/light as modern bikes, but omg does it sound good.
What about the 5th Feb Honda VFR800? It was on the cover of Cycle World Magazine about 10 years after production and it has a very dedicated following. I have a 2000, other bikes will come and go, but I'm never selling my VFR.
Quick comment about the KLR 650 as a road bike. Mine is entirely road use and spends most of its time on the Texas interstates. It can run 80 all day and it’s a good commuter. Add a tooth on the counter sprocket and a better seat and it’s an all day rider. Is it the best highway bike? Definitely not. Riding in a crosswind is a pain because it’s a sail in the wind. I came from Meridian Triumphs so vibration isn’t a problem. It’s not everyone’s road bike though. It captures the simplicity that I miss from the old day’s, but without the undependability.
Has to have lived a life where the vast majority never wanted one and a small group are long term owners...but a large enough group to support a nice aftermarket parts industry and online shops that specialize in that make/model. Before the Grom it was the Ruckus.
Honda made a lot of bikes that were popular for a good while, and became cult classics much later. The CB750 is an example. It sold tons. Interest waned over the years, but certain people still love them. The CX Hondas were never really popular, but now they're off the chain for custom platforms. I would say the first four generations of Goldwing are now cult classics. Hawk GT (uncle of the SV650, which is also a cult classic), V-Max, KLR650. Concours - I had one, bought it partly on its reputation. But it was buzzy as hell and didn't have any low RPM torque. The guys who really loved them were just not that sensitive to hand vibration. Luggage was junky; seat was good. Engine was good, but not torquey enough. I traded mine for an '05 FJR and OMG what a difference. Speaking of which, FJRs are cult bikes. They've been medium-popular ever since they came out and they still seem to be going strong.
“A big road going single never sells in America” KTM’s 690 Duke and it’s 690cc LC4 single cylinder would like to have a word with you. As would its successor the Husqvarna 701s.
Not that those aren't good and worthy bikes, but in terms of sales, they're hardly on the screen. That's coming from a former Velocette owner, so no prejudice against big singles here.
Some cult classics for me were the bikes my dad had. A Vincent which I think was around 500 cc, a Matchless 750 and an old 90cc? Nsu fox monoshock [ long before yamaha claimed to have invented the monoshock] We rode the fox and vincent as kids, and my dad eventually sold them to a guy he worked with back in the early 8os. If only he'd know what they'd be worth. He also had a coffin nose Cord he sold for $200 to some kids back in the 70s.
No hate here fellas, there are a LOT of cult motorcycles out there to cover. That said, I am incredibly surprised by the complete absence from any of your respective lists of a motorcycle that I have long considered one of the ultimate cult bikes: the Honda Hawk GT, sold from the late 80's to the early 90's. I owned one for 11 years and that experience was awesome not just because of the bike itself but also because of the incredibly supportive owner community. Motorcycles just don't get much more cultish that the Hawk GT. As far as the Honda CB1100 is concerned, I do not think that it qualifies as a cult motorcycle - yet. I bought one of the first examples to arrive here in the States and also run a forum dedicated to these bikes (cb1100forum.com). With that noted, I am likely too biased regarding the CB1100's owner community to comment on the value it provides. But the main reason that I do not believe that the CB1100 qualifies as a cult bike has to do with the fact that I believe you left out a key element in what makes a motorcycle a cult motorcycle. To my way of thinking a motorcycle should be strongly supported by it's owner community for at least a decade before it can truly be considered as a cult bike. Otherwise it's just more of a flash-in-the-pan with a short-lived resurgence of popularity. Only time will tell if the CB1100 will make the cut in this regard. I'll continue to love mine regardless. One last comment regarding the CB1100. It is certainly not the only reason that the CB1100 did not sell well in North America, but it should be noted that these motorcycles were designed almost exclusively for the Japanese market. Even thought they were initially sold in Australia for example back in 2010, I believe that had more to do with compliant emission regulations than anything else. In Japan, the CB1100 became the market segment leader in it's class not long after it's launch in 2010. Honda never had any intention of selling the CB1100 in the USA when it was being developed but they did hit their mark in Japan, the market that the were focused when developing the CB1100. I would be curious to know how many cult motorcycles have a similar history in this regard.
