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I just did four days of riding in the Vosges hills (im from Switzerland...below 1000m it is a hill :) ) and used Calimoto. Main feedback ist positive, very cool routes. Main point of complaint is the fact that it should include an option to create a curvy route but if you hit a village or town, the app would find the straightest routh throuch town. We were routed through 30 kmh residential roads instead of the main road just for the bends sake. what works great outside of villages sometimes becomes annoying when in villages. But overall very positive impression.
@@wickedtwix Good point. Around where I live it's usually fine, but I can imagine that would be annoying. You can tweak the route it generates if you look at it and think there's a better way - there's one section of road near me that's really badly subsided and awful on my XR, so if that comes up I just drag a new waypoint to avoid it. Cheers, John
Might make for a good video, demo of Calimoto. Even better a "ride off" between Calimoto, Kurviger and other bike friendly navigation apps. I have used Calimoto free version to generate routes and manually transfered the route into Google maps, but it's a pain. Calimoto I find expensive for what it does, especially as it doesn't show traffic or closed roads. Kurviger is not as easy to use and the display is not as nice or clear but in the free version it does allow "follow along" navigation no spoken directions just follow the blue line. Also the paid version of Kurviger is much cheaper. $27 per year for Kurviger top version vs $80 per year for Calimoto. Obviously if you are still sponsored by Calimoto that could be a problem 😂 I'll probably try the 1 week free demo of each paid version when spring/summer rolls around.
This was insanely comprehensive, dont even care much for the bikes yet still stayed watched the whole thing. Would love to see a hyper naked test this detailed
Fantastic - thanks very much! Given the choice between making a short video, or one that we're pretty sure we've covered almost everything, I'd always rather hope that people won't be put off and will get more out of it. All the best, John
I bought a Tracer 9GT based on this video and it is absolutely brilliant. Amazing engine and chassis, loads of fun on a twisty road and a super comfy all day ride
Great review. Thanks guys. As a 60+ aged rider, not wanting 'spirited' riding from a middle weight touring machine any longer, I'm putting the Versys as my N0.1 replacement for my aging Honda ST1300. Watching from Australia.
Thank you for having a relatively short rider in the group. There are many reviews and comparisons that place a large emphasis on "ergonomics," when in fact what they mean is "how it fit this particular tester." I have often found that the motorcycle that lost a comparison for being for being "too small" or "too cramped" is indeed the most comfortable one for me.
@@WilliamSunmo Now that ADV motorcycles are more common, a wider range of options are available for those with longer legs. The new Triumph 400's are a mild example of this. The Scrambler's seat is at 32.9" (835mm) and the Speed's at 31.1 (790mm), although that may still be a bit tall for me and short for you.
This is great hearing 4 proficient riders talking about these 4 motorcycles. All of which I have been researching. Right now I am torn between the Tiger and the Tracer. I have owned the BMW f900 xr. I did find the BMW excellent for handling , comfortable for a pillion and confident when riding in the rain. The engine on the BMW seems clunky and finding neutral can be troublesome. I had the F 900 xr for 10 days, and noticed it was leaking coolant. The lower undercarriage of my F 900 XR was covered with a blue film, The water pump was faulty. Dealer took the BMW back, waited for 2 months for parts and repairs.
I’m looking for a bike to ride at least 22000km on for the next three years, since I live in Holland, having an extensive British review like this really helped me!
We're lucky here at BikeSocial in that we have many years of working in the industry, which means we can say what we really think of a bike - and judge them based on riding pretty much everything over the years - without fear that a brand won't give us access again. We've had those difficult conversations with PRs and brand managers when we're not impressed, but we've always made it clear what our principles are; you can see this in kit reviews too. While this video was sponsored to offset some production costs, ultimately we make videos and written articles to market Bennetts and BikeSocial, so we don't have to worry what advertisers or sponsors think! Cheers, John
Great review ! I came from a 17 S1000XR to a new Tracer 9GT. Loved the S1000XR, but cumbersome and my licence would have been shredded. The Tracer ticks all the boxes, very impressed. Changed the screen to an MRA Vario. Handles well, sounds great, seat - hmm, jury is out. Awesome.
over the moon with my tracer 9 gt, i made the right choice for myself and wife, helped along massively with your reviews with Helen, thank Helen for us john and thanks for the great review that sealed the deal.
The Triumph Tiger has been designed with the new or A2 license holder in mind that`s why it`s 94 bhp BUT it would be nice if Triumph offered the Tiger with a 110/120 bhp engine as an option for those who want that extra oomph .
Had my Tracer9-GT (in Tech Kamo) for three and a bit months now, and already clocked up 4,500 miles. Such an all-round capable machine! I covered 1,400 miles touring around Scotland for a week last month, and the bike averaged 60.5 mpg - with much spirited riding during that whole trip.. 👍🏻 The only other bike I tried in this line-up was the Tiger 900 GT, thought it was good until I test rode the Yamaha Tracer-9 GT. Not keen on the looks of the Kawasaki, plus it’s a very heavy machine indeed, and I wanted something lighter than my previous BMW RS. And I would never entertain a BMW with a Chinese made engine either, personally!
Really enjoyed that. The mechanical advantage of the T-plane crank in the Tiger 900 is the uneven spacing of power pulses which means the tyre has more time to recover and find grip on loose surfaces which is part is the reason twins are great off road. There are only two power pulses per crank rotation. The trade off is low rev vibration.
@@kintip837 I stand corrected, we are not talking about 2 strokes! Isn't the Yamaha CP3 firing order at a regular 120 degrees for each piston? If so that is the same as the Tiger 800 engine and users complained that off-road it lacked the traction of the twins.
Suzuki V Strom 1050 XT should have been included. V Twin vs straight 4. All the tech including IMS. Would have won the value for money category I reckon.
A good call - it's probably more of a direct rival to the Tiger than the Tracer but it would have been good to have it in. Sadly I had to draw the line... getting four bikes in this format was hard enough! Will look to cover that as soon as possible though. Cheers, John
@@clemfandango9534 Good point - gives me a nice excuse to get one ASAP. We'll see what other bikes get flagged in the comments, though the fairest comparison would be the XT with full lugagge, which has an RRP of £12,899: bikes.suzuki.co.uk/bikes/adventure/v-strom-1050xt-tour/ Cheers, John
Let's be honest, the dog is the real star of this review lol. Can't find fault with y'alls logic. I own a Versys 1000 myself and its an amazing bike, but a bit bland and not quite as refined feeling as its competition. Great review guys!
Great review! For me, a mid-50's 5'5" rider, the real deciding factor for me is the seat height and the general ergonomics of the Tiger. I could go with the Versys X 300, but it just feels and looks cheap to me - and I just can't see riding it for long distances. BMW would accommodate me, but I just prefer the Tiger package overall. Thanks, guys!
Great review. Thank you for your time guys. The truth is there is so many good bikes and even more coming out soon. Tested BMW and both Tigers. Next will try Tracer 9, Norden, Guzzi V100 and Multistrada V2 after they made it a bit lower and lighter. Not sure what my next bike will be. Buying today I would go for Tiger RP.
Absolutely wonderful group test ! However I'd have loved to see the Multistrada 950 featured. It would've made a great alternative, something a little different. Seems like it's actually quite often overlooked this bike.
I enjoyed the discussion. After much deliberation, I purchased a 2021 Tracer 9 GT without a test ride. Indeed, one was impossible since my dealer (I live outside of Atlanta, GA) wasn't planning on ordering one, having taken a loss on a FJ-09 (precursor of the Tracer 900 in the States). I've ridden the bike for a couple of months and I've already upgraded the screen with Yamaha's own Touring version. It's quieter although I will never get that bubble of calm that I get with my R1150RT, however I knew that going in. The disappointment with the bike is the stock seat. For me, the seat becomes uncomfortable after approximately 90 minutes to two hours. Yamaha does make a comfort seat but according to their representative in America, will not sell it here. Since the rest of the bike ticks all my boxes I will send the stock seat to a company out in California (Russell Day Long) in hopes of getting more hours in the saddle.
