Thanks for asking: Should you learn to ride on a big or small bike? How can you have too much grip?

[@TheLondekZdroj]

In my humble opinion, everyone should start riding on dirt bikes. They’re light, nimble, and even an 85cc can have over 20bhp, pull wheelies, and slide. Most importantly, you develop skills in managing limited grip and even using it to your advantage. The skills I developed on a dirt bike at 12 have saved my life many times on 1000cc bikes.

[@nickclarkuk]

Yes I support DVLA funded Motocross tracks to learn on. This could solve the shortage in the south east 😂. I started on dirt bikes too … very handy when I encounter mud and gravel .

[@alvindavenport5657]

I also agree. I learned on dirt bikes and learned how to deal with limited traction and throttle control. It’s an inexpensive way to decide if you really want to ride a bike before investing in a bike you may not ride. Falling off doesn’t usually hurt as much, though you can certainly hurt yourself if you try hard enough.

[@kyleowen3371]

humility is a paradoxical virtue...😂

[@tomrich2047]

YZ 125's for all :)

[@devilsreject320]

You were wiser than myself. Of road on Honda h100s2 on road tires. Ha good fun great days. But every time I touched that front brake 🤕

[@WilliamSudek]

I started on an 86 GSXR 750 in 1987 at 19 years old.))) I never had a smaller bike than that and was fairly fast in club racing. In the year 2000, I went to the dark side and moved on to sports cars. Now at 57 years old, I am back into bikes. Last year i got a pimple on my nose and decided if I am going through puberty again, I'm going to need a Panigale V4S. My God, bikes are crazy fast now, but I,m still alive and loving my track days.

[@ogofog9120]

You’re a better man than me!

[@kingy5053]

Hi Neevesy, I tend not to leave comments on you tube, not sure why, but have to say I love the channel and what really seems like unbiased, unfiltered, genuine, truthful feedback given from a place of much experience. I like it mate, keep it up and keep being you!

[@neevesybikes]

Thanks so much 😊

[@donsmith3573]

The old days were more sensible in my view, I started riding in the seventies in Germany first bike was a batavas! 50 cc then after six months got a Suzuki gt 185 which for me was exciting enough to keep for a couple of years until I got to know some other bikers with bigger bikes, then bought a gt 380 . Thereafter my wages determined the size of bike I would purchase

[@chrishart8548]

Nice little bike the GT185 it's like a 125 with a bigger engine really 129kg dry with 21hp @ 7500rpm even today that would be good. And the fact it's a twin is fantastic.

[@honeyyeti5292]

This year at 49 I finally did my cbt and bought a xsr125…. Loads of people said go straight and do the das course and get a big bike, glad I didn’t as there’s plenty to learn from the 125, and still very easy to cause yourself some damage….

[@thetonetosser]

Hi again Neevsey. Took my test in 1996, just before the learner laws changed. So I passed the CBT and did my test the following week. Technically, I could have gone straight out the next morning and bought a full power Blade, Thunderace or a 916. But I didn't. I took similar advice to what you explained here, from my very wise CBT instructor. After a lot of reading and research (MCN included) I ended up with a Ducati 600ss. Nice easy bike to learn the ropes on. Not overly weighty, not over powered (under powered if anything) but a fine handling little machine. No rider aids like we have now of course. That little Duc was a sensible choice. Loved owning it and it made it easy for me to learn and practise my roadcraft. I got used to the power very quickly and within a year, I'd chopped it in for a 748. By that time, I felt more confident and ready to handle it. I'm guessing that if I'd bought a full power 1000cc bike after passing my test, then it would have been much more risky in terms of finding out the hard way. With the new licensing laws these days, some of that risk has been mitigated. But whatever way you look at it, you have to be sensible and understand your limitations as a new rider. No more so than when you first get a big, full power bike.

[@chrishart8548]

I did my cbt and had a Honda mt5 in 1996. I did my full licence in 1997. I got a suzuki GS500E. . I looked at the monster 600 and 750. The air cooled 600 made barely anymore powre Than the GS500E. I next had a gpz500s I ride a F800GS now. Had a go on a r1200gs and a S1000xr it was a manageable jump each time.

[@MikeTheBike58]

Passed my DAS in 2006 after a 19 year break from riding. My first big bike was an old CBR600F...had that for a year then brought a CBR1100XX Super Blackbird-kept that for nearly eight years. Then brought a 2007 CBR1000RR-had that for nearly four years then went to a Gen1 ZZR1400,had that for two years and sold it to get a Gen2 ZZR1400 Performance Sport,had that for three years,now ride a H2 SX running 207whp

[@KosmicKitchen]

I started (in my fourties’) on a 300cc bike. Then I moved to a 650, a liter bike and now I „climbed down” onto a CBR 600rr. To me, weight is everything.

[@James-ze3vt]

thinking of a cbr 600 rr myself going from an s1000rr as seems a tiny bit more sensible but do you miss the thrill of a litre bike ?

[@ogofog9120]

My first bike was an AR80, crashed & written off under transit van. After passing my test in the mid 80’s I got a TDR 250, crashed that, then had an FZR 600 (the original round headlight) crashed that. But from then on never crashed a bike since … so yes, experience matters

[@chrishart8548]

Some of my favourite bikes there. Shame they got crashed. I crashed 2 of my bikes honda mt5 and gpz500s. Just got lucky not crashing my Kawasaki kmx200 or honda xr250r. I did have some close calls

[@nathanddebjogia3286]

I got a zzr1400 gen 2 for my 1st bike , still have it and it's remapped and lovely for me .had it 9 .5 years now and toured on it. Came from jetskis and having a go on ty175 and tzrs when I was 10 to 14

[@nicholasgage2095]

I completely agree regarding starting with a smaller bike and progressing to something bigger.

