Ed March has taken a C90 supercub around the world. He relates this experience about it I was riding through Belgium in winter when it was about 0 oC. I called in at a campsite (which was closed but had an open pub) and asked how much camping was. The owner was intrigued and walked out to have a look at my bike, as soon as he saw it he burst out laughing and called his customers outside to have a giggle too. Then he asked where I was from and where I was going, I answered “England and I’m going to the Czech republic”. From that moment on, all my drinks were free and I got free pizza and crisps. In the morning I had breakfast and a hot shower round his sister’s house and they even gave me some thermal trousers and a warm jumper which I still have. You can tour on anything and have an adventure. 👍🇦🇺

When I was in the Air Force 40 years ago I had a CX500 Honda that I went back and forth across America on. I know an old guy in St Petersburg who went all the way to Alaska on his Vesper 250 scooter. People are brainwashed to think that they need a behemoth to go touring on. I laugh when I hear people say that a 750 size motorcycle is insufficient to go touring. Riding a lighter motorcycle is less tiring as well.

I’m new to motorcycling. Many of my friends at home and abroad were trying to convince me to get an adventure bike. I was almost convinced, I almost got one. But I don’t like the style and I was always concerned about the weight. I got myself a Bonneville with some saddle bags. I love it and I’m off on my first tour (a short one to the coast) soon. I love it.

Yep I'm with you all the way on this one. I had an R1250GS until very recently and then I had loan of a much smaller capacity bike and thought to myself, why am I lugging this monstrous machine around when everything is so much easier on a lighter smaller bike.

Went from Italy to Ireland, crossing from France, and all over Spain on a Meteor 350. Small bike, but exceptional with fuel economy, and all i needed was a backpack, saddlebags, and a tent and sleeping bag tied to the rear. One of the best experiences of my life.

I blame Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman with their long way round trip for the desire for big touring motorcycles. Even though the bikes were too big and too heavy for that trip. Itchy boots has proved that small capacity bikes will do the job equally well if not better in a lot of circumstances. Thank you for another well thought out intelligent video

Could not agree more. I worked my way up from 50cc through to 1600cc (over 30 bikes) and eventually found the spirit of lightweight fun a motorcycle originally gave was missing. Gave up for a year but the itch returned and I bought a Vespa which instantly made me feel 16 again. Several Vespas later and I have toured LeJoG, Wales and most of the UK on short and multi day trips, just finished a 5 country trip to Switzerland on a GTS300 Vespa. It’s brought back what I loved about bikes, freedom, simplicity, lightweight fun that really can do it all as could my RE500 classic. Love big bikes but you don’t need 200bhp or half ton of weight. Great video!

Couldn’t agree more. I’ve gone steadily down from a 1200 to … an XT225. Light, great handling. The 21” front wheel irons out the bumps. Comfortable enough too with a low seat height. I now find myself doing 300 miles a day at a slower pace, enjoying the journey on back roads … discovering places I never knew existed as before I’d blasted past them on the A roads. Best thing I ever did was downsize. Oh … and it cost me £1600 and regularly does 110 mpg !

Spot on! I have over 40 years of motorcycling experience and I have come to the conclusion that less is more. 😊

In the ‘60s I visited most Western European countries on a 160cc Honda, including two Elephant rallies. Unforgettable experiences on a lovely little bike. Touring is a state of mind, it doesn’t depend on the bike.

Very clever video, I liked it a lot. I did exactly what you described. I went in 50 years from a very small 45c.c. Bianchi gradually evolved from Moto Guzzi, Harley Davidson, up to the Triumph Storm 1750. Enough! I was fed up. As you say, I had lost all the taste, not to mention the gravel in the parking lots. So I stayed put for two years. But now I finally have a "shameful" 411 R.E. Himalayan and I rediscovered the pleasure of riding a motorbike, even alone. Thanks for your video, so I'm not the only one who thinks this way.

My favourite touring bike (averaging 12000km per tour )was my Kawi Z 14 . Comfy , stable and as fast as you feel like at any given time . I think the best tourer is the one you feel best touring on . There are no rules

My wife and I are currently touring from the UK to Cyprus on a Vespa 300 GTS HPE without too many problems. The looks of derision and astonishment we get from everyone makes me feel that everyone has been suckered into the adventure bike sales pitch. So far we are on day 22 and no aches or pains or any real issues. We've been over mountains in Bosnia and Albania and to be honest the Vespa was a wise choice. I felt confident on it and there have been occasions when I think I could have dropped a big heavy bike on a tight hair pin bend.

