How To Buy Your First Bike | ThisConnect S02E06 |

[@motorinc]

*Explore MotorInc memberships at* youtube.com/@motorinc/join *Chapters* 00:00 Love Is Blind 01:31 Not Enough Choice 03:56 Too Much Choice 04:16 Buy By Yourself 06:33 Design & Appeal 08:33 Start Anywhere 13:20 Great Starter Bikes 15:20 Make a Plan 16:53 Convince Your Parents 18:39 Scooters vs Motorcycles 21:23 On Your Own 24:47 Budgets & Mistakes 26:06 Obvious Red Flags 30:10 What Kind Of Bike 31:33 Double The Power 35:17 Not a Great Challenge 36:40 Scooters Are Awesome 38:00 Commuters Are Awesome 41:00 Steps Are Important 46:11 Look For Confidence 49:04 Expect To Crash 50:15 Reduce Distractions 52:04 Bikes Are Complex 52:52 Starter Riding Gear 54:35 Crash Guards 56:02 Be Consumed 56:50 Ride More 57:30 Your Advice 57:44 Electrics? 58:25 Buy Used? 59:16 Your Experience 59:52 Closing Comments

[@kartikeyakhatri]

Already purchased 2 bikes in the last 3 years, but I am still going to watch this because I know that I will learn something new.

[@motorinc]

What did you think of the episode @kartikeyakhatri? And thanks for joining us today!

[@joesimamura223]

cb300f with zana bar raiser is the choice i made. could not be happier. u got power, u got mileage. pls test ride cb300f and then love it ty

[@kartikeyakhatri]

@@motorinc Completely agreed with all the points, and highly relatable with both Kartikeya and Shumi sir on convincing the parents and brining a gradual mindset change. My parents were also anti-motorcycles and didn’t like at first that I wanted to get a bike, but it became a little bit easy for me to persuade them because I had been following all the traffic rules and maintaining the speed limits while driving a car. I want to share my story of buying my first bike - After settling in my job for about an year, I planned to purchase my bike in 2021 and I started looking for options. Any my naive thinking was looking at a very wide range of motorcycles ranging from Apache 160 4V to 650 twins (for once I also had Ninja 650 on my mind 😂). I was very confused on how much power to go for in a first bike and what type of bike should I buy. One day I was inclining towards full fairing bikes such as R15 and KTM RCs, and on the other day I was fascinated by street naked bikes. Luckily one of my friends who had great knowledge about all these things cleared all my confusions and helped me understand that 20-25 bhp is more than enough for a first bike and that working on your skills is of utmost importance. And so I went ahead and purchased TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, and I won’t regret that decision ever. As for the riding gears, the same friend told me about ECE 22.05 helmet rating and also advised me to get a good pair of gloves and a riding jacket. And so I invested in an Axor helmet, and I bought gloves and riding jacket from Rynox. And as I came near that 2-2.5 year mark last year, I felt that I can go for an upgrade to about 40-45 bhp and so I went for Continental GT 650. I am going to say that the ‘2X power after 3 years’ rule is an amazing rule of thumb to go with and continuously improving on riding skills. I also upgraded to Viaterra full gauntlet gloves, Tripmachine riding boots and an RE denim jacket (with CE2 level protectors). It feels incomplete and weird whenever I am unable to wear any of the 3 things while riding my bike. I feel protected and safe. I aspire to own a Hayabusa one day like Kartikeya sir, but don’t want to do it in a hurry and be irresponsible. Will gradually work towards it🤞🏼 Thanks for this podcast! Kudos to the entire Motorinc team for creating such amazing content. Just one request - if possible please make a separate ThisConnect podcast on motorcycle safety.

[@bapuly1836]

Spoke my mind.

[@altamashghayas9421]

​@@joesimamura223 owning cb300F for over a year what an amazing bike❤

[@vishakhsanthpal3604]

One Thing I Learned From My First Ever Bike Which Was A Passion Pro , Give By My Uncle , Any Bike Feels Fast If The Speedo Dosent Work (The Neighbor Who Let Shumi Ride His Bike Is A Awesome Dude )

[@motorinc]

🙏🏾

[@amritanshu.mittal]

I bought a Honda CB 350 RS as my first bike after waiting and saving for years. My heart was always on the RE 650 twins, but budget didn’t allow and I couldn’t wait more without a motorcycle. And honestly, the experience with the CB didn’t turned out as I wished for. Faced wobble issues, vibration issues, and also ended up in a crash (Typing with a peeled off skin, God, please don’t skip riding gears). Today I might not be very satisfied with it but I know exactly what I want as my next bike. One of the major realizations for me was that if performance is your priority, always find something that gives you the confidence to push; this means great front end feel and stable chassis. You don’t want a 25-40 bhp bike but are scared to push it. I also know that I want a twin cylinder because engine smoothness and lack of vibrations is something I really really enjoy. Also, I like revving a motorcycle but single cylinders somehow just doesn’t feel comfortable sitting there. So yeah. As much as we romanticize the idea of a first bike, I feel the second bike you are going to own is probably going to be one for the most memorable.

[@motorinc]

All the best for it! And get well soon!

[@invoker_tm7556]

Yup they say mt15 doesnt have vibration i felt it doesnt push over 115 in my case isnt comfortable in terms of seat rest i did a ride of 270km non stop but the handling and braking is top notch and it gave me a proper idea what i really need in future Something with 40+ bhp with refined engine adventure tourer Wont sell the mt though

[@MadhuSudhanpro]

Hi Motorinc Started with my father's Hero honda Joy. Then to Honda Stunner 125. Always had my eye on KTM 390 but life got in the way. Finally after a decade of riding stunner finally upgraded to Triumph scrambler 400x. Loving every minute of it. And it has bought back the joy of riding for me

[@nimishdevnani3891]

I bought my first bike, a Pulsar N160 in November 2021. I bought it because at the time, the N160 was the only bike to offer dual channel ABS in its class, so convincing my parents for this particular bike also became much easier. Since it was early in the production run, my bike had a few niggles (still does), but I think I love it more because of them. I bought it in my first year as a medical student, and it has done its job perfectly. From going to college and then to hospital, to weekend trips in and out of my beautiful city Udaipur, it’s done more than I could’ve ever asked for. By the way, superb video guys, loved every second of the conversation. Thank you for putting out such great quality content day in day out.

