Which bike do YOU think will win out of the 3 we're facing off against one another? Yamaha Bolt, Harley Iron, or the Indian Scout? Join in on Patreon for the giveaway! www.Patreon.com/BlockheadMoto
I've always been an H-D guy, but I have a feeling that BOLT might surprise some people when you're done with it. My money's on that Yamaha this round! Do it justice brother
Love my 2018 Bolt. Only things I dislike... 1. Stock seat 2. Gauge 3. Fuel tank capacity Upgrades...(main ones) Mustang Fastback seat - AWESOME for long rides. Ikon 7610-1670 shocks - Super easy install SSCC Retro air intake, Cobra Slip-on, Ivan's ECU flash - Simple performance mods, that made me love the bike even more!
Hey there!Former owner of this bike here. It's such a joy seeing the bike again! (Btw taillight is stock). Keep up those amazing videos!Can't wait to see what you do with this bike!
Lvndry koso? Lol I need that but I need Ivan’s flash have the K&n intake dean speed 12guage and o2 delete. I didn’t notice anything wrong but a coworker notice when I shifted as a smashed the throttle coming through the gate at work lol
Great Video, we put a 1.5" lift on the front forrks and a 1" lift on the back, combined with moving the controls to full on forward controls, substantially increased the lean angle making it even nicer to weave in and out of turns. Love the bike!!!
I have had my bolt since may 2017. I love it! Bassani slip on and cobra fuel management. Blacked out the air box, battery bracket, and the exhaust shields. It has and still a fun bike to ride! Rode it today actually. You can’t go wrong with this bike.
I am in my mid 60's now and have a multitude of bikes during my lifetime from racing in my youth to touring as I have aged. I bought a Bolt for my wife in 2016 and I must say, I enjoy riding that little thing more than about any other I have ever owned.
I am 4'11" and ride a bolt. I love mine. I've added Vance and Hines exhaust, and had lowering brackets added because of my height. Other than that, still mostly stock. A great midsize bike for a short rider.
Glad to see this comment cuz im wanting to get into motorcycle riding and im thinking the bolt is gunna be the one i choose. Havent sat on any yet, just reviews. But idk what spec would be better but these sound good with the vance and hines twin slash exhaust imo
@@jessemaxey1354 the bolt r spec or c spec are clean. Very good starter bike, very clean handle. Definitely a bike that can build confidence in your riding.
@@danieldriggs9058 I’d take the Star Bolt over a HD Iron 883 any day. That being said, I would lean more to the Suzuki S40 650 for a starter bike with some one who has experience as a dirt bike rider.
The Yamaha Bolt was my first bike. (1st was actually 30yrs ago so I'm counting this one as first.) I really enjoyed the bike. It is a good solid machine with Yamaha reliability. The air intake drove me crazy. Every bump it hit me in the knee so I traded it in for a 2019 Indian Scout and haven't looked back. They aren't really a fair comparison. I know they are relatively close in size etc., but the Scout is twice the cost and it shows. The Scout also has adjustable shocks and once they are dialed in for your weight, the ride is amazing. Until you get it right, it can actually be painful. Long story short, I enjoyed this Bolt, but love the Scout. It fits me better and handles better. Just my .02. I enjoy your videos, keep them coming. Thanks.
Glad you reviewed this bike. It definitely appears competitive with the Iron, ,,,,,& probably a lot less vibrations ( so I've heard) .. & costs less. I know for a fact that Yamahas in general have the best reliability ratings. This bike seems to warrant serious consideration.
Mike O it’s alright, I can live without, the glare isn’t really a big deal, everyone talks about timlike it’s the end of the world, but honestly only bothers me a tiny bit, and really if u like how they look sure, but for me I’m not dying to get it or anything
Wow you sure have grown! I remember following you when you had maybe 300 subscribers. I have since sold my Harley iron 883. But I would like you to test ride a new Honda rebel 1100. I’d like to hear your opinion on it. I’m in the verge of getting into street cruiser again.
Just wanted to say your how to ride motorcycle was the very first video I checked out before I decided I wanted to learn. Pre covid started and I wanted to learn something since free time. I also thought to myself it’ll be something I may ever learn. I now have my license after msf course. Got a first bike, sold it and now looking at this bolt!
I bought one when they came out, still going strong and love it. Obviously it has its flaws, and takes some personalization to make it great but thats true for most bikes in my opinion. If someone is looking for a good commuter stock is fine, if you want more than that later the options are there.
Loved that bike! I rode it for 3 years and it never gave me any problem. I had mine with a Two Brothers Competition series exhaust wich gave the bike a big and loud race car sound... Also the quality in Yamaha it's one of the best in the market... Miss that bike :(
I have a 2020 Bolt R spec and I love it, would highly recommend this to others. The biggest downside to it in my opinion is its definitely not catered to taller people. Other than that I have no complaints!
