Actually Freddie, you may have hit on a new and successful TH-cam formula - meeting enthusiastic bikers like Fritz in the great British countryside and doing the same format. Enjoyed that episode very much.
Finally a real bike on the channel, at 66 years of age Ive had many bikes from honda to Ducati, currently have black 2008 gsx 1400 in pristine condition, nothing compares to these.
I’m the Dutch owner with the 40 ‘hotdogs’ 😂 thanks Fritz for mentioning that lol. Sadly crashed the bike begin this year but bought another 1400 because can’t live without this awesome bike!
Really enjoyed this one Freddie. I think the video interviews of riders and their unique bikes is a great little niche - I suspect you don't hear the same enthusiasm or love from someone who bought a new modern bike. Having said that it may just be that Fritz was a very interesting person to have on your channel!
Don’t forget the Yamaha XJR1300. An awesome naked bike especially the older model with carbs rather than fuel injection and then there’s the Honda CB1300, now that was a great bike. 👍
Quite right! While production of the Suzuki ceased in 2008, the Yamaha continued until 2014. Both bikes offer a very similar riding experience. The XJR1300SP model with the speedblock paintwork and (admittedly basic) Ohlins is particularly handsome.
Great upload Freddie, what a lovely bike and something that I haven't considered before. I quite fancy a go on one now and it would suit a lot of my riding and my old body these days! 👍
I owned a gorgeous CB1300 since 2007 to 2023. I loved it. I do know what you're talking about. It took a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy to make me give it up. Nothing else could. :)
I am on my 89th bike Nothing and I mean nothing compares to my 1400 that I once owned £2700 back in 2014 and never had any trouble with it Touring was easy, daily commute was perfect and looking at it in the garage always put a smile on my face Speed comfort and lots of Smiles Why can they not make bikes like this anymore
Hi Freddie. Bought a K6 model 5 years ago. The only problem is my arms are now an inch longer due to the torque. As my numberplate reads "more grunt than a pig farm" Luv it to bits.
This was a superb episode thanks. More owner/rider collaborations please Fred. Fritz is a nice bloke. My favourite big bike I owned was my 2001 FJR1300 as a tourer it was a complete monster. Torque torque torque hauling up the mountains in Europe. I rode with early Triumph sprints they simply could not match the touring capability. The nicest test I have had was on the V2 diavel. What a cool pub quintessential english
I found myself here after reading about a fellow radio amateur owning one, and was curious to know what it was like. I then find I'm watching one of, if not the best bike/owner interview I've watched on the Net. Two completely unassuming guys talking about what really matters with the machine and how it holds up so well with current offerings. I have to say that I probably won't get another bike but did have great fun for many years on all sorts from the YDS7 to the KH500 H1F and CD175 to NTV650. P.S. Good luck Freddie with Libertatia. Excellent concept. 😃👌
great video. Lovely bike. I've recently become the owner of an early carb XJR1300 and I what a bike it is. Full of character and more than enough power. great fun.
Great video! There is one modern choice that gives you everything that bike offers and more. The Kawasaki Z900rs. I just bought mine 3 weeks ago and I am absolutely blown away. Granted, it’s a smaller engine but it feels extremely powerful and has that undeniable inline-4 sound even with the stock Euro5 exhaust. Looks wise, it is extremely similar to that old Suzuki.
I have a 2010 XJR 1300... and love it.. The suzuki is a beautiful looking bike, (especially in the blue and white combo). I would love to ride one,just for comparison... In a mcm journalist review of Japanese muscle bikes. (I watched on TH-cam) They rated the GSX behind the XJR...with the kawasaki Z1000 taking the top spot. Of course. These japanese muscle bikes are so unlike anything else on two wheels... Everyone I've spoken to who've own a xjr...has regretted selling it...I guess it would be the same with a GSX.
Loved my gsx1400, got it for touring with the mrs then moved to a goldwing. I would defo have another and probably will one day. Never suffered any fatigue or pain in all day riding. Defo one of the best
To me, this bike, by far on this channel, is the MOST HANDSOME bike you've featured. And you definitely look THE BEST on this. I'd suggest if you can get a hand one of these muscle Japanese naked bikes, like this or an 1100 Honda RS, or a Honda 1300 CB, now the latter IS the most beautiful bike for me. Classic looks, Japanese magic in the engine. You can own one for a lifetime!
loved the bike (I'm from Brazil, we only got the CB1300 and I've always wanted that bike), loved the video (great photography and sound) and also loved Fritz (such a nice guy). Great work!