[@ianwarren8316]

Being an older new(ish) rider I have moved form small (GSX-S125) for a year, to a medium (CBR650R) for a year to a large (Ducati Panigale V2) in the third year. I did however do a lot of miles and get great instruction and advice from my son who I did a lot of those miles with and who is an EX BSB racer and track instructor. I definitely agree that doing the CBT and having a year on a 125 and 4000+ miles on a small bike was a good move despite the frustration my son on a Ducati V4S must have felt! It enabled me to get on and use the CBR650R quite quickly and with a touring holiday including German Autobahns I definitely used all the speed (in the right places) that 94 BHP could provide! The Panigale V2 is definitely going to be several years before I am using all its capabilities and looking forward to my first track day to learn more on how to use it! But I absolutely love it!

[@WRTmark]

I started on a Suzuki RG 250 Gamma. Rode that for about i year then moved to a 89 RGV 250(PEPSI). Both 250 2 stroke but a massive difference Between the 2. then I jumped to a Yamaha FJ1100. I agree with you in you should start small and work your way up over the years. Now i have 6 1000cc bikes and a Hayabusa. Owning all the big bike i still miss my RGV250 (PEPSI) Great video as always .

[@wernerxldata]

The RGV is awesome, same for the Aprilia RS250… Owned a KR1S myself, brilliant to learn to ride fast. Looked at buying a two stroke again lately but they’re insane expensive and often not in a great state. Really collector items these days.

[@fred3527]

As a teenager I learnt to wheelie on a 50cc 2 stroke. The bike was very light and underpowered. To get the front wheel up required dropping the clutch in 1st gear and a strong pull on the handle bar's. The front wheel came up relatively slowly and was more controlled. When you use the bikes power (if available), the front wheel can come up too fast for comfort and makes flipping at a higher speed more of a reality. In the early 80's in South Africa, large capacity bike's where very affordable (a fraction of the cost of a car). A good proportion of males 16 - 21 would have a bike and most where large capacity. It would be mind blowing for UK/Auz bikers to know that at 18 you could sit a little theory test on road sign recognition, get a learners licence and then you could legally ride a super bike of the day. I so miss not living in a Nanny state.

[@GSXR.Knightman]

Another great vid! I started off on a DR125s way back in the day. I was 14 but had raced BMX for years. I wanted a dirtbike on the road. When I hit the road (literally) at 15 years old; it wasn't long before I overshot a corner, hit the curb and flew over the bars. My friend was on the back, we were not injured but my friend ripped his new jeans, skinned his knee slightly and was annoyed with me big time! I'm glad I didn't start on something faster!

[@jayhooks]

I rode a Honda CBF125 for a year on a CBT before doing my DAS. I got frustrated with the lack of power on that 125 pretty quickly but don’t regret it because I learned so much in that year. I also think it’s nice to go into a direct access course with experience of riding. I really enjoyed it because I felt comfortable from the start.

[@chrishart8548]

I couldn't believe how slow the 125 was on a duel carriageway. It was zippy up until 40-45mph amazing how fast the power tailed off

[@honeyyeti5292]

I’ve done the same…xsr125…enough to learn on, but looking forward to a larger bike when I pass my, test

[@distancejunkiemonkey4491]

Bikes in order 1. XL75 -12yrs old 2. XL250(set up as a cafe racer) -16yrs old 3.10yrs off from riding 4. VTR1000F- to big of a jump, without training. It took a long time to get comfortable on that bike. If I would’ve had a professional trainer for a couple days work with me, it would not have been a big jump. But just climbing on it after 10 years off I was lost on that bike for a long time.

[@Jim-nm1en]

Hi Neevsey, my first and second bikes were Triumph Tiger Cubs 199cc, the second one had a sports cam plus fiberglass tank, seat and Ace bars ( I pissed off the local bobbies with that bike when they only had a Morris Minor police car).🤣🤣🤣🤣 Passed my bike test on a borrowed 250cc Yamaha and then went on to a 500cc Triumph Twin, BSA 650 Road Rocket followed by a brand new Suzuki GT500A (wish I still had that bike). Several bikes of various sizes followed and now ( at 70 years of age ) have a Suzuki GSX650F. I would definitely advocate starting on a small bike and upsize in sensible increments as your experience and confidence grows.

[@jimbroen]

I'm many years into my riding career and I still like having a small displacement light bike around. It gets used more than a little. When you start out riding it's easy to fixate on the specifications and appearance of a machine. It took me many years to view biking as an activity for which the machine is just one of many require things. Start small and used and you'll be just fine.

[@jayhooks]

I had Supercorsa SP’s on my GSXR 750. It was definitely twitchy in the winter. Changed to S22’s and they were much better in winter and didn’t notice any difference/less performance vs the SP’s in summer.

[@wernerxldata]

Loved the good old CB1… I always preferred lighter bikes, the steering and braking is so much better. I have a 390 Duke next to my Street Triple RS and like to ride it quite a lot, just 4 fun, it’s super nimble and insane fun to ride fast. Still learn a lot from riding that bike, really a great confidence booster. And of course riding dirt bikes, I’ve been riding mx since ‘88, tought me so much as you have the room to experiment without drama.

[@samanthagregoryurich4167]

I got my license a year ago at 62 and started on an unrestricted RS 660. It's light and easy to handle but of course you need to be a bit careful with the throttle at first. I did 10 track days this season and moved up to the intermediate group in my racing club. I'm really happy that I didn't get less of a bike!