I am 51 and just started riding a motorbike this year (a bit late in the game, I know). In any case, as many new riders, I read every article possible, watched many videos and talked to as many veteran riders before buying my first motorcycle. At the end, I decided for a Supernova Brown Meteor 350 from Royal Enfield. I could have purchased a bigger bike, but I decided to listen to the voice or reason of learning the ropes on a smaller engine and when ready purchase a bigger one. After 1600 kms I can honestly say I can´t see myself buying anything bigger than a 650 cc. For me it is all about the opportunity to appreciate the road, the sky and to be able to stop and take a picture of have a cup of coffee with ease. A second reason not to purchase a big touring bike is, at least in my neck of the woods, security. Big, expensive bikes are a bigger target for organized crime, and it would definitely increase my chances of an unpleasant encounter. Cheers!

I was at the edge of buying a bigger bike even though I was so happy with my 300cc scooter. Nobody around me has ever summarized the case as simple as you did in this video. Thanks for being such open hearted for the sake of motorbiking enthusiasm…

I think there’s one mitigation. Large capacity bikes make journeys effortless. I had three RTs and miss the one I sold this year because it was so easy to ride and to live with. Bang it in third and chug around the Lake District, sixth and cruise up the M6. Smaller capacity bikes can do it all but it’s the way the big bikes do it. I much prefer big bikes and will trade in the 850 GS for another RT next year. Lesson learned, you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.

Absolutely spot-on! I gave up biking about ten years ago (maybe a bit longer) having taken exactly the path described here. I ended up with my dream bike, a BMW 1150GS but hardly used it after the first month's ownership had worn off. It was just to much of a faff to get it out of the garage and manhandle it around to get it pointing in the right direction. I had been riding since I was 17 starting with a Triumph Trailblazer and then an original T140E I bought new as the Meriden factory teetered on the edge. I was really happy with those old bikes but then got into the rut of chasing the Dream. Changed my bike every year and spent a fortune but nothing really satisfied. In the end I found that I was only taking the GS out for its annual service and MOT. Then a few weeks ago we were on holiday in North Yorkshire and I heard a lovely sound moving all around the hills where we were camped. Out for a walk I saw a yellow bike parked in a lay-by with the rider looking at a view and having a brew. I got talking. His bike was a Royal Enfield Meteor and he had taken this same journey, finally finding peace in that bike. That got me excited all over again. A 350 single. I started researching. I'm getting one!. Thanks.

The GS has just become an embarrassing Cliché's. Had 2 of them back in the day and one day at a bike stop I watched A dozen or so guys on GS1200s pull into the car park, all the gear and no idea. One dropped his bike trying to avoid a pothole puddle at the entrance. That was it for me. They are just part of motorcycle flex culture now!

My first bike was a Yamaha XJ750 Seca that I will never forget the joy of riding. Many of the points in your video reminded me of how easy it was to ride this bike and how fast it really was and easy to maneuver. Like the masses, I was sucked in to bigger is better. I miss those less stressful, carefree riding days.

As the owner of a Honda ST11100 for the last 30years, I have to agree with just about everything you say. Every year that passes, the bike seems to get heavier. Reversing and parking are the worst challenges. In my retirement,I am facing the prospect of selling the bike I have owned for the last 24years.

Great video Stuart! When I was flying MiG-21s in the Indian Air Force in my twenties, I rode all over the mountains and plains of India on a Yezdi 250cc 2-stroke, 24 HP, WITH a pillion and lugguage. It was easy to handle - you could tilt and pivot it around on one leg of the centre stand. Now I'm 66 and want to resume biking. And all the marketing hype is pointing me to 650 and 1100 cc monsters. I'm going for the 334cc Yezdi Adventure - 30HP, 30Nm, 150 kph (93 mph) @ 30km/l (71 mpg) - enough for me and a pillion across any terrain... Thanks for the clarity your video has given me...

The smaller bikes rarely have cruise control, heated seats and grips, things like that. Goldwings are pretty lightweight "feeling" and have things like reverse, but like you said, are expensive and have their place and time for use. This is why we all need 8 motorcycles, one for each scenario we have in our lives. Thanks for the video.

Im so glad you made this video Stuart..I have been seriously contemplating buying a BMW touring bike, my sensible side had made all of the points that you had mentioned about the practicality of owning this type of bike but i was getting very good at ignoring those nagging doubts about practicality for 95% of all the riding I would be doing, my desire was based on your final point you made about European road with little or no speed limits..20 years ago i rode from Calais all the way down to the south of France and into Italy 2 up with a masses of luggage on an old 850 BMW air head and it never missed a beat even when doing between 90-100mph, hour after hour for most of a full night which is exactly what it was designed to do..but realistically how often are we going to have the opportunity to do that kind of riding. Extremely rarely ..so you have helped me see sense and not waste my money of a big touring bike ...thank you

I currently own a Yamaha Stratoliner 1854cc, and it's a great bike. However, I was in Oregon and rented a Suzuki 650cc V-Strum. The thing was incredible. Light as a feather, plenty of storage (panniers), could cruise all day comfortably at 90mph with excellent gas mileage. I was blown away by it. That was 5 years ago now and I still think about how marvelous it was.

