I have 8 motorcycles, including a Z900RS, my favorite bike? The one I’m riding at the moment………
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
If I could re edit the video, that last line would have been in there. Nicely put. Cheers.
@ehiggins74766 ай бұрын
Well put
@leviefrauim14256 ай бұрын
Z900RS for the win, always. It's the best retro-UJM on the market- plenty of power/performance/usability- and the best looking bike in the last decade+.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Agree. I had a guy buying an old camera off me the other day. He was gobsmacked by the RS - he is an ex rider and an artist - kept on about the beauty and proportions of the RS. Asked how much it was, and left determined to buy one. Cheers.
@britfrog6 ай бұрын
i have a 900 RS and a suzuki sv1000s totally different but both equally great to ride for different reasons, they are both keepers
@pavelpucelik465114 күн бұрын
I ride Grissom, my wife rides Z900RS. Awesome combo. I can sign everything you said with my blood.
@ridewherever6 ай бұрын
I still think about selling my 2017 speed triple for a z900rs. The moto Guzzi is nice but the z900rs looks way better.
@carlatamanczyk38916 ай бұрын
As a 74 year old rider (riding since 1964 and still own 8 bikes), I absolutely love my Z900RS. It's a keeper.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Great to hear. I'll be keeping mine for years too. Cheers.
@RoadsOfOz6 ай бұрын
Both are beautiful bikes. I have a 2015 Griso SE. Had it from new. Fantastic bike. You are right about owners of Japanese bikes riding the Guzzi. They are generally not a fan.
@mohceneabdelaziz47496 ай бұрын
I have griso to Personality and soum are strongly present and we do not deny that z900rs Very beautiful
@mrsilbo64996 ай бұрын
Hi BMR, good to hear from you again. I have a foot in both both camps, cos as you know, I have a 2012 Griso 1200 SE, but my son keeps his Z900RS Cafe in my garage, so I can ride either. I grew up riding UJMs (mostly Kwaks actually), but enjoyed owning the odd Italian bike too. I enjoy the exclusivity of the Griso - not many in the UK, whereas Zed 900s are everywhere. I love the everyday rideability & reliability of the Zed, the Griso is much harder work, by comparison. But that's why I choose the Griso every time over the Zed. It's rewarding in so many ways, from the impeccable handling (better on the margins than the Kwak) to the bellow its mighty V twin makes when you open the taps. I riding élan, I want flair, I want to be elated after a long & sporty ride, I want bystanders to turn & say "what's that bike?" as I cruise past. I want what the Kwak, great bike that it is, cannot deliver - I want soul.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Nicely put! And you are lucky guy to have a Zed to borrow whenever. Both bikes are rare over here, with the Griso a hen's tooth in a haystack. I have only seen one other parked at my local - it's where I fell in love with it. The pictures never did it justice. It's one of those bikes you have to see in the flesh. Cheers.
@churchofbrap8766 ай бұрын
I did an exhaust and flash on my Z900RS Cafe and it really changed the bike. Much more fun to ride now compared to stock. Better tires too, Bridgestone S21R much better than the stock rubber.
@bladerunner7503 ай бұрын
Z900RS, mostly because impossible to get parts from Piaggio... Plus, Griso is out of production... BUT, Griso needs a couple of upgrades to fully come into its own...Also it's pronounced 'Goot-zee' not 'Good-see'
@iansians67036 ай бұрын
I have a z900rs and ride regularly with my brother in law who has a Griso. He hates my bike but I love both bikes. Similar in power and torque but the Griso is a nice big twin with all the characteristics, along with the push to one direction that Guzzis have. The Kwacka is a much more spunky kind of bike with power and torque, making it nimble and handle extremely well. It is smaller and possibly less comfortable as a result (I am big) but I like the handling and power. It is much more sporty than the Guzzi but I agree with almost everything the BMR says. Both great. Cheers.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Nice summary. Interesting that your brother in law hates your bike...They are very different, and I guess everyone is too. Me, like you by the sound of it, I can appreciate both for how different they are. Cheers.
