Why Moto Guzzi's Special and an Entire Motorcycle Outfit for £500

Welcome to Tuesday at Dobbs', the weekly motorcycle chat.
This is the newly re-named show in place of The Freedom Machines with Freddie Dobbs podcast.
I look at the past week's motorcycle news and discuss your thought and stories.
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]
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This week, I take a look at what makes Moto Guzzi special and I source an entire biking outfit for £500.
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The bikes discussed:
KTM 990 Adventure
Aprilia Tuareg
Moto Guzzi V85TT
Honda Deauville
Honda NC750X
Honda Hornet 600
Honda VFR 800
Triumph Street Triple 675
BMW F650 GS
Suzuki SV650
Honda Transalp 700
Moto Guzzi V7 Stone (850cc)
1948 Harley Flathead 74 bobber
1998 Harley heritage softail springer
Triumph T100
Triumph T120
Royal Enfield Classic 350
Yamaha XT500
Products:
Oxford Grips (£199)
Hood Jeans
Merlin Jacket
Rokker Boots
Goldtop Gloves
Shoei Ex Zero Helmet
References:
Honda CB500F:
www.google.com/search?q=honda...
Aprilia Tuareg:
www.oto.com/berita-motor/apri...
Honda Deauville:
www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial...
Moto Guzzi:
www.motoguzzi.com/vn_EN/model...

[@user-xl2st4xk5w]

Hi Freddie.Yes it's correct that KTM were the original choice for long way round. They pulled out at short notice fearing the venture would not be successful and did not want their brand associated with failure. They went with BMW G'S', and the rest is history. Enjoy Bali. Niell

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Fascinating! Possibly one of the worst marketing/PR decisions in biking history. Thank you🙂

[@flexywing]

Actually they did not pull out at short notice, they were asked to supply the bikes and they thought that there was no hope 2 actors would succeed, and who can blame them! BMW on the other hand said go for it, but then they are a much bigger company

[@pajcool]

Ewan actually said to have preferred the BMW from the start, while Charlie wanted to go with the KTM. I seem to remember Charlie being especially upset with KTM. :)

[@dannyjonze]

Don't understand how two people on motorbikes wouldn't make it where they are going. Even if it's two actors on motorbikes.

[@dannyjonze]

In other words, bs. They were afraid that their products lack reliability, and would prefer not to run the risk of the exact right audience would see it in all it's hilarious glory.

[@thedarrencasey]

GUZZI v7 850 is magical. Pure character, style and superb build quality and pricing. The 850 has lots of low down torque and really picks up well, handles well and will do 100mph no problem if need be. That hand made Italian history also nailed it for me.

[@thedarrencasey]

Add minstrel pipes and you've got it. The aftersales in UK is also slow, I had 4 months wait to get header pipped changed, but I accept that the Italian style and craftsmanship is going to be slow, in a world of fast and high production options. :) hope that helps.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thank you for sharing a first hand owner’s insight!🙂

[@scottcalhoun5524]

I had a 2016 T120 for six years, and now have a V7 Stone 850, I don’t miss the extra power of the T120. There’s just something more charming about the Guzzi.

[@GixxerRider1991]

I'm picking up my 2023 V7 Stone from the dealer this Saturday and I am beyond excited. I live near Chicago which, thankfully has not only dealers that sell Guzzis, but independent mechanics who specialize in working on them.

[@justlookingaround9834]

Have you enjoyed it so far?

[@stuartmoles843]

As a Moto Guzzi owner I can confirm they get under your skin. I’m really lucky enough to own a few newish bikes as well as a couple of oldies and I think the V7 will be one of the last to go,. It does nothing very well, is agricultural, has terrible fuelling etc, but is so much more than the sum of its parts and boy is it the best looking bike passing a shop window on a spring morning. It is wonderfully cool. Love the format just come across it.

[@ohn1234567]

Royal Enfield might not have the best (insert basically anything here), but that's not the point. They are very cheap, very characterful, and that's what matters to the people that buy them. Also, most of the points being mentioned in the RE rant, can be said about Harley-Davidson as well, except the price for a Harley is astronomical compared to RE.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Very good points. I agree with them all👌🏻👌🏻

[@jamesmacpherson1182]

After 40 years of biking I finally got a guzzi an 1100 California I'm Scottish living in Switzerland and for riding in the alps and all over Europe with the wife on the back she is the perfect bike it will be the last bike I own she is absolutely perfect

[@user-ww8cd1ue7x]

Freddy thanks for these Tuesday at Dobb's chats, its a very nice addition to your bike reviews and daily live motor vlogs. Highly appreciated! In addition to your T100/T120 views. I test rode both the 2017 Bonneville T100 (first year with LC I believe) as well as a new 2023 Bonneville T120. Interesting enough I found the T120 heavy (especially in the corners it felt like it pushed me forward every time), but it started to come alive after 70 km/h. The T100 was so light and fun, simplicity at its finest! The sound, the handline, the look and feel is sublime. So I can understand you saying you probably lean towards the T100 as well. For me personally since I like riding without windscreens, I prefer the lighter T100 and have a blast from 0-90 km/h and find the experience 90+ km/h just fine. I bought the 2017 T100 afterwards simply because it put a HUGE smile on my face! I was comparing lots of bikes as many of us do. But in the end: isn't it all about from which bike you get this big smile? Interesting fact: I'm quite tall (and yes Dutch) with 6ft3, long inseam, and I fit excellent on the bike! Greatings from the Netherlands, Gert

[@ravistarzl]

I’m so glad you are here - and I’m really enjoying the video component. Thoroughly enjoying all your moto content!