I owned a '78 XS750 2D Yamaha triple from new! Also owned a new GPZ 550!, A Suzuki GS1000 ES, wanted to get a CBX Honda but never did. My first '71 Trail 70 deserves cult bike mention. Along with Trail 90/110's with low/high range transmission.
Sorry, must have missed that....all I heard was Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda, did I mention Honda.....dude that’s all that we heard on that show.
@@bradleyalexander5821 I can't argue with the point you are making. It is sort of funny, but as a lifelong Honda fan I almost found the nonstop mention of Hondas on this list to be depressing. To their credit, these guys did say that any two-stroke street bike being ridden today is no about a cult motorcycle. Cult bikes or not, the RD's were/are cool for sure.
I just watched this whole thing while on vacation... excellent content guys. Haven’t seen y’all in awhile, it seems like Lemmy is hitting the gym!!! So, I think the newer HD XL1200CX is going to be a cult bike. It takes after the XR1200X in a few ways (in comparison with the time the XR came out): the current market for HD hates the bike, people from outside the cruiser market tried the bike and it feels weird to them, everyone I know who purchased the bike is extremely happy with it, and more than one of those people bought it because it gave them vibes of ducati Sportclassic 1000 (a bike I would argue ignited the resurgence of cafe racer mania among younger riders; which I thought spurge would also appreciate).
Another aspect is what about bikes which were not sold in the US but brought over here? I have a 1987 Honda VT500E white with blue accents which was imported by a previous owner From Germany. It is amazing how different it is visually from the Shadow, and it is a great bike, well besides the front inboard disk brake, which could have been better. Cool idea though.
I have a KLR, not a great highway bike for me. My commute involves 25 minutes of Texas interstate. Being tapped out at 70-75 puts me in the mind set of being ran off the road madmax style. the Facebook KLR owners group is 17K strong and we do have cult like loyalty. It.s a classic in my book and glad it was talked about. All I really know is the KLR's will out live us all.
My favorite cut bike that (at this point in the episode haven’t been mentioned) are two strokes. The RD’s and the kawasakis like the 750 triple! Edit: you guys always manage to hit all the points! I gotta say a lot of the things I hear can be answered with xr650 though lol
They mentioned the Grom but what about the original Grom the CT70. The amount of stuff you can do to them now is crazy. So many custom parts, motor swaps etc.
Read more of the latest and greatest from the moto-verse on Common Tread: bit.ly/2xoHlIw
One question: is there a way for us to know if you addressed the comment in the podcast? I usually post a comment on a video that I like...
Lemmy is a few gym sessions away from being a Jason Mamoa clone
I have to say that this Highside Lowside episode is way better on UA-cam than the podcast. Just to check out the pics of the bikes they were talking about is worth it. Boy, I’m going to miss Lem!!
My favorite cult bike - Honda Hawk 650 GT. Favorite bike ahead of its time - Yamaha TDM 850.
Lemmy, I've got a 4 hour commute between Portland and Seattle once a week. Chill out about running over. This is a podcast. Even if I didn't, I don't have to listen no one has to listen to this through one sitting. Don't stop Spurge, let him drone on and on. If it's about motorcycles, everyone who listens wants to hear it.
1:38 “fringe-fully honest”. I was hooked from there. Great session. Just sold my ‘82 Magna750 last month. Not really a cult bike but lots of loyal owners around the country. Learned a lot about repairs thanks to Maggie!
Was that the one with the 4 upturned exhaust pipes?
Dave Gallo yes, it was slightly.
How good was the Magna at touring? Was it a comfortable bike to cruise on the freeway with? Would you say it's accessible to newer riders looking to upgrade? Thanks.