This was very comprehensive and so informative! Thank you. I am in process of replacing my Honda NC750 with either Tracer or Versys and after this review - given my height (6'3), I am now leaning towards Versys - yesterday Tracer was sure winner.
The Versys is the most comfortable I've ever ridden (6ft, 240lbs) although I was never keen on its high centre of gravity...my daily is an old Triumph ST1050 (2008) I still haven't found a better bike for distance/thrills/comfort, balance.
Great work. Reviews like these are crucial these days, as dealers stock is incredibly low. Test rides are a pre covid luxury and I assume many, like myself make purchasing decisions based on reviews like these.....no pressure guys haha.
I think it depends on the dealer to some extent - my local BMW dealer has no problem with test rides, but it is a problem in some places. I think if a dealer won't bend over backwards to help you choose a bike, it tells you something about their attitude if things go wrong in the future. I'd always recommend a test ride as we're all so different, but I hope we can at least help people narrow down a shortlist! Cheers, John
I love my 21 Tracer 9 GT. I definitely agree with a lot of the points made about it. Picked mine up the first week of June and it's been a lot of fun. I actually looked at all 4 of these bikes when I was in the market. Nearly bought the Tiger, but decided to wait for the Tracer 9 due to the price point. Excellent video!
I agree that the Tracer is the best value, but these bikes are our pride and joy. I'm not going to quibble over 1K when purchasing something that will last for a decade. If price is an issue, Triumph make a cheaper 900 GT as opposed to the 900 GT Pro. The GT is still highly specced with cruise, heated grips, full power and the 7" dash.
I'm glad I got the time to watch this as I'm looking at three of these bikes. The winner for me is the Triumph Tiger, but I really would like the power and the noise of the Yamaha. But you can't have everything so the triumph will do me, seating position and seat height as well as the tank size.
My choice, based on my experience of looking at these bikes when I upgraded early June 2021. 1: BMW F900XR....a VERY expensive, yet cheap feeling bike. It it felt great, this was the first potential upgrade bike I had a test drive on & I was sold on it...right until I tried other bikes in this category. It's very expensive when specc'd up to the other bikes, the reliability isn't as good, the maintenance is pricey & the engine is what I can only describe as "MEH" The ride is mediocre due to the cheap suspension & the seat IS awful. The only thing I can credit it with is the phone connectivity, screen & the best mouse control wheel on any bike ever. However I still felt that I was on a cheap, Chinese bike that had a BMW sticker put on it. 2: Triumph Tiger 900 GT... I REALLY liked the TIger, it was fun, great handling, comfortable & quiet, a true eye opener compared to the BMW I'd tested the previous week. It has less power but honestly I doubt that I'd ever use all of it anyway, so anything above that is superfluous. It is expensive compared to Japanese bikes & reliability isn't as good, but as good or better than the BMW & it feels like FUN whereas the BMW felt like it was on Zoloft. Great screen, the joystick is unusual but easy to learn & I liked the sound. 3: Yamaha Tracer..... Oh boy! Yes, the screen is not as good as it should be (I'm 6' 3") yes the brakes aren't as sharp as they should be, yes the seat is a cheap-out & it should come with the comfort seat as standard, yes the scroll wheel is a PAIN to use in motion, yes the display is crazy....but then there's that engine, oh my! It felt lively & responsive without being a lunatic. The suspension is, for me, as good as the Triumph, the fuel consumption is great & reliability is legendary. As for the brakes I've had to fully anchor on when someone pulled out in front of me & they really do the job they need to....yes, they lack finesse but I can deal with that. Despite the shortcomings none of them are excessive or deal breakers, you do get used to them, even the really irritating things such as the fuel gauge upper half being only 1 segment! At the price I couldn't refuse & this is the bike & bought & I am very, VERY happy. 4:...Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+....OK, this is under "An Honorable Mention" because I didn't ride one of these as it was so expensive it was out of my price range. Having said that it does sound intriguing & I might be tempted to choose it over the Tracer if money was no object, but the extra $1,000s I'd have needed weren't in my possession so the Tracer won.
Fantastic! Make sure you check out our other, longer pillion videos too then. Cheers, John czcams.com/video/VoGRAylaIhs/video.html czcams.com/video/i7q1RkShoLc/video.html czcams.com/video/Bvbux2o-KUA/video.html czcams.com/video/RCfmLdzBr5E/video.html
The clip and chat of the Versys gear shift, you can see the gearbox selector shaft flexing massively as you moved the gear lever with your hand… a gear shift shaft support bearing (if available) may improve the gear shift.
Great video I have a BMW S1000XR 2020 and just picked up a MT 09 SP love them both but that engine in the MT 09 is incredible great for real world riding great review
17:55 finally! One guy got it right. What's the point of talking BHP or torque when those figures are made high up there in the rev range?! Who uses that, who goes to the red line? Why don't bike reviewers show power/rev graphs?
Hi, Have fun with your new Tracer 9. I'm torn between, GT or standard Tracer 9? Have you tested them both? If yes, would you comment on the efficiency of the semi-active suspension?
Tested the Strom 1050XT. Taken delivery and just run in. No regrets and gives great confidence when following the line in bends. Trouble is the journalists bang on about it being an update over the previous bike…..but in the end it is a joy to ride and well finished. Mine is in Black and gold wheels and I think looks good. Word in for the experience at Orwell motorcycles, great.
We just weren't able to get any more bikes in this format (it started with two, went to three and this latest has pushed it to for), but Si had ridden the V-Strom a lot. I'll aim to get one featured. An update it might be, but that doesn't make it good or bad. Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial Thanks for your reply John. Still think you four do a very honest test each time and it shows we all look and like different things about our passion.
@@michaelpullen8527 Thanks! Yeah - I don't think anyone can tell another person what bike is right for them... all we can do is explain what we think is the good and bad of any motorcycle, then let people decide what matters to them. Cheers, John
This video is what pushed me over the edge to grabbing a (now discontinued) 2022 Tracer 9. The Versys was too big & expensive, and the F900XR maintenance scared me, so ended up grabbing a decently discounted new old-stock bike. Only have 1000km on it so far but it's easily the best bike I've had (though my MT-07 is close, at least in the twisties). Can't wait for a Tracer 10 in a few years, hopefully
Totally agree with the comments on the T-Plane crank. Triumph have spend years refining the perfect, smooth triple....only to throw it all away for no good reason. I could *maybe* see the advantage for the Rally Pro version where low down torque is better for off road, but the GT is a road focused bike. Strange.
Great watch thanks lads. I think the Ducati multistrada 950s would have been more in tune with the 900’s than the Kwaka. It was the bike I compared most with the Tracer before I made my purchase. I chose the Tracer, love that engine!
I'm a mad Kawasaki guy. Looked at all these. Bought the beemer. I've got busted up wrists and hands from racing. The beemer is super stable... A 29.5° steering head does that.
Thanks for this great detailed review. I've test rode the Tiger, Tracer (Previous model) and the XR myself. I hated the XR, found it uncomfortable and frankly a bit agricultural in character. The Tracer was the most fun, but my favourite was the Tiger. It is for me the best all rounder. I'm yet to try the Africa twin but at the moment my next bike is a Tiger
John, the bike had its 54,000 service at the weekend, 1000 miles late so at 55,000 now. The valves all still in spec, they wrote them down again so could see any change, disc’s will need replacing the next time I change the pads as just below the limit, that’s all 3 discs. Changed the Cush drives as there was a bit of play, carrier needed tapping in with the new ones and you can feel the difference. Other than that it got a clean bill of health.
