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1 week ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | Ben Purvis |Michael Mann |Martin Fitz-Gibbons |Steve Rose
Motorcycle Journalist Overall BikeSocial ratingTBCIf you want an adventure bike that really puts the emphasis on offroad ability over everything else you’d normally make a beeline for your nearest KTM dealer - but the launch of the CFMOTO 800MT-X might see customers taking a turn in another direction as it promises to match the 790 Adventure, punch-for-punch, with a price tag that’s 20% lower than its Austrian inspiration.
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1 week ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | Ben Purvis |Jon Urry |Steve Rose |Michael Mann
Motorcycle Journalist Overall BikeSocial ratingTBCFor decades China’s fast-growing motorcycle industry has been laser focused on supplying millions of riders in its homeland rather than turning its attentions to exports – but that’s changing fast and the West is seeing an influx of surprisingly capable Chinese-made machines as a result.
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2 weeks ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | John Milbank |Michael Mann |Steve Rose
New motorcycle riders aged between 16 and 35 are being offered FREE rider training that includes a free Pragmasis D-lock, a free first aid kit and exclusive discounts, as well as the opportunity to have their bike checked over by a professional mechanic.
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2 weeks ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | John Milbank |Michael Mann |Steve Rose
Consumer Editor of Bennetts BikeSocialThe most belligerent bikers will tell you that they can wear what they want, and that flip-flops, shorts and a tee-shirt are their choice to make. But while keeping cool when riding a motorcycle is important (both physically and psychologically), you do not want to come off with any exposed skin, so you have to find a balance.
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3 weeks ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | Ben Purvis |Steve Rose |Michael Mann |Jim Moore
Motorcycle Journalist Overall BikeSocial ratingTBA“Made in China” used to be a label synonymous with “cheap and cheerful” – emblazoned on short-lived products that might just do the job but with none of the quality of longevity of Japanese, European or American equipment. But that’s an outdated viewpoint today and China is increasingly showing it can turn out high quality gear at price points rivals can’t hope to match.
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3 weeks ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | Jon Urry |Ben Purvis |Steve Rose |Michael Mann
Massively experienced road testerOverall BikeSocial rating4/5Launched in late 2008 as a 2009 model year machine, the XR1200 is a bike that has lived somewhat of a rollercoaster life.
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1 month ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | John Milbank |Michael Mann |Steve Rose
Welcome to motorcycling! Whether you’re starting out on a 125cc scooter or you’re on a bigger machine, BikeSocial is your free, independent resource for advice, reviews and things to do. We’re here to help you get more from motorcycling, so use the links below to find out everything you need to know. And if you have any more questions, join us and industry experts at our exclusive motorcycle forum; BikeClub, or come and say hi at our friendly Facebook group.
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1 month ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | Michael Mann |Steve Rose
In episode 10 of the Better Riding Series, along with professional motorbike coach, Mark McVeigh, Michael and Mark discuss emergency stop and emergency braking techniques. Mark reveals that only 20% of riders perform effective emergency stops, despite ABS technology. He emphasises the importance of using the front brake first, pulling the clutch immediately, and maintaining a two-finger grip on the brake lever.
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1 month ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | Jon Urry |Ben Purvis |Michael Mann |Steve Rose
Massively experienced road testerOverall BikeSocial rating4/5In 2009 Yamaha dropped a bombshell – they released an inline four sportsbike that wasn’t a ‘normal’ inline four, it was a ‘crossplane’ inline four (and certainly not a big bang!). The first such road bike to be released, Yamaha had drawn from their MotoGP project (which also now ran this configuration) to develop a unique sportsbike.
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1 month ago | 
bennetts.co.uk | Michael Mann |Steve Rose
In episode nine of the Better Riding Series, along with professional motorbike coach, Mark McVeigh, we look at the importance of brakes beyond slowing down. Mark explains that the front brake provides most stopping power and aids agility, while the rear brake stabilises the bike. We delve into grip generation, steering geometry, and the concept of trail braking, which involves maintaining brake pressure into a turn to enhance control and stability.
