Agreed about all your points on the new speed twins. I hate that triumph are fitting the clocks from the trident to everything now. These should always have twin dials.😕
Wrong for us, but not for the industry. Remember, it is a show mainly funded by the motorcycle industry at the end of their season, when revenues are falling. New models are shown, people place orders for new bikes, buy new gear, etc. etc. They are unlikely to put it on in the spring or summer, when sales are good anyway. It is the same with the boat industry, the caravan industry, the holiday industry, all the outdoor product businesses.
I just bought a Yamaha MT-09 SP, and promised the dealer that I'd take the Y-AMT out for a ride when I bring the bike for its first service. I'm willing to try most things. I've ridden scooters and electric bikes, even took the Nikken out once. My scepticism around automatic / flappy paddle bikes is the slow speed control where I rely heavily on the clutch, but let's see.
I'm also a Honda devotee, having owned CBF600, 1000 and currently ride an XL1000 Varadero. I'm back living in Europe having worked in manufacturing, China's Guangdong Province for almost 30 years. I've personally witnessed Chinese manufacturing advances during my time in Asia. Where motorbikes are concerned, a big factor in Chinese manufacturing improvement is collaboration with European makers, engineers and designers, the bike business becoming more global.
im also here and have experience with china they ARE getting better however they ( did ) do exactly what u tell them and their iso record keeping wasnt so good Remember when we had "jap crap"
Another great review.. Very much agree with a lot of your comments on most of the stories you mentioned.. Chinese bikes.. The bike show and the styling of the new Triumph Speed Twin. I think it would be a good idea for you to purchase and fit the new self levelling shock to one of your fleet for a comparison 🤔 be one of the first to do so.. I look forward to the video👍
Thanks for the update. Thanks partly to your channel, I’ve recently moved from Harleys to a 2022 GS Adventure. I’m loving it, so thanks! Looking forward to the NEC also. It’s a couple of hours away but always a good time to test out the heated gear and enjoy the free bike parking!
Although I'm a self-confessed Honda fan boy with a lot of time on my hands, (retired) I spend a fair bit of time browsing around dealerships. The one thing with Chinese bikes is I just don't like the look of them, CF Moto are all weird angles acres of plastic, also I have to say some people's idea of good build quality is different to mine, with my (retired) engineering head on, some parts just don't look right. RE have it right in that the price point is spot on, and they look like proper motorbikes which appeals to our ageing biker population, I have plenty of friends who have gone with RE and are very happy, not my thing though. I last went to Motorcycle Live in 2019 and was pretty underwhelmed by it all. If 44 teeth suddenly turned up I definitely wouldn't go! The up coming tour looks great and look forward to watching. Keep up the good work 👍
About automatic gear shift, I recently bought a Honda NC 750XD (DCT) as a daily workhorse standing next to my Moto Guzzi V85TT, I choose the dct version for the practicality and easy daily riding commuting, and just to make sure it was quite different from my bike chosen buy my heart the Moto Guzzi. Now after half a year I must admit I am quite surprised, I absolutely love the bloody thing and I'm now doing 90% of my riding on the NC. It seems somehow I have found back some of the enjoyment from when I was starting riding motorcycles, it seems like as the bikes have grown bigger through the years I have lost some of the easiness and enjoyment of riding a bike. Automatic gear shifts have in some magic way brought that back to me, I'm quite surprised?
I've also got a NC750X DCT, I enjoy it, sport 2 seems to be the sweet spot for me. I've got a dodgy left knee that gets really aggrevated by the action of manual shifting, sothsiuallows me to ride in relative comfort (I don't actually like the NC that much, terrible wind buffering for me), but the box is brilliant. I had a Africa Twin 2016 DCT at one point, like that but it was really top heavy, something they addressed with the 2018 revision, but it had a weird tendancy to shift mid corner regardless of the gearbox setting - the NC never seems to do this, even without the IMU they use now - really pleased they have finally updated the NT1100 with that!
@@SuperchargedLlamaI have a givi windscreen + a small vind deflect on top of that, works perfectly for me (I am 1,90) 👍 And yes also had the 2016 African Twin DCT , didn't like it... Although it is the prettiest one among them , the new versions looks very interesting but are too expensive for me.
I remember when the BMW Nivomat shocks came out. I recall only one issue, and it was a minor one: After the bike sat for a while, at the start of the next ride the shocks were not at the usual ride height, and you had to ride a bit until they had moved up and down enough for the internal self-adjusting apparatus to reestablish position. This apparently not significant issue though, as the Nivomat-equipped RT riders I knew at the time liked theirs.
I don't know about automatic transmission on a bike, I can only say about my car experience. I always said I'd never go away from a stick shift,but when I got shot of Peugeot 406, I went for a BMW X5 which only has auto trans far as I know,mine is 20yrs old. It makes driving so relaxed,just stick it in drive & stomp on the loud pedal. I had found lifting the clutch pedal multiple times in traffic tiresome as I have a damaged left knee. I'd never go back to a stick shift now.
I am couple of decades older than you, and I remember the time when nobody wanted to ride Japanese bikes because they were "Inferior POS bikes built by the enemy we had just vanquished. What can they possibly offer us?" Well, it turns out they offered more choices and superior quality at affordable prices. And now the Chinese have the tech and manufacturing skills to put most of the rest of the world to shame. I predict you will see at least a dozen manufacturers making fantastic motorcycles (and cars) better for less than the European brands. And, history tells us that they will be made better, be more reliable! (yes I have owned 12 Italian bikes, I know), and offer more models, accessories, and even colours. If you haven't been to Thailand, or Vietnam, or China lately, you have no idea of how fast and how far they have advanced in the past couple of decades. The European manufacturers will only survive as long as the countries they are built in, support those brands financially. Look at KTM now on the verge of bankruptcy. Will Aprillia or Ducati also fall?
KTM are nowhere near financial trouble. They sold over 280,000 bikes last year. They’ve had a worse year than normal this year and have made some staff redundant, probably shifting more manufacture east as is every European bike brand. I don’t imagine Bajaj, who own 49.9% of KTM, would allow that to happen either.
I think the key difference there is that the Japanese bikes came with a level of reliability that primarily the English brands couldn’t match at that time. BMW still survived, as it were. The Chinese brands of today deliver a slightly better value, it’s true. But the reliability is still on the side of the Japanese bikes and performance/flash/spec sheet is on the side of the European brands. Until that changes (and it might) the Chinese brands will at best get a niche in a crowded market.
Great collection! I bought my first LV when I was 25 and I've only used that bag a few times haha. Also, I love your clutch! I have an Eva clutch with the DE print and I love the little chain. But I don't want to spend that much money right now and the luxrul always gets me the bag I want and it's just as good as the LV and one of my favorites. Durability
Hi Andy. I can safely say, that I will be watching your, touring episodes in the next few coming weeks. All ways a good way to spend, an evening in front of the gogglebox. Keep up the good vids, and ride safe.
Hi there again great video thanks Martin. I've now sold my triumph street triple 675 2012 and got myself a ducati streetfighter 848 2014 as regards the group ride problem it's impossible to police IMO I went out yesterday and ended up at the front of the queue at the traffic lights with 4 other bikes so obviously when the green light came on we all rode off together in a group 😂 hay ho good luck with that one.
Good luck with the shoulder op hope it goes well and your back riding soon, pity your tour reviews don't get as much views, I've enjoyed them hopefully your winging it tour changes that.
