Power Doesn't Matter when Upgrading Your Motorcycle

[@ellwoodwolf]

It's a big part of why Yamaha doesn't want to make an Mt-07 SP with cruise control and adjustable suspension, a good amount of people would stop there and not spend more.

[@jasonking9401]

I have a MT- Tracer 700... you are absolutely right!! What a great motorcycle.

[@PrestoninParadisus]

I started on an MT-09 and went to an MT-10 SP not long after. I rented an MT-07 a few times in Thailand and I am glad I didn’t get one to start on. That bike is way boring compared to the MT-09 and I don’t even need to bring up the MT-10 SP when comparing it. Many people would still upgrade from an MT-07 SP it is just justifying that extra price for an SP variant that might not happen.

[@sendysent]

@@PrestoninParadisusI’d have to agree. The mt07 is super boring and weak to ride. Rather MT09 all day. That’s just me.

[@PrestoninParadisus]

@@sendysent maybe if I didn’t weigh 240lbs it would have been more fun lmao

[@kurc24k76]

@@PrestoninParadisus I agree, I was looking for a new bike end of last year and wanted to get the GSX-8S which is way more fun than the MT-07 but than the gen. 4 MT-09 was announced and the choice was obvious. But I think that MT-07 would benefit greatly if it had at least 10HP more which is a shame because yamaha did great improvements for 2025 but it stil has the same power.

[@ramonruelas3487]

I just bought my first motorcycle this Tuesday. A 2023 Ninja 400. I am so in love with the bike, the community, and the fun and joy of riding. I plan on buying either a Yamaha R7 or a CF Moto 675ss. I don't plan on going to the track but I would definitely want something a little more exciting. Starting off on a 400 was a great decision because I have a lot to learn.

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

Congratulations on your purchase and on joining the hobby/sport! Love the bike you have, enjoy the bike you have, and live the bike you have!!! Ignore the advertisements, the peer group pressure, the nonsense in forums, the nonsense on YT and just ride your bike and enjoy it. You don't need more bike to have more fun, you just need to become a better rider. So far, that's only taken me 40 years, so good luck.

[@007joybd]

675ss should be best r7 too slow

[@teej1987]

I didn't ride from 2012-2020, and picked up a ninja 400 last summer after 2 years on a shadow 750, and that thing brought my love for sport riding back! It's such a nible and fun bike. I sold it this year because I found a clx700 for 4 grand and I REALLY wanted to try it out *I bought my 400 for 4k and sold it for 4500, so it all worked out nicely* . The top speed of the clx700 sport is the same as the ninja400, but it gets there a lot faster haha. But for real, the 400 is an amazing bike

[@Rancid_Ninja]

I was looking at the 400's till I saw only the rr came with the inline 4. They are too expensive for a little guy

[@Thanatos2996]

Enjoy learning, and I wouldn’t pigeonhole yourself into those 2 bikes just yet. They’re good options if you want to stick with that category, but you may well end up wanting a completely different kind of ride than they will give you once you really know what you enjoy doing.

[@Jim-nm1en]

As a 70 years old man in the UK, I got into motorcycles at 16 as a cheap and affordable means of transport as wages for apprentices back in the 1970s were not great. I progressed by buying abandoned rebuilds to go up in capacity so manufacturers didn't come into the equation. It was only when I got older and more financially able that I decided on a particular make and style of motorcycle. My present bike is a Suzuki GSX650F which ticks all off the boxes for me and have owned since 2012.

[@johnhernandez6434]

For me, new to riding again after 20 years not on a street bike( 86 Kawi 600Rr), but always riding dirt bikes on the weekends, I started again on the 21 MT-09. Tuned and mods it was a beast and so much fun, but here in SW FL. there’s mor straights then twisties, I upgraded to the 23 MT-10. LeoVince LV 10 carbon 3/4 exhaust, tuned and Dyno’d. Have some other tasteful upgrades but absolutely love her. I can chill ride in comfort, she handles the twisties quite well and stable and I can also get on it in a straight. Maybe not the top end of these super bikes but I do my ride. Done about 145 in Mexico and this bike will do at least 160 stock but for me don’t need to do that. There’s plenty of adrenaline rush where I’m at. All in all this is a great bike for my style. Everyone can be different. I think that’s such a cool thing. Great vid Yammie.

[@Darthvader81498]

Started on a Rebel 500 and Upgraded to Honda Transalp 750. Very happy with both the choices

[@ThomasSchratwieser]

Started on a 15-y-o CBR600 because it was what I could afford and have made my way to a 46-y-o R100RS (1000 cc) because I love that proto-sport-tourer life. I've also wound up getting a second, smaller runabout -- a 40-y-o Vespa (manual transmission and 150cc) -- because small bikes are too much fun and two-strokes are a blast.

[@evilminion8825]

I upgraded laterally. Swapping my 07 SV650 for a 2010 Ducati Monster 696. They both essentially make the same power and are similar on paper, but the riding experience on the Monster is so much more genuine and engaging. Couple that with the heritage and panache of Ducati, it was a well worth "upgrade" for me even though some of my my buddies thought it was a dumb move lol I started riding in 2011 on a new Ninja250r then did the traditional upgrade to an 04 ZX6R. Nowadays I'm not chasing power anymore but for the experience and the feels the bike gives me.

