Motorcycles that AREN’T being made (but should be)! | Highside/Lowside S09E09

[@RevZilla]

It’s time to get your bike on the road, Motul has what you need! rvz.la/4gFH3NM Subscribe to the podcast! Spotify - rvz.la/474fqdG Apple - rvz.la/479rWsC Have you signed up for our Rider Plus Membership yet? rvz.la/401Z57t Don’t miss out on the latest Moto news on Common Tread rvz.la/3P4rwve

[@DirtChainy]

That pen clicking at 1 hour 38 minutes is very distracting during. No more audible distractions on a podcast, please and thank you

[@JamEWalsh]

I LOVE that you show the motorcycles you reference on screen. It is such a nice, helpful touch!

[@alexred09]

Actually I didn’t think Zack was in a foul mood I appreciate that he is not trying to be politically correct and sugar coat stuff he voiced his opinion and whether or not I agree sometimes doesn’t matter he made a point and stuck to it. People have to realize that we don’t always have to agree and that’s ok.

[@AndrewElwell-ss7vb]

Zack courts a god among men

[@ih8momjokes1]

exactly the Greeks figured out several millennials ago that censored speech does not allow for authentic thinking which is inportent for decisions. In this case we vote with our dollar and where we spend it.

[@donnieyoung2774]

I want Honda to put the NX500 engine, with a 270 degree crank, in the 300L Rally frame. Basically a Honda version of the Ibex 450.

[@Foomanshoe]

This but Yamaha Tenere 450

[@bena3341]

Yea. People have been wanting the 450MT for years but we want it made by Yamaha or Honda not CFMoto.

[@ScaRlaK319]

Angry Zack just spits facts though

[@whiskeyshots]

390 Duke owner here. I bought the bike brand new, and the engine blew before the first service on it. The engine was torn down and rebuilt, and the mechanic said that there was a random piece of plastic inside of the engine that plugged the oil supply port on the top end, which obviously starved it of oil and caused the issue. This was most definitely an Indian manufacturer issue, not an Austrian designer issue.

[@Kevwa51]

Being manufactured in India has nothing to do with that. KTM can’t keep their QC up to snuff in their Austrian factories let alone abroad, if I had a guess the Chinese and Indian bikes are probably better built, as a KTM owner all my Austrian built bikes have had glaring issues, love them but I didn’t trust them at all. Probably more a company wide issue than a country of manufacture issue, but we’ll never know because that will never be admitted by any OEM. Making it completely irrelevant. They are the final word in quality control and build quality, don’t blame country of production, blame the OEM, they hold all the cards.

[@churchofbrap876]

Chinese sabotage. ​@@Kevwa51

[@vamsee6925]

@@Kevwa51 yeah, I had the same thought process. The reigns still should still be in the companies hands.

[@churchofbrap876]

​@@vamsee6925poor quality control where it was assembled

[@vamsee6925]

@@churchofbrap876 yeah

[@Geshmaal]

Homestly its shocking to me that "naked" bikes with alien/insect styling are more prevalent than a "standard" bike with a round headlight amongst a lot of manufacturers. For example Suzuki's new 800cc bikes - you have the adventure bike or a pointy naked bike. Biking is becoming a sort of "throwback" activity so I think it would benefit manufacturers to make sure they have a "classic" design available at all levels in their range.

[@vamsee6925]

Honda cb650r looks great. I hope they dont mess it up.

[@rawhidelamp]

this is why i really love the cb650 and other honda naked bikes, they're genuinely really pretty

[@Dan-yh8qp]

I 100% agree! It’s a no brainer. I can’t believe it took a Royal Enfield reboot to give a (inferior 😋) competitor to my Bonneville.

[@Geshmaal]

@@Dan-yh8qp yeah, what I'm really saying here is I want a Honda Bonneville with the 750cc parallel twin or a Suzuki with their 800! The guys on the podcast were discussing a Rebel 750 but I think a GB750 or CL750 would be perfect.

[@Dan-yh8qp]

@@Geshmaal That would be sweet. I also love the HD Sportster ‘Heritage’ concept.

[@Jim0i0]

Salty Zac is best Zac.

[@vamsee6925]

True!

[@skierboy85]

100%

[@carsonchasingadventure]

100%. Can we agree that they need to keep him agitated before each podcast moving forward?

[@MikeBarefield]

The best bike I ever owned was a 1977 Yamaha XS 750. A triple with shaft drive. I wish they would make it again as a triple with shaft drive but with modern technology like ABS, ride modes and a solid suspension. I would fall in love again.

[@anxiousappliance]

OYOH - modern chains have come a long way since 1977, and along with incredible longevity, are still the lightest most efficient powertrain.