@jblguzziАй бұрын
MG Griso 8V SE 1200 Red Devil 🇮🇹👌🏼
@fulesmackofule6 ай бұрын
I love the passion in your videos. Owning a Griso myself, I enjoyed the way of how you appreciate both bikes. Enjoy the riding! :)
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Much appreciated!
@mrsilbo64996 ай бұрын
As a fellow Griso owner, we get it!
@r6ymy6 ай бұрын
You're lucky to have both. I completely understand that you can enjoy both, and appreciate their differences. I have looked at buying a Griso several times, really like the Black Devil SE model, but they are quite rare in the UK. Ive owned a V7 Racer ii for several years, and wasn't sure if the heavier Griso could be as much fun as nimble V7. However there is now a different Guzzi in the garage, which has replaced my KTM 790 adventure, and also the V7 - a V100 Mandello S. That will now be my modern bike for big trips and general use, taking me down to 5 bikes. I have a Fantic 250 Enduro, a 1961 AJS 31 CSR, a 1967 Ducati 250 Mk3, and a 1990 Yamaha RD350 YPVS F2, for three very different classic riding experiences.
@mrsilbo64996 ай бұрын
Great selection of bikes! The Mandello is like a Griso for the 2020s - comfort & soul together.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Wow - quite the collection. My first ride was pillion on my uncle's AJS - literally the bike that hooked me into motorcycles! Had an LC350 and before that an RD400. Loved the LC. I see a mandello S in my future some time. Cheers, and thanks for sharing.
@javarilla6 ай бұрын
You’ll need both. But if i had to ditch one, it’d be the Kawi.
@mahasidha96 ай бұрын
A practical question; the Guzzi is long ago discontinued; even if I were to find a low mileage one in good condition parts for the Guzzi if forum members are to be believed took weeks even when it was in production whereas there is a great deal of aftermarket support for the Kawi. For the Guzzi there are it seems innumerable upgrades to insure/prevent failures in the future plus Guzzi dealers are far and few in the states; especially WI and Iowa. What would be the highest amount one should pay for an SE in the last year of production? Do use Motorex oil made in Switzerland for your bikes? There was long ago a test of oil called Oils well that that ends well and the Motorex was at the top in all categories.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Hi, good questions. Guzzi dealers here are pretty quick with parts now, but it sounds like you may not be in that situation. I use motorex in my Husaberg and LIquid Moly (made in Germany) 10-60 in the Guzzi as it is what the dealer recommends. So far, so good. The Griso is an amazing bargain, and you should not pay more than 5-7k US for a low mileage 2014-2017 model in good condition in my opinion. Deals are out there if you are patient (end of season, older rider, or new owner who just can't get used to the Guzzi feel). However, like many of the last big block Guzzi's, I don't think prices will stay that low for long, they are being discovered and valued for their quality and big block air cooled end of an era Guzzi design. Good luck.
@mahasidha96 ай бұрын
@@BlueMarbleRider Thank you for the detailed reply! Any thoughts on Victory Motorcycles? I had my eye on one they went out of business; always thought they were better quality than Indian; specifically VICTORY GUNNER (2015 - on)
@brentharrington92355 ай бұрын
The Guzzi is in a class of it's own.
@sjoukedijkstra71106 ай бұрын
I have a similar choise, between my wifes Z750R and a V11 café. The difference complements and i like both. Light steering from Guzzi's comes because the engine flywheel gyroscopic force is not of influence when tilting. I like Kawsaki fours, but i really love my V11 , so when the choise is there, a Guzzi, always.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Good point about the flywheel.
@MikaelHindsberg6 ай бұрын
The Griso every time for me. The more traditional configuration, the size and most of all the soul of it.
