Here's a suggestion to pass back to the manufacturers- in the owners manual why don't they suggest suspension settings based on weight, it would make a good starting point.
@Harry Bell I currently feel very similarly about my Daytona 955i. In theory a lovely bike. Except for the fact it keeps dying on me in the middle of nowhere. Came very close to flogging and/or torching it while I was waiting for my wife to come pick me up with the car+trailer. In the rain. At night. Mind you, I did kick it. Twice.
Another enjoyable watch. Thanks Neevesy! It's so refreshing to hear someone of your experience speak on relatively simple topics. Simple but important. So much common sense and lack of ego. Can't wait for the next one. Stay safe.
Sound and honest advice, especially regarding the Tracer and your observations about the other bikes mentioned. Great video Neevesy! I'm still trying to lock-in my riding preferences for my BMW F900XR. I really enjoy your relaxed and informative videos!
Mr. Neevesy, what would we do without you?! Great video as usual. One thing though, don't be so easy on the bike manufacturers! They CAN and SHOULD do better. Bikes are becoming ridiculously expensive, and it's hard to find truly good value bikes. It feels more and more like everything is a "budget" bike (so we "shouldn't expect too much" yeah, right) unless you drop at least around 15k plus Euros (at least here in the Netherlands), which is a huge amount of money for most people. It's just wrong that a nice bike now costs as much or even more than a car! Especially considering all the extra stuff you'll put on the bike as you discuss in this video.
Sage advice. Totally agree on the can - waste of money - been saying that for ages. The only thing I would add for ADV bikes is proper protection for the frame and engine. I added crash bars and a good skid plate to my F700GS and boy, was that a good idea :-) Handguards too - they saved my right hand from a nasty branch. The F700 gearing is silly-tall so I put an F800 front sprocket on which transformed the bike completely. TKC70's added for a bit of off-road grip and I changed the screen for highway use plus a few other things but it's all combined to make the bike much better for me - none of it too expensive. I don't ride to the limit of the bike so fueling/performance is wasted on me. Off-road suspension on the F700 is not great but there again, neither am I :-)
You should do a podcast. Really enjoying these. The road testers one was awesome. Wish I would have that advice 20 years ago - would have saved a bunch of money and pain.
How can a bike tester sound so sensible spot on again Neevesy, it's the simple things (wallet permitting) that makes a great difference to handling ,comfort & slowing down. Changed discs on a 93 Blade WOW incredible 1/2 finger performance, changed rear shocks (Hagon made to measure)) on a GSX1400 again WOW & tyres on GSX1400 (Pirelli Angel GT2) what a change in wet weather adhesion, no white lining etc. UR right keep the changes simple they work. Keep preaching to us Neevesy cos we need it.
Interesting what he said about the chain maintenance and the ABS releasing the brakes on rear wheel lift for Japanese bikes. Cheers! This content is getting me through lockdown!
i went down the same rabbit hole with my MT09. Andreani Fork Cartridges , Nitron rear shock , GPR stabilizer. Ended up gettting rid of it and got a Multistrada 1260S! The money I put into the MT09 I should have just gotten the multi from the beginning. That engine even with the ECU flash and exhaust was still pretty squirrely on fueling.
Good points on upgrades, but if I spent 11K on a new bike I'd be peed off having to spend good money on items that I would expect to be good quality from the start.
I agree with you about chains. Got a new Versys 1000 and after 2 or 3 days in a warm and dry garage under a cover the chain rusted for no reason whatsoever 😒 thank you so much for the recent videos you’re one wise and knowledgeable man 🙂
Well said Neevesy, what you stated is absolutely correct. As an owner of the Tracer 900 GT I can confirm that the bike is an absolute bargain for what it offers. In my personal case I have changed tires (Pirelli Angel GT2), rear shock (Ohlins), fork cartridges (Andreani Misano Evo), Windscreen (Givi) and had IvanPerformance reflashing the ECU. The bike is now a keeper. As for the brakes, you are spot on. Changing to braided lines didn't do much, as some of the lever sponginess has remained. The pads (Brembo SC) were a better investment though. As you referred to some bikes with bling Ohlins suspensions that are garbage I can confirm that my Monster 1200s is one of those. Having them revalved and resprung made things a little better, but sadly still not great. Cheers!
