Right on. I raced desert cross country. But it felt weird because really awesome scenery was just a blur. I've slowed down for fun because you me everyone will die so while we live, let's live to the fullest.
My adventure 390 is anything one would need for a trip and it's so agile. I am traveling in Vietnam and it's perfect. You can't go over 70 kph any way.
@@silvioprime6866 I've never done anything like that. I do not have the equipment for that. I have neither a camera nor a smartphone. just my old nokia 8110. i also navigate with paper map. When I do tours then I only want 2 things. 1. I want to be on my own. and 2. i want my rest.
@@silvioprime6866 I'm in the process of looking for a new motorcycle. My aprilia pegaso has a total damage. But so far I don't like any. And if so, then I am not allowed to drive them.
Heli, did u ever feel like people were behind u wanting u to go faster? How was it on the highway? fast enough? I ask because I'm a big dude and I guess it's natural to want a big bike. But I have heard a lot of people say to just get a Kawasaki KLR650. I just wonder about traveling on the highway and being too slow. Thanks
I bought crf250l in Japan for 1500usd and shipped to Magadan for 500usd. In 5 months reached Capetown, taking long rests at the places I found along the road, including Turkey and Egypt resorts. And whole trip cost half of what I planned to spend, 5000 usd. Largest sums went to the bike, documents/visas and petrol. Along the road I saw some bikers on a 125cc and even 90cc going round the world
@@bigfella459 750 euros to spend on first service on GS... Hmmm. I serviced complete bike for 300euros. And I mean everything, washers,gaskets, filters, oils, brake fluid hoses and brakes,clutch, piston rings, sparkplug, everything. And not because I needed it, it's a Honda, just because I wanted it.
But at the same time u can spent 7000Euros to get old version of GS like 1150cc version, and forget about chain maintenance from all kind of dust, rocks, water etc etc u can find on the roads, hudge advantage. In addition u get a super light access to ur clutch cables, spark plugs, carburetors etc etc, which makes maintenance during trip much easier. ...in addition with "heavy" GS1150 boxer engine type + protection rack around engine, this bike never fall, it just tilt so u can get it up without even getting off from bike, just pull it up, which i found a hudge advantage. ...back to speed than, with bigger engine u can ride 110-120 km/h by 3500-4000 rpm (or even less depends on engine) and gearbox, while with small engines u have to much higher which makes it less nice. I would always say that bike and its weight is most likely not a disadvantage, if u are well prepared and experienced rider u can get more of it than from a small bike.
Words to live by! All you say is true, and using much less fuel to travel the same distance is a huge bonus! I have been riding for 41 years on so many different models, and I came to the conclusion late in life that smaller is better. More fun, less expensive, but you are not compromising in terms of getting where you want to go. The Kawasaki Versys 300, BMW 310GS, or the Royal Enfield Himalayan (400cc) are all very capable bikes for seeing the world. I have an Enfield Classic 500 and love it. I will never own another bike over 650cc.
Thank you very much for this info. Not more valuable advice in any matter than those coming from people with experience. I will look these bikes up, i am preparing for a very long journey from the US down the tip of South America.
Wise advice. There is one guy from Argentina who went around the world on a Yamaha YBR125. Along the way, he picked up a permanent accessory, his wife, who also bought a Yamaha YBR125 and joined him on his trip. When he got back to Argentina, everybody came out to see him. The YBR's were still in good condition. This is not a bike you would ordinarily think of as a round the world bike, but they did it with no problems. Go, Yamaha!
@Ronald Connors , Yes YBR 125 very trustworthy bike, but if temperature +35 C in the city, ingine overheated and -15% torque loses, on the way don't sensitive.
I have spent a lifetime, owning from 175 cc bikes up to 1400 cc bikes. And now at 71 years old understand that you don't need big heavy bikes. You can enjoy motorcycle trips on any size bike. Kawasaki 650 Versys is the perfect bike for anything that I will ever do on a bike.
We need Versys 650 or Tenere 660 with shaft drive option! The only reason I look at larger bikes. I wreck the chain offroad and chain maintenance is always a worry travelling. Yamaha have shaft on XVS650 cruiser why not an option for others?
Currently on a 2014 Ninja 650 Adventure Touring... been on hundreds of kilometres on dirt roads and its done very good. Choice of tires are important. Got it as back model saved over 2K... she's my precious. Nearing 40k plus some trips planned this summer. Yes... considering a KTM Adventure 490 if it ever comes out for more offroad capability.
While on an adventure ride about 5 years ago, I ran into a man in Western Nebraska from New York, who was on his way back home from the West Coast. He was riding a 250cc and he said he had no problems. Just about the time I am tempted to buy a Super Tenere, I watch this video again and go and lay down, and after a rest, I come back to my senses and feel content with my KLR 650, which I love to ride ANYWHERE.
In the UK I had MT-10, Superduke and an XT-660. Moved to Thailand and realised that big bikes can be a problem here as they are few and far between unlike smaller bikes. I ended up buying a CRF250 Rally and I drive this thing up and down Thailand no problem. Its a really really good bike and the fuel economy is incredible. Changed the gearing slighly but I'd take this thing everywhere.
The big roads are dirty and dangerous. 12.200 miles around North America, all secondary roads make this journey so much more enjoyable. You meet new friends and see great scenery with ample places to stop, camp, and eat.
@@robertpolkamp I am from Minnesota in the USA some logging roads around here see maybe 15 cars or trucks a day on the plus side I have always had someone stop and ask if I needed any help.
250 - 600 cc bikes are enough for touring, more powerful bikes means more unutilized power. Really agree with you, touring is not for boring highway rides.
Im riding through south east Asia on a sub 150cc Honda worth around 500 USD with upgraded off road tires and it works just fine, even on pretty bad roads. You just dont look cool when riding but that is not my goal. Anything over 250cc is going to overkill in a lot of the world.
The best m/c adventure advice I've ever seen. Excellent. So many 'adventure' riders return with tales of 5 countries in 7 days and a litany of motorway riding. They bought into the marketing that you buy the big adventure bike and others will think you are an 'adventurer'. Take the road less travelled and stop often.
johninleeds. So true john. Touring is what these guys are doing. Thats ok but adv is long haul, risky and seat of the pants stuff. For me it was overstaying visas, working illegally for cash and basically pushing my luck without doing anything that was harmfull to others. It was being young, foolish and carefree. And most of all FREE. Now its poseurs, hipsters and marketing guys selling a phoney image based consumer fad that is fake.
In 1968 my buddy and I each bought a new BSA Thunderbolt 650cc, 46 hp twin and rode from Alaska to the tip of South America and back. In 1970 we did it all again on 2 new Yamaha XS1 OHC 650cc twin clynder bikes. Much less mech trouble with the Yamahas, but on both trips the bikes were great and did everything we asked them to do. If one really wants to see the country and have a great, long bike trip, stay away from weight. 650 will be more cc's than you need. The writer of this article shows a lot of wisdome.
I cant believe you made it that far on the BSA bikes without major mechanical problems. My neighbor sold them and claimed they needed alot of maintenance and unreliable. Trip of a lifetime!
I also have a 650 Versys and guy on a 1000cc yam said you need a faster bike... after doing NC 500 with him I asked if I had held him up that week..he said no lol
Funny. I just ordered a 650cc Kawa Vulcan S to replace my current Tiger 800. I fully agree. Everyone told me I'd feel the need to go bigger when I ordered the Triumph, but the final result is that I want something lower, smaller and lighter, which feels like more fun to begin with. :)
Enjoyed this. Keeping things to the minimum has been the mainstay of my life! I sometimes think that alot of bikers are so caught up in the idea that bigger and faster is better that they forget why they started riding in the first place. Life isn't a sprint. It's a marathon. Take time to enjoy the little things.
Adventure will NOT and will NEVER depend on the size of the bike. It solely relies on the RIDER of the bike who has the attitude to always want to know the unknown. Very nice tips, sir. Very practical. I salute you!
Your last point is excellent. Arriving in a poor country with a $30,000 bike and covered in Klim gear is a tough way to find the best prices. Be prepared to pay full price everywhere.
I completely agree with you. Lighter bikes are just a lot more versatile for long trips with lots of surprises along the way. I ride a Chinese dual sport currently, planning on upgrading to a klr 650 or a crf300 with sprocket and seat mods for my next bike to tour with as my first"forever bike". I wish we saw more dual sport and adventure bikes here in the Midwest of USA 😢.
Agreed!! KLR650 here. I taken that bike all over the country (Australia) and have found it almost ideal. Cheap to buy, easy to fix, lightweight, will do 120 all day and can go just about anywhere. About the only BMW GS’s I see along the way are usually parked up at cafe’s.....