[@chrishart8548]

Didn't know any RS660's were restricted. Are they 2 stroke?

[@samanthagregoryurich4167]

@@chrishart8548 It's a 4 stroke twin with 100 hp. In Europe, manufacturers sell two versions - one standard (unrestricted) and one A2 (restricted to around 50 hp) for the A2 license, which is a stepping stone for younger riders. Owners can have the restriction removed and re-register them when they reach 23 years old or something like that.

[@chrishart8548]

@@samanthagregoryurich4167 the restricted one is a bit of a joke it's probably slower than a ninja 400.

[@chrishart8548]

@samanthagregoryurich4167 so is there 3 versions really the 100hp one the 47hp. And one that can be 47hp or 94hp.

[@samanthagregoryurich4167]

@@chrishart8548 As far as I understand there isn't one that is only 47 hp, just the other two. The RS 457 is around 47 hp though. ;)

[@nickrider5220]

Enthralling video as always Neevesy - thanks for doing them. I started riding over 40 years ago, mainly riding 2 strokes (which were excellent), lightweight, inexpensive and fun, that's what will attract new riders, unfortunately not with 2 strokes, but lightweight, affordable bikes. The bigger, high tech bikes are catering for existing riders, not the younger volume sales end that will increase motorcycle popularity.

[@aleishareed5063]

my first proper bike on the road is an mv f4. ive been riding bikes all my life albeit highly strung two strokes. my choice of bike was based on a boy hood dream to own either a 916 sps or an f4 750 but the values of homologated ducati's are beyond my reach now. i ended up with a low milaege f4 1000 mono and i just intend to go out and enjoy without trying to shave tenths off everywher. i also have a tz250 to keep me honest.

[@BarnettSpeedSuzukiThou]

Thanks for the answer, now got a v2s travel multi aswell as a gsxs1000 with a Maxton.

[@jonathanmackie4884]

Really enjoying the way you seem to have relaxed in to this KZbin lark. You've built confidence and that makes you come across as relaxed and comfortable in yourself and, therefore, are yourself! On the topic of progression for learning I did the old 250, 350, 600, 650, 1000, etc and really benefitted from it just as you said. Illustration of that was in my 350LC period my older brother on a run with me one day up and let me try his GPZ1100. Wisely it was on a straight. 1st time on a four stroke so new to that kind of torque and power, opened it up in 3rd, went in to warp drive, shat myself and turned round to take it back. Not ready says I !!

[@chrishart8548]

I found going from a 50cc to a 125 a big jump really for the first few seconds at least the thrill on a 125 gets real flat after 45mph but when going past 30mph was near impossible the 125 felt like a rocket and now being able to 60mph was something. Then a 30hp 200cc 2 stroke. Then a GPZ500S it would go over 120mph. The a bmw f800gs then a BMW S100XR. Each bike seemed like a big jump in power.

[@jonathanmackie4884]

Exactly! I was lucky/unlucky enough to start in the days you could learn on a 250. The famous "100mph" X7 no less. A lot of sound advice from older riders in the family and a fair dose of luck meant I survived! The reduction to 125cc shortly after was a good idea I think, although it may have gone too far now.

[@witchdoctor6502]

I had my license when I was 25 and my first bike was honda cbr600 and although it had plenty of power it was good bike to start with. I don't think people have to start at 300-400cc if they can think and know their limits.

[@SteveMuir]

I figured I fooling myself with M9RR on my VFR so went the Roadrec 02 this time and happy as with them.

[@Fr4nt1ck]

I've returned to riding after a 15 year break, and I like the electronic aids of bikes from the past ten years - so much safer for anyone unused to big power! A question I have: middleweight used to refer to bikes in the 500 - 750 CC range, but these days 950s and bigger are still called middleweight. Where is the line drawn now, and why did it change?

[@charliethepetrolhead]

Hi Neevesy, thanks for the cracking videos! Really informative and I appreciate the chilled out vibe, too. Interested in your commentary on learning to ride on smaller or bigger bikes. I'm 24 and, sick of commuting in London (it takes an hour and a half to do 13 miles), I'm on the cusp of booking my CBT + DAS course in. I've got my eyes on the Ninja ZX-4RR as a first bike -- I've always wanted a sports bike (my dad had a TL1000R and a ZX-6R when I was growing up) but figure a 600 would be way too much, and anything with a twin doesn't really stir my soul like a good four-pot. Dad agrees the ZX-4RR would be a good jumping off point, mainly down to it having sensible power and decent brakes. But, following your comments and the advice of a few colleagues, I'm now wondering whether it might be a little too much, given I've zero experience on motorbikes. I'd like to think I'm quite responsible and can resist the urge to do silly things on the road (I'm a car journo so need to keep my licence spotless!) but would hate to ruin such a nice bike by accident, nor would I want to impede my development as a rider long-term. Should I suck it up and get a 125 (or something like an R3) for a year or two, or could I get by with the ZX-4RR? Cheers and keep up the great work :)

[@JPWest020]

I believe that Mercedes Benz has a ES system that uses a camera in the front that constantly scans the road ahead. Works great. (It’s air suspension btw) So it does exist and it does work;-)

[@RupeWilson]

I loved my duke 390 even though I had ridden bigger bikes previously. Back on a 790 now due to riding a longer distance to work.

