15 Motorcycles You'll REGRET Buying in 2025! 🏍️❌ (Avoid These Costly Mistakes)
CycleSphere
[{'start': '0.390', 'end': '3.230', 'text': 'Hey riders, Cycle Sphere here, and'}, {'start': '3.230', 'end': '5.350', 'text': "today we're diving into a topic that"}, {'start': '5.350', 'end': '7.270', 'text': 'might save you thousands of dollars and'}, {'start': '7.270', 'end': '9.270', 'text': 'countless headaches. You know that'}, {'start': '9.270', 'end': '11.270', 'text': 'feeling when you see a gorgeous bike on'}, {'start': '11.270', 'end': '13.430', 'text': 'the showroom floor and your heart starts'}, {'start': '13.430', 'end': '16.270', 'text': 'racing. Well, sometimes that excitement'}, {'start': '16.270', 'end': '18.550', 'text': 'turns into pure regret faster than a'}, {'start': '18.550', 'end': '21.510', 'text': 'liter bike hit 60. Some motorcycles look'}, {'start': '21.510', 'end': '23.830', 'text': 'absolutely amazing until reality hits,'}, {'start': '24.310', 'end': '26.790', 'text': "and today we're exposing 15 motorcycles"}, {'start': '27.030', 'end': '28.710', 'text': 'that only people who hate money,'}, {'start': '28.790', 'end': '31.350', 'text': 'research, or reliable transportation'}, {'start': '31.350', 'end': '33.590', 'text': "would ever buy. I've been testing,"}, {'start': '33.750', 'end': '36.390', 'text': 'reviewing, and yes, sometimes suffering'}, {'start': '36.390', 'end': '38.310', 'text': 'through problematic motorcycles for over'}, {'start': '38.310', 'end': '40.790', 'text': '15 years now. And let me tell you,'}, {'start': '41.190', 'end': '42.870', 'text': "there's nothing more disappointing than"}, {'start': '42.870', 'end': '44.470', 'text': 'watching your dream machine become a'}, {'start': '44.470', 'end': '46.350', 'text': 'nightmare after just a few thousand'}, {'start': '46.350', 'end': '48.390', 'text': "miles. Whether you're shopping for your"}, {'start': '48.390', 'end': '50.990', 'text': 'next ride, or just curious about what to'}, {'start': '50.990', 'end': '53.710', 'text': "avoid, you'll want to stick around. Trust"}, {'start': '53.710', 'end': '55.870', 'text': 'me, number eight on our list shocked even'}, {'start': '55.870', 'end': '57.990', 'text': "me. And I thought I'd seen it all."}, {'start': '58.390', 'end': '60.710', 'text': 'Understanding motorcycle regret, more'}, {'start': '60.710', 'end': '63.270', 'text': 'common than you think. Before we dive'}, {'start': '63.270', 'end': '65.430', 'text': "into our list, let's talk about why"}, {'start': '65.430', 'end': '67.390', 'text': 'motorcycle regret happens in the first'}, {'start': '67.390', 'end': '69.670', 'text': "place. It's not just about mechanical"}, {'start': '69.670', 'end': '72.150', 'text': "failures, although that's a huge part of"}, {'start': '72.150', 'end': '74.230', 'text': "it. It's that crushing feeling when the"}, {'start': '74.230', 'end': '76.590', 'text': 'bike you saved for, researched, and'}, {'start': '76.590', 'end': '78.470', 'text': 'dreamed about turns out to be a money pit'}, {'start': '78.470', 'end': '80.550', 'text': 'or just plain disappointing to ride.'}, {'start': '80.950', 'end': '83.030', 'text': 'According to various owner surveys and'}, {'start': '83.030', 'end': '85.110', 'text': 'mechanical reliability studies, the'}, {'start': '85.110', 'end': '87.030', 'text': 'average motorcycle should provide at'}, {'start': '87.030', 'end': '89.430', 'text': 'least 50,000 miles of relatively'}, {'start': '89.430', 'end': '91.350', 'text': 'trouble-free riding with proper'}, {'start': '91.350', 'end': '94.110', 'text': 'maintenance. But some bikes start showing'}, {'start': '94.110', 'end': '96.550', 'text': 'serious issues before they even hit their'}, {'start': '96.550', 'end': '98.670', 'text': 'first service interval. Others might be'}, {'start': '98.670', 'end': '100.790', 'text': 'reliable mechanically, but destroy their'}, {'start': '100.790', 'end': '103.430', 'text': 'resale value faster than you can say'}, {'start': '103.430', 'end': '105.910', 'text': 'depreciation. I remember back in'}, {'start': '105.910', 'end': '108.390', 'text': '2018, I purchased what I thought was my'}, {'start': '108.390', 'end': '110.910', 'text': "dream touring bike. I won't name it yet"}, {'start': '110.910', 'end': '112.990', 'text': "since it's on our list, but within six"}, {'start': '112.990', 'end': '115.270', 'text': 'months, I had spent more time at the'}, {'start': '115.270', 'end': '117.470', 'text': 'dealership than actually touring. That'}, {'start': '117.470', 'end': '119.510', 'text': 'experience taught me the hard way that'}, {'start': '119.510', 'end': '122.070', 'text': 'sometimes manufacturers prioritize style'}, {'start': '122.150', 'end': '123.990', 'text': 'and marketing over substance and'}, {'start': '123.990', 'end': '126.230', 'text': "reliability. Now, let's get into our"}, {'start': '126.230', 'end': '128.630', 'text': 'countdown of the 15 motorcycles that'}, {'start': '128.630', 'end': '130.710', 'text': 'consistently leave their owners with'}, {'start': '130.710', 'end': '133.510', 'text': "buyer's remorse. The technology failures"}, {'start': '133.670', 'end': '136.470', 'text': 'when innovation goes wrong. 15.'}, {'start': '136.550', 'end': '139.190', 'text': 'CFMoto 300K. Budget'}, {'start': '139.190', 'end': '141.990', 'text': 'price, budget quality. Starting our list'}, {'start': '141.990', 'end': '144.310', 'text': 'at number 15 is the CF Moto'}, {'start': '144.310', 'end': '147.150', 'text': '300K. Now, I understand the'}, {'start': '147.150', 'end': '149.350', 'text': "appeal. It's budget-friendly with modern"}, {'start': '149.350', 'end': '151.310', 'text': 'styling that makes it look much more'}, {'start': '151.310', 'end': '153.350', 'text': "expensive than it is. But there's a"}, {'start': '153.350', 'end': '155.590', 'text': "reason this bike top's reliability"}, {'start': '155.590', 'end': '158.390', 'text': 'concern lists. The 300K is'}, {'start': '158.390', 'end': '160.790', 'text': 'powered by a 292cc'}, {'start': '160.790', 'end': '162.790', 'text': 'single-cylinder engine that frequently'}, {'start': '162.790', 'end': '164.950', 'text': 'suffers from excessive vibration,'}, {'start': '165.270', 'end': '167.750', 'text': 'premature wear, and stalling issues.'}, {'start': '168.230', 'end': '170.630', 'text': 'One of my viewers, Carlos from Arizona,'}, {'start': '171.030', 'end': '173.430', 'text': 'emailed me about his experience. Three'}, {'start': '173.430', 'end': '175.670', 'text': 'months in, and the wiring harness'}, {'start': '175.670', 'end': '177.910', 'text': 'basically disintegrated, the dealer'}, {'start': '177.910', 'end': '180.710', 'text': "couldn't even find replacement parts. The"}, {'start': '180.710', 'end': '182.790', 'text': "bike's electrical system seems designed"}, {'start': '182.790', 'end': '185.190', 'text': 'to fail, with owners reporting frequent'}, {'start': '185.190', 'end': '187.190', 'text': 'electrical failures that leave them'}, {'start': '187.190', 'end': '190.150', 'text': 'stranded. Even worse, the frame weld'}, {'start': '190.150', 'end': '192.390', 'text': 'quality is questionable at best, with'}, {'start': '192.390', 'end': '194.790', 'text': 'some reports of actual failures, not'}, {'start': '194.790', 'end': '196.230', 'text': 'exactly what you want to discover at'}, {'start': '196.230', 'end': '198.670', 'text': 'highway speeds. When you factor in the'}, {'start': '198.670', 'end': '200.790', 'text': 'extremely limited service network and'}, {'start': '200.790', 'end': '203.510', 'text': 'parts availability, the initial savings'}, {'start': '203.510', 'end': '206.150', 'text': 'quickly evaporate. As the saying goes,'}, {'start': '206.390', 'end': '208.910', 'text': 'Buy cheap, buy twice. Except with the'}, {'start': '208.910', 'end': '211.590', 'text': '300K, you might be buying repairs'}, {'start': '211.590', 'end': '214.350', 'text': 'constantly. 