Modern Bikes Fail - Character Trumps. Behind The Scenes RE Guerrilla Launch. A Better Bike For Bogan

[@kwakithailand]

Dad&Son ride outs and bike discussions at a Cafè or under a tree: *FANTASTIC*

[@peterbeard5362]

Started riding at 16, now 71 & just bought the Classic 350 signals, great bike for an old bloke. Absolutely love it, the big bikes are too heavy now, just pushing them around is hard on the back. It reminds me of the Triumph 500 I had in the UK. No plastics to remove just to change a spark plug. I did an oil & filter change in 15 minutes, so easy. Will have to sell the big bike, but my days of 200+ kph are well & truly over. Character is definitely in the eye of the beholder. Good video fellas, bravo.

[@lensmann100]

Wouldn't it be nice at a new bike launch if a manufacturer simply said- "There's the bike, go ride it and let us know what you think?"

[@thewiltshirerider01]

Absolutely agree.

[@silkycherry]

The RE Classic 350 has a lot of character too ( which I own and a Harley). The New RE Himalayan for going on adventures is is perfect bike . I would like to own one in the future.

[@markstaley5922]

Father and son just chilling whilst shooting the breeze what a cracking video well done boys we never see this on any other platform superb 👍

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

@@markstaley5922 thank you 😊 do you follow our main channel? 😊

[@markstaley5922]

@@DarcyOlManExtra yes a very happy subscriber love the channel I just think it’s a great way to present bikes without ramming too much technical detail down our throats with nice country houses lanes as a back drop and the odd field of cows your love for motorcycles is very apparent and it shines through well done the both of you

[@andiway1208]

I’ve just taken the plunge with a specked out Urban GS after many years of compromise. I’m in love, my mate loved it so much he’s bought one too! We’re looking forward to our next adventure and loving any opportunity to ride in the meantime. Character? Definitely!

[@garmit61]

I've had plenty of modern bikes with character. My ZX6R had loads of character, My Daytona 955i was a beast and I loved it. My next bike was an Aprilia Falco with possibly the best engine of any bike I've owner. After that I owned a Benelli Amazonas 1130 which was outrageously load, stupidly overpowered for a big trailie, wonderfully comfortable and blighted by horrendous cheap electrical components. I switched that out for a Suzuki VStrom 650, it has excellent manners and won't terrify you with it's speed but it's v twin engine is fill of character and the bike is ultra reliable. My Guzzi LM 4 is fabulous and like all 80s Guzzi carburetted bikes has bucket loads of character. The torque reaction is fantastic and wherever I park up , it turns heads. The best bikes are the ones you really want to ride.

[@steveruiter79]

Welcome to the Guzzi family. From Canada and I ride a 2019 V7 Stone. Character with a bike for me isn’t just retro or the shakes but it’s simply the ride man and machine stripped down gadgets. Great videos.

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

Thank you 😊

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

As far as your off road adventure bike is concerned, there are lots of Aussies and Kiwi's that do adventure riding on DR 650's. They've essentially remained the same since Noah rolled the first pair off the ark. There is aftermarket everything for these. They're no longer sold new in the Australian market due to the absence of ABS but there are a tonne of good used ones available second hand at a "reasonable" price. Plenty of them have been kitted out, too. And they come with "character" already installed at the factory: Air/oil cooled. Big single. 5 gears and a carburettor. Thanks for the content.

[@TallBiker]

Great discussion on character. I would add that it's not only how the bike makes me feel, but people around. When I'm out on my 1956 Matchless G3LS 350, it's lovely seeing people smile, wave. thumbs up, and nod with approval. They enjoy seeing and hearing the mechanical machine that is alive passing by. It's as simple as you can get. Luckily I have my garage setup as a full blown workshop and can look after all my bikes, so it's no problem for me getting on with such an old machine, but it's worth it. It's so mechanical, with all the noises it makes as I chug along my local roads. All my stresses and worries evaporate.

[@davidnunnerley9084]

Love the new Guzzi. Beautiful looking bike.

[@TheSwithy]

I'm not sure about other viewers, but I would be very interested in learning more about Dad's exercise routines, his past achievements, and how his regimen has evolved as he has aged. As I have been passionate about exercise, lifting weights, and staying in shape for most of my life (64 Years) ,possibly make a video about it?

