Really enjoyed this series, Andy. As someone hoping to do a moto camping trip to Romania in the not too distant future the road and camping kit insights were particularly interesting. Especially the camping stuff, as we seem to be body doubles in weight and height. The onboard charging solution was particularly neat. 👍
Riding well. You can see the extra miles showing in your relaxed conversation at pace. Bike looks to handle as well as you say, sweet as. Take care, have fun.
Hi Andy. As always, a joy to watch. I would be interested to hear more about the audio/video set up you used for making the videos, it sounds just what I need to give it a go
Thanks very much mate! The audio was created with the DJI mic 2 (amzn.to/41s2mhk) connected wirelessly to the Osmo Action 4 (amzn.to/3D1GrDK). The mic was attached to the cheekpad of my helmet with the included magnetic clip. I then use Davinci Resolve to edit, in which I add a low cut at about 120 Hz, some EQ with a tight cut at around 250 Hz and a wide boost at around 3000 Hz. Then there’s a bit of compression to bring up the volume and finally, if there’s too much wind noise, i use a tiny bit of Resolve‘s voice isolation feature. But you have to buy the studio version to get access to that. Although all the EQ and compression functions should be available in most recording software nowadays.
@AndyManCam err.....you lost me around the "120 hz" 🤦 but I will persevere and endeavour to find out about this "hz" you speak of 🫣 I am fully aware that so much goes into the content you provide and it's probably a calling in many respects, so 🫡, because you make it engaging and entertaining for us mere mortals who are clueless in the ways and intricacies technology. Keep it shiney Andy 👌🏻
TBH mate, the audio straight out of the mics is plenty good. They even have a low cut feature built in so you can just record and go. I’m just an audio pedant, so i turn it off!! Cheers mate, you too.
I’ve changed my Summer riding gear away from heavy laminated suits. Love my Roadskin jeans, Richa short boots, Halvarssons drop liner vented jacket and Knox Orsa gloves. If it turns damp and cold on tour I just put on my Scott waterproofs and extra Halvarssons base layers. Luggage is all by SW Motech, soft options as I’ve now sold all my ugly heavy hard cases with the exception of a small Givi Trekker Dolomiti case for valuables including camera gear. Yes, I tend to carry too much…
I'm impressed you got all that in some relatively modest sized luggage. I like old fashioned camping stuff like canvass tents and big comfy sleeping bags but it's HUGE when you pack it up next to modern lightweight (expensive) gear
Taking a full on canvas tent and a camping cot would be heaven! But you’d need a support truck to make sure you get the gear round some of those hairpins! 😂 Though to be honest, the gear i got, vs what you COULD buy, really isn’t that expensive. I’m guestimating here, but it seems that you also pay 70% more money for the last 20% weight/size saving. I was happy with the compromise.
P.S. Excellent use of "Adventure Wanker", the older brother of "Hipster Wanker" that you seem to have progressed from... ;) :) :p :D :D :D Top marks for you :D Also, I agree about Outlast - it sounds like marketing BS, but it really does seem to work! I have the Halvarsson Ljusdal "Mid-season" gloves and they have Outlast on the back of the hand but a thin leather palm (to work well with heated grips). They say that the heat gets soaked into the Outlast and works it's way to the back of your hand and helps keep that part of the hand warm - I have to say, I thought it was markets BS (as did the shop that I bought them from), but it REALLY does work! :) :). I also still have a hankering for a Kreiga Trail 9 (Orange, obvs ;) ), but I don't think I actually NEED one ;) (I guess a long trip in hot places it would make the difference :) )
Great video. We are just in the process ditching weight and have ordered some reckless during Black Friday. My semi rigid bags weigh empty nearly 16KG + the pannier rack. I was happy with this for the past 3 years, but as you, we focus more on offroad and like to have the bike lighter for that and defo get rid off some bits and piece we don't really need. Grüsse in die alte Heimat! -Diana
Thanks very much! Yeah it’s crazy the weight saving that the bags themselves can give you! On road, we don’t really bother about it to much, but off road, my spine thanked me every time i dropped the bike!! 😅
I went for a cheaper option for vented clothing, and bought an RST S1 Mesh jacket. Not an "off road" jacket by any means but for riding in warm weather it's perfect. And if it rains I throw a storm jacket over the top. No more big and needlessly bulky adventure jackets for me.
I’ll be honest, i did go back and forth with the choice between the Rukka jacket and the lightweight Knox waterproof. But in the end i went for the one with pockets and more abrasion resistance. Might go the lighter route next time just to see!
If you Garmin is anything like my Tom Tom you can connect it to your phones mobile data and it will pick up traffic jams and suggest alternative routes. Road closures I’m not sure about? Rode the Tuareg for 2 weeks with a Puig Touring screen. Not a barn door but good results.
That it can do. Sadly didn’t fix the lack of satellite reception issue though! 😩 The Puig touring is the next on my list. I’ve kind of accepted that for the ride to comfortable, the screen has to be ugly! But i guess no worse than having a screen on a screen!
@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff yeah might have to seriously consider it. Could always stash it in Bush once i get to where I’m going and then pick it up on the way back!! 😜
P.P.S. I tried the diving shoes route for ultra-efficient packing, and they were ok, but didn't last, and were not great to walk in... My "final" solution therefore is now very lightweight Sketchers as a great compromise between weight, space, walking quality - I can (and do) wear these all day off the bike no problem... :) I fill them with keys, cables, chargers, socks and pants to maximize packing space so I don't need to worry about trying to make them smaller...
