I find it bizarre that anyone would give you abuse over a review for a bike. Your group test reviews are always honest, and you point out the good and the bad of these bikes.
Hi Neevesy I think you're nailing it lately. These vids keep getting better. Do you think KTM have been missing out by not having a street legal superbike after cancelling the RC8? We all know they make the best range of nakeds and with some decent results in motogp you would think it's an obvious money maker for a company like that. Even if it doesn't compete in WSBK like the RSV4. Cheers
I remember test-riding the 2017 SP back to back with my 2002 CBR954RR. I took both on winding mountain roads. I prefered 954RR, it was analogue, energetic and direct, a real hooligan, direct brake lever response, direct throttle response (unlike SP in sport mode, very "spongy" throttle response). Sold it in pristine condition (never ridden on wet roads), and that was a mistake.
It's not just the 17 Fireblade. The 07 CBR 600RR won a bunch of tests meanwhile it went on to be completely dominated by the R6. Maybe you guys knew back then that a CBR would literally outlast any R6. I have an 07 CBR track bike with 54k miles on it.
Question : how on earth is the sport bike industry going to survive ?, especially trackdays. It’s £250 for a day these days and £500 a set of tyres! I earn above the average wage, not massively but I do okay, and I’m thinking it’s just not worth it anymore, how can this go on? Thanks
Thanks for posting. I seem to be detecting a new feature in the comments section to your videos; the opionated expert with limited justifiying credibility. They seem to behave like you are some low life politician trying to sell us your brand of war criminality and need to be outed for public opprobrium. Hmm? Just me? Well I think you are doing a good service to the TH-cam biking community. Thank you and keep up the good work. But then what do I know, eh? Probably don't even ride a bike...😏
Enjoyed the video Michael I was lucky enough to purchase a 2017 fireblade sp2 and I think it’s suberb never missed a gear just don’t like wheelie control linked to traction control other than that it’s perfect
I own both the x15 and corsair X. The latest corsair fits closer to the shoei than it did before; I also owned the x14 and corsair V. The corsair flows more air; the shoei is more aerodynamic. Shoei offers a photochromic lens, whereas arai doesn't.
Has there ever been a press road test where the an issue with a bike has been found and changed by the manufacture before production? Thinking like the famous Top Gear Koenigsegg when the Stig crashed it and was later released with a rear spoiler as advised...
Hi mate, thanks for all of the TH-cam, “thanks for asking” and other content other the years. It’s helped me a lot progress on my motorbike journey. My question is around track riding. I’ve been getting more into my trackdays the last few years and am middle of the pack, intermediate on a GSXR750 l4. I’m trying to progress through the group but I’ve noticed that my heart rate is rocketing up to 170 odd BPM. I run regularly so wear a heart rate monitor and am not in poor fitness. I don’t understand why I find it so physical and if this is actually limiting my overall progress. I’m conscious of my breathing but was wondering if there is anything else I can do to be more relaxed. Thanks again
Hiya Neevesy! I own a 2005 ZX10R, dubbed as the ‘widowmaker’ by the American market at the time. Reviews, including MCN, had it down as a bit of an animal more suited for experienced riders, certainly at the time. I would like to know how it compares for you compared to the modern crop of electronic managed yet more powerful crop of 1000’s such as the newest Zx10r and if that ‘beast’ reputation it had is a thing of the past? Many thanks!
I’m from Derbyshire (although lived in Ireland 20 years) good to hear Matlock is still attracting bikers… I was going there in the 80’s & 90’s. Great video as always
Hey :) Another question regarding the 2017 fireblade.. how do you think it keeps up or compares to the newer generation of fireblades (namely the sc82..?) I‘m in the process of buying a 2017 fireblade and absolutely loved it 😄
Michael, your insite is just amazing. I've ridden bikes for 55 years including 20 years professionally. Every video opens my mind. Great work mate. Gibbsy 👍
The Guy Said. He was Upgrading From his ER 6 .on U. tube.I found an Old Group Test You Did in 2009 ..in February🥶 Ducati 600 Yamaha XJ6 Kawasaki er6n..Suzuki Gladius You Could Not Ride Back to Peterborough Due to Snow
Hi Neevesy. I have just purchased a Kawasaki Z800, my previous bike was a CBF1000, both different bikes in terms of style and riding dynamics. My question is....do you find yourself renewing your riding kit to suit the colour and style of your bike, and, what is your opinion on leather Vs textile (jackets) for road riding? I would appreciate your thoughts on this slightly vain but I'd imagine, common dilemma 😅
Dont get it,they are built to serve our needs,not the other way around. If i could i would have a whole garage full of all brands bikes and i would ride em all,love honda ,yamaha,suzuki,kawa,as well as european brands,ktm,bmw,triumph,ducati,huqsvarna,aprilia,i love em all and all of em have some amazing pieces of machinery!!!❤❤❤❤ Hell i would even buy cf motos 800 mt explore😂😅😂😅
Hey Michael. On the previous Q&A you said that you went to the Michelin tyre launch. I have used and loved the previous generation Power5's, and now I am riding on Bridgestones S22's, which if I'm not mistaken are essentially comparable tyres with Pirelli Rosso 4 or so. However, now I am going more on track, I'm getting better, and my laptimes are coming down somewhat quickly on my 75-horsepowered R7. How much of a difference does going from something like the Power6's to the PowerGP2's in terms of heat management on track? Would the comparable tyres be Bridgestone's RS11's and Rosso Corsa 4? And do I need to start considering tyre blankets including the whole logistics of trailering the bike, paddock stands, and so on? Thank you!!
