What Bike Next? (Ep 5) - can we help Luke SPEND £8K?

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Check out the other episodes in the 'What Bike Next?' series by clicking the playlist link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e5XEnqSLp9WWY7c

[@wandering_armadillo]

I hope this series never ends, there will always be bikers changing bikes!

[@samsara3694]

A perfectly chilled, non-controversial, entertaining vid and yet so many negative comments. Social media kills me sometimes.

[@MHDarlington]

The format is evolving; best one yet. Loving the good natured digs Michael and Simon get in on each other’s choices, “a bit tall?” and “ooh, were your hands cold?” 😂. Can’t believe neither if you suggested the Niken GT though. Triple CP3, plenty under Luke’s budget, scratch, tour, heated grips, panniers, what’s not to like? 😊

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Glad you enjoyed it, Mr D. More of the same next month!

[@OldDogZeroTricks]

Thumbs up for your Niken GT comment. Although, seat height might be an issue. The updated 2023 Niken for example has a 10mm lower (and narrower) seat for easier reach to the ground.

[@OldDogZeroTricks]

@@MHDarlington That's right. They responded beautifully to the feedback with all of the improvements. Yes, I'm looking forward to some 2023 Niken GT reviews and comparisons (actual riding). If I were back in the UK, I'd probably have the original Niken GT by now (pre-registered ones are reasonably priced). I sat on a Niken for the first time a few months ago and look forward to getting back into biking after a long break. I've yet to see the 2023 model in the flesh. Auto trader ads suggest a March delivery date, so I'm guessing they must be in the showrooms by now. I also want the prices to drop for the 2023 model, but it is the dream. After such a long break, plus work and living environment, it makes more sense for me to pick up an earlier model and take it from there. I'm 54. Talking about age, it's an interesting conversation - the Niken. After such a long break, two wheels up front isn't a fear of losing the front wheel - it's a fear of being bored and repeating what I've already done. To me the Niken GT looks cool, and I'd rather pick up a new experience than repeat an old one. Maybe one needs to be defiant when it comes to talking up the Niken to naysayers who have yet to ride one. See BennettsBikeSocial - Six months later: Yamaha Niken review | Road, Track, Crash. I'm curious what attracts you to the Niken GT? As for Moto Guzzi, there have been some positive reviews of some of their latest models. (Still shaft drive evidently.)

[@MHDarlington]

@@OldDogZeroTricks It sounds as if you're in a similar situation to me; I've been in the Middle East since 2014 and only had a track bike while here so looking forward to a return next year sometime and getting back on road-based two wheels. Coincidentally, it was John Milbank's series on the Niken that first caught my interest, particularly the chat he had with Chris Moss. If you listen to Front End Chatter (podcast by Simon Hargreaves and Martin Fitz-Gibbons on all matters motorcycling and the very best of its ilk) I recently did a lengthy voice-message in defence of the Niken; I can't remember the precise episode but it was a recent one-ish. I think my initial reaction was admiration that Yamaha would push the boundaries of convention and what they've achieved is, by all accounts, remarkable. As for the Guzzis, I was first bowled over by the V100 Mandello but it's ever so pricey and I'm not sure that its tech is something I really need so I've found my focus slowly shifting onto the V85TT, largely through the enthusiasm of this channel's own Simon H as it does everything I'd need, is shaft drive (I'm a lazy git when it comes to chain maintenance) and has character. Time and test-rides will tell

[@pv12345]

Why would they? Why would anyone suggest the Niken, it's a bike for people who don't like bikes or can't ride, the guy knows how to ride.

[@themikevlad]

sounds to me like the best bike for him is an MT07 :))

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Ha! With a fairing and heated grips.

[@tubejorrit]

@@bennettsbikesocial Tracer 700

[@kennedysamuel3148]

Don't forget he's upgrading.... From 07 to something more😂

[@mountainbearoutdoors]

@@bennettsbikesocial that would make it an R7 :)

[@trailblazeratv6306]

XSR900

[@johnlaw5762]

I fully appreciate that the GS is a do-it-all bike and a fantastic machine BUT motorcycles for me is all about the heart and the GS will always be the head’s decision…not meant to diss it, everyone has their own reasons for biking

[@Marc-zf3xv]

Have you ridden one?

