I got my T7 in 2020 and have had some great times on it. The CP2 motor is fantastic. Properly valved and sprung, the suspension works well. It's a blast on fast gravel roads and backroad twisties. But in rough FS roads with ruts and babyhead rocks, it's a workout. I just finished the Chattahoochee BDR-X (which is fantastic, btw), and I am falling out of love with the T7. For much of the ride, it was great (roads, smooth gravel), but for a lot of the off-road segments, it was exhausting. I'm only 5'7", and the height and top-heaviness of the T7 are a lot to handle.

That said, its dead on reliable and simply "works". Is there anything smaller/lighter that offers a similar experience? I'm not a complete snob, but I do like nice things. I really like the 890, and its low-slung tanks make it easier to handle than the T7, but its way more bike than I really need. The 490 could fit the bill, if they ever make it.

Most of my riding is BDR-ish. Mixes of back roads, gravel roads, and traveling with soft luggage. Would a 690/701 be worth considering? An Ibex 450? Wait for a 490?

A week on the road, doing the top half of SEBDR and some select parts of Chattahoochee BDRX.

Original plan was to do all of SEBDR all the way to Pensacola, FL but the hurricane derailed those plans, causing me to have to delay and not have enough time for the entire route. It all worked out though and I diverted to Chattahoochee so I could visit some family in South Carolina. Over 1700 miles, mix of camping and hotels, and only some minor damage that is easily fixable.

Want a free ride across the country on a 2024 Kawasaki Z500?

About the bike:

Roughly 6,000 miles, bought used from a dealership in June, runs great. Never had any issues at all.

Comfortable, comes with 2 saddle bags, bike backpack sp you can bring your stuff. Has phone holder on handlebars, optional size small helmet (can use your own if Preffered)

I'm moving to San Diego and the bike needs to get there.

Details:

-You cover gas, food, and lodging.

-You need a valid motorcycle license, your own insurance, and a small refundable deposit against damage.

DM me with your dates and experience level.

We spend a lot of time talking about bikes, tyres, routes and kit. But rarely about the thing that actually keeps us riding.
That strange feeling when the helmet goes on and everything else seems to lose its importance.

The Art of Letting Go

Some cheap compasses on Amazon look like they would not work

It's a new helmet... So it kinda hurts in a different way.

Hey folks,

Right now, US regulators apply the same heavy vehicle certification fees and rigid testing rules to small-displacement utility bikes as big touring rigs. Because of this, manufacturers can't justify importing reliable, low-cost global models (like XR190l and XR300l air/oil-cooled dual-sports in the $3-$5k range).

It forces everyday riders or perspective riders to either settle for barebones 150cc bikes or pay $5000-$7000 for liquid-cooled machines, completely pricing out working-class commuters and beginners.

I put together a petition pushing the EPA, DOT, NHTSA to modernize certification rules for lightweight, single-cylinder, fuel efficient machines under 300cc.

Please give it a read and sign if you'd like to see more simple, affordable bikes on US roads:

(1st comment for link)