Hi mate, thanks for all of the TH-cam, “thanks for asking” and other content other the years. It’s helped me a lot progress on my motorbike journey. My question is around track riding. I’ve been getting more into my trackdays the last few years and am middle of the pack, intermediate on a GSXR750 l4. I’m trying to progress through the group but I’ve noticed that my heart rate is rocketing up to 170 odd BPM. I run regularly so wear a heart rate monitor and am not in poor fitness. I don’t understand why I find it so physical and if this is actually limiting my overall progress. I’m conscious of my breathing but was wondering if there is anything else I can do to be more relaxed. Thanks again
hello mate thanks for the regular entertainment and education. As a European who moved to the UK, don't know bikers in person you content means a lot! What is your take on short levers. on my previous bike zx6 had factory levers and I often pinched my fingers on hard braking(on track) and I was considerig to get short levers but I never did amd sold the bike. Now I own a gsxr600 L1 came with cheap short levers. on the first trackday I had no issues braking but after the 3rd session I was suffering with the clutch on every downshift, my arm hurt on a level I have missed gears for safety and I have missed the last session as I couldn't focus on 100%. It was so odd to me as I'm very fitt, work out, and work as a painter and got a bucket or roller in my hand all day long so got strong grip and my cardio good too. I feel I could ride 12hrs a day on track unless I need to pull the clutch in to gang back couple gears. now I'm looking to get some quality long levers but I'm afraid I'll pinch my fingers on the brake. Many thanks
Hey mate, fed up of the UK roads, went out for a ride yesterday for the Ducati season opener and was fed up of pot holes and tram lines, as someone that hasn’t explored Europe yet, any tips from leaving the Uk for a euro trip for 3 to 4 days, what are the best roads if we got a group to get the euro over to France? Enjoyable roads and good hotels for safe storage for bikes? I’m not far from you, in St Neots, loving your videos, your knowledge is second to none. Thanks.
Michael, I can't recall the firm's name but in Holland, a tuneup job was done on the previous GSX 1000 naked, taking it to just over 200 BHP. I thought it might inspire Suzuki to make an OE one but they didn't, perhaps for the reason you've described. That kind of bike would suit many people, who are perhaps like myself, very long in the tooth, hate removing bodywork to carry out any kind of maintenance, and in my own case, not have low bars that'd make my cervical myelopathy too unbearable to be able to ride for longer than half an hour. Servicing costs for Euro made nakeds are totally disproportionate to the work carried out, buyers being looked upon as being too gullible for their own good and so treated accordingly. Archetypal lambs to the slaughter.
I have discovered this channel only recently, but love the format. Its always interesting to listen to people with so much experience. If I can sneak a question, I'm currently looking for a new bike to change my vstrom 650 for something sportier. It will be mainly a daily driver to work and short trips, few times longer trip in Europe and I want to start with occasional track days (not only proper racetrack but also outdoor gokart tracks as those are more accessible). I narrowed it down to 5 bikes - new suzuki s1000gx, kawasaki ninja 1000sx, ktm 890 smt, MG mandello or Tuono V4 1100, all have good reviews and placements in test, we will see after test rides, but I wonder what would be your recommendation? If anyone else wants to chip in, feel free.
Hey Neevesy! Lately I've been (seems like I'm not alone in this) noticing a shift in bike launches. Whereas in the past there were clearly hard NDA's and there was little to no info on bikes untill the youtube videos from major publications came pouring in, now it seems like I find random videos of some bloke test riding a new bike from a dealership, weeks before the press launch. I also sat on the new MT09 at the Amsterdam bike show, weeks before you lot posted the videos on them etc etc. Doesn't this put a major damper on publication's enthousiasm to join bike launches as they no longer have the scoop so to say. Same with the new GS launch and the Duc 698, I was watching random influencers with no real motoring credentials, upload tiktoks with factory fresh bikes, kind of spoiling the natural flow of information. Maybe I'm just old fashioned! Keep doing what you're doing, fantastic content :).
Hi Michael. Thank you once again for your valuable time and content. I see reviews that say that a new generation of a bike has vastly improved power because it went from let’s say 105 bhp to 110. Same kinds of margins or even smaller when doing group comparisons, with bike A having 80bhp against 83 of bike B. So my question is: when do you, or for that matter the normal rider, start to feel a difference. Some times we are talking less than 5%, but it is presented as a great improvement? Same applies to weight savings. Can you really feel a 200kg street bike has lost 4 kilos?
Loved the honest Fireblade question. I gave up listening to MCN reviews of superbikes for a few years (not just 2017) as the Fireblade always won despite discussed flaws.
Woo hoo, thanks for answering my question! My ER6 isn't totally stock, I have a ZX6R front end, custom rear shock, clipons and I just got some track body work. Going to do 2 seasons on it and see if the new R9 comes out for 2026.
Thought I'd chime in. I used my stock ER6n 2007 on track days (road bikes only) for about nearly two of years, was adviced to get a more suitable bike as the speed increased - but could have gone your route. Seems like a great setup. Maybe consider getting a Versys 650 swing arm for it of Ebay - they bolt right on all you need is the spacers etc from the versys. The original swing arm is a bit weak. I then moved on to a GSXR 750 2008 street bike, completely different animal and used it for a couple of years. Then got my racing licence about 18 months ago and bought a ZX6RR track bike. Just came back from a five days at Cartagena circuit a week ago. Still have the ER6, now with Maxton fork internals and shock - my wife rides it and loves it. I have kept the GSXR for street use. Also I am 60 this year, its never to late to start track riding. Also considered the KTM790 and the Street Triple when I got the GSXR - I prefer the inline fours.
Good morning neevesy, As you're always joking, you're not getting any younger. None the less you seem to keep your self very lean. So what do you enjoy doing other than riding motorcycles that help with that.
Michael does Zumba classes and gets chased around by the ladies a lot. He also spends some time catching trout with his bare hands in the cold rivers of England. Michael may deny this but it's true.
2:44 "engines that give you a little bit of involvement, thrill, character at normal road speeds" --- which is exactly why I'll never part with my Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP. One of the finest torquey emotional engines I've ever experienced.
The same reason I don’t understand why 600’s have faded away. I acquired a 2020 S1000RR and sold it to get an R6; far more engaging riding experience and while fast, still pretty sensible.
There’s been some very strange, bordering on farcical results in the different MCN test categories over the years. Of course, it had nothing to do with relationships with manufacturers or anything other than honest opinion 😜😉😉
@@neevesybikes if only we had time to go through all the group test winners over the years. There are a lot of examples and Fireblades don’t come into it.
There must be a couple that stick out? I've never been involved with, or ever heard of any group tests being controlled by manufacture/advertising influences or even our editor. They're always judged by the testers on the day. You may not agree, but like we've always said, it's all just opinion. Cheers M
@@neevesybikes There are many examples that I could mention and I am sure you can argue it’s an opinion. However, I guess there has never been a group test winner, that s MCN has that same model to give away in a competition?
No love for the Z H2? 😢 Was a toss up between it and the 1290 SDR Evo for me... Went with the 1290 cuz it's 100lbs lighter. Agree the MT10 isn't in the same class.