I hope so too (I’ve put a lot of effort, time and money into it!) but I’m not holding my breath! It was fun to do and that was the main thing as far as I’m concerned….
the first thing wrong with the NEC bike show is when they do put on free inside parking for motorcycles in oneof the halls YOU THEN HAVE A FIVE MILE WALK SWEATING YOUR COBS OF WITH ALL YOUR GEAR ON ,
Regarding the Chinese motorbike dilemma, your opening monologue hit the nail on the head. It's a simple question of politics. Motorbike selection is one area of life where I can reasonably avoid lining the coffers of the Chinese Communist Party. Obviously there's nuance, but the sentiment remains.
and presumably all the other electronic devices you may use such as TV, laptop, 'phone etc.? Buy British I say! Oh, what do you mean, the British don't make anything anymore?
So you have nothing from china in your house or possessions........ Think about how you sent this message and then realize how condescending you sound.
So far I'm really liking my CFmoto ibex 800 t. I also own 2 HD motorcycles a pan America and road glide. I just love motorcycles and the CF is a great MC and value!
Sounds like a fantastic tour series coming up. Just what we need for the darker nights. I first found you as a result of your Norwegian tour and still can't believe there's a roundabout in a tunnel!!!
Hi Andy, always enjoy your monthly news. To your comments about Chinese bikes, initially I owned a Lexmoto ZSX-R 125 Chinese made bike and had no issues with it. Used it all year round, and run like clockwork. The speedo was out a bit, but you just got used to that. I now own a Benelli TRK 702 and have only just peeled off the “Made In China” sticker. Still a great bike and no issues so far with the first 1500 miles.
Totally agree with your views on motorcycle live and big thumbs up for Chopsey presenting instead. We need to bring in new riders and not live in the 80s. Went last year and hadn’t planned to go this year. ABR bike beer bands and bed is a killer combo and I don’t want to watch bands without a beer as I’ve got to drive (after paying a fortune for parking).
@@davidmatthews3093 I'm allergic to him, too. Can't put my finger on it. The brashness? The loudness? The incessant facial close-ups? The accent? The ego? Maybe just the name. "Lamb Chops" is silly enough, but "Chopsie"?
I enjoy your tours a lot. I have not toured Europe or USA/Canada nor ridden/driven on other side of road and at approaching 70yrs I probably will stick to countries like Japan, UK, Tasmania etc if I do so. Living in the South Island of New Zealand I know my way around blindfolded (figuratively speaking). I tour on 3 of my 4 bikes and they are 2017 BMW R1200R, 2024 Ducati Diavel V4 or when taking it casually I take my HD Sport Glide. Like you, I I have a Triumph Speed Twin 1200 (series 2) and in many ways is my favourite for the shorter trips of up to 300kms - 186.4 miles. To be honest I feel it is hard to beat the BMW for touring in NZ, with all the windy roads. Keep up the great work
Hi Andy, plese do get on the multistrada, i bought a grand tour back in march and in all my years biking, probably about 42, it is the best bike i have ever owned. Do yourself a favour. On the tourring vids i alwats enjoy your tours. I look forward to them, the short previewlooked stunning. I ll be checking in on Saturday. Keep up the good work👍👍
I feel exactly the same on the auto box theme.. I just don’t see how it’s appealing or remotely necessary (unless you have a physical issue that requires it). Is it really that difficult to shift?
Hi Andy Hope the shoulder repair is progressing! Always enjoy the monthly catch up… Chinese bikes are on the march..don’t think you’ve reviewed the Voge 900DSX yet.. Ex BMW approved engine, Brembo brakes, branded suspension & tyres, QS, cruise, heated bars/seats, TFT, radar, plug ins, even 3 bits of metal luggage! All for £9200 otr…long warranty… Just saying… Looking forward to the Euro tour vids…bet you got wet there too! Atb…Alan. Look
There is lots of older motorcyclists out who love motorcycle racing of all types plus love to see old time racers. My motorcycling spanes 40 plus years. On all size of bikes.
Looking forward to your tour video series Andy. MrsP and I did 5k klm recently round Europe on our new Africa Twin just before the awful weather hit Europe. I for one really enjoy your tour vids especially on the dark winter evenings 🙂
Andy, you should move to Australia, biking season here around SYdney lasts about 11 1/2 months of he year.. There a few days in July when it’s a touch cold, a few days in April when it’s a little bit windy and a couple of days in January when the Sydney Test is on. Apart from that, great weather.
Where to start ! It seems to me that simpler, more affordable bikes are selling well, I'm sure there's a link there ! One of the pleasures of riding is using a slick shifting gearbox, you decide when you want to change, you can lazily short shift or hold a gear for a rapid overtake, with quick shifter/auto blippers it's even easier. For commuters and tourers auto modes seem a great idea, otherwise it removes one of the pleasures. Automatic braking might be a good idea if you ride a bike like a car, with no filtering, not getting yourself onto clear road etc - are car designers developing these ideas ?! Looking forward to your Goldwing tour 👍🏻
Thanks for the updates, enjoyable as ever. I can’t help thinking that the drop in large motorcycle sales is linked to the cost and increasing complexity and unnecessary electronics. We just want good bikes at a reasonable price.
I work at a piston manufacturer in the uk, we developed the latest rocket 3 pistons, after development they were shipped off to china for mass production, so yep all those 24 k rocket 3 bikes have Chinese aluminium bouncing up and down, I’ll probably say the main reason would be worker numbers, unfortunately it’s just something we have to get use to or if anyone is that bothered, set up a British company 😊
@@TheMissendenFlyerwe made the ducati go ones early 2000s , they would be around £200 each then , ktm approached us and wanted a complete piston, rings, and cylinder liner for £10 😂 I’m honestly not joking, the aluminium alone then to forge the piston was about a £5 each, might explain some occasional ktm issues 🤔 have good evening and apparently is going to stop raining tomorrow 😊
Hi Andy, with you on a terrible weather year we have had so far, looking forward to you and Mrs Flyer dodging the rain on your European tour, on the mighty Goldwing. One thing to mention on the Yam and ASA auto box's as opposed to the DCT it's hell of a lot lighter, so on a smaller machine it probably makes more sense than a dual clutch. Thank you.
Andy can I give you some advice regarding shoulder rehab. Once healed up, buy a pull up bar and hang from it each morning for as long as you can. I also bought a Rangemaster (Amazon) shoulder stretching device. I suffered for years with a dodgy left shoulder. Doctors never advised me to rehab properly and then I listened to a specialist. I now have no pain at all, hanging is so important for shoulder mobility. It's a complicated floating joint and I hope your surgery goes well and you give my advice a shot.
Personally I recommend swimming up to an hour a day in the early days of recovery . I had a left side total replacement shoulder joint in 2023 and it has been a revelation since, pain free, movement returned, full strength now
Midnight rider - funnily enough I do have a hanging bar fitted in my kitchen doorway - heard about them some time ago but sadly (despite very regular use) have still ended up here….
@@TheMissendenFlyer Hopefully you can get a decent outcome soon, my shoulder almost turned me away from bikes due to the aches and pains so I understand how frustrating it can be. The op results have been amazing for me. All the best with it
1. I look forward to your tour as I always enjoy them. :) 2. I look forward to your review of the Honda X-ADV750 MY25. If I were rich enough I'd look into having one imported to me here in Canada. I've always liked the looks of that bike ...I mean scooter. 3. I look forward to your ride and review of the Triumph Speed 1200RS. 4. I look forward to your ride and review of that H-D Trike ....even with that spoiler alert thrown in. :) 5. And ....this video on Bike News Review was pretty, pretty, pretty good too. :)
Regarding your section on automatic motorbikes, I am always fascinated in discussions with my friend on the subject. So many are longstanding bikers who are set in their ways about changing gear and losing an essential element of biking enjoyment. For me, I own a DCT version of Honda’s NC750X and absolutely love it. No stalling, no fiddling for the right gear, quick auto shifting or manual overriding using the handlebar shifters is a big plus for me but I do understand the arguments against. You are not in favour clearly. However, I wonder what the ratio of DCT to non DCT purchasers is, which may help decide if there is a market. Some years ago my local Honda dealer told me that his sales figures were about 50/50. Can we find out across the UK what the ratio is for DCT versions of say the CMX1100, Africa Twin, NT1100 and the NC750X? I for one would be really interested to know. Wouldn’t you? Great review again this month. Well done
I think auto gearbox would be a great idea for those who have lost the use of arm or a leg, which means they can still ride but without spending a fortune on modifications.