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I’m delighted you’re enjoying it, thank you Ravi!🙂

[@stevesanelli90]

Ohh Freddie, the title of your KZbin podcasts is so cool! Compliments to Monika! Two cool folks rebounding off each other 🙌 Enjoy your holidays & looking forward to your continued adventures & journeys!

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Really appreciate it, thank you Steve!

[@MOTOUK1]

Loving the video pod casts Freddie, My biking history has always been Japanese bikes over the last 30 years and as you know it was only in the last year and a half i was lucky enough to test for 2 weeks at a time every Triumph on the market today. It was only while testing their classic range of Bonneville’s that i realised i was missing a bike that had the looks of old and just how well built they are. Also how these bikes make you feel every ride. Let’s face it most modern bikes are good these days but i found myself loving the classic look of the Bonneville, hence i went and bought a T120 back in December and loved every day of ownership since. I remember at the time i knew i wanted a modern classic and did ride the Interceptor and Guzzi 850 Stone, but for that extra bit of cash the T100 and T120 are just as you say above the others in every way. Very happy with my purchase. I sometimes think is it my age that is making me go towards a modern classic, then i think these types of bikes are very much in with younger generations these days and lets face it the interceptor or the Classic 350 i recently rode or the Guzzi Stone are so well priced and more available within financial reach for the younger generations. Some bikes stir your soul in ways that other bikes never do and the Bonneville T120 sure does that as you are aware owning one yourself for many years. Looking forward to your adventures this year and the trips when you return to Uk 👌 Cheers Nick

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Brilliantly said Nick! These modern classics transcend generations; whether brand new to biking or with decades of experience, a huge chunk of people find them cool, desirable and attainable. I love them!🖤

[@keithstewart1979]

I cannot think of one time in my 44 years on this planet that I have been on two motorized wheels and thought it was dull, no matter what I was riding on.

[@andrewpaton8819]

Freddie I use to deal solely in insurance write-offs. The reason they are such good deals is because the insurance companies have to replace parts with genuine original parts and have those repairs carried out by only qualified businesses. Hence it becomes unviable for them, so they become written off. Most are fairly quick easy repairs of bolt on bolt off parts. Once you purchase and own a write off you can replace damages with second hand parts or after market parts. Making them very viable cheap purchases. Most people have the image of a write off as something that is completely mangled which really isn’t the case. As you’ve found out with your Bonneville which is now a perfectly good useable bike after it’s been repaired. As you’ve alluded to though the lowest category damaged bikes are usually the easiest to repair and can be a bargain. Keep up the good work

[@lawrencearmitage6802]

I have a triumph 1050 st ,which I love. But, I've recently bought a royal enfield classic. And it has totally changed the way I approach biking. For long journeys it'll be the triumph. But everything else it'll be the Enfield. Love it

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Very interesting to hear this. That’s a perfect pairing👌🏻👌🏻

[@jasonwatts_wattstraveling]

Hi Freddie, Love your passion for all things motorcycle....there really are so many different perspectives to enjoy motorcycles from. Maxi scooters - I spent a couple months in Malaysia last year and luckily for me the owners left a few vehicles at my disposal including a Yamaha Xmax. I've owned and ridden motorcycles for years and have spent many hours in Thailand on smaller scooters including the Yamaha Nmax but this my first maxi scooter. All day comfort, wind protection, storage for overnight trips (this one had a givi top box) and the power to carry my wife and I everywhere confidently. It definitely is less agile through traffic than the small scooters but so are any bigger motorcycles. The Xmax was a pleasure to ride, sit back relax and let it eat miles all day. As far as touring on a maxiscooter my biggest concern is the automatic transmission of a scooter vs the manual transmission of a motorcycle for touring in mountainous regions. I always worry about cooking the brakes on big downhills with an automatic scooter....especially loaded 2 up with luggage. Being able to downshift and help control the speed during a big descent seems critical to me. As well, selecting and holding a lower gear to maintain power while climbing. That point aside, I found that a maxiscooter is an incredibly easy to operate option that gives you that "big bike" feeling but with a lower entry cost level and cost to operate. Cheers!

[@mattWallJsy]

As an owner of a MotoGuzzi V7iii 850 I think it’s lovely. Happy to recommend 👍🏽

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Very good to hear from an owner, Matthew🙂

[@14biscuits]

​@@tuesdayatdobbs I second the sentiment of Matthew, had one for 6 months from new...just ran in and had the first dealer service (£220) and it's been great.

