From what I've seen Chris Northover is a very talented guy across pretty much any discipline. Road, track, off-road, trials. He appears to be able to do it all to a high standard. And he comes across a very genuine guy. I think you and Chris (and some of his colleagues) are the only reviewer opinions I really take note of.
S1000RR is honestly not a problem for longer journeys :) cruise control helps a lot (standard on RR). Heated grips as well. Obviously it's not as comfortable as a GS, but I would ride mine through Europe if I get the chance. You adapt a lot after driving R bikes for a while, you start using you base more and less wrists and back.
You and Chris are my favourite motorcycle presenters. You come off cerebral and wise and he is more charismatic primarily because of his riding talent... But top top journos and we're lucky to have you both.
Great content Chris northover has so much talent and passion love his stuff & I’m right with you on noise, it can be embarrassing, it draws attention to you when you least need it & painful as well tiring on long trips
Speaking of noisy bikes, part of the reason I sold an S1000R with the OEM Akrapovic was the sound it made going through the countryside at higher revs... that also made me feel guilty about the potentially annoying noises I was making! I think for ICE bikes the best way forward is less exhaust and more induction/airbox noise so the rider still get the sounds but it's less intrusive for everyone else. The latest MT10 has the right idea!
Mr Neevesy! Love these vids, most enjoyable and always learn a lot from each one, so thanks for taking the time to do them. I have a follow up Q on the ABS question from this video. I am a relatively new track rider. Riding road bikes for 15 years or so. Having worked up to a Yamaha r7 from a ninja 400 (which allowed me to break through some personal riding barriers) - I am now wondering after your video if I should perform an ABS delete on the R7? (It's strictly a track machine for me, and will be modified accordingly etc). Or is it worth keeping on for a period of time as I am still developing my track skills. As I say I am new to track riding this year, and only been on track 6 times, I'm just thinking about building up habits one way or another etc. Better for me to learn braking without it on track? I'm not very fast, and still very green, but I like to set good habits early if I can. Again, thanks for the awesome content. We all appreciate you!
Love this series and your writing. Keep up the great work. As a bike tester, were there ever bikes you wish you could go back in time and change your rating on? Maybe models that grew on you, or models that lost their luster over time?
As far as doing things off the bike to get better and faster, I'd say slackline (teaches you innate balance where you don't have to think about it and your body reacts ot tiniest imbalances basically automatically), also mountainbiking. MTB gives you a lot of flat-tracking feel without needing a dedicated flat-track.
Super thanks to let us know everything you have with your experience I’m riding for 30years but I’m listening you like I’m in school for first time 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I like noise, there's got be something said for hearing the bike coming so that other road users have an awareness. Thanks Neevsey, loving the Q&A videos.
It's a double edged sword. I partly agree with what you said, however there are some things to consider: 1. Many times unfocused drivers that are pulling out on You in intersections or coming across in the opposite direction won't hear Your pipe, because noise travels mostly backwards from the bike. Whether on their phone or just being too old , or disrupted by something they do, while driving. They will still try to kill you. I've had so many occasions where it was my defensive riding that saved me and not my loud pipe. 2. A lot of times people (non riders) think that if your bike is loud You're going fast. The problem is that, that draws unwanted attention too. My very recent experience: My K5 600 had an ugly stock can in which the cat and all the noise baffling is in. That is a humongous ugly pipe. So I replaced it with a much nicer looking sleek, free flowing exhaust but kept the baffle in it. Since there is no CAT in the headers or the collector pipes, the bike is now basically straight piped with the baffle in. So it's still loud. As I was heading to work yesterday, I was doing 45 km'/h in second gear in a suburban 50 zone., There was a family with kids on the side of the road slowly getting into their car, the father was waving to me, in an angry manner, to slow down because of his small kids and because he thought that i was speeding, and was putting them at risk. In fact I was 5km'h under the speed limit but the noise still stressed him out and thought that I'm threatening their well being. IMO this is just not good, so I couldn't agree more with Michael. A bit of character is good but too much noise is just shit and makes ppl upset..
Funny that you talk about sound. I had a BMW c evolution as a courtesy bike while my r ninet was in for some work. Tbh I loved the way the Evo sounded, it was like a Jetsons car. Very different to a boxer obviously but fun in it's own right I'd say Loving these q and a sessions, cheers dude!
About the ABS on track, I wouldn't disconnect the ABS pump on my FZ6 S2 ABS, and it was a quite intrusive system. The trick is to learn to outbrake the front wheel with the rear. Usually that meant lifting the rear and hovering over the brake pedal so the ABS would worry about the rear brake while pushing the front brake real hard. So that helped me get into the brakes real deep. True that there was no feel. It never felt better than my following R6 with steel-braided lines directly from the lever to the callipers. But it was a good way to get around the ABS BS =P
Any rider who also drives a car knows that it's a nonsense that a noisy bike is safer, a noisy bike approaching from the front or behind is only heard at the point of passing, but it will have really annoyed non bikers in a radius of several miles. Does anyone who rides distance regularly really enjoy hours on an overly noisy bike ?
Manufacturer Testers don't notice faults because they "only" focus on how well the bike rides and performs on the road and track. We don't sell our bikes because of how little power they have or how they perform dynamically. We sell them because of little impractical things that drive us mad! E.G. USB socket and phone holder under a pillion seat, and having to stop to switch from off to on-road mode (Tiger). Minuscule TFT numerics for range remaining/time/temps (STriple). Low-speed fuel surging, tiny phone pocket, and no GPX import (Multistrada). Windshield adjustment requiring throttle hand (GS). Seats that are bolted on (Harleys). Heated grips and cruise control not being standard, and poor multi-media execution (everyone!).