It's really great to hear all this stuff. Loving the series. Wish you were more outspoken in your reviews! I know it's a delicate dance to keep manufacturers happy so they invite you next year or similar
2015 Suzuki GSX-R750 | Superlite RS7 520 +1 (front - steel) & -2 (rear - aluminum) I Loved it.. quick acceleration and didn't lose much top speed.. yes, I maxed it out a lot. Owned Ducs, Hondas, Yamaha, and Suzuki and I still had tough time deciding to get another brand instead of another Gixxer because those bikes are f'ing awesome.. especially after you mod the hell out of it.
I have an MT-09 and agree with all that you said about the Tracer/MT good bike but cheap parts ruin it a bit but can be replaced with better bits easily, Helpful video :)
This is amazing! Thanks so much. I have a street triple rs which is AMAZING as is BUT it could definitely use a power commander to richen up the fuelling and restore some mid range.
Supper right on , part of the reason you can't keep up in the turns is they have better set up. That dose mean take your bike to the shop for a full set up and it will return to you a bike that turns better that makes a big difference.
Ever ridden a bike straight from the factory that gives you that "magic carpet" ride quality? Would be curious to know if you have, what that bike is/was.
Some good points but I would revise your comments on the ABS and how they function. Only a few ABS systems have pressure generating pumps and most just have the relief valves in them. A normal Bosch 9.1MP unit creates a direct connection between the M/C and the caliper, and would feel almost the same as a direct line. The only difference is that the brake line is a little longer and therefore has less stiffness (but this is marginal). A Bosch ME unit has a pump to generate pressure, but these are only present on high end motorcycles, and the connection is also still direct. The pressure is generated through a check valve and therefore doesn't blow up your M/C. There are no real brake-by-wire motorcycles on the market (actually not allowed under legislation as you have to have brakes in-case of failure) at the moment, and what you are feeling through your fingers is the fluid connected to the pads. Bikes that claim to be brake-by-wire are not really BBW; they must maintain a direct fluid connection, but the ABS can help generate pressure depending on the situation (ie. panic braking). The ABS can only be felt once it intervenes, and reroutes the pressure through the relief valve. Brake bleed quality and sensitivity, brake pad and brake line stiffness have the greatest influence on brake lever feel, in that order pretty much. The ABS system can of course make it harder to bleed, and therefore affect feel; this is a big issue for manufacturers. I would also argue with your OE tires comment as this is not really the case from my experience. The tire model designation added is often a tune that tire manufacturers make to a carcass to improve the high-speed stability of that bike for the manufacturer. They do not change the compound or overall performance / grip. Tire manufacturers would not taint their tire model / brand for an OE brand just to make it cheaper. I've worked with Dunlop and Pirelli and these designation tires. I would be happy to discuss these in more detail with you; great videos otherwise!
Having finally tried a bike with heated grips I now wonder why they aren't standard on every bike sold in the UK. Everything else is optional but heated grips are a must.
Great video Michael, thank you. I do take issue with the ZX10R comparison with the WSB bike. It's apples vs oranges as you say. Apples vs apples would be Superstock, in which the ZX10R also did really, really well, whereas the bikes that beat it handily in MCN's tests back in 2016 (R1 and S1K if I recall correctly) came absolutely nowhere. Cheers, and keep up the good work. P.S. Please do the 'worst bikes' video.
Nice vid sir ,the only thing I disagree with is that on all the abs systems I've used ,which is many ,different pads have made a big difference to the initial bite and feel but do agree that abs systems lack the traditional feel that us oldies have relied upon to keep us safe over the years .Yamaha would have sold a lot more bikes if they just upgraded the suspension imho .
Crazy, i've never heard of not lubing a chain! I understand that modern chains have the lube internally, I just assumed the outside needed lubing as well. Learn something new every day. Course I have a shaft drive at the moment so...
8:30 The tip about power commander may be out of date now. Power commander recently changed their business model and said they're no longer modifying O2 signals for closed loop operation, only modifying open loop for warm-up and WOT. So I'm not sure if they'll fix snappiness in bikes' throttles anymore. It's a real bummer.