[@Win7ermu7e]

Bought an F900R (went for a SV650 but the BMW was on a wicked sale) as a first bike, dropped it in my driveway, bought a Svartpilen 401 to learn on, loved it but realized it was underpowered after one year, sold it and started riding the F900R, two years later now realizing I want more controlled power so the S1000R is next in the spring. I'm 54 lol.

[@manray005]

Another thing to keep in mind is your environment. If you move from a place with great roads and high speed limits to a city or denser area where that's not the case, it's not a "downgrade" to go from a bigger bike back to something small and light that you can use easier. I am thinking of doing that with my xsr900 to a Aprilia 457 as I am moving from the mountains to an island lol

[@ReFreshz1]

As a Beginner rider I personally hate the part of upgrading bikes I prefer a bike I can grow in and I love the sound of a inline 4 sound I think they just need to keep making more bigger engine bikes with more options of TC, ABS and Riding modes so the rider can have the option to restrict the bike when they are starting on it and also remove all the restrictions when they feel ready to release the full power

[@ishan4269]

Sadly, you cannot pay the company according to the amount of the bike that you're using. They are going to be unbelievably expensive to own as well, and costly if u drop it or screw up.

[@bluefrog8670]

My first bike was an XR650R. I survived, and now my second bike is a KLR650. My upgrades are electric start, a much better seat, passenger pegs and a windshield. I compromised on going to efi.

[@aarongipperich7915]

I'm 5 months into my first street bike, a Kawi Z650 (67hp). For my next bike I'm looking at CBR650R or even an older 650F version. I want a comfy, fully faired I4 sporty-ish bike next. The 85-90hp range will be my next step, and I think I'll be happy there for quite a while.

[@jerodrobinson4040]

I Think KZbin Channels are making Riding a Motorcycle infinitly more complicated than it actually is because of this constant need to have something new to Talk about.

[@jamesballard6564]

It's hard to find channels that focus on maintenance, accessories, riding locations, etc....

[@thepipper2902]

Diversifying your riding styles does not really nead to be a complication... I started on a little duke 200... Moved to a 390 and then a ninja 1000sx... Realized I love to ride fast... Now I like track days and dirt... So picked up a dirt bike... Picking up a dedicated track bike next....

[@CandaceRiley-jz6oo]

Couldn't agree more

[@woutn]

Exactly the same with strength training/bodybuilding, and probably a whole bunch of other hobbies

[@jerodrobinson4040]

@@jamesballard6564 Agreed.

[@Akatsuki_2352]

Started on a ninja 300. Rode that for a couple years. Sold it for can am ryker. Found out 3 wheels are not nearly as fun as 2 wheels. Picked up a papio ss earlier this year. Last week, i added the zx-4rr. Plently of fun! Hands full and satisfied!

[@Fattey510]

At age 15 my dad taught me how to ride on his old Yamaha TT 500, which is a pretty big bike for a kid. Being a large kid I had no problem riding it and instantly fell in love with motorcycles. From then on I rode dirt bikes at OHV parks as much as I could. It wasn't till I hit 41 I stopped going dirt bike riding and went out with a friend to look at street bikes one bored day. I had no intention of getting a street bike that day, I was just hanging out with my buddy killing time. I ended up riding home that day on a brand new 2015 HD soft tale breakout. After a couple years of the Harley life I was like mehh...my friends got into moto camping and the Harley was the wrong tool for the job. So I started looking at ADV bikes and yes I went for the big bad loaded for bear dads bike a 2019 R1250 GSA. So I traded in the Harley and never looked back. I spent the last 5 years and 34k miles commuting camping and off-roading on this whale of a bike and still love it. When I hit 50 I wanted something faster and pure road for commuting and twisties. I started looking into sport touring and ended up buying a 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT and omg I hit the head on the nail. For a very tall old guy now I found a sporty bike I could comfortably ride. This bike is like a rocket when you tach out the gears! I mean it not GSX-R fast but it's not super far behind. Absolutely love my old man's squid missile! I'm probably not going stop there, now I have my eye on the next level Kawasaki's ZX-14. This years 40th anniversary edition is sexy! If I can still ride when I'm 70 I'll probably get a Goldwing 😎

[@The.JZA.]

I wish there were more middleweight 600-750cc premium motorcycles that have all the bells and whistles that the bigger bikes have. Like cruise control, high end suspension, alloy frames, nicer build quality etc. I have a CB650R and I LOVE it but I do wish I had cruise control for when I go cross country.

[@CutACrow]

Check out Honda VFR's

[@vincenttolman7196]

Search for a cruise control motorcycle throttle clamp. They are cheap and you just put them on when you need it.

[@The.JZA.]

@ yeah but they’re dangerous AF. Google search motorcycle throttle clamp crash. I’d rather a proper built in cruise control that turns off as soon as I touch the brakes.

[@The.JZA.]

@CutACrow The Honda VFR800 is a beautiful machine and if Honda still made it, I would seriously consider buying it. The VFR800F Interceptor with 104hp and 75Nm would be perfect as a do-it-all motorcycle. I do wish they could drop the weight a bit and maybe give us an update to the engine but keep the V4 and just modernise it a bit. Beautiful motorcycle.

[@MintyPulls]

Aprilia rs660! Beautiful bike with a lot of tech.

