I TRIED 7 Retro Bikes & BOUGHT the Best one!

[@RiderXp]

PLEASE USE THESE LINKS TO SUPPORT ME: 20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING on LIQUID IV Products: glnk.io/8ln02/riderxp Amazon: amzn.to/3eJZ9nq Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/c/3632406/782962/11256 Making the purchase will not cost you anything additional, however, I will get a small commission which will enable me to keep making these helpful videos.

[@salcipres8556]

I own a 2022 Kawasaki Z900RS (50th Anniversary Edition). Outstanding motorcycle! My first motorcycle was a 1980 KZ650. Always dreamed of an original 1972 H1, but this Z900RS cost a lot less (than a restored one), packed with more modern tech, and a wonderful machine to ride. I've added a smart phone holder and fog lights otherwise leaving this anniversary edition stock. It's that good and fun to ride!

[@edteach3r]

What an excellent video! I am 63 years old and not in the market for a motorcycle, but thoroughly enjoyed seeing modern versions of so many bikes from my youth. While I was always a Yamaha rider, that Kawasaki has me rethinking my intentions of remaining on four wheels. Well done, Sir!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you very much! Your kind words mean a lot. Have a nice day sir!

[@perpetualgrin5804]

Im very similar to you, but just looking , had a Z750 in the 80's. Think i will stay with my bicycle😅.

[@tritop]

@@perpetualgrin5804 Im very similar to you, but just looking , had a H2 in the 70's. I will stay with my bicycle😅.

[@stratolestele7611]

Please tell me the reason you're not riding is because of your age. I've got you clipped by a year. I'm loving my z900rs café and about to start my third year with it. I like it even more now than when I got it. Previous bike was a Harley Softail (highly modded w/ S&S stroker engine). After a three-year break, I bought this zed and I'm having a blast with it. I ride it everywhere.

[@Mickey_Bauer]

Surprisingly, my top 3 hasn't changed after you showed pricing: 1) Kawasaki Z900RS 2) Yamaha XSR900 3) Triumph Speed Twin I love all the others as well, i could close my eyes and just pick one.

[@RiderXp]

Honestly that’s not a bad way to do it haha

[@MarkissAurelius]

I have a Speed Twin and love it. And I’m getting the 2024 Z900rs. It’s beautiful and the inline 4 is a smooth beast. Not to mention the fit and finish, which, the XSR does not have. I’d go for the Yamaha or Indian if I wanted to break the law and race everyone around me. If that’s your thing, heck yeah brother

[@ed.t.hansen6499]

@@MarkissAurelius street town for city; heavy scooter non drivers. its great.! An old xsr900 for country climbs, twisties. I hear the new 24' xsr is better control but a small tft is a negative . dont' scroll thru menu's while driving !! speed twin1200 with dual guages would be ideal. z900rs is great, comfy 2 up riding but.. compared to a honda cb1300; its a tough choice for the same price. The seat and height of the 1300 has the XSR beat. The speed twin did not focus on 2 up comfort. Small zippy, short, low for single person. So easy to handle with lots of power. Why triumph did not make the ST1200 with a higher seat to give more leg room ??

[@in2food]

Because I’m old and nostalgic, Triumph gets my vote.

[@RiderXp]

It actually got my vote too, it’s just a lot more money than i was willing to spend on a second bike.

[@stratolestele7611]

I am too - and that is what I was 100% planning to get. The actual day I went to buy the Speed Twin, I was just kind of let down when I got to the dealership. That's when I walked over to the Kawasaki side and there was no turning back. One of the many compliments I've gotten in two years was from an older gent who asked me, "how long did it take ya to restore it?" 😂 Yes, it screams 'retro', though I agree, the Triumph wins the ultimate crown as it's never really strayed. But it was the Kawi that made my (makes my) heart pound!

[@papayuuj3983]

Who needs a quick shifter at the streets you aint shedding time on your travel time hhahaha. Z900RS is the winner. looks comfort and performance beating all of them with little technology

[@benjaminmahoney7108]

I thought the same about speed shifter...til i got a bike with one. No way you can manually up/downshift as smooth as that allows you to do

[@kikoy08]

In Philippines, z900rs is the cheast amongst other bikes shown. So, you get value for money in KAWA Z900RS and easy to maintain for the most part of the country.