[@motorinc]

Thanks so much Nimish! And glad to know the N160 has your love!

[@piyush..]

Do you think Davidputra 2000 is a bit too powerful? The red variant look good

[@hrishikeshparab1236]

😂😂

[@kshitijpandey6514]

Haan kuch zyada ghodon ki shakti hai usme 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@kshitijpandey6514]

Haan bhai usme bohot ghodon ki shakti hai😂😂😂😂

[@confused.cat.]

Better begin on Oggy's pink scooter

[@abhisheka2305]

The top speed is like 3000+ that's just crazy, hayabusa could never

[@Jeru_on_the_road]

This is my Zen place to be, every episode has so much information. Thank you so much.

[@motorinc]

So nice of you @Jeru_on_the_road, thanks for joining us.

[@ashfaksiddiq1086]

THIS PODCAST WAS MUCH NEEDED FOR ME. First of all, not a podcast enthusiast. Have low attention span(thank you social media).I actually thought twice of watching this when i saw the 1 hour timestamp. But just saw because of the title. Been riding my dad’s 2015 hero glamour for the past 5 years. Actually got this as a result of asking my parents for my sub-500 cc dream motorcycle - the RE Himalayan (when i was 17). Was not happy at the time with this, but had to settle for it anyway. Later spent my whole college life on the same, while my friends had larger motorcycles than mine in terms of cc, size or anything you can ask for. And now after few months after getting a job, last week I booked a scram 411 (the least i could get to a new LS410 Himalayan), I can now understand how much I’ve actually enjoyed riding the glamour. Even though it was a pain in the ass both metaphorically and literally, the moments I’ve spent with it, man it feels great to even think about it. Have fallen off it many times. It was a kind of shit box while riding it to the max(which obviously isn’t the way it was meant to be ridden), I’ve learned a lot from it. Once tried changing the engine oil, over tightened the bolt and broke it threads, and many more I can’t even remember of, it taught me well. Just today I stripped it down and cleaned it whole from the inside to the outside, and afterwards had a bolt left, not knowing where I took it from. Man this bike gave me a lot and still it’s ❤. Thought of getting rid of this, but later thought I might not get anything like this ever, thus dropped the idea. While going for the scram, I tested out all the sub 500cc single cylinder adv tourers, and scramblers, but I couldn’t get the feel Himalayan 411 gave me the first time I rode it back in my college days. Indeed the ktms, triumph scrambler and him450 were great, but the smile I had on my face while I took a test ride on the scram was the one I was looking for. It’s not as torqy or powerful as the above, have a hell lot of problems that I’m aware of, but still, what do I say, I keep falling for it. Well thank you guys for the podcast and most of all, thank you my dear parents for this 125cc shit box taught me what kind of a person I am.

[@motorinc]

Thank you for joining us @ashfaksiddiq1086

[@chandrakumarsundaram1227]

My first bike was Shine 125 SP bought by my dad. Trust me when I say this I’ve pushed the bike to the limits. Travelled 450kms in a day covering city and highway roads with a pillion cruising at 95-100Kmph. I’ve learnt a lot and looking forward to upgrading to a 400CC after 6 years with it. Still thinking of keeping the shine in the family for the Honda engine and it being close to my heart. Yet another great podcast! ❤

[@hmm9962]

The SP is about to be my first bike now ♥️ can't wait

[@chandrakumarsundaram1227]

@@hmm9962 congrats brother!

[@mickeymridul]

Just bought my first bike - Triumph Scrambler 400x :) Will be getting in next couple of days!

[@motorinc]

Congratulations!

[@mukesh.b]

After listening to these 2 gentlemen, I realised, that's exactly how my rides evolved and how much I enjoyed the process it. It started with a Kinetic Luna when I was a teenager then a Bajaj Super Scooter (one with left side mounted engine) when I started working than a TVS Sport to Pulsar 180 and now the Apache RR310. Almost clicked 32K plus kms on the RR in 20 months and plan to use this for 20-30K more kms in next couple of years and than upgrade to a 650. Feels like I'm on the right path, all thanks to you two.

[@aakashkamuni7386]

I hope Motoronic gets how much this podcast is/will be appreciated. The insights are for all age groups, teens to 50s. Really good podcast.

[@motorinc]

Thank you Aakash.

[@ashrayhebbar5885]

My first bike was a Duke 125. In the 4-5 years that I had it, it taught me so many things like proper gear shifting, staying in the powerband, maximising corner speeds to keep up with faster guys etc. that I could not have learnt if I had gotten a powerful bike right away. As you pointed out it's so important to move through the ranks rather than aiming for a very powerful 1st bike

[@ytb.sanjay]

i would like to add one more point, i got a dominar 400 in 2017 as my first bike, its cheaper spares helped me fiddle with it myself. i learnt to change my brake pads, engine oil, air filters, brake fluids and bleeding the brakes. recently i even cleaned the throttle body, changed the spark plugs. Recently i cleaned my ABS module as it got clogged over time, bajaj's cheaper spares helped me make mistakes and learn, IT ALSO MADE WAY FOR A WAY MORE ENJOYABLE WEEKENDS

[@shaunandrew9325]

Had wanted an mt15 ever since I first saw it. Was finally able to have it, been riding it for three months now. Every commute to work now is the best part of the day.

[@kirathekillernote2173]

51:45 That is unfortunately not true. I've lost count of how many times I've seen guys riding their splendor while watching IPL on their mobile in the phoneholder, or sometimes even in their hands!