[@SWTrailsAndWheels]

We need a Japanese version of the CF Moto Ibex 450 or the Royal Enfield Himalayan 452. i.e. a Yamaha Tenere 400, a Honda 450RL Rally, or a Kawasaki KLR 500.

[@JDWDMC]

They'll be flaccid and expensive in comparison.

[@SuperEasy1337]

Kawasaki is working on a kle 500. That's what you saw at eicma.

[@aviduke]

Suzuki drz 400 coming out soon

[@burnttoast9890]

Tuareg 457 is coming next year

[@eikonise]

Just add the 450 cc to the Versys X it would LITERALLY take ONE of their engineers ONE morning to fix the new engine to the chassis. They are actively hating money by refusing to upgrade the Versys 300

[@gtobruin]

I’d like to see Moto Guzzi make a new version of the Griso based on the V100 Mandello. Remove the fairings, give it a single round-ish headlight, spoked wheels and retro styling.

[@mar0364]

The most enjoyable podcast this year!!

[@kirkdyck5797]

I always love the thought you guys put into your various projects and shows. I learn something every time.

[@BigStreams_]

If had known Spenser was the guest I would have clicked this video so much sooner! I love what he brings every time he's on

[@getty6974]

@57:00 BMW should make a "M1600B" and race king of baggers... That inline 6 would be awesome

[@MotoDash1100]

Mine: CRF650L: KLR650 EFI engine, CRF300L maintenance intervals, ST1300 gas tank, Tuned to get 48-53mpg (like KLR650), Seat height of XR650L, Final bits: Trail 125 rear rack, and a Kickstarter. Total build: 650cc, great maintenance intervals, 7.something gas tank (7.7?), over 300miles of range, 37.something inch seat height, and fantastic rear rack platform and has a kickstarter.

[@TheSleepieKing]

Spenser is absolutely CRUSHING that beard!

[@aviduke]

Test rode a duke 390 in the UK from a main dealer, super low mileage demo bike. The engine warning light came on the test ride. Ari covered ths issues with the KTM little engine years ago

[@danielpeisser9661]

Tbh I just want a modern VFR with a litre of displacement. Around 130-150HP should do the trick. Don't get me wrong I love my VFR800 but I'd love an extra 30-50 HP. Also, V4s shouldn't be exclusive to the Italians..

[@nathanfisher7264]

Indian Four. They have the heritage, they don't have to keep making V-twins like Harley to avoid pissing off their base. Make it a big brutish muscle cruiser like the Triumph Rocket 3, just with an extra cylinder. Doesn't have to have the suicide shifter like the original, I just want it to exist in modern form as if they had continued refining the old bike.

[@luckylanno]

It's so odd to me that HD is the only major manufacturer that basically makes one type of motorcycle. There's the Pan Am now, but that's a recent exception. Even Ferrari and Lamborghini make SUVs now. With HD, if you don't like one of their bikes, you probably won't like any of them, which is a terrible place for a business to be. I wish they were more like BMW or Triumph. They have the sense of heritage, but they both make everything.

[@yari-youraveragerideronthe7001]

My comment is in line with yours. There's a reason harley makes low seat forward foot position bikes. It is their defined category where they dominate... no one comes close. If they venture too much or god forbid, make a "hybrid" cruiser/ standard/ retro thing, they will be turning the tables by running after a triumph instead of the other way around.

[@plaza862]

​@yari-youraveragerideronthe7001 I'd take my xdiavel over literally anything harley makes 🤷‍♂️ old harley dudes ask about it all the time when they see it either they never knew it existed or are afraid of cost of ownership which hadn't rly been bad, they only know of the ducati of old.

[@yuriteixeira5816]

To add to your original comment, It feels like Harley should have done what royal Enfield did, the budget bikes, on top of higher end spec stuff

[@MrMikeDao]

​@@plaza862that's funny because the xdiavel is really not that much more expensive in terms of Harley pricing. But let's be honest, in terms of cruiser, the xDiavel is just a forward foot control street bike and not a cruiser. You're paying for the engine but the quality and reliability is equally Harleys. Basically anyone who buys the Ducati or Harley think their respective choice has amaZing quality and attention to detail. But real owners know it's mid quality with worse reliability.

[@bojanperko]

Two stroke 125 kick start road legal dual sport would be great for someone who wants to keep one in the vacation house, rides very little and doesn't want to deal with oil changes and dead batteries every time he comes to enjoy his holidays. Something like a road legal Yamaha YZ 125.

[@besterich277]

Impossible because of emissions

[@Acthungbaby]

They have efi 2 stroke euro dirt bikes meter oil intake and new 2 stroke oil fuel. Mix much better ratio I been lead believe.

