Simple, Tough, Mid-Sized Motorcycles | Your Picks

Welcome back to Tuesday at Dobbs'
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Please do leave a comment and share your thoughts. If you've got a story, insight or pictures to share, you can also email [e-mail]
Instagram: instagram.com/@tuesday_at_dobbs
My other KZbin channel: ‪@FreddieDobbs‬
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Time Stamps:
0:00: Intro
1:20: Kawasaki W800 and Kawasaki W650
4:32: Turn Your Soft Adventure Bike into a Hardcore Overland: Rally Raid (Honda CB500X, BMW R310GS, Yamaha Tenere 700)
9:33: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and Royal Enfield’s Borderless Warranty
12:20: Honda NX500
14:45: KTM 390 Adventure
17:00: CCM RAF 100
18:33: Honda Rebel 500
20:35: Triumph Clocks and Big Costs (Triumph Bonneville, Triumph Street Twin, Triumph T120)
24:35: Bike of the Week Ducati Hypermotard 950

[@lesbutler9281]

Freddie. You mention Rally Raid wheels. £102. A little misleading. They were my wheels and I managed eventually to sell them for £600 still a bargain (less than half price) but I would never have sold them for less, and only let them go at that price as I’m trying to declutter prior to house move. Incidentally my Honda CB500X was an absolutely brilliant bike, I changed it for a Transalp 750. Keep up the great work with your channel. 👍😎🏍️

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Fascinating! Thank you so much for sharing this, Les. I’ll pin this comment as others will find it interesting

[@g-man6333]

Of course and saying with these wheels, it will turn into a real off road machine! Hahaha! My god...

[@afc85]

Can I get a congratulations for passing my mod 1 and mod 2 with zero minors 👌. Your channel was what got me started on this awesome hobby.

[@hulkhatepunybanner]

*Collecting stamps is a hobby.* Riding motorcycles is not a hobby.

[@teamtempest844]

Despite being a gooner... congrats. Your riding education has only just begun. Enjoy miles of smiles!

[@MrDavidUno]

@afc85 I failed my Italian bike test twice. Hearing on Dobbs about an Italian in Scotland who failed several times but eventually passed I'm sure helped me to pass the 3rd time. Well done!

[@mattie_world]

congrats bro. i just passed my USA motorbike test which was a piece of piss compared to my UK ones 😂 hopefully i never have to do a bike test ever again now

[@user-xl2st4xk5w]

Congratulations from me. Bikes have been a wonderful part of my life, they have given me so much. Your journey is just beginning. Ride safe. Well done for passing.

[@pete36524]

A Vstrom 650 is my choice. It does everything well. Really comfortable, surprisingly quick, very economical, cheap to service and insure. And with the ability, go anywhere!

[@billmoeller8897]

Started out with a new Honda 305 Scrambler back in 1965. Have had many brands over the years. Now at the age of 78, I have a 2014 Honda CB500X in the USA & a 2016 Honda CBR300R in Thailand which is now my favorite. My wife & myself ride it all over Northern Thailand. Great fuel mileage, geared just right, goes as fast as we want to go & comfortable two up.

[@peakrider4886]

Hi Freddie. I’d second the first chap with recommending the Kawasaki W800. Such a lovely looking bike, I get comments everywhere I go, there’s just nothing like it especially with the bevel gear driven camshaft which foxes many people wondering what on earth it is. As for its capabilities, I’ve just been on a tour from the UK down to Monte Carlo. Over 2000 miles in 9 days, big mile days with temperatures up to 37°C, long straight roads, motorways, and tight switchback roads in the Verdon mountains. The bike performed faultlessly carrying myself, my gear, and all the camping equipment. Quick shout out to Nathan Millward and Dorothy’s Speed Shop for organising the trip and giving me the courage and support to take on my first big European adventure!!

[@psackett62]

Following your post I've just checked out Nathans website ..... he's got some great rides on there! I fancy next years Run to the Sun ... I might drop him a line. Cheers for the heads up.

[@Thefab5150]

I love the w800. I've got the one that no one wanted, the cafe model.. Best bike I've ever owned, and bought it (pre registered) 0 miles at a huge discount. I find the slightly leaned forward riding position is great on the motorway, as you're not sitting upright like a sail in the wind.

[@peakrider4886]

@@Thefab5150 no idea why it was unpopular, especially after Kawasaki released the Z900RS with a similar front mini fairing. It’s what I like about the W800, it flys under the radar, but now it’s been retired from the UK it is sure to become a future classic!