[@motorinc]

😑

[@RandomGuy-rz1kq]

the thing about buying your vehicle with your own money is so true. i know how much boring work i had to suffer through to get that machine.. and as a result i feel like i value my motorcycles/cars way more than my friends do.. who got the money from somewhere else.

[@motorinc]

Awesome!

[@atharvalandge1268]

I’m a college student and have borrowed a family friend’s 2014 Classic 350 (not the ideal first bike 😅). Learning it without ever having ridden a 2 wheeler before was a challenge, as the Classic is an intimidating machine at first. But after almost 3 months, I can enjoy that UCE “thump” without being nervous🥳

[@motorinc]

Alrighty, starting with a bang eh @atharvalandge1268!

[@REYFERNZ]

Brothas! I finally got my first bike ! Its a thunderbird 350, its comfortable and its just awesome, finally starting my riding days lol! No more watching bike videos anymore ( lol i will come back to this channel tho haha ). Thanks for all the information you've been giving us from so many years haha !

[@motorinc]

Wonderful @REYFERNZ! Have an awesome time with the Thunderbird!!

[@prithvirajsingh281]

This is probably the best time that you guys have dropped this podcast i am in the process of learning/buying my first motorcycle, very informative thanks a lot 🙏

[@motorinc]

Great to hear that @prithvirajsingh! Please let us know if you have any more questions too.

[@Infernosj1]

Such an insightful conversation this has been. I remember my first bike being a Honda Dio and then I upgraded to an R15 as my first motorcycle during college days. Such a joyful experience it was and then I switched to a Classic 350, which was a totally different experience, each motorcycle has its way of providing entertainment.

[@pega333]

Bought a 2012 ns200 bs3 in 2023 and i am absolutely loving it. Modifying it more and more as i ride it. Done almost 20k kms in 9 months.

[@motorinc]

Great to hear that @pega333! Thanks for sharing.

[@sharmaaashutosh]

I got into motorcycles rather recently (< 3 years) and into touring (< 1 year). My dad's old RE that I currently ride made me realize that i cannot go faster because its brakes wont be able to handle it, so I have started saving up for a new machine which would be my first. Thanks a lot for the started guide!! I wish I could have access to track schools like Shumi regularly mentions so that I can learn new stuff from the more experienced riders, for now though, your channel acts as my gospel. If you can do some content including demonstrations about actual riding and its technical aspects, that would be really helpful! Great job Shumi, Kartikeya, and team MotorInc!!

[@motorinc]

Thanks SA! All the best. You can make it happen. Just takes time.

[@omcarrides]

First of all, there is Motorinc logo on Shumi’s watch😆 Great touch to details! One point stuck with me which Shumi made is dont be afraid to fall of when you start your riding career. It allows you to process it and it wont be a shock to your system anymore. I have been riding my 25 bhp machine since 2 and half year, and had dad’s Honda Shine 125 for almost 4 years before that on which I learned. I never had a fall or a crash till date (just one fall where forgot to put side stand, Shumi can feel this one😂). The confidence is always there from riding these many years, but the fear of crashing or falling of is more compared to others who have had these incidents while learning. Not sure the solution here is to fall purposely once, whats your take on this guys?

[@motorinc]

Hi @omcarrides, thank you for watching. As for your question, we don't think that "fear" is something that you get over once you've had a fall. It will and should continue to persist in our opinion because that will make you be conscious and intent with your every single move. Remembering that is always better than not.

[@dishanroy2470]

My first 2 wheeler is a TVS Ntorq...and I have been riding it for a year and it has been amazing for me. I had one accident during that period and now I am planning on upgrading to a Duke 200 or a Duke 250.

[@karun_vv7190]

My big brother who is more into cars but he is the one who got me into bikes. He said don't worry about speed till you have 600cc. Just focus on developing good skills and reaction time and forget how fast you can go because the most difficult thing is how slow you can ride a bike. That was the start of my journey into bikes.

[@motorinc]

Big bro is awesome!

[@kumarraj2012]

I so vividly remember my first motorcycle (I bought it with my own money). It was Avenger 220.. And my gosh, it messed up my whole expectation from motorcycles. That didn’t have a kick start and it used to die all the time. I had taken help from almost everyone I knew back then to help me push start it. It was so much embarrassing that it kept me away from motorcycles for more than a decade. I recently bought my 2nd motorcycle, a scrambler 400X and now I realised all the fun I missed all these years..! First motorcycle is always interesting..! ❤

[@motorinc]

Indeed @kumarraj2012!

[@shantanu4423]

I got the Honda Hornet 160R back in 2017 and the basis for that was nothing i had never ridden it before in my life i just looked at it i was like this is what I wanted and my father was even willing to get me the Honda CBR 250, but my heart was set on the Hornet and i have never been more satisfied as a customer because that thing has had 0 issues in my 7 years of riding it and i have learnt so much. So if you're someone looking for your first bike then go with what your heart tells you (if your budget or parents allow you to). You'll have a fantastic experience regardless of the manufacturer because as shumi said it's really difficult to have a lemon bike these days.

[@karansgill]

damn true always go step by step, 1st was active then spelndor than passion pro to classic 350 and since last month shotgun 650 finally a 46 bhp, damn I'm enjoying it more than super meteor super fun in city and highway 130 easy cruise , planning to take it to ladakh after 2 months. removed rear seat ,footpeg,saree guard and everything enjoyed it. going for 1st service tomorrow and doing the double seat now for new experience.

[@baldandbiker]

Don’t go for used especially more than 1-2 years for your first bike. You’ll be seen more at service centre and less on road. My personal experience. Upgraded from 15 to 30bhp and learning a lot.

[@anandyoganandam9386]

I could relate and affirm almost all things said here , my family was also anti -bike family it took me almost 2 years to get me one , thanks to the friends who gave me a bike to ride and constantly pushing me to get a one. 1. First one was Dio's easy choice of family scooter , I fell 2,3 times and did some medium tours and enjoyed a lot in college days. 2. After I got a job I saved a good amount of money and with the help of my parents support bought a R15 v3 , life can't be better than that enjoyed every bit of it., rode 27 k in 3 years learned a bit of cornering control and loved the rev matching downshifts. 3. Very confused about whether I couldn't find anything that matches the R15 standards for me , I saw the Shumis pod cast of bikes and went for a risk and bought a ktm adv 250. even though I was confused till the purchase ( personally I didn't liked ktm's for long time). Now I love that engine and it revs moreover it opened very new opportunities to explore.