[@BobMan1952]

I wish my father and I had a similar relationship to the one you two share. You both are blessed. Always enjoy your videos very entertaining Thanks

[@gzk6nk]

I find your 'dad and son' vids to be most entertaining - the way you spark off each other. It's a great (and unusual) format. You're in danger of becoming my go-to bike channel! Vince

[@FunWithAJ]

Darcy likely already know this but just have to say your Dad is a legend. Doing the channel with you, gym with you and his quick with to the lady who walked by "you can have a ride on it if you want".

[@neilwilson8811]

I grew up in the era when every bike was an adventure so I’ve never been taken with the concept of ‘adventure’ bikes. Similarly character is something that does not necessarily encompass a machine in its entirety. I’ve owned 14 bikes over 52 years and each one had an element of character either within it or wholly, such as the Manx Triton I built in the mid-70s or my two Moto Guzzi Le Mans mk III, which I owned some 15 years apart. But my Kawasaki GPZ1100 and my BMW K100RS both had character in various ways as did my 1997 Honda VFR750. Today I run a 2016 Royal Enfield Classic 500 and as I live in the Languedoc I did a tour of the north of Corsica in early June with a mate from Scotland on his V85TT. Character and ‘adventure’ in one package.

[@volt8684]

I am very envious of your relationship and memories you have and are making with dad/son. It’s a rich if not the richest resource you have. I have had 44 bikes and not one has ever broken down. Serviced myself thanks to my dad. Only ever punctures. The gimmicks these new bikes have terrify and put me off owning. Great vlog. I ve also got an old car which I love

[@ozyrob1]

@@volt8684 I feel exactly like that with modern cars. Sensors that ensure you are looking foreward and nag you if you dare to do a headcheck. More sensors to say you have departed your lane. All this stuff is intrusive and unwanted. Worse still you have to work your way through the menu and turn it off every single time you start it. I can't see myself ever buying a new car ever again. It's not that I don't want one or can't afford one. I just couldn't put up with the utter garbage that comes with it spoiling the ownership experience every single day.

[@BlakesPipes]

I am glad you said that about motorcycles , I very do not understand quick shifting and automatic shifting. It takes away from what it's all about to ride.

[@petersluik7192]

I think character means different things for different people. I am on the same page as you guys (modern classics, and classics are my jam), but I have friends that love fast sports bikes and for them the aggression, seating position, and twitchiness is what gives the bike character. I would assume that for ADV riders the capability to go anywhere is what character is all about. Different strokes for different folks. Good video though, I enjoy listening to the both of you chat about all things motorcycle.

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

Very good points you make there 👍🏼

[@dungspreader]

You bring up some good points about what makes character in a bike and here is a couple of answers to your questions . A bike to ride across Australia ? a Suzuki DR 650 would be hard to beat , it hasn't changed much since the 1980s .New Himalayan would be OK too , you don't want any bike in the bush that you can't pick up unaided . Triumph 400s would be out because of the lack of a 21 inch front wheel . Modern bikes with character ? Guzzi , single cylinder Royal Enfields , Triumph Bonnies , BSA maybe , Kawasaki W800 ,.naked Ducatis . Don't dismiss real classics , they can be reliable if they are rebuilt properly and have modern modifications . My latest rebuild is a '74 Moto Guzzi Eldorado 850 which is a real joy to ride and incidentally has almost identical horsepower and torque figures to Darcy's new V7 850 and I would ride it around the world without any worries about reliability . Absolutely rock solid design , which is still evident in the modern Guzzis . [ check out Paul van Hoof and his old Guzzi - " Guzzi Galore " ]

[@TheNorthernClassicRider]

Great video chaps, keep up the good work and ignore the detractors. Now 1400 miles in on my Classic 350, absolutely love it and has bags of character.

[@Here.there.andaware]

The two of you got character 👌💪

[@JoJo-hc4dj]

Great to see you back having a great chat on this channel 😊

[@mikebetts9677]

Surprised I wasn't subscribed but I guess everyone has to subscribe again after the change to Dad and Darcy. Really enjoyed listening to you guys opine about bikes and riding and character. You guys have it!

[@garyrobinson7128]

Yes I agree I went from a BMW F900r with all the options. Now have a Royal Enfield GT650 and love the back to basics feel and its a bike I just park up and look at love it…

[@zombiehunt808]

For light off roading and adventure riding a slightly modified RE Classic 350 is the way to go. Fit some trail tires and an upswept exhaust and you’re good to go. Lots of luggage options, character and great mpg.