Was in great detail, loved it, glad you mentioned your XR at times, mines going in for its 54,000 service soon, 3rd big service. Had a sheet with the valve specs, let’s see if changed this time, still love it.
Fantastic! I've not got many miles on mine, but the valve clearances do make me nervous. I've done them on my 1999 ZX-6R, and the XR will be well out of warranty by the time these are due, if I still have it then, but I'm not sure I'd want to do these. How far out were yours on the previous two services? Cheers, John
Great video. For me its the Tiger 900 GT Pro. Have it and love it. I rather pay a little bit more for what you get on that bike including the look and paintjob. Its a beuty. Tracer its ok for the price but not the look of it. That dash its horrible. The Kawa and the BMW is to expensive. BMW dont deliver at all for that kind of money only the dash is excellent. Triumph wins with specs, handling, looks, breaks, loading capacity and pillion comfort for the money. Thanks for a great video
This is a great test - many thanks! I have also tried these bikes and I tend to agree with the overall assessments. I guess the only thing that really prompted me to take the XR over the others is that it is the least "touring" of the bikes, the most "everyday" bike and maybe the best handling bike in everyday circumstances. I agree that when you need to load things up and tour for hours, you probably need the triple or the inline 4 of the versys. You also need some luggage to bring home the groceries, which the other bikes already have. But, everyday, in town riding, I think it is pretty good.
One day Im hoping for a brand new tiger, gravel roads and normal roads. What an adventure it would be!! I also love the tracer, but not as great as the triumph for gravel road purpose. And ive got a big crush on those 3 cylinders😍
great vid and comparisons yet you can see the persons preferences depending on what they have ridden or want to ride. Each person could be after a feeling.
Great video, bought a Tracer 9 GT on the back of bike socials in-depth reviews. Replaced screen with MRA Vario, and now actually like the dash, you do get used to the menu wheel. Amazing bike.
Glad to hear the Trager 9 GT got a good overall rating. I just ordered a 2022 in liquid metal and should be here next week. My choices were; T7, Tuareg 660, Tiger 850 Sport or 900 GT, I even contemplated the Super ten. I'm getting rid of my 2014 Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero or Voyager limited in Europe, I wasn't feeling that style of bike any more. Now here is how difficult my choice and decision was; I was looking for the Yamaha T7 and saw the World Raid, I was smitten, went to my local dealer, found out in Canada, we weren't getting them!! I then started looking at the Tuareg660, no dealer support in my immediate area, scratched that off. Reason I didn't get the T7, suspension didn't get great reviews (I know, vain), and high C of G. I also looked into the Suzuki 1050 Vstrom, again dealer was a bit of a drive...The tracer GT won out due to price and standard kit, also service intervals.
Im so glad you included a "short arse's" view of these bikes. I look at these bikes and normally go "Nope too tall". As for the BMW yup I will definitely agree with the remarks about the seat. Massively hard. Time to get a test ride on the Triumph and the Tracer
Great video folks! Got to ask though..... why are all moto journos so short!? haha as a rider who is it 6ft 4 (and all leg) would be great to see some reviews off a tall guy! which would you buy of these 4 as a tall big bloke?
The Tiger has a 19 inch front wheel and has a decent bashplate in the range of Triumph accessories. 20L fuel tank. The motor is characterful and has PLENTY of power. It wins hands down!
Man you've had to have been beating on the Triumph, I get 230-250 miles a tank routinely with a little left in the tank to spare. Entertaining review gents!
Thanks! It is a spirited ride, which is why we're keen to stress that the economy figures are a comparison only. The Tiger kind of encourages you though! Cheers, John
I never have a seat problem on my Supersport s.It just goes one way for 30 mins with a swim in the middle.Then after a couple of Timmy Taylors comes home again......Thanks John,
Great discussion, I didn’t think I would watch it to the end but I did. I have the Versys and I love it to the bits, but I wish it was a bit lighter and more manageable. Having said that I couldn’t get used to the tracer’s dash
@@bennettsbikesocial it’s not too bad, you know years ago there was glasses frames with thick eyebrows, nose and moustache? The dash looks like those, when you see it you can’t Unser it lol
Nice job gents! I'm still riding the dual sports; DRZ and and old XR 600, so moving into one of these, I need the perspective. In my 60s so looking for a good do it all tourer. Thinking of a Versys or a Tracer, but 2019-2021 range. This helped. Comprehensive. Enjoyed from your US friends.
Brilliant review. I actually test rode the Tiger GT and put a deposit on it. I found it brilliant on b roads and small country lanes. Really high quality suspension and great low and mid range torque. I then test rode the Tracer and preferred the more playful nature of it, so cancelled the Triumph deposit and bought the Tracer. In my mind the tracer is a better Sunday blasting bike and occasional tourer. The Triumph is a much better long mileage proposition, more stable, tons better screen, less harsh suspension,but the engine hits a brick wall on bypass and motorway riding. The Tracer just carries on revving. That's what swung it for me, so close though, both great bikes 👍
Cool video. From this review I think the Versys is the best touring bike, but the best overall is the Tracer. Still It would have been nice that the Vstrom 1050 and the Ktm890 adv were included too in this video.
Thanks! They'll hate me saying it, but I'm still in awe when I get to ride with MFG or Si. There's still a poster from years ago of Si in the process of crashing a Bandit 1200 on the shed wall. Cheers, John
Great review! Its easy to read specs and then talk about wich one is the best. I loved your aproach about the feeling instead of just talking Numbers. I would love you to includ new do 1050xt.
A great video. Informative and entertaining. Also it applied real world riding experience alongside tech specs and the conclusions reached were very helpful. I purchased the Tracer 9 GT in July after riding a Pan European for 15 years. The difference is staggering but the Tracer is a fun and exciting bike to ride.
14:00. This is an excellent review so far. The American reviews don't seem to understand the importance of talking about engine vibration. The T-Plane crank is unfortunately a deal breaker. Nobody wanted a more rough running engine, and Triumph made an unnecessary design change to a legendary engine that didn't need updating. The problem with all of these bikes, is the incorrect gear ratios. The Triumph and Yamaha, are revved way too high down the highway. The Tiger engine is a low end, torque engine, designed to produce immense torque. But the gear ratios are designed more for a short stroke, high revving engine. The gear ratios need to be addressed, and future motorcycles need to start having an overdrive 6th gear (40% higher) instead of the super short gearing which sees (approx) 4,400 rpms at 70mph.
Meh, I'm used to 5500 rpm at 70 mph on a V-Strom 650. I find it involving and closer to max torque so no need to tap dance on the gear shifter to accelerate. I've ridden the Tiger 800 and the motor was bland and boring (a dealbreaker). I think the T-plane 900 is fantastic and the only reason I'd buy a triple.
@Ben Haynes I had 2013 VStrom 650 replaced with 2018 VStrom 1000XT and now 2022 Versys 1000 SE LT+. I disagree completely as liter plus bikes are waaaay more fun tolerable on highway with twist your wrist passing power and huge torque on command. Revving the piss out of an engine just to maintain speed or stay in sufficient powerband to avoid a downshift is a waste of fuel, annoying, and shortens engine life. IMO this is just a way to justify what you can afford vs what you can have. I would never wish to go back to 650 cc bike. Boring and too busy during open highway plus not enough oomph for safe passing 2-up in tighter sections of roadway. "Once you go full liter you never want the old little buzzing skeeter."😂
Great video, one thing, driving the Kawasaki with a huge top box will make it suffer in the handling department I feel, otherwise a very comprehensive group test.