@@cesartapia610 the older gent that owned it first toured it to Great Smokies and Canada with a trailer. Yeah, a trailer! He was 80 when he sold it. Put 30k miles on it.
You are so young! I thought of Vincent, Triumph Trident/BSA Rocket 3, BSA Gold Star, Guzzi 750 Sport and S3, Honda CB 750 and 500, Norton Manx and so on.
However; you made a good episode!
Yours Leif i Sweden, age 62
Cult: a misplaced or excessive admiration for a particular person or thing. That’s the definition but I would add “it doesn’t particularly excel or deserve the admiration or following, but has it anyway.” First bike I think of is the KLR 650.
I owned and loved my 2001 Kawasaki ZRX 1200R and the forums were full of wonderful people that loved and tinkered with the ZRX.
I rode mine out of state to meet up with another owner and he helped my wrench on it a bit.
Great bike.
I know you don't think a Harley is a cult bike, but I think the Sportster qualifies. Harley riders either get it or they don't, but their following is pretty rabid.
All RD's (125, 250, 350, 400), RZ350, SR500, SRX600, GB500, Hawk NT650, 1st gen. SV650
Lawrence of Suburbia I cant believe the NT650 didn’t come up- first one that comes to mind for me
@@chrisevenson4263 Exactly Chris .. when the Hawk 650 came out, the magazines were like "... this is so cool. Too bad Americans wont buy it. Future cult bike for sure!" They knew even then ....
I bought a leftover one new in "91. $2600 out the door!
Srx600, guaranteed to be sitting new in the showroom 3 yrs old
Most "bike guys" laugh and look down on the Grom... which makes it a cult bike. I think cult status starts with the mainstream people not buying them and have a negative opinion of them.
The Grom has attitude. I don't know that you can call it a cult classic at the moment, but I think it definitely will be eventually.
Bike guys I know who have RIDDEN a Grom love it. In fact, one of them has 2 bikes in his garage, a Grom and a Panigale 1098, and the Grom has more miles on it.
I've seen packs of teenagers haulin ass on groms in my home city and elsewhere. Its reaching Bagger status
The Grom is definitely a cult bike.
By that token, would you call the Sportster a cult bike?
How can you forget the Yamaha GTS1000 with the wacky hub steering?
I saw one in the show room, it looked really cool👍
1984-86 CB700sc Nighthawk S is one of the best motorcycles ever made. Sucker was 30 years old and made a 2000 mile round trip in three days. Motorcycles don't get any more solid and reliable.
More than a half-hour of "cult classics" and not one single mention of the BSA Gold Star.
Unconscionable.
or Norton Commando. (Younger generation.)
@@mbj1163 Not even a BMW or Guzzi...?
Yeah, generational thing.
You can long distance tour on a KLR, especially Gen 2 with the fairing. Just make sure your seat is comfy cuz you ain't getting there quickly.
You can easily cruise along at 75mph on a KLR - I don't think speed is the issue. Those vibes, though. You'll feel it in your hands and back for a couple days after.
Does Buell qualify? I LOVE my Ulysses XB12R. Wicked fun
I want one so bad to replace my V-Strom but I've never even seen one irl
XB12R owner and I would most definitely call myself a Buell cultest
How about the 1984-1986 Honda Nighthawk S (CB700 S).
I have an 86
They literally talk about that very bike at end of the video.
Is it any good for commuting, or touring?
Great episode!
My personal cult classic is the 2003-2004 ZX-9R. From track days to touring halfway across US, still one of my faves.
KLR650 is definitely a street-capable bike btw!