[@ninja12lawbreaker]

Hi Neevesey, I agree with you about the progressive increase in engine sizes with experience. However, I was 17 stone in full bike gear and was heavily advised not to bother with a 600 when I eventually passed my test aged 30. Been riding since I was 13. Very glad I bought an old GSX 750F first big bike. I got top end and scratched both footpegs bringing it home to Streatham from Aylesbury

[@jpmotorsport4728]

Another cracking vid mate , always a joy to catch up each Monday with some q&a’ 👍🏽😎🏍 thank you !

[@James-ze3vt]

started on a ktm duke 390 4 months later a street triple 765 then a bmw s1000r and now a s1000rr all in 2 years...... also have a husqy 401 for wet weather and the UK's rubbish roads ! but mainly take out the RR if there is any sign off sunshine. Yes its to much for the road but.... you cant beat the adrenaline.....but i do think it'll be to easy to spend some time a his majesty's butlins :)

[@andyhorner5027]

Thank you Neevsy love these videos and all the advice and recommendations :-)

[@bobeyes3284]

Personally I truly believe getting a few years on the road in a car, learning road sense is more important than how fast your first bike is. It will do more to keep you alive than buying a 125cc and thinking your safe because its slow. I started on motocross as a kid then waited till I was old enough to do the direct assess. Got a 1998 GSXR 600 SRAD as my first road bike. Then kept a 1997 748 on life support for over 10 years before buying a 2009 R1 and a GSXR 750 K5 for track fun.

[@Oilyhands749]

Tea n toast with Neevesy to get the week started, hope the rest of my week is as enjoyable 👍

[@Esepeaso]

Top, top show Michael, keep it up! Spot-on what you mention on anti-wheelie control and clutched-up wheelies. If you try a clutched up wheelie on my 1290GT with the anti-wheelie on you do trick the system (it's not quick enough), but then will cut off the ignition sharply. too late, when the bike's right up, slam the front wheel down, then feed power back after landing, which is plain dangerous. If you want to pull wheelies IMHO it's better to turn all electronics off, also on Duke 790s. Also, if they're relatively long wheelies the electronics go mad unless you deactivate rear ABS. I reckon its brain freezes if front-rear wheel differential is too high when the front goes back down. Keep up the top work!

[@stephenchapman8344]

Great stuff. Firmly believe that cost is the main demise of the m/c industry. Too expensive to buy and much too expensive to insure.👍

[@tomdawson-k9b]

Hi Neevsey, really enjoying the channel - the format is a great idea! I’ve riding for 20 years and mostly 600cc sports bikes and a couple of litre ones and mostly on the road but I do a track day or two a year. I currently have a 2023 765r which is a phenomenal bike but like all of us we always hunt for the perfect bike / new experience. I’d be interested to hear your opinion on a sporty bike, mostly for the road but a track day or two that you’d recommend from any era. I think the sweet spot for me is 120-150 bph. If they made a 765 Daytona (that didn’t look like the moto 2 one which is just horrendous) then I think that’s pretty much be perfect for me so currently thinking 765rs or r9

[@patwilliam543]

Re new bike sales, it's also interest rates. Recently bought the first big bike, had it been 2021 I probably would have bought a brand new Tracer 7 or similar, but you can't get the same deals now and I don't want to risk being in the shit if the economy goes further south, so I spent £900 on an old fazer. It serves its purpose for me and will make the next, more flash bike feel really special when things have stabilised.

[@thecornishbiker9323]

Hey neevesey question for you . Why do manufacturers only offer us a few colour choices?? Cars get 5 to 10 different colours but bikes that sometimes only have a few panels to paint get 2 mayyybe 3. Cheers and keep up the great work.

[@deon1978]

Thanks for the video. I started on a 1200GS as my 1st bike. When I think about it, it was a good bike to start with. On a smaller more agile and faster bike I'd probably already have been dead. The GS is laid back with a calm demeanor albeit boring. But boring is good for your heath on a bike. Whenever I ride a sports bike I go nuts on it. It's like driving a white van. It turns you into a hooligan 🤣

[@_authentlc_]

used to having Diavel next to my desk the autumn before last. a little big /I'm 5.7 feet tall/, but still so comfortable. when I closed the store in the evening, it feels like I'm leaving them to sleep.. feel the need to pet them )

[@tuonouk6896]

My tuono factory has ohlins semi active and its fantastic .

[@67daltonknox]

The best beginner bike is a 10 year old small capacity dual sport. You can make all the beginner mistakes without doing it or yourself much harm, then sell it after 6 months for the same price and get something more exciting. If you take it off road, you will also be a better rider.

[@shaunwhitfield112]

Class as ever mate 😎🙌brilliant insight especially about the suspension always wondered I’ve got an s1000rr gen 4 best looking one by miles and love it and I totally agree about it being amazing on the road 😁🙌 Keep these coming especially on a Sunday 😂😂😂👍

[@mikepaulus4766]

I know my friend learned on a small Yamaha road bike and took the test for his motorcycle endorsement on it. Everyone else getting tested that day showed up on big Harleys. Everyone there that day tested on his little Yamaha.

[@Love4boost]

I have a 21’ MT-09 and in lif-1 you can clutch up to balance point without the traction control cutting in. Also when it does because you stayed ham fisted. It will basically act like the clutch is slipping. You never have to worry about an abrupt cut in power sending the wheel down hard. The current MT-09, 990, SuperDuke, 698 Mono work much better. But that goes to show how well tuned these electronic systems are. Warning* anyone new to wheelies. Yes that means you can loop it. It doesn’t kick in once it realizes you brought it up smoothly.

