Back to Biking - My First Rides Did Not All Go Well...

[@Holdeenio]

Time for a third channel, JayEmm on Bikes 🏍️

[@sverremoe4087]

Yes

[@everydaybiker]

Yes

[@seebarry4068]

Sounds a bit only fans

[@quacktac]

Personally I think you should upload the bike content to the main channel, cars and bike communities have a lot of crossover and it's always good to expose more people to it.

[@maxflight777]

yep… I agree (having these on different channels is a pain …. please lump everything together )

[@barryrose4850]

Everyone here will tell what to buy. If you get off your ride and don’t look back as you walk away it’s not for you. You do you, look forward to more bike related content. Good luck bro !!

[@tarynwebster2883]

Sorry about the drop JayEmm, it’s an experience that can definitely put one through the full 7 stages of grief. Glad to know you didn’t let it stop you 😊

[@seankruger955]

Hi James - wasn’t expecting this to be you just chatting, but……full of real world experience. Loved it, watch pretty much all your videos. You HG and STG are my go to. Well done, thank.

[@donaldelder540]

I’m glad you give us the warts and all, not a polished bike rider as many channels would of done. I love that about British tv. 👍

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks guys!

[@lovecheapcars4676]

I'm really enjoying these "back to biking" videos. I am into my 3rd year of back to biking myself - I passed my test in 1987 but I've had 3 major breaks away from bikes over the years, all for different reasons. Returning to 2 wheels this time, I have to admit, was a bit of a shocker. I am also short in the leg and I swear bikes have got taller, and they are definitely a hell of a lot more expensive. The last new bike I bought was in 2001 - a brand new R1 from Motorcycle City for £6,495, so sadly that was my reference point ! Anyway, price aside, I knew I didn't want a new sportsbike as my wrists just won't take it - I get numb hands after just 15 mins riding - so went down the neo retro route and bought an XSR900. The CP3 engine isn't the most powerful, but its got enough grunt to make me smile and the induction roar is addictive. I've also bought a couple of older bikes as I'm a confirmed tinkerer - I get 20% of my kicks riding, 80% from fixing and fettling. If you haven't already done so, the next challenge is bike clothing, especially if like me you are not tall and have enjoyed your food and drink. Some of the older "value for money" names have vanished (Frank Thomas, Heine Gericke), and the market seems swamped with some very dodgy looking stuff. One thing I have found though is that the absolute rubbish sizing and fit hasn't changed...

[@903lew]

I’m quite tall, the sizing on Moto gear really does seem to be made for a magical someone else whom none of us have ever met or even seen. Must live in the realm of gear manufacturers, possibly somewhere in the alps.

[@ianmason3040]

Yes fancy motorcycles really have fancy prices these days. My mate has just bought a two year old XSR900 and loves it, the triple sounds nice. I bought a new 790 Duke 2 years ago financed over a 3 year period and will probably change it for a triple or maybe the 1290 Duke. Wishing you safe riding and happy tinkering 👍

[@laserschwelle]

In case you haven't read about it yet: Lots of modern P-Twins have 270° cranks which makes them really similar in character to 90° V-Twins. That might be why you like the 890 Duke even though it has the "wrong" engine.

[@maxflight777]

KTM are incredible… well done for testing them. utterly compelling, thrilling to own.

[@Dreddingbath]

Really looking forward to seeing and hearing you on Grandad's Triton. Go for the Guzzi, does it all and in style.

[@brianricke4950]

I recently went through a similar process about two years ago. I drove nothing but Ducatis my whole life. I ended up buying a Harley Davidson Sportster S. It sits a little lower it’s 1250 cc and 120 hp. It’s a really great looking bike and it handles extremely well. It is also very torque-y on the low end as well as the mid range. You should give that one a shot especially since you’re going to ride an Indian FTR. Good luck!

[@englishsteve1465]

From Ducati's to Harley ? how strange, I can only presume that you had a couple of trees to uproot. 😄

[@brianricke4950]

@@englishsteve1465 I definitely had some prejudices to overcome!! But if you ride the Sportster S, you’ll understand why I love it!! It’s like a Vrod and a Ducati’s love child. 😉😂

[@nickmurray721]

Ducati 1299s to Harley Davidson softail slim, now enjoying riding on the road again

[@spearmintvole9522]

I’m somewhat older and back on a bike after a 15 year break. Within 2 months I’d got 2 bikes. One for weekdays one for weekends lol. My weekend bike is a Guzzi V7. I never thought I’d like one but for the real world I love it. Fast handling, comfortable, fuel injected but with old fashioned looks, power delivery and soundtrack. Not everyone’s cup of tea but it works for me.

[@joesisti4841]

Jay, a bike you should really look into since you loved the GS is the Aprilia Tuareg 660. Its lower than the bmw, has fantastic italian styling, and the airbox is where the gas tank is on most bikes, so when you crack the throttle the intake noise is INCREDIBLE. Also supremely comfortable. 80 horsepower parallel twin, so not quite as much as the other bikes you talk about but olenty enough to have fun, especially with the noise. The aventador-like DRLs are also very cool in my opinion.

