Thanks for asking: Living in the shadows of greatness, Doctor’s Dangle, staying awake, R1 v S1000RR

[@karoI1001]

First time seeing Neevse in non-Astars branded cloths ;)

[@TomReinerDE]

This one is his formal attire 😊

[@paulmullany7147]

Great series. Cheers. I remember when bikes were my only transport and I did not have alot of money to spend. I learned very quickly that many bikes that were considered also rans or in the the shadow of their contemporaries were quite often phenomenal road bikes and cost significantly less second hand and to insure. A few that spring to mind are the Yamaha Trx850, Aprilia falco, Triumph Daytona 955 (owned and loved that bike), carbed 600 fazer, Suzuki Sv 1000s, Yamaha Thunderace, Triumph speed 4 and even things like the Ducati st2. The SV and Trx in particular were a suspension and exhaust upgrade away from real world superbike killers with loads of character. The carbed fazer engine was just brilliant. How cool would it have been if Yamaha would have put that back in a supersport chassis with good brakes and suspension? Cheers Paul

[@MHDarlington]

Re 'Where's our Cruise Control?' I just watched your video on Saffron's long term Aprilia Tuareg and they've nailed it for a mid-size adventure bike; cruise control as standard, quickshifter as an option. Good sense coming out of Noale (and those of us who remember the RS Cube haven't always put those words in the same sentence)

[@stephenchapman8344]

Again, great insight. 👍. Keep the videos coming Michael 👍

[@driveandsurvive]

Thanks Neevesy. On the subject of heated grips, I find their ability in cold conditions, to help maintain good sensation in your fingers, under less bulky gloves, for good brake feel/operation is a big safety tick.

[@allenglishknives6823]

Quick shifter is a God send. On long rides you get less fatigued. Cruise is so good for keeping you out of trouble on modern motorways and in 30, 40 and 40 limits. All the mod cons are THE reason I buy the bullet and bought a new bike.

[@driveandsurvive]

Arguably one of the biggest reasons against putting the knee down on road riding, is the extra time it takes to make a significant change in direction - the road is far less predictable than the track - being overcommitted so to speak is not sustainable.

[@FourIntoOne]

Man that birdstrike made me jump too - last birdstrike I had wrote off my Shoei and proper rang my bell.

[@nickmurray721]

Great observation about bikes in the shadow, I’ve just bought a 2012 Zx10r which has had ohlins suspension added (and I’ve had it set up by MCT) all I can say is wow!

[@gyzfr6]

To the gentlemen asking about fitness and energy: I suffered a lot, especially on track days, it sapped everything out of me. Turned out my cholesterol was high. I worked on it and made day and night difference during and after riding. Let a doctor check your blood.

[@soulrebelno1]

Neevsey, comparing Japanese road bikes versus European road bikes (21:24), what's your view on reliability? Also, does it affect your choice when buying a bike with your own cash, or do you just hope and pray you won't end up with a Friday afternoon lemon!

[@branthurley2285]

These never fail to entertain. Some great reminisces too. Thanks again, MN.

[@UpsideDownFork]

GSX-S1000 is transformed with a K-Tech Razor R rear shock, EBC brake pads and a remap.

[@Markycarandbikestuff]

Another great Video Michael, i honestly had you down for late 40's, was quite surprised to hear your your age in a previous vid, i'm 52, think i'll need to start running and cycling lol. A mate has just got a Gen 3 Hayabusa, not seen it yet, probably will this weekend, think i'm more excited than him, he has offered me a shot of it already, with all the tech it has it'll be interesting comparing it to my analogue Gen 1. This interaction format is great, really hope you get more subs and folk smashing the like button to bits : ).

[@mickbeckett5136]

Brilliant, I’ve just got back into Biking, your videos are bringing me up to speed and a massive reminisce status, RS 660 is my new play thing thanks to you, I love it!!

[@mrdoodle8748]

I would be interested to hear your thoughts on Yamaha's first cross plane R1(2009). From an aesthetic point of view I thought it was a big step backwards, rather like the 2006 Kawasaki ZX-!0R, big undertail exhausts making the bike look overweight from a visual point of view & for what? just chasing the trend at the time which was a legacy of the Ducati 916 design/style. It didn't seem to gain many plaudits for handling from the motorcycle press at the time. The rather blank side fairing & questionable looking front lights also did not start any new trends. IMHO, Yamaha have struggled from a style point of view the R1 since that time, though the latest version is the best effort post the cross plain change. Style v's functionality is always going to compete, I guess it's the same with any product. Loving your videos & opinions.