[@jezzylawson936]

It’s people who don’t have a quickshifter are the people who don’t get it

[@rzracer69]

Great comparison. A lot of time went into this. I did a similar comparison in my head and chose the '22 Z900RS Café last year as I have loved the look since the Z900RS came out, and wanted to replace my older carbureted highway bikes with something retro and fuel injected. As I needed a front fairing for the high-speed highways out here (80mph is the norm), I decided on the Café version. The Triumph Thruxton was also on my list, but its riding position was not comfortable for me (60yrs old, 5'9" 32" inseam 190lbs). I recently took a 4-day 1,400 mile high-speed ride through South Texas, and in preparation, added a smoked touring screen and heated grips. Lots of customization and tuning options are available. The bike did not disappoint, and I find no fault with the stock brakes, throttle control, tires, or really anything. I did swap out the exhaust for a Black Widows dual-pipe model (one on each side) to give it the look I want and a bit more aggressive sound that could be heard better over the 80-100mph wind noise (with earplugs in too). I have had thumpers & super-twins & triples, so I wanted to try a big inline-four this time. Very very happy. :)

[@old_dan]

Fellow Cafe owner here and you're spot on. The looks on it are just like those 80s UJM I love so much. I removed the catalytic converter and it sounds like the old carburetor bikes with the original RS exhaust.

[@mongosaqqara]

I also did the research and bought the 2019 XSR 900...I did a ton of mods starting with the Akrapovic full carbon, ECU flash, remove all smog and Block-off plates, braded brake lines and HH pads, Yoshi tail tidy, Yamaha quick shifter, ASV shorty levers, Rizoma mirrors, Yamaha wind screen, large rubber foot pegs and cheap ebay radiator guard...After 3 years and 13,000 miles I couldn't be happier...I am tempted to upgrade to the 2022 but haven't seen one in person as all bike shops near me dont have any.

[@RiderXp]

Wow! That’s a long list of upgrades, I’m curious about what it looks like with the upgrades.

[@mongosaqqara]

@@RiderXp Yea it really looks the same as most are performance upgrades...even the wind screen helps a lot.

[@RiderXp]

So far, i’ve only got the windscreen but haven’t installed it yet. Will do it after I do a stock bike review video.

[@DanteRizzato]

Triumph, quality retro details, the torque/power linearity is a workhorse with a smoothness that is unique to this engine. 1. Bonneville T120 - 2. BMW.

[@aikidragonpiper71]

My retro bike is a 2003 Kawasaki ZRX1200R. I bought it new in 2003 and have put 53,000 miles on it so far and it still runs great.

[@soldat2501]

What a masterclass in comparison videos! I normally come away with more questions than answers on comparison videos. Bias often creeps in too but I felt like none of this came through. Just a good solid product. I learned a sh1t ton from this. High quality and on par with the more flashy F9 videos. Your subs are coming, keep up the hard work. In the end I chose the BMW 9T but I feel like the Indian was surprise second. I have a soft spot for Kawi and my very first bike was an 84 KZ750.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you so much for the encouraging words, they mean a lot to me. The goal is exactly that, to make highly useful videos for people in the riding community & make a career out of it.

[@Pmelendez94]

I own the xsr900 2021, and I couldn't agree more, the seat sucks hahaha but the engine, the handling and everything else just makes up for it, it's the most fun bike I ever ride on the road, I'll be changing the seat soon to a hydrogel custom one, (i tried the one on my friend's cb1100 and it amazing) looking forward for your modifications. Great comparison!!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you. I have observed that Yamaha seats in general are not the most comfortable. It may have something to do with the vendor they use. I've seen people complain about Yamaha tourer seats as well. I will soon be uploading 1 year video review including the mods I've done so far and the ones I plan. Please consider sharing the video with others who may like it. Thank you and welcome aboard!

[@Pmelendez94]

@@RiderXp will do! You just earn another subscriber my friend, I'll be waiting for the video, I want to change the turn signals aswell so it will be cool to check out your project for ideas. Keep it going!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@SatyamevaJayate_JaiHind]

I very peaky while watching any content, applies on yt videos too. I randomly stumbled on your video and In just 5mins into the video i paused it and instantly subscribed your channel. Under just 10mins I felt getting value through the video. You did the great job in this video, like to see more like this.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you very much for appreciating the work, it means a lot to me. Please share the videos with others and help me grow. Cheers!

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

I personally think the Kawasaki reminds me of the bikes from that era, the 70’s. I was a motorcycle obsessed youth at the time, but I get the other choices and like bits of all of them. Mine is an xsr900 (‘16), but I don’t consider it a retro bike. Inspired styling, maybe, but nothing like the Z or triumphs. 👍🤪🇨🇦

[@RiderXp]

Agreed. I think all these bikes have different levels of balance between modern tech and retro vibe. For my purposes the the previous gen XSR felt right, though I'm increasingly finding myself tempted to take it in the direction of a cafe racer because at the end of the day, I'm still a sports bike lover.

[@x-man5056]

The Kawasaki was the best of the group. The Triumph 'Bonneville' based bikes also.

[@old_dan]

I have a Z900rs Cafe and I've been asked more than a few times if it is a super well kept 80s bike, lol. All those people were surprised when I told them it was a 2020 model.

[@krvav1]

Z900 evokes emotion, and that is unbeatable

[@RiderXp]

So I've heard. At the end of the day, that is a big part of why we ride.