That's because no one wants to beat the crap out of a $25,000 motorcycle in the Australian outback. Most everyone I know who has done a long tour on a 1200GS bought theirs used, and usually from the guy who got bored taking his bike to Starbucks to pick up his chai machiatto and scone every Sunday...but only if it was sunny...and warm...and if his friend is going....but not riding too quickly. Nothing wrong with that, lets us buy those bikes at ridiculously discounted prices and very low miles.
to be fair, the KLR650 is the epitome of slow and steady. There's a reason it's been around, with really only one update, since the 80's. It just works.
A BMW will attract a lot of attention in some places. I think that's what he means. Plus, I really wouldn't want to try to fix one in Mozambique or Pakistan.
@Abraham I went from Staten Island, N.Y. to California and back on a Honda 350 CL, the one with both exhause pipes coming halfway up the side of the bike before going to the rear of the bike. No Problems. The next year I brought a BMW R 90 s and went to Latin America. Just as much FUN on the 350.
Beat up your fairings before you go on a long trip, makes your bike look like a piece of crap and you can always pick up some new pieces of plastic fairings for cheap if you want to sell it.
Good add...I live in Buenos Aires, I´m 53 years old I traveled to Machu Picchu, Ushuaia and route 40 in Argentina complete (5000 kms)...I did it with a KLR 650 ´09...never had a problem...but my dream was a big bike....last year I bought a R1200GS 2017 brand new....I sold my KLR...I spend U$3700 in accesories....it was a irracional decision? yes!!! I worked like a mule all my life and needed ride my dream but you are saying the true....for the adventure was the best my old KLR
@@0xsergy, the weight difference is minimum when you're riding. The power difference is very notorious. I'm happy jumping from 750 to 1,200 cc. I feel I don't need bigger bike.
I concur, my old 1982 GL500 could take me anywhere for cheap, if I could buy one new, I would seriously consider it, too bad they are not made any more
I have a 150cc bike. Whenever I see my friends riding bigger motorcycles, I get disappointed with my bike. But after watching this video, I get cheered up. This video is a hope for people who can't afford bigger bikes but still can be satisfied with what they have with them. Bikes are not important, but the Ride is. Keep Riding all of you.
Horses for courses, here in Australia there are some very long gravel roads that go for hundreds of miles in the outback. The bigger bikes like the R1200GS Triumph Explorer 1200, KTM etc are great fun loaded up with a lot of gear. BUT you get into the sandy desert tracks or wet sticky mud and you spend most of the day picking these bikes up off the ground. I think the smaller bikes like the Suzuki DR650, Kawasaki KLR 650, and similar sized bikes (with less luggage too) make a much better choice for sandy, muddy or any difficult terrain riding. Many other things come into play also, age, skill and fitness level are a big part of motorcycle selection, along with personal preference too, what the rider feels comfortable with. I suppose what I am trying to say is everyone has a choice and a personal preference. I don't think a 250cc would be very suitable for a bloke 6 foot 4 inches tall weighing 280 pounds. This video puts forward very valid reasons for the average rider to choose a smaller lighter bike in the 650cc range for a global adventure ride and in that context it is, I believe, very good advice for the multitude of different riding experiences to be encountered and enjoyed on a major adventure trip.
I'm 6'3 250lbs and large bike feel better. Very valid opinions! I've had 50cc to 1200cc bikes throughout my life and loved them all. Simply, find a bike that fits your needs and you will have fun, no doubt about it.
@Ronald Connors A 250, wow! Brave man to run that through the US, Mexico and more. I rope a 1200 adventure bike from MN to Alaska and that was scary enough, only went off the road once!
The two advantages of a 250 for long distance on US freeways, is 1) they all come with cruise control: Pin the throttle with a cheap throttle lock, and sit back until it's time to get gas..... On more powerful bikes, you always have to fiddle with the throttle lock, or you'll end up getting pulled over for speeding on the smallest of downhills. And 2)They really incentivize you to get off the freeways in the first place....
Great video and absolutely right! I have ridden my BMW F650 GS more than 50,000 miles including US and Alaska, Canada and Mexico. It has served me well. Reliable, easy to handle, excellent fuel mileage etc.
What year is your 650? Some guy is trying to sell me a older BMW 650 today but it has over 50,000km which is about 37,000 miles or so, and I don't want to buy a older bike with higher milage that might cause problems. Do you think this 650 has a lot of life left in it for about $6,000 it's a 2004 or something like that for sale and I'm not sure about it?
Finally , a very smart advice from a smart and well experienced rider I have a 250 cc bike and i feel happy travelling with it I am after the scenery and the feeling of relaxation and fun I never find going fast on highways fun Its always fun to pull over and take selfies and pictures Riding is a feeling of freedom and enjoyment
Perfectly said. I remember 4 sd gearboxes and said the same thing. I do wish I had 6th some days on my 250(with a slight diet). I recently told a friend I would get a 300cc efi and rule the road if the cops would leave me alone like they do the pushers/speeders now!
A lot of this applies to sport riding too. Riding a smaller bike makes you a faster rider. Those who think they can start on a 1000cc superbike never really learn to manage the power and carry speed through turns, and thus the people who started on smaller bikes will pass them up in skill quickly. I did a track day recently on my little Yamaha R3, and was flying past people on 100+ horsepower machines.
What you just summarized in this video accurately covers the basis for a comfortable and safe trip. As always an excellent material. Thanks for taking the time to upload it. A big greeting from a Venezuelan in Mexico.
Very inspiring tips! Thank You! I think just like you and I'm planning my Brazil - Alaska adventure with my own bike, an Tenere 250cc. A lot of friends tell me that I'm crazy but I prefer use the money in the trip instead buy a expensive motorcycle. Cheers!
This video just makes me reassure myself that I made a great purchase when I decided to go for Yamaha XT600E, as I love dirty tracks. I can't imagine how hard has to be ride a big bike on a rocky terrain, not even talk about some mountain paths! My xt600E is like a big enduro bike that can travel long distances, one deposit 450km :D
I did the Trans America trail on a Africa twin and it was way more adventure than I wanted. If I had it to do over again or if I’m lucky enough to string 44 days together for a second trip I would take my CRF250L. The Africa was exhausting in deep sand and mud and trying to pick it up in mud was a nearly impossible task. I honestly believe I could have cut 5-7 days off my trip with my CRF250L. If you’re just into the looks and do the occasional fire road the Africa twin is a blast. Also water crossings scared the sh## out of me because if the AT slipped on slick rocks I could not stop it from falling over(bike was roughly 600 pounds wet with my kit out). Rider info: I’m 52 5’9” 190 pounds. I lost more than 20 pounds on the ride and blew out my left knee trying to hold up the Twin climbing up a river bank.
In 2010 I bought a brand new Yamaha Tenere 660 and I sold it with 65000km , than I bought KTM 1290 That was REALY BAD idea Heavy,big, and lot of riding problems during the offroad trips I NEED BACK MY OLD YAMAHA GREAT VIDEO PAVLIN !!! Pozdrav brato !!!!
Ive been riding the Kawasaki 300 Versey,15000 trouble free km,over every imaginable terrain, dirt roads,wash outs,single track,never let me down.glad I spent the money on the crash guards and lights,crashed a couple of times and very little damage,the plus side I could pick it up. Two Gs 1200 couldnt keep up,great vid!
great presentation! i love the way you express yourself with the colorful examples... non-native englsih speaking folks who speak it well, have a great flair for verbal expression...always impressed by that-- THX FOR THE VIDEO-- :D
I smile when riders say that a 650cc is a small bike . I am 72 and been riding since I was 15yrs ,past days most bikes were 250 to 500 . Then the tonup boys with 650 monsters. My first large bike was a750 k GP. Now I have 250vstom which is just great and at 80mpg such a great tourer even at 70 motorway speeds ,
Your absolutely right 💪 I have done 33 year's ago around 🇦🇺 in 4 1/2 months and in the outback of 🇦🇺 with a used Endouro 250cc Honda from a farmers son you are very flexible where you want to drive. Before I was starting traveling I made a check up by motorcycle shop and bought some spare parts. Yes with less you have more fan. The most time I was sleeping in a tent with a sleeping bag. So you meet a lots of great 🇦🇺 people in the Outback. Just he said you can safe a lots of money and you can drive where big biks couldn't get trough or up. That was a great life experience 🇦🇺💪🇦🇺 Best wishes from Asia 🐘🏝🐘🇨🇭
A Honda CB 750 Nighthwak is a great option. Butter smooth in line 4 cylinder engine, 75 hp, bulletproof engine, hydraulic valves (maintenance free), great sitting position and VERY fun to ride long distances. Awesome on the highway (You can do 80 mph all day no sweat) and can manage most dirt roads with ease. Just install some luggage and you are good to go round the world. Had a big GSA before, but way too heavy.