I’ve just bought a GT Pro. I’m up in Idaho where there’s more forest roads than pavement. Went with the 19” front wheel so as not to give up my pavement performance. As far as the TFT lag time, I’m going to leave my bike running when I rob minimarts.
Fantastic and fair review. 👍 I’m so glad to hear you slating the ridiculous monstrosity that is Triumph Tiger 900 Rev Counter. What a total waste or screen space. I own the Tiger 900 Rally Pro and love it. I doubt that triumph will do a TFT update for 2020 models but may introduce it for future renditions. I’m a Sat Nav user myself but feel the need to mention the Triumph Navigation App. It is only useable for A to B routes in my opinion as it’s a proper faff to add any more than 2 waypoints on the App. They need to add the ability to import a GPX File to the app then it might be useable. I do have a Calimoto account and do use it occasionally for those “spur of the moment rides”.
Thanks very much, and honestly great to hear from an owner with their views on it. Personally I really did like riding the Triumph, and while the dash is a disaster of form over function, I still preferred having it in front of me over the Tracer's. Agreed on the turn-by-turn nav too... I mush prefer a TomTom for when I have to get somewhere at a certain time, and Calimoto for when I'm out having fun (and I'm not saying that because they sponsored the video!). All the best, cheers, John
you would think all data could be customized by the rider to place displays on th3 screen where you wanted them; along with size, color etc. rpm, gear, clock, trip counter. etc.
The dash on the Yamaha was actually emulating the setup on commercial airliners, with the left screen displaying primary data and the right showing various other information depending on the choices by the rider/pilot. I find this innovative conceptually. Unfortunately Yamaha failed in implementation in several respects. I hope that they retain this fundamental concept.
Great job! Thanks. Not easy to find such a great and detailed comparison job! own a Tracer 9 GT. Love it. But I'd like to have more firm suspensions both front and rear, especially when riding with passenger and full luggagges. I hope they will fit higher payload springs to keep up with higher load. I also recon first gear is a little bit on the long side, especially when riding uphill in the Alps with slow traffic and fully loaded.
A good review, but not sure why the Versys was in there - in terms of price and weight etc. , it should have been in with the Triumph XRx 1200, the BMW S100Xr and other similar bikes.
A great detailed review of 4 bikes. My only criticism would be too much, "it, this, that" or pointing to the side with two bikes and expecting us to know which bike you are talking about. It was saved in some parts by editing in the picture of the bike you meant. But please. Reference the actual bike name, or brand or something vs this, that, it.
Great test and review!!! many thanks for the format and for all the info! Its really easy to understand when who is talking about the bikes is a real biker and talking in the biker´s language, not just reading the press dossier from the brands... I felt watching this vid like when I´m having a coffee with my mates after a ride on a sunday morning... Keep the good job!!! congratulations from the South of Spain
I ride a 2020 Tracer 900 GT, which even if it doesn't have everything the new one has, I would still pick over the others. And of course, Keanu! I would love to go around the country with him! Hoping he lets me try his ARCH!
It would be the tracer for me , the triumph comes in a low version. + can we have a cameo appearance from the black Labrador every discussion please 😊😊😊
only loaded depending on country. Thailand wll strip off the boxes and.... for the same price. but which has lowest seat, yet still good leg room. All plenty of power for me.
talking prices and accessories is for UK area only. A huge difference in prices in Asia to comare with features and prices. Prices here are not usefull for Asia,.comparison.
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What about negotiating a discount with calimoto, say 15% off the £42.99 annual subscription?
I just did four days of riding in the Vosges hills (im from Switzerland...below 1000m it is a hill :) ) and used Calimoto. Main feedback ist positive, very cool routes. Main point of complaint is the fact that it should include an option to create a curvy route but if you hit a village or town, the app would find the straightest routh throuch town. We were routed through 30 kmh residential roads instead of the main road just for the bends sake. what works great outside of villages sometimes becomes annoying when in villages. But overall very positive impression.
@@wickedtwix Good point. Around where I live it's usually fine, but I can imagine that would be annoying. You can tweak the route it generates if you look at it and think there's a better way - there's one section of road near me that's really badly subsided and awful on my XR, so if that comes up I just drag a new waypoint to avoid it. Cheers, John
Might make for a good video, demo of Calimoto.
Even better a "ride off" between Calimoto, Kurviger and other bike friendly navigation apps.
I have used Calimoto free version to generate routes and manually transfered the route into Google maps, but it's a pain. Calimoto I find expensive for what it does, especially as it doesn't show traffic or closed roads.
Kurviger is not as easy to use and the display is not as nice or clear but in the free version it does allow "follow along" navigation no spoken directions just follow the blue line. Also the paid version of Kurviger is much cheaper. $27 per year for Kurviger top version vs $80 per year for Calimoto.
Obviously if you are still sponsored by Calimoto that could be a problem 😂
I'll probably try the 1 week free demo of each paid version when spring/summer rolls around.
This was insanely comprehensive, dont even care much for the bikes yet still stayed watched the whole thing. Would love to see a hyper naked test this detailed
Fantastic - thanks very much! Given the choice between making a short video, or one that we're pretty sure we've covered almost everything, I'd always rather hope that people won't be put off and will get more out of it. All the best, John
@@bennettsbikesocial I don't know about everyone else but if I'm watching a big comparo/shootout, I want a big, long, comprehensive video!
I would like a hyper-naked 45 minute gab session in the style of Eraserhead
I bought a Tracer 9GT based on this video and it is absolutely brilliant. Amazing engine and chassis, loads of fun on a twisty road and a super comfy all day ride
Same. :)
Me too
Same here
hmmmm
Test rode 1 today, it was horrible, tiny, ass rammed againts the seat back, arms bent onto the bars....vibration,,,,shite screen....tiny...
Best motorcycle review I've seen in years, nothing like bikers talking bikes 👍
Thanks SO much! Cheers, John
100% agreed...
I disagree .. hypocrisy at it's best
@bennettsbikesocial Just missing the NT 1100
Great review. Thanks guys. As a 60+ aged rider, not wanting 'spirited' riding from a middle weight touring machine any longer, I'm putting the Versys as my N0.1 replacement for my aging Honda ST1300. Watching from Australia.
g'day mate. yeah I agree
Keep the ST. It's one of the best bikes ever made. Buy a second hand KTM. But yes if I had to I'd go Versys as well.
I got a versys 1000 and love the smoothness of engine and good power.
Thank you for having a relatively short rider in the group. There are many reviews and comparisons that place a large emphasis on "ergonomics," when in fact what they mean is "how it fit this particular tester." I have often found that the motorcycle that lost a comparison for being for being "too small" or "too cramped" is indeed the most comfortable one for me.
Being 187 CM tall with a short upper body, short arms and very long legs, i got the same issue alot but in reverse.
@@WilliamSunmo Now that ADV motorcycles are more common, a wider range of options are available for those with longer legs. The new Triumph 400's are a mild example of this. The Scrambler's seat is at 32.9" (835mm) and the Speed's at 31.1 (790mm), although that may still be a bit tall for me and short for you.
This is great hearing 4 proficient riders talking about these 4 motorcycles. All of which I have been researching. Right now I am torn between the Tiger and the Tracer. I have owned the BMW f900 xr. I did find the BMW excellent for handling , comfortable for a pillion and confident when riding in the rain. The engine on the BMW seems clunky and finding neutral can be troublesome. I had the F 900 xr for 10 days, and noticed it was leaking coolant. The lower undercarriage of my F 900 XR was covered with a blue film, The water pump was faulty. Dealer took the BMW back, waited for 2 months for parts and repairs.