I think you've hit the nail on the head mate. The tracer is 11K with suspension and tyres that are not great. So by the time you have sorted that and the fuelling to get a bike that you want. Your looking at a 14K tracer. I wanted a super duke R. I rode a standard one and it was okay. Then they gave me one with a full akrvpovic exhaust. Totally different bike. Amazing and exactly what I wanted!! perfect. Ktm want me to spend the best part of 16K on a super duke and then an additional 3K turning into the bike it should have been. I understand the emissions tests and thats why their 2 strokes come fitted with an exhaust that chokes the bike. In the box with it, comes the full fat exhaust exhaust. Why can't they do this with the super duke? It doesn't need to be titanium. It just needs to be free of the emissions bollocks. I get the distinct impression that its another cash cow and its also why a super duke R is not sat in my garage.
Great tips. Not sure about the chain treatment (there is some great testing recently - Bennett's did it I think). EP gear oil and the odd wax lube came out really well. Having just suffered a crap chain, I went DiD and will look after it with gear oil and a rag (and a good degrease in between).
Interesting comment about the chain. I thought you always had to clean and then re-lube? My current process is clean with paraffin and then relube with Wuth Dry Lube.
My exact thoughts on the tracer gt I got last year. I had planned all the mods you mentioned for when the warranty is expired! The tires I already swapped for pr5, but living in Italy I prefer a short screen, as the weather isn't so miserable.
O ring and X ring chains are already lubed where needed and sealed with the aforementioned rings, so any thing you aply just sticks to the outside making grinding paste and/or being flung off up one side of your bike, FortNine has some video on it ua-cam.com/video/UrEpAUi_QKA/v-deo.html and ua-cam.com/video/VnPYdcbcAe0/v-deo.html
@@richandiben You can get GT85 in Halfords mate. They tend to keep it in the Cycle section rather that the motorbike section. MO94 is basically the same stuff but made by Mucoff rather than WD40 company.
Well mr neeves how long will a chain last without any lubrication? I don’t believe simply cleaning with gt 85 will protect the o rings. I use engine oil or a scottoiler.
I just want to say that both the Ninja 400 and the BMW G310R have a really lovely compromise of suspension. I'm a heavy 205 pound, 6'2" guy yet the G310R is very comfortable and the suspension is excellent at up to 9/10th's. Supportive, yet stable and well-damped without much harshness...impressive given the budget stuff. Ninja 400 suspension is also equally amazing for budget stuff although more performance oriented and holds up even at 9.5/10ths. Ninja 400 is very well-rounded in every performance metric...no glaring issues. Where-as the G310R has a notchy (in a bad way) gearbox, and vibrates too much and in a less pleasant way than other single cylinders. Both bikes however suffer from poor clutches. The G310R clutch squawks on heavy load, especially when oil is cold (think going up a steep ramp out of your garage) and the Ninja 400 has very weak clutch springs, which means slippage/wear starts to occur very quickly...like as early as a few thousand miles. Anyways, this is rambly....I wish I was a tester haha. I have much to say!
My Ninja 400 just had 1 year service. 3500 miles on it and was informed by the garage they noticed the clutch was slipping on the road test. Never felt it myself, but was surprised to hear this after so few miles
@@1986ceaster To be honest, a big part of it has to do with clutch lever adjustment. You can fry a clutch within several hundred miles if there's no slack. I doubt your bike actually has a slipping clutch (that's probably not until at least 6-7k miles I'm guessing, but I'm sure it feels very worn. When you've ridden many bikes you'll get a better sense of this. Worn clutches feel like a rubber band. Best way to feel this is to simulate the motion of doing a wheelie without actually doing one. Based on how quickly and hard the clutch grabs, you can feel the life. I'm curious if using heavier duty springs would solve the problem. I know it did in the original Ninja 250's.
This video really made me think what would make my F 900 R a better bike I agree the rubber they come with is wrong. I’m about 160 pounds what else would you do that bike if it was yours? Another great video Hope to hear more down the road
Once you're done with Rosso 3, I would suggest battlax S22. Im always a big fan of Pirelli (supercorsa, Rosso II, Rosso III and Rosso Corsa II), but this time around bridgestone really put a standard to the next level. The only downside is the thread pattern (personal opinion). Nothing beats Pirelli thread pattern. Have fun riding sir.