Most people don't like to think they have been taken by a sales pitch or a smooth talking sales person but it happens to us all. Being in my 50s now the classic 350 is all the bike I need. Once again very well said and a great video.

Couldn't agree more. When I started riding in the 70s, the majority had one bike. That's all we could afford. It had to do everything, ride to work, take the girl friend out, ride out with your mates and in the summer go on your holidays. I had a memorable holiday riding through France to Spain on a 250 single 2 stroke. Two up with panniers, loaded rack and a tank bag. You had to work the bike to get the best from it. But that was part of the fun and achievement.

Started late in life with a Rebel 300. After 18 months the Siren song of a Versys 650 lead me to a dealership where the points you make became apparent upon examination. Sharing your experience confirmed my impressions and I thank you. Many say you can tour on anything, the trick is to get out of your driveway and go!

I’m currently in Peru, I left cartagena, colombia. 4 months ago. Been up and over more mountains than I can remember, across rivers and shaky bridges. My bike is a Honda XRE 300 abs. There’s been more than one occasion where I thought to myself thank god I don’t have a bigger, heavier bike, I never would’ve been able to go to half the most beautiful places or navigate through some of the muddy, rainy, gravely roads.

I always say "drive what suits you and be happy with it", but this summer, when I was cruising my favourite road (the old military road at Sally's Gap - Wicklow - Ireland) I found myself "stuck" behind a tour bike that resembled battlestar Galactica more than anything else. I watched the rider navigating inclines, declines, hairpins, potholes and surprise sections with copious amounts of freshly deposited gravel, I totally understood his need for using as much of available road as possible, so i hung back at 30km/h waiting for an opportunity to pass safely. When he did stop at a viewpoint parking, I just checked to see he was OK. We had a chat about how terrible the road was, bikes in general and Royal Enfields (since I was on my classic 500). He had quite the opinion about "light cheap bikes produced in Thirdworld counties having all sorts of issues with cooling in hot weather", but I wished him well at departure after making sure i was first to pull out of the parking. Taking his advice in regards of cooling, I opened up a bit faster (60 km/h) to get that cooling air flowing. I noticed that after a few turns he stopped trying to keep up with me - but then again, he wouldn't be needed to drive that fast with all that superior cooling and that - very gentlemanly for him to consider my poorly build classic 500 let me go first and get that needed cooling and make an effort to make sure I was getting well away on the road. foot note 1: yes - you are correct if you sense a bit of tongue in cheek there foot note 2: No, it doesn't require a big tour bike to be classified as a douche nozzle - it's always the attitude - not the type, model or brand of bike that gives it away :) foot note 3: yes - he would have probably laughed at me on the motorway overtaking me with 180km/h and be able to take his kitchen sink with him at the same time - I'd be getting one of those big boys if that was my thing too.

Spot on. I’m 57 and recently bought a Honda CB500x. I absolutely love it. So much I’ve bought a top box and roll bag and I’m off touring Europe next year. I’m looking forward to it a lot more than I did with my previous touring bikes (GS etc) The fun factor on a manageable 500 in the Alps is going to be off the scale. I think more and more enlightened bikers are waking up.

Once again, I couldn’t agree more. My RE 350 Classic goes everywhere, in style and comfort and great economy, more smiles to the gallon than anything else I’ve ever owned

Best commentary and advice I’ve heard so far as what type of bike to get or not to get. Thank you for your excellent presentation with honest and impartial advice. Also great scenery! Done those routes myself many times and recognised the passes and roads.

I'am 61, since my 60th I came back to Motobikes, after a long time suffering. And when I considered what I should buy, I was shocked by all that, you've well told about the changing market. In the 80ties I had a BMW 60 Policemachine and that was a really "heavy bike" - but today? None of the big bikes, even if I had the money, would get my interest. I bought a Royal Enfield Himalayan with only 24 HP and 3,1ltr fuel for 100 km. Till now I was riding 7.800 km, was in Swizzerland, Italy, Austria, in the mountains and up the mountains ... and I never was disappointed! Thats my way to travel, enjoying that I'am free, having the time, I need and no reason to go with 170 HP 220 km/h like a foul in rage ... I would never change my choice. The 21th century ist not more the age of stronger, bigger, faster! But the people need time to think about! 🙄🦋🌻😎

I went from a single cylinder 650 thumper (KLR-650) to a K1600 GTL which is about the biggest most powerful touring bike you can buy and I don't regret buying the GTL at all!