[@joekavalauskas8767]

Any 4 stroke options?

[@anthonypetro3212]

I can understand the argument for this in terms of the power to weight ratio, but even ignoring the emissions thing I always feel like 4 strokes are better for more casual riders. I mean the legend says that Honda's founder was put off of 2 strokes once his wife pointed out they smoke too much and made too much noise.

[@Tuner0186]

Yamaha WR350R Rally. Light as possible and up spec suspension.

[@williamrae9954]

Renault Espace with a Ligier V10 engine in the rear...my friend built the bodywork for that project...i still have some Poly Acor parts in my workshop today!

[@hurd044]

Truly a sublime gaslighting experience starting pod with “Zack is cranky” then proceeding to BASH/COMBO Spurge for two hours with Spencer into actually being visibly annoyed for the first time in 9 seasons. 😂 I think I learned something about Zack today LOL

[@coryfielding9219]

Thanks guys, another great episode! Appreciate your insights and humour.

[@Dheeeeraj]

This was a BLAST! Such a fun episode. Maybe the best one yet.

[@skierboy85]

HD already makes a track version of the Pan American for the super hooligans class in MotoAmerica, just make a sporty street bike on a version of that platform or make the brox with that engine instead of the 975

[@rodya_malverde]

It's pretty much their copy of the Indian ftr. It would be amazing if they did a factory made street legal version of that tracker style bike. It would sell very well.

[@craigdavis5902]

Loved the show, gentlemen! Definitely one of the best in recent memory. Spencer is a national treasure

[@joker19583]

I loved this episode as well, for once I could catch a glimpse on my "xrvrod" with that nakedbike, but the telehp2 is not entirely unrealistic. The hp2 had that mass pivoteted on the forks, but with the telelever it would probably more on the neutral or neutered side and more controllable. Sometimes a tickeled ox is better than a stubborn bull.

[@paulbercot6941]

Loved listening to this episode. Some of your "Should Be" bike reminded me of bikes from yester year. The Standard Harley Sportster reminded me of my 2006 Harley Sportster Roadster. The cut down R1300GS reminded me of a 07 R1200GS that a buddy had with Bitubo shocks and Remus exhaust. That bike was a blast to ride and only had ABS.

[@jh3605]

Also on the subject, I've heard speculation that the Pan America 975/a middleweight Pan America was considered but scrapped because Harley was unable to get the weight in line with other middleweight ADVs without radically altering the overall chassis/blueprint of the PA. Maybe they thought it would be as easy as throwing in the 975 motor instead of the 1250 and once they realized the weight savings weren't that substantial, they abandoned the idea.

[@philippedeslauriers8125]

I want a road version of a KTM 350 EXC-F which is already road ready at 229lbs dry. A kind of SM with low seat. This would be a blast in the city.

[@TMTVTX1800]

Current owner of a 2014 Chrysler Mini Van……I hate to say this because it hurts my inner manhood….but it’s super useful to haul my kids, or other items. Was great to have while moving. Considering another van since this one is at 220K, and about in need of retirement

[@Mr.HondaMoto]

I'm crying for a sporty v4 from Honda. Instant buy considering my VFR 1200 is getting old. Honda needs to compete with Kawi 1000sx, BMW K1250 RS, Suzuki S1000 GT.....The NT1100 isn't sporty enough.

[@jayluper9523]

Love Zack's "Monostrada" idea

[@RobertJones-pm3zk]

This is a great episode; I recently bought a 2017 GSA and every time I look at it I think about stripping it down to the bare minimum. It’s an amazing machine

[@jeroenhanselaer1439]

Spurgeon , you just stepped on my Heart. And proven you have not ridden an MV of late, because it does one thing better than any other bike , that is putting a smile on your face. When i was looking for a new bike in 2022 i testrode pretty much everything out there, S1000r, CB1000r, Tuono, Streetfighter, r1250r, FTR 1200, and it was the fun and pure hooliganism of the Brutale 800rr that won out, and by a lot ( and surprise also cheaper than a similary spec S1000r ) The S1000r is one of the easiest bikes to ride, but does not provide a challenge. The R1250r cant hold a line in the corner, the cb1000r is just to plain and lacks any soul or feel, just a boring bike, the streetfighter, let's be honest who wants to deal with the ducati dealers ? The Indian FTR 1200 came a close second but just missed out on the thrills that the brutale provides. And recently i tested the LXP, and that thing is in a totally different league experience and performance wise compared to a GS. So for you guys who preach about the soul of riding to dismiss MV like that ... Ok they are not cheap, but neither are lambo's, ferraris or ford gt40's, but smile per buck they are unbeaten

[@ribbit876]

I have a 94 caravan with a 2.2 turbo and a five speed . It has rust but its free . I used it as a race hauler lol.