I've got a Bolt. Changes I've made so far to mine: Memphis Shades El Paso windscreen Dean Speed highway bar Mustang solo seat Hepco and Becker Solorack + backrest Vikingbags saddlebags KOSO instrument cluster (definitely better than stock IC) LED headlight bulb Smart Brake System
That's a reasonable choice. I rented one last year and it's not unreasonably powerful and it's balanced in a way that makes riding it relatively easy compared with some others I've ridden. You could definitely do worse.
My Bolt was my first bike 3.5 years ago. It was great to fine-tune my skills and I still love riding it. Super reliable, cheap to maintain, and plenty of fun to be had.
@@robnoodle1 Hell, the biggest reason they're so cheap to maintain is because you barely have to! I should be up past 11,500 miles on mine now. It has been on a 700 and 1100 mile road trip, 85-90 MPH on the highway, fully-loaded, from fill-up to fill-up. I haven't needed a thing. Nothing tightened... nothing. My initial clutch lever adjustment, tires and oil changes and she's good to go.
My first mod on a new ride is always the pipes. There's always a better sound and look than factory specs. Good sound also earns good respect and kudos.
Just wreaked mine last week, got t-boned by some old lady... broke my tibia and fibula. I’m all good though but no riding for about 6months for me. Can’t wait to see what you do with it!
On the bolt, less is more. Bike is great just the way it is in my opinion. If you are going to give it away, it’s a pretty good base for the new owner to make it their own. Keep up the awesome vids!
You want to man spread a bit on this type of bike. It makes the ride more comfortable. This bike fits me perfectly. I’m 5’9 and 190lbs, with an inseam of 30”. It’s a modern copycat 883 sportster. Better performance and the reliability is better. Smoother riding. The looks is subjective to each their own, personally I like mine. Except for the instrument cluster.
I own a 2019 bolt r spec as my first bike and I love it. I just installed the firebrand gran prix exhaust and it brought it to life. It’s sounds way more aggressive and responds even better. I love hearing it growl. Awesome bike all around. I got this bike over the iron 883 which was my first choice
You think that this bike is better than the sportster 883? I am going to buy one in Mexico in December, the options are the sporster, Boulevard c50, and the bolt, yet the bolt is really hard to find where I live.
jes g yes I do think it’s better, my friend has the iron 883 so I have driven both. There both awesome bikes. I don’t think you can go wrong with either tho. If you go for the bolt go for the r-spec it’s the better choice. Better suspension and solid rims not spokes
This bike wants to be a Harley but it does it better so... it’s obvious people talk shit. Anyway I always thought it’s a excellent mid way motorcycle, I just don’t like the clock so big and round and it has only a little square screen.
There's that word, 'better' Sure, it's technically better than the 883 but you don't buy a harley because its a technically 'better' bike than anything else. If your looking for a striped down raw motorcycle, the bolt just isn't that.
It will NEVER be a Harley. Harley is the legend and pioneer. It's like Marlboro reds and Marlboro lights. The bolt is Marlboro light. Ride both and you'll understand what I'm saying 😃
Hey blockhead! Can you PLEASE make a video on the differences of bikes with “normal” sized tires vs “wider” sized rear tires. I got one not knowing what to expect. TH-cam really has nothing on what to expect, and even how to ride one. This can save so many people from making a mistake and getting something they regret. Also, if, like me, it’s already too late, we have to learn the hard way. But I love mine now, but wish it wasn’t such a surprise. Please and thank you. Love your channel bro!
Thank you! It sucks that people like Yamie Noob have videos dissing the Bolt as a merely a Sportster knock off; yeah, it's an American style cruiser. No kidding. But with Japanese tech, so best of both worlds. I love my R Spec.
If it’s an RSPEC (which it seems to be) do not turn it into Cafe style. It is not meant for that. That’s why they make the CSpec. Two things, that tail light is stock for 2017 and newer. Not that it’s here nor there but you had said it doesn’t make the fuel priming sound but it actually does if your kill switch is disengaged before you put the key in the ignition and turn it on. Overall decent review from someone who doesn’t ride the bike daily 🤘🏼
Don't know what all the hate is about on these bikes. They look cool, cheap, and do what they're made to do. The only complaint I have is that speed gauge.
Mid-controls always give better handling than forward controls. It's just basic physics. Take a snow-skiing lesson and you will literally get feel for it. Learning to slalom ski will improve your motorcycle riding abilities, especially in the mountain twisties.
nevermind, saw the 80 being done in the end. going to get the bolt R spec 2022 or 2023 and see how it goes. first time owning one so kinda nervous. but gas in los angeles aint no joke.
