Why aren't younger generations buying motorcycles?

Рет қаралды 64,490

2 ай бұрын

Have you ever wondered why younger generations seem to be steering away from the thrill of riding motorcycles? Join me in my investigation as I delve into the factors behind this intriguing trend. From shifting cultural attitudes to economic considerations and the rise of alternative modes of transportation, we uncover the reasons behind the decline in motorcycle ownership among millennials and Gen Z.
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@essexboydave 2 ай бұрын

Lack of interest from the younger generation plus the age restriction on licensing and the outstandingly high cost of it all

@chrishart8548 2 ай бұрын

The licence doesn't even upgrade over time it always requires a test . A1 A2 A most people don't even know whether to wait or what test to do.

@oldasfolk-km1ov 2 ай бұрын

in the UK...

@chrishart8548 2 ай бұрын

@@oldasfolk-km1ov well the lovely Saffy is in the UK after all.

@oldasfolk-km1ov 2 ай бұрын

@@chrishart8548 really? I thought the kentucky accent put her in Australia! :)

@danielduke5059 Ай бұрын

I agree they have almost outlawed young riders, it's a shame although you can still get on 2 wheels but on a 125 with L plates it's better than no bike in my opinion but unfortunately I think it is down to cost more than anything, whether it be just getting your licence in the first or even purchasing a half decent and for some emission compliant which has made it very expensive and hard to find a bike you want at the right price, the big on is choice if they want a car which again costs a fortune now if you want something 10 years old used plus insurance which is eye watering for young drivers, young people want newer fashionable cars and bikes nowadays, when I started at 16 I paid 125 for a mbx 125 which for whatever reason was registered as a 50cc, my Dad got me an AR 125 for my 17th birthday and that blew up after 3 months 😂 and I ended up getting myself a SR125 which was indestructible! My Dad cot me a 1973 beetle whe I was 14/15 years old and we worked on it for years so it was sort of road worthy the insurance for that was £1500 for the year back then 22 years ago! There are some younger people out there that are willing to get an cheaper older bike and car do some work kn it themselves to get it on the road but most now aren't interested in the work they just want a plug in and play ready to go vehicle so it will definitely make it harder for them if they want it they can get it, the licence Is the only bit they can't work around which is a shame as I had to wait until 21 before I could do my full test I think I could have done a restricted licence that not sure if correct on not once I hit 21 would become a full licence or I'd have to take another test? I know now it is much harder higher age and you have the mod 1 and 2 to do so yeah I reckon that's the big issue! Unfortunately they don't make much money from bikers so they just make it harder to get a licence

@davidzamorski4977 Ай бұрын

People driving cars texting is the biggest danger

@AvesZephyros Ай бұрын

People in cars will always be a bigger danger just by looking at numbers. It doesn't take away from the fact that when you decide to sit on a motorcycle, you must be a hundred percent aware of what you're getting yourself into - or onto, in this case.

@07szim Ай бұрын

Zombies

@Polskmofo Ай бұрын

Lane splitting at 70+ mph expecting people in their cars to have eyes in the back of their head is more dangerous

@rumporridge1 Ай бұрын

@@Polskmofolane splitting has little to do with the current state of idiot drivers.

@Polskmofo Ай бұрын

@@rumporridge1 ya ok bud.

@Spacejunk57 2 ай бұрын

I've been riding something with 2 wheels and a motor since 1972. Most my family think motorcycles are dangerous, I just can't give them up. It just gives me a huge sense of freedom.

@Kornholeeoo Ай бұрын

Same here. Started riding in 1972.

@Robert-xs2mv Ай бұрын

Give up what, the bike or the family? Everything we do has an aspect of danger, even getting out of bed is dangerous

@kurfsolb Ай бұрын

Once you fall for motorbikes, you can't just turn it off. Anybody who's passionate about riding a bike says that.

@marksaunderson3042 Ай бұрын

I have owned 2 cars in my life. Note: have, not do. I have owned 5 motorcycles in my life, and still have 2 of them. My job qualifies for a company car. No thanks, I’ll pass on that.

@myelomabiker9637 2 ай бұрын

They ride electric push bikes , just as fast as mopeds but no insurance , gear and no number plate to tie them to an address

@kevindarkstar 2 ай бұрын

True 50cc is dying in the sale figures massive drop in the figures

@chrishart8548 2 ай бұрын

50cc bikes were teterrible that year was hell. All the cars overtaking all the time was so dangerous I don't know why I bothered

@davidrochow9382 Ай бұрын

No testing either.

@lucywucyyy Ай бұрын

and?

@SeattleForge 2 ай бұрын

I'm 54 years old and apparently the average age of a rider in the US. Biking is so much more expensive than it used to be. It's not just the bike, it's all the gear you're expected to have now. My last helmet alone cost more than my first bike.

@youngeroldie5089 2 ай бұрын

I Can believe that my first bike was £225 and yes the same price as a medium range helmet. Thanks for sharing ride safe.

@nealeburgess6756 2 ай бұрын

Biking doesn't have to be expensive. I have just got home from a fabulous holiday in Morocco on my 36 year old BMW K75. Owned and used it extensively for the last 16 years. I bought it after it had been neglected in a garage for 7 years for 150€. There are plenty of good bikes available for less than 2,000 pounds. You just need to think outside of the box.

@letmeoffthisplanet6208 2 ай бұрын

Yer right there mind,my first bike back in the 80's was a honda cg125,£80 i paid for that.. My new lid was over £400.

@youngeroldie5089 2 ай бұрын

@@nealeburgess6756 Hi, yes there are some bargains about. Biking in Morocco sounds like a good adventure Thanks for sharing ride safe

@JFS65 2 ай бұрын

Respectfully disagree that the phenomenon is primarily cost-related. Royal Enfield, CF Moto and now Triumph with its new lineup of 400cc bikes are offering excellent inexpensive options for beginners and experienced riders alike. And riding gear has never been better or cheaper. In my opinion the main reason is the “danger stigma”(which is real), particularly with the rise of highly risk-averse generations starting with millennial’s (I know that won’t be popular). In some ways, this is reinforced by the stats; a precipitous YoY increase in motorcycle deaths here in the US (despite the reality that the increase is due to a combo of impaired riding and rider error). Better rider education, more PSAs protecting motorcyclists, continued manufacturing of economical bikes combined with REQUIRED motorcycle education and adoption of the UK Model stepped licensing mandate would help to increase ridership in the long-run.

