Author: CaptainSquirrel

DIY Heaven And Hell!

Posted on by CaptainSquirrel

 

 

 

DIY Heaven AND Hell !

Or

(Installing right angle motorcycle Valves WITHOUT removing tires)

 

 

Ever catch an incredibly novel DIY idea via BooTube? That “Quick Fix” or K.I.S.S. video or photo blog essay espousing some crazy concept when it comes to fixing, making, repairing or otherwise do-it-yourself endeavour at…. “Altering Anything” ?

Admit it. When most of us are perusing motorcycle videos online or reading the newest and latest online magazine, we ALL absorb or contribute to new and interesting ideas!

Whether in the form of re-invented methods covering cleaning your moto machine(s), fixing a flat, measuring valve clearances etc.; we are all game in absorbing the information! Better yet, many of us roll up our sleeves, give something a try and are more than willing to contribute our additional spin on the newest, latest or trending DIY trend! (Even better, some of us have our own original concepts…..who knew!)

 

Preparing fender for possible disaster!

 

MORE Blue Tape !!

 

When we here at Motosquirrel recently saw a video covering the replacement of old tubeless tire valve stems with new ones….wait for it……….WITHOUT removing the tires all-together: We HAD to try it!

Why you may ask?

 

What needs to be installed into the trickiest of places……(Think corking a giant raft out to sea, that is already in the water, pressurized and doesn’t feel like “Playn’ !)

 

In case you have been on recent vacation from Planet Earth, there has been a very elaborate effort to “Flatten The Curve”, which was supposed to protect the inhabitants of Earth from a virus that would surely kill them, BUT instead, the slowing of the economies of the world, combined with an overly experimental vaccine(s) have contributed to whole industries, countries and ways of life to come to an almost grinding halt. All this while suffering from new illnesses created by the same said “Vaccine(s)”. We here at Motosquirrel do not care for politics, but can contribute that there are a certain rich few on the planet that would be very, very content on ruling it from ONE government, from ONE capital, and to rule under THEIR one set of rules. As Americans, we here at Motosquirrel find this concept repugnant!

 

Notice the larger “C-Clamps”. As mentioned in this writ of knowledge, you need to utilized a length of clamp that will accommodate your tire width. **Certainly this will not work for oversized rubber!

A cut-off rubber bottom half of old valve stem still remains (Better photo needed)

 

Back to bikes, fixing things and learning new tricks.

After discovering that one of our rubber valve stems was cracking due to dryness and not holding air, we knew we needed a repair quick! Without many Moto shops open, having strange hours, return times as well as a lack of mechanical consistency on the shop or dealer side……..well, now you understand why we attempted DIY this problem ourselves.

 

 

 

(Sidenote: Do some self research on how so many industrial rubbers used in seals, bushings, gaskets and on and on were made out of inferior materials by OEMs and contractors due to a fear of restrictions on both certain oil based methods and natural rubber restrictions (Green Hell) anticipated in the early 2000’s.)

 

Apologies for the poor quality (Hands were Full), “Hunk A’ Hunk A’– Burn’n Luv!”……..um really just the bottom half of the rubber stem remaining. In our case we could rip it off by hand!!

 

Que the mass searching of online videos covering replacing valve stems on rims etc.

This is when we discovered Mitch’s Scooter Stuff channel via BooTube! (This is a very excellent site for those with small or basic bikes that lack the room or wish to maximize their DIY skills on a small budget without all the tools. 

This is a swipe of Mitch’s Site. Very cool DIY!

 

The video in inspiration is namely “Suzuki Burgman 400 Valve Stem Replacement ** Warning Tip | Mitch’s Scooter Stuff”. 

We love Mitch’s ability to illustrate via gestures and good up-close camera work. Mitch is either hearing impaired, or possibly deaf and is a great communicator visually.

Mitch showing you that you need very quick pressure etc. (Photos in these sections are from Mitch’s site, all other Motosquirrel© all rights reserved.

 

The concept is simple. By deflating the tire(s), squeezing their sidewalls with “Gigantor” C-clamps and pushing the original valve stem cores through the rims, theoretically (And MOSTLY in practice!), a handy mechanically inclined Moto-ist (Yep! Just coined the term here!) can re-install new valves without removing the entire wheel/tire combo. 

Is it simple?- Yes! Are there mistakes that can be made……Yes! Hence the “Heaven and Hell” title.

A few very important tool inclusions must be, IOHO: 

 

  1. Non-Marring tire irons (You will need to protect much more, although the wheels are not coming off, there is still a chance of a bead getting caught out or the need to work the bead(s) up or down.
  2. Plenty of protective tape or other protective towels, cardboard and the like (We used plastic cut-outs from 5 gallon buckets) to allow more surface area for the clamps to grab, not slip and also not to damage the sidewall of the tire.
  3. ****SUPER IMPORTANT**** Make sure you McGyver a sort-of long and highly tensile metal cord, possibly industrial zip ties or very strong thin rope or bank line! (See Below) 

 

Oh How we GO Through the HELL! (So that YOU don’t have to!)

 

This first and second mentioned above are self explanatory. The third is something that we found out the hard way!

During our process of removing the rear tire, unlike the front that went so quickly it could’ve been measured in under five minutes, we lost the valve remainder within the purposedly pinched or now clam-shaped tire.

The valves were getting old, dried out and craggy, and hence the rear broke directly in half while pulling upwards to remove it! At that point we then had an awful game of hide and go seek the small chubby coin sized valve remainder bouncing in the dark confines of the clamed up tire- NOT ideal!

We suggest running a long wire as mentioned above (# 3) through the center of the valve so as not to lose EITHER end of the valve when pushing, pulling or twisting on the old piece.