[@Thefab5150]

@peakrider4886 Yes, I agree, definitely under the radar, and again, yes, I like the mini fairing. If you turn up to a bike meet, you can almost guarantee you'll be the only one there on that bike. I have always been my own man when it comes to biking, I never follow the crowd, so I'm pleased it's a bit left field. Thanks for your reply peakrider4886

[@Victor-vf1fi]

You should do a meetup at a pub somewhere with the viewers. Bet people would join.

[@porkyparry1]

The last thing this bloke needs is some long haired herbert stalking him and turning up at his gaff having had 1 over the 8, lot of fruitcakes out there

[@luisjacques1094]

I’m currently riding a 2016 Versys 650, and tomorrow I’m setting off on a road trip across Portugal! It’s a great commuter-affordable and an all-around solid bike. While I’m enjoying the worry-free, economical riding that the Versys offers, I still miss my ‘93 XT 600. That bike was a beast-tons of torque, lots of vibrations and noise, and I’d always come back smelling like gasoline after every ride. In the future, I’d love to keep an old-school bike for that raw, unfiltered experience, alongside a modern workhorse for commuting and longer trips.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I really like the idea of a pairing like this👌🏻👌🏻 Have a brilliant trip!

[@110adventures7]

I have a 650 versys 2011 vintage just come back from a ride to Bosnia and back from the UK. The bike worked faultlessly for the 4,000 mile trip.. Just about to swap it for an older 1200 GS as I was surprised the GS is only marginally heaver but seems to carry it's weight better. Probably a bad decision but hey you only live once.

[@chrishart8548]

I would almost want the XT600 just for the cheaper road tax than the KLE650. Still think the KLE500 was rather good till the ruined it. Made it heavier made it less powerful. And made it look worse. The earlier ones looked really cool and some nice colours.

[@chrishart8548]

​@110adventures7 is that the mk1 Versys ? The first one fell amazing with the ergo. The second one felt bigger and the current one I keep mistaking it for the Versys 1000.

[@110adventures7]

@chrishart8548 I think it's a mk2 not 100%. Sure. The later ones have lots more plastic bodywork on them and do look massive in comparison.

[@robertcostello9473]

Hi Freddie, I have been lucky to have a large range of bikes and cars! Bike's ranged from Triumph Thruxton 1200R which was stunning with the headlight cowl. Then had the Kawasaki ZZR 1400. Which was just nuts and to be honest pointless for everyday riding. I then swapped it for 'after watching your channel’ the Enfield 350 in Halcyon Green. Absolutely loved it but lacked over taking power. Also after watching your channel seeing how flexible scooters are I decided to get a Honda ADV 350! Loads of under seat storage so smooth with loads of power! Maybe one day you will review one! For every day use computer or even longer trips with all the storage. Underated! Keep up the good work. Loved the trip to Ireland in the Jeep I've had a couple myself!

[@dromadaire101]

A few years ago, my speedometer stopped working. I went to Kawasaki and they quoted me 300€ for an entire cluster. Went home, opened the cluster, spotted two burnt electronic components on the silicon board, bought new ones for 2€ and replaced them easily in under 20min using a cheap soldering iron. Everything still works perfectly to this day. Mind you, this was my first bike and I never had soldered anything before in my life.

[@rogerwredford]

Hi Freddie. Recently switched to a no-frills, analogue CB1100EX for the nostalgia and for relaxed, old skool 2 up riding with the wife, and a Honda Monkey for beating the tourists in summer and nipping for the bread in the morning (we live in France, so I haven’t taken leave of my senses for the sake of a Warburton’s Toastie…) Both bikes have rejuvenated a biking palate which had become jaded by riding modes, electronically adjustable suspension, TFT screens etc. Sometimes less is more…

[@MrVulcan1963]

The CB500X with Rally Raid parts is a very capable bike. A good friend of mine flew his bike from the UK to Canada to ride the Trans America Trail. The bike performed with aplomb. Large ADV bikes are superfluous to requirements, and are simply not needed for adventure touring.

[@guyheselton5868]

Good morning folks , after riding for over 5 decades and owning and riding many bikes plus working in m,cycle shop my go to bike is a 2014 Honda CB500xa which i purchased for my wife as a surprise present nearly 9 years ago . Hmm she,s never ridden it bless her down to health issues so i,ve very happily taken it on. It,s got the full touring pack and was under 3 grand when i purchased it in 2018. This i hasten to add is a standard no frills bike but it ticks so many boxes It,s reliable, comfortable light, nimble, economical and lots of fun to ride especially with plod clamping down all over the country. My GSX1400 has mainly retired to the garage as a show queen and every now and again adrenaline buzz. Enjoy whatever you ride.