[@ankuradak8963]

I have learned a lot of mechanical things after buying a 2nd hand bike and I am enjoying it

[@motorinc]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing @ankuradak8963.

[@motorinc]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing @ankuradrak8963.

[@sebastianpanattil]

I totally agree with Shumi's viewpoint on buying one's first bike with one's own money. It is an immensely gratifying experience. Also, on a side note, what would your advice be for someone who has only ridden a single motorcycle (Bullet Uce 350) all his life (13 years of riding, 1.5 lakh kilometres) and is considering a new one.

[@ratkutti]

Got Hunk from mom's money and paid it off to her, this after stealing dad's CD100 from time to time. Then got RTR 200 after 2 years. Learnt everything I need with Hunk, including crahses and broken bones. Having a good time with RTR 200, such a good machine. I wish more get to experience the joy that is RTR 200. I wish people get to enjoy bikes whichever they choose. Your talks are always amazing, the only motoring channel I care of.

[@motorinc]

Thank you for sharing @ratkutti! And for joining us.

[@AswathReacher]

Just in time! I'm going to book my first ever bike Himalayan 450 next month & this video gave me a lot of insights & ideas !!!!! Thankkkk youuuuuu

[@motorinc]

All the best Aswath!

[@mohakmankad689]

"My agenda is very clear! I'd rather see you ride!" Shumi and MotorInc summed up in two lines the best way! Lovely episode, gents!

[@motorinc]

Thank you for joining us @mohakmankad689!

[@ishitsompura]

My first bike is a Platina, been with me since 2016. I love the clutch travel and the puny engine which runs out of powerband at 65kmph 😂 Taught me a few things about maintenance, easy on the pocket and you can still gun it on the corners and as the rear suspensions starts bouncing, you'll crap yourself while being safe 😂😂😂 After the podcast on tyres, I switched to Michelin Sirac and BOY IS IT A DIFFERENT BIKE NOW?!!! Meaning: Just get a small bike as your first, fall in love with the good parts, understand the band parts and then plan your next purchase, accordingly. Cheers!

[@rizwanahmedboxer]

Shumi never disappoints there is always something to learn been riding for more than 14 years and had couple of accidents and never thought of quitting riding and after boxing riding motorcycles are my best therapy ❤ Keep making these amazing informative videos we are loving it❤

[@motorinc]

Thanks RAB! Happy to hear that!

[@chinmaymadavi8719]

The part about starting\learning on a lower displacement engine and steadily upgrading is so true. Ever since i turned 18 I've been riding an Activa 125 and CB Shine 125. For some reason I used to be scared to ride anything above 125-150cc. one day, in an emergency situation i had to ride my friend's hunter 350. since that day my view of bikes with higher displacement completely changed. That fear turned into love for riding...almost an obsession. leave the thought "will i be able to handle it" aside, i was enjoying the whole experience right from the first moment i turned the throttle. those 5 years of riding those 2 vehicles taught me so much. Today I'm 24 and crazy about Aprilia RS 457. I don't own a higher displacement bike but I'm saving up to buy a rs457 and one day hopefully will buy a 1000cc bike enjoying the full spectrum of different displacements.

[@motorinc]

All the best! Thanks for sharing that with us!

[@surajshanbhag]

Just brilliant as usual. The first time i went to get a bike with my parents I had just turned 18 and i sat on the pulsar and said i am going to zip through everywhere with this and that was it. We walked out of the showroom without the bike and couldn't convince my parents to get one till i was 22, which is when i bought one with my first salary (the Yamaha Fazer 150! back in 2012). Rode it for a good 5 years and then moved out of the country and when i came back last year, i was ready for a slightly bigger bike. but still decided to get the Apache 200 4v and after a week on it, just started hating it. Just couldn't get the confidence with the breaks. So 3 months later and at a loss of 50k decided to "upgrade" to a KTM Duke 250. The lesson from this whole experience, I wasn't mature enough at 18 to be on the motorcycle and my parents saw that, but because of that experience, i grew to experience more pleasure when i finally got my first 2-wheeler, and stay on it for longer. The take-away for me from this episode "Confident riders always make better riders" and the confidence comes from being able to zone out of everything else when you are on the saddle.

[@motorinc]

Excellent! 👍🏽

[@ykarthickeyan]

Agree with Shumi on the Gladiator. I still own one for past 10 years and everytime i ride it in the city after riding my Vstorm SX, feels refreshing and fun and light weight. And my wife also enjoys the gladiator as a pillion.

[@sreeR86]

The Gladiator is a simple bike to ride in the city. For me ybx the first 4 stroke from Yamaha was much simpler and lighter.

[@johnjeferson5818]

Hello shumi and kartikeya thanks for this weeks podcast. 1 piece of advice to the young guns who want to go for a classic or retro looking motor cycle. Don't do it guys they are lot more expensive to maintain and a lot more effort to maintain them in pristine condition due to the use of metal parts. They are generally torque driven 350 in this segment which I would suggest you to avoid. Go for a more modern machine as it will give you a slight edge in fuel economy maintenance and ease of cleaning ( yes this is an important factor if you want your bike to be cleaner comparatively ), also with cheaper spares, better mid range and top end, easy of riding and a better handling in city because of lower weight.

[@motorinc]

We'd suggest that getting their expectations in place instead @johnjeferson5818. If you want to buy a retro motorcycle, know what you're in for which includes all the things that you mentioned. But some people might be okay with all of that so, just knowing what comes with getting one instead of outright avoiding a segment completely would be our advice.