 

DONE! We like to think that a Right Angle valve is MORE than just SEXY……it is also very functional

SUMMARY:

This IS a very, very cool trick that requires average maintenance skills, a bit of McGyverism, some prep, a pressurized inflator and “BAM!” you have new valves! 

 

Final CAVEAT:

This DIY trick should mostly be attempted on thinner, less Moto-GP type rubber tires. In our opinion, it would be much more difficult to pull off with heavier rubber compound between the C-clamps chosen.

 

Good Luck!

Motosquirrel!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Off The Radar Bikes!

Posted on by CaptainSquirrel

 

 

Off The Radar Bikes!

Or: When bikes quickly hide and then….suddenly, reappear!

4/22/2021

 

 

 

What Gives?

When it comes to the motorcycle industry in the West (Especially the U.S.A.) it’s seems that there are so many great, versatile, speedy, fun, competitive and even fashion statement motorcycles that get ignored!

It reminds us of our music education and learning of all the “One Hit Wonders” or cool albums that EVERYONE claims to think were goofy or not “Cool”, and yet they sold billions in the 19­80’s! Well…….then WHO exactly bought all those records hmmm……. ? Add in the fact of so many young bands that were using technology at the time, and were, ironically, considered “One-Hit-Wonders” in their own right (U2 and RUNDMC come to mind!) but, one could argue (This is NOT a thesis on popular music!) that the appreciation of these groups changed much of the industry as a whole.

 

Enter our “Radar Detection” of the not-so-glorified but, nevertheless, still exciting Moto-steeds of the Twenty-First century.

“Why?”, you may ask, does the industry Not cover these bikes more etc. over time.Is it merely a case of certain bikes not acclimating themselves well to that of the hyper-paced, super-slabbed highway’s and wide open spaces of that of North America? Are the needs of MOST riders in the U.S. only

to be found in the liter class with every available electronic doo-dad?

Triumph Scrambler “Revival” circa 2006! What a bike style to bring back on radar……..BUT would Triumph capitalize as well as DUCATI? (More importantly, how long will the “Scrambler” trend stay on top of the “Wave”?

 

We at Motosquirrel believe that it is purely a financial issue. When it comes right down to it, the major OEM’s sort-of have a dual role to play when it comes to supporting new riders, new trends, new racing, ever-changing technology and so on. There is a strange dance or balance struck between a manufacturing industry which must take at the very least a few seasons to develop product, research trends, design study, prototype, tool-up, consumer study, gain investment loans, do product line studies, profit projections, influence market, costing, manufacturing, third-party contracting, emissions testing/submission, distribution, dealership priming and follow-through for new models, MORE advertising, international product launching……..the list of the tentacles involved for ANY manufacturer of mass produced motorcycles in order to launch a “New” model is huge (And too large to fit into an article!). Needless to say, it can take a long time for the biggest companies to respond to trends.

Now you see it……now you don’t! Depends on what part of the world and what part of the world NEEDs or is even legally aloud to climb aboard an “Entrance” model! Can anyone say…..A2 “Owned”! Ha! (Here in the U.S., a Duke 125cc would get stolen as a “Pizza Bike”…..just joking!

 

The top cycle manufacturer’s pay close attention to the stream of interests that are at street or customer level, especially at the small builder/customizer and racing level. If they watch these streams of behavior close enough, they can time there behemoth manufacturing and delivery processes to take advantage of the in-coming wave! Kind of like giant surfers!

So……how does our Motosquirrel “Radar” fit in you may ask? With the enormous responsibilities and costs denoted before herein, it is no wonder that the Big OEMs follow-through with their most cost effective “Forays”­ first. Questions like: “Do we have a powerplant that can work for a small-displacement Super-moto already?”, can we attain some of this from our own parts bins at first?, can our third-party provide this part at a smaller scale/size for half the price of new-retooling etc.? Are all valid when considering a new model program.

It is easier for an OEM to react to the market with parts and processes that they already have, AND, most importantly, if there is already a market for example, an upcoming 250cc Super-moto, they just might “Go-For-It” or roll the dice and see what sells. Timing is everything!

Where the “Radar” starts pinging:

BUT, here is the Catch twenty-two! Why then, do we as the rider/consumer, get all enthusiastic at a product launch at it’s inception only later to find lackluster

industry attention paid to that very same bike, say a year or so later? After jumping on this “Cusp of A Wave”, how is it that we do NOT hear about these products more over a longer period of time? Sure, we see a product launch or two, perhaps some initial excitement for the first season of a launch, and, possibly, some decent critical reviews as well, but NOT the over-the-top sustained advertising we may see with other models……But WHY?

Just as it can be quite a quick and direct matter (Sometimes a massive amount of work and kudos to you custom/bespoke builders- this is example only!) for a small bike customizer to get, say a fender and gas tank chromed over a few days and then voila! Pop it on his/her bike and make a dramatic change, conversely it is like pushing over a mountain for an OEM to produce quick changes at scale.

So…….when Motorcycle marquees have had their own “Mountains” of motorcycles been built, established, profiting and working together as a product line-up over a great period of time (Think “Big” BMW GS series)…..well they don’t want any outsider bike (Including their own!) to change the system.

Umm……Kawi…better late than never? This is a Big head-scratcher! Why would a company keep this out of a line-up when it is a threat to none of there home sales in our humble opinion…….(KLX300SM shown)

 

And……….when considering that the profit margins for wholesale/franchiser manufacturer’s and dealership are relatively quite small; it is no wonder that, although they don’t mind sticking their proverbial ADV proboscus “Beak” (To use BMW GS Motorad as example) to check in on what their “Customers” are doing almost methodically, reduntantly, throughout any season(s) and EVERY season with lengthy programs and adverts; we are never going to get “Caught Up” on the latest happenings and trends, say, in the “World” of their very own baby 310 GS as example. It IS…..however (In the case of the GS)….wait for it…currently ”Off the RADAR”.