[@jed4265]

I ended up at the FJR1300 and I can't possibly imagine a better motorcycle. Fast, maneuverable (albeit heavy), comfortable, and lots of luggage capability. Learn from me, guys. Loll I started with a CB-500F, then NC700X, now this. I commute, have done a 4,000 mile camping road trip, and everything in between.

[@inthehead1763]

I agree completely. I had a BMW R1200GS Ralley with 125hp. I changed to a Triumph Scrambler 1200XE which is at least 35hp less and I have way more fun. To be fair I feel more comfortable on it being able to feel what the front end is doing compared to the GS. No disrespect to the GS!

[@calgibs6911]

Power is definitely a part in upgrading your bike. Flash the ecu open it up new exhaust new intake tune. Afterwards some ceramic wheel bearings and sticky tires if you can shed wieght off the bike and resistance off the power train thats what your ganna want to do. Antigravity battery if you take it to the track get some zero ice antifreeze allisons less then zero wieght oil bout all you need to do.

[@jamesballard6564]

This is exactly what I wish more channels would talk about! 🤛

[@calgibs6911]

@jamesballard6564 if you watch Chris Moore and Brock Davidson they build and tune a lot of bikes like that Chris drag races and does alot of classes but watching him build the grudge bikes and the stock motor bikes are great to watch differences in torque and hp gains on basic mods. As far and like circuit track riding a lot of suspension tuning is involved and im not tearing into to my 2020 750 right now just not ganna do it lol

[@mbpm6135]

Been riding for 17 years. 38 yrs old now. SV650S, R1, 1290 Superduke R. I will always happily sacrifice practicality and comfort for overwhelming awesomeness. I love the raw sex appeal of these powerhouses. Its true that they are limited in use for the streets, but bring them to the track and they truly come alive. So much fun. Shitting on everything but the fastest Teslas on the road and that window shattering ear drum breaking megatwin in a tunnel is unparalleled laughter for me.

[@keithkeller3623]

Riding since 1965.1st bike BSA trail bronc 175 3speed 8hp. The usual progression until 1982 with 1st of 4 Harley Davidsons over 38 years.( no Sportsters). Retired at 65 and bought an Rninet for retro boxer vibe and 1 loved it for 10 years. Downsized to a Triumph Street triple rs at age 75. Feels like I’m in my 20s again.😊

[@luckylanno]

I'm about 8 years into motorcycling and used to be a only sportsbike guy. Now I think they only belong on the track for 20-minute stints. I use my VFR1200X dad shoe for all my street riding now. This is after a few years of foolishing commuting on CBRs.

[@lajosszucs6579]

I'm planning on getting a 6th gen vfr as my first big bike, right now I'm on a 125cc, for the licence I will be learning on a 600cc.

[@Atimoz]

Is it such a bad idea to commute with a sport bike like a kawa ? I may buy a bike in a few years

[@vincenttolman7196]

​@@Atimozit's not that bad, but it's not comfortable on longer rides.

[@robinv2758]

​@@Atimoz it's doable but a dedicated supersport like a 600 or 1000 won't be as comfortable to ride on the street in any way. The ergonomics are rather extreme, the power and torque delivery isn't great, the suspension is very hard, they're all things you can easily live with but if you get a bike built for comfortable touring you'll have way nicer ergonomics, significantly more torque down low and a better powerband and obviously softer suspension. In short, it's not the best option but if you wanna do it you can

[@simonsmotocat2774]

My progression: - First bike - 2006 Gixxer 600. Was really too much for the time.But owned it for 4 years and only sold due to relocation. - Second bike was addition to the first one. After 2 years of riding 600 I decided I needed something little bit touring oriented. So BMW K1300S. It was insane bike with 175 hoursepower and decent highway touring capabilities. Also sold due to relocation. - Third bike was last gen Gixxer 750. Initially bought for track, but decided I am not a track guy, so used for commuting and sunday highway blasts. Found out it was pretty much like my first 600 but much more. So I modded a hell out of it, full exhaust, tune, carbon wheels, titanium bolts everywhere, lithium battery, quickshifter. So now I think this 750 is the best sportbike ever. I wouldn't even trade it for BMW S1KRR.

[@moto.greaser]

Started on a gs500, liked that but wanted more so sv650 is was. Then got on the ‘kinda’ supermoto train, Dorsoduro 750, heard a triple, sold my soul, got a Street Triple 675, then upgraded that wit a Street Triple R, now 34, fiancé rides a Gladius, and I have a Speed Twin 1200. Planning on keepin’ that for a long long time!

[@TubedTalk]

First bike was Cagiva Mito 125 at 16 years of age. Crazy two stroke, 34 HP and fast like a hell. Probably anyone who tried two stroke machines knows how crazy they are. 48 years old now, had all sorts of bikes through my life, even owned a Harley at one point. Currently owning a 790 Duke, not the strongest bike I owned, but definitely most fun to drive of all.

[@Giixxersquid]

Had my 600 for years still in love with it. Not crazy fast but fast enough to get away from road ragers with ease. Wouldn’t trade it but might get another bike something for long rides that’s more comfortable. Have no need for a liter bike. Have been looking at naked bikes and touring bikes more lately, I want some good power not crazy power and it needs to be able to ride decently on seasonal roads but mainly rides regular roads great

[@steele1044]

With Australian background in riding, Started on a GS500 for the "Where do I want to be" with my two wheeling fun. Loved it, wanted to go offroad though. Thought about scrambling it, but I really just wanted to ride. Got a cheap Versys 300x, loved it. Power creep became an urgency with him, and so I went to the Africa Twin 1100 and life has just been sweet.