@lawterian Ай бұрын

It’s not that there isn’t interest, or that there’s a lack of safety, it’s the insurance. I’m 24 starting to get into it and I’m being quoted £3000 for a new 125 in London. They’re worried about the bike theft here so instead they steal from us directly.

@ernststeiner6097 Ай бұрын

43 year old German here. I Drive Motorcycles since 1997. I payed 850 Deutschmark/Year vor my First 125cc Bike. Drive a Suzi Bandit 1200 (1998) right now. Tax/Year 85€, Insurence/Year 300€ Bmw 740i e38 (1996) Tax/Year 285€ , Insurence/Year 930€.....

@gcanaday1 Ай бұрын

I am in the US. My insurance on a 2002 Kawasaki is $75/year. You are all being gouged.

@lawterian Ай бұрын

@@gcanaday1 Indeed we are

@doghous3 Ай бұрын

Insurance is crazy. I live in Brighton - soon to move - and picked a small town to test quotes and the insurance was halved! Bike thefts are crazy common.

@lucywucyyy Ай бұрын

try not living in london id rather die than go back there

@TRISTRAMY 2 ай бұрын

Getting a license is so expensive and time consuming. Not to mention insurance. The way the world’s gone having a bike is a luxury many young people can’t afford.

@steve00alt70 2 ай бұрын

even if young people won the lottery they would'nt buy a motorcycle it would not even register in their mind.

@oldasfolk-km1ov 2 ай бұрын

not everywhere...

@joshuamorin2762 Ай бұрын

Not here in the USA. I insure my motorcycle with full coverage for $250 per year. The issue I see is pricing of motorcycles. Early 2000s I could buy a brand new bike for 5-7,000. Now most 600+ cc motorcycles are tens of thousands of dollars. A 2024 zx6r starts just under $12,000. NON ABS model!(In the USA) Back in 2005 the same bike was just over $8,000. You could get a nice low milage used bike for 2-5,000 no problem. Now 5k will get you an old, high mileage bike that doesn't have much life left in it. Or one that was wrecked and patchworked back together.

@TheLiamis Ай бұрын

People also don't like anything that's not cotton wool these days. You need to be a bit outdoorsy and ruged to ride in brittain especially where it rains d 95% of the year. People today cry if their microcosmoteenyfrapuchino is 1⁰ too warm or cold.

@TRISTRAMY Ай бұрын

@@steve00alt70 possibly correct, the other thing i forgot was the level of crime in cities where it makes sense to have a bike, any bike not locked in a garage is now almost 100% getting nicked.

@ios_lu 2 ай бұрын

In London I see a lot of young folks riding illegal electric bikes, with throttle, going above the max allowed speed (15mph) and certainly with engine above the legal limit. They are usually riding on pavement, crossing red lights, with nothing but reckless behaviour. These illegal conversion kits can be bought on Amazon very cheap, they don't have to pay insurance, license, fines, tax, anything, and there seems to not be punished by authorities. Same for e-scooters. Whereas motorcycle access is expensive, complex, over-regulated, demands liability, and overall it's not appealing anymore.

@BeanieBiker_AutisticRider 2 ай бұрын

Same over here in Jersey 🇯🇪 the police have cracked down on them now, they now confiscate and crush them 😁👍

@tommaguzzi1723 Ай бұрын

I was going to say the same but you covered everything

@neilgill2269 Ай бұрын

Patrickdoak, hit the nail on the head, I was born in 1949,been riding since I was 16, wife died, daughters left home, dog died, rode solos,trikes,side cars, when I Jump on a Motorcycle, I'm a teenager again! I rode sidecars as a Kid, The record for carrying folks,was 5, A friend of mine had an solid wooden door,bolted to his outfit, He could pick up Brocken down bikes, and carry more people, Any body remember the BSA. M21 side valve!! Just bought a HD road king, with big, fuck off,sidecar attached, I love ❤️ it, I lost mates on bikes, shit happens, One good appo, survived two awful bike crashes, and died in a car crash,I realise i lived as a teenager,through different times, No helmet law! Demin & baseball boots, wellington boots, with fishermans socks rolled over the top! The arrogance of youth! But I won't stop riding,till you prise the bars,from my cold dead hands! I've heard that before, P. S. The government heard motorcycles are fun, soo they'll bust their bollox, to stop it! P.P.S I notice a growing band of women on bikes, what man wouldn't!! You can't beat a woman in leathers, sorry folks getting carried away,again, I'll stop now.

@helmutsimon8788 Ай бұрын

Younger generations aren’t buying ANYTHING anymore! No motorcycles, no cars, no houses, no HiFi equipment, no books, no flowers etc). Partly because they were told, mostly by gigantic US tech firms, that “sharing econony” is the new god… Good night and good luck, Gen-Z.

@jamesbazel3384 Ай бұрын

No drive or ambition , most of the guys I work with that are in their 20s still live at home with mom and dad.

@lucywucyyy Ай бұрын

in case you havnt noticed grampas we are poor as fuck were never going to even be able to own where we live

@steve00alt70 Ай бұрын

@@jamesbazel3384 there are many factors other than money why they are living with parents

@robertdrinkall8947 Ай бұрын

Indeed, some of course can't afford things, maybe no job, no hope. Many young people are content with Just a smartphone for entertainment. Times have changed over the years.🤔

@juliandestroyer8308 Ай бұрын

Not all of us, I don’t live with my parents and bought my 1999 gxsr 750 that I have fixed for years now since I was 19. I get the point cause honestly I see how other people my age have no essence and yea the stupid entitlement people but there are some of us who are cool too even though very rare and few to come by.

@Normanskie 2 ай бұрын

One major factor is in 2021, 21.7% (5.4 million) of households were in a flat, maisonette or apartment, up from 21.0% (4.9 million) in 2011. So over the years there have been more apartments where you cannot move UNLESS you have access to a garage or secure lock-up.

@bearwolffish 2 ай бұрын

We are putting so much friction between someone's desire and their ability to actually explore a motorbike. Between the legal and financial red tape required to own and insure one, very restrictive laws and speed limits, coupled with no where to legally explore the arts of wheelies or get lost in the mud. If you don't have a link with private land, or a house in a nice area with a garage attached, you need to be grown with a good job to even think about it. Kind of feels like long range personal transport is being phased out, new generations will be sold on scrapping that freedom to save the planet, while sea stay filled with tankers transporting the plastics for that ebike they can only purchase through subscription.