[@andrewprice1189]

Hi Michael, Greetings from Melbourne, Australia. You may recall we swopped opinions on the speed triple rr last year... Question: Would you agree that Triumph completely dropped the ball with the RR & RS 1200 models but have now redeemed themselves completely with the new ST 765 R & RS. By all accounts this seems to be the case, also i recently found an old bikes aloud video from about 20 years ago with the infamous John Cantlie in it, did you ever have the chance to work with him before he ahem "' disappeared"' Love listening to your videos while resting my 56 year old bones in my massage chair!

[@ragerider6283]

Great vid. Always interesting. Looking forward to the next one. Question: Any bikes you have totally changed your opinion of over the years that you initially didn't like & then loved or vice versa?

[@cpuuk]

I turned my QS off, as I can do a smoother shift the old fashioned way. Love me adaptive cruise.

[@rhyslloydy]

Great video again Neevesy. It’d be nice to hear the story behind your helmet design, and what’s made you choose Arai over the other brands over the years?

[@stevechampion7938]

Thanks for the mention of your mcn app! Just downloaded it. My friends and I are creating a list of tracks that we’d love to ride. Including ones that aren’t on the gp or SBK list. Wondering what yours would be?? I still remember Suzuka, Fuji and the old Hockenheim… what are some of your favourites or ones you would have loved to ride??

[@cocky_potato]

Great videos, I love your enthusiasm and delivery; such knowledge and wisdom, keep them coming! Would like to know your opinion on the recently launched KTM 890 SMT, your opinion on KTM in general but mostly, what do think of these sort of big supermotos - think Ducati Hypermotard 950. I personally love these sub-nieche of motorcycles but manufacturers don't seem very interested in them. Would love to hear your thoughts. Cheers!

[@LeeTillbury]

Thanks Neevesy, another quality, informative video👍🏻

[@flexywing]

The KTM 890 and I presume the new 790 can have cruise control as an option Cime in Honda etc al, pull your finger out, you ask for extra for a center stand (criminal) surely cruise should be an option

[@_Archambaud]

Day just got better.thanks.x

[@creedm3040]

Great video! Always entertaining. I am looking forward the ones coming up. I do hope the bird is ok? Best!

[@darrenwinstanley3771]

Absolutely loving this series please please keep them coming, would like to hear more on old MCN reviews that have stuck with you and why, regards.

[@Handlethetruth666]

Riding down to south of Spain on my 14’ blade. Back ache and dead hands 😢

[@babyfknblu]

i find that in listening to you answer every question, my brain is immediately rattled by a thousand more. i feel like you could go into incredible detail with each one, and if i had a billion dollars i'd probably spend it all to have my own michael neeves on speed dial to talk my ear off 12 hours a day! the ones that stuck out from this one are: - you said 2 episodes ago that 1000s like to be slowed more in order to be picked up early and get better 200hp exits for really good lap times, but in this episode that the 2015 r1 wasn't like that. what makes it behave that way? - contrary to your explanation just now, i heard enduro racer and off road journo adam riemann say that the motogp dangle is to counterbalance a slight slide on corner entry, similar to a fast corner on dirt. he said that the bike is actually MORE settled when in a slight slide, because then changes in traction upset the bike less, and are more likely to just slightly change the trajectory of the corner rather than throw you off. is he right, do gp/wsb riders slide the entry purpose like how rally riders do? - in regards to the bikes that live in the shadow of others, are there any good reasons to choose a bike that wasn't the best that year? if i went back to 2011-2014 now, why would i choose an rsv4 or an r1 or an 1199 over an s1000rr? beyond just lust is there an argument for riding styles or something else?

[@Kristofferheihei]

Thank you for answering my question 👍

[@shadowred1980]

Enjoyed that, thanks for putting it together.

[@NeonLuvBar]

In '92 my 851 didn't live in the shadow of the Fireblade.

[@benmpearson1]

Neevsey, I would like your opinion mate. I've become somewhat disenchanted with my superbike (a 2010 MV F4) for all the usual reasons; uncomfortable, can't use any of the performance on the road, etc. It's undeniably beautiful but just too shiny / fragile for me to take on track, plus I've had more fun riding supposedly dull, low-powered commuter bikes that can be thrashed (within reason) quite safely. I understand you know the roads around Lake Como quite well, so what do you think is the perfect fun bike for scratching around here? Parallel twins aren't my fave and the Moto Guzzi Mandello is out. The other bike in the garage is a Griso. Don't feel too sorry for me eh? 👊🏼✊🏼

[@Mason_van_Bike]

Hey Neevesy, love your videos! Great way to unwind at the end of a day. I was watching your R1 video and you mentioned how undertale exhausts were the style at the time. I’ve had a VFR800 and currently ride an Aprilia Futura, and I love the look. Having said that, they seem to have gone by the wayside. Do you have any insight as to why?