That's not good!
I’m looking for a bike to ride at least 22000km on for the next three years, since I live in Holland, having an extensive British review like this really helped me!
Fantastic! Cheers, John
My biggest takeaway is that 3 out of 4 manufacturers sell you a bike with a seat you can’t actually sit on without hurting yourself. Mindblowing…
So glad I found Bennetts BikeSocial! Great review of the category and comparisons of the bikes I am looking into. Watching from Houston, Texas.
You guys along with the Missenden flyer are the bike reviews that matter the most when informing my buying decisions
We're lucky here at BikeSocial in that we have many years of working in the industry, which means we can say what we really think of a bike - and judge them based on riding pretty much everything over the years - without fear that a brand won't give us access again. We've had those difficult conversations with PRs and brand managers when we're not impressed, but we've always made it clear what our principles are; you can see this in kit reviews too.
While this video was sponsored to offset some production costs, ultimately we make videos and written articles to market Bennetts and BikeSocial, so we don't have to worry what advertisers or sponsors think! Cheers, John
Great review ! I came from a 17 S1000XR to a new Tracer 9GT.
Loved the S1000XR, but cumbersome and my licence would have been shredded.
The Tracer ticks all the boxes, very impressed. Changed the screen to an MRA Vario.
Handles well, sounds great, seat - hmm, jury is out. Awesome.
I know exactly what you mean about the S1000XR feeling cumbersome. Cheers, John
cumber
over the moon with my tracer 9 gt, i made the right choice for myself and wife, helped along massively with your reviews with Helen, thank Helen for us john and thanks for the great review that sealed the deal.
Helen says thanks! All the best, John
@@bennettsbikesocialwhat a lovely personality your wife has, congrats.
The Triumph Tiger has been designed with the new or A2 license holder in mind that`s why it`s 94 bhp BUT it would be nice if Triumph offered the Tiger with a 110/120 bhp engine as an option for those who want that extra oomph .
Had my Tracer9-GT
(in Tech Kamo)
for three and a bit months now, and already clocked up 4,500 miles.
Such an all-round capable machine! I covered 1,400 miles touring around Scotland for a week last month, and the bike averaged 60.5 mpg - with much spirited riding during that whole trip.. 👍🏻
The only other bike I tried in this line-up was the Tiger 900 GT, thought it was good until I test rode the Yamaha Tracer-9 GT.
Not keen on the looks of the Kawasaki, plus it’s a very heavy machine indeed, and I wanted something lighter than my previous BMW RS.
And I would never entertain a BMW with a Chinese made engine either, personally!
Brilliant - great to hear you're having such a great time on it! Cheers, John
I totally agree with your comments 😉🏁🏁
Hi, how do you compare the BMW RS to the Tracer9-GT? I'm torn between them.
Really enjoyed that. The mechanical advantage of the T-plane crank in the Tiger 900 is the uneven spacing of power pulses which means the tyre has more time to recover and find grip on loose surfaces which is part is the reason twins are great off road. There are only two power pulses per crank rotation. The trade off is low rev vibration.
Two power pulses per TWO crankshaft rotations... But Tracer almost the same (3/2). Without vibrations ❗❗❗
@@kintip837 I stand corrected, we are not talking about 2 strokes! Isn't the Yamaha CP3 firing order at a regular 120 degrees for each piston? If so that is the same as the Tiger 800 engine and users complained that off-road it lacked the traction of the twins.
Suzuki V Strom 1050 XT should have been included. V Twin vs straight 4. All the tech including IMS. Would have won the value for money category I reckon.
A good call - it's probably more of a direct rival to the Tiger than the Tracer but it would have been good to have it in. Sadly I had to draw the line... getting four bikes in this format was hard enough! Will look to cover that as soon as possible though. Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial yep - and you can get a new v strom XT with IMS and cornering ABS for under £10k. That’s massive.
@@clemfandango9534 Good point - gives me a nice excuse to get one ASAP. We'll see what other bikes get flagged in the comments, though the fairest comparison would be the XT with full lugagge, which has an RRP of £12,899: bikes.suzuki.co.uk/bikes/adventure/v-strom-1050xt-tour/ Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial Suzuki never sell at list ! A £10k new XT isn’t hard to find.
@@clemfandango9534 Best I could find just now was £11,999 for an XT with full luggage, though that's still a good deal! Cheers, John
Let's be honest, the dog is the real star of this review lol. Can't find fault with y'alls logic. I own a Versys 1000 myself and its an amazing bike, but a bit bland and not quite as refined feeling as its competition. Great review guys!
Thanks! Yeah, Marv stole it! Cheers, John
Great review! For me, a mid-50's 5'5" rider, the real deciding factor for me is the seat height and the general ergonomics of the Tiger. I could go with the Versys X 300, but it just feels and looks cheap to me - and I just can't see riding it for long distances. BMW would accommodate me, but I just prefer the Tiger package overall. Thanks, guys!
Great review. Thank you for your time guys. The truth is there is so many good bikes and even more coming out soon. Tested BMW and both Tigers. Next will try Tracer 9, Norden, Guzzi V100 and Multistrada V2 after they made it a bit lower and lighter. Not sure what my next bike will be. Buying today I would go for Tiger RP.
Absolutely wonderful group test ! However I'd have loved to see the Multistrada 950 featured. It would've made a great alternative, something a little different. Seems like it's actually quite often overlooked this bike.
Good call. We did have to draw the line somewhere though, but one for later maybe. Cheers, John
I think that’s the longest video I’ve ever watched on CZcams. Great comparison. I’d love a T9GT.
An awesome review. Planning on buying the Tracer 9 GT hopefully within the next couple yrs. Still Riding my 2013 Honda CB500X.
ride my 500x and leaning to the tiger gt pro; 24' has bigger; more comfy seats than before. Lower seat is an option . I'm comfy with 500x seat height.
I enjoyed the discussion. After much deliberation, I purchased a 2021 Tracer 9 GT without a test ride. Indeed, one was impossible since my dealer (I live outside of Atlanta, GA) wasn't planning on ordering one, having taken a loss on a FJ-09 (precursor of the Tracer 900 in the States). I've ridden the bike for a couple of months and I've already upgraded the screen with Yamaha's own Touring version. It's quieter although I will never get that bubble of calm that I get with my R1150RT, however I knew that going in. The disappointment with the bike is the stock seat. For me, the seat becomes uncomfortable after approximately 90 minutes to two hours. Yamaha does make a comfort seat but according to their representative in America, will not sell it here. Since the rest of the bike ticks all my boxes I will send the stock seat to a company out in California (Russell Day Long) in hopes of getting more hours in the saddle.
I reckon going the custom route is the best bet with the seat. Cheers, John
Long one, did it in 2 sittings, but loved it. These long trumps videos are great. Keep them up!
Brilliant, thank you so much! Cheers, John
This was very comprehensive and so informative! Thank you. I am in process of replacing my Honda NC750 with either Tracer or Versys and after this review - given my height (6'3), I am now leaning towards Versys - yesterday Tracer was sure winner.
I'd definitely still give them both a test ride if you can. Cheers, John
Wait for CFMOTO 800 MT...!!!!!!!
Check also Ninja 1000SX, you might be in for a surprise.
I have to say, I love this format of reviewing bikes, they get right into the nitty gritty. Tracer would be my choice.
Thanks! Really glad you liked it! Cheers, John
The Versys is the most comfortable I've ever ridden (6ft, 240lbs) although I was never keen on its high centre of gravity...my daily is an old Triumph ST1050 (2008) I still haven't found a better bike for distance/thrills/comfort, balance.
definietly riding hi; top heavy is not for me. riding low like tiger GT- low is perfect.