[@MTBrider26]

Why can't people just agree to disagree. Why do people have to be offended if someone say something 'they' don't agree with? I for one agree with your interpretation for the character of a motorcycle. Keep doing what you have been doing in the way you do it. That is your character.

[@Terrakaicarguy]

I'm 20 and I ride a Moto Guzzi Audace. Im absolutely enamored with the character. The bike does so many little things that make every moment like a celebration, there's always something going on

[@mattdog1982]

A simple bike is a good thing. I don’t want all these modes and screens. Ease of maintenance. Another great vid.

[@davidforsdike4343]

Have found the perfect combination. A Motoguzzi v7ii with a Watsonian chair. Is soo much fun . Can ride all year with a car battery in the boot for your electric suit. Take the dog with you and get your shopping .

[@GarethLa]

Honestly have just finished watching @MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV Nepal trip they did on RE scram 411's and was blown away. Adventure start in the heart. No need for monster ADV's. I am seen a movement of people breaking away from the "long way down" formula and have super adventures span thousands of miles.

[@leehart1498]

I own a late model Royal Enfield classic 500. Talk about character. WAHOO!

[@MrB1967]

The 350 Classic has got character. My V85TT has character too - maybe ALL Guzzis do? I've got a raucus Aprilia Dorsoduro, a 750 V-twin, looks great (in a supermoto sort of way) and that's got character. I had a 900 Elefant years ago, that had loads of character - 900SS Ducati engine. I've never ridden one but the Indian Scout looks a character.

[@christianmouraux7269]

Lovely discussion, really enjoyed listening to you 😉 I fully agree that character is crucial! That’s the reason why I got rid of my GS 1200, it was excellent but boring to ride. I’m lucky to have several bikes in my garage but the only ones I ride are the ones with character.

[@christianmouraux7269]

The Kawasaki W800 has lots of character 😉

[@Gaius0]

A light bike for offroading that also looks the business could be the Fantic Caballero 500 Rally. Although I don't think it has massive luggage options, so you'd probably need to strap a roll to the back with bungee cords. Admittedly a lot of parts on that bike are plastic, though they probably have to be to keep them light. But I think the design is on point.

[@Bigfatbobbbb]

Great video as always , love listening to you two having a natter , I finally rode the Himalayan 450 yesterday and was blown away , previously owned a 411 and the new one is everything the old one wasn’t , and I loved the 411, has a triumph speed 400 a couple of months ago but sold it as couldn’t live with the snatchy throttle , was glad the 450 wasn’t the same , all the best, by the way i have ordered a 450 in salt

[@crumblymal8479]

In total agreement with you guys on character of bikes and the looks of the transformer style ,it's quite interesting on the looks side and design that stands the test of time , for instance to me if you look at the Yamaha 350 LC that still looks good today where as the 500 LC looks very dated and old fashioned and to go back even further the Vincent Rapide or Shadow still looks good and say an Ariel Arrow or even the square for not so much . Looking back there are many many examples of this I just think it's very interesting taste and styles change yet some remain very constant .👌👍Great watch even with Darcy wearing a cap and sunnies 🤣nice looking cake by the way .

[@philroberts5537]

Spot on chaps. An adventure bike is whatever you ride. If you re not having adventures ,you might be doing it wring. Re rider modes. My bikes have ultimate rider modes. I control how fast,or slow, it goes ,how far it leans and how quick it stops. De skilling riding or driving makes the experience blander to me. Of course some folks love the latest look and latest tec. Their money their choice as far as I'm concerned.

[@tomstockell9481]

Good one lads - what you're talking about is an antidote to the modern world ( the classic 350 certainly has character and gets more after 1000 miles / 2500kms )

[@bikerbeliever8169]

This is why I love moto guzzi, the character is so good but not intrusive or exhausting from the riding experience. I like Harley, don't get me wrong, they make fantastic beautiful bikes, but they are kinda tiring and wear you out fast, that's been my experience anyways. I'm planning riding the bmw r12 and maybe r18 soon so I'll get to see how they feel with the boxer engines, hopefully a similar sensation to the guzzis I've rode. Everytime you hop on a guzzi though it feels special and you feel the mechanics but it only adds to the riding experience without taking away from it and that's where imo moto guzzi just nail it perfect.