Hello Andy, If you are feeling flush look at the navigation stuff from Thork Racing. Could we have a video on your set up regarding settings for the camera and mic please? I was convinced you were using 2 mics, one in your helmet and one recording the exhaust as your commentary is crystal clear and you can hear the exhaust note without the howel of the wind. cheers Jay
Hi Jay! Sadly I’m never feeling all that flush!! This channel is definitely not a high profit operation and as such the Thork Racing stuff is way out of my budget!! 😅 I did get a good deal on a Garmin Montana 700i though. Although in the next series you’ll hear about a whole different problem with the garmin ecosystem!! 🤣 My setup really isn’t that complicated to explain. The DJI mic 2 (amzn.to/41s2mhk) is magnetically mounted to the cheekpad of my helmet. This is wirelessly connected to the Osmo Action 4 (amzn.to/3D1GrDK) and that records the audio with the video. There’s a bit of EQ and compression in software that works for most of the time, but when there’s too much wind noise, I use 10-15% of the Davinci Resolve Voice Isolation feature which magically brings down the volume of the wind. But that’s only available in the paid for version of Resolve (300€).
It has all the same characteristics that i loved (blarrty sound, super chuckable, comfy, robust) except everything is higher performing. Smoother, more racy engine, less vibes, even more space, much better suspension, lighter, better electronics, way better sound. In summation, it’s the perfect spiritual successor to the Versys for me. I didn’t know it at the time, but probably the bike i should have got straight after (of course it didn’t exist yet, but you know what i mean!)
Tent. Well, I love bivouacking, and over the years my tent collection has grown to six different ones. From extremely lightweight, almost pocket-sized, to a stationary, big tent. I have one similar to yours, too. But after trial and error while solo motorbiking, I've ended up with a lightweight three-person, self-standing tent, higher than yours, and with external construction + a classic 17cm camping mattress + a hammock as an alternative. Yes, it takes a bit more space and possibly 2 kg more-but it is worth every kilogram and additional centimeter. Comfort and space for your stuff: You can comfortably sit inside and don't have to crawl in.
It’s great to have choice! Have to admit I was a little jealous of Ian’s space in his larger tent. But at the same time I was jealous of watching him haul his overloaded bike around. For me (until i get even older!) i just need everything to be comfortable enough to sleep. It’s all about the riding in the daytime. If my bike is noticeably loaded, then it spoils the riding. A few months later, offroading in Italy, i took half as much gear and it actually had the strange effect of making the tent feel bigger, as there was less crap in there! And again, the bike really didn’t want to be any heavier!
@@AndyManCam Correct - less is better! :D I used to travel, even on long week-long trips, on my CB1000R NSC, carrying only a back seat SWMotech and my wallet. After adding an ADV bike to my garage, traveling habits changed. Now, I find that two side boxes are just enough for my needs, and I primarily use the central box as a backrest for a passenger, if I have one.
The bike has built in cruise control, which was a luxurious godsend in the Motorways. But you can’t use that in the twisties and we were riding in the twisties for around 8 hours a day! Loosening the spring really is the only option.
@ oh the Crampbuster I’m referring to is a little gadget you slip over the throttle and its more purchase area for your hand to use for the throttle. I had it on my scrambler because I didn’t have cruise and it gave my wrist a massive break. You still have to modulate the throttle, this just takes away most of the twisting motion on the wrist
@AJL15N yeah i know the things. I just didn’t see the benefit of having both. I’d much rather fix the problem at source than add more wizardry to the machine! 😅
Exellent video Andy, and such great detail about all your kit! :) Would you say that the SW Motech bags are similar to the Lone Rider in features/quality, or is the LR actually a better product, IYO? Would you couple the Optimate thingie with a Thunderbox or not both IF you had a Thunderbox? Looks like a fab trip, well jell indeed!!! ;) :) :D Can't wait for the next one bud!! :)
Cheers Matt! I’d say it’s probably about evens between SW and Lone Rider. The waterproof construction of the LR seems a bit more rugged (although the line in mine is a bit shoddily installed, doesn’t sit straight with the outer) but the SW stuff seems slightly better right through in terms of technical design. That said, I’m happy with the LR tail bag and thought long and hard about getting an Overlander 30, before opting for a Kriega setup. I don’t actually have the Thunderbox fitted to the Aprilia. With built in USB socket and hard wired GPS (through the USB circuit) there wasn’t any need. And the with the Optimate being self regulating, there was still no need. Plus there’s really not a lot of space under the seat on the Tuareg!!
@@AndyManCam Yep - space under the seat on the MT10 is pathetic! ;) (especially compared to the extensive "boot" on the Thunderace!! ;) :D ) (old bikes didn't need to house an ABS pump, ECU, charcoal canister, fresh-air/bypass pipes for emissions, etc..... ;) )
Are you planning on having a play with the DJI Mic Mini? I benefited from your Zoom F2/Speedlink mic arrangement for a few years. Thinking about the Mini's now
I slipped the little magnetic plate inside the cheekpad of the helmet and then just magnetically attached the mic to the outside of the pad, right next to my mouth. Have to be careful not to knock it off while putting on/taking off the lid, but mostly no trouble.
With the issues with the SatNav could you have used one of these CarPlay devices.? I was a very early convert to one and can't fault it with either Google maps or Waze (or other apps of your choice) I know they are all doing the rounds these days but having had mine a while I can't see me ever returning to Garmin etc.. I wonder how that might have performed on your trip in a few different countries. As for panniers I've opted for the H&B C-Bow, discrete brackets multiple choice of panniers to fit.
I remain unconvinced by the carplay craze, if I’m honest. I’ve used CarPlay in a van for many thousands of miles through work and I’ve found it very unreliable. Random crashes, refusal to connect, lagging etc. and that was in a Mercedes, so likely not cheap implementation. I’m rocking a Montana 700i currently (after receiving all of my money back for the Zumo) though as usual, the worst part about the Montana is the accompanying software. Almost had a meltdown in Italy when it synced with my phone and deleted all my routes!! 🤬 once i deleted the apps, all was good!