Hey Andy. Love your channel. I watch from Canada. I live here after moving from Edinburgh 22 years ago. I had bikes back home but unfortunately not here. Will you or can you review a bike from Thornton hundred motorcycles. Specifically the bobber. I would love to hear your opinion on it. Not sure if you would review small ish bike makers. But ooooooo it looks lovely. Fingers crossed I hope you do. Keep up the good work. It’s almost a national service oh wait international service you do. Thanks so much.
Thanks for the news. I try to catch this great series when I can. As I've yammered on about it for years, I'm happy to have recently read that Royal Enfield has finally announced a 650 Bullet, although it not being a single has me almost as baffled as their discontinuing the 500. All the best!
You lads must have to put a lot of hard work into your channel but what I like is the honesty of your opinion even if it doesn’t suit everyone Looking forward to the tour videos
The entire top tier range of 1980's BMW airheads had Nivomat self leveling rear shocks. Like anything else they worked great until.they didn't then you would replace them with traditional rear shocks.
I'm seriously considering not going to the NEC show this year too, mainly due to the overall cost of the day as its too expensive for the same old stuff every year. I also agree with you about the speakers stage and always give that a swerve! It would be mych better if they included TH-camrs such as yourself, Ryan F9, Chopsie, Bruce etc
@@TheMissendenFlyer Totally agree. And I watch BSB racing and know the racers past and present. Our biking experience on roads is nothing like people track racing. Motorcycle live should have an area for racing bikes but the stage should be used for people like us road bikers that use all types of bikes.
@@TheMissendenFlyer that's another good option. They should consult bikers and ask what they want from the show. At the moment, I can wait and visit local dealers to see the specific bikes I want to look at. The main thing they need to look at is the pricing of everything.
Enjoying your video and reviews I have a wulbers rear shock on my 1050 tiger sport it was £1,300 when new and has transformed my bike has the oil can and adjustable damper brilliant I really like the idea of dct clutch etc... I have carpal tunnel and repetitive strain injury changing gear using the clutch all day really hurts so i see the point keep doing what you do very interesting 🏍️💨💨💨
Japan was terribly hot this year ,,,and now the typhoons have struck ! Royal Enfield early indian made were rough as a bears bum I still use mine daily 40 years later
@@TheMissendenFlyer jeeeez. I live with a damaged collar bone, but although I have been offered surgery I have found that lifting dumbbells has really helped stabilise it and reduce the vulnerability and pain. I really didn’t like the idea of the surgery… you must be pretty fed up with all that. Yes, definitely all fingers crossed for you.
I bought a CFM 450NK over the Triumph speed 400 because its a twin and is very smooth with no vibrations at higher speeds, handles beautifully and sounds great with std exhaust (but exhaust could look better) has some good tech and was GBP 600.00 cheaper too. Am loving it.
Another enjoyable Bike news, for me it could be an hour long episode. I will be looking forward to the tour series. How is Mrs Flyer getting on with the riding. Will there be a video update? Yes miserable weather this week, hope shoulder opp goes well.
Nice review Andy. Same here in Dublin (the home of halloween) we, or I that is, close all curtains and put off all lights and we hide out in the kitchen . Good luck with the shoulder op.
Having done 3000 plus miles on my 1300GS I can say with some certainty the switch gear is actually very easy to use as with all bikes you just need to get used to it and it all becomes second nature
I really miss the manual gear shifting in cars, since almost everything now is automatic transmission. I don't want to give it up on my bike. I always love the tour series, TMF, Japan was awesome!
@davidmatthews3093 Mini or BMW do not do manual gearboxes anymore, and as time goes by most other manufacturers are slowly following them. So manual boxes are getting rare in the uk new car market.
Looking forward to your tour video series, and yeah....don't mention the weather. Having been caught out but the bad weather at Lake Como and into Switzerland, but the time I got to the B500 and the Black Forest, with the continuous rain and road closures/diversions I had enough of winging it and made a straight ling for the ferry and back home to the UK. Hope you faired better on your tour than I did on mine. Regards G
@@TheMissendenFlyer In summary, I went Grossglockner, Dolomites, Stelvio, Lake Como, Splügenpass, Furka, Grimsel, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, B500, Strasbourg, Luxembourg, Rotterdam. The latter part was in rain and snow on the high mountain passes. Just reviewing my videos to see if I pass a blue Goldwing on my route! 😁😁 TBH, I think if you've avoided the bad weather we'll not have been on the same tarmac. Looking forward to the vids. G.
Being an old codger of 66 and working in engineering all my life it erks me when magazines refer to "making" a bike.My old training officer said "Bakers make bread" engineers "manufacture" machines.
Owned a CCM flat tracker. Loved the looks and would have kept it if the finances allowed. Tremendous fun for an hour or so. I think they need a twin with larger capacity. I bet Mr Milliard could lash 2 X 600cc together as a V. I moved to a KTM 1200 SA and love it. Good luck with the surgery and hope it sorts you out. 🍻
For one reason or another, I don't like the new Trident 1200, I mean the Speed Twin 1200 (19:25). Triumph seem to have forgotten that it's a bike that's supposed to draw its inspiration from the Triumph Bonneville's of old? So, my bike news for September 2024, I've joined the crew, and I've just bought a new Stealth Edition Triumph Speed Twin 1200, in the limited sapphire red/silver red colourway, with a black quilted seat, heated grips, and the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). I found out that Triumph had reduced the price of the MY24 models by £2,000, so I'm picking my bike up next week, and I can't wait. The Speed Twin 1200 has almost twice the torque of my current bike, so that should be fun! With the cash I've saved, I might upgrade the shocks in the future. I went the whole hog, and, yes, I even bought the t-shirt! Then, in my new bike madness, I went full on Brando and splashed out on a very nice Triumph Braddan Sport leather jacket as well, because, just by coincidence, it matched the bike and it was also in a sale. So, I'm sorted, and just in time for a UK winter, what perfect timing! It'll be interesting to see your review of the 2025 Speed Twin. No doubt it'll be a very good bike, but looks-wise, I think Triumph have ruined it with this iteration in my opinion. 👍
Regarding motorcycle live, I agree that it needs a refresh. The other issue is some of the bike manufacturers have started voting with their feet. Moto Guzzi and Harley were two who didn’t show last year. The setting out of the stands is also poor with long walks between things that should be together, e.g similar manufacturing stands so you can compare. As far as the biased towards bike racing guests and speakers it is a difficult one as you can’t please everyone but I agree a couple of you tubers is a good idea
I think the reason why Chinese bikes and others are doing well is because people are working out that £25k for a BMW r1300 etc with luggage is just crazy. Simpler lower powered models at a much lower cost for what in the main are hobby purchases are very much gaining ground. Triumph have absolutely played a blinder with their 400,s. I wonder if the likes of BMW, Ducati and Guzzi will re enter this market?
