2024: The Year Big Bore Dual Sports Changed My Life

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Hey guys, thanks for looking back at some of the best moments of 2024 with me! If you need to do some shopping and want to help me to continue making more videos in 2025 here’s a list of affiliate links for my gear, parts, & tools! Affiliate Links to my gear, tools & parts! (See pinned comment for more) (Click an affiliate link, make ANY purchase, & SWANKY CAT will make a small commission) Riding Gear ADV Helmet: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xpedition-adv-helmet-w-mips-p?ref=1042& Xplorer Coat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xplorer-adv-jacket-p?ref=1042& Xplorer Pants: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xplorer-adv-pant-p?ref=1042& Boots: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-adventure-boots-p?ref=1042& Hydration Vest: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-rover-vest-p?ref=1042& Gloves Off Road: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-legend-offroad-gloves-p?ref=1042& Air: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-adv-air-gloves-w-d3o-p?ref=1042& Air Block: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-adv-windblock-gloves-w-d3o-p?ref=1042& Cold: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-adv-cold-weather-gloves-p?ref=1042& Tools: Tusk Jump Starter: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-mini-portable-power-and-jump-starter-p?ref=1042& Lift & Dolly: amzn.to/3ZkbW4A JIS Drivers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-jis-screwdriver-set-p?ref=1042& T-Handle Sockets: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-compact-t-handle-wrench-set-p?ref=1042& Hex Key T-Handles: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-10-piece-hex-key-wrench-set-p?ref=1042& 300lbs capacity Bike Lift: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-scissor-lift-stand-p?c=0?ref=1042& XR650/DR650 Stuff Carpuride W702 Pro Version: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-pro-wireless-portable-upgraded-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo-with-intercom-function-compass-barometer?ref=pcoxoocl Carpuride W702 Regular Version: Carplay Unit: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-wireless-portable-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo?ref=pcoxoocl XR Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-waypoint-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042& DR Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-dsport%C2%AE-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042& XR/DR 14 Tooth Sprocket: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/primary-drive-front-sprocket-upgrade-p?ref=1042& XR/DR Large Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042& Chub Bars (XR-Moto Bend, DR-KTM Bend): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042& XR Bar Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-universal-big-bar-clamp-kit-p?ref=1042& DR Bar Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/rox-speed-fx-pro-offset-elite-block-risers-p?ref=1042& DR Windshield for 7/8 handlebar: amzn.to/3z010yT XR/DR Large Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042& DR Seat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/seat-concepts-complete-seat-p?ref=1042& 701 Stuff Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-dsport%C2%AE-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042& Seat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/seat-concepts-complete-seat-p?ref=1042& Bar Risers: amzn.to/447yftD Small Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042& XS Tail Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-side-load-dry-duffel-bag-p?ref=1042& Kickstand Foot: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-billet-side-stand-foot-p?ref=1042& Tenere 700 Stuff Tusk 2Track Front: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-2track-adventure-tire-front-p?ref=1042& Tusk 2Track Rear: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-2track-adventure-tire-rear-p?ref=1042& Camel ADV Products: camel-adv.com/?ref=eOBjZXsn Tail Bag (Large): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-dry-duffel-bag-p?ref=1042& Seat Concepts Seat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/seat-concepts-complete-seat-p?ref=1042& Tusk D-Flex Handguards: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-d-flex-pro-adventure-handguards-p?ref=1042& Tusk Chub Bar "YZ Bend": www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042& Grip Heaters: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-grip-heater-kit-p?ref=1042& Bar Pad: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/search/go?w=tusk+bar+pad?ref=1042& Rad Guard: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/r%26g-racing-radiator-guard-p?ref=1042& TW200 Stuff Rear Rack: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-utility-top-rack-p?ref=1042& Tank Saddle Bags: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-sidekick-tank-saddle-bags-p?ref=1042& Rear Duffle Bag (Medium): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-side-load-dry-duffel-bag-p?ref=1042& Skid Plate: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/ricochet-offroad-skid-plate-p?ref=1042& Shift Lever (Extended): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-folding-shift-lever-p?ref=1042& Chub Bar (Moto Bend): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042& 1 1/8" Handguards: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-d-flex-pro-handguards-p?ref=1042& Offset Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/rox-speed-fx-pro-offset-elite-block-risers-p?ref=1042& Grip Heaters: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-grip-heater-kit-p?ref=1042& Front Tire Shinko 241: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/shinko-sr241-series-trials-tire-p?ref=1042& Polisport Fender: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/polisport-sm-line-supermotard-ufx-free-flow-front-fender-p?ref=1042&

[@Squatch_Rider66]

Great recap of the year. Good luck with everything in 2025. Keep up the good work.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!!