[@spadaspares]

My mate had a Aprila Tuareg for 2 months and sold it a V85TT

[@MJ83MJ]

Freddie.. have you heard of the Healtech Thunderbox? I’ve just ordered one. Connects to the battery, you connect your electrical accessories to it then it acts like a switched live. Only provides power once the bike is running and it detects an increase in battery voltage. Saves having to cut into your wires and having to find a switched live! Few good videos on KZbin about the device!

[@goldilocks913]

Hearing ‘ my first adventure was riding across Australia on an xt500’ sort of puts ‘My first adventure was following the bus into Birmingham on my moped’ in the shade...

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

😆

[@AlexOnABoat]

I've ridden both, and believe me, Birmingham is much more of an adventure.

[@biker_dale]

Great new look - Some bike reviews are like listening to Gordon Ramsey who decided what something should be cooked like and taste, and everyone else is wrong, when in actual fact everyone likes it done differently and that's fine, as long as it's not raw or burnt. While there are certain undeniable facts about a bike; the build quality or extra's, the actual experience of the ride will be different for everyone, and that for me is the heart choice, and can't be quantifiable or explained. I love watching your channels because you just enjoy bikes for what they are, your passion comes across which any biker worth their salt has to take into account when looking at any bike, we may not agree, but we love the fact you love it, and I'm sure you feel the same back. Looking forward to the next one...

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

This Gordon Ramsay analogy is perfect!

[@dizzylee7215]

I've recently, subbed to this channel. I'm really enjoying it so far, thank you. This episode is particularly enjoable. It's opening my eyes to other bikes e.g. Trump Bonneville and other modern classics in this category. I've mostly ridden Japanese sports bikes. I currently own a older Honda 929 which I'm thinking of selling on? My mechanic has suggested I keep it but I'm not sure? 🤔

[@User_1_-]

Much excited just saw it on youtube ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thanks, I hope you enjoyed it!

[@Downsh1ft]

The dude shitting on RE's is the same guy wearing Ducati drip top to bottom and tells everyone about the next time he is going to the track (never tracked a bike in his life). RE's aren't great motorcycles. But they are 100% worth the asking price (that's the NEW price, not even second hand). If anything Mr.Riding-since-the-70s lost what riding is all about years ago as he became an elitist. Motorcycles aren't about how much money you dropped or brand recognition. Sad.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Great to hear your thoughts on this, appreciate it Kevin🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@buzzinadventures4217]

Yep ridden most of the brands Lars has and a few more, and been riding longer. RE take me back to the simple bikes that I grew up on and aren't the tech laden overpriced washing machines that require a computer technician when they go wrong. Wonder if Lars has ever taken a bike RTW? - doesn't mention it, in his great list of achievements.... maybe just races between the cafe bars....

[@eddietortoise9590]

Loving the switch to KZbin Freddie….👍🏻🍺🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thanks Eddie, really glad you like it!👋🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@backontwowheels9469]

I recently chopped in my tiger rally Pro for a speedmaster, which some may feel is a strange step. I owned the rally pro from new and because at the time I was working in mainland europe, I had the pleasure of riding my bike over and enjoying weekends in the alps and again in Scandinavia. The bike was fantastic for touring, the only issue for me was that at only 5’6” with 29” inside leg it is a bit too tall to feel confident, especially to take out off road. I had initially brought the CRF250 rally but that was stolen in Holland and when i was replacing it, comfort came in too. Now i have a speedmaster chrome and I am really enjoying my time on it, working back in the UK I commute with it and just this Easter weekend took it down to Portsmouth and then along the coast road to Eastbourne and finally using A roads back home. It is not an adventure style bike but i am having adventures on it, i might even consider some knobblies and take it down some tracks - who knows 😂. The worst thing about riding in the UK is not bad weather, as i know have a full body rain suit after being drenched a few times, it is in fact the roads, more specifically the pot holes and the raised repair works. I probably would not notice most of the issues on the adventure bike that i feel on the speedmaster. Rant over, keep up the great work - oh i also met Charley boorman when i had a ride out on my Tiger! Okay okay it was at the ABR festival 😂 what do you mean that doesn’t count

[@bolton737]

Hi Freddie, like myself you seem to have a soft spot for Moto Guzzi? Why don’t you plan a visit to the factory in Mandello on lake Como. It makes for one hell of a ride, on route you will be able to ride what in my opinion is one of the best day rides “ the Swiss loop” Susten, Grimsel, Furka, Nufenen and st Gotthard passes. Then on the way back hit Maloja pass then onto Stelvio then the Timmelsjoch where you can visit one of the best motorcycle museum in Europe “ top mountain museum” I’ve done this ride a couple of times now and it was definitely something special. Hit me up if you need any ideas about routes .

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I do. I love everything Guzzi represent; the style, the history, made in Italy, good old Italian single mindedness and a desire to build beautiful machines that stir the soul❤️🇮🇹 Really appreciate this- I’ve just saved these trip tips🙌🏻

[@bolton737]

I know what your saying. The museum is amazing and very Italian , opens a couple of hours a day and whatever time they fancy so check before you go, the campsite I use rang ahead for me. 😂 I’ve always wanted to buy a Moto guzzi Stelvio and ride it over the Stelvio to Moto guzzi.

