Back on two wheels with a Honda ADV350!

Back on two wheels after 11 months with a new Honda #ADV350
After breaking my right leg in various places back in May 2022, I finally got back on two wheels in April 2023.
And to be honest I was VERY apprehensive. This first ride was going to be make or break as I knew I had to just ride to see how I felt.
Find out how I got on in the video.

[@rafkerkhofs6957]

Lovely review, Phil. Well done, I've really enjoyed it.

[@80eightReviews]

Hello & thank you very much, good to know you enjoyed it. Hope you’re doing well, all the best, Phil.

[@sbrooks5683]

‘Mooooo-king’ brilliant, Phil. Way to go! Took me 28 yrs to get back in the saddle after my topple. Yes, it’s scary. Yes, it’s dangerous. But, hell yes, it’s also good for your soul and your health in so many ways. Cheers mate.

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks so much Stephen. The timing of the cows was just perfect wasn't it? It only needed one take :-) But yes, these things are good for us and keep us properly alive. Have a good day, cheers, Phil.

[@reneroozendaal5493]

I am really happy for you Phil! Experiencing that freedom again.........great! I wish you many happy and safe miles! Greetings from the Netherlands

[@80eightReviews]

Good afternoon Rene! Many thanks for your kind comments! It is so nice getting out again and also getting back to the realisation of why I got into bikes in the first place...Not the speed, the size, the acceleration - but they took me to places that a bicycle or feet couldn't get me to and in a mode much more enjoyable than a car. I'll be over in NL soon! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@stuart4024]

Great to see you back in the saddle Phil and sounding so chipper after all those beers !

[@80eightReviews]

Morning Stuart, how are you doing? Yes, it’s brilliant to have some 2 wheeled freedom back. And back on the wagon now 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@philliplum3845]

Broke my ankle last year.. Quite badly hence I have a metal ankle.. Great to say I have regained my confidence and back on my bike.. Good luck mate

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Phillip, good to hear from you and sorry to hear about your ankle - great to know you’re back on a bike and feeling confident though! Appreciate the good luck message and likewise. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@guywolff]

Congratulations ! Phil !!! I love this choice .Besides the suspension being so good and the smart traction control ready at every moment I am most pleased with the tire sizes for a life long motorcyclist making the plunge back to riding ..The 14 and 15 inch wheels will respond closer to what you are used to .You are in the air again ...Love your choice of location for welcoming us back to your countryside ..As the High Level Ranters said on their first album "Northumberland Forever "

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Guy, good to hear from you as always and many thanks for your comments. As you say, the ADV 350 does handle remarkably like a bike - it's nicely neutral and stable on the straights and bends, and never feels as though its tipping in too fast or needs too much effort to tip in. I'm pleasantly surprised. That was exactly the reason behind getting the ADV as opposed to a more 'executive' scooter and the 'proper' forks, yokes and wheel sizes probably help a lot with that. Northumberland Forever : Absolutely, and I'm from Manchester :-) Hope you and the family are all well and the kiln is fired up and ready to go. All the best Guy, talk soon, cheers, Phil.

[@robertcole3280]

Good for you, enjoy your new wheels👍

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Robert! I will, hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.

[@grahamwall1629]

Well done Phil, the first steps are always the hardest, your sense of euphoria is palpable. Human resilience is incredible, make the most of it, and I hope you love the new scooter experience 👍

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Graham, it’s like the world has opened up again. And if the video helps just one more person to get back to doing something they love, I’ll be more than happy. And as for scooters, yeah, they’re alright!!! Cheers, Phil.

[@mrsilbo6499]

Fantastic to see you out on 2 wheels again, Phil! 💪🏻 We need a 'name the scooter' competition - something French & sexy would be appropriate. So I propose 'Amélie' or 'Delphine'. Just think of the wordplay we can have!

[@JLOSTAFF1]

The “silky thong”?

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Hugh, I’m trying to ignore Jon’s comment so can’t possibly respond now as things have taken a funny turn. Amelie though…Audrey Tautou and photo booths. Er, sorry, I’ll speak to my therapist before I continue….

[@thejudgehasjudged]

I finally got bored enough of youtubes recommendations to start looking through my subscriptions. Can't believe I knew nothing of your accident or long road to recovery. I had an accident in North Wales and the lad in the next bed impacted a car in the same way as you. Awful injury to deal with. Glad your latest video is you getting back on two wheels. Good luck with your continued journey to good health.

[@80eightReviews]

Hello again! How are you doing? Many thanks for stopping by and thanks for your best wishes. Yeah, it’s been a long road…things are much better, though there is a way to go yet. But that’s fine. I’m walking on my own legs and feet (albeit like Richard III) which I’ll take any day. Hope your accident wasn’t too bad and yes, it’s nice to be on two wheels and independent again, though I will admit my outlook has changed somewhat. All the best, thanks again, cheers, Phil.

[@stephenjames6075]

Normal service is resumed! Welcome back, Phil. In a little while and when you’re good and ready, it would be interesting to hear your thoughts about any differences in riding style the accident has brought about. In the meantime, enjoy every moment of the Northumberland countryside! ☀️😉

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks so much Stephen and yes, I’ll be doing a video about both the bike and also my approach to riding now. Things have changed, but rightly so 😀 Hope the weather is good where you are & you get some time to get out. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@sam125hk]

Great to see you back on the road! I am about to get my first v7!