[@sideburnz77]

Both are beautiful bikes lads. I've come into the bike world in my mid 40s my first bike after I got my license is my royal Enfield interceptor from watching your review of it I fell in love with it. I'm already looking at other bikes they turn your head 😂 I'd like to keep this bike still it's so much fun! Keep up the good work guys 👍😎

[@brentharrington9235]

I can't list other bikes with character because I have only ever purchased Guzzi's. 4 Guzzi's and 20 years later...no regrets.

[@Plough78]

I doth the proverbial cap 🎩 Sire 👍 Enjoy ❤ *Plough* 🎉

[@brentharrington9235]

@@Plough78 I have no idea what you said.

[@brentharrington9235]

@@Plough78 nvm I figured it out... Thanks. Started on a 750 Breva, got a Griso 1200, Then a v7racerIII and now have a v85tt. Still have them all others the racer...RIP racer, RIP.

[@brentharrington9235]

@@Focal_Paradox I've ridden friends' bikes. From FJ1300 to KTM1190 duke to BMW1250gs....honestly, they all felt about the same to me. As Darcy and the Old man said...they just don't "Feel" like anything. Never been on a rocket...probably never will. I would like a HD Fat Boy...because I'm American and they are the king of cruisers IMO. But maybe on my 50th bday haha.

[@jfro5867]

Enjoyed that, those two bikes suit you both very well, they compliment one another and have that timeless quality to them and won’t age. Like the silver & black plate, nice touch.

[@Snoopy-cq5jy]

Nice video and your conversation is relaxing and kind of therapy for me to listen to, great stuff. Just relaxing with your video after long 12 hours shift here in Norway Sunday evening. I am a lifelong biker with several bikes, HD 09 Ultra Classic, 09 Suzuki B-King bought as overstock in 2014, 23 T100, 23 classic 350 and a 1974 Honda CB750 four, love them all 😀

[@Sunny-rf3bg]

Classic 650 is coming soon. Also 650 scrambler

[@ozyrob1]

I bought a 2008 Triumph T100 brand new. I liked the idea and the heritage. I later realised it was made in Asia so the heritage was a fail. ( and before anyone criticises me for being a racist I have an Asian partner and I love her dearly, I love travelling in Asia and the culture and the genuiness of may people there). The quality of my Triumph was rubbish. The chome crazed and even though well cared for quickly became very crappy looking. I felt like I'd been sold something of an illusion. I wouldn't buy another Triumph "classic" again. I've owned Moto Guzzis since the 80s. What you see is what you get. No hype no bs and they aren't a "retro". MG aren't restyled to look like a bike from the past. They are simply Guzzis. Sure they have fuel injection now and catalytic converters but legislation demands it. For me there are pretenders backed by advertising hype and then there's the real deal. If I buy a Husky a Guzzi or a Triumph, it needs to be made largely in Europe. Im not interested in hearing about all bikes having international or Asian parts, I accept all bikes will have parts from outside of their country. For me if a bike or car is largely authentic to it country of origin that's important. It's part of that feeling you can't put into words but fully understand. MG and Ducati still deliver.

[@JoRich653]

Triumphs are no longer manufactured in the UK? Not even the T120?

[@girlinagale]

Character in a bike is a lot to do with feedback - feeling the engine, tyres, brakes and gears working. For adventure bikes, it was amazing to see Itchy Boots on her crf300 Rally struggling through deep mud in Africa, and locals on cheap chinese 125's, passenger on the back plus a couple of sacks of rice, standard road tyres, getting through 2' deep puddles in heavy mud.

[@MrJPillai]

I recently got a Honda Dax to learn to ride on and your review helped inform the choice! I'd say it has a fair bit of character 🙌 😎

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

Awesome thanks 😊

[@williamlylecameron9345]

Great video both, thank you. I was only thinking the day I hope you do another Dad'n'Darcy video soon as it has always been a pleasure to sit down with a cuppa and listen to you both talking about your views on various topics. Please keep them coming.

[@raulantonioperezortiz1118]

Great video Mr Darcy and Ol Man. I hope you make a vídeo of a royal enfield classic 500. I got one of the last year of producción, and I think Is a Great full of character bike.. (sorry for my bad english) saludos desde México,✌️

[@paulbrook2459]

Great channel, I enjoy your honesty 👍 the bike industry is all about more power ! More gadgets ! Faster is more fun ? Thanks god you both speak about the enjoyment of riding and character, how a bike makes you feel 👍

[@Bob-xc2us]

That's exactly what I like about my W800. It looks and feels the part. A real motorcycle in the simple and traditional sense. I might have considered a V7 but there are no dealers close to me. I do like my W800 though.

