Kawasaki W800 - 1 year review - Why this bike is the BEST modern retro! (extended video)

[@rafaelfernandez5247]

I have a 2022 W 800 and the performance is incredible. Every time I park it someone has to come and praise the look of the bike. I absolutely love it.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I absolutely love my W800, yesterday an elderly gentleman asked me if it was a four-stroke because old Kawasaki performance bikes were two-stroke. Thank you so very much for commenting!

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

I like the steel played chrome fenders and the more comfortable seat. One thing i wish is it was belt or shaft drive. Sure you lose some power to the wheel but its so much nicer to drain some gear oil and refill it. Or a belt. Its not a dirtbike or r1 brother. It sucks enough we hsve to repalce the motorcycle tires after every roadtrip 😂

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

@@TheAnnoyingBoss The chain absolutely does require more maintenance than a belt or shaft. I was a shaft drive only rider for decades, reliability and ease of maintenance were my motivators. In this case I believe Kawasaki was preserving as much power to the rear wheel as possible, and the chain fits that need.

[@Geatmon]

Not a mention of the RE INT 650? Why not, it's the only alternative for the W. Many owners of this kind of bike will buy it because off the simplicity of maintenance. Many of us had to maintain our old British bikes. The RE is easier to maintain due to jam nut valve adjustment. The finish on the W is better. The INT really feels like an old British twin, but works much better. The lack of a kick start on the W is a mistake IMO.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I think the RE Interceptor and GT bikes as an alternative to the W has been covered quite a bit, most often that is the bike people compare the W to... The early resurrected W series was a fabulous match to the Royal Enfield line, with a 650cc displacement, kick starter, carbs, the works. Euro emissions standards caused Kawasaki to re-tool and re-think the beloved W, bringing out the W800, fuel injected, no kick starter, even more refined and leaning harder into the classic well-mannered polite motorbike. I think the Royal Enfield line still carries some of the 'raw' retro nostalgia that fits better compared to the W650 line than the W800. Thank you so much for the comment tho! I definitely appreciate you watching the video and providing your feedback!

[@kdsowen2882]

A very well-rounded argument . I would point-out that the first-Gen Triumph-retro's ( that appeared to be in-response to the 1999 Kawasaki W650) ..were 360-degree air-cooled-twins and are reportedly fine bikes to own ( still a 'John-Bloor' bike though ) . I've never ridden a W800 , but my 03 W650 is a great bike to own and ride . There are examples in Japan with over 500,000k's on them with no-major engine-work . It doesn't get much-better than that . This is my 62nd bike over nearly 70-years , it should 'See me out ' (in a good-way haha ) If this bike did-indeed inspire the Triumph Retro's (which I believe it did ) then it might just be the-bike that saved Triumph 2nd-time-around Dave nz

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Fabulous insights! I hadn't considered that the W helped bring back Triumph!

[@himydad1499]

I have bought the 2023 edition this year and it just had it first 1000 km maintenance. You realy FEEL the quality, even in the switches. I also have a RE 350 classic, which is in my opinion is even more beautiful and gives more smiles per mile, but somewhat lacking in power. The w800 its beauty for me also has to do with how everything is in proportion. The bike doesn't look too fat or too big.... just classic 🙂

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I love the look of the RE classics (500 and 350), thank you for commenting!

[@slash502]

which classic 350 do you have? the new reborn version or the carburator bike with a kickstarter?

[@himydad1499]

@@slash502 Reborn

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Thats what i want. I want quality engineering. Maybe plastic is good in an r1m but really in a bike like this i want tbe good stuff. If it survives into a museum in 100 years i want all my original buttons to work.

[@pielight7449]

If you had to choose just one which would it be (between W800 and Classic 350)? I've other much more powerful Sports Tourers, but I would like to add a retro classic to bimble around quiet country lanes on.

[@dangunn6961]

I've been riding for 50 years and have a 2019 Yamaha Bolt Raven. It gives me that same retro nostalgic feeling when I ride it. It has a nice exhaust note and is fun to ride. I've made no modifications to it.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Outstanding! Super happy that you have a bike that gives you that wonderful nostalgic vibe! Thank you for commenting!