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Sam, your first V7!!! Excellent - let me know how you get on. But yeah, it's nice to be back on two wheels again - though I'm still aiming for a bike at some point....All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@BikeMates]

Well done that man for getting back on a bike after having an accident, it took me three years to manage that after my accident. The feeling is great isn’t it, like you after a few minutes of riding it was just total enjoyment. Ride safe 👍

[@80eightReviews]

Good afternoon & thanks very much for your kind words / much appreciated. Must admit I was more nervous when ‘thinking’ about riding again but after a few miles, as you say, all was fine 😀 Good to hear you’re also back on the road and I hope you’ve made a full recovery, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@adrianleach1670]

Great to be back on two wheels after a bad crash. I went through that 30yrs ago and was able to ride again as soon as the cast came off my leg and face rebuilt. Still riding and have a 1250GS and recently acquired an ADV350 (had other scooters). The ADV is bags of fun. As you said; easy to ride, light and the performance/handling is excellent too. It's as fast over the back roads as most bikes and still does 80+mpg. The CVT is the best I've tried and with 48L of storage under the seat, it's practical too. Onwards and upwards with your return to 'biking' and your recovery 👍

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Adrian, thanks for stopping by and it's really good to hear your own recovery story and that you're still enjoying your riding. The ADV is my first scooter and yes, it's really quite a nice machine - regardless of what happens over the next 12 months I can see myself keeping it. It's just so convenient, cheap to run and as you say over the back-roads it's as quick as anything. Onwards and upwards...Definitely! All the best Adrian, cheers, Phil.

[@cmdrgunslinger5955]

Good on ya for mounting up again. Here in the States we call that " Cowboy up". Personally I've been lucky enough to never have a long delay in riding after an accident. I've even strapped crutches on rifle style so I could get around. (No car so had to make do). Anyway best wishes on your further recovery.

[@80eightReviews]

Good morning and thanks so much for your comments and encouragement - really appreciate it. Yeah, I’ve been thinking about mounting my walking stick somewhere also - Honda should really do a special accessory 😀 Have a good day, thanks again and I love the phrase! Cheers, Phil.

[@nischalpoudel1116]

Congratulations sir!! Although I've been watching your videos for a while now, this is the first time I'm writing a comment and I'd like to wish you many more happy days on two wheels.

[@80eightReviews]

Good afternoon Nischal, great to hear from you and hope you’re doing well today. Thanks very much for your kind comments and likewise - many happy days to you also. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@alexanderoutlander.1040]

Good night Phil. It's a great sight to see you on two wheels again. In my opinion you've chosen a great bike to come back, a beautiful choice between versatility, practicality and elegance. Of course your photos make any bike look prettier and desirable, I have to admit it. That's a great talent that you have. I can't wait to watch your new videos with the adv. My best wishes to you.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

Yeah, it has plenty enough to go and it will serve him well I think. Drop by. You may like my content.

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks so much Alex. I've still got to gel a little with the ADV + it's quite a change for me after only ever riding bikes. But as a gateway to perhaps other bikes AND as a machine in its own right, there's a lot to like about the ADV. As for the photo's - I'm on a mission to portray scooters in a new light :-) As per the video though - like any two wheels, it gets you to places in the best possible way and that's exactly why I got into bikes originally. To get out, feel the environment and see stuff. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@80eightReviews]

@RRR - Absolutely, it does go rather well! Oh, loved your Trabant Museum Video - even if they didn't seem to fit you very well!!! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@80eightReviews You are right Phil. I think that all Trabants are too small for me. Once I used to be a passenger in one and I had to put the front seat the whole way back. Thanks for watching Phil. Take care.

[@bilalchaudhary8268]

Phil, so good to see you back on two wheels. Best therapy money can buy. Wishing you many miles. Cheers

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Bilal, good to hear from you again and hope you’re doing well. You’re so right, it is the best therapy, it really is. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@kramnam4716]

Great to have you back Phil!

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much...Yeah 2-wheels, whatever the shape, are the best! Hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

I am glad that you are back Phil. I believe that this 350cc scooter is gonna serve you well. You just know hoe to handle it, just be careful. Got my like bro. Cheers.

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks again RRR and yeah, I'm being extremely careful! As you say though, even just after 150 miles I think it's going to be a very worthwhile purchase. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@80eightReviews Yes Phil. Just take care. I agree about the purchase.

[@edwardsp1916]

Great video and well done. Very well made video and good commentary. Scooters are great fun.

[@80eightReviews]

Hello! Good to hear from you & thanks for your kind comments - much appreciated. And yeah…I’m warming to the Scoot I have to say! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

Good choice. A friend in Pattaya has one. He loves it. Good to see you back on two wheels, Phil.

[@80eightReviews]

Morning Nick, thanks so much for your comments and yes, the ADV is a zippy little thing (perhaps not that little!) and I think it will do just nicely this year. Very happy to have it and the opportunity to get out and about this summer. Hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.

[@Rinkydink73274]

Good for you pal,I'm seriously contemplating swapping my bike for the ADV 350 great choice..

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much Mick. The ADV is a great machine and it handles just like a bike. For me, I'm just getting used to the idea of having no control over revs/gear/clutch so it's all a bit odd, but blimey, I'm rather surprised at just how good it is! Let me know what you decide, cheers, Phil.

[@soshsiB]

Great 👍🏼 Enjoy your new vehicle 🛵

[@80eightReviews]

Hello again, I will / am :-) All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@atastefortheroad4475]

Phil - it's great to see you back on two wheels and I look forward to seeing your new adventures!

[@80eightReviews]

Good morning and thanks for stopping by. Really appreciate your comments and yes, so glad to be back on two 🛞! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@josemariajaureguilorda9085]

Congratulations, Phil! Great to see you back. Cheers

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Jose, thanks so much - hope you're doing OK, cheers, Phil.

[@crnamrlja]

I am so glad to see you doing better, and back on two wheels! Cheers!

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Goran, great to hear from you again. Hope all is good with you. Many thanks for your comments and yeah, it’s all good 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@adrianstrand1120]

Great choice of wheels, I have the darker grey one. Only just cleared 300 miles after a wait of many months for delivery after ordering.

