Fantic Caballero 500 Rally - 1000 mile review

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  • Опубліковано 8 вер 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 114

  • @biscuitsalive
    @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому +21

    UPDATE as of summer 2022-
    I sold the Fantic Cab Rally (as wanted to try different bikes)
    After making this review I did have several more cut outs, which dealer couldn’t find the cause.
    Also a headlight failure. (Which warranty sorted)
    In hindsight the bike was fun, decent pull/power and attractive, but I didn’t fancy its long term longevity.
    And it did run VERY hot, which is fine for cruising around B roads, but for slow “off-road” and uphill climbs I was concerned about how hot It got. (I would turn it off for 15 mins to cool down after a slow section)
    So possibly not the ideal bike for lots of technical off road riding.
    I don’t think I would buy another Fantic, (resale value is crap) but I enjoyed it while I had it.

    • @thestrictlynoparking
      @thestrictlynoparking 2 роки тому

      Thanks for your feedback - I did ask why you changed the bkie on one of your other videos. Seems there is a risk of issues however do like much of the positives!

    • @nc30guy
      @nc30guy Рік тому

      I would imagine the heat issue is down to emissions and some sort of fueling module would help.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  Рік тому

      @@nc30guy yep probably the cat gets super hot. No doubt a delete of that would help lots

    • @takeshikusao4674
      @takeshikusao4674 Рік тому +2

      Thanks for long-term info. Not easy to find, still

    • @dare2sk
      @dare2sk 6 місяців тому

      What did you get instead?

  • @blindfrog3741
    @blindfrog3741 2 роки тому +49

    Ive done 6,000 miles. Now lives in Portugal. Rode through France and Spain so as long as you don’t want to sit too long on motorways it was perfect. Electrical issue with dash is due to the block connector, take apart and oil with ACF50, mine showed signs of corrosion. Must grease the linkages. They are plastic bushes and come not greased. Linkage bolts again not greased. The engine is very tight when new, takes over 3000 miles before freeing up. Took on a Portugal trail route, very good off road as it’s light and torquey. Cruising around 65 mph it does 75 mpg. Best was 90mpg. Good for 175 miles to reserve. It is great to ride. Where ever I stop I get asked about bike even from non bikers. Highly recommend.

  • @nockianlifter661
    @nockianlifter661 3 роки тому +8

    I have the scrambler version with the older switchgear and 600 miles. I’d agree with all of your review. I’d add that the tank is awkward to fuel and the front brake feels a bit wooden. I’ve owned loads of bikes, last one a KTM990 SMT. It was a big step down in power, but in its envelope it’s even more mental. It’s like the old Mini Cooper S, just enough power, a bit raucous, slightly hard suspension, but it flies down narrow back roads and makes me smile every time I ride it. Mpg I’ve worked out about 60mpg. It can manage a pillion if need be.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      Yep the tank is fiddly isn’t it. Have to keep pulling nozzle out a bit. Good point.
      Although I don’t have your experience (only ridden about 10 motorbikes in my life)
      I find the front brake to be fine.
      Always feel like I know how much grip I have.
      And have plenty of stopping power.
      Did they improve it for 2021 mode maybe?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      Thanks for input on MPG too.
      All I know there is it’s a shit ton cheaper than my van to run.... so not much use for comment. XD

    • @nockianlifter661
      @nockianlifter661 3 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive KTM had twin disc 4 pot Brembo brakes with a radial master. It would stand on its nose with one finger 😀 so I find a single disc slightly lacking, not a big issue though it’s just noticeably lacking by comparison. Back brake though is lovely. I don’t believe there were any model changes to the brakes.

    • @nockianlifter661
      @nockianlifter661 3 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive I had hoped for a bit more. Back in the day my Suzuki 450 would do 100+ and the RS250 Honda single hardly needed the tank filling. The little Honda SS50 managed some ridiculous frugality. I’m told the Honda CB500X can top 90mpg. So 60 is a little disappointing, but then the KTM rarely managed more than 45 and riding hard would see that down to 30mpg.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      @@nockianlifter661 true, I’m mostly using 3 fingers on brake lever to be fair. (Sometimes 2 when it’s really rocky and I need a good grip.)
      I’ve never had a bike that I can brake really well with one finger. So maybe it’s just about context and experience.