[@thevtadventure1062]

Y’all forget about the Husky 701 Vitpilen !? Also love my XR1200 we need a modern XR1250R!! And a smaller 975 Pan am!!

[@captslaq]

The math doesn't work out for a 975 PanAm, unfortunately. In it's current iteration, the weight difference between the SportsterS and the Nightster is minimal. Getting the weight and price down to a reasonable place compared to the rest of the market seems difficult at best.

[@anxiousappliance]

@@captslaq The ducati V2 and Multistrada weighed the same and looked the same and seemed to work out for ducati -

[@usmcvet0313]

XR1200’s are awesome. An XR1250 would be a smart next move for HD.

[@basmca1]

I want one of the big 4 to make a modern Hayabusa. Bring back the speed wars! - 1500 to 1600cc I4 - 250 to 270hp - 150 to 200nm - 240 to 270kg Atleast 375kph(235mph) top speed. Go nuts!

[@LTVoyager]

Why make a bike that nobody can afford insurance for and that half the countries in the world will ban?

[@basmca1]

@LTVoyager Because it is awesome. Why would it be banned though?

[@LTVoyager]

@@basmca1 The same reason many countries effectively imposed a top speed limit many years ago. A bike like that would kill young people left and right. It is simply a bad idea for a street bike. Now for a track only bike…

[@joelrosado680]

There is only one bike I want built. A Kawasaki Versys 800ish with 80-85hp and 50-60lbs-ft of torque at the wheel. Maybe make it 270 parallel twin. Loaded up with the normal luxuries like heated grips, maybe even heated seat, easily adjustable windscreen, top box and panniers, adjustable shock springs and preload, and yeah that sounds like my dream motorcycle. And definitely need the pillion accommodations to be great. FYI only motorcycle that checks these boxes for me right now is the tiger 900 gt pro but I want it to be a versys.

[@ashermil]

Doesn’t need to be a 270 crank. Kawis have always been revvy, and the 180 crank accomplishes that. It’s getting to the point where the 270 parallel twin is everywhere; there’s nothing unique about it anymore. Moto Morini is already making a bike like this (based on the Versys platform) with upgraded suspension, a 19” wheel, and a Kawi 650-based engine stroked to 700cc’s. Yes, it’s made in China. But if Kawasaki can’t/won’t plug that offroad-Versys-shaped hole in the market, somebody else will.

[@joelrosado680]

I think they mentioned it in the video, versys x with the new 451cc engine would be what’s needed in the current market. I don’t care if the engine is 270, it’s nice but it wouldn’t be a deal breaker. I just want a bit more passing power at highway speeds. That is my only complaint really with the current versys 650. And the 1000 is too much more for what I want. I have a 2014 n1k and I never use the full power cause I never get a chance to. Also I want it to be 17in front and back. I am not going off-road and I don’t need a sporty sport tourer. I want a tourer with sportiness. Oh and I forgot that the moto guzzi v85tt checks off most of the boxes on wants on a bike. And it’s shaft drive.

[@anxiousappliance]

I think the new Triumph Tiger Sport 800 will have everything you want except the badge. Looks like it will hit a sweet spot for reasonable money.

[@joelrosado680]

@@anxiousappliance that is definitely on my radar. It will all depend on seating geometry. I really don’t want to be leaned forward much. Besides that it seems like it checks off all my boxes.

[@anxiousappliance]

@@joelrosado680 For me - it depends on whether the engine is lively - otherwise it sure looks sweet.

[@jaytownjunkyardfiles1999]

I own a 5th Gen VFR and absolutely Honda should make a 1000 - 1150 V4 in the 160hp - 170hp range . . . well at least 90lbft+ of torque with the ability to sport tour with some luggage.

[@bena3341]

Most of these are definitely "Bike I think would be cool" rather than "bike that should be made". That might be pedantic but it's absolutely true here. For me the three bikes are KTM RC890. It's absolutely ridiculous they don't make a larger faired sport bike. They have been in MotoGp for 7 years now and it makes even more sense today with all the new parallel twin bikes replacing the classic inline 4s. For cruiser I'm going with a new Honda Valkyrie. You have far more limited options in terms of large touring metric cruisers now and that was just an awesome bike. For Adventure bike Zak almost did it. Put the larger engine in the X300. But also a 21 inch front with tubeless spoked wheels. Perfect bike. Simple, light weight, solid performance. The 450MT got close to this but it's too heavy and I'm not trusting a new model CFMoto to take me 500km away from civilisation.