What a nice guy, i had a xjr 1300 and can honestly say it was the best bike i'v ever ridden, never ever lost faith cornering, could throw it around like a moped.
Ive had a k6 black one for 14 years 50,000 miles on the clock now. A keeper. Give it the beans and you will be surprised. I rode 2,500 miles in two weeks going to moto club faro. A recommended destination and bike rally.
I had one for 11 years, i also had knee issues! Im tall 6'6 and the low seat to peg ratio cained my knees as i got older! Loved the bike though, quite possibly the best muscle bike ever !
Now that bike suits you, practical and handles 2 up giving Monika more comfortable room on the back. For me it probably would be the Yamaha XJR1300 , but I think either would make your riding more pleasurable and enough power to pull you out of any situation. Cheers
What a gent Fritz is! An ideal guest for your channel I think. I was very tempted by CB1300s a long time ago, especially the Bol d’or. I loved the look of it and the paint colour in cream and red was wonderful sadly when I sat on one it just didn’t feel right so I didn’t even test ride it. I’ve considered the XJR since but I’ve only space for one bike and don’t want to give up my CRF250L just yet.
Hi Freddie one of my favourite retro bikes mate of mine has got one he leaves it outside most of the year and it never seems to deteriorate really they were definitely built better in those days great bikes one of the best and what a beautiful British pub to end the video ride safe Freddie
Great bike, also love the reliability of a Suzuki. 1/4 mile your old 1050cc Speed Triple would be around the same time, however your 1050cc Speed would top out about 20mph faster than that Suzuki, not that we ever seen you doing 150mph on your Triumph, Knievel Dobbs 🤪 Happy safe/trails Fritz, thanks for the content. QQ.
Still have my 1400 gsx toured all over Germany Italy Switzerland you name it this bike has been there and has never let me down. I have a 1250 bmw Adventure I bought this year but will never part with her the 1400 fantastic bike 👍👍
Had one for 6 years. Lovely bike. Mine was upgraded with different shocks steel braided brake lines, power commander, and a full Akra system. Engine was superb but brakes were bad and suspension was cheap. But so was the price. Once all those so called issues were sorted you got a very capable machine that gave you a superb ride. Every day riding, touring (put a screen) it can do everything plus it looks so bad ass. I wish Suzuki brings it back. it is so simple that is brilliant.
@@fritz_rides6298 Brembo radial pump with EBC brake pads. Hell lines . And EBC discs in the front. Also Hyperpro has or had I don't know any more, a kit for a suspension upgrade front and rear. Makes a big difference. Hope that helps.
Owned one of these in 2002-2004. My biggest issue with it, was it ate rear tyres. I got about 5-6 months out of a tyre. So I was buying tyres at a ratio of 2 to 1. I put a lot of miles on it though. I found the power to be instant, it would shoot off like a rocket with a fist full of throttle. Handled pretty well in the bends, and was fun to ride. It could wheelie, and those front brakes were very good, back end would come up if you shifted your weight forward over the bars. Not recommended though. Had a scary moment in the snow, changing lanes, but it's weight kept it planted. Rode it all year round by the way.
Hi Freddie, I think you would also enjoy the Honda X11! I wish you made a video about it too. I have one for more than ten years and I love it. You make very good content! Cheers!
Enjoying this novel format. At home on the road with owner riders. Then finishing off by visiting a characterful pub, restaurant or coffee house. Right up my Strasse.
I've had a Honda CB 1100 and a Yamaha XJR 1300 and as he said you could put them in top gear at 30 and treat it like an automatic, both amazing bikes. Unfortunately at my age and degree of physical fitness both are now way above my ability.
Thank you for making the trip, Fritz. Apologies to your knees. Great review. I am tempted to look up pictures of the dual headlights to see if I agree. The single headlight looks good but I always liked the dual lights on the Rocket and Triple as well. Lots of food for thought. Safe trip back for you. edit: I couldn't find a picture with dual headlight so I assume they were a mod and you restored the single look. Of the bikes mentioned. I can only see that the Kawasaki ZRX1200 was sold in the US between 2001 to 2005. In 2008 they introduced 6th gear and fuel injection. The CB1300 did not have an official release in the US. I don't see the XJR1300 having a release in the US despite a run from 1998 to 2014. They had the FJR1300 sport tourer which doesn't have the looks (imo). And then there was what they call the GSF Bandit 1250 which was also a sport tourer configuration. Enjoy the envy from the US guys.