[@trechno600rr]

Dude! This video is freaking awesome!!! Thank you so much 🤙🏽

[@RiderXp]

I’m glad you liked it, please share with others and help me grow. Thanks!

[@colez1989]

I had the exact same issue myself! Ended up with a 2018 Honda CB1000R and a 2020 Triumph thruxton 1200RS! Both great bikes and both have the cafe feel and wicked styling!

[@yuranan46]

Cb1100rs is the top Japanese retro one, i think

[@colez1989]

@@yuranan46 sadly the Honda cb1100 isn't sold in my country but yes you are correct

[@joehanbury1135]

Nice video. I'm stuck on the Z900RS personally, but it would have been cool to see how the new Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello stacks up against the competition. Definitely one of the best looking.

[@RiderXp]

I like the Z900RS aesthetically but I couldn’t find a Moto Guzzi dealer around here. They’re a bit hard to come by in Florida. Thanks for watching and commenting, please share it with others who may find the video helpful. Cheers!

[@pratikkadam7552]

I too am from India and idolizing supersports as I grew up, I have a race trim R1 and a ZX6R as my street bike. Recently, I got the bug to get into modern retros. I think for me it would either be the Speed twin or the Z900. They have design features reminiscent of the 80s, which reminds of my dad’s RX100. Great video BTW. You got a new subscriber!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I never got the opportunity to ride an RX100 and everytime I goto India I think about finding one and riding it but I feel like after all the bikes I’ve ridden, I may feel a bit disappointed and I do not want to destroy the legendary image I have of the RX100 from my school days. It was the cool kids bike and I want that memory to remain the same. I rode a Splendor in 2020 (was also a dream bike in 2010) and was so disappointed with how it actually rides. So I’m keeping the RX100 in my memories as a legend unobtanium. By the way, 2 yrs later, I’m still loving the XSR for looks but I might be getting rid of it soon and may be getting something a lot more genuinely retro (if you watch my recent videos, it might give you a hint wink wink). Thanks for the sub and welcome onboard brother!

[@fidobite3798]

That is a masterful bike comparison you've done here!! A bit outdated now but very thorough! Thx!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you for the kind words. And you’re right, it’s about time I do a current version of this one.

[@williambates7467]

I agree Z900RS hands down!!

[@RobertHiggins-gv5jc]

Well done.. I enjoyed your video and that's what they all should be like.. thanks for your help on so many levels that these bikes have.. keep posting video's that All of us can enjoy.... well done five stars.......

[@posterlion]

I lean toward the Kawi on looks alone. Wish the exhaust note section had a recording of it going through the gears.

[@soumyananda2528]

Looking at maintenance cost it would be kawasaki. The sound , the retro styling, reliability

[@molonlabe9602]

Love the RD350...it was my first bike.

[@adamk116]

I had that XSR for 5 years. Loved every second. Now on to a Duke 890R

[@tchazgo]

Super cool video hommie, lots of good info. Glad I did the best choice, in my humble opinion ofc. Swapped my mt-07 into a xsr 900.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks bud! I had test ridden the XSR700 before the 900 and i actually loved the 700 as well. Honestly, I would’ve been happy even with the XSR700 as well, the 900 is the same style on steroids haha!

[@Lar308]

The video was all a bit of a hectic rollercoaster ride for me to follow. I do own a 2016 Thruxton R so obviously that was my pick.

[@splodge57]

Triumph Speed Twin for me. A great engine and now has USD forks and Brembo radial brakes.

[@andrewbecker3700]

I can personally concur. My local dealer just happened to have one on the floor last year around this time. The first time I sat on it, I knew it was the one for me. In the last year I've tricked it out pretty nice. Even though I had to pay the premium paint upcharge for the Storm Grey model it's still alot of motorcycle for $12,800.

[@stratolestele7611]

That's what I walked into the dealership to buy in mid-January '23. No further discussion, research, eval needed, I had made my decision. Coming from Harleys from the previous 20 yrs, my decision for something different, but with character was 100% the Triumph Speed Twin. Went to the dealer, looked at it, sat on it - and was strangely and surprisingly, underwhelmed! I couldn't believe it. I'd planned to buy it for at least two years. Lo and behold, it was that inline 4 beast with the beautiful and perfect paint was the Kawi. No regrets!

[@BibtheBoulder]

Love these retro bikes. I am a 1963 model so a retro completely fits the bill. As such I bought a Gen3 Hayabusa. Best choice going...

[@RiderXp]

More power to you sir. 👍🏼

[@lewisrosen6163]

Great video! Just sold my 2018 Z900rs, don't be fooled by the looks, it was a very well built bike but that transmission was pure race bike, a total pain in the butt, shift, shift, shift, got tired of going from 1st to 3ed and at sixty or more shifting and realizing I was already in 6th gear...