14. Triumph Trident'}, {'start': '214.350', 'end': '216.870', 'text': '660. Beautiful, but trouble-prone.'}, {'start': '217.270', 'end': '219.670', 'text': 'Number 14 on our list is the Triumph'}, {'start': '219.670', 'end': '222.630', 'text': 'Trident 660. Now, I absolutely'}, {'start': '222.630', 'end': '224.790', 'text': "love Triumph's design language, and on"}, {'start': '224.790', 'end': '227.350', 'text': 'paper, this bike seemed like a winner. a'}, {'start': '227.350', 'end': '228.790', 'text': 'stylish middleweight triple with'}, {'start': '228.790', 'end': '230.790', 'text': 'character and reasonable pricing.'}, {'start': '231.190', 'end': '233.350', 'text': 'Unfortunately, the reality has been'}, {'start': '233.350', 'end': '235.510', 'text': 'disappointing for many owners. The'}, {'start': '235.510', 'end': '238.070', 'text': '660cc inline-3 engine'}, {'start': '238.070', 'end': '240.310', 'text': 'suffers from oil leaks and premature'}, {'start': '240.310', 'end': '243.030', 'text': 'clutch wear, with many bikes requiring'}, {'start': '243.030', 'end': '244.990', 'text': 'significant repairs within the first few'}, {'start': '244.990', 'end': '247.510', 'text': 'thousand miles. I test rode one for a'}, {'start': '247.510', 'end': '249.590', 'text': 'week last summer, and while the engine'}, {'start': '249.590', 'end': '252.070', 'text': "sound was intoxicating, I couldn't ignore"}, {'start': '252.070', 'end': '253.910', 'text': 'the puddle of oil forming under it each'}, {'start': '253.910', 'end': '256.390', 'text': 'morning. Riders across various forums'}, {'start': '256.390', 'end': '258.310', 'text': "report that the bike's build quality"}, {'start': '258.470', 'end': '260.470', 'text': "doesn't match its premium price point,"}, {'start': '260.950', 'end': '263.030', 'text': 'with complaints about vibrations causing'}, {'start': '263.030', 'end': '265.590', 'text': 'bolts to loosen and plastics cracking'}, {'start': '265.590', 'end': '267.870', 'text': 'under minimal stress. For a brand with'}, {'start': '267.870', 'end': '270.190', 'text': "Triumph's Heritage, these issues are"}, {'start': '270.190', 'end': '272.590', 'text': 'particularly disappointing. One owner I'}, {'start': '272.590', 'end': '274.830', 'text': "interviewed put it perfectly: It's like"}, {'start': '274.830', 'end': '276.870', 'text': 'dating someone extremely attractive who'}, {'start': '276.870', 'end': '279.870', 'text': 'constantly creates drama. Eventually, the'}, {'start': '279.870', 'end': '281.750', 'text': "good looks aren't worth the headache."}, {'start': '282.790', 'end': '285.390', 'text': '13 Suzuki GSX 250'}, {'start': '285.510', 'end': '288.230', 'text': 'R, the underperformer. At number 13,'}, {'start': '288.550', 'end': '291.270', 'text': 'we have the Suzuki GSX 250 R.'}, {'start': '291.670', 'end': '293.470', 'text': 'Aimed at beginner riders and those'}, {'start': '293.470', 'end': '295.430', 'text': 'seeking an affordable entry into the'}, {'start': '295.430', 'end': '297.910', 'text': 'sport bike world, this model falls'}, {'start': '297.910', 'end': '299.790', 'text': 'significantly short in the reliability'}, {'start': '299.790', 'end': '301.430', 'text': 'department. department. While its'}, {'start': '301.430', 'end': '304.350', 'text': '248cc parallel twin engine is'}, {'start': '304.350', 'end': '306.870', 'text': 'designed for efficiency and ease of use,'}, {'start': '307.270', 'end': '309.030', 'text': 'it has been widely criticized for being'}, {'start': '309.030', 'end': '311.030', 'text': 'severely underpowered and plagued by'}, {'start': '311.030', 'end': '313.910', 'text': 'mechanical failures. During my test ride,'}, {'start': '314.230', 'end': '316.150', 'text': 'the bike struggled to maintain highway'}, {'start': '316.150', 'end': '318.870', 'text': 'speeds, which is dangerous for new riders'}, {'start': '318.870', 'end': '320.510', 'text': 'who might find themselves unable to'}, {'start': '320.510', 'end': '322.350', 'text': 'accelerate out of potentially hazardous'}, {'start': '322.350', 'end': '324.750', 'text': 'situations. One of the most frequently'}, {'start': '324.750', 'end': '326.870', 'text': 'reported issues is with the gearbox,'}, {'start': '327.110', 'end': '329.190', 'text': 'which struggles with smooth shifting.'}, {'start': '329.590', 'end': '331.870', 'text': 'Riders often encounter false neutrals and'}, {'start': '331.870', 'end': '334.430', 'text': 'difficulty engaging gears, making the'}, {'start': '334.430', 'end': '336.990', 'text': 'riding experience both frustrating and'}, {'start': '336.990', 'end': '339.670', 'text': 'potentially dangerous. When I ran a poll'}, {'start': '339.670', 'end': '342.550', 'text': 'in our community, over 70% of GSX'}, {'start': '342.550', 'end': '345.350', 'text': '250, our owners, reported they were'}, {'start': '345.350', 'end': '347.750', 'text': 'already shopping for a replacement within'}, {'start': '347.750', 'end': '350.070', 'text': "their first year of ownership. That's not"}, {'start': '350.070', 'end': '351.630', 'text': 'what you want to hear about your first'}, {'start': '351.630', 'end': '353.910', 'text': 'motorcycle investment, the high-cost'}, {'start': '353.910', 'end': '356.550', 'text': 'disappointments, premium prices, budget'}, {'start': '356.550', 'end': '359.430', 'text': 'experiences,12. Harley-Davidson'}, {'start': '359.430', 'end': '362.070', 'text': "Road Glide. The touring dream that isn't."}, {'start': '362.390', 'end': '364.710', 'text': 'Number 12 is the Harley-Davidson Road'}, {'start': '364.710', 'end': '367.430', 'text': 'Glide, specifically recent models that'}, {'start': '367.430', 'end': '369.110', 'text': 'have left owners questioning their'}, {'start': '369.110', 'end': '371.310', 'text': 'substantial investment. When you hear'}, {'start': '371.310', 'end': '374.230', 'text': 'Road Glide, you think big, bold,'}, {'start': '374.470', 'end': '376.710', 'text': 'and built for the open highway. But for'}, {'start': '376.710', 'end': '379.110', 'text': 'many riders, this luxury touring machine'}, {'start': '379.110', 'end': '381.510', 'text': 'becomes less of a long-haul dream and'}, {'start': '381.510', 'end': '383.910', 'text': 'more of a recurring nightmare. The Road'}, {'start': '383.910', 'end': '386.470', 'text': 'Glide commands premium pricing. often'}, {'start': '386.470', 'end': '389.430', 'text': 'exceeding $25,000 with basic options.'