Lmao I've had a bolt for almost a year now and I had no idea you could push in the turn signal to deactivate it 🤣😅 I always just push it back to the middle. I'm less than 2 minutes in and I'm already gonna leave a like just for that.
I own a 2020 iron 883. I looked hard at the yamaha bolt. I think its a great bike and it deserves more love in the community. It really wish yamaha had not limited the bike to two colors the last year( black and white colors only). The previous R spec colors were awesome.
I have a SCR950, same bike. Its a great around town bike. It really needs a 6th gear but I actually rode is across the country once. Zero issues. Just be careful with the belt drive. Replacement belts are hella expensive. Lol Very fun, reliable bike. The foot pegs scrape so early the bike makes you feel loke your fly'n.
When I went to buy my first bike. It was going to be either a used 883 or m50. I saw the bolt r-spec sat on it spent a good half hour sitting on them but one of the sales guys said get the bolt better lean angle then the 883. I bought it brand new and it’s only costing me a few bucks more then the used 883. I love the bike waiting on forward controls because at 6’4 and before I got new bars it just wasn’t comfy. New bars help though.
Hey Block, once again Kudo's for the Vid.....Just a few FYI's for the folks watching,... I own a Bolt, and let me give you some MPH Data on this beast. 1) It's a Metric, soooo.... Don't ride this Bike like it's a Harley!!, The Bolt is torquey as all get-out....BUT.....stop riding it up to 4000 rpm and then shift..... it's rev limit is 5780 rpm's..... Not 4500 rpm's as is the 883. Not complaining really ..... but don't be shifting like you were on the 883..... max torque is at 3,000 rpm + . so gun it ..... stop treating the Yammy like it's a Harley. It isn't....... it's better., Rev it up to about 5000+ then shift.... At Max Rev's: ....1st gear max = 36 mph, 2nd = 54 mph, 3rd = 71 mph, 4th = 89 mph, and 5th = 107 mph. ..Sooooo , get the rev's up there before shifting up..... if needed ! Oh yea, People, as Block said .... the shift has a positive feel.... However .... when you are booting off the line and go to shift up .... and you hear a CLUNK"... in any gear ..... it means you down shifted while accelerating..... Don't release the clutch!!.... but up shift twice to correct it. Yea different , but it's Yamaha's way of saying to you "oooppps" you went the wrong way....OK so... Bolt 58 cubes, 59.3 Ft lbs torque @3,000 rpm all the way through to 5780 rpm's. when the rev-limiter kicks in,...... 65 theoretical Hp .... more like 61 Hp actual/
Hey BH , good one. Most of All Y'all know this, but for the sake of those that don't..... Here goes.....On the Yamaha Bolt, For that "Weeeeahhh" sound of the fuel pump charging ,,,, do this...Neutral , kill switch off, then key, wait for display to clear..... start motor., kick stand up, etc, etc. ......anyways..... About the lean angle .... with my light a** weight of 145 on it , she tips to 38 degrees both sides.... you ... probably 35 ,,, maybe 33 degrees. ok nuff said there. The Bolt pulls 59.3 ft lb's at 3000 rpm through onto 5780 rpm , theoretical 65 HP.... But... at 5252 rpm ....ft lb's = hp, .... so it chops the HD 883 iron down to a 45 Hp motor, ( @ 4750 rpm max revs ), against the Bolt's 59 HP, ( @ 5252 rpm)....(The Bolt's Max rev's is about 5780 rpm = 65 hp )...... say vs the HD iron 1200 at 59 hp,( @ 3500 rpm max revs).... So Yamaha put the Bolt in to do Two things Here.... Keep the Dyna vision alive . and compete against it. ( Virago 250, The Bolt series ) It also has Soft-tail competitors as you know .... the Virago 650 and the Stryker... and the Vmax, ....Kawasaki Soft tails are Vulcans, nothing "Dyna-ish"about suspension or ride from them or seemingly intended, sooo ... I digress here ..... Nuff said from my end. Stay Safe.... Ciao
I should state that in Canuck-ville .... Suzuki has also discontinued the Boulevard S40, 650 CC , so the remainder of their cruiser line are also soft-tails. The Suzuki S40 was a Dyna style 650 thumper.... Stay Safe /W
Yamaha engineering is amazing and frustrating at the same time. Bulletproof for the most part but if you ever have to work on anything power plant related Yamaha is overly complex. Less accessories than it's XL competition. Nice bike for a beginner.
I would put a nice adjustable suspension, side bags, some frame sliders, maybe a better seat, a good looking but not more loud exhaust. That's it. If I could choose only one mod - suspension.
I'm 6' 1" tall, but I didn't feel all that cramped up when I took a Bolt for a test ride. I'm thinking the Bolt would look great styled after a mid-1960s Sportster chop -- nothing radical -- lots of chrome. I wish someone would post a video about engine mods, or belt/pulley to chain/sprocket conversion for this thing.