@mrsilbo64996 ай бұрын
As a Griso owner, I can confirm it's definitely about the soul
@mohceneabdelaziz47496 ай бұрын
I am also the owner of griso I agree with you
@jala67076 ай бұрын
Griso all the way. I have owned my Griso now for 11 years. Other brands & models have come and gone but the Griso stays. No other bike can come close in the soul & character department. And I wouldn't classify the Griso as a 'retro bike'. It is perhaps old now but in 2006 when it came on the market the Griso was not meant to be a retro motorcycle. Yes, it is certainly dated now, and basic (even primitive?) compared to modern bikes, incl so-called 'retro motorcycles'. But that is why it is a honest bike: it is what it is, and does not pretend to be anything more.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Nicely put. Thanks.
@georgejameson93176 ай бұрын
In my experience when people speak about character of a motorcycle they mean underpowered, overpriced, expensive to maintain and repair. I prefer my ujm’s with no soul but look great, run better and longer, and are as easy on the checkbook as they are on the eyes. Currently ride a 2003 ZRX 1200R, but if it ever breaks the rs will be on the short list.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Good point, but in this case, the Griso has soul, not overt vibes. They're also cheap and easy to maintain. The RS though sounds more to your taste - they're a great bike, and it has character :-)
@markanstey26546 ай бұрын
Both awesome bikes. I prefer the grunt of a big v twin to an in-line 4. I tried out the z900rs - very fast and competent but a little lacking in character compared with my Guzzi V11.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing. Yes the MG's have the character edge over the inline 4s. I do think variety is the spice of life though. Cheers.
@lazmandjik93686 ай бұрын
Nice video BMR. I'm about to start year 5 on my Z900RS Cafe (my 38th riding season). I'm excited for the new season and new trips and new destinations. The ZED is the perfect tool for what I want to do, and yet I want try try a Griso one day too. Having a big twin in the garage (RC51), I know the intoxicating thrum and cadence that only a sporting twin can offer. Have a great season BMR !
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Thanks, Laz. Wow, a Zed and an RC51 - an incridible v twin! Quite the stable, Cheers.
@Am0Am020 күн бұрын
What boots is that you are using? Great bikes great video! Thanks!!
@BlueMarbleRider17 күн бұрын
Thanks. In this video I am using the TCX Hero boots. I have replaced them with the Hero 2 boot which is similar, but not quite the same. Both have hidden zippers for easy removal - a life saver. Video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXmvfYJjqr98gsU
@brunobracke46123 ай бұрын
Guzzi, all the way.
@hedonzx8226 ай бұрын
Very wel made 👍🏻👍🏾
@Jack908r6 ай бұрын
Not the comparison we wanted, but the comparison we needed. I'm on the other coast with the same colour Griso and a Triumph Speed Twin. The Griso is just beautiful to look at. Sex on wheels. And yeah, it also took me ages to get used to the guzzi. A ton of character though. Much like the speed twin. I always say I like both of my bikes, but for different reasons.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
It's amazing how civilized the Guzzi makes other bikes feel. Love it. Cheers.
@MacNowak7 күн бұрын
Griso for me. The Z900RS is just too common. Experience has taught me that if you own an Italian bike, it’s wise to have something more reliable to ride as well :)
@Brisco19835 ай бұрын
I’m seriously considering the Kawasaki Z 900 RS Cafe. I’ve owned 3 bikes. All dual sports. 2 of them from the 70’s. If you don’t mind me asking. How tall are you? I had been looking for a cruiser until I set on this bike today.
@BlueMarbleRider5 ай бұрын
I am 6foot, although I'm riding a Z900RS with a low seat. The standard seat is higher, but I like the compact feel. Good luck!