}, {'start': '389.750', 'end': '392.150', 'text': 'Yet owners report dashboard electronics'}, {'start': '392.150', 'end': '394.950', 'text': 'that freeze unexpectedly, the last thing'}, {'start': '394.950', 'end': '397.590', 'text': "you want when you're 500 miles from home"}, {'start': '397.590', 'end': '400.190', 'text': 'in unfamiliar territory. I spoke with a'}, {'start': '400.190', 'end': '402.230', 'text': 'Harley Owners Group chapter in Texas'}, {'start': '402.310', 'end': '404.030', 'text': 'whose members described how the'}, {'start': '404.030', 'end': '406.390', 'text': 'instrument cluster glitches and sometimes'}, {'start': '406.390', 'end': '408.870', 'text': 'freezes entirely, requiring a complete'}, {'start': '408.870', 'end': '411.070', 'text': 'restart of the motorcycle. The heat'}, {'start': '411.070', 'end': '413.350', 'text': 'management on these bikes also leaves'}, {'start': '413.350', 'end': '415.670', 'text': 'much to be desired. In stop-and-go'}, {'start': '415.670', 'end': '418.030', 'text': 'traffic, riders report uncomfortable'}, {'start': '418.030', 'end': '420.150', 'text': 'levels of engine heat radiating to their'}, {'start': '420.150', 'end': '423.030', 'text': "legs. One owner told me, It's"}, {'start': '423.030', 'end': '424.710', 'text': 'like straddling a furnace in the summer.'}, {'start': '425.190', 'end': '426.950', 'text': 'I can only ride it comfortably in the'}, {'start': '426.950', 'end': '429.910', 'text': 'winter months now. For a bike marketed as'}, {'start': '429.910', 'end': '431.910', 'text': 'the ultimate touring machine, these'}, {'start': '431.910', 'end': '433.990', 'text': 'issues make long-distance travel more'}, {'start': '433.990', 'end': '436.110', 'text': "stressful than enjoyable. When you're"}, {'start': '436.110', 'end': '438.070', 'text': 'spending premium dollars, these'}, {'start': '438.070', 'end': '440.310', 'text': 'compromises are hard to justify.'}, {'start': '440.886', 'end': '443.406', 'text': '11. Indian Chief Style Over'}, {'start': '443.406', 'end': '446.406', 'text': 'Substance Coming in at number 11 is the'}, {'start': '446.446', 'end': '448.966', 'text': 'Indian Chief. This cruiser attempts to'}, {'start': '448.966', 'end': '450.926', 'text': 'blend classic styling with modern'}, {'start': '450.926', 'end': '453.406', 'text': 'technology, but the execution has left'}, {'start': '453.406', 'end': '455.406', 'text': 'many owners regretting their purchase.'}, {'start': '455.806', 'end': '457.726', 'text': 'The headlight housing has a reputation'}, {'start': '457.726', 'end': '460.046', 'text': 'for fogging up after just a few rides in'}, {'start': '460.046', 'end': '462.926', 'text': 'humid or rainy conditions. Night riding'}, {'start': '462.926', 'end': '465.006', 'text': 'becomes a game of guesswork, and some'}, {'start': '465.006', 'end': '467.126', 'text': 'owners say it feels like riding through a'}, {'start': '467.126', 'end': '469.086', 'text': 'bathroom mirror after a hot shower.'}, {'start': '470.126', 'end': '472.766', 'text': 'Not exactly confidence inspiring on dark'}, {'start': '472.766', 'end': '475.246', 'text': 'roads. The instrument cluster, which'}, {'start': '475.246', 'end': '477.646', 'text': 'Indian calls a modern gauge, is'}, {'start': '477.646', 'end': '480.086', 'text': 'problematic, to say the least. Fuel'}, {'start': '480.086', 'end': '482.446', 'text': 'levels fluctuate wildly, the display'}, {'start': '482.446', 'end': '484.606', 'text': 'glitches, and random warning lights'}, {'start': '484.606', 'end': '487.326', 'text': 'flash, with no clear cause. As one'}, {'start': '487.326', 'end': '489.686', 'text': 'frustrated owner put it, You might start'}, {'start': '489.686', 'end': '491.686', 'text': 'your day with a full tank and end it'}, {'start': '491.686', 'end': '493.966', 'text': "convinced you're on empty, only to find"}, {'start': '493.966', 'end': '495.926', 'text': 'out the gauge was just having another bad'}, {'start': '495.926', 'end': '498.526', 'text': 'day. Perhaps most frustrating is'}, {'start': '498.526', 'end': '500.526', 'text': "Indian's decision to lock the engine"}, {'start': '500.526', 'end': '503.486', 'text': 'control unit ECU. Want to upgrade'}, {'start': '503.486', 'end': '506.286', 'text': 'your exhaust or tune the bike?Not without'}, {'start': '506.286', 'end': '508.526', 'text': 'risking your factory warranty or spending'}, {'start': '508.526', 'end': '510.926', 'text': 'significant cash on third-party tuning'}, {'start': '510.926', 'end': '513.566', 'text': 'systems. For cruiser enthusiasts who'}, {'start': '513.566', 'end': '515.726', 'text': 'typically love customizing their rides,'}, {'start': '516.046', 'end': '518.366', 'text': 'this is a major drawback. Between the'}, {'start': '518.366', 'end': '520.926', 'text': 'clutch rattle, foggy headlight, faulty'}, {'start': '520.926', 'end': '523.886', 'text': 'gauge, locked ECU, and the relentless'}, {'start': '523.886', 'end': '526.326', 'text': 'value drop,The Indian Chief ends up being'}, {'start': '526.326', 'end': '528.286', 'text': 'one of the most regretted purchases among'}, {'start': '528.286', 'end': '531.086', 'text': 'cruiser enthusiasts. 10. KTM'}, {'start': '531.086', 'end': '533.726', 'text': '790 Duke The Unreliable Scalpel'}, {'start': '534.126', 'end': '537.086', 'text': 'The number 10 spot goes to the KTM 790'}, {'start': '537.086', 'end': '539.926', 'text': 'Duke. Marketed as the scalpel for its'}, {'start': '539.926', 'end': '541.886', 'text': 'supposed surgical precision handling,'}, {'start': '542.286', 'end': '544.686', 'text': 'many owners find its mechanics to be more'}, {'start': '544.686', 'end': '547.686', 'text': 'like a rusty knife. While KTM markets the'}, {'start': '547.686', 'end': '550.286', 'text': '790 Duke as a cutting-edge middleweight'}, {'start': '550.286', 'end': '553.006', 'text': 'naked bike, the frequent issues with its'}, {'start': '553.006', 'end': '555.806', 'text': 'build quality,engine durability, and'}, {'start': '555.806', 'end': '557.846', 'text': 'electronic components make it a risky'}, {'start': '557.846', 'end': '560.286', 'text': "investment. I've had three different KTM"}, {'start': '560.286', 'end': '562.926', 'text': 'mechanics tell me these bikes keep their'}, {'start': '562.926', 'end': '565.486', 'text': 'service departments in business. Online'}, {'start': '565.486', 'end': '567.646', 'text': 'forums and social media platforms'}, {'start': '567.726', 'end': '569.926', 'text': 'frequently highlight these problems, with'}, {'start': '569.926', 'end': '571.086', 'text': 'hashtags like'}, {'start': '571.086', 'end': '573.966', 'text': '#KTM790DukeIssues trending as'}, {'start': '573.966', 'end': '576.046', 'text': 'riders share their frustrations. The'}, {'start': '576.046', 'end': '577.806', 'text': 'ride-by-wire throttle system is'}, {'start': '577.806', 'end': '579.886', 'text': 'particularly problematic, with numerous'}, {'start': '579.886', 'end': '582.366', 'text': 'reports of inconsistent throttle response'}, {'start': '582.526', 'end': '584.286', 'text': 'that makes precision riding nearly'}, {'start': '584.286', 'end': '587.006', 'text': 'impossible, ironic for a bike nicknamed'}, {'start': '587.006', 'end': '589.886', 'text': 'The Scalpel. I remember meeting a rider'}, {'start': '589.886', 'end': '592.046', 'text': 'at a track day who had just purchased a'}, {'start': '592.046', 'end': '594.766', 'text': '790 Duke. He was beaming with'}, {'start': '594.766', 'end': '597.246', 'text': 'pride until the bike refused to start'}, {'start': '597.246', 'end': '600.126', 'text': 'after the lunch break. Two weeks later, I'}, {'start': '600.126', 'end': '603.086', 'text': 'saw him on a Japanese motorcycle. Lesson'}, {'start': '603.086', 'end': '605.166', 'text': 'learned the hard way. The dangerous'}, {'start': '605.166', 'end': '607.566', 'text': 'disappointments when design flaws create'}, {'start': '607.566', 'end': '610.446', 'text': 'hazards. 