Great information Neevsey. In the 2 finger braking (middle + ring), can you use that approach on all braking systems? I have an axial master cylinder on my srad 750 and it feels like my index finger being between the lever and the handlebar would prevent full braking
Hi! Great video, thank you! I love the Ducati Streetfighter V4 and as you self said, it is almost nonsense for a road bike. What would you say to a change in the front sprocket to make the gear shorter and being able to ride better at slow speeds? Need to change ECU FW? Thank you
Hi from Canada Michael. Another great video! One of many I have watched since I really appreciate your content including test rides. My question to you would be in my quesy for a super Sport bike despite it being a dying breed, which would you suggest? 2008 gsxr 750 which I could obtain sooner due to pricing, or hold out for a new version zx6r?
Advice missing .. Adjust the stock suspension to suit before spending money and pay attention to resulting alterations in geometry (frequently results in a greater impact than the suspension changes themselves). Change or upgrade only when time to do so, OEM stuff is fine for most bikers (Except Screens and Tracer GT Tyres, throw these away immediately). Weight - most bikers are overweight by considerably more than the most expensive weight saving components put together. Remember, that most bikes are better than the majority of their owners and a good rider will ride faster, smoother and safer on a stock bike than the vast majority of owners who've undertaken all of your recommendations.
Re exhaust: if you don't rely on loud pipes to save your life (ie you ride like no one can see or hear you), but you add them for bonus noticeability on the street, isn't that a good thing?
Can you explain more about never lubing your chain??? That's a surprise! Are you saying this because it's really just meant to protect against rust and therefore not needed if kept indoors and constantly cleaned?
For years people have been lowering the gears in ZX6Rs. Finally, for 2019, Kawasaki made it like that from stock, and Neevesy complains! It's a much better road bike for the lower gearing. I can live with losing a few mph at the top end (160 is plenty) for better grunt. Motorway speeds are still less than half the red line. All good!
Here's a suggestion to pass back to the manufacturers- in the owners manual why don't they suggest suspension settings based on weight, it would make a good starting point.
Please make that "worst bikes i've ever ridden" video! Would be super interesting to get that personal prespective.
I second that motion
3 years later and I agree!
I’m placing my bet that it’s going to be an MV if Neevesy ever makes it 😉.
These "Neevesy chats" videos are awesome.
Worst bikes you've ever ridden, yes please!
K1200s would certainly be in the top 5
Loved the look of it and how it made you feel, but MV Agusta F4 was the most uncomfortable bike I have ridden (at the time I had an 1198).
@Harry Bell Lol, did a big branch flogging to it, did you? ;-)
@Harry Bell I currently feel very similarly about my Daytona 955i. In theory a lovely bike. Except for the fact it keeps dying on me in the middle of nowhere. Came very close to flogging and/or torching it while I was waiting for my wife to come pick me up with the car+trailer. In the rain. At night. Mind you, I did kick it. Twice.
Mt09
Enjoyed that Neevesy - another big thumbs up from me....
Loving these tips sessions. This level of honesty is what riders need. Only surprise is that no one except you has bothered before to give it us.
Been riding since 76 myself. Enjoy this chaps videos.
I’ve been searching for an answer as to why ABS is dangerous on a track thank you for clearing that up 👍
It is also dangerous on ice, even more so in cars. Brakes stop working.
I've been riding since 75 Neevsy the doc.
He always makes sense and tells it as it is....
Another enjoyable watch. Thanks Neevesy! It's so refreshing to hear someone of your experience speak on relatively simple topics. Simple but important. So much common sense and lack of ego. Can't wait for the next one. Stay safe.
I couldn't believe the improvement in cornering with good tyres. It was night and day which gave me so much more confidence.
Sound and honest advice, especially regarding the Tracer and your observations about the other bikes mentioned. Great video Neevesy! I'm still trying to lock-in my riding preferences for my BMW F900XR. I really enjoy your relaxed and informative videos!
Mr. Neevesy, what would we do without you?! Great video as usual. One thing though, don't be so easy on the bike manufacturers! They CAN and SHOULD do better. Bikes are becoming ridiculously expensive, and it's hard to find truly good value bikes. It feels more and more like everything is a "budget" bike (so we "shouldn't expect too much" yeah, right) unless you drop at least around 15k plus Euros (at least here in the Netherlands), which is a huge amount of money for most people. It's just wrong that a nice bike now costs as much or even more than a car! Especially considering all the extra stuff you'll put on the bike as you discuss in this video.
Talking about dropping knowledge, these videos are awesome. From road ridding to the track, pearls of wisdom. Thanks Neevesy!