@eyemallears26472 ай бұрын
I’m 5’10 and although I can’t COMPLETELY flat foot the z900rs it doesn’t bother me at all (I thought it might…)
@ziondanny70816 ай бұрын
Kawasaki, obviously
@rickyricardo99184 ай бұрын
Moto Guzzi for the overall long term ownership experience, why? - You always look great on a longer WB bike, especially if you're over 5'10". - Ease of maintenance, valve adjusts, shaft, independent gearbox with its own separate gear oil, no liquid coolant slowly deteriorating the inside of a block, everything is accessible, remapping the ECU for a pipe addition is free. - Sounds like a small block Chevy with a pipe. - You KNOW you're on something special, something European, something that keeps you coming back and consistently make you smile - plus it ages well. The Kawasaki is a fantastic to behold and ride BUT the Guzzi is likely to eclipse for total ownership experience.
@jimboulter36156 ай бұрын
Having owned a Griso and test rode the Kwaka based on its looks. It’s the Griso for me. The charm and character of the RS disappears once u are on it. Its in line four is powerful but lacks the character of the twin. Each to their own I suppose.
@flatcapcaferacer6 ай бұрын
I had a 1200 Moto Guzzi Sport and found it much more comfortable than my buddies Griso. However, the Griso has the power edge. I do prefer riding the Kawasaki Z900RS SE and sold the the Moto Guzzi. I wish I could keep six bikes in the garage but I can't.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing, tough choices sometimes, but you've still got a great bike in there. Cheers.
@CheLetton6 ай бұрын
I couldn't part with my Z900RS Jaffa.
@hyedefinition10806 ай бұрын
I have a similar pair to these bikes in a Z900RS and Ducati Monster 796. The Monster stays true to its name in low speeds whereas the Z900RS is a tamed gentlemans bike. Both really complement each other well...oh, also the Ducati doesnt want to start anymore 😂
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Always lusted after a monster - a great bike.
@bigcat37686 ай бұрын
I Love this video- thank you! Just subscribed and liked. I own a flashed, speed-shifted, header up-graded z900rs cafe and absolutely love it. I respect everyone’s opinion- but the RS does not fail to deliver- I hear you when you said you enjoyed it- much as I know I would enjoy the Guzzi. Thank you for your insights!
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Thanks for the feedback - flashing makes such a diffference to the RS too. Cheers.
@AdamS-rn1pu6 ай бұрын
I have a Z900RS and a V85TT Guzzi. I was going to trade the Z900RS last year for a Guzzi V100 Mandello, but changed my mind after a test ride on the Guzzi whilst riding the Zed home. When a Japanese 4 is singing it offers something very different to a v twin (some would say more exciting), but the twin also has a place as the ride is involving in a different way. Had the Guzzi since November 23 (bought used at 3 years old) and done 1.5k miles and the Zed since Sept 21 (bought used at a year old) and done 8k miles. watching the video its a similar vibe for me, I like 'em both, and why not. Enjoying both for different reasons.
@Ringer19826 ай бұрын
I have the Z900RS Cafe for 4 years and thinking about a second bike like V85TT or HD Road King.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Agree. I took the Zed to work today...love that 4 cylinder scream as you wind it on. I would miss it too much if I ended up with two Guzzi's. I do want a V100, but not instead of the Zed. Cheers.
@mishkamoto6994Ай бұрын
I have a similar experience with my current bikes - a Griso 1200SE and a Kawasaki Ninja 1000. My journey to this current stable has been through a history of many different types of bikes. I've had inline 4s. triples, parallel twins and V-twins. I'd say my Griso is most like riding my previous Bonneville (another retro twin). Both rides are an analog experience and are completely full of character. In the US, Griso's are quite uncommon. There is something to be said about having a little European exclusivity. On the other hand, my Ninja 1000 has so much more performance and looks amazing. It does everything well, but is less soulful. It's also been extremely reliable. Never fails to start, even on a cold day. Outfitted with some bags, it doubles well as a sport tourer. So I'm totally aligned with your conclusion at the end of the day. I'd miss both if I had to choose one. I'm fortunate that I don't have too. But if compelled, I'd keep the Griso.
@BlueMarbleRiderАй бұрын
Nicely put. Great combination btw!