I’m stepping away from riding for a year or two until I can buy the bike I really want, it’s been a fun 4 years & 7 bikes but ya know life and will be selling my 07’ Fireblade & 03’ Moto Guzzi V11 Sport😪
Interesting Q&A as always. I've had 2 very memorable occasions where I've liked a bike I've owned so much that I've replaced it with the new model and both times the newer bike has been a big improvement and addressed issues with the outgoing model. I replaced my K1 GSXR600 with a K5 version which had more low down power much better brakes and more modern styling at the time. Also last year I replaced my gen 3 1000sx with the current Ninja version which feels faster handles much better and has lots of tech like cruise control and quick shifter. Btw you say the blade wasn't top dog between the first model and the 2017 bike but when the stubby nosed blade came out in 2008 it blew all the other bikes out of the water that year. I know I still have all the magazines including MCN from that time. It won every test. I also owned one and it was an awesome machine.
I test-rode 1290 SDR back to back with 1390 SDR just a month back. I really prefered the 1290 SDR, it looks better (from the front and from the seat), the new horseshoe light is not nice and will be a pita to clean for sure. New 1390 SDR vibrates much less than 1290 at lower rpms, on one hand it is nice, on the other hand some of the character is lost. Also, I like the orange wheels of 1290 SDR, such bikes should be colorful and stand-out. I almost bought the 1290 SDR orange/silver one, non Evo....but decided against it in the end, the quality seems to be iffy and the power, for where I live, is way too much, keeping the licence is more important. All that said, 1290 SDR is still my most favourite supernaked, which is really in a class of its own.
Amazing videos! I loved my KTM 890R on the roads, but when I used it on the track I felt too upright and far from the front tire traction. It was a strange feeling and I was much slower than on my old gsxr or similar sportbikes. I recently bought a Kramer 690S to use for the track as I think I need that front end feeling of sport and race position. I'm always surprised how fast others are and how you talk about being fast on track on naked bikes. Did I just need more time on track to get used to that different geometry? Also, thanks for turning me on to RRC restoration holy smokes he's amazing!
After owning 2010 fireblade I waited for new one until 2016, then bought 2016 Tuono factory that I still have. Actually would have bought ether blade or new gsx-r if ether came 2016. But super happy with tuono still 😊
Quite liking the Q&A format, getting better as they go along - my 2p : I always say to people with all road tests regardless of magazine / company, it is still down the the PERSONAL preferences of the road tester ... it's not possible for a human to be completely unbiased because we all have our likes & dislikes, we are all different heights, weights, have different riding styles, so it's whichever bikes fits you best. I would have put the updated 2017 RSV4 & the R1M ahead of the blade ... in fact I'd have also put the BMW and GSXR ahead too ! but that's just my opinion and riding them all consecutively you would notice what you like on one more than the other. So don't buy a £15 ~ £20K bike because someone else who you have never met says its good ! buy the bike you like best
Fantastic answer to the 2017 Fireblade win of the group test! Haven’t ridden the bike and I am guessing a lot of other reviews were probably much more focussed on track performance and possibly with supplied road tyres or different control tyres that didn’t provide the grip the slicks you used. And as you said it would be very affected if they got one of the rare ones with the gearbox issues. You have to tick to your opinions 2
Awesome video! I really enjoyed watching. The thing that I come away thinking is how neutral you are in the face of a difficult question. You don't react you are completely neutral. And explain your thinking at the time. Fireblade. That's really well done. Admiration for that. Especially in my business. Well done. Best!
@@neevesybikes Good question. I think what I was trying to get at was - "What type of bike feels best when you're not chasing tenths of a second? Are there any specific models or brands you'd go to for a more relaxed ride?"
Love the "brown envelope" comment. US bike and car magazines were suspected of this practice for years with some of their questionable choices for "XXX of the Year" winners, and finally one of the car magazines got caught doing it.😀
Question: i noticed you have the new Alpinestars helmet on your shelf. What’s your verdict? I have broken both my collar bones recently and wondered what your general thoughts were but in particular the ability to save your already nobbled collar bones.
Hi Neevsey, I love watching your videos, thank you for doing them. my question is why are motorcycle mirrors so bad especially on sports bikes. Will we ever see digital mirrors ie cameras with a screen?
Super bikes are a chore at lower speeds, therefore the super naked ie factory street fighters are bad choice for the streets. For instance the older sd1290r is a much better street bike than the new one with the rc8r frame or the panigale v4 or s1000s, mt10 and so on.
A mate bought an mt09 and spent a fortune trying to get it to handle. Gave up and bought a Tiger which was much better from day one. Viva your long term tests (still longer than most riders) to show up potential issues.
Tyres...Hi Micheal, in the last two years i had on my 2014 vfr 800 the Michelin Road 6, which in all fairness felt to me not that comunicative on the front, then i switched to the Metzler Roadtec SE 01 which (to me) are great in that respect but feel slower changing direction from side to side. I'm now thinking of buying a lighter sportier 600 and eventually, later on my journey in the next years, hopefully a 1000. Regardless, even if i keep my beloved vfr, i would like to try more agile and sticky tyres than the ones i'm used to (i also had Pirellis angel gt on a previous bike), but something that still warms up reasonably fast in the cold and are good\safe in the rain. I don't do track days (sadly) and most of my mileage is on the twisty mountain roads in the Italian Dolomites, where i travel from home to work, with some detours just for fun and passion, roughly every day from april till october (cold, rain, hot, you name it). Which models should i look for? I'm a little lost here...because i'm afraid that i will end up with something not suitable for the road, especially if wet or cold . Do you have any suggestions? If you're so kind to reply. Thanks anyway, i always listen to your q&a and watch the MCN channel.
I’ve ran the Rosso IV’s on my Honda 1000RR For 2 years. Loved them. I just switched to the Rosso Corsa IV’s. I pushed them decently in the mountains, and I never felt uneasy on the Rosso IV’s.
th-cam.com/video/3CMgwuC06Pc/w-d-xo.html do you remember this video -2008 street triple vs speed triple? those were the days .. you were great reviewer beck then
That’s right, but if you do a sportsbike comparison test on track with standard tyres, the best tyres win, rather than the best bike. It creates a level playing field. I know what you mean, though 👍
I’m a true believer that motorcycles should be reviewed & test as sold, no slick tyres or better quality tyres. 95% of bikes purchased are for road use and should be tested as such.