Why don't you connect the camera to USB power when its on the bike? It powers the camera and charges its battery at the same time. It works certainly with the GoPro and the Insta360. Worth testing it. Saves all the hustle with the batteries. Thanks for the marvellous vid!
Cheers Meikel. That’s something that I have done in the past. But i really prefer not to have cables attached between me and the bike. I tend to forget them and then at the first fuel stop, I’ve ripped the cables off as I walk away and have either a broken cable, a jiggered USB socket or both (ask me how i know 🫣). In the next series I actually did connect the Insta360 X4 to the bike, but that worked because the camera was mounted to the bike. 👍🏻
Ah Roger. Here’s the twist then… there were no bike mounted cameras in this whole tour! I did a single camera setup to see if anybody noticed. Guess what? Nobody did! (Not enough to mention it at least!)
@@AndyManCam You can get USB-C 90 degree angled adapters. When you connect the cable to your Insta it already pointers into the correct direction instead of sticking out into the wind. I'm sure you already knew that and mentioning it only for completeness and peace of mind ;)
I had a pair of Gaerne Darak boots. Buckle started to pop open after 2 rides. Soles were soft. No ankle support. No good at all. Took them back and bought the SG22.
That’s disappointing. I’m still waiting for Gaerne to do SOMETHING after 7 weeks. (5 months since the original problem!). Meanwhile I’ve got some Sidi Adventure 2‘s to fill the space. Sadly not as comfortable!
@lipsee100 I guess i haven’t been in awful mud yet, but i find the grip way better than the first time i went off road in road boots! It’s all about perspective i suppose! 🤣
Most of the time you take too much with you (batteries). On my trip to Greece this year I took 141 muesli bars. Took half of them back home again! Renna gobbled them up in school happily. Do you want to come visit us next year ride, through the amazing twisty Spessart forest right where we live? We are missing the Jenson...
Hahaha! 141 muesli bars could feed a conquering army!! 😅 Your mistake is Renna‘s victory though! I would love to come visit you guys. Might be difficult to fit it in, as we’re actually leaving Germany next year 😮 But maybe i could swing by on the way… (we’re heading south)
I know you did a lot of motorway miles on this trip but for when you get where you're going the best windscreen for me is no windscreen. I don't know if you can get a bag for it that won't scratch it when you get where you're going
I know that only too well from the years with an FZ1-N and a CB1000R. That was the one thing i was dreading about going back to a semi faired bike. TBH I did consider just strapping the screen to the top of the other pannier!
Hi Andy, I'm a new subscriber, but full transparency I've watched your videos for years (sorry) I'm about to buy a new mid weight adventure bike and I'm torn between T7 World Raid & Aprilia Tuareg! I'm swaying towards Aprilia as I've already had a standard T7, but I'm reading threads about the Aprilia burning oil, have you noticed any oil used? Thanks Chris
Hi Chris, i forgive you mate! 😜 Check the dates on those threads. I bet they’re years old already and nobody has added anything to them since? I say this because I’ve not had one single problem with burnt oil in 15,000 km. I’ve not had to add a single drop. Not even after a full week of high rev low gear off roading. 👍🏻
Best bit is that you don’t see them every day. Every dick and his dog has a T7, whereas I’ve only seen one other Tuareg in real life, and that was on the other side of the motorway, crossing the French/Italian border.
It does get hot. Thankfully it’s only really noticeable in traffic, on a warm day. Otherwise it’s not an issue. Even offroading in high 20‘s (centigrade) in Italy, was fine. Sure it could be cooler, plus it’s the hottest bike I’ve ever owned, but as long as you’re moving it’s ok. Apparently ditching the CAT can lead to some cooling too. Sadly I can’t go that way.
I know its not relevant to this video, but if you were to be given a choice of your 1090 or Tuareg, which one would you take now that youve had a good test of both?
The 1090 had a lot of positives over the Tuareg: More torque, less vibes, heated seat and a tiny bit more leg room. But the Tuareg wins for me. I’ve quite simply never gelled so much with a bike before. It’s way more nimble than the KTM, sounds better than any bike I’ve had, it’s easier to pick up off the floor, it rolls over rough terrain better, the suspension is far superior, fuel economy is better and I actually don’t miss the power. The 1090 was the right bike, on the pathway to ending up at the Aprilia. 👍🏻
Flip flops are a good shout. Except they’re treacherous when walking through a wet, long grassed field at night. Feet slipping all over and toes getting twisted in the wreckage. Ask me how i know! Good stuff from Giant Loop. But tough to come by here in Germany. I went for a Kriega setup in the end. Worked very well!
The button snapped off when I hit it with my hand as the bike toppled over 🤦 Luckily there’s enough of a stalk left that it still works. A new control unit is 250 € !!
Your tent is at least two sizes too small for comfortable motorcycle camping. These days I use a three man tunnel tent which is lightweight and packs up small bit allows me to sit inside if the weather is not good. I also have moved on from airbed and would now not be without my collapsible camp bed. Just as light and small to pack as an airbed but much more comfortable and keeps you off the floor.
Each to their own i guess. For me right now, it’s the perfect balance of space, weight and fast erection (steady on!). I can imagine that in the future i might want a bit more comfort though!
Lost me to another vid on the umpteenth reference to Knox/rukka. If i was getting freebees like that i`d be happy.Q no really its great gear....Ive converted every one i know to cheap Richa water proof trousers and Jacket all in for 50 quid....Dry as dry can be even after 8 hours of rain covered picos mountains let alone the uk commute .Tin hat on waiting for incoming.