[@903lew]

Those little Hondas are proper motorcycles. Nothing fancy except what you need, approachable and somewhat reasonable priced. Now, I wouldn’t spend the money at Rally Raid to build a Halfrica Twin but I understand why other people would. As a do-everything everywhere bike I don’t think it can be beat, especially if you’re not too big or tall.

[@marktansell8578]

Been riding 35 years ,had 1000 cc sports bikes ,nakeds etc .I had a VFR 800 for the last 6 years then also got a triumph speed triple 1050rs, great bike but not very comfortable. Three months ago I purchased a new moto morini xcape 650 after trading in the VFR. I absolutely love it I've put 3000 miles on it ,small trip to France and lovely rides to wales .It's 59 bhp and all day comfortable and sooo much fun to ride that I never take my speed triple out anymore.£6500 NEW WITH 3 YEARS WARRANTY it's by no means fast but just fun to ride and gets more attention than any other bike I've owned.Kawasaki engine ,brembo brakes , tft dash ,tyre pressure senors ,fully adjustable suspension , spoked wheels , abs , etc .

[@Fiatmannen1]

Smallcc is indeed the way to go. Got a kawa versysx300 Great fun ninmble and frugal.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Ah yes- the 300 Versys! Great shout💪🏼💪🏼

[@thebrowns5337]

What many people call 'small cc' these days were big bikes not so long ago (and still are in many parts of the world). They are capable, frugal yet fun. Easy to handle and maintain at home too. Manufactruers will of course keep pushing the numbers as they chase profits and sales strategies that give bigger numbers over previous models sadly work, hence engines getting bigger. At some point this will backfire as emission controls on bikes with needlessly large engines become too complex and hit cost and reliability (check out the T6 Forum showing how all the kit VW bolt onto their large 204bhp engines, to reign in the excess pollution while these overpowered vans travel round... 2 year old vans needing a whole new engine, while the perfectlt capable 102bhp is bulletproof).

[@luddite6239]

If you really want to see what the Royal Enfield Himalayan can do, watch Chris Northover _really_ putting it through its paces on the Bike World channel yesterday. Eye opening and eye watering in equal measure! 😲

[@thebrowns5337]

His riding and his attitude are both great. I don't feel he sells out like some big channels do either.

[@ozzyprogdomino8815]

My Kawasaki z400 I have had it for 4 years now and love it, no reason to change it. I have been all over the country and I even sent you the pictures of our trip to France, that you showed on your channel. few weeks back. The Kawasaki just fits me and at 5ft 3 and 8 1/2 stone, I can flat foot it and it does not feel heavy. The engine even though it is only 47BHP is so sweet, engaging and fun to ride, I can go up rev counter and stay in the legal speed range (sort off). I tried the Z650 and the Z400 at the time and I preferred the Z400 engine. I have made a few upgrades to my bike, I paid only £5000 for it brand new. I replaced the rear shock with an Ohlins one, as the standard one was not adjustable for my weight, had custom seat made for more comfort, ASV adjustable leavers, replaced the tyres. I did not make the changes straight away, I lived with the bike and did a over 2000 miles on it before, so I new that it was a keeper and what it was I needed to make it perfect for me. I guess some people would not understand spending a lot of money on what is effectively an entry level bike, but when a bike feels right and you know you are going to keep it why not?

[@ianhalliwell8604]

Bought a GoldStar back in March 23 and paid £6800 for it, the exact model new is now £4999 and in part exchange a Honda dealer has just offered me £2600 with 675 miles on the clock. Thanks a lot BSA you really know how to look after your customers.

[@ewganhoff]

That is brutal. It turns out they are not selling. KZbinr Stuart Fillingham has just bought one at the reduced price.

[@MrB1967]

Good to have you back on Tuesday 😀

[@atp1130]

I have a bmw k75 that I absolutely love. Easy and fun to work on. Perfect amount of tech. Easy to mod. Perfect bike

[@stewartnorton6386]

I bought a W800 back in May. Paid 3,900 for a 2017 with under 5000 on the clock. Possibly the most beautiful retro bike available !