The average set of tyres on a sports bike last what 4-5k miles before you replace them anyway, so putting all bikes on a control tyre makes much more sense.
If everyone tested bikes with the tyres they came with... the bike would only be as good as the tyres... and we could all miss some really good bikes. Using a control tyre is the only way to get a true review of the actual bike. Believe what you want... but you are so wrong, its not even funny.
Youre kinda wrong about the hyper nakeds and Japanese, Kawasaki has the ZH2, but its on the heavy side so its not so extreme as the others, especially the BMW and Ducati.
I sold my red 2018 Daytona 675 a couple of years ago and I regret it now. Now it is impossible to find second hand, I am on the continent. That bike was super-agile, the rake, the trail, the wheel base were all very aggressive. Was beautiful as well, that bike. And it made very nice raw sound from standard short exhaust, Euro3 or Euro4, do not remember, but the modern day 765 Street Triples do not sound anywhere as good as that Daytona sounded. Also, Daytona was the only sportsbike where I felt all the time that I hold the front wheel between my hands, the modern 765, even Moto2, do not provide that feeling. Daytona 675 was absolutely magnificent, should have kept it.
I won't sell mine either. Although it's not an R version but it's in track trim and it is an absolute weapon on track. I love it. And it looks great too, if I cannot ride it anymore I'll put it in my livingroom 😅
So glad that manufacturers have realised that a grunty parallel twin is what people want. I think The Yam MT07/R7/tenere is the closest to my perfect paradigm. 100bhp, £7k MAX sports tourer. That's why 350LC & XT600 did so well as ROAD bikes, & even dads 60's parallel twins were so dominant. Yes I miss my GSXR11/996/R1. But for now my sorted 25yr old VFR800 (& NC30) keeps me in credit with a bit left over to rebuild an old trail bike for green laning. PS yes I am an old fart.
I’m slightly portly and entering middle age. The Tracer 700 does everything I want it to do and everything I have the time and money for. Great do-it-all piece of kit that’s easy to work on and has enough grunt/giggle for me on the road. Does quite well on the kids school run as well.
Hey Neevesy. If the rumors about the 2027 motogp technical rule changes are correct and they go to 850cc engines, do you think Dorna will be inclined to change the WSBK rules? It would seem like a bad marketing decision to allow the possibility of the WSBK bikes to be lapping faster than the motogp bikes, which that larger capacity could allow given how close both classes are currently. Also do you think this will have a knock on effect to consumer bikes? We have already seen Yamaha discontinue the R1 might we see others follow suit as the develop smaller cc bikes for racing? Cheers
@@future62 without the ride height devices and with restricted aero as well as a definite drop in torque on what will be essential a brand new platform i think you umight be surprised. Not to mention that all the kit electronics the motogp bikes run will have to be readjusted in order to extract the most from a new engine config. Especially in the first couple years it's likely we will see longer lap times.
@@LazySatyr WSBK bikes have got insanely fast. Bulega's time at PI would have put him on the front row of MotoGP last year. So you're probably right. I don't think people will care if the racing improves.
@@future62i certainly wouldn’t mind seeing an improvement in the racing so yeah i agree with you. We are seeing a change in the industry with regards to the Superbike category though, discontinued R1. No more Gixxer 1000 etc and with a growing “middleweight” category that’s pushing 900cc you have to wonder if the stage is being set for a change “superbike” rules and a change in what comes to market for us.
I would have to agree upside down, I’ve been riding for 45 year and have owned many different bikes, my current bike is a 11 gixxer 600, light, stops, handles, and more than enough power, all I’ve done to it is a apro can and a quick shifter.
I think that with maturity comes less bother about what impression you make on others. The boss dog image of a superbike, or super naked is less appealing than enjoying agile handling and light weight of something more road focused.
@@future62issue is that they don’t sell anymore. Look at what’s actually leaving the showrooms, that’s the sign of people either downsizing or (as in my example) a new rider being gobsmacked at the price of anything bigger than a 700cc parallel twin.
I find it bizarre that anyone would give you abuse over a review for a bike. Your group test reviews are always honest, and you point out the good and the bad of these bikes.
😂
Abuse?
Don’t really think it was abuse was it
Hi Neevesy I think you're nailing it lately. These vids keep getting better.
Do you think KTM have been missing out by not having a street legal superbike after cancelling the RC8?
We all know they make the best range of nakeds and with some decent results in motogp you would think it's an obvious money maker for a company like that. Even if it doesn't compete in WSBK like the RSV4.
Cheers
Facts
I remember test-riding the 2017 SP back to back with my 2002 CBR954RR. I took both on winding mountain roads. I prefered 954RR, it was analogue, energetic and direct, a real hooligan, direct brake lever response, direct throttle response (unlike SP in sport mode, very "spongy" throttle response). Sold it in pristine condition (never ridden on wet roads), and that was a mistake.
I've had a 2017 blade SP for 3 years now, and it's superb on both road and track, 0 issues too. Agreed, the brake feel is a bit soft.
Thanks for answering my question Michael. Very interesting and informative answer. 👍
It's not just the 17 Fireblade. The 07 CBR 600RR won a bunch of tests meanwhile it went on to be completely dominated by the R6. Maybe you guys knew back then that a CBR would literally outlast any R6. I have an 07 CBR track bike with 54k miles on it.
Same...'05 track bike with 65k miles
Question : how on earth is the sport bike industry going to survive ?, especially trackdays. It’s £250 for a day these days and £500 a set of tyres! I earn above the average wage, not massively but I do okay, and I’m thinking it’s just not worth it anymore, how can this go on? Thanks
Thanks for posting. I seem to be detecting a new feature in the comments section to your videos; the opionated expert with limited justifiying credibility. They seem to behave like you are some low life politician trying to sell us your brand of war criminality and need to be outed for public opprobrium. Hmm? Just me? Well I think you are doing a good service to the TH-cam biking community. Thank you and keep up the good work. But then what do I know, eh? Probably don't even ride a bike...😏
Enjoyed the video Michael I was lucky enough to purchase a 2017 fireblade sp2 and I think it’s suberb never missed a gear just don’t like wheelie control linked to traction control other than that it’s perfect
Hi Michael - How are you finding Shoei helmets after 30+ years of wearing Arais?
I own both the x15 and corsair X. The latest corsair fits closer to the shoei than it did before; I also owned the x14 and corsair V. The corsair flows more air; the shoei is more aerodynamic. Shoei offers a photochromic lens, whereas arai doesn't.