[@Bugside]

I ride a 2021 as well and you might be slightly mistaken. In Lif 1 traction control IS ACTUALLY cutting in, slowing the rise of the wheel. Try holding the button to disable all TC (yellow light always on ) and see for yourself how much faster she rises (be careful)

[@Love4boost]

@ you’re correct. I did turn it off once and got caught by surprise. I left that out by accident. It was on my mind when writing the comment.

[@xcelmaster4779]

Hey Michael. As always thanks for these great videos. I think that giving you some questions is a way to support the channel, so here you go. Who was greatest racer in reach decade from 1970's to now? You are an elite level rider, but what have you left to learn, skill you would like to master? How does wheel size affect turning, braking, acceleration? Where next for MotoGP? I remember a story of Gary Lineker watching Maradona at warm up kicking the ball straight up 13 times in the row without it hitting the ground, have you ever seen a bike racer do something that astounded you? Thanks again.

[@tenbear5]

Bang on, loved it. Great show. 👋🥂

[@paultierney8867]

Great Video, for me one of your best. 😊

[@YordanHristooov]

People in uk massively miss on the greatest tires to warm up fast that are also cheap! That’s conti! Especially for Scotland. I see so many people using them Pirelli bricks (not in a hot summer day they complete bricks) or paying premium for Michelin.

[@Grahamvfr]

I suppose because in my day (yawn grandad) most bike riders started at teenager age, so a small bike ,fizzy or up to 250 if 17, was seen as fine, general traffic was also slower. Unfortunately now older riders are taking up riding after driving 200 + bhp cars, and feel a small bike is somewhat downsizing too much. However attitude and behaviour tends to keeps you safe more than CCs or lack of them.

[@nunyabidness9257]

It’s not that the bikes are too agressive or that people have gotten soft-it’s that the people that can afford an appreciate them are getting older now and it @#$%ing hurts to ride them. A guy in his 20’s can’t really afford a $20-30,000 toy even if single and no obligations to take care of before thinking about toys like motorcycles.. This hits close to home for me because I’m 52 and never stopped riding fast bikes. Every year, I need more time and a fistful of aspirin after a ride-I still love fast bikes and find bikes like my R1M thrilling but it’s frustrating to ride because it doesn’t work under 80mph and has a 100+mph first gear and has no midrange. If you aren’t riding not just eye wateringly fast but at risk of life and limb on public roads, you’re just tootling around on a really nice sounding saw horse and making your wrists hurt for no good reason. Seriously, my wife and I have 9 bikes in the garage and when I”m on my GSXR1000, R1M and to a lesser extent EBR1190RS,…. Unless I’m going into, in the middle of, or coming out of a corner, I’d rather be on something else. Something like my wife’s Street Triple 765RS, which in practical terms is almost as fast-it’s just the 100+mph sweepers you wish you had more. Don’t know how much longer I’ll be able to ride sport bikes, it truly is becoming painful to the point it is a distraction-we all get there eventually…… Be the start that burns the brightest and burns out fastest.

[@kierenmoore3236]

I started on an MC22 … still got one (my third). They called it “The Kid Killer” in Australia … 😕

[@mwng5186]

Thanks again, ive been weaning my nephew of his little 125 by riding a 250 trials bike a forza 300 scooter and a ccm r30 not strictly legal but nevermind...shall we all play a guessing game? Im saying an rc30 is the next great bike vid.

[@ElectricFlashMedia]

I started on an MT-10 straight out of DAS at 50 yrs old, it wasn't until I did my IAM Advanced 4 years later after 20,000 miles, I was able to benefit from this bike. the MT-10 is very serous, I might have had more fun on a 600

[@paulfowler6665]

Great video as always. I'm 52 and like you started riding on an AR50 at 16 then had an RD125 and RG125 and a TZR125 before passing my test and getting a TZR250 then an FZR600 several GSXR600s before buying an R1. I no longer ride full in sports bikes but loved working my way up through the different size bikes. I think people that don't really miss out. Also I toured on my R1 and again on my fireblade which I bought after. Both bikes were from the mid 2000s. It wasn't easy but doable. There's no way I'd want to tour on any of the current 1000cc sports bikes with the possible exception on the BMW S1000RR. I also have a question after watching your brilliant long term review of the 1390 super duke. I was wondering who pays for everything on loan bikes and what happens to it all when the bike goes back? For example the luggage you fitted to the KTM or an aftermarket exhaust. Even stuff like tyres? Is that MCN or do you get the tyres free from the companies that make them so you can review them? Would be interesting to know how it all works. 🤔

[@Paul-899cc]

Question ? Mr Neeves. (Love the channel btw). With the ever increasing cc, power, weight & cost of "Adventure bikes" coupled, with the current biking generation getting to an certain age, I'm wondering what your thoughts are on the new Tiger 800 Sport ?? Could this be the new GSXR750 of the sport/touring/ adventure market ? Quick, light, comfortable, sensible money & not too powerful very much as per the the gsxr750 k3 - 07 era - hence the comparison. Cheers Paul 👍

[@GGMM42]

Big bikes of today aren't the widowmakers big bikes of yesterday were. I agree the first bike should be the kind that teaches you the basics properly, but everyone's journey and goals are different. Something like the Aprilia's 660s or Ducati's 937s are perfect first bikes.

[@chrishart8548]

Perfect if you want to die those bikes are faster than most supercars.

[@GGMM42]

@@chrishart8548 So is the entry level Tesla or an electric city hatchback. What is your point?

[@chrishart8548]

@@GGMM42 those are not the same way as a bike is fast. And at least you are in a box and get pushed back in your seat. You could literally fall off the back of a bike if it's faster than you are expecting.