Yes, this (As an example of hundreds of bikes by many OEM’s) 310gs proves the point of the Motosquirrel “On-the-Radar” and “Off-the-Radar” exactly.

The intro of the baby GS of a few years back is a great illustration of a behemoth company like BMW using their sourcing, machine knowledge, market growth studies as well as growth areas to develop and respond to a growing trend in the need for smaller displacement ADV bikes that will appeal to overseas markets (Meaning Asia), while still providing a “Gateway Drug” or beginner bike for the first-time buyer of the Motorad line-up. In many cases, the entrance models barely beget a profit. It is an investment in introducing the customer into a brand/dealership and their growth up the product line and, hopefully, profitability for the manufacturer (No new concept here but part of understanding “Radar”).

How much bike do you need? Yeah- Sure! If you ride Two-Up consistently, a Big GS makes sense. But the middle sized (More Off-The-Radar) bikes make the most sense for most riders! But hey! Some folks show off their yachts only twice a year anyhow!

 

In order to get the public excited (As an example of MANY yearly launches in the industry), OEM’s will explore market strategies, build the hype, blast the “Launch” signal, make the trade shows and……get YOU the consumer curious about this new model.”The Bike” is put “On-Radar”!

Off-the-Radar: Once the foundation or the entrance of the launch model is introduced for about a season, all the hype quickly fades…….but why?

Again, it is this strange dual dance that ALL moto-co’s must do. In order to stay relevant they must respond to change (In the case of BMW, admittedly, they like to introduce new gadgetry to NEW riders- this approach is highly unusual- BUT more on this in another article!), but in order to stay alive and sell the bike-lines with the most profit margins (Usually in the 10,000 to 18,000 dollar range where the numbers times profit are the sweet spot) big companies like Honda, BMW, Yamaha etc. cannot impinge on their own importance and must pay dogged attention and apply it to their staple line ups year after year.

 

“On-The-Radar”

 

So, what bikes do we at Motosquirrel consider “On-The-Radar” kind of bikes? Clearly these are your staple year-to-year steeds that every buyer must consider a solid investment etc. They are MOSTLY not spontaneous purchases. These are the motorcycles that are introduced whether in print or on video and described with sentences resembling: “This years CBR1000rrFFWW (Place myriad of nomenclature here) introduces a few changes from last year based on blah blah blah feedback from customers/dealers that said people wanted a bit bigger windshield, seat profile or rear set adjustment etc. etc. They are ALL, usually wonderful bikes, admittedly. And, since they “Bring home the Bacon for most dealerships and manufacturer’s- you are only going to see MINOR changes through the seasons. It is no sweat off their back and are also a “No-Brainer” for a customer to purchase as well. And….. the minor tweeks keep the staple bikes relevant and “On-The-Radar”.

Can a bike model/series be “Off-The-Radar” then “On-The-Radar” and then “Off” again? Absolutely! Any combination of attention paid by consumers or manufacturers is possible over time. Remember, the better companies out there are always looking to street level to see what there customers are doing. Harley, for example, pays close attention to how there customers customize or have their bikes customized for them in order to plan what options they will eventually sell on there own trademark lines. There are, most importantly, the cases of several bikes that REMAIN past their trendy date but are still available in a line-up. An example of this can be found in the Honda (Place chopper name here). It was offered when the climate and culture was into “Choppers” both on and off screen. It is a great bike, but definitely “Off-The-Radar”…..for now!

The ORIGINAL “Off-The-Radar” bike!  In more ways than one. Here, the venerable KLR shows off it’s camouflaging prowess: Equaled both out in the field and at home. Either way, you should have a “Deck” of bricks! Photo provided by wikipedia (Hyper linked photos beware!)

 

After being “Off-The-Radar” for almost three seasons…….THE KLR LIVES ! and is being detected by all who can handle such a monster! (Kawi listened to their riders and updated this model with many improvements too lengthy to mention here. Please visit your local Kawasaki dealer! (But is it too late?)

 

A good example of “On, Off, On, Off and then……you get the idea! Is the venerable Kawasaki KLR! Developed as a sort-of working man’s GS in the late eighties/early nineties it was quickly smacked right up there on the Radar screen! Blip Blip….bloop bloop you could hear the Radar Pinging! Kawasaki was definitely promoting that bike…and as it sold over time it developed it’s own cult-like following. Eventually it found it’s own market and sold itself etc. But, as the early 2,000’s introduced new mid-sized displacement ADV options by competitors; some with new gizmos and features not available on the KLR (Think Yamaha Tenere, F650, KTM 690 class bikes etc.) either the KLR owner had to respond, with there own farkles for on-road and off-road, or Kawasaki would eventually have to respond with an updated model.

 

For almost twenty years the KLR was “Off-The-Radar”, meaning this was NOT a brag to the world bike that you needed to check-in on like that of the U.S. Presidents whereabouts on any given day etc.! It had a life, likeability and sellability of it’s own! But….in order to remain “Relevant” Kawi’s KLR crew would need to give this bike some greatly needed updates (In 2007???). Were they Earth shattering? Not-so-much but they WERE a needed response to a market with which they could lose to better bikes. New wind cutting fairing: check!, more relaxed ride height: check!, better………better……better BUT almost all based on what customer modifications were being made out in the field. This updated and put the “2008” KLR back on the radar. Suddenly, the moto-press, adv enthusiasts and, especially KLR-heads woke up and took notice! KLR was back “On-The-Radar”! (Sidenote: The Venerable KLR falls “Off-The-Radar” in season 2019 2020 without ANY production whatsoever …..only to be resurrected and put back On-Radar again this year in 2021 being hailed as a 2022 bike to be available mid-year (We will believe it when we see it on showroom floors and in the woods!)