  • @c.g.c2067
    @c.g.c2067 3 роки тому +5

    To me it just looks awesome especially with that setup. If you fear hot bikes give the Triumph St. Scrambler a little go in summer...

  • @chrisjonesbath
    @chrisjonesbath 3 роки тому +4

    Thanks for the detailed update. The Fantic Caballero is on my list to downsize to, as I'm after something lightweight with enough oomph to be fun on small back roads in South Wales. Also looking at the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 as it is comparable in weight. No dealer for either close by though, so for now UA-cam is my source of info. Really appreciate your update.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      Glad it may help. Yep I tried the svartpilan 401 (and the 701 enduro)
      I have dealers for husqvarna and Fantic about an hour away from me. (And Honda and Suzuki and KTM too.
      What dealers do you have there?
      Worth test riding a few if you can.
      The safe money prob is the Honda rally 300.
      But as I just had a 250crf I wanted something different. (And the Caballero has more grunt)
      It’s always a compromise isn’t it.
      But you have to enjoy riding it. That comes before reputation and stats.
      And despite the cabellero being a bit “basic” it sure is fun. Chuckable and easy I suppose. (Mainly due to weight/size)

    • @chrisjonesbath
      @chrisjonesbath 3 роки тому +2

      @@biscuitsalive I've probably got the main marques within 90 mins from home, Honda a bit closer but the CRF is too off-road-focused and just maybe too much of a step down in power for me. I am keen to keep the weight as low as possible, though there is of course much more choice once you get up towards 200kg. Both my current (too heavy) 20+ year old bikes are air-cooled, so I'm used to more basic motorcycles :-). Thanks for your insight into the Caballero, sounds good to me.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      @@chrisjonesbath let me know if you get one.
      Still not many on the roads in UK.

  • @TheIdlesurfer
    @TheIdlesurfer 2 роки тому +2

    A lovely and honest review. I'd be tempted to get a bash plate and barkbusters, and my son loves this bike, selling his 390 Duke for this cool little bike. Basic is often good. It is also really refreshing that you are straightforward about your experience.

  • @itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449
    @itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449 2 роки тому +3

    The side covers that get in the way you may be able to look at some other Motorcross style side covers that will make it easier to stand up on without them getting in the way ( or modify the stock ones . Just wrap the pipe in heat shield tape .

  • @user-sw2lv3zp6o
    @user-sw2lv3zp6o Рік тому +4

    If you think this engine is 'clackety', you should try my 390 Duke. I reckon you can long haul on anything. When I was young, I did three trips to Portugal and back from the north of England and one Greece return run on a Yamaha XT500.
    Leave any bike outside and you'll get rust on brake discs.
    Your luggage loooks interesting. I'd like a Caballero Scrambler.
    Useful review. Nick

  • @biscuitsalive
    @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

    By the way. I’ve noticed adverts cut in before the shots at end. (Showing bike better and with exhaust /engine noise. )
    So bare this in mind if you want to hear that exhaust sound etc.

  • @syndromSMR
    @syndromSMR Рік тому +2

    I think it's a great bike, it looks great, its price is affordable, I love it

  • @WyreForestBiker
    @WyreForestBiker 2 роки тому +3

    Beautiful design but unfortunately the Chinese engine has well documented problems despite
    people insisting the Chinese build quality is fine now ....yeah right !

  • @bosoceansport2068
    @bosoceansport2068 2 роки тому +1

    Seems to me you answered all your own complaints about this bike. It is what it is and it doesn’t break the bank. Awesome bike for the price and if you don’t like the characteristics of this style of bike don’t buy one. Pound for pound as a fun daily ride and adventure bike, just freaking get one. Just me talking out loud. Unicorn’s actually don’t exist.

  • @RadRaven
    @RadRaven 3 роки тому +3

    Very cool and detailed review!
    Thanks!! ; )~

  • @KAMBERizam
    @KAMBERizam 2 роки тому

    Thank you for amazing review.
    Can you tell me how did you avoid burning the side bags, especially on the exhaust side?
    I have a problem because it gets super hot.
    Any tips?
    Thanx

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому

      My bags were fine how I had them , just keep it all taut so it can’t move around and touch a hot bit.

    • @KAMBERizam
      @KAMBERizam 2 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive Thanx for reply. Can you please send me the link of the bags? I see those are a little bit different shape. Perfect for Fantic bike...