@lch337 2 ай бұрын

My nephew started riding a bike in his mid 20's, mainly because his dad (my brother) used to ride in his early 20's and good ole Uncle Lee has been riding for 40+ years. But he never quite found the bike he was looking for. He had this image of riding on empty roads into the sunset on a hog. The journey started well, he got his CBT, bought a little chinese bike (which I suggested he steer clear of), which promptly fell to pieces. So he bought a Yamaha MT 125, which he dropped (short legs), then a Yamaha SR 125 (too slow) then gave up & bought a car as it was cheaper. He had a dream but like a lot of people, he was too impatient & wasn't really prepared to put in the work to realise his dream, especially when he could take his car test for a lot less & jump into a nice shiny Mini to sit in traffic jams on his way to work.

@phased3941 Ай бұрын

Wow the comparison to me literally right now is interesting. I did my driving test passed, and got a mini too. Then a month later decided to I wanted to get a motorbike after having a bit of a background with Ebikes. I got a shit 125 brand. The bike currently needs to be repaired, and my mot for the car comes up next month with it having some issues that also need sorting, so there's a few barriers for sure for biking That being said for me, riding has been some of the best days of my life, cars are fun, but bikes are just on another level, so even if I have to leave it for a few months, I'll definitly be getting that full liscence and a bigger bike when I can 🙏

@LeeKirkman88 2 ай бұрын

Because they all use electric scooters. Its become too expensive to tax and insure etc..insurance is extortionate for young people. You buy a cheap first bike and the insurance is more than the bikes worth.

@kimriley2491 2 ай бұрын

Excellent!

@user-gm4kv2my4u Ай бұрын

that and you can bring your e scooter into your apartment. Sadly bikes are ez pz theft targets if you can't keep it in a garage.

@thepodbaydoorshal 2 ай бұрын

The cost of getting a license and then a bike is prohibitively expensive for young people.

@midlife-crysis 2 ай бұрын

And insurance is extremely high now

@qtronicqilt8898 2 ай бұрын

You can start slow, break the license down in little steps, it will take time but you can do it. Go through the motions as you pass each step at a time and see every step as a milestone, stick with it! QQ.

@animal79thecat 2 ай бұрын

How come they are all driving BMWs Mercs and Audis then? Cos thats all I see

@thepodbaydoorshal 2 ай бұрын

@@qtronicqilt8898 have had mine for a few years now and acquired it over the course of a few months but either way it’s really expensive for something that is a passion / luxury rather than a need.

@steve00alt70 2 ай бұрын

its never been about money they are just too whimpy and scared

@robertdrinkall8947 2 ай бұрын

Too expensive now, not just the bikes, but all the gear & insurance. 😞

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

😭 just not the same anymore

@dallasdandigitalproduction393 Ай бұрын

It's not. You just don't want to buy anything used

@Robert-xs2mv Ай бұрын

@@dallasdandigitalproduction393used insurance, such as novel idea.

@dallasdandigitalproduction393 Ай бұрын

@@Robert-xs2mv I was referring to bikes, helmets, jackets ,boots. This is a LOT less expensive than purchasing a car. Even insurance can be less expensive depending on your bike, age and other factors. The point was that price shouldn't be a deterrent to riding.

@Robert-xs2mv Ай бұрын

@@dallasdandigitalproduction393 ditch the used helmet, never ever. I still have all my old boots, not sure anyone would want to buy them. Might just donate them to the salvos.

@SloboloboVFR 2 ай бұрын

I recently sold an SV650 to a young lad who had got his full license. His BEST insurance quote was over £2.5k, less than the cost of the bike itself.

@kimriley2491 2 ай бұрын

Great! That is one efficient way to get rid of old pollutant technology once and for all.

@snakeman9902 2 ай бұрын

@@kimriley2491Huh?

@SloboloboVFR 2 ай бұрын

@@snakeman9902 I think they mean companies pricing out new drivers/riders is good. So they have to buy one of those super affordable EV`s that often cost way more to insure or something...

@snakeman9902 2 ай бұрын

@@SloboloboVFR No problem my friend I was looking for the poster to elaborate, as it appears, they are saying ..ICE vehicles need to go, because of their pollution, which was a ridiculous statement to make, especially if they are claiming , EVs are better for the environment..

@mookyzook 2 ай бұрын

@@kimriley2491 You wait till you try to get insurance for an EV if you think this is a deterrent.

@No-1.In.Particular Ай бұрын

I don’t know about other countries, but in America, there are far too many people texting & driving nowadays. Also there are times where a car is just the better option, like driving in the rain or grocery shopping.

@lucywucyyy Ай бұрын

americans shouldnt be allowed to discuss transport

@alexandrecerqueira3023 Ай бұрын

Hello. I am Brazilian and a motorcyclist. I watched a KZfaq video (unfortunately without English subtitles) very similar to yours, where the KZfaqr presented arguments about the current lack of interest among young people not only in motorcycles but in vehicles in general. I'm not young and grew up in a time when young people from my social class had and loved vehicles. It was a common topic of conversation in bars and gatherings, where we discussed engines, accessories, driving, and exchanged experiences. However, I noticed that today's young people do not seem as interested, and I don't think it's because they inherently lack interest. The fundamental argument for this loss of interest is the overall rise in costs, from obtaining a driving licence to the prices of cars and motorcycles, as well as maintenance. There has been a loss of purchasing power in the social class I belong to, and today's prices are so high in comparison that the average young person loses interest. I found it great that you touched on this point, because this makes me very worried about the future.

@sufeeb 2 ай бұрын

It’s such a shame, when I was a teenager it was Fizzy’s, AP50’s….a first taste of freedom. Then you’d graduate to a 250 and take your test before getting a bigger bike. It was like a rite of passage. The age demographic is a lot older today, probably in part due to cost….but maybe there’s just not there used to be.

@Carsonktm420 2 ай бұрын

Fizzy was the first bike I ever rode

@stephenpotts8170 2 ай бұрын

Hi Saffy, enjoyed your tongue in cheek view on declining motorcycle sales, myself I'm towards the end of my wonderful motorcycling years, riding on the road since 1972 only having a short break while my two daughters grew up. You are right with the stat's but on the road there appears to be more bikes on the road than for a long time, and what a wonderful family is the motorcycling world, always available to help should you need it, I'm just trying to stay fit and healthy to keep doing what as given me enormous pleasure through my life. Thank you Saffy you are an amazing young Lady.