[@Uncle_Tijikun]

Welcome back Freddie and kudos for another great episode. Extra credit for perfectly pronouncing "termignoni" you're making me proud 😎

[@user-ob3fe7ws7b]

I remember many years ago owning a Fireblade and hankering after a BMW 1100GS. It took me months of deliberating before I swapped, still not convinced I'd not miss the power. It was a revelation. Comfortable, confidence inspiring and I felt in control of the bike rather than the other way round. It tranformed my bigger is better mindset and opened up a whole world of bikes that I'd previously never have considered. Current bike is a BMW F650CS which for my needs and the local roads is perfect.

[@marcuslilly2028]

I got myself a 2019 triumph speed master about 2 months ago. It's my first big bike and I absolutely love it.

[@darrennorton6881]

After decades of riding and owning over 70 motorcycles from sportsbikes to classics and cruisers I seem to have ended up with an 07 plate Triumph scrambler 900. I have had this bike for 6 years and cant bear to sell it and move on as I just love it so much. It has an arrow after market exhaust system and fat knobbly tyres and it just feels and sounds and looks so good. ( to me anyway😂)

[@jefflambert8603]

I own a Humble Kawasaki Z 650 a Continuation of The ER 650 a Robust. Commuter every Day Do it all Motorcycle ..Yet was Raced Successfully in the Isle of Man. TT. Super twins Class I remember you were Quiet Taken With The Z 650 RS There is Not a Lot. Of Fanfare but as an. EveryDay Bike. That's Fun Economical To Run. On a Budget with a Punchy Engine It has Been a Brilliantly " Little". Machine

[@MrDavidUno]

2nd? Super Cub! Full of smiles. Scram 411, lovely for the unmade Italian roads. I'm a very lucky man!

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I love these two options!

[@unclesparks1]

Gone from a Kawasaki Z1000 & Honda CB1300 to an old BMW R80 and customised 2011 Triumph Scrambler . Much slower, low power, more fun, like the image and fashion style that goes with it. It’s the way forward and growing trend.

[@GadgetMart]

I know it’s a heavy weight but shout out for the R1150GS here. So easy to work on, even the ‘nightmare’ clutch it just takes a while.

[@allanhughes7859]

Why do folk never mention the Benelli TRK502 Just swapped it from a rubbish G.S. 1200 and wish I had done so years ago. These are good bikes ok ok the quality in areas is not as you might want but tell you what I love mine to the point I will be getting another. This one second hand with 1K on the clock came in at £3.200 beat that for a bargain !! Honestly every bit as happy as the 1200 gs if not happier great bikes for the price and you do not need a mortgage to buy one ..P.S.This had heated grips full luggage and electric scot oiler

[@Pete128]

Freddie, Triumph woes! I have a 2018 Tiger 1200 XCA which I love to bits. 2 years ago one morning the headlight failed, and as it's a sealed unit with multiple LED packs, their was no option but to take it to the only Triumph dealer here in Singapore. Long story short (3 months later) the replacement headlight, new wiring loom and replacement ECU hadn't fixed the faulty light issue. Eventually a bright spark at Hinkley noticed the part number on the instrument cluster didn't match the model of Tiger and that turned out to be the fix. It took a further 2 weeks to get the local dealer to sort out all the missing standard features - power windscreen, cruise control etc., etc., all of which didn't work when I finally got the bike back. It cost me S$2,600 and Triumph agreed to cover the new wiring loom cost themselves. That's a very expensive GBP1500 to fix a burned out headlight unit. I still love my Tiger but I'm reluctant to ever buy another Triumph. PS: My second bike is an old 2016 Hayabusa and it's brilliant fun, cheaper to keep running and I can do most of the work myself when it needs attention.

[@thebimblewizard1242]

Went from a triumph daytona 1200se down to an re classic 500. Dont need 150bhp to enjoy myself anymore.

[@robynbazlen-weglarz7836]

Hi Freddie, I am 71 years old and have been riding for 53 years. 4 years ago, I traded in my Indian Roadmaster for a 2020 Triumph Speed master. Now I know it’s not a mid size bike by European standards but by American standards it is. To go from a bike tha weighed just under 1000 lbs to one that weighs around 550 lbs was just liberating. It’s nibble and quick enough for me. I’ve enjoyed riding it like I haven’t enjoyed any bike since my 1972 Norton Commando. It’s quick and easy to maneuver in the curves and powerful enough for the Berkshire mountains of Massachusetts and yet it’s able to gobble up the miles on a long trip. I’ll probably be riding it until I’m too old to get my leg over the seat. Sorry for the length. Robyn

[@insatiable_mind]

I love my 2011 KLR650. Comfortable, reliable and enough power for me.