I've ridden a couple of V-stars, 1100 & 650. I'm 5'9" and I felt cramped on both but I felt cramped on my buddy's Glide as well but it was set up for him, so I would venture a guess that they're set up as a starting point.
I have a Bolt and love it. It was a great bike to start on and I still don't feel like I've outgrown it. Been making it a bobber over the past few years. Just for knowledge sake: the lights on that are all stock, the fuel pump will prime when the killswitch is ON before turning the key, and Shinko tires fixed my front end wobble, those Bridgestone tires aren't great from factory. SSCustomCycle is a great place to find parts for these thing, and forward controls greatly increase lean angle!
My knees would be high on that, like the S40 Boulevard I had years ago that was painful to ride more than an hour. With a springer seat at maybe 29-30" high I'd be happy.
Which bike do YOU think will win out of the 3 we're facing off against one another? Yamaha Bolt, Harley Iron, or the Indian Scout?
Join in on Patreon for the giveaway! www.Patreon.com/BlockheadMoto
Your a bolt not a block 😂 all good I need a bike . Any bike I need a bike government f me unemployment can’t patron . Any sponsors bro ham ?
I rode the 2020 Bolt on a demo day. I liked it.
Indian
I've always been an H-D guy, but I have a feeling that BOLT might surprise some people when you're done with it. My money's on that Yamaha this round! Do it justice brother
Bolt
Love my 2018 Bolt.
Only things I dislike...
1. Stock seat
2. Gauge
3. Fuel tank capacity
Upgrades...(main ones)
Mustang Fastback seat - AWESOME for long rides.
Ikon 7610-1670 shocks - Super easy install
SSCC Retro air intake, Cobra Slip-on, Ivan's ECU flash - Simple performance mods, that made me love the bike even more!
Hey there!Former owner of this bike here. It's such a joy seeing the bike again! (Btw taillight is stock). Keep up those amazing videos!Can't wait to see what you do with this bike!
Did you put those grips on it? as they're not stock. If you did what are they?
@@C0zyDunt They are Avon Metric Cruiser Air Cushion Grips from Revzilla
@@paulhatzig7084 Thanks.
cool, did you black out some of the engine pieces, baffle, intake? looks clean all black like that
@@brianparboy8661 Thanks! Yes, I used plastidip for the silver parts of the exhaust and the exterior of the airfilter!
It drives me nuts that is has a round gauge then barely uses any of the real estate with its small square digital display
Yeah thats my only gripe. Could have a fuel indicator, show which gear your in, etc. Just laziness on their part with the speedometer.
And it's the one thing you constantly have to look at when riding
@@TheVestibulian thats why I swapped out the speedometer lol
Its free real estate
Lvndry koso? Lol I need that but I need Ivan’s flash have the K&n intake dean speed 12guage and o2 delete. I didn’t notice anything wrong but a coworker notice when I shifted as a smashed the throttle coming through the gate at work lol
The bolt was my first motorcycle and I loved it. That tailight is stock by the way.
👍
The death wobble is real on the bolt.easy cheap fix.taperd head bearings fixed mine and now I can take my hands off anytime and no wobble.👍
Got it thanks
$35 fix if you do it yourself... haven't seen this on my friends bike
Great Video, we put a 1.5" lift on the front forrks and a 1" lift on the back, combined with moving the controls to full on forward controls, substantially increased the lean angle making it even nicer to weave in and out of turns. Love the bike!!!
I have had my bolt since may 2017. I love it! Bassani slip on and cobra fuel management. Blacked out the air box, battery bracket, and the exhaust shields. It has and still a fun bike to ride! Rode it today actually. You can’t go wrong with this bike.
How did you black out the air box, battery bracket and exhaust shields, would love to know. Plasti dip?
I am in my mid 60's now and have a multitude of bikes during my lifetime from racing in my youth to touring as I have aged. I bought a Bolt for my wife in 2016 and I must say, I enjoy riding that little thing more than about any other I have ever owned.
Personally this is what I think for all the bikes.
Sportster- Bobber style.
Indian- cafe style.
Bolt- club style.
What do you think of the scout bobber then?
My first bike! I miss that bike!!! The cobra slip on will make the bike sound AWESOME!!!
I am 4'11" and ride a bolt. I love mine. I've added Vance and Hines exhaust, and had lowering brackets added because of my height. Other than that, still mostly stock. A great midsize bike for a short rider.
I'm 5'0, what adjustments would you suggest I make or what other bikes would you suggest (for a beginner with no experience for street use only)
@@yeeyaaa7915 Honda Rebel 300 is light and nimble. Very easy to learn on. I'm 5'5"
I bought a 2018 model that the dealer had customized somewhat. I've been delighted with it for several years now. Great bike for a short rider.