@mengaw-yong2490 2 ай бұрын

All points are valid 58 yrs old riding for 31 yrs and one claim and my insurance keeps going up ? Where is the transparency or insurance companies profits. 10m live in London which is too expensive for many to insure. Not enough being done to catch bike thieves and the tests lack of availability makes it hard for many

@MyFaithShines Ай бұрын

well, i was born in the 90s - am i still younger generation?😅 additionally im from europe and not the US Why aren't we buying motorcycles? - no money for license - no money for motorbike - no money for garage - no money for repairing it in the workshop and no garage for repairing it myself - expensive petrol, checks, repairs and stuff - riding it is not so easy (clutch and complicated operating) - all neighbours are mad cuz its loud - can be dangerous riding among very fast, modern cars nowadays its much more convienent to buy an e-bike to cruise around the city - no fuel, no license, no inspections, no garage needed, no clutch, ease of use, silent, literally almost nothing can break in electric motor, you can go everywhere using it and even pack it to bus, tram or train, you can ride on the bike lane which makes it far safer than going on the road with cars

@TheTundercat222 Ай бұрын

💯💯

@MajorDrama1 Ай бұрын

Pathetic

@mervwhitney7229 2 ай бұрын

Saffy, I agree with the points you raise in the video and would add a few other reasons. It is a long time since people like you and I routinely did their own servicing. Some parents have never serviced a car let alone a bike and they can't pass on the skill to their offspring. It's hard to service modern bikes loaded with gizmos. High servicing costs. The risk of theft and the subsequent penalty imposed by insurers after claiming for a bike theft (I know from my own experience) The UK weather has been atrocious in recent years, most recently the last 7 months.October to April. Standing charges whether bike used or not- Insurance, batteries and MoT. Bike Tyres cost more than for a car and it's cheaper to run a small car than a bike. The car has a roof and a heater! The poor state of the road surface and it's getting worse. I have owned bikes for 50years so I can relate to these issues. Stay safe

@FastRuffneck Ай бұрын

Great commentary. 100% agree with the cost, reputation and identity. From having a field bike at the age of 9, having a bike was a right of passage in the 70's and 80's ... I will have one for as long as I can stay upright!

@TheYorkie1954 2 ай бұрын

just popped out today to buy new tyres, frightening cost but fantastic yo be out in the spring sunshine. will never give up biking

@shauncarlton5563 Ай бұрын

Glad you are speaking to the broader issues around ridership. I am in Canada, and a quick scan of the interwebs shows that both North American ridership and sales are all trending upwards and showing growth. I have been riding for decades and I am glad to see brands like RE and CFMoto working hard to offer decent and affordable bikes to ensure new riders keep signing up like we could back then. Insurance as an industry needs looking into for sure, vehicles, houses and travel have all been trending the wrong way. As Orwell said "Four wheels good, two wheels better!" Great topic.

@dionne8837 Ай бұрын

Motorcycle safety - the gear helps but is not the critical thing. the critical thing is getting skills up and learning what to watch for and where to position on the road will prevent the accidents in the first place

@silverdale3207 Ай бұрын

Reminds me of a story I heard of a young guy asking whats the best thing to buy for his bike to make it ride better, old guy told him to buy a jerry can of gas and go practice.

@johnlesoudeur3653 Ай бұрын

State of the UK roads is appalling with killer pot holes.

@john-wq8kf 2 ай бұрын

It’s easy I’m seventy eight I passed my test in 1964 bikes, fuel, insurance and of course maintenance was cheap or at least my first bikes were. Now wow high teens into the twenties are the prices of bikes insurance is higher than I can remember it now it’s a major part of the bike purchase. It’s good that the Chinese are putting together some reasonably priced bikes so maybe we will see some young guys and gals getting into biking that way

@user-fv1576 2 ай бұрын

Excellent video . Great format . Keep up the good work 👍🏻

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

Much appreciated!

@kevintyler7900 2 ай бұрын

I do like this new(?) format. You are very eloquent and a great ambassador for motorcycling. Keep going Saffy.

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

🥰 thank you so much 😊

@trevjones1315 2 ай бұрын

Hats off to people like you and Henry Cole who have done more for biking since Barry Sheene. I do a lot of old school bike rallies and the average age of people must be at least 50. Nice video saffy. 👍

@lajo70 Ай бұрын

I'm 53, have been ridin since my 20's and still is. I really like your channel bcs your honesty and courage. Keep it up!❤ Ok, on topic then.. Only one celebrity comes to mind as a genuine biker. Keane Reeves!🤘🏼😊

@mikek882 Ай бұрын

When I think of how easy it was for me to pass my test compared to the current test. Great video. A break from your usual, in a good way. More of this👌

@JeroenvanKleef 2 ай бұрын

In the Netherlands motorcycle sales have actually been rising since covid and the last year even more. First due to people didn’t have much to do so they got a bike to be able to get out there. And later due to the increase of traffic jams a motorcycle can be a good time saver commuting to work and back.

@NatsWright 2 ай бұрын

Very interesting subject, having come back to biking after a 4 year absence, I bought my first modern bike and after getting back in to bike culture, was surprised how many affordable bikes are around these days. From the triumph speed 400, to the Himalayan 450, you can pick up a new bike that's super fun for under 6 grand! Oddly I see more bikes these days and I've been riding on and off since 1990 lol. Bike gear is very much better these days, and dare I say it, trendy? But for youngsters, its expensive. I remember picking up a shiny new 1991 RD 350LC, it cost £2999, and I bought it new. At the time I was earning around £9000 per annum and was just qualified after my apprenticeship. I got into biking from my work colleges, well, one guy called George, who was a 50 year old biker with a love for an old R90 BMW boxer, so I kind of bucked the trend a little as I'm the only biker in the family. However my daughter is certainly interested in bikes! I guess we fix this with the social aspect of biking. Creators such as yourself do an amazing job of spreading the word of just how much fun and adventure can be had on a bike. I guess its something a focused group of creators could tackle together, a UK bike tour to raise awareness of biking? Thanks for your thoughts, this is a great video and very thought provoking

@kct9967 2 ай бұрын

My kids and their freinds have done a deep dive into 70s style choppers, and stunt harleys, they're constantly working on their or there friends is kinda cool to watch!

@bento_travel 2 ай бұрын

Hi Saffi. I think that the main reason it that younger generations live more online and less face to face. That doesn't give them need of traveling as much as we always did and grown to love. The "ancient" social media was a group of friends face to face and for that you needed to go out. And the motorcycle helped a lot.