The Suzuki GSX engines have always been torque monsters… The first brand new bike I bought was a 1983 Suzuki Katana GSX1100S. Claimed power was 110hp and while at that time it was considered a superbike, what really stood out for me (apart from the stupendous look of the Katana) was the engines torque. In 5th gear it would pull smoothly from 30mph to over 130mph all in the one gear. It didn’t need a gearbox really as you could just roll on and off the throttle and never need to change gear! That 1400 is basically the same engine bored out with 300 extra cc so I can understand what Fritz means about it’s torque 👍
Really enjoyed that. Great bike, and great format for a video! Thanks to you, and to Fritz for sharing. I'd love a modern/retro classic like a T120, but must admit that i'd prefer something with Japanese engineering. Really only because i've read mixed reviews about Triumph's reputation for reliability and customer service. The T120 and CB1100 are high on my list, but it looks like i should probably be looking at some of the more muscular options as well. I hadn't been considering them really, as i'm not particularly interested in high speed/power, and had assumed that the muscle bikes would be a bit too much bike.
After seeing Danny putting on wet weather pants on a previous video I thought I should share this tip with you. Aways carry a supermarket plastic carry bag in the pocket of your wet weather pants. when putting on the pants put your foot, boots 'n all, into the bag then put that leg into your pants. Slides on like Teflon .
All bikes are nice and all, but there's absolutely something indescribably, and scarily, magical about Japanese engineering. Nothing beats the sound and feel and the latent fear and respect you feel for their bikes.
@FreddieDobbs a 2006 example with only 700 miles from new just sold on Ebay for £6700...I know this because I lost out on winning it myself by £100 lol
Yes a lovely bike! The colour scheme can make a difference, check out the special edition colour scheme, put a matching nose cone/wind screen on and as its a post 2005 model, you can change the change the exhaust set up back from the 4 into 1 to the earlier model of 4 into 2. Their price is holding and going up for lower K’s although for an engine like this, don’t worry! Enjoyed the Vid, thank you.
Lovely bike Freddie. Like you, i have always lusted after one but avoided it because like any naked retro, if you get over 70mph it wants to blow you off the back of it and is extremely uncomfortable....especially with the power and torque of that 1400cc engine. Wasn't keen on the colour scheme of that example but the blue and white one is to die for! 😎👍
I'm in love with these big, fat japanies bikes. Thanks Freddie for this vid. I got a CB1100 EX 2016. This is one of the last musketeer of this area. I'm in love... 😊
G'day I have a 2010 CB 1100 Honda also and they really are perfect as well I have 2004 gsx1400, although they are about the same weight the Honda feels about 20 kilo lighter as the smaller tank 14 point 6 litres as against 22 litres of fuel in the gsx1400, the Honda feel like it has a lower center of gravity and really can't fault it, happy New year cheers old Andy from Australia
I can’t believe I haven’t bumped into you yet! Lovely area and decent riding roads all around that area. I recognised the bridge you stood on straight away. Try Unit 1 for lunch next time, it’s in West Hythe on the edge of the canal. It’s a bit more you ;)
There was a "Muscle Bike" renaissance, back in the late 90's and early noughties! The main protagonists were the Yamaha XJR1300, the Suzuki GSX1400, the Kawasaki ZXR1100 and Honda's CB1300. ALL were straight four, naturally aspirated and chain driven Roadsters. (as opposed to naked sports bikes)
@@fritz_rides6298 He would be Fritz Von Dobbs i'd imagine! - I was in Munich last summer - a nice small city and a great throw off point for Obersalzberg and Berchtesgaden.
Used to own a Suzuki GS 750 in late 80s when I was in Royal Hong Kong Police and it was one of my favourite bikes - I always thought it was the quintessential motorcycle shape and style. I like this 1400 bike - and Fritz is the quintessential German - very entertaining.
i have a cb1300 - similar bike.......i intended to sell it when i bought a t120 but glad i didnt now. I get the same issue as Fritz with my knees on long journeys. something great about a big four cylinder
Fantastic bike, but so is the XJR1300 which i have one, the SP version with Ohlins, these muscle bikes were some of the best looking motorcycles in history.