33:30 This 'dead connection' on japanese bikes, you recon this is because they almost always come standard with rubber lines? I think most modern japanese bikes have rubber lines going to a distribution block, which has hard (non rubber) lines going to the ABS pump and back, and then rubber lines going down to the calipers again. Changing those rubber lines for braided/SS lines should prove a relatively easy way of improving feel. Should be doable by anyone with some maintenance experience, especially as most japanese ABS systems don't have special 'purging' requirements that you sometimes see on european bikes.
Excellent choice for Chris Northover, talent drips off him and an absolute pleasure to meet. Back to the future now, tucked away in a garage you find a DeLoreon, yes that one. It takes you back to the day before you were born, what would be your 3 most desirable bikes from then?
Hi Neevesy Your regular Q&A sessions are brilliant - I’m learning so much, even at my tender age ! Thank you so much. I have a question that I hope you can help me with ? You recently did a group test of litre nakeds in which you marked down the Honda CB1000R for its poor ride comfort / harsh suspension. I own one and completely agree with your sentiments. A couple of months ago I decided to try to fix it, after many hours of twiddling with screwdrivers to adjust front and rear preload, compression and rebound settings and not achieving much. This has involved bespoke fork internal mods, and a new Maxton rear shock which has improved things significantly. Question: Do you think that Metzeler’s Roadtec 01SE tyres might just complete the ‘ride comfort jigsaw’ after you particularly praised them for the transformation they made on the Suzuki GSX S1000GT in your sports touring tyre test ? My bike is still on its OEM Michelin Power 5 2CTs.. Thanks in anticipation
Another great video Neevsey, great to get a peek behing the roadtesting curtain! A question for a future video, if budget wasn't an issue but you could only have one bike to do everything, what would you go for? Thanks and keep up the great vids!
Neevesy! Cant get enough of these videos...question about insurance & security. I have recently bought an MV Superveloce, Insurance quotes - fully-comp £3k, cant get 3rd fire & theft so only option is 3rd party only. I've sourced the best security from Pragmasis, so not worried about it getting nicked from home...but do you think it's too risky going with 3rd party only? I also have a street triple, which i got insured on for £115, was surprised to say the least. EDIT - just to add to this....i agree that the best way to stay safe is to ride defensively as you say, maybe this will help me have that at the forefront of my mind even more because of the financial consequences of a crash. I know fully comp would be more peace of mind but i dont have that luxury here, cheers.
27:40 💯 agree. Obnoxiously-loud street bikes are disrespectful to neighbours and the wider community an embarrassment to the rider. I never understood it.
Brilliant videos Neevesy. They always get a like from me in the first 10 seconds lol! Any tips for keeping one’s body strong and supple, as youth fades from my frame and the aches and pains of old aging joints and muscles begin to threaten the enjoyment of riding sportsbikes are there any good “bikey” exercises we can do? I’m aware that pie and beer limitation is becoming more mandatory as I age also….. my leathers keep shrinking 😂🤔🤔🤔
Something different to ask you - has the salary of a Journalist kept up with the current demand of having to do so many platforms such as UA-cam/FB/Insta/Twitter, ETC. just curious as back in the day of paper magazines Journalists only had the magazine to work around now you have so many boxes to tick and I was wondering if the salary compensates for all the extra work, etc. I hope it does as this can be very time-consuming. Maybe i am looking at this wrongly but time is money as they say. Great work and love the content and information keep up the great work and looking forward to the next vids and reviews. Cheers
Fantastic Video again it is a really good format this ! i have a question for you :) 2 winters ago i started pitbike riding indoors and had such a blast i later went to buy a minigp bike i get to ride at a large outdoor cart track! Having an absolute blast, i’m wondering have you done mini bikes / pitbikes and how come there’s nothing about them in any larger publication. they are a great way to get into track riding and there’s a bunch of racing series here on the continent. cheers
Hi Neevesey love the videos, I hope you’re well. I was wondering if I could get your opinion on wind noise while riding. I’ve got a Schuberth C5 which is supposed to be a “quiet helmet” and use ear plugs each time I go out but when I get back my ears are ringing like mad and a bit painful. Would you suggest getting a new lid?
Another great video. Love these. 👍 Thanks for the encouragement on the SportClassic - I’ve got a 2006 now and absolutely love it. Have you ridden track bikes such as the Kramer GP2-890RR or KTM RC-8C? Thoughts? Whilst they aren’t particularly cheap, they seem reasonably good value considering the quality of components and bespoke nature of them and you’d probably spend close to that trying to get a road bike to track spec but still wouldn’t get anywhere near the lightness. I’m quite interested in one of these as a track bike and would appreciate any insight you might be able to give. If you haven’t ridden them then please do so and get back to me. 👍😂
Hi Neevesy great to hear your thoughts of faired bikes vs unfaired bikes at cruising speeds. I have owned all naked bikes (currently on a W800) for years and have travelled far and wide. However I'm starting to notice how much naked bikes can fidget in the wind when touring at 100km. I've always wondered how much more stable/calm would something like a CBR650R be? Does a fully faired bike sit better at speed? Or is it only helpful when stretching the throttle cables all the way? Wish I could hire a bike for the week to find out myself!
Hi Michael, Quick question please. Can i have my bike tested at a track day for the db sound for free before booking a session? I have a 2018 kawasaki h2 sx se . Ive have kept my cat on but bought a slip on .. Thank you for these great video 👍
Super nice vids!! Thanx!! I had a tire change recently, and my mechanic guy put on my 600rr 180/60 racetec..instead of the usual 55 profile, saying that this should be better... I found it unsure, and was quite a bit slower. Don't know if its a mental thing, or if it actually threw off the geometry to the point where stability was compromised. ..especially turn ins, mid fast corners.. Any thoughts on this??
