Alot of us ain't capable or willing to risk knee down antics on our own bikes due to the threat of binning it. We just want reviews like this one, real world reviews on real roads, not race tracks, just the kinds of roads we all use. This is one of the best reviews of a bike I've seen tbh.
Given that opportunities to test ride bikes are so far and few between, reviews like these are a great service to the community. Without commenting on other people's reviews, I can say there will always be room for a good review like this from experienced riders.
Hi from Louisiana, Love seeing you "Mates" wearing full safety, leather and all and really enjoy the ride alongs even though I don't ride but I do have a bad ass 47 GMC about as risky as I can get at my age. Give my Harley guys plenty of room as it would be like a hammer on a nail if I erred. Keep safe!!
Thumbs up! Thanks for this lovely review that is far better than what MCNs had, since I was one of those who asked for Fireblade test. And yes, what a gorgeous sound she has. A friend of mine is riding elder Tuono v2 and that one also sounded fantastic. Thank you so much again, really am appreciated. Kudos!
Its this amazing new leather. It's spray on, and invisible! It makes it look like you're only wearing shorts and t-shirts, but you are actually wearing a full one piece, that Rossi would be jealous to have!
good review and vid russ! always a good thing to get opinions on different bikes and ya should do more of these as a rule! It can only help those deciding what to buy....
You should hear it in the flesh, it's spine tingling. There's a video game out called moto GP 2011 and they used the sound of Paul's actual bike on a rolling road for the sound of the bikes in the game. He got a free copy of the game as a thank you.
Cheers buddy, I think it only just passes....maybe, but even Paul said they're loud from behind. The gearbox is weird that way round but makes sense after a bit. I noticed the speedo go weird, will look into it! Thanks for the feedback, it was a great couple of hours. I love my job! lol
Love the noise of the crossplane R1. A bunch of us rode Tasmania for 12 days a couple of years back, one had a '10 R1. It was a pig cos it wouldn't run properly (known issues apparently) but the noise the thing made when it ran right and he gave it some stick was just wonderful. Bear in mind we were all on VFRs, the R1 sounds like a VFR with a subwoofer
Haha good! Im currently learning on a 1989 kawasaki ar 125 and im addicted to 2 strokes and would love a rgv 250 when im old enough, just in love with that power band and the smell
First of all, forgive me my English. I'm not native. I've watched most of Your videos and one thing I can say, you're doing great job out there. I really improved my skills because of those vids. Left hand up! - as we say in Poland. ~ just another happy R1 user Ps. Great sound of full akrapovic exhaust system. And the power, 173hp? I'm thrilled. Wow. :)
Aaah! Thanks, must be me having a thick moment. I've done some research on this and with modern manufacturing techniques, running in is an old tradition. I believe in using the engine revs higher up but no being strict on the revs like changing at 6k every time. I used to exceed the recommended settings and take it to 9k every now and then. Research it yourself and you'll find some interesting things out.
If it's the very first bike you've ever owned and haven't taken training, I personally wouldn't go above a 250. For first bikes in the UK, it means you have to pass a test, that's where I recommend the inline 4 600cc bikes.Hope this helps.
That R1 sounds amazing! I wish more people had the new R1's. I don't think I've heard the crossplane crank in person, but plan on this as being my next bike to replace my '07 Suzuki SV1000. Can't do without the sound of a thumping V-twin/V-4 or big-bang inline-4.
Mounted on the right switchgear, the new D-mode system lets you chose, via the fly-by-wire throttle, three levels of throttle response: A, B and standard. The engine makes the same power in each mode. On A mode, the throttles open 30% faster between quarter and half throttle and 30% slower for B mode.
I think the training laws in different countries dictate what bike you should have as a first bike. In the US where the training is basic, I wouldn't recommend above a 250 for new riders then when you have more experience, move up to larger bikes. In the UK, to ride a 600 you have to have had a few tests so it's not quite so risky as the rider would have already had to ride a 500cc under instruction for a while.
No worries, it did sell to an ex pupil who adores it. I need to make more time to get out on these bikes. May be testing a Triumph Tiger 1050 tomorrow.
There's a guy who rides his to work everyday in Guildford - I hear it as I'm walking in (less than a mile commute so no point taking the bike) Sounds *amazing* every time it goes by :)
Oh damn! That's lucky. I envy you. I'm from india originally and where I come from we insure the vehicle, for any rider. And people generally take out insurance policies for many many years at a time. This system here of insuring each person and the insane cost! (I'm a young rider)
Wtf That R1 sounds even better than Tuono on this film :) Awesome sound ! I think i read somewhere that R1 and tuono v4 is almost same in Hp and engine char in stock form .