[@phillipmitchell5879]

Excellent review, well-presented. Thanks! I'm a Britbike lover - 'had & loved my '66 & '68 Bonnies & my '71 Thunderbolt, way back. Seeking that wondrous feeling, 'got a 2017 T120 - beautiful, but too slick for me & hadn't the 'soul' I was looking for. 'Sold it in 1 year. My 2000 Honda Shadow 1100 Spirit has more soul than the T120 had, & it's a great bike & a keeper. 'Also considering another /5 (post '73), /6 or /7 Beemer airhead, but now wondering if the W800 might fit the Brit-nostalgia bill. Of course I'll remove the baffles (no need for expensive, 'replacement' exhaust pipes). Any more wisdom for me?

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

One of the things that made the W800 so attractive to me is all the character and soul of a 1960s - early 1970s parallel twin (360 degree crank too), with being all brand new materials, and modern safety features (like ABS, Disc Brakes (mine is a 2020) and that gorgeous bevel drive. I figured it had all the joy with no garage time and hunting for replacement or reproduction parts if something went wrong. Maybe that helps?

[@phillipmitchell5879]

@@bigbluemotorbikedog Yes! Thank you! only concerns I've heard are the stock Dunlops (which you've replaced) & difficult access for battery replacement. Otherwise, sounds like a great, fun, 2nd bike in my garage (bike # 22 over the last 60 yrs.).

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

@@phillipmitchell5879 Reminds me of a joke, a man shouldn't buy motorcycles after 50... 50 motorcycle should be enough! I think it would be a great 2nd bike!

[@UncleLongbeard]

As an owner of both W800 and R nineT I can only agree with you. I would probably say even more - the Beemer is not retro bike at all. It is through and through modern bike with some retro styling bits. The W though is the most retro of them all.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for commening Uncle Longbeard! Love your channel! Hear Hear! The W is the most retro of them all!

[@scottastell9415]

Very good review. Glad that you like the bike.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for watching and commenting !

[@brianharbour9314]

I have the w650 2002 carbs on this no abs model , this is probably the best bike ive owned and I've had a few in my 66 years would definitely recommend it !

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

So awesome!!! Thank you for commenting!

[@kdsowen2882]

I have an 03 W650 as well, great-machine , with 10-more hp it would allow me to sell my other bike ;82 XV1000 (TR1). @ 68 , I still really-enjoy a bit of power Dave nz

[@pnwoods]

Hi, Dave. ... Bought the W650 you'd asked about in another video. (New Mexico) If you get back there, you can read the comment I left. ... Thanks to Big Blue for sharing, here. & his recommendation concerning Omega Racer.@@kdsowen2882

[@bartmotorcycle]

Well said, interesting breakdown

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for commenting! I dig your channel! Definitely a go to source for heritage/classic Triumphs!

[@percyprune7548]

Had mine for 7 years, and own a genuine Triumph. Apart from the gear pedal being on the heathen side, the only 'faults' are lack of a headlight flash button (not exactly a hanging offence) and it's weight. 1969 Triumph twin 390 lbs while the W800 is 1/4 more at near to 500 lbs. Makes a big difference when hauling it out of the garage yet the the W800 has much more alloy & plastic so apart from he extra weight of a starter motor & bigger battery, how can it be so much more heavier? 77 m.p.g., reliable and handles well. Nice machine.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for commenting! The 500lb weight fit with my 72 BMW R75/5 I once had... the reliability of the W is amazing.

[@mikeogden5256]

I had same bike and loved it

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

You *had* the same bike? Did you sell yours? Why?

[@RobHawk-lq6gq]

Love this bike but I'm so confused on which bike I should get. Riding includes back roads, city and highway so I'm looking at a Triumph Speedmaster and Moto Guzzi V7 Special. Any thoughts as my wife will be riding with me from time to time. Great video's, thank you!!!!

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

The W does simply fine on the Interstate, HOWEVER I would recommend not using the Dunlop GT300 tires that come with it, and upgrading to the Micheline Road Classics. The W is only a 5-speed, and I *think* the V7 and Speedmaster both come with a 6-speed transmission, which would make Interstate riding a bit more like a thoroughly modern motorcycle of that displacement. (liquid cooled vs air cooled) - I would recommend test riding all three and see which feels best to you.

[@dwheeler016]

Great review and a nice choice on the seat.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you!