[@80eightReviews]

Morning Adrian, guess what? Mines the darker grey one also - but under bright sunlight it changes colour 😀 We have great taste! I’m still getting to grips with mine but enjoying it very much so far. Let me know how you get on with yours, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@jezhill5281]

Proper chuffed for you to be out and about on two wheels again Phil 😀👍. Great to see you looking and sounding so chipper again after the past year you’ve had.

[@80eightReviews]

Morning Jez, great to hear from you again - hope you’re doing well. And yeah, it’s so nice to be able to get out and about again. I really missed it. Fingers crossed for a cracking summer! All the best Jez, hope you have a great weekend, cheers, Phil.

[@daveyjones7004]

Good for you, keep it up ❤

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Davey, I will, absolutely. Thanks for stopping by and have a great day! Cheers, Phil.

[@blondiejoe]

Back in action!! Glad to see it

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Johnny, how are you doing? Well, I hope. And thanks - it's like rejoining the human race. Have a good day, cheers, Phil.

[@alanhayward6719]

Outstanding intro!

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much Alan, hope is good with you, cheers, Phil.

[@paulcuthbert8353]

Congratulations, Phil! Back on the horse at last! Great bike too! 😎❤️👍

[@80eightReviews]

Good afternoon Paul, back on the horse ha ha ha. Just wait until you see all my storage space! Hope all is good with you, cheers, Phil.

[@garethowen61]

Great stuff, fantastic to see you back and what a lovely day for it. Very tempted by the Honda ADV “scooters” myself. Bit of a landmark day, congrats and more content please. 😊

[@80eightReviews]

Afternoon Gareth, good to hear from you & thanks for stopping by. Yes, it's so nice to be back on two wheels and out and about. In fact, it's just brilliant. I'll doing more videos on and around the ADV over the next few months so maybe that will tempt you! First impressions are that the 350 is a nice thing! Thanks again, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@willv2378]

Congratulations Phil ! This is a big step back to the style of live you wanted. I wish you good luck with weather and riding conditions. Enjoy riding. Best regards.

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Will, great to hear from you again - hope you're doing well. Good luck with the weather ha ha ha - I need it! The forecast is looking good for next week though and I can't wait to get out for a proper ride. And likewise - enjoy riding Will, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@dbonillab]

So excited for you, welcome back!

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks David, really appreciate you stopping by and leaving such a nice comment, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@valvularadial]

Awesome! Happy to see that things are going back to normal mate. Enjoy! 👍🏻

[@80eightReviews]

Hello again, yeah things are getting back to normal thanks and I'm definitely enjoying it. Love your comment about getting rid of the F4 and getting something more sensible - a Hypermotard :-) Enjoy and all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@monkeymousechicken]

Your leg may be moooed but at least your soul is intact,. Great to see you back on two wheels.

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Andy, 'moooed' - liking that...Inspiral Carpets! But thank you so much, it's great to be out and about again. I feel like a learner once more but perhaps that's a good thing. All the best, hope you're well, cheers, Phil.

[@terryomara9403]

Well done your a star

[@80eightReviews]

Morning Terry, thanks so much - I think anyone would do exactly the same in a similar position to be honest, though if the video helps someone to decide what to do, I'll be very happy. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@motorbikesandhacks]

Congratulations and welcome back

[@80eightReviews]

Good morning and thank you very much! It’s soooo nice to have some 2 wheeled independence back I have to say 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil

[@davewalton2358]

Absolutely brilliant to see you out and about and confident on two wheels again Phil! I'm still wrestling with a back injury and have again been out of action (pretty much bed-bound) for a few weeks and missing the bike tremendously. It's so good for the mind to just get out and enjoy the countryside and forget about the everyday struggles of life. Excellent choice on the scooter too, very practical, economical, but also bloody great fun to ride! I'm seriously considering getting a maxi-scooter once I'm up and about again, I've had one before and loved it, and the new ones have progressed in leaps and bounds compared to the earlier ones. Looking forward to a review on the scoot. All the best mate, get out there and enjoy!!

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Dave, great to hear from you and sorry to hear about your back situation. Backs can be very tricky and very debilitating and being bed bound is no fun at all - I can definitely empathise there! The countryside, greenery, fresh air is such an amazing tonic so I hope you manage to get out soon. As for the scoot, yeah, I'm pleasantly surprised to be honest - particularly from a handling perspective - it feels really bike like round the bends - stable, neutral and with light steering - I was kinda expecting it to ride like a shopping trolley but it's great actually. I do miss the visceral connection between clutch, throttle and gearbox but having said that, for a 330cc single its performance is really good. And either way, it's got me out! Anyway, thanks for stopping by Dave, good luck with the recovery and let me know how you get on. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@caroldave4037]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏well done sir atvb dave...

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Dave! Hope you're doing well, cheers, Phil.

[@findingneutral]

Best video I've seen in a long time. Your teleportation of your new bike is amazing as well. Excellent bike choice to get back in the groove. Looks like an awesome Tron bike to me. Have fun and enjoy that Easter ride 🙂.

[@80eightReviews]

Tron? I loved the the first version when it first came out - and lets face it, everyone needs a light-cycle :-) Yeah the teleportation is keyless also so it's a real useful feature...Thanks again Mr Neutral and very glad you enjoyed the video, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@markd6770]

Great to see you back Phil. Looking forward to more videos on your new ride. Cheers 🍻

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Mark, thanks very much and yes, more videos to come now that I'm out and about! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@murdocampbell4858]

Great job. Well done, Sir! Very happy for your recovery 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much Murdo, really appreciate your kind words. Hope all is good with you, cheers, Phil.