Spot-on message. Having had litre+ motorbikes (KTM 990 Adventure currently), I couldn’t agree more. Last year I bought for my son an older Yamaha XT-225. I flew out to pick it up, and it took about a day to ride it back home. I so thoroughly enjoyed the ride even though the bike struggled to sustain above 100kmh. I just simply rode slower, and enjoyed the ride. I still like to take it out once in a while for a quick blat around the neighbourhood and leave my 990 and the 530 in the garage.

I have a 95 Thunderbird and an Africa Twin Adv Sport. And as different as they are, they've both done everything I've asked from Touring to commuting to carrying DJ gear. Whilst the Thunderbird is now limited to dry days out, i'd still have every confidence it could do what I ask again. Have to say though, the Africa Twin is probably the best compromise I've come across.

Spot on once again Stuart, 2 weeks ago I completed an 1800 klm trip on my Himalayan in the company of a friend on a late model Harley Road King and my son on his Kawasaki Vulcan, I was supposed to be riding my 1996 Harley FLSTF but due to an electrical issue I was forced at the 11th hour to take the Royal Enfield, I have to admit that I was not looking forward to it because it is set up primarily for off road riding. A day into the trip I realised that I had seriously under estimated the bike, with fully loaded panniers and 60/40 tyres it handled beautifully, was comfortable to ride easily maintained highway speeds even through the Adelaide hills were I indulged in some peg scraping and had enough in reserve to overtake if need be, the biggest annoyance i had was having to stop whilst the other bikes filled up with petrol. I thoroughly enjoyed riding that little bike, it has once again proved itself to be an extremely capable Motorcycle, anyone who says that you can't tour on a small to mid range bike is talking rubbish, I apologise for the length of the comment.

Thanks for filling me in on where motorcycling went over the last 40 years, Stu- I stopped riding in 1980 and returned 18 months ago on a RE Meteor.. Can't relate to anything over 650cc. Love my 350. I really enjoyed that particular ride - we have spectacular scenery up here in the North and you showed it perfectly.

This video is spot on and a very refreshingly honest change. We could disagree - but we’d be wrong ! Well done Stuart for having the bravery and honesty and integrity to make this. Thank you .

Brilliant stop and think video, a back to logical reality narrative that makes so much sense. Very well done mate, I sincerely hope that this video's message hits home with a ton of riders out there.

My opinion is based on only four years of riding and experience of a handful of bikes in total. That said, I thoroughly enjoy my GSA and the versatility it gives. Whilst big, they are nimble and can be taken down narrow Derbyshire lanes as much as motorway cruises alike. Technique helps moving the bike manually, and builds confidence when in low speed corners. Every ride leaves a smile, even if popping to the shops! It’s 50/50 if I take my GSA or my Interceptor 😂

Last year I rode Auckland to Invercargill for the Burt Munro, a round trip of some 3,260km (2,065 miles) on a Royal Enfield single 500, with a mix of camping and motels on the way there and back. A fantastic trip which the 500 completed with aplomb. Was riding with an Indian Scout, BMW GS1200 and a Interceptor 650 who never felt that I'd held them up at any point. So agree absolutely, with Stuart's comments. Don't hold yourself back from touring just because you don't have a "tourer".

Been doing a lot of homework on what I want for my next bike. This video was very helpful. Thank you.

So true that Stuart. I have owned all sizes of bikes in my time . Now at 83 I ride a 250 Rebel . I get just as much pleasure riding it as I ever did with the others , plus the fact that it's light and easy to manage. Pleasure is not proportional to cylinder size ...

Two thousand miles around northern Spain this summer on a gs12 with the missus and full heavy luggage. I honestly can not think of a smaller bike that would have had the comfort, handling (fantastic on those hundreds of hairpins) or economy. 56mpg over those 2k. Pillion comfort is vital for a harmonious holiday and she had no complaints on her first ever trip abroad. ED: I wrote this whilst listening, i see you got the same mpg with your later model gs.

You're spot on Stuart, I hardly rode my 250 Kg bike as it was a pain to get out and manoeuvre. I think I covered less than 3K miles in three years on it. I bought a Meteor this year and have done over 3K already, you can't keep me of it, I'm like a teenager again. 😀

Couldn't agree more. I toured over 7,000 kms around Thailand on a 350 Forza, perfect choice, ideal and more than adequate performance / power to a manageable weight ratio, for a reasonable price, very economic and comfortable, plenty powerful enough for motorway driving at max. allowable speeds, I also use it as a daily run around, shopping's a breeze with acres of storage space. I rarely use motorways touring and want to enjoy the environment at sensible speeds. I test drove a Honda X-ADV 750 and immediately decide it was too heavy and too hot around the jewels in a tropical climate, sacrificing economy, maneuverability and convenience just for a bigger engine.