Took me a long time to realise it, but spot on. At the end of every day when I join up with my friends on their fast 'fatty' bikes in show them pictures of where I've been. You wouldn't think we were on the same trip. There is an English saying. ' small is beautiful '.
Excellent advice, all the reasons why i bought a BMW 650 GS, less than 3000 euros with luggage, more money left for my trip. How much of the world can you see at 140 kmph?'Slow down and enjoy the ride.
All these years I learn to appreciate my 92 Yamaha dt125 here in the Philippines, its very reliable even during flood at monsoon season, also low maintenance and the best power to weight ratio because its a 2stroke. Your honest review is an inspiration to us with small displacement motos, keep riding and enjoy the adventure.
Yes Sure Ontario. By Niagara Falls. I want to get an adventure together and the more I look into it the more I find that it might not be a good idea to be spontaneous. Thank god for this guy
@@branvd I am a bit east of Vancouver, much better weather than you have and mountain riding on forest trails is good. We have 30,000 kilometers of trials. You can rent all kinds of motorcycles in Vancouver. Try it sometime.
Such a good channel with great common sense advice. Am planning to leave the US on a motorcycle and end up somewhere in Paraguay. I not an expert rider, i have 2 years to prepare for this adventure, and am already 63 years old ex soccer player in great health, crosscountry skier and mountain biker, working in construction most of my adult life. Subscribed and hungry for sound advice such as found in this vid is priceless. Smaller, lighter and slower sounds all logical to me!! Thank you, Sir!!
I agree with you 200%! I just toured ALL around beautiful Croatia (from Austria) on my BMW F800ST. Ok its on the large side of 'small' bikes :), but MUCH lighter, more nimble (and more beautiful) than its bulky and UGLY brother, the 1200GS. There are situations where you may have to turn around in a tight situation, or balance the bike in a slow moving situation, and small-to-medium bikes will be a livesaver in these situations. He is absolutely right about everything. Slow down, see the world. There is nothing nicer - in my opinion - in Europe, than to leisurely cruise thru the beautiful countryside, passing thru old little villages with the town square, the church, people in the cafes and seeing the way country people live (hint: simply, but happliy!). The OLNY situation where I wished I had more power was when: going uphill, AND wind against me, AND all my luggage on back AND trying to pass a car. But that situation happened maybe . . . once in one month. Anyway, happy motoring and . . . 'arrive alive!' :D
My wife and me had traveled 20.000 km in Andes in 2018 on two XR150L. With some minor modifications like luggage rack or upper leveled handelbar. We go higher, more far and more remote than we could do with more heavy and more expensive bikes. Definitely the best choice to ride with and meet local less fortunate people.
I watch people on 1190's cross the Simpson Desert, and all day they cry about the weight and how they cant pick them up Meanwhile, the guys on the 500's are jumping the dunes and having a ball You tell the truth sir, well done.
wow. here's the main reason why i appreciate this video. i'm first generation greek american here in the states... and i was ALLLWAYS torn between my european and american heritage... and this guy just speaks my language. my wife is italian, and we freaking LOVE this style+culture of european conversation and what they themselves appreciate in life and how they think etc. so this was very refreshing for me. here's why this video was life changing.... i used to ride a 2006 harley sportster 883. and i was like.. having fun riding but in so many ways i did not like the bike. all the chrome, the harley image. and so i just thought recently, which i am saving/shopping for a new motorocycle as we speak.. i was thinking that i will just go with a new harley sportster because they are light, smaller, look a hell of a lot better etc. but i could not get past one thing about it. i personally love the way it looks but.. it's unapologetically pidgeon holed in its image and for me feels pretentious. if someone is gonna have an opinion about me, i don't want them to get a big idea from my motorcycle. i don't need that for my image/ personality. when he says in the video, on the bike i reccomend you are invisible. THAT IS WHAT I WANT. i don't want a bike that is known to be "so freaking cool" cause honestly, i don't think about myself that way. i'm low profile man. i honestly cant live up to the harley image. i don't have tattoos, and frankly, my image isn't comparable to the persona of harley. life changing. so i'm writing this to take the time to show appreciation for a few things here. over-all thanks and im gonna start looking outside the box a little. big help with your video. thank you!
Great, Great, great, I have a R1200GS and a Suzuki DR650, they really serve 2 different uses for me, but this dude is so correct. Watch his vids if you don't get it.
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is shaping up to be the best all round bike....dare I say the fabled unicorn....please Yamaha, mass produce and sell the damn bike already!!
I had the MT07 for 3 years as daily commuter. Both will share the same motor, and I love it. I have never ridden adventure bikes, but I the city I live lots of traffic in norrow streets, Ive seen so many 1200 GS get stuck due to the size, no split lanes, but at the same time capable of ridding really fast on highway to keep up with BMW 1200,1250 I think the same principle applies heavier, bulkier, makes things more difficult and you need to invest much more time perfecting your riding adventure skills (BMW instructor level) to keep up with the pack when you got the dirt. Ride comfortable for 2 hrs falling 5+ timea off road vs 2hrs ok and enjoying off road (helping picking up your 1200 friends).
@@sguerrero2000 A 1200 I find a european trip bike or commuter bike, not neccesarily an adventure, altho it has ground clearance it is far from ideal withthat weight. But rest and comfort are also important on long trips. I do thimk its more of a commuter bike, more like a car.
I have been riding for 32 years. And boss you are absolutely tight for 25 years rode a 100 cc honda. Another 5 years on a 150 honda and saw lot of places. Now with a 300 cc liquid cooled chinese bike am scared of breakdowns pilferage and attention on and off the road. Thanks a lot!
My 38 years of motorcycling and mingling with motorcyclist of big fat bikes tell me this>> most of them just put their ego first, practicality second. "The bigger bike means richer".
i like large bikes, but only because i like the way they look. people who buy big bikes to show off are stupid and pathetic. also if you spend more than $10,000 on a bike, you're either filthy rich or stupid.
I actually was wondering if bigger bikes make better long distance travelling vehicles, I like that it's not the case because I like the look of smaller bikes and with the need to rent, I need a smaller bike that is easier to store. I also worry about the issue of falling over and being trapped under my bike if it ever happens on a travel.
@@qwmx Hi Mel. Hmm, arguably speaking middleweight bikes e g.250 & 500s can serve very well for people in the city, including ladies. The little cubs & mopeds(125s or smaller) can be a strain on long big highways but are ideal if the roads are snow or 3rd world. Chek Utube on people who travel on little mopeds.... -In conclusion, best is to consider the kind of terrain & ease of D.I.Y. repairs when you do a road trip. Lightweigh dual purpose (trail bikes) are also a good choice.
Mir gefallen ALLE Videos hier auf dem Kanal! Jetzt wieder eines, dass aufzeigt, wie wenig der Mensch braucht um die Welt zu sehen... Es ist keine Frage von Hubraum jenseits der 1000ccm, wenn ich in's Abenteuer aufbrechen will, keine Frage von Ausrüstung bekannter Hersteller!! Endlich jemand, der geprägt von gesundem minimalistischem Denken, aufzeigt, dass auch mit kleinerem Budget und ohne sinnlos teure Materialschlacht unsere schöne Welt erfahren werden kann!! Danke für die Videos!
I agree totally. I have a Suzuki AN 400 scooter and a CTX 1300. I like them both. I love the 400 because it is so practical and light. Lotsa storage. I use it more than one he 1300....
This is why I like my Honda CB500X so much. 300 mile tank range, 80mpg. Cheap to buy (£5399 in UK), light in weight and low seat height. Honda reliability - the list goes on. And yes, I have soft Kriega luggage. Set sat nav to avoid motorways, happy days :) Bulgaria here I come....again !
He really knows what he is talking about , i've made few trips 2000-3500 tkm each included about 20% offroad on my honda xrv650 . the lighter you are the better , heavy weight is an enemy .
Went travelling 2-up on a Honda Grom (not the msx). Only thing we need was 3 days worth of clothes and a blanket (seat is hurting the a*s). I have seen more guys travelling (not in a group) with 125-300cc bikes than big bikes in a convoy. It's pretty common since a 125cc cost around 1k+ USD here brand new. The kind of money young people have along with time.