[@C64SX]

That escalated rather quickly :) Aiming for 2500 bikes ending up testing 25000 bikes. A rather simple modern bike with plenty of character is the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 (or Vitpilen if you prefer the more aggressive riding position). Lightweight, by modern standards, and a wonderful 75hp thumper engine. Nowhere near the 180-200hp bikes you tested, but still pleeenty of fun on the twisties. Only available for a few years, definitely a future classic.

[@jotapesepulveda]

I did a similar experience going back to bikes after 3 and a bit years and compared and test rode: - Triumph Street Triple RS - KTM Duke 890 - Ducati Streetfighter V2 Ended up buying the Ducati because it just did everything very well. Loving it

[@mikedugdale281]

First time I've seen your stuff and I've gotta say you are one of the best speakers I've ever come across. Cat boxes and piles of old boxes and all yet 15 minutes in and I'm still listening .I'm amazed. The last time something similar happened was one day at a curry festival I when I was stood near a tent with a guest speaker doing his thing while I waited for my wife to queue for some curry or something and anyway to do the reasonable and cut to the end, he was great to listen to and so are you. Thanks.😊

[@tomcopsey3571]

I bought a Mandello S about a month ago James. It is a fantastic machine, just the right amount of power, proper riding modes, looks amazing and has character while being very modern.

[@Mint.Racing]

I've been a fan of the channel for a long time, and have only gotten into bikes this summer. I personally went for a 2011 Ducati hypermotard 1100 evo sp, I really love it. It is one of the last of the air-cooled and dry clutched Ducatis. It is a bit of a wilder thing than a monster, which just makes it incredible fun to hoon around on. At 95 hp it is also quite manageable. Greetings from Germany

[@brutaldeluxedetailing2109]

You ought to try a R1250RS, all the positives of the GS with a lower riding position and more akin to road riding. Does it all 👍

[@r6ymy]

Really interesting hearing your thought process and the findings after the test rides. I started biking at 16 with an AP50, then a 250 Desmo Ducati, then a Hailwood Replica at 19, which I had to sell at 25 when buying a house and getting married. A long gap off bikes until I was 40, when I bought a Honda RVF400, got into track days, replaced that after a year with a Yamaha R6 and had a 5 year period of doing track days with friends. Then a growing family and house upgrade meant the bike had to go again. So then on to my current period of biking, which started about 8 years ago with a Triumph Street Triple. Did a trip to Scotland, then a European tour, and found the lack of wind protection and luggage capability the only downside to what was otherwise a lovely bike, and quick enough when you wind it up. Next was an MV Turismo Veloce - not really an adventure bike, but an upright sports tourer a bit like a Ducati Multistrada. That was beautiful, great to ride, but had a few issues with it - lots of warranty trips to the dealer, and it was tall. I'm 5'7" but with reasonably long legs, however I dropped that a couple of times at junctions when caught out by a bit of camber. Next I went down the full adventure bike route. I did try a GS, and it is a fantastic package, but to me it doesn't have that "zing". Whereas KTM have that in spades. So I bought a 1090 Adventure. Which I absolutely loved, but it was still a bit marginal on height. Particularly as I chose to upgrade from the stock plank, sorry seat, to the comfort seats, not realising they added another 20mm to the seat height. So when the 790 Adventure came out, I traded the 1090 in for a 790. Which I still have four years later. It's now fully set up for me with uprated fork cartridges, a Nitron shock, a re--upholstered with memory foam seat, and a different screen. It now shares garage space with a Fantic 250 Enduro, Moto Guzzi V7ii Racer, 1990 Yamaha RD350 YPVS F2, and a 1967 Ducati 250 Mk3 ( and a couple of old Alfas). I've had test rides on a few of the bikes you tried, agree on the BMW M100, fantastic thing. Haven't tried the V100 Mandello yet, it looks lovely, but I don't think I need a sports tourer. I think there are a couple of other Ducati's you should try, both with the same engine - the Desert X ( although again might be a bit tall) , and the Multistrada V2. KTM 890 SMT also might fit the bill. Good luck with your journey, nice to see someone taking an open minded view and having a look at all options. Look forward to the next update.

[@nickthurston2299]

I dropped my GS about a month ago. A combination of an emergency stop (blind Audi driver) camber and gravel, and as you said, once it starts to go it's a case of abandon ship or suffer a hernia trying to hold it up! Guzzi is a left field choice, so I'm interested to see what you eventually choose.

[@MachoMadness69420]

I think that you should try an Aprilia Tuono V4 👍

[@TBiker000]

Jay, you cannot beat the sound of Aprilia’s V4 best sounding bike, end of. They do need a make over though as looking a bit dated.