Yes, exactly. A Far Eastern company building motorcycles where it’s cheap to do so and selling them covered with Union Jacks. That’s the way to do it. I’m surprised that BMW and KTM haven’t done the same. Oh, apparently they have. (without the flag shagging)
The Enfield has actual dealerships now, previously they were sharing a section of a multi brand mega dealership, if that makes sense. The same thing with CF Moto and Indian a big Polaris dealer just opened up two months ago and all the Indian bikes are sold in this new shop. The 450 MT is selling big time here and it has upset Suzuki a lot but we been pleading for a new DRZ400e update but instead they pulled it and the 650. But we been asking everyone in general for cost effective 300-450 cc cost effective units as well we are kind of in a bit of a financial crisis right, Triumph, Enfield and CF Moto listed and gave us some fab products, it’s almost like a scene from Yes minister “you don’t give the people what they want, you give what we we convince them they need, this won’t do!
If automatic gear shifts make for smoother changes then it might reduce wear over time, perhaps improve fuel efficiency, of course if you have some kind of disability it would be an advantage. For myself it would detract from the riding experience and would be high on the not for me list. A reverse gear would be nice.
I will be putting my order in for a Yamaha Y-AMT as its going to be ideal for me as I've got permanent problems with my left ankle and knee. Thank you Yamaha.
Looking seriously at the Y-AMT myself (also left leg issues). But I believe it actually changes faster than doing it manually so I think people should reserve their judgement before riding one. Probably would wait until later iterations though as never buy the first gen of anything until they sort the bugs out.
I'd have a CFMoto 450MT like a shot, I rode one and found it to be a quality bike. I couldn't say the same about the Triumph. If bikes aren't made in China how many parts are, the argument needs to take a rest, it happened years ago with Japan when they burried the Brits, now it's China's turn, unlike the UK China learnt and worked at it, we just outsourced everything.
The issues I see at the moment about Chinese bikes are dealer availability, spares availability, reliability and support. If these are overcome then they will gain traction in the market. Yes, resale values are terrible, but they are currently for Royal Enfields, so it seems cheap in and cheap out is one of the ‘prices’ we will pay 🤷🏻♀️
Insurance seems to be another issue - some companies seem not to want to insure them, some get confused between models and even BHP (god knows how) and others just bump the premium up.
Again you are so right. Even though I have ohlins front and rear on my speed twin, my bike is still retro. Triumph adding a digital clock is a joke. Changing the riding position that moves closer to the street triple is not needed with this style of bike
Regarding the radar and automatic braking. If I were a paranoid cynic, I'd say it was a first step towards automatic speed limiting which is now compulsory in cars.
One safety thing I think should be on every bike is small indicators lights on handle bars to show you they are on. To many time I have left my indicator on due to lack of knowing they are still on. I have also seen many other bikes with their indicators still on after turning. What’s your thought on a small LED each side of the handle bars flashing letting you know they are on. Many times the indicator light on screen can be missed if you watching the road and that’s the issue you need to watching the road not the LCD screen. As we all know it is very dangerous to any biker been hit side on because you still have your indicator still on when a car pulls out as they think you are turning, we stick the finger up to then then realise our indicator is still on.🏍️💺🔆🔆.
I’d say that adding that little line of code that makes indicators self-cancelling should be standard on bikes. With IMU’s becoming more or less standard on everything bigger than 700cc I see this in the near future.
@@903lew I have a car with self cancelling indicators and some times they don’t cancel, but I see your point if you set your indicators to cancel after a number of flashes that would help as long as it doesn’t cancel before you have turned. So I would say it’s still a good idea to easily see a small LCD light on handlebars or mirror at eye level as well would be good
@@hectorshouse7348 how many bikers have failed their test because they left their indicator on for too long hell I still do it in my car after 40years of driving even when it should of self cancelling
@@senna4281 I don’t know, prefer to minimise the amount of flashing when riding myself but I’m sure it could be made to work. Personally I think I’d trust the system more than my silly thumb most of the time, not that I’ve ever had a bike with self-cancelling indicators.
When you start talking about bikes that have radar and stop/start themselves I start reading my Lidl magazine.
Me two
Agreed about all your points on the new speed twins. I hate that triumph are fitting the clocks from the trident to everything now. These should always have twin dials.😕
I don't go to the NEC any more because of the extortionate parking cost. They are way too greedy!
I go by train. Cheap as chips if you book in advance, dead easy to get to the halls, you can enjoy a beer if you want one.
I go by bike. But then I do live only 20 mins away
@@alans1962 I ride from St Albans it's free parking
Use your bike then, it’s free!
Come on, what’s wrong with auto boxes ? I love em, the more the merrier you can’t knock it if you haven’t really tried them.
Excellent review of MCN,looking forward to your european tour review,and all the best for your shoulder op.
Thank you kindly!
I love my CF Moto 450MT, and my wife and they were both made in China.😀 Looking forward to your tour video's, all the best for your op.
Cheers as ever David!
I go to Motorcycle Live every year, I go to look at the bikes and have no interest in the stage it just takes up space where more bikes could be.
I couldn’t agree more!
I went last year and was very impressed. I will 100% be going again this year. Totally agree about the unnecessary stage.
Motorcycle Live, like you said, is held at the wrong time of year.
Wrong for us, but not for the industry. Remember, it is a show mainly funded by the motorcycle industry at the end of their season, when revenues are falling. New models are shown, people place orders for new bikes, buy new gear, etc. etc. They are unlikely to put it on in the spring or summer, when sales are good anyway. It is the same with the boat industry, the caravan industry, the holiday industry, all the outdoor product businesses.
Always like your level headed, no fuss approach to the industry - keep up the good work !
Thanks, will do!
I just bought a Yamaha MT-09 SP, and promised the dealer that I'd take the Y-AMT out for a ride when I bring the bike for its first service.
I'm willing to try most things. I've ridden scooters and electric bikes, even took the Nikken out once. My scepticism around automatic / flappy paddle bikes is the slow speed control where I rely heavily on the clutch, but let's see.
I'm also a Honda devotee, having owned CBF600, 1000 and currently ride an XL1000 Varadero. I'm back living in Europe having worked in manufacturing, China's Guangdong Province for almost 30 years. I've personally witnessed Chinese manufacturing advances during my time in Asia. Where motorbikes are concerned, a big factor in Chinese manufacturing improvement is collaboration with European makers, engineers and designers, the bike business becoming more global.
im also here and have experience with china they ARE getting better however they ( did ) do exactly what u tell them and their iso record keeping wasnt so good Remember when we had "jap crap"
Another great review.. Very much agree with a lot of your comments on most of the stories you mentioned.. Chinese bikes.. The bike show and the styling of the new Triumph Speed Twin.
I think it would be a good idea for you to purchase and fit the new self levelling shock to one of your fleet for a comparison 🤔 be one of the first to do so.. I look forward to the video👍
Thanks for the update. Thanks partly to your channel, I’ve recently moved from Harleys to a 2022 GS Adventure. I’m loving it, so thanks! Looking forward to the NEC also. It’s a couple of hours away but always a good time to test out the heated gear and enjoy the free bike parking!
Enjoy the show!
Looking forward to the tour series. Looks like you found the good weather!
I'm looking forward to your tour videos. Your Japan tour was excellent 👌
Great - thank you!