Thanks a lot for such amazing explanation. I'm signing under each your thought! I'm 48kg girl and I used to drive Honda msx 125cc and it's indeed the best for me at any circumstances! Both commuting and long-trips too 👍 Yes, I've tried to drive big bikes... Not my cup of tea, indeed. So I really agree with you a lot) Thanks
People travel the world on bicycles. That's less than 1 horsepower! So how can an engine not be powerful enough? Because it can't go 85/140 on massive highways? That is least interesting part of any adventure.
Totally agree :) I've toured by bicycle & tandem. I now have a 125cc, and on longer journeys when I'm pootling along at 60mph, I just have to think "this is a lot faster and easier than cycling..." :P
i walking, bicycling, driving Truck and van at work, driving car to and from work, motorbike at vaccation..and tank in the army....i started with a 47ccm moped, after that a 125ccm supermoto...and now a 650ccm Sport Enduro ( never ever i will drive this big thing off road) with just 70bhp...and only at home with Vmax....and sometimes to have a little more power isnt so bad...
Hat's off ! I have been scouting more than 50-70 sites lately and this is the most honest, practical and very useful information. Well fone and keep the adventure Spirit for your continuous journey. The desert explorer KR
@@james4878 nah, its tank didn't even reach a gallon. but i can easily get 150-160KM (90-100 miles) on a full tank if i use it for daily commute to work and still got quite a bit left to spare.
Brazikiam word trip with Honda 110 cc . 378 days On the road in Inhospitable places with low financial resources. A Warrior to be followed, his videos show the hard day to day on the roads and wonderful places
I got a similar displacement bike, 110 cc to be exact! And same build and shape as a Honda wave. I think it is more fun riding a small bike, big adventure bikes are no challenge, an overkill! It's not an adventure when you have all the comforts.
Are you kidding? No, you're good Goddamn, just make a video vlogs of that or so, to show to the people that they are stupid with their nonstop "comparisons of genitals" nonsense debates !
@@betara_indera_gunung_timur true! I had one for 7 years, it was a Honda wave 2006. I put only 20k km on it! It was awesome ! I've spend more money in beer than in petrol hahaha
Everybody needs to see this again and again. I couldn’t agree more. At a certain point, the motorcycle should get out of the way and it should just be about the journey / trip.
I rode a royal Enfield classic 500 750km in one day. I hopped off and went to go swim in the sea like I have not spent a minute on a bike. Loved every minute. If I ride my Honda nc750 for 200km feels like I have been hit by a truck.. Quality over speed.
@@johngreyvenstein5987 ...yeah, that too, as well as what I've said in other replies, thinking of going to dealer in Acton to look at the Enfields close up.
Yes i agree . any motorcycle can do adventures . you dont have a guarantee that sognature bikes dont give you headaches .BRANDED bigbikes just showoff ..this will not guarantee you also that you are safe , no accident ..this man is right ..as long as you are free to ride a bike .then the freedom is yours .
I agree with some points but some are misleading. Big bikes are not only for speed they are also for comfort. Small bikes have small and uncomfortable seats. The suspension is ususlly too soft for safe riding on highway or any paved road speeds. Smaller bikes are also too weak high above sea level and sometimes they are too slow when you have to cover more than 400-500 km per day. I agree though that large bikes over 1000 cc are also overkil. Unless you plan to have 95% of your trip on paved road and have a pillion there is no actual need for so much power and bulk. I personally think that the best is the middleweight bikes adventure bikes are spot on in terms of offering great comfort, sufficient power, decent off road capabilities.
While I definitely agree with you entirely, one has to mention that if your bike is to small some things get really annoying. I went on a trip through europe with a friend and she was on a 125cc 11kw bike. I already took most of the luggage on my 57kw 600cc bike but especially on some mountain passes above 2000m her little 125 had so little power that it became really really annoying and not really fun (changing between 2nd and 3rd gear going around 30kph uphill). Also when you want to overtake cars it's good to have a bit of power on hand. And just in case you do need to use the highway for once it's also good if you are not holding up all the traffic just because you want to overtake a truck. I'd say for actual adventure and travel riding a 300cc to 1000cc bike with more than 30kw is sufficient, anything less will maybe add to the adventure in one way, but also be annoying in another way.
"Reduce the speed if you want to see the world" - golden words
I thought so!
@@motorcycleadventures whatever...
Right on. I raced desert cross country. But it felt weird because really awesome scenery was just a blur. I've slowed down for fun because you me everyone will die so while we live, let's live to the fullest.
Underated
My adventure 390 is anything one would need for a trip and it's so agile. I am traveling in Vietnam and it's perfect. You can't go over 70 kph any way.
I have made a tour from Germany via Eastern Europe, Central Asia to Japan with a 30 year old aprilia pegaso 125cc 2 stroke without any problems.
Respect!
Have some videos documenting the trip sounds amazing 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
@@silvioprime6866 I've never done anything like that. I do not have the equipment for that. I have neither a camera nor a smartphone. just my old nokia 8110. i also navigate with paper map. When I do tours then I only want 2 things. 1. I want to be on my own. and 2. i want my rest.
Jonna Nygren that’s amazing !!! More power to you stay safe and keep the rubber side down!!!respect🔝👌🏼👍🏼🙋🏻♂️
@@silvioprime6866 I'm in the process of looking for a new motorcycle. My aprilia pegaso has a total damage. But so far I don't like any. And if so, then I am not allowed to drive them.
I agree with any single word of you. I did 2000 km trips with tent, sleeping bag and a 125 ccm scooter and had the time of my life.
The bike is just a tool, the travel is what really matters!
Heli, did u ever feel like people were behind u wanting u to go faster? How was it on the highway? fast enough? I ask because I'm a big dude and I guess it's natural to want a big bike. But I have heard a lot of people say to just get a Kawasaki KLR650. I just wonder about traveling on the highway and being too slow. Thanks
@@jausher On highways usually are 2 or more lines to drive one way. You can use laine to the left(to the right in UK) to overtake if it is necesaary 😉
Ur.correct.bike.is.just a tool travel.is the feeling
You're absolutely right
"don't need to spend 20000 euros on big bike, spend 5000-7000 euros on a smaller bike and the rest of the money seeing the world".
Sounds good to me
I bought crf250l in Japan for 1500usd and shipped to Magadan for 500usd. In 5 months reached Capetown, taking long rests at the places I found along the road, including Turkey and Egypt resorts. And whole trip cost half of what I planned to spend, 5000 usd. Largest sums went to the bike, documents/visas and petrol. Along the road I saw some bikers on a 125cc and even 90cc going round the world
And spend it on extra service's and parts
@@bigfella459 750 euros to spend on first service on GS...
Hmmm. I serviced complete bike for 300euros. And I mean everything, washers,gaskets, filters, oils, brake fluid hoses and brakes,clutch, piston rings, sparkplug, everything.
And not because I needed it, it's a Honda, just because I wanted it.
But at the same time u can spent 7000Euros to get old version of GS like 1150cc version, and forget about chain maintenance from all kind of dust, rocks, water etc etc u can find on the roads, hudge advantage. In addition u get a super light access to ur clutch cables, spark plugs, carburetors etc etc, which makes maintenance during trip much easier.
...in addition with "heavy" GS1150 boxer engine type + protection rack around engine, this bike never fall, it just tilt so u can get it up without even getting off from bike, just pull it up, which i found a hudge advantage.
...back to speed than, with bigger engine u can ride 110-120 km/h by 3500-4000 rpm (or even less depends on engine) and gearbox, while with small engines u have to much higher which makes it less nice.
I would always say that bike and its weight is most likely not a disadvantage, if u are well prepared and experienced rider u can get more of it than from a small bike.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
"You're riding on Earth, not Mars!"
So true.
Your riding on earth , not to Mars .
Words to live by! All you say is true, and using much less fuel to travel the same distance is a huge bonus! I have been riding for 41 years on so many different models, and I came to the conclusion late in life that smaller is better. More fun, less expensive, but you are not compromising in terms of getting where you want to go. The Kawasaki Versys 300, BMW 310GS, or the Royal Enfield Himalayan (400cc) are all very capable bikes for seeing the world. I have an Enfield Classic 500 and love it. I will never own another bike over 650cc.
660 miles roundtrip on X300 Versys was just fine!
Thank you very much for this info. Not more valuable advice in any matter than those coming from people with experience. I will look these bikes up, i am preparing for a very long journey from the US down the tip of South America.
I love my Meteor 350.
Wise advice. There is one guy from Argentina who went around the world on a Yamaha YBR125. Along the way, he picked up a permanent accessory, his wife, who also bought a Yamaha YBR125 and joined him on his trip. When he got back to Argentina, everybody came out to see him. The YBR's were still in good condition. This is not a bike you would ordinarily think of as a round the world bike, but they did it with no problems. Go, Yamaha!