[@BrissyBiker]

Enjoyed this so very much! Australian owner of a MV Agusta Brutale1078RR & a Yamaha Warrior 1700 here. My advice is try the MV Brutale 800. A triple with heaps of character that you don't have to get so illegal with to have fun (lost my license once already with the 1078). That MV 800 engine is amazing- like a Jack Russell Terrier on crack with amazing smoothness, tuneful note and a great riding position, complete with the looks to boot! The 800s have a counter rotating crankshaft that makes the bike so extraordinarily flickable and light feeling. That is an amazing piece of engineering normally only found in GP bikes... Besides all that I cannot tell you how much pleasure my MV provides every time I look at it. Hell, I sometimes wheel it out when enjoying a brew simply to admire its thoroughly gorgeous lines.

[@kjyu]

lovely episode, I'm a 22yo from Poland that did cat B at 18yo, and after 3 years of cat B we can ride cat A1 bikes, so i got a 2020' KTM Duke 125 for city commuting and going to uni (finding a car parking spot is a huge pain) . It's an amazing experience, being on open air feeling the road and greeting every passing biker being a part of the community. I also really like the fact that with civilised lane filtering, even with high traffic the traffic lights feel like only thing stopping you. :)

[@kjyu]

And yes, I am waiting to 24yo to do cat A license because doing cat A2 doesn't make financial sense. Pretty crazy though that i can ride a normal size bike with low power with literal zero courses but i would have to jump through hoops to get the cat A sooner. One option is learning to ride by myself on public roads and other is course with a proper plan an instructor, you do the math 🙃

[@Geshmaal]

Ahh the drama of a shakedown ride! I actually think as someone going through a biking rebirth it's worth trying a Royal Enfield, they're dead simple, cheap and the most "classic" modern bikes available these days. You get to practice tightening everything up after a ride too after it's shaken loose, good practice for the Triton!

[@speedwobble5383]

Great vid Jay! Ridden (and crashed) an F4 750 mv Augusta years ago. I had lusted after that machine and never have I been more disappointed in anything before or since. Unless you want it as a garage ornament I'd say leave it alone. I'm on my third 765 street triple, I'm super surprised you didn't like it as most people love them. Sounds like you have fallen in love with a giant v-twin of some sort and smaller bikes won't do! Be careful you don't fall into the clichéd trap of the returning biker who feels like he needs and can handle a 150bhp+ bike and finds out the hard way.

[@dehweh2297]

Got back into riding this summer. After an 11 year Dad break, caused by a concerned mother in law. What all has changed in these years is completely crazy. As a compromise, I bought a Honda CBF 1000 from 2007. With a foot in the old and new world each, and only 3500€ for an immaculately preserved and serviced sports tourer with a full set of luggage. Yay! Andalusia, here I come.

[@rossmaher4501]

Alright Jay, so happy for you! When you are telling your stories, I can only feel the same excitement when I started riding One motorcycle I would like recommended for you is the BMW R1250R just had an update boxer flat twin (not sure if its the same one in the GS) but you enjoyed that engine, and its a naked style 👌 Can’t wait for another video

[@demonic082]

I'd second that. A gs with a more manageable size and probably one of the best spread of power for a road bike

[@PlattLaneEnd]

First of all, really enjoying all the motorcycle stuff - subscribed! A few other comments, not aimed at, or applying to you: 1) I know so many people who call themselves 'petrolheads' (terrible phrase) but shun anything to do with bikes. Each to their own, but they've no idea what they are missing out on! 2) The biggest mistake I nearly always see new, older riders /Direct Access guys make is going for too big and/or too powerful a bike initially. My friend bought a ZZR1400 as his first bike. He was terrified, couldn't u turn it, and wouldn't rev it over 4k! Go for something like an SV650 or equivalent. If you think it's not quick - 0-60 in about 3.5 seconds is quick enough! 70 odd hp is enough for now to learn some of your craft. Even after 30 or so bikes over the years, and having worked up to Blades, RC51s etc, I realised to 70-120 hp is all you'll ever need. I've no interest in anything more powerful. It would just frustrate me, not being able to twist the throttle enough on the road. 3) You never master riding. On every ride, you could always do something better. Smoother lines, better road positioning, better slow speed control. It's great, you never stop learning! 4) For me, there is no doubt that road riding makes you a better car driver. E.g. better observation of other road users, road conditions/grip, forward planning etc.

[@peterrosscochrane]

Throughly enjoyed this video and can’t wait for potentially JayEmm on Bikes 🏍️👌🏻

[@wardroland270]

Thanks Jay. Great job. Good info. God bless. Happy trails

[@simmsy7730]

found your channel today when i stumbled across your KTM purchase, looking forward to seeing your biking videos. Like yourself i got back into biking this summer after a 10 year break and purchased a 749 as i always loved the styling. Enjoy your new purchase :)

[@kiwihame]

Well well, this channel just clicked up a cog or two! Great to see you light up and looking forward to JayEmm on Bikes! I own several Ducs and used to work for an NZ Motorcycle manufacturer called Britten.