[@Y-li]

Riding an 02 fzs1000...best bike I've ever ridden.

[@monman8183]

Got a DR650 this month. Rode one from Wales to Morocco in 2019 and should never have sold it. I've had 46 bikes now, and the DR650 would be in my top 3. 👊

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

This is one of the coolest looking bikes! I’m checking FB Marketplace for these🤩

[@kevinwheatley1097]

Freddie with rebated to the Triumph clock issue, I recently purchased a Tiger sport 660 from Bridge Motorcycles Exeter. As long as I have them do my servicing, they give their own lifetime warranty on the bike. It's a great selling point and a great bike.

[@EcclefechanHotel]

Totally agree. Always had higher horsepower bikes , right up to a zzr1100 with 160. Always wanted a Bonneville but for a newer one was too much so got a similar style in the HD750 Street with 56 brake and I just love it. Always working the gears to keep it in the power band and easily stay around the speed limit. Have more fun at 65 mph than I ever did at 95. One day a Bonneville but only when I have enough spare cash to keep the Street and get another bike to go with it.

[@colinkingston5898]

Hi there I had a bmw f800gt it was nice but it had its folts now I have a honda vfr800x and every time I get on it it puts a big smile on my face

[@jazzdirt]

I've had many bikes.. I mostly loved all of them, except for the (1994) Yamaha Virago 550, and the old boxer (1990?) BMW R100GS I had to walk those home way more than I'd care for. But the 2 I loved most so far were a Honda CBX550FII (1984) put 100k miles on it with no issues, and recently I sold the other one a 1992 Honda CBR900RR because I'm slowly getting to old for sports bikes, but I put over 400k km on it without any issues. I just get cramps if I have to fold myself up on a sports bike these days.. I bought a 2012 Honda NC700X.. And for me that one is still really new, but I already like it a lot... My first ever bike was a 1973 Jawa 350 Two-stroke, It was trash, but I loved it nevertheless...

[@roadstrom]

Hi Freddy I've been riding since i was 7, I'm now 51 . I have found happiness in 2016 V-Strom 650 XT , because it's such an excellent touring bike, only cost me $5700 Australian and man we have munched down some miles together.

[@donaldhibbard3248]

Freddy, my recently new Triumph Tiger Sport 660 has made me fall in love with motorcycling all over again.

[@dreamcrusher112]

Agreed with the final commenter. To drag myself out of bed at 6am to commute in the cold or wet, my bike had better be exciting. A 125cc I had didn't get used much as it was simply too boring (Honda...) whereas I itch to use my Tracer 9 or Bmw F900 R every day. Life is short, get a fast and exciting bike!

[@markxt2]

After many 30 years of riding , starting with a 1991 Suzuki RGV 250 with banana swing arm , then many 1000cc sports bikes , then 4 years ago I changed to a Royal Enfield interceptor, then a meteor 350 , I have now purchased a Harley Davidson Sportster Iron 883 , and oh wow it’s taken 30 years for me to get there , but this is my dream , Character, great torque, looks , charm , and I just cannot stop riding and photographing it , and talk about a head turner , I’m one very happy man. 😎😎😎

[@ewganhoff]

Congrats! The Evo motor is probably the best sounding engine ever made.

[@newlife155]

Honda NX500 is shockingly like my Kawasaki Versys 300X all dressed. Cool.

[@MrJkfamilyguy59]

I am surprised the 2021 thru 2024 Honda NC750X DCT was not mentioned. It comes in manual and DCT. I urge you to look into this bike and do a review. It is a all around practical everyday workhorse. They are one of the top midsize bikes in the world.

[@douglasburt1622]

This is a great idea for a regular show. I’m really enjoying this.

[@ZZR1200ZX]

Love the Shirt , reminds me of tv series Miami Vice.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thanks🙌🏻 Monika’s enjoys calling me “Hasselhoff” when I wear these shirts… but I love them😆

[@luddite6239]

That CCM front number plate, K5054, was the serial number of the first Spitfire prototype. Same colour blue too. There's a fibreglass replica on the roundabout outside Eastleigh airport where the prototype first flew, just three miles from me.

[@bangkokbill4035]

That's exactly what i thought when I saw it. Flown by test plot Mutt Summers.