What a lovely bike!! Air cooled purity and classic looks. I'm shocked that a 4 cylinder engine has so much torque. Very unusual to have a long stroke 4.
Ok Freddie you rode a 400cc bike and a 1400cc bike. 100Hp to 40HP. Which one put a bigger smile on your face. I said it on the podcast comments, I’ll say it now. You can’t beat horsepower!
Actually Freddie, you may have hit on a new and successful TH-cam formula - meeting enthusiastic bikers like Fritz in the great British countryside and doing the same format. Enjoyed that episode very much.
Me too…Freddie is really good at this.
@@daveanderson70 Agreed!
I agree, this is a good format for videos.
That was epic, great bike, thank you Fritz for allowing us to see her, safe journey home! Great film Freddie, rock on!
My pleasure, good sir! The ride home was alright. The autobahns were kind to me.
Finally a real bike on the channel, at 66 years of age Ive had many bikes from honda to Ducati, currently have black 2008 gsx 1400 in pristine condition, nothing compares to these.
Interviews with people who are truly enthusiastic about bikes & biking is an amazing thing to watch ❤❤
I have no doubt that Fritz could chatted all day about bikes- he’s a great character👌🏻👌🏻
I’m the Dutch owner with the 40 ‘hotdogs’ 😂 thanks Fritz for mentioning that lol. Sadly crashed the bike begin this year but bought another 1400 because can’t live without this awesome bike!
What a fantastic biker top man carry on
The most quintessentially German chap you could have found! What a lovely bloke
How kind you are! I am going to have a Bratwurst for lunch in your honor, thx mate
One of your best so far Freddie. Great bike and Fritz is a great guy who obviously loves to get some miles in!
my tailbone can tell a story or two about those miles! 😅
Really enjoyed this one Freddie. I think the video interviews of riders and their unique bikes is a great little niche - I suspect you don't hear the same enthusiasm or love from someone who bought a new modern bike. Having said that it may just be that Fritz was a very interesting person to have on your channel!
How very kind you are ❤
Fritz was brilliant!
Thanks, my mom agrees!
Don’t forget the Yamaha XJR1300. An awesome naked bike especially the older model with carbs rather than fuel injection and then there’s the Honda CB1300, now that was a great bike. 👍
I've had 2 x xjr 2x x11 1x cb1300 and 5x gsx1400. They're all brilliant in their own ways but the 14 is the best all rounder . I my opinion anyway 😂
Absolutely! I must try out some of the competition.
Mike, surely you must be the ultimate encyclopedia of knowledge on Japanese retro muscle bikes 📒
Quite right! While production of the Suzuki ceased in 2008, the Yamaha continued until 2014. Both bikes offer a very similar riding experience. The XJR1300SP model with the speedblock paintwork and (admittedly basic) Ohlins is particularly handsome.
@@1mikefrost I had a silver 2001 Y Reg XJR, a lovely bike and then a couple of CB1300’s, I loved them all. 👍
Great upload Freddie, what a lovely bike and something that I haven't considered before. I quite fancy a go on one now and it would suit a lot of my riding and my old body these days! 👍
What a nice guy, Fritz seems. He’s also very natural and instructive on camera. Great vid, Freddie.
How very kind you are! ❤ i loved doing that
Cool bike, cool guy
Reminds me of the day my mate pulled up on a brand new GS 1000 1979/80. I was jealous as hell. Nice one Fritz
thx mate!
I owned a gorgeous CB1300 since 2007 to 2023. I loved it. I do know what you're talking about.
It took a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy to make me give it up. Nothing else could. :)
Fritz is a legend. I really enjoyed that one, thanks Freddie
Can i quote you on that for further reference? :D
@@fritz_rides6298 - Natürlich!
Hi to Fritz, thanks for showing us this great classic bike and what a epic muscle bike
I am on my 89th bike
Nothing and I mean nothing compares to my 1400 that I once owned
£2700 back in 2014 and never had any trouble with it
Touring was easy, daily commute was perfect and looking at it in the garage always put a smile on my face
Speed comfort and lots of Smiles
Why can they not make bikes like this anymore
Couldn’t resist, bought one today 😂👍🏻
Danke Fritz und Freddie - what a bike! Incredible!
