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A weekly podcast from the Editorial team at Ultimate Motorcycling. The first segment includes product reviews, and the second segment chats with someone moto-interesting. That includes riders, racers, collectors, industry insiders who have something entertaining to share. All feedback and suggestions welcomed at producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com.
Episodes
16 hours ago
16 hours ago
Welcome to the Motos and Friends Podcast. This week’s episode is brought to you by Insta360, a leader in 360-degree action camera technology.
Check out their latest 360-degree camera, the Insta360 X5, that shoots in all directions at once in incredible 8K30 resolution. This translates into epic motorcycling shots without even aiming the camera. Just hit record, focus on your ride, and then find the best angles in the edit with Insta360's mobile app—it's easy, smooth, and packed with AI tools to make it easy and fast. See more of your handlebars with an immersive POV, or film third-person shots of you and your bike—the X5 is every camera you'll need. Plus, X5's huge sensors, triple AI chip, and dedicated low-light shooting mode deliver unmatched detail and image quality even at night. The X5 is waterproof, reliable, and features Insta360's toughest-ever replaceable lenses and lens guards. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your X5 purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "ULTIMATE", available for the first 30 purchases only. Or click here
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This first segment features myself, Arthur Coldwells, and I chat with Matt Ayhan about the new Kawasaki Z900 SE. The Kawasaki Z900 is an inline-4 first launched in 2017, although of course its DNA can be traced all the way back to the original Midnight Prowler Z1 from the 1970s. I’m proud to say that I’ve owned both of these machines—the original 1976 Z900 back when I lived in England, and subsequently, I also owned a 2019 Z900 now that I’m an American. That latter model was inexpensive but also fairly basic. However, it was impressive; an excellent street bike that suited my needs at the time. Having said that, it did need a few upgrades. Well, it seems Kawasaki agree, and recently launched the Z900 SE edition—and I believe it fits the bill nicely. Matt Ayhan went to the launch, and gives us the low down.
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Hey, adventure riders, are you ready to take your rides to the next level? Introducing the SCHUBERTH E2—the second generation of SCHUBERTH’s legendary adventure helmets! Whether you’re riding hard on the roads or tackling the trails, the E2 has you covered with cutting-edge safety and comfort. The E2 has a 2-position top vent ventilation system ensures a fresh airflow, while its fog-resistant visor keeps your view crystal clear in cold conditions. Plus, the SCHUBERTH E2 features a new enlarged spoiler for better aerodynamics and an air extractor for a quieter, more comfortable ride. The SCHUBERTH E2 meets the highest safety standards. The E2 also comes with a pre-installed comms system, so you can stay connected on the go. Visit SCHUBERTH.com to check out the E2 and explore more options for your next adventure.
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Today's Snippet brings you the newly launched X5 camera from Insta360, a leader in 360-degree action camera technology. Matt Ayhan also went to the launch of the new Insta360 X5 camera at Inde Motorsports Ranch in Arizona. Our friends from the Yamaha Champions Riding School were there with riding tips and the awesome fleet of Yamahas they provide. Matt gives me his impressions of the new X5 camera and why it is making such a splash in the world of action cameras. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your Insta360 X5 purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "ULTIMATE", or click here Insta360 available for the first 30 purchases only.
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Our guest this episode is lady racer and now team owner Melissa Paris. Melissa was a fierce and fearless competitor when she was racing full-time. She broke barriers in a male-dominated sport, and made history as the first woman to qualify for a World Supersport race, and also achieved the highest female finish in the Daytona 200 that year finishing in the top 10. Other career highlights include winning the Lightweight GP National Championship, and earning multiple top-10 finishes in the MotoAmerica Supersport class. Melissa was also part of the first all-female team to complete the Bol d’Or 24 Hour World Endurance Championship race, and repeated that feat at LeMans a year later. Now she’s translated her competitive skills to her Moto America race team named MP13. The team now competes in the Supersport and Super Twins categories. Married to five-time AMA Superbike champion Josh Hayes, this amazing and inspirational lady manages to balance her and Josh’s racing exploits while they raise their two kids as well.
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Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
The Motos and Friends Podcast is brought to you by Arai helmets. The founder of Arai Helmets was the man who created the first motorcycle helmet in Japan to protect his own head, and as a result, launched the Japanese motorcycle helmet industry. Arai focuses on glancing off performance, accumulating small differences decade after decade, to further rider protection.