The bike is just a tool, the most important is to ride!
Ybr 125 is a legendary bike in Russia. A lot of people doing their trips on this bike.
A girl from Argentina covered the whole world in a Honda XR 150.
@Ronald Connors , Yes YBR 125 very trustworthy bike, but if temperature +35 C in the city, ingine
overheated and -15% torque loses, on the way don't sensitive.
I met a bloke from Brazil here in a Australia on a Honda CB125.
He'd bought it here, but he'd been up and down the east coast on it.
I have spent a lifetime, owning from 175 cc bikes up to 1400 cc bikes. And now at 71 years old understand that you don't need big heavy bikes. You can enjoy motorcycle trips on any size bike. Kawasaki 650 Versys is the perfect bike for anything that I will ever do on a bike.
We need Versys 650 or Tenere 660 with shaft drive option! The only reason I look at larger bikes. I wreck the chain offroad and chain maintenance is always a worry travelling. Yamaha have shaft on XVS650 cruiser why not an option for others?
Sir, at least you started with 175cc bike where as I'm still at Yamaha 150cc motorcycle 🤦
Currently on a 2014 Ninja 650 Adventure Touring... been on hundreds of kilometres on dirt roads and its done very good. Choice of tires are important. Got it as back model saved over 2K... she's my precious. Nearing 40k plus some trips planned this summer. Yes... considering a KTM Adventure 490 if it ever comes out for more offroad capability.
Kawasaki 650 Versys is not a small bike though. Small bikes are under 400cc I'd say
Buy a Himalayan. It's best adventure bike
While on an adventure ride about 5 years ago, I ran into a man in Western Nebraska from New York, who was on his way back home from the West Coast. He was riding a 250cc and he said he had no problems. Just about the time I am tempted to buy a Super Tenere, I watch this video again and go and lay down, and after a rest, I come back to my senses and feel content with my KLR 650, which I love to ride ANYWHERE.
this bike will take you anywhere
In the UK I had MT-10, Superduke and an XT-660. Moved to Thailand and realised that big bikes can be a problem here as they are few and far between unlike smaller bikes. I ended up buying a CRF250 Rally and I drive this thing up and down Thailand no problem. Its a really really good bike and the fuel economy is incredible. Changed the gearing slighly but I'd take this thing everywhere.
"HIghway is boring" - Plus +1!
The big roads are dirty and dangerous. 12.200 miles around North America, all secondary roads make this journey so much more enjoyable. You meet new friends and see great scenery with ample places to stop, camp, and eat.
yeah everyone know this lol
@@robertpolkamp I am from Minnesota in the USA some logging roads around here see maybe 15 cars or trucks a day on the plus side I have always had someone stop and ask if I needed any help.
250 - 600 cc bikes are enough for touring, more powerful bikes means more unutilized power. Really agree with you, touring is not for boring highway rides.
Im riding through south east Asia on a sub 150cc Honda worth around 500 USD with upgraded off road tires and it works just fine, even on pretty bad roads.
You just dont look cool when riding but that is not my goal.
Anything over 250cc is going to overkill in a lot of the world.
The best m/c adventure advice I've ever seen. Excellent. So many 'adventure' riders return with tales of 5 countries in 7 days and a litany of motorway riding. They bought into the marketing that you buy the big adventure bike and others will think you are an 'adventurer'. Take the road less travelled and stop often.
johninleeds. So true john. Touring is what these guys are doing. Thats ok but adv is long haul, risky and seat of the pants stuff. For me it was overstaying visas, working illegally for cash and basically pushing my luck without doing anything that was harmfull to others. It was being young, foolish and carefree. And most of all FREE.
Now its poseurs, hipsters and marketing guys selling a phoney image based consumer fad that is fake.
Never seen a better video about "life " not only motorcycle. Exellent!
In 1968 my buddy and I each bought a new BSA Thunderbolt 650cc, 46 hp twin and rode from Alaska to the tip of South America and back. In 1970 we did it all again on 2 new Yamaha XS1 OHC 650cc twin clynder bikes. Much less mech trouble with the Yamahas, but on both trips the bikes were great and did everything we asked them to do. If one really wants to see the country and have a great, long bike trip, stay away from weight. 650 will be more cc's than you need. The writer of this article shows a lot of wisdome.
Thank you for taking the time to watch the video and for the commend Michael!
I ride a 1978 Yamaha XS650SE. I have gone on week long road trips and its the perfect bike for that. More power than you need.
I cant believe you made it that far on the BSA bikes without major mechanical problems. My neighbor sold them and claimed they needed alot of maintenance and unreliable.
Trip of a lifetime!
Wow, it was a different world back then. Lucky you. !
People make fun of my "small" 650cc Kawasaki. They fixate on "bigger is better". You are correct that smaller bikes can be fun and save you money.
Yes, and you still travel, which is the most important.
I also have a 650 Versys and guy on a 1000cc yam said you need a faster bike... after doing NC 500 with him I asked if I had held him up that week..he said no lol
Yours are bigger than mine, 250cc only,hahaha
I also have a 250 kawasaki. Bloody great fun!
Funny. I just ordered a 650cc Kawa Vulcan S to replace my current Tiger 800. I fully agree. Everyone told me I'd feel the need to go bigger when I ordered the Triumph, but the final result is that I want something lower, smaller and lighter, which feels like more fun to begin with. :)
Completely true.
In fact, I ride on my 150cc motorcycle and I enjoy the trip a lot more
Enjoyed this. Keeping things to the minimum has been the mainstay of my life! I sometimes think that alot of bikers are so caught up in the idea that bigger and faster is better that they forget why they started riding in the first place. Life isn't a sprint. It's a marathon. Take time to enjoy the little things.
Exactly!
Adventure will NOT and will NEVER depend on the size of the bike. It solely relies on the RIDER of the bike who has the attitude to always want to know the unknown.
Very nice tips, sir. Very practical. I salute you!
Thank you Sebastian!
Your last point is excellent. Arriving in a poor country with a $30,000 bike and covered in Klim gear is a tough way to find the best prices. Be prepared to pay full price everywhere.
or double price
I completely agree with you. Lighter bikes are just a lot more versatile for long trips with lots of surprises along the way. I ride a Chinese dual sport currently, planning on upgrading to a klr 650 or a crf300 with sprocket and seat mods for my next bike to tour with as my first"forever bike". I wish we saw more dual sport and adventure bikes here in the Midwest of USA 😢.
Thanks for taking the time!
Agreed!! KLR650 here. I taken that bike all over the country (Australia) and have found it almost ideal. Cheap to buy, easy to fix, lightweight, will do 120 all day and can go just about anywhere. About the only BMW GS’s I see along the way are usually parked up at cafe’s.....
That's because no one wants to beat the crap out of a $25,000 motorcycle in the Australian outback. Most everyone I know who has done a long tour on a 1200GS bought theirs used, and usually from the guy who got bored taking his bike to Starbucks to pick up his chai machiatto and scone every Sunday...but only if it was sunny...and warm...and if his friend is going....but not riding too quickly. Nothing wrong with that, lets us buy those bikes at ridiculously discounted prices and very low miles.
to be fair, the KLR650 is the epitome of slow and steady. There's a reason it's been around, with really only one update, since the 80's. It just works.
BEST motorcycle advise ever in my opinion! Thank you!
"Be Invisible". I cant stress how important it is!! You will avoid many troubles.
A BMW will attract a lot of attention in some places. I think that's what he means. Plus, I really wouldn't want to try to fix one in Mozambique or Pakistan.
Words of wisdom...
@Abraham I went from Staten Island, N.Y. to California and back on a Honda 350 CL, the one with both exhause pipes coming halfway up the side of the bike before going to the rear of the bike. No Problems. The next year I brought a BMW R 90 s and went to Latin America. Just as much FUN on the 350.
Beat up your fairings before you go on a long trip, makes your bike look like a piece of crap and you can always pick up some new pieces of plastic fairings for cheap if you want to sell it.
Good add...I live in Buenos Aires, I´m 53 years old I traveled to Machu Picchu, Ushuaia and route 40 in Argentina complete (5000 kms)...I did it with a KLR 650 ´09...never had a problem...but my dream was a big bike....last year I bought a R1200GS 2017 brand new....I sold my KLR...I spend U$3700 in accesories....it was a irracional decision? yes!!! I worked like a mule all my life and needed ride my dream but you are saying the true....for the adventure was the best my old KLR
Could you find a performance difference?