[@music_without_cats]

I've owned W800 for 3 years now. 2012 SE model, without ABS. It's truly the most beautiful bike there is, it delayed my depression by a couple years for sure :) If you're into motorcycles with retro look and feel (I certainly am) there's honestly nowhere else to go from W800, it could easily be your final bike. Every time people ask me whether I want to get another bike I always ask: which one? Is there one in retro realm that looks and feels better? Not to me. There's really no upgrade from W800.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I can absolutely relate! Thank you so very much for commenting and watching the video!

[@markc7842]

Very true, very beautiful bike. I'm thinking of getting a brand new one in 2024 , and still keep my Kawasaki Z900RS , because I'm very happy with this bike after getting rid of Aprilia Tuono, brand new but leaking coolant and oil.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Oh my! I've never heard of a recent brand new bike leaking coolant and oil! That's crazy! The Z900RS is definitely the quick and sporty cousin of the W800, which is more the quiet and polite one, but I think you'll love having a W800!

[@vernoncrutcher7153]

Love the headlight shade

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

7" got it off Amazon

[@ManofMode]

Great review thanks. 👍

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for watching and commenting! I have an entire playlist dedicated to the W800 if you are interested! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXysZKR5rtV_o6M

[@stevenbatley8666]

With Garage charges completely out of control,this is the Bike for me ,after owning Rocket Ships and pieces of Gold it will be a pleasure to go out on a nice Sunday morning ride up the A55 and down through Wales,can't wait❤

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for commenting! I love my W, absolutely reliable!

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

I'm in the market for a new bike, and I've narrowed it down to either this or a 'Busa. Please advise.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I've gone over the statement 'either this or a 'Busa' about 50 times and I keep thinking it's a joke and you're kidding. Talk about wickedly different motorcycles. Busa Boys and W800 owners usually aren't the same people. In the far off chance that you aren't kidding, I'd say it depends on your skill level, and what your intended use for the motorcycle is, if you are exceptionally skilled and want to go as fast as possible stop light to stop light, then absolutely the Hayabusa is the right bike for you, or the H2... If however you're looking to do some 2 lane highway exploring of your state on an ultra reliable super fun to ride at speed limit, absolutely gorgeous motorcycle with an exceptional bevel cam drive engine, than the W is your girl. You'll have to let me in on the joke tho... it's a joke, right? (choosing between the Hayabusa and the W800.)

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

@@bigbluemotorbikedog Except for the part about looking for a new bike, I was indeed gently yanking your chain. I rode for forty years, but gave it up ten years ago. Coming back to the sport and seeing all the new models and marques has been a real shock, and I'm grateful for all the KZbinrs like you who are helping me sort this out. Being that I'm an old and "old school" type of rider who mostly observed the speed limit even when I was young means that the W800 is appealing to me for sure. However, my current new bike front runner is the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone. I think this model is an excellent (and lovely) combination of modern features and classic looks, and it sells for under $10K here in the US. As for a 'Busa, I think I'll leave that monster to the suicyclists! 😎

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

@@patrickfitzgerald2861 I always loved how Moto Guzzi had mounted their v twins. Dealer support was important to me buying a new bike, and I live very Rural. Even my Kawasaki dealer is in the next state over. (Only an hour + away tho). The W was a great choice to add to my stable, its very well mannered and I am obsessed with the cam bevel drive.

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

@@bigbluemotorbikedog The lack of nearby dealer support was exactly the reason why I never considered a Guzzi before now. However, I'm moving from Tucson to San Diego County in a few weeks, and there are several dealerships in SoCal. FYI, the Kawi dealer in Vista has a used, 2019 W800 Cafe (3600 miles!) that I will definitely test drive if it hasn't sold by the time I get there. So I may still join the ranks of W800 fans!

[@cycoklr]

I cut my teeth on a 1967 SuperHawk 305 and I still have residual sentiments that get reignited everytime I hop on my 2018 W800. I've had more exciting bikes in between but the W800 transports me to my youth.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I feel the same way about my W800, so happy with my purchase! Thank you so much for commenting!

[@rlk3605]

Great Stuff! I purchased my w800 classic 2 weeks ago. Did you install the engine guard? I just received my engine guard today! Is there anything I should know before I unbolt the engine bolts? Should I do the two lower or two upper bolts first, then move the guard into place for the remaining two bolts? Thanks!