@@GeRoni gut gemacht, dear fellow friend! 😄
Yeap had 07 one, just a silly smile always, a bike that just hits the sweet spot.
Thank you..
What a bloody fantastic video a proper gentleman with a proper bike excellent
🤝
You are one of the best motorbike youtubers around. Keep the good work. This video just renewed my dream of owning a GSX1400.
@@zayhen try finding one asap 😄🤙🏻
Hi Freddie. Bought a K6 model 5 years ago. The only problem is my arms are now an inch longer due to the torque. As my numberplate reads "more grunt than a pig farm" Luv it to bits.
🤣🤣
Big fan of Fritz. Excellent value. As @MaxUtley said, great opportunity for new content!!
@@apeiron42-j1r how very kind!
That is brilliant, meeting enthusiastic bikers like Fritz is so much fun and interesting to watch!
I used to want one of these. The perfect big inline four.
They don't make 'em like that anymore! Beast.
This was a superb episode thanks. More owner/rider collaborations please Fred. Fritz is a nice bloke.
My favourite big bike I owned was my 2001 FJR1300 as a tourer it was a complete monster. Torque torque torque hauling up the mountains in Europe. I rode with early Triumph sprints they simply could not match the touring capability. The nicest test I have had was on the V2 diavel.
What a cool pub quintessential english
Great job in general! But as somebody says, enthusiastic bikers with their particular bikes on your channel is epic.
I found myself here after reading about a fellow radio amateur owning one, and was curious to know what it was like. I then find I'm watching one of, if not the best bike/owner interview I've watched on the Net. Two completely unassuming guys talking about what really matters with the machine and how it holds up so well with current offerings. I have to say that I probably won't get another bike but did have great fun for many years on all sorts from the YDS7 to the KH500 H1F and CD175 to NTV650. P.S. Good luck Freddie with Libertatia. Excellent concept. 😃👌
great video. Lovely bike. I've recently become the owner of an early carb XJR1300 and I what a bike it is. Full of character and more than enough power. great fun.
Great video! There is one modern choice that gives you everything that bike offers and more. The Kawasaki Z900rs. I just bought mine 3 weeks ago and I am absolutely blown away. Granted, it’s a smaller engine but it feels extremely powerful and has that undeniable inline-4 sound even with the stock Euro5 exhaust. Looks wise, it is extremely similar to that old Suzuki.
very true, i love the Z900, great choice! only issue: the Z900RS costs almost three times as much as the Suzuki.
Nice chat gents, thanks. Love that bike, my kind of classic.
Fritz seems like a very nice fellow.
Very kind of you, good sir!
What a change and may I say a very enjoyable video And a very nice German biker to
And a panzer of a bike! 😅
@@fritz_rides6298 😂👍
I have a 2010 XJR 1300... and love it.. The suzuki is a beautiful looking bike, (especially in the blue and white combo).
I would love to ride one,just for comparison...
In a mcm journalist review of Japanese muscle bikes. (I watched on TH-cam)
They rated the GSX behind the XJR...with the kawasaki Z1000 taking the top spot. Of course.
These japanese muscle bikes are so unlike anything else on two wheels... Everyone I've spoken to who've own a xjr...has regretted selling it...I guess it would be the same with a GSX.
Hear hear! On my third XJR (other bike is an Indian FTR) and the XJR will always be my first love.. bikewise.. ;]
Top video. I really enjoyed seeing the bike, great hearing from Fritz. Thanks Freddie
Pleasure was all mine!
Loved my gsx1400, got it for touring with the mrs then moved to a goldwing. I would defo have another and probably will one day. Never suffered any fatigue or pain in all day riding. Defo one of the best
Thanks for sharing this- owners (past and present) seem to absolutely LOVE these Suzukis!
@@FreddieDobbs im looking at getting an interceptor but no you got me looking at these again
Love your bike Fritz. Because it's AWESOME. Ride safe always mate, and cheers from NZ.
Freddie, each one of your videos puts a smile on my face. Keep it up sir.
I owned 3 of these at different times, a K4, then a K5 then a K3 - fantastic machines and rather addictive….
To me, this bike, by far on this channel, is the MOST HANDSOME bike you've featured. And you definitely look THE BEST on this. I'd suggest if you can get a hand one of these muscle Japanese naked bikes, like this or an 1100 Honda RS, or a Honda 1300 CB, now the latter IS the most beautiful bike for me. Classic looks, Japanese magic in the engine. You can own one for a lifetime!
loved the bike (I'm from Brazil, we only got the CB1300 and I've always wanted that bike), loved the video (great photography and sound) and also loved Fritz (such a nice guy). Great work!