Sage advice. Totally agree on the can - waste of money - been saying that for ages. The only thing I would add for ADV bikes is proper protection for the frame and engine. I added crash bars and a good skid plate to my F700GS and boy, was that a good idea :-) Handguards too - they saved my right hand from a nasty branch. The F700 gearing is silly-tall so I put an F800 front sprocket on which transformed the bike completely. TKC70's added for a bit of off-road grip and I changed the screen for highway use plus a few other things but it's all combined to make the bike much better for me - none of it too expensive. I don't ride to the limit of the bike so fueling/performance is wasted on me. Off-road suspension on the F700 is not great but there again, neither am I :-)
You should do a podcast. Really enjoying these. The road testers one was awesome. Wish I would have that advice 20 years ago - would have saved a bunch of money and pain.
Finding myself binge-watching Neevesey,,...Feel like Ive learned more watching 4 or 5 of his vids vs a hundred other
Cracking observation! So true.
How can a bike tester sound so sensible spot on again Neevesy, it's the simple things (wallet permitting) that makes a great difference to handling ,comfort & slowing down. Changed discs on a 93 Blade WOW incredible 1/2 finger performance, changed rear shocks (Hagon made to measure)) on a GSX1400 again WOW & tyres on GSX1400 (Pirelli Angel GT2) what a change in wet weather adhesion, no white lining etc. UR right keep the changes simple they work. Keep preaching to us Neevesy cos we need it.
Interesting what he said about the chain maintenance and the ABS releasing the brakes on rear wheel lift for Japanese bikes. Cheers! This content is getting me through lockdown!
These videos have been really great and I've really appreciated the information shared. Thanks a lot and keep well.
i went down the same rabbit hole with my MT09. Andreani Fork Cartridges , Nitron rear shock , GPR stabilizer. Ended up gettting rid of it and got a Multistrada 1260S! The money I
put into the MT09 I should have just gotten the multi from the beginning. That engine even with the ECU flash and exhaust was still pretty squirrely on fueling.
Good points on upgrades, but if I spent 11K on a new bike I'd be peed off having to spend good money on items that I would expect to be good quality from the start.
I agree with you about chains. Got a new Versys 1000 and after 2 or 3 days in a warm and dry garage under a cover the chain rusted for no reason whatsoever 😒 thank you so much for the recent videos you’re one wise and knowledgeable man 🙂
Well said Neevesy, what you stated is absolutely correct. As an owner of the Tracer 900 GT I can confirm that the bike is an absolute bargain for what it offers. In my personal case I have changed tires (Pirelli Angel GT2), rear shock (Ohlins), fork cartridges (Andreani Misano Evo), Windscreen (Givi) and had IvanPerformance reflashing the ECU. The bike is now a keeper. As for the brakes, you are spot on. Changing to braided lines didn't do much, as some of the lever sponginess has remained. The pads (Brembo SC) were a better investment though.
As you referred to some bikes with bling Ohlins suspensions that are garbage I can confirm that my Monster 1200s is one of those. Having them revalved and resprung made things a little better, but sadly still not great. Cheers!
It's really great to hear all this stuff. Loving the series. Wish you were more outspoken in your reviews! I know it's a delicate dance to keep manufacturers happy so they invite you next year or similar
2015 Suzuki GSX-R750 | Superlite RS7 520 +1 (front - steel) & -2 (rear - aluminum) I Loved it.. quick acceleration and didn't lose much top speed.. yes, I maxed it out a lot. Owned Ducs, Hondas, Yamaha, and Suzuki and I still had tough time deciding to get another brand instead of another Gixxer because those bikes are f'ing awesome.. especially after you mod the hell out of it.
This series of videos has been superb.
I always used a Scotoiler on my chained bikes. It covered the back end in clag, but I hardly ever had to adjust it, and got around 35000 miles out it.
I’m sure it’ll be a cracking video.....but damn do I hate this “premiers on xx/xx/xxxx at 18:00”.
I know, if its not live, just upload the video and be done with it!
Yeah. Not a fan of the “premiere” thing.
But I’m sure the vid will be good.
I have an MT-09 and agree with all that you said about the Tracer/MT good bike but cheap parts ruin it a bit but can be replaced with better bits easily, Helpful video :)
This is amazing! Thanks so much. I have a street triple rs which is AMAZING as is BUT it could definitely use a power commander to richen up the fuelling and restore some mid range.