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I recently rode a Triumph T120 & a BMW RNineT back to back and found myself liking the T120 quite a lot for the relaxed riding demeanor. I don’t know if that means I’m getting older haha!

[@stratolestele7611]

Lol - man Iove shifting. For upshifts, I don't even use the clutch. It snicks right into each gear.

[@tcs07d]

Not for nothing I was definitely not expecting to here someone say Sanford, FL. You make the third motorcycle vlogger that roams my area.

[@jcombs2266]

Dude, that took some work! Thanks! I like your pick.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for appreciating the work. Yes it took over a month to put this together. Please share it with others who may find it interesting.

[@dcjr1053]

Great video. My retro is a 2014 Honda CB1100DX. I've had a lot of bikes in my life and this one will stay in the collection. I've been thinking about an XSR for awhile now. It looks like a great bike for the money, retro or not.

[@RiderXp]

Nice! Haven’t ridden that one yet but do hear good things about it. The XSR900 is too much of a hoon so I have to constantly fight the temptation to pull off silly stunts haha

[@neiljarvis8911]

Excellent review with masses of useful data presented in an interesting way. Good final choice, simmilar to my own.I was looging at an Enfield Interceptor but purchased 22 reg'd Dynamic white XSR700 with 110 miles on. Have purchased parts to do some mods ;- Ermax Dynamic white XSR900 screen and hugger, Leo Vince LV One evo black edition exhaust, Speedo relocation and LCD Flip, Ohlins STX46 rear shock, booster plug and plan 15wt fork oil, 10mm off fork preload spacer and drop front 8MM . I need to get it run in when the uk weather improved and evaluate performance prior to the mods. Hope you can devote a video to your own journey th your XSR900 in the best colour.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! I love your list of mods. The suspension upgrade is by far the best thing one could do for the XSRs. I also have Ohlins shock which transformed the bike. Have a dart fly screen as well but nothing other than yet. The next one on my list is an exhaust but i do not like typical aftermarket designs. My vision is to either source or get a custom exhaust with side swept ends. That’s my favorite thing about the Ducati and I want to have that on the XSR. Performance wise I absolutely adore it. Minor aesthetic changes are also on the list but at the moment test riding bikes for videos is taking more of my time and attention than riding my own bike. Life of a motorcycle reviewer haha!

[@neiljarvis8911]

@@RiderXp that sounds great, hope you get more time with your bike! I'd have given my right arm for your job when I was your age now I'm retied, which is a pretty good job! Looking forward to seeing your XSR in your videos especially your finished exhaust. Take care, thanks for the brilliant videos. have subscribed!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! Welcome onboard! Being a motorcycle journalist was a dream job growing up but life got in the way. after 16 yrs of corporate slavery I finally decided to take a leap of faith. Wish I took this decision fresh out of college 20 yrs ago. Thank you so much for support. I truly appreciate it.

[@NoName-c4y7h]

Beautiful detail not seen from channels in America, Liked and Subscribed.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! Welcome onboard, about to upload another video in a few hours.

[@Plasmo20]

Holy heck, what a production. Huge effort. I was bombarded by the data. Nice clever presentation. Data minigun presentation style.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you!

[@joseestupinan4484]

Thanks for this video. 6 months ago I went for a test drive on the Ducati and the RNinet and I felt in love with the BMW after driving it. Bought it without hesitation. Thanks

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for your comment. Like I mentioned in the video, the R nineT was my favorite in terms of looks and if price was not an important criteria, the Beemer would've been my pick.

[@lrowlands53]

Great reviews. So much effort to get us amazing information - for free. Thank you so much.

[@RiderXp]

You’re welcome! I’m glad you found them useful. Please share them with your friends and help me grow. Cheers!

[@yanickbelzile]

This is such a great video! I’m sure there is a lot of both time and effort put into this, but it touches on many points and is super informational! I look forward to watching more!

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for appreciating the work. I'm glad you liked it.

[@LooxJJ]

Just bought a bike about a month ago - and I literally test rode all bikes on this list - including Honda CB1000. But I got the best bike in my opinion - Harley Davidson Sportster Roadster 1200 (and it was 2016 model with a very low mileage). Bare bone version which I am turning into Cafe Canyon Carver of LA. In my opinion, BMW R NineT, Indian FTR if you want brute force. Z900RS or Honda for daily.

[@skyscout11223]

Yes exactly what I did too! The 2021 XSR900 has all the "unchangeable fundamentals" right, and the rest can be customized according to my own preference. In fact, as experiences and skills improves there is never a perfect bike directly from the factory without some level of customizations.

[@RiderXp]

Right on!