So nice to see the guys from my favourite podcast on this review
Great bike video but Calimoto is exactly what I’ve been searching for! It is really good - thanks!!
Brilliant - let me know how you get on with it. Cheers, John
Great work. Reviews like these are crucial these days, as dealers stock is incredibly low. Test rides are a pre covid luxury and I assume many, like myself make purchasing decisions based on reviews like these.....no pressure guys haha.
I think it depends on the dealer to some extent - my local BMW dealer has no problem with test rides, but it is a problem in some places. I think if a dealer won't bend over backwards to help you choose a bike, it tells you something about their attitude if things go wrong in the future. I'd always recommend a test ride as we're all so different, but I hope we can at least help people narrow down a shortlist! Cheers, John
Incredible! Love this long in- depth format! ❤
Brilliant, thanks! All the best, John
I love my 21 Tracer 9 GT. I definitely agree with a lot of the points made about it. Picked mine up the first week of June and it's been a lot of fun. I actually looked at all 4 of these bikes when I was in the market. Nearly bought the Tiger, but decided to wait for the Tracer 9 due to the price point. Excellent video!
Thanks very much, and great choice! Cheers, John
I agree that the Tracer is the best value, but these bikes are our pride and joy. I'm not going to quibble over 1K when purchasing something that will last for a decade.
If price is an issue, Triumph make a cheaper 900 GT as opposed to the 900 GT Pro. The GT is still highly specced with cruise, heated grips, full power and the 7" dash.
I got my Tracer 9GT for 11k new. Not even a competition
can't touch the tracer for under 15k in asia. tiger pro gt for 18k . xr slightly less,
I find really great that all bikes are good but aimed to a different type of rider. No choice is "wrong", unless you have no idea what you want.
I'm glad I got the time to watch this as I'm looking at three of these bikes. The winner for me is the Triumph Tiger, but I really would like the power and the noise of the Yamaha. But you can't have everything so the triumph will do me, seating position and seat height as well as the tank size.
Thanks so much - glad you liked it! Cheers, John
My choice, based on my experience of looking at these bikes when I upgraded early June 2021.
1: BMW F900XR....a VERY expensive, yet cheap feeling bike. It it felt great, this was the first potential upgrade bike I had a test drive on & I was sold on it...right until I tried other bikes in this category. It's very expensive when specc'd up to the other bikes, the reliability isn't as good, the maintenance is pricey & the engine is what I can only describe as "MEH" The ride is mediocre due to the cheap suspension & the seat IS awful. The only thing I can credit it with is the phone connectivity, screen & the best mouse control wheel on any bike ever. However I still felt that I was on a cheap, Chinese bike that had a BMW sticker put on it.
2: Triumph Tiger 900 GT... I REALLY liked the TIger, it was fun, great handling, comfortable & quiet, a true eye opener compared to the BMW I'd tested the previous week. It has less power but honestly I doubt that I'd ever use all of it anyway, so anything above that is superfluous. It is expensive compared to Japanese bikes & reliability isn't as good, but as good or better than the BMW & it feels like FUN whereas the BMW felt like it was on Zoloft. Great screen, the joystick is unusual but easy to learn & I liked the sound.
3: Yamaha Tracer..... Oh boy! Yes, the screen is not as good as it should be (I'm 6' 3") yes the brakes aren't as sharp as they should be, yes the seat is a cheap-out & it should come with the comfort seat as standard, yes the scroll wheel is a PAIN to use in motion, yes the display is crazy....but then there's that engine, oh my! It felt lively & responsive without being a lunatic. The suspension is, for me, as good as the Triumph, the fuel consumption is great & reliability is legendary. As for the brakes I've had to fully anchor on when someone pulled out in front of me & they really do the job they need to....yes, they lack finesse but I can deal with that.
Despite the shortcomings none of them are excessive or deal breakers, you do get used to them, even the really irritating things such as the fuel gauge upper half being only 1 segment! At the price I couldn't refuse & this is the bike & bought & I am very, VERY happy.
4:...Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+....OK, this is under "An Honorable Mention" because I didn't ride one of these as it was so expensive it was out of my price range. Having said that it does sound intriguing & I might be tempted to choose it over the Tracer if money was no object, but the extra $1,000s I'd have needed weren't in my possession so the Tracer won.
24' tiger gt has bigger; more padded seats than 23' model. a big plus. with being able to get Low; down below 800mm seat
Now that is a great format.. didnt even notice the length of the video.
Thanks for the entertainment. :)
Thanks so much for watching! Cheers, John
Thank you for this video! Me and my better half are wanting to push into this class of bike so great timing and spot on for us.
Fantastic! Make sure you check out our other, longer pillion videos too then. Cheers, John
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The clip and chat of the Versys gear shift, you can see the gearbox selector shaft flexing massively as you moved the gear lever with your hand… a gear shift shaft support bearing (if available) may improve the gear shift.
Great video I have a BMW S1000XR 2020 and just picked up a MT 09 SP love them both but that engine in the MT 09 is incredible great for real world riding great review
Brilliant! Do you think you'll keep the XR now you've got the MT? Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial Yes both totally different love them both Cheers
17:55 finally! One guy got it right. What's the point of talking BHP or torque when those figures are made high up there in the rev range?! Who uses that, who goes to the red line? Why don't bike reviewers show power/rev graphs?
Amazing video. Bought Tracer 9 last week. My choice was between Tracer and Tiger. Saudações from Portugal.
Nicely done! Cheers, John
Hi,
Have fun with your new Tracer 9. I'm torn between, GT or standard Tracer 9? Have you tested them both? If yes, would you comment on the efficiency of the semi-active suspension?
Tested the Strom 1050XT. Taken delivery and just run in. No regrets and gives great confidence when following the line in bends. Trouble is the journalists bang on about it being an update over the previous bike…..but in the end it is a joy to ride and well finished. Mine is in Black and gold wheels and I think looks good.
Word in for the experience at Orwell motorcycles, great.
We just weren't able to get any more bikes in this format (it started with two, went to three and this latest has pushed it to for), but Si had ridden the V-Strom a lot. I'll aim to get one featured. An update it might be, but that doesn't make it good or bad. Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial
Thanks for your reply John. Still think you four do a very honest test each time and it shows we all look and like different things about our passion.
@@michaelpullen8527 Thanks! Yeah - I don't think anyone can tell another person what bike is right for them... all we can do is explain what we think is the good and bad of any motorcycle, then let people decide what matters to them. Cheers, John
This video is what pushed me over the edge to grabbing a (now discontinued) 2022 Tracer 9. The Versys was too big & expensive, and the F900XR maintenance scared me, so ended up grabbing a decently discounted new old-stock bike. Only have 1000km on it so far but it's easily the best bike I've had (though my MT-07 is close, at least in the twisties).
Can't wait for a Tracer 10 in a few years, hopefully
Totally agree with the comments on the T-Plane crank. Triumph have spend years refining the perfect, smooth triple....only to throw it all away for no good reason. I could *maybe* see the advantage for the Rally Pro version where low down torque is better for off road, but the GT is a road focused bike. Strange.
Damn good video chaps, no problem watching that all the way through ! Probably the only way to do a group test, with a group of riders 👍
Thanks SO much! Glad you liked it. Cheers, John
Great watch thanks lads. I think the Ducati multistrada 950s would have been more in tune with the 900’s than the Kwaka. It was the bike I compared most with the Tracer before I made my purchase. I chose the Tracer, love that engine!
The Multistrada's one we might try to get in a future test. Cheers, John
The most extensive review of any motorcycle that I have ever viewed.