The Arai Difference: If your experience has been that “Arai helmets are hard to get on,” then the Contour-X, designed with a wider bottom opening than previous models for easier on/off, is the helmet you’ve been waiting for. Once inside, you will be amazed at the extreme comfort, a key benefit of the Contour-X for long-distance touring, and if you’re into ADV or dual-sport riding, then you’ll want to check out the new Arai XD-5. So try on an Arai at your local dealer. You will be instantly amazed at the fit and all-day comfort of any Arai helmet. You should also check out AraiAmericas.com to learn more.
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This week’s two segments both bring you something a little different…
In our first segment, Don Williams and Kelly Callan chat about Beta Alp X 350. This modest displacement single cylinder four-stroke from the Italian factory is described as an “Urban Adventure” bike. With styling that would fit well in a Mad Max movie, the rugged looking machine exudes fun and cool in equal measure. Don and Kelly discuss whether the Alp X lives up to its charisma.
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Today's Snippet brings you the newly launched X5 camera from Insta360, a leader in 360-degree action camera technology. Adam Singer from Insta360 tells us all about the incredible new X5 that shoots in ALL directions at once, and in 8K30 mega hi-resolution. You can create epic motorcycling shots without even having to aim the camera. Literally, just hit record… focus on your ride… and then in the easy and smooth edit find the best angles using Insta360's mobile app. Its amazing AI tools make it super quick. The X5 is every camera you'll ever need in one, so for instance, you can try an immersive POV that includes your handlebars; or try unique, third-person shots of you and your bike. From morning to night, X5's huge new sensors, triple AI chip, and dedicated low-light shooting mode, deliver never seen before detail and image quality. It's waterproof, reliable, and has inexpensive, completely replaceable, lenses.
To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your Insta360 X5 purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "ULTIMATE", available for the first 30 purchases only. For more information, visit Insta360.com.
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Our guest this episode is again, something different. I doubt you have ever heard of IR Kinetics. The company uses a proprietary infra-red technology that tracks objects to within centimeters of their locations—in real time. For motorcycle enthusiasts, this has massive implications. One example they’re currently working on is where video gaming and MotoGP could intersect. The company could create a hybrid experience where you could ‘virtually’ race against the other riders on track. Imagine if you could line up on the grid next to Marc and Pecco, and see if you could compete? This is just one of many ideas from IR Kinetics. Teejay Adams chats with Gilly Switalski (CEO of IR Kinetics), and Stefy Bau. Stefy won three world motocross championships, two WMX USA championships, plus the Loretta Lynn AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship and seven Italian Championships. Gilly and Stefy enthusiastically explain the technology and how it’s about to change our motorcycling world. It’s a cliché, but it could literally be a game-changer. Check out this video on IRK
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Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
The Motos and Friends Podcast is brought to you by Arai helmets. The founder of Arai Helmets was the man who created the first motorcycle helmet in Japan to protect his own head, and as a result, launched the Japanese motorcycle helmet industry. Arai focuses on glancing off performance, accumulating small differences decade after decade, to further rider protection.
The Arai Difference: If your experience has been that “Arai helmets are hard to get on,” then the Contour-X, designed with a wider bottom opening than previous models for easier on/off, is the helmet you’ve been waiting for. Once inside, you will be amazed at the extreme comfort, a key benefit of the Contour-X for long-distance touring. If you’re into ADV or dual-sport riding, then you’ll want to check out the new Arai XD-5. So try on an Arai at your local dealer. You will be instantly amazed at the fit and all-day comfort of any Arai helmet. You should also check out AraiAmericas.com to learn more.
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In our first segment, Don Williams and Kelly Callan chat about her recent visit to the Moto Guzzi factory in Noale, Italy, and her ride on the all-new Moto Guzzi V7 Sport. This is really cool retro-ride, but with modern amenities and Moto Guzzi’s legendary handling.
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Today's episode is sponsored by Insta360, a leader in 360-degree action camera technology. (check out Marc Marquez Insta360!)
Insta360 just-launched their latest 360-degree camera, Insta360 X5, and it shoots in ALL directions at once… in incredible 8K30 hi-resolution. This will give you epic motorcycling shots without even aiming the camera. Just hit record… focus on your ride… and then find the best angles in the edit using Insta360's mobile app. It's easy, smooth, and packed with AI tools! X5 is every camera you'll need in one … you can see more of your 'bars with an immersive POV, or you can film unique, third-person shots of you and your bike. From morning rallies to night rides, X5's huge sensors, triple AI chip, and dedicated low-light shooting mode deliver unmatched detail and image quality! It's waterproof, reliable, and features Insta360's toughest-ever lenses and lens guards ...and by the way, both of those are completely replaceable.
To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your Insta360 X5 purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "ULTIMATE", available for the first 30 purchases only. For more information, be sure to check out the link above, or visit Insta360.com.