I've got the richa rain stuff. It is pretty good. I'd pay extra to have a bit of stretch in the crotch area, I've popped enough of a stitch swinging my leg over to ruin one pair of trousers. Of course for the price I didn't much mind buying another pair
It’s a common misconception that I get ‚freebies‘. Sure it’s a bit cheaper than buying outright. But first I have to pay the VAT on the product to the taxman. After that i have to pay income tax on the value of the product. But because it counts as a ‚benefit in kind‘ (or a Geldwerte Vorteil here in Germany). Then if I sell the product, i have to pay income tax on whatever i get for it. Finally, and most importantly, I have to give the company a bit of exposure of me using the product. Unlike many unscrupulous UA-camrs, I only do this with products that I actually like, but it still takes time, effort and ultimately money to do this above simply using it and keeping my mouth shut. So with all that in mind, I’m happy to say that I’ve earned all the ‚freebies‘ that I get, just as much as someone who may have paid cash. Also in my opinion, I‘m one of the least ‚shove it down your throat-ey‘ UA-camrs out there and just want to share my experience. Ultimately if your 50 quid setup works for you, then that’s great and I’m happy for you. But there’s no need to throw bitterness around about somebody else enjoying what they’ve earned and sharing it with the masses. You can take the tin hat off now.
old school trick - save space etc by wrapping a load of gaffer tape round a credit or debit card. But ask my mate why you should use an expired card....bit inconvenient when he realised that he used his current card and needed it right quick for ferry fares. ........🙄
Not an awful idea. Though i think the screwdriver trick saves more space, as the screwdriver was coming along anyway, whereas the expected credit cards tend to stay at home (in the bin. Shredded!) 😜
Es gibt mittlerweile ein automatisches übersetzungsfunktion. Musst nur captions einschalten und auto-translate als sprache auswählen. Leider kann ich immer noch nicht mit zwei sprachen gleichzeitig reden! 🤣
ua-cam.com/video/voTVc8d1Qk0/v-deo.htmlsi=eJl_bvwzUqReFpwM This guy posted a video about the throttle spring adjustment. I hope it helps! Thanks for making excellent content!
I have become a firm believer in the adage that you get what you pay for. Yes it’s all expensive, but I also treat it like sh|t and test it to the limit and none of it has let me down. I went through a decade of trying to be a biker on a shoestring and I spent too long being angry about getting wet again, being cold, my camera crapping out, my tyres losing grip, my luggage flapping about or my clothes getting wet and I realised that I had to get the right tools for the job. Even if that meant saving a little longer to get them. Luckily some of these amazing brands have chosen to work with me, but I stand by the opinion that I would also buy the same gear if I had to. (Maybe on a black friday deal in some cases! 😜)
Not so much a brand junkie, but a good gear junkie, for sure! If it works, it’s worth paying for. I had 50 quid Oxford First Panniers on my first bike. They wobbled about, hung off the bike like an old lady‘s jowls, my stuff got wet and after 3 trips they were toast. For the latest trip I bought myself Kriega OS panniers for ten times the cost and they didn’t budge through 5000km of rough offroad and everything stayed bone dry. Plus after showering the muck off, they still look like new. I don’t care about the label, but that performance is worth every single penny.
@@AndyManCam OMG OK you spent 50 on some oxford pannirs,,well two years ago I spent 50/60quid on some Lomos ,,This year took them to southern spain and on to Romania and Moldova no issues.30days. My suit is an Oxford Mondial ,,jac is ok ,,pants leaked so back they went ,,exchanged and reinbused me £48 ,,I get loads of gear from Aliex and Temu some is ok some abit naff... I will say I have some Kriega and it is good ,,but it not good value,,compared to Rhinowalk,,the price difference is too great,,,look Andy lets agree to disagree,,, regards
One word. Comprehensive. Thank you Andy.
Thanks very much indeed Michael! 😎
Great video fella! Answers to so many questions!
Love the sound of the bike 🔊 💦
Very happy to be of service! The Italian does have a fine singing voice, doesn’t it!
As far as useful info goes that had more packed in than a Swiss army knife, outstanding, thank you. 👌🏼
I do try my very best! Many thanks Mike!
I don't watch many long road trip videos, but I do watch most of yours.
Very kind of you to say so mate, cheers!
Been a great series 👍
Cheers very much mate!! 🙏🏻
Excellent video! Thanks Andy!
Thanks very much! Cheers for watching!
Brilliant video as per usual
Thank you most very kindly dear chap!
Really enjoyed this series, Andy. As someone hoping to do a moto camping trip to Romania in the not too distant future the road and camping kit insights were particularly interesting. Especially the camping stuff, as we seem to be body doubles in weight and height. The onboard charging solution was particularly neat. 👍
Riding well. You can see the extra miles showing in your relaxed conversation at pace.
Bike looks to handle as well as you say, sweet as.
Take care, have fun.
Thanks Danniel, I’m glad it looks like that! The bike really does handle far better than it ought to! 😍
Hi Andy. As always, a joy to watch. I would be interested to hear more about the audio/video set up you used for making the videos, it sounds just what I need to give it a go
Thanks very much mate! The audio was created with the DJI mic 2 (amzn.to/41s2mhk) connected wirelessly to the Osmo Action 4 (amzn.to/3D1GrDK). The mic was attached to the cheekpad of my helmet with the included magnetic clip. I then use Davinci Resolve to edit, in which I add a low cut at about 120 Hz, some EQ with a tight cut at around 250 Hz and a wide boost at around 3000 Hz. Then there’s a bit of compression to bring up the volume and finally, if there’s too much wind noise, i use a tiny bit of Resolve‘s voice isolation feature. But you have to buy the studio version to get access to that. Although all the EQ and compression functions should be available in most recording software nowadays.