[@RaybanNunes]

Hi , Totally agree about convincing the parents,due to personal issues it took a long time to convince my mother that i am responsible enough for 2 wheels at-last at the age of 30 ! i got my first Bike a Scram 411,Thanks to Motor Inc and few other people who helped in that decision ! its been 10 months since i am riding and I have fallen,scarped my bike numerous times in start few months but having seen Shumi sirs shorts long back about you will fall on a bike ...kept me from being scared from my RE,and as they mentioned , full attention is such an important topic and i am remind about it scaringly at few occasions ....and also times when i am locked in full attention and let the bike zoom on an empty stretch or get to do some off-reading it remind me why i chose this bike and it gets me so much happiness that its almost rewarding !

[@motorinc]

Awesome! Glad you worked it out and are enjoying your riding @RaybanNunes

[@dhawalshah9580]

My first motorcycle was and is currently honda CB350 I bought it with out a test ride For me the looks and brand reliability was enough Happy to say i am very satisfied with my purchace

[@motorinc]

Thanks for sharing @dhawalshah9580! Glad to hear that you're having a good time.

[@rigilroy]

When I had to buy a bike myself I was so confused watching all the videos, Then I made a list of things I want in a bike and scored them. One was an Apache (my neighbors was selling), then FZ (Liked the look of it) and then Gixxer (friend's bike in college). After scoring, the FZ was leading but I bought the Gixxer because, all those time I rode my friend's bike in college I still remember them. I connected so well with the bike and knew I would love it. Bought a second-hand Gixxer with my parents help, but I saved money for my Gears, maintenance and tires. Was it the best option? No. Do I regret it? No

[@karun_vv7190]

Sunday morning, cleaning my gear, cleaning my clothes and listening to your Podcast = perfect way to start my Sunday.

[@motorinc]

Hullo Karun!

[@karun_vv7190]

@@motorinc Hello Motoric team, have a nice Sunday everyone.

[@kshitijpandey6514]

Damn what a timing for the video I am just completing 2000km on my 450 apex in about 3 months Not only have just learnt riding on it but I also am shocked by the capability of that scooter Slowly but surely i would love to extract its performance cuz i am relatively new and slightly terrified that i wont be able to control the vehicle at that speed I am terrified of the fact that i hope magic twist doesnt become my default and expect ICE engines to slow down by rotating the throttle in the other direction 😅😅 Hopefully will move up the ladder in coming years

[@motorinc]

Judy yerfoed?

[@kshitijpandey6514]

​​​​​@@motorincI meant terrified some issues with my autocorrect as it wasn't engaging when I was typing the original comment 😅😅 My bad

[@justdebroy1839]

Damn man what a video. I just got a job. I am 23 years old trying to buy my first bike. Totally confused with what to start with. But damn what you guys said man that made it very clear. I was thinking of buying the pulsar N250 but was confused with other stuffs. But as you said to buy something that you know you can handle and will give you confidence, I am sure that I will be able to do so that in n250 in a more pleasant way and for a new rider I will be able to learn more with that and the money saved can be invested in the gwars. I love you guys. ❤ Thanks for sorting me out.

[@motorinc]

All the best! And thank you!

[@socialsidedits4055]

Your podcasts are simply the best. Everytime i learn something new from the industry pioneers ❤

[@motorinc]

Thanks for joining us @socialsideedits4055!

[@viniii59]

What an insightful discussion ! Hero puch 2g - m80 - Honda dio - Rx 100 - thunderbird - himalayan - Vstrom 800 de … 22 years !! Can totally relate to this 😄

[@motorinc]

Thank you for joining us @viniiii59.

[@milindpradeep8874]

My advice would be to learn to have fun with whatever machine you buy, the smiles per gallon is a very important metric. My first scooter was a hand me down kinetic Honda and my first bike was a hand me down LML Beamer. And six two wheelers later, I still have fun hoping on either of these two vehicles. I hope I’m fortunate enough to keep these two in my stable forever, cause personally they’re truly a hoot and a half.

[@motorinc]

Lovely!

[@abhishekchaturvedi7959]

I think an aspect ijitially is also to have someone get one familiarised with the machine and its characteristics. For example i own a bullet and was soo worried about each sound until i realised that each bike is unique and has a characteristics... not all is broken and you are fine.

[@motorinc]

True @abhishekchaturvedi7959. Specifically for first time buyers, this can be an issue for sure. Thanks for sharing!

[@jaswanths4326]

I started on a FZ, Now Bought myself a Vitpilen 250 (2023) with my own money. Eying on the ZX6R next. Amazing years ahead.

[@motorinc]

All the best!

[@RecluseRider]

Yet another excellent podcast!! There is one question I would have asked Shumi (although I probably know how he'd have answered it). When it comes to learning curve, would it make sense to upgrade from a 10-15bhp motorcycle to a 45-47 bhp motorcycle that comes with different riding modes. So once one gets comfortable in a low-power mode, they can gradually switch to a high-power one.

[@yashinhussain2557]

They say to follow your heart. le me who is 5.3' 60 kg, bought a parallel twin 650 which weighs around 218kg.... So much for following your heart.

[@motorinc]

As long as you have learned to manage the weight and the power @yashinhussain2557, it's all good! Safe travels.😄

[@rahulms2896]

First bike with scholarship money - used Honda unicorn 2005 model.. loved it and did a lot of touring and clocked many kms in it Next bike with partial salary - Used BS 4 Suzuki Gixxer 155. Loved the engine and it's performance and waiting for an upgrade. But as said, with my own money and thats definitely waiting for a BHP wise upgrade. Heartly ready for the Adventure 390 but mind wise wanting for a dominar 400. Lots running in mind for an upgrade. I've been following this duo from 2016 when i started long distance biking and its such a sync. Came to know about riding gears back in the day and now touring with the Gixxer supported with almost all required riding gears and counting. Loved the discussion and this will be useful the day I get that actual first new bike.