Lamentablemente uno tiene que pasar por ese error, tuve una GS y ahora una 500cc mono y soy mas feliz ahora
Mi respeto. Me alegra saber de gente con experiencia, yo apenas me compré mi primera moto dual sport Yamaha 125
@@ricardoguerrero1842 ofcourse, but there's also a huge weight difference.
@@0xsergy, the weight difference is minimum when you're riding. The power difference is very notorious.
I'm happy jumping from 750 to 1,200 cc. I feel I don't need bigger bike.
Absolutely agree 100%.
My Honda CB500X can take me anywhere and has a tank range of over 300 miles. :-)
I concur, my old 1982 GL500 could take me anywhere for cheap, if I could buy one new, I would seriously consider it, too bad they are not made any more
Who needs riding modes, if it works don't fix it. Modern isn't always best. :-)
I'm looking at one of those right now...
Yes CB500X is the perfect choice.
@Grieg Ragen ...or the mini-goose {ie. Moto-Guzzi} :-)
I have a 150cc bike. Whenever I see my friends riding bigger motorcycles, I get disappointed with my bike. But after watching this video, I get cheered up. This video is a hope for people who can't afford bigger bikes but still can be satisfied with what they have with them. Bikes are not important, but the Ride is. Keep Riding all of you.
Horses for courses, here in Australia there are some very long gravel roads that go for hundreds of miles in the outback. The bigger bikes like the R1200GS Triumph Explorer 1200, KTM etc are great fun loaded up with a lot of gear. BUT you get into the sandy desert tracks or wet sticky mud and you spend most of the day picking these bikes up off the ground. I think the smaller bikes like the Suzuki DR650, Kawasaki KLR 650, and similar sized bikes (with less luggage too) make a much better choice for sandy, muddy or any difficult terrain riding. Many other things come into play also, age, skill and fitness level are a big part of motorcycle selection, along with personal preference too, what the rider feels comfortable with. I suppose what I am trying to say is everyone has a choice and a personal preference. I don't think a 250cc would be very suitable for a bloke 6 foot 4 inches tall weighing 280 pounds. This video puts forward very valid reasons for the average rider to choose a smaller lighter bike in the 650cc range for a global adventure ride and in that context it is, I believe, very good advice for the multitude of different riding experiences to be encountered and enjoyed on a major adventure trip.
Very well said, thank you!
I'm 6'3 250lbs and large bike feel better. Very valid opinions! I've had 50cc to 1200cc bikes throughout my life and loved them all. Simply, find a bike that fits your needs and you will have fun, no doubt about it.
@Ronald Connors A 250, wow! Brave man to run that through the US, Mexico and more. I rope a 1200 adventure bike from MN to Alaska and that was scary enough, only went off the road once!
The two advantages of a 250 for long distance on US freeways, is 1) they all come with cruise control: Pin the throttle with a cheap throttle lock, and sit back until it's time to get gas..... On more powerful bikes, you always have to fiddle with the throttle lock, or you'll end up getting pulled over for speeding on the smallest of downhills. And 2)They really incentivize you to get off the freeways in the first place....
To do all areas, 500-600 cc is very doable, safely!!
Nowhere else have I heard a more practical and clearly explained case for small motorcycles. Thanks a lot, fellow rider!
My pleasure!
You're right... Only a right rider can think this way....
Great video and absolutely right! I have ridden my BMW F650 GS more than 50,000 miles including US and Alaska, Canada and Mexico. It has served me well. Reliable, easy to handle, excellent fuel mileage etc.
What year is your 650? Some guy is trying to sell me a older BMW 650 today but it has over 50,000km which is about 37,000 miles or so, and I don't want to buy a older bike with higher milage that might cause problems. Do you think this 650 has a lot of life left in it for about $6,000 it's a 2004 or something like that for sale and I'm not sure about it?
@@BryanBeeit's a BMW, it's got at least 200,000km left.
We are currently riding all of Vietnam on a Vietnamese Honda Win 110 cc that we purchased for $ 350.00 USD. We love it.
After watching you ride on your last adventure, I cannot argue with any of this advice
Finally , a very smart advice from a smart and well experienced rider
I have a 250 cc bike and i feel happy travelling with it
I am after the scenery and the feeling of relaxation and fun
I never find going fast on highways fun
Its always fun to pull over and take selfies and pictures
Riding is a feeling of freedom and enjoyment
Perfectly said. I remember 4 sd gearboxes and said the same thing. I do wish I had 6th some days on my 250(with a slight diet). I recently told a friend I would get a 300cc efi and rule the road if the cops would leave me alone like they do the pushers/speeders now!
A lot of this applies to sport riding too. Riding a smaller bike makes you a faster rider. Those who think they can start on a 1000cc superbike never really learn to manage the power and carry speed through turns, and thus the people who started on smaller bikes will pass them up in skill quickly. I did a track day recently on my little Yamaha R3, and was flying past people on 100+ horsepower machines.
What you just summarized in this video accurately covers the basis for a comfortable and safe trip. As always an excellent material. Thanks for taking the time to upload it. A big greeting from a Venezuelan in Mexico.
Very inspiring tips! Thank You! I think just like you and I'm planning my Brazil - Alaska adventure with my own bike, an Tenere 250cc. A lot of friends tell me that I'm crazy but I prefer use the money in the trip instead buy a expensive motorcycle. Cheers!
Wow, thank you for clearing away my confusion, now I will definitely go for a cheaper light weight bike.
This video just makes me reassure myself that I made a great purchase when I decided to go for Yamaha XT600E, as I love dirty tracks. I can't imagine how hard has to be ride a big bike on a rocky terrain, not even talk about some mountain paths! My xt600E is like a big enduro bike that can travel long distances, one deposit 450km :D
"you will ride on Earth.... Not on Mars!!". YASSSSSSS. Love Love Love
I did the Trans America trail on a Africa twin and it was way more adventure than I wanted. If I had it to do over again or if I’m lucky enough to string 44 days together for a second trip I would take my CRF250L. The Africa was exhausting in deep sand and mud and trying to pick it up in mud was a nearly impossible task. I honestly believe I could have cut 5-7 days off my trip with my CRF250L. If you’re just into the looks and do the occasional fire road the Africa twin is a blast. Also water crossings scared the sh## out of me because if the AT slipped on slick rocks I could not stop it from falling over(bike was roughly 600 pounds wet with my kit out). Rider info: I’m 52 5’9” 190 pounds. I lost more than 20 pounds on the ride and blew out my left knee trying to hold up the Twin climbing up a river bank.
In 2010 I bought a brand new Yamaha Tenere 660 and I sold it with 65000km , than I bought KTM 1290
That was REALY BAD idea
Heavy,big, and lot of riding problems during the offroad trips
I NEED BACK MY OLD YAMAHA
GREAT VIDEO PAVLIN !!!
Pozdrav brato !!!!
Ive just bought suzuki gn 125 and I love it. Im using it in town where 80 km/h is enough.
Ive been riding the Kawasaki 300 Versey,15000 trouble free km,over every imaginable terrain, dirt roads,wash outs,single track,never let me down.glad I spent the money on the crash guards and lights,crashed a couple of times and very little damage,the plus side I could pick it up. Two Gs 1200 couldnt keep up,great vid!
great presentation! i love the way you express yourself with the colorful examples... non-native englsih speaking folks who speak it well, have a great flair for verbal expression...always impressed by that-- THX FOR THE VIDEO-- :D
My pleasure Joe!
I agree 100%, especially if you ride alone. That's why I chose the VStrom 650 rather than the VStrom 1000, and all 5 points apply correctly.
I also was confused between the two. But I was able to fund half my travels with the money I saved by buying the 650 instead of the 1000
I smile when riders say that a 650cc is a small bike . I am 72 and been riding since I was 15yrs ,past days most bikes were 250 to 500 . Then the tonup boys with 650 monsters. My first large bike was a750 k GP. Now I have 250vstom which is just great and at 80mpg such a great tourer even at 70 motorway speeds ,
Thanks for adding!
Small bikes are awesome. 101% agree. Thanks
Your absolutely right 💪
I have done 33 year's ago around 🇦🇺 in 4 1/2 months and in the outback of 🇦🇺 with a used Endouro 250cc Honda from a farmers son you are very flexible where you want to drive. Before I was starting traveling I made a check up by motorcycle shop and bought some spare parts. Yes with less you have more fan. The most time I was sleeping in a tent with a sleeping bag. So you meet a lots of great 🇦🇺 people in the Outback. Just he said you can safe a lots of money and you can drive where big biks couldn't get trough or up. That was a great life experience 🇦🇺💪🇦🇺
Best wishes from Asia 🐘🏝🐘🇨🇭
I personally Love Royal Enfield Himalayan, and also I am planning for that bike for touring purpose
Good!