[@thebrowns5337]

We are truly spoilt for choice these days. Sure, every bike is a compromise - no two ways about it, but there is something out there that gets close to each of our own set of priorities and they are all pretty devent. You'll get owners of SV650s saying the MT07 is rubbish and MT07 owners saying the Kawasaki Z650 is so out of date but, keep an open mind and try them all and they will all put a smile on your face and all do what they are meant to do. Motorcyclists can be a bit tribal, a bit stuck in their ways, a bit over-opinionated (this is human behaviour in any group to be fair) but as for the bikes... they are pretty much all good and the choice is awesome. Having a hard time choosing my first big bike because they are so good!

[@timparker9235]

one of the most interesting opposition guys to listen too, is Alex - very enjoyable discussion

[@bigmikeshooter]

Hello from Greece and my HD Heritage Softail Springer. Before 20 years went for the Harley and never look back. Greetings...

[@momz6569]

Afrwe 52 years and 40+ bikes from 1700ccs to 125ccs to this 70 year old man. I rode GoldWings- Valkyriess' BMWs' Hondas' Benelli' Suzukis'et. But today after replaced both hips and a few more surgeries_I now ride a 2016 Indian Scout 60. = =

[@gokhanegene8226]

"This desire to move from a high horsepower motor to a lower power level is expressed so well that it does not degrade the strength of the male spirit in the process." :))

[@MrMichaelfalk]

Riding a Aprilia Pegaso strada right now. Bought it because it has the same engine as Yamaha XT660 - 1 cylindre 660cm3 rotax engine.. This should be robust and it is fairly simple... Love the bike ... I love simple bikes - hate moderne bikes with tft displays and all kinds of useless gadget. I just might go Royal Enfield aircooled next time...

[@raulsalanaranjo6565]

I just met a guy with a Yamaha XT with a Yamaha XT with 221 thousand kilometres on the clock. Started in front of me and sounded great.

[@MatNewtonTrio]

CB500 ( Japanese) 2001 bullet proof reliability.. Having owned one for the past 5yrs I cannot fault this bike when it comes to value for money and reliability. Cost me £900 and runs like a sewing machine. Wind it on and it actually comes to life. The other thing is it gets ignored for the most part and isn’t attractive to thieves. I’ve used it for commuting into London all year round and for weekend trips. I love it ❤ I have other bikes I wouldn’t leave unattended.

[@leeandjancruise]

Never had as much fun on any motorcycle as I'm having now on my 400 cc Ducati Scrambler Sixty2, it's good to be different.

[@parasinthephilippines]

I've just taken my biggest punt in years. Having ordered 8x Kove 800 rally Pro bikes for my foundling motorcycles tour business over in Almeria Spain. Needed hard core bikes for the mountain tracks. So fingers crossed that they will step up to the job. Sadly three month wait on delivery.

[@Ste_Taylor]

Hi Freedie, I've just got my full bike license and I'm still searching for a new bike. I definitely prefer the classic look and have fantasies of a Bonneville or maybe an old Harley Sportster(the LNSPLTBLVD builds keep drawing me in). I can afford these but would prefer something around the £2k mark. At the salvage auctions you showed I've found a street twin(catN) literally down the road from me but will require some restoration/money, I think that would be a fun project I'm no mechanic but I like to get stuck in. FB marketplace has a couple of 411 Himalayans around that price which is also drawing me in, I just cant make up my mind.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

Of all these bikes, I'd have a 390 Adventure. I have had a Mk2 390 Duke for four years. No problems, whatsoever. I wouldn't buy any Triumph. Heard too many bad things about them. Mind you, I wouldn't have a KTM 790/890, either due to the camshaft problems. I did have a 950 Adventure for 20,000 miles with no problem, though.

[@JC-he7yk]

Cb500x and nx500 . Superb.

[@davidrandall2742]

Bang for the buck, I think a 2015+ v-strom 650 xt adv is a great bike (with the spoked tubeless wheels), and used with three alu bags they're surprisingly inexpensive.

[@twowheelin7361]

I have a 153HP Ducati streetfighter v2 and recently purchased a CFMOTO 450mt with 40ish HP. I rarely ride the Ducati now.😂

[@waveman1500]

Your tax is so cheap in the UK. In Victoria, Australia motorcycle registration is $570 per year under 500cc and $753 per year over 500cc! Tax and insurance for a big bike can be over $2000 per year easily.