@AndyManCam err.....you lost me around the "120 hz" 🤦 but I will persevere and endeavour to find out about this "hz" you speak of 🫣
I am fully aware that so much goes into the content you provide and it's probably a calling in many respects, so 🫡, because you make it engaging and entertaining for us mere mortals who are clueless in the ways and intricacies technology.
Keep it shiney Andy 👌🏻
TBH mate, the audio straight out of the mics is plenty good. They even have a low cut feature built in so you can just record and go. I’m just an audio pedant, so i turn it off!! Cheers mate, you too.
I’ve changed my Summer riding gear away from heavy laminated suits. Love my Roadskin jeans, Richa short boots, Halvarssons drop liner vented jacket and Knox Orsa gloves. If it turns damp and cold on tour I just put on my Scott waterproofs and extra Halvarssons base layers. Luggage is all by SW Motech, soft options as I’ve now sold all my ugly heavy hard cases with the exception of a small Givi Trekker Dolomiti case for valuables including camera gear. Yes, I tend to carry too much…
Don’t we all mate!! Funny as well how it seems that hard panniers were all the rage for years and now suddenly the trend is going soft… ooh er missus…
I'm impressed you got all that in some relatively modest sized luggage. I like old fashioned camping stuff like canvass tents and big comfy sleeping bags but it's HUGE when you pack it up next to modern lightweight (expensive) gear
Taking a full on canvas tent and a camping cot would be heaven! But you’d need a support truck to make sure you get the gear round some of those hairpins! 😂 Though to be honest, the gear i got, vs what you COULD buy, really isn’t that expensive. I’m guestimating here, but it seems that you also pay 70% more money for the last 20% weight/size saving. I was happy with the compromise.
P.S. Excellent use of "Adventure Wanker", the older brother of "Hipster Wanker" that you seem to have progressed from... ;) :) :p :D :D :D Top marks for you :D Also, I agree about Outlast - it sounds like marketing BS, but it really does seem to work! I have the Halvarsson Ljusdal "Mid-season" gloves and they have Outlast on the back of the hand but a thin leather palm (to work well with heated grips). They say that the heat gets soaked into the Outlast and works it's way to the back of your hand and helps keep that part of the hand warm - I have to say, I thought it was markets BS (as did the shop that I bought them from), but it REALLY does work! :) :). I also still have a hankering for a Kreiga Trail 9 (Orange, obvs ;) ), but I don't think I actually NEED one ;) (I guess a long trip in hot places it would make the difference :) )
Get the crocs, style and function guaranteed
Awesome series. Thank you
Great video. We are just in the process ditching weight and have ordered some reckless during Black Friday. My semi rigid bags weigh empty nearly 16KG + the pannier rack. I was happy with this for the past 3 years, but as you, we focus more on offroad and like to have the bike lighter for that and defo get rid off some bits and piece we don't really need. Grüsse in die alte Heimat! -Diana
Thanks very much! Yeah it’s crazy the weight saving that the bags themselves can give you! On road, we don’t really bother about it to much, but off road, my spine thanked me every time i dropped the bike!! 😅
I went for a cheaper option for vented clothing, and bought an RST S1 Mesh jacket. Not an "off road" jacket by any means but for riding in warm weather it's perfect. And if it rains I throw a storm jacket over the top. No more big and needlessly bulky adventure jackets for me.
I’ll be honest, i did go back and forth with the choice between the Rukka jacket and the lightweight Knox waterproof. But in the end i went for the one with pockets and more abrasion resistance. Might go the lighter route next time just to see!
If you Garmin is anything like my Tom Tom you can connect it to your phones mobile data and it will pick up traffic jams and suggest alternative routes. Road closures I’m not sure about? Rode the Tuareg for 2 weeks with a Puig Touring screen. Not a barn door but good results.
That it can do. Sadly didn’t fix the lack of satellite reception issue though! 😩 The Puig touring is the next on my list. I’ve kind of accepted that for the ride to comfortable, the screen has to be ugly! But i guess no worse than having a screen on a screen!
@@AndyManCam The PUIG Touring Screen on my GS is a barn door but the Tuareg one is quite reasonable and proportioned to the bike. Good luck!
@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff yeah might have to seriously consider it. Could always stash it in Bush once i get to where I’m going and then pick it up on the way back!! 😜
@@AndyManCam 😃
P.P.S. I tried the diving shoes route for ultra-efficient packing, and they were ok, but didn't last, and were not great to walk in... My "final" solution therefore is now very lightweight Sketchers as a great compromise between weight, space, walking quality - I can (and do) wear these all day off the bike no problem... :) I fill them with keys, cables, chargers, socks and pants to maximize packing space so I don't need to worry about trying to make them smaller...
Hello Andy, If you are feeling flush look at the navigation stuff from Thork Racing. Could we have a video on your set up regarding settings for the camera and mic please? I was convinced you were using 2 mics, one in your helmet and one recording the exhaust as your commentary is crystal clear and you can hear the exhaust note without the howel of the wind. cheers Jay
Hi Jay! Sadly I’m never feeling all that flush!! This channel is definitely not a high profit operation and as such the Thork Racing stuff is way out of my budget!! 😅 I did get a good deal on a Garmin Montana 700i though. Although in the next series you’ll hear about a whole different problem with the garmin ecosystem!! 🤣
My setup really isn’t that complicated to explain. The DJI mic 2 (amzn.to/41s2mhk) is magnetically mounted to the cheekpad of my helmet. This is wirelessly connected to the Osmo Action 4 (amzn.to/3D1GrDK) and that records the audio with the video. There’s a bit of EQ and compression in software that works for most of the time, but when there’s too much wind noise, I use 10-15% of the Davinci Resolve Voice Isolation feature which magically brings down the volume of the wind. But that’s only available in the paid for version of Resolve (300€).