Is this the penultimate example of not only a particularly and very “Off-The-Radar” bike (That of the Ducati Scrambler of decades ago) that has made a comeback, but is also an example of a company In-Tune with the habits of riders and knew when and HOW to strike gold? Will this Scrambler’s various styles still be valid in another 5-10 years? Maybe not……but that is why Ducati is now offering “Bigger” scrams and more modernist street-fighter models as in the new “Nightshift”. Hey…….where did the “Icon” go? Falling Off-The-Radar…

 

 

Falling “Off-The-Radar”

Falling “Off” the radar is not necessarily a bad thing for either you, the riding enthusiast or, for that matter, even the top-most marquees out there. On the contrary, it can be a great sign that a wonderful bike is so good, for so many people that it becomes ubiquitous in it’s use and everyday importance.

The question is how will YOU improve your ride before the Big Bike Co does! Or will you wait for that “Newly Updated” model to make it’s way back on the Radar with the improvements that you already knew should be there!

Will you, the rider, make yourself richer with the money saved by buying the bike that is Off-the-Radar? Or will you make the industry richer by buying the latest version or newly introduced model that is seasonally, like clockwork “On-The-Radar”? It’s your choice, but either way Motosquirrel wants BOTH the industry and YOU to win together!

 

Keep Us On YOUR Radar!

 

And……thanks to all of those who have signed on to our newsletter!

 

Chow!

 

Motosquirrel(s)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moto Guzzi 100th Year Anniversary!

Posted on by CaptainSquirrel

 

All photos are manipulations of original materials owned solely by the original owners. Used herein for illustration purposes only.

 

Happy 100th Year Anniversary Moto Guzzi!

 

What makes a Motorcycle brand stand out more than others? What makes that very same company’s products endure the test of time and taste? What makes a Motorcycle owner PROUD of the bike that he/she owns?

The answer: Great Design!

And this is what Moto Guzzi does. They have been designing and producing (In various capacity) their own motorcycles from Mondello Italy for 100 years!

 

All photos are manipulations of original materials owned solely by the original owners. Used herein for illustration purposes only.

 

Through wars, economic hardships, world health problems and any other (Think Euro-Union standards hell) troublesome obstacles, this company has endured. There are quite a few both German and Japanese brands that got a big boost after WWII as a means to achieve reparations and to make the fat cats rich on both sides of the pond. The fact that this Italian marquee (As well as others such as Ducati and Aprilia) has had to come up with inventive ways of surviving over the years can only underscore their tenacity and love of all things two wheels!

 

All photos are manipulations of original materials owned solely by the original owners. Used herein for illustration purposes only.

 

Through wars, economic hardships, world health problems and any other (Think Euro-Union standards hell) troublesome obstacles, this company has endured. There are quite a few both German and Japanese brands that got a big boost after WWII as a means to achieve reparations and to make the fat cats rich on both sides of the pond. The fact that this Italian marquee (As well as others such as Ducati and Aprilia) has had to come up with inventive ways of surviving over the years can only underscore their tenacity and love of all things two wheels!

 

 

It will be interesting to see where the Big Eagle takes their brand in weathering this well orchestrated “Lockdown”. We here at Motosquirrel look forward to getting on some local V7 III’s and, perhaps, trying out their E4/5 platforms etc. this Summer.

 

All photos are manipulations of original materials owned solely by the original owners. Used herein for illustration purposes only.

 

 

All photos are manipulations of original materials owned solely by the original owners. Used herein for illustration purposes only.

 

 

One caveat: There is “Rumour” that Piaggio Group is having more of their Moto Guzzi brand parts creation being doled out to China. BEFORE the Moto-World goes all hay-wire about how unnatural or improper of this icon having to produce more goods overseas…..let’s not forget how many small parts, castings, wheels and whole assemblies are already being produced and sold under major brands (Including that of Bavaria) and, in our humble opinion, unless we (The motorcycle community) do not start recognizing, celebrating, appreciating, riding, understanding and becoming fans of the brands BECAUSE of their inherent individuality, nationality and styles that come forthwith….we will NEVER be able to playfully compete, celebrate, grow and enjoy our differences as a whole!

Inserted Dork example: Let’s celebrate and enjoy our differences like that of the individual officers of the original show Star Trek and NOT have all of our bikes made from a “One World” Klingon empire! There! Our dorking out and nerdism is done!

 

Congratulations Moto Guzzi! (And ……prototype, design, build and deliver them from Italy! -That IS how we prefer our Italian bikes!)

 

 

 

 

 

Lino’s Harley

Posted on by CaptainSquirrel

 

CAUGHT IN THE WILD!

Lino’s Harley in Good Ol’ Seattle Washington!

4/12/2021

 

 

 

 

Every once in a while you come across a bike that is presented in such a pure and graphic form- that it demands to be seen as different! In this case, a local, younger rider Lino bought this Harley Forty-Eight with just 125 miles on the ODO!

 

It came with almost a single customization: That of the Harley number one logo embedded in one of the most fantastic paint jobs the Squirrel Crew has ever seen! It looks BEYOND OEM, it literally looks like a model that HD would sell as an exclusive etc.

 

The fact that this particular model has very little customizing done (Accept some engine high-light LEDs for night-time/fun-time accents) shows that a Harley can look modern, urban, fun and truly makes you want to take it for a ride!

 

 

Lino loves his bike and so do we! We are very glad that he decided on this beautiful beast rather than some silly little grom or Honda Monkey (They have their place……..but this bike is special. Very, very special indeed!  

 

 

Our Favorite MotoVloggers!