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

Best way to spend a Sunday morning, Andiamo! Zack is ornery cause he has all those teeth ad no toothbrush lol! I believe a similar point was covered in Season 2 Episode 3 "Do you care where your motorcycle is made?" As I recall the answer is SW3 (some will, some won't, so what?"). Not that anyone asked but my philosophy is ride what you love, love what you ride, and damn the torpedo's! Can we finally get the 150 horsepower 249 pound adventure bike (ala Season 3 Episode 3) made!? The Versys 650 is the textbook definition of an motorcycle. Its the CPA of motorcycles and to let my dork fly The Versys 650 is definitely Hufflepuff! For sport bike I would like to see a turbo twin or triple designed by the Italians with all the mechanicals from Japan basically "The Dream" bike. For cruiser/touring I feel like you have such an array available you can get whatever you'd like or at least come close enough. I think if youre making the Rebel 750 ditch the Rebel 300. The Rebel 500 is tame enough to make it a great beginner bike, always felt the 300 was superfluous. 01:31:40 who is the random guy walking around behind Zack? Spurge just likes the cut of the HP2s jib, nothing wrong with that! Spurges favorite joke Q - What color is an orange? A - KTM! Honda put top men on the Fury, TOP MEN! Not sure why I still bother with the engine sound guessing game but I think its a a single. KLR 650 or maybe a Rebel 300? OK wrong again. IDK Rebel 500? Yeesh not even close! Chase that was genius! Another great show! Happy Holidays, Happy New Year, Blue Skies, and Green Lights old sports! See you in 2025!

[@ahakim98006]

I have a 5th gen VFR and a Superhawk, both with upgraded suspension and brakes. Maybe if I smash them together at high speed, I can create the bike you are looking for. Oh, and a bike I would like to see is something sport/sport-standard with a v5 engine derived from the motogp bike. The one that Nicky Hayden won a championship with.

[@edmorris4103]

1:57:30 YES!! I've been clamoring for a Vulcan H2 for years!

[@aluisious]

I can’t believe the Gold wing doesn’t have radar, and they need to make a Tracer 10 with the MT10 SP hardware.

[@sofakingcrazy1]

Your screen name is so stupid nothing you ever say will be valid.

[@basmca1]

I want a Ducati 600. A baby 600cc I4 Panigale with Desmo that does 18k rpm with 130hp. It's going to need a service every 5000km but the sound would make you faint.

[@humech]

Kawasaki did hint at building an adv bike based on the ninja 500 engine this year at eicma! It's the light adv I'm most holding my breath for over the 450 ibex, 390 adv or others in that realm. 1:52:31

[@VegasDave3000]

Not quite a Dodge Caravan SRT, but back when Mercedes owned Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, there was the Mercedes R63. Minivan shape with 500+ HP from a 6.3L V8

[@skierboy85]

Versys 650 would be great if it was 40-50 lbs lighter and had a 270° crank. For a do it all bike it is pretty great though.

[@christophepoteaux3932]

Versys 500X will be coming out in 2025 as a rebirth of the old KLE 500, but with the 450cc engine retuned for adv.

[@shadowred1980]

Unveiled in 2025, I think it won't be available to buy retail until 2026. It's an interesting bike, I'm looking forward to it.

[@patrickagan1071]

Best episode topic so far!!!

[@jh3605]

Big agreement with Spurg on the dealer network for the Pan America, that was one of the most important factors for me in buying my PA. where I lived when I bought it, Harley was the only game in town aside from a "everything dealership" that sold and worked on literally any brand they could. Was considering the GS but the closest BMW dealer was 2 and a half hours away. Main gripe with them was they took months to get any bike in for anything - had a Kawasaki with some electrical issues and they said I'd have to leave it with them and they'd get to it "when they could" or they could schedule me an appointment to drop it off in 4 months. Anything I've had to get done with my Harleys in that area never took more than a few days. Where I live now there's a lot more options and maybe I'd look into a different brand once the Pan America has run its course but for a lot of folks Harley is either the only game in town or one of the very few games in town

[@yohaan9]

I bought my Gen2 RC 390 in 2022 and since then have ridden it for 20,000km's on the road, Offroad, Himalayas and the city. I've been very careful with the care of the bike and up on all my services and maintenance. I have to say, it's one of the most reliable bikes I've owned. I've towed/saved many japanese bike owners as well.