[@johnlaw5762]

@@Marc-zf3xv I have in fact and again, a great machine, so I bought the heart version…an R Nine T 😄

[@wandering_armadillo]

@@johnlaw5762 R Nine T is definitely heart, but there is no way I could have toured 800+ km in a day on my R9T. I managed that on a small GS. Ended up selling both as I needed something pretty with touring legs. Enter, the R1250RS :)

[@johnlaw5762]

@@wandering_armadillo absolutely agree. 300km is pushing it with al that wind, stiff suspension etc. But as a mountain pass weekend toy or something to look back over the shoulder at it's hard to beat....for me at least ;-) Oh, and the R1250RS makes a lot of sense in your case!

[@stephenmcqueen4029]

This dealer has 3 or 4 of the 850 gs at their Milton Keynes shop. All hounds, rotten, corroded, filthy hacks that they still want big money for.

[@dstev55]

Another great episode. To be honest I don't think Luke really knows what he wants and is some way off deciding the direction he wants to take. He gave them certain criteria that insinuated he wanted a bike for touring then suggests a naked and supersport bike at the end that ticked very little of it. Personally I don't think you should be writing off 4 cylinder bikes either, there's plenty out there that aren't peaky and something like a Z1000SX would probably tick all your boxes bar the cylinder count!

[@ksampler6183]

Definitely the Z1000SX or a BMW K1300GT if he wants something touring style or K1300S if he wants a super-sport bike. I own the K1200S and love it.

[@matthewkirsch327]

I would have found him a VFR800. Still the most intuitive bike I have ever ridden. It is 4 cylinder, but the characteristic is different. Nice video. Thank you.

[@jamesclifford5496]

As someone in the same position as the guy in video, who's dad has a vfr800x crossrunner. The older vfr800 (non x) looks a bit dated in style and as a sport bike not sure! The x version crossrunner is a great option but it's SO HEAVY and big! Great engines though and on paper both seem like they would be a good choice - im still trying to decide!

[@owenward2924]

You're right, this had VFR800 written all over it

[@gingerelvis]

From his hit list I honestly thought Tracer straight away, surprised it wasn't the fit but very valid reasons why

[@rubenbreedveld7088]

I think this is my favourite KZbin series at the moment

[@BIGGIEsmalls13]

Come on Luke, you can do it, you can think for yourself!

[@cosef4491]

Seems you guys talked about every middleweight sport tourer except the BMW f900xr. Well that’s the motorcycle I chose and purchased unseen and without ever test riding one. I couldn’t imagine a better overall middleweight sport tourer. 482 lbs, 57 plus miles per gallon, heated grips, easily adjustable windshield, electronically adjustable preload (rider, rider+luggage and rider+passenger), BMW rider app with so many amazing features, 105 bhp 895cc parallel 2 engine, TFT navigation and garmin ready, 63 liters hard locking side cases, tire pressure monitoring, upright riding ergonomics, cruise control and so much more. The f900xr elevated the entire middleweight sport touring category. Absolutely great motorcycle and is so much more than I need or expected from a sub 15k motorcycle from the #1 premium vehicle brand in the world.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

It's a great option - I had a look at a gold one they had in stock at Superbike Factory, it was certainly on my shortlist. Cheers, Michael

[@wgielis]

loving the series. very well executed. Well done guys.

[@cpuuk]

LOL, if you guys worked for sales commission you'd have starved to death long ago.

[@ferranmunoz4409]

Really appreciated the step up the series has done in this episode! It gets better and better!

[@kevrenshaw6177]

I ride a WR450F and 172cm. I ride it on roads, off road enduro and camping tris in the outback. You just deal with the height issue fir the smile it puts on your face.

[@ragerider6283]

Nice vid, very entertaining & a great series which time & time again shows the importance of test rides & not getting too caught up with spec sheets etc. Sounds like the Tiger 660 would be a good fit

[@daniilrusanau5849]

Tiger 660 indeed! Hit the top of the nail!

[@deanjohnson7350]

The Triumph's seat has two settings and this was in the lowest one, 30 second job to raise it by about 20mm, he might have prefered it there.

[@splodge57]

Better to put the suspension back to standard. That bike looked like it had collapsed, no ground clearance.

[@johningle8850]

Street Triple will do the trick … enjoying the series 👍

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

Perfect bike for this guy would be the bike I want: a Street Triple with fairings. Would be the lightest weight sport tourer out there.