[@johnspencer3193]

Really enjoy channel by the way glad your ok

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much John - really appreciate the kind words. More stuff coming soon (scooter related of course!)..All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@savage22bolt32]

As a teenager, (50 yrs ago) I was thrown off of my sister's horse. Climbed right back on and he threw me off again. I'm sticking with motorcycles!

[@80eightReviews]

I absolutely and totally agree with you. Attempting to ride something with a mind of its own, attitude and a strong kick is not for me. Neigh!!

[@riffafrank]

That's amazing new!! Right on bro! I'm happy for you. Nice bike scooter. It's great that you're confidence is back. The cows sounds amazing as well in the background 😂. Have a good day sir.

[@80eightReviews]

Good morning Francis, hope you're doing well and it's great to hear from you again. Thanks so much and yes, the thought that I can now get out whenever I want is just simply brilliant. And Northumberland cows can be quite loud! All the best and enjoy your Sunday Francis, cheers, Phil.

[@buckymoto1784]

Fair Play to you. Good to see you on a bike again..

[@80eightReviews]

Good morning and great to hear from you. Yeah, it’s great to have the freedom back. I missed it. Hope all is good with you, cheers, Phil.

[@concernedcitizen5826]

Great to have you back sir! Nice new ride you have there! I look forward to seeing more of your adventures (and stunning photography).

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks you so much - really appreciate to support and yeah, the ADV is quite a nice (not so) little thing! I'm quite taken with it :-) More stuff coming soon and in the meantime, have a great day! Cheers, Phil.

[@ianmunday8540]

Brilliant! So pleased for you Phil, and good that you can discuss your apprehension about getting back on 2 wheels. 😀👍🏻🛵

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Ian! It's all going well so far and I wanted to mention the apprehension as for any one else in a similar position, it may help them combat it. I think it's mostly gone now but it's fair to say my consideration of risk, is making me ride a little differently than previously. More on that later. Hope you're well, cheers, Phil.

[@HerrDeacon]

So happy for you, well done. Must have been a great feeling!

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Perry, really appreciate the comment and yes, it was joy, relief and just a feeling of it being right. Hope you’re well, cheers, Phil.

[@therealunclevanya]

A great looking bike Phil, and if it brings back your confidence then even better. Wishing you a fabulous 2023 riding the Borders.

[@80eightReviews]

Good afternoon - confidence..It's certainly doing that thanks and I'm looking forward to a long hot summer doing exactly that - riding around the borders, big skies + coffee and cake at regular intervals. Simple pleasure but the best. Hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.

[@ianroberts7195]

Great inspirational video, you still love bikes, well done for getting out again, I have a honda 300 scooter, a honda nc750 and a car and if I was told I could only have one it would be scooter

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Ian, good to hear from you and lots of thanks for your kind comments. And yeah! I’m quite warming to the scooter to be honest…Ideally I’d still be riding a bike, but the ADV gets me where I want to go, easily and with no fuss. And I don’t know about you, but no fuss seems to get more and more important as I get older 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@ianroberts7195]

@@80eightReviews I’m 62 and what I like about scooter is the ease to get leg through instead of over, but today i went out on my motorbike as I still like it as well

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Ian - I'm with you. Thing is it's all about the balance between wants and ease. At the moment, I can't physically ride a bike, which I accept, hence the ADV - but I still get the benefit of traffic / road awareness and the ability to travel. Bikes are much more visceral of course, but what is it that makes us take to two wheels? It's the best way to travel of course! 30 years ago I could handle clip-ons, now I can't so the ADV is a way of extending the two wheel career, and thats got to be a good thing. Hope you're doing well, cheers, Phil.

[@kevinolney9297]

Glad you've got your confidence back. The phrase "only a scooter" really does an injustice to these incredibly versatile machines. I bought a Forza 300 because of knee issues, thinking if I got on with feet forward I'd upgrade to some kind of cruiser as a "proper" bike. Since then I've done many 350 mile days on it, one 400 mile day, a 3 day 1000 mile tour of N Yorks, Lake District including Hardknott Pass and coming home via Wales. I'm coming up north in June, staying near Newcastleton. I've been looking for a replacement for the Forza but the only thing I would swap it for is an ADV 350. It's all the bike I need and then some.

[@80eightReviews]

Evening Kevin, great to hear from you, thanks for stopping by. I’ve probably been as guilty as anyone regarding scooters as previously I never even thought about them. Now, while it’s “needs must” in many respects the versatility as you say, combined with the great handling of the ADV is/has changed my mind! The only thing I am missing is the engine/gears/revs connection but as a machine to get out and about on, to enjoy the countryside it’s a belter! It’s great to hear of your experiences on the Forza. Well, enjoy your trip to Newcastleton, you won’t need me to tell you there are some fabulous and empty roads around there. Hope you have good weather, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@kevinolney9297]

@@80eightReviews I've got a Mk1 Bandit 1200 in the garage which did 400 miles last year. Around the kind of twisty lanes I like I found I was riding it like a big twist'n'go. I'd kick it into 3rd and let the bottom end torque drag me out of bends but have enough top end to lose my licence. I miss the outright acceleration but drawing up a list of pros v cons, the scooter wins hands down every time.

[@clarefeatherstone5429]

So pleased you are back on a bike and enjoying yourself. Such a great choice of bike too. Its a huge step mentally to do this today. Over the moon for you ♥️🙏

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much Clare and even at this early stage, it feels like the right machine at just the right time, so I'm very happy with it. I think anything more 'serious' could have pushed me the other way. Hope you're well, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@jonasbecas4433]

Hi. Glad to gear you are recovering and back in two wheels! Only came across ur videos recently, as I was looking for motoguzzi reviews. I am looking into getting a used gizzi v7 iii or the newer version and ur reviews are very helpful

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Jonas, thanks for stopping by and many thanks for your best wishes. Well, the V7III is a lovely charismatic bike and if my mobility improves that’s what I’ll probably get. It’s light and super easy to ride. Let me know what you decide, all the best, Phil.