[@GGMM42]

@@chrishart8548 Dude, what are you on about? Bikes are so much more than straight line acceleration. I was talking about the complete package those platforms offer: light weigh, very good handling in all their guises, great electronics, and very manageable engine power.

[@markobutkovic5414]

Hi Neevesy . Great videos as always . Thanx for that . We all agree for the learning bikes , they need to be light and easy to ride , just remembered my Tomos apn 6 (49cc , 4 gears) Q : what do you think about buying a maxi scooter for 2up touring ? Maybe touring is not the best word to describe it , would be a up to 300 km day ride . Just thinking of getting a Yamaha Tmax 530 or a Suzuki Burgman 650 . Will it be enough to pass the traffic going 80km/h with 2up ? I Tryed 2009 tmax 500 , and it was ok (rider only) , but not sure 2up . And it's a plus around town too , because of the storage space and no need of gear change . Thanks again and greetings from Croatia

[@jaide1312]

Here in the Netherlands all riding schools use 650 class bikes like the MT-07 or Trident 660 as their school bikes because in order to get your full A license you need to learn on a bike with atleast 50kw, which is like 67hp. And they'll often recommend you buy a bike in that class as your first. A big reason people often buy restricted bigger bikes here is effort. Trading in a bike is a lot of effort and you'll lose some money on it most of the time, so being able to just go to the dealer and have the restriction removed is a lot more economical than swapping bikes entirely. When I was looking for my bike I wanted something with ABS for the extra safety, and a Ninja 400 or R3 would cost as much if not more than the A2 restricted XSR 700 I got instead, despite being smaller bikes. But even now I have the dilemma of switching bikes when I get my full license next year because fixing the sloppy suspension will probably be more expensive than trading it in for a machine that has good suspension out of the box.

[@peterwait641]

Small is better, started on RD80, not much power , easy to pick up if you drop it .Less trouble and cheaper to repair . One draw back was wind blew me across road on coming round corner . Next was Honda 250, RD 400, Cx500 and then VTR 1000fy.

[@robertnorthfield8947]

Rossi honed a lot of skill as a teenager on his scooter around his home town….🤔

[@shershot]

California introduced a city living tax. Where they tax you what city you live in, in Walnut creek dealership tried to tackle 11% off daly city tax. I backed out off the vitpilen 701 and craiglist has became king. Happy with my xsr700 immaculate condition. Also private seller you can "modify sale" price for a lower yearly registration fee

[@gpz7525]

Love from Croatia!!!💖👑✨

[@gerdgerdsen3146]

Hi Neevesy, i did my direct access class a on a sv 650 and my first bike was a gsx-s 1000 wich i traded in after 2 years for a gen 3 hayabusa. i think you are totally right about starting small and i wish i did my motorcycle license 20 years earlier. i got the busa out of curiosity and a little bit out of i dont know how much time i got left to ride something that stupid. i do enjoy it a lot, but i think i should do a cornering class next spring. On the bike are s22's, at wich temperatures would you advise to newer riders to take it slower or to take more time to get a bit of warmth into the tire? i'm planing on getting angel gt 2's next time

[@fred3527]

At 15, my 1st bike was a Honda MT05 50cc 2 stoke. Fast forward 40 years and my wife decided to learn to ride. We bought a CF Moto 160 during Covid, sight unseen thinking that would be a manageable small bike for her to learn on. Shock horror, the CF was double the weight of the MT05 at about 365 pounds. My wife eventually gave up after dropping the bike and her hurting her legs multiple times. Had we had a light bike like the MT50, I think she may have conquered. As a total beginner, a small light bike is great to learn on. It only takes a few weeks to progress and then something like a 250 would be great to get experience on.

[@chrishart8548]

I had a 1991 H reg black and yellow MT50 in 1996 paid £310 I went up one tooth on the front sprocket went around 38mph after. It was a great little bike.

[@fred3527]

@@chrishart8548 Mine was 1980, about £250. No mods done. Really slow, but beat walking by a large margin. Lived in a hilly environment. Up hills where a nightmare. Also 1500m above sea level so 18% less power than quoted. It opened up a world of freedom for me and I remember it fondly.

[@chrishart8548]

@fred3527 does basically give you full independence. Could go 100miles if you wanted admittedly it would take many hours but it was still possible.

[@fred3527]

@@chrishart8548 It really was life changing for me as public transport was abismal. I guess that's why a bike will always represent freedom to me.

[@TheScortUK]

Did my DAS back in 2007 - went from zero riding experience, other than sitting on a couple of bikes, to buying a Ninja 636 in a week. The thing that struck me, was the complete and utter waste of time a 125 was! Seriously, the 'big bikes' (a GS500 in my case) just did everything better, and made the job of riding effortless. That's why whenever I've spoken to someone at the correct age, I urge them not to get a 125 "to build up experience" and to just get onto a proper bike ASAP. Just my experience - I know that loads of people still reckon you should build up, working your way through the ranks, but I cannot disagree more with that stance nowadays. Maybe back in the 80s and 90s, but not the 00s

[@jonathanmasterson3100]

Why do you think the PCP method of buying a new bike has phased out? I was thinking of getting a s1000rr on pcp as I’d never be able to save to buy it outright and the finance option monthly payments are significantly more? Thank you for all you do for motorcyclists !!