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I would definitely recommend a jack or something to help hold the weight and then you can do either set I think. Getting the jack to support the weight without pushing up or letting the engine drop is the trick.

[@rlk3605]

@@bigbluemotorbikedog Thanks, thanks for the heads up!

[@honzasgarage5125]

How is the W800 for riding in two people?

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Passenger seat is comfortable, personal preference for me is to ride passengers with a backrest, so they are more secured... but can be done easily. I just wouldn't go for long rides with a passenger.

[@cjsantos766]

Greetings, would you happen to know what the W stands for? Great review!

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

To be honest, I'm not sure, I don't remember seeing anything as to why Kawasaki picked W for this series (Starting with the W1 in the mid1960s.) I've been browsing wikipedia to see if I can find anything and there was a reference to it's predecessor being X, W would follow in the alphabet, so *maybe* that was it? I don't know tho. Great question! If I find the answer I will definitely reply! Thank you for commenting!

[@digbypowell6208]

I believe it stands for the Shape of the Crank shaft bring a 360 degree crank …. W Cheers !! Saving up for one now

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

@@digbypowell6208 Thank you for posting! Appreciated!

[@robsonenduro3316]

is the suspension horrible on this bike? can you ride some dirt , country roads?

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I ride about a mile of gravel/dirt roads every time I take the bike out (live on a mountain with unpaved roads), if you want to make a scrambler out of it, absolutely could, most who do replace the springs in front and shocks in back (5.1" of travel in front / 4.1" of travel in back) and put the BattleAx adventure tires on it. I pick my lines and have no problems with stock suspension and still on stock tires with the tiny amount of dirt/gravel riding that I do. Thank you for commenting!

[@AubMar]

Depends on your roads and how fast you like to go. There are narrow tyres compared with modern bikes so your tyre patch is smaller therefore less contact - This is a retro, simulating older bikes in looks, performance and build but adding modern reliability, so not really a fair comparison to compare to any modern road or adventure bikes, just different machines!

[@BlakesPipes]

Own a 2020 cafe, best bike ever. Glad to own and love the look.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Hear hear! Thank you for commenting!

[@edwardsenesac]

Nice bike and thoughts! Are you in Vermont?

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I absolutely am, a proud resident of the NEK< are you also in VT?

[@edwardsenesac]

@@bigbluemotorbikedog That's great! I am originally from South Burlington, Vermont. I am now living in Miami and Japan. But, I visit old friends and family in Vermont almost every summer and I plan to be there next month in May. I recently purchased a Moto Guzzi V7 Stone that I plan to pull behind my car driving up to Vermont.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

@@edwardsenesac if you make it up to the NEK let me know

[@gwapogreg5837]

It has wide spread reports if electrical problems

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

On all the forums that I am on, I haven't seen any reports of electrical issues, do you have examples of those reports?

[@gwapogreg5837]

@@bigbluemotorbikedog I have seen many but I just love this bike.Also the 900 rs.I was in the hospital for 1 month around May and June so had lots of time on you tube and getting a retro bike is on my bucket list.

[@Mo_G]

Is it good for long trip ?

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Depends on how many miles is a long trip, how often you stop, and what modifications you make to the bike. If you check the Rally Footage, you can see one that's a touring adaption of the W800 that is a real mile eater!

[@JensAsiaKirchner]

21 and broke af but i want to have this bike in the future 😂

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Motorbikes are way more affordable than cars... used market is healthy too. So cool that you appreciate the classic look of the W!

[@ClassicMotoTV]

what a ode to W))) Nice video

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for commenting! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@alwood9148]

as uncle longbeard and i both agree my 2012 w800 is supurberly nice not a race bike so dont try use it as a capable smooth reliable fun toy (from australia

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for the comment! True the W800 is *not* a race bike! I do like to go for a ride often and enjoy the perfect nostalgia generated by riding this machine tho, does that count as playing with it like a toy? ;-)

[@mebeasensei]

Well said.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you

[@stephenspencer83]

I'm a believer!

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I just had the Monkey's "I'm a believer" start playing in my head. I'm that old. Thank you for commenting!