Kawasaki Z900RS SE Cafe, gotta have the cafe fairing to complete the look. Some would say I'm biased since my second used motorcycle way back in 1980 was a Z1-900B.
With regards to "un-noticed" flaws on production bikes, I think a good percentage of those are down to emissions regulations and cost. Unless it's an Italian bike in which case someone probably just shrugged their shoulders, said "Eh, good enough, time for lunch" in Italian and that was that.
Apropo jornalism, I have the filing that underdog bikes, don't receive the respect they are deserve, except Jeremy clarkson... Let's say if someone did something differently, why putting this bike in a group test that will smash it. From zx9r, -a brilliant sport tourer, or ajp pr7 that in mcn series about lightweight adventure bike was leftover in favorof ktm 690, or ftr or dorsoduro that are actually very usable as daily huligans, more so then the hypermotard, and so on ... There are endless examples. Especially when we are talking about small manufacturers, that has a vision behind, compared to the big manufacturers... More so in the long run, Jeremy clarkson did has his impact on the industry, because of that.... Am I wrong?
I’m not sure. All the tests we do at MCN are news driven. If they launch more Panigales than AJPs that’s reflected in the paper. We love them all, though 😃
Love your videos, Neeves, you’re an engaging story teller and a super expert in your field. Here”s a question for you: if you had all the money in the world and decided to collect motorcycles, I’d the a type of motorcycle that you’d skip? If not, is there a specific motorcycle that you’d skip? And why?
On noisy exhausts: I much prefer the standard exhaust sounds. As long as I can hear what the engine is doing that's all I need and that's using ear plugs too. Here in London it seems the majority of bikes have very loud exhausts in the apparent belief it lets other road users know you're there. But as the sound goes behind and reverberates off all the surrounding buildings I don't really see how it's possible to determine where the sound is coming from, and living 500m from the North Circular it can be pretty annoying too.
I dont like loud exhausts either, I agree that it's very annoying and the amount of times it will have alerted other road users is likely much less than most might think but I hate to admit that if it makes someone aware of your presence even just 5-10% of the time... that must save lives.
@@paulhope3401 Fair comment. As long as riders rely primarily on their observation skills and don’t take it for granted that a loud exhaust means they’ve been seen I can agree 😁
When I used to do track days, I worked my way up to the fast group but I was one of the slowest in the group, which was actually a good thing! It was great when you battled it out with other slower riders because it was actually fun while you were both being past by the pros, and everyone had a better understanding of track etiquette, race lines etc. The intermediate groups were honestly more dangerous as it was full of people who thought they were fast but just flat out stupid
Yet again a great insight and great explanation to all of the questions. I think you should team up with 44teeth guys and appear on the News as a guest presenter. That would be fun. 😊
Hello thank you for your wonderful Q&A series - really enjoying and learning a lot. In regards to your very recent superbike comparison (2023 Ducati Panigale Vs the mighty BMW 1000RR) I would be very interested for you to be kind enough to answer the following questions. 1. As a taller old school rider (like you 6ft) that appreciates room, which of these-two bikes is the roomiest and most comfortable? 2. You spoke in detail in the test but in one regard it was lacking I thought. Out of the two which would you consider to be more refined? I always had a preconception that the BMW is the more “refined” can you confirm this and elaborate? Thanks so much. Cheers from downunder Australia 🇦🇺
Hi Mickael, I’ve noticed that the famous Neevesy paint scheme has moved from a well know japanese helmets brand to another one. Can you tell us about this change ? Cheers from France.
Neevesey, love this series, thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience. My question is on chain maintenance and lubing. There's many myths / nonsense about how this should be achieved. How do you look after your chains and can you share any chain stories, good or bad Cheers Batesie
As a shorter rider the S1000RR 2022 I had was not too bad for comfort, but made my feet hot (air from the radiator i suppose) and doesnt have a nice place to grip with the legs so I felt more weight on my arms. My previous bike was a GSXR1000 2017 which was more comfortable for me, i dont remember any hot air over my feet and its nicer to grip. I have a 1199 Panigale at the moment - I love it for no practical reason :) but it doesnt have hot air at my feet.
Totally get your comments on the S1000XR being a good choice for sports bike riders looking for a comfier ride but surprised you mentioned the 1250GS but not the 1250RS or even the 1250R. Why is this? Also the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce is a too often overlooked option. As fast as the 1000cc sports bikes on stilts in the real world but much lighter handling (counter rotating crank 😊). Also very comfy upright ride, SCS clutch version, cruise, 21 litre tank, semi-active, great wind protection, adjustable screen, 30litre factory panniers that are narrower than the bars for filtering etc etc…
I love these videos. I’m itching to try a track day. But like the question in this vid, I’m afraid to loose traction and crash the bike. Since I don’t know the limits and how the limits “feel”
Re the debate about going from a RR to a GS- what about the RS , the good 'ol sports touring option. No 'everyone's got one' vibes but the same performance benefits
hi neevesy i like induction noise of the engine more that than exhaust note , if i had a electric bike i would put a poker card with a clothes peg on the swing arm lol
Hi Neevesy, Love the videos keep them coming please. I'm 36 I've been riding for a year and my first bike is a Yamaha FZ1. Wonderful bike love the 4 cylinder but love the faired look more and I'm currently looking into either super sport or sport touring bikes. For some reason I'm strongly gravitating towards the H2 SX and you happen to have been teasing about the long term H2 SX you're riding. The suspense is killing me man, when are you going to reveal your long term review of this amazing machine ? Thanks,
Hi mate. The reviews have been in MCN. It's available on the MCN, if you haven't got access to the paper. There'll be a video round-up at the end of the year, too.