9. 1972'}, {'start': '610.446', 'end': '613.166', 'text': 'Kawasaki 750 HHH2 The'}, {'start': '613.166', 'end': '616.126', 'text': 'Widowmaker. Historically lethal. At'}, {'start': '616.126', 'end': '618.526', 'text': 'number 9, we have a historical cautionary'}, {'start': '618.526', 'end': '621.326', 'text': 'tale. The 1972 Kawasaki'}, {'start': '621.326', 'end': '624.126', 'text': '750 HHH2, infamously'}, {'start': '624.126', 'end': '625.806', 'text': 'known as the Widowmaker.'}, {'start': '626.966', 'end': '629.086', 'text': 'While this is a vintage bike, it deserves'}, {'start': '629.086', 'end': '631.086', 'text': 'mention because it shows how bad design'}, {'start': '631.086', 'end': '633.566', 'text': 'decisionscan create genuinely dangerous'}, {'start': '633.566', 'end': '635.886', 'text': "motorcycles. They didn't nickname this"}, {'start': '635.886', 'end': '638.366', 'text': 'bike the Widow Maker for nothing. When'}, {'start': '638.366', 'end': '641.086', 'text': "introduced, Kawasaki said, It's so"}, {'start': '641.086', 'end': '642.766', 'text': 'quick it demands the razor-sharp'}, {'start': '642.766', 'end': '644.606', 'text': 'reactions of an experienced rider.'}, {'start': '645.686', 'end': '647.486', 'text': 'What they failed to mention was that the'}, {'start': '647.486', 'end': '649.686', 'text': 'lightweight tubular frame was simply'}, {'start': '649.686', 'end': '651.646', 'text': 'incapable of containing the vicious'}, {'start': '651.646', 'end': '654.446', 'text': 'performance of the engine. The 748'}, {'start': '654.446', 'end': '657.166', 'text': 'cc engine delivered 74 horsepower and'}, {'start': '657.166', 'end': '659.886', 'text': 'could accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per'}, {'start': '659.886', 'end': '662.206', 'text': 'hour in just 4.3 seconds.'}, {'start': '662.606', 'end': '664.446', 'text': "Impressive numbers even by today's"}, {'start': '664.446', 'end': '666.766', 'text': 'standards. But the combination of weak'}, {'start': '666.766', 'end': '669.086', 'text': 'brakes, terrible cornering capabilities,'}, {'start': '669.406', 'end': '672.086', 'text': 'and horrific weaving on uneven roads made'}, {'start': '672.086', 'end': '674.486', 'text': 'this bike lethal in the wrong hands, and'}, {'start': '674.486', 'end': '676.926', 'text': 'sometimes even in the right ones. Even'}, {'start': '676.926', 'end': '679.286', 'text': 'after Kawasaki made technical changes in'}, {'start': '679.286', 'end': '682.046', 'text': '1974, the H2 remained a'}, {'start': '682.046', 'end': '684.686', 'text': 'dangerous bike until its production ended'}, {'start': '684.686', 'end': '687.566', 'text': "in 1975. It remains a collector's"}, {'start': '687.566', 'end': '690.126', 'text': 'item today, but one that deserves to be'}, {'start': '690.126', 'end': '691.966', 'text': 'admired from a distance rather than'}, {'start': '691.966', 'end': '692.926', 'text': 'ridden regularly.'}, {'start': '693.422', 'end': '696.382', 'text': '8. KTM RC 390. Hot'}, {'start': '696.382', 'end': '698.742', 'text': 'mess. Number 8 on our list is the'}, {'start': '698.782', 'end': '701.342', 'text': 'KTM RC 390. This'}, {'start': '701.342', 'end': '703.302', 'text': 'lightweight sport bike has developed a'}, {'start': '703.302', 'end': '705.742', 'text': 'reputation for being as temperamental as'}, {'start': '705.742', 'end': '708.542', 'text': 'it is sporty. The KTM RC 390'}, {'start': '708.542', 'end': '710.422', 'text': 'is marketed as a lightweight and'}, {'start': '710.422', 'end': '712.542', 'text': 'aggressive sport bike, but it comes with'}, {'start': '712.542', 'end': '714.902', 'text': 'a slew of reliability issues. Its'}, {'start': '714.902', 'end': '717.902', 'text': '373cc single-cylinder engine is'}, {'start': '717.902', 'end': '720.222', 'text': 'highly tuned for performance. but this'}, {'start': '720.222', 'end': '722.262', 'text': 'results in high oil consumption and'}, {'start': '722.262', 'end': '724.542', 'text': 'frequent overheating, especially during'}, {'start': '724.542', 'end': '727.022', 'text': 'prolonged rides or in hotter climates.'}, {'start': '727.502', 'end': '729.502', 'text': "The bike's ride-by-wire system often"}, {'start': '729.502', 'end': '731.902', 'text': 'malfunctions, leading to inconsistent'}, {'start': '731.902', 'end': '734.342', 'text': 'throttle response. This is particularly'}, {'start': '734.342', 'end': '736.702', 'text': 'dangerous on a sport bike, where precise'}, {'start': '736.702', 'end': '738.942', 'text': 'throttle control is essential for safe'}, {'start': '738.942', 'end': '741.822', 'text': 'riding, especially in corners. I had the'}, {'start': '741.822', 'end': '743.822', 'text': 'opportunity to ride one extensively'}, {'start': '743.822', 'end': '746.262', 'text': 'during a comparison test, and after just'}, {'start': '746.262', 'end': '748.982', 'text': '30 minutes in 85-degree weather,the'}, {'start': '748.982', 'end': '751.142', 'text': 'temperature warning light came on and the'}, {'start': '751.142', 'end': '753.582', 'text': 'bike went into limp mode, right in the'}, {'start': '753.582', 'end': '755.982', 'text': 'middle of a canyon run. Not exactly'}, {'start': '755.982', 'end': '758.222', 'text': "confidence inspiring when you're leaned"}, {'start': '758.222', 'end': '760.662', 'text': 'over at speed. A mechanic I regularly'}, {'start': '760.662', 'end': '762.382', 'text': 'consult told me that'}, {'start': '762.382', 'end': '765.262', 'text': 'RC390s come into his shop'}, {'start': '765.422', 'end': '767.582', 'text': 'more frequently than almost any other'}, {'start': '767.582', 'end': '769.982', 'text': 'model, usually with the same recurring'}, {'start': '769.982', 'end': '772.382', 'text': 'issues that never seemed to be fully'}, {'start': '772.382', 'end': '774.582', 'text': 'resolved even after multiple repair'}, {'start': '774.582', 'end': '777.182', 'text': 'attempts. The disappointments that never'}, {'start': '777.182', 'end': '780.142', 'text': 'should have happened. Seven, 2014'}, {'start': '780.142', 'end': '782.822', 'text': 'Honda CTX1300, one and'}, {'start': '782.822', 'end': '785.142', 'text': 'done. Landing at number seven is the'}, {'start': '785.142', 'end': '787.902', 'text': '2014 Honda CTX1300,'}, {'start': '788.342', 'end': '790.742', 'text': 'a bike so unsuccessful that Honda only'}, {'start': '790.742', 'end': '792.822', 'text': 'produced it for a single year. When a'}, {'start': '792.822', 'end': '794.902', 'text': 'major manufacturer like Honda pulls the'}, {'start': '794.902', 'end': '797.182', 'text': 'plug that quickly, you know something'}, {'start': '797.182', 'end': '798.782', 'text': 'went seriously wrong. The'}, {'start': '798.782', 'end': '801.502', 'text': 'CTX1300 was based on the older'}, {'start': '801.502', 'end': '804.502', 'text': 'ST1300 platform, but reimagined as a'}, {'start': '804.502', 'end': '807.022', 'text': 'cruiser. On paper, it had style.'