How does the Aprilia compare with your first love, the Versys 650?
It has all the same characteristics that i loved (blarrty sound, super chuckable, comfy, robust) except everything is higher performing. Smoother, more racy engine, less vibes, even more space, much better suspension, lighter, better electronics, way better sound. In summation, it’s the perfect spiritual successor to the Versys for me. I didn’t know it at the time, but probably the bike i should have got straight after (of course it didn’t exist yet, but you know what i mean!)
Tent. Well, I love bivouacking, and over the years my tent collection has grown to six different ones. From extremely lightweight, almost pocket-sized, to a stationary, big tent. I have one similar to yours, too. But after trial and error while solo motorbiking, I've ended up with a lightweight three-person, self-standing tent, higher than yours, and with external construction + a classic 17cm camping mattress + a hammock as an alternative. Yes, it takes a bit more space and possibly 2 kg more-but it is worth every kilogram and additional centimeter. Comfort and space for your stuff: You can comfortably sit inside and don't have to crawl in.
It’s great to have choice! Have to admit I was a little jealous of Ian’s space in his larger tent. But at the same time I was jealous of watching him haul his overloaded bike around. For me (until i get even older!) i just need everything to be comfortable enough to sleep. It’s all about the riding in the daytime. If my bike is noticeably loaded, then it spoils the riding. A few months later, offroading in Italy, i took half as much gear and it actually had the strange effect of making the tent feel bigger, as there was less crap in there! And again, the bike really didn’t want to be any heavier!
@@AndyManCam
Correct - less is better! :D I used to travel, even on long week-long trips, on my CB1000R NSC, carrying only a back seat SWMotech and my wallet. After adding an ADV bike to my garage, traveling habits changed. Now, I find that two side boxes are just enough for my needs, and I primarily use the central box as a backrest for a passenger, if I have one.
All you've got to do is fit some flip-flops into your knee pad pockets, that's the evening footwear and safety sorted.🙂
Good video, enjoyed it.
Haha! Brilliant idea!! Do they make level 2 flip flops though? 🤣 Cheers mate!
So even with only 2 small cases on th side you maged to get in 2 outfit sets? Rain and sun. Nioce
Yep, really crammed it all in there! Although technically the outer jacket went ON the case, rather than in it! 😅
Have you tried a Crampbuster? I had one on my throttle and it could be a very cheap option to experiment.
The bike has built in cruise control, which was a luxurious godsend in the Motorways. But you can’t use that in the twisties and we were riding in the twisties for around 8 hours a day! Loosening the spring really is the only option.
@ oh the Crampbuster I’m referring to is a little gadget you slip over the throttle and its more purchase area for your hand to use for the throttle. I had it on my scrambler because I didn’t have cruise and it gave my wrist a massive break. You still have to modulate the throttle, this just takes away most of the twisting motion on the wrist
@AJL15N yeah i know the things. I just didn’t see the benefit of having both. I’d much rather fix the problem at source than add more wizardry to the machine! 😅
@ fair enough! Apologies if I implied you didn’t know😅
Exellent video Andy, and such great detail about all your kit! :) Would you say that the SW Motech bags are similar to the Lone Rider in features/quality, or is the LR actually a better product, IYO? Would you couple the Optimate thingie with a Thunderbox or not both IF you had a Thunderbox? Looks like a fab trip, well jell indeed!!! ;) :) :D Can't wait for the next one bud!! :)
Cheers Matt! I’d say it’s probably about evens between SW and Lone Rider. The waterproof construction of the LR seems a bit more rugged (although the line in mine is a bit shoddily installed, doesn’t sit straight with the outer) but the SW stuff seems slightly better right through in terms of technical design. That said, I’m happy with the LR tail bag and thought long and hard about getting an Overlander 30, before opting for a Kriega setup.
I don’t actually have the Thunderbox fitted to the Aprilia. With built in USB socket and hard wired GPS (through the USB circuit) there wasn’t any need. And the with the Optimate being self regulating, there was still no need. Plus there’s really not a lot of space under the seat on the Tuareg!!
@@AndyManCam Yep - space under the seat on the MT10 is pathetic! ;) (especially compared to the extensive "boot" on the Thunderace!! ;) :D ) (old bikes didn't need to house an ABS pump, ECU, charcoal canister, fresh-air/bypass pipes for emissions, etc..... ;) )
Good man Andy, keep up the anti crock movement. I absolutely hate those things!
My pleasure David. They are an abomination!! 🤮
Are you planning on having a play with the DJI Mic Mini?
I benefited from your Zoom F2/Speedlink mic arrangement for a few years. Thinking about the Mini's now
100%! It’s sitting on the shelf waiting for me to get a chance to try it!
Hi Andy, can you tell me how / where you fixed the dji wireless mic inside your helmet. A great idea.
I slipped the little magnetic plate inside the cheekpad of the helmet and then just magnetically attached the mic to the outside of the pad, right next to my mouth. Have to be careful not to knock it off while putting on/taking off the lid, but mostly no trouble.
@@AndyManCam great stuff, thanks 👍
With the issues with the SatNav could you have used one of these CarPlay devices.? I was a very early convert to one and can't fault it with either Google maps or Waze (or other apps of your choice) I know they are all doing the rounds these days but having had mine a while I can't see me ever returning to Garmin etc.. I wonder how that might have performed on your trip in a few different countries. As for panniers I've opted for the H&B C-Bow, discrete brackets multiple choice of panniers to fit.