Thank you for your insights,@@ayowser01
Has there ever been a press road test where the an issue with a bike has been found and changed by the manufacture before production?
Thinking like the famous Top Gear Koenigsegg when the Stig crashed it and was later released with a rear spoiler as advised...
Hi mate, thanks for all of the TH-cam, “thanks for asking” and other content other the years. It’s helped me a lot progress on my motorbike journey. My question is around track riding. I’ve been getting more into my trackdays the last few years and am middle of the pack, intermediate on a GSXR750 l4. I’m trying to progress through the group but I’ve noticed that my heart rate is rocketing up to 170 odd BPM. I run regularly so wear a heart rate monitor and am not in poor fitness. I don’t understand why I find it so physical and if this is actually limiting my overall progress. I’m conscious of my breathing but was wondering if there is anything else I can do to be more relaxed. Thanks again
Hiya Neevesy! I own a 2005 ZX10R, dubbed as the ‘widowmaker’ by the American market at the time. Reviews, including MCN, had it down as a bit of an animal more suited for experienced riders, certainly at the time. I would like to know how it compares for you compared to the modern crop of electronic managed yet more powerful crop of 1000’s such as the newest Zx10r and if that ‘beast’ reputation it had is a thing of the past? Many thanks!
I’m from Derbyshire (although lived in Ireland 20 years) good to hear Matlock is still attracting bikers… I was going there in the 80’s & 90’s. Great video as always
Hey :) Another question regarding the 2017 fireblade.. how do you think it keeps up or compares to the newer generation of fireblades (namely the sc82..?)
I‘m in the process of buying a 2017 fireblade and absolutely loved it 😄
Yamaha weren’t too conservative with the MT10
True…apart from the brakes 👍
Michael, your insite is just amazing. I've ridden bikes for 55 years including 20 years professionally. Every video opens my mind.
Great work mate.
Gibbsy 👍
The Guy Said. He was Upgrading From his ER 6 .on U. tube.I found an Old Group Test You Did in 2009 ..in February🥶 Ducati 600 Yamaha XJ6 Kawasaki er6n..Suzuki Gladius
You Could Not Ride Back to Peterborough Due to Snow
Hi Neevesy.
I have just purchased a Kawasaki Z800, my previous bike was a CBF1000, both different bikes in terms of style and riding dynamics.
My question is....do you find yourself renewing your riding kit to suit the colour and style of your bike, and, what is your opinion on leather Vs textile (jackets) for road riding? I would appreciate your thoughts on this slightly vain but I'd imagine, common dilemma 😅
Dont get it,they are built to serve our needs,not the other way around.
If i could i would have a whole garage full of all brands bikes and i would ride em all,love honda ,yamaha,suzuki,kawa,as well as european brands,ktm,bmw,triumph,ducati,huqsvarna,aprilia,i love em all and all of em have some amazing pieces of machinery!!!❤❤❤❤
Hell i would even buy cf motos 800 mt explore😂😅😂😅
Hey Michael. On the previous Q&A you said that you went to the Michelin tyre launch. I have used and loved the previous generation Power5's, and now I am riding on Bridgestones S22's, which if I'm not mistaken are essentially comparable tyres with Pirelli Rosso 4 or so. However, now I am going more on track, I'm getting better, and my laptimes are coming down somewhat quickly on my 75-horsepowered R7. How much of a difference does going from something like the Power6's to the PowerGP2's in terms of heat management on track? Would the comparable tyres be Bridgestone's RS11's and Rosso Corsa 4? And do I need to start considering tyre blankets including the whole logistics of trailering the bike, paddock stands, and so on? Thank you!!
Hi mate, thanks for all of the TH-cam, “thanks for asking” and other content other the years. It’s helped me a lot progress on my motorbike journey. My question is around track riding. I’ve been getting more into my trackdays the last few years and am middle of the pack, intermediate on a GSXR750 l4. I’m trying to progress through the group but I’ve noticed that my heart rate is rocketing up to 170 odd BPM. I run regularly so wear a heart rate monitor and am not in poor fitness. I don’t understand why I find it so physical and if this is actually limiting my overall progress. I’m conscious of my breathing but was wondering if there is anything else I can do to be more relaxed. Thanks again
hello mate thanks for the regular entertainment and education. As a European who moved to the UK, don't know bikers in person you content means a lot!
What is your take on short levers. on my previous bike zx6 had factory levers and I often pinched my fingers on hard braking(on track) and I was considerig to get short levers but I never did amd sold the bike. Now I own a gsxr600 L1 came with cheap short levers. on the first trackday I had no issues braking but after the 3rd session I was suffering with the clutch on every downshift, my arm hurt on a level I have missed gears for safety and I have missed the last session as I couldn't focus on 100%. It was so odd to me as I'm very fitt, work out, and work as a painter and got a bucket or roller in my hand all day long so got strong grip and my cardio good too. I feel I could ride 12hrs a day on track unless I need to pull the clutch in to gang back couple gears.
now I'm looking to get some quality long levers but I'm afraid I'll pinch my fingers on the brake. Many thanks
Hey mate, fed up of the UK roads, went out for a ride yesterday for the Ducati season opener and was fed up of pot holes and tram lines, as someone that hasn’t explored Europe yet, any tips from leaving the Uk for a euro trip for 3 to 4 days, what are the best roads if we got a group to get the euro over to France? Enjoyable roads and good hotels for safe storage for bikes? I’m not far from you, in St Neots, loving your videos, your knowledge is second to none. Thanks.
Love Matlock Bath. Thanks for another informative vid. Cheers!
Is the Kawasaki ZH2 a Japanese super naked/ super bike?
Yeah, surprised that particular bike not mentioned.
Almost…but it’s way too heavy 👍
@@carleddison7479 at 239kg it’s a bit steady in the corners compared to a super naked 👍
@@neevesybikes But surely someone who advocates chicken strips for road riding wouldn't consider that an issue?
@@mickgarbutt3553 it’s not an issue at all. It’s a great bike, but you can’t lump it in with super nakeds in group tests. It gets its hat nailed on. 👍
Michael, I can't recall the firm's name but in Holland, a tuneup job was done on the previous GSX 1000 naked, taking it to just over 200 BHP. I thought it might inspire Suzuki to make an OE one but they didn't, perhaps for the reason you've described. That kind of bike would suit many people, who are perhaps like myself, very long in the tooth, hate removing bodywork to carry out any kind of maintenance, and in my own case, not have low bars that'd make my cervical myelopathy too unbearable to be able to ride for longer than half an hour. Servicing costs for Euro made nakeds are totally disproportionate to the work carried out, buyers being looked upon as being too gullible for their own good and so treated accordingly. Archetypal lambs to the slaughter.