Suzuki VX800 a V twin option for a UJM, sweet engine note and direct competitor to the Nighthawk 750
I was waiting for someone to mention the Triumph Trophy. This old sport tour is still a hit in England even though they are still hard to find (in good condition) in North America. You can still find them occasionally in local ads, but if you own one, you had better be skilled in the garage! Mikuni CV flat slide carb, vacuum line madness, ignition coils, one killer wiring harness, and 11 panel bolts per side. What's not to love? When you get it right they are still one of the most comfortable touring bikes on the planet. Not the fastest bike to own, but nostalgic nonetheless. I had fun when I owned mine. I sold it in three days after. A lot of older British gentlemen love these for good reason.
CB1100 for 3 years total (USA) 2013, 2014 and 2017 (each years something was different), a web board about them = Cult Classic.
Started on a CX500. Great bike. Cool features too. Liquid cooled and shaft drive with one less point of power loss because they turned the whole engine. Also had a turbo option.
How good is it for longer commutes and freeway touring? Would you say it's underpowered?
@@cesartapia610 I found it underpowered for interstate use if I'm being honest. It could do 65, 70 but that was starting to push it so you didn't have a lot left if you found yourself in a tight spot. I did ride it on longer trips on smaller highways that were 55mph with no problems though. Some people just want to drive 85 or 90 on the interstate and it can't keep up
Absolutely love my XR1200 and the owners are diehards for them.....so many forums and support for them its insane. The bike turns so many heads everywhere i go.
At 32:00 the Kawi Triples came up. I had a '76 KH400 [not mentioned] that had trouble keeping the middle cylinder free, and was a vibrating, scary mini-rocket. I traded it for the original '81 GPz550 [new] and smiled everyday from then on. Now at 60, I've got an '03 ZRX1200r. Let the good times roll me a fatty.
I think the Versys 300 is on it's way to becoming a cult bike in the US. Dealerships don't seem to know how to sell them, they're already being cut from European markets. But the people who buy them are passionate about them.
Dual headlights Gixxer 750 classic and the stone washed jeans squid guy. Haunts me every time I think about it.
Sportster = largest, yet most niche cult motorcycle club ever.
Kinda my thought. The big Harley fans always seem to shit on the Sportster. The whole "girl's bike" joke that never dies. But holy crap people have customized the hell out of these things. So those that only ride them as the "starter Harley" then trade up, maybe not part of the cult, but those that keep them and go nuts with them? Kinda culty.
Haters are gonna hate. Block them or ignore them. Happy to see Lemmy getting healthier and healthier. I LOVE this series! Please keep it up!! That said, unless a pinned note from you guys identifies who you are interviewing on the podcasts, or unless you mention it on the video, I'm not going to check out the podcast just to see. Call me lazy, but it's too much work for me, with little potential gain. That said, I very much enjoyed the interview with Ari Henning. Keep up the great work!!
Good call on the 749 and 999! I think the Terblanche design is aging really well. Put a clean example in front of a casual biker and you could probably fool them into thinking the bike is a current production model.
I rode through town one day on the Silver Jubilee Triumph Bonneville I used to have and stopped in front of a local hotel that hosts a lot of events.
What made me stop was a big line of Cushman scooters parked out there. I couldn't believe that many people had an interest in Cushmans. Talking to some of the owners I found a lot of them to be doctors, lawyers and other professional types who had spent ungodly amounts of money restoring these things. I wish I still had that Bonnie and also my RD350 and XS650. Maybe even my '64 Ducati 250 single. I've always lusted for a Norton Commando and a Honda 305 Super Hawk. My current ride is an '82 BMW R100 airhead.
I had a '75 KZ900 that got a cult following, especially in the African American community, in the 90's. Those 4 in 1 Hooker header sound was all over town here. I always had a hankering for the inline 4 400 with 4 in 1 headers.
Lemmy, I understand back in December you announced leaving revzilla, I get it, but is there anyway we can convince you to continue on hi side/low side? I know you said you’ll finish out season 2, but it won’t be the same without you. Continue on hi side low side and quit the rest.
Or simply quit quitting? 'Cause I miss Lem already!
where did he announce this at??