I remain unconvinced by the carplay craze, if I’m honest. I’ve used CarPlay in a van for many thousands of miles through work and I’ve found it very unreliable. Random crashes, refusal to connect, lagging etc. and that was in a Mercedes, so likely not cheap implementation. I’m rocking a Montana 700i currently (after receiving all of my money back for the Zumo) though as usual, the worst part about the Montana is the accompanying software. Almost had a meltdown in Italy when it synced with my phone and deleted all my routes!! 🤬 once i deleted the apps, all was good!
Why don't you connect the camera to USB power when its on the bike? It powers the camera and charges its battery at the same time. It works certainly with the GoPro and the Insta360. Worth testing it. Saves all the hustle with the batteries. Thanks for the marvellous vid!
Cheers Meikel. That’s something that I have done in the past. But i really prefer not to have cables attached between me and the bike. I tend to forget them and then at the first fuel stop, I’ve ripped the cables off as I walk away and have either a broken cable, a jiggered USB socket or both (ask me how i know 🫣). In the next series I actually did connect the Insta360 X4 to the bike, but that worked because the camera was mounted to the bike. 👍🏻
@@AndyManCam My suggestion was only meant for the bike mounted camera(s). I should have made that clearer ...
Ah Roger. Here’s the twist then… there were no bike mounted cameras in this whole tour! I did a single camera setup to see if anybody noticed. Guess what? Nobody did! (Not enough to mention it at least!)
@@AndyManCam You can get USB-C 90 degree angled adapters. When you connect the cable to your Insta it already pointers into the correct direction instead of sticking out into the wind. I'm sure you already knew that and mentioning it only for completeness and peace of mind ;)
I had a pair of Gaerne Darak boots. Buckle started to pop open after 2 rides. Soles were soft. No ankle support. No good at all. Took them back and bought the SG22.
Same boots ,no trouble so far with the buckles in fact I like them.. But in mud there is NO grip
That’s disappointing. I’m still waiting for Gaerne to do SOMETHING after 7 weeks. (5 months since the original problem!). Meanwhile I’ve got some Sidi Adventure 2‘s to fill the space. Sadly not as comfortable!
@lipsee100 I guess i haven’t been in awful mud yet, but i find the grip way better than the first time i went off road in road boots! It’s all about perspective i suppose! 🤣
Gaerne have finally replied and said that the fault is due to useage, so it’s my problem. Swines!!
@@AndyManCam I looked at the buckles on my boots ,and they seem ok,but Iv only had a short while,,time will tell
Most of the time you take too much with you (batteries). On my trip to Greece this year I took 141 muesli bars. Took half of them back home again! Renna gobbled them up in school happily.
Do you want to come visit us next year ride, through the amazing twisty Spessart forest right where we live? We are missing the Jenson...
Hahaha! 141 muesli bars could feed a conquering army!! 😅 Your mistake is Renna‘s victory though! I would love to come visit you guys. Might be difficult to fit it in, as we’re actually leaving Germany next year 😮 But maybe i could swing by on the way… (we’re heading south)
I could go for 141 muesli bars now and then
@Khar_Toba Can’t we all! 🤣🤣
NIce video. New sub!
Cheers Rod! Welcome aboard!
I know you did a lot of motorway miles on this trip but for when you get where you're going the best windscreen for me is no windscreen. I don't know if you can get a bag for it that won't scratch it when you get where you're going
I know that only too well from the years with an FZ1-N and a CB1000R. That was the one thing i was dreading about going back to a semi faired bike. TBH I did consider just strapping the screen to the top of the other pannier!
Hi Andy, I'm a new subscriber, but full transparency I've watched your videos for years (sorry)
I'm about to buy a new mid weight adventure bike and I'm torn between T7 World Raid & Aprilia Tuareg!
I'm swaying towards Aprilia as I've already had a standard T7, but I'm reading threads about the Aprilia burning oil, have you noticed any oil used?
Thanks
Chris
Hi Chris, i forgive you mate! 😜 Check the dates on those threads. I bet they’re years old already and nobody has added anything to them since? I say this because I’ve not had one single problem with burnt oil in 15,000 km. I’ve not had to add a single drop. Not even after a full week of high rev low gear off roading. 👍🏻
@AndyManCam thanks for getting back to me mate, I think you've made my mind up for me, Aprilia it is 🤪🤙🏼
Best bit is that you don’t see them every day. Every dick and his dog has a T7, whereas I’ve only seen one other Tuareg in real life, and that was on the other side of the motorway, crossing the French/Italian border.
I wonder what is wrong with your Zumo XT? Mine is great and has never displayed the symptoms that you have described.
No idea, but the shop didn’t even argue. Immediately gave the refund.
How's the heat on your legs, some reviews say can get hot, just curious
It does get hot. Thankfully it’s only really noticeable in traffic, on a warm day. Otherwise it’s not an issue. Even offroading in high 20‘s (centigrade) in Italy, was fine. Sure it could be cooler, plus it’s the hottest bike I’ve ever owned, but as long as you’re moving it’s ok. Apparently ditching the CAT can lead to some cooling too. Sadly I can’t go that way.
I know its not relevant to this video, but if you were to be given a choice of your 1090 or Tuareg, which one would you take now that youve had a good test of both?
The 1090 had a lot of positives over the Tuareg: More torque, less vibes, heated seat and a tiny bit more leg room. But the Tuareg wins for me. I’ve quite simply never gelled so much with a bike before. It’s way more nimble than the KTM, sounds better than any bike I’ve had, it’s easier to pick up off the floor, it rolls over rough terrain better, the suspension is far superior, fuel economy is better and I actually don’t miss the power. The 1090 was the right bike, on the pathway to ending up at the Aprilia. 👍🏻
@@AndyManCam thanks Andy, think I'll have to go and test a Tuareg before making my mind up
@Begbiespintpot Let it be said, I’d be VERY happy with either! Have fun testing!