[@brockett]

Brilliant marvellous I'm so glad for you. Scooters are bicycles too and that one looks a stunner.

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Dave, thanks so much - really appreciate your kind comments. And yeah, it does look kinda OK to be honest plus in the saddle, it’s surprisingly bike like. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@jimzeigler8206]

Heck yeah man, fantastic to hear!

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks so much Jim! Hope you’re doing well, cheers, Phil.

[@DonaldGreig]

So glad to see you back on two wheels. Well done you! I had my first run of the season today as well. Isn’t it just the dogs thingies! 😎

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Donald, thanks so much and hope you had a good run out too. Must admit it stayed cold here today and I wasn't expecting that! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@glideman]

Brilliant! Nice to see you back, don't know if I'd be so courageous. Love your videos, stay safe.

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Glideman...It's a very personal thing of course but if there's something in your life that you kinda really need and you can square the circle of risk / reward I think you and anyone, would take the opportunity. Like I said in the video though - when I was just 'thinking' about it, it all seemed impossible and impossibly risky. Doing it however, was completely different. Anyway, more video's to come! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@obriendavid93]

Delighted to see you back on 2 wheels!

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks David and yes, it's so nice to have some independence back. I love it! Hope you're well, cheers, Phil.

[@surfbum72]

Brilliant Phil! Wishing you all the best on your new two wheeled adventures. 👍🏼

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Matt - appreciate you stopping by! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@stephenfuters6833]

Dead chuffed for ya Phil…..v well done 👏

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much Stephen!! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@classicrider5274]

Really pleased to see you back on a bike after everything you have been through. Take it easy, but enjoy yourself through the summer.

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much and yes, thats exactly the idea! Looking forward to the summer months very much. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@stanleylawson9015]

brilliant well done Phil

[@80eightReviews]

Mr Lawson, good to hear from you as always. And, yes, thanks. Hope you’re well, cheers, Phil.

[@timstrofton94]

Well done Phil, very pleased for you …enjoy the riding!

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Tim, I most certainly will! Thanks for stopping by - I really appreciate the support, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@mikek2218]

The TARDIS sound effects were wonderful.

[@80eightReviews]

Glad you enjoyed them Mike - thing is the storage space under the seat is much bigger on the inside :-) Proof coming soon....All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@kildareman051]

I dare say your recuperation will come on in leaps and bounds, metaphorically speaking.

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks very much, it’s been a while but hope you’re doing ok. As for the scoot, after just a few rides I’m a hop, skip and a jump away from a few leaps and bounds 😀 All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@sylvinolieno5361]

Great to see you out on the road again...now can you deliver a pizza to Ashington please.

[@80eightReviews]

Afternoon Sylvino, was yours the Margherita with extra olives? I'm on it :-) But yes, it's nice to be scooting around - if you make it up to the borderlands, give me a wave! Thanks for stopping by, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@PAGallagher]

Good man! Little and often, that's the way! Regards Phil

[@80eightReviews]

That's a very good rule for lots of different situations actually ha ha ha. Thanks Phil, all the best, cheers, Phil.

[@PAGallagher]

@@80eightReviews Meant to say, I enjoyed your series of vids on the XSR900, your findings were the same as mine ...... it's an absolute gem of a bike! I've still got mine, it's just over 2 years old now ....... in black and gold ..... I love it! Just in case you have any misgivings about your new scooter, bear in mind I've just finished running in my new Royal Enfield Hntr 350 ....... only 20bhp but it's an absolute hoot!!! :)

[@80eightReviews]

@@PAGallagher Hey Phil, yeah, I loved the XSR although it was a little too frisky for me! What an engine though!!! Must admit I quite like the look of the Hntr…And there’s something about being able to abuse the throttle and not being launched into orbit which is quite nice. I totally get it. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@PAGallagher]

@@80eightReviews Well Phil, I'm not surprised you found the XSR a bit too 'frisky', I believe your narrative mentioned you rode in Mode 'A' ..... Std mode is plenty for me :)) Yeah, with regard to throttle 'abuse', the Hntr is quite relaxing in that department and as for looks, I think it's gorgeous. I just fancied an air cooled single a bit like my first bike, a BSA C15. When your injury/mobility situation improves, will you be easing back onto a standard bike?

[@80eightReviews]

@@PAGallagher Hey Phil, ha ha perhaps that was why! Actually, I've got super bumpy roads around here and the friskiness was more the suspension being a bit too stiff and as I'm rubbish with such matters, never managed to do anything about it. The HNTR does look very nice I have to say and I do have a soft spot for air-cooled singles. The chuffing noise is just perfect! Good to know you're enjoying it. And yes, the idea (hope) is that if I get more mobility back I'll be getting a standard bike - it's the lack of bend in the knee that's stopping me at the moment but I'll be having another Op towards the end of the year, assuming it doesn't fix itself between now and then. Failing that...It's cruiser time!! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@benjamin.f.b.]

he done it, welcome back man

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Ben, next step - The Grimsel Pass :-)

[@benjamin.f.b.]

@@80eightReviews hell yeah! let me know!

[@benjamin.f.b.]

@@80eightReviews i m leaving for the north cape june first, let me know if you want to join, but you d have to do your first service prior to that ;)

[@80eightReviews]

@@benjamin.f.b. I will Ben!😀

[@80eightReviews]

@@benjamin.f.b. Hey Ben, ha ha - shall we meet up just outside Hanover perhaps? If you're going that way? Are you setting up a blog / photo stream of the trip - it would be great to follow your progress..Thats going to be some trip. Unfortunately, I've got my first service booked for mid-June otherwise I'd be there...Maybe 2024. Cheers, Phil.