[@liveinaweorg]

I came from the Tiger Explorer in 2012 to a Tiger Sport 660 last May. I would have liked cruise control and am hoping at some point Triumph find a way to make it an option. I did get the quickshifter for the TS660, mostly because I get pain in my left hand when I am using the clutch a lot so figured having the QS might help and it has made a difference. It's well made and works a treat. Almost the perfect bike except for the missing CC. Enjoyable video as always, very insightful.

[@nomad_lad]

Question: Firstly, I thoroughly enjoy these videos so thank you very much for that. I believe there’s plenty out there with the same question… I got into riding in my late 20s, so i got « direct access », so i got onto big bikes very early in my riding career. Considering this, I feel like I havent learned correctly how to really push a bike to the limit. How should I correct this and learn the crucial riding experience I feel I missed in my riding career? Should I just take my big bike to the track or should I get a small capacity bike and learn to push it to the limit?

[@inactivism]

Great video as always, I’m so glad you started doing this series. I’m curious about your thoughts on cable actuated throttles vs throttle by wire. I’ve gotten the impression that you prefer cable throttles in general. How much of a difference do you think it makes and do you think it makes a bigger difference for certain bikes?

[@sanxi34]

Hey Neevesy! A few years ago I rediscovered the sport of track riding after a bit of time on the ADV and cruiser side. I am looking at options to buy, and the main alternative I have in mind is the Yamaha R7. The thought process is down in power and keep the cornering speeds up, that way I don't have as much power to make up time on the straights. What are your thoughts on getting a smaller bike on the track to learn how to corner properly? Currently on an R6 I am just out of C group, slow-B-group on a good day. And the temptation of getting another 600 or even a 1000cc is big when looking at price and the monkey brain comes in the way

[@Djzsolo]

Good day sir lol I’m from Texas I wished I talked proper English but anyway love the channel!!! And your mcn reviews!! My question is can you explain the difference between counter steering and leaning do you do both these when you enter in to a curve and if you need to go around something in the road and slow speed turning I guess I’m asking when do you counter steer and when to lean?? Thank you have a wonderful day and please keep doing the videos!!!

[@ADYDRURY1234]

Great video. Quick question, I am 51 and had loads of bikes over the years, most fun one I have owned so far was a ktm950 SM years ago and I am thinking of going back to another sm. Either a ktm690 smcr or a 950 hypermotard. The majority of my rides are less than 100 miles. Just a fun toy. If it was your money which one would you go for. Last bike I owned was an rsv4 factory last year but I hardly used it, was dream bike I always wanted but once the initial excitement had passed I just found it too extreme on the road, I traded in a 765rs street triple for it and by the time I had ridden the rsv4 home from the dealer I was already starting to regret it, getting far too old to be cramped up on crazy fast superbikes. Enjoying the videos, cheers.

[@JamieLittin]

Loving the series Neevesy - long may it continue. So here's a question to help with that 🙂The current big Japanese manufacturers and nearly all the Europeans and Americans have decades of heritage, all have won races that matter, and brand loyalty runs very deep. Now that more and more bikes are coming out of China and India do you think they'll ever gain the same kind of following? The likes of Mahindra have dabbled in Moto3, but would even (an unlikely) domination in WSBK or MotoGP give a newer Asian brand the prestige of H-D, Triumph or Honda?

[@NewZeroland]

Man thanks so much for making these videos! What are your thoughts on electric motorcycles? I've been riding Zeros and Energicas for years but I'm curious how you feel they compare to petrol bikes and where you think the future of motorcycling will go.

[@davidelizabeth4933]

Bird strike! 🐦 😃😄

[@stuleyland9490]

Another video so soon? You are spoiling us, Mr Neeves. Can we talk about bike dealers? Do you think that there is a trend of good dealers slowly disappearing? In my area in the last year, at least three long standing shops have either closed or chosen to stock cheap Chinese bikes and scooters. I think this is a worrying trend that leaves bikers worse off in terms of customer service and also getting access to competent repairs and servicing. Is it pressure from manufacturers, or just a lack of demand? What are your thoughts on it? Cheers.

[@JustForRita]

Neevesy, I'm a bit like yourself when it comes to chain maintenance, my OCD pretty much ensures I clean mine every 500kms, which may only be 2 day rides. My question to you is what brand chain cleaner and chain lube you find the best? I used to use kerosene to clean but when I bought an ipone chain lube and cleaner kit, it has so far been the best I've been able to find so far, whats your current kit?