What a nice guy, i had a xjr 1300 and can honestly say it was the best bike i'v ever ridden, never ever lost faith cornering, could throw it around like a moped.
Nice vid and great bike. Nice mods. The silhouette reminds me of the CB1100. I wish my CB1100 had a seat like that.
Ive had a k6 black one for 14 years 50,000 miles on the clock now. A keeper. Give it the beans and you will be surprised. I rode 2,500 miles in two weeks going to moto club faro. A recommended destination and bike rally.
What a super bike and a big thanks to Fritz for bringing it over and also to you Freddie, for the excellent review.
My pleasure, Mum!
Great interview and what a journey to make to give it to you, and a go in it too. Lovely bike 👍
Stunning bike. I've always fancied one of these 😊
I love these bikes and the motorcycle era they came from they were exiting times as ever another good watch keep them coming 😎🙏👌❤️
I had one for 11 years, i also had knee issues!
Im tall 6'6 and the low seat to peg ratio cained my knees as i got older!
Loved the bike though, quite possibly the best muscle bike ever !
This is the first time I'm seeing your channel, loved the video and the owner is fantastic. Subscribing 🎉
Very kind of you! 🤝
Now that bike suits you, practical and handles 2 up giving Monika more comfortable room on the back. For me it probably would be the Yamaha XJR1300 , but I think either would make your riding more pleasurable and enough power to pull you out of any situation.
Cheers
I've been fortunate to have owned a GSX1400 and currently own a Yamaha XJR1300. Both cracking bikes. Nice video.
What a gent Fritz is! An ideal guest for your channel I think.
I was very tempted by CB1300s a long time ago, especially the Bol d’or. I loved the look of it and the paint colour in cream and red was wonderful sadly when I sat on one it just didn’t feel right so I didn’t even test ride it. I’ve considered the XJR since but I’ve only space for one bike and don’t want to give up my CRF250L just yet.
How very kind of you! ❤
Hi Freddie one of my favourite retro bikes mate of mine has got one he leaves it outside most of the year and it never seems to deteriorate really they were definitely built better in those days great bikes one of the best and what a beautiful British pub to end the video ride safe Freddie
Great bike, also love the reliability of a Suzuki. 1/4 mile your old 1050cc Speed Triple would be around the same time, however your 1050cc Speed would top out about 20mph faster than that Suzuki, not that we ever seen you doing 150mph on your Triumph, Knievel Dobbs 🤪 Happy safe/trails Fritz, thanks for the content. QQ.
what a nice chap fritz is. great bike had one. want another.
Still have my 1400 gsx toured all over Germany Italy Switzerland you name it this bike has been there and has never let me down. I have a 1250 bmw Adventure I bought this year but will never part with her the 1400 fantastic bike 👍👍
What a beautiful bike, Fritz you are natural on camera.
Years and years as class clown had to Pay off some day! Thx
Safe ride fritz thanks for sharing the experience
My neighbour has one. He tows a trailer with it! It's done well over 100,000 miles. He rides it summer & and winter, and it just keeps running
Had one for 6 years. Lovely bike. Mine was upgraded with different shocks steel braided brake lines, power commander, and a full Akra system. Engine was superb but brakes were bad and suspension was cheap. But so was the price. Once all those so called issues were sorted you got a very capable machine that gave you a superb ride. Every day riding, touring (put a screen) it can do everything plus it looks so bad ass. I wish Suzuki brings it back. it is so simple that is brilliant.
Superb Info! Would be able to tell me, what brakes you were using in the end? they are a bit of a problem indeed!
@@fritz_rides6298 Brembo radial pump with EBC brake pads. Hell lines . And EBC discs in the front. Also Hyperpro has or had I don't know any more, a kit for a suspension upgrade front and rear. Makes a big difference. Hope that helps.
I had a 2003. Loved it. On a Tiger now, Interceptor on order...