@Frank-xo7zj6 ай бұрын
Ive done same...my two are a 04…Dyna wide glide and a 12 CBR 600rr...the differing dynamic is awesome
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
A lot of people get stuck on one brand, or type of bike. Variety is where it is at - great selection!
@garyleake46166 ай бұрын
Kawasaki Z900 for ever ❤❤🎉🎉😊
@philipparana92256 ай бұрын
I have a z900rs w a few uogrades, also have a couple guzzis. Thwy de completely different. If i only had one the z900rs would be the better choice but id probably xhoose a guzzi 😂
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
I get what you're saying. Cheers.
@bluedragon43396 ай бұрын
Nice Video :) Side Cam is the Best, I love it 🤟🏻
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Yes, I like that one too, although I like the front one too (other videos). Cheers.
@bryanfarrow91418 күн бұрын
More smiles per mile with a Guzzi. They take a bit to get used to, even a day isn't long enough, but before you know it, you're hooked.
@BlueMarbleRider17 күн бұрын
Missing mine, that's for sure. Should get it back later in the fall.
@standoutpunching29366 ай бұрын
I rode Z1/Z1000/GPZ750/GPZ750/GPZ1100EFI/GPZ 900R/GPZ 900R back in their days. Nowadays a Z900RS. However, if a Guzzi dealer was nearby, I would at least try it out for an afternoon.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
You are a true Kawi man, so hearing you say you'd give the Guzzi a go is great. They are completely different, and take time to get used to, but I'm glad I have adapted. Rode the Z900RS to work this morning - what a blast. Cheers.
@standoutpunching29366 ай бұрын
@@BlueMarbleRider definitely, I would absolutely love to test ride a modern MG.
@beepbop66976 ай бұрын
Keep them both! There is no one perfect bike, so get 2 (or 3) perfect bikes :)
@Jack908r6 ай бұрын
Every man needs a few bikes in the garage. Its a mental health issue.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
That's the plan!
@dstjepan6 ай бұрын
Interestingly… riding Griso for a few years now… RS is one of that favorites to purchase… besides S1000R… Tuono is set aside. KTM unreliable. Ducati 1028 maybe. And to all of you cheering for the RS… please sit once onto Griso and ride it… and you’ll see ;-)
@JEDEYES6 ай бұрын
Link to the mini turn indicators on the Z? Are they as bright as OEM?
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Brighter. I had a friend riding with me and he commented that they were shockingly bright. They are very intense, the only thing is that you cannot see them from the side. Something to consider. I have a video that has links in the notes underneith. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3Ktgqh9ab2peNk
@Jagshemasher6 ай бұрын
I would have a Z900RS, Triumph T100/T120/Speed Twin and a Moto Guzzi V7 . . . .that's as well as my FJR1300 and Ninja 400. I love different bikes for different purposes and moods.
@Peter7606 ай бұрын
I was attracted to this vid because I have the Z900rs and love it to bits, puts a smile on my dial just as you say. Wouldn’t dream of giving it up for anything else. BTW I love your 360 cam on the side of the bike, great view, no lane filtering though 😂. Great review, thanks.
@m.knecht54956 ай бұрын
Great review and even therapy for all of the watchers being in the situation trying to make the "right and sustainable" decision about which bike to sell and which to keep. Absolutely comprehensive, that whichever bike you ride last is the one to keep. And of course: the pure desicion for the most reasonable bike will NOT be sustainable. Even more challenging, if versatility, character and soul is required.
@brentharrington92355 ай бұрын
UJM's are boring.
@dennishardy44026 ай бұрын
I rode a griso for the first time recently, after 10 minutes I was a convert.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Glad to hear that worked for you. The flash and tires are a must do for the Z900RS. Cheers.
@tomfisher475 ай бұрын
I have the rs 900 anniversary had a California 1100-l hard choice
@BlueMarbleRider5 ай бұрын
Lovely bikes - never easy choosing, but particularly with that pair. Always stop and look at MG Californias - rare sight round here.