[@nyedavis922]

@@beanwithbaconmegarocket so a tiger 660?

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

@@nyedavis922 Except for being 25 kg heavier, 45 less hp, and different ergos... but yeah, sure lmao

[@nyedavis922]

@@beanwithbaconmegarocket still the closest you'll get to a faired street triple, unless you are willing to move away from the triple, then maybe the GSXS1000F would fit the bill

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

@@nyedavis922 Totally agree, mate. Seriously looking at that GT+ Suzuki rolled out even tho MCN said they liked the Ninja better.

[@daniilrusanau5849]

Great to watch, thanks and can't wait for another episode!

[@NickyLong89]

Loving these video’s. Feel like you had a real challenge here. Basically, too tall, too tall, too short haha I thought Simon had nailed it with the Tracer 900, made total sense. Feel like the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 would fit the bill perfect.

[@gvybin]

I have testridden the Tiger Sport 660 this weekend directly followed by a 2023 Triumph Street Triple 765R. tbh I was underwelmed by the Tiger sport 660 . It is almost perfect in every sense, but the engine felt just not sparkling and fun enough, a bit dull infact. The street triple 765R was another beast. That engine and bike is magic, pure fun. addictive almost.Always ready to go. I am sure coming of a tracer900 , the Tiger 660 would be too tame. Myself I am a happy 2016 Tiger sport 1050 rider and former 2010 Street triple 675 rider. I am not sure what triumph did to that 660, because my 2010 675 street triple was almost as fast and willing as the new 765. It would be perfect for me to have the new 765 engine in the Tiger sport platform...Now that would be a bike and contender for the Tracer 9

[@NickyLong89]

@@bennettsbikesocial seems so, tough customer haha probably the best one yet for me. 3 brilliant bikes. I do fancy a GS850, I had the GS310 for a bit which I liked, currently have an 07 blade but it’s a bit lairy sometimes, would like a comfy cruiser.

[@mac46rr]

Surprised myself by liking the BNW most out of the three chosen. Ducati 950/1200 was my first thought at start of vid 😄 then a tracer of some description. Liking this series. 🙂👍

[@nickthequick]

Ducati would def have been too tall for him

[@papamichailang]

Simon was the star of this one. Came ultra hungry and the disappointment as he seems to realize he lost to the 3rd choice is priceless. You'll get there Simon im rooting for you

[@shanebrown3837]

I feel like Id have suggested a VFR 800, you can get a good example with luggage for that budget!

[@mateuszmisiarz9332]

Great series ! i totally love it, there could be more bikes for more choice, everyone picks two and the bike seeker does a test ride with one of the chosen ones

[@KnightRider1157]

As the owner of a Tiger 800 xrt and short legs, the standard seat would be a fine choice and far more fixable than yamahas handling faults. Maybe the vfr800 would have been in there, superbike factory usually have them. Nice episode again .

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Great shout, maybe the ‘Low’ example was too low - wonder if Luke would have preferred a standard Tiger 800 with a low seat… Thanks for the comment, Michael

[@Maggieismydog]

By far one on my favourite KZbin shows! Keep the episodes coming gents. From Australia 🇦🇺

[@xclent1975]

I would have invited him to try another in-line 4 many 4’s have different characteristics than a gsxr 600 , he wasn’t happy enough with the three he rode to purchase any of them

[@Cloverleaf7642]

Good options, thoughtful responses, fun outtakes. Thanks, boys.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks v much! He knew his own mind and has to be applauded. We could have spent days testing a whole range of bikes but at least we’ve given him a flavour and Luke can now assess and try a few more perhaps! Cheers, Michael

[@SteveR76]

Nice work gents, best episode yet I think. The format is definitely evolving! Thought Simon had it nailed with the Tracer, but if it doesn't fit... Luke didn't look overly short? Maybe there's a slow speed/manual handling technique issue that could be resolved which would open up a much wider choice of bikes? Just a thought. Plenty others have already said it, but the Tiger Sport 660 could fit the bill. Although it might be lacking the fun factor coming from an MT 07. Hope he finds what he's looking for!