Owned one of these in 2002-2004. My biggest issue with it, was it ate rear tyres. I got about 5-6 months out of a tyre. So I was buying tyres at a ratio of 2 to 1. I put a lot of miles on it though. I found the power to be instant, it would shoot off like a rocket with a fist full of throttle. Handled pretty well in the bends, and was fun to ride. It could wheelie, and those front brakes were very good, back end would come up if you shifted your weight forward over the bars. Not recommended though. Had a scary moment in the snow, changing lanes, but it's weight kept it planted. Rode it all year round by the way.
Hi Freddie, I think you would also enjoy the Honda X11! I wish you made a video about it too. I have one for more than ten years and I love it. You make very good content! Cheers!
Enjoying this novel format. At home on the road with owner riders. Then finishing off by visiting a characterful pub, restaurant or coffee house. Right up my Strasse.
I've had a Honda CB 1100 and a Yamaha XJR 1300 and as he said you could put them in top gear at 30 and treat it like an automatic, both amazing bikes. Unfortunately at my age and degree of physical fitness both are now way above my ability.
Thank you for making the trip, Fritz. Apologies to your knees. Great review. I am tempted to look up pictures of the dual headlights to see if I agree. The single headlight looks good but I always liked the dual lights on the Rocket and Triple as well. Lots of food for thought. Safe trip back for you.
edit: I couldn't find a picture with dual headlight so I assume they were a mod and you restored the single look. Of the bikes mentioned. I can only see that the Kawasaki ZRX1200 was sold in the US between 2001 to 2005. In 2008 they introduced 6th gear and fuel injection. The CB1300 did not have an official release in the US. I don't see the XJR1300 having a release in the US despite a run from 1998 to 2014. They had the FJR1300 sport tourer which doesn't have the looks (imo). And then there was what they call the GSF Bandit 1250 which was also a sport tourer configuration. Enjoy the envy from the US guys.
The owner is such a character. love the video Freddie.
how kind you are! 🤗
Loved these bikes when I was younger. For my money however the Yam XJR and the Kwak ZRX are the ultimate muscle bikes.
I owned a 1978 z1000 mk2. Took it through the alps. Bear in mind i was young, strong and fearless. Sold it to a friend who still owns its. Memories. 😊
The Suzuki GSX engines have always been torque monsters… The first brand new bike I bought was a 1983 Suzuki Katana GSX1100S. Claimed power was 110hp and while at that time it was considered a superbike, what really stood out for me (apart from the stupendous look of the Katana) was the engines torque. In 5th gear it would pull smoothly from 30mph to over 130mph all in the one gear. It didn’t need a gearbox really as you could just roll on and off the throttle and never need to change gear! That 1400 is basically the same engine bored out with 300 extra cc so I can understand what Fritz means about it’s torque 👍
Really enjoyed that. Great bike, and great format for a video! Thanks to you, and to Fritz for sharing. I'd love a modern/retro classic like a T120, but must admit that i'd prefer something with Japanese engineering. Really only because i've read mixed reviews about Triumph's reputation for reliability and customer service. The T120 and CB1100 are high on my list, but it looks like i should probably be looking at some of the more muscular options as well. I hadn't been considering them really, as i'm not particularly interested in high speed/power, and had assumed that the muscle bikes would be a bit too much bike.
Good thoughts! I love the 1400 simply BECAUSE i dont like riding fast. This bike is very relaxing and you can be very lazy. 😅
@@fritz_rides6298 Thanks Fritz, thats good to know!
After seeing Danny putting on wet weather pants on a previous video I thought I should share this tip with you. Aways carry a supermarket plastic carry bag in the pocket of your wet weather pants. when putting on the pants put your foot, boots 'n all, into the bag then put that leg into your pants. Slides on like Teflon .
I was lucky enough to own a red/white/black model with a sport exhaust for a few months. It's been a great time! That torque!!
All bikes are nice and all, but there's absolutely something indescribably, and scarily, magical about Japanese engineering. Nothing beats the sound and feel and the latent fear and respect you feel for their bikes.
Impressive! I‘m scanning the internet for Gsx1400‘s 👀
So am I!😆
@FreddieDobbs a 2006 example with only 700 miles from new just sold on Ebay for £6700...I know this because I lost out on winning it myself by £100 lol
@@spiker2199that is cheap, values are creeping up again
@@gpzfan5272 1 does not change the trend
Great video Freddie love the 1400 but needs to be blue/white thanks good watch
Lovely weather,lovely countryside,lovely bikes,two bikers having a good blether does it get any better Freddie😎
What a great bike and a great video.