[@tonydare7614]

You are more intelligent than me. I got back to biking after a few decades and went through 8 new bikes, bought and sold within months🤣 they included, Ducati Scrambler, Triumph Tiger 900, BMW GS 1250, Aprilia Tuono 660, Triumph Trident...currently moved to EVs due to Paris parking laws and am riding a Zero FXE but will probably pick up a Livewire in September, either the first or second model, the Del Mar. I never thought I could ride an electric bike but it's an amazing experience and I thoroughly recommend you check out the Livewire One just for the experience. 0-60mph in 3 seconds and sweet handling. All those who shout "never", should at least have a go on one first for the experience. I've always been a petrol head and have ridden most of the bikes you have tested, except the Mandello which I wanted to test. I guess I have ADHD and am in the thoes of mid-life crisis, but ideally most of us would like one of each in our garage.

[@hatefeulblast]

Its a great news. We love you.

[@denisspratt926]

Can´ wait to see bike videos from you. Maybe you should try a MV Agusta F3 RR, Dragster or Brutale. Just stay away from the RC models at MV Agusta, those are the track focused ones.

[@francescorochira773]

Great stuff James. I like to think that as a motorcycle rider one makes for a better car driver, since riding bikes makes you more aware of road conditions, weather, hazards etc. I've been riding bikes since I was 14 (on private ground) without a break, I'm now nearly 61. Ducati are great, I've had a Darmah, 2 Monster 900s and as a proud owner of a 916 Strada I love the brand, also Moto Guzzi, great bikes. I have a 1981, 850 Le Mans 2 with over 120k miles and still going strong. Looking forward to some good bike content as well as your car stuff.

[@leewatkeys9065]

Great episode and from a personal view I passed my bike test at 49, coming up 12 years ago and have had 17 bikes and scooters since. My cars I keep for 5 years on average. Every time I test ride a bike I seem to have to buy it, nearly so I’ve ended up trying to avoid test rides. Good work,it’ll be interesting to see what you buy 👍🏻

[@bingoberra18]

Great video, me and friends have been talking about getting a license for years. Today I just took the first step which is getting the permit. So will be very interesting to follow your journey on 2 wheels now and hearing your impressions. I bought all the magazines back in 2001-2003 and those bikes are now really cheap so I´m all over them. Unfortunately my bags of the old magazines seem to have disappeared through the years...

[@JayEmmAndFriends]

Congratulations. That era of bikes was pretty amazing, I love them

[@blackline66]

Legend..... put a table in the garage, and use your skill to present. Bloody brilliant ... Thanks so much for this. If you want to spend very little look at the Triumph Speed Triple... I have a 955i 2004 - 120HP... Its a proper laugh. But the 1050 is a better bike.... Upside down forks radial brakes etc... pick them up for nothing now. Seat is pretty low. Trust me, try one.

[@kevinmcg6747]

As a. non-biker I wasn't sure if this content would be of interest, but, your way of bringing things to life through your descriptive skills made it really enjoyable and I'm looking forward to future updates and a purchase! All the best, Kevin.

[@Lar308]

WOW this series about getting back on motorbikes is going to be interesting. I am not brave enough to venture into MV Agusta's or Moto Guzzi's but here is a list of my current bikes to perhaps give you some idea's. 2022 Ducati Panigale V2 Bayliss edition 2021 Ducati Monster plus 2021 BMW S1000RR M package 2016 Triumph Thruxton R 2005 Kawasaki ZXR 1200R 2021 Lifan E3 (electric scooter.

[@JayEmmAndFriends]

That's a pretty cool collection

[@Z32andCG6]

I've ridden that Motoguzzi and it's a fantastic bike! It's heavier than what I'm used to (CBR600RR) but the suspension compliance and geometry felt amazing and the quality seemed very good on my short ride. I liked it so much that I went to the forums to see what living with it is like and sadly I found the expected Italian problems. For reference my CBR has been crashed and rebuilt multiple times, has hundreds of miles straight at triple digit speeds and it's never dripped one bit of oil, never left me stranded, and never failed to start. It's been very hard to give up that reliability when it's potential replacements are much more high strung and have compromises I'm not quite ready to accept. Good luck on your search and I'm sure you'll find what suits you in the end...and it's fair to say if you have multiple Ferraris then multiple bikes shouldn't be out of the question.

[@luddite6239]

Interesting to hear your thoughts and great to see your enthusiasm growing as you get more back into biking. I've also got a Gilera ST200, which, in the right conditions, is as much fun as a "proper" big bike. Having owned singles, twins, triples and fours, I've come to the conclusion that a v-twin is the most enjoyable for UK road use. You can use more of the performance, more of the time on more of the roads. As a Monster owner of 20 years, that's what I'd recommend. It'll put a smile on your face from the moment you open the garage door to the moment you park it up, ticking and pinging as it cools down in the sunlight. (The sun always shines on a Ducati!) While I like the KTM motor, their reliability seems to leave a little to be desired. Even the press bike have suffered numerous faults. Also, if you're shallow like me, I couldn't live with those looks - I like a bike that makes me turn around before closing the garage door for one more look. The Ducati gives me that. Whatever you choose, enjoy!