Posted on by CaptainSquirrel

 

 

 

OUR FAVORITE MOTO-VLOGGERS!
4/8/2021

 

Welcome all of our fellow Motosquirrels, Motomonkeys and all who co-align with the love and fanaticism which is Motorcycling.

Below you will find our current and most recent review of our favorite Motorcycle video channels. Please understand that this sampling is by no means an exhaustive list. It is, however, our chance to give you a brief sampling of some of our favorite moto-vloggers/personalities and why we appreciate these and so many others who possess many of the qualities described herein. Once you watch a few and find a channel you enjoy, we are positive that you will see what we see: the future of motorcycling is actually in some very good hands!

 

Srkcycles

Sean is a powehouse of energy. Makes Moto life feel Good! (All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

SRK Cycles (Plus Bikes and Beards):

There are very few riders out there who can balance being a father, a businessman, a YouTube channel host, a Christian, a salesperson and a VERY funny/inspiring individual. Sean of SRK will show you what is great about any bike without prejudice! AND he will make you laugh, church you up and make you feel encouraged for the future of Motorcycling!

Highlights: Sean showing you his individual triumphs and failures up close! His reminiscing of how he started his business. His and his workers small pranks and adjustments to the real headaches of running a used motorcycle dealership in Lancaster PA.
Low’s: Not many except when you catch Sean strutting and TRYING to be cool! – He doesn’t need to, cuz he already is!

 

CagerOnTwoWheels

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

CagerOnTwoWheels:

What can we say? We watch this channel in both Portuguese and in English! Located in Lisbon Portugal, Cager started riding motorcycles at a later age and quickly learned his craft enough to share his viewpoints and opinions about all things Moto!
With an eye for great design and surrounded by one of the world’s most beautiful environments, Cager shows us why so many bikes should attract our attention.

Highs:
Portuguese end to end group ride! Cager’s sneak peeks around Lisbon.
Lows:
Cager getting hurt too often from riding too fast more recently! Have fun Cager…… But rein it in a little!

 

The Bike Show

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

The Bike Show:

Out of Johannesburg South Africa, Matt Durran and Donovan Fourie and occasional guests give the viewer a playful breakdown of motorcycling’s very best with fun banter and unabashed fearlessness. Matt Durran rides motorcycles as if he is in his twenties and Donovan Fourie provides creative humor as if he were a senior comedic talk show host. Both can ride and entertain with the best of them!

Highs:
Showing the realistic differences between bike offerings by different manufacturers and actually riding them in diverse environments. Comedic sketches of the past are woven into memorable reviews!
Lows:
Why is Matt stuck in Germany? Where is Harry? In a world where everyone is doing each other wrong is there ever a chance for forgiveness?

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Motorcyclist Magazine:

 

WOW! Hey Ho!

Where to we begin and where do we go?

Zack Kicking butt on the road with a smile on his face fer sure! (All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Originally under Bonnier Group- This is, perhaps, the largest purveyor of motorcycle magazines in the world. Most recently acquired by Octane Financial group, this grouping of sister magazines (About 7) supported under this new venture predicts a future where all things on two wheels is most likely in good hands.

The massive history of Bonnier Group’s marquee’s (Cycle World etc.) and their magazine titles, distribution, vendors and influence are too great to unravel here and are not the focus of this summary. What IS the focus of this summary is to point out the huge influence that this video channel presence alone (Via Youtube) has had on it’s many hundreds of thousands of subscribers. Hiring, early on, Ari Henning and then, later, his compatriot Zack Courts, this company allowed a young dynamic duo of hipster millenial motorcyclists to entertain the world- One Wild and fantastic ride at a time via their series “On Two Wheels”.

Their reviews of taking a Honda Gold-Wing to Laguna Seca track (With two men on board!), or Grom-Type hooliganizm are absolutely legendary and worth watching! Zack Courts came into his own via MC Commute providing daily insights to motorcycles on his commute via motorcycles in review (Often very insightful).

Zack and Ari BFF’s ……and in the history books! (All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

What was, what is now and what will be:

Running in parallel during this period of Motorcyclist’s rise to fame with their Dynamic Duo, there were other journalist-riders worth all their weight in gold and then some; pounding the pavement, filming themselves, freelancing and critiqueing hundreds of products so that we DON’T have to!

Enter: Adam Waheed.

Take Heed! This man is more capable than you know! (All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Having watched Adam from his first foible beginnings on Youtube etc. -whether as a solo journalist or freelancer working for such channel titles as MotoUsa and Riders Domain, we cannot help but sit back in amazement at this man’s energy, perspectives, riding experience and REAL identification with the common rider. His personal insights on what is important about any given bike or piece of gear will always leave a rider thinking NEW thoughts on their possiblities and purchasing perspectives. Can he ride? Hell Yes! Take a look at his older videos under the aforementioned channels and especially his own under the channel name/banner: “Heed”(Now on hiatus with his employ at Octane). Adam can teach you how to ride, espouse the benefits of a particular bike or wax poetic about any certain engine; all while traveling at 140 miles per hour on a GP track! See his reviews for both MotoUsa and Riders Domain to catch a glimpse of his versatility as a journalist. (The Learning how to shift a motorcycle vid under his Heed channel is a must for beginning riders!)
Motorcyclist Magazines High’s and Low’s (Too many….but a few placed below)

 

Past:

Highs:
Ari and Zack taking bikes into strange new situations whether a Versys 300 or Groms on the streets of San Francisco. Watching them take both the Ducati and Triumph scramblers on an ADV explorer competition comes to mind……plus Ari’s mechanical skills!

Lows:

Zack’s signature gaffawing, unmasculine giggle……THERE we said it! Stop!