[@bobholley6202]

Been a great year. Looking forward to 25’. Don’t forget to take the 701 for a spin every now and then!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Will do! I do always really enjoy those rides!

[@ericweber1969]

Congratulations on your extraordinary journey through 2024, looking forward to how your channel develops in 2025!

[@elwood62]

The stock tank on the XR does look good, I don’t blame you for keeping it on despite the range. I haven’t seen an aftermarket option that I like the looks of. There are a couple good looking ones for the DR though.

[@andrewlaughbon9468]

The biggest problem with the tank is they are designed around that size. It looks amazing but the capacity kills it so much I gladly look at the 5 or 6 gallon Acerbis tanks. Range is a priority for me of its an ice engine. I cut the electric bikes some slack.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Haha yeah it's definitely not the most convenient option, but it's been worth it to me so far! I've still got the Clarke tank if I need to take it on a longer range adventure! The DR has been ok so far, but I do have a larger tank for both in my Amazon cart!

[@breathofadventure]

Appreciate this vid, bro! I share the challenge of winter and lack of shredding on 2 wheels. Working on winter content as well, my audience just doesn’t care much for my winter snow shoes adventure 😂😂

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Haha yeah it can be tough. There's always opportunities though, just need to find the right one!

[@atlklx5168]

Subbed for dual sport content. I crashed a year ago (broke all 5 metatarsals) and I miss it. Sold my klx300 to pay for stuff. Hoping to get back soon!

[@JL-qf8bx]

Great video as always man! keep up the great content Can't wait to see what 2025 brings you

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!

[@CodyFairways45]

Thank you for all the videos!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@michaelanderson3771]

Again Happy New year for 2025. looking to see how the suspension mods go on the DR - I am positive it will make a huge difference. It may not match the XR but it will be much closer. Love the content - keep it coming. Two down shiny side up. Tuning in from Aus.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Happy New Year!!! Yeah, I'm getting pretty excited about it too. As much as I like the XR, I think the DR will be a far more sensible option and will be a real weapon once properly equipped! Ride safe my friend!

[@pedrovazquez9146]

Keep following you dreams! I’ve been working on my significant other to allow me to pick up DR650 to turn into my own creation…been a tough sell, but will keep trying! You have been an inspiration…I’ve already built the DR650 in my head. I have zero mechanic experience which will make all the more fun!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

They're a bit like a puzzle aren't they?! I always build mine in my head first too!

[@JacobAnawalt]

What a journey! I hope 2025 keeps building on the success!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Indeed it has been! Thanks Jacob, me too!

[@pvfd304]

I'm sorry to see the KLR go. I learned a lot from the installation videos. I'm looking forward to your new adventures.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm sure I'll get another at some point! Still need to try out the gen1!

[@Haytifdad]

Thanks for what you do!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm glad you enjoy it!!!

[@bigjj974]

DR650 Suggestion: Suspension modes that worked very well for me. I replace my front springs and also replaced just the spring on the back shock. I also went from 10W fork oil to 15W fork oil. The results were fantastic and will accommodate a total combined rider and payload weight of 250 to 275 LBS. very well. Good luck with your build.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! I appreciate the advice, thank you!

[@keglover-x4i]

Excellent video Ben. I like your conparisons and offering so many ideas for acessories for your bikes, especialy the DR since i bought a new 24. I also like that you leave the factory tanks on them as they just look better than those ugly ass plastic ones. Watching content like yours greatly helps us make acessory choices for our bikes without making costly mistakes. Im buying the adjustible bar risers like you tested. Monday i get my Madstad adjustable windshield due to Precipice of Grinds channel installing /testing. Possible sugestions for content: Cycle fanatix channel has a connection at his local dealer that allows him to show their new bikes and acessories as well as acessories added to his bikes. Bob and Tams excellent adventures channel now offers everything you need to know before going to major Harley rallies weeks in advance, motels, camping, resturants, hot spots, activities, music offerings, etc. This is greatly helpful to a first time event attendee. You maybe could create content about up comming adventure rider events, dual sport events, motocross events, shows and rallies, even local ride spots in your area. Offer locations, event dates, where to stay , activities, food etc. I dont know of any channel offering such info. Wishing you great sucess with your channel.