Camping? Flip flops, light, packable, comfortable.
Storage, check out giant loop coyote soft luggage
Flip flops are a good shout. Except they’re treacherous when walking through a wet, long grassed field at night. Feet slipping all over and toes getting twisted in the wreckage. Ask me how i know! Good stuff from Giant Loop. But tough to come by here in Germany. I went for a Kriega setup in the end. Worked very well!
Whats happened to you crusie control?
The button snapped off when I hit it with my hand as the bike toppled over 🤦 Luckily there’s enough of a stalk left that it still works. A new control unit is 250 € !!
Put work aside and watch AMC is always a good idea!
I like your attitude!
@41.52 No crocs....Good man🫡
It is the way.
@AndyManCam ......"this is the way" 😆
Your tent is at least two sizes too small for comfortable motorcycle camping. These days I use a three man tunnel tent which is lightweight and packs up small bit allows me to sit inside if the weather is not good. I also have moved on from airbed and would now not be without my collapsible camp bed. Just as light and small to pack as an airbed but much more comfortable and keeps you off the floor.
Each to their own i guess. For me right now, it’s the perfect balance of space, weight and fast erection (steady on!). I can imagine that in the future i might want a bit more comfort though!
Lost me to another vid on the umpteenth reference to Knox/rukka. If i was getting freebees like that i`d be happy.Q no really its great gear....Ive converted every one i know to cheap Richa water proof trousers and Jacket all in for 50 quid....Dry as dry can be even after 8 hours of rain covered picos mountains let alone the uk commute .Tin hat on waiting for incoming.
I've got the richa rain stuff. It is pretty good. I'd pay extra to have a bit of stretch in the crotch area, I've popped enough of a stitch swinging my leg over to ruin one pair of trousers. Of course for the price I didn't much mind buying another pair
It’s a common misconception that I get ‚freebies‘. Sure it’s a bit cheaper than buying outright. But first I have to pay the VAT on the product to the taxman. After that i have to pay income tax on the value of the product. But because it counts as a ‚benefit in kind‘ (or a Geldwerte Vorteil here in Germany). Then if I sell the product, i have to pay income tax on whatever i get for it. Finally, and most importantly, I have to give the company a bit of exposure of me using the product. Unlike many unscrupulous UA-camrs, I only do this with products that I actually like, but it still takes time, effort and ultimately money to do this above simply using it and keeping my mouth shut. So with all that in mind, I’m happy to say that I’ve earned all the ‚freebies‘ that I get, just as much as someone who may have paid cash. Also in my opinion, I‘m one of the least ‚shove it down your throat-ey‘ UA-camrs out there and just want to share my experience. Ultimately if your 50 quid setup works for you, then that’s great and I’m happy for you. But there’s no need to throw bitterness around about somebody else enjoying what they’ve earned and sharing it with the masses. You can take the tin hat off now.
@@AndyManCam Jeeez who set fire to your tampon string it was only a comment.
old school trick - save space etc by wrapping a load of gaffer tape round a credit or debit card. But ask my mate why you should use an expired card....bit inconvenient when he realised that he used his current card and needed it right quick for ferry fares. ........🙄
Not an awful idea. Though i think the screwdriver trick saves more space, as the screwdriver was coming along anyway, whereas the expected credit cards tend to stay at home (in the bin. Shredded!) 😜
👌👌👌👏👏👏
Wäre Nett wenn dieses video auch auf deutsch kommen würde.,
Es gibt mittlerweile ein automatisches übersetzungsfunktion. Musst nur captions einschalten und auto-translate als sprache auswählen. Leider kann ich immer noch nicht mit zwei sprachen gleichzeitig reden! 🤣
ua-cam.com/video/voTVc8d1Qk0/v-deo.htmlsi=eJl_bvwzUqReFpwM
This guy posted a video about the throttle spring adjustment. I hope it helps! Thanks for making excellent content!
Thanks very much! I’m definitely doing that!
OK so you did not buy much of the spendy stuff ,,but hell s bells you did not choose any affordable gear,,,,,
I have become a firm believer in the adage that you get what you pay for. Yes it’s all expensive, but I also treat it like sh|t and test it to the limit and none of it has let me down. I went through a decade of trying to be a biker on a shoestring and I spent too long being angry about getting wet again, being cold, my camera crapping out, my tyres losing grip, my luggage flapping about or my clothes getting wet and I realised that I had to get the right tools for the job. Even if that meant saving a little longer to get them. Luckily some of these amazing brands have chosen to work with me, but I stand by the opinion that I would also buy the same gear if I had to. (Maybe on a black friday deal in some cases! 😜)
@@AndyManCam Haha do,nt give me that,,you,er just a brand junky
Not so much a brand junkie, but a good gear junkie, for sure! If it works, it’s worth paying for. I had 50 quid Oxford First Panniers on my first bike. They wobbled about, hung off the bike like an old lady‘s jowls, my stuff got wet and after 3 trips they were toast. For the latest trip I bought myself Kriega OS panniers for ten times the cost and they didn’t budge through 5000km of rough offroad and everything stayed bone dry. Plus after showering the muck off, they still look like new. I don’t care about the label, but that performance is worth every single penny.
@@AndyManCam OMG OK you spent 50 on some oxford pannirs,,well two years ago I spent 50/60quid on some Lomos ,,This year took them to southern spain and on to Romania and Moldova no issues.30days. My suit is an Oxford Mondial ,,jac is ok ,,pants leaked so back they went ,,exchanged and reinbused me £48 ,,I get loads of gear from Aliex and Temu some is ok some abit naff... I will say I have some Kriega and it is good ,,but it not good value,,compared to Rhinowalk,,the price difference is too great,,,look Andy lets agree to disagree,,, regards