}, {'start': '807.422', 'end': '809.502', 'text': 'but practically was described as weirdly'}, {'start': '809.502', 'end': '812.342', 'text': 'bland. It was oddly equipped and'}, {'start': '812.342', 'end': '814.622', 'text': 'overly expensive for what it offered. I'}, {'start': '814.622', 'end': '816.942', 'text': 'remember attending the press launch, and'}, {'start': '816.942', 'end': '818.702', 'text': 'even the Honda representatives seemed'}, {'start': '818.702', 'end': '821.342', 'text': 'unenthusiastic. The bike sat awkwardly'}, {'start': '821.342', 'end': '823.502', 'text': 'between categories. Not quite a touring'}, {'start': '823.502', 'end': '826.062', 'text': 'bike, not quite a cruiser, and definitely'}, {'start': '826.062', 'end': '828.622', 'text': 'not sporty. It left potential buyers'}, {'start': '828.702', 'end': '830.462', 'text': 'wondering who it was actually designed'}, {'start': '830.462', 'end': '832.942', 'text': 'for. As one dealer confided in me,'}, {'start': '833.502', 'end': '835.742', 'text': "We couldn't give them away. literally had"}, {'start': '835.742', 'end': '838.102', 'text': 'to discount them below our cost, just to'}, {'start': '838.102', 'end': '840.902', 'text': 'free up floor space. When the people'}, {'start': '840.902', 'end': '842.702', 'text': "tasked with selling a motorcycle can't"}, {'start': '842.702', 'end': '844.622', 'text': "figure out who would want it, that's a"}, {'start': '844.622', 'end': '846.902', 'text': 'clear sign of a product that should never'}, {'start': '846.902', 'end': '849.182', 'text': 'have left the drawing board. Six,'}, {'start': '849.342', 'end': '851.662', 'text': 'Kawasaki Eliminator, the cruiser that'}, {'start': '851.662', 'end': '854.502', 'text': 'eliminated joy. At number six, we'}, {'start': '854.502', 'end': '857.022', 'text': 'have the Kawasaki Eliminator. This bike'}, {'start': '857.022', 'end': '859.102', 'text': 'is marketed as a sleek, affordable'}, {'start': '859.102', 'end': '861.342', 'text': 'cruiser for riders who want a stylish'}, {'start': '861.342', 'end': '864.222', 'text': 'entry point into the motorcycle world. At'}, {'start': '864.222', 'end': '866.262', 'text': 'first glance, it checks all the right'}, {'start': '866.262', 'end': '869.022', 'text': 'boxes: modern styling, a manageable'}, {'start': '869.022', 'end': '871.142', 'text': 'size, and a price tag that hovers'}, {'start': '871.142', 'end': '874.062', 'text': 'around $7,000. But after just one'}, {'start': '874.062', 'end': '876.062', 'text': 'year of ownership, many riders are'}, {'start': '876.062', 'end': '878.702', 'text': 'already waving the white flag. This bike'}, {'start': '878.702', 'end': '881.542', 'text': 'may look like a deal, but in practice, it'}, {'start': '881.542', 'end': '883.982', 'text': 'turns out to be more of a trap. The first'}, {'start': '883.982', 'end': '885.982', 'text': 'red flag comes with the fuel gauge.'}, {'start': '886.462', 'end': '888.502', 'text': 'Riders across the country report that the'}, {'start': '888.502', 'end': '890.782', 'text': "Eliminator's fuel sensor has a nasty"}, {'start': '890.782', 'end': '893.262', 'text': 'habit of going rogue. You think you have'}, {'start': '893.262', 'end': '895.702', 'text': 'half a tank left, and suddenly the gauge'}, {'start': '895.702', 'end': '898.462', 'text': 'drops to empty. Or worse, it'}, {'start': '898.462', 'end': '901.022', 'text': 'reads empty when the tank is nearly full.'}, {'start': '901.422', 'end': '903.302', 'text': "It's not just inconvenient, it's"}, {'start': '903.302', 'end': '905.902', 'text': "impractical. For a bike that's pitched as"}, {'start': '905.902', 'end': '908.222', 'text': 'a street warrior, constant stops at the'}, {'start': '908.222', 'end': '910.382', 'text': 'gas station turn every ride into a'}, {'start': '910.382', 'end': '913.102', 'text': 'scavenger hunt for fuel. I test rode one'}, {'start': '913.102', 'end': '915.182', 'text': 'for a week last summer, and the heat'}, {'start': '915.182', 'end': '917.422', 'text': 'management was atrocious. In city'}, {'start': '917.422', 'end': '919.662', 'text': 'traffic, the engine heat would cook my'}, {'start': '919.662', 'end': '922.142', 'text': 'legs. making stop and go riding'}, {'start': '922.142', 'end': '924.542', 'text': 'unbearable. One owner in our community'}, {'start': '924.542', 'end': '926.742', 'text': 'forum summed it up perfectly. It'}, {'start': '926.742', 'end': '928.942', 'text': 'eliminates all right. It eliminates my'}, {'start': '928.942', 'end': '931.902', 'text': 'desire to ever ride it again. Five,'}, {'start': '932.142', 'end': '934.862', 'text': '2018 Triumph Trophy 1200,'}, {'start': '935.102', 'end': '937.742', 'text': 'the promise that fell flat. Number five'}, {'start': '937.742', 'end': '940.462', 'text': 'on our list is the 2018 Triumph Trophy'}, {'start': '940.462', 'end': '943.422', 'text': "1200. This bike wasn't a failure because"}, {'start': '943.422', 'end': '945.542', 'text': "it was poorly built. Triumph doesn't"}, {'start': '945.542', 'end': '947.382', 'text': 'often get things wrong when it comes to'}, {'start': '947.382', 'end': '950.142', 'text': 'engineering. Instead, it failed because'}, {'start': '950.142', 'end': '952.342', 'text': "it couldn't live up to its own hype. The"}, {'start': '952.342', 'end': '955.022', 'text': 'Trophy 1200 was launched in 2013,'}, {'start': '955.422', 'end': '958.062', 'text': 'right after the 1200 Tiger Explorer, and'}, {'start': '958.062', 'end': '959.822', 'text': 'the two shared several features,'}, {'start': '960.142', 'end': '961.262', 'text': 'including the all-new'}, {'start': '961.982', 'end': '964.062', 'text': '1215cc engine.'}, {'start': '964.462', 'end': '966.742', 'text': 'Triumph built the Trophy 1200'}, {'start': '966.742', 'end': '969.662', 'text': 'specifically to compete with BMW bikes'}, {'start': '969.742', 'end': '971.982', 'text': 'in the Touring segment. The company had'}, {'start': '971.982', 'end': '973.622', 'text': 'promised loudly that it would be a'}, {'start': '973.622', 'end': '975.702', 'text': 'standout motorcycle in the Cruiser'}, {'start': '975.702', 'end': '978.182', 'text': 'segment. The failure was as loud as the'}, {'start': '978.182', 'end': '981.102', 'text': 'promise. Despite solid engineering, the'}, {'start': '981.102', 'end': '982.702', 'text': "bike failed to capture the market's"}, {'start': '982.702', 'end': '985.182', 'text': 'imagination or steal any significant'}, {'start': '985.182', 'end': '987.902', 'text': 'share from established touring bikes'}, {'start': '987.902', 'end': '990.622', 'text': 'like the BMW R1200 RT.'