Fascinating as always Michael. Good insights and modest as always. Big fan of Chris. The job for you guys is very different now than way back in the day. Showing my age now at 50 when it was just magazines. We all want personalities now for UA-cam as well as good testers and writers. I’ve a question for you sometime if you can answer it. Have you one bike from your career that you feel was the best road bike you ever tested? Meaning your favourite. And on the other hand what has been the biggest stinker of a bike that stayed in your mind. Bikes now are all pretty good but that wasn’t always the case! Cheers Allan from (NI).
Hi Neevsey, In your opinion, what is the motorcycle world’s equivalent to the Porsche 911? In other words, a sport bike with a history of steady, yet restrained, technological and aesthetic evolution of the original model’s design ethos over decades. Like the 911, it must be brilliant on the road but also have a long history of international and club level racing success. Naturally, it also must have spun off special variants (homologation, touring, etc.). Finally, it must be just approachable enough to be attained, one day, by the average enthusiast. My vote is the GSX-R 750. What say you?
Who gives a fuck about how fast a journo is? How good a communicator are you... Thats the job. Look at early Top Gear Clarkson. Crap driver, yet he has more cash in the bank than Tiff Needell. I've always been into bike mags for the stories. Anyone else old enough to remember the UBG? ...No? i'll get my coat...
In the background I see a lot of Arai. So why? Is it head shape, noise, construction, perceived safety, aero dynamics maybe other reasons? Has it always been Arai. I ask as I'm in the process of buying new. Thanks so much for your work.
A question for a future QA. My Tiger 900 GT Pro comes standard with a non radial 100/90 x 19 front. I didn’t like it, so switched tyres as a set but fitted a 110/80 radial front instead. Both sizes considered optimal for the 2.5” rim. Why do Triumph fit a non radial, bias belted I assume front. Is it because it’s an adventure, although road orientated bike and that they want the stiffer sidewalls/puncture protection of a cross ply for occasional off-road? My bike handles more to my liking now though with the 110/80.
Question: Bought my first twin, z650rs (for comfort and beauty) and coming out of a life time of inline fours am struggling with the amount of engine braking in corners. Would it make any sense to map the bike to cut out some of the engine braking or just re-learn how to ride this thing.
Don't forget, it's his first track day. It's quite unlikely anyone will brake that hard on their first track day that ABS going to make them crash. Don't need to scare people. Probably it will rather save a situation or two. (And now let all those comments come who says they were the new Rossi on their first trackday)
Chris great presenter, and bike Journo, nearly soiled his (maybe he did) pants recently wheelying the H2R, doesn’t matter how fast or good you are, the law of averages can catch you out quickly, stay safe bikers ✌🏻🙏🏻
Re ABS. My Honda kicked in far too soon, but I can barely fault my Tiger 900 GT Pro. I haven’t ever had the front ABS kick in, and I do brake hard. In fact I’m beginning to wonder if it’s working. The back kicks in easily as the rear unloads. Good to hear confirmation re European vs Japanese ABS.
Reading some recent MCNs, there have been a lot of "lightweight" ADV tests lately and the glaring omission to me in the sea of teneres and transalps is the tuareg 660. You often hear youtubers saying they can't get hold of bikes from brands, and this lead me to wonder does this issue affect even the might of MCN? I thought brands would be falling at your feet 😆. Thanks for all the great vids 👍
hello neevesy loving the content, just recently got back in to riding after a 10 year gap and have bought myself a 1992 triumph trident 900 and was wondering how important it is to rev match (blipping the throttle on down shift)
Another good one Michael. It made me think about the old journal road testers such as Bob Curry and I think Dave Dixon when you see photos of them wearing Gannex over coats, gauntlets and Derry Boots. But the one thing you all have in common was that many of them were like yourself very modest when you got to speak to them.
I should have added this to my question below, but I thank you for sharing your insights. You are one of the deepest souls in our passion of riding and listening to you is like myself, groaning or trying to get out the truth which I have yet to fully experience. Again, thank you.
From what I've seen Chris Northover is a very talented guy across pretty much any discipline. Road, track, off-road, trials. He appears to be able to do it all to a high standard. And he comes across a very genuine guy. I think you and Chris (and some of his colleagues) are the only reviewer opinions I really take note of.
Chris Northover has an excess of talent. I need to borrow some. 😏
Chris Northover is incredible. He rides like I wish I could --- as if I've never crashed and injured before.
S1000RR is honestly not a problem for longer journeys :) cruise control helps a lot (standard on RR). Heated grips as well. Obviously it's not as comfortable as a GS, but I would ride mine through Europe if I get the chance. You adapt a lot after driving R bikes for a while, you start using you base more and less wrists and back.
You and Chris are my favourite motorcycle presenters. You come off cerebral and wise and he is more charismatic primarily because of his riding talent... But top top journos and we're lucky to have you both.
Great content Chris northover has so much talent and passion love his stuff & I’m right with you on noise, it can be embarrassing, it draws attention to you when you least need it & painful as well tiring on long trips
Honestly just one of the most entertaining series on YT. Throuroughly enjoy jeep it it up
Speaking of noisy bikes, part of the reason I sold an S1000R with the OEM Akrapovic was the sound it made going through the countryside at higher revs... that also made me feel guilty about the potentially annoying noises I was making! I think for ICE bikes the best way forward is less exhaust and more induction/airbox noise so the rider still get the sounds but it's less intrusive for everyone else. The latest MT10 has the right idea!
Mossy is also a poet - if I could be as mellifluously foul mouthed, I could die a happy man.
Enjoy Chris’s videos, no bs straight to the point.
Mr Neevesy! Love these vids, most enjoyable and always learn a lot from each one, so thanks for taking the time to do them.