Have had a bolt r spec almost a yr and as a 1st time rider. Great starter bike!
Glad to see this comment cuz im wanting to get into motorcycle riding and im thinking the bolt is gunna be the one i choose. Havent sat on any yet, just reviews. But idk what spec would be better but these sound good with the vance and hines twin slash exhaust imo
@@jessemaxey1354 the bolt r spec or c spec are clean. Very good starter bike, very clean handle. Definitely a bike that can build confidence in your riding.
@@danieldriggs9058
I’d take the Star Bolt over a HD Iron 883 any day. That being said, I would lean more to the Suzuki S40 650 for a starter bike with some one who has experience as a dirt bike rider.
I have a bolt and I'm 5'7 and I have no problem what so ever putting my feet down. It's super comfortable for me.
Yamaha’s racing history allows them to make outstanding engines and transmissions. Even more so than Honda snd Kawasaki.
The Yamaha Bolt was my first bike. (1st was actually 30yrs ago so I'm counting this one as first.) I really enjoyed the bike. It is a good solid machine with Yamaha reliability. The air intake drove me crazy. Every bump it hit me in the knee so I traded it in for a 2019 Indian Scout and haven't looked back. They aren't really a fair comparison. I know they are relatively close in size etc., but the Scout is twice the cost and it shows. The Scout also has adjustable shocks and once they are dialed in for your weight, the ride is amazing. Until you get it right, it can actually be painful. Long story short, I enjoyed this Bolt, but love the Scout. It fits me better and handles better. Just my .02. I enjoy your videos, keep them coming. Thanks.
Good review! Yamaha makes solid bikes.
I agree, my first bike my father purchased for me was YZ-50 back in 1979. I learned how to ride that bike before a bicycle at four years old.
Glad you reviewed this bike. It definitely appears competitive with the Iron, ,,,,,& probably a lot less vibrations ( so I've heard) .. & costs less.
I know for a fact that Yamahas in general have the best reliability ratings. This bike seems to warrant serious consideration.
current Bolt owner here, if you have any questions ask me! Love it so far and watched so so so many videos on it and competitors before buying it
What do you think about Koso guages on the bolt? Ive seen a few videos online. Worth the money? Live without?
Mike O it’s alright, I can live without, the glare isn’t really a big deal, everyone talks about timlike it’s the end of the world, but honestly only bothers me a tiny bit, and really if u like how they look sure, but for me I’m not dying to get it or anything
Wow you sure have grown! I remember following you when you had maybe 300 subscribers. I have since sold my Harley iron 883. But I would like you to test ride a new Honda rebel 1100. I’d like to hear your opinion on it. I’m in the verge of getting into street cruiser again.
I ride an FXDL and don't know much about Yamaha bikes, BUT, if it's anything like my Yamaha electric bass guitar it will be SOLID!
BLOCKHEAD! Thank you so much for your content! I’ve been getting into motorcycles lately, your videos fuel my interest!
Im 2 years late 😭
Recently got my 2015 Yamaha Bolt XVS 950 😁🔥
Just wanted to say your how to ride motorcycle was the very first video I checked out before I decided I wanted to learn. Pre covid started and I wanted to learn something since free time. I also thought to myself it’ll be something I may ever learn. I now have my license after msf course. Got a first bike, sold it and now looking at this bolt!
I bought one when they came out, still going strong and love it. Obviously it has its flaws, and takes some personalization to make it great but thats true for most bikes in my opinion. If someone is looking for a good commuter stock is fine, if you want more than that later the options are there.
Good to hear. What kind of things did you change?
How does this bike do for long trips? Say 8 hours give or take? How's your back after a long trip?
Loved that bike! I rode it for 3 years and it never gave me any problem. I had mine with a Two Brothers Competition series exhaust wich gave the bike a big and loud race car sound... Also the quality in Yamaha it's one of the best in the market... Miss that bike :(
I have a 2020 Bolt R spec and I love it, would highly recommend this to others. The biggest downside to it in my opinion is its definitely not catered to taller people. Other than that I have no complaints!
Hey man , how tall are you? I'm 6'3 and am looking at getting one
@@colbyritz9479 I’m 5’11. I wound up buying a forward control relocation kit to push everything forward a few inches. It definitely helped out
@@mattchew2837 thanks I appreciate it!
@@colbyritz9479 anytime!
Its a Yamaha. Its going to be good. I love my Vstar.
It's so cool seeing the rode I always drive on in your videos! 👍
This was great. Thank you for making us aware of this motorcycle
Just got the SCR950 today which is a bolt with some scrambler style mods. It's awesome so far.
