The First 400 Miles of My Tiny Bike Adventure

[@sm98710]

A useful advice a bicycle repair shop gave me for when changing a tube is after you put it in the tire and before fitting the second side into the rim, inflate the tube a little. This way it’ll be considerably harder to pinch it.

[@johnturley5595]

Also some silicone spray or grease may help.......Either way good job Sterling...... keep going.on....

[@KeithRowell-l7j]

I learned that in 76 on my honda 350.so to not pench the toob

[@garyteague9555]

Sounds like keeping an extra tube would be the best option to me , they are not that expensive on Amazon, you can get a two pack for less than $20

[@kregyung4604]

It more about technique along with the tips. Very most important is when you’re using tire irons, rolling the tire onto the rim, be sure the tire is centered on the rim all the way around to allow tire to slide as far as it can towards final part of tire flipping onto rim. The tire won’t be so tight when done properly

[@eddwil7]

​@@garyteague9555, he had an extra tube.

[@rayfriend7450]

In a pinch, no pun intended, cut your old tube to make a temporary patch. I spent the night on the Navajo reservation next to the bike with a flat. It’s part of the adventure! Looking forward to the rest of this series.

[@BrianDoherty-e8s]

Things that can help with flat repair is to sand down your tire irons to remove any sharpness or manufacturing irregularities. Then go over the working areas of the iron again with very fine emery paper to get a polished finish. Then rub down the working areas of the iron with wax, like from an old candle or treat with silicone oil so the irons enter and leave the tire bead/rim smoothly. I can also recommend carrying a small medicine bottle of talc to sprinkle inside the tire so the tube slithers smoothly within the tire. That will also keep the patched area from sticking to the inside of the tire and peeling off the patch. Happy motoring [next time]!

[@waynefirman882]

"It's not how big it is, but what you can do with it." Two thumbs up on your new adventure. I look forward to see how you manage this new set of issues. Keep your head up and the rubber down.

[@motophoenix5951]

Don't let your bad luck with punctures put you off. The more you do it the easier it gets. I found that if I put just enough air in the tube to fill it (ie no pressure) and then lever the tyre on, there is less chance of me pinching the tube.

[@SterlingNoren]

Ive repaired many a tube before - for some reason this one was the worst!

[@Porsche996driver]

Good tip from my bicycle days ha

[@glennsmith1040]

Great video Sterling. The little bike is rolling along quite nicely. Nice to see you back.

[@defaultuser3410]

You're usually so calm and chill, the "FUCK!" caught me off guard, hilarious!

[@bseidem5112]

NEVER cuss on KZbin. We automatically shut you down. It is interesting to see what can be done on a small bike tho. Get the thickest tube possible and fill it with the green stuff, always use the correct tools. Get tubeless tires.

[@paul.vanhout57]

Not only a tiny bike adventure, but a "real" adventure with the tire saga😬. Fabulous filming and story telling.

[@SterlingNoren]

Cool, thank you!

[@tomtom9639]

Enjoying my Sunday morning cup of coffee with you on your ride! 😊

[@gdroege44]

It’s not what you ride, it’s the smiles that count. Great video! 👍

[@JIMPETERSON-n7i]

Yup -- smiles per mile! :)

[@bseidem5112]

Sure it does. The right bike w/ the right equip=no breakdowns=more smiles. Never ever give up.

[@Solitarius-Lupus-Moto]

Don't give up now! I have the same bike and outfitting it like yours - it's fun.

[@chrisd4283]

What a great route via 191 I need to take. Thank you for sharing and sorry for your challenges, but I know you will persevere! 😃

[@SterlingNoren]

Thank you so much!

[@chrisduffy8018]

Stunning cinematography, Sterling. The drone footage gives an idea of the immense scale of the landscape. Thanks for another great video

[@marcoluoma3770]

Thanks for a fun trip. I’d love to find room in the garage for a CT, having learned to ride on my Uncle Jim's trail 90. As I’ve said many times, this channel has the best cinematography of any motorbike channel on YT. Thanks again.