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

I absolutely love my W800. When I set out to buy another bike, I had a list of bikes as long as your arm of suitable candidates. DR650's, CB, 400's/1100's, Bandit 600's, NX 650's... If it was a mid powered bike, it was on the list. I made the decision to buy purely on the basis of mileage, condition and price. I purchased the W800 without test riding it. A 2015 with 900 miles on the clock in showroom condition. Why didn't I know about these things sooner? It's a great performer in the "real" world, looks great and it has "character". I'm keeping it, it's not for sale.

[@Bob-xc2us]

@@davidbrayshaw3529 I too did not test ride my bike before purchase. You are spot on about the "real" world performance. They make every day motorcycling fun and easy and it doesn't hurt that they look so darn good looking.

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

@@Bob-xc2us "Fun and easy" describes it very well. It is such a useable package. I love the instant delivery of power so low down in the rev range. 47 hp doesn't read like a lot on paper, but when it's as accessible as it is on these things, it appears to be more power than just that.

[@Bob-xc2us]

@@davidbrayshaw3529 The W800 is rated at 47hp at 6000rpm in the UK and EU for A2 purposes and 52hp at 6500rpm in Japan and else where. It has a dual throttle blade set up that gives more torque at lower rpms and more power at higher rpms when the secondary throttle blade opens. Works like a two stage four barrel carburetor on a V8 car. It comes alive from 4-6000rpm. It really does punch above it's weight in terms of ease of use and general on street performance.

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

@@Bob-xc2us Interesting. The seat of my pants has been telling me that these things are more powerful than claimed. I learned recently that unusually, Kawasaki's figures are obtained at the rear wheel rather than the flywheel. I wonder if that has something to do with A2 compliance also? I'll have to learn more about the fuel injection system. It's the first fuel injected bike that I've owned. I've heard nothing but horror stories about fuel injection, yet I have been nothing but impressed by the fuel injection on the W800. They just run so darned well at any throttle opening, any load, engine speed, elevation or whatever. And the way that the power is delivered is confidence inspiring. It's so linear and progressive and predictable. I've ridden a wide variety of bikes over the years, but this one I just marvel at. It's like Kawasaki designed it just for me.

[@RF-dg4ib]

That Guzzi...beautiful.

[@jackmarch2914]

Wow glad I found you gentleman. I was sipping on my beer,you were talking about bikes with character. When you mentioned the Honda Rebel 500. I almost spit out my beverage. I liked subscribed and shared.

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

Welcome to the channel 😊

[@glynhannaford7332]

I think it was the Rebel 1100, that was diagnosed as lacking character!

[@speedtriplerider7853]

Very enjoyable chat about what you consider characterful. Neither of your bikes are my cuppa tea but i agree totally that they have character. I guess character is wholly subjective. I think the most characterful bike ever made is the original BSA Gold Star but I'd never have one.

[@78Outlaw]

Spot on lads… Oil/air cooled for me the key combined with the right exhaust,the move to water cooled, rider aids, e clutches just robs away the chatacter 🤷‍♂️ emissions aside.. makes you think that’s what authorities want is to reduce leisure biking 🤔 ahead of electrification ⚡️ My example is a 5Four CB1100RS, one of 54.. Honda made the valve timing less smooth to give it more character and with decent pipes sounds between a twin and in line four, agree Rocket 3 didn’t have much character but a lot to do with stock exhaust .. the sheer drama of it sort of worked. Then I went slower, less efficient, traditional clocks but way more character with the CB.. Got to say that V7 absolutely on point Darcy, similar style to my CB and my mates Thruxton, ❤️ #classic nice alternative to a T120

[@lukeoverthere1364]

I really look forward to your videos. The variety of content and different bikes, the nice casual conversation. Also, I love the classic bikes as opposed to the modern plastic pointed ones. Any closer to the Dobbs collaboration?

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

@@lukeoverthere1364 many thanks and watch this space we hope to collaborate 👍🏼

[@splodge57]

I've owned BSA's from the 60's, Triumph's and Norton's from the 70's, Guzzi's and Ducati's from the 80's, a 2001 Harley and plenty of Japanese bikes. They've all been great in their own way but none have had any more character than my current 2020 Triumph Speed Twin 1200. It also looks, goes, stops and is finished better than any of the older bikes.