[@fulano787]

Started on a 390 duke in 22 and bought my dream bike XDiavel S in 23. Will never sell the 390 as I appreciate the simplicity of the non adjustable forks and supple ride of the for-lower-power tuned suspension. And ofcourse I’m gonna keep the sexy S. So far I’ve put about 10k miles on each and each scratches a different itch when riding. I feel a MV Agusta 800 Dragster in the future for a more powerful naked and more eye candy.

[@IceBoNeZ]

My ZZR600 is one of the most underrated sport tourers ever made. 👍🏼

[@IceBoNeZ]

@lieselious Such a versatile bike, effortless cruise on the open road, fun in the twisties, and comfortable enough for long group rides, a great all round performer for only 600cc.👍🏼

[@spoooner2]

Started like yammie in 2015 with riding. Back then I had a Yamaha XJ6N (in the US known as FZ6). Very reliable and comfy bike, but the suspension was way to soft. So I bought an Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro. I owend this bike for 7 years. A week ago i traded it in for an 2020 Speed Triple 1050 RS. What a awesome bike. I loved my Aprilia, but I was allways to fast and I was riding like a maniac. It has the same problem as yammie mentioned at the Tuono V4. You allways have the feel to "go go go". The Speedy is more comfy, less wild and (very important for me) a cruise control. My journey was from Sport (back then Ibeanted an R6) to something supermoto like back to some "comfy sport"

[@Sgt-Green]

I started with Kawasaki versys 650. then i got my 1000sx I love this bike en still ride with it. Then I bought a Harley Davidson but that didn’t feel right for me and now I got the new zx6r man I love this machine. Now I can do track days and having fun on sunny days and my 1000sx I still use for everyday going to work. These 2 bikes does exactly what I want and need from a bike. I don’t like to ride in groups and riding 4hours or many more, I like more city riding and powerful short rides (on a track). And for the future I want a dirtbike or enduro for more experience and fun.

[@johnsaporta4633]

Hi Papa Yam. Returned to the sport 2008 and woke up a Honda CL-100. Added a KLR-650 Which was lots of fun and heavy. Swapped the KLR For a 1990 Kawasaki Concours 1000 and a ton of maintenance. Nice for touring but not optimum comfort. Also added a 1983 Yamaha XT-550 learned trail, offroad, and ice! Near 2014 swapped the troublesome Concours for an 85 GoldWing 1200 at first a settle move for the family. The GoldWing surpassed the younger Concours in all respects, and with much love and basic upgrades the mighty Wing is my puffy sport tourer in twisties. Sold the XT, and in 2023 bought a Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer. That is my weekend weapon/fun machine. Love the Ducati, and bristle at the ongoing maintenance demands of the 39 year old GoldWing.

[@patwilliam543]

I'm UK based for context, had a number of small capacity bikes before I passed my full test but theoretically went backwards in terms of age and 'performance'. Started on an RZ50 (japanese market only), then had an SR125 (cruiser), then a YZF-R 125 and then a VanVan. All great bikes in different ways. Now on a Fazer 600 with 95BHP and 62 Nm, essentially because there's not much (other than off road, obviously) that I can't do on that bike, and I may specialise in future.

[@Spencer88]

I just passed one year of riding, started on a brand new Yamaha R7. For the type of riding I do (mostly street and twisty roads) I can see myself keeping this bike for a very long time. I have a blast with it every time I take it out. My next bike won’t be a replacement, I’d like to add to the collection and get something that can do off-road, like an enduro or adventure bike, hell I’m even considering just an electric bike like a Surron or E-ride pro too.

[@llewellynb592]

I started with a 1978 Honda CT 125 in 79 then moved up to lager displacement had 82 Gold Wing up to a 1700 cc roadster . Now a 155 cc Yamaha sniper in the Philippines. 14 bikes in all these years. And still love riding since I retired.

[@MrZoxin]

I started of my motorcykel journey by using my fathers Yamaha XSR 900 Abarth (115 hp) as my "driving practice-bike" and recently purchased my first own bike which is a Honda VTR 1000 Firestorm from 1997 (110 hp). So I did move down in power but the VTR is a totaly different experience as it do not have any driving aids. Tho, in the future I would love to have owned as many diffrent types of bikes as possible.

[@ChrisSauer-oe5ve]

❤️👍💪💯

[@SCorre-le4fg]

First bike: BMW R1200c (yes, really). Second bike: BMW K100 (not customised). In a few weeks no.3 is joining the flock: Moto Guzzi Stelvio. I guess you could ay there is some preference for unusual engine configurations and cardan axes.

[@Jojo_Mitchell15]

Mt 09 will be my next🔥🔥🔥 coming from a ninja 500 so a change to naked for comfort it still an upgrade both bikes inspired by yam

[@edgeofentropy3492]

I just bought a 3rd gen MT09. I came from a CBR650F, and it was a massive jump in power/torque to weight ratio. You better know how to ride well. That bike has done multiple wheelies on me without even trying. That's with the lift control ON. The rear tire has lost traction multiple times on dry pavement, and I have never turned the traction control off. It's a serious bike. If you do get one, make sure that it is a 3rd gen. The first and second gen are more violent than the 3rd gen.👍

[@bozzy8842]

starting on a 47hp restricted 2003 katana, after 2 years ill remove restrictor for the full 92 93hp. seems like the ideal starter bike to me. got it for cheapish with extended warranty

[@MongoLolz]

Yep nailed it. Been riding 28 years. Most of the years on supersports and naked, now my two main rides are an adv (Tiger) and mid level naked (street triple 675). Will probably trade the naked in a few years for sports touring like the gt 9..