[@jasonyoung7673]

Sterling, good video!, truly enjoy that you are doing it on a small displacement motorcycle😎 You have left the video on a cliff hanger, it is my hope, knowing you from your past videos, you will endure and learn and have a great motorcycle adventure & experience. I look forward for the next video!!!😀

[@SterlingNoren]

I like ridiculous ideas.

[@Porsche996driver]

@@SterlingNoren Without ridiculous ideas the world would still be flat ha. 😂

[@guusderotte1206]

Stirling, thank you for sharing your adventures with us. You show that cc’s don’t count, instead perseverance is what it takes. Great video.

[@kennethgrech8641]

Keep holding on buddy, u re a true inspiration!!

[@1Llamrei]

Thank you for sharing with us not only the good but the bad in adventure riding. Anyone of us that has ridden off road has had to change a tube or two in our lifetime and they don't always go as planned. Again thank you for sharing with us.

[@smilinkyle]

Sterling, you are in a class by yourself. Your videos are so well done; the stories are so interesting. A+ all the way!

[@SterlingNoren]

Wow, thank you!

[@jasonloke2219]

I am learning a lot from your flat tire experience. Thanks for sharing!!

[@osimnod]

Tiny bike, big adventure -- brilliant! Despite the flat tire challenges, this just proves you don't need a big, heavy, powerful bike to explore the road less taken. Keep your chin up and your eyes on the horizon. Looking forward to more of this content.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks!!!

[@contrary310]

Great video despite the disappointing tire issue, that high alpine Mogollon rim region is such an incredible place to ride. I did a similar route south from Springerville to come visit you guys in Bisbee last November. Beautiful and really remote over the 9300ft pass on the "Devil's Highway", and then riding through the immense mine at Morenci was just mind-blowing. Hoping to make another pass through AZ sometime soon!

[@chrismiksovsky5871]

Always enjoy your vids, Sterling, tire gremlins be damned. It’s cool to see you continuing to adventure on the small Honda. I know you like the big GS bikes, too. This reminds me of the “Long Way ‘Round” where the mostly hidden third rider, the cameraman, has his bike break down. They end up getting him a “small” local bike (I think ~600cc) and he eventually says it’s more fun than the big GS because it’s just easier to handle. I wonder if you’re having a similar experience. I travel solo too and the peace of mind that comes with riding a bike you know you can easily pick up and manage is essential in my view (I’m on a CRF 300L presently). Anyway, hope you get the tire sorted and can keep going. I’m always struck by the variety of shots you setup and appreciate that you always have to come back and get the camera after you drive by! 😂

[@GordonAlbury]

King of the B-roll! Great stuff! Going home isn't quitting- just rescheduling...

[@deanholden1808]

Oh no! That tube is terrible. I am so impressed with your calm perseverence and problem solving. (Mind you, I think I may have heard one F-sharp!) Way to recover and I hope the series continues. Love the little 125, reminds me of my old 1972 Honda CT 70 dual sport! 👏🏼

[@Porsche996driver]

F# lol nice one!

[@paulherbst752]

Sorry for your troubles. Sterling. Hope it all works out.

[@michaelparish2435]

Good video! Hope you get back on the road soon with the Honda Trail 125.

[@grenoble321098]

Too cool! refreshing...About the flat, it is a good idea to inflate the tube very slightly so it takes its shape, also, not to screw the valve stem all the way prior to mounting, hope this can help.

[@markchristianson8178]

These are the real bike you tubes that are real this is what really happens . Great show you did a great job you sure have patience please don't quit . Tubeless would of been in your favor good luck !!

[@jimmytad]

I'm still enjoying your great videos Strirling. Thank you!

[@greasycanadianbiker]

That was pretty cool. I would love to ride in Arizona. U have also shown what that little bike is capable of. Thanks for sharing.