Best advice video I have watched in ages. You speak for many and you make tonnes of sense

Spot on Stu.....Ive no bike at present but had an Africa Twin which was a pain to get out of my shed. I've even had all my bike gear on, ready to go on a blast, opened the shed door, looked at the bike and thought "I can't be arsed", and locked the shed door up. Then I went onto a CB500X and realised, to me, that is the ideal bike, manageable and powerful enough. I too used to get caught up in bhp figures, and am now looking at buying a 200cc scooter.

Morning Stu. Good video. I have recently got to the same mindset as you. I’ve had 3 1100cc bikes and enjoyed them when I was a bit younger. As I’ve gotten older I found the Blackbird (I still have) more of a struggle to ride comfortably and even worse to go camping on. Since May I’ve downsized to a 650 Enfield and it has made biking so much easier and more enjoyable.

I identify and agree with every single word you said in this video, I have owned huge bikes for years now, and I don't get the fun I used to have in the 80's on smaller machines. My smallest bike i currently own is a Honda ST 1300. After watching your video I have decided to downsize and get the enjoyment back from motorcycling. I have subscribed to your channel as it is so good. Cheers, Steve, Dorset, England.

I am confirming everything said in this video, similar situation happened with me only deferent is the bike names . Well said sir

I love my BSA 250 singles. I ride mine two up at 60 MPH and it has plenty of throttle left over. You can ride it all day without getting exhausted or walking like a crab when you get off it. Outside of motorways they are the perfect size for commuting green laning errand running and everyday riding. Lightweight great for stopping and smell the roses kind of riding. If the old English manufacturers were still in business and they sold their bikes they would be able to sell as many bikes as they could build. A high horsepower crotch rocket is only good for the racetrack.

You couldn't have put it any better! I have the exact feeling about huge, heavy motorbikes. Top heaviness, high seat height and lower fuel economy are just some of the pitfalls one can encounter, not to mention the exorbitant high sale price! And with that high price comes higher insurance premiums. Well done Stuart, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this. Cheers.

Really great vlog, having had a big smash 11 years ago I was desperate to get back in the saddle. I bought a street twin with GIVI panniers and added a small screen . Like you I thoroughly enjoy the size and practicality.Thanks for posting

Wise words. Our buttons are always being pushed to upgrade to something bigger and faster. I've downsized to a ktm 390 adv and it tours very capably on heavily policed Australian roads, especially with the addition of a cruise control ecu. Its brought back the joy of motorcycling to me and I will try very hard to avoid 'upgrading' to bigger bikes again.

Thank you Stuart for a very honest , real-life view of big bikes. I think many motorcyclist go through an evolution of bikes, starting with small cc bikes progressing to bigger ,faster bikes and then go back to the roots , with efficient,smaller bikes. Ideally, it would be nice to have several bikes. At the age of 64, I am still enjoying my GS , even though I agree with everything you said. Crazy, isn’t it…..who said motorcycling has to do with reason ❤. Enjoy and ride safe, whatever you may be riding….p.s., just discovered your channel, you have a new fan!

Absolutely agree 100%. Its so rare to see a big GS being ridden by a lone rider!! They always have to go out in groups in case of difficulty. You can have so much more fun on a smaller, lighter machine that will fill your pleasure zones to overflowing and so much easier on your wallet. The secret of touring is in what not to take. You dont need all that gear. Travel light and make do. Travel smart with a smile!! :)

I just finished a 1500km road trip around the Vosges, Alps and Black Forest on a BMW G310R. I picked this bike after sitting and testing on plenty of 300cc, and this one fit like a glove (plus had a end of summer dale that put it at under 5000 euros with 5 year guarantee). Then I added a top case, wind shield and engine protection and made it very versatile to go to work and run errands comfortably. My motorcycle is just a toy and I love how cost efficient this little one is. Plus, I can actually pick it up when I drop it. I expected to come back from the trip frustrated about its limits but in reality, I am the ones with the limits (skill, confidence). Except for one or two times that I wanted to overtake and didn’t feel confident on the acceleration, she handled everything like a charm. At this point, getting a bigger one will probably decrease the fun factor of motorcycling for me. And if anyone is curious, I spent less than 100 euros in gas in the entire 1500km trip.