[@mozeby1975]

Great video. I find I can take my short list of favourite bikes and probably cut it in half after just sitting on them. Seating position and comfort is one of my top priorities and there have been I few bikes I drooled over (FTR, Triumph Bobber) that were an instant no, once I sat on them.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you for the kind words. Seating position is a great way to eliminate the uncomfortable ones from the list. I hope you find your perfect bike and enjoy it soon. Please share the video with others who may find it interesting

[@motonawaz]

This is a great video! All the information you need in one video for the most wanted bikes in US. Most videos on the net only compare couple of bikes but you my friend have done a lot of work to put the entire category in video. Awsome job and thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you so much for the encouragement and support. Means a lot!

[@billpayer3745]

Very informative video; just one note though. The 2021 BMW r nine t has an option for cruise control.

[@stilldajoker]

well, in my garage is an excellent KZ900B and a 2022 Triumph. It's important is that we keep motorcycling open for enjoyment for all the women and men out there. First street bike when I was 16 yo was a Yamaha R5. Nice video with a lot of thought into it.

[@joelandrade1630]

What a great video comparison! Yes I wish the cb1000 was in there along with maybe Motoguzi and Royal Endfield. Really like the new Modella even though it's not retro, but for the price they knocked it out of the park with Aprilla desighn.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! The RE is in another video comparison that’s linked at the end of this one. As for the cb1000, i rode it and loved it (i love Hondas) but just couldn’t convince myself to categorize it with the retros. I’ll have to group with modern nakeds in the next comparison video.

[@dreadlock17]

Z900RS Cafe in Kawasaki Green 👌🏻

[@maverlk7]

My CB1300SA in the CB1100R replica colours (special edition with red frame and gold wheels) is a real retro bike with modern tyres, abs and water cooling! I don’t know if they still sell them new, but the engine is like a turbine and pulls everywhere and with c. 120 bhp, its no slouch either! Of these bikes, the Kawasaki or BMW would be my choice!

[@LS8eighteen]

One of the best comparison videos I have seen. Enjoyed watching!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! Much appreciated.

[@buvettey4998]

Very good video, detailed and specific, relatively objective, very helpful, keep working hard.

[@RiderXp]

Glad you liked them. Thanks for the appreciation, it means a lot to me. Please share the videos with others who may find find them helpful.

[@bigbadvicHo]

Was originally going to get a T120 but XSR painted matte black with a different seat might be my pick

[@riship2500]

Just wanted to say this was a great video man, loved your style!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you!

[@lechtaczka1272]

Very good and comprehensive review, thank you!

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words. Please share with others who may like it. Cheers!

[@Fifthstone1]

Great video, well-produced and thorough. Thanks!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it!

[@djeejah]

Great review but personally missing your opinion on a Guzzi V7 stone 850, i own the special edition for less than 3 months and I'm delighted with it. It looks retro enough, has a l lively engine, huge autonomy with its 21l tank and sounds cool with the arrow exhausts. Finally I would praise the fact that it's affordable. Maybe it was not available but suggest to put it on your short list. ✌

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! It is on my list but unfortunately they're hard to come by around here. I am a sucker for the looks for it's looks, will find one to ride and review sooner or later. I've a few more videos coming up on affordable retro bikes, please consider subscribing.

[@charlesscharfy6607]

Excellent video!!! I am deciding between a 2019 Ducati Scrambler 1100 base and a 2019 Triumph Speed Twin 1200 for the same price. It will be a beach bike here in FL. I have others MCs for other purposes and I was Indian's Welding Engineer in the Gilroy, CA manufacturing days. I have a Challenger and really enjoy it. Which way would you lean towards for a beach bike, Ducati or Triumph?

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words. I would lean in favor of the Triumph because the Ducati looks a little smaller in person. Also, I liked the relaxed vibe of the Triumph even though it has more power. Also, I’m told the Ducati’s are little more cumbersome to work on relative to Triumphs if that is also a consideration. Hope that helps. Please consider sharing the video with others who may find it helpful.

[@soumiksarkar4161]

OMG! I was doing the same research to find the closest one to my Dad’s Yamaha from 1980s. Thanks man.

[@RiderXp]

Glad it was helpful! The for the comment.

[@davidchurch5382]

Good video. I enjoyed both the content and the energy!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you, please consider subscribing, I’m a working on quite a few videos now.

[@davidchurch5382]

@RiderXp done. Looking forward

[@davidfarrar1038]

I wanted the R9T but found The pegs a tad high and too much weight on my wrists, bought a Ducati Scrambler 1100 and absolutely love it.

[@tanmayw]

Hey man. Thanks for putting this all together. great to have all the data together. i am considering getting a bike in this segment and i have also been considering the honda cb1000r. curious why you didn’t consider it.

[@RiderXp]

I'm glad you found it helpful. I've ridden Hondas all my life so I wanted something different. But that doesn't mean it's not a good bike. Much before I was in the market for a bike, I did test ride the CB1000R . My feedback was - Super reliable, super smooth engine, decent tech and rider aids, just not characterful enough for me. There's nothing wrong with it though. At the end of the day, if it rocks your boat, go for it! Hope that helps!