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Hey, adventure riders, are you ready to take your rides to the next level? Introducing the SCHUBERTH E2—the second generation of SCHUBERTH’s legendary adventure helmets! Whether you’re riding hard on the roads or tackling the trails, the E2 has you covered with cutting-edge safety and comfort.
The E2 has a 2-position top vent ventilation system ensures a fresh airflow, while its fog-resistant visor keeps your view crystal clear in cold conditions. Plus, the SCHUBERTH E2 features a new enlarged spoiler for better aerodynamics and an air extractor for a quieter, more comfortable ride.
The SCHUBERTH E2 meets the highest safety standards. The E2 also comes with a pre-installed comms system, so you can stay connected on the go. Visit SCHUBERTH.com to check out the E2 and explore more options for your next adventure.
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Our guest this episode is Jensen Beeler, CEO of Kramer Motorcycles, USA, distributors of the highly specialized German-engineered, track-only racebikes. MotoGP fans have been asking for many years why so few Americans make it to MotoGP any more—and it’s not because we lack the talent! Truth is, youngsters in this country simply don’t get the experience of riding purpose-built racebikes. Our motorcycle racing tends to be on converted production motorcycles—and as good as they are, it’s not the same thing. Moto America’s just-launched Talent Cup class uses the brand new specially designed Kramer APX-350 MA spec motorcycles, specifically to nurture US youngsters into Moto3, and then hopefully on to MotoGP. These Kramer machines are accessible and relatively affordable. Jensen explains how and why this strategy is likely to work, and why it matters to anyone interested in seeing America compete on the global stage of motorcycle racing.
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Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
This episode is brought to you by Schuberth helmets.
In our first segment, Don Williams asks Kelly Callan about her recent visit to the Aprilia factory in Noale, Italy, and her ride on the all-new 2026 Aprilia Tuono 457. This upright, naked, sporting motorcycle sounds like major fun, and it’s also priced just right too.
Hey, adventure riders, are you ready to take your rides to the next level? Introducing the SCHUBERTH E2—the second generation of SCHUBERTH’s legendary adventure helmets! Whether you’re riding hard on the roads or tackling the trails, the E2 has you covered with cutting-edge safety and comfort. The SCHUBERTH E2 is the perfect mix between comfort and the aggressive look and feel of an offroad helmet. The new E2 also integrates all the latest SCHUBERTH standards in terms of safety, aerodynamics and aeroacoustics performance.
Need to stay cool in extreme heat? The E2 has a 2-position top vent ventilation system ensures a fresh airflow, while its fog-resistant visor keeps your view crystal clear in cold conditions. Plus, the SCHUBERTH E2 features a new enlarged spoiler for better aerodynamics and an air extractor for a quieter, more comfortable ride.
With P/J homologation, a fiber glass shell, and the Anti-Roll-Off-System, the SCHUBERTH E2 meets the highest safety standards. The E2 also comes with a pre-installed comms system, so you can stay connected on the go. Ready to ride with confidence? Visit SCHUBERTH.com to check out the E2 and explore more options for your next adventure.
Our guest this episode is award-winning stuntman, Rick English. Despite his humility and modesty, Rick has an astonishing list of movies where he’s ridden and crashed motorcycles, including Mission Impossible 5, Batman, Kingsman, Deadpool, and Inception. More recently he’s worked on Netflix movies The Union, and Back in Action with Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz. Teejay Adams chats with Rick about what it’s like to work with stars like Tom Cruise, Ben Affleck, Ryan Reynolds, Mark Wahlberg, and so many more. Rick gives a special shout-out to Knox Armor that he uses to protect himself when he knows he’s going to hit the ground hard. You can also follow him on X @Rick_English.
Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Hey there, riders and road lovers, welcome back to the Motos and Friends Podcast, brought to you by the editors at Ultimate Motorcycling.
The Motos and Friends Podcast is brought to you by Arai helmets. The founder of Arai Helmets was the man who created the first motorcycle helmet in Japan to protect his own head, and as a result, launched the Japanese motorcycle helmet industry. Arai focuses on glancing off performance, accumulating small differences decade after decade, to further rider protection. You should also check out AraiAmericas.com to learn more.
This episode we’re revving up with something seriously cool—the 2025 Indian Chieftain PowerPlus Limited 112. This classic bagger’s got a championship heart, rocking the same motor that’s snagged back-to-back MotoAmerica King of the Baggers wins. You’ve seen the 108 in the Pursuit and Challenger, but now the Chieftain’s stepping up with a slick liquid-cooled V-twin, some chassis upgrades, as well as a bunch of fancy electronic rider aids. Don Williams hit the Nevada desert to put this 21st-century beast to the test.