It's really great to see a review on this bike from someone whose opinion I actually respect. I hear a lot about the R1, but it's usually more along the lines of "yeaah R1 is the best fuck the Busa me n my R1 destroy everything on the road" with no objective comments.
Oh that R1 sounds ravening. I can't imagine how awesome it must be to ride it! Great to see a review of a supersport liter bike that's not from a super wannabe sporto rider.
i love the scenery. beautiful country roads. paul's R1 reminds me of my brother's R1. i believe my brother's R1 is a 2001 model with a blue and white color scheme. i prefer the color scheme of paul's bike... (sorry, bro...lol)
I don't think Russ likes anything south of 500cc even for beginners. Check out his XJ6 and SV650 reviews. Don't be afraid of the inline 4 600s. The non-supersports are very tame at lower RPMs and excellent on the highway. I have the FZ6 and love it.
I meant you know when you're braking in the engine? I meant like, braking in the engine hard way , aka doing high rpm, doing engine brakings etc. What's your opinion about that?
I have a ybr125 too and that is a common issue with them; they do have quite a sticky gearchange and sometimes the bike is doing something very different to what you think it is.
Well,I am not living in England and beacose I am over 25 I cam ride higher cc bikes. I will still tale in consideration a 250 cc if this is recommended .Thank you for the reply.
Hey Russ, quick question. I'm new to biking just having passed my CBT. I rented a YBR125 over the weekend and at a level crossing discovered it was quite possible to be not quite in neutral but to light the neutral light. I decided from then on to start the bike with the clutch pulled in and with a brake applied. Do you have any thoughts on that? What do you recommend to your students?
Typing as I watch mate. Russ, first thing, it sounds like a monster!! Is that strictly road legal ;-) Gear box, really!! Take getting used to I guess. Take it back to the dealer, the speedo is blurred ;-0 Lovely, lovely bike Paul, worth every penny! The wheel barrow thing, no matey, not just you. I feel the same to a certain extent and I am just starting to get used to it but the CBR is no where near as harsh. Great day mate, you guys looked like you enjoyed that ;-) Nice one!
Yeah, It's definately not a comparison in that way but when opened up, the R1 lifts you off the bars slightly, but as Paul said "where can you do that on these roads nowdays?" That's why I prefer the supernakeds now, best of both worlds I think. If I can upload Paul's version, you'll hear him swearing. lol
Hehe, I thought it may be an airport reference, wasn't sure.. nah, I plan ahead. Anyway, you're in Nottingham, come on a track day at Donington with us, show us what it's (and you've) got. ;-)
Have been watching your videos for some time and I'v been wondering if you can make a review about some good beginner bikes, and i'm not talking about just 250 CC bikes. I am talking about the other bike with more then just 250 cc that can be an easy ride for us beginners Thank you .
I'd love to be able to afford a newer bike, but I do still have my RF600 even though it's uncomfortable and has knackered suspension, but I'm still on a bike and that's all that matters ain't it? ;-) Love the two bikes, bet they're fun?
I asked Paul and he said definately NOT a deal breaker! ....and yes, I couldn't upload that bit without getting the "you should know better" crowd coming down on me. ;-)
1:35 daamn i was laughing :) Reversed gear change - wow, is it common in UK or it it his personal preference for the track? Here in Russia the R1 is the "most wanted" bike, damn popular, which I find sad, cause so many 'newbies' crush.. Great video, all the best to you!
Top review, the R1 sounds epic, but then it should with £2 grands worth of Akrapovics finest pipery.... shame the clutch is a bit snatchy, I think that might put me off buying one having had some similar experiences with my SP1; it's pretty easily fixed on an SP1 using an SP2 clutch, had the same on my Gixer thou, great bike with an snatchy clutch, which has caught me out once pulling away, highly embarrassing.... now fixed!!
Alot of us ain't capable or willing to risk knee down antics on our own bikes due to the threat of binning it.
We just want reviews like this one, real world reviews on real roads, not race tracks, just the kinds of roads we all use.
This is one of the best reviews of a bike I've seen tbh.