I’ve got 2019 bolt haven’t had any wobble so far pretty fast reliable bike no regrets
Happens ~ 8k mi on stock tires
I've got a Bolt. Changes I've made so far to mine:
Memphis Shades El Paso windscreen
Dean Speed highway bar
Mustang solo seat
Hepco and Becker Solorack + backrest
Vikingbags saddlebags
KOSO instrument cluster (definitely better than stock IC)
LED headlight bulb
Smart Brake System
That sounds so awesome
@@hexhead5732 thanks, it is! It has been an expensive string of upgrades, though. ☠
SS Custom Cycle for custom Bolt parts and Ivan’s Performance to tweak the on-board computer. Love your channel!
Love that bike!
This is a high candidate to be my 1st bike
Yamaha Bolt Yo!
That's a reasonable choice. I rented one last year and it's not unreasonably powerful and it's balanced in a way that makes riding it relatively easy compared with some others I've ridden. You could definitely do worse.
My Bolt was my first bike 3.5 years ago. It was great to fine-tune my skills and I still love riding it. Super reliable, cheap to maintain, and plenty of fun to be had.
Had me at cheap to maintain 👊
@@robnoodle1 Hell, the biggest reason they're so cheap to maintain is because you barely have to! I should be up past 11,500 miles on mine now. It has been on a 700 and 1100 mile road trip, 85-90 MPH on the highway, fully-loaded, from fill-up to fill-up. I haven't needed a thing. Nothing tightened... nothing. My initial clutch lever adjustment, tires and oil changes and she's good to go.
👊
My first mod on a new ride is always the pipes. There's always a better sound and look than factory specs. Good sound also earns good respect and kudos.
Just wreaked mine last week, got t-boned by some old lady... broke my tibia and fibula. I’m all good though but no riding for about 6months for me. Can’t wait to see what you do with it!
Get well soon man! Shame of the bike but youre alive to tell the story. Bless you.
I think the Bolt would be a good daily commute/runaround town bike.
Man the editing is getting better. How did you do the camera overlay doe when you use the pics?
That is a stock tail light btw, but love the video and love my bolt, owned it for a year and your videos taught me to ride. It was my first bike!
On the bolt, less is more. Bike is great just the way it is in my opinion. If you are going to give it away, it’s a pretty good base for the new owner to make it their own. Keep up the awesome vids!
Club style for the bolt. They look pretty cool done up.
You want to man spread a bit on this type of bike. It makes the ride more comfortable. This bike fits me perfectly. I’m 5’9 and 190lbs, with an inseam of 30”.
It’s a modern copycat 883 sportster. Better performance and the reliability is better. Smoother riding. The looks is subjective to each their own, personally I like mine. Except for the instrument cluster.
I was wanting a VStar to make into a Bobber Style. I think I'm sold on the Bolt now.....Great info !+
I’d say for the Yamaha do a cafe, the Indian a bobber, and the iron maybe drag style or a club iron might me cool, good stuff as always block 👍
I own a 2019 bolt r spec as my first bike and I love it. I just installed the firebrand gran prix exhaust and it brought it to life. It’s sounds way more aggressive and responds even better. I love hearing it growl. Awesome bike all around. I got this bike over the iron 883 which was my first choice
You think that this bike is better than the sportster 883? I am going to buy one in Mexico in December, the options are the sporster, Boulevard c50, and the bolt, yet the bolt is really hard to find where I live.
jes g yes I do think it’s better, my friend has the iron 883 so I have driven both. There both awesome bikes. I don’t think you can go wrong with either tho. If you go for the bolt go for the r-spec it’s the better choice. Better suspension and solid rims not spokes
This bike wants to be a Harley but it does it better so... it’s obvious people talk shit. Anyway I always thought it’s a excellent mid way motorcycle, I just don’t like the clock so big and round and it has only a little square screen.
Harley comparison aside, that huge round thing with a square screen is a total turn off
Yea I agree, that' why i never look at mine lol
There's that word, 'better'
Sure, it's technically better than the 883 but you don't buy a harley because its a technically 'better' bike than anything else. If your looking for a striped down raw motorcycle, the bolt just isn't that.
You can always change it out for the Koso
It will NEVER be a Harley. Harley is the legend and pioneer. It's like Marlboro reds and Marlboro lights. The bolt is Marlboro light. Ride both and you'll understand what I'm saying 😃
Hey blockhead! Can you PLEASE make a video on the differences of bikes with “normal” sized tires vs “wider” sized rear tires. I got one not knowing what to expect. TH-cam really has nothing on what to expect, and even how to ride one. This can save so many people from making a mistake and getting something they regret. Also, if, like me, it’s already too late, we have to learn the hard way. But I love mine now, but wish it wasn’t such a surprise. Please and thank you. Love your channel bro!
I bought a new 2019 Bolt a few years ago. It's a good solid average bike. If you want quick acceleration get a Yamaha MT 09.