[@deltabluesdavidraye]

I agree that ir is rhe most faithful but it is not the best .Not the best mileage,reliability,vibration free ,parts and customization availability .That goes to the Royal enfield.Does the W-800 have four main bearings on a twin cylinder as that R.E. ? Forged one piece crank ,forged steel rods ,forged pistons?The R.E. does.Does it have horizontallt split cases like the R.E. ? No. Yes i would love to have one . But it is not a better ,cheaper ,longer lasting or close to superior bike as the R.E. 650

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

You seem very passionate about your opinion on the RE. I don't know enough about the Kawasaki W800 manufacturing process to properly address your questions, so I asked Claude AI to answer them for me: Does the Kawaski W800 have four main bearings on the parrallel twin engine? Answer: Yes, the Kawasaki W800 motorcycle does have four main bearings on its twin cylinder engine. Specifically, the W800 has an air-cooled, 773cc, SOHC 4-stroke parallel twin engine. This engine configuration utilizes two main bearings per cylinder, for a total of four main bearings. The main bearings are part of the crankcase and provide rotational support for the crankshaft. They allow the crankshaft to spin with minimal friction. On a twin cylinder engine, there are two connecting rods, one for each piston. Each connecting rod is attached to the crankshaft via its own journal (the region of the crankshaft that contacts the bearing). This requires two main bearings per cylinder - one for each connecting rod journal. So in summary, the parallel twin configuration of the Kawasaki W800, with its two cylinders and two connecting rods per cylinder, necessitates a total of four main crankshaft bearings to operate properly. This is typical for most twin cylinder motorcycle engines. The multiple bearings distribute forces evenly and provide stability at high rpm. Does the Kawasaki have a single piece crank shaft? Answer: Yes, the Kawasaki W800 motorcycle does have a forged single piece camshaft. The W800 uses an overhead cam (OHC) valve train design. The single camshaft is responsible for operating both the intake and exhaust valves for both cylinders. This camshaft is forged from a single piece of chromoly steel rather than being assembled from multiple pieces. Forging allows Kawasaki to create a stronger and more durable camshaft versus other manufacturing methods. The single piece design also improves accuracy of the cam lobes and journals as there is no assembly required. This promotes more precise valve timing and lift. Additionally, the W800 utilizes a hydraulic valve adjuster system. This means the camshaft does not directly interface with the valves. Rather, it actuates hydraulic lifters which take up any slack and ensure consistent valve clearance. In summary, the W800's single forged camshaft works in conjunction with the OHC design and hydraulic lash adjusters to provide optimized valve operation on this twin cylinder engine. The single piece forged construction is high performance and built to last. Does the Kawasaki W800 have forged steel rods and forged pistons? Answer: Yes, the Kawasaki W800 motorcycle does have forged steel connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons. Specifically: Connecting Rods: The connecting rods which connect the pistons to the crankshaft are made from sturdy forged steel. This provides high strength for these high stress components. Pistons: The pistons are forged from aluminum alloy. Forged aluminum is stronger and more durable than cast aluminum pistons. The forging process aligns the aluminum grain structure for superior strength. Piston Rings: Each piston has two compression rings and an oil ring made of cast iron. This provides reduced friction and blowby. Wrist Pins: Forged steel wrist pins connect the small end of the connecting rods to the pistons. High strength steel minimizes wear in this high load area. By using forgings for these key engine components, Kawasaki has produced a robust bottom end assembly for the parallel twin engine of the W800. Forged parts outperform cast or powdered metal parts in terms of strength, durability, and longevity in high stress reciprocating engines. This old school build technique contributes to the vintage appeal of the W800 motorcycle. And on the Horizontally Split crankcrases: Answer: No, the Kawasaki W800 does not have horizontally split crankcases like the Royal Enfield 650 twins. The Kawasaki W800 has vertically split crankcases, which is a more traditional crankcase design. Specifically: The W800 crankcase consists of three sections - left case, right case, and a center case that houses the camshafts. The left and right cases are split vertically to allow assembly of the crankshaft, transmission, and gearing. Horizontally split cases, like on the Royal Enfield 650, allow the crank to be inserted sideways during assembly rather than needing to thread it up into the case. Vertically split cases require more complex assembly but provide better crankcase rigidity as there are less horizontal parting lines. So in summary, the Kawasaki W800 uses a traditional vertical split crankcase design rather than the more modern horizontal separation like the Royal Enfield 650. This matches its vintage styling but makes assembly slightly more difficult. The vertical split provides excellent structural rigidity for the crankcase housing. As far as aftermarket parts, I don't know about the availability for the RE 650 line, I do utilize Webike and Omega Racer for aftermarket on the W series. The W series has been around since the late 1990s, so lots of time to have aftermarket parts developed, although I'm sure many have been discontinued in that timespan. Thanks for commenting! Keep the shiny side up!