[@RenteaRadu]

Hi, Freddie! (Renra here, the guy that asked you about the Moto Guzzi) Thank you so much for your advice, I'll make sure to check the dealership. We have one in every major cities here. Sadly, I've just checked and it seems that I won't have any Triumph dealership in Cluj Napoca (where I will be moving after my exam), so for now the V7 III from Moto Guzzi is the one I'm going for. I have to admit that somehow I've missed your video on the RE Classic 350 and I never paid attention to it because I thought it's a one sitter and for me it's very important to have the option of having a comfortable seat for the pillion. Now, after I've watched your video on it and other's reviews, it's on my radar as well. I will test both bikes (V7 and Classic 350) after my exam and I will keep you posted with my decision. I have to mention that whatever bike I will chose it will be my daily driver and I will mostly use it in the city and some small trips on twisty roads during the weekend with my girlfriend (after I will get comfortable enough with riding the bike and riding with her as a pillion in the city). This is an actual concern for me: riding with a pillion. What's your take on beginner riders driving with pillions, any advice? P.S: I really appreciate the time and effort you and Monika are putting into this podcast and your other channel. Your knowledge and passion about bikes, not to mention your story telling and great tastes in bikes and gear are... I don't know how to describe it, but I'm rewarding myself weekly with your content. It has become one of the activities that brings me pure joy and makes my life a tiny bit better and happier, it also makes me curious where you will end up next. Thank you both!

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Hi Renra, My pleasure and I hope you found the advice helpful. Great that you checked if there’s a Triumph dealer in Cluj. The Classic 350’s special… very special. But so is the Guzzi. The Classic 350 is very comfy for a pillion, just as much so, possibly even more, than the Guzzi. Both are characterful, so it’ll come down to how you feel having the significant amount of extra power on the Guzzi. Regarding pillion riding. I say there’s nothing like jumping in and just get going with it. When I passed my test, my girlfriend of the time was on the back with me on the first day I bought my bike a week after passing my test. You’ll be fine, just ride within your limits and there’s no reason you can’t ride two-up immediately🙂🤘🏼🤘🏼🏍️

[@RenteaRadu]

@@tuesdayatdobbs Thank you, Freddie, I will let you know about the choice I’ll make. Also, thanks for the boost of confidence regarding the pillion situation. Have a wonderful day!

[@cristiantamas]

From what I know from my brother, who has a Guzzi, he had a good experience with service, parts, and recall from dealers in Bucharest and Cluj. So you are ok from that end.

[@geirengdahl5447]

Hey, Freddie! A comment regarding Irish and Swedish motorcycle prices. Here in Norway it is much worse. The tax and duty system leads to wild prices. I can mention some of the prices of 2023 models featured in this episode (prices are for 2023 models, quoted in British pounds): RE Interceptor GPB 8900, Triumph T100 GPB 11200, Triumph T120 GBP 14200, Moto Guzzi V7 Special GBP 11900, BMW R1250GS GBP 24800. When I hear you talking about nice used bikes and what you have to pay for them in the UK, I get jealous. Thank you very much for the work Monica and you put into both the KZbin channel and the podcast.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Geir, this is fascinating! Thank you for sharing this. I’ll discuss this in the next episode. I’m delighted you’re enjoying the videos, thank you Geir, sending all my best🙂🇳🇴

[@geirengdahl5447]

@@tuesdayatdobbs …and if you want a new HD Street Glide you’ll have to spend GBP 38,000 (before adding extrra bling).

[@kahidunn7907]

Hi Freddie, I think you are spot on in saying no bike is a dull bike. I remember my first bike being a small bore japanese wreck that I always considered a piece of shit, but looking back in hindsight, that piece of shit taught me so much about how to ride that I'm now look at it in awe. So that tells me nothing is anything until we connect a belief to it. Cheers mate, keep up the good work

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Totally agree- I feel the same about my old cars and bikes!

[@spadaspares]

Hi, I have just ordered a V850TT, Owned lots of different bikes over the last 49 years.But after owning 7 different Guzzi's and trying out others like Triumph T120, 1200 Scrambler which is till own find these bikes are very quick , good on fuel but service costs as you say overheads are the main gripe. I still feel that these bikes and the Honda CRF1000 DCT I also owner very sterile. Which brings me onto the dream bike, the 850TT, cannot wait to get it. Rode the demo and didn't want to take it back, enough said.

[@colinbarber9324]

Hi Freddie, the Aprilia Tuono Factory has an adjustment wheel on the rear suspension to firm or soften the suspension, perhaps the previous user had firmed it up, my Aprilia was all day comfortable. Weird but true, my latest bike is the Honda 750 X, the 2022 model, great touring bike, non DCT. Unbelievable fuel economy.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Ahhhh I didn’t know this re the Aprilia, thank you for the insight Colin

[@14biscuits]

That Tuareg 660 has a look of the old Transalp in a good way, like the one you rode in Tenerife.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Spot on Davie, I couldn’t pinpoint it but this is exactly why I like the Tuareg!

[@buzzinadventures4217]

but not the reliability........