[@graemefairbairn7759]

Triumph triple (any type) Listen before you buy anything else! I started on a Monster, went to a Triumph Daytona. Still alive and back to cars. Glad I did it.

[@andrewlucas6214]

Brilliant episode.. have you considered an aprilia Tuono non factory.. arguably the best sounding bike ever?😯

[@steveallan3306]

Ive been looking for a change from my GS which Ive had for 2 years. Like you, tested a few possible contenders which were all acceptable, but I genuinely loved the Super Duke R Evo. The current offer is as good as Ive seen from a bike manufacturer so I'm going for it. Stick it in rain mode and comfort and its a pussycat!

[@JayEmmAndFriends]

Great to hear!

[@Phillc748]

Literally have a comment on each section of this video…. All positive but my gosh I don’t know where to start….. lovely to see your attention to detail hasn’t been lost over the years, great choices of bikes to try. Would love to see you talk more about how the bike industry is going though in future. Ducati for example, VAG influence is rife, every week a new silly special e.g the Lamborghini Diavel etc. Triumph were the absolute leaders in customer config options, you could even factory order custom paint back in the day. But no one really bothered and dealers didn’t promote it. Ducati 1200S monster is really worth the extra, the Ohlins are ALWAYS worth it on a bike. Finally perhaps for now…. KTM…. we need to talk ridiculous dealer discounts…. £3k plus often, trashes the used values…. Aprilia also allow this to happen which is bad. Also…. KTM now selling bikes with all features like quickshifter enabled for x miles, then they LOCK and you have to buy the feature set as extras… this is just not okay… you haven’t mentioned a bike I think you will like, a Triumph Speed Triple RS. Great torque and power but not ridiculous bonkers-ness. Sorry.. bit of a brain dump there…

[@axxo]

Beautiful, Italian, Quick and Comfortable - Aprilia Tuono! Worth considering if you like sporty engine with naked ergonomics. Not as sharp as the Duke but looks way better.

[@RicardoMatosgoogle]

Fantastic video. Super engaging. You sir are a storyteller. Hope you enjoy the bike of your dreams. The KTM 1290 sure does look nice. I went with the HD Sportster S. Kind regards

[@jakedickson697]

The 1290 is superb, but be aware the new 1390 is on the way, hence the very exciting incentive packages. You should try the 1290 Super Adventure S, it will blow your mind the sheer speed and size of it!

[@mitchsvideos]

I'm in the position you were about 3-5 years ago. I've ridden an R1200GS across Australia, a 250cc dirt bike across Peru, done track days and many UK trips on a 600cc sports bike, but by far the thing I look back on with the most joy and envy is the Ducati Diavel. I think you'll find it much more appealing than the Monster. I took one across Northern Italy several years ago now and I cannot see past it. Comfort, power, torque, handling, looks, accessible seating position - it had it all.

[@mitchsvideos]

Should also add - although the GS manoeuvres really well for its size and weight, even at low speed, it is not friendly for us vertically challenged people - once it starts to go there's no stopping it! I came close many times!

[@WillH2168]

Very Enjoyable, keep the bikes vids coming!

[@themaltmiller8438]

Hey James. I hadn’t had a bike for 10 years or so after a good few litre bikes, GSXR’s etc. went for a Speed Triple RS. You didn’t seem to rate the Street Triple highly but the bigger bike is awesome. Was good fun on tracks days as well. Moved onto to a Panigale now which is amazing!!

[@trouble1871]

Make more like this James! Great video, really enjoyed it, can tell you enjoyed making it too..

[@nickbitten9910]

Great video- glad you are doing some test rides again.

[@emmahoeve]

When you've tried some other bikes then do go back to the V100 once more and pay special attention to the firmness the shaft drive offers. No noise, no clattering when the ABS comes in and hardly any maintenance when you're on the way.

[@VirtualGuth]

Sorry if I missed it, but I don't recall you mentioning what type of riding you are primarily planning on doing. Backroads day trips? Light touring? Track days? Ultimately I am most interested in learning more about what sorts of older, used bikes you end up with (and of course how things turn out with your grandfather's Triton). Good luck with the search!

[@MrBiggles]

After many years of Japanese motocross bikes that led into Japanese road bikes of all kinds, my first ride on a Ducati was a monster 821 and I bought it straight after the test ride. Nowadays I have a MultiStrada. I love the ducatis for their character and that something special they provide. Never tried an MV or a Guzzi so need to do that at some point. Glad your loving being back in two wheels 👍🏻

[@steffydog]

Well done for getting out, love these reviews and your thoughts. Take care fella.