[@allancooper3865]

At 7:45 the ninja almost looks like a upright adventure bike , with the sorta elongated windscreen, and the dimensional multicolored anniversary paint makes a unique look 👀 for an awesome adventure looking bike 😂

[@stefanilie3122]

I had a 2nd gen SV650 for 3 years, put 30k km on it and sold it and bought an older bike, a Cagiva Raptor 1000, I just love these V2 naked bikes, this one has lots of torque and enough power to have lots of fun

[@soumyadeepghosh7815]

Started on my dad's 9bhp 125cc, got my first bike- 150cc 20bhp sports which I sold a few months back, currently on a 24 bhp 300cc naked sports modified to be a touring/adv style bike. I've plans to keep this 300, get a 600 supersports preferably an r6 or zx6r and a twin cylinder 500-700cc true adv in future. A liter bike would be a fancy thing though. I'm riding for over 10 years now.

[@nicholasroy9125]

15 years rider here. I started on an old 1983 Suzuki GS 850 L wich was a good beginner bike (but it also was a project as i was spending as much time fixing it as i was riding it). I had it for three years and then one of my buddies was selling his 2004 GSX-S 1100. IThe deal was good, so i jumped on it. Talk about a power upgrade! It took me up to two years to really be comfortable riding it. It was way to much of a bike for me at that time. But i was enjoying its capabilities as a tourer. I would go on long hollydays with the girlfriend and some serious luggage and it just seemed the perfect bike for that. A few years later, i moved to the city (Montreal), now single, stuck in heavy trafic and without room to exploit it's power. The bike was just too heavy and combersome to be fun in that context. I switched for an XSR700 and couldn't be happyer. The bike is a blast to ride in the city and on the twisties, it has enough power down in low RPMs to be fun (getting older, so not looking for the maximum performances anymore), it has good gas mileage and with some mods can accept enough luggage to go do some touring ( the new girlfriend rides her own bike, i would not recommend it for a two person bike for more than a small bop around town). So yeah, i agree with you, going up in the power range is not the only option when switching bikes. You have to consider your situation and what you are looking to do with the bike,

[@the_rush_to_nothing]

13:58 I clipped that and turned it into my morning alarm for work.

[@larryechols6606]

I went from a Kawasaki Voyager XII to a Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello S after a 10 year hiatus because of a dump truck accident that caused me not to be able to ride for 10 years after being a rider since 1965. I’m 64 years old now and I’m limited to 250 day rides now and the Moto Guzzi fills my needs for the type of riding that I do now. It’s a wonderful motorcycle for riding on the Blue Ridge Parkway and other twisty roads that I prefer. The Ohlins suspension provides a nice smooth ride which I need as an older rider. Too bad that you didn’t get to ride and review the S version! Hopefully, you’ll get to do so in the future!

[@jasonking9401]

I bought a cheap 125cc bike and loved it so much... so I 'added to the stable' my MT-Tracer 700... I love them both!

[@brokensmilephoto]

8R probably the best balance of fun commuter friendly and good looking bike. Now, if I could just learn to keep my hand out of the throttle, and shift earlier, it might be decent on fuel. lol

[@MrMaverickas]

For first bike cared more about being good condition carefree budget bike, than the make. Thats how I got 2000' SV650. Now after 3 years I tried nearly everything on it, its a little bruised and worn out, so im planning to keep it and try it out on trackdays and use for further bolder experiences. So for second bike now I bought my icon bike VF700 Super Magna, which apparently is 13 years older, but getting more difficlult to acquire, so had to jump in a train there :D

[@buddhaburna7853]

i did the classic start on a 600rr because i didnt want to "get stuck selling a beginner bike". welp, after 2k miles on the 600 i traded it in for a cbr650r and it has monumentally improved my riding experience. around town, commuting on the highway, hooning around the twisties, every aspect of riding is more fun now that i am on a bike that is more suitable to me. it wasnt that it was too much power, but a far too aggressive seating position combined with a lack of safety features like traction control and abs. most of my friends see it a clearcut "downgrade", while for me its actually a huge upgrade, even if i am giving up that top end power.

[@2K_Unlimited]

Excellent job on the subject, Yammie! One thing would have liked to see in the sport-touring vs moto-couch discussion was a nod to pillions. I am constantly disappointed with the total inability of many bikes with "two seats" molded on to carry more than one person without bruising thigh or causing cramps from lack of motion. It needs to be said that several makers do have bikes truly designed to keep pillions comfy without paying car prices for half a car. There are more really good options available if the driver is under 180 pounds and the pillion is under 160 pounds; but the springs and extra leg space alone needed for American sized couples is more useful than just double the cc you'll never use anyway. It also needs to be drummed into manufactures that not every rider wants that wonderful "rumble" feeling every time they slow to under 20 MPH. We know they can make the right sized counter-balancers to keep an engine smooth if they want to. Still, even some four cylinder bikes have shake built into them as if everyone equates that with power? PLEASE give us comfort first. We don't talk about power till we need to rush out of a tight situation or pass a pickup on an uphill who only floors it to try to stop us from passing. Even my CTX-700, underpowered as it was, had that much with our combined 400+ lbs added. It was decent seating and space for short trips too, but needed more for real touring. Take almost any 900-ish motor on the road, smooth it out, drop it in an HD Ultra or Goldwing frame or several other near 2 liter moto-couch out there, and you have a long distance winner you'll probably have trouble getting enough copies to meet demand.