[@jonathandavies6862]

I have recently been knocked off by a car pulling out not seeing me. May I ask what happened with your past injuries and what helped you recover mentally & physically and get back on the bike? Thanks

[@jonathandavies6862]

Broke my leg, metal fitted for life and could do with the motivation. Thanks

[@flatstick4658]

KZbin question please Great videos btw. I know you’re a big fan of the new Tuono as am I , but if you were part of the R&D team what would you do to enhance it’s already superb performance ? Cheers Ian ps Any chance of bringing back the Facebook Live sessions of the Covid era?

[@alphacentauri966]

I think in one of your last videos you mentioned that for a long stretch of time you rode a street gsxr that you would convert for track duty on the weekend. I’m wondering why you decided on that and whether you worried about crashing your street bike at the track? I have an RSV4 I’ve been using in that way but my local track has 0 paved runoff and I feel like if I want to push the pace more I should probably get a dedicated track bike so I dont have to worry about the nice bike. But then again what’s the point of having an RSV4 if you don’t let it stretch it’s legs now and again?

[@cpinch73]

Hi Neevesy, Absolutely loving these videos. I'm relatively new to biking and have a Aprilia Tuono 660 factory which I'm really enjoying..... but im really feeling the itch to go for a Triumph street triple 765 rs. What are your thoughts on comparing the two of them? Would it be a worthy upgrade or more of a side step? Really value your opinion please. Kind regards Chris.

[@sp00ky1969]

I wouldn’t mind betting that Rossi was not unaware that it made the bike wider and might make overtaking on the inside that little bit harder - a bit less room to dive in without hitting him. I also wonder if hanging the inside leg off while braking hard and leaning helps to stop the rear wheel from stepping out so much, similar to leaning your head out to ‘steer’ a wheelie. The leg is a rather heavy part of the anatomy. Regardless of the reasons, it’s not something I need to do and if I tried it I’d probably not be able to walk for a week or two after. 😂

[@mrdoodle8748]

Yes, Cantlie was an interesting character, he took risk taking to another lever which ultimately was his undoing. I was always hoping that he would turn up in some sort of exchange when that conflict raged.

[@left-hand-threaded]

Can I have your review on the metzler TD slick please , I have a 675r track bike and in inters , will be my first time using a slick when I try these

[@allenmclark4664]

So we're about the same age (only I'm from the US and didn't have access to some of the publications you contributed too) and I was wondering with all your experience and saddle time.... If YOU were able to create your very own motorcycles (2 models to be specific) for public consumption, what would they be, powered by, unique attributes etc and what would you call them... Cheers from sunny SoCal

[@JPWest020]

Correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t Mat Oxley started PB and won a TT? Edit: You could argue that the ZX-12R and later the ZZ-R1400 lived in the shadow of the Hayabusa. And the ZZ-R1400 was actually the better bike. The same could be said about pretty much all the 90s 600cc sports bikes: the CBR600 always would win the test. Last: image if Suzuki would have put a TFT, QS and CC (and did some restyling) om the V-strom 650: then there would have been no need for a 800 V-strom….

[@kanand00]

Hello Neev, nice listening to a fellow TESTER. from a different part of the world. used to be a test rider for a couple of Manufacturers in India ( smaller CC bikes), tire testing too, on Indian roads. 😊

[@dilsherbuttar5424]

❤

[@kawker]

Hi Neevesy, what bike would you recommend for your first track only bike. Ride a zx10 2009 on the road, but got bit by the track day bug. Best to start with a 600 or go straight to a 1000?

[@Ukmongoose3]

Would cruise control work for wheelies!!?

[@neevesybikes]

Not for long 😄

[@100CupsColombia]

Get some varifocals sir-then you dont have to take your glasses on an off all the time😎

[@100CupsColombia]

Quickshift is extremely handy on dirt roads-wayyy more handy than cruise control

[@hks071]

Please give us your 2 cents on chicken strip

[@JNOSNOW]

Definitely wouldn't recommend a pre '20 R1 with all the motor design problems. Pre 2017 crank walk cause lack of thrust washers and shitty inferior rods pre 2020 model are serious for fast track riders. Hell a 2016 motor blew up last weekend and there was a 1" gap in the case with the crank poking through saying hello.

[@LeeTillbury]

😂😂😂 BMW fanboy by any chance?

[@JNOSNOW]

I had a 13 s1000 race bike and it was a pile. I wouldn't buy an s1000 before 17 cause of transmission and shift fork problems. Riding a 22 gsxr1000 now and it's right there with the new s1000 everywhere except the top of 6th gear but im only racing one guy on a new bmw in SoCal at Chuckwalla so the very top doesn't matter.