  • @Fla1lure
    @Fla1lure 3 роки тому +2

    Thanks for the vid.
    Perhaps if you feel like it, keep the updates going as you ride more. I'm thinking of this bike, but since there seems to be quite little info about it, makes me hesitant.
    Most important is how the suspension handles it, once you start going faster. I had this type of experience with my NX650 (95), where in the beginning it was fine, but after about 2 years I started bottoming the front fork. The progressive springs fixed it. For the Caballero there aren't such options available.
    How well does it handles rough mud and going hard for long? I think from what I have seen, the british TET is quite challenging.
    I ride in Estonia, so you can see the rougher parts in the TET group :D

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      Yes. As I get more confident riding the rough stuff faster I will post vids.
      I’m doing the steepish stuff, but very slowly and hesitantly at the moment.

  • @mark.e.p
    @mark.e.p Рік тому +1

    I love this bike, but tbh I'd go for a second-hand Duke Scrambler as there are so many around.

    • @1985cactus
      @1985cactus Рік тому

      Aren't Ducatis quite heavier?

  • @zbyswitta
    @zbyswitta Рік тому +1

    Great review, thanks :)

  • @trehanero
    @trehanero 11 місяців тому

    True adventure machine

  • @barryjatkinson
    @barryjatkinson 2 роки тому

    A real review. Thank you

  • @christianmouraux7269
    @christianmouraux7269 2 роки тому +1

    Very nice looking bike, but not more than cruising around town 😀

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому +1

      Dunno. I did half of the GET TET on it.
      Sold it now. But it wasn’t too bad off road.

  • @TheSweetasanut
    @TheSweetasanut 2 роки тому +1

    Nice review mate

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому

      Cheers glad it was helpful.
      You reminded me to post and update comment.-
      UPDATE summer 2022
      I sold the Fantic Cab Rally (as wanted to try different bikes)
      After this review I did have several more cut outs, which dealer couldn’t find the cause.
      Also a headlight failure. (Which warranty sorted)
      In hindsight the bike was fun, decent pull/power and attractive, but I didn’t fancy its long term longevity.
      And it did run VERY hot, which is fine for cruising around B roads, but for slow “off-road” and uphill climbs I was concerned about how hot It got. (I would turn it off for 15 mins to cool down after a slow section)
      So possibly not the ideal bike for lots of technical off road riding.
      I don’t think I would buy another Fantic, (resale value is crap) but I enjoyed it while I had it.

  • @AngeloNardoniphoto
    @AngeloNardoniphoto 3 роки тому +1

    Nice video, even if I don't understand all of your speech. I'm curious: how did the right side bag behave? Thanks and ciao!

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      Do you mean does it melt it get very hot?
      (On exhaust)
      It seems fine, but I wouldn’t put my lunch in there. Bag does warm up a fair amount. But no melting so far.

    • @AngeloNardoniphoto
      @AngeloNardoniphoto 3 роки тому +1

      @@biscuitsalive Good, that's what I was wondering! :-)

  • @steveyoung6303
    @steveyoung6303 Рік тому +1

    Looks like the dealership you purchased it from are about as useful as back pocket on a singlet! Any problems they just dismiss it or reckon it'll sort itself out!

  • @itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449
    @itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449 2 роки тому +1

    Put a quad lock on your bars mate ( great 👍 for putting phone on .

  • @christianmuckensturm1789
    @christianmuckensturm1789 2 роки тому

    Bonjour,quelles sont les références des sacoches arrières.
    Elles doivent coller contre les échappements ! Chaleur ?
    Les tubes de protection en option du moteur ne sont elles pas utiles ?
    Merci

  • @OmerHan0
    @OmerHan0 Рік тому

    Hi, I'm thinking of buying this bike, would you recommend it?

  • @supermotorider2885
    @supermotorider2885 3 роки тому +1

    If you had a honda 250 why didn't you get a 690 supermotard or similar? Were you not comfortable with dirt bikes?

    • @rockinginafreeworld3256
      @rockinginafreeworld3256 3 роки тому

      He said he wants a small bike to fit in his van.