Supper right on , part of the reason you can't keep up in the turns is they have better set up. That dose mean take your bike to the shop for a full set up and it will return to you a bike that turns better that makes a big difference.
Ever ridden a bike straight from the factory that gives you that "magic carpet" ride quality? Would be curious to know if you have, what that bike is/was.
Triumph speed triple 1050 rs with ohlins, on pot hole road racing is alowed, its magic
Some good points but I would revise your comments on the ABS and how they function. Only a few ABS systems have pressure generating pumps and most just have the relief valves in them. A normal Bosch 9.1MP unit creates a direct connection between the M/C and the caliper, and would feel almost the same as a direct line. The only difference is that the brake line is a little longer and therefore has less stiffness (but this is marginal). A Bosch ME unit has a pump to generate pressure, but these are only present on high end motorcycles, and the connection is also still direct. The pressure is generated through a check valve and therefore doesn't blow up your M/C. There are no real brake-by-wire motorcycles on the market (actually not allowed under legislation as you have to have brakes in-case of failure) at the moment, and what you are feeling through your fingers is the fluid connected to the pads. Bikes that claim to be brake-by-wire are not really BBW; they must maintain a direct fluid connection, but the ABS can help generate pressure depending on the situation (ie. panic braking). The ABS can only be felt once it intervenes, and reroutes the pressure through the relief valve. Brake bleed quality and sensitivity, brake pad and brake line stiffness have the greatest influence on brake lever feel, in that order pretty much. The ABS system can of course make it harder to bleed, and therefore affect feel; this is a big issue for manufacturers.
I would also argue with your OE tires comment as this is not really the case from my experience. The tire model designation added is often a tune that tire manufacturers make to a carcass to improve the high-speed stability of that bike for the manufacturer. They do not change the compound or overall performance / grip. Tire manufacturers would not taint their tire model / brand for an OE brand just to make it cheaper. I've worked with Dunlop and Pirelli and these designation tires.
I would be happy to discuss these in more detail with you; great videos otherwise!
As a Tracer owner, agree 1000%. The bones and engine are good, the rear shock upgrade was transformative.
Loving these videos. If I can't ride atm, at least I can reflect on riding and think of ways to better my approach. Thanks Neevesy!
Another quality vid! Maybe a vid on your personal bike or bikes and some history on that?
Having finally tried a bike with heated grips I now wonder why they aren't standard on every bike sold in the UK. Everything else is optional but heated grips are a must.
Great video Michael, thank you. I do take issue with the ZX10R comparison with the WSB bike. It's apples vs oranges as you say. Apples vs apples would be Superstock, in which the ZX10R also did really, really well, whereas the bikes that beat it handily in MCN's tests back in 2016 (R1 and S1K if I recall correctly) came absolutely nowhere. Cheers, and keep up the good work. P.S. Please do the 'worst bikes' video.
Fantastic advice, cheers Michael. Loving these kinds of videos
Nice vid sir ,the only thing I disagree with is that on all the abs systems I've used ,which is many ,different pads have made a big difference to the initial bite and feel but do agree that abs systems lack the traditional feel that us oldies have relied upon to keep us safe over the years .Yamaha would have sold a lot more bikes if they just upgraded the suspension imho .
Insightful, informative, no-nonsense. The silver lining to Covid19. Thanks Michael
Great video, so many little nuggets of knowledge being shared. Thanks.
Crazy, i've never heard of not lubing a chain! I understand that modern chains have the lube internally, I just assumed the outside needed lubing as well. Learn something new every day. Course I have a shaft drive at the moment so...
All these suggestions are perfect for me. Thanks 👍🏻
Did you mention wheels? CF upgrade is my fave, Handling improves drastically.
8:30 The tip about power commander may be out of date now. Power commander recently changed their business model and said they're no longer modifying O2 signals for closed loop operation, only modifying open loop for warm-up and WOT. So I'm not sure if they'll fix snappiness in bikes' throttles anymore. It's a real bummer.
Love the graphics on your Arai. 👍👍
I think you've hit the nail on the head mate. The tracer is 11K with suspension and tyres that are not great. So by the time you have sorted that and the fuelling to get a bike that you want. Your looking at a 14K tracer. I wanted a super duke R. I rode a standard one and it was okay. Then they gave me one with a full akrvpovic exhaust. Totally different bike. Amazing and exactly what I wanted!! perfect. Ktm want me to spend the best part of 16K on a super duke and then an additional 3K turning into the bike it should have been. I understand the emissions tests and thats why their 2 strokes come fitted with an exhaust that chokes the bike. In the box with it, comes the full fat exhaust exhaust. Why can't they do this with the super duke? It doesn't need to be titanium. It just needs to be free of the emissions bollocks. I get the distinct impression that its another cash cow and its also why a super duke R is not sat in my garage.