[@patrickroach7289]

Happy New Year!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Happy New Year!!!

[@airadaimagery692]

I love all dual sport content, because unlike a lot of people, I do not discriminate against any dual sport, because I love all of them. But I do have my favorites, and two of my favorites just happen to be the TW and the XR. So I luv watching all of your videos. Also, I have a question., I mentioned the baby GS to you the other day, and I told you about the presumed wet weight being 370lbs. Did you happen to do any research on it, or perhaps see that same video? Curious to hear your thoughts, and why you think nobody is really talking about it?

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm glad to hear that! I'm the same way. Anything that can get me off the pavement is a good bike in my opinion. I don't know that I've found one I don't like yet, but of course some are a bit more fun than others! The mini GS and the Kove 450 are both on my to-do list, but I have not had time to check them out yet unfortunately. I need to get my heated grips and seats installed along with some grip studs asap and then I should have some time!

[@retiredwaterdoctor]

Great recap.....getting back to working on the dr myself......will send you an email...Garth

[@goophy30]

I seriously cant wait for the new Suzuki drz400s. I just bought the Honda Crf300ls but I think the New Suzuki might be my unicorn bike. Maybe when spring comes ill contact you and you can try out the Honda Crf300ls before i trade it for the suzuki Drz400s. I am happy your KZbin adventure is working out for you. Love the vids keep it up.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!! Yeah, I really am too! I have always wanted to try the 300L though, let me know!

[@timlubbers2884]

I hated to see the klr go, as it’s a newish ride for me…but I get it. Swapping and buying bikes are always risky, especially in your situation as it’s (mostly) for content… I think (and dream) of you picking up a 450 (sized) thumper, like a Himalayan 450 to compare to your 650’s . I think that we are seeing a shift to the 450 class bike being the go to size for adv/trail riding … It was a great year, with a good amount of twists, and you’re genuine in your content… keep it up!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks! Yeah, it does seem as if things are trending that way. My dad and I were both wishing we were on lighter bikes last Monday 🤣

[@bluemen8807]

What happened to all of your older videos?! This past year was great!!! But I miss going back to watch your older content. It had a lot of good information that I miss 😢 Especially your Gen2 KLR!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I pulled them a while back and didn't really think anyone would notice, sorry! A lot of them had links to old discontinued products and I figured it would be best to have KZbin only suggesting more recent content, rather than the outdated stuff. I've been thinking about revisiting some old topics and builds though. What were you looking for?

[@bluemen8807]

@SwankyCatProductions All of the gen 2 KLR videos! Your gen 2 content was by far and still is the best I've seen! There aren't any other people that have gone as far into depth as you did. I watched them years ago when you were in the early stages before I was able to get a KLR, and I now have a 2015 KLR and wanted to rewatch all of your Gen 2 content. Do you still have all the old videos?

[@bluemen8807]

@SwankyCatProductions i live about 2 hours south of you in eastern Iowa, so my terrain is really similar to yours! I've been wanting to venture up to all the Wisconsin OHV parks, especially Harrison Hills. There are a few parks down here i ride with my buddies at, but next summer, I'll be headed up that way and eventually to the Tr. W.A.T.

[@andrewlaughbon9468]

I still say you put that engineer knowledge to use and design your dream bike. I might donate to the cause to see it come true.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

That would be pretty awesome! Maybe some day!!!

[@andrewlaughbon9468]

@SwankyCatProductions swanky moto.

[@JP-nisu_2]

Good vid

[@Techbrentc]

Keep doing what your doing. More klr! Haha

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Will do! Some day I need to try the gen1!

[@bradleyalexander5821]

Very fun look back. Here’s to a mega Swanky 2025….🧌

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Haha 😆 I'm glad you enjoyed it!