Given that opportunities to test ride bikes are so far and few between, reviews like these are a
great service to the community. Without commenting on other people's reviews, I can say there will always be room for a good review like this from experienced riders.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed. Not many people change the gear lever like that but it's ok when you get used to it.
Hi from Louisiana, Love seeing you "Mates" wearing full safety, leather and all and really enjoy the ride alongs even though I don't ride but I do have a bad ass 47 GMC about as risky as I can get at my age. Give my Harley guys plenty of room as it would be like a hammer on a nail if I erred. Keep safe!!
Thumbs up! Thanks for this lovely review that is far better than what MCNs had, since I was one of those who asked for Fireblade test. And yes, what a gorgeous sound she has. A friend of mine is riding elder Tuono v2 and that one also sounded fantastic. Thank you so much again, really am appreciated. Kudos!
I like how you've been swapping bikes with your buddies lately. That Sprint ST was probably my favorite one so far.
brilliant vid russ and the exhaust note on that r1 was fantastic
Great video again, I'll have to try some of the roads you go on with my NC30...I live not too far away!
Thanks for telling us it's 23 degrees Russ! In Christchurch NZ, it's 9 degrees and its raining.
very good advice. "Just because you know a road all that means is you know a road , doesn't mean you know the traffic.."
Excellent vid and great seeing you, Russ.
Good video! Both gorgeous bikes! Cant wait to get mine back on the road!
Its this amazing new leather. It's spray on, and invisible! It makes it look like you're only wearing shorts and t-shirts, but you are actually wearing a full one piece, that Rossi would be jealous to have!
fantastic video as always, you should definitely make a riding DVD
very good review,the end was super in the coffe,hope we see more video like that man
good review and vid russ! always a good thing to get opinions on different bikes and ya should do more of these as a rule!
It can only help those deciding what to buy....
You should hear it in the flesh, it's spine tingling. There's a video game out called moto GP 2011 and they used the sound of Paul's actual bike on a rolling road for the sound of the bikes in the game. He got a free copy of the game as a thank you.
Cheers buddy, I think it only just passes....maybe, but even Paul said they're loud from behind. The gearbox is weird that way round but makes sense after a bit. I noticed the speedo go weird, will look into it! Thanks for the feedback, it was a great couple of hours. I love my job! lol
Cheers Dave, I enjoy doing them, especially when I hear it's helped someone decide on their new baby.
Really good video!
its these types of videos i go searching for when researching bikes online
thanks for the time you guys put into it
Lovely review :) love the sound of that R1 ! Must sound savage at the track !
Love the noise of the crossplane R1. A bunch of us rode Tasmania for 12 days a couple of years back, one had a '10 R1. It was a pig cos it wouldn't run properly (known issues apparently) but the noise the thing made when it ran right and he gave it some stick was just wonderful. Bear in mind we were all on VFRs, the R1 sounds like a VFR with a subwoofer
What were the issues with the R1?
Haha good! Im currently learning on a 1989 kawasaki ar 125 and im addicted to 2 strokes and would love a rgv 250 when im old enough, just in love with that power band and the smell
First of all, forgive me my English. I'm not native. I've watched most of Your videos and one thing I can say, you're doing great job out there. I really improved my skills because of those vids. Left hand up! - as we say in Poland.
~ just another happy R1 user
Ps. Great sound of full akrapovic exhaust system. And the power, 173hp? I'm thrilled. Wow. :)
Aaah! Thanks, must be me having a thick moment. I've done some research on this and with modern manufacturing techniques, running in is an old tradition. I believe in using the engine revs higher up but no being strict on the revs like changing at 6k every time. I used to exceed the recommended settings and take it to 9k every now and then. Research it yourself and you'll find some interesting things out.
If it's the very first bike you've ever owned and haven't taken training, I personally wouldn't go above a 250. For first bikes in the UK, it means you have to pass a test, that's where I recommend the inline 4 600cc bikes.Hope this helps.
Reading this post has made ME want one now! Thanks!
The answer is clearly on the upload about the new test, have a look. Congrats.
Nice to know you want to improve yourself. The exhaust sounds amazing in real life
That R1 sounds amazing! I wish more people had the new R1's. I don't think I've heard the crossplane crank in person, but plan on this as being my next bike to replace my '07 Suzuki SV1000. Can't do without the sound of a thumping V-twin/V-4 or big-bang inline-4.
Hey mate, did you end up buying it?
True, I had to keep reminding myself about it. Paul tests bikes every day with normal gears so it wasn't so bad for him.
