What Bike Next? Episode 14

Welcome to the final episode of What Bike Next S2, the end of the second season of the YouTube series in which BikeSocial’s used bike spurbs Michael Mann and Simon Hargreaves try to pick the ideal used bike for a BikeSocial Member... and this week it’s none other than BikeSocial Member Lisa Barrett, looking for a change from her current Honda CB125F to a 125 with a bit more pizzazz – and which might hopefully improve her riding confidence.

Simon and Michael, along with Superbike Factory sales manager Phil Catlin, will be choosing three surprise bikes from Superbike Factory’s used bike showrooms – bikes we each think will tick all Lisa’s What Bike Next boxes. Then, Lisa will have the chance to test-ride all three on a special, 125-sized What Bike Next Test Route.

Then, after all the riding is done, we find out how close Michael and Simon got to identifying Lisa’s perfect next bike – and remember, next time we could be finding a bike for you too!

If you’re savvy enough to be a BikeSocial Member, why not come on the show by emailing enquiries@bikesocial.co.uk with your riding and bike history, what you’re currently riding, and an idea of what bike you fancy next – and you could be chosen for a day test-riding three surprise bikes with Simon and Michael on a future episode of What Bike Next? It’s a cracking day out with free food and bike riding, so get involved.

And, meanwhile, enjoy the show!

What Bike Next? (Ep 14)

BikeSocial Member Lisa wants a new 125 to put some sparkle into her riding

This week, BikeSocial Member Lisa Barrett has written in asking for help choosing her What Bike Next? Lisa is 47 and lives in Hertfordshire.

“I’m currently riding a Honda CB125F. I’ve been a part of the biking world for about five years, mostly as a pillion – or back-pack! – and absolutely love it. I love the thrill and excitement... and obviously the speed. I bought the Honda on a recommendation but I’m not really finding it’s the same experience – so I’ve reached out to the guys at What Bike Next? to see what else is out there. It’s quite difficult to test-ride 125s on a CBT licence so I’m hoping the guys there can show me what else is available, and I can make a decision.”

Lisa adds a bit more background and detail on her requirements: “I’ve had the Honda for about three years; still on L-plates, done my CBT twice – and passed my theory so ready for the next step. I like the Honda but I didn’t exactly choose it for myself. I’d like something a bit sportier. I’ve got an idea of the look of how I want to be on a bike, but I’m just not sure. And I think that look would make me feel more confident when I’m riding.

“I’m not keen on cruiser-style bikes – but I’ve never sat on one but it’s the style, the look of them. Image is important to me.

“Although I’ve had my bike for three years, I’ve not had a lot of seat time so I’m just trying to get out a bit more. I’ve been pilly for about five years, and I love it – absolutely love it. So when I ride my bike, I want the same exhilaration – that same feeling – and it’s not quite coming.

“I’m also a shorty and I want to feel confident and comfortable, and I want to be able to touch the floor. I’ve got about three to four thousand pounds to play with. If I find something I love though, I can always find a bit extra.”

Right, time to get looking through Superbike Factory’s used stock, and see if we can find something to suit Lisa’s needs – or will we have to get a bit creative?

Michael’s choice: Honda Monkey

Honda Monkey spec:
Year: 2020
Mileage: 4556 miles
Extras: none
Price: £2890 (£1110 under budget)

Lisa’s reaction:

“It wouldn’t be my first choice, but it’s cute, it’s small, it looks as if seat-wise I’ll be able to hop on and off, and get my feet on the floor (which is really important). I’m really excited to try it and give it a go.”

Michael says:

“Lisa thinks the Honda Monkey is cute, but monkeys can bite back! And this is surely one of everyone’s favourite bikes; there must be room in every garage for one. This version of the Monkey was unveiled in 2018 and is based on the MSX125 Grom and in fact uses the same 125cc engine, frame, wheels, brakes and front forks. Its size might case a giggle or two from those who don’t know, but it complements the bike’s ability to squeeze through city traffic, and makes it a doddle to manoeuvre, park and even store. Retro styling makes it easy on the eye, but you might want to steer clear of faster A-roads given how vulnerable you might feel when sharing the road with much bigger traffic. Four gears and a top speed of no more than 60mph alongside Honda’s notoriously brilliant build quality and dealer network make it ideal of Lisa to gain confidence on.”