Great tips. Not sure about the chain treatment (there is some great testing recently - Bennett's did it I think). EP gear oil and the odd wax lube came out really well.
Having just suffered a crap chain, I went DiD and will look after it with gear oil and a rag (and a good degrease in between).
Interesting comment about the chain. I thought you always had to clean and then re-lube? My current process is clean with paraffin and then relube with Wuth Dry Lube.
Keep preaching Neevesy, your vids are always the best 👍
What a brilliant video, so very helpful, for any bike. Thank you!
My exact thoughts on the tracer gt I got last year. I had planned all the mods you mentioned for when the warranty is expired! The tires I already swapped for pr5, but living in Italy I prefer a short screen, as the weather isn't so miserable.
Great video. Shame that some expensive new bikes need that extra spend on basics like screens, seats etc. Keep these videos coming
Agree with all except the omission of tweaking standard suspension first before messing about with spring replacement...
That chain thing surprised me,i thought wd etc would destroy the o rings..not lubing? Like i said,surprised.
@@richandiben Nice to know that,its a good cleaner. Cheers :)
O ring and X ring chains are already lubed where needed and sealed with the aforementioned rings, so any thing you aply just sticks to the outside making grinding paste and/or being flung off up one side of your bike, FortNine has some video on it ua-cam.com/video/UrEpAUi_QKA/v-deo.html and ua-cam.com/video/VnPYdcbcAe0/v-deo.html
@@lomate1963 yep, I used to look after the WD-40 production lines and can confirm, GT85 was made there too from the same customer(WD-40).
@@richandiben You can get GT85 in Halfords mate. They tend to keep it in the Cycle section rather that the motorbike section. MO94 is basically the same stuff but made by Mucoff rather than WD40 company.
Well mr neeves how long will a chain last without any lubrication? I don’t believe simply cleaning with gt 85 will protect the o rings. I use engine oil or a scottoiler.
Great stuff! Keep it coming! 👍🏻
very enjoyable kind of videos over the past few weeks. Keep it up. Very informative.
Got the same exact bike, brilliant points mate, cheers.
These vids are awesome. Great info and food for thought. Keep them coming, please!
I just want to say that both the Ninja 400 and the BMW G310R have a really lovely compromise of suspension. I'm a heavy 205 pound, 6'2" guy yet the G310R is very comfortable and the suspension is excellent at up to 9/10th's. Supportive, yet stable and well-damped without much harshness...impressive given the budget stuff. Ninja 400 suspension is also equally amazing for budget stuff although more performance oriented and holds up even at 9.5/10ths. Ninja 400 is very well-rounded in every performance metric...no glaring issues. Where-as the G310R has a notchy (in a bad way) gearbox, and vibrates too much and in a less pleasant way than other single cylinders. Both bikes however suffer from poor clutches. The G310R clutch squawks on heavy load, especially when oil is cold (think going up a steep ramp out of your garage) and the Ninja 400 has very weak clutch springs, which means slippage/wear starts to occur very quickly...like as early as a few thousand miles. Anyways, this is rambly....I wish I was a tester haha. I have much to say!
My Ninja 400 just had 1 year service. 3500 miles on it and was informed by the garage they noticed the clutch was slipping on the road test. Never felt it myself, but was surprised to hear this after so few miles
@@1986ceaster To be honest, a big part of it has to do with clutch lever adjustment. You can fry a clutch within several hundred miles if there's no slack. I doubt your bike actually has a slipping clutch (that's probably not until at least 6-7k miles I'm guessing, but I'm sure it feels very worn. When you've ridden many bikes you'll get a better sense of this. Worn clutches feel like a rubber band. Best way to feel this is to simulate the motion of doing a wheelie without actually doing one. Based on how quickly and hard the clutch grabs, you can feel the life. I'm curious if using heavier duty springs would solve the problem. I know it did in the original Ninja 250's.
I keep my chain well lubed as I imagine it could wear the sprockets quicker without.