A Honda CB 750 Nighthwak is a great option. Butter smooth in line 4 cylinder engine, 75 hp, bulletproof engine, hydraulic valves (maintenance free), great sitting position and VERY fun to ride long distances. Awesome on the highway (You can do 80 mph all day no sweat) and can manage most dirt roads with ease. Just install some luggage and you are good to go round the world. Had a big GSA before, but way too heavy.
Spanish Media 502 1986 nighthawk 650 was my first bike! A great one also - I miss it!!
lot of carbs, wished they had efi
My very 1st bike was a nighthawk 650 I wish I still had it
Perfect, I have 300 cc bike Honda and I m very happy 👍🏻
CB 300r? How much does it return on mileage?
Your motorcycle practicality is sooo refreshing. REAL TALK. Love your channel my friend!
Thanks, man!
Sold my BMW GSA 1200 as way too big and heavy , now looking at a Royal Enfield Himalayan
Mike Bills
follow itchy boots...you will get everything about Himalayan
Mike Bills
- Have a look at AJP PR7.
You can thank me later. ;-)
SMART
Hello Mike , u can opt for Himalayan or Dominar. Both r good. I am personally using Dominar 400 and it is excellent for all kids of rides.
Currently waiting for the Himalayan 650cc to come out the end of 2020 or spring 21
Love your video, 250cc is more than enough to have a blast.
Took me a long time to realise it, but spot on. At the end of every day when I join up with my friends on their fast 'fatty' bikes in show them pictures of where I've been. You wouldn't think we were on the same trip.
There is an English saying. ' small is beautiful '.
and poor but sexy ;)
when i was at Stonehenge, there was bikes from all over Europe.....85% BMWs...a few Harleys...and only 2 Suzis...and one was mine...lol
It's also cheaper lol
i have the new V-strom 650 now.....its looks now closer to the 1000ccm i liked my old red one too but this is even better now..
Excellent advice, all the reasons why i bought a BMW 650 GS, less than 3000 euros with luggage, more money left for my trip. How much of the world can you see at 140 kmph?'Slow down and enjoy the ride.
Great point. Im enjoying a 150cc
Good to hear!
I M FOLLOWING YOU. YOU ARE AN EXCELLENT MENTOR. THANK U. I AGREE EACH STATEMENT YOU DESCRIBED
I just finished watching The Long Way Around again and thought the same thing when the boys were exhausted riding the big bikes...
All these years I learn to appreciate my 92 Yamaha dt125 here in the Philippines, its very reliable even during flood at monsoon season, also low maintenance and the best power to weight ratio because its a 2stroke. Your honest review is an inspiration to us with small displacement motos, keep riding and enjoy the adventure.
I am learning so much from your experienced teachings. Thank you so much from Canada!!
My pleasure!
I am in British Columbia - what about you?
Yes Sure Ontario. By Niagara Falls. I want to get an adventure together and the more I look into it the more I find that it might not be a good idea to be spontaneous. Thank god for this guy
@@branvd I am a bit east of Vancouver, much better weather than you have and mountain riding on forest trails is good. We have 30,000 kilometers of trials. You can rent all kinds of motorcycles in Vancouver. Try it sometime.
Get a cheap and lightweight bike and sleep in comfortable hotels every night ! 😂
Ya got it!!
Such a good channel with great common sense advice. Am planning to leave the US on a motorcycle and end up somewhere in Paraguay. I not an expert rider, i have 2 years to prepare for this adventure, and am already 63 years old ex soccer player in great health, crosscountry skier and mountain biker, working in construction most of my adult life.
Subscribed and hungry for sound advice such as found in this vid is priceless.
Smaller, lighter and slower sounds all logical to me!!
Thank you, Sir!!
Welcome aboard!
The best video ever seen regarding motorcycle adventures .
I agree with you 200%! I just toured ALL around beautiful Croatia (from Austria) on my BMW F800ST. Ok its on the large side of 'small' bikes :), but MUCH lighter, more nimble (and more beautiful) than its bulky and UGLY brother, the 1200GS. There are situations where you may have to turn around in a tight situation, or balance the bike in a slow moving situation, and small-to-medium bikes will be a livesaver in these situations. He is absolutely right about everything. Slow down, see the world. There is nothing nicer - in my opinion - in Europe, than to leisurely cruise thru the beautiful countryside, passing thru old little villages with the town square, the church, people in the cafes and seeing the way country people live (hint: simply, but happliy!). The OLNY situation where I wished I had more power was when: going uphill, AND wind against me, AND all my luggage on back AND trying to pass a car. But that situation happened maybe . . . once in one month. Anyway, happy motoring and . . . 'arrive alive!' :D
Thanks for taking the time!
My wife and me had traveled 20.000 km in Andes in 2018 on two XR150L. With some minor modifications like luggage rack or upper leveled handelbar. We go higher, more far and more remote than we could do with more heavy and more expensive bikes. Definitely the best choice to ride with and meet local less fortunate people.
Cool!
I watch people on 1190's cross the Simpson Desert, and all day they cry about the weight and how they cant pick them up
Meanwhile, the guys on the 500's are jumping the dunes and having a ball
You tell the truth sir, well done.
Great advice here, leave the ego in the garage, buy a Tenere 700 or DR Suzuki and enjoy what for most people is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
wow. here's the main reason why i appreciate this video. i'm first generation greek american here in the states... and i was ALLLWAYS torn between my european and american heritage... and this guy just speaks my language. my wife is italian, and we freaking LOVE this style+culture of european conversation and what they themselves appreciate in life and how they think etc. so this was very refreshing for me.
here's why this video was life changing.... i used to ride a 2006 harley sportster 883. and i was like.. having fun riding but in so many ways i did not like the bike. all the chrome, the harley image. and so i just thought recently, which i am saving/shopping for a new motorocycle as we speak.. i was thinking that i will just go with a new harley sportster because they are light, smaller, look a hell of a lot better etc. but i could not get past one thing about it. i personally love the way it looks but.. it's unapologetically pidgeon holed in its image and for me feels pretentious. if someone is gonna have an opinion about me, i don't want them to get a big idea from my motorcycle. i don't need that for my image/ personality.
when he says in the video, on the bike i reccomend you are invisible. THAT IS WHAT I WANT. i don't want a bike that is known to be "so freaking cool" cause honestly, i don't think about myself that way. i'm low profile man. i honestly cant live up to the harley image. i don't have tattoos, and frankly, my image isn't comparable to the persona of harley.
life changing. so i'm writing this to take the time to show appreciation for a few things here. over-all thanks and im gonna start looking outside the box a little. big help with your video. thank you!
Thanks for taking the time!
I went on a 100 mile trip on a 1984 Yamaha RX50. I slept well that night lol.
@Twilight 8368 I had a 1983 RX50 - that bike was really amazing
I had a great time in Vietnam on a Honda 125cc bike that made me look at the Adventure category for motorcycles.
Great, Great, great, I have a R1200GS and a Suzuki DR650, they really serve 2 different uses for me, but this dude is so correct. Watch his vids if you don't get it.
just got a BMW gs 310 and now i feel more happy with the decision!
Picking up a Versys X 300 this week after riding 250's for like 7 years. It's the way to go!
YES, good wine, lovely hotels, vinyard tours....small moped, 15k on wine. I am a believer. Thumbs up!
taffrider Nothing wrong with that my friend , sounds good to me, cheers.
The most sensible video I have watched in youtube regarding this topic. Kudos to you!
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is shaping up to be the best all round bike....dare I say the fabled unicorn....please Yamaha, mass produce and sell the damn bike already!!
Agreed
I had the MT07 for 3 years as daily commuter. Both will share the same motor, and I love it. I have never ridden adventure bikes, but I the city I live lots of traffic in norrow streets, Ive seen so many 1200 GS get stuck due to the size, no split lanes, but at the same time capable of ridding really fast on highway to keep up with BMW 1200,1250 I think the same principle applies heavier, bulkier, makes things more difficult and you need to invest much more time perfecting your riding adventure skills (BMW instructor level) to keep up with the pack when you got the dirt. Ride comfortable for 2 hrs falling 5+ timea off road vs 2hrs ok and enjoying off road (helping picking up your 1200 friends).
@@sguerrero2000 A 1200 I find a european trip bike or commuter bike, not neccesarily an adventure, altho it has ground clearance it is far from ideal withthat weight. But rest and comfort are also important on long trips. I do thimk its more of a commuter bike, more like a car.