[@AW8UK]

BMW F900XR BMW R1200RS (or R1250RS if stretching budget) YAMAHA MT-09 KAWASAKI Z900 (2020>) (Not all IL4's are the same) Off top of my head 😊 As said by others..heated grips, (& various screens for that matter), can be bought for negligible cost.

[@nducation8039]

You gave him exactly what he described, but it seems that he has no idea what he wants.

[@Shane-ln5zz]

Liked Luke he was honest about all the options, not afraid to hurt feelings, but the man is still obviously in love with his mt07. As a fellow owner I know it’s hard to leave them

[@TheDervMan]

These vids are great. Thanks Bennett’s 👍🏻😎

[@hudsonrilke]

Great series. Amazed you didn’t offer him the Duke. Too distracted with heated grips given you can easily fit a set.

[@chrishart8548]

Would an early 2015 950 multistrada come In on budget I would think so. It would definitely split the difference between the f850gs and tracer 9

[@ronr6605]

He mentioned to like the mpg on the mt07, so guess the 990sm should be out (like half of it) from the start.

[@OldDogZeroTricks]

Another enjoyable What Bike Next episode. Maybe the guests can sit on each of the three main bikes in question to help demonstrate any thoughts and feedback they have. (It's literally right there.) If the guests have an ideal bike in mind, it could be interesting to add that to the equation and see if it stays on their radar. It was nice to have a peek at a few other bikes in the store and get a feel for what's on offer. Keep up the good work gentlemen.

[@RikkyTang]

I thought Michaels choice was inspired but Simon's option then looked like a slam dunk! I can understand some of Lukes concerns though... Mystery bike was a great option but you could start to see that Luke was thinking of a different style of bike. Great episode and I liked you guys looking at other bikes in the selection process.

[@paradroid888]

I test rode a Tracer and didn't get on with it. Also tried a BMW F900XR, and bought it. Excellent bike. It's the best bits of an F850GS, but sits slightly lower and all about road use. A stretch to find one for £8k but I'd recommend looking.

[@aleksrodins]

Great episode! Thanks! Michael mentioned that Pirelli can swap tyres on GS if needed! As Pirelli is a main sponsor of this show, I think they can provide new set of tyres with every used bike, bought through this show!

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Cheers, thanks! That is the exact deal we have with Pirelli, and I’ll mention it next time. Michael

[@jonnyrountree851]

My 3 bikes are 09 Suzuki, 08 vfr800, 2019 mt09. I use all 3 all week long. I deliver ubereats on my Suzuki, the vfr800 is for out of state touring, and the mt09 is to feel young. Lol. I truly enjoy the what bike next segment. Thanks guys

[@paulyflyer8154]

I'm the same build as him and tried these bikes funnily enough but eventually settled for a f750gs. It's perfect for me with ample performance and I can flat foot it, unlike the 850.

[@chrishart8548]

The extra weight puts me off the 850gs how did it get so heavy! And is the tank 15 litres

[@paulyflyer8154]

@Chris Hart Yes you're right. My 750gs is 227kg, a full 30kg more than my other bike a Honda 500X which is a similarly sized bike really. Like most bikes the bmw is light once you're on it, but yes I find it hard lugging it around the garden. Luckily I can flat foot the 750 easily but the 850 I need a step ladder. And yes, to look at, the tank looks huge but only holds 15l. My Honda looks smaller and holds 17.7 L !

[@marcolin2682]

Honda VFR (a bit heavy but it fits all the requirements: wind protection, lower seat position, heated grips, with the vtec it's reasonable on fuel, it looks great and the engine is a piece of art)

[@asherjones4758]

I love this format. Really great viewing

[@simongoode7812]

I love this series & always look forward to the next. A shame you haven't got a sale yet but could you do follow up videos when they eventually find the bike they want?

[@teneretraveller8980]

Definitely one of the best things on the tube at the moment. New format really good too. Excellent viewing and work. Safe happy travels 👍

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

Hmm bit difficult this one, seems to like sport nakeds and wants to tour. First thought KTM Super Duke GT though might have trouble finding one in his price range. Something a bit different would be the Triumph Speed Twin, some nice throw over saddle bags and tank bag options there. Also, from Triumph the Sprint GT might be a good fit. Bit boring but reliable options would be the Versys and the V-Strom or Tracer, for him I would go for the 1000s as I don't think the 650's are gonna cut it coming from an MT-07. Lets see how the pros went on this one. Thought about a GS but they tend to be heavy and maintenance can be quite pricey, also tried not to go to ADV for this fella. Tracer 900 good choice, mentioned that lol! Again, thought about the Tiger but didn't know what he would think about the ADV style so I went with the sportier Sprint GT. Plus with the ADVs I thought he wouldn't want to have buy the bike then drop a few hundred quid for street tires as those knobbies aren't the best choice for street all use.