@kaylep6135 Ай бұрын

Great video - very insightful. Im 28 and started riding at 16 and was sad to see how few people my age ride. I think the costs and ultimately utility are the biggest issue. When I was a single student it was easy to live with just a bike but with a wife and child you need a car. At that point the bike loses its utility so you have to weigh up its value when your bank balance is tight. Sad but given how car prices continue to soar maybe the utility value argument will become more relevant

@DLowe-ms7wt 2 ай бұрын

Great subject Thanks for bringing it up.

@EvilGav 2 ай бұрын

Motorbiking licencing can start at 16, but because of how they've altered the bike licences, it's become less attractive. To get an unlimited licence takes a CBT, and an A2 licence (which you cant get until you are 19), after 2 years on the A2 licence, you can then take the full licence. So, it's not possible to have a full licence at less than 21 years old. Compare that to a car licence - pass your test at 17 and drive what you want (if you have the money). Systematic government rule changes have made the lure of bikes less and less for younger riders. Now, compare that to the even younger generation - how many kids do you see that grin when a bike goes past or signal you to rev the engine? Loads. So the delight is still there, it's killed by reality. The real killer is cost. Bikes are stolen at an alarming rate in the UK (about 3% stolen annually, compared to about 0.3% of cars), and aren't recovered as often - it's a lot easier to hide a stolen bike than a car. Insurance is crippling without a garage and most younger people don't have access to a garage, unless they live at home - where most parents will forbid them from getting a bike. As for deaths on bikes, they actually peak at 18 and drop off year on year - lending weight to the adage "there are old bikers and there are bold bikers, there are no old, bold bikers". But that somewhat misses the point anyway, because those stats always get compared to car drivers, who unsurprisingly die considerably less than bikers, however pedestrian deaths are around double biker deaths, and nobody says people should stop walking!!

@qtronicqilt8898 2 ай бұрын

A lot more people are walking than riding motorbikes however! "however pedestrian deaths are around double biker deaths, and nobody says people should stop walking" Your not looking at the statistics or probability rate correctly. QQ.

@brucecurtis6281 2 ай бұрын

⁠most accidents happen at home! Most people die in hospital. Dangerous places! A third of marriages end in divorce…which reveals that two thirds end in death! Which would you prefer?

@oldasfolk-km1ov 2 ай бұрын

obviously thats because people are just more smooshy on your side of the pond....environmentally friendly but not build to last... :)

@theyorkbiker.8214 2 ай бұрын

Well put together and tought out,older rider here(58)as i do my daily commute filtering past hundreds of cars in traffic i often wonder where all the bikes are?i can't think of anything worse than been stuck in traffic going to work in a morning. ❤❤

@silverdale3207 Ай бұрын

Went for an joyride yesterday,about 100km round trip and only passed one other bike, gave each other a big wave. Mind you it was pretty cold as nearly winter where I am.

@ThornyA_D39 Ай бұрын

Me and a friend did a tour from Germany to venice, italy. We were the only 19 year olds. Everyone was at least older than 40. it kinda suprised me since its such a nice hobby.

@weddincoyote2440 Ай бұрын

I have had 2 offs. One were I broke my elbow at 5 mph. I yanked the front brake during slow speed maneuver practice. Second was also my fault. I lost concentration after 4h on the road for a millisecond. I hit the curb at 45 mph and went down. Mostly bruising. Very lucky. I still love bikes and still ride. I have the bike prepped for the abr and will be riding from Scotland. Though I will be taking more breaks.

@rhithym Ай бұрын

I'm part of the "younger generation" and own my own motorcycle. This has nothing to do with generational differences in interests, "phone dependency" as some idiot boomers seem to throw around in the comments, or any shift in the cultural zeitgeist. It all literally boils down to one very simple answer: WE'RE ALL POOR AND STRUGGLING TO SURVIVE! Half of the young generation I know are living at home to support their family and save money, the other half are moved out and literally fighting for their lives in this horrible rising rent/housing crisis. I'm of the latter, but it's not easy nor financially "smart" for me to own anything other than a beater vehicle to commute. I'm just a dumb kid who refuses to sell my bike cuz I love the hobby so much, but make no mistake, motorcycling has priced itself into the luxury hobby category for many young folk.

@gk73man51 2 ай бұрын

Stupid stepped licensing laws. If I had to wait while 24 to ride something that would pull the skin off a rice pudding I wouldn’t bother either. Back in the day I had owned two 100bhp plus bikes by the time I was 20 years old. 47bhp wouldn’t have cut it I’m afraid. You can see why it’s so tempting to pass your car test and get a relatively fruity car on PCP rather than muck around doing two lots of bike tests, having to ride something you don’t really want between said tests and you still get cold and wet. I think kids getting a full licence these days are those that are bike mad from an early age, probably from parents influence or racing.

@kevindarkstar 2 ай бұрын

Exactly

@JeroenvanKleef 2 ай бұрын

Yeah, they should also introduce this for cars :) it’s because the brain is only matured at age 24, before that it can’t do a good risk assessment. But why only for motorcyclists and not car drivers. I guess mostly because people drive their parents cars first and it would be impossible to impose. Bikes are more personal transportation.

@chrishart8548 2 ай бұрын

Even if you do the CBT at 16 it runs out when you are 18 (2years) can't even do the A2 until 19 there's a problem straight away.

@kevindarkstar 2 ай бұрын

@@JeroenvanKleef and why not limit the amount of power new car drivers can use for say 2 years

@JeroenvanKleef 2 ай бұрын

@@kevindarkstar yes, that would be nice. But a lot of young drivers drive there parents car first for a few years or so. Specially with insurance and car prices so high these days.

@brettmiller3246 Ай бұрын

In my city, there’s tons of kids riding. They’re zooming around town on Surrons and other EVs. The problem is they’re riding on sidewalks at speeds approaching 30mph and not observing traffic laws. Oh, and they’re only SOMETIMES wearing a bicycle helmet.

@alastairtheduke Ай бұрын

Surrons are the new motorcycles for youong people

@davepcx Ай бұрын

I suspect there is an element of risk aversion as well ... some folks are terrified of their shadows 🙂

@peterparsons3297 Ай бұрын

65 now ive ridden a bike since i was 16. took my test same week i turned 17. if the test had been as complicated, expensive and took so long i just wouldn't have bothered. speaking to a girl who has a full bike licence and a licence for a light aircraft... her comments were interesting and that it was easer cheaper to learn to fly

@erezyoal Ай бұрын

Thank you for talking about This important subject

@simontaylor305 2 ай бұрын

Hi Saffy, I'm 48yrs young and I'll be all over North Wales this weekend on my tenere700 👍

@BigYouDog Ай бұрын

I'm 74 and have had to sell my last bike as health problems have taken over. Until Covid, we used to two-up tour the Alpes every summer, and I would do a couple of solo trips abroad, in spring and autumn. The thing that would stand out was the lack of 20 to 30-somethings doing the same, it was nearly always the middle-aged on the Eurostar or ferry going by motorbike to somewhere other than the beach. Also, this bank holiday weekend the BSB T.V. coverage was reduced, why? it was the snooker final. It seems that bike racing coverage is always dumped, or cut short for a "sport" involving a ball, or in this case, balls.