Although I'm a self-confessed Honda fan boy with a lot of time on my hands, (retired) I spend a fair bit of time browsing around dealerships. The one thing with Chinese bikes is I just don't like the look of them, CF Moto are all weird angles acres of plastic, also I have to say some people's idea of good build quality is different to mine, with my (retired) engineering head on, some parts just don't look right. RE have it right in that the price point is spot on, and they look like proper motorbikes which appeals to our ageing biker population, I have plenty of friends who have gone with RE and are very happy, not my thing though. I last went to Motorcycle Live in 2019 and was pretty underwhelmed by it all. If 44 teeth suddenly turned up I definitely wouldn't go! The up coming tour looks great and look forward to watching. Keep up the good work 👍
About automatic gear shift, I recently bought a Honda NC 750XD (DCT) as a daily workhorse standing next to my Moto Guzzi V85TT, I choose the dct version for the practicality and easy daily riding commuting, and just to make sure it was quite different from my bike chosen buy my heart the Moto Guzzi. Now after half a year I must admit I am quite surprised, I absolutely love the bloody thing and I'm now doing 90% of my riding on the NC. It seems somehow I have found back some of the enjoyment from when I was starting riding motorcycles, it seems like as the bikes have grown bigger through the years I have lost some of the easiness and enjoyment of riding a bike. Automatic gear shifts have in some magic way brought that back to me, I'm quite surprised?
I've also got a NC750X DCT, I enjoy it, sport 2 seems to be the sweet spot for me. I've got a dodgy left knee that gets really aggrevated by the action of manual shifting, sothsiuallows me to ride in relative comfort (I don't actually like the NC that much, terrible wind buffering for me), but the box is brilliant. I had a Africa Twin 2016 DCT at one point, like that but it was really top heavy, something they addressed with the 2018 revision, but it had a weird tendancy to shift mid corner regardless of the gearbox setting - the NC never seems to do this, even without the IMU they use now - really pleased they have finally updated the NT1100 with that!
@@SuperchargedLlamaI have a givi windscreen + a small vind deflect on top of that, works perfectly for me (I am 1,90) 👍 And yes also had the 2016 African Twin DCT , didn't like it... Although it is the prettiest one among them , the new versions looks very interesting but are too expensive for me.
BMW had a Boge nivomat on the K100 range in 1986. It was self levelling and worked great
Nothing's new.....
I remember when the BMW Nivomat shocks came out. I recall only one issue, and it was a minor one: After the bike sat for a while, at the start of the next ride the shocks were not at the usual ride height, and you had to ride a bit until they had moved up and down enough for the internal self-adjusting apparatus to reestablish position. This apparently not significant issue though, as the Nivomat-equipped RT riders I knew at the time liked theirs.
I don't know about automatic transmission on a bike, I can only say about my car experience. I always said I'd never go away from a stick shift,but when I got shot of Peugeot 406, I went for a BMW X5 which only has auto trans far as I know,mine is 20yrs old. It makes driving so relaxed,just stick it in drive & stomp on the loud pedal. I had found lifting the clutch pedal multiple times in traffic tiresome as I have a damaged left knee. I'd never go back to a stick shift now.
@@wattyler6075 I had a similar experience. 12 years of Manual Cars then the first time I drove an Auto that was it...
I am couple of decades older than you, and I remember the time when nobody wanted to ride Japanese bikes because they were "Inferior POS bikes built by the enemy we had just vanquished. What can they possibly offer us?" Well, it turns out they offered more choices and superior quality at affordable prices. And now the Chinese have the tech and manufacturing skills to put most of the rest of the world to shame. I predict you will see at least a dozen manufacturers making fantastic motorcycles (and cars) better for less than the European brands. And, history tells us that they will be made better, be more reliable! (yes I have owned 12 Italian bikes, I know), and offer more models, accessories, and even colours. If you haven't been to Thailand, or Vietnam, or China lately, you have no idea of how fast and how far they have advanced in the past couple of decades. The European manufacturers will only survive as long as the countries they are built in, support those brands financially. Look at KTM now on the verge of bankruptcy. Will Aprillia or Ducati also fall?
As for Ducati, the Porsche Holding is scaling back, especially since VW is crumpling (at least in Germoney).
KTM are nowhere near financial trouble. They sold over 280,000 bikes last year. They’ve had a worse year than normal this year and have made some staff redundant, probably shifting more manufacture east as is every European bike brand. I don’t imagine Bajaj, who own 49.9% of KTM, would allow that to happen either.
@@MV-XD2 KTM is laying off thousands of workers.
Sounds like a stable situation 😁
Indeed
I think the key difference there is that the Japanese bikes came with a level of reliability that primarily the English brands couldn’t match at that time. BMW still survived, as it were.
The Chinese brands of today deliver a slightly better value, it’s true. But the reliability is still on the side of the Japanese bikes and performance/flash/spec sheet is on the side of the European brands. Until that changes (and it might) the Chinese brands will at best get a niche in a crowded market.
Great collection! I bought my first LV when I was 25 and I've only used that bag a few times haha. Also, I love your clutch! I have an Eva clutch with the DE print and I love the little chain. But I don't want to spend that much money right now and the luxrul always gets me the bag I want and it's just as good as the LV and one of my favorites. Durability
Think you have the wrong channel!
Good luck with the operation
Thank you Andy...
Hi Andy. I can safely say, that I will be watching your, touring episodes in the next few coming weeks. All ways a good way to spend, an evening in front of the gogglebox. Keep up the good vids, and ride safe.
Thank you Andy!
Hi there again great video thanks Martin. I've now sold my triumph street triple 675 2012 and got myself a ducati streetfighter 848 2014 as regards the group ride problem it's impossible to police IMO I went out yesterday and ended up at the front of the queue at the traffic lights with 4 other bikes so obviously when the green light came on we all rode off together in a group 😂 hay ho good luck with that one.
Good luck with the shoulder op hope it goes well and your back riding soon, pity your tour reviews don't get as much views, I've enjoyed them hopefully your winging it tour changes that.
I hope so too (I’ve put a lot of effort, time and money into it!) but I’m not holding my breath! It was fun to do and that was the main thing as far as I’m concerned….
Excellent watch , look forward to seeing updated review on Honda X ADV
Looking forward to the European tour video series. (38:09) To say the scenery looks stunning is an understatement.
Yes we had some great rides….
While I think about it. This news vlog is the only one I watch. great videos Andy. Keep it up.
Wow, thanks!
the first thing wrong with the NEC bike show is when they do put on free inside parking for motorcycles in oneof the halls YOU THEN HAVE A FIVE MILE WALK SWEATING YOUR COBS OF WITH ALL YOUR GEAR ON ,
Take a change of clothes and leave your kit secured to the bike then.
@@Simon-fm8yc ,and then you can’t have a ride on the demonstration bikes
@@Zippytie you could always book one in with your local dealer and have a proper ride.
Simon pissed on your chip zippy😂
Probably arrives in a car , and nothing to do with you any way as it appears your full of @itsallbullox3310
you’re literally my comfort person i love you kislux !
Crikey!
Always enjoy your tour videos so looking forward to the winging it tour. Hope the op goes well 👍
Thanks 👍
Regarding the Chinese motorbike dilemma, your opening monologue hit the nail on the head. It's a simple question of politics. Motorbike selection is one area of life where I can reasonably avoid lining the coffers of the Chinese Communist Party. Obviously there's nuance, but the sentiment remains.
💯
I would rather Spend a Grand
on a Good Self Adjusting Shock than a aftermarket Exhaust given the Choice
and presumably all the other electronic devices you may use such as TV, laptop, 'phone etc.? Buy British I say! Oh, what do you mean, the British don't make anything anymore?
@@TwinPotMan well you have a choice with a bike at least.
So you have nothing from china in your house or possessions........ Think about how you sent this message and then realize how condescending you sound.
So far I'm really liking my CFmoto ibex 800 t.
I also own 2 HD motorcycles a pan America and road glide. I just love motorcycles and the CF is a great MC and value!
