S11E12: Motorcycle Questions: Answered!
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In the season finale of Highside/Lowside, hosts Spurge and Zach deliver a richly layered episode packed with listener questions, personal stories, and nostalgic reflections. The episode kicks off with a jaw-dropping highlight: a 2006 Fiat 500 retrofitted with a Suzuki GSX-R 1000 engine, complete with a motorcycle clutch and chain drive—proof of the wild creativity in the motorcycle community. The hosts explore why American manufacturers like Harley-Davidson and Indian haven’t expanded into motocross or sport bikes, citing brand identity and market risk. They tackle practical concerns like wind protection versus waterproof gear, the dangers of uninsured test rides, and safe ways to learn wheelies on small dirt bikes. A heartfelt tribute to a 100,000-mile Yamaha Super Tenere owner underscores the emotional bond riders form with their machines. The episode also dives into the podcast’s roots, with Spurge recounting his journey from a laid-off high school teacher to a key figure at RevZilla, emphasizing how humility and persistence opened doors. A fun engine sound guessing game and playful alternate timeline questions add levity, while listener contributions—ranging from questions to dog whistles—reinforce the show’s community-driven spirit. The final segment celebrates the irreplaceable chemistry between Spurge and Zach, with both expressing deep gratitude for each other, the audience, and past collaborators like Ari Henning, Spencer Robert, and Patrick Garvin, marking the season as a triumph of connection, resilience, and shared passion.
A 2006 Fiat 500 with a GSX-R 1000 engine is a real, high-RPM project that showcases the creativity and audacity of the motorcycle community.
American cruiser brands face cultural and structural barriers to diversifying into sport or motocross bikes, rooted in brand identity and market risk.
Wind protection is more critical than waterproof gear alone for highway commuting, with clip-on screens offering a practical compromise.
Test rides are often not covered by insurance—always verify coverage and dealer policies before riding.
Learning wheelies safely starts on small, affordable dirt bikes like the CRF 250 or KLX 230, not high-powered street bikes.
…and 5 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Fiat 500 with a GSX-R 1000 Engine
“It uses the GSX-R1000 gearbox and clutch. So I think it has a hand shifter as far as I can tell. And then a sequential gearbox like a motorcycle.”
Why Don’t American Brands Make More Bike Variants?
“You know what, Spurge? You make a good point. And I, the answer was right in front of us the whole time. Mike sent us this email. You're the problem, Mike.”
Wind Protection vs. Waterproof Gear for Commuting
A listener complains about their slow, heavy Honda CBF 600 and asks if a fairing is worth the cost. The hosts debate whether a windshield helps more than a rain suit, ultimately recommending a compromise: a clip-on screen plus a good throw-over rain suit.
Test Ride Insurance Gaps and Travel Safety
“It's a perfect storm for Michael: a gap in insurance, a misunderstanding with the dealer, and an unfortunate tip over to begin with.”
Book Recommendation: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
“If you're looking for something to read, uh, this spring, this summer, when you're on the beach or taking a vacation, or maybe you're on a motorcycle trip and you want to sit below a tree and you know, eat your lunch. Check out the Phil Knight book. It's very good.”
“Spurgeon has been the catalyst for myself, for Ari, for Spencer joining RevZilla, for the CTXP program, for the shop manual, for Daily Rider...”
“You know what, Spurge? You make a good point. And I, the answer was right in front of us the whole time. Mike sent us this email. You're the problem, Mike.”
“It's just not quite the same without you.”
Hosts
Guests
Zach
person
Spur Joe
person
Revzilla
brand
Spurge
person
Spurgeon Dunbar
person
Suzuki GSX-R 1000
other
Harley-Davidson
brand
Ari Henning
person
Patrick Garvin
person
Fiat 500
other
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