Many riders insist that tanks are too small on modern motorcycles, but the real story is far more nuanced than a simple glance at fuel capacity suggests. In this episode of Throttle and Roast, host Niels Meersschaert digs into the full picture of motorcycle range, examining why manufacturers build smaller tanks, how fuel economy changes everything, and whether the complaints flooding social media actually hold up in the real world.

Niels begins by establishing the extremes of tank capacity currently available on the market. The smallest street motorcycle tank belongs to the Honda Grom at just 1.6 gallons, while the largest is found on the BMW R1300 GS Adventure at 7.9 gallons. Most of the bikes people complain about fall somewhere in between those two extremes. Manufacturers choose smaller tanks for two primary reasons: aesthetics and weight. A larger tank dramatically changes the visual profile of a motorcycle, and with fuel weighing roughly six pounds per gallon, a fully loaded large tank can add nearly 50 pounds of weight concentrated high on the bike, affecting low-speed handling and overall feel. As modern bikes have also added electronics, ABS, TFT displays, and other features that riders demand, manufacturers have had to find weight savings somewhere, and the fuel tank is often the easiest place to trim.

But tank size alone does not tell the full story. When you factor in fuel economy, the range equation shifts considerably. The Honda Grom, despite its tiny 1.6-gallon tank, achieves around 125 miles per gallon in real-world use according to the fuel tracking tool Fuelly, giving it a range of roughly 200 to 250 miles. Meanwhile, the BMW R1300 GSA, with its nearly 8-gallon tank, returns around 40 to 44 miles per gallon in practice, translating to 315 to 395 miles of range. That is a meaningful difference, but far less dramatic than the raw tank size comparison would suggest.

Niels backs this up with over 15 years of personal fuel data tracked through Fuelly. His Vespa GTS 300, with a 2.2-gallon tank, averages 67.6 miles per gallon and delivers close to 150 miles of range, more than enough for his typical short errands. His BMW F900GS, despite having less than half the tank capacity of his old R1200 GSA, achieves nearly the s

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Choosing your first motorcycle is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a decision that deserves careful thought and planning. This comprehensive guide walks beginners through every critical aspect of the process, ensuring new riders select a motorcycle that matches their needs, skill level, and aspirations while prioritizing safety and enjoyment.
The guide begins by introducing the concept of a "license to learn"—the understanding that your first motorcycle is not likely to be your ultimate dream machine, but rather a stepping stone that builds your skills and confidence. New riders are encouraged to separate the emotional allure of high-powered, flashy bikes from the practical requirements of learning to ride safely and comfortably. The guide stresses that starting with a more manageable bike is not a compromise, but a strategic decision that can lead to a more rewarding and safe riding experience.
One of the key factors discussed is choosing a motorcycle that isn’t too heavy or powerful. The guide explains how large engines and excessive weight can make it harder for beginners to control the bike, especially at low speeds or in challenging situations. Instead, it suggests looking for models with moderate engine sizes—typically in the 250cc to 500cc range—that offer enough performance for learning and everyday riding without being overwhelming. The guide also highlights the importance of seat height and overall ergonomics, advising new riders to test-sit multiple models to find a comfortable fit that allows them to reach the ground easily and operate controls with confidence.
The guide outlines the main categories of motorcycles suitable for beginners, including standard/naked bikes, cruisers, sport bikes, dual-sports, and adventure bikes. For each type, the pros and cons are discussed, helping readers consider where and how they intend to ride—whether commuting, touring, or exploring off-road trails. The merits of new versus used motorcycles are also examined: new bikes offer warranties and modern features, while used bikes can be more affordable and forgiving of the inevitable beginner scratches and drops. Practical advice is given on what to look for in a used bike, including service history, signs of damage, and ease of maintenance.
A

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In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert dives into the ADV and off-road news that matters most as riders gear up for the 2026 riding season. From updated Italian middleweights to Japanese rally-inspired machines, extended warranties, and true Hidden Gems for 2026, this episode has something for every kind of adventure rider.

Ducati Desert X — Italian Middleweight Gets a Refresh

Kicking things off is the updated Ducati Desert X, now powered by the new V2 motor found across the Ducati lineup. The new engine sheds a couple of pounds — bringing curb weight to approximately 461 lbs — and, more importantly, ditches the famously demanding Desmo valve system in favor of a traditional spring-based valve train. This change alone is a significant quality-of-life improvement, as Desmo valve services were notoriously complex and expensive. Power remains essentially unchanged at 110 hp and 68 ft-lb of torque from a slightly smaller 890cc engine. The fuel tank has been redesigned to carry weight lower on the bike, improving off-road handling and reducing that top-heavy feeling. Suspension is serious: 9.1 inches of travel up front from fully adjustable 46mm forks, and 8.7 inches out back. A new 5-inch horizontal TFT display, 6-axis IMU, six riding modes, and revised ergonomics with a more aggressive attack position round out the updates. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combination keeps this bike firmly in adventure-off-road territory rather than the more road-biased Multistrada lineup.

Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid — The GSA of the Tenere Family

Next up is the long-awaited US arrival of the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid. Think of this as the premium, adventure-ready version of the already well-loved Tenere 700. The biggest complaint about the base model was its budget suspension, and the World Raid addresses this head-on with 46mm front forks offering 9.1 inches of travel — matching the Desert X — and a rear shock bumped up to 8.6 inches, both fully adjustable. The old LCD display is replaced with a full TFT screen, and the bike gains ride-by-wire, cruise control, lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, ABS, and improved LED headlights. The most visually striking u

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The podcast episode focuses on preparing your motorcycle and yourself for the 2026 riding season. It covers inspecting the bike for any damage, checking fluid levels, and ensuring proper tire pressure and tread. Before riding after a long winter break, inspect the motorcycle to ensure it is safe and ready. This includes checking tire pressure, lights, and the engine.

It covers getting yourself mentally & physically ready for the new riding season, as the skills and muscles used for riding differ from those used for driving.

Finally, some tips on what to do in your first few rides of the season.

Slacker Sag Measurement tool mentioned in the episode

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In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert delves into the evolving landscape of Motorcycle Navigation in 2026. The discussion begins with the ubiquitous smartphone, a device most riders already own and often default to for navigation purposes. While phones offer versatility—serving as communication devices, cameras, and note-takers—they come with significant drawbacks when used on motorcycles. Niels emphasizes that phones aren’t built to withstand the intense vibrations, weather exposure, and rapid changes in lighting experienced on a bike. Mounting a phone on handlebars exposes it to risks like camera or microphone damage, water intrusion, and overheating from sun exposure. These factors can lead to critical device failures, potentially leaving a rider without a means of communication in emergencies. Moreover, using a phone for navigation drains the battery rapidly, and even with a powered mount, charging may not keep up with usage, especially in hot conditions. The touchscreen is not glove-friendly by default, and the screen’s visibility suffers in bright sunlight and at unconventional angles. Overall, while using a phone is cost-effective, Niels concludes that the risks often outweigh the benefits.
The conversation then shifts to dedicated GPS devices, which are purpose-built for motorcycle navigation. Unlike phones, these units are designed for glove operation, durability, and weather resistance. Brands like Garmin dominate this space with models like the Zumo XT and XT3, offering features tailored to motorcyclists, such as robust mounts, weather sealing, and downloadable maps for offline use. These devices also include specialized options for adventure and off-road riders, like high-definition topographic maps and group ride tracking. While dedicated GPS units are more expensive than simply using a phone, their longevity and resilience make them a worthwhile investment for frequent riders. Niels also acknowledges specialized Android-based units like the DMD NOR 7E, which combine the flexibility of customizable apps with rugged hardware, albeit at a higher price and with a steeper learning curve than consumer-friendly units like those from Garmin.
Finally, Niels explores remote screen solutions, a growing trend

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This episode of Throttle and Roast, hosted by Niels Meersschaert, delivers a thorough and thought-provoking exploration of motorcycle politics—covering how political decisions, laws, and community debates impact every rider’s experience. Beginning with the deceptively simple question, “What is a motorcycle?”

Niels highlights the complex legal and practical definitions that can vary across regions and legislatures. The episode delves into how vehicles like trikes, scooters, and three-wheelers challenge lawmakers to define what counts as a motorcycle, and how those definitions directly impact which vehicles are subject to motorcycle laws, licensing, and safety requirements.

Niels discusses helmet laws and licensing systems, bringing attention to the patchwork of state-by-state requirements in the United States and contrasting them with the tiered licensing in Europe. The conversation extends to the deep-seated tension between personal freedom and government regulation, as some riders advocate for the right to choose, while others support measures that enhance safety for all. Noise restrictions and access to public spaces emerge as additional battlegrounds.

Niels examines the politics of noise ordinances—how they influence motorcycle design, performance, and rider behavior—and the ongoing debates over where motorcyclists should be allowed to ride, particularly in parks and shared public spaces. He also raises questions about the fairness of toll charges, asking why lightweight motorcycles often pay the same fees as much heavier vehicles, despite their vastly different impacts on road wear and congestion. International trade policy, such as tariffs on imported motorcycles and parts, is another major theme.

Niels notes that most bikes in the U.S. are imported, so tariffs can significantly raise costs for riders, limiting access to affordable options and increasing maintenance expenses, all due to political maneuvering rather than consumer demand.

The episode also explores how advocacy organizations, like ABATE and the American Motorcyclist Association, strive to represent riders’ interests in these political debates, while acknowledging that even within these groups, opinions and priorities can differ.

Niels doesn’t shy

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The motorcycle industry in 2026 faces declining sales in major markets, but growth in the middleweight segment, emerging brands, and new trends suggest a dynamic and evolving future. Demographic shifts and affordability play key roles, while electrics and innovative accessories present fresh opportunities for riders and manufacturers alike.

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In this episode, it’s something old, something new as we spotlight the iconic Trident and the classic Chief Vintage. Discover how timeless design and modern engineering come together to shape the riding experience, blending heritage with fresh excitement for all motorcycle enthusiasts.

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