[@SBMotoZ]

Great Vlog, and beautiful Camera work. My last two bikes have been tubeless simply because I don’t wanna hassle with tubes. That being said, I definitely plan on getting a new Honda Trail 125. Great go anywhere machines, and certainly more reliable than my new Ktm 790 Adventure

[@suntech3307]

Sterling, seu Estado, sua região, contém as mais belas paisagens do planeta. Ideal para passeios sem pressa, em motos pequenas! Vou segui-lo nesta nova e emocionante jornada! Estamos juntos! Abraços do Brasil!

[@clarson2916]

Great video! This bicycle mechanics trick may help with motorcycle tires. 🤷‍♂️ Put your spare tubes in ziplock bags with talcum powder. The coating of talcum powder helps everything slip back together without snagging on the tire levers.

[@kalaharyJones]

It is common for new ones to bite the tube when they try to install or remove it from the tire. If you learn quickly it will only be a 20-minute job to replace the tube. It is recommended to carry 1 extra set, so when you have a puncture you only change the tube and repair the damaged one at lunch time.

[@daniel85mg]

this was an awesome video!

[@Andrew-td6hi]

Sterling, thank you for sharing this journey. I too ride traileys with my brother and love these dependable bikes. Sorry to see what happened hear. It’s all about the tire irons. There are a set that centers into axle and then manually rotate tire off/ on without tube pinch. It’s out there on web check it out. Would you mind sharing this route. All your videos are a joy to watch over and over. Thank you brother!

[@rogerlarson8040]

Great Job on the filming, music choice, drone shots, choice of adventure. I watch tons of videos of all sorts and rarely sign into my computer just to make a comment. Thumbs up.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thank you very much!

[@brentmiller5830]

Glad to see you are back with a vid and healed up. I am in Wyoming and curious if I stayed in your motel in Feb, March, or April of 2025, if you could help me figure out a few days of dirt adventure rides. I would either bring my Husky 501s or T7. Thanks for another excellent video.

[@SterlingNoren]

Of course we can help you out if we are around. I also have a few good suggestions on my website: www.norenfilms.com/roads/bisbee-loops/

[@motohelibungee]

@@SterlingNorenWow Thanks Sterling! I have adventured as far West as Silver City, NM to visit Gila Cliff Dwellings. Fall 2024 will be checking out AZ! High on my list is Saguaro!

[@basstracker34]

Glad to see I'm not the only one who's struggled with tubed tires!

[@BabarKhan-ip4bz]

Best presentation

[@markpinnington1723]

As usual Sterling ...excellent filming and scenery. I'm always paranoid about flat tyres riding on my own. I've got tubed rims as well 😢 Thanks for sharing

[@castle228]

Another great trip. Your tenacity is admirable. And your F bomb totally caught me off guard! Hoping you get that rear tire squared away and we get Part II of this great saga. Cheers from Alabama!

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks Alabama!

[@douglasrykerd6266]

This journey reminds me of an old book called “old man on a bike”. As some of us age having a bike we can still pick up will keep us adventuring. While a 1250 GS is certainly more comfortable, the smiles per mile are pretty much the same.

[@markust8904]

Ah, Sterling, your going more and more eccentric as you age, as i see you putt putt, putting down the road. look at this crazy coot!😛 I think with all the stuff and weight on the rear tire, you will have more episodes like the flat fix in future. I guess that's and adventure in itself. Love it.

[@SterlingNoren]

Eccentricity here I come! Or am I already there?

[@timstanton2241]

I thought about my flat tire experience. In 40 years I have had only 2 flats on motorcycles. I learned from my bicycles to add just enough air to provide shape to the tube as the other commenter suggested. Hopefully you get back out there for the remainder of your 2 weeks. Love your videos. And loved my brief stay at the Jonquil. Best!