Sounds like a fantastic tour series coming up. Just what we need for the darker nights. I first found you as a result of your Norwegian tour and still can't believe there's a roundabout in a tunnel!!!
I know - bizarre wasn't it!!
Looking forward to your "Winging It" tour -- and best of luck with the shoulder surgery!
Thank you! Hoping it will be 3rd time lucky....
Hi Andy, always enjoy your monthly news. To your comments about Chinese bikes, initially I owned a Lexmoto ZSX-R 125 Chinese made bike and had no issues with it. Used it all year round, and run like clockwork. The speedo was out a bit, but you just got used to that.
I now own a Benelli TRK 702 and have only just peeled off the “Made In China” sticker. Still a great bike and no issues so far with the first 1500 miles.
Pleased to hear that!
Great News, looking forward to the Wing Tour 😊 ohh, and the Honda scooter review
Great show as always and can’t wait for the new tour👍
Totally agree with your views on motorcycle live and big thumbs up for Chopsey presenting instead. We need to bring in new riders and not live in the 80s. Went last year and hadn’t planned to go this year. ABR bike beer bands and bed is a killer combo and I don’t want to watch bands without a beer as I’ve got to drive (after paying a fortune for parking).
I'm with you Phil.....
I got fed up with Lamb Chops about three years ago, please don’t encourage anybody to give him a higher profile.
@@davidmatthews3093 I'm allergic to him, too. Can't put my finger on it. The brashness? The loudness? The incessant facial close-ups? The accent? The ego? Maybe just the name. "Lamb Chops" is silly enough, but "Chopsie"?
I enjoy your tours a lot. I have not toured Europe or USA/Canada nor ridden/driven on other side of road and at approaching 70yrs I probably will stick to countries like Japan, UK, Tasmania etc if I do so. Living in the South Island of New Zealand I know my way around blindfolded (figuratively speaking). I tour on 3 of my 4 bikes and they are 2017 BMW R1200R, 2024 Ducati Diavel V4 or when taking it casually I take my HD Sport Glide. Like you, I I have a Triumph Speed Twin 1200 (series 2) and in many ways is my favourite for the shorter trips of up to 300kms - 186.4 miles. To be honest I feel it is hard to beat the BMW for touring in NZ, with all the windy roads. Keep up the great work
Thanks James - will do!
Hi Andy, plese do get on the multistrada, i bought a grand tour back in march and in all my years biking, probably about 42, it is the best bike i have ever owned. Do yourself a favour.
On the tourring vids i alwats enjoy your tours. I look forward to them, the short previewlooked stunning. I ll be checking in on Saturday. Keep up the good work👍👍
Glad to hear that - the tour vids start next Saturday (from memory), not tomorrow btw…
Nice one, Andy. Hope the shoulder is on the mend. ATVB
You and me both! Thanks!
I feel exactly the same on the auto box theme.. I just don’t see how it’s appealing or remotely necessary (unless you have a physical issue that requires it). Is it really that difficult to shift?
I would have agreed until I had the dct AT for 2 years and it was awesome
I really like this feature on the Chanel … I set you apart from the others .. .. love the Parrish notices formate and intro organ 👍👍
Delighted to hear that!
Hi Andy
Hope the shoulder repair is progressing!
Always enjoy the monthly catch up…
Chinese bikes are on the march..don’t think you’ve reviewed the Voge 900DSX yet..
Ex BMW approved engine, Brembo brakes, branded suspension & tyres, QS, cruise, heated bars/seats, TFT, radar, plug ins, even 3 bits of metal luggage! All for £9200 otr…long warranty…
Just saying…
Looking forward to the Euro tour vids…bet you got wet there too! Atb…Alan.
Look
Cheers as ever Alan!
There is lots of older motorcyclists out who love motorcycle racing of all types plus love to see old time racers. My motorcycling spanes 40 plus years. On all size of bikes.
“There ARE lots of motorcyclists…”
Really enjoyed that, great to hear your views on the breaking stories.
Thank you for watching!
Looking forward to your tour video series Andy. MrsP and I did 5k klm recently round Europe on our new Africa Twin just before the awful weather hit Europe. I for one really enjoy your tour vids especially on the dark winter evenings 🙂
Brilliant!
Andy, you should move to Australia, biking season here around SYdney lasts about 11 1/2 months of he year.. There a few days in July when it’s a touch cold, a few days in April when it’s a little bit windy and a couple of days in January when the Sydney Test is on. Apart from that, great weather.
I'd love too.....
Where to start ! It seems to me that simpler, more affordable bikes are selling well, I'm sure there's a link there ! One of the pleasures of riding is using a slick shifting gearbox, you decide when you want to change, you can lazily short shift or hold a gear for a rapid overtake, with quick shifter/auto blippers it's even easier. For commuters and tourers auto modes seem a great idea, otherwise it removes one of the pleasures. Automatic braking might be a good idea if you ride a bike like a car, with no filtering, not getting yourself onto clear road etc - are car designers developing these ideas ?! Looking forward to your Goldwing tour 👍🏻
Glad to hear that - thank you!
Always enjoy the News
Thanks for the updates, enjoyable as ever. I can’t help thinking that the drop in large motorcycle sales is linked to the cost and increasing complexity and unnecessary electronics. We just want good bikes at a reasonable price.
Yes - the new Honda Hornet (the 1000cc one) looks to be just in that sweet spot price wise....under £10K!
I work at a piston manufacturer in the uk, we developed the latest rocket 3 pistons, after development they were shipped off to china for mass production, so yep all those 24 k rocket 3 bikes have Chinese aluminium bouncing up and down, I’ll probably say the main reason would be worker numbers, unfortunately it’s just something we have to get use to or if anyone is that bothered, set up a British company 😊
Well exactly - interesting what you say about the pistons.....
@@TheMissendenFlyerwe made the ducati go ones early 2000s , they would be around £200 each then , ktm approached us and wanted a complete piston, rings, and cylinder liner for £10 😂 I’m honestly not joking, the aluminium alone then to forge the piston was about a £5 each, might explain some occasional ktm issues 🤔 have good evening and apparently is going to stop raining tomorrow 😊
so looking forward to the European tour vids TMF. Can't wait!
All the best with the shoulder op. 👍🏻
Thank you 🙏
Hi Andy, with you on a terrible weather year we have had so far, looking forward to you and Mrs Flyer dodging the rain on your European tour, on the mighty Goldwing. One thing to mention on the Yam and ASA auto box's as opposed to the DCT it's hell of a lot lighter, so on a smaller machine it probably makes more sense than a dual clutch. Thank you.
Yes that is true - and cheaper!
Good luck with the shoulder
Thank you….
I wish we had these magazines in the US
Andy can I give you some advice regarding shoulder rehab. Once healed up, buy a pull up bar and hang from it each morning for as long as you can. I also bought a Rangemaster (Amazon) shoulder stretching device. I suffered for years with a dodgy left shoulder. Doctors never advised me to rehab properly and then I listened to a specialist. I now have no pain at all, hanging is so important for shoulder mobility. It's a complicated floating joint and I hope your surgery goes well and you give my advice a shot.
Personally I recommend swimming up to an hour a day in the early days of recovery . I had a left side total replacement shoulder joint in 2023 and it has been a revelation since, pain free, movement returned, full strength now
Wow Simon I’m very envious! Unfortunately mine can’t be replaced whilst it’s frozen, that’s the next step potentially once this is sorted.
Midnight rider - funnily enough I do have a hanging bar fitted in my kitchen doorway - heard about them some time ago but sadly (despite very regular use) have still ended up here….
@@TheMissendenFlyer Hopefully you can get a decent outcome soon, my shoulder almost turned me away from bikes due to the aches and pains so I understand how frustrating it can be. The op results have been amazing for me. All the best with it
Hope all goes well with operation and hope it leads to an improvement for you.