I started riding small displacement two stroke singles off road and later, as a teenager, owned a Yamaha 200cc twin street bike that got me everywhere I needed to go. I eventually acquired a 650 Triumph Bonne in the late 70’s and thought I was the boss. Later on I had a 750 Yamaha triple shafty and rode it across Canada in comfort. After numerous sport and enduro bikes, I later got into sport touring with a Honda ST-1100. Eventually I went back to a smaller displacement Kawi 650 Versys which was a great commuter and had a Honda CFR 250 dirt bike for off road riding. Today I am riding a KTM 390 Adv, and it brings a smile to my face every time I swing my leg over it. It is small, light, and nimble, and a great commuter, but still able to handle highway riding at 70-75mph fairly easily, and also handle moderate off road riding. At 65yo, after over 50 years of riding, I have done full circle, being back on a small displacement single and absolutely loving it.

Thank you for this reality check. I am a big guy with a relatively mid sized or even “small” Vulcan S 650. I’ve already encountered friends and salespeople telling me the bike is too small and I will outgrow it and need something bigger, but so far I have genuinely enjoyed almost every minute on the little Vulcan and with every ride I think I get farther away from wanting anything bigger.

Great scenery. When I lived in the UK I loved doing 3 day touring trips on my Street Triple 675. With a gel seat it was comfortable, handled great on rural roads and went like stink. I never wanted anything bigger.

Bravo! Thank you so much for sharing your experience on this issue... I needed that.

I get a lot of stick for riding a small G310gs from my mates who ride r750's and r1250's. The 310gs is the smallest BMW GS. But I absolutely love it. It's riden daily and not an inconvenience to hop on for short trips like the bigger bikes.

Hi, as a teenager I rode my Suzuki GT 185 from N. Yorkshire to Cornwall, and to the Lakes District on camping holidays and back without any issues and now own a RE 350 classic (and love it ) after owning big bore bikes. One suggestion I would make for the big bike riders is to reverse into tricky parking (pebbles or rocky) areas so you can drive straight out, instead of reversing, depending of course on the incline. Regards

Well said Stuart. I have had smaller bikes most of my life and found them to be capable and much more fun than the big bikes I have owned. At 62 I now have a cb500x I bought new 3 years ago and it does everything I need.

A surprisingly comfortable and easy bike to tour on is a Yamaha DT125R! You need to stop for fuel every 90 miles or so, but steering is so light and you can tank along at 55-65mph no problem. They give great visibility and if you see a byway you fancy exploring, they can even cope off the tarmac. I also own GSX-R 750k2, and a Kawasaki 350cc triple, but the DT is my favourite.

In the late 70,s everyone had just normal unfaired bikes, a trip to the lakes meant a rack for the tent and the sleeping bag on pillion(so comfy a backrest!) We went on 250's, 400's 750cc's - whatever we had

So so true Stuart , as a biker in my youth I too have realised at 65 what I require is a machine around 350cc, I am strongly considering either a Himalayan or a Classic 350 to go on leisurely jaunts across the UK for a week or two, maybe the realisation comes with age 🤔

I have had a GSA for five years. My current one is my third one. I agree with everything you have said. This is a very accurate description of the limitations of having and riding a large adventure/ touring bike. I have spent five years waiting for the ‘dream’ to materialise, and most of it has been characterised by what you have described. The bike itself is brilliant and that’s the conflict and reason I still have one. I am seriously considering something smaller, I just need it to take my wife on the back as well. Thank you.

My first bike was a Honda 305 Scrambler, what a nice bike! Top speed was 85, and it could go slowly over trails as well.

Stuart, what an awesome video mate. I am an expat Brit who moved to Canada 20 years ago having ridden since the age of 16 and done all those roads in the UK and more. I have to agree with you wholeheartedly in respect to the UK, a massive touring motorcycle is about as much use a a chocolate fire guard. However, we have just retired and spend hundreds of hours on our trusty old 2010 Honda Goldwing here in Canada and our winters in the USA. It’s a total different experience here because of the huge distances and super wide roads so you do need a BiG Bike. That said I have to say the most fun I’ve ever had on any of my many bikes was on my 1986 Kawasaki Z650.

Hi Stuart. I started riding motorcycles at sixteen years old. The bike that I lusted after, was a Norton Commando 850, after seeing one on the cover of BIKE magazine. Some three years later, I bought one and had a couple of wonderful years riding. That Norton made a massive sixty BHP. Wife, mortgage and Daughter happened, so four wheels replaced two. Over the years, I had a couple of cheap bikes, but always said that I would treat myself to something big and powerful someday. In 2017, I was in the happy position of having the spare cash to buy that bike, and not wanting to do anything like touring, I looked for a big, powerful naked bike. What I chose, was a Yamaha MT09. Yes, it had plenty of power, but was extremely uncomfortable to ride and in relatively slow moving traffic, the throttle response was awful. I reckon that I put less than fifty miles on the thing before parking it up! About a year later, I sold it back to the dealer, losing almost four thousand pounds! I'm getting a bit old and knackered for two wheels now. However, the three-fifty Enfield does look extremely tempting... Thank you for all the videos. I look upon you as the motorcycling voice of reason!