[@anuvabsaha5317]

The craving to go back to the basics, even after riding a wide spectrum of 2 wheelers from 100cc to 650cc, is just unavoidable. This_connect brought back memories of my 1st times. 1st time riding, 1st time highway, 1st time fall. Very valuable video. I really want this to be forwarded to every 2 wheeler enthusists who are starting out their journey.

[@motorinc]

Thank you for joining us @anuvabsaha5317!

[@Soulmaster4]

Because speed 400 does not have crazy top end ,would it be a good first bike coming from a pulsar 180 and more experience on a hero duet!? Cause I just absolutely love the speed! Listening to shumi, that's what my heart says❤

[@s.prabhdeepsingh]

i now always pick something to munch on and enjoy the THISCONNECT episodes bcz they are really engaging and better than watching movies… But i have a question … Q:- i am a little heavy (92kg) at 5.8 height so will i ever face difficulty in motorcycling or should i be serious on my weight loss..?

[@motorinc]

You should do the weight loss for your health. The motorcycling will get better as you are lighter and fitter. But, you aren't at the point where it will stop you from having fun.

[@ShubhamSingh-xt1jo]

1st- My dad's splendor+ at the age of 14 2nd- Platina 125 ( again my dad's ) 3rd - I bought my own shine and been riding it for 4 years. And never has it failed me. Now i am thinking about buying harley 440.

[@Oni_Chan003]

I personally am a retro lover, a cafe racer. Like the discontinued triumph Thruxton, or The BMW r9t (again discontinued) , yet to make my first bike purchase, got an access 125 only. Let's see where i go🥸

[@motorinc]

Good luck @Oni_Chan003! Access 125 sounds like a great start.

[@prempunjabi13]

This podcast was Nostalgia on full throttle!!! I got my fist realbscooter 2 months to when I turned 16, It was a bajaj Chetak 4stroke. I took that bull to school. My friends were 😮 ... Then upgraded to an automatic scooter Bajaj Sapphire, great design, pathetic engine. Then upgraded to the first bike, the Kawasaki Bajaj Boxer. It have a mileage of 80-85 kmpl and I regret it not appreciating it in the day. Then finally in last year of college Upgraded the Hero Honda CBZ for the same reason as Kartikey, good looks good looks and good looks. I rode it for 13 years. Got married in that period, had my daughter and finally now settled on a Suzuki access 125 as a family man. Just a week before I rode my B-I-Law's RE Classic 350, and my hormones travel through a time machine for the next 20 mins. Something just sparked in me. I think I should get a bike now, it's Time.....

[@motorinc]

PP! Loved reading that! Thank you!

[@TheIconicSailor]

I bought ronin as my first bike 9 months ago and quickly realized that i like more sporty motorcycles... Honestly kinda sucks cuz I got quickly bored of it, but i am also glad that i am more informed about what kind of bike I like and what I want to do with it! Learning from mistakes😅 Edit: I just finished the video and i wanted to add something. Instead of complaining rn i will try to ride it more and improve my skills as a rider and getting this as a furst bike is honestly a big deal so i will try to savour it more by riding more and going longer distances cuz i like to tour (and for that ronin can be a good bike)... What bugs me is that i have become increasingly reliant on information on the internet instead of actually going out there and learning... I will take steps towards changing that too! Thank you so much for the amazing podcast!!!

[@motorinc]

Thank you for joining us @neerajkonyala. All the best!

[@DebarunGupta]

My first bike is a Jawa 😂 I got it from my brother at a "family discount" so I never complained. What Shumi said about Jawas are absolutely correct, but luckily for me, I found a very good third-party mechanic who knows how to take care of Jawas. My experience with the bike since then has improved tenfold!

[@motorinc]

God bless the great mechs!

[@raviishankarrptekumalla]

Great video. Brings back memories of my first 2 wheeler. It was the Hero Puch. It was a wonderful feeling riding it. Thanks for making meaningful videos.

[@motorinc]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for joining us @raviishankarrptekumalla!

[@jeeturajpoot9034]

The silence before the way Kartik said "I hate surprises"😂😂 that was damn funny. Great episode, every episode makes me a better rider and a better human being, grateful for that! Thanks Guys!🙌

[@motorinc]

:-) Thanks J!

[@Jersy_no_25]

My dad bought me first bike. Honda Dream Yuga. My only expectation was that it should ride better than Splendor. Trust me guys It is a brilliant bike still using daily with more than 1.1 L + kms. ❤

[@PlainIgnorance]

Thanks for the 'power doesn't matter'. My first way a 40hp Dominanr 5yrs ago and while I'm looking for 'change' not 'update', I'm also not hurrying to part ways with it. Maybe the new ktm 390? Idk.

[@yogeshpilankar]

Superb talk, completely agree on 3 years formula :) I have reached a stage where I enjoy smaller bikes than powerful bikes, I bought an Aerox as my single bike for Everything :D My suggestion for great first bike will be: Honda Shine 125/Unicorn & Yamaha MT15. I would not suggest any higher CC bikes to new riders, instead as Shumi suggested invest in good gear. Both are very reliable, hassle free service experience. Both are capable of concurring India's length and breadth in their own capacity, considering entire nation's road & climatic conditions. Good fuel economy, almost no engine heating, light weight. Bad roads, off roads, no roads, no problem. Easy to fix anywhere in country. Easy to transport anywhere in country. In 2014, I had been to Ladakh ride and our group had two 125cc's. Shine and Victor GL. Trust me, both outperformed rest of Royal Enfield's in every scenario, every road conditions. Last month, I covered Goa to Mumbai on my Yamaha Aerox. This 155cc engine is a GEM. Also I noticed lot of common people commute from Raigad district to Mumbai and they use normal bikes like Unicorn, Shine, Pulsar, Passion, Splendour's, etc. It took me back to my old days when I use to cover Konkan region on my 2008 Unicorn, it was epic. I don't think new riders should purchase RE's, KTM's as a FIRST bike, do not fall for marketing (specially RE), stick to Japanese or TVS or Bajaj.