}, {'start': '991.022', 'end': '993.022', 'text': 'I spoke with a former Triumph Marketing'}, {'start': '993.222', 'end': '995.302', 'text': 'executive who admitted, We positioned it'}, {'start': '995.302', 'end': '998.182', 'text': 'as a BMW killer, but we forgot that brand'}, {'start': '998.182', 'end': '1000.022', 'text': 'loyalty in the touring segment is'}, {'start': '1000.022', 'end': '1001.982', 'text': 'stronger than almost anywhere else in'}, {'start': '1001.982', 'end': '1004.702', 'text': 'motorcycling. The result was a solid'}, {'start': '1004.702', 'end': '1007.302', 'text': 'bike that became a sales disaster, with'}, {'start': '1007.302', 'end': '1009.102', 'text': 'many dealers struggling to move their'}, {'start': '1009.102', 'end': '1010.822', 'text': 'inventory even with significant'}, {'start': '1010.822', 'end': '1013.662', 'text': 'discounts. The mechanical nightmares when'}, {'start': '1013.662', 'end': '1015.742', 'text': 'engineering fails. 4.'}, {'start': '1016.062', 'end': '1018.982', 'text': 'Harley-Davidson Street 500 Entry-level'}, {'start': '1018.982', 'end': '1021.022', 'text': 'disappointment, taking the number four'}, {'start': '1021.022', 'end': '1023.262', 'text': 'spot. is the Harley-Davidson Street'}, {'start': '1023.262', 'end': '1026.102', 'text': "500. This bike was Harley's attempt to"}, {'start': '1026.102', 'end': '1028.942', 'text': 'attract new, younger riders with a more'}, {'start': '1028.942', 'end': '1030.782', 'text': 'affordable entry point into the brand.'}, {'start': '1031.222', 'end': '1033.262', 'text': 'Unfortunately, it seems that in the'}, {'start': '1033.262', 'end': '1035.622', 'text': 'process of making it affordable, quality'}, {'start': '1035.622', 'end': '1037.502', 'text': 'and reliability were compromised.'}, {'start': '1037.982', 'end': '1040.102', 'text': 'Frustrated owners reveal that many of'}, {'start': '1040.102', 'end': '1042.462', 'text': 'these bikes struggle to cross the 5,000'}, {'start': '1042.462', 'end': '1044.942', 'text': 'mile mark without needing major repairs.'}, {'start': '1045.262', 'end': '1047.022', 'text': 'For a brand that prides itself on'}, {'start': '1047.022', 'end': '1049.182', 'text': 'building machines that last for decades,'}, {'start': '1049.582', 'end': '1051.662', 'text': "This is particularly damaging to Harley's"}, {'start': '1051.662', 'end': '1053.902', 'text': 'reputation. I remember when these were'}, {'start': '1053.902', 'end': '1056.382', 'text': 'first released, and a local riding school'}, {'start': '1056.382', 'end': '1058.462', 'text': 'purchased a fleet of them. Within six'}, {'start': '1058.462', 'end': '1061.182', 'text': 'months, they had already replaced several'}, {'start': '1061.182', 'end': '1063.382', 'text': 'with Japanese alternatives, because the'}, {'start': '1063.382', 'end': '1065.502', 'text': 'maintenance costs were destroying their'}, {'start': '1065.502', 'end': '1067.782', 'text': 'business model. When a bike designed for'}, {'start': '1067.782', 'end': '1070.222', 'text': 'beginners becomes unreliable, it not only'}, {'start': '1070.222', 'end': '1072.622', 'text': 'creates a bad experience, but potentially'}, {'start': '1072.622', 'end': '1074.942', 'text': 'dangerous situations for inexperienced'}, {'start': '1074.942', 'end': '1077.342', 'text': 'riders who may not recognize when'}, {'start': '1077.342', 'end': '1080.062', 'text': 'something is going wrong. As one former'}, {'start': '1080.062', 'end': '1082.702', 'text': 'St. 500 owner told me, I bought it'}, {'start': '1082.702', 'end': '1084.222', 'text': 'because I wanted to be part of the Harley'}, {'start': '1084.222', 'end': '1087.102', 'text': 'family. Instead, I got to sell them by my'}, {'start': '1087.102', 'end': '1087.502', 'text': 'wallet.'}, {'start': '1088.558', 'end': '1091.278', 'text': '3. Norton P43 Classic'}, {'start': '1091.438', 'end': '1093.998', 'text': 'Rotary Disaster Number three on our'}, {'start': '1093.998', 'end': '1096.238', 'text': 'list is the 1987 Norton'}, {'start': '1096.238', 'end': '1099.198', 'text': 'P43 Classic. While this is another'}, {'start': '1099.198', 'end': '1101.518', 'text': 'historical entry, it demonstrates how'}, {'start': '1101.518', 'end': '1103.758', 'text': 'even well-engineered motorcycles can'}, {'start': '1103.758', 'end': '1106.318', 'text': 'become disasters when fundamental flaws'}, {'start': '1106.318', 'end': '1108.878', 'text': 'are overlooked. The Norton P43'}, {'start': '1108.878', 'end': '1111.558', 'text': "Classic was a collector's item, a limited"}, {'start': '1111.558', 'end': '1114.398', 'text': 'edition run of just 100 motorcycles'}, {'start': '1114.558', 'end': '1116.478', 'text': 'following a change of ownership of Norton'}, {'start': '1116.478', 'end': '1118.558', 'text': 'Motors. The bike itself was a'}, {'start': '1118.558', 'end': '1120.558', 'text': 'well-engineered machine with a low center'}, {'start': '1120.558', 'end': '1122.958', 'text': 'of gravity and nice handling, but there'}, {'start': '1122.958', 'end': '1124.478', 'text': 'were many problems with the rotary'}, {'start': '1124.478', 'end': '1127.038', 'text': 'engine, corrosion being a major issue.'}, {'start': '1127.438', 'end': '1129.678', 'text': 'Norton continued development and revealed'}, {'start': '1129.678', 'end': '1131.598', 'text': 'the water-cooled classic to Malawian'}, {'start': '1131.598', 'end': '1133.798', 'text': 'quatches at the Birmingham Show in'}, {'start': '1133.798', 'end': '1136.638', 'text': '1989, but by then the manufacturer'}, {'start': '1136.638', 'end': '1139.198', 'text': 'was in deep financial trouble. The rotary'}, {'start': '1139.198', 'end': '1141.798', 'text': 'engine concept, while innovative, proved'}, {'start': '1141.798', 'end': '1144.238', 'text': "to be the bike's undoing. I spoke with a"}, {'start': '1144.238', 'end': '1146.318', 'text': 'collector,who owns one of the few'}, {'start': '1146.318', 'end': '1148.558', 'text': "remaining examples. It's a beautiful"}, {'start': '1148.558', 'end': '1151.438', 'text': 'paperweight, he told me. I start it once'}, {'start': '1151.438', 'end': '1153.358', 'text': 'a year just to make sure it still runs,'}, {'start': '1153.678', 'end': '1155.158', 'text': "but I wouldn't trust it for an actual"}, {'start': '1155.158', 'end': '1157.518', 'text': 'ride. Two, Suzuki'}, {'start': '1157.518', 'end': '1160.238', 'text': 'TL1000S, the Twitchy Terror.'}, {'start': '1160.638', 'end': '1162.798', 'text': 'Coming in at number two is the Suzuki'}, {'start': '1162.798', 'end': '1165.598', 'text': 'TL1000S, a bike that gained'}, {'start': '1165.598', 'end': '1167.678', 'text': 'notoriety for all the wrong reasons.'