Thank you! It sucks that people like Yamie Noob have videos dissing the Bolt as a merely a Sportster knock off; yeah, it's an American style cruiser. No kidding. But with Japanese tech, so best of both worlds. I love my R Spec.
If it’s an RSPEC (which it seems to be) do not turn it into Cafe style. It is not meant for that. That’s why they make the CSpec. Two things, that tail light is stock for 2017 and newer. Not that it’s here nor there but you had said it doesn’t make the fuel priming sound but it actually does if your kill switch is disengaged before you put the key in the ignition and turn it on. Overall decent review from someone who doesn’t ride the bike daily 🤘🏼
Absolutely love my bolt. Its just a smooth ride and a blast to ride. I swapped to forward controls on mine though.
Was that a hard install ?
@@OGCJ10 not at all. Just used tutorials on TH-cam and got it done in a couple hours
@@iamlvndry what forward controls did you buy ?
Don't know what all the hate is about on these bikes. They look cool, cheap, and do what they're made to do. The only complaint I have is that speed gauge.
I owned on 2 years ago until I had to sell it. Really cool bike. Very nice to ride.
Good to know about scraping the pegs and you’re not on a very curvy road. 👍
Mid-controls always give better handling than forward controls. It's just basic physics. Take a snow-skiing lesson and you will literally get feel for it. Learning to slalom ski will improve your motorcycle riding abilities, especially in the mountain twisties.
Yamaha is about technology...better than others
nevermind, saw the 80 being done in the end. going to get the bolt R spec 2022 or 2023 and see how it goes. first time owning one so kinda nervous. but gas in los angeles aint no joke.
Club style for the bolt, Café for the sportster and bobber for the scout!
go brat style or tracker with this bike for sure!!
Lmao I've had a bolt for almost a year now and I had no idea you could push in the turn signal to deactivate it 🤣😅 I always just push it back to the middle. I'm less than 2 minutes in and I'm already gonna leave a like just for that.
Thanks much for the review. I think I now know what I should get. 😊
this video was so relaxing to watch
I own a 2020 iron 883. I looked hard at the yamaha bolt. I think its a great bike and it deserves more love in the community. It really wish yamaha had not limited the bike to two colors the last year( black and white colors only). The previous R spec colors were awesome.
How do u like the 883 ?
Please let us know why you bought the Harley when you (probably correctly) think that the Bolt has better build quality and absolutely a lower price.
Lol 5’10” guy “ gunna get my shorter friends to try it out”
6’3” guy “ that’s adorable”
You could say the same thing with a 6'5" vs a 6'3".
mrnicktoyou umm math? Lol
My first bike from 2014 and my first love 😍
I've owned one, loved it
Café style would definitely be a good style
I have a SCR950, same bike. Its a great around town bike. It really needs a 6th gear but I actually rode is across the country once. Zero issues.
Just be careful with the belt drive. Replacement belts are hella expensive. Lol
Very fun, reliable bike.
The foot pegs scrape so early the bike makes you feel loke your fly'n.
*Belts arent really more expensive than any other belts. But im just not a belt drive guy so that was the first time I had to expreiance belt prices.
Chain conversion kit would be probably best on a SCR950?
I'd take this Yammy over the other two. Price and reliability are more important than a name.
When I went to buy my first bike. It was going to be either a used 883 or m50. I saw the bolt r-spec sat on it spent a good half hour sitting on them but one of the sales guys said get the bolt better lean angle then the 883. I bought it brand new and it’s only costing me a few bucks more then the used 883. I love the bike waiting on forward controls because at 6’4 and before I got new bars it just wasn’t comfy. New bars help though.
My iron2014 at speeds of 80 mph is a rough ride on the fwy.
8:03 - “wassuupp dude” 😂😂
Suh dude
The wobble is the factory front tire... I owned one for a couple years.
So grateful to live in Yorkshire if you think that's a decent road. I don't even think I could ride if moved there. Which I wouldn't.
Finally a shorter seat height! Thanks!
Hey Block, once again Kudo's for the Vid.....Just a few FYI's for the folks watching,... I own a Bolt, and let me give you some MPH Data on this beast.
1) It's a Metric, soooo.... Don't ride this Bike like it's a Harley!!, The Bolt is torquey as all get-out....BUT.....stop riding it up to 4000 rpm and then shift..... it's rev limit is 5780 rpm's..... Not 4500 rpm's as is the 883.
Not complaining really ..... but don't be shifting like you were on the 883..... max torque is at 3,000 rpm + . so gun it ..... stop treating the Yammy like it's a Harley. It isn't....... it's better., Rev it up to about 5000+ then shift....
At Max Rev's: ....1st gear max = 36 mph, 2nd = 54 mph, 3rd = 71 mph, 4th = 89 mph, and 5th = 107 mph. ..Sooooo , get the rev's up there before shifting up..... if needed !