Cody Whitt it was announced via common tread on revzilla.com
@@Whitt_9425 www.revzilla.com/common-tread/im-lem-and-im-outta-here
@@Whitt_9425 www.revzilla.com/common-tread/im-lem-and-im-outta-here
Lem, once again congrats on the weight loss bro!
And thanks for giving the ZRX a shout out, our 3 in the garage say thank you lol
I still own( and daily ride!) a "76 Yamaha XS650C, the one in French Blue, kept it very standard(except for upgraded electronic ignition and PM alternator)..and a " 82 Honda CB650SC Nighthawk that is my Street ET bracket-racing bike! I love these old beasts, glad to hear you mention them! Ride'em, Don't Hide'em! Great vid, guys! More like this, please! Thanks, Take Care, God Bless!
I had a 75 XS-650. I put a Windjammer 3 faring and Bates bags and trunk on it, then rode from Tulsa to the PCH in 77 and DC in 78. I miss my 82 Kawasaki 440 LTD. Riding a Versys 300 adv these day.
I ride a gl500 (cx500) and I get a lot of comments from older guys who loved them back in the day.
I have a CB1100EX 2016. It it definitely SOO smooth. I love riding it and it’s my forever bike of all of the bikes that I have.
My first bike is a Honda Bros 400 - named Hawk in the US. They were in production from 1988-1991 I believe. EVERY older man who is into bikes that sees me comments on how they wish they never ever sold theirs. There's been a few times I've been slow riding in city traffic and I hear "oh look, a Bros!". My bike had 7 owners and was likely used my couriers. When I began researching aftermarket parts, I discovered a huge community for the love of the Bros/Hawk. I didn't even love the bike that much until I was reading about people's appreciation for their fun, ease to work on and reliabilty. Now I don't think I'll ever sell - it's so special.
I'm having a similar experience on the 1982/83 Honda FT500 Ascot
I miss my 02' Buell M2 Cyclone. It wasn't the most mechanically sound bike but I loved it. I remember going into the showroom and drooling over the XB's and now you can pick them up for nothing. I'm pretty sure those bikes will go up in value someday.
Cult bikes either weren't popular when new or are old, but maintain really strong followings, such as the 69-78 Honda SOHC 500/550 and 750 (I don't include the 650, but that is my personal prejudice). The Sport Classic 1000 is a great pick.
Yamaha Vision comes to mind, also the SRX6
Victory Vision, you mean?
@@lesliethiessen4760 Yamaha made the Vision from 1980 to 83, it was a 550 cc water cooled V Twin.
What about the honda magna? The latter model 800 cruisers especially
Or the Super Magna, with the crazy pipes.
I think the reason the Honda CB1100 didn't sell is because everyone wanted spoke wheels and 4 into 4 exhaust, plus they were about $2000 more than most of the other retro bikes.
I had a 79 Suzuki GS1000E, Vance and Hines exhaust, K&N pod filters.
First bike, paid $300 for it in the late 90s.
I really wish I still had it.
I don’t think it is yet, but the Honda 919 has the potential to become one.
Was a solid bike that was tons of fun and easy to ride.
Lots of torque basically right off idle.
Other than fuel injection was from the period before rider aids started taking over.
Never was a big seller but those that own them love them and keep them.
Honda NT 650 Hawk?
That and the CB1 came to mind for me...as well as two of the bikes I own (Concours and PC800). TDM850 was another one that I expected and did not get it. My Nighthawk 650 (RIP) was also mentioned.
Could be something as easy as design. I'm a geezer who fell in love with Citroen cars as soon as I saw my first DS as a kid. It's easy to fall in love with something that you feel is beautiful and when it has cool technology like the hydraulic suspension you become a fan.
Kawi ZRX 1100-1200 and the Honda V85 Saber 1100! Both awesome Cult bikes.
Cult bikes are the majority of my fleet. I've grown bored with and sold many bikes but there are a few I will never tire of, stop hunting for, or sell off because I've found and restored one.