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

I have a triumph thruxton and a Harley road king love the simplicity 😊. The Guzzi is a very nice machine have Acquaintances that have them.I can see it being a very is Happy machine valve adjustments are right there for you to take care of with a minimum of mechanical fiddling. 😊

[@gorskii4710]

I really enjoyed this. Thank you for the post.

[@mikewho9964]

Great discussion - but some of the newer bikes have character and do look cool too - Guzzi 850 V7's are great character bikes but some of the modern ones are not only unusual in looks but amazing to ride - my plug is the BMW F800R - light , excellent suspension and a really playful character - the sound reminds me of the RD 350 because of the engine configuration - underrated in my opinion

[@jjstuartonwriting8150]

For me riding a motorcycle is about chasing an emotion and finding a place of happiness. For me the Classic 350 is that bike. Not fast, not too slow, with a great sound, and visual appeal where you can just chug along enjoying the sights with a smile on your face. Where else can you get that and 100mpg?

[@Plough78]

@@jjstuartonwriting8150 Roll on a Meteor 350 myself and agree.. Would've got a classic but the meteor was to good a deal to not buy... Halcyon Black/Red or Signals Marsh Grey would be my choice... 🤤 Cheers 🍻 *Plough*

[@YiddoHuayi]

​@@Plough78I have the marsh grey. It's my happy place. I like the halcyon green too...

[@Plough78]

@@YiddoHuayi Excellent choice. They look fantastic, when I see 👀 one I always seem to think about the Steve McQueen bike scenes in the great escape... 😂 Enjoy her mate 👍 *Plough*

[@richardjohnson3463]

Interesting discussion, I have to agree 👍

[@janeharris9879]

A very thought provoking video. My Himalayan has character (and a mind of her own 🤨). I love her. I have a Transalp XL 750 and whilst not being bland, it lacks that 'je ne sais quoi'. ARieman's Warhorse has tons of character. I would love to try an old Transalp or a KLR. Loved the video. You are a great duo! 😊

[@_audacerider3838]

I think You Gentlemen need to test ride my Moto Guzzi Audace 1400. I think it is a bridge between the R18 and the V7. From riding position to the engine character and the bike layout. With a dry car like cluch between the engine and gearbox allcthe way to the shaft final drive. Even the weith of it sots nicely in the middle.

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

@@_audacerider3838please message us through our Facebook page or Instagram page 👍🏼

[@scottastell9415]

Thankfully we all ride what we like in the end after we ride all we can and cannot afford. That gives us character by not following the herd. So viva la difference!

[@wingandhog]

Good topics guys. Ignore the haters, they have no class.

[@markstaley5922]

Love you guys keep doing what you’re doing if some don’t like your content then they don’t need to leave nasty comments 👍

[@newlife155]

I'm only a quarter way through this video but I'm loving it, thanks.

[@_Krytz]

I have a feeling you guys will enjoy the ural sidecar motorcycle. Im in the process of restoring a 1991 dnepr mt16 (almost the same bike as ural) that bike has loads of character. It is a blast riding out the country and enjoing the views . You get lots of looks and waves off people.

[@Dudeiculas]

I totally agree its all about the character and looks 👌

[@Tom_FLHCS]

Totally agree! I currently ride a Heritage Classic so could’ve got on any number of ultra-modern, ultra fast bikes full of electronics and dressed like a Power Ranger but they do absolutely nothing for me. Motorbikes are supposed to be cool. I think some people just don’t get that.

[@aidencoder]

I wish I had a dad. Seriously tho, lovely discussion. Bang on about character and the same applies to cars for sure. I feel like motorbikes should be an antidote to the automatic world.

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

Thank you 😊

[@logangodofcandy]

I have a dad. I got beat a lot.

[@aidencoder]

@@logangodofcandy beat with love tho yeah?

[@Simulera]

The V7 is a beauty in my eyes. There is an integrity aspect to character. The bike was made to be ridden and kept. It will last and will be respected for its competence, build, and the inherent beauty of functional design with a heart. No machinery was harmed or hidden in pointless fashion in the creation of this motorcycle. It will look good when it is old in part because never looked very modern, but it was not a fake-ish or pandering attempt at the past either. Anyway they’re both beautiful but the V7 speaks to me in a way that the R18 somehow misses by just an inch (and a number of cubic inches that affect steering).

[@kiwibiker9754]

Buying a bike you spend half your time replacing bits that fall off or fixing things that break. Thats Character 😂

[@mockbattles]

Longitudinal crankshafts are very rare in motorcycles. That alone makes bikes like the Guzzi and the R18 characterful.