[@richardjohnson3463]

"Tuesdays at Dobbs" is fine 👍

[@alexmorgan3435]

Your broadcasts are very enjoyable Freddie. Many thanks for reading out my comment on my recent Honda VFR800 purchase. Have ridden it a few times since. It's so smooth, purring along then it really gets a wriggle on when the Vtec kicks in. It's addictive. Not quite a Tuono1100 factory V4, but a fraction of the price, a lot more fuel efficient and defiantly a lot more reliable and rideable in the real world road riding. You can tour on anything. You've just got to really want to leave. Teapotone went RTW on a GSXR1000. A very thought provoking episode. So many astute observations Freddie. Is champagne still champagne if it's not made in Champagne? I like the look of the new Honda Transalp and also the Tuareg. They are very similar but don't like the name Tuareg. The other contender would be a Tenere 700 World Rally Raid, or KTM 790 Adv R or Triumph Tiger 900 GT Rally. The mid weight Adv segment is so crowded with contenders. Btw those Oxford heated grips you featured right at the start are the same price as Triumph OE heated grips. I would rather have Triumph OE ones. Although I have older Oxford Touring heated grips £55 on one of my bikes which are brilliant. I love the look of Merlin stuff, but unfortunately it doesn't fit me, where as Richa gear does - Daytona 2 leather retro jacket on sale (£90) and matching Hammer black jeans (£65), TCX black boots (£90) and HJC IS-17 full face helmet (£120), Weise Vagos black leather gloves (£39) all for just over £400. Additional Knox back protector with harness for £60, neck buff £6.99. Total well under £500. Would not myself, buy a bike or car that has previously been written off as they can be difficult to insure. Still wanting a Speedmaster 1200. Came really close to buying one just before Christmas but was not feeling the love from Triumph at this time owing to the problems I was having with my Speed Triple. So I bought the Honda VFR800 instead £2,800 massive saving and mint bringing a huge grin to my face. Go with Bemoto Insurance they are not crooks. I can't get my head around having owned 100 bikes .................. does this guy buy a bike then instantly regret his purchase? Great format Freddie. Many thanks

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Really glad you enjoyed it, Alex. The Tenere 700 is a bike I LOVE the looks of. It’s got a real classic aura and looks like a bike that begs to be ridden anywhere, however you fancy. Hmmm, you’ve slightly opened my eyes here re the Oxford grips price compared to Triumph😳

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@tuesdayatdobbs Wishing you and Monica every success with your endeavours.

[@BlakesPipes]

Some how my sub last week did not carry over to this week! Re subed and hope to see if it carries over. Glad I found it.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I hope that’s just a one off glitch! Delighted you found the channel🙂

[@Ian-bq7gp]

Hi Freddie, I was riding 100 miles a day going to work and was using a 900 triumph Daytona. It was economical at below 5000 rpm. A lovely bike to ride but I bought a Yamaha Fazer 600 for cheap and did 20000 miles on it. It was very light and was not slow but it did less mpg than the triumph. I've also had 750 vfr 1996 and a 1999 800. The 750 had carbs and had great pick up and pulled strongly from 3000rpm but it stepped out pulling out but I preferred it to the 800 fuel injection 800 but the 800 was very comfortable and cost £3000 with 4800 miles on it. I now have a 1996 Suzuki DR650SE and I love it but it's slow but amazing off road.

[@Ian-bq7gp]

Oh the bugbear of Honda vfr was the voltage regulator/ rectifier. Went through 3 in 20000 miles. I then bought a MOSFET one by electrex. That's much better.

[@mattdog1982]

I listen with interest Freddie about Yamaha bringing back the XT. DEFINITELY. Yamaha also have the old 650 xs which was a great looking bike.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

YES regarding the XS too!! Both would surely be sales hits now

[@peterhollis8291]

Hi Freddie, Motorbikes are Motorbikes we ride them for the fun and excitement that it gives us, does it really mater what make, engine size or style it is? We all have our own preferences and of course Budget dictates a lot of this, I've had Japanese, British, Chinese and now an Indian (Interceptor), they have all been fun to ride. I do get the Chinese argument but when our own governments and companies are selling out to them our option to individually boycott seems futile.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Totally agree, Peter.

[@AbzScotland]

good show👍👍

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thanks Abz, really glad you enjoyed it!

[@Fake-moon-landing.]

Ive got them heated grips on my tiger 660 for the same reason even though they were twice the price.

[@DiscoFang]

You should ALWAYS list the modifications for insurance. It's not just for the immediately apparent idea that you may not be covered for "lying" but it's also necessary for being covered for those added parts or changes themselves. If it gets stolen, those parts become part of the payout or replacement too. It's for your benefit. For my vehicles I've never actually been charged extra for listing all the added "normal" bits like towbar, roofrack, stereo etc. No change in premium quote. Of course they really do want to know about the alterations that affect performance or handling etc because they may impact the premiums - a.k.a - risk. Of course.

[@teamJJontour]

Good Afternoon Freddie

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Hi Julian!🙂

[@davejohnson3474]

Fred was your mate who worked in kingston tippets honda? closed down last year or year before

[@nickyfield137]

Talking about modifications and insurance its worth checking your policy as some companies have a list of common mods that don't need to be declared

[@themoog3889]

New Oxford grips ....Copy of the Daytona ones but nearly twice the price , had them on my bike for a few years now !