[@tanmayw]

@@RiderXp Thanks for responding man. I'll try these out. I had been aiming for the xsr900 as well and your video reinforces my inclination. I'll see what I end up getting :)

[@andrewbrown5636]

Had the Triumph Thruxton 1200 but build quality and tiny size was a problem. the BMW R nineT is a better bike. My pick would be the Z900RS or BMW

[@old_dan]

Is the build quality on the Triumphs that bad? I really want a Thruxton, Bonneville or Speed Twin as a 2nd bike, but I've seen comments about quality in a few places.

[@lewisrosen6163]

I just got a 2020 Bonne and am blown away with the high level of quality on this bike. I sold a Z900rs, well made for sure, but it was a pure sports bike with a classic tank.

[@jaimininorath5760]

damn this was thorough man, hope you keep at it and continue to grow a following

[@RiderXp]

Thank you for the kind words and encouragement. I am working hard to grow and constantly trying to improve my videos, recent ones also have on camera test rides as well. Please consider subscribing and sharing the videos with others who may find them useful. Cheers!

[@sanjeysankar]

I pick speed twin🙌🏻

[@michaelmelling9333]

Top-notch video, thanks!!

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words, please share the videos with others and help me grow. Thanks!

[@akiuliano]

Nice post. While I like the look of the Kawa, performance of the Yamaha, IMO the best looking and best ride of retros is the MG V7 Stone.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! At the time of making this video, I didn’t have access to Moto Guzzi bikes. I’m very keen to test them as soon as I can find them locally.

[@manarridavis4248]

Love your videos man. Checking in from Florida

[@RiderXp]

Well hello neighbor! Thanks for the compliment, please share them with your friends.

[@vincedenais2612]

I just bought a Scrambler 1100 Sport and IMHO you made the same mistake I did the first time, ruling it out over horsepower rating. I’m coming off of a 170 hp Ducati and candidly, I LOVE the gobs of torque and perfect powerband. It’s the first bike I want to ride everyday, a smooth operator that can get plenty gnarly in a split second!😂

[@RiderXp]

tbh, in hindsight that would’ve been a good bike, but now that i have the xsr900, i’m considering customizing it to my heart’s desire and see where that goes.

[@Mr_Banks]

Very nice video. I went with the 2022 Triumph Speed Twin 1200.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! Glad you liked the video. I loved the easy riding character of the speed twin 1200.

[@Puffdamgcdragon]

Good comparo. For me personally, it’d be a tough choice between the Z900rs and the BMW. Now the new Norton would be the choice. It’s breathtakingly beautiful with great finish.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I’ve seen the pictures of the Norton, not sure if I’ll ever get the opportunity to swing a leg over one in the states.

[@antbonyziemiak208]

How could you leave out the Kawasaki W800 ???

[@Kuzc0]

My favorite is the bmw. Rode it at a demo day and fell in love with it immediately

[@RiderXp]

I recently rode it again and can see why people love it.

[@markhall3434]

Taking the Dip on a 2023 XSR900 for March (6 weeks from now) delivery. MSRP quoted is $10199 plus $1200 Tax, Title, Tags, Delivery. Hard to beat that price and no dealer markup. Includes the Cruise Control, Clutchless Up/Down shifting, Wheelie control, lean sensitive ABS. including all options except the back up camera.. plus it's very light at 420 Lbs. Dealer has none to look at in person. When I checked the 2022 XSR availability last September, the Dealer laughed at me.. Yamaha makes arguably the Best, Densest. highest performance, mass produced engines that don't break. The 1990 Ford Taurus SHO DOHC 24V V6 engine is what sold me on Yamaha.. and got Ford started on their Modular 4.6 and 5.0 Coyote V8 and 3.7 Cyclone V6 DOHC engines. All are near bulletproof, normally last 200K miles plus w/o any issues.

[@RiderXp]

Awesome! Congrats!

[@GeorgesCanadianVentures]

Absolutely excellent technical review and to the point delivery... You've enlightened me on a few decisions I had not considered.. Thank You!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@abindaspk]

Faraz went above and beyond to create this gem of a video perfect for motorcycle buyers.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words, your encouragement means a lot to me. Please consider sharing the video with others and help me grow the channel. Cheers!

[@m12ttd]

Very interesting video! I'm torn between the Triumph T120 and the BMW R9T for my style of riding! I've had all the fast bikes from GSXR's to Fireblades to Ninja's, now I want to pose, travel and ride in comfort, with a few toys like Cruise Control, Quick Shifter and heated Grips! So after watching all the clips on KZbin, I have narrowed it down to the two mentioned, just waiting for spring now to start test riding these bikes!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you. I did get the opportunity to ride the T120 and the Thruxton (It's not in the video since the footage got all messed up). I really liked the Triumphs for they had just the right amount of oomph but not too much to get me in trouble. I couldn't get a chance with the Beemer, but now I have developed some relationships and might get to test ride those in future. Good luck with your purchase, test riding them back to back is the best way to make a call. Cheers!