@cet726 ай бұрын
Nice video, guy, very nice video! I own a Griso 8V and a Street Triple RS and I feel more or less your same emotions and sensations. The bastard britain girl is more sporty then your Z900, but I think I feel that some days I prefer it and some others my old Griso. The last one is perfect for slow rides, with its pumping V-twin... The Street is for "angry" moments or for the track. Anyway, I put Griso on track many times with so much enjoying! So... thank you for your video and good ride!
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Thanks, sir. You summed it up nicely for me. Cheers.
@JerryWDaviscom6 ай бұрын
I get it.
@1StinkyFinger6 ай бұрын
You are my hero, BMR! I want both for all the reasons you mention. Enjoy!
@paulcooper56106 ай бұрын
Had loads of Japanese bikes over the years (Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki) but when I got on my Guzzi I certainly didn't hate it, in fact I loved it and still own it 16years later (I'm never selling it, because I love how it makes me feel), so I guess I have to disagree that people who have owned Japanese bikes will hate the Guzzi, for some it might actually be the bike they have always been looking for. I do own a Japanese bike, which is a Honda CX500 which I also love, I guess for me I just love V twins with the cylinders sticking out the sides. I genuinely prefer the sound of a V twin to any other engine configuration. The Kawasaki Z900 is nice but I'd have the Griso all day long, no contest for me.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
It sounds like the CX500/Griso engine configurations have you hooked - me too. Cheers.
@lylemacdonald66726 ай бұрын
Great commentary BMR. Both these machines inhabit the same riding niche but fill that niche in slightly different ways. Essentially you are comparing Japanese vs. European approaches to getting down a twisty road. I wonder if you would find this difference holding true with a BMW R9T (I know where you might be able to borrow one for a bit 🙂) or a Triumph Speed Twin as compared to the perfected Z900? So many bikes, so little time/space/money. You are a lucky boy indeed. Regards.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Thanks, Lyle. I'll have to take you up with the R9T, perhaps a swap sometime...
@Adri02886 ай бұрын
Z900rs 👍👍
@ehiggins74766 ай бұрын
I’m on the same boat, I ride a Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 and a Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX. Total opposites but great complements to each other.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Love the Svartpilen 701 - such a unique bike - it amazed me when I rode it. Yes they are at very different ends of the spectrum, and I bet you really appreciate whichever one you get on even more because of it. Cheers.
@TheHkluivert21 күн бұрын
You seem to be quite tall, is that correct? I am 6’4 and many bikes are a bit small for me 😊
@BlueMarbleRider17 күн бұрын
I'm not as tall as you - 6ft. The Z has the low saddle - which I like, hence the impression that I may be taller. Both these would be on the small size for you though. The new Stelvio could work though ;-)
@TheHkluivert16 күн бұрын
@@BlueMarbleRider I forgot to mention; I do have the Z900RS and with the regular saddle it is high enough for me. I like the Griso but it might be quite cramped then. Another reason to try on!
@Ni3K6 ай бұрын
How tall are you? The Kawasaki looks a bit small with you on it.
@richardbarton27096 ай бұрын
Japanese are not very tall on the whole any way.🙃
@Ni3K6 ай бұрын
@@richardbarton2709 Have you been to Italy?
@beepbop66976 ай бұрын
The z900rs has a 1.5" higher seat -- though BMR has a custom seat on it. Maybe that's the difference.
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Mine has the lower seat - I'm 6ft. I like sitting low (in) on bikes. As I only use it for local rides, the comfort isn't an issue. The 360 cam also distorts the view quite a bit. Cheers.
@filippocorti6760Ай бұрын
Interesting review.
@BlueMarbleRiderАй бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it
@78Outlaw6 ай бұрын
Great video, enjoyed 🏴
@BlueMarbleRider6 ай бұрын
Cheers.
@mcdk726 ай бұрын
Every time i se this bikes il rather se the real deal aka the original z900.