    • @TheIdlesurfer
      @TheIdlesurfer 2 роки тому +1

      I've got a 701. It is a very different proposition to this bike. My son is as keen as mustard on this bike, and I can see why. It looks cool, will do a bit of laning, insurance is realistic and won't cost a fortune to drop. I really like it. Michael Neves of MCN, a journo whose views I respect is very keen on this.

    • @peterbalac1915
      @peterbalac1915 Місяць тому

      ​@@TheIdlesurferThanks for that I didn't know Neevsey had done a review 🤙

  • @zaqsanara5839
    @zaqsanara5839 Рік тому

    Good video...Thank you. What about the tyres are they any good? are they a good road and off road tyres?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  Рік тому

      I didn’t mind them.
      No good in proper greasy mud.
      But not bad all rounders.

  • @thetubelesschannel
    @thetubelesschannel 3 роки тому +1

    Interesting !

  • @francescopitti6
    @francescopitti6 2 роки тому

    Hey sorry, can you link me where did you get your side bags?

  • @thebikegeekandmore2448
    @thebikegeekandmore2448 3 роки тому +1

    Please update us as you are racking up the miles.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +3

      Will do. Been doing lots of off road sections last few days. So it’s getting hot and shook up lots. Seems ok so far.

  • @thebikegeekandmore2448
    @thebikegeekandmore2448 3 роки тому

    Thanks for sharing your experience of the bike. Do you know if fantic hast been taking care of the technical problems they had with the head gasket?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      I’ve not heard if any issues with head gasket.
      I’ve heard that the cush drive wears out quickly. And the electrics don’t like getting very wet. That’s about it.

    • @thebikegeekandmore2448
      @thebikegeekandmore2448 3 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive ua-cam.com/video/jk4cJz9EvAg/v-deo.html This is a German review about it. I think you can subtitel it. The problem with the head gasket is quite common problem with this model. This is the reason I am hesitating about this bike. I have not been able to get a confirmation that this problem has been sorted out

    • @lulugacks3526
      @lulugacks3526 3 роки тому +3

      no more problems with the head gasket. it was something to do with the thermostat/cooler on the first(?) modelyear...

    • @thebikegeekandmore2448
      @thebikegeekandmore2448 3 роки тому

      @@lulugacks3526 In one UA-cam review they where saying that the internal pressuare des Motors where to high and hence the problem with gasket. According this review some changes seems to be done to expansion chamber of the coolingsystem but I have not been able to get a confirmation about it.

  • @mercow1242
    @mercow1242 7 місяців тому

    Is engine reliable? Is it vibrate so much? Iam a high milage User. I can put on it, thousands miles on it. What should i buy?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  7 місяців тому

      Sold mine before putting high miles on it. So hard to say.
      Deff Honda/Yamaha/Suzuki will be more reliable for many miles.
      Vibrations were not bad on this one. But any single cylinder engine is going to have some buzz.

  • @pedrothecornishviking9981
    @pedrothecornishviking9981 3 роки тому

    nice review mate. Hopefully get mine from Thor soon, if it ever turns up 😩

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      How long have you been waiting?
      And rally too or scrambler

    • @pedrothecornishviking9981
      @pedrothecornishviking9981 3 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive put the deposit down about 3 weeks ago, for the rally.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      @@pedrothecornishviking9981 nice. Enjoy!

  • @tiagobotelho7882
    @tiagobotelho7882 2 роки тому

    Any issues with the kriega panners in the right side because of the exaust?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому +1

      Seemed ok. But if something shifted or strap wasn’t correct it could mean melty bits.

  • @livonian
    @livonian 3 роки тому +1

    ECU remap will make the engine run cooler.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      Thanks. Haven’t heard that before.
      I did hear early models benefit from a remap.

    • @livonian
      @livonian 3 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive To pass the Euro regulations, the standard mapping makes the engine run very lean, hence the heat.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      @@livonian just looking into this.
      I’m no expert on engines, but found this-
      ua-cam.com/video/vcgmEKhCFTs/v-deo.html

    • @livonian
      @livonian 3 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive Lots of nonsense on UA-cam.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      @@livonian read into it a bit more. I think he is right, but is being very pedantic.
      When people say running “lean” raises engine temps, what they really should be saying is running “less rich” can make engine running hot.
      But as soon as you technically start to run “Lean” as in not burning all the air, then that does cool engine off.