Suzuki GSF400 Bandit, VX800, Goose 350, GS1100G
Honda PC800, Hawk NT650, VTR250 Interceptor, CB1, NX Dominator
Yamaha TDM850, GTS1000, Fazer750, YZF750R, YZF1000 Thunder Ace
Kawasaki KLX650R, ZL900 Eliminator, Zephyr 750
Lemmy lookin like a buff daddy DAYUM!! Haha always great vids, always learn about bikes I've never heard of with you guys. Much love from Puerto Rico, keep it up guys & stay safe ✌🏼
Wow. Last time I watched one of your videos was like 2 years ago. Fast forward to now, Lemmy looks lskinnier than Spurge. Good job man! Really proud of you!
I have a Triumph 1050 ST and i did absolutely not expect to see it in an episode about cult classic motorcycles
What about the suzuki savage/s40 ran from the 80s till 2019 because people keep buying them it was one of the largest single cylinders at 653 cc
The XB9 was the bike that got me into motorcycling. I MUST own one eventually.
Anything Buell especially the Firebolt era with gas and oil in the frame and especially a Ulysses- I still really want one of those
Glad they brought up the Honda GB500 Tourist Trophy. Made only in 1989 and 90. One of the first "retro" bikes. It was 20 years before its time and didn't sell very well. Now it's hard to find one for a decent price.
Great video I love my cb1100!
I guess im a cultist, you hit on 4. 1975 RD 350B, 1976 KZ 900, 1985 Nighthawk 700S, 2001 Bandit 1200.
KLR650 + 16 tooth front sprocket. I've wrecked mine and rebuilt it more times than I remember. Freakin' bullet proof. Not fast, and not the best at anything, but 'good enough' for just about everything.
So glad that Lem still at least does these videos. I miss his reviews though.
HAYABUSA! 😡 any day of the week buddy😎
Holy shit Lemmy!!! Congrats on the body transformation. Love the vid as well. Forgot to mention the Honda CBX 1000
I second that, I've always wanted one of those things!
@@colbynealy7200 wait until you have to adjust the valves and clean the carbs. Then, you will not like that bike. Drop the engine out of the frame jobs.
Had a DOC 750 Yamaha red 3 cylinder shaft drive would love to have another one!
My first bike was a Yamaha RD125B. I loved that bike.
Great vid as always. My ultimate cult classics are the 70s BMW airheads when they switched to telescopic forks. My first motorcycle ever was a 1970 BMW R75/5. Loved that bike and wish BMW still made air cooled twins like them.
The airheads are definite cult classics. I can't see one in a parking lot without staring at it for a while.
Oh definitely, I knew an old mechanic from Germany out here in Utah and he had about 15 of those old bad ass BMW bikes in his garage. Met him cause he was rebuilding my buddy's V.W. bus engine. Always thought those bikes were bad ass though and never really see them around much.
Still have mine.
TL1000 love here.
I forgot about the bandit that thing was absolutely awesome. Great video
Gentlemen- Complete agreement on the Ducati 100 Sport Classics, although mention of them does open up the wound caused by my failing to buy one when they were inexpensive! Also please consider adding the BMW R90S to the list of cult bikes. Bob
How did the vrod not get mentioned?
Lemmy's picks were spot on.
I'm surprised none of you guys mentioned HONDA CBX1000/CBX1050SS, they have a sizeable cult following eventhough they aren't as fast as nimble/light as modern bikes, but omg does it sound good.
What about the 5th Feb Honda VFR800? It was on the cover of Cycle World Magazine about 10 years after production and it has a very dedicated following. I have a 2000, other bikes will come and go, but I'm never selling my VFR.
Victory Vision was well ahead of its time and definitely has a cult following.