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

@@mockbattles 💯

[@specialcircs]

I take your point about 'character' but wonder if people in the 18th century thought stately homes had 'character' or if character is just a subjective product of our own personal tastes? As for bikes, I'd say a lot of very new bikes have character - the RNineT, the Honda Monkey bike, the SV650, the Triumph & Ducati scramblers, the Ducati Monster and definitely RE's new bikes, like the Himalyan and the Guerrilla.... the Guerrilla is like the rebellious, fun counterweight to Honda's dull but smarter Speed 400.

[@PeterBaxterSmurf-y6g]

Talking about bikes with character, unfortunately this brand is no longer in production since Polaris took on the Indian brand but before that they were producing Victory. They still pop up for sale. Have either of you had a ride on any of the Victory range? The saying goes ‘If you ride one, you’ll want one’ I did, I now have one 😊. Comfortable, characterful, good looking, sound great, always getting admirers/questions and smiles per mile a plenty 👍 love mine.

[@simonndaula828]

Lovely as always. What boots you wearing Darcy?

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

They’re falco boots 🥾

[@simonndaula828]

@@DarcyOlManExtra thanks chief

[@mattstringer7838]

Hi both, enjoyed the chat based approach. It's down to what you like. Personally I don't like the sorts of bikes you like but that's all good. Who am I to have an opinion , I have a Chinese made cf moto 450 mt and love it and feel the little engine has character.

[@nigelfisher6896]

V85TT instead of the RE 450 Hymarilan

[@WainwrightWalksWiaLocalLad]

Beauty and "character" are in the eyes of the beholder!

[@sanatandharma4435]

I am offended by my being offended! Keep up the good work, gentlemen! It is always lovely to watch your bimbles!

[@porcaminosrurales3755]

electronics vs. mechanics: definitely, the more electronics the bike has, the less character it will have. As a user of a W800 SE MkI I can attest to this. Only electronic injection, then, only mechanical devices that allow you to live the bike as a unique experience. Interesting video, interesting debate. Thanks

[@user-gingerbiker60]

1977 my friend took me for a spin St Ives to Cambridge on his buzzing le man's mk11 great bike then a fast at the time. Great video. Try a honda firestorm l had one v twin character 😊

[@gzk6nk]

My first and second bikes were a VFR, then a Blackbird. Both did exactly what it said on the tin, and the Blackbird in particular had amazing performance. But both were bland, uninteresting, and totally characterless. They had to go. Then I got an R1150 GS which DID have character, and I toured extensively on that. A 1979 T120D Bonneville (one of the last of the Meriden bikes) followed. That had loads of character but loads of vibration and unreliability. Several bikes later I now have a 2023 Speedmaster Chrome. That's lovely! And engaging! Why do many modern bikes have a front end that looks like a magnified fly's head? Ugh!! Vince

[@PDCRed]

Interesting. A characterless V4? I own the 2014 VFR. With an SC Project can it sounds wonderful, handles well and the engine is to die for.

[@85waspnest]

That was an interesting natter on an otherwise boring Sunday afternoon. i have two bikes, a black 2020 Honda CB 1100RS which I love the looks of and to ride, certainly the bike I'd want to be on for distance rides on A roads and motorways. It has a bit of character but only because Honda built some into the slightly offbeat exhaust note. My other bike is a new 2024 Royal Enfield Scram to which I fitted a stubby carbon silencer and replaced the air intake snorkel, centre stand, luggage rack, flyscreen, and done away with the ugly plastic tank pods. This bike is so much fun on our poor Lincolnshire country roads. I thought 24 bhp would be boring, especially with a max running in speed of 40 mph. Wrong, 40 mph is plenty fast enough 75% of the time. I've had more fun on the Scram in one month than in 2 years of the Honda. Just subscribed.

[@RetroCB1100]

Very Interesting, I have the CB1100 Ex version and am thinking of the Scram as possible second bike. I do mostly B roads in the Vale of Belvoir, Derbyshire Dales and Lincolnshire wolds with a few longer trips away for a few days, all via the Calimoto App. Might wait to see if they put the new engine RE single in a scram.

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

Welcome to the channel 😊

[@85waspnest]

@@RetroCB1100 If you fancy a Scram 411 with the air cooled engine, now is the time to buy as most dealers are clearing them out at £3,699, or £3799 for the two gloss paintwork. I wanted an inexpensive Winter hack while the Honda hibernates. When the dealers dropped the price by £1000 the temptation was too much to resist.