I have a follow up Q on the ABS question from this video. I am a relatively new track rider. Riding road bikes for 15 years or so. Having worked up to a Yamaha r7 from a ninja 400 (which allowed me to break through some personal riding barriers) - I am now wondering after your video if I should perform an ABS delete on the R7? (It's strictly a track machine for me, and will be modified accordingly etc). Or is it worth keeping on for a period of time as I am still developing my track skills. As I say I am new to track riding this year, and only been on track 6 times, I'm just thinking about building up habits one way or another etc. Better for me to learn braking without it on track? I'm not very fast, and still very green, but I like to set good habits early if I can.
Again, thanks for the awesome content. We all appreciate you!
Love this series and your writing. Keep up the great work. As a bike tester, were there ever bikes you wish you could go back in time and change your rating on? Maybe models that grew on you, or models that lost their luster over time?
I’ve had the pleasure of riding with Chris Northover on a couple of off road trips in Wales. Properly fantastic, talented and modest guy.
As far as doing things off the bike to get better and faster, I'd say slackline (teaches you innate balance where you don't have to think about it and your body reacts ot tiniest imbalances basically automatically), also mountainbiking. MTB gives you a lot of flat-tracking feel without needing a dedicated flat-track.
Super thanks to let us know everything you have with your experience I’m riding for 30years but I’m listening you like I’m in school for first time 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I like noise, there's got be something said for hearing the bike coming so that other road users have an awareness. Thanks Neevsey, loving the Q&A videos.
It's a double edged sword. I partly agree with what you said, however there are some things to consider:
1. Many times unfocused drivers that are pulling out on You in intersections or coming across in the opposite direction won't hear Your pipe, because noise travels mostly backwards from the bike. Whether on their phone or just being too old , or disrupted by something they do, while driving. They will still try to kill you.
I've had so many occasions where it was my defensive riding that saved me and not my loud pipe.
2. A lot of times people (non riders) think that if your bike is loud You're going fast.
The problem is that, that draws unwanted attention too.
My very recent experience: My K5 600 had an ugly stock can in which the cat and all the noise baffling is in. That is a humongous ugly pipe. So I replaced it with a much nicer looking sleek, free flowing exhaust but kept the baffle in it. Since there is no CAT in the headers or the collector pipes, the bike is now basically straight piped with the baffle in. So it's still loud.
As I was heading to work yesterday, I was doing 45 km'/h in second gear in a suburban 50 zone., There was a family with kids on the side of the road slowly getting into their car, the father was waving to me, in an angry manner, to slow down because of his small kids and because he thought that i was speeding, and was putting them at risk. In fact I was 5km'h under the speed limit but the noise still stressed him out and thought that I'm threatening their well being.
IMO this is just not good, so I couldn't agree more with Michael. A bit of character is good but too much noise is just shit and makes ppl upset..
Please keep up the riding tips. Your last vid bent elbows , holding arms in a jockey like position really helpful road and track 👏
Funny that you talk about sound. I had a BMW c evolution as a courtesy bike while my r ninet was in for some work. Tbh I loved the way the Evo sounded, it was like a Jetsons car. Very different to a boxer obviously but fun in it's own right I'd say
Loving these q and a sessions, cheers dude!
Cheers for answering my question! I said who's fastest though, not who has the best hair 😂
About the ABS on track, I wouldn't disconnect the ABS pump on my FZ6 S2 ABS, and it was a quite intrusive system. The trick is to learn to outbrake the front wheel with the rear. Usually that meant lifting the rear and hovering over the brake pedal so the ABS would worry about the rear brake while pushing the front brake real hard. So that helped me get into the brakes real deep. True that there was no feel. It never felt better than my following R6 with steel-braided lines directly from the lever to the callipers. But it was a good way to get around the ABS BS =P
Interesting!
Any rider who also drives a car knows that it's a nonsense that a noisy bike is safer, a noisy bike approaching from the front or behind is only heard at the point of passing, but it will have really annoyed non bikers in a radius of several miles. Does anyone who rides distance regularly really enjoy hours on an overly noisy bike ?
Manufacturer Testers don't notice faults because they "only" focus on how well the bike rides and performs on the road and track. We don't sell our bikes because of how little power they have or how they perform dynamically. We sell them because of little impractical things that drive us mad! E.G. USB socket and phone holder under a pillion seat, and having to stop to switch from off to on-road mode (Tiger). Minuscule TFT numerics for range remaining/time/temps (STriple). Low-speed fuel surging, tiny phone pocket, and no GPX import (Multistrada). Windshield adjustment requiring throttle hand (GS). Seats that are bolted on (Harleys). Heated grips and cruise control not being standard, and poor multi-media execution (everyone!).
33:30 This 'dead connection' on japanese bikes, you recon this is because they almost always come standard with rubber lines? I think most modern japanese bikes have rubber lines going to a distribution block, which has hard (non rubber) lines going to the ABS pump and back, and then rubber lines going down to the calipers again.
Changing those rubber lines for braided/SS lines should prove a relatively easy way of improving feel. Should be doable by anyone with some maintenance experience, especially as most japanese ABS systems don't have special 'purging' requirements that you sometimes see on european bikes.
Excellent choice for Chris Northover, talent drips off him and an absolute pleasure to meet. Back to the future now, tucked away in a garage you find a DeLoreon, yes that one. It takes you back to the day before you were born, what would be your 3 most desirable bikes from then?
Hi Neevesy
Your regular Q&A sessions are brilliant - I’m learning so much, even at my tender age !
Thank you so much.
I have a question that I hope you can help me with ?
You recently did a group test of litre nakeds in which you marked down the Honda CB1000R for its poor ride comfort / harsh suspension.
I own one and completely agree with your sentiments.