The most sensible big touring bike was the R100RT It feels light and nimble because the weight is low, the power was sensible and adequate, shaft drive and factory panniers that were not overly big. Plus the screen and seat worked well for me for the 20,000 miles that I owned mine, I really did sell it because I went overseas,! And I would buy another one tomorrow!

Great info as always - Thx - I listen to your insight and not disappointed yet !

Well, thank your for this video and explanations. I'm going to get motorcycle driving licence this year and was considering such bike to buy. Someting inside me whispered it was not good idea. And your video was the right answer. Good luck on the road!

You've summed up my own experience and arrived at the very same conclusion as myself. Currently ride a lowered Yamaha T7. Mostly for long days, tar top riding but with 'options'. I recently did touring weekend in the UK's Lake District and the bike was a dream to ride and equal in capability to any of the litre + and more exotic company. A mate on his Kawasaki Versys 300 found his bike just about perfect for all the reasons you've stated in your video. Thanks!

I have done a few foreign tours on old two stroke Lambrettas, fitted with modern ignitions and touring 225cc barrel kits, they are capable of cruising at 60mph almost everyday of the week and can do around 75mph in favourable conditions for short periods. The way I see it is as long as I can keep in front of the HGV's I'm doing fine.

Stuart! Thanks so much for the inspiration… I took delivery of my Honda CRF 300 L Rally last week… Itchy boots style… Could not possibly be happier… I'm 62 and I'm living my fourth childhood… I've been thinking about this for a long time… I remember drooling over the Honda 500 XL back in the 70s and 80s… And now I pretty much have one, PLUS… Great for running errands, great for long trips. You are absolutely spot on, people need to listen to what you're saying. You have only reinforced how great the decision was to go small. Back in '85 I owned a Yamaha V-Max... tons of fun, but not at all carefree, maneuverable, "flickable" and not something you'd put on any trail. Cheers, Tripp

Have to say I understand what you are saying for the types of roads you are showing. At the same time I would say its definitely different strokes for different folks. I am 5'6" and 130lbs, I have owned many motorcycles of different sizes, but my favorites have been three different Goldwings. A 1200, a 1500 and an 1100 and for me touring around the USA they were unbeatable as I also towed a trailer. I did one tour where I did close to 10,000 miles in a little over three week. Basically a complete circuit of the country. There were a few instances where the size and weight were an issue, but my 1500 have a reverse so that made a big difference. Anyway, I encourage every one to ride what they like and works for them. They are all fun.

Hi Stu Great video once again! Exactly my thoughts. I had a Pan 1300 which was a great bike but weighed 330 kg fuelled up, and then an fjr 1300 which was slightly lighter. However it had power and performance which were way above my requirements. Traded in 2 years ago for a V strom 650 xt and haven’t looked back. Regularly 70 mpg and 20 l tank gives great range. Nice and light and v twin engine is a peach, Much more enjoyable on todays roads . Cheap to run and service too.

Interesting video, when I moved to rural Spain 15 years ago. I tried all Sorts of bikes that would deal with our local mountain roads. Eventually going for smaller capacity bikes. I had an RE classic from new which I sold because I thought I needed more power and instantly regretted. A year ago I bought a new Himalayan with the adventure kit. It pretty much covers all the bases for my location. My wife after a recent illness decided after many years that she wanted to jump back on the pillion seat. Whilst we had many adventures on the Himi, 2 up it’s a strain on open roads but doable. Not wanting to go down the big bike route for many of the reasons you mentioned. I bought a 2018 Vstrom 650. It’s perfect and we have ventured much further afield. It’s just at the top end of the compromise, weight, manoeuvrability etc. The crazy thing is as you said. We don’t go anywhere quicker than we do on the Himi. Just a bit more comfortable. Great video mate.

Thanks so much for clearing that up.. Great attitude. My 250 will be suffice & safe.. I will watch this again. The sceneries are fantastic.

Very informative and full of wisdom. Thank you

Of the last 5 motorcycles I've owned three were in the realm of 750 to 900 lbs. and 1600-1700ccs and I "graduated" to 530lbs which, in my mind, is still too much for my needs! Totally agree with your perspective especially when I think back to my early riding years and my very happy riding 250s.

Great review Stu,, I generally agree especially as I am getting closer to 60. My best ever bike to do everything was a Yamaha fj1200. A low seat and centre of gravity, low revving and torquey engine, all day comfort, great for commuting, slim enough to filter, great at low speed and motorway cruising too. It did everything I needed well without costing a fortune, a rare thing in modern motorcycling! Keep up the great work Stu, one of the best channels on here 👍

Somewhat agree I've got a vstrom 1050 which is big in that it's large and heavy (and I totally feel it moving it around!) but doesn't have the power or price tag of the big boys. I love that it's got the alu luggage all build in and that it's got great power and stability to take a passenger but hate windscreens! First thing I did was replace the screen with a shorty one.