Suzuki SV650
Ducati Monster
Ducati Sport Classic
Kawasaki ZRX 1200
Yamaha FZ6
Triumph Speed Triple
Triumph Bonneville
Honda Goldwing
The 1125r buel will be the best of the cult buells
Quick comment about the KLR 650 as a road bike. Mine is entirely road use and spends most of its time on the Texas interstates. It can run 80 all day and it’s a good commuter. Add a tooth on the counter sprocket and a better seat and it’s an all day rider. Is it the best highway bike? Definitely not. Riding in a crosswind is a pain because it’s a sail in the wind. I came from Meridian Triumphs so vibration isn’t a problem. It’s not everyone’s road bike though. It captures the simplicity that I miss from the old day’s, but without the undependability.
Suzuki DR-350! The do-anything, bullet-proof, and all-around awesome world-traveler!
+1 on the 2 stroke bikes, I always wanted a rz350, I doubt it will ever happen though :(
Has to have lived a life where the vast majority never wanted one and a small group are long term owners...but a large enough group to support a nice aftermarket parts industry and online shops that specialize in that make/model.
Before the Grom it was the Ruckus.
I currently have a 96 Magna with 32K miles and still ticking. V4 power baby!
How about the Ural?
LEMMYYYY with the weight loss bro, good job!!
Honda made a lot of bikes that were popular for a good while, and became cult classics much later. The CB750 is an example. It sold tons. Interest waned over the years, but certain people still love them.
The CX Hondas were never really popular, but now they're off the chain for custom platforms.
I would say the first four generations of Goldwing are now cult classics. Hawk GT (uncle of the SV650, which is also a cult classic), V-Max, KLR650.
Concours - I had one, bought it partly on its reputation. But it was buzzy as hell and didn't have any low RPM torque. The guys who really loved them were just not that sensitive to hand vibration. Luggage was junky; seat was good. Engine was good, but not torquey enough. I traded mine for an '05 FJR and OMG what a difference. Speaking of which, FJRs are cult bikes. They've been medium-popular ever since they came out and they still seem to be going strong.
“A big road going single never sells in America” KTM’s 690 Duke and it’s 690cc LC4 single cylinder would like to have a word with you. As would its successor the Husqvarna 701s.
Not that those aren't good and worthy bikes, but in terms of sales, they're hardly on the screen.
That's coming from a former Velocette owner, so no prejudice against big singles here.
You are taking that comment too literally. I believe that they meant is "never sells well in America".
Some cult classics for me were the bikes my dad had. A Vincent which I think was around 500 cc, a Matchless 750 and an old 90cc? Nsu fox monoshock [ long before yamaha claimed to have invented the monoshock]
We rode the fox and vincent as kids, and my dad eventually sold them to a guy he worked with back in the early 8os. If only he'd know what they'd be worth. He also had a coffin nose Cord he sold for $200 to some kids back in the 70s.
Currently own a 2015 klr 650 my daily rider rain or shine to work😊
What are the best piggyback suspensions to put on a v-twin
Overall, it's a toss-up between Ohlins, Fox, and Progressive. -DrewZilla
*bit.ly/V-Twin_Piggyback_Shocks
Vintage 4's Rule the Cult Classics IMHO. Zip~
The KLR is the exception that proves the rule about big singles in the US. It is a Swiss army knife of bikes.
No hate here fellas, there are a LOT of cult motorcycles out there to cover. That said, I am incredibly surprised by the complete absence from any of your respective lists of a motorcycle that I have long considered one of the ultimate cult bikes: the Honda Hawk GT, sold from the late 80's to the early 90's. I owned one for 11 years and that experience was awesome not just because of the bike itself but also because of the incredibly supportive owner community. Motorcycles just don't get much more cultish that the Hawk GT.