[@ianmajor8227]

Dear Guru of all things two wheeled. All the manufacturers and journalists reported on the demise of the Superbike market, as the buyers were becoming too old, the riding position being a too committed, no one needing 180+ bhp etc, yet now we have 180+ bhp naked and adventure bikes, and a new crop of ‘cheap to manufacture’ Supersport bikes (R7, R9, RS660 Thruxton RS etc) that are equally as uncomfortable. The fable of the emperors new clothes comes to mind. Recently I was had the pleasure of being reminded of just how beautifully built the 2002 R1, SP2 and the 2004 Blade were. I’m a little underwhelmed. What are your thoughts?

[@shadowred1980]

I went from an NS125R to a 97 Fireblade, after passing the big bike test. That was 22 years ago. :) You spoke early doors about the dealers shutting, hearing locally, that Pidcock Bmw and Triumph are reopening and the Ducati branch wont. Just rumour at the moment though. Question for you. Which long termer of yours has benefited the most, from swapping out the oe tyres ? Thank you.

[@MadChalet]

It's sad to hear that the industry is struggling, at least for some. Though I never rode one, I respected Energica for being one of the first efforts to bring us e-bikes. Maybe their backing of MotoE was a sign that all was not well. I'm surprised to hear about KTM. They are making some remarkable bikes, and their efforts in MotoGP are respectable (Ducati seems to have a stifling hold on the series). Why the decline? Us old riders grew up when biking was one of only few exciting physical things to do. Now kids are absorbed in high tech. watching screens most of the day. I suspect, that with so much push for electric vehicles, potential riders (even veteran riders) see the writing on the wall ... what's a bike gonna be worth in 10 years? I think I'm witnessing a real slump in the used market. With the growing concern for safety, will biking permitted in 20 years (I'm not reactionary towards these changes, BTW). I wonder if Honda's poor competitiveness in MotoGP is sending a message about their R&D regarding ICE motorcycles?

[@maisielouis2013]

Just read an article on the old Dan Gurney Alligator. Have have you ever had a chance to ride one? I know there are not that many around but seems like something you would enjoy since you like racing and you like scooters.

[@neevesybikes]

Haven't ridden that...but it looks mad!

[@gzs222]

Hi Neevesy, regarding first question, future rider here, i was wondering would vitpilen 701 be too much (29 years, 150 lbs)? I just love to look of that bike and would love to keep it for longer then some 400 cc or smaller bike? Thank you so much!

[@morri03]

I started on Suzuki GT50 Honda CB250RS Honda CBX550 Yamaha FZ400 racing Yamaha FZR400EXUP racing Kawasaki ZXR750H2 Superbike racing Break from riding Honda VTR1000SP2 and so on

[@letmeoffthisplanet6208]

I still think 125's should be the basic for say 16 to 18 and then after that it's a 250. I had DT125 two strokes for years,on road and race,cracking bikes and i miss them to this day but i do feel everyone should have time offroad as that does give you a massive advantage experience wise but i also feel the idiotic licence scheme we have now needs rid of and lets get back to the way it was.

[@marksmith8663]

Do you use the semi active suspension anti dive function on the track . I took my super duke to track once and I’ve been used to anti fork dive on the road so kept that mode on at the track . Not sure that was for the best or not .

[@theant9821]

Most new riders are surely over 24 these days and get a full licence straight away. Thats what i did then got an sv650 for a few months then a ducati 749. I know a few people who learned to ride in mid 20s 30s 40s and 50s. I don't know any that had anything more than a cbt under the age of 24 in the last 10 years or so. Personally i think how big a bike you start on matters more on how mature you are more than experience. As a kid you think you're bulletproof so should be on something small until you learn. But at 24 getting my first bike i felt I'd already learnt to be mature, i just needed something cheap that didn't matter if it got scratched in an embarrassing moment.

[@Szlejer]

As a winter rider and track day enthusiast as well, not crashing is plenty of reason to have too much grip. ;) Unless someone does actual racing, it's simply dumb to use all the grip you have.

[@GhostRider020]

Over-tired GSX-R750 Neevy's answer take away: Neevy isn't crazy enough to ride his bikes on public roads as if they are race tracks. You can still use all the super powers of a supersport in Canada, even if the law doesn’t approve. My preference is feel at the limit trumps ultimate grip.

[@pietervanbreda4360]

Small cc bikes are awesome

[@Colin-ci5ll]

Hi Michael i did a video on the GSXR 750 Suzuki and the Slab GSXR 750 Slab camera work was not great but tomorrow evening i was lucky enough to cover. Michael Dunlops 29 TT wins at Ballymoney Town Hall where he celebrates his 29 TT wins at the Isle of Man. Met loads of interesting people the best video i have made in my life. Would you mind giving it a thumbs up and sharing. Thank you Michael. Colin Burnside. Ex motorbike racer.💯

[@steorris]

See that AR 50 and couldn’t click quick enough.

[@lynnkanable7023]

I'd probably listen to Neevesy tell how to install a water closet!!

[@keyboarddancers7751]

In Britain there's no priority for bikes. Hardly anybody rides them. Getting a full bike licence is now also a very expensive chore. I started riding on a CB550 in the late '80s.

[@sheldonong7648]

I always hear people use economy, prices, taxes, etc. as excuses for the “death” of superbikes/supersports. But I feel that they’re in denial that the main reason is that the new generation just don’t want them anymore - for whatever reason I don’t know (because I still love them). And yes it’s true that for some old riders, the sitting position cannot work anymore. But I also feel that the majority just uses this as an excuse as well. Where for most, the real reason is they want to follow the “fashion” of the new generation.