A couple of months ago I decided to try to fix it, after many hours of twiddling with screwdrivers to adjust front and rear preload, compression and rebound settings and not achieving much.
This has involved bespoke fork internal mods, and a new Maxton rear shock which has improved things significantly.
Question: Do you think that Metzeler’s Roadtec 01SE tyres might just complete the ‘ride comfort jigsaw’ after you particularly praised them for the transformation they made on the Suzuki GSX S1000GT in your sports touring tyre test ?
My bike is still on its OEM Michelin Power 5 2CTs..
Thanks in anticipation
Another great video Neevsey, great to get a peek behing the roadtesting curtain! A question for a future video, if budget wasn't an issue but you could only have one bike to do everything, what would you go for? Thanks and keep up the great vids!
Neevesy! Cant get enough of these videos...question about insurance & security. I have recently bought an MV Superveloce, Insurance quotes - fully-comp £3k, cant get 3rd fire & theft so only option is 3rd party only. I've sourced the best security from Pragmasis, so not worried about it getting nicked from home...but do you think it's too risky going with 3rd party only? I also have a street triple, which i got insured on for £115, was surprised to say the least.
EDIT - just to add to this....i agree that the best way to stay safe is to ride defensively as you say, maybe this will help me have that at the forefront of my mind even more because of the financial consequences of a crash. I know fully comp would be more peace of mind but i dont have that luxury here, cheers.
Mat Oxley won a TT on a TZR250. No mean feat.
27:40 💯 agree. Obnoxiously-loud street bikes are disrespectful to neighbours and the wider community an embarrassment to the rider. I never understood it.
Brilliant videos Neevesy. They always get a like from me in the first 10 seconds lol!
Any tips for keeping one’s body strong and supple, as youth fades from my frame and the aches and pains of old aging joints and muscles begin to threaten the enjoyment of riding sportsbikes are there any good “bikey” exercises we can do? I’m aware that pie and beer limitation is becoming more mandatory as I age also….. my leathers keep shrinking 😂🤔🤔🤔
Fantastic episode. Golden tips !
Couldnt agree more on the noise issue ,
I see that one of your Arai helmets has had to make way for the Alpinestars Supertech R10
Something different to ask you - has the salary of a Journalist kept up with the current demand of having to do so many platforms such as UA-cam/FB/Insta/Twitter, ETC. just curious as back in the day of paper magazines Journalists only had the magazine to work around now you have so many boxes to tick and I was wondering if the salary compensates for all the extra work, etc. I hope it does as this can be very time-consuming. Maybe i am looking at this wrongly but time is money as they say. Great work and love the content and information keep up the great work and looking forward to the next vids and reviews. Cheers
Fantastic Video again it is a really good format this !
i have a question for you :) 2 winters ago i started pitbike riding indoors and had such a blast i later went to buy a minigp bike i get to ride at a large outdoor cart track! Having an absolute blast, i’m wondering have you done mini bikes / pitbikes and how come there’s nothing about them in any larger publication. they are a great way to get into track riding and there’s a bunch of racing series here on the continent. cheers
Hi Neevesey love the videos, I hope you’re well. I was wondering if I could get your opinion on wind noise while riding. I’ve got a Schuberth C5 which is supposed to be a “quiet helmet” and use ear plugs each time I go out but when I get back my ears are ringing like mad and a bit painful. Would you suggest getting a new lid?
Another great video. Love these. 👍 Thanks for the encouragement on the SportClassic - I’ve got a 2006 now and absolutely love it. Have you ridden track bikes such as the Kramer GP2-890RR or KTM RC-8C? Thoughts? Whilst they aren’t particularly cheap, they seem reasonably good value considering the quality of components and bespoke nature of them and you’d probably spend close to that trying to get a road bike to track spec but still wouldn’t get anywhere near the lightness. I’m quite interested in one of these as a track bike and would appreciate any insight you might be able to give. If you haven’t ridden them then please do so and get back to me. 👍😂
Great content....AGAIN!!
I always thought that Chris seems to able to do whatever he wants on whatever bike he’s riding! Talented lad. Needs a hair cut tho
Hi Neevesy great to hear your thoughts of faired bikes vs unfaired bikes at cruising speeds. I have owned all naked bikes (currently on a W800) for years and have travelled far and wide. However I'm starting to notice how much naked bikes can fidget in the wind when touring at 100km. I've always wondered how much more stable/calm would something like a CBR650R be? Does a fully faired bike sit better at speed? Or is it only helpful when stretching the throttle cables all the way? Wish I could hire a bike for the week to find out myself!
Hi Michael,
Quick question please.
Can i have my bike tested at a track day for the db sound for free before booking a session?
I have a 2018 kawasaki h2 sx se .
Ive have kept my cat on but bought a slip on .. Thank you for these great video 👍
Super nice vids!! Thanx!! I had a tire change recently, and my mechanic guy put on my 600rr 180/60 racetec..instead of the usual 55 profile, saying that this should be better... I found it unsure, and was quite a bit slower. Don't know if its a mental thing, or if it actually threw off the geometry to the point where stability was compromised. ..especially turn ins, mid fast corners.. Any thoughts on this??
another great video.
Great video as always. What would be your pick if you are going to the market to buy a retro sport bike?
Kawasaki Z900RS SE Cafe, gotta have the cafe fairing to complete the look. Some would say I'm biased since my second used motorcycle way back in 1980 was a Z1-900B.
Thank you again.
Class! 💪🛵🛵🛵🛵
With regards to "un-noticed" flaws on production bikes, I think a good percentage of those are down to emissions regulations and cost.
Unless it's an Italian bike in which case someone probably just shrugged their shoulders, said "Eh, good enough, time for lunch" in Italian and that was that.