[@johnking5932]

Freddie picking up my first big bike after just passing my test at the age of 48 .. And its a nc750x .. hopefully reliable and economical to run as I'm not the wealthiest person..really enjoy your outlook on motorcycling.. all the best

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Congrats on passing your test John and welcome to biking!!😃 Un-breakable, ludicrously economical and very nearly faultless are the only things I hear about the NC750x 🙂💪🏼💪🏼

[@peterlobb6456]

I always enjoy your bike reviews and it got me wondering, have you ridden many 2 strokes? I think that you'd love a blast on a 350LC or even an RG500 :) Also, after listening to one of your early podcasts where you listed all your early bikes I wondered if you've checked on DVLA or Car Vertical to see how many of them are still on the road?

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I’ve never ridden a 2stroke in my life but I see them a lot here (they have a big following here!). I’ll see if I can rent one. I love stuff like this; I just checked my old Speed Triple (no tax or MOT, but still the same owner as when I sold it)

[@sprezzatura8755]

American guy here. Parts are not a problem. Harper's.

[@MJ83MJ]

Them grips are miles better than the original heated grips from Oxford. I always wire them into a switched live even tho they have a built in low battery cut off ( from experience they will drain the battery before cutting off) ..definitely use a switched live if you fit them Freddie

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thanks for this Martin, I’ll save this message and will remember this

[@jakthrpr]

Hi @freddie, what watch are you wearing looks cool and keep up the great content

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thanks Jak, it’s the TTT Escape watch. It’s made with part of Steve McQueen’s Triumph from The Great Escape movie. I love it!

[@DiscoFang]

@@tuesdayatdobbs They let you keep it!! Or did they do you a deal you couldn't resist? Love the story behind it.

[@splodge5714]

Bought a pair of Merlin gloves last week. Made in Pakistan. Nice gloves.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Interesting!🇵🇰

[@asterix908]

I unapologetic-ally ride an nc750x dct motorcycle. I ride with the big boys 1300cc, 1800cc and so on, and it sure keeps up. Motorcycles aren't boring, people are. I've seen it ridden like a tractor, but it can certainly be ridden in a spirited manner.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

Rupert's bikes: XT500! I did four big European trips on one. I also had a 950 Adventure, not the 990, but we have the same tastes. Charlie and Ewan did ask KTM for a couple of 950s. Mine was a great bike. I wish I still had it. If I was going round the world, it would be on an NC750X DCT. What a bike! If that bloke who hates Enfields rode adventure bikes before the R80GS came out, what brand was it? There was only the Yamaha XT500 which could be described as an adventure bike, being a Dakar winner. Bedtime in Thailand, and I'm saying too much.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Thanks for confirming this- I thought I’d heard that KTM/Long away rumour before! Very interesting to hear your preference would be the Honda NC750X for a round the world trip. Enjoy Thailand🇹🇭

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

@@tuesdayatdobbs I am going to watch the rest of the video now. Which I now have done after a kip. Not that I'm going to do a world trip, but an NC DCT would make the most sense. My 950 Adventure was a light write-off. It was soon back on the road with a new owner. That's when I bought a new Buell XB12X Ulysses. 1:01:41 1981 model, the XT500E. 7,195 quid! It's just like the one I bought in 1983 which was 18 months old for 700 or 750 pounds. They were 1,300 new then. The tank was alloy.

[@johntheaccountant5594]

I keep thinking the Kawasaki Z900RS is a must buy with those 4 cylinders and retro looks.

[@crumblymal8479]

The fun is in the ride Freddie if it floats your boat and puts a smile on your face then it's doing the job no matter what anyone says or doesn't say 😉. Going to test ride a Speed twin this month as soon as the sun shines I think it's going to be a dangerous time for me I am told that getting a PCP is the way to go but is it ? it almost seems to easy with no concern with resale when you are done thoughts? Great watch regardless of name 👌👍

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

This will be a dangerous time for your wallet, I’m certain!😆 I like this; I will take a look at PCPs in the next video👌🏻👌🏻

[@crumblymal8479]

@@tuesdayatdobbs I will be very interested to see your findings Freddie as I am told rightly or wrongly this is the best way to buy new , even if you have the funds to pay cash as after maybe 2 or 3 years you can just give the bike back and are more or less guaranteed to be in pocket. You can also get your next bike to do the same should you want to. Is it just sales hype or not ! I wonder how many people these days are buying this way and what are the pitfalls if any and I am sure their will be some .To take an example that I was given a speed twin 1200 with a £1000 deposit would cost the buyer £195 a month mileage set at say 4,000 annually . 👍

[@30smsuperstrat]

Great podcast, Freddie! Mini rant on insurance companies from an American perspective. I grew up with my dad working for insurance companies in the IT field. There has been a major shift since the 70s in the amount of political pull insurance companies have. Power corrupts, and now it seems that insurance companies are being run from the depths of hell by the devil himself.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Fascinating, and depressing. Really appreciate this insight!🇺🇸

[@matthewdeepblue]

Ryan Fortnine did a big fuel and oil comparison between the different major companies... Royal Enfield won, I'd put you that this older gentleman does not know that Royal Enfield is not the same thing. It was even 6 years ago

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Wow, this is seriously impressive

[@marcusrogers8642]

Hi Freddie, my first bike on Oct 22 was a BMW F800GT great bike but I found it really dull, BMW's with the rotax engine sound a bit poor and the gearboxes are agricultural. I have just just traded it in for a new Kawasaki Z900 and the new bike has so much more appeal for me, i am back to jus wanting to ride all the time, even though I can only do 4,000 rpm at the moment. People love the BMW and it has a great following, but like you said different bike suit different people and the BMW was not for me. I'm 49 so not young, but also don't do touring so the BMW was a bit pointless for men.