[@lewisrosen6163]

You are headed in the right direction. I went with the Bonneville, more comfortable, love it. better tires and springs in the front and this thing is amazing!

[@dannyroosenboom3640]

i like the way you compared all the bikes

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! Please share the video with others who may find it helpful.

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

Nice vidio i tossed the dice on a thruxton. Rode the z900 very nice but I being older the brit bike got my nostalgia.

[@RiderXp]

Good choice! I did like the Thruxton quite a lot actually.

[@grzesiekapacz]

Grate review. That what I have been looking for long time.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! Glad you liked it!

[@ericwilliams626]

I looked at the Z900RS but the throttle issue turned me off. I have another bike that I'm disappointed in terms of riding easy, paying too much attention to shifting falling into gear, front shocks on bumpy roads and an inability to run slow with a chug. It's fun to ride once you bypass those issues. But I wanted something to be my cruiser bike wo it being a cruiser, AND be trail worthy. All my bikes are dual sport in different sizes and I like that option in my bikes. I looked and looked and suddenly it just hit me. And the reason why it took so long is seeing the obvious is difficult bc promotion is either not there or explained with accuracy. So instead of a Kawi, I got a Triumph Scrambler 900, which is a Bonneville on trail tires. But it is so refined, the gears, the balance of the bike, the rumble is such a different experience.

[@deandesrosiers6857]

Great video, which ones do your think are better for taller riders?

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! The Z900RS has the tallest seat and also a roomier rider’s triangle so I think that may be the most comfortable for taller riders. A 6’ friend of mine has a Z900RS & does describe it as pretty comfortable

[@TheMikesylv]

Guys from India always seem to have a intelligent interesting way of looking at the world. The word unencumbered comes to mind. Anyway I subscribed today

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words and sub. I'm glad you found the video interesting. Cheers!

[@maxflight777]

Some hilarious lines….brilliant commentary. Good sense of humour. Trusted report

[@RiderXp]

I’m glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the kind words, please share with others who may like the video. Cheers!

[@Dansk55]

Speed Twin 1200. Nothing like full torque at 4500 rpm. Those inlines need revving. Z900RS felt like a heavier, super slow version of my zx10r.

[@RiderXp]

I did like the Speed Twin 1200... very nice easy rider feel to it.

[@georgejameson9317]

The Triumph will be slower and sound like a lawnmower

[@Beat_Daddy]

@@georgejameson9317 : The Speed Twin ist way to fast for all speed limitations all over the world. It has a Power/Weight ratio like a Tesla Plaid. So what are you talking about? Track-Performance....or reartyre destroy factor?

[@jonc4939]

Great video - I'm currently undergoing the same research, and you've been a massive help. I'm definitely looking at the XSR900, and am debating between the 2020 or 2022 models.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you, I'm glad I was able to help. For me, the 2022 aesthetic just wasn't working & I do not care about electronics so much. So the decision between the two was a bit easier to make. Hope you're able to pick one that works for you. Cheers!

[@newenglandscrambler2262]

I have also tried all of these bikes and I agree that the Z900RS is the winner. My second in line would be the XSR900, specifically the earlier generation. But those two are just completely different bikes in so many respects. The Z is manageable and can be much more of a daily rider. The XSR is a true hoon machine that would probably lose me my driver's license. I also hated the power curve on the Indian FTR. It always seemed to turn on like a lightswitch right at the worst possible time ,(leaned over mid-curve). It just felt dangerous and not in a good way.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I have since ridden the XSR900 a lot more and do like how exciting it is but I agree it is a hoon machine and it is very difficult to behave on that thing. I am finding myself gravitating towards touring bikes lately, videos in near future will update where I end up going with that.

[@newenglandscrambler2262]

@@RiderXp I have always been bike/riding style-agnostic. I really love bikes in general and appreciate all types. Touring bikes are great too. I spent a lot of last summer demoing different sport tourer and ADV bikes. The BMW R1200 RT was quite nice. A buddy just bought one. On the other hand, I was really disappointed by the Goldwings. Not what I expected at all in terms of handling, road feel, power curve.

[@jackm6511]

Very good video! Many thanks for sharing with us!

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! Glad you liked it.

[@rabbidbabies4094]

Don’t disregard the Triumph T120, may not have the power of the speed/thruxton, but it has plenty. It is more comfortable, has more of the retro look and I would say, more of a blank canvas for customizing and modding then the speed/thruxton. But any triumph is a good choice. The BMW is cool cuz of the unique feel that engine gives. Never tried the Indian, but I really like everything about that bike as far as looks and spec goes.