[@danielkramer8586]

The bike I'd like to see is something like a Honda 919, but pimped out even more. SS brake lines, great luggage, no ride modes, just variable and defeatable traction control and ABS. So, the style and pizaz of a Kawasaki 900RS, but more modern and simple looking. Clean lines. Naked engine. Not cluttered with too many shapes, plastic, textures. Could be a V-4 or a straight 4. Good , adjustable suspension, comfy, all day seat. Great headlights with good throw and hi beams that shoot to the ditches far and wide. Comfy for pillion too. Lots of torque. Linear, controllable power (if that is possible with Euro6 and/or whatever the EPA mandates) and great slow-speed handling and fueling. A simple sport tourer that's comfy, full of all the essentials. Low center of gravity. 5 gallon tank. 300 mile range potential going 60 mph or less. Engine exudes power, like the Honda straight 4s. Simple lines like a Hawk GT, Interceptor or an RC30. 500 pounds or less including a rear versatile rack, cruise control and all fluids, not counting available soft, lockable luggage.

[@anxiousappliance]

They just came out with the cb1000 Hornet. Supposedly a great ride. Set the electronics and forget about them - like almost everyone else does.

[@aussiebloke609]

27:28 Sounds like Spurge wants Honda to bring back the mid-'80s VF1000, complete with bikini fairing so it looks halfway naked...only with a set of bags and maybe a slightly taller windscreen. And I am here for it - so long as the "chocolate camshafts" don't also make a less-than-triumphant return.

[@emromw]

He wants a Tracer 900 made by Honda

[@smartymotofoto]

8:17 You’re special, Zach. Thank you for all the great motorcycle content! 🤘🏻 Love ya, man! Take care! By the way…can you work in a KTM 1190 RC8? Pwetty pwease. 🙏🏻

[@greatbigeye2506]

Honda- cruiser based on the VFR1200X with DCT and modern tech Triumph- mini Bonnie with that new small engine and twin rear shocks Harley- mini Sportster with a resigned Buell Blast thumper engine, touring cruiser with the Pan America engine, return of the Night Train and Wide Glide(now a softail) both with the classic duck tail rear fender

[@matthew3136]

I want a new vfr1200f.

[@JDWDMC]

I owned a Versys 650 for 10 years due to being financially strapped. It almost destroyed my desire to ride. It is THE most anodyne motorcycle in existence and all parallel twin motorcycles should be disappeared. The ONLY parallel twin I've enjoyed was my TRX 850 and I don't see anything like that ever being built again. I am now exactly as grumpy as Zack thanks to you people bringing up the Versys 650 and by inference the plethora of budget, from a corporate accounting perspective, engines that have taken over motorcycling.

[@davidlake611]

Even the 270° cranks?

[@WJRobbins125]

The only time in YEARS I've guessed an engine sound! :) I have an RT and that's just the 'normal' sound in those engines.

[@Acthungbaby]

A vfr have always been heavy the vfr 1200 version of cbr 900 rr lightness cant seem not extra weight wjth v4 design's imagine a vfr 1200 engine is a gem .

[@ricatiman]

Back when I started riding in the mid-60's us bikers were all over how Asian bikes (all were Japanese at that time) were of lower quality than the English bikes we were riding. Nobody in my circle road on Harley or Indian in those days here in Canada. We were wrong then, as history has proven, and we are wrong to make the same arguments today. India will likely exceed all of Europe in motorcycle design and manufacturing over the next decade. And don't get started on Chinese makers - they will soon put ALL the Euro makers out of the motorcycle business completely. Harley is in such deep financial problems once again that they are likely targets for acquisition. What about the 3 years worth of motorcycles already built, but unsold by KTM, and other Euro manufacturers...sitting in warehouses or sitting gathering dust in showrooms everywhere. By the way, Royal Enfield and all other India based manufacturers are actually ASIAN bike builders.

[@aaaces01]

It's no surprise to me that Chinese makers actually listen to what average riders want and deliver it.

[@mikewanamaker7352]

“Yea,cruise control doesn’t cost anything.” Yet most brands only put it in their top models(of course ride by wire only) WHY?!

[@spmoore3954]

Absolutely, Honda should build a new & sporty V4. Build me a modern, high revving 600cc version of the RVF400, plz. Checkbook is waiting.

[@ozmosis0074]

As a BMW fan I'd love for them to bring back the 4 cylinder k bikes. Especially the flying brick. More than adequate HP and fantastic torque. A sport touring bike that's not 900lbs nor is simply a sport bike with bags.