Our second segment this week is a real treat, because Arthur Coldwells sits down with the legend himself—three-time world Grand Prix Champion Freddie Spencer. 2025 is the 40-year anniversary of his double Championship win, and he asked Freddie about that unreal season where he pulled off something that will never be repeated: winning both the 250cc and 500cc class Championships at the same time. That’s the equivalent of winning both the Moto2 and MotoGP Championships in the same year. Most people likely assume that riding both machines at the limit is similar… Wrong. Actually it takes total single-minded discipline and a completely different riding style for each one. Freddie gives us the nuances of exactly what he had to do, and how he accomplished it. So, grab a drink, settle in, and let’s hear from Freddie about how he literally made history at the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, where he beat the very best in the world—twice in the same year.
Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Arthur Coldwells had the chance to ride the all new Harley Softail Cruisers recently, and he has to say, he quite liked them! The six models can be separated into three distinct genres, Classic, Statement, and Sport, and although he definitely erred towards his favorite category, he can still see the appeal of the others. Harley made some big changes including adding the new 117 ci motor, and he chats with Editor Don Williams about what he discovered and how they all rode.
The Motos and Friends Podcast is brought to you by Arai helmets. The founder of Arai Helmets was the man who created the first motorcycle helmet in Japan to protect his own head, and as a result, launched the Japanese motorcycle helmet industry. Arai focuses on glancing off performance, accumulating small differences decade after decade, to further rider protection.
The Arai Difference: If your experience has been that “Arai helmets are hard to get on,” then the Contour-X, designed with a wider bottom opening than previous models for easier on/off, is the helmet you’ve been waiting for. Once inside, you will be amazed at the extreme comfort, a key benefit of the Contour-X for long-distance touring, and if you’re into ADV or dual-sport riding, then you’ll want to check out the new Arai XD-5. So try on an Arai at your local dealer. You will be instantly amazed at the fit and all-day comfort of any Arai helmet. You should also check out AraiAmericas.com to learn more.
In our second segment this week, Neale Bayly chats with author Sam Manicom. Sam’s amazing story-telling recounts his adventures that really began with his travels in Africa. The adventures he recounts in this episode make for some fun listening, and his final message at the end will certainly inspire all of us ...and perhaps, a few may even take his advice!
Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Our first segment this episode features the all new KTM 250 Duke. I think we can all agree that little bikes are fun. Especially if you’re coming off a liter-bike or even a fast middleweight, a smaller bike by comparison feels lightweight, flickable and so easy to ride. We loved the KTM Duke 200 a few years back when we had it on extended loan, however it did feel just a teensy bit underpowered when we ventured out beyond the city, and especially if we had to take to a freeway or two. KTM has addressed that, and with new Duke 250 adding another 50cc, it makes a huge difference. Don Williams and Kelly Callan spent some time with the new KTM 250 Duke, and they absolutely loved it.
Our guest this week is Brian Case, Executive Director of the Barber Motorsports Museum in Alabama; home to one of the greatest motorcycle collections anywhere. A few months back, Teejay Adams attended the glittering Motorcycles by Moonlight event dinner, held each year during the Barber Vintage Festival. It’s a pretty magical event, and so Teejay finds out from Brian why it’s a must-do event if you’re at all interested in motorcycles.
Oh and FYI… if you’re on iOS, you can listen to this podcast on the new Faidr App. That’s F-A-I-D-R, and it’s a new concept in podcasting.
Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
The Honda MiniMoto concept has been an unqualified success. It started 11 years ago with the Honda Grom, and five models now feature the same 125cc motor in different chassis and transmission configurations. Now, the 2025 Honda Dax 125 is the latest member of the family, recalling the classic Trail 70 that debuted in 1969. Don Williams spent some time with the very entertaining new Dax 125, and tells us all about it.
Our guest this week is Gary Turner, Managing Director of Blackstone TEK (BST). a company renowned for its design and production of carbon fiber wheels and other composite components for motorcycles. Gary chats with Neale Bayly and takes us through his amazing motorcycle journey. Turner started racing when he was 16. Some of the bikes Gary has ridden and raced include the rare and incredible Britten, as well as the Ducati Supermono. BST supplied the carbon fiber on such super-exotics as the Ecosse and the various Confederate models, and is currently a partner with Arch Motorcycle, the Gard Hollinger/Keanu Reeves project. It’s been a fascinating ride so far for Gary, and it’s an equally fascinating high-octane listen for us.
Oh and FYI… if you’re on iOS, you can listen to this podcast on the new Faidr App. That’s F-A-I-D-R, and it’s a new concept in podcasting.
Here’s a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!