[@Andrew-qc9xw]

G’day Freddie, I have a 2002 Yamaha TDM900 and it’s an awesome bike. You’d like it for sure.

[@MrB1967]

Freddie, how can you talk about simple. honest, reliable and rugged middleweights and omit the V85TT? It's down to you that I bought one! It's great, cheap (used!), simple, fun. It's my favourite bike right now.

[@thebrowns5337]

I keep looking at the 85TT as it ticks all the boxes for me. However I'm looking for my first 'big' bike, having passed my DAS a month ago, and think it's too big for a starter.

[@MrB1967]

@thebrowns5337 it's got a very low CoG, very easy to move about and ride, manoeuvre.. if you can reach the floor I think it would be an excellent choice. It's very reminiscent of the original R80G/S and could well end up being a future classic. Right now though, it's just my favourite ride!

[@Victor-vf1fi]

KTM are cheaper to maintain as they break down completely by the time you need to do the first service.

[@thebrowns5337]

With KTM being mostly made by CF Moto, there is no need to buy a KTM anymore. CF Moto offer a longer warranty (that isn't tied in to main dealer servicing like KTM are), they offer better kit on their bikes (Brembo brakes on many models and cornering ABS for free where KTM charge extra to enable it) and they cost far less. The bikes still have a place but paying a premium for orange paint and a KTM badge, when you could get the same thing butwith better options, for less money yet more warranty... KTM have shot themselves in the foot and are already starting to struggle.

[@Bob-xc2us]

Without a doubt my 2022 Kawasaki W800.

[@thabigkahoona]

i tune in just to hear Freddy say horsepaaaAAAaaa

[@GordonVansey]

I’m riding the triumph 400x love it not too slow not too fast it’s just a blast

[@rlickerman]

I have 2023 Thruxton RS, which is the best of both worlds, enough horse power, over 100 BHP, and the looks of a retro bike.

[@theporridgeking569]

I’d need my beer goggles on to find that bike of the week attractive.

[@scobeno1911]

Yip..guy I know got stranded on the Isle of Man due to the tft display packing in on his street triple rs.. had a nightmare getting the bike back to Scotland.

[@peetee5229]

Triumph Tiger Sport660 , I downsized from an Africa Twin 1100 much lighter to move around and just as quick and lots of fun.

[@brubeker12]

Not really a mid sized bike but I picked up a Lexmoto Detroit a month ago just a 125 and it is such a nice bike for getting around on short distances. It will tick over all day at 50 immense mpg. So Chinese bikes dont knock em all ,i was worried that I might have bought some cheapo bike but not any more .

[@dbharrold]

My friend had problems with his triumph tiger instruments. The dealer was useless. My local mechanic has two manufacturers he dislikes. Triumph and BMW!

[@daver3110]

That line you said about not buying the Bonneville sooner, because you didn't want to "downgrade" has really resonated with me. I'm going through the exact same thought process. I don't want sport bike ergo's anymore, and very taken with a 700v Transalp, for sale locally, but really hesitant at half the horsepower. Was there ever any regret? or does it really not matter? The CB500x/NX500 is very tempting also..

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I’ve never had one second of regret- moving to the Bonneville’s been a revelation for me👌🏻👌🏻

[@PaulCataliin]

Why would you take an nx500 when a nc750x is about the same price. Just asking, not throwing shade on the nx

[@sebastiangruia1985]

Hi Freddie. Recently I discovered the Brixton motorcycle brand, an Austrian brand. I think they are putting together some very handsome models, but unfortunately, the internet/KZbin is somehow lacking with info and reviews about them. I love the look of Brixton Cromwell 250 and Felsberg 250. What do you think it's worth examining them?

[@rajaakashkumar7099]

Freddie you have see new classic 350 colours ❤

[@ewganhoff]

Nx500 for just under 7 grand, or hornet 750 with double the power for just over 7 grand? You'd have to be very enamoured with the limited off road abilities of the NX to go that way. Here in Scotland it would be a no-brainer given that there is virtually nowhere to go adv riding.

[@michaelmclarney1994]

Hi Freddie, just a warning to everyone that I couldn't find this in my notifications. It turns out that I had been unsubscribed for some reason! Please check it hasn't happened to you too!