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

@@SomeBody-pb7ht Was my response too much?

[@pnwoods]

YEOW! Leave out Claude and you have a term paper! @@bigbluemotorbikedog

[@dogfeathers5646]

@@bigbluemotorbikedog No, not at all. Good to get a detailed and complete answer.

[@andrewsoldan6050]

does this bike pull chicks?

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

I've got a meme in the community section of the channel that addresses this... I've been riding motorcycles for 37 years, and what I've seen across all spectrums, all types of motorcycles, is the absolute best scenario for using your motorcycle to attract the opposite sex is to be female. Hahahaha! That being said, the crowd that this bike seems to attract the most attention from are the over 40 crowd, with increasing interest matching increasing age. I do usually hear really great stories about the bike they used to ride in the 60s and 70s and how much they miss it.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

The men will be who asks you about it the most.

[@deltabluesdavidraye]

Bikes don't pull chick's .Attitudes do.

[@music_without_cats]

Only the ones with a sense of taste. Sad truth is that this bike will attract much more guys than girls :)

[@simongilbert2704]

looks smart in the red ;;

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

Thank you for commenting! I do love the colors Kawasaki chose, would be cool if they offered more than one per year (USA).

[@drgeoffangel5422]

That statement is incorrect! it could have been, if it had a kick starter!

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

If you prefer a kickstarter, the W650 has one. The W800 is fuel injected so no kick starter. Thank you for commenting

[@markdoolan7282]

You lost me with that helmet. Often wondered what makes a person buy a helmet like that. Perhaps you could do a vid justifying the choice of this purchase especially at your age and why you decided it would positively contribute to the appeal of your video? It kind of destroyed the credibility of the subject matter and distracted the viewer from taking the content seriously. Shame , you put some effort into it and we will never know now what it could have been unfortunately.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

The helmet is a Shoei RF SR, so I believe you mean the helmet cover. A video which talks about that is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGfHqWpriL2lsKs and another video that touches on it is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6W8dYiFqbGmY9E I don't take myself super seriously, and like to have and be approachable by everyone when I ride. I do my best to be a good 'motocitizen' and a motorcycle ambassador to the public at large. I'm far more concerned about the publics opinion of motorcyclists than how "cool" I look riding around. It's my hope that maybe some of those kids that get excited and wave at me on the road, or as I pass by will grow up to be motorcyclists themselves, and that everyone who notices 'a big muppet on a motorbike' may be a little bit more aware of riders while they drive. I am super curious tho, what about the helmet cover changed your opinion of the content so much? (are hooligans the people you usually see with helmet covers, does not fit your view on what a motorcyclist should look like? etc.)

[@harolddavis4138]

The helmet is hilariously stupid. That's okay! It's a whole lot more fun than putting a teddy bear on the back like so many do. And that's okay if they do too. I ride with a fluorescent green mesh riding jacket and I also have a fluorescent green helmet. I don't wear them all the time but when I do I'm sure there's somebody out there with a derogatory remark. In a world that's gone absolutely crazy, I think it's ridiculous to belittle someone over their helmet.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

@@harolddavis4138 We play a game when out riding, counting the amount of 'cool points' we can get (a cool point is when someone waves back from a HD, sports bike, pedestrians, etc., not the usual crew of older touring and adv riders who always wave) My favorite is when kiddos wave because they are really in to it and maybe will grow up to ride motorbikes... but definitely a cool point when a herd of harleys roll by and we get a wave from every rider.

[@kiburi2903]

In what way did his choice of helmet destroy his credibility? The subject and his helmet aren't connected in any way. And it's cool to see someone who can have some fun wearing something hilarious. It just shows how open-minded a person is imo.