[@blakepohlman1941]

Love the new bike videos (love the car videos too)

[@regiondeltas]

Despite being a biker, and following most of the big biker KZbinrs I tend to find myself skipping over their videos unless it's really relevant content. Apparently, I didn't know it, but what I need is a bikes done JayEmm style

[@JayEmmAndFriends]

Well, that's nice to hear! Thanks for sticking with it

[@sn00pgreen]

I bought a new 890 duke r last year without even riding one...Ye Gods.. absolutely wonderful

[@duckylucky6505]

One bike I recently tried which ticks absolutely none of your boxes :) no trellis frame , no twin, and rather retro is the Kawi Z900RS. But it's a fantastic bike. I currently have a '22 Duc SFV4S which I love, but could see adding the Kawi to my stable. Also try the Tuono 1100. The engine is superb. If seat height is an issue you can get a lower seat for most bikes or have the original altered. Don't let it be an impediment if you really like something.

[@jasonk7072]

Good call. I was torn between one of these and an R9T but then I saw the kit that turns an XSR900 into an RD500 replica. So many bikes, so little money 😭

[@sverremoe4087]

Finally what we all need. Jayemm on bikes ♥️👌

[@VidzVideo]

I remember wanting a buell xb12s when I used to ride bikes. Still look great now. Possibly up your street.

[@sorenmelchior]

I went through a similar experience a year ago… though I went a totally different direction. My period of not riding was 24 years, my classic bike (that is still not running) is a 72 Triumph 650 Tiger, and the new bike I picked up this last spring is a 318lb dual sport (2023 Suzuki DRZ 400S). And honestly for the badly maintained paved roads and dirt roads/trails here in interior Alaska the bike is a blast to ride. It took a few embarrassing drops to get used to the seat height 36.8 inches as I am also one with a long torso, and shorter inseam (32” inches). But now I love the clearance for my off road shenanigans. So don’t be afraid of the dirt, you might find you like it as well. That said, I am glad you are getting back in the saddle. Oh, and a side note on color choices for bikes…. Remember you can always put a PPF wrap or stickers on to change or modify the look to match your personality. So don’t let initial color be too much of a determining factor for your ride, as that is easy to change out.

[@veteq101]

Loving this series...

[@Stanley88845]

I am loving these videos. I've been riding just shy of 2 years and have been itching for a bike channel in your style of video's!

[@Lar308]

I am a motorcycle detailer and this guy wanted me to collect his GS1250 to be cleaned and at 5'9" that bike really scared me as I could only put one foot (well the toes of one foot on the road if I had to stop. I really don't like the look of all adventure bikes and the weight of that GS just takes all the enjoyment out of using it for me. Who in their right minds would take one of those tanks off road because if it falls over you are not going to be able to lift it by yourself.

[@alexandersutton9634]

Hi James, not sure if someone has already suggested this but, if you like the way the GS rides but want a smaller lighter naked version try the R1250R or the R1250RS which is the same bike but has a half fairing so is better for longer rides. Loved the video by the way, it's always great to see someone getting into biking, be that new riders or people returning after a few years off. I work for Norton and so it was great to hear the words featherbed!!! Can't wait to see a video on your Grandad's bike!! Ride safe!! 👋 Alex

[@TBiker000]

I’ve just purchased my 1290r Superduke Evo, 1000 miles and run in. Damn this bike is so much fun, do it 😉 check the insurance though, for some reason they are unexpectedly expensive.

[@JayEmmAndFriends]

I did enjoy the Super Duke a lot more than I thought I was going to

[@alfamaniacGR]

This guy hit me hard with this video. Sir, we have quite the same taste in bikes however we are quite apart in the financial aspect of things. My ideal starter combo would be an 05-06 749/749 S (let's ride them while we can) and the Guzzi V100 for more relaxed riding. I think it will cost you the same as a new big BMW. As for the KTMs although I really like them I've seen a lot in terms of reliability so I'm not sure. A nice alternative to the Guzzi although Japanese is the Honda CB1000R. Just make a 2-wheel channel mate so we can see all that stuff, please...

[@Bowl_of_roses]

Two things: riding in much of the UK, big power figures are not really necessary. Second, I had a KTM 1090 Adventure and it had constant computer problems, plus the panniers failed to close after a certain time. The residual value when I traded it in was shockingly low, which suggests that the 4-year warranty is both necessary and once over will leave the bike with seriously reduced value.

[@paulv22]

You should take a look at the BMW R1250R (or maybe RS). It's a naked bike with the engine from the GS and it's a lot lower. If it makes you feel better, I got back into riding after a long time off and my first bike back was a Triumph Tiger 1200. Guess what? I dropped it. I fixed the clutch lever and signal, then two rides later, I almost dropped it again. That was that. I decided it was too top heavy. I ended up trading it on an R1250RS and it's fantastic.