@DJAssassinz Ай бұрын

Motorcycles have always been considered luxury toys where I'm from and most people couldn't afford it. With that being said, I just bought a 24 Indian Scout Rogue in black smoke and she is gorgeous

@0Zolrender0 Ай бұрын

I have been riding motorbikes of some kind since 1985. I have been riding a sports bike as my daily commute since 1992. My family hate me love for motorbikes but I will never give them up.

@zweispurmopped 2 ай бұрын

I can only speak for Germany, it's been ages since I last was in the UK. Over here the streets are full of driving schools doing motorcycle lessons. It's ridiculous! It seems that soaring fuel prices and clogged roads inspire loads of folks to go for a motorcycle license here. Apparently tax and insurance are way cheaper in Germany. When I last checked, the 411 Himie would have roughly cost as much tax and insurance per year as my car costs each month. We're talking about a 1600cc Renault Mégane I here. A Himie will get you around 100 Kilometres for a little over 3 litres. That flashy 25 year old BMW 3 still costs as much as the brand new Himalayan and is full of complex tech that got old and starts failing expensively as you need corporate associated garages for all the electronics shite, and that bugger has a good thirst! New cars almost cost the equivalent of an apartment. Bikes actually are nicely cheap means of transportation after all!

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

That's really interesting! Hear we see a lot of electric push bikes especially with deliveroo

@russellnapier3884 2 ай бұрын

The question is, as we love bikes, do we really care what other people think? This is our hobby/love, if they don’t want to get involved and only want to dream about something they will probably never own, then let them get on with it. Their dreams and ambitions are not my dreams and ambitions so I’m not sure I care. Keep up the great vids.

@NOYB1776 Ай бұрын

My dream bike was a Yamaha R6. Back in 2015ish, I remember looking all over for one to buy (even though my parents didn't allow me) and I remember seeing all sorts of used R6 bikes, each and every one was less than 6 grand. Even a brand new 2014 R6 was $10,998. Now there isn't a single R6 for less than 8 grand. I just looked right now to prove my point, and there is a 2016 R6 with 25k miles for sale near me. It is listed right now for $10,995. I could've bought a brand new 2014 R6 9 years ago for the same price. I had to settle and buy myself a brand new CFMoto 450ss. Out the door was 6 grand. And I think I made the right decision.

@orbitalair2103 Ай бұрын

Inflation and the fact that Yamaha stopped making the 600 4 cyl. Twin cylinders aren't the same to me.

@Rollie961 2 ай бұрын

Great Vid Saffy 👍

@dob1662 2 ай бұрын

Great video Saffy I must agree with you, but the ironic thing is when you look at inner city motorists most are alone in the car, if only a few politicians gave it some thought motorcycles are a reliable and economical/greener form of transport, but it always comes down to money/taxes

@cliff1551 2 ай бұрын

Saffron❤ great vlog lass x well done

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

Thank you 😊

@MichaelJones-ir3cc Ай бұрын

I'm 59 YOA, been riding since I was 18. I currently have (4) bikes in my garage and ride them all. Sadly, My two sons, aged 31 and 26 respectively don't ride any of them. They are too busy playing video games inside 11 1/2 months out of the year, instead of riding and enjoying the great outdoors 🤨😵‍💫🤬. Maybe that's why the younger generations aren't riding motorcycles anymore. Social media and video games are a curse to the young folks.

@wildbikerbill6530 Ай бұрын

I can remember being young and the adults yelling at us kids to go outside and play. And we did, and it was great!

@elrumcajs777 2 ай бұрын

Spot on! Specially the safety part and the cost of living. When they put asphalt on the road I used to live at as a kid, they left all the ground they removed during the levelling on one side, making a pretty tall mini hill kinda thing. Me and all the other kids waited every day for my dad to back from work so he took us on the back of his pickup truck up and down the dang thing like a rollercoaster. Of course we’re not afraid of motorcycles. That was the first thing we all did when we got our first dirt bikes. If I do that now, I’d lose my license and get a visit from social services next day 😂

@davidcoleman6211 Ай бұрын

In the US we have lost most of the off road opportunity for riding. You now have to be able to load your bike and travel to a distant location to ride. We used to just ride a mile or two down the side of the road to a makeshift track at a shell pit or bar pit. The dirt mounds around every pit had some kind of track. At 15 you could ride legally on the street with a learners permit any bike less than 5 break horsepower.

@diptenkrom 2 ай бұрын

good video, and i think the cost is a large factor at this point. I bought my first bike about 12 years ago for $1300. finding a road ready running bike for that now is very difficult to do. also - nice looking PC in the background there. are you into computers at all? did you build that or have it built?

@AwTheGears 2 ай бұрын

I think it's the way trends go too. 15 years ago, if u asked a 20 year old who Valentino Rossi is, I bet a bigger percentage would be able to tell you, compared to asking a 20 year old today, who Marc Maquez is. But they can name all the Kardasians tho! 😂 BTW, Loving the setup, Saffy. Your production value is awesome. 😎👍

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

Let's hope it comes back in style

@virajvrooms 2 ай бұрын

Oooh 🔥 The studio is dope! Just hide those two wires on your left. About EBs "The whole scope and capability of the concept of electric vehicle mobility is highly overrated. It's the result of mixing the laws of physics incorrectly and also by mis-reading the laws of energy," Stefan Pierer. KTM therefore chose electric scooters.

@bendavies6775 2 ай бұрын

I’m yet to hear of an eco friendly lithium mine or any electric bike that stirs the soul

@FlyingFun. Ай бұрын

I gave motor bikes when my girl was born some 20 years ago, roads were busy and didnt feel fair to risk leaving her with no dad. I am looking to get back into it now but the cost is off putting and the roads are FAR worse so actually enjoying ebikes instead and staying off road for the most part.