 

Adam Waheed takes flight as he easily espouses the bennies of owninga CRF250RX while jumping 7 or more feet…… (All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

Present:

Highs:
Whenever Adam Waheed get’s to speak his mind, wax poetic or speak extemporaneously while riding a bike! Sometimes you think that the Heed doesn’t need to have his hands on the bars and that he could do surgery while riding a motorcycle! (See recent Honda CRF250RX MC Commute review!).
We wanted to hate young Michael Gilbert for his too high-school cheerleader year-book photo teeth together smile………….(A generational thing?) BUT! Big but here: Michael is winning us over one video at a time! You can tell he loves ALL kinds of bikes! That’s good!

Lows:
When Adam has to hit the OEM talking points for a bike review. He ends up sounding mechanical or like William Shatner as Captain Kirk with staccato stops and starts. Come on Octane! Let this man speak freely! We love it!

 


(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Cyclecruza:

 

“Let’s Go For A Ride!” -The most copied and original all in one Moto channel. Love him or hate him, there can be no doubt that before Cyclecruza existed, there were very few, if any, riding-the-streets based personality driven Moto channels. Whether waxing poetic about the benefits of the mind cleansing one may experience while riding or moralizing the do’s and don’ts of wheelies, Cyclecruza’s emphasis is always on teaching new riders moto-skills and minor bike customizations.
Highlights:
Pulling wheelies, outrunning the law and capturing it all on film!
Low’s:
Pulling wheelies, outrunning the law and capturing it all on film!- Only then instructing his audience/subscribers not to! Constantly pushing his merhandise as well as that damn airbag vest! Reclusive to a fault!

 

Everide

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Everide:

Having a channel before even owning a more permanent enduro motorcycle himself, Tyler soon gained fans beyond the Salt Lake City area as he more personalized his off road Moto-learning in the Dirt Canyons of that areas majestic ranges, hills and valleys. With Mr. Dub Factor and other moto/enduro experts as his well-earned fans and friends, Tyler has matured into one hell of an advanced film maker and off-road rider. Get ready to learn!

Highs:
He WILL teach you how to ride cheaply, effectively and safely in an almost indescribably beautiful but rugged American environment. He also offers personal guided rides/tours of his area.
Lows:
The RX3 review.(He made up for it with the RE Himalayan!). When Ty get’s down…..buddy- It’s America- WE ALL DO! There are probably 4 Billion peeps out there who would gladly trade their own for your life, your wife and…..your strife! Keep up the great work.

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Drivemag Riders (Now known as: Racing and Adventure):

 

This channel hosted by the dynamic duo of both Christion and Bogden is quite possibly the most important and communicative motorcycle review work being done. This Youtube presence is only one outlet of this moto review consortium based in Romania. The vast skills, creativity, comrardarie, hosting chops, editing abilities and genuine love of all things bikes places these reviewers well above most others. Whether it is riding all the way down the South American coast or your not-so-typical VS. type commuter review- these wild and wise Romanians are the real deal!

Christian (Co-Host) pulls out their first Youtube award! (All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Highs:
Unboxing videos of actual brand new OEM motorcycles with the excitement of Christmas mornings.

Yep! All THAT and this man is a great mechanic too!

Lows: When there aren’t any of their videos to watch!

 


(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

TheMissendenFlyer:

We are so jealous of Missenden Flyer that we will not cater to his fame by indulging anymore of this positive synopsis!- NO! Just kidding! This video host is quite the envy of many a middle aged motorcycle rider. The Missenden Flyer seems to have it all: humor, biking knowledge, a willingness to give fair reviews, straightforwardness, ownership of some great and iconic bikes, more and more respect in the industry, gets great bikes to review, has a wonderful house, flies planes, has a Podcast….on….and ….on…………….ummmm NOPE we’re NOT jealous! His channel grows as a bean to a Giant! Did we mention tours?- Yep! Could easily become the new king of Motovlog reviewers.

Highs:
When Andy let’s his non-hair down and has fun with other hosts such as Lambchops. That one drone shot of a church in Winter U.K. . Also his trip past Germany into the Cold Countries….excellent! Did we mention the Canary Islands….um Yep! Excellent photographs as well………….OK enough!

Lows:
Although we (As both viewers and creators who want our FREEDOM back to say anything we wish and some monetization without a shadow ban or “Policies” to adhere to) are being consistent when we say that we would forever defend your right to say anything you feel Missenden, that stated: we cringed when you formerly made snide comedy at the Jazz and small car drivers who slowed your cycling progress! Small cars to big cars and small bikes to big bikes…… We all start somewhere. His pronunciation/exclamations of the U.S. western phrase “Ye-haw”- NOT….. Andy, it’s utterance begins from the GUT not the back of the mouth and…..wait for it…..it is many beats longer as in “Yeeeeeeeee-Haaaaaaah” with barely a “W” sound at the end! Please get it right or stop. (Stated with love and affection Andy!)

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

TheChroniclesOfMrFish:

This man’s laugh and love of motorcycles is infectious. Riding mostly the smaller roads and green lanes skirting the outsides of London, Mr. Fish will take you along with his contemplations of motorcycle choices, his reviews and his takes on all kinds of bikes. His willingness to appreciate lower powered bikes, smaller scale mounts and a great knowledge of what makes a certain model more important to the rider, could someday, set a new standard for moto reviewers.

 

Highs:
When he’s in the mood, Mr. Fish will deliver a bike review better than anyone out there, seriously. His friends Richy Vida and Teapot better watch it! Their triple hosted travel log on small displacement Honda super cubs and a Sinnis 125cc to Wales more recently is a great one.
Lows:
Not many. Except that he goes back and forth between larger and smaller bikes to own as his personal stead. It’s like he’s that classically huge guy who wants to own the small Volkswagen beetle so that he may feel small enough to fit in it! Once he’s been riding in it he wants the larger vehicle again and around around he goes! Just always own both!