"My wife got pregnant, and I didn't." - I need to remember this one.
😂😂
Yes a lovely bike! The colour scheme can make a difference, check out the special edition colour scheme, put a matching nose cone/wind screen on and as its a post 2005 model, you can change the change the exhaust
set up back from the 4 into 1 to the earlier model of 4 into 2. Their price is holding and going up for lower K’s although for an engine like this, don’t worry! Enjoyed the Vid, thank you.
Lovely bike Freddie. Like you, i have always lusted after one but avoided it because like any naked retro, if you get over 70mph it wants to blow you off the back of it and is extremely uncomfortable....especially with the power and torque of that 1400cc engine. Wasn't keen on the colour scheme of that example but the blue and white one is to die for! 😎👍
there is always the trick of making it worse first: do 30mins at 100mph, and your gonna love the 3 hours at 70mph after that. :D hugs & kisses, fritz
I'm in love with these big, fat japanies bikes. Thanks Freddie for this vid. I got a CB1100 EX 2016. This is one of the last musketeer of this area. I'm in love... 😊
G'day I have a 2010 CB 1100 Honda also and they really are perfect as well I have 2004 gsx1400, although they are about the same weight the Honda feels about 20 kilo lighter as the smaller tank 14 point 6 litres as against 22 litres of fuel in the gsx1400, the Honda feel like it has a lower center of gravity and really can't fault it, happy New year cheers old Andy from Australia
I can’t believe I haven’t bumped into you yet!
Lovely area and decent riding roads all around that area. I recognised the bridge you stood on straight away.
Try Unit 1 for lunch next time, it’s in West Hythe on the edge of the canal.
It’s a bit more you ;)
There was a "Muscle Bike" renaissance, back in the late 90's and early noughties! The main protagonists were the Yamaha XJR1300, the Suzuki GSX1400, the Kawasaki ZXR1100 and Honda's CB1300. ALL were straight four, naturally aspirated and chain driven Roadsters. (as opposed to naked sports bikes)
Funny old lot the Germans - but gotta like one called Fritz :)
Fun fact: since Fritz is short for Friedrich, Freddie and i share the same name 😅
@@fritz_rides6298 He would be Fritz Von Dobbs i'd imagine! - I was in Munich last summer - a nice small city and a great throw off point for Obersalzberg and Berchtesgaden.
@@paramarky Friedrich von Dobbersberg, surely.
Danke Fritz!✌️
Bitte! :)
I was looking at a GSX1400 when i was coming back to riding, its probably for the best i didn't get one. I lusted after a 1200 bandit in 1997
The 1200 Bandit was the ultimate accessible beast. I really wanted one of these too, but couldn’t quite afford it so bought a 600 Bandit
Used to own a Suzuki GS 750 in late 80s when I was in Royal Hong Kong Police and it was one of my favourite bikes - I always thought it was the quintessential motorcycle shape and style.
I like this 1400 bike - and Fritz is the quintessential German - very entertaining.
I owned one of these. Excellent machine. My biggest mistake was getting rid of it......apart from the marriage thing , obviously .😊
I’m on my third,and after 60 years of riding ,these are unsurpassed, just tweak the suspension and rotate bars back an inch,and GO!
i have a cb1300 - similar bike.......i intended to sell it when i bought a t120 but glad i didnt now. I get the same issue as Fritz with my knees on long journeys. something great about a big four cylinder
Fantastic bike, but so is the XJR1300 which i have one, the SP version with Ohlins, these muscle bikes were some of the best looking motorcycles in history.
Stunning bike Fritz! Supergeil!
@@arceyes thx!
Can we have more of Fritz Freddie? He’s a keeper.
Also the background music is very good.
What a lovely bike!! Air cooled purity and classic looks. I'm shocked that a 4 cylinder engine has so much torque. Very unusual to have a long stroke 4.
Ok Freddie you rode a 400cc bike and a 1400cc bike. 100Hp to 40HP. Which one put a bigger smile on your face. I said it on the podcast comments, I’ll say it now. You can’t beat horsepower!
I rode a 800cc with 85hp then a 49cc with barely enough power to go much over 40mph. Anything with 2 wheel that you don't have to pedal is fun.
Ok… I admit it, Steve. The 1400 did put a bigger smile on my face😃
You’ll like what I have coming next. 1900cc of American muscle💪🏼🇺🇸