This video really made me think what would make my F 900 R a better bike I agree the rubber they come with is wrong. I’m about 160 pounds what else would you do that bike if it was yours? Another great video Hope to hear more down the road
Yep. On my 2019 Tracer 900 GT I have the Pirelli Diablo Rosso III. Massive difference.
I swapped the oem tyre for these as well, really improves the ride on my 600f4i
Once you're done with Rosso 3, I would suggest battlax S22. Im always a big fan of Pirelli (supercorsa, Rosso II, Rosso III and Rosso Corsa II), but this time around bridgestone really put a standard to the next level. The only downside is the thread pattern (personal opinion). Nothing beats Pirelli thread pattern. Have fun riding sir.
Nice upload.
Never thought of not lubing though, nice
Vilouboy Yeah, the missus wouldn’t be happy
Great information Neevsey. In the 2 finger braking (middle + ring), can you use that approach on all braking systems? I have an axial master cylinder on my srad 750 and it feels like my index finger being between the lever and the handlebar would prevent full braking
Really enjoyed your chat and learned loads so thanks interesting subjects
Can you stop making the best damn bike videos on the internet? Thanks
My fav channel and presenter.
Well lockdown has some advantages, great insight and wisdom in these videos from Neevesy, keep it coming mate!... After lockdown too if possible 😉
Very good mate. More please.
very informative and educative Neeves, thanks a lot.
Hi! Great video, thank you! I love the Ducati Streetfighter V4 and as you self said, it is almost nonsense for a road bike. What would you say to a change in the front sprocket to make the gear shorter and being able to ride better at slow speeds? Need to change ECU FW? Thank you
Neevesy always LIKE
Hi from Canada Michael. Another great video! One of many I have watched since I really appreciate your content including test rides. My question to you would be in my quesy for a super Sport bike despite it being a dying breed, which would you suggest? 2008 gsxr 750 which I could obtain sooner due to pricing, or hold out for a new version zx6r?
Always got to get an Exhaust just to release the hidden exhaust note hidden by the euro 4/5 and also the weight
waiting, I am enjoying this session alright.
Brilliant vid. Loads of great knowledge.
Keep it up MCN this was good stuff. Very informative
Thanks Neevesy, great content again!
this man knows his stuff. I always enjoy mcn. one thing though we 40 is not the best for bike chains. it's great stuff but not for bike chains.
Great video Neevesy, question if you. MT10 or MT10SP? Of course I am biased as I own the SP 👍
Advice missing ..
Adjust the stock suspension to suit before spending money and pay attention to resulting alterations in geometry (frequently results in a greater impact than the suspension changes themselves).
Change or upgrade only when time to do so, OEM stuff is fine for most bikers (Except Screens and Tracer GT Tyres, throw these away immediately).
Weight - most bikers are overweight by considerably more than the most expensive weight saving components put together.
Remember, that most bikes are better than the majority of their owners and a good rider will ride faster, smoother and safer on a stock bike than the vast majority of owners who've undertaken all of your recommendations.
really enjoyed all the insights. Thanks.
Great advice, thank you very much for sharing.
Is there a video comparison between the F900XR and the Tracer 900 GT? I 've seen the F900XR and looks great in person.
Neevesy's worst bikes would be a hilarious video
Fascinating stuff, love it.
Re exhaust: if you don't rely on loud pipes to save your life (ie you ride like no one can see or hear you), but you add them for bonus noticeability on the street, isn't that a good thing?
Neevesy. Talk to me about body positioning and cornering. I know I need to do a track day, but spell us out the basic rules. Lad!
Another great vid Neevesy
Thank you
Another really useful video.
Can you explain more about never lubing your chain??? That's a surprise! Are you saying this because it's really just meant to protect against rust and therefore not needed if kept indoors and constantly cleaned?
For years people have been lowering the gears in ZX6Rs. Finally, for 2019, Kawasaki made it like that from stock, and Neevesy complains!
It's a much better road bike for the lower gearing. I can live with losing a few mph at the top end (160 is plenty) for better grunt.
Motorway speeds are still less than half the red line. All good!
Hi Michael, will you be doing a write up on the Tracer 900 GT?
What a great video. Excellent advice! :-)
What a Great video I totally understand and agree with everything to the t that you have just said, thanks very much.
Poor Neevsey has had Covid-19 relegate him to work in his closet.