 

 

 

Revzilla:

The Godzilla of online motorcycling gear retailers and distributors, this juggernaut (And almost Network) has the financial capacity to sponsor or salary many motorcycling reviewers, podcast hosts and creative programs. There is little likelihood of any moto fan not being aware of this company’s presence. In the beginning, or about 10 years ago, it was all about quick video demos with a few Revzilla personalities including, mainly, the company’s cofounder named Anthony. These were very quick and well liked tabletop reviews and not the in-the- field, long-term first person (After the fact) type of reviews brought more intimately by non affiliated Motovloggers etc.
The Mighty Rev has grown and acquired for the 2020 season, two of the most influential video personalities (And their filmer/editor/director named Spencer), namely, Zack Courts and Ari Fleming. Formerly working for the Marquee of Motorcyclist Magazine (Bonnier) and heading the video series of both On Two Wheels and MC Commute, this creative and dynamic threesome brought fantastic, often humorous, filmmaking into a somewhat stagnate moto-video environment. Their films are beyond memorable- They still garner hundreds of thousands of views even to this day.

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Already having some great Moto Personalities such as “Spurge” and “Lemmy” at the ready within Revzilla, it will prove interesting to see where Rev takes these talents as well.

Ah…..the good ol’ days when Anthony (CEO) would be selling you the things (He may not have tried) by which he just pulled out from warehouse boxes…. (All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only). Note to staff: TRY not to make fun of smaller moto-vloggers doing the same thing!

 

We wil NOT add Highlights and Low’s here. There are too many! It would require a book! Checkout Daily Rider (Transmutation of MC Commute) Common Tread (Transmute of On Two Wheels) HSLS or Highside Lowside, The Shop Manual and their reviews of course!
Sidenote: When Lemmy and Spurge are allowed to espouse their own knowledge about bikes (I.MotoSqh.O.) freely, they provide an East Coast Grit, likeability and sense of reality that the others just cannot. They can keep it real!

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Motorcycle.com:

Being one of the very first, if not the very first, online digitally published motorcycling magazines complete with reviews, how to’s, bike vs. bike, general industry news and op-ed’s, it goes without saying that they were one of the very first to jump on the Youtube video platform. There have been many print journalists and video personalities to appear and disappear from Motorcycle.com. Tom Broderick, Evans Brasfield (Still in the background) and the legendary Kevin Duke.

 

Nowadays this channel seems to struggle like so many who must find ways to survive within an economy that has been destroyed by a faux pandemic, an industry that doesn’t know how to reach young audiences, young audiences who don’t wish to reach anything but game controllers and the VERY real ways to make a motorcycle publication pay! Hang in there Motorcycle.com! We see a new generation of teenagers who are quite bored with their smart phones, overly tech existance and computer aided lives……….Get them to BRAPP and they will never go back!

 

Highs:
Watching John Burns and all of his eclecticism, comedic anecdotes and parodies all while reviewing a motorcycle! When host Troy is actually having a good time and not taking himself too seriously. Evans giving his true opinion on the Harley Street 750 and divulging that it was/has an almost impossible riding position triangle. Their reviews of liter class Dual-Sports ALWAYS worth watching!
Lows:
When our fearless hosts/reviewers are afraid to give their true opinion of any given bike.

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

BikerBits:

Do you love Air-Cooled “Dirt-Pig” duallies that can roam the bush or outback? So does Mark Victor. About eight years ago Mark started taking his cruiser further and further down dirt roads outside of Bendigo Australia. Soon realizing a cruiser’s off-road limits, our middle age hero purchased a slightly used DR 650. He modded and customized it to his liking and eventually gained a following as he posted his non-mechanic non-professional rider experiences fixing and riding his bike in his “Man-Cave”.
This channel offers a very intimate look into the lifestyle of an Australian who loves his country, is creative and sponsors rides throughout the outback.

 

Highs:
Watching Mark trying a new gadget, explaining something that he learned and camera work that has to be seen to be appreciated! Also his wife Naomi and all of her crafting, graphics as well as building talents. If you’re a person who likes to do things D. I Y., this could be a great channel to pay attention to!
Lows:
Mark! Stop forgetting things mate! Maybe you cook too much on aluminum or tin (Alzheimers). Stay away from the soft metals.

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

MotorcycleAdventures:

 

Pavlin hails from Bulgaria and hosted most of his videos from his newly adopted location of Germany. He is a world adventure traveler who has spent many tens of thousands of kilometers on both little explored paved and unpaved roads from Mongolia, Eastern Europe into many other places. Many current adventure riders can thank Pavlin for endeavoring many rugged routes which are now paved roads because of his courage and stamina. He is an exceptional storyteller through the use of film and excellent photography.
Think you got what it takes to travel like Pavlin? Sure you do! He’s already been there, shown you how and paved the way- literally! Prepare to learn.

Highs:
Everything! His more recent laid-back touring of his re-adopted home country of Bulgaria (This should be a rentable movie series on Bulgaria alone).
Lows:
None. It’s time to Man-up or Woman-up: what’s your excuse?

 

 

 

Mark Pulling:

A returning Motovlogger/Reviewer who comes from the south of England. Mark is here to give it to you straight. No super crazy camera angles, cheesy music, wild eyed endorsements or product placement here thank you very much! It’s just our host, his riding knowledge, opinions and familiar territory which makes this channel refreshing. Mark will often give you a tiny detail or factoid which you, the possible bike buyer, might not have considered. We recommend checking to see his opinion/review of a bike before many. He does not have a million reviews under his belt. Like so many Youtubers, we imagine, he must balance a career or day job until more moto opportunities spill his way.