Simon’s choice: Suzuki GSX-R125

Suzuki GSX-R125 spec:
Year: 2024
Mileage: 0 miles
Extras: none
Price: £4699 (£699 over budget)

Lisa’s reaction:

“Oh wow! Oh my god! I love it. It’s my favourite colour. It’s ticking a lot of boxes. Can’t wait to go for a ride!”

Simon says:

“Lisa, meet Suzuki’s GSX-R125; Suzuki GSX-R125, meet your new owner! It’s easy to be unaware of the connection between thinking we look good on a bike, and feeling confident riding that bike – because our egos are funny old things and a sense of ‘Damn, I look fine!’ feeds into a very real and tangible sense of composure and confidence on that bike. So looks are important beyond just looking good – it can actually help us be better riders. And so when Lisa says she wants style and confidence, they go hand in hand. And they don’t much more stylish in 125-land than Suzuki’s GSX-R125. It’s the last GSX-R standing, with those classic blue and white colours – and blue is Lisa’s favourite colour, which helps – and the obvious sporting heritage and a good list of spec; the 15bhp 125cc four-stroke is a happy, revvy unit, easily manageable with a superlight clutch and ABS. At £4699 it’s over Lisa’s budget, but it’s brand new, borrowed from Suzuki GB just up the road here in Milton Keynes. But is looking good, which Lisa certainly does, equating to a feeling of confidence on bike?”

Mystery bike: Suzuki Van Van 125

As chosen by Superbike Factory’s Phil Catlin

Suzuki Van Van 125  spec:
Year: 2017
Mileage: 2559 miles
Extras: none
Price: £3391 (£609 under budget)

Lisa’s reaction:

“Well, it’s nice and low, and a good colour! It’s very light to sit on, but I/m not sure about the style.”

Michael says:

“You either get the retro charm offered by Suzuki’s quirky Van Van or you’ll dismiss it as a piece of nostalgic nonsense. Doesn’t matter; just like a VW Beetle or a Citroen 2CV, this is a vehicle some view as totally ludicrous but others fall head over heels in love with. The oversized balloon tyres are due to the bike’s original purpose of 1970s Californian surf dudes being able to ride onto the beach and, while the styling hasn’t changed much since, the 125 still offers a comfortable ride and is frugal too. Used as a commuter, fashion statement or a utility vehicle for farm workers or as a pit bike for racers, the Van Van certainly has its own scene, much like Honda Monkey. This 2017 model was one of the last because Suzuki discontinued them once Euro4 emissions came into force. Lisa looks immediately at home on it, and if first impressions are anything to go by, Simon and I might be beaten once more by the mystery bike selection.”

Verdict

Lisa has two needs: a bike that she’s happy suits her style, but a bike she builds up her riding confidence to the point she feels happier riding a bike that being a passenger. And although they could both be found in the same bike, it looks as if Lisa is going to struggle with our choices to bring the two worlds together. Lisa is visibly most confident riding the Suzuki Van Van – not just a bit; a lot more confident. But she’s not convinced by the bike’s style – it’s not got the look she’s looking for. And being confident on a bike is one thing; thinking you look like a banana on it will still put you off.

Lisa’s in a similar place with the Honda Monkey – she’s not captivated by its diminutive style and in fact she doesn’t look happy riding it either; in the Honda’s case it really is the worst of both worlds. But the Monkey is a novelty act; it’s hard to take it seriously and surely a grown adult would either be riding it for a joke or have a sense of irony a mile wide.

Which leaves the Suzuki GSX-R125. Brand new, its sporty styling is more than obviously hitting the bullseye for Lisa. She’s even prepared to stretch the budget to get it. If only she looked a bit more comfortable actually riding it. But maybe that will come with time – if she gives it enough time!

If you’re a BikeSocial Member and you want us to choose your What Bike Next?, please get in touch with your contact details at enquiries@bikesocial.co.uk