Seems like a typical well-mannered Japanese 4.... For the performance, they are surprisingly civilised...
Break-in is the term you're looking for. "Braking" refers to the devices that slow a vehicle down.
Its nice to see people using Akrapovič exhaust!
Mounted on the right switchgear, the new D-mode system lets you chose, via the fly-by-wire throttle, three levels of throttle response: A, B and standard. The engine makes the same power in each mode. On A mode, the throttles open 30% faster between quarter and half throttle and 30% slower for B mode.
I noticed my bike drinks less on A mode. In B mode it needs refilling every 3 days max.
so the sat nav is alot more accurate due to the use of satelites, thank mate love your videos
Nice to see you in person mode! lol I actually thought you were paul at first mate, nice review btw!
I think the training laws in different countries dictate what bike you should have as a first bike. In the US where the training is basic, I wouldn't recommend above a 250 for new riders then when you have more experience, move up to larger bikes. In the UK, to ride a 600 you have to have had a few tests so it's not quite so risky as the rider would have already had to ride a 500cc under instruction for a while.
That R1 is so awesome... thing sounds amazing with the full Akropovic exhaust. I absolutely love how it sounds @4:47 to 5:00.
No worries, it did sell to an ex pupil who adores it. I need to make more time to get out on these bikes. May be testing a Triumph Tiger 1050 tomorrow.
There's a guy who rides his to work everyday in Guildford - I hear it as I'm walking in (less than a mile commute so no point taking the bike) Sounds *amazing* every time it goes by :)
Another great video from you - informative and sensible!
Half of this was done in a foreign language to me🤪 Beautiful countryside. Lovely engine sounds. Great “real” life review.🙌
An actual informative review, send it to the bike magazines.
They wouldn't use me because I don't swear on film, wheelie or ride like a nutter on public roads. Too boring for them.
Great video Russ :) Both bikes looks and sounds amazing!
Oh damn! That's lucky. I envy you. I'm from india originally and where I come from we insure the vehicle, for any rider. And people generally take out insurance policies for many many years at a time. This system here of insuring each person and the insane cost! (I'm a young rider)
cheers for the reply gotta go sit on one and see how i fit on it:)) all the best!!!!
I'd really like to see an FZ1 with the crossplane and the more aggressive styling of the R1.
Wtf That R1 sounds even better than Tuono on this film :)
Awesome sound !
I think i read somewhere that R1 and tuono v4 is almost same in Hp and engine char in stock form .
Will upload Paul's version as soon as powerdirector allows me to import the file, keeps kicking it out for some reason.
It's really great to see a review on this bike from someone whose opinion I actually respect. I hear a lot about the R1, but it's usually more along the lines of "yeaah R1 is the best fuck the Busa me n my R1 destroy everything on the road" with no objective comments.
That comment actually made me laugh out loud then elkie, nice one!
Oh that R1 sounds ravening. I can't imagine how awesome it must be to ride it!
Great to see a review of a supersport liter bike that's not from a super wannabe sporto rider.
I love 'em. I have an original, untouched 1981 Yamaha RD250 LC and it sounds and smells lovely. :-)
Bit of a random question, but what breath deflector is Paul using inside his lid for this video? Great videos by the way, keep up the good work.
so glad I subscribed, fantastic videos you got here sir!
nice bikes . like the full akrapovic , got one to on my r6
Cheers, I'll be doing more of these with other bikes.
i love the scenery. beautiful country roads. paul's R1 reminds me of my brother's R1. i believe my brother's R1 is a 2001 model with a blue and white color scheme. i prefer the color scheme of paul's bike... (sorry, bro...lol)
That sounds gorgeous!
Thanks. As long as I get to meet Schwantz I'm happy!! :-)
I don't think Russ likes anything south of 500cc even for beginners. Check out his XJ6 and SV650 reviews.
Don't be afraid of the inline 4 600s. The non-supersports are very tame at lower RPMs and excellent on the highway. I have the FZ6 and love it.
I meant you know when you're braking in the engine?
I meant like, braking in the engine hard way , aka doing high rpm, doing engine brakings etc. What's your opinion about that?
I love the design and quality of iicon but it's best just try loads on to see how they feel to you personally.
I have a ybr125 too and that is a common issue with them; they do have quite a sticky gearchange and sometimes the bike is doing something very different to what you think it is.