[@twowheelpilot]

I assume this is rhetorical? TTS Turbo hayabusa obviously... Seriously thou. Start small, give your brain 🧠 a chance to learn and calibrate. Learn some dirt skills for better machine control. Work your way up. Then possibly do as I have and decide less is more sometimes. Sold my 1100 Aprilia V4 and now have two 890R's and a L series GSXR750. Quite simply frustration isn't fun. The performance envelope is so huge of modern bikes with all the tech unless you are doing 100MPH + they are pretty boring to be honest at legal road speeds. That's my two cents worth. Others my think otherwise. EX PAT living in New Zealand now. Neavesy, you are a Leg-End.... Enjoy your Gixxer too. 👍👍👍

[@sabamacx]

There's no such thing as a "beginner" bike, there are only "beginner friendly" bikes.

[@stefanhansen5882]

My gal will start getting her license soon. The school bikes are MT-07s. Do you consider that a lightweight bike, or did you mean a 150 kg or 100 kg bike when you recommended starting with a lighter bike? Thanks.

[@neevesybikes]

If she's learning on an MT-07 that kind of bike will be ok. That said, something like a Triumph Speed 400 is a superb bike with just the right amount of power and weight. It would teach a new rider so much more (and have more fun along the way) than something bigger.

[@stefanhansen5882]

@@neevesybikes Thanks. I know you know better than I do. Can you explain why? I just looked and the Speed 400 is just 5 kg less than the MT-07. So would a restricted MT-07 not be (nearly) as good? Just curious to understand.

[@neevesybikes]

@smaller engines have a lot less reciprocating mass (especially a single versus a twin), so they always feel lighter and more nimble, even if the overall weight of the bike isn’t too different. For example, the difference between a 250 and 450 dirt bike is huge in terms of how easy they are to ride. It’s the same with road bikes.

[@stefanhansen5882]

@@neevesybikes Super interesting. Thanks! I took my license on a BMW R65GS and now ride an SV650 (the first bike I ever owned). I LOVE my SV. :) Now I'm wondering if I would also benefit from downsizing for a while?

[@neevesybikes]

@ Small bikes are more fun, but big ones are great for distance/touring etc

[@paulhope3401]

Yes, some can often go straight to a middleweight with rider aids.... should you? Idealy and preferably, No.

[@patrickmalone9380]

A young person teenager should start on small bike under 250 .I started on c90 went too big going to a 400 fell of quite a bit

[@cpuuk]

Why is bike ownership dropping? Cost... bikes, insurance, tyres.

[@martyndunn1905]

I think the cost of new bikes is crazy plus the price of insurance aswell I would say. I'm gonna stick with my MK1 1200 bandit, £103 fully comp.

[@theant9821]

Lack of knowledge, young lads know nothing about bikes anymore, they're too young to remember Foggy and the only racer they have heard of is Valentino Rossi, but don't know about motogp and can't find it while its hidden behind a paywall. Almost all young bikers are introduced to bikes by their dad, which cant go on, so the new bikers get fewer and fewer with each generation. At 31, I'm the youngest biker i know who doesn't have a biker in the family, but my grandad took me to watch motogp at Donington when i was 10, after that i watched it on eurosport which was free at the time. If that happened nowadays the 10 year old would have probably forgotten all about it because its not accessible on the tv. Dorna is the prime suspect for killing off motorcycling youth in my opinion. Dorna puts no effort to market motogp, hides it behind a paywall too so kids can't discover it by chance either. F1 atleast puts the effort in to gain mainstream fans. Motorcycle industry in Britain is heavily reliant on it being a hobby not a utility. So is heavily reliant on sport to make look exiting to outsiders. Hence why I'm looking forward to liberty media ending the shitshow that is motogp and do a proper job at attracting an audience outside of Spain and Italy.

[@lucapalumbo8079]

In my case atleast its purely insurance. Living in london especially. In my opinion the cost of the bikes arent bad. Even off the showroom floor.

[@iancharlton5530]

Covid bubble burst lack of trust in the economy higher taxes coming insurance cost gone through the roof not a feel good factor out there at the moment.

[@thestar111]

Start small :}

[@johnmacdonald1878]

I don't live in the UK, so I wasnt restricted by stupid rules. Yes they are stupid. How many people actually ever bother to get an A2 licence? Most rider's go and do direct access course and get a full licence. I got my license in Canada. First, I had to take knowledge test, For a restricted learner permit. This restricted me to Daylight only and having a fully licensed supervisor(instructor) Next a CBT test not less than 2 weeks later, or Take an approved training course which included a CBT. Unrestricted learner permit. Still daylight only, any bike, any size any power, common sense applies. Full license require a road test. So you have a period of time to learn. It took me about 6 months. Riding a bike of my choice which i rode for the road test. When I lived in the UK being restricted to a 125. I just gave up. I did not learn to be a better rider. Riding a bike I actually enjoyed riding was so much better. With the freedom to choose the type and size. As you pointed out Triumph is doing well with their new 400 cc bikes, I expect they are as close to perfect the beginner bikes available. New riders should have the option to ride bikes like this. More people, would choose to ride if realistic options. Uk license requirements are designed to stop young people from choosing to ride motorcycles. Not improving rider training or rider safety.

[@_Archambaud]

👍

[@folerx]

I start on Ducati 1098 as first bike and this is BIGGEST MISTAKE I EVER DO. Powerful bike will scare you and you will have hard time for years to relax. Don't be stupid like me, go on 250 and go from there. 1cm throttle release 5HP, not 50 and this is most important factor.

[@Beatitbiker]

🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@neevesybikes]

@@Beatitbiker oh yeah x