@presstodelete1165 Ай бұрын

Legislation has been squashing Motorcycling since the heyday of late 70's - The same problems were discussed in the Bike Press back then, everything made it harder and more expensive.

@MajorDrama1 Ай бұрын

100% - These are all ancient issues - And all as irrelevant to any determined rider then as they are now!

@FunnyWalker1949 Ай бұрын

I'm 74, riding since 1964. We had no mobs, TV was boring, computers were for work. The world was there to explore!

@torvamessorem6686 Ай бұрын

I'm a biker myself, but I always found a resemblance to fighting games in the sense that it isn't fun until you get good at it. And much like fighting games, I think a lot of people aren't willing to invest the time.

@MajorDrama1 Ай бұрын

Interesting impression.. And quite at odds with my impression I found it enormously fun the very first time I tried riding! The fun never correlated with time or ability to me

@jimmyjam8795 2 ай бұрын

Nobody I have ever known, connected motorcyclist with any negative connotations! I've been riding nearly 40 years,I experience plenty of young riders in my county in the UK, and they all pass me on the speed limited area.... usually on the inside!!!

@waynedowney1555 Ай бұрын

I've been riding for 18months to beat the commute. No more train strikes to worry about and it costs less to run than taking the train for two days. And my mental health is far better now than when I was on the sardine train. I only have an MP3 by Piaggio but it's changed my life for the better

@ghost0441 Ай бұрын

One thing when I was talking to young people about getting in to riding was how daunting a manual transmission was to learn for them. With manual transmission cars getting more and more rare, it's harder for them to crossover to bikes.

@anjahadicke4849 Ай бұрын

I think apart from money it is also less interest in any kind of adventure. It all has to be safe, no risk, online available, not making yourself dirty or sweaty… everything has to be convenient.

@brendenaichi5048 Ай бұрын

On the safety note, they actually make a jacket that has air bags that inflate if you're thrown off the bike. Also, there is a Honda Goldwing version i believe that has airbags, although to me i would think you would slide right off of them if in an accident. Just thought i would throw that in there :) (I ride with the air bag jacket myself)

@julio0514 Ай бұрын

In the province I live in in Canada, it costs me 713$ for licence plate + 400$ for insurance. Yearly. This is really expensive. Plus if you live in an urban environment, there's always traffic now. Being stuck in traffic on a bike is a really annoying experience.

@RideWith_Mee Ай бұрын

Great vid and topic to discuss. Bike sales reducing could that be due to how capable bikes have become. I know I used to have 2 bikes but now have 1 as it covers day to day riding to comfortable touring so don’t see need for a second bike which brings additional road tax, insurance, maintenance etc.

@Fishsticks187 Ай бұрын

For all of the problems the US has, I'm glad that getting a license and insurance is relatively easy. Used bikes are still cheap if you buy from a private seller.

@kipkipper-lg9vl Ай бұрын

In the UK, insuring any vehicle inner city for somebody under 30. It's going to be absurdly expensive

@Duckie313 2 ай бұрын

Where I live riding season is kind of short, official launch of season is May 1st every year, with thousands of bikes riding a set route together. Leading the parade are police riders. People line the streets to watch and cheer, often bringing their kids with them. So even if the parents aren't riders, these kids get that kick of watching all the bikes go by, waving and cheering and having a blast. I am sure that plants a few seeds in young minds, giving them a positive impression of bikers. Today was a stunning day for it, got lucky with the weather, 24°C and sunny. So a lot of bikes showed up, official count half way through the route was 3876 bikes.

@kimriley2491 2 ай бұрын

Disgusting. How about horse riding? Far less noise pollution!

@Disposalist Ай бұрын

Yeah you hit all the points. It's not the same everywhere, though, so maybe there is hope. In countries like India, bikes are still a primary form of transport for many - practical and affordable - and Royal Enfield over here is becoming more and more successful and isn't jacking up prices much for western markets. In Spain (I just came back from) there are scooters and bikes everywhere (I noticed a lot of cheap Chinese models). Cost is a huge thing but also bikes are less practical in countries with regular bad weather, like the UK, I suppose and not many youngsters seem to be willing to do things like experience winter weather on a motorcycle to get to work like I happily (mostly) did for years. It's true that social media seems to have a massive influence and it's sadly ironic that many youngsters are priced out of owning bikes, yet are simultaneously obsessed with luxury products and status. Bikes are many wonderful things, but 'luxurious' is rarely quite the point hehe.

@youngeroldie5089 2 ай бұрын

Hi, good content with a lot of true facts. As a volunteer instructor we get a good flow of 16/17 year olds doing a CBT so they can ride a 50 or 125cc depending on their age. When speaking to these trainees they just want the bike to get to work or college until they can afford a car, they have no interest in progressing further. The people settle down have a mortgage raise a family. years later the kids have grown up mortgage is now small or gone and they decide its time for them to have some fun and get a bike. Most of our trainees are over 50 as less tests to take and cheaper to insure. The average age for a motorcyclist in the UK is 54.

@MRmUIREND1 2 ай бұрын

I think your comment represents a very accurate picture of modern motorcycle. Been riding for 35 years. And as almost everyone about me at biker places, helmet comes off, hair is grey, if there's any left?

@marksimpson5218 2 ай бұрын

Yes I have to admit, at most bike meets most are 50+ including me. When we die off, there will be very few bikers around.

@youngeroldie5089 2 ай бұрын

@@MRmUIREND1 Yes I agree, my 2 fave meets are mostly older riders. thanks for sharing ride safe

@chrisgermann6658 Ай бұрын

This needs to change from Gov level. Motorycycles should not just be an old mans thing and if our leadership are really serious about "net zero" thing then they would be making advanced steps in making the point of entry more desireable for the younger generation. We need to go back to the old way of training ....the one test!.

@youngeroldie5089 Ай бұрын

@@chrisgermann6658 A very good point Chris, thanks for sharing. ride safe.

@patrickdoake6022 2 ай бұрын

In 50s 60s motorcycles were cheap transport used by families (sidecar outfits) easy to repair in shed, but as time wore on, people could afford cars so sidecars went out of fashion. In 60s and 70s bikes were popular test was easy (20 mins, 1 part!) gradually test has become harder and expensive. Youth today want cars not biles, you get cold wet on a bike, not a choice for pampered youth now. Rallies now mainly over 50s. Gear, i use full face helmet, cost about £80 2nd hand black leather jkt (marketplace good for lots used bike gear) overtrousers lightweight black!!) lace up boots and i ride all year as self employed gardener. Had spill recently, (mud gravel ice mix!) bike written off, landed on my front visor badly scraped. Back on bike 3 days later. My back up bike. As for clubs, good and bad in all walks of life. My age group (65) grew up watching club scene grow, part of biker culture. Music in 60s influenced biker culture immensely. I have a cb 550 chopper a friend is building for me and 3 other bikes. 2nd hand always for me never had a new bike dont want one either. Cheaper insureance and historic no mot or tax!!