[@LTVoyager]

As a current K1200LT owner, I agree. The K1600 is just too complicated to maintain. It seems that modern cars have evolved to not only be higher performance, but also generally require much less maintenance. It seems modern motorcycles are not only as maintenance intensive as are the old bikes, but are vastly more difficult to work on. I would like to see a modern two-up touring bike that is designed for versatility (no high test gas requirement), low maintenance (hydraulic lifters for example, and easy to maintain (not require special tools, have goofy things like coaxial oil drain plugs, etc.). The bodywork should be held on with aircraft style Dzus fasteners so that you can strip the bodywork off in 10 minutes or less. The bike should come standard with a tool-free quick oil drain valve. The oil filler should be located such that a funnel isn’t required to add oil. I could go on, but basically just do some fundamental design or maintenance engineering. And while it seems that two-up touring bikes are going the way of the dinosaur, I would love to see a modern two-up touring bike that meets the above requirements yet still has room and comfort and luggage capacity for two people. The K1200LT came close, but is now far out of date. I would love to see a modern version of it with lighter weight materials, the design for maintenance I mentioned, and enough space for two. Honda really missed the boat with their latest Gold Wing as they downsized it so much that it lacks the luggage and fuel capacity a long distance touring bike needs, yet still weighs more than a K1600. I fear that the two-up touring market is aging out, so I probably will never see a bike like this. My Kawasaki Voyager XII came closest. It was easy to maintain with hydraulic lifters, the battery and air filter easily accessed under the false tank, etc. The only really hard part to reach was the fuel pump, but that isn’t a problem very often. If Kawasaki had updated its styling, updated its electronics and suspension, it would have been a great bike to this day.

[@simonbrowne1534]

Shit bring back the 3-cylinder too. I think it deserves it even more because it never got updated with a 4-valve head and more advanced fueling. Make the bore and stroke equal, call it a K80 or whatever.

[@LTVoyager]

@ I agree. BMW goes from too simple and not smooth enough (two cylinders) to too complex (six cylinders) with nothing in between for the touring rider. Sport riders still get an inline four, but not the touring market.

[@anxiousappliance]

No sport touring bikes weigh anything near 900lbs.

[@Flakey86]

I can't tell you how much I want the naked version of the K1600 to be a thing. K1600R would be an instant buy for me.

[@Brandn43]

This was a great podcast better then the last 4

[@joelhansen7373]

I'm with Spurge on this one! I bought a BMW with a telelever front end & learned to hate it! While I loved the idea of an anti-dive front end, but it just didn't communicate the feel of the road & the available traction the way that my sport bikes with forks talked to me at the limit.

[@josiahdixon894]

Surely can't be a coincidence that Spite's Corner made a video talking about all these sporty Harleys 3 weeks ago

[@ownyourworld]

A simple 1200 boxer like the hp2 would be awesome.

[@joezuppardo9069]

Thank you Zak for bringing up a Honda Rebel 750.

[@C64SX]

It would've been fun if it was possible for the manufacturers to keep the toolings for their older models, and after perhaps 30 years they make a new batch of the old bike but with modern engine, suspension and brakes. Keep the electronic stuff off of them though (ABS/TC only). A bonus of this would be people owning the original bikes all of a sudden have access to a lot of new parts, fairing and such for their old bikes.

[@justindonaldson1691]

I think Spurg hit it with the Harley Bonneville. Like, I want to have some national pride and desire a piece of American made history. I want to come hangout at the dealership on a Sunday - it’s like a perpetual weekend festival. I want to have a catalog of accessories and swag. But I don’t want to be seen on a Harley as we know them today. Harley Bonneville would be a national treasure.

[@thumpertorque_]

I listen to HSLS while driving Uber and I wasn't planning on working today but this upload is motivating me to drive tonight so I can save up to mod my KTM lol

[@appleseed_316]

Kawasaki hinted about a KLE at EICMA in November

[@eoinkenny3188]

I was thinking the guess that engine was a r100/r1100 boxer or similar. They can be a bit noisy on startup before oil pressure builds and very quiet exhaust.

[@mrmbr]

VTR updated in a modern frame, v4. Can be semi naked. Would also be interested in a badass Harley naked bike. Go for it!

[@3wheelmannc860]

H-D needs to put that Adventure 1250 full power motor in a bike...either the Bronx or something similar. Leave the traditions v-twins alone and bring us a powerful / comfortable bike... The Bronx or something similar would be amazing. We need a windshield and bag option. No stern... leave bluetooth so we can use phone / buds. I am thinking similar to a Yamaha FJR1300 / Bronx had a baby... and it must be under $20k loaded.

[@detansinn9882]

Anyone who has ridden a Pan America knows that the Bronx would be redundant. Harley campaigns the Pan America as a Super Hooligan racebike -- it's a fantastic platform.

[@thevtadventure1062]

Yeah an updated XR1250R would be awesome. Then a smaller 975 Pan Am

[@urbanstrencan]

Another great podcast episode guys keep up with amazing work bringing us awesome content like this 🤟🤟😍😍 As for Honda making affordable bikes, just look at the new Hornet 1000 deal of the century 😊😅

[@TheJustinshenk]

So glad to have Spencer Rudd on the podcast.