[@RiderXp]

I actually rode the T120 and felt exactly that. I like the simplicity & ease of riding. If money wasn’t an object, i’d probably get one of each tbh.

[@rabbidbabies4094]

​@RiderXp I'll have to try the XSR sometime. It's a beautiful machine. I'm a suckered for euro bikes though.

[@RiderXp]

You must. It’s such a deceptive bike though. Looks like a UJM but when ride, it’s still a hoom bike to ride. I’m pretty tempted to get myself a euro, but i’ll probably have to wait until the channel takes off. Fingers crossed.

[@nthhawke]

Wow, the level of detail on this video was very impressive. I am only on my Leaners here in Australia, so these bikes are too much for me (just now), but I have liked and subscribed and I will look out for more. Great work!!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you very much for the kind words and welcome aboard. There are a bunch of videos that may be interesting and useful for relatively new riders on the channel. Here's a playlist, enjoy! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHLRq2mif8l9opo&pp=gAQBiAQB

[@SubvertTheState]

That Indian FTR is my dream bike right now. Its a little massive, but damn gorgeous.

[@guywolff]

Great concise video .. Seat height price and range right up front .. Thanks . I wish BMW made an R80 at 60 HP with a 5 US gallon tank and low compression for around the world regular gas :)

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it, please share with others who may like it. A BMW that’s low on running cost would indeed be welcome & very popular.

[@bluedragon4339]

Great Video, respect. Thanks My next is Z900RS SE with "few" modifications because I'm not a fan of chrom (not only because of sound) 😍

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the support. The SE is a great choice, it looks looks gorgeous! Good luck with the mods!

[@JD-qo7hm]

That seat on the XSR is a huge drag for me. It already fell behind on that retro look I love compared to the Z900RS, but I figured the additional tech goodies would make up for it... but that damn SEAT! Are there any aftermarket seats that make it more comfortable? The Z900RS is, apparently, the mark to beat for comfort...

[@wyvern4588]

Corbin makes them, So does Kelpi. I just got a new XSR900, The seat is ok after a 2 hour round trip, but a little uncomfortable past 1.5 hours. I just ordered a Corbin Gunfighter. I wouldn't let the seat alone deter you, it's an amazing machine.

[@RiderXp]

@JD-qo7hm Yes there is but it is awfully expensive! There's a Corbin seat that retails for over $600 here in the US. I'm still looking for a reasonable but comfortable option.

[@RiderXp]

@wyvern4588 Thanks for telling me about Kelpi, I looked them up and like the prices and the product.

[@wokeupandsmellthecoffee214]

fab revue and your 'across screen' comparisons . subbed from the uk ride safe guys.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words and sub. Cheers!

[@jamespolucha8790]

Indian FRT I think is the most fun to ride and looks better too

[@bluejayg56]

Now this is how a motorcycle video review should be! Exciting The New!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it, please share with others who may find it interesting.

[@СтоюКидиков]

Great video ! It looks like a ton of research , well done .. I've have only one question : Honda cb1000r ?

[@RiderXp]

Thank you & yes it did take tons of research and going over to dealerships over a few months and the recording and editing it. I’m glad people are finding it useful. I didn’t include the cb1000r because It’s a lot more powerful than all of these bikes so it felt a bit unfair comparing it with these. I would probably include it in Standard full sized nakeds comparison video at some point. It is a great bike though, I have rode it about 2 yrs ago and really liked it. Thanks for your comment, please share the video with others who my find it helpful.

[@abhijitkumar5271]

Royal enfield continental gt and interceptor true retro bikes in the market, you should have tried both of these too.

[@RiderXp]

I have. They’re in the video linked at the end of this one.

[@jimmyb4982]

I suspect he wants something more powerful, which is probably why the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone and the Classic were not on the list.

[@akiuliano]

That V7 Stone is full of character. Smile on my face every time I ride it. Glad I chose it over the XSR 900. Yes, the power is not the same but the comfort and character of the ride is unparalleled on the Stone.

[@mickleblade]

A very thorough video, well done!

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words, i’m glad you liked it.

[@time_of_yer_life_eh_kid]

stats are great and you are thorough, but which one FEELS and RIDES the best. The riding experience on the street mean so much more than statistics. Also, Ducati and BMW will cost much more to maintain than any of the other bikes. Especially the air cooled Ducati L-twins. (I own one, I know)

[@RiderXp]

Thank you for the feedback. I have been talking a lot more about feel and ride quality in my recent videos (this one was a year ago). If money wasn’t a question, my top 2 favorites were the Thruxton and the Ducati on this list for how they felt to ride.

[@allnighterist]

If you are gonna customise, do it with honda cb550 or yamaha sr400 if you really want retro, or stick to royal enfield continental gt