[@motorinc]

Thank you for the well thought-out... well, thoughts @yogeshpilankar 😅

[@AnilYadav-rn2pe]

What a conversation tottally loved it watching this kind of content for the first time ❤❤

[@motorinc]

Glad to hear that @AnilYadav-rn2pe, thank you for joining us.

[@mihirchitnis905]

Can you guys do a segment in the future on racing/track schools for beginner riders especially in Tier 1 cities like Mumbai, Pune, Delhi etc in India. Like which are the best schools for those ? how much do they cost ? course duration ? do they have any simulators to practice turns while leaning etc.

[@motorinc]

Noted!

[@gurmukhsingh2134]

Man I wish I had found something like this podcast when i was buying my first bike

[@kalpanaarora7214]

37:04 Any brake upgrades suggestions for the Access 125? Mine have stock drum brakes but they aren't that effective when I have a pillion on the back and speed 60 or 70+

[@abijithla5865]

I got the Speed 400 as my first bike. I rode my brother’s R15 when I was younger, that bike felt like a whole another level. After watching this video, I’m not sure if my next bike should be a 80bhp bike or maybe I should get an R15 just for heck of it. I really want to go the track with that machine. Great video as always guys! 💙

[@motorinc]

If it is track that you seek @abijithla5865, you just need A bike for that (and gear of course!). So, take your Speed 400 and spend the money on school instead would be our suggestion.

[@abijithla5865]

@@motorinc Thanks for the reply guys! Appreciate it. If you could, please talk about how one can get into track riding: schools, gear, etc. I couldn’t find much resources from my initial research (except one of Shumi’s interview by Pradeep on Wheels).

[@motorinc]

Here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYWukomGad-ais0feature=shared

[@PlainIgnorance]

Bought a Dominant 400 5years ago because of relocating to a place without public transport. I've loved the bike, and only learnt in last 2 yrs that my bike is far from perfect. Does that affect my experience? No. Did I have issues handling it's weight that motivated me to go to gym? Yes. I've seen that's a bike motor inc lives to hate but going on a straight highway is it's thing, and loved commuting with it...

[@motorinc]

Glad to hear that you're having a good time @PlainIgnorance. Thank you for sharing!

[@fynali]

31:55 "...not an invaluable change?" ...that's slightly confusing if one doesn't misunderstand the word, 'invaluable'. 😊

[@amolgarg3358]

I would like you to make an episode/short video on your own driving mistakes so people can understand where you are coming from better and inculcate the changes that need to be made. Often enough, when you talk about skilled driving (or lack thereof), it can come across as arrogant or taking the high ground of being skilled yourself so as to pity others. Facilitating learning through the mistakes of others as opposed to lectures that seem preachy makes a big impact.

[@motorinc]

Thanks for the feedback Amol!

[@Devarajan1986]

Great Podcast. You guys are on a roll…Hope someone had did this 15years ago so that I had less injuries to worry about. I had Yamaha FZ first gen as my fist bike and Pulsar NS200. I like my FZ 150 cc, but not quite enjoying my NS. I am safe and drive safely now. @shumi: I know my riding preferences now, can you suggest me good bikes I can try on for my upgrade. I like to ride medium speed max say 80-90 at highway and don’t like to rev it a lot, want it to be smooth at slow speeds.Thanks again for the Podcast, you guys are the reason I have understood most about biking.

[@sabeelahmed1157]

My first bike is Discover 100T bought only because of look at that time My second bike is Honda Unicorn, bought a month back just for its comfort. I don't have much idea about the bikes and i bought by other people's word of mouth.

[@lucid_daydream_007]

When I turned the age to have a driving licence, my father bought me a Honda Activa, when I wanted a bike. And I wanted it so bad. I couldn't have the Activa 125 as well, because my father knew me, and I was a reckless teenager. He didn't trust me with a 125cc. Since then, my father has allowed me to ride his cd 100 and then his trusty Passion Pro... I have ridden both bikes in good roads(Indian) and bad roads, in muddy terrain, and on trails. Now, that I've started earning, I am going to buy my first bike, and it's going to be an RE Shotgun 650... I've seen the reviews and I have no shame in admitting I love the looks and I'm buying it. 😂 I just have to save for 6 months that's all. Thanks for listening to my story folks.

[@motorinc]

Thanks for joining us and sharing your story @lucid_daydream_007! Good luck to you!

[@haribabusubramanian]

1998: Suzuki Samurai 1999: Suzuki Shogun 2001: Yamaha RX135 2003: Yamaha RD350 2007: Hero Honda Hunk 2013: Suzuki Hayabusa 2017 Onwards: Can't make up my mind what to buy next. Just watching all the review videos on KZbin and being indecisive. But I am still going to watch this video!

[@motorinc]

Haha! Loved this! Quite an enviable journey. 🙏🏾

[@Harshx2211]

Honeslty speaking the thrill of riding a bike or enjoying it for me goes way back into the early 2010 when i first saw pulsar 220 that bad boyish looks of that beast although as a 13year old i would ride a bicycle imagining riding a bike one day and my dad went to buy a bike while i was in class 5th i was praying please buy a pulsar please buy a pulsar but eventually he had bought platina learned to ride that in my class 9th and started using it as a daily bike until 2016 when its condition detoirated and family was planning to buy a new two wheeler my crush was changed at that time when i first saw the apache rtr 200 i tried convincing my parents for the bike but as a typical indian family they went for the scooter maestro edge the dream was broken once again of buying a motorbike been riding it till today as of 2024 i have started my job and now i think i can finally plan and buy my first motorbike with my own money and experience that same thrill i once imagined being a kid.

[@adityad.v]

I have my eyes on the Jawa 350 and listening to all the concerns regarding it would you stop me from buying one.

[@larsonseq9269]

Got my first scooter at the age of 26 with my own money 2 years ago, the Avenis 125 which is basically the access 125 with stylish body. Have enjoyed it thoroughly. Have done Hyderabad to Bangalore in a single day and I was not that tired at all. I feel like I can afford a Himalayan 450 but I'm afraid I have to sell the avenis which I don't want to.. suzuki has built an amazing machine ❤

[@motorinc]

Indeed @larsonseq9269! Thanks for sharing.