[@albundy643]

Same happened to me.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Oh wow, thanks for the heads up on this! I’ll look into it and thank you for re-subscribing!:)

[@barrywalle9207]

Simple rugged honest - that'll be my Suzuki gs 500 twin then!🙃

[@pbrigham]

There isn't a perfect Bike, but having in account the exorbitant prices from BMW and and Triumph, the best value for money is the Afica Twin 1100, this of course until the Chinese completely overtake the market like they are doing on cars.

[@thebrowns5337]

They can do that because the big brands rip us off. Many BMW engines are made by the Chinese (Loncom) and have been for 20 years now. When they start closing factories they will realise their mistakes. Too late by then - look how CF Moto played KTM (make KTM engines and bits then offer the same bike, with higher spec and a longer warranty for less cash) and how that's all going for KTM. Fair play to them. I don't like being ripped off so am keen to see the hard entry of some real copetition.

[@rjmockett]

Try a yamaha T Max 560 ........... have had many bikes from 16 to 64 . love my GSA and Fat Boy but the T Max does it all and is fast as feck .

[@philiproyffe8022]

Hi Freddie, here in newzealand, to legally have your bike on the road, above 650 cc,is around £280,a year, happy to pay for the mental health alone you can't put a price on it😊

[@thedarrencasey]

Kawasaki w650, Made from the patents Kawasaki bought from BSA! The carbed model before they fuel injected it with the w800... is pure characterful joy. Over engineered, its what Triumph copied with the Bonneville and took away the unique bevell gear drive :)

[@Globaldob]

Did you see the new Thar Roxx? Launched in India starting 12k pounds

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Of course! It looks superb and the price is staggeringly good🖤

[@JC-he7yk]

The rebel is the same 500 engine as the cb500x.

[@DogMania]

Second! D’oh! Love your content!!!

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thank you!😃

[@warrenr4]

Better electrics on a KTM than a Honda ?

[@azlong4596]

Where are you getting that price for the Honda NX500? They have been and still are $7400.00 USD for years.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Interesting. Straight from Honda’s website is where I found it

[@gzk6nk]

I had a W800. It looked nice, but lacked overtaking power and the brakes weren't up to much. Both these issues can be a problem with lower powered bikes.

[@albundy643]

Lacks overtaking power? Where exactly? To quote bennets bike review "the bike managed an indicated 100mph without too much fuss. In fact, its punch from 70-80mph was livelier than I expected from a A2 licence-legal bike." Certainly enough for most people.

[@gzk6nk]

@@albundy643 You don't get the difference between (eventual) top speed and instant short term mega quick acceleration that gives you fast overtakes with minimal time on the wrong side of the road. I don't need a bike that goes faster than 70. I do need one that has rocket-like acceleration to safely pass slower cars. My 3 years of W800 ownership showed me that overtake performance is nowhere near where it needs to be. Far too long exposed on the wrong side of the road. It had to go.

[@albundy643]

@gzk6nk so you obviously don't know how to read the road. I can overtake multiple vehicles safely because my years of experience riding all kinds of bikes. I never put myself in danger overtaking at inappropriate times, no matter what bike I'm on.

[@gzk6nk]

@@albundy643 You sound dangerous.

[@thebrowns5337]

​@@gzk6nk you're struggling a bit. Years of experience and knowing to not overtake at inappropriate times shows they aren't dangerous. Any vehicle is safe to overtake with as long as you can drive/ride properly. Meanwhile, any vehicle is unsafe if all you do is push for every overtake. In fact your more powerful machines, coupled with that attitude, equal more danger as you carry more speed into questionable situations and are given a false sense of safety due to power...egging you on. Sit back and have a think, you'll survive long enough to realise these basics. They come with maturity and experience. Enjoy your rides and don't become a statistic.

[@consumidorbrasileiro222]

what is a horse pie?

[@Fiatmannen1]

First one here

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thank you and hello, Fiatman👋

[@the.communist]

Kym better electrics than honda🤔?

[@V-wo8np]

@24:50 They don't call it douchecati for nothing.

[@va1ery]

Triumph speed 400 vs RE guerrilla 450 as the first bike?

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I think I may ask to borrow the Triumph next, to compare these

[@Jonathan-L]

Honda NX500 for $11,000USD? ... I'd rather get a brand new Suzuki V-Strom 650. More bike your money.

[@Patrick-l3y]

I’m not sure where he’s getting that price. Maybe it has an adventure package? I recently bought my ‘24 NX500 for $7399 plus taxes, etc.

[@GlitchingGecko]

Sorry, but 'Hypermotard' sounds like an insult you throw at someone who owns a sports bike.