[@adamburhop3914]

I have a KTM 890 Duke R & love it. But, I'd love for them to make a GT version like the Superduke, say a 990 Duke GT?

[@witchdoctor6502]

Rebel 500 makes sense for European market as it is bike accessible for the A2 license

[@papatorr3669]

I also like Zach's idea of making a rebel 750, having more recently rediscovered the 750 class (700-800cc). It is a hard sell for Honda however as long as they are making a shadow 750. There may be enough room for two 750's as one is a chromed v-twin and the other is a blacked out parallel twin. But they might nonetheless be competing with each other and not adding to the total sales number. If the rebel 750 handled more like a standard, with appreciably more power than the shadow then it might fit Zach's requirement of it being a mid-sized muscle cruiser. Leaving the shadow 750 for the laid-back cruiser types.

[@cbr9nmr]

Spurgeon wants a semi-naked Honda RC45 (1994-5) with bags? Zack wants Ducati to bring back a street legal version of the Supermono (1993-95) with the new engine?

[@nathanieldegler3509]

If Honda brings back the VFR or any V4 model configuration, the Magna power cruiser will need to join it. Just my opinion as a '95 Magna owner.

[@SuperEasy1337]

Very apropos Spurgeon talking about KTM waggling their finger at him about wanting to a eraze MV Augusta. Considering that they have now dropped MV Augusta.

[@johnharvey5338]

I always loved the Suzuki Stratosphere with its 6 cylinders and Katana styling. CF Moto have shown a V4 200hp bike, they might’ve do the bike your looking for.

[@whylie74]

Harley tried the sports bike thing way back in the 90s with the VR1000 and failed miserably, then they bought beull and look what happend with that.

[@papatorr3669]

The bike I would have suggested for the standard category would be a modern rendition of the original UJM: the Honda Nighthawk 750, with a standard seating position. Honda did have the Hornet 600 and Hornet 919, but they are sport/standards as is the new Hornet 750 and all three had a sporty seating position. Give me the Honda (k4) version of the modern Bonneville with a nearly flat seat. It knocked the Bonneville off its podium 50 years ago and would probably do it again. I'm a fan of both as I have a Nighthawk 750 and a Bonneville 800, but I think The triump Thunderbird or Legend 900 triple are a great alternative.

[@Tarkov.]

Bold of you to take a shot at the Rebel 300 when the GSX250R still exists.

[@Snoozzzzzze]

My pick would be a 1. Ducati 916 with the latest 900ish v twin and minimal traction control or rider aids. All the parts are there and easy to put back into production for a budget price. 2. Naked Suzuki Katana remake of the 80s mid size 550/650, using a GSXR 750 engine with the retro Katana look (red seat obv.) again an easy budget fun option. Has to be 4 cylinder though not a pretend twin and high spec. suspension. 3. That Harley Sportster Heritage idea is right there and would have been great for the 100 year anniversary.

[@skierboy85]

Rocket 3 king of the baggers bike. It would be hard to shed weight with that boat, but so much torque

[@thornscoop2]

A BMW 650 flat twin gs would be nice....

[@Nomikeal]

Love Zach's rebel 750 but throw a high pipe, some slightly knobbies and call it a SCL750

[@justcommenting4981]

Companies don't outsource construction to make it better, nor to pass savings to customers. Like Zach mentions, there are "teething" problems as the workflow gets worked out. Of course a continent separating the design and manufacturing teams will always leave something to be desired. It's the world we live in until China and India get better at making their own motorcycles start to finish. Of course Americans will need to work around the tariffs. Bikes could be made to higher quality standards in any country, but at some point it negates the reason why that is being done in the first place.

[@randaldavis8976]

I think they should keep the displacements under 80ci I have a BMW R1200GS, spent lots of miles on Harleys too. About 120hp is enough on the street. on the adv bikes 800cc is plenty. HP2 was 2006

[@nick4506]

The sister bike Hp2 sport with the 1300 wiuld be great. On full 17s canyon carving

[@sethmark]

I owned a 2023 BMW GS 310 and the 2024 triumph speed 400. My love for both was minimal. I don’t think either was an especially good motorcycle. Cheap in every connotation.

[@Diabeekei]

Hey there! I haven’t watch this season as I’m actually binging HS\LS starting from season 1! I just started season 3 episode 11. I wanted to ask Zach what lhe thought of on honda releasing the v3 with an electric compressor! I remember him asking why OEM’s haven’t made any turbo bikes in a while is all