[@Paul-kp1tu]

Welcome back Phil, will you do a review of the Honda? Im interested because as you have discovered , one never knows whats ahead and we may all need one of these one day. We don’t seen to have these ADV Hondas available here in Australia , like most models, sadly.

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Paul, thanks for stopping by and yes, I will be doing a review of the Honda sometime soon(ish). Thing is I just like riding it at the moment and not always talking about it, but it will happen, promise! It's a shame you don't have them over in Australia, seems mad - I'm sure they'd do very well. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@Stefan_trekkie]

Hello, first time on this channel. Glad that you are ok. I had pause from motor bikes too. For me it was pause for aprox. 5 years but not from accident, something was lost and I was not feeling it any more on bikes. On that time I was more in to bicycle riding, amateur racing and huge marathons etc. But I decided to try a scooter after all that time and was brilliant. When I was in to motorcycle, I use to look on the scooter differently. But I was very wrong.. Since then I have been on several scooters, one got nicked.. Few was too old, but now I got my aim at the ADV350 and looking to try one soon. After time on maxi scooters, I did try standard motorcycles and was very inconvenient and strange to use all 4 limbs to control the bike. The muscle memory was there, I was doing it but it felt like too much work and so open. I think if I ever decide to need the manual clutch and gears again.. That would be and old manual Vespa with hand gears.. Just for the fun of it.

[@80eightReviews]

Good evening, thanks for stopping by and many thanks for your kind and interesting comments. I do know what you mean about something lost and just not feeling it - that's a very good description of when something meaningful in your life, kinda doesn't feel that way anymore. Thing is to do is replace with something else and it seems you more than did that with your bicycle and racing etc. For ease of use and usefulness the ADV 350 is right up there - I'm sure you'll like it when you get chance to try. Must admit I never knew Vespa did a model with manual gears...I like the sound of that! Let me know what you decide - would be interesting to get your views on the ADV. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@Stefan_trekkie]

@@80eightReviews About Vespa, the case is quite opposite. Until the ET4 model in the 90's virtually all Vespas were two stroke with manual gears. Normal left hand clutch but the gears are activated by twisting again the left hand. The rear brake was with pedal for the right foot. The engine itself is parallel to the rear tire and the output engine shaft is directly connected to the rear tire from the right side. So.. No chain or belt. On the left side was the reserve tire. After the ET4 model the old manual two strokes and the new CVT 4 strokes were in parallel production for some time but the manual two strokes were discontinued sometime in the 2000's I believe. The lambretta scooters were operating the same way. Look for short ride videos with old Vespas on YT. Sorry for the spelling mistakes in the earlier post.

[@80eightReviews]

Hello & good to hear from you again. Actually, now you’ve reminded me, I think I did know that about Vespa’s - a friend of mine had Vespa’s 35 years ago (all two strokes of course) and I remember him twisting the left grip and wondering what he was up to! When you first mentioned it I was idiotically thinking about a foot operated gear lever (duh). All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@farmoboy83]

i have a 2011 sh300i with more than 70000km daily ridden. Appart from some oil consumption of this motors, its absilutely bullet proof. Even overheat3d recently due to a clogged water radiator. Cleaned the circuit with water and vinagre and like new again!

[@80eightReviews]

Good morning and well, that's really good to know! Honda scooters do seem to be very well engineered I have to say. Here's to many more miles on your SH - I probably won't be able to catch you up, but will have fun trying :-) All the nest, cheers, Phil.

[@PahaLukki]

All I wish out of these maxi scooters is that they made them a bit more retro. All the futuristic bikes and scooters tend to look like a wasp's head. That's why I keep gravitating towards scramblers, royal enfields... but I'd really like a scooter, because of the automatic transmission, and easier maintenance.

[@80eightReviews]

Good evening - yeah I know exactly what you mean - I can't really say I'm totally enamoured of how it looks and given my previous bikes were a Moto Guzzi and a Z900RS you probably guess where my affections lie! Still, the ADV is a good thing - if I'm stuck on scooters next year (I'm still hoping to get back on a bike) I might look at a Vespa Sei Giorni or something but I suspect they don't handle as well as the Honda. But yeah, if one of the Japanese manufacturers made a retro styled scoot it would sell well I think. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@chrissunde1104]

Congratulations, very, very nice to see you out enjoying yourself on two wheels again. How about a review of the scooter?

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Chris, good to hear from you and hope is well with you. Yes, there will be scooter related video coming in a bit I promise :-) Have a good day, cheers, Phil.

[@monexchannel9827]

❤

[@problemslayer3538]

Phil i saw you struggling a little getting on and off. Have you tried stepping onto the passenger footpeg to lift you up before throwing your leg over

[@80eightReviews]

Good evening Mr ProblemSlayer and thanks for the suggestion. The passenger peg is a little too high for that (well, it is for me!) but the good news is that my mobility has improved since that video and I've had more surgery on my knee which means clambering onboard is a lot easier than it used to be. It's almost easy now! Thanks again though and great to hear from you, cheers, Phil.

[@Thegeordiemonkey]

Did you go to the Washington wetlands recently? Seen the same colour adv parked up at the bike meet but had extras on, light and frame guards etc.

[@80eightReviews]

Morning! No that wasn’t me I’m afraid - sounds like the scoot had some good bits and pieces on it though. From what I understand Newcastle Honda have sold quite a few this year so ADV 350’s will be clogging up the A1 at some point soon… Anyway thanks for stopping by, good to hear from you. For ID purposes I usually wear a B&W Bell Helmet 😀 All the best, Phil.

[@TheDervMan]

Amazing to see you back on the road Phil 😎 I’m looking at getting either the X-ADV 350 or 750, my question is….. given the 350 has a CVT drive how easy is it to regulate your speed? With a geared bike it’s easy as you soon get a feel for engine noise vs speed but my concern with the CVT is you loose that ability?