[@notmirelnam248]

1st: Kawasaki 454 Ltd (Free. My grandpa's bike that he gifted me.) 2nd: Yamaha FZ6 ($2250. Basically stole it at that price.) 3rd: Kawasaki Nomad ($5000 buy - $4000 sell = $1000 loss for 2 years of use.) Motorcycles can be cheap. I'm still under $3300 total. I only have the FZ6 now, but it's still my favorite and still flawlessly reliable at 49k miles. That's the style that suits me best. A lightweight, small sports tourer that has a playful engine, upright ergos, and a decent seat. If the FZ6 weren't around anymore, I'd look at something like a Trident 660, Street Triple, MT-07, Z900RS, or SV650 and filter by cost.

[@raymondmateri3440]

Started riding at 42 on a K7 Gsxr 750, on year 4 now with the K7 but also picked up a bmw R18 2 years ago.

[@Rancid_Ninja]

2008 fz6 is the goat all around street bike, almost 100 hp in a comfortable riding position and only a headlight fairing so maintenance is slightly easier plus center stand which most sport bikes don't have

[@J3ZU5_CHR15T]

I started on a GSXR600. Now I'm very happy with my CBR300R because I feel like the power is way more usable around my city.

[@healingplaces]

Fantic 50, Aprilia 50, Honda CB 500, Yamaha XT 500, Honda 600XL, FZ 1000, Honda 900rr, Triumph Trophy 900, and currently Moto Guzzi V11 Ballabio. Not sure where it’s heading…

[@TheCoax77]

That’s why I “upgraded” from the xsr700 to a Tuono 660 factory. It wasn’t about the Hp it was the suspension, cruise control, traction control and 6 axis IMU. A

[@madmax7388]

I own the xsr 700. Its my first Bike and I love how she does so many things good enough to enjoy the Time with her. She can go trough twistys and its comfortable for daily fun. I traveld with her from Germany to Tunesia and she does her Job. But you are right about the suspension, its kinda sucks

[@BUGBYTE_]

Started on a Honda Helix at 12. Got my first motorcycle a 85😢 V65 magna at 16. At 19 I got a 94 katana 750 at 22 I got a 01 Hayabusa. Since then I've had another 12 bikes. Right now I have a Scrambler 1200xc. I've been riding for over 32 years now. I just get what makes me happy.

[@belledejour2998]

I started on an vf1100s and today i ride a ducati 900, both fast and fun. The duck can do city and split but the sabre is too big and heavy to cut up the canyons but for cursing the highway for 300 miles between fill up the sabre cant be beat.

[@Gnarzen]

I started off five years ago on an 04 Harley Sportster 1200 and just several days ago swapped that out for a 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S. The Suzuki is very comfortable… well as much as a bike can be without a windscreen can be lmao

[@paulthomas8986]

Started out riding enduro dirt bikes when I was 11. First street bike was a ninja 650 when I was 17. My next bike was a Honda vtr 1000f super hawk. That was probably the best street bike I have owned. Narrow v-twin with lots of personality, just over 100 hp and a lot of torque. It was lightweight, nimble, and amazing to wheelie. Had a comfortable riding position and decent wind protection. I now have a Aprilia Tuono V4 and it is very much like my Honda super hawk became the hulk. It’s honestly too much for the street and not enjoyable to ride. I think if Aprilia made a 750 Tuono that would be the perfect sweet spot. Had a Dr 650 that I sold. Did not really have access to any off-road and it was subpar as a street bike. Looking now to trade in/sell the Tuono for maybe a Z900rs or one of the Bonnevilles.

[@ReaversRespite]

I jumped from a Honda CB 300R (after forcing myself to stick with it for a year) to the hulking BMW K1600B mainly for highway comfort. Loving my decision!

[@brianlamb5549]

I have definitely been eyeing that ADV life.

[@desie.69]

started on a 1999 ducati monster 750, rode it for two and a half years then got a 2014 s1000rr, been 4 months, can say it was worth it.

[@monokheros5373]

this summer out riding with the local saturday night group... me on the harley lead on his S1000RR a phliipino on his Grom he really did fit the size of the bike and everyting in between a loop around the city , when we all get back to the meeting place, the Lead " like pulling a SLED " i need a smaller bike the Grom guy had a HUGE smile on his face yes it was a nice lil ride

[@Maui-Moto]

I started on a 2006 R6. One of the most beautiful 600 class bikes. As I got older long rides started to get a little uncomfortable. After a back injury I went backwards and ride a 2023 R3. It doesn’t have the power and the exhaust note of the R6 but I am able to daily ride again.