[@rajnishdhull333]

Agree , I bought N250 with my money and all the gears too and that feeling was different. Though I loved the Apache 180 most, because it was my first bike.

[@motorinc]

Awesome!

[@deepanshudhillon3097]

I could afford a bike since I was 23, but I am a minimalist and the office cab was just fine. Then I met my, now, wife. She rode a meteor. I knew how to ride but I started going on rides with her and we did pune to Bangalore. I was in love with the experience. Not sure if it was just the bike or if it was her. I bought my first bike 6 months later. Test rode a few Hondas, Suzuki, Enfield. I finalised on scrambler type bike just coz of the do it all thing and Indian road conditions. I decided on Enfield coz of the great service network and there is 1 right next to my house. People complain about them being not powerful enough, but it being my first bike that works for me. I wanted a scram 411 after the test ride. A few days later I went for a test ride again and took 1 for Himalayan411 till I was waiting. With my height and everything, it felt perfect, and that's it. An year later, at 30, it's still perfect, for me. I will buy a 450 or something else, in a couple of years maybe.

[@motorinc]

Wow! That’s quite the story! And hello to the better half too!

[@deepanshudhillon3097]

​@@motorincthanks! I will pass it on.

[@aniruddhnair2931]

Quick question. How does one understand and learn slightly more advanved skillsets to ride faster? More importantly practice them safely, especially if you dont have access to a racetrack. When I say skill sets I mean, body positioning while you take a corner, trailbreaking, revmatching, head position and where should you look, the lines you should take etc I have seen enough videos with different techniques and opinions. Now I am just confused. The biggest challenge is to practice them safely!! Any advice on this?

[@motorinc]

Discounting racetracks, there honestly aren't a lot of safe spaces to practice all this @aniruddhnair2931 so that would still be our pick. If it's absolutely not possible, just find good stretches of roads nearby that are often empty and practice there while being on high alert for oncoming traffic. This can be a placeholder but only until you can get to go to a racetrack.

[@vishavsingh9373]

Should I go with Ninja 300 as first bike or is there a better alternative to that...?

[@ayankonar2252]

I think my RR310 uses a dot 4 brake fluid. The rear brake has felt very inefficient since the very beginning. Will upgrading to dot 5 1 help? Would I need to change other things?

[@yeshwanths7987]

Dear Shumi I need your advice After long journey with my commuter, im getting ready to buy a dream own bike My options were 1.meteor 350 2. Jawa 42 3. Honda 350 hness and cb350 Why these three means i love crusing and classic retro type Please choose one for me.

[@Satadru74x9]

53:45 I always had this doubt regarding safety gear that if i go to a production plant type office with office uniform, then where to carry the safety gears when the ride is over? If there's not space to store then shall i avoid wearing them? I most probably wont get a changing room where i can change from rider attire to office attire. Then what's the solution to such problem?

[@motorinc]

If it's not something that you do often, we'd suggest considering other forms of transport on those days @Satadru74x9. If it is something you do a lot, then commuting to the office on a motorcycle maybe isn't the best idea. But we can't recommend not wearing gear...

[@rohanhazarika7630]

Hi everyone, I've been riding scooters since past 6years and till now I've rocked whatever I've had my hands on, never had any issue or whatever nor I've faced the lack of confidence while riding and one more thing about me is that i like to go fast and I love power... Occassionally I've ridden himalayans and 250dukes and never had any doubts with them, i could control them with ease, and now I'm seriously considering to get a bike in the near future so my question is can I get a bike more aggressive like the 390 duke and learn to control it better with time?

[@Days_Gone]

My journey began in 2011 with a grey tvs apache rtr 160. After 7 good years, sold it as I had to move to Bangalore from Delhi. Then got a suzuki access 125 due to rain & traffic situation in Bangalore. However it's been a 6 fun years with it, only changed rear tyre to Michelin & completely agree with Shumi that it is a sleeper scooter. I'm wondering about if there is a access equivalent in bikes.

[@motorinc]

Used to be the Unicorn…

[@b.j.rishit9704]

Got myself a used bike about a month ago, got myself an axor helmet the very next day. Unfortunately I can’t really afford to purchase the rest of the gear in one go, how should I prioritise which gear to go for next?

[@HimanshuSingh-sd3eu]

Sunday Morning, Mumbai ki Barish and chai with Bhajiya and these two moterheads :D

[@motorinc]

Yenjai!

[@jyotisankar4877]

Best ever conversation

[@motorinc]

Thank you for joining us @jyotisankar4877

[@abhirajshetkar2]

Hi, I'm riding scooter for last 7yrs for daily commute (Honda Aviator). What will be best option for me as 1st motorcycle for Weekend/joy rides. I am 6.1ft tall. need to be comfortable, good handling, and Decent pillion seat.

[@saqib..]

First bike is like the first Love💕

[@motorinc]

Indeed @saqib.

[@Satadru74x9]

52:10 I consider myself one of the experienced riders at beginner level. Not super skilled, but experienced enough because I'm riding a 125cc commuter for the past 4 years in many different scenarios of weather and traffic conditions. Yet that day I fell from a Triumph Speed 400 test ride, not because I was distracted or riding too rashly or bad weather. I fell from the bike because I lost my balance at a walkable pace because I got startled due to a car zoom pasted at a T-junction in a colony small road. It is the stupidest accident I could ever get in 😅 An accident with a car did less damage to me and my original bike than this one. Got a sand crystal inside my hand, had to pluck out in hospital, and broke the brake lever and mirror holder at the end in the speed 400. The regret to this day is not why I fell, but why I fell so stupidly 😅

[@motorinc]

We feel you! Those are hard to digest, but important nonetheless. Which is why we say - every environment is a new environment. Be alert. 👍🏽