I am still a fan of the 400CC Royal Enfield Himalayan!
Now that its released, looks like it lived up to the expectations!
Thx! Made me feel better about my own set up 🤠
I have been riding for 32 years. And boss you are absolutely tight for 25 years rode a 100 cc honda. Another 5 years on a 150 honda and saw lot of places. Now with a 300 cc liquid cooled chinese bike am scared of breakdowns pilferage and attention on and off the road. Thanks a lot!
“You will ride on the earth, not on mars.” Pure genius! Well said!
This is so spot on, mate! This video and my last one create an interesting juxtaposition!
Thanks!
They really do!
I really thought I would need a big bike, this video changed my mind, and Ii now own a KLE 500 and love it! Thanx!
Glad I could help!
My 38 years of motorcycling and mingling with motorcyclist of big fat bikes tell me this>> most of them just put their ego first, practicality second.
"The bigger bike means richer".
i like large bikes, but only because i like the way they look. people who buy big bikes to show off are stupid and pathetic. also if you spend more than $10,000 on a bike, you're either filthy rich or stupid.
I actually was wondering if bigger bikes make better long distance travelling vehicles, I like that it's not the case because I like the look of smaller bikes and with the need to rent, I need a smaller bike that is easier to store. I also worry about the issue of falling over and being trapped under my bike if it ever happens on a travel.
@@qwmx Hi Mel. Hmm, arguably speaking middleweight bikes e g.250 & 500s can serve very well for people in the city, including ladies. The little cubs & mopeds(125s or smaller) can be a strain on long big highways but are ideal if the roads are snow or 3rd world. Chek Utube on people who travel on little mopeds....
-In conclusion, best is to consider the kind of terrain & ease of D.I.Y. repairs when you do a road trip. Lightweigh dual purpose (trail bikes) are also a good choice.
Mir gefallen ALLE Videos hier auf dem Kanal! Jetzt wieder eines, dass aufzeigt, wie wenig der Mensch braucht um die Welt zu sehen... Es ist keine Frage von Hubraum jenseits der 1000ccm, wenn ich in's Abenteuer aufbrechen will, keine Frage von Ausrüstung bekannter Hersteller!! Endlich jemand, der geprägt von gesundem minimalistischem Denken, aufzeigt, dass auch mit kleinerem Budget und ohne sinnlos teure Materialschlacht unsere schöne Welt erfahren werden kann!!
Danke für die Videos!
I agree totally. I have a Suzuki AN 400 scooter and a CTX 1300. I like them both. I love the 400 because it is so practical and light. Lotsa storage. I use it more than one he 1300....
This is why I like my Honda CB500X so much. 300 mile tank range, 80mpg. Cheap to buy (£5399 in UK), light in weight and low seat height. Honda reliability - the list goes on. And yes, I have soft Kriega luggage. Set sat nav to avoid motorways, happy days :) Bulgaria here I come....again !
He really knows what he is talking about , i've made few trips 2000-3500 tkm each included about 20% offroad on my honda xrv650 . the lighter you are the better , heavy weight is an enemy .
Yeah, fell down with 660 with 3 boxes, back pack & 40kg of wood tied onto the back seat in deep sand. Lighter would've been better.
Went travelling 2-up on a Honda Grom (not the msx). Only thing we need was 3 days worth of clothes and a blanket (seat is hurting the a*s). I have seen more guys travelling (not in a group) with 125-300cc bikes than big bikes in a convoy. It's pretty common since a 125cc cost around 1k+ USD here brand new. The kind of money young people have along with time.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks a lot for such amazing explanation. I'm signing under each your thought! I'm 48kg girl and I used to drive Honda msx 125cc and it's indeed the best for me at any circumstances! Both commuting and long-trips too 👍 Yes, I've tried to drive big bikes... Not my cup of tea, indeed. So I really agree with you a lot) Thanks
Thanks for taking the time, Alexandra!
People travel the world on bicycles. That's less than 1 horsepower! So how can an engine not be powerful enough? Because it can't go 85/140 on massive highways? That is least interesting part of any adventure.
Jason J. Ayala P. Some people walk around the world. Even less horsepower then a bicycle 😀
Totally agree :) I've toured by bicycle & tandem. I now have a 125cc, and on longer journeys when I'm pootling along at 60mph, I just have to think "this is a lot faster and easier than cycling..." :P
i walking, bicycling, driving Truck and van at work, driving car to and from work, motorbike at vaccation..and tank in the army....i started with a 47ccm moped, after that a 125ccm supermoto...and now a 650ccm Sport Enduro ( never ever i will drive this big thing off road) with just 70bhp...and only at home with Vmax....and sometimes to have a little more power isnt so bad...
George Dando and saving big dollars on petrol
It's infact the same.
Hat's off ! I have been scouting more than 50-70 sites lately and this is the most honest, practical and very useful information.
Well fone and keep the adventure Spirit for your continuous journey.
The desert explorer
KR
Glad it was helpful!
I have exactly the same attitude, I’m in Australia and ride a DR 650 for my adventure rides for all the reasons you said 👍
I use honda wave 97cc. That's very very small motorcycle. But very cheap on maintenance😹
Don't judge me please😂😂😂
@@james4878 nah, its tank didn't even reach a gallon. but i can easily get 150-160KM (90-100 miles) on a full tank if i use it for daily commute to work and still got quite a bit left to spare.
Brazikiam word trip with Honda 110 cc . 378 days
On the road in Inhospitable places with low financial resources. A Warrior to be followed, his videos show the hard day to day on the roads and wonderful places
I got a similar displacement bike, 110 cc to be exact! And same build and shape as a Honda wave. I think it is more fun riding a small bike, big adventure bikes are no challenge, an overkill! It's not an adventure when you have all the comforts.
Are you kidding? No, you're good Goddamn, just make a video vlogs of that or so, to show to the people that they are stupid with their nonstop "comparisons of genitals" nonsense debates !
@@betara_indera_gunung_timur true! I had one for 7 years, it was a Honda wave 2006. I put only 20k km on it! It was awesome ! I've spend more money in beer than in petrol hahaha
Everybody needs to see this again and again. I couldn’t agree more. At a certain point, the motorcycle should get out of the way and it should just be about the journey / trip.
'Leave the kitchen sink & toilet at home." Lol. True.
Definitely!
making good sense, 500 Enfield was perfect for touring Nepal and Tibet.
I rode a royal Enfield classic 500 750km in one day. I hopped off and went to go swim in the sea like I have not spent a minute on a bike. Loved every minute. If I ride my Honda nc750 for 200km feels like I have been hit by a truck.. Quality over speed.
I have gone through tough hilly roads of nepal in 125. 160..200 ccs...😅
@@johngreyvenstein5987 ...yeah, that too, as well as what I've said in other replies, thinking of going to dealer in Acton to look at the Enfields close up.
I've got a 1978 SR500.
At the time I bought it I could have gotten anything I wanted and that's what I wanted!
It's perfect!!
@@hodaka1000 The choice of simplicity. I've tried many motorcycles, and took the same path
Yes i agree . any motorcycle can do adventures . you dont have a guarantee that sognature bikes dont give you headaches .BRANDED bigbikes just showoff ..this will not guarantee you also that you are safe , no accident ..this man is right ..as long as you are free to ride a bike .then the freedom is yours .
True
Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor have a lot to answer for!!
I agree with some points but some are misleading. Big bikes are not only for speed they are also for comfort. Small bikes have small and uncomfortable seats. The suspension is ususlly too soft for safe riding on highway or any paved road speeds. Smaller bikes are also too weak high above sea level and sometimes they are too slow when you have to cover more than 400-500 km per day. I agree though that large bikes over 1000 cc are also overkil. Unless you plan to have 95% of your trip on paved road and have a pillion there is no actual need for so much power and bulk. I personally think that the best is the middleweight bikes adventure bikes are spot on in terms of offering great comfort, sufficient power, decent off road capabilities.
While I definitely agree with you entirely, one has to mention that if your bike is to small some things get really annoying. I went on a trip through europe with a friend and she was on a 125cc 11kw bike. I already took most of the luggage on my 57kw 600cc bike but especially on some mountain passes above 2000m her little 125 had so little power that it became really really annoying and not really fun (changing between 2nd and 3rd gear going around 30kph uphill). Also when you want to overtake cars it's good to have a bit of power on hand. And just in case you do need to use the highway for once it's also good if you are not holding up all the traffic just because you want to overtake a truck. I'd say for actual adventure and travel riding a 300cc to 1000cc bike with more than 30kw is sufficient, anything less will maybe add to the adventure in one way, but also be annoying in another way.