}, {'start': '1168.078', 'end': '1170.878', 'text': "Introduced in 1997 as Suzuki's"}, {'start': '1170.878', 'end': '1173.478', 'text': 'answer to the Ducati 916,The'}, {'start': '1173.478', 'end': '1176.158', 'text': 'TL1000S featured a powerful'}, {'start': '1176.158', 'end': '1178.798', 'text': 'V-twin engine in a sporty chassis. On'}, {'start': '1178.798', 'end': '1181.358', 'text': 'paper, it looked like a winner. However,'}, {'start': '1181.438', 'end': '1183.438', 'text': 'the bike quickly developed a reputation'}, {'start': '1183.438', 'end': '1185.358', 'text': 'for dangerous handling characteristics,'}, {'start': '1185.678', 'end': '1187.918', 'text': 'earning it nicknames like The Widowmaker,'}, {'start': '1188.318', 'end': '1190.318', 'text': 'sharing this dubious honor with our'}, {'start': '1190.318', 'end': '1193.278', 'text': 'earlier Kawasaki entry. The main'}, {'start': '1193.278', 'end': '1195.358', 'text': 'culprit was the innovative but poorly'}, {'start': '1195.358', 'end': '1197.518', 'text': 'executed rotary damper rear suspension'}, {'start': '1197.518', 'end': '1199.518', 'text': 'system, which would overheat during'}, {'start': '1199.518', 'end': '1201.878', 'text': 'aggressive riding and cause unpredictable'}, {'start': '1201.878', 'end': '1204.478', 'text': 'handling. The problem was so severe that'}, {'start': '1204.478', 'end': '1206.718', 'text': 'Suzuki issued a recall to fit steering'}, {'start': '1206.718', 'end': '1208.958', 'text': "dampers, but the damage to the model's"}, {'start': '1208.958', 'end': '1211.398', 'text': 'reputation was already done. I had a'}, {'start': '1211.398', 'end': '1213.118', 'text': 'close friend who owned one, and he'}, {'start': '1213.118', 'end': '1215.438', 'text': 'described riding it at speed as like'}, {'start': '1215.438', 'end': '1217.358', 'text': "trying to stay on a bull that's also"}, {'start': '1217.358', 'end': '1220.238', 'text': 'having a seizure. What makes this bike'}, {'start': '1220.238', 'end': '1221.798', 'text': 'particularly regrettable is that the'}, {'start': '1221.838', 'end': '1224.398', 'text': 'engine itself was excellent, powerful,'}, {'start': '1224.558', 'end': '1227.358', 'text': 'charismatic, and reliable. It was just'}, {'start': '1227.358', 'end': '1229.278', 'text': 'housed in a chassis that turned every'}, {'start': '1229.278', 'end': '1231.918', 'text': 'ride into a potential accident. 1.'}, {'start': '1231.998', 'end': '1234.758', 'text': 'Victory Vision Ambitious Failure At'}, {'start': '1234.758', 'end': '1236.638', 'text': 'number one, the most regrettable'}, {'start': '1236.638', 'end': '1238.358', 'text': 'motorcycle purchase, according to our'}, {'start': '1238.358', 'end': '1240.518', 'text': 'research and owner feedback, is the'}, {'start': '1240.518', 'end': '1243.118', 'text': 'Victory Vision. This ambitious touring'}, {'start': '1243.118', 'end': '1245.318', 'text': "machine represented Victory's attempt to"}, {'start': '1245.318', 'end': '1247.318', 'text': 'create a forward-thinking alternative to'}, {'start': '1247.318', 'end': '1249.838', 'text': "Harley-Davidson's touring lineup, but it"}, {'start': '1249.838', 'end': '1251.598', 'text': "ended up contributing to the brand's"}, {'start': '1251.598', 'end': '1254.238', 'text': 'eventual demise. The Vision was striking'}, {'start': '1254.238', 'end': '1256.478', 'text': 'in appearance. Love it or hate it, you'}, {'start': '1256.478', 'end': '1258.318', 'text': "couldn't ignore it. But beneath the"}, {'start': '1258.318', 'end': '1261.038', 'text': 'futuristic styling lay a host of issues'}, {'start': '1261.038', 'end': '1262.718', 'text': 'that owners would soon discover.'}, {'start': '1263.198', 'end': '1265.358', 'text': 'Electrical problems were rampant, with'}, {'start': '1265.358', 'end': '1267.918', 'text': 'complex systems failing regularly and'}, {'start': '1267.918', 'end': '1269.958', 'text': 'leaving riders stranded. The weight'}, {'start': '1269.958', 'end': '1271.918', 'text': 'distribution was awkward, making'}, {'start': '1271.918', 'end': '1273.678', 'text': 'low-speed maneuvering particularly'}, {'start': '1273.678', 'end': '1275.478', 'text': 'challenging. What makes the vision'}, {'start': '1275.478', 'end': '1277.198', 'text': 'particularly tragic is that it'}, {'start': '1277.198', 'end': '1280.158', 'text': 'represented such a bold move by Victory.'}, {'start': '1280.478', 'end': '1282.118', 'text': 'The company invested heavily in the'}, {'start': '1282.118', 'end': '1284.558', 'text': 'platform, hoping it would establish them'}, {'start': '1284.558', 'end': '1286.718', 'text': 'as innovators in the cruiser market.'}, {'start': '1287.118', 'end': '1289.598', 'text': "Instead, the bike's problems and limited"}, {'start': '1289.598', 'end': '1292.038', 'text': "appeal contributed to Victory's financial"}, {'start': '1292.038', 'end': '1294.078', 'text': 'troubles, ultimately leading parent'}, {'start': '1294.078', 'end': '1296.358', 'text': 'company Polaris to shut down the brand'}, {'start': '1296.358', 'end': '1299.198', 'text': 'entirely in 2017. I test'}, {'start': '1299.198', 'end': '1301.358', 'text': 'rode one extensively for a comparison'}, {'start': '1301.358', 'end': '1303.398', 'text': 'article and found that while the bike had'}, {'start': '1303.398', 'end': '1305.758', 'text': 'some genuinely innovative features, the'}, {'start': '1305.758', 'end': '1308.558', 'text': 'execution left much to be desired. The'}, {'start': '1308.558', 'end': '1310.958', 'text': 'final insult for owners came when Victory'}, {'start': '1310.958', 'end': '1313.078', 'text': 'closed. Parts availability became a'}, {'start': '1313.078', 'end': '1315.238', 'text': 'nightmare. turning these bikes into'}, {'start': '1315.238', 'end': '1317.758', 'text': 'expensive garage ornaments for many. As'}, {'start': '1317.758', 'end': '1320.238', 'text': 'one former Vision owner told me, I'}, {'start': '1320.238', 'end': '1322.238', 'text': "believed in Victory's Vision, but in the"}, {'start': '1322.238', 'end': '1324.878', 'text': 'end, all I got was a depreciation machine'}, {'start': '1324.878', 'end': '1327.438', 'text': 'that no one wants to buy and I can barely'}, {'start': '1327.438', 'end': '1330.238', 'text': 'get parts for. Key takeaways.'}, {'start': '1330.398', 'end': '1332.238', 'text': 'Patterns of problematic motorcycles.'}, {'start': '1332.638', 'end': '1334.878', 'text': 'Looking at our list of 15 motorcycles,'}, {'start': '1335.118', 'end': '1337.278', 'text': 'some clear patterns emerge that can help'}, {'start': '1337.278', 'end': '1339.198', 'text': 'you avoid making similar expensive'}, {'start': '1339.198', 'end': '1341.758', 'text': 'mistakes. First, be wary of'}, {'start': '1341.758', 'end': '1344.478', 'text': 'overambitious first generations. Many of'}, {'start': '1344.478', 'end': '1346.478', 'text': "these bikes represent a manufacturer's"}, {'start': '1346.478', 'end': '1348.638', 'text': 'first attempt at entering a new segment'}, {'start': '1348.718', 'end': '1351.158', 'text': 'or implementing new technology. Whether'}, {'start': '1351.158', 'end': '1353.678', 'text': "it's KTM's electronics, Victory's touring"}, {'start': '1353.678', 'end': '1355.838', 'text': "ambitions, or Harley's attempt at an"}, {'start': '1355.838', 'end': '1358.358', 'text': 'entry-level bike, being a pioneer often'}, {'start': '1358.358', 'end': '1361.038', 'text': 'means being a guinea pig. Second, watch'}, {'start': '1361.038', 'end': '1363.278', 'text': 'out for bikes that prioritize style over'}, {'start': '1363.278', 'end': '1366.078', 'text': 'substance. Several bikes on our list look'}, {'start': '1366.078', 'end': '1368.158', 'text': 'absolutely stunning, but fail in'}, {'start': '1368.158', 