[@VictorFlint-xr5xr]

As Gary Player said"the more I practice,the luckier I get" I use the curl point on the tyre lever for taking off the tyre from the tube and the straight point for putting it on. Less risk of pinching the tube Looking at the air pump. Not sure if so practical when having a few punctures as you had. Battery down ,no air available. Thanks for the great videos Sterling. Vic DR800 RSA

[@JIMPETERSON-n7i]

If you experience tube failures at the base of the valve stem, one thing I learned the hard way on my mountain bike (never replacing tires until I absolutely had to) is the interface between the tire and the wheel wears smooth and this lets the tire slip on the wheel -- even when fully inflated! I've had situations where a brand new tube didn't last two miles! :( Once I got the new (or newer) tire on, I couldn't make the wheel turn inside it -- even with no air at all! Of course, once properly inflated there was no movement either = paradise restored! :)

[@jrodriguez8216]

Wow, the one thing I worry about as a newbie when by myself. Thank you for showing this, since I own the same Honda 125. This episode has really taught me more about patience and perseverance. Maybe I should get a tubeless tire on mine. Thanks again Sterling very enjoyable video and capturing all of the beautiful Arizona landscape. Hopefully not to long of a wait to see what happens next. Best to you, JR

[@WyDave]

What an amazing winding road!!! I know you'll get that stubborn tire fixed and then we'll see more of this amazing adventure. I definitely saw and heard your frustration (and curse word...lol) As you've said, small bike & slower speeds allow you to enjoy the view.

[@brianbrowning6615]

Looking forward to the next segment and how you became an expert at tires and tubes over night.. Awesome video as usual by the way.

[@remerglobal]

An incredible trip! An awesome bike and a great vid! Thanks Sterling! It’s making me miss home all the way from Madagascar! Viva los tiny bikes!!!

[@SterlingNoren]

Cool - Madagascar! Thank you!

[@surferbummg]

Thanks Sterling on showing the gamut of motorcycle sizes which can be driven for the same adventure riding. No need to go 85 MPH on a 600 lbs bike. I always carry a repair kit and a spare tube just in case a repair doesn't hold up. Hated seeing a flatbed trailer pull into the frame (plus your Sunday timing) and stopping your adventure. The bike size looks to have nothing to due with this failure.

[@SterlingNoren]

Yeah its such a bummer to resort to "a tow" but I was pretty tired of it all at that point -getting dark, snow on the ground, unsafe place, etc.... in this instance I was happy to get a tow to a motel :-)

[@luciano136]

We just went through Eastern AZ and the Devil's Hwy in April. Amazing area! And the size of the mine is indeed mind boggling; I couldn't believe it!

[@adamshani3049]

Very inspirational and thanks for sharing

[@SterlingNoren]

You are so welcome!

[@8777RL]

I use a tyre worm...works perfectly, no need to remove tyre and really cheap & quick to fix.

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

That's some gorgeous riding. I look forward to spending many days in Arizona on an upcoming moto camping trip, including Bisbee and the world famous Jonquil Motel. I hope you finish your small bike big adventure. It was going so well, before it wasn't.

[@3goldfinger]

Did you watch, Some Guy Rides, he and his friend crossed the US on 2 Honda's 125. Great videos. As always, things will works out for you.

[@alainmichaud6747]

Fantastic , tiny bike give you the time to see scenery and all the details of the state .......great trip , trouble find us on the road , hope you could fixe it , Alain & Yellow

[@WestOfTwinPeaks]

Hope you are editing and posting this from the road. I think if I were in your predicament I’d try to get tubes overnighted to the motel. Looking forward to the next leg of the trip.

[@thesuperfunkomatic]

Tough luck. Anyone that has had to deal with tubes has learned this lesson about accidentally pinching a tube when installing it. It's amazing how such a simple low-cost element of our bikes can be such a pain and a trip-ender. Good luck! Also, that bike looks like a lot of fun, so hopefully you're up and on your way again soon.

[@SterlingNoren]

On my way again!

[@enduromotorradtouren]

Pity you couldn't fix that inner tube for good. But then it's all about adventure and surprise. Beautiful landscape. Thanks for this episode, Günter/Nürnberg

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks Günter!!

[@Geordo1960]

Used zip tie method after pinch flooding several times on my rear tire on this bike, the zip tie method was successful! And made the process easier.