[@sephiroth1386]

Bought my 2004 GSX-R600 in 2011, still have the same bike today. The wife rides a 2015 FZ-07. So if I want I can ride both, but I still prefer mine, even at 38

[@antoniocarlosacsjr7128]

You nailed it, bro. My ride is a lifelong dream bike for me, a still mint 2016 Triumph Speed Triple 1050 R. Faster than 99.99% of what's on Brazilian streets and roads. After 8 months, 3K miles and a front slide followed by a high side in the same wet lap on track (training with all controls turned off), I miss some peace. So my next "upgrade" will probably be... a Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT, 2019 on. Unfortunately don't have a Desert Sled over here, wich I love too, but the Scrambler, very similar. Both this Suzuki or Ducati models could give me back some gravel experience back, wich sometimes I miss. But plan to ride this beast here for some more miles, till I'm sure of next step. But I've already got to know that nobody needs 1.000cc bikes... There are plenty of great bikes out there with less than 80 hp or even much less that can prove that.

[@MrSkyentist]

This is why I'm glad Kawasaki sold the zx-4rr. It's far from a bike for everybody, and one that is hard to recommend based on price, performance, and drive-ability, but to me it's like the s2000 of motorcycles. There's things out there faster, more comfortable, easier to ride with a lower revving higher torque powerband, but to me, it's a dream bike I don't feel bad about spending money on to upgrade and modify. I've got friends who have owned zx-6r's, zx-10r's, R1's, S1000's, MT-07's, big harleys, big honda cruiser, even the newest Buell, but I chose the bike I did solely because I like the way it makes me feel.

[@dellimeat7751]

I went from a duke 390 to a street triple rx. Has been an amazing upgrade!

[@uraniadike8367]

Same, started wtih a duke 390 , 3 month ago. next bike i am looking for a triple 765rs or a supermoto, like exc 450

[@eddiealvarez7584]

My first bike was a Yamaha FZ 07, then FZ 09, then FZ10. Currently own a Triumph Street Triple RS. Loved them all but I must say I'm really enjoying the Street Triple RS. It seems like it's my perfect bike, outstanding handling, smooth engine and the perfect horsepower for how I ride. The FZ 10 was great but too much power.

[@House_of_Zodd]

I was a cruiser brother for years but i got tired of scraping in every turn, sold my vstar and got a 390 duke. Ill definitely want more power in a year or so but the little KTM is a blast. Naked bike is the master race of motorcycles lol

[@Wintersdark]

More premium and middle power: went to a Triumph Scrambler 1200XE after an MT10SP. Got to keep all the toys of the MT, but in a much more managable 100hp package capable of offroad and bringing all the sexy.

[@Masse24796]

Started on a ER-6N, got the Z900RS as my 2nd, sold the Z900RS and got myself 2 bikes a 2007 Ninja ZX6R and a 2012 Tiger 800. Went to a couple of trackdays with the Ninja, but its mostly collecting dust, since Trackdays are expensive and I usually rather take the Tiger on my weekend trips. Atm I'm thinking about selling them both and buying a new Hornet 1000 or the Tiger Sport 800, but that decision is gonna be made after I testrode both of them.

[@antoniocarlosacsjr7128]

Hey, bro. Sometimes I think of this, too. Of seeling my bike and get two others older, smaller and cheaper. But I don't even ride that much, so I get back to the ground, lol. Best regards.

[@1300Rvideo]

After having 2 600s and upgrading to a Hayabusa over a few years, I found it interesting that after several months I started having an itch to look for something more comfortable. I’ve always liked the look and sound of the MT-07. I just want to want to be excited to ride again like I was when I was first learning on the grom during riding school. Don’t get me wrong, I love the busa and it’s more comfy than either 600 I had, but my back is still compromised because it’s a long bike and I’m a short rider. It’s not the most fun thing to do when you work out several days a week and you’re sore half the time. I can just imagine myself sitting comfortably and enjoying the sound of that v twin rumbling through the twisties and city streets so I just have this itch now lol

[@plap.]

MT 07 is a parallel twin like all these other parallels. Parallel twins are reliable but the most lame, boring, uninspiring engine platform to ever exist. Hence them being shoved down our throats by governments for environmental and economies sake. My first was a parallel twin I enjoyed the bike and remember it fondly while never looking back.

[@2twolow]

I went from r6 to mt10 and back down to xsr900. I'm happy with the xsr900 as my forever bike.

[@michaelch6536]

400s and 650s made me hate bikes once i bought my rrr blade its the most fun ive ever had on a bike and made me want to ride everyday

[@costasgeorgiou5015]

And some of us (yammie) fighting his urges to get a Gold Wing. 🤣 13:26

[@MgNasty99]

I really like your content inspired me to learn how to ride and I got my first bike today

[@christian_esquivel]

I have owned three of the same bike model, I just like it.

[@superduperkid3143]

Started on a n400. Now on a 1000sx. Completely happy.

[@trevorappleby8855]

I did a hyosung gt650, aprilia rsv mille, aprillia rsv4, and now the royal enfield himalayan. From 190hp to 23 at the crank.

[@devinsaunders1784]

This year was my first year riding. Started on a crf300l which I still have and ride all the time. And bought a used 2003 Suzuki intruder 1500 with 27k miles for only $1400 bucks. All it needed was a battery and a carb clean. And it's in pretty much immaculate shape. Love both of my bikes. Also side note you mentioned in a older video making fun of types of riders, you said something about metric cruisers, and more specifically the Suzuki intruder and that the person who owns it lives in a trailer park. Yes I live in a trailer park and have a Suzuki Intruder lmfao 😂😂😂

[@costasgeorgiou5015]

There never too big or too loud my little youngster rock on great video😂

[@xLazyxCorex]

CBR125 - Ninja 400 - FZ-07 - Street Triple 765 - Tracer 9 GT... pretty decent progression for me.