Top G 🏁
James Toseland I would say is the fastest
👍❤
Apropo jornalism, I have the filing that underdog bikes, don't receive the respect they are deserve, except Jeremy clarkson...
Let's say if someone did something differently, why putting this bike in a group test that will smash it.
From zx9r, -a brilliant sport tourer, or ajp pr7 that in mcn series about lightweight adventure bike was leftover in favorof ktm 690, or ftr or dorsoduro that are actually very usable as daily huligans, more so then the hypermotard, and so on ...
There are endless examples.
Especially when we are talking about small manufacturers, that has a vision behind, compared to the big manufacturers...
More so in the long run, Jeremy clarkson did has his impact on the industry, because of that....
Am I wrong?
I’m not sure. All the tests we do at MCN are news driven. If they launch more Panigales than AJPs that’s reflected in the paper. We love them all, though 😃
@neevesybikes I'm totally understand and respect.
It's just me as a person that love the bit quirky side of life...
Thanks again 🙃
HOW DARE YOU!!! Surely Alastair Fagen is the fastest!! Or doesn't he qualify as as journo? 🤔🤔
He’s rapido, that’s for sure 😃
Thoroughly enjoyed every monent of that - thank you for taking the timne to make these for us....
Time to do a Video Together?
Love your videos, Neeves, you’re an engaging story teller and a super expert in your field. Here”s a question for you: if you had all the money in the world and decided to collect motorcycles, I’d the a type of motorcycle that you’d skip? If not, is there a specific motorcycle that you’d skip? And why?
On noisy exhausts: I much prefer the standard exhaust sounds. As long as I can hear what the engine is doing that's all I need and that's using ear plugs too. Here in London it seems the majority of bikes have very loud exhausts in the apparent belief it lets other road users know you're there. But as the sound goes behind and reverberates off all the surrounding buildings I don't really see how it's possible to determine where the sound is coming from, and living 500m from the North Circular it can be pretty annoying too.
I dont like loud exhausts either, I agree that it's very annoying and the amount of times it will have alerted other road users is likely much less than most might think but I hate to admit that if it makes someone aware of your presence even just 5-10% of the time... that must save lives.
@@paulhope3401 Fair comment. As long as riders rely primarily on their observation skills and don’t take it for granted that a loud exhaust means they’ve been seen I can agree 😁
Hello,
is that THE NEW ALPINE STAR HELMET in the RACK.
Yes, that would be the Supertech R10.
When I used to do track days, I worked my way up to the fast group but I was one of the slowest in the group, which was actually a good thing! It was great when you battled it out with other slower riders because it was actually fun while you were both being past by the pros, and everyone had a better understanding of track etiquette, race lines etc. The intermediate groups were honestly more dangerous as it was full of people who thought they were fast but just flat out stupid
Yet again a great insight and great explanation to all of the questions. I think you should team up with 44teeth guys and appear on the News as a guest presenter. That would be fun. 😊
I've got a question for #19 'How the hell did you get to where you are now, by knowing nothing?' #neevseyknowsnowt
Very good question. I’m just lucky…
Do you buy your T shirts or freebies?😅
Hello thank you for your wonderful Q&A series - really enjoying and learning a lot.
In regards to your very recent superbike comparison (2023 Ducati Panigale Vs the mighty BMW 1000RR) I would be very interested for you to be kind enough to answer the following questions. 1. As a taller old school rider (like you 6ft) that appreciates room, which of these-two bikes is the roomiest and most comfortable? 2. You spoke in detail in the test but in one regard it was lacking I thought. Out of the two which would you consider to be more refined? I always had a preconception that the BMW is the more “refined” can you confirm this and elaborate?
Thanks so much. Cheers from downunder Australia 🇦🇺
Hi Mickael, I’ve noticed that the famous Neevesy paint scheme has moved from a well know japanese helmets brand to another one. Can you tell us about this change ? Cheers from France.
Hello,
Electric technology is FAKE. AM SURPRISED.BATTERY GARBAGE.WEIGHT.
Neevesey, love this series, thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience.
My question is on chain maintenance and lubing. There's many myths / nonsense about how this should be achieved. How do you look after your chains and can you share any chain stories, good or bad
Cheers Batesie
As a shorter rider the S1000RR 2022 I had was not too bad for comfort, but made my feet hot (air from the radiator i suppose) and doesnt have a nice place to grip with the legs so I felt more weight on my arms. My previous bike was a GSXR1000 2017 which was more comfortable for me, i dont remember any hot air over my feet and its nicer to grip. I have a 1199 Panigale at the moment - I love it for no practical reason :) but it doesnt have hot air at my feet.
Totally get your comments on the S1000XR being a good choice for sports bike riders looking for a comfier ride but surprised you mentioned the 1250GS but not the 1250RS or even the 1250R. Why is this?
Also the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce is a too often overlooked option. As fast as the 1000cc sports bikes on stilts in the real world but much lighter handling (counter rotating crank 😊). Also very comfy upright ride, SCS clutch version, cruise, 21 litre tank, semi-active, great wind protection, adjustable screen, 30litre factory panniers that are narrower than the bars for filtering etc etc…
I love these videos. I’m itching to try a track day. But like the question in this vid, I’m afraid to loose traction and crash the bike. Since I don’t know the limits and how the limits “feel”
Thank you for putting the q&a's together for us.
Re the debate about going from a RR to a GS- what about the RS , the good 'ol sports touring option. No 'everyone's got one' vibes but the same performance benefits
I have a question. I'm doing a Spa trackday soon and from your vids I know you love the place. Got any tips to maximise my time there?
hi neevesy i like induction noise of the engine more that than exhaust note , if i had a electric bike i would put a poker card with a clothes peg on the swing arm lol
Hi, loving your work! What bike do you think has the best induction roar? thank you.