Personally I appreciate the Japanese take on naked bikes. They work on public roads, where they belong.
Another great mix of questions , absolutely love this series mate, 👍🏽🙏🏽😎 Thanks for the content awesome . 🏍🏁
must have forgotten about the bking , a naked monster if ever there was one handled gr8 and went like a shower of shit_
I have discovered this channel only recently, but love the format. Its always interesting to listen to people with so much experience. If I can sneak a question, I'm currently looking for a new bike to change my vstrom 650 for something sportier. It will be mainly a daily driver to work and short trips, few times longer trip in Europe and I want to start with occasional track days (not only proper racetrack but also outdoor gokart tracks as those are more accessible). I narrowed it down to 5 bikes - new suzuki s1000gx, kawasaki ninja 1000sx, ktm 890 smt, MG mandello or Tuono V4 1100, all have good reviews and placements in test, we will see after test rides, but I wonder what would be your recommendation? If anyone else wants to chip in, feel free.
I love my 2019 1000RR Honda. It’s so light and narrow, it seriously feels like a 600 with a 1000cc shoe horned in somehow.
Hey Neevesy! Lately I've been (seems like I'm not alone in this) noticing a shift in bike launches. Whereas in the past there were clearly hard NDA's and there was little to no info on bikes untill the youtube videos from major publications came pouring in, now it seems like I find random videos of some bloke test riding a new bike from a dealership, weeks before the press launch. I also sat on the new MT09 at the Amsterdam bike show, weeks before you lot posted the videos on them etc etc. Doesn't this put a major damper on publication's enthousiasm to join bike launches as they no longer have the scoop so to say.
Same with the new GS launch and the Duc 698, I was watching random influencers with no real motoring credentials, upload tiktoks with factory fresh bikes, kind of spoiling the natural flow of information. Maybe I'm just old fashioned! Keep doing what you're doing, fantastic content :).
Hi Michael. Thank you once again for your valuable time and content. I see reviews that say that a new generation of a bike has vastly improved power because it went from let’s say 105 bhp to 110. Same kinds of margins or even smaller when doing group comparisons, with bike A having 80bhp against 83 of bike B. So my question is: when do you, or for that matter the normal rider, start to feel a difference. Some times we are talking less than 5%, but it is presented as a great improvement? Same applies to weight savings. Can you really feel a 200kg street bike has lost 4 kilos?
When are you NOT on your travels?, lucky you!
Hi.
I just bought an 09 blade hrc colours.im lucky,but any bike gives us that feeling of freedom.peace be with you all👍
Thank you for answering my question!
Great video. Like your common sense approach.
Loved the honest Fireblade question. I gave up listening to MCN reviews of superbikes for a few years (not just 2017) as the Fireblade always won despite discussed flaws.
Woo hoo, thanks for answering my question! My ER6 isn't totally stock, I have a ZX6R front end, custom rear shock, clipons and I just got some track body work. Going to do 2 seasons on it and see if the new R9 comes out for 2026.
Thought I'd chime in.
I used my stock ER6n 2007 on track days (road bikes only) for about nearly two of years, was adviced to get a more suitable bike as the speed increased - but could have gone your route. Seems like a great setup.
Maybe consider getting a Versys 650 swing arm for it of Ebay - they bolt right on all you need is the spacers etc from the versys. The original swing arm is a bit weak.
I then moved on to a GSXR 750 2008 street bike, completely different animal and used it for a couple of years.
Then got my racing licence about 18 months ago and bought a ZX6RR track bike. Just came back from a five days at Cartagena circuit a week ago.
Still have the ER6, now with Maxton fork internals and shock - my wife rides it and loves it. I have kept the GSXR for street use.
Also I am 60 this year, its never to late to start track riding.
Also considered the KTM790 and the Street Triple when I got the GSXR - I prefer the inline fours.
Good morning neevesy, As you're always joking, you're not getting any younger.
None the less you seem to keep your self very lean. So what do you enjoy doing other than riding motorcycles that help with that.
Michael does Zumba classes and gets chased around by the ladies a lot. He also spends some time catching trout with his bare hands in the cold rivers of England. Michael may deny this but it's true.
Hey Neevesy, how many kms do you get out of a track bike before the engine is needing a rebuild?
Another nice one, Neevesy.
Entertaining as always mate
2:44 "engines that give you a little bit of involvement, thrill, character at normal road speeds" --- which is exactly why I'll never part with my Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP. One of the finest torquey emotional engines I've ever experienced.
The same reason I don’t understand why 600’s have faded away. I acquired a 2020 S1000RR and sold it to get an R6; far more engaging riding experience and while fast, still pretty sensible.
absolutely, and that is why I will keep my 1050 Speed RS
There’s been some very strange, bordering on farcical results in the different MCN test categories over the years. Of course, it had nothing to do with relationships with manufacturers or anything other than honest opinion 😜😉😉
Examples?
@@neevesybikes if only we had time to go through all the group test winners over the years. There are a lot of examples and Fireblades don’t come into it.
There must be a couple that stick out? I've never been involved with, or ever heard of any group tests being controlled by manufacture/advertising influences or even our editor. They're always judged by the testers on the day. You may not agree, but like we've always said, it's all just opinion. Cheers M
@@neevesybikes There are many examples that I could mention and I am sure you can argue it’s an opinion. However, I guess there has never been a group test winner, that s MCN has that same model to give away in a competition?
No love for the Z H2? 😢 Was a toss up between it and the 1290 SDR Evo for me... Went with the 1290 cuz it's 100lbs lighter. Agree the MT10 isn't in the same class.
I’m stepping away from riding for a year or two until I can buy the bike I really want, it’s been a fun 4 years & 7 bikes but ya know life and will be selling my 07’ Fireblade & 03’ Moto Guzzi V11 Sport😪
Interesting Q&A as always. I've had 2 very memorable occasions where I've liked a bike I've owned so much that I've replaced it with the new model and both times the newer bike has been a big improvement and addressed issues with the outgoing model. I replaced my K1 GSXR600 with a K5 version which had more low down power much better brakes and more modern styling at the time. Also last year I replaced my gen 3 1000sx with the current Ninja version which feels faster handles much better and has lots of tech like cruise control and quick shifter. Btw you say the blade wasn't top dog between the first model and the 2017 bike but when the stubby nosed blade came out in 2008 it blew all the other bikes out of the water that year. I know I still have all the magazines including MCN from that time. It won every test. I also owned one and it was an awesome machine.