[@80eightReviews]

Hey DervMan, thanks for stopping by and good to hear from you again. On the CVT, bearing in mind I've now only done around 150 miles, well, I've been pleasantly surprised to be honest. While you obviously lose that visceral connection between speed, revs and gear it is really quite responsive and there always appears to be enough power and acceleration to suit all road connections, while at the same time, it never runs away from you or becomes so 'remote' you have no idea what's going and you end up doing 70 in a 30 or vice-versa. I do probably use the speedo more than I normally do, but I think with a few more miles under my belt the physical sense and understanding what the machine is doing will become 2nd nature. Hope that helps a bit! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@TheDervMan]

@@80eightReviews that’s really helpful, thanks 👍🏻 some other reviews suggest there’s not much difference performance wise between the CVT & DCT.

[@80eightReviews]

@@TheDervMan I guess the main difference is that DCT still has defined gears and perhaps that can be felt - in addition to be used by the paddles etc? Dunno!

[@volt8684]

Got a honda sh300 did 225 miles on her yest easily cruising 60. Excellent transport just lacks handling and big wheels of motorcycle

[@80eightReviews]

Hey Volt, thanks for stopping by, hope you’re doing alright. Yeah, that range of Honda mid-size scoots from your SH through to the Forza are really good and useful machines. 225 miles in a day demonstrates that! All the best, thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.

[@JLOSTAFF1]

I’m a bit concerned Phil you’re getting a bit too over excited. How do I know? You keep banging on about storage space and top boxes. Quite frankly it’s very worrying. What we really need to hear is how many wheelies have you pulled on your new machine and have you got your knee down yet? 😮

[@80eightReviews]

Evening Jon, storage space is the new black. I’m currently working out the optimum storage tessellating pattern for ensuring maximum use of the available space. Did I mention 48l under the seat? Let me say it again : there’s 48l under the seat. 30 minute GoPro video coming soon! I reckon I can get at least 200 double-deckers under there. And then there’s the front storage compartment. Perfect size for a travel iron plus socks. Did I mention there’s 48l under the seat? Yes, it’s true! There’s 48l under the seat. How many party sevens is that? 48 litres!

[@JLOSTAFF1]

@@80eightReviews Oh dear. Can we have the old Phil back please? Feels like the channel has been hi jacked by a scooter geek.

[@80eightReviews]

@@JLOSTAFF1 There’s 48l Jon, plus 2.5 up front. That’s 50.5l of storage, plus I’m getting an expandable givi gross-max top box that will give me another 7000l of chilled storage! Jon! I can deliver thousands of zoom lollies across the UK!

[@JLOSTAFF1]

@@80eightReviews Hugh! Where are you? We need to sort Phil out…….pretty darn quick!

[@80eightReviews]

@@JLOSTAFF1 48l of storage Jon, that’s 84 pints! Even better that’s a palindromic conversion! How brilliant is that 😀

[@Volksplane1]

Well done you. Well earned Tea and Bickies?

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks and yes - tea, cake and biccies :-) Plus I've now the storage space to keep a ready supply always at hand! All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@WxM3008WxM]

Bought it 2022 yr. But i have a problem with the switch and ignition. Sometimes with ignition on and stand up etc.the bike doesnt start. and sometimes I can't turn the switch all the way left to put the steering lock on. Its so annoying.

[@80eightReviews]

Hello - thanks for stopping by. On mine, I’ve found the brake lever does need to be squeezed quite hard before it will start and with the steering lock I do need to ‘wiggle’ the bars sometimes before it locks into place. For me, it’s a little like learning how my front door opens / annoying at first but then it’s fine. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@rtoward7275]

I live jn Newcastle upon Tyne

[@80eightReviews]

Best city in England! Well, apart from Manchester 😀

[@modisejudge2861]

Good day Phil, how is the bone union progressing after 11months because I myself I'm on the 10th month but it has not completely healed..

[@80eightReviews]

Hello my friend - it's great to hear from you again. How is your leg and injury - are you able to walk without a crutch? As for me, I had X-rays last month (which is month 10) and the bones in my knee and femur have nearly completely healed. Which is great news as I was told a few weeks before that there was chance of non-union. I'm not sure whether a mistake was made but either way, the bones and fractures have healed very well. As the moment I can walk unaided on flat ground (with a limp) for around 1 to 1.5 KM. The amount of bend in my knee is still very poor despite lots of physio, so I will be having a 3rd operation later on in the year to remove a lot of scar tissue followed by being put on a machine that will flex the joint for two to three days. The hope is that I will be able to bend my knee much more than the current 65 degrees or so, which means stairs, bicycles and going down hills will be possible. I'm looking forward to hearing how you are doing and best wishes as you continue your own recovery, all the best, Phil.

[@modisejudge2861]

@@80eightReviews it is great to hear from aswell, trust me there is no better feeling than talking to someone who is going through the same situation as you are. i am sorry to hear about your knee but hopefully after that 3rd surgery it will bend properly. it good again to hear the bones are healing properly. As for me currently i am still using a crutch but i can walk for about 10mins or so with a bad limp but im hoping gradually i will improve. when i am home thats when i try as much as possible to ignore using a crutch. My knee has never given me a problem which is something good and am doing my next xray end of june and i must admit it is quite scary since i last did my xray in january and that was when i started mainly to practice walking without a crutch and by then the bones when not completely healed so now its either there will be a lot of progress or bad news, 2 weeks back i experienced bad pains and doctors thought it was Sciatica because the pain meds were not helping but i believe physio sessions helped a lot since it stopped.