Oh yea, People, as Block said .... the shift has a positive feel.... However .... when you are booting off the line and go to shift up .... and you hear a CLUNK"... in any gear ..... it means you down shifted while accelerating..... Don't release the clutch!!.... but up shift twice to correct it. Yea different , but it's Yamaha's way of saying to you "oooppps" you went the wrong way....OK so... Bolt 58 cubes, 59.3 Ft lbs torque @3,000 rpm all the way through to 5780 rpm's. when the rev-limiter kicks in,...... 65 theoretical Hp .... more like 61 Hp actual/
People always say a 6ths gear would be nice, used to say a 5th gear, but the gears added are almost always mid range not highway gears.
Hey BH , good one. Most of All Y'all know this, but for the sake of those that don't..... Here goes.....On the Yamaha Bolt, For that "Weeeeahhh" sound of the fuel pump charging ,,,, do this...Neutral , kill switch off, then key, wait for display to clear..... start motor., kick stand up, etc, etc. ......anyways..... About the lean angle .... with my light a** weight of 145 on it , she tips to 38 degrees both sides.... you ... probably 35 ,,, maybe 33 degrees. ok nuff said there. The Bolt pulls 59.3 ft lb's at 3000 rpm through onto 5780 rpm , theoretical 65 HP.... But... at 5252 rpm ....ft lb's = hp, .... so it chops the HD 883 iron down to a 45 Hp motor, ( @ 4750 rpm max revs ), against the Bolt's 59 HP, ( @ 5252 rpm)....(The Bolt's Max rev's is about 5780 rpm = 65 hp )...... say vs the HD iron 1200 at 59 hp,( @ 3500 rpm max revs).... So Yamaha put the Bolt in to do Two things Here.... Keep the Dyna vision alive . and compete against it. ( Virago 250, The Bolt series ) It also has Soft-tail competitors as you know .... the Virago 650 and the Stryker... and the Vmax, ....Kawasaki Soft tails are Vulcans, nothing "Dyna-ish"about suspension or ride from them or seemingly intended, sooo ... I digress here ..... Nuff said from my end.
Stay Safe.... Ciao
I should state that in Canuck-ville .... Suzuki has also discontinued the Boulevard S40, 650 CC , so the remainder of their cruiser line are also soft-tails. The Suzuki S40 was a Dyna style 650 thumper....
Stay Safe /W
Thank you for sharing this informative ride review. 👍👌
Yamaha engineering is amazing and frustrating at the same time. Bulletproof for the most part but if you ever have to work on anything power plant related Yamaha is overly complex. Less accessories than it's XL competition. Nice bike for a beginner.
I think bobber style is really nice on the Bolt
Excellent review
I would put a nice adjustable suspension, side bags, some frame sliders, maybe a better seat, a good looking but not more loud exhaust. That's it.
If I could choose only one mod - suspension.
I'm 6' 1" tall, but I didn't feel all that cramped up when I took a Bolt for a test ride. I'm thinking the Bolt would look great styled after a mid-1960s Sportster chop -- nothing radical -- lots of chrome. I wish someone would post a video about engine mods, or belt/pulley to chain/sprocket conversion for this thing.
I've ridden a couple of V-stars, 1100 & 650. I'm 5'9" and I felt cramped on both but I felt cramped on my buddy's Glide as well but it was set up for him, so I would venture a guess that they're set up as a starting point.
The Sportsters I've had did it right w/ left and right turn signal switches on the left and right grips.
it is cool seeing the comparison. great.
Maybe it's just me, but I do not need a tach. I can tell by feel and sound when I'm where I need to be RPM wise. Beyond that it's purely academic.
I like it. Would definitely have to put forward controls on. Way too scrunched up.
Chopper style all the way
I have a Bolt and love it. It was a great bike to start on and I still don't feel like I've outgrown it. Been making it a bobber over the past few years. Just for knowledge sake: the lights on that are all stock, the fuel pump will prime when the killswitch is ON before turning the key, and Shinko tires fixed my front end wobble, those Bridgestone tires aren't great from factory. SSCustomCycle is a great place to find parts for these thing, and forward controls greatly increase lean angle!
I own one its a fun bike deanspeed is a nice exhaust builder for it. I'm going a bobber route with mine
I love my BOLT. Didn't you already do a BOLT test ride?
Trying to chose between a bolt and a MT07 for a first road bike. I currently ride off-road on a WR250F.
That tail light is stock. You will want an Ivan's tune, just search it, completely changes the power and makes it even smoother.
It wasn’t until he said it’s a 5 speed that I realized it was missing a mirror 😂
My knees would be high on that, like the S40 Boulevard I had years ago that was painful to ride more than an hour. With a springer seat at maybe 29-30" high I'd be happy.