Well remembered. It did!
I test-rode 1290 SDR back to back with 1390 SDR just a month back. I really prefered the 1290 SDR, it looks better (from the front and from the seat), the new horseshoe light is not nice and will be a pita to clean for sure. New 1390 SDR vibrates much less than 1290 at lower rpms, on one hand it is nice, on the other hand some of the character is lost. Also, I like the orange wheels of 1290 SDR, such bikes should be colorful and stand-out. I almost bought the 1290 SDR orange/silver one, non Evo....but decided against it in the end, the quality seems to be iffy and the power, for where I live, is way too much, keeping the licence is more important. All that said, 1290 SDR is still my most favourite supernaked, which is really in a class of its own.
Wouldn’t the Kawasaki ZH2 count as a Japanese supernaked? Maybe a bit big and heavy to compete with the others I guess.
Amazing videos! I loved my KTM 890R on the roads, but when I used it on the track I felt too upright and far from the front tire traction. It was a strange feeling and I was much slower than on my old gsxr or similar sportbikes. I recently bought a Kramer 690S to use for the track as I think I need that front end feeling of sport and race position. I'm always surprised how fast others are and how you talk about being fast on track on naked bikes. Did I just need more time on track to get used to that different geometry? Also, thanks for turning me on to RRC restoration holy smokes he's amazing!
Still back my Aprilia RSV4 as a sportsbike of choice for advanced riders. Style and performance
After owning 2010 fireblade I waited for new one until 2016, then bought 2016 Tuono factory that I still have. Actually would have bought ether blade or new gsx-r if ether came 2016. But super happy with tuono still 😊
Quite liking the Q&A format, getting better as they go along - my 2p : I always say to people with all road tests regardless of magazine / company, it is still down the the PERSONAL preferences of the road tester ... it's not possible for a human to be completely unbiased because we all have our likes & dislikes, we are all different heights, weights, have different riding styles, so it's whichever bikes fits you best. I would have put the updated 2017 RSV4 & the R1M ahead of the blade ... in fact I'd have also put the BMW and GSXR ahead too ! but that's just my opinion and riding them all consecutively you would notice what you like on one more than the other. So don't buy a £15 ~ £20K bike because someone else who you have never met says its good ! buy the bike you like best
Fantastic answer to the 2017 Fireblade win of the group test!
Haven’t ridden the bike and I am guessing a lot of other reviews were probably much more focussed on track performance and possibly with supplied road tyres or different control tyres that didn’t provide the grip the slicks you used. And as you said it would be very affected if they got one of the rare ones with the gearbox issues.
You have to tick to your opinions 2
Linking company/country cultures to how a motorbike feels was a brilliant insight no one else would give ... Thanks Neevesy ,,love your work.
Fireblade was always a good bike on the road and has always done well at the TT. Funnily enough the TT is a fuckin road incase nobody noticed…
Awesome video! I really enjoyed watching. The thing that I come away thinking is how neutral you are in the face of a difficult question. You don't react you are completely neutral. And explain your thinking at the time. Fireblade. That's really well done. Admiration for that. Especially in my business. Well done. Best!
Hope you're well!
What's your favourite five tenths bike?
Hi Scott. What do you mean?
@@neevesybikes Good question. I think what I was trying to get at was - "What type of bike feels best when you're not chasing tenths of a second? Are there any specific models or brands you'd go to for a more relaxed ride?"
Love the "brown envelope" comment. US bike and car magazines were suspected of this practice for years with some of their questionable choices for "XXX of the Year" winners, and finally one of the car magazines got caught doing it.😀
Love this format !
Question: i noticed you have the new Alpinestars helmet on your shelf. What’s your verdict? I have broken both my collar bones recently and wondered what your general thoughts were but in particular the ability to save your already nobbled collar bones.
Hi Neevsey, I love watching your videos, thank you for doing them. my question is why are motorcycle mirrors so bad especially on sports bikes. Will we ever see digital mirrors ie cameras with a screen?
Anyone remember the Suzuku B-King or even the Yamaha VMax to some extent? It's not like they never made a supernaked to be fair
I see a new Neevesy video. I click 👍😁
Super bikes are a chore at lower speeds, therefore the super naked ie factory street fighters are bad choice for the streets. For instance the older sd1290r is a much better street bike than the new one with the rc8r frame or the panigale v4 or s1000s, mt10 and so on.
A mate bought an mt09 and spent a fortune trying to get it to handle. Gave up and bought a Tiger which was much better from day one. Viva your long term tests (still longer than most riders) to show up potential issues.
Thank you.
Is the review for the power 6 coming soon ?
Should be online and in MCN soon 👍
I just bought 2 sets of those. Michelin has some great rebates in the US until the end of the month.
2014-2016 'blade SP is the best value blade 👌
Great to see these vids still rolling out each week . Keep it going Neevesy keeps me sane lol
Tyres...Hi Micheal, in the last two years i had on my 2014 vfr 800 the Michelin Road 6, which in all fairness felt to me not that comunicative on the front, then i switched to the Metzler Roadtec SE 01 which (to me) are great in that respect but feel slower changing direction from side to side. I'm now thinking of buying a lighter sportier 600 and eventually, later on my journey in the next years, hopefully a 1000. Regardless, even if i keep my beloved vfr, i would like to try more agile and sticky tyres than the ones i'm used to (i also had Pirellis angel gt on a previous bike), but something that still warms up reasonably fast in the cold and are good\safe in the rain. I don't do track days (sadly) and most of my mileage is on the twisty mountain roads in the Italian Dolomites, where i travel from home to work, with some detours just for fun and passion, roughly every day from april till october (cold, rain, hot, you name it). Which models should i look for? I'm a little lost here...because i'm afraid that i will end up with something not suitable for the road, especially if wet or cold . Do you have any suggestions? If you're so kind to reply. Thanks anyway, i always listen to your q&a and watch the MCN channel.