[@80eightReviews]

Hey, that's great news! I'm really pleased for you! And likewise, it's always good to hear how other folk are doing. I think the walking (especially without a crutch) really helps with blood flow which in turn is what you need for bone growth - so you're doing exactly the right thing. You could be very pleasantly surprised with your next x-ray and I really do hope you are. I find the more I can do without a crutch also improves the limp and of course strength. Like you I get strange pains (not in my leg) every so often. I think a limp puts different stresses and strains on your body compared to a normal walking pattern perhaps? Like at the moment, I feel like someone has kicked me in the ribs! Anyway, that's great news, really and you must let me know how your next x-ray is looking. Have a good evening, cheers, Phil.

[@modisejudge2861]

@@80eightReviews will definitely let you know, and thanks once again for your feedback. Cheers!!

[@johnspencer3193]

Reading about accident we’re do you think on coming car come from ?

[@80eightReviews]

Hey John, to be honest I can't explain it at all. I was scanning the road and genuinely didn't see it - otherwise (funnily enough!) I wouldn't have ridden into the front of it. It wasn't as though I saw it and thought I couldn't make it, so I don't know. I just have to accept I missed it somehow. It's a total mystery to me. There are no side roads, the road is straight and while there are dips, none are deep enough to hide a car. I made a (bad) mistake and the other driver was just on their way to work, so I took full responsibility for it. All the best, cheers, Phil.

[@johnspencer3193]

Ok I in Spain I used Zx10 r 2008 now have scooter was thinking of royal Enfield or Moto guzzi you had I even have same luggage you had on your trip

[@shropshirecycle]

Could you tour on the ADV 350 ?

[@80eightReviews]

Good morning Mr. ShropshireCycle, thanks for stopping by. Tour on the ADV 350? Absolutely you can and that's what I'm planning to do later on this year. Sure, it's not the fastest machine in the world but I reckon it covers the ground as well as anything. It will cruise easily at 75mph with another 10-15 mph in hand, return 60+mpg, a range of 200 miles, incredibly comfortable and tons of storage. Plus it handles well! It's missing the excitement of a bike but you know, it's all about the point of touring - is it about the bike or what you see on the way? Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.

[@shropshirecycle]

@@80eightReviews Hi Phil. Firstly I have to say, what a brilliant YT Channel you have. I wanted to know why you choose the ADV over the Forza? Would love more videos of your ADV adventures. Touring is something I want to do, I also was involved in a RTA whilst riding in 2018, haven't ridden since the day of the crash. The ADV might be my first time riding, should I pluck up a courage and buy one, have ankle problems now, so a geared bike isn't an option.. Graham ☺️

[@80eightReviews]

@@shropshirecycle Hey Graham - thanks very much! As for why I chose the ADV over the Forza. First thing to say is that I didn't test ride the Forza so I can't make a direct riding comparison, however, I did sit and bounce up and down on one and give it a good look over in the showroom. So why the ADV : In the main it was the front forks and top yokes, combined with the looks of the ADV that swung it for me. On the forks, they are very much bike forks and from what I was reading they helped give the ADV a more 'bike-like' feeling which is what I wanted, together with good road holding. On both those counts, I can't fault the ADV - it really does handle and hold the road like a bike, even at higher speeds. On the looks, to be honest, I don't look at any scooter and think "phooowarghghgh" but I preferred the more angular look of it over the Forza. The Forza has more of a 'city' look about it and probably slightly better weather protection but neither are that important to me. I'd like the clocks from the Forza perhaps but the ADV dash is simple and perfectly functionality and it's not something I get excited about! Finally, while the ADV is absolutely not some sort of 'adventure scooter' (whatever that means) - the suspension, handlebars, slightly better ground clearance etc, seemed to be better for the odd gravel road here and there (something which I'm prone to do!). In reality, there's little in it. Both are great choices! Especially if you're coming back from an accident given ease of use. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.

[@shropshirecycle]

Hi Phil. The point's you make about the ADV are almost similar to what I was thinking. I also have bounced up & down on the Forza. The forks, yoke & motorcycle feeling you get are the reasons I am looking at the ADV. I'm not fan of the TFT cluster of the ADV, but it's just going to do what it's supposed to do. The indicator's don't seem to be bright, not sure if that's just a watching it on TV issue. I'm off to test ride the ADV on Sunday & I'm honestly terrified to the point of feeling sick. Once again thanks for your replies. Looking forward to your next upload.. Graham

[@80eightReviews]

@@shropshirecycle Hey Graham, in real life the indicators are bright while the rear / front lights are very good. As for feeling terrified... Yeah I know about that & totally sympathise. My head was like "Why am I putting myself at risk again". I got mine delivered and kinda circled around it for a week before plucking up the courage to get on it. Here's the thing though, literally, within five minutes I was feeling comfortable and happy on it. I still had to be really careful coming to a stop as my right leg at that time was super weak but even despite that, once on the open road it was great. The first ride is in that video. Now I just jump on without even thinking about it. Let me know how you get on & best of luck! Cheers, Phil.

[@JLOSTAFF1]

Well done Phil! Really, really pleased for you. 👍👍😃 Even more pleased you obviously took my advice and necked a few Harvey’s before venturing out. See not all my advice is bad. In fact, if there was ever a scooter that looked motorbikish then you have bought one. Keep us updated. Rumour has it Hugh is extremely jealous and in fact is in a Honda dealer right now! 🫢 Enjoy your Easter.

[@80eightReviews]

Thanks Jon, as you know, I always take the appropriate action with respect to your advice and Old Jon’s Almanac is by my bedside at all times, along with a Cherry menthol sweet. But yes. Thanks. Really. Hugh has been riven with jealousy all his life (MK Dons fan) so he’ll be fine. Just wait until the multi part top box review comes out then there will be some angst. And likewise, enjoy your mini eggs, bye, Phil.