[@kawabungah20]

I agree with Mark. The CB600 would be my choice for an everyday ride that I wouldn't have to polish at the end of every outting. My "commuter bike" was a Kawi Concourse for years. It was perfect because it had roomy bags and a drive shaft: a perfect commuter that I didn't feel compelled to wash every day.

[@thehowlingterror]

An enjoyable watch. Thanks for doing these.

[@bh.76]

I wish you guys would also do a follow-up about which bike they eventually did go for and why.

[@desantos1234]

Whenever I watch this series, I wait for the buyers description of what they want then come up with 3 bikes I think would suit their criterias. For this episode, I decided on a Versys 650, Tiger 900 and Multistrada. So bikes in the same realm you guys were thinking but in the end he wanted nothing near... No disrespect to the guy, but I think its a poor initial description on his end, I could see in the video conclusion that you two were visibly frustrated, as would I be. He was super specific on things such as heated grips, but wouldn't be specific enough on the type of bike he was even after. His mentioned concerns beforehand were opening up touring capabilities whilst retaining a light maneuverable bike. You two and the sales rep hit the nail on the head based on said concerns. Quite frankly it wouldnt have surprised me if he turned down the bikes based on the colour of the valve caps lol. The heated grips situation was laughable. Like if you want heated grips, sure that's totally fair enough but for him to specify on it when it's literally a plug and play component you can buy and have fitted for the price of a couple tanks of petrol is amusing. When it comes to bikes, you buy a bike based on whether the things you cant change or cant easily change within desired post purchase expenditure are in your favour. such as if you like the power delivery or riding position etc., those are things that are bike specific (for the most part) so if you dont like that, look for a different bike. Things that can easily be changed and done at a small expense that you may not like are not important factors, such as; Levers (if you want adjustable ones or to change the colour), Windscreens, (based on tint, double bubble shape, etc.), *Heated Grips*, etc. Ive been on the used market for sport bikes before, its common on the used market for mid 2000s supersports to find the bikes have had all their fairing screws replaced with nasty looking anodised gold ones, but I know this is no issue and I wouldn't lose interest in a bike over it, it seems like this guy you're looking for a bike for would though lol

[@AsmodeusT]

The out takes are hilarious! 100% do more of that 😂

[@Schuey_M]

I reckon a 2015/2016 BMW S1000XR might be a good choice for Luke. Sporty and can do the Touring as well. 👍🏼

[@trevorphillips3055]

He didn't want an inline 4.

[@Schuey_M]

@@trevorphillips3055 Yes, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it I say. The BMW S1000 in-line 4’s are probably the best and most powerful out there. I love my current Gen 4 S1000RR, had a Gen 2 and Gen 3 before that and I think they’re fantastic. So I might be a bit biased. 👍🏼

[@Valks-22]

Versys 650 or NC750 could be the way to go. Also... depending on rates of them going used... R1200RS? Superp machine, easy flatfoot, touring and sport covered, low down CoG, great overtake power, ready for panniers/pillion.

[@waveman1500]

Not enough power, he said he wants more power than an MT07. Neither of those bikes have more than 70hp. I think the best option is to keep the MT07 and put heated grips on it.

[@markbird2808]

Good video and appropriate for what I’m looking at. I currently have the factory-lowered Tiger 800 XRx and what nobody tells you is that it drops the payload so low that you can’t have a pillion unless they’re a skinny super-model. My wife is petite but not that petite! Contrary to what was suggested, it’s not an easy fix to reset it either - I was told it would be about $2000

[@ivansostarec2564]

great as always and love the outtakes lol

[@gregneely1826]

I was expecting the Triumph Tiger 660 Sport. That bike has plenty of power, good torque, wonderful economics, decent wind protection. And a new 660 would be in his budget.