Well,I am not living in England and beacose I am over 25 I cam ride higher cc bikes. I will still tale in consideration a 250 cc if this is recommended .Thank you for the reply.
Great video need more about the r1
Hey Russ, quick question. I'm new to biking just having passed my CBT. I rented a YBR125 over the weekend and at a level crossing discovered it was quite possible to be not quite in neutral but to light the neutral light. I decided from then on to start the bike with the clutch pulled in and with a brake applied. Do you have any thoughts on that? What do you recommend to your students?
Typing as I watch mate.
Russ, first thing, it sounds like a monster!! Is that strictly road legal ;-)
Gear box, really!! Take getting used to I guess.
Take it back to the dealer, the speedo is blurred ;-0
Lovely, lovely bike Paul, worth every penny!
The wheel barrow thing, no matey, not just you. I feel the same to a certain extent and I am just starting to get used to it but the CBR is no where near as harsh.
Great day mate, you guys looked like you enjoyed that ;-) Nice one!
"Bye bye Paul" Paul has a great sense of humour
how has the speedo gone out of sync and how do you know? is it to do with the modifications?
Yeah, It's definately not a comparison in that way but when opened up, the R1 lifts you off the bars slightly, but as Paul said "where can you do that on these roads nowdays?" That's why I prefer the supernakeds now, best of both worlds I think. If I can upload Paul's version, you'll hear him swearing. lol
Was there a fault with your camera. It went a bit blurry near the speedo around 6:20 :)
haha the camera picked up a bit of rain smudge when you opened it up Russ
Hehe, I thought it may be an airport reference, wasn't sure.. nah, I plan ahead. Anyway, you're in Nottingham, come on a track day at Donington with us, show us what it's (and you've) got. ;-)
i know that mate, he was asking how he should break the engine in, when its like first rode etc etc
They're a summer textile, leather, carbon glove from J and S motorcycles.
Someone's pointed out I missed your point, sorry. I've responded below...sorry again lol
Cheers Dave..
Engine braking is fine as long as you don't use it instead of using the brakes.
lol. Not sure about yours but I'd probably look on a forum, see if anyone's already done it.
What do you think about " hard brake in "?
Have been watching your videos for some time and I'v been wondering if you can make a review about some good beginner bikes, and i'm not talking about just 250 CC bikes. I am talking about the other bike with more then just 250 cc that can be an easy ride for us beginners
Thank you .
Well you've just had your summer and it's been raining here forever so no apologies!! lol. ;-)
I still like to have "fun" on a bike...it's just a very fine line with my job. :-)
This is why I started doing this, who cares if it's 1/10th second quicker at Cadwell, it about fun facter and feel. :-)
I'd love to be able to afford a newer bike, but I do still have my RF600 even though it's uncomfortable and has knackered suspension, but I'm still on a bike and that's all that matters ain't it? ;-)
Love the two bikes, bet they're fun?
Will do just that. Thank you :D
Feel free to send them the link, I'll show 'em how to do it (could do with a professional photographer though). lol
Where did you get the R1 dyno'd and power commander set up??
How did you sort out the insurance part? Did you get it just for a day?
Thanks for the nice words. The R1 is a great bike but with me being all old and weak, I'll stick to me uprights. lol.
Interesting. This week I'm finding out how hot all my kit is. :-)
I asked Paul and he said definately NOT a deal breaker! ....and yes, I couldn't upload that bit without getting the "you should know better" crowd coming down on me. ;-)
1:35 daamn i was laughing :) Reversed gear change - wow, is it common in UK or it it his personal preference for the track? Here in Russia the R1 is the "most wanted" bike, damn popular, which I find sad, cause so many 'newbies' crush.. Great video, all the best to you!
Is this classed as driving without insurance? I'm really confused about how it works? (any answer would be nice thanks)
I noticed you blurred out the speedo at one point, you wouldn't have been going a little too fast would you? :)
Top review, the R1 sounds epic, but then it should with £2 grands worth of Akrapovics finest pipery....
shame the clutch is a bit snatchy, I think that might put me off buying one having had some similar experiences with my SP1; it's pretty easily fixed on an SP1 using an SP2 clutch, had the same on my Gixer thou, great bike with an snatchy clutch, which has caught me out once pulling away, highly embarrassing.... now fixed!!
Russ whats your opinions on 2 strokes that are higher cc's than 125
Looks like England to me.
It's snowing here right now so less picturesque, or maybe moreso?
Depends on how much you like snow i guess.