[@JayEmmAndFriends]

I do love the look of the R1250. One of my dream bikes is an HP2 Sport

[@waynerobertson511]

@@JayEmmAndFriends Definitely check the R1250 or R1250RS. Most people should be able to flat foot the bike, with the standard seat. If not, there is a really low seat available. No messing round with suspension. Also, make sure to test the electronic suspension system. It is great to have all the adjustment as you ride.

[@paulv22]

@@JayEmmAndFriends I made the previous comment before watching the whole video. Here's a good comparison of the V100 and R1250R. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYSpqmSrg8echa8

[@seebarry4068]

You’re doing exactly the right thing. Try everything

[@scubarubanzaii]

To somewhat mirror your timing, I recently got back into riding after doing a true cost to operate study on my own car. I ended up buying a 2023 Honda CB500X. It was affordable, it’s easy to ride, and it’s simple as heck. Hope you get something you like.

[@tomhutcheson66]

Thanks James - great content as always. I’m very much a car guy but have a 2007 GS Adventure tucked away for a big tour every now and again. Drove to Greece with my wife on the back and also round Spain and Portugal (all from Edinburgh). It’s a boring old workhorse but does that sort of thing magnificently!

[@regiondeltas]

I have a VFR800 but having done 3 Euro tours on it, I've come to realise I need something far more adventure esque. Found myself on a few gravel tracks and green lanes which wasnt nice. An old GSA is high on my list.

[@eoghanhennessy15]

More than cars, I think there’s also the factor of slow bike fast being more fun, especially on the road

[@Otto-AutoPilot]

Great piece - I am in EXACTLY the same position as you and am looking at pretty much ALL the same bikes with similar conclusions. Current favourites are the two KTM's you mentioned and the new Ducati Monster SP. Not ridden any yet but will soon. Sat on the Guzzi the other day and agree, it's nice but maybe not that exciting? Bet of luck on your search, I'm looking to pull the trigger in the next few weeks.

[@Gmh6477]

KtM got you with the sales tactics “no fuel in the cheaper smaller one mate” here try a more expensive bigger model 😂

[@paradisekohchangstyle2150]

Nice two-wheeled poweslide on the KTM and those black leathers are very slimming on you.👍

[@ivordavies1828]

Would love to see more with bikes. There are other bike channels out there but I really enjoy the way you do things. All the best

[@spanky3101]

Just got rid of my 1290 Superduke after 3 years, unquestionably the best bike ive owned and ive had a few! Only back injury made me sell it. Get yourself on a Gen 3 Superduke, you wont regret it.

[@davidmegaw7235]

I agree. I have a GSXR1000, BMW GSA and a Superduke gen3. It is the duke that gets taken out when I need to clear my head after a long day at work. She is addictive

[@spanky3101]

@@davidmegaw7235 I changed to Super Adventure S. Closest I could get to the Superduke but still ride comfortably with 10 collapsed or cracked vertebrae!

[@itsmeagain1745]

There's a new version (1390) coming out (next year?), so that's probably why there is such a good deal to be had.

[@GMTron]

Great, I was watching your video and started looking for a motorbike now. Same as you, I had a 4 year break and, as you were talking about the feeling of riding a bike, I started looking at my AGV helmet...need to review my finances now, pfff....

[@roelfkromhout]

And yes, twins are best for the road since they’re fun lower down in the rev range so you won’t lose your license quite as quickly. They’re also more characterful.

[@dougiem1]

Next time your up in Scotland Glasgow area happy to give you a shot on my 999s

[@keironsharrock7588]

Purchased a super duke same time as you.What a BEAST

[@volodymyrshoniia2424]

You should try an Aprilia Tuono v4, the engine is amazing, sound and character/power delivery are unbeatable, the ergonomics are a bit on the aggressive side, especially in the leg department since it's basically an rsv4 with an upright handlebar, can help a bit a footpeg lowering kit or aftermarket rearsets. The factory version has semi active electronic suspension. Unless you want to be more sensible with a smaller 660. Streetfighter v4 is manic, but the power is a bit too high up combined with tall gearing, so it's hard not to speed a lot, and there's no cruise control or fuel gauge. Ducati V4 feels and sounds more like V2. You could try a diavel v4 (sort of a supernaked and muscle bike hybrid) or a multistrada v4 pikes peak, or an older 1200 or 1260 pikes peak, all day comfort with big supermoto feels and superbike on stilts performance. Maybe you'd enjoy a streetfighter V2, but that engine is quite top endy as well. Hypermotard could be good hooligan fun. Perhaps monster 1200 is a really good option for what you want. Maybe you'd enjoy a supercharged Kawasaki (zh2 for naked or h2sx for sport touring). BMW s1000r would be pretty similar to the m outside of higher revs, XR would be more comfortable, but it's kind of characterless and boring because it's very easy to ride and hides it's speed, the m version of the XR should be coming soon as well. Mt10sp is supposedly a great value or so everyone says. The crossplane i4 is supposedly pretty good. Superduke is an unrefined tractor with an awful sound, plasticky KTM quality, and the engine that is pointless to rev out, comfy electronic suspension that transmits no feel, but to each their own. To me it seems like the whole experience is overwhelmed by the engine, the chassis is just trying to contain it. 890 SMT could be fun and comfy. 890 duke R is supposedly great (I've only tried an older 790 and wasn't a fan at all). Maybe you'd like a bigger triple in a speed triple, I used to have 675 street triple R, and it was a bit too refined and docile/boring for my taste. Or go all the way to the rocket 3 for a giant triple 😂 You really should put things into the most aggressive power modes with the least intrusive electronics. MV agusta is generally awful as far as value, performance, reliability, and quality, parts, dealer support goes in most places. They seem to be motorcycles to look at, not ride. Currently still selling my 690 supermoto, just switched from tuonov4 to multistrudel v4 pikes pig. FTR is like a poor man's bad superduke from what I've heard. Mandello is pretty old many and doesn't have much performance if you're after that, the screen was extremely loud in upper position for me, overall kind of reminded me of the diavel a bit, but I'd rather take a diavel v4.