[@trevorphillips3055]

If he wants to tour a vfr800 would be perfect. You could get a really nice example with full luggage for 8k. Everyone needs to experience a v4 😊

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

I love the VFR and Honda needs to update that bike! The last gen was pretty to look at but way down on power and handling compared to a Ninja 1000 and had no cruise control.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

He seemed adamant that a four-cylinder would not meet his wanted list. Good shout though, I owned one, though it was ace! Cheers, Michael

[@trevorphillips3055]

@@bennettsbikesocial I thought he said inline 4 and I'm with him on that I to don't like the peaky nature.

[@Malco1805]

@@beanwithbaconmegarocket. Is it all about power? Surely torque is more important, unless you want to play with the gears all day. 160+ bhp might be good for the track, but do you need it for the road? My first thought was also a VFR800. I had a VFR750 years ago and i5 remains one of the best bikes I’ve ever owned.

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

@@Malco1805 The viffer is a very well-powered bike but it's no v-twin in that you still gotta keep it at 8 grand or so to stay in the best part of the torgue curve. I'm more thinking that if Honda is going to update it, they would need to get it within a shout of its main competitors (Ninja 1000SX and GSXS-1000 GT) in terms of power and features (like cruise control). While I loved my VFR and rode it on many 1000+ mile tripes and a few 3000+ trips, when I demo'd both those other bikes, I found both superior in almost every objective way. The VFR had a more enjoyable "character" but I can't really say it was better anywhere else.

[@nokneedownian8521]

Love this series .we all have our preconceived ideas of what we like but it just shows until you try it you just don't know

[@wilswood8137]

You can tour on any bike , it’s the correct clothing that’s important. We’ve toured all over Spain and camped everywhere throughout the uk I’m on a super duke 1290r and the mrs a Ducati scrambler Best part about touring on nakeds is , scratching and having fun on the twisting A/B roads . Kriega luggage and you can’t go wrong Just my thoughts Luke 😊👌👍🏼

[@BibtheBoulder]

Great video. For me it would be the Hayabusa.

[@statto371]

A great series, guys. Though I'm happy with my bike choice just now, I find these vids both informative and entertaining. Keep up the good work!

[@2e0bgb]

Very inspiring video, I enjoyed watching it.

[@erj145jet]

Luke was spot on with his own choice. SSS is better than all their choices (IMHO) and I hope he gets one. Just got back from Portugal on mine.

[@JAMMAJ-cq2bl]

Nice video. Great format😀👏👏

[@JAF41972]

Excellent series keep them coming 👌😁

[@chuckbassification]

I love these videos! Just interesting to watch for most of us, a lot more relative than a lot of the reviews etc. Keep them up!

[@juanrapido]

Great show. Keep it coming!

[@BUBBA1J]

Really like the series gents!!

[@jonnyrountree851]

Ok guys... I'm ready for another episode of what bike next. Very entertaining to watch. I need more! It would be cool to have you pick 3 bikes, because I have 3 bikes. Thank you. I'm hitting the subscribe button now!

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Now that would be a challenge! 'What Three Bikes Next?'! We're due to record the next one in a couple of weeks - press launches, BSB, and other events have caused a bit of a schedule clash. Thanks for the positive comment. Cheers, Michael

[@Pat14922]

Good vid , enjoyed it. Should have a link with an advanced training school. 1 or 2 days training would get him doing slow speed 360 's and back brake balance control, which would get him away from low bikes, which are often compromised. I guessed he was about 5 9 which isn't particularly short.

[@andreiaattard4579]

Love this show. Realy like how you are keeping it to used bikes

[@chrishart8548]

Surprised that old triumph 800 is still nearly £8k and the only one without LED headlights

[@markjones1672]

67. Recent test ride of GSX8R. Loved the Katan-esque looks, the brakes & the punch from the super grunty motor. Riding position bit weird with bars like a Venom - weird height & angled inwards - not nice, 4 me at least. Seat not uncomfortable - after only 30 mins. Suspension choppy, particularly front. Handling ok, but repeated circuit of 1st roundabout on 25yr old recently fettled CB500 for comparison - was faster & felt more stable / composed .The plastic is just for show (does nothing protection wise) & the dash is truly excellent but so low impossible to use without risking a tailender when cracking on. Quick shifter surprisingly good but unecessary - if you can't change f.....g gear on the clutch U should be in an EV (f.f.s.). Shame, but seems too expensive for what it offers......R7 droolworthy but arthritis kills that one. Triumph - beautiful but not @ 67. Honda - dull but effective (as always) - seems good value by comparison, so guess you nailed it there - congrats on good comprehensive feature & giving it some beans on camera!😊

[@andyhorton1472]

Love this series. Another great episode.