Highs:
More recently providing us with the seat height and profile view of himself on the bike in review. Hey! Mark is showing his face! It reveals that he has a great passion for bikes and it shows!
Lows:
Don’t try to make your channel too “Cool”. Keep to one opening and stick with it Mark. We like your honesty and simplicity.

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

TheRoyalJordanian:

Think you know how to lane split? No you don’t. But The Royal Jordanian does! A daring and talented motorcycle rider from London UK, our host will take you on a fast paced blast through the city streets on his commute to and from work in the city. The best part is his “Taking the Piss” out of the goofy pedestrians as they react to his variously “Brappy” and classic motorcycles.

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Highs:

This man is a superstar! The amount of people he has inspired, alone, to ride motorcycles either by watching his channel or encountering him on his favorite bikes while on the street: if monetized fairly, should have made this gentleman a multimillionaire already!
Sidenote: The Industry is putting money in the wrong places….

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

 

DelboysGarage:

Before the days of “Strikes Against” and motovloggers attempting to make Youtube into careers, there were vloggers who actually just wanted to show others how to do things! Enter Derek or “Del” of Delboy’s Garage. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to fix your motorcycle by hand, this quite possibly may be the very best place to start!
Undo your bias for, perhaps, a super slick and sterile dealership type of motorcycle garage and watch how a single and very independently creative mechanic shows you how you can do many things for your bike completely on your own. He likes to do his own motorcycle rebuilds and customizations as well! Dell also knows how to keep things cheap! Pro mechanics are jealous …..but secretly still watch….

Highs:
Question and answer sessions with Dyson!
Lows:
We miss Penny

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Motogeo:

See Jamie ride, see Jamie cook, see Jamie smile, see Jamie camp and see Jamie take his shirt off……. Yes this is mostly a motorcycle lifestyle/travel type of channel. It is not here to provoke thought or to make you agonize over a future bike purchasing decision!

Not unlike Bear Gryls, Jamie quietly expects you to suspend your disbelief (Or be absorbed in very great moto photography) as the hidden camera person is often experiencing the same great and often outdoor locations as he is while reviewing cool motorcycles and gear. Jamie’s love of Motorcycles is palpable and forever infectious!

If you can get over the fact that this gifted rider from the UK will never break the “Fourth Wall” and allow you, the viewer, to experience a real person within- Jamie will, however, take you for a hell of a ride!

Highs:

Jamie’s trips to Columbia, Thailand and Japan! We never wanted to visit Columbia until this video! This rider and his toddler son on the back of a Ducati Scrambler 800 (Video Gold).

Jamie’s father visits from the UK and gets a ride in a Ural- hilarious! Once in a while a REAL Jamie comes through getting ticked off or espousing the benefits of lane filtering in Southern California.

Lows:
Always product placement. Always semi naked Jamie placement…

 

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Gakimoto:

Hailing from the Philippines, Gakimoto is a chick who is only 5 foot two and can probably ride better than you! Whether she is showing off a demo bike or out riding one of her own favorite steeds from home, “Gakimoto” will let you know why she loves the bikes she loves! This is desperately important to our smaller statured riders or our girl riders who want to ride the biggest bike that they can comfortably!

Highs:

Gakimoto visiting the U.S. and comparison between Ninja 400 and RC 390. Her all girl rides (Girls can RIDE!) and her visits to Motorcycle Events.

Lows:
Tiny girl graphics can get old! Come on Gaki! You have got what it takes to be a serious motorcycle journalist/reviewer world renowned!

 


(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

LambchopRides:

This man deserves all the attention he gets. And, if Youtube monetization was forthcoming, Lambchops would be worth multi-millions!
Beginning a few years back by rebuilding a used Honda Fireblade right down to its electronics and every bolt, John- our host, took himself to uncomfortable mechanical depths so that WE didn’t have to! This garnered him quite a bit of local motorcycle magazine attention and soon he decided to trim his beard, stand upright, smile for the camera and make his “Curtain Twitching” neighbors cringe as he would wheelie by on super-motos. He is a natural, likeable and forgivable ham!

Highlights:
Everything.
Lows:
His subscribership should be huge. We feel that, perhaps, living within a tattle-tale environment such as the UK has garnered secret strikes against his channel, IP and his channel is kept on a choke. Like so many, John must balance work and Moto-Video life simultaneously.

 

 

 

NothingToProve:

 

Scott Werner, Is an Ex-Pat living and working with his family within Germany. Not unlike Mark Pulling (Also referenced in this article), Scott wants to give his audience the real skinny, straight without the unnecessary bufoonery and machismo. It’s just Scott and the bikes he reviews. Combine this with knowledge, good taste, patience, great camera coverage and a refreshing taste in music as well as environment…..well there is “Nothing” stopping Scott but his brakes from being one of the better trusted reviewers out there!

Highs:
Scott’s Alps trips and the few times he offers riding tips. Also his re-visit to the Indian FTR 1200. YOU know when Scott likes a bike!
Lows:
Seeing Scott have a hiccup around a first-time corner on the electric Zero bike. How many reviewers are we going to see almost dish-it or get killed on these stupid electric things! Take care Scott!

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

 

Fortnine:

This channel could be the most cinematic experience that one may experience on Youtube. Throw in the fact that the story lines, products reviewed and film work are mostly done by two people, namely- Ryan and his behind-the-scenes cinematographer/director ‘Dnesh (Could be ‘Gnesh). Instead of figuring out what retailer this channel is connected to, why not just watch and realize that this dynamic duo are encouraged to say what they wish, be as creative as they can and…..allowed to express themselves and their greatness! Refreshing, whether corporately sponsored or not.

 

(All original images are the properties of the original site and channel creators, manipulations used herein for illustration purposes only)

Highlights:
There are NO Lowlights! Just watch it! (Even non-moto-heads do!)