Gen 3 MT09.. oh yes..
Two crashes in a week . You must have been sore. 😲
Hi Neevesy,
Love the videos keep them coming please. I'm 36 I've been riding for a year and my first bike is a Yamaha FZ1. Wonderful bike love the 4 cylinder but love the faired look more and I'm currently looking into either super sport or sport touring bikes. For some reason I'm strongly gravitating towards the H2 SX and you happen to have been teasing about the long term H2 SX you're riding. The suspense is killing me man, when are you going to reveal your long term review of this amazing machine ?
Thanks,
Hi mate. The reviews have been in MCN. It's available on the MCN, if you haven't got access to the paper. There'll be a video round-up at the end of the year, too.
Did you know the counterrotating crank offsets the inertia of the wheels and makes the bike more flickable.
I did…and it was one of the things I meant to say. And forgot 😩👍
Great vid thanks
Rob Hoyles.
Fascinating as always Michael. Good insights and modest as always. Big fan of Chris. The job for you guys is very different now than way back in the day. Showing my age now at 50 when it was just magazines. We all want personalities now for UA-cam as well as good testers and writers.
I’ve a question for you sometime if you can answer it.
Have you one bike from your career that you feel was the best road bike you ever tested? Meaning your favourite. And on the other hand what has been the biggest stinker of a bike that stayed in your mind. Bikes now are all pretty good but that wasn’t always the case! Cheers Allan from (NI).
Hi Neevsey,
In your opinion, what is the motorcycle world’s equivalent to the Porsche 911?
In other words, a sport bike with a history of steady, yet restrained, technological and aesthetic evolution of the original model’s design ethos over decades. Like the 911, it must be brilliant on the road but also have a long history of international and club level racing success. Naturally, it also must have spun off special variants (homologation, touring, etc.). Finally, it must be just approachable enough to be attained, one day, by the average enthusiast.
My vote is the GSX-R 750. What say you?
Who gives a fuck about how fast a journo is? How good a communicator are you... Thats the job. Look at early Top Gear Clarkson. Crap driver, yet he has more cash in the bank than Tiff Needell. I've always been into bike mags for the stories. Anyone else old enough to remember the UBG? ...No? i'll get my coat...
In the background I see a lot of Arai. So why? Is it head shape, noise, construction, perceived safety, aero dynamics maybe other reasons? Has it always been Arai. I ask as I'm in the process of buying new. Thanks so much for your work.
A question for a future QA. My Tiger 900 GT Pro comes standard with a non radial 100/90 x 19 front. I didn’t like it, so switched tyres as a set but fitted a 110/80 radial front instead. Both sizes considered optimal for the 2.5” rim. Why do Triumph fit a non radial, bias belted I assume front. Is it because it’s an adventure, although road orientated bike and that they want the stiffer sidewalls/puncture protection of a cross ply for occasional off-road? My bike handles more to my liking now though with the 110/80.
Question: Bought my first twin, z650rs (for comfort and beauty) and coming out of a life time of inline fours am struggling with the amount of engine braking in corners. Would it make any sense to map the bike to cut out some of the engine braking or just re-learn how to ride this thing.
Don't forget, it's his first track day. It's quite unlikely anyone will brake that hard on their first track day that ABS going to make them crash. Don't need to scare people. Probably it will rather save a situation or two.
(And now let all those comments come who says they were the new Rossi on their first trackday)
Chris great presenter, and bike Journo, nearly soiled his (maybe he did) pants recently wheelying the H2R, doesn’t matter how fast or good you are, the law of averages can catch you out quickly, stay safe bikers ✌🏻🙏🏻
Re ABS. My Honda kicked in far too soon, but I can barely fault my Tiger 900 GT Pro. I haven’t ever had the front ABS kick in, and I do brake hard. In fact I’m beginning to wonder if it’s working. The back kicks in easily as the rear unloads. Good to hear confirmation re European vs Japanese ABS.
Reading some recent MCNs, there have been a lot of "lightweight" ADV tests lately and the glaring omission to me in the sea of teneres and transalps is the tuareg 660. You often hear youtubers saying they can't get hold of bikes from brands, and this lead me to wonder does this issue affect even the might of MCN? I thought brands would be falling at your feet 😆.
Thanks for all the great vids 👍
hello neevesy loving the content, just recently got back in to riding after a 10 year gap and have bought myself a 1992 triumph trident 900 and was wondering how important it is to rev match (blipping the throttle on down shift)
Another good one Michael. It made me think about the old journal road testers such as Bob Curry and I think Dave Dixon when you see photos of them wearing Gannex over coats, gauntlets and Derry Boots. But the one thing you all have in common was that many of them were like yourself very modest when you got to speak to them.
I should have added this to my question below, but I thank you for sharing your insights. You are one of the deepest souls in our passion of riding and listening to you is like myself, groaning or trying to get out the truth which I have yet to fully experience. Again, thank you.
Loving these videos Neevesy. What bike have you been most looking forward to testing, and been most disappointed by?
Please, please launch these as podcasts. I drive heaps for work and theres a lack of good bike content from profesionals such as yourself.
Great video as always. When you started to talk about journo crashes my first thought was Fast Bikes Jimi Miller!
Have been looking forward to this.monday uplift.cheers.♥️
Love watching Mossey on a bike, he’s all over the bloody thing😂 proper committed
Not long at all Neevesy. I could happily listen to your ramblings all day every day.
I agree with you 100% about the BMW 1250 GS. Such a magical bike.
Cheers Neevesy. Thoroughly interesting answers as ever.
Thanks for another interesting video, Neevesy👌
Chris Northover is ridiculous! I agree with that choice