[@sussexbikerpillion]

So look forward to this 😅

[@Gorbyrev]

Tiger 800 is such a good choice. It can do everything well. It's my Goldilocks bike, sweet spot on every count.

[@michals1108]

That’s why seat height is so important to everyone and sometimes main factor when choosing

[@grantlingley1385]

Love these shows! Really fun and informative too!

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks, you’re very welcome. There’s maybe enough daylight and dry roads to get one more in this year. Cheers, Michael

[@JustWill22]

tracer 900 and tiger 800-900 came to mind when i started the vid, perfect all round machine

[@TheRtHonJimStiffOG]

Best episode yet.

[@stephenthomas1177]

I've had a Tracer 9 and its a fantastic bike sounds great handles like a dream, really don't know where he was coming from with his vague comment. Had a fireblade before the Tracer another great bike, but its the tracer for me every day of the week, loved it.

[@siraff4461]

He's describing an Aprilia Falco. What happened to all the sport-tourers? Yes there is the Ducati SS but that leans quite a bit toward the sports end everything else seems like its either a sportsbike, naked or an adv bike. Or an inline-4. It makes me think he might be as well off with a cruiser. Something like an Indian Scout or Triumph Bobber with a decent flyscreen. I wonder what kind of K1600 he could get with £8k?

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

Great series, guys. Keep it up!

[@theincrediblesulk5543]

Really love these, great content 👍

[@YK-fj5bj]

Another good episode 👏

[@stevedavies-pp7dp]

BMW R1200RS would have been my advice for him going from what he said he required

[@FFTVCrypto]

I need help choosing my second bike too, got a h2sx. My list is either an xdiavel, rocket 3, tuono v4 factory or s1000rr.

[@duncanorr5926]

I immediately went to s1000xr until he said no inline 4. That was a tough one

[@juliemcgillivray3394]

Love this show. Keep them coming! 😊

[@mbrunskill]

Love these videos, any news on what he's bought

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Not yet but I’ll give him a shout. We filmed this two weeks before it was published so I would think he might have narrowed his options or made a decision by now.

[@garethevans1751]

I would have gone for the supersport, beautiful and comfortable

[@weltsauerstoff]

Such a nice series wich relatable persons. :)

[@FreddyKings87]

Hope you guys are still working on it, waiting for the next episode.

[@lordgibbness]

Tracer 700 is also a good option. In my case I just turned my mt07 into a touring bike which has worked out really well...

[@richardhenderson2650]

One of you will pick the winner soon, then you can really start the one upmanship 😂 Biased here but street triple is indeed the way forward.

[@splitcher]

Tiger 660 Tracer 700 F900XR Small, fun engines, lots of practicality. Good luck on the hunt!

[@robthurling4092]

You are spot on, exactly the 3 bikes I would have suggested.

[@mrcintheuk4641]

I feel your pain when trying to choose a bike for someone else, or even for yourself. I've had quite a few test rides with the genuine intention of buying but they haven't been significantly better and many of them have been worse. I also have a height issue of only being 5'9" and I've been riding long enough to know I'm not going to buy a bike I can't flat foot. The one bike I really liked, when I looked up the insurance I could hear my bank manager laughing!

[@tracktime1196]

Another great episode well actually I think it was the best one to date I liked both of your selection and elimination process I also thought your final selection was very good and met the criteria but just goes to show that people really don't know what they want? maybe you both should pick out 2 bikes each 1 that meets the criteria and the other as a wild card then let them decide which one they want to test ride?

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks for that, I think making the mystery bike something a little more off-the-cuff might be the way forward. Cheers, Michael

[@jonathansandall3089]

@@bennettsbikesocial good idea - it’s not really a ‘mystery’ if it’s similar to first two picks

[@bella_testastretta]

I would definitely recommend a street triple r with that budget!

[@ricarquitectura4857]

Another great episode. A better episode would be one where a guest can actually make up his/her mind, because there have great suggestions.