Answering Your Toughest Motorcycle Questions | Highside/Lowside S10E11

Listener Questions and Custom Builds

• 💡 The episode kicks off with a custom-built tandem Honda Rebel 250, a unique twin-engine creation that sparks discussion about custom motorcycle builds.
• 🚀 Andrew, the submitter of the tandem Rebel, is awarded a t-shirt for his unique find.
• 👕 New Highside/Lowside t-shirts are announced, featuring a helmet fight graphic and a drinking game design.

Throttle Design and Cruiser Market Trends

• 🤔 Dan questions if motorcycle throttles are designed backward, posing a safety concern about "whiskey throttling" and research into historical throttle designs, including a rare reverse-operating throttle on a San Diego police bike.
• 📊 George inquires about the future of the cruiser market amidst Harley-Davidson's shifting popularity, with insights suggesting cruisers will likely persist due to their dedicated following and unique appeal.
• 🧐 The discussion touches on BMW's R18 cruiser, comparing it unfavorably to the Harley-Davidson R18, and the enduring mystique of Harley-Davidson.

Touring, Tires, and Rider Education

• 📱 Kenton suggests leaving smartphones at home for a more challenging motorcycle touring experience, leading to a discussion on the benefits of disconnecting and the value of in-person interactions on trips.
• 🛣️ Spurge shares a transformative solo cross-country trip in 2008 with only a flip phone and paper map, highlighting the adventure of self-reliance.
• 🏁 Jay asks about flipping front track day tires for extended use, with Bridgestone explaining potential construction and performance reasons against it, while Zach offers a more experimental perspective.
• 📚 Tom raises concerns about the MSF Basic Rider Course omitting crucial skills like not downshifting in corners, prompting a discussion on the nature of learning and the importance of continuing education through books and advanced courses.

Bike Releases, Rider Comfort, and Custom Gear

• ❓ Kamicazi calls out the hosts for missing the Harley-Davidson Pan America ST in their 2025 motorcycle releases, leading to a discussion on the bike's sport-touring focus.
• 💨 David seeks advice on replacing his Kawasaki ZX6R with a sportier yet more practical bike for passengers, with recommendations including the BMW S1000 XR, Triumph Tiger Sport 800, and Ducati Multistrada V2.
• 🥵 Jennifer shares her experience with the Honda Gold Wing's heat issues, suggesting air conditioning and a return of yellow paint as future improvements.
• 🛠️ Scott customizes his Alpine Stars boots by cutting them down for comfort, inspiring a discussion on modifying motorcycle gear for a better fit and riding experience.

Naming Conventions and DIY E-Bikes

• 🏷️ Naomi seeks clarification on motorcycle model name abbreviations (e.g., R, GS, GSX), with research revealing varying levels of meaning and historical context across manufacturers like BMW and Aprilia, while others like Honda and Kawasaki offer less definitive explanations.
• 🚲 Eigor shares his ingenious DIY e-bike conversion using a weed whacker motor and 3D-printed gearbox, highlighting the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of freedom on two wheels.

Engine Sound Guessing Game and Community

• 🔊 The engine sound guessing game features a 2003 Buell Lightning XB9S, sparking discussion about Buell's unique engineering, including its distinctive rim-mounted brake rotor.
• 🎁 A t-shirt is awarded to "CB125's Cleanup Crew" for a heartwarming Apple podcast review about a helicopter pilot father and his children restoring a motorcycle.
• 🏍️ The episode concludes by encouraging listener engagement through comments, emails, and Spotify reviews, and teasing a special guest for the upcoming season finale.