Thank you - me too!!
1. I look forward to your tour as I always enjoy them. :)
2. I look forward to your review of the Honda X-ADV750 MY25. If I were rich enough I'd look into having one imported to me here in Canada. I've always liked the looks of that bike ...I mean scooter.
3. I look forward to your ride and review of the Triumph Speed 1200RS.
4. I look forward to your ride and review of that H-D Trike ....even with that spoiler alert thrown in. :)
5. And ....this video on Bike News Review was pretty, pretty, pretty good too. :)
Thank you!
Regarding your section on automatic motorbikes, I am always fascinated in discussions with my friend on the subject. So many are longstanding bikers who are set in their ways about changing gear and losing an essential element of biking enjoyment. For me, I own a DCT version of Honda’s NC750X and absolutely love it. No stalling, no fiddling for the right gear, quick auto shifting or manual overriding using the handlebar shifters is a big plus for me but I do understand the arguments against. You are not in favour clearly. However, I wonder what the ratio of DCT to non DCT purchasers is, which may help decide if there is a market. Some years ago my local Honda dealer told me that his sales figures were about 50/50. Can we find out across the UK what the ratio is for DCT versions of say the CMX1100, Africa Twin, NT1100 and the NC750X? I for one would be really interested to know. Wouldn’t you? Great review again this month. Well done
I dont know the figures but believe where it’s offered DCT always outsells manual….
I think auto gearbox would be a great idea for those who have lost the use of arm or a leg, which means they can still ride but without spending a fortune on modifications.
Hey Andy. Love your channel. I watch from Canada. I live here after moving from Edinburgh 22 years ago. I had bikes back home but unfortunately not here. Will you or can you review a bike from Thornton hundred motorcycles. Specifically the bobber. I would love to hear your opinion on it. Not sure if you would review small ish bike makers. But ooooooo it looks lovely. Fingers crossed I hope you do. Keep up the good work. It’s almost a national service oh wait international service you do. Thanks so much.
I’d love too but sadly don’t have access to their bikes….
Thanks for the news. I try to catch this great series when I can. As I've yammered on about it for years, I'm happy to have recently read that Royal Enfield has finally announced a 650 Bullet, although it not being a single has me almost as baffled as their discontinuing the 500. All the best!
Thanks for watching Rob!
You lads must have to put a lot of hard work into your channel but what I like is the honesty of your opinion even if it doesn’t suit everyone Looking forward to the tour videos
Thank you Danny (I wish it were "ladS")
@@TheMissendenFlyer no I meant you and all the top boys who have channels the bits we see must take a lot of time filming editing and so on Not easy
Love the tour videos!
Pleased to hear that! Lots coming....and I'm quite proud of them thus far....
The entire top tier range of 1980's BMW airheads had Nivomat self leveling rear shocks. Like anything else they worked great until.they didn't then you would replace them with traditional rear shocks.
Love the dct since 2017
I'm seriously considering not going to the NEC show this year too, mainly due to the overall cost of the day as its too expensive for the same old stuff every year. I also agree with you about the speakers stage and always give that a swerve! It would be mych better if they included TH-camrs such as yourself, Ryan F9, Chopsie, Bruce etc
....or do away with the stage altogether and just have better food stands and more bikes to look at....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Totally agree. And I watch BSB racing and know the racers past and present. Our biking experience on roads is nothing like people track racing. Motorcycle live should have an area for racing bikes but the stage should be used for people like us road bikers that use all types of bikes.
@@TheMissendenFlyer that's another good option. They should consult bikers and ask what they want from the show. At the moment, I can wait and visit local dealers to see the specific bikes I want to look at. The main thing they need to look at is the pricing of everything.
Enjoying your video and reviews I have a wulbers rear shock on my 1050 tiger sport it was £1,300 when new and has transformed my bike has the oil can and adjustable damper brilliant I really like the idea of dct clutch etc... I have carpal tunnel and repetitive strain injury changing gear using the clutch all day really hurts so i see the point keep doing what you do very interesting 🏍️💨💨💨
Thank you!
Japan was terribly hot this year ,,,and now the typhoons have struck ! Royal Enfield early indian made were rough as a bears bum I still use mine daily 40 years later
Nice one!
Oh, best of luck for the shoulder
Thank you - may be 3rd time lucky?
@@TheMissendenFlyer jeeeez. I live with a damaged collar bone, but although I have been offered surgery I have found that lifting dumbbells has really helped stabilise it and reduce the vulnerability and pain. I really didn’t like the idea of the surgery… you must be pretty fed up with all that. Yes, definitely all fingers crossed for you.
I bought a CFM 450NK over the Triumph speed 400 because its a twin and is very smooth with no vibrations at higher speeds, handles beautifully and sounds great with std exhaust (but exhaust could look better) has some good tech and was GBP 600.00 cheaper too. Am loving it.
Very nice!
I have a CF Moto 450 MT and really happy with the build quality and performance.
Looking forward to trying one….
Another enjoyable Bike news, for me it could be an hour long episode. I will be looking forward to the tour series. How is Mrs Flyer getting on with the riding. Will there be a video update? Yes miserable weather this week, hope shoulder opp goes well.
Thank you - and yes more from Mrs Flyer soon I'm sure....
Cool. My partner passed mod 1 and has Mod 2 on 31/10. Fingers crossed.
Nice review Andy. Same here in Dublin (the home of halloween) we, or I that is, close all curtains and put off all lights and we hide out in the kitchen . Good luck with the shoulder op.
Liking your style....
Having done 3000 plus miles on my 1300GS I can say with some certainty the switch gear is actually very easy to use as with all bikes you just need to get used to it and it all becomes second nature
Glad to hear that John!
Honda had the two speed semi automatic 1977 Honda CB750A Hondamatic. It was a dismal sales failure. Discontinued from 1978 line-up.
Excited about your "Tour Francaise", wifey and I have been looking at the continent for next Spring.
In that case Paul Stay tuned!
I really miss the manual gear shifting in cars, since almost everything now is automatic transmission. I don't want to give it up on my bike. I always love the tour series, TMF, Japan was awesome!
Delighted to hear that Bill - thanks....
What do you drive that cannot be bought with a manual gearbox?
@davidmatthews3093 Mini or BMW do not do manual gearboxes anymore, and as time goes by most other manufacturers are slowly following them. So manual boxes are getting rare in the uk new car market.
The 450 MT is sold out everywhere. Plenty of people are loving it!
Seems to be flying off the shelves!
Looking forward to the tour👍
Looking forward to your tour video series, and yeah....don't mention the weather.
Having been caught out but the bad weather at Lake Como and into Switzerland, but the time I got to the B500 and the Black Forest, with the continuous rain and road closures/diversions I had enough of winging it and made a straight ling for the ferry and back home to the UK.
Hope you faired better on your tour than I did on mine.
Regards
G
Sounds like we had a very similar route (except I went Lake Maggiore)
@@TheMissendenFlyer In summary, I went Grossglockner, Dolomites, Stelvio, Lake Como, Splügenpass, Furka, Grimsel, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, B500, Strasbourg, Luxembourg, Rotterdam.
The latter part was in rain and snow on the high mountain passes. Just reviewing my videos to see if I pass a blue Goldwing on my route! 😁😁
TBH, I think if you've avoided the bad weather we'll not have been on the same tarmac.
Looking forward to the vids.
G.
That was pretty much the route we planned but due bad weather we reversed it and had to cut out the Dolomites....
I really like the CFMOTO 450MT. It’s one I would consider for my next bike.