  • @mylifeinthailand8751
    @mylifeinthailand8751 2 роки тому +1

    It’s probably more reliable than a Desert Sled

  • @Hutchie2112
    @Hutchie2112 3 роки тому

    I'm thinking about getting one, and right away my ears pricked up at you saying it fits in your van. Might seem a daft question, but what van do you have, as I'm also looking at getting a van to transport the bike long distances.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      I’ve got a VW transporter T5. Pretty standard size for a van. (Not long wheel base or high roof model)

    • @Hutchie2112
      @Hutchie2112 3 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive perfect. Thanks

  • @fcalin21
    @fcalin21 2 роки тому

    How are the vibrations ?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому

      They are medium. You know you are on a single pot. But I didn’t notice it bad. No numb fingers or anything like that.

    • @fcalin21
      @fcalin21 2 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive Thank you.

  • @MegaRich7
    @MegaRich7 Рік тому

    Have you come across The Crumble.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  Рік тому

      Not sure what that is

    • @MegaRich7
      @MegaRich7 Рік тому +1

      @@biscuitsalive he'sa tuber as well. Rides the indian trails like you do. Look him up!

  • @jackvliet
    @jackvliet 2 роки тому

    Is this available in the u.s.?

    • @danielkerr4100
      @danielkerr4100 2 роки тому +1

      Why don't you just Google it 🤣 rather than waiting on a UA-cam comments section.

    • @jackvliet
      @jackvliet 2 роки тому

      @@danielkerr4100 is this available in the u.s.?

  • @AntonioNaso
    @AntonioNaso 3 роки тому

    What about your lateral luggage?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      The saddlebags? Kreiga OS system.
      Doesn’t quite fit perfectly. But does ok.

    • @essveekay
      @essveekay 3 роки тому

      What size are the Kriega bags? They look about right.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      @@essveekay pretty sure they are 2x12. So 24 in total.

  • @densamme1752
    @densamme1752 2 роки тому

    Thx for the video 👍

  • @kaaajeee
    @kaaajeee 3 роки тому

    how tall are you?

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому

      About 5’9 or 5’8 haven’t measured in years. (But fairly short legs )

  • @peterd3215
    @peterd3215 2 роки тому

    Did you sell it and why.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому +1

      Sold it. I had a few minor niggles. Cutting out etc. And was running super hot.
      So started to worry about reliability.
      Fun bike.
      But I wanted something more dependable.
      (Yamaha/Honda etc)

    • @peterd3215
      @peterd3215 2 роки тому +1

      @@biscuitsalive ok that's my main worry so I will avoid it tbh. Nobody needs that hassle. I see you bought the crf300l, that's an option for me or another Himalayan (but slow and unreliable)

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому +1

      @@peterd3215 yep 300L is perfect green lane/TET machine.
      Just underpowered on road and soft suspension.
      But great choice.

    • @peterd3215
      @peterd3215 2 роки тому

      @@biscuitsalive I have the cb300r that I've scrambled for malle mile etc it doesn't feel too underpowered (does 96mph top speed) but a bit more grunt would be nice. The only other option is the KTM adv390 but the test ride on that showed it was quite dull, too big and has a terrible back break. Thought the cabellero was the answer but I guess not. A tuned Himalayan might be, it's comfy, goes well in the muck and has the low seat. Reliability has gotten better since my rubbish old 2018 model. The versys 300x was a great bike also but very uncomfortable and felt like a sail in high winds.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  2 роки тому

      @@peterd3215 it’s always a compromise somewhere.
      Loved my Tenere700
      But the weight of that thing was a compromise too far.

  • @mavieskizz
    @mavieskizz 3 роки тому

    i think it need crash bars.

    • @biscuitsalive
      @biscuitsalive  3 роки тому +1

      Possibly. Haven’t seen those available yet.

    • @longjonwhite
      @longjonwhite 3 роки тому

      The problem when you start adding crashbars etc. it stops being a lightweight bike. (Speaking as a fully loaded BMW GS800 owner who can no longer lift his bloody bike if it drops !)

    • @mavieskizz
      @mavieskizz 3 роки тому

      @@longjonwhite You change your mind when the motorcycle tilts for the first time.

  • @debbierigby6304
    @debbierigby6304 2 роки тому

    I LIKE IT BUT I DONTLIKE IT?MAKE YOUR MIND U
    P