I'm a mad Kawasaki guy. Looked at all these. Bought the beemer. I've got busted up wrists and hands from racing. The beemer is super stable... A 29.5° steering head does that.
Thanks for this great detailed review. I've test rode the Tiger, Tracer (Previous model) and the XR myself. I hated the XR, found it uncomfortable and frankly a bit agricultural in character. The Tracer was the most fun, but my favourite was the Tiger. It is for me the best all rounder. I'm yet to try the Africa twin but at the moment my next bike is a Tiger
John, the bike had its 54,000 service at the weekend, 1000 miles late so at 55,000 now. The valves all still in spec, they wrote them down again so could see any change, disc’s will need replacing the next time I change the pads as just below the limit, that’s all 3 discs. Changed the Cush drives as there was a bit of play, carrier needed tapping in with the new ones and you can feel the difference. Other than that it got a clean bill of health.
That's fantastic - thanks SO much! If you get a chance, would you mind firing me an email at enquiries@bikesocial.co.uk please?
Was in great detail, loved it, glad you mentioned your XR at times, mines going in for its 54,000 service soon, 3rd big service. Had a sheet with the valve specs, let’s see if changed this time, still love it.
Fantastic! I've not got many miles on mine, but the valve clearances do make me nervous. I've done them on my 1999 ZX-6R, and the XR will be well out of warranty by the time these are due, if I still have it then, but I'm not sure I'd want to do these. How far out were yours on the previous two services? Cheers, John
Great video. For me its the Tiger 900 GT Pro. Have it and love it. I rather pay a little bit more for what you get on that bike including the look and paintjob. Its a beuty. Tracer its ok for the price but not the look of it. That dash its horrible. The Kawa and the BMW is to expensive. BMW dont deliver at all for that kind of money only the dash is excellent. Triumph wins with specs, handling, looks, breaks, loading capacity and pillion comfort for the money. Thanks for a great video
Thanks for watching! I love how we all like different things in bikes. Cheers, John
This is a great test - many thanks! I have also tried these bikes and I tend to agree with the overall assessments. I guess the only thing that really prompted me to take the XR over the others is that it is the least "touring" of the bikes, the most "everyday" bike and maybe the best handling bike in everyday circumstances. I agree that when you need to load things up and tour for hours, you probably need the triple or the inline 4 of the versys. You also need some luggage to bring home the groceries, which the other bikes already have. But, everyday, in town riding, I think it is pretty good.
Sounds like a spot-on choice for what you wanted... nice one. Cheers, John
One day Im hoping for a brand new tiger, gravel roads and normal roads. What an adventure it would be!! I also love the tracer, but not as great as the triumph for gravel road purpose. And ive got a big crush on those 3 cylinders😍
Excellent work guys!! Great format, brilliant thanks. 😎👍
Thank you! Cheers, John
great vid and comparisons yet you can see the persons preferences depending on what they have ridden or want to ride. Each person could be after a feeling.
Great video, bought a Tracer 9 GT on the back of bike socials in-depth reviews. Replaced screen with MRA Vario, and now actually like the dash, you do get used to the menu wheel. Amazing bike.
Fantastic, thanks so much! Cheers, John
Glad to hear the Trager 9 GT got a good overall rating. I just ordered a 2022 in liquid metal and should be here next week. My choices were; T7, Tuareg 660, Tiger 850 Sport or 900 GT, I even contemplated the Super ten. I'm getting rid of my 2014 Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero or Voyager limited in Europe, I wasn't feeling that style of bike any more. Now here is how difficult my choice and decision was; I was looking for the Yamaha T7 and saw the World Raid, I was smitten, went to my local dealer, found out in Canada, we weren't getting them!! I then started looking at the Tuareg660, no dealer support in my immediate area, scratched that off. Reason I didn't get the T7, suspension didn't get great reviews (I know, vain), and high C of G. I also looked into the Suzuki 1050 Vstrom, again dealer was a bit of a drive...The tracer GT won out due to price and standard kit, also service intervals.
You chose well... enjoy!
Im so glad you included a "short arse's" view of these bikes. I look at these bikes and normally go "Nope too tall". As for the BMW yup I will definitely agree with the remarks about the seat. Massively hard. Time to get a test ride on the Triumph and the Tracer
BMW offers 5 seat options from 775-865mm for no extra fees. If you have to take the lower options, for sure it has to becoming harder.
I've ridden my Versys 1000 SE 1300km in one day.. Very useful in Australia.
Great video folks! Got to ask though..... why are all moto journos so short!? haha as a rider who is it 6ft 4 (and all leg) would be great to see some reviews off a tall guy! which would you buy of these 4 as a tall big bloke?
Would love to see more of these for other categories! Adventure, naked, sport, etc
Would like to see the tourer comparison. Ninja1000sx vs GsxS1000F vs Ducati supersport
Once for the future... cheers! John
@@bennettsbikesocial looks like we have new(updated) contender Suzuki gsx s1000gt against the Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx.
The Tiger has a 19 inch front wheel and has a decent bashplate in the range of Triumph accessories. 20L fuel tank. The motor is characterful and has PLENTY of power. It wins hands down!
For someone who wants that (and I do like the Tiger), it's the winner, but for others it's not; horses for courses. Cheers, John
exactly; I'm comfy never going over 100 km/hr; just touring but add a 70kg person/luggage and you could use the power on hills,
Man you've had to have been beating on the Triumph, I get 230-250 miles a tank routinely with a little left in the tank to spare. Entertaining review gents!
Thanks! It is a spirited ride, which is why we're keen to stress that the economy figures are a comparison only. The Tiger kind of encourages you though! Cheers, John
My favourite motorcycle video of the Year! Watched it twice already! Would love to see more of such in 2022! Thanks and best wishes!
Thanks very much... let's see what Santa can bring. All the best, John
Great in depth commentary! It is exactly the arguments I have with myself when trying to decide what my next bike will be! And defo Keanu🤓
You've clearly taken the red pill! Cheers, John
about time you guys revist this segment? The new tiger 900, the desert x etc etc. Many interesting things have been happening in this segment. :)
Yes please
I never have a seat problem on my Supersport s.It just goes one way for 30 mins with a swim in the middle.Then after a couple of Timmy Taylors comes home again......Thanks John,
Tracer dash mimics the XTs and DTs of the 90s. Just upside down. That's where the design came from.
Great discussion, I didn’t think I would watch it to the end but I did. I have the Versys and I love it to the bits, but I wish it was a bit lighter and more manageable. Having said that I couldn’t get used to the tracer’s dash
I see what you did there!
Thanks Nick - while I feel shallow about it, that screen really does put me off! Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial it’s not too bad, you know years ago there was glasses frames with thick eyebrows, nose and moustache? The dash looks like those, when you see it you can’t Unser it lol
@Paul B good one
Nice job gents! I'm still riding the dual sports; DRZ and and old XR 600, so moving into one of these, I need the perspective. In my 60s so looking for a good do it all tourer. Thinking of a Versys or a Tracer, but 2019-2021 range. This helped. Comprehensive. Enjoyed from your US friends.
Brilliant review. I actually test rode the Tiger GT and put a deposit on it. I found it brilliant on b roads and small country lanes. Really high quality suspension and great low and mid range torque. I then test rode the Tracer and preferred the more playful nature of it, so cancelled the Triumph deposit and bought the Tracer. In my mind the tracer is a better Sunday blasting bike and occasional tourer. The Triumph is a much better long mileage proposition, more stable, tons better screen, less harsh suspension,but the engine hits a brick wall on bypass and motorway riding. The Tracer just carries on revving. That's what swung it for me, so close though, both great bikes 👍
Nice one! All the best, John
I haven't test ridden either bikes, but both are strong considerations. Fun on twisters
Such a decent video. Just bikes nothing else. More power to you.