[@propstand]

My trick to getting the tyre back on without pinching the tube is to lube the tyre bead. It’s a struggle to get that last 6” put on, dish soap, bar soap or just saliva rubbed along the final few inches will glide that bead over the rim and avoid pinching the tube. And pre inflate the tube a little too

[@martinkastan4053]

I always enjoy your videos thank you so much

[@davidpoffenbarger3686]

This is awesome! Always love your content, but this is a new approach to adventure. I'm concerned about adding 35-40 lbs of kit to my KTM 500EXC and you show up with hard panniers on a 125! Dig it!

[@scrambledpegs2202]

Hi Sterling, for motorcycle tubed tyres we have had great success with Slime. Carry tubes as back up but rarely have to use them😊

[@eddwil7]

Great video Sterling! Time to seal the rim and go tubeless. I hate patching tubes.

[@thenarrowpathoftruth9443]

Your productions are masterpieces. I am so in love with your channel.

[@SterlingNoren]

Wow, thank you!

[@johndyer7587]

Sterling, you've made my day with the tubes!! Your patience is exemplary. Wonderful attitude. Kudos for showing warts and all on your trip, and that you can always call a tow truck! I bought a Super Cub 50 about 6 weeks ago, and installed some mild knobbies (Shinko 244) to go boppin' around back roads. Had all the right tools, watched lots of KZbins about how to do it, and I ended up killing my tubes 3 times each, both front and back! Finally gave up, sucked it up and had the shop do it. Like you, I learned how to patch really well, and at least those were holding! But just kept pinching the crud out of them when installing. I wonder if the 17" wheels make it harder. I've successfully done standard dirt bike 18/21" before, but just could not get the knack on the Cub. Anyway, was being a bit hard on myself, but not anymore!! ;-)

[@clarkleakins879]

Another suggestion. When you have a flat. FIRST, find/borrow a large log/rock/4x4 fence post, something put under the center stand. SECOND, repair in the shade, no matter the ground conditions (except maybe mud). Do you carry a small block and tackle, with ratchet strap? You can use that, hoist up the bike on a tree/ branch/road sign/utility pole/ step peg/ similar. Also useful where you leave the road, unexpectedly. Use a small ratchet strap, hold tire tight to rim, bead inside the rim center. Then work hands around tire each side, last tire section over rim 180 degrees from the strap. (Wear/use a good belt as alternative)

[@sharkkakirde1]

The photography and shooting is amazing

[@kylemoore2068]

Great soundtrack selection, and excellent story telling Sterling.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thank you kindly!

[@TsavoTouring]

This videos is so incredible. Well done once again!

[@davidskaggs9914]

Nice...makes me want to saddle up my Transalp and take off

[@richardvalitalo3670]

191 aka 666 is a 4 hr. treat on a bike. Nice job Sterling.

[@thecorporategypsy]

Some wonderful drone work.

[@bobbowman6288]

Excellent video. You'll get the hang of the tube replacement. Don't feel bad. I vulcanize patched a tube once for a puncture, inflated the tire but forgot to pull the nail out of the tire. That was 44 years ago. Your videos are great. Can you please tell me the music for this fantastic video? Thanks.

[@SterlingNoren]

All of my music is used by license from Epidemic Sound. They have a nice collection. I'll try to start adding music notes into my video descriptions.

[@johnsaranchuk]

Hope your wrist fully recovers. Miss your GS adventures.

[@BallardBaller]

I thought we lost you for a while.... glad you found your computer again to upload these amazing videos!

[@marcotoivovideo]

Looking forward to more on this story!

[@glenfitzgerald9295]

You are so lucky to have such an area to ride around, im in Australia and our roads are useless for exploring, enjoying this series Sterling....cheers from down under.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thank you, I hope that you continue to enjoy the videos!

[@michaelmarkin1532]

A solid adventure. Hope to see you try again. Bad luck with the tubes. I’m guessing you may be favouring tubeless tire right now lol. Thanks for a great video.

[@crynfish5605]

Hang in there man! So great to see your movies again! And so honest to present your viewers with all the trouble you get into, just like in real life :)

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks! Will do!