[@cableguy6843]

I've actually went down in horse I was on a Ducati 900 ss, I'm on a Ducati scrambler Icon now . I'm buying the RS457 just because I like the looks of it and it seems like a fun bike to ride. I've had all bikes in between. Harley, Ninja ZX6 , Kawasaki dual sport. I'm happy now with the bike I have and soon will be getting and I'm keeping it to a 2 bike garage. Im also alot older now.

[@NightRunner23]

Owned my first bike brand spanking new which is an R3 and ima get the R9 or the MT09 SP for my next bike :)

[@Rickmac22]

Sport Touring, it’s sporty yet touring… like that Ninja 1000sx (or 1100sx)… a bike you could mention… just once!

[@bondibeast]

I have owned a 250 kawasaki sportbike a 250 piaggio scooter and a 300 honda dual sport, I am pretty sure my next bike will be a tuareg 457 or 660 or ktm390 adventure R or something like that. My one issue with the dual sport is that its too focused. I like to get out of the city and spend some time off road and camp occasionally, I usually ride alone so i steer clear of single track to avoid injury. I occasionally go to a single track ride day put on by some farmers and a bike club. I find those days super challenging. I have spent full days on the highway in the honda 300 dual sport and its no fun. I love the big mother ship adv bikes with all their tech but the weight and price and seat height just make them unsuitable for me. I do find twin cyclinder bikes apealing if they can keep the weight down, and cruise control will be a must have in my next bike. I find the idea of spending more than USD10k on a bike repugnant

[@TTRenglandR6]

Sorry, I’m all about POWER! POWER! POWER! Sports bikes for LIFE! Just stay be healthy, in shape and be consistent and you will be fine!

[@KillerKane-xj7vr]

KTM Duke 200, Ninja 500, Ducati Panigale 959 Corse, Yamaha R1 (track)

[@Supercharged1976]

I started riding in 1992 on a Yamaha Radian 600. Rode that for about 4 months and got a brand new 1993 FZR600. From there in order it was a 1990 GSXR-1100, 1996 Yzf600, 1996 GSX-R750, 1996 YZF750, 2000 R1, 1994 YZF750, 1996 TL1000R, 2006 GSXR-1000, 2012 Ninja 1000 SX which leads us to my current two bikes 2019 Versys 1000 SE LT+ and a 230 hp 2021 Kawasaki Z H2. 😛

[@acassaro94]

Not even a year into riding but went from Gen 1 MT09 (FZ09) to 2021 Streetfighter V4S 😅

[@jeremyrousselet6392]

I’m about to do the same, I have an XSR 900 and kind of want the street fighter v4 now

[@bcab7955]

I'm living in Thailand currently and met a local Thai last week that started on a Yamaha R15 (a 150cc, literal half an R3) and swapped it for a...zx10r. 😳

[@Uncle_LO]

Some great points! Some of my progression…. Kawasaki f7 175cc, gsxr600 SRAD, vfr800, and currently to cover the range.. Honda grom OG, duke 390 and Gl1800 Goldwing(amazing but definately not as fun as the duke around town)

[@joshuabush3870]

I started on a CBR F1 ,"mistake"! Had it about 3 months then got a Honda magna and rode that for about 10yrs,and now I have had a Kawasaki versys for the last 3 years. Although it's not fast at least it's more comfortable and manageable. Now also considering a Kawasaki concourse

[@jimbroen]

When you're old, bike insurance is cheap. When you're retired, you have lots of time to do your own maintenance. Used bikes are a lot less money than new ones. I own three that were all bought used. I'm considering adding a fourth. This summer I put over 20,000 km on the three bikes. A supermoto isn't a good highway bike but if it sits beside a highway machine, who cares. My strategy is to look for deals, own more than one bike and embrace the idea that you can buy a bike that's really good at one thing but sucks at most other things.

[@ThePwNzclan]

started on a ninja 400, got a ninja 650 after someone hit my 400 and totalled it. still trying to figure out where id want to go if i upgrade. i want to stay with sport touring over supersport but there are no light touring bikes aside from the ducati supersport and aprilia tuono. i dont see a reason to upgrade to say a ninja 1000 or gsxs if its gonna add 100 pounds or more and make the handling suffer when im honestly really happy with how the 650 handles on the road.

[@ebinbarrs9538]

I’ve had an r1. I wanted more useable power. So I switched to a superduke r evo. Yes it doesn’t have as much top end, it has gobs more torque to make it more fun around town, overtaking on the interstate, and curvy mountain roads. This all being said, I definitely still want me a little torque machine to tear up twisties or a bike that allows me to dip onto a fire road now and then. So please, new or power hungry riders, try something new!!! You’ll probably be surprised by what small bikes can offer.

[@skprice2002]

started out with a Honda inverse v-twin 650 cruiser, next the venomous Honda vf1000, back in the day, then a Suzuki Bandit 1250 tuned to 129Hp and 94 ft lbs of torgorinos ( world class power for her time) and finally ending up with a Triumph Speed Triple - R.I.P - tore her up in pieces