Brilliant and spot on,keep up the good work Stuart

agree with you 200% - touring the uk riding 2 up with rucksacks and full top box in the 80s on my 250 superdream was brilliant fun

This would have to be one of the best videos made. Well done. Creating memories fir the right reasons, pure gold

Totally agree with you,I'm owner of a Vespa GTS 300 and i use it for daily commuting and traveling. Bravo from Greece.

This definitely puts me off buying a bigger bike to be a little more comfortable during holidays. I have hardly any wind protection but have gotten so used to it by now. Currently I'm the proud owner of a Husqvarna Strada, based on the G650gs. It's a blast on every aspect you give the disadvantage to big bikes. I can strap all the luggage on it that I need to go on a luxury camping trip, while regurarly overtaking big bikes ripping through the twisties. Handling the bike at lower speeds and stops with all my gear strapped to it is no major issue but needs a lot of precaution, I can't imagine how that would be with a bigger bike when you have to deal with almost twice the dead weight and power.

Completely agree. I’m a bit late to this party at 60 but after a lifetime of big tourers swapping my R1250 RT for 3 new Royal Enfields was a fine decision. Interceptor,Classic 350 and Scram 411 and it’s the Scram which I go to most often because it does everything so well….including touring👍🏻

Excellent video Stuart with something I've long suspected, big machines are a hassle. I passed my motorcycle test in 1973 and had lots of scooters and small motorbikes. I currently own a Vespa GTS300 and been to Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales. Longest day trip was 275 miles to Brighton. I use it for a daily run about for work and pleasure and it copes easily with everything. I've thought about a bigger machine but don't think I'll bother especially after you've made a video about what I've suspected all along, it's not all about size...

Very wise thoughts, your great experience and knowledge in motorcycles is immediately noticeable, greetings from Mexico.

Thank you Sir for sharing your valuable and meaningful experience👍

I had (amongst other bikes) a BMW R80RT for over 28 years and covered over 200k miles, but it suited my usage at the time, 3 hours each day on the motorway, and long distance touring holidays. I agree with your analysis, I learned, as you did when I no longer needed the daily motorway use it started to take the joy out of bike ownership for all the reasons you mentioned, following a back injury it was no longer really viable to keep and reluctantly I sold it when I bought a Classic 500, I have no real regrets, I love the RE and it does all that I ask of it and has given me back my enjoyment of motorcycling, TBH the only thing I miss is being able to hide behind the big fairing at times. I would buy another bigger bike than the 500, but only if I go back to having a sidecar outfit.....and that's a whole different topic.....many thanks again for the video Stu.

I agree 100% Stuart. I regularly ride a 1970 Honda C90 and use it for all sorts of rides from shopping to touring. I can't tell you how many riders come up to me and tell me that they've lost the fun of riding for exactly the reasons you described and are considering downsizing. Others I meet have already downsized and enjoy their riding again like they used to before they joined the big bike merry go round. I enjoyed your video and, as I've only just discovered your channel, I've subscribed. Cheers, Stefan.😊

That was some good, positive reinforcement for me. I recently down-sized from an R1250RS to a much lighter Ducati Monster 937. We’ve just come back from a trip to the Isle of Man (from Devon). I found my bike a lot more comfortable and quieter, due to only having a tiny screen. The biggest bonus for me is not being afraid to go into gravel, rutted, or sloping car parks, as I’m not scared of dropping it. I feel free to explore again.

My last bike was a restored Honda Goldwing GL1000. I loved the bike for it's simple design and low center of gravity which made the bike feel lighter than it was. And the luggage made it a great every day bike as well as well as great for touring. What I always hated was the 37mpg. When I left the states I had to give it up and bought a much smaller Himalayan, but with the luggage and crash bars it is quite similar. It has a higher center of gravity, so it actually feels a little heavier than my old GL1000 but it handles the steep and sometimes muddy, rocky roads of the Andes with ease, also the gas mileage is double that of the old GL1000. All and all, I agree. I have no desire to have a big bike again. There are so many advantages for a smaller bike set up with bags. I can go anywhere I want and it is easier to maneuver and cheaper to purchase and to operate. And with my Royal Enfield, there is a fun factor that was missing on the Honda. I agree, I have no desire to have a large touring bike again, anything over 650cc is really wasted money. Besides, it's more fun having a bike that you can ride safely at full throttle if you want, than a large one where you are limited to using only 10% of the throttle all day long.