Cool video. From this review I think the Versys is the best touring bike, but the best overall is the Tracer.
Still It would have been nice that the Vstrom 1050 and the Ktm890 adv were included too in this video.
Great to see a proper pair of FEC'ers. Great vid all.
Thanks! They'll hate me saying it, but I'm still in awe when I get to ride with MFG or Si. There's still a poster from years ago of Si in the process of crashing a Bandit 1200 on the shed wall. Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial He likes to crash the bikes he likes😁. You're doing a grand job in your own style John. Ride well.
Absolutely incredible piece of content lads. Would love to see more long format videos! Cheers
That's great - thanks! All the best, John
Great review! Its easy to read specs and then talk about wich one is the best. I loved your aproach about the feeling instead of just talking Numbers. I would love you to includ new do 1050xt.
A great video. Informative and entertaining. Also it applied real world riding experience alongside tech specs and the conclusions reached were very helpful. I purchased the Tracer 9 GT in July after riding a Pan European for 15 years. The difference is staggering but the Tracer is a fun and exciting bike to ride.
Thanks so much and really glad you're enjoying your Tracer. Cheers, John
12:48 yamaha crossplane crank is another example of adding vibrations, the big bang mentality does have improvements from a performance perspective
This is how you do a group test in the age of video :-) Nice!
Thanks VERY much! All the best, John
Well, they are all great bikes but because I am 6ft 2in and weigh 285 lbs I will take the Versys 1000. In fact I own one and love it.
14:00. This is an excellent review so far. The American reviews don't seem to understand the importance of talking about engine vibration. The T-Plane crank is unfortunately a deal breaker. Nobody wanted a more rough running engine, and Triumph made an unnecessary design change to a legendary engine that didn't need updating. The problem with all of these bikes, is the incorrect gear ratios. The Triumph and Yamaha, are revved way too high down the highway. The Tiger engine is a low end, torque engine, designed to produce immense torque. But the gear ratios are designed more for a short stroke, high revving engine. The gear ratios need to be addressed, and future motorcycles need to start having an overdrive 6th gear (40% higher) instead of the super short gearing which sees (approx) 4,400 rpms at 70mph.
Meh, I'm used to 5500 rpm at 70 mph on a V-Strom 650. I find it involving and closer to max torque so no need to tap dance on the gear shifter to accelerate.
I've ridden the Tiger 800 and the motor was bland and boring (a dealbreaker). I think the T-plane 900 is fantastic and the only reason I'd buy a triple.
@Ben Haynes I had 2013 VStrom 650 replaced with 2018 VStrom 1000XT and now 2022 Versys 1000 SE LT+. I disagree completely as liter plus bikes are waaaay more fun tolerable on highway with twist your wrist passing power and huge torque on command. Revving the piss out of an engine just to maintain speed or stay in sufficient powerband to avoid a downshift is a waste of fuel, annoying, and shortens engine life. IMO this is just a way to justify what you can afford vs what you can have. I would never wish to go back to 650 cc bike. Boring and too busy during open highway plus not enough oomph for safe passing 2-up in tighter sections of roadway. "Once you go full liter you never want the old little buzzing skeeter."😂
Great reveiw. I appreciate a real pillion test. My wife lives the tiger as well even though the seat wasnt the biggest is had the nicest suspension.
Great video, one thing, driving the Kawasaki with a huge top box will make it suffer in the handling department I feel, otherwise a very comprehensive group test.
I’ve just bought a GT Pro. I’m up in Idaho where there’s more forest roads than pavement. Went with the 19” front wheel so as not to give up my pavement performance. As far as the TFT lag time, I’m going to leave my bike running when I rob minimarts.
Fantastic and fair review. 👍
I’m so glad to hear you slating the ridiculous monstrosity that is Triumph Tiger 900 Rev Counter.
What a total waste or screen space.
I own the Tiger 900 Rally Pro and love it.
I doubt that triumph will do a TFT update for 2020 models but may introduce it for future renditions.
I’m a Sat Nav user myself but feel the need to mention the Triumph Navigation App.
It is only useable for A to B routes in my opinion as it’s a proper faff to add any more than 2 waypoints on the App.
They need to add the ability to import a GPX File to the app then it might be useable.
I do have a Calimoto account and do use it occasionally for those “spur of the moment rides”.
Thanks very much, and honestly great to hear from an owner with their views on it. Personally I really did like riding the Triumph, and while the dash is a disaster of form over function, I still preferred having it in front of me over the Tracer's. Agreed on the turn-by-turn nav too... I mush prefer a TomTom for when I have to get somewhere at a certain time, and Calimoto for when I'm out having fun (and I'm not saying that because they sponsored the video!). All the best, cheers, John
you would think all data could be customized by the rider to place displays on th3 screen where you wanted them; along with size, color etc. rpm, gear, clock, trip counter. etc.
Brilliant lads,I love my Tiger it just does it all for me and I love the heated seat on a cold day. 👍
The dash on the Yamaha was actually emulating the setup on commercial airliners, with the left screen displaying primary data and the right showing various other information depending on the choices by the rider/pilot. I find this innovative conceptually. Unfortunately Yamaha failed in implementation in several respects. I hope that they retain this fundamental concept.
Great job! Thanks. Not easy to find such a great and detailed comparison job! own a Tracer 9 GT. Love it. But I'd like to have more firm suspensions both front and rear, especially when riding with passenger and full luggagges. I hope they will fit higher payload springs to keep up with higher load. I also recon first gear is a little bit on the long side, especially when riding uphill in the Alps with slow traffic and fully loaded.
Pillion is super important for me so it's tiger or tracer. Triumph for the win (only because I'm a Triumph fan).
yes but your lucky if you can get 3rd party vs.; Triumph prices.
A good review, but not sure why the Versys was in there - in terms of price and weight etc. , it should have been in with the Triumph XRx 1200, the BMW S100Xr and other similar bikes.
Because Kawasaki payed for this review :)
A great detailed review of 4 bikes.
My only criticism would be too much, "it, this, that" or pointing to the side with two bikes and expecting us to know which bike you are talking about. It was saved in some parts by editing in the picture of the bike you meant.
But please.
Reference the actual bike name, or brand or something vs this, that, it.
Great test and review!!! many thanks for the format and for all the info! Its really easy to understand when who is talking about the bikes is a real biker and talking in the biker´s language, not just reading the press dossier from the brands... I felt watching this vid like when I´m having a coffee with my mates after a ride on a sunday morning... Keep the good job!!! congratulations from the South of Spain
Brilliant - thanks SO much! That's exactly what we were aiming for, so thank you! All the best, John
I ride a 2020 Tracer 900 GT, which even if it doesn't have everything the new one has, I would still pick over the others. And of course, Keanu! I would love to go around the country with him! Hoping he lets me try his ARCH!
The Tiger is the best all round travel bike by a mile !!
After watching this I bought a F750 GS. Fantastic for what I want.
It would be the tracer for me , the triumph comes in a low version. + can we have a cameo appearance from the black Labrador every discussion please 😊😊😊
Ha - Marv's too demanding for sticks; we just can't afford him every time. Ellie might well stand in for the next one
Can you also do SportTouring? Ninja 1000SX, SuperSport S, GSX-S1000 GT....
good call, and the NT1100 - even though lots of bikers say it's not fast enough and bland, it ticks LOTS of boxes.
only loaded depending on country. Thailand wll strip off the boxes and.... for the same price. but which has lowest seat, yet still good leg room. All plenty of power for me.
talking prices and accessories is for UK area only. A huge difference in prices in Asia to comare with features and prices. Prices here are not usefull for Asia,.comparison.