'end': '1370.198', 'text': 'fundamental areas of function and'}, {'start': '1370.198', 'end': '1372.958', 'text': 'reliability. The Triumph Trident 660'}, {'start': '1373.118', 'end': '1375.518', 'text': 'and Indian Chief are perfect examples of'}, {'start': '1375.518', 'end': '1377.758', 'text': "gorgeous machines that don't deliver"}, {'start': '1377.758', 'end': '1380.398', 'text': 'where it counts. Third, be cautious of'}, {'start': '1380.398', 'end': '1382.238', 'text': 'budget constraints leading to cut'}, {'start': '1382.238', 'end': '1384.158', 'text': 'corners, particularly with the'}, {'start': '1384.158', 'end': '1386.238', 'text': "entry-level models on our list. It's"}, {'start': '1386.238', 'end': '1388.878', 'text': 'clear that manufacturers sometimescut too'}, {'start': '1388.878', 'end': '1391.678', 'text': 'many corners to hit a price point. The'}, {'start': '1391.678', 'end': '1394.238', 'text': 'Kawasaki Eliminator and CFMoto'}, {'start': '1394.238', 'end': '1397.118', 'text': '300k demonstrate how saving money up'}, {'start': '1397.118', 'end': '1399.758', 'text': 'front can cost much more in the long run.'}, {'start': '1400.078', 'end': '1402.638', 'text': 'Fourth, be skeptical of bikes that seem'}, {'start': '1402.638', 'end': '1405.118', 'text': 'to misunderstand their market. The Honda'}, {'start': '1405.118', 'end': '1407.758', 'text': 'CTX 1300 and Triumph Trophy'}, {'start': '1407.758', 'end': '1410.718', 'text': '1200 show what happens when manufacturers'}, {'start': '1410.718', 'end': '1412.718', 'text': "create products that don't clearly"}, {'start': '1412.718', 'end': '1415.038', 'text': 'understand their target audience or fail'}, {'start': '1415.038', 'end': '1416.838', 'text': 'to differentiate themselves in a'}, {'start': '1416.838', 'end': '1418.678', 'text': 'meaningful way from established'}, {'start': '1418.678', 'end': '1420.518', 'text': "competitors. What's particularly"}, {'start': '1420.518', 'end': '1422.278', 'text': "interesting is that price doesn't"}, {'start': '1422.278', 'end': '1424.878', 'text': 'necessarily correlate with reliability or'}, {'start': '1424.878', 'end': '1427.278', 'text': 'satisfaction. Some of the most expensive'}, {'start': '1427.278', 'end': '1429.918', 'text': 'bikes on our list had just as many issues'}, {'start': '1429.918', 'end': '1432.158', 'text': 'as the budget options, they just cost'}, {'start': '1432.158', 'end': '1435.038', 'text': 'more to fix. The verdict:How to avoid'}, {'start': '1435.038', 'end': '1437.358', 'text': 'becoming that guy. After reviewing these'}, {'start': '1437.358', 'end': '1439.918', 'text': '15 motorcycles that only dumb, or'}, {'start': '1439.918', 'end': '1442.758', 'text': 'perhaps uninformed, people buy. What can'}, {'start': '1442.758', 'end': '1445.758', 'text': "we learn?Here's my advice after 15 years"}, {'start': '1445.758', 'end': '1448.238', 'text': 'in the industry. Do your research beyond'}, {'start': '1448.238', 'end': '1450.838', 'text': 'the marketing. Manufacturer websites and'}, {'start': '1450.838', 'end': '1453.198', 'text': 'brochures will never tell you about'}, {'start': '1453.198', 'end': '1455.758', 'text': 'potential problems. Check owner forums,'}, {'start': '1455.838', 'end': '1458.038', 'text': 'read long-term reviews, and talk to'}, {'start': '1458.038', 'end': '1460.078', 'text': 'actual owners before making a decision.'}, {'start': '1460.478', 'end': '1463.038', 'text': 'Be wary of first-year models. Unless you'}, {'start': '1463.038', 'end': '1465.118', 'text': 'enjoy being a test pilot, consider'}, {'start': '1465.118', 'end': '1466.718', 'text': 'waiting until a model has been on the'}, {'start': '1466.718', 'end': '1469.278', 'text': 'market for at least a year so that common'}, {'start': '1469.278', 'end': '1471.518', 'text': 'issues can be identified and hopefully'}, {'start': '1471.518', 'end': '1474.318', 'text': 'addressed. Test ride extensively. A'}, {'start': '1474.318', 'end': '1476.158', 'text': '10-minute loop around the dealership'}, {'start': '1476.238', 'end': '1478.798', 'text': "won't reveal much. Try to get an extended"}, {'start': '1478.798', 'end': '1481.078', 'text': 'test ride that includes different riding'}, {'start': '1481.078', 'end': '1483.198', 'text': 'conditions if possible. Consider the'}, {'start': '1483.198', 'end': '1485.838', 'text': 'total cost of ownership. That bargain'}, {'start': '1485.838', 'end': '1487.878', 'text': 'bike might not be such a deal when you'}, {'start': '1487.878', 'end': '1490.118', 'text': 'factor in reliability issues, parts'}, {'start': '1490.118', 'end': '1493.038', 'text': 'availability, and resale value. Trust'}, {'start': '1493.038', 'end': '1495.358', 'text': 'your instincts. If something feels off'}, {'start': '1495.358', 'end': '1497.798', 'text': 'during your research or test ride, it'}, {'start': '1497.798', 'end': '1499.918', 'text': 'probably is. There are too many good'}, {'start': '1499.918', 'end': '1502.238', 'text': 'motorcycles available today to settle for'}, {'start': '1502.238', 'end': '1505.118', 'text': 'one that gives you doubts. Remember,'}, {'start': '1505.198', 'end': '1507.278', 'text': "the best motorcycle isn't necessarily the"}, {'start': '1507.278', 'end': '1510.078', 'text': 'most expensive, the most powerful, or'}, {'start': '1510.078', 'end': '1512.158', 'text': "even the most beautiful. It's the one"}, {'start': '1512.158', 'end': '1514.238', 'text': 'that reliably delivers the experience'}, {'start': '1514.238', 'end': '1516.718', 'text': "you're looking for ride after ride, year"}, {'start': '1516.718', 'end': '1519.598', 'text': "after year. Let's hear your stories. That"}, {'start': '1519.598', 'end': '1521.598', 'text': 'wraps up our countdown of the 15'}, {'start': '1521.598', 'end': '1524.478', 'text': 'motorcycles only dumb people buy. But now'}, {'start': '1524.478', 'end': '1526.398', 'text': "I'm curious, have you owned any of these"}, {'start': '1526.398', 'end': '1528.278', 'text': 'models?Did you have a different'}, {'start': '1528.278', 'end': '1530.758', 'text': "experience than what we've covered?Or do"}, {'start': '1530.758', 'end': '1532.198', 'text': 'you have another bike that you think'}, {'start': '1532.198', 'end': '1534.758', 'text': 'deserves to be on this list?Drop your'}, {'start': '1534.758', 'end': '1537.118', 'text': 'thoughts in the comments below. I love'}, {'start': '1537.118', 'end': '1539.038', 'text': 'hearing your stories, especially the'}, {'start': '1539.038', 'end': '1541.678', 'text': 'horror stories. They help all of us make'}, {'start': '1541.678', 'end': '1543.718', 'text': 'better choices. And if you found this'}, {'start': '1543.718', 'end': '1545.758', 'text': 'video helpful, please hit that like'}, {'start': '1545.758', 'end': '1548.238', 'text': 'button and subscribe. So you never miss'}, {'start': '1548.238', 'end': '1550.318', 'text': 'out on more honest, no nonsense'}, {'start': '1550.318', 'end': '1553.238', 'text': 'motorcycle reviews and advice. Until next'}, {'start': '1553.238', 'end': '1555.518', 'text': 'time, keep the shiny side up and the'}, {'start': '1555.518', 'end': '1556.478', 'text': 'rubber side down.'}]