@mookyzook 2 ай бұрын

Passed my test in 1969 sixteen years old on a 125 Bantam, simply ride around the block with the examiner stepping out in front of you for the emergency stop, health and safety virtually non existent. Could have ridden anything up to 250cc in those days on L plates. Insurance, tax etc was cheap and it helped me learn roadcraft and appreciate how vulnerable motorcyclists are. As a driver I always keep a lookout for riders, I'm sure most drivers could do with a year on a motorcycle before learning to drive.

@Leonard-kd7uj 2 ай бұрын

And another point the EU are now going after classics So in the end a fight to keep our passion but will we stay safe

@oldasfolk-km1ov 2 ай бұрын

pampered youth....bingo!

@Stroopwaffe1 Ай бұрын

Too expensive nowadays, plus roads are a deathtrap.

@dennisreid4428 2 ай бұрын

In a way I agree with your comments in all their forms. the problem is that many people will not look outside their little bubble. Lets take India as an example,they've now started building the Royal Enfield Himalayan which sells in vast numbers there. India has 34% of 2 wheeled bikes,Malaysia has 50%. Yes many see that as a poor man's transport but,it's transport! The English are mainly focused on weekend warrior superbikes not as a mode of transport.

@coacho7256 Ай бұрын

My main reason I don’t want a plate in something I drive, so I prefer something like an E-bike that can go 50 mph or more, It’s easier.

@Liby79 2 ай бұрын

Love the bloopers 😂 Keep riding “Granny” ❤️

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

Thank you! Will do!

@HarvesterOfPizza Ай бұрын

I feel it’s so hard to get into biking. To get a big bike it’s so expensive and the 4 stages of getting a full licence is off putting. CBT, theory, mod 1, mod 2. That’s assuming you pass everything first time. I’m coming back into backing after not riding for about 20 years. Cbt booked and new helmet, gloves, boots and jacket bought. Booking mod 1 and 2 on the day of my cbt

@TheDudeFromAus Ай бұрын

You can't hold a phone in your hand while riding. They all freak out if they have to put the phone down. We don't employ young people at work anymore because they complain about everything and they won't do anything without the phone in their hand.

@eds5977 Ай бұрын

I watched the club here in Florida every weekend they go out for rides one bar at a time.

@leeoflincoln7062 2 ай бұрын

I really enjoyed that, thanks for posting! My view is that you have to look at the shifting demographic and the high cost of living these days. Young people are generally poor, mostly because of housing costs, student loans and the like. Add to that, there are plenty of second hand cars available costing similar or less than second hand motorcycles but with much lower insurance and accessory costs (clothing, helmet, boots, etc). Forty years ago I bought my first bike primarily because I couldn’t afford a car( …then I caught the bug). Today’s youngsters can’t afford a bike OR a car. The sensible manufacturers like Royal Enfield are recognising this demographic shift and are prospering, the unintelligent ones will fail due to not targeting the shrinking but higher value market that is emerging today.

@SherKhan-b1kes Ай бұрын

You‘ve covered a wide range. Most people I know have been asking themselves; ⚫ Where do I want to go on a motorcycle? ⚫ What do I need a bike for ? Getting around can have it’s complexities depending on your surroundings sometimes added with the desire (or not) of wanting to escape the concrete life. If everything functioned as it should be with no public transport strikes then why make that investment? The financial aspect (which you mentioned) seems the biggest deterrent. Being independent and choosing your destinations seems to have fallen on the wayside. The mental health boost motorcycling achieves. Parking a car in cities is becoming challenging but the media leaves that out. I would love to see my last 3 points being pushed forward by the media, Thanks Saffy for your honest opinions, Greets from Düsseldorf 😉

@Mattis_Bengtsson Ай бұрын

Excellent video

@tonybarton3746 2 ай бұрын

Hello Saffy I’ve been riding motorbikes for 53 years now , and still people say to me there dangerous, so there taken aback and shrink into a shell when I tell them , I was a royal marine for 22 years serving in NI and lots of other places and I wonder which is more dangerous 😂😂😂😂 before I even took up motorbikes my mother who had never driven a bike told me they where dangerous, how can you say something like that when you’ve never even experienced it ridiculous 🤪🤪 keep up the good vlogs Saffy great fun 😊😊👍👍👍👍

@claudiofranchi8474 Ай бұрын

Very interesting and as italian...things and motivation would be different there, economic reason first. I bought a bike in Texas, Houston and honestly is coz I have been riding many years in Italy but when I see the town, spaces, roads here...they are made for cars

@eric6rock Ай бұрын

Got mine at 20 started riding when I was at the tail end of 14. Love my TC125 23 Only problem is the truck market and that’s a WHOLE other issue

@tH0d0RHs Ай бұрын

The younger generation have e-scooters now! They’re more practical and less adventurous. The rest of us grandads still ride our ADV bikes 🎉

@gdfggggg 2 ай бұрын

Getting a license is a ball ache. When I was younger it was a piece of cake. 5 days of lessons, then a test and I could ride what I wanted. With regard to the safety issue, they are extremely dangerous. I was a little emotional after an unfortunate minor altercation the other day. I accelerated off on a dual carriageway around a blind bend and found myself slamming the front brakes on with the rear wheel lifting off the ground (no abs 😅) as there was traffic. My fault, but it could have been serious. One wrong move… I’m a middle aged bloke and I let my emotions get the better of me. Young people are worse. It’s the best feeling on bike. I’m of the vein that people should be able to do what they want, but they need proper and intense training in the beginning so it really hits home that biking is no joke. Maybe shorter to a full licence but much more hard hitting. Nothing like the shock factor.

@SaffySprocket 2 ай бұрын

The licence requirements today are mad 😤

@bikingwithgrantygrant779 Ай бұрын

I think the issue can also be put down to us as motorcycle riders as well demanding more features. I see so many KZfaq videos of bike reviews where they complain a bike is missing traction control or cruise control, so ultimately they add them on the next release but pushing the price up further. Not to mention environmental reasons that bikes have to pass new regulations, meanining that more money spent on r n d to develop these bikes, again pushing the price up as well