[@IanSixbikes-by6ei]

The main issue with most 'modern" bikes is they overloaded with electronics which ultimately rob them of character, as a lucky owner of multiple bikes (BMW, Ducati, Harley , Honda & Triumph) I can honestly say they've all got character however the one that always stands out is my Harley which has character by the bucket load and that is probably down to it having practically no electronics beyond ABS, Fuel Injection and Cruise Control which means I actually have to ride it rather than just sit on it and point it. On the subject of what Bogen should be riding , you can actually still buy a brand new XR650 in the USA so that would be my recommendation.

[@towerdave4836]

My Benelli 250 2C has bags of character. It’s noisy, uncomfortable, inefficient, has a heavy clutch and brakes that decide for themselves if they are going to stop or frighten you, and an engine that usually starts second kick but then sometimes refuses to restart if you’ve stopped it for more than a few minutes, and, when it does get going, leaves a dense smoke screen so you can make an undignified get away! You sure you want character? Clearly I do. I’ve had it 49 years!

[@FunWithAJ]

On the point of bike looks. Personally when looking at new bikes if i walk away and dont look back then i dont buy it.

[@collyernicholasjohn]

What’s got character? you guys relationship who treat each other with respect. Crossing Australia IMO couldn’t go past Paris-Dakar XT500 or 80GS.

[@ChancellorBeeHaw]

what an absolutely great type of video, love this stuff and exactly why Im also subbed to this channel :)

[@DarcyOlManExtra]

Excellent! Thank you 👍🏼👍🏼

[@alanflint7732]

I've been watching a lot of videos of the Yamaha tw200 and similar. Not big or fast, but capable. If you're not thinking of doing 500 miles a day on motorways, maybe a look at smaller capacity trail/dual sport is the way to go. Also the mpg figure tends to improve with a smaller engine. Touring on a budget. I've never got any cash. So it's something I can relate to. And with Brexit. Going beyond the borders of the UK have got more complex and expensive. I left UK for Corfu 8 years ago. I can't even think about coming back now. I'll have to do something next year though, before my passport runs out. Can't abide doing stuff like that online. And the postal service in Greece is too random to be reliable. Cheers chaps. Such an enjoyable video.

[@the.communist]

Funny how people complain on n on how cold it is in britain n when they get some hot days, complain on how hot it is 🤣😂🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Bigfatbobbbb]

i have lived here all my life and you are very correct LOL.

[@malcolmosborne1592]

Next bike has to have character. BMW R18 is stunning but a bit big for me. Was thinking about a speedmaster but wavering towards a 114 Streetbob 😬

[@silkycherry]

Street Bob all the way

[@KiwiPokerPlayer]

If love stopping to stretch my legs when there's a paddock full of cows, I never get bored of how they all crowd around and chat to each other about this weird dude on a funny looking horse. You mentioned the Himalayan as your pick of adventure bikes you thought looked good and was capable of long distance overland... what about the Kawasaki KLR650? It's the Toyota 70 Series of off road bikes, pretty much unchanged since '87. Bare bones simple, ultra reliable and looks good in my opinion.

[@ostevoostevo1592]

Great video guys!

[@user-us1hx2cx3j]

Social media is really "the coward's castle" isnt it? - anonymity allows people to vomit out anything that pops into their minds. On the subject of LACK of character, I own a 2019 model 650 Kawasaki Versys I call "The Corolla" - very economical on gas and maintenance, very very reliable, well priced new or used, super practical BUT utterly devoid of "character" (just my opinion). By way of comparison I also own a 2006 Suzuki Vstrom 1000 that I find to be seriously "characterful" despite being utterly reliable. My 67 Triumph Trophy (sold recently) had loads of "character" but "compromised" reliability. My 97 HD Superglide had tons of "character" but was utterly reliable. Go figure huh?

[@johnwillard6198]

My classic 350 RE has character ❤

[@BikerMatt86]

Now we are talking. I love my 350.

[@julesbaird]

Would love to see you try the V85TT. I've had mine for 5 years and can't find anything else on the market l would rather have, apart from a V7Special.

[@chrishart8548]

Really doesn't have any competition everything else is awful parallel twins with chains. Shame bmw couldn't do a R850GS LC. But it would probably take sales from the F850gs