[@leebarber7354]

Hey Freddie, have you seen the ultimate add ons heated grips?

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Never😳 Googling now, thanks for the heads up, Lee

[@british_ita.brit1]

Hi Mr Dobbs, picking up my brand new Black&White Speedmaster next week... questions should I decat now or wait till I've done 1000km???

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Oh my. This is one of my ultimate dream bikes… in my favourite colour combo! Great choice! And a very interesting question. I’ll save this for next week’s episode I bet you cannot wait, Jamie!!🙂

[@british_ita.brit1]

Yes....I've already ordered €400 of "Bling" from Motone 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@andrewkay114]

Honda Dullville... OK I'm only eleven minutes in at this point. Horses for course's and all that but. The Deauville is (and I admit!) an uninspiring bike to look at BUT. It will get you where you want or need to go in comfort and do it much faster and more excitingly than a car of the same value. And its a Honda so it will go forever. I don't own one but I always nod to anyone on two wheels, be it a 50cc scooter, a 1000cc sports bike or a harley. I even nod at BMW riders even though not many nod back😂. Anyone riding a Deauville is possibly having the time of their lives while enjoying practicality and comfort and who knows what else could be in their garage. They probably just don't give a shit about what anyone thinks or their opinion and they may have alreadybeen there and done it with the beautifulsports bikes that cause an appointment with a chiropractor. They are riding and that is good enough for me.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Well said Andrew!

[@buzzinadventures4217]

The Deauville is about the dullest bike you can get, always been known as the 'Dullsville' - but if despatching paid like it did in the 70's and early 80's it would be my choice of bike for that........... will do 100,000 miles with little issues, cheap, reliable good weather protection and inbuilt luggage, and shaft drive....

[@matthewdeepblue]

You've been doing a podcast for years? How come I'm not heard about this podcast before? How come there's no link to it?

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

This is the problem (at least for me) with the podcast; I found the reach potential to be really limited. Or (very possibly) I just wasn’t smart enough with advertising it😳 I did used to include the link everywhere (including at the start of KZbin videos). I’m delighted you’ve found it on KZbin!🙂

[@TheHonarable1]

Some people don't realize that not everyone rides a bike to have the best handling or the most power. For me it's more about the styling and soul. Adventure bike are just hideous looking to me. I could care less how fast it is or how well it handles. I could care less about TFT screens and adjustable suspensions. I have most of that stuff in my car, I don't need it on a bike. To some people simple is better especially if the bike has a soul and it looks the part. That's why we thankfully have a choice....different strokes for different folks

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Great to hear your thoughts on this!

[@merc7paul]

Honda knows how to make a bike.......... And cars, F1 engines, private jets, lawn mowers, outboard motors, jet skis, snow mobiles, atvs and robots, all with one thing in common high build quality and reliability. They are what Tesla would like to be

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Absolutely!

[@2_wheel_rob]

1999 1340 Evo Roadking Classic has fuel injection and electric start! Mine in my profile pic.

[@kramnam4716]

Totally agree re Moto Guzzi BUT! if i lived in Italy only! Uk ? Triumph. Modern classic v modern? economics of scale probably re sales numbers? re Insurance? tell the absolutely EVERYTHING!!

[@tomschmit6917]

Can someone share the timestamp for the 500£ gear plz? Thx!

[@tomschmit6917]

Got it. 41:00

[@mikealls8938]

Just thinking when you are back home , maybe organise a ride out ? Be good to get like-minded people together. I'm in Lincolnshire the home of UK riding 😂 or should I say where they breed motorcycle racers!

[@denisg4288]

Hi Freddie I have a new T120. Yes, good bike, looks beautiful, lovely to ride but overpriced. Suspension isn’t great and stock tyres are poor. Regards Den Let me put in some context. I don’t think the suspension or tyres are any better than the Interceptors. Is the Bonnie as better bike? Yes, much better. Is it twice the bike. No. The price is though! T100 probably is a fairer comparison and worth the differential.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Very interesting to hear from a T120 owner, thank you for this, Denis

[@user-xl2st4xk5w]

My America was a different bike once I changed out the o/e suspension and tyres.

[@thebikegeekandmore2448]

Hi Freddie, I have been testriding the v85 TT but I was little bit disopointed when it comes to the engines. It didn't have the low down torque I expected from a twin 850. I felt that the engine was somewhat underpowered. What is your thought on the engine? I actually used to own a cbf 500 from 2007 that I bought brand new and drove with 80000 km before I crashed it into a car. A dead reliable bike. God blend between old and modern Technology.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

Very interesting! I LOVED the V85TT engine, but you are right regarding the low down torque. This didn’t bother me at all because of the kind of rider I am… but I agree with you

[@spadaspares]

Wasn't this down to the Russian adviser they had that KTM pulled the plug?