[@motojon76]

I love your videos. Not as much as you love overloading motorcycles, but I definitely enjoy just about every video you put out. Hopefully you have already, or are about to film the Northern California BDR. I’m stoked for that ride and can’t wait to see the official film.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks! We already filmed the northern California BDR last fall !

[@techdragn]

Thanks for posting. I have to bike viscerally through others for the next month, due to surgery. I enjoyed the views. Thank you

[@SterlingNoren]

Happy to hear that!

[@willwill5595]

Was thinking this so Kool. Love the small bike.

[@offroadagain]

Great roads! Imagine riding them on a motorbike 🙂

[@twowheelrodeo]

This experience is close to what many will have with in route tire repairs. This video had found repeated issues all can experience with their own bike. 🌅

[@jncdi1535]

A can of Fix a Flat might have been your friend for that initial puncture. I had good luck with that on pinch flats and thin brads/nails.

[@eugeneteo9664]

the coffee sure smell great with a great view.

[@edking3427]

Everything but the flats were wonderful. Hope you can continue. Flat repair is an acquired skill, but lube and smoothness of the tools are secrets for sure....tire/rim lube ....bead lube and talcum powder on the tube and inside the tire. Maybe consider a baja tire change tool. In advance, powder the spare tube and overnight pressure check and stretch the tube. Oh...and don't pull my stupid trick...finding only one of the two nails in the tire!

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks! That would suck, to not find the other nail.

[@rodadachi2823]

I love riding my Honda Grom which shares the 125 cc motor with your bike. I replaced the original front sprocket with one that was one tooth lower to add more low speed grunt and replaced the original street tires with Shinko mobber knobbies. My bike can go anywhere and is so much fun to ride. I feel sorry for my DR650 dual sport that is being left behind in the garage.

[@markchalloner5883]

Apache Pass to Haekel Road to the Blackhills Backcountry Byway is my favorite way to start any ADV loop that goes up the old Devils Hwy!

[@dannychavez4878]

New sub. Love my Arizona trails. There's a guy by the name of Pablo Himhoff riding an C90 Honda from Argentina to Alaska, he just crossed the U.S . I'm sure your Honda will do just fine!😂

[@ml2422]

u must try aveta ranger m/bike👍

[@ckkrons2338]

Great video, love you showing the world the bike you ride does not make the adventure. Installing a tire on my DRZ once I pinched it in four places😊, getting the technique right on that is tough.

[@noidreculse8906]

Wow, we know your videographer talents already. I noticed that in the first 2:30 of the video you must have had at least a dozen different types of shots. Drone footage, tripod set ups etc. The time involved was well spent. All the pre-planning of the shot set ups and editing later all payoff to make a great, enjoyable to watch video. I also like how you share your experience with other artists who also are motorcycle enthusiasts. 😎 ride safe. 👍🏻

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks you it is nice that you appreciate that!

[@noidreculse8906]

@@SterlingNoren I was a still photographer working in the Automotive Advertising industry. I know the thought process that goes into setting up a shot. The choice of lens, time of day and direction of the light, is it a pan or lock off shot? Add in a drone shot or two and my mind is blown. I never transitioned to film making mainly because of the post production process and the time involved. Plus you write the narrative, research local history, and add music. Your efforts show and your work is second to none on KZbin. Not just among the many “motobloggers” but ALL videographers posting on the internet. I like how your reviews are about the camera equipment you use and how you pack it. Everyone talks about HP and ground clearance. Your narrative is about feelings and emotions and the people you meet. Keep up the great content and work ethic, ride safe.😎

[@billroberts9182]

Have you seen the technique of using "wire straps" or "zip ties" for mounting a tire with the tube in it? There are quite a few youtubes showing the technique and I think there is much less likely of damaging the inner tube! I will try it next time I have a flat.

[@bigjoe4020]

I've watched a few people fit tyres using the cable tie method. Seems a lot easier to a point where you don't even need to use the tyre iron, which of course means no chance of pinching the tube. Its always good to have more then one method handy in case your usual method is for some reason not working !

[@SterlingNoren]

I'll look into that.