[@johnstephens1447]

Aprilia Tuono v4 1000 factory, enough said, best sounding bike on the planet and is comfy as well. I have been to the alps on mine with no problems.

[@hexgraphica]

I saw the V100 Mandello when it was launched at Eicma, it's the most beautiful tourer I believe an almost timeless design straight out of the box

[@nickhart8154]

Love that you are doing this. I have always wanted to learn to ride having had posters of Barry Sheene on my walls as a youngster. Instead i am Lucky enough to have oddball cars karma Revero, Morgan plus 8, 73 Etype 2+2 which someone put a manual Chevy V8 in, project Arnage T (😢) and finally two Bristol Blenheims (one is in a container em route to me)… but then I saw a white and gold MV Agusta SuperVeloce S and I had an accident in my pants. I now have to sell something and learn to ride immediately. OMG Nick

[@chriswharrier3571]

Great content love the thought process. Don't beat yourself up over dropping the bike. I've lost count how many time I've dropped them mind you it was generally in ruts and mud. I thought I'd never go off road until I went to Triumphs adventure centre loved every minute 😅 you need to try an adventure bike off road it's nuts.

[@ricatiman]

I started riding in 1967, and stayed on bikes until 1982, when I got married and life changed...then in 2006, with family committments behind, I visited my local Ducati dealer and bought an S2R1000 Monster... and I have had 6 other bikes since - I am back at age 71 riding all the time, and am at this moment between bikes as I just sold a Honda V-4 and am looking for another, 90's or newer, excellent condition bike to continue riding on. Nowadays, I don't shop new, preferring a well cared for used bike with some patina and character. Then I don't have to worry about a tip over, which, do happen to most of us. Congrats on the decision to get back on a bike. The smells and feelings of the wind riding is impossible to equal in an automobile.

[@blowduke]

Your doing the right thing riding as many as you can you will know when you ride the (one ) that ticks all the boxes

[@philliprobertlawman2232]

Great stuff mate, I have the 1290 2.0, crazy stuff love it 😅

[@craigyllyn]

As a daily rider of BMW R1250RT’s I now have a Royal Enfield Bullet 500 and just recently added a Honda Monkey 125. Both very different and much more enjoyable in the real world up here in Snowdonia/ Eryri . Interestingly the BMWs couldn’t climb a local hill I ride virtually every trip in top but the cantankerous Bullet simply sails up it with ease. Willy waving numbers and add ons over basic abilities😂 😂😂

[@kikopereira1921]

love the bike videos!!

[@arnoldjrimmer6527]

Intervention! Intervention!! It sounds as if looking at V twins for their low down torque and although the super duke evo would be a great choice, it has crazy power and if you can not resist, it there will be trouble. Look at the SV 650. I have seen custom flat track versions that look awesome 👌 Did you not try the street fighter V2 or V4S?

[@michaeljkasnter]

2023-Kawasaki ZX-10-RR is the Answer!!! Absolutely glorious!!!

[@EVargasIII]

Hey mate. Have you considered the modern retro lineup? Kawasaki Z900RS, BMW R nineT and Triumph Thruxton. It’s not about crazy power outputs but more about the experience of the ownership. Each ride feels like an event. The Kawa is an inline 4 but the SE version is arguably the best value proposition (premium components). This is the way to go if you like the Yellow/Gold scheme and revving a bit higher. The R nineT has a massive cult following for good reason. It’s the way to go if you’re into customising. The R nineT is best for shorter riders and looks the most unique. The Thruxton has a big custom market as well but it’s honestly great off the shelf. It’s the way to go if you like the modern cafe racer look. It feels heavy to manoeuvre slowly though. I’ve owned two of these bikes and can’t really fault them for daily use.