[@DiscoFang]

The Rolex watch analogy works only if you buy your bike purely for it's image and perceived heritage. Which in this day and age, where watches are purely jewellery and image, is where the value lies. Bikes are a different kettle of fish. Buying on some perceived parochial image is pretty vacuous. There's nothing wrong with some (some!) Chinese manufacturing - eg iPhones and iPhone parts - but a huge amount is intentionally cost-cut garbage. But for a fundamentally functional thing like a bike, as opposed to a watch, what matters deep down is how good it is and how well it's made. Where it's made is only relevant for it's relative quality. As an example, most modern utes are made in Thailand. Japanese brands (Toyota, Nissan, Mazda etc) and the somewhat international brands like Ford. All made in Thailand. They're made well there and that's a good thing.

[@hulkhatepunybanner]

*Modern classics likely cost more than their contemporary counterparts because these are made in smaller numbers. The Kawasaki Z900 is US$9,399 whilst the Z900RS is $11,949. Finding the RS in the color you want is harder than for a regular Z.* As of MY2023, I think the Yamaha XSR and Honda CB1100 stop being modern classics. They're more like a glancing homage. The Bonnevilles (not Speed Twins), Thruxton, every Royal Enfield, and the R Nine-T are still modern classics. Sure the Bimmer looks steam-punk but nothing like its F, M, and K cousins.

[@davidforsdike4343]

Swapped my Street Twin for a V7. Guzzi is a much more involving ride . Street twin was bland and cheap feeling . The quality is not as good as the Hinckley made bikes . I had 6 of them with out any problems. Is a great book on Guzzis . The Perfect Vehicle. Looks like the Cult Bar is closing 😢

[@Paul-kp1tu]

Much better, Free… Machines sounded a bit too much like an add for Harley’s for my liking.

[@tuesdayatdobbs]

I think I do agree- it was probably a good thing in the end. Thanks Paul🙂

[@eddyhoughton6542]

Just found this, dunno why it didn't come up immediately. Only watched the first 10 minutes and I have to jump in there.... dull motorbike? Did you ever make the mistake of buying a Superdream? Or the Honda "Maggot"?

[@petewelsh9978]

If you want to take my Guzzi V11 cafe racer out let me know. The V7 feels characterless and like a 125 in comparison

[@johntheaccountant5594]

Honda are the largest manufacturer of engines in the world.

[@meshplates]

Even the best RE the GT650 looks cheesy to me. Once you've seen triumph, bmw or Honda quality, RE lack of the last 20% sticks out very obviously.

[@flatcapcaferacer]

The bike doesn't make you cool, the rider makes the bike cool.

[@yamark02]

Hello Freddie, Re your comment not caring where Triumph are made? They're not a cheap bike, BMW still manufacture in Germany. Triumph clothing range made in India as a example is very expensive for exploited labour. We now have most welfare in the UK paid to people 'in' work since our manufacturing base outsourced which has made a few extremely wealthy. Triumph have union Jack's all over its products, yet practically nothing sourced from the UK. I'm sure if your livelihood vanished offshore, you wouldn't defend it.

[@DiscoFang]

It's this very ground work that will see India emerge as the next economic powerhouse. It takes what we privileged economies see as exploited labour for an economy to grow. You think the clothing is expensive now? Try making it in the UK. As for the bikes themselves - UK simply cannot do vehicle manufacturing. It's proven.

[@yamark02]

Our clothing is made for absolute peanuts and very poor quality. Why we see tax avoiding textile billionaires. India, has a massive import tax for goods, but can (like China) flood our markets. Royal Enfield were designed in the UK, before that they were still churning out 1930's British designed bullets.. Yes we could manufacture here if not for short sighted greedy management and incompetant Gov.

[@richardjones3112]

Great comment.

[@johntheaccountant5594]

For any long distance touring, you eliminate any Italian motorbike and look at Honda or Royal Enfield. Honda CB500F is a dependable motorbike even though people say it is dull.

[@captratty2167]

Disagree re touring. I rode a V7 850 from Italy to Nordkapp and back via the Baltics, Stelvio to Mandello. Then, back in Australia I have ridden mine across the country. In the last 30 months I have clocked over 30,000km on the V7. I have added a few goodies to make it better for touring, like heated grips, low screen, crash bars and a rear rack to take soft luggage. Prior to that I had a 2001 Guzzi California which did not need any modifications to make a good touring bike. I did many outback tours on that with my wife as pillion, on really rough roads. These air cooled shaft drive Guzzis are dead simple to maintain, reliable, comfortable, tough and - if ridden sensibly - handle gravel roads as well as some so called adventure bikes. Not so sure about MG’s foray into liquid cooling and all the modern electronics on some of their new offerings…wait and see.

[@robertadams4415]

No not really

[@robertadams4415]

No Freddie they are water cooled