Don’t forget to mention bonhams motorcycle auction next weekend lots of great bikes for sale
I know nothinbg about it!
@@TheMissendenFlyer. Autumn Staffordshire show ground 12/13 great bikes up for auction rc45 Yamaha r7 owo2 Ducati desmo lots of great bikes
Being an old codger of 66 and working in engineering all my life it erks me when magazines refer to "making" a bike.My old training officer said "Bakers make bread" engineers "manufacture" machines.
Owned a CCM flat tracker. Loved the looks and would have kept it if the finances allowed. Tremendous fun for an hour or so. I think they need a twin with larger capacity. I bet Mr Milliard could lash 2 X 600cc together as a V. I moved to a KTM 1200 SA and love it. Good luck with the surgery and hope it sorts you out. 🍻
Thank you John!
The new Euro tour sounds just like my kind of thing. Really looking forward to it.
Glad to hear that!
For one reason or another, I don't like the new Trident 1200, I mean the Speed Twin 1200 (19:25). Triumph seem to have forgotten that it's a bike that's supposed to draw its inspiration from the Triumph Bonneville's of old? So, my bike news for September 2024, I've joined the crew, and I've just bought a new Stealth Edition Triumph Speed Twin 1200, in the limited sapphire red/silver red colourway, with a black quilted seat, heated grips, and the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). I found out that Triumph had reduced the price of the MY24 models by £2,000, so I'm picking my bike up next week, and I can't wait. The Speed Twin 1200 has almost twice the torque of my current bike, so that should be fun! With the cash I've saved, I might upgrade the shocks in the future.
I went the whole hog, and, yes, I even bought the t-shirt! Then, in my new bike madness, I went full on Brando and splashed out on a very nice Triumph Braddan Sport leather jacket as well, because, just by coincidence, it matched the bike and it was also in a sale. So, I'm sorted, and just in time for a UK winter, what perfect timing! It'll be interesting to see your review of the 2025 Speed Twin. No doubt it'll be a very good bike, but looks-wise, I think Triumph have ruined it with this iteration in my opinion. 👍
Congratulations all round!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Cheers, Andy.
Great choice SR..like your style..have fun on the new steed!
@@alanbarnes2920 Cheers, I definitely will, I've dreamed about owning a Bonneville since I was a kid, so I think this one will be a keeper!
Regarding motorcycle live, I agree that it needs a refresh. The other issue is some of the bike manufacturers have started voting with their feet. Moto Guzzi and Harley were two who didn’t show last year. The setting out of the stands is also poor with long walks between things that should be together, e.g similar manufacturing stands so you can compare. As far as the biased towards bike racing guests and speakers it is a difficult one as you can’t please everyone but I agree a couple of you tubers is a good idea
I think the reason why Chinese bikes and others are doing well is because people are working out that £25k for a BMW r1300 etc with luggage is just crazy.
Simpler lower powered models at a much lower cost for what in the main are hobby purchases are very much gaining ground.
Triumph have absolutely played a blinder with their 400,s. I wonder if the likes of BMW, Ducati and Guzzi will re enter this market?
Wouldn’t that be good!
I mean, BMW does their 310s in India (TVS builds them I think) and they’re about the same price and performance as the Triumph/Bajaj-jobs?
Andy, are you ever getting rid of that cold? Conspiracy?
Yes, exactly. A Far Eastern company building motorcycles where it’s cheap to do so and selling them covered with Union Jacks. That’s the way to do it. I’m surprised that BMW and KTM haven’t done the same. Oh, apparently they have. (without the flag shagging)
Great comments Mac…spot on
The Enfield has actual dealerships now, previously they were sharing a section of a multi brand mega dealership, if that makes sense. The same thing with CF Moto and Indian a big Polaris dealer just opened up two months ago and all the Indian bikes are sold in this new shop. The 450 MT is selling big time here and it has upset Suzuki a lot but we been pleading for a new DRZ400e update but instead they pulled it and the 650. But we been asking everyone in general for cost effective 300-450 cc cost effective units as well we are kind of in a bit of a financial crisis right, Triumph, Enfield and CF Moto listed and gave us some fab products, it’s almost like a scene from Yes minister “you don’t give the people what they want, you give what we we convince them they need, this won’t do!
If automatic gear shifts make for smoother changes then it might reduce wear over time, perhaps improve fuel efficiency, of course if you have some kind of disability it would be an advantage. For myself it would detract from the riding experience and would be high on the not for me list. A reverse gear would be nice.
Yes a reverse gear on all motorcycles would make so much sense! That’s a feature I would like to see…
Speedy recovery good sir.
Thank you kindly
I will be putting my order in for a Yamaha Y-AMT as its going to be ideal for me as I've got permanent problems with my left ankle and knee. Thank you Yamaha.
Looking seriously at the Y-AMT myself (also left leg issues). But I believe it actually changes faster than doing it manually so I think people should reserve their judgement before riding one. Probably would wait until later iterations though as never buy the first gen of anything until they sort the bugs out.
I'd have a CFMoto 450MT like a shot, I rode one and found it to be a quality bike. I couldn't say the same about the Triumph. If bikes aren't made in China how many parts are, the argument needs to take a rest, it happened years ago with Japan when they burried the Brits, now it's China's turn, unlike the UK China learnt and worked at it, we just outsourced everything.
The issues I see at the moment about Chinese bikes are dealer availability, spares availability, reliability and support. If these are overcome then they will gain traction in the market. Yes, resale values are terrible, but they are currently for Royal Enfields, so it seems cheap in and cheap out is one of the ‘prices’ we will pay 🤷🏻♀️
Good news for second hand buyers!
Insurance seems to be another issue - some companies seem not to want to insure them, some get confused between models and even BHP (god knows how) and others just bump the premium up.
I have a Voge and the dealer network, spares, reliability and support have all been excellent. To suggest that they are a weakness is bizarre.
Again you are so right. Even though I have ohlins front and rear on my speed twin, my bike is still retro. Triumph adding a digital clock is a joke. Changing the riding position that moves closer to the street triple is not needed with this style of bike
Nor is a quickshifter.
Regarding the radar and automatic braking. If I were a paranoid cynic, I'd say it was a first step towards automatic speed limiting which is now compulsory in cars.
One safety thing I think should be on every bike is small indicators lights on handle bars to show you they are on. To many time I have left my indicator on due to lack of knowing they are still on. I have also seen many other bikes with their indicators still on after turning.
What’s your thought on a small LED each side of the handle bars flashing letting you know they are on. Many times the indicator light on screen can be missed if you watching the road and that’s the issue you need to watching the road not the LCD screen. As we all know it is very dangerous to any biker been hit side on because you still have your indicator still on when a car pulls out as they think you are turning, we stick the finger up to then then realise our indicator is still on.🏍️💺🔆🔆.
I’d say that adding that little line of code that makes indicators self-cancelling should be standard on bikes. With IMU’s becoming more or less standard on everything bigger than 700cc I see this in the near future.
@@903lew I have a car with self cancelling indicators and some times they don’t cancel, but I see your point if you set your indicators to cancel after a number of flashes that would help as long as it doesn’t cancel before you have turned. So I would say it’s still a good idea to easily see a small LCD light on handlebars or mirror at eye level as well would be good
@@senna4281 I like the indicator idea
@@hectorshouse7348 how many bikers have failed their test because they left their indicator on for too long hell I still do it in my car after 40years of driving even when it should of self cancelling
@@senna4281 I don’t know, prefer to minimise the amount of flashing when riding myself but I’m sure it could be made to work. Personally I think I’d trust the system more than my silly thumb most of the time, not that I’ve ever had a bike with self-cancelling indicators.