I’ve ran the Rosso IV’s on my Honda 1000RR For 2 years. Loved them. I just switched to the Rosso Corsa IV’s. I pushed them decently in the mountains, and I never felt uneasy on the Rosso IV’s.
How do we submit questions please?
Just pop it in the comments of any video 👍
Thanks for reading and replying 🙂
Serious question Neevesy - do you get commission from BMW from the sales of S1000R's? 😂
Wouldn’t that be nice! 😄
th-cam.com/video/3CMgwuC06Pc/w-d-xo.html do you remember this video -2008 street triple vs speed triple? those were the days .. you were great reviewer beck then
Used to be? 😩
You can only test what you've got, so a fair result especially as road test won't be on slicks
That’s right, but if you do a sportsbike comparison test on track with standard tyres, the best tyres win, rather than the best bike. It creates a level playing field. I know what you mean, though 👍
I’m a true believer that motorcycles should be reviewed & test as sold, no slick tyres or better quality tyres. 95% of bikes purchased are for road use and should be tested as such.
Yep, I know what you’re saying, but for a comparison track test the bike with the best tyres would win. Fitting control tyres is fairer. 👍
@@neevesybikes for track potential then I understand. Great channel Michael
The average set of tyres on a sports bike last what 4-5k miles before you replace them anyway, so putting all bikes on a control tyre makes much more sense.
I'm sorry but this has to be the dumbest comment ever. Nobody keeps the tires, brake pads, pipe etc.
If everyone tested bikes with the tyres they came with... the bike would only be as good as the tyres... and we could all miss some really good bikes. Using a control tyre is the only way to get a true review of the actual bike.
Believe what you want... but you are so wrong, its not even funny.
Youre kinda wrong about the hyper nakeds and Japanese, Kawasaki has the ZH2, but its on the heavy side so its not so extreme as the others, especially the BMW and Ducati.
Weighing 239kg it’s a heavy old thing (more like a GS). It handles well, but not in the same league as the super naked gang 👍
@@neevesybikes Perfomance wise not, but heck, that supercharged engine surely is hyper :)
I sold my red 2018 Daytona 675 a couple of years ago and I regret it now. Now it is impossible to find second hand, I am on the continent. That bike was super-agile, the rake, the trail, the wheel base were all very aggressive. Was beautiful as well, that bike. And it made very nice raw sound from standard short exhaust, Euro3 or Euro4, do not remember, but the modern day 765 Street Triples do not sound anywhere as good as that Daytona sounded. Also, Daytona was the only sportsbike where I felt all the time that I hold the front wheel between my hands, the modern 765, even Moto2, do not provide that feeling. Daytona 675 was absolutely magnificent, should have kept it.
I’m never selling mine ❤
@@left-hand-threaded don't! They are one of those rare forever keepers.
I won't sell mine either.
Although it's not an R version but it's in track trim and it is an absolute weapon on track.
I love it.
And it looks great too, if I cannot ride it anymore I'll put it in my livingroom 😅
Why can't I find any reviews for the Metzler Roadtec 02 yet?
Cheers for the vids bud 🥰
We haven't ridden on it yet. There's a launch in a few weeks...Cheers M
@@neevesybikes I suppose that's a good reason 😂. I thought I'd seen the launch event mentioned for a couple of months ago
So glad that manufacturers have realised that a grunty parallel twin is what people want. I think The Yam MT07/R7/tenere is the closest to my perfect paradigm. 100bhp, £7k MAX sports tourer. That's why 350LC & XT600 did so well as ROAD bikes, & even dads 60's parallel twins were so dominant. Yes I miss my GSXR11/996/R1. But for now my sorted 25yr old VFR800 (& NC30) keeps me in credit with a bit left over to rebuild an old trail bike for green laning. PS yes I am an old fart.
I’m slightly portly and entering middle age. The Tracer 700 does everything I want it to do and everything I have the time and money for. Great do-it-all piece of kit that’s easy to work on and has enough grunt/giggle for me on the road. Does quite well on the kids school run as well.
Hey Neevesy.
If the rumors about the 2027 motogp technical rule changes are correct and they go to 850cc engines, do you think Dorna will be inclined to change the WSBK rules? It would seem like a bad marketing decision to allow the possibility of the WSBK bikes to be lapping faster than the motogp bikes, which that larger capacity could allow given how close both classes are currently. Also do you think this will have a knock on effect to consumer bikes? We have already seen Yamaha discontinue the R1 might we see others follow suit as the develop smaller cc bikes for racing? Cheers
Unless they change the tires in 2027 I don't think MotoGP pace will drop much or be threatened by WSBK.
MotoGP will always be faster. It's more than just engine capacity. Marketing wise Dorna own both series so they know what they're doing.
@@future62 without the ride height devices and with restricted aero as well as a definite drop in torque on what will be essential a brand new platform i think you umight be surprised. Not to mention that all the kit electronics the motogp bikes run will have to be readjusted in order to extract the most from a new engine config. Especially in the first couple years it's likely we will see longer lap times.
@@LazySatyr WSBK bikes have got insanely fast. Bulega's time at PI would have put him on the front row of MotoGP last year. So you're probably right. I don't think people will care if the racing improves.
@@future62i certainly wouldn’t mind seeing an improvement in the racing so yeah i agree with you. We are seeing a change in the industry with regards to the Superbike category though, discontinued R1. No more Gixxer 1000 etc and with a growing “middleweight” category that’s pushing 900cc you have to wonder if the stage is being set for a change “superbike” rules and a change in what comes to market for us.
Have you noticed the trend that experienced bikers are downsizing?
I would have to agree upside down, I’ve been riding for 45 year and have owned many different bikes, my current bike is a 11 gixxer 600, light, stops, handles, and more than enough power, all I’ve done to it is a apro can and a quick shifter.
I think that with maturity comes less bother about what impression you make on others. The boss dog image of a superbike, or super naked is less appealing than enjoying agile handling and light weight of something more road focused.
I'm not sure about that. Liter bikes outlived 600s for example, and a modern liter bike makes like 50% more power than they did 20 years ago
@@future62issue is that they don’t sell anymore. Look at what’s actually leaving the showrooms, that’s the sign of people either downsizing or (as in my example) a new rider being gobsmacked at the price of anything bigger than a 700cc parallel twin.
The new SP is probably going to win this year, it's just too good from every angle you assess it!
@johnnyblue4799: and try the XR on for size. Much of the thrills with everyday comfort and ergos.