As far as the Honda CB1100 is concerned, I do not think that it qualifies as a cult motorcycle - yet. I bought one of the first examples to arrive here in the States and also run a forum dedicated to these bikes (cb1100forum.com). With that noted, I am likely too biased regarding the CB1100's owner community to comment on the value it provides. But the main reason that I do not believe that the CB1100 qualifies as a cult bike has to do with the fact that I believe you left out a key element in what makes a motorcycle a cult motorcycle. To my way of thinking a motorcycle should be strongly supported by it's owner community for at least a decade before it can truly be considered as a cult bike. Otherwise it's just more of a flash-in-the-pan with a short-lived resurgence of popularity. Only time will tell if the CB1100 will make the cut in this regard. I'll continue to love mine regardless.
One last comment regarding the CB1100. It is certainly not the only reason that the CB1100 did not sell well in North America, but it should be noted that these motorcycles were designed almost exclusively for the Japanese market. Even thought they were initially sold in Australia for example back in 2010, I believe that had more to do with compliant emission regulations than anything else. In Japan, the CB1100 became the market segment leader in it's class not long after it's launch in 2010. Honda never had any intention of selling the CB1100 in the USA when it was being developed but they did hit their mark in Japan, the market that the were focused when developing the CB1100. I would be curious to know how many cult motorcycles have a similar history in this regard.
I owned a '78 XS750 2D Yamaha triple from new! Also owned a new GPZ 550!, A Suzuki GS1000 ES, wanted to get a CBX Honda but never did. My first '71 Trail 70 deserves cult bike mention. Along with Trail 90/110's with low/high range transmission.
Sorry to interrupt the Honda show, did anyone mention the Yamaha RD 400?
Bradley Alexander talked about it! Joe’s owned two.
Sorry, must have missed that....all I heard was Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda, did I mention Honda.....dude that’s all that we heard on that show.
@@bradleyalexander5821 I can't argue with the point you are making. It is sort of funny, but as a lifelong Honda fan I almost found the nonstop mention of Hondas on this list to be depressing. To their credit, these guys did say that any two-stroke street bike being ridden today is no about a cult motorcycle. Cult bikes or not, the RD's were/are cool for sure.
I just watched this whole thing while on vacation... excellent content guys. Haven’t seen y’all in awhile, it seems like Lemmy is hitting the gym!!! So, I think the newer HD XL1200CX is going to be a cult bike. It takes after the XR1200X in a few ways (in comparison with the time the XR came out): the current market for HD hates the bike, people from outside the cruiser market tried the bike and it feels weird to them, everyone I know who purchased the bike is extremely happy with it, and more than one of those people bought it because it gave them vibes of ducati Sportclassic 1000 (a bike I would argue ignited the resurgence of cafe racer mania among younger riders; which I thought spurge would also appreciate).
Another aspect is what about bikes which were not sold in the US but brought over here? I have a 1987 Honda VT500E white with blue accents which was imported by a previous owner From Germany. It is amazing how different it is visually from the Shadow, and it is a great bike, well besides the front inboard disk brake, which could have been better. Cool idea though.
No mention of the Norton Commando?
Used to have an R5B, so i totally agree with loving those. Love to have a suzuki Titan too.
I have a KLR, not a great highway bike for me. My commute involves 25 minutes of Texas interstate. Being tapped out at 70-75 puts me in the mind set of being ran off the road madmax style. the Facebook KLR owners group is 17K strong and we do have cult like loyalty. It.s a classic in my book and glad it was talked about. All I really know is the KLR's will out live us all.
My favorite cut bike that (at this point in the episode haven’t been mentioned) are two strokes. The RD’s and the kawasakis like the 750 triple!
Edit: you guys always manage to hit all the points! I gotta say a lot of the things I hear can be answered with xr650 though lol
Yes! CX represent! >_< @12:38 It's my first and will always have a place for them in my heart and garage. A bit top heavy but chalk full of character.
I'd call the NM4 a modern cult classic. They don't sell at all (at least in the US), but people who like them absolutely *love* them.
They mentioned the Grom but what about the original Grom the CT70. The amount of stuff you can do to them now is crazy. So many custom parts, motor swaps etc.