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The Highside/Lowside podcast is based on the truth that the next best thing to riding motorcycles is talking about them. And with the portability of podcasts, you can even do both at the same time.
Hosted by motorcycle media veterans Zack Courts and Spurgeon Dunbar, the podcast is now in its 10th season and still talking about all topics related to motorcycling. If you're new to the podcast, check out all the past episodes below.
HS/LS S10 E1: Garrett Gerloff on World Superbike and why he loves scooters
Garrett Gerloff is the only U.S. racer competing in the Superbike World Championship, but beyond racing his 200 mph Kawasaki ZX-10RR Superbike, Gerloff is an all-around motorcycle fan who enjoys riding everything from a sport-touring bike to motocross to a scooter. In the final episode of season 10, Spurgeon and Zack talk with Gerloff about his childhood start in motocross, his rapid pivot to roadracing starting at age 12, his one embarrassing crash on the street, and more. They also revisit the topics of the year's previous episodes, such as whether Gerloff would dare race the Isle of Man TT.
HS/LS S10 E11: Answering your toughest motorcycle questions
It's time for the annual episode devoted to listener comments and questions. For episode 11, Spurgeon and Zack respond to more than a dozen questions from whether motorcycle throttles are designed backwards to whether the next feature to be added to the Honda Gold Wing should be air conditioning. That, plus the strangest motorcycle yet on craigslist, the engine sound guessing game, and more.
HS/LS S10 E10: The rise of Chinese motorcycles
Whether you welcome them as new competition for established brands, reject them out of hand, or remain skeptical, the fact is that Chinese motorcycles are here to stay in the U.S. market. In this edition of the Highside/Lowside motorcycle podcast, Spurgeon and Zack talk about the new brands that have come to the United States, discuss the models they've personally tested, and finally face the ultimate question: Should you buy a Chinese motorcycle?
HS/LS S10 E9: Three stories of overcoming trauma after a motorcycle crash
In this episode of the Highside/Lowside motorcycle podcast, Spurgeon and Zack talk to three riders who suffered crashes that changed them permanently, but despite that they went on to overcome obstacles and ride again. The hosts start by talking to Joe Forde, who took what he learned from his personal journey back to motorcycling and founded the Ride Again Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to helping people do just that: ride again. They also get the stories of two other riders who came back from serious injuries to return to riding, with help from the Ride Again Foundation.
HS/LS S10 E8: Your guide to group rides
In this edition of the Highside/Lowside motorcycle podcast, Zack and Spurgeon talk about the pros and cons, the dos and don'ts, of group rides. They address not just the annual holiday toy run or summertime poker run on the road that you might think of, but also off-road group rides, such as what you'll find at Get On! Adventure Fest or other off-road-riding gatherings. If you haven't tried any of these group rides but you've been curious, this episode is great preparation, for both what to expect and what etiquette you should know. If you're a veteran of group rides, you'll probably identify — and still might pick up something new.
HS/LS S10 E7: The Honda Gold Wing, motorcycle icon
You can count the number of motorcycle models that have been in production for 50 years on one hand, and you'll still have spare fingers. And the Honda Gold Wing's 50-year run is just the beginning of why it's an icon of motorcycling in the United States. Its enduring influence in the U.S. motorcycle market as the benchmark for touring motorcycles makes it an easy choice for this season's motorcycle icon episode. On the 50th anniversary of its introduction, Zack and Spurgeon trace the history and evolution of the Gold Wing on Highside/Lowside.
HS/LS S10 E6: Kayla Yaakov on being a teenage racing star
Kayla Yaakov, who turns 18 later this month, is already a star in the MotoAmerica Motovation Supersport class, riding for the Rahal Ducati Moto with Xpel team with former World Superbike champion Ben Spies as team principal to guide her and a teammate with world championship experience, P.J. Jacobsen, to learn from. But she also faces maybe the deepest field the Supersport class has ever seen, not to mention the skeptics who think a female can't succeed at a high level of motorcycle roadracing. She joins the podcast to talk about why more women don't get into the sport, how she felt about being featured in MotoAmerica's Pressure to Rise series last year, and other topics. You might be amazed at how well this young woman handles the pressure.
HS/LS S10 E5: All about renting (or renting out) a motorcycle
There are lots of reasons why you might want to rent a motorcycle, from doing a fly and ride of a destination on your great roads bucket list or trying a different kind of motorcycling. In this episode, Zack and Spurgeon explore all aspects of renting with the help of two guests. Our colleague Ari Henning regularly rents out his Kawasaki Versys 650 and talks about that side of the experience. Also joining the discussion is Dax Harlow of MotoQuest, which operates guided tours and also rents motorcycles, with some advice for would-be renters.
HS/LS S10 E4: Does riding different motorcycles make you a better rider?
If you grow up riding dirt bikes as a kid, does that make you a better street rider as an adult? Beyond that, what if you try various disciplines? Zack and Spurgeon explore that topic in this episode of the Highside/Lowside motorcycle podcast with the help of Chris Northover of Bike World TV show. Northover not only grew up riding motorcycles from his childhood, but has tried everything from trials to adventure bikes to roadracing, which makes him something of an authority on the benefits of cross-training.
HS/LS S10 E3: Best new motorcycles under $10,000
We all wish motorcycles were less expensive. What do you do if you want a desirable new ride, straight off the showroom floor with a warranty, but you don't have a five-figure budget to spend? Well, Zack and Spurgeon have some suggestions. In this episode, they pick their choices for the best 2025 motorcycles with an MSRP of under $10,000 in five different categories.
HS/LS S10 E2: All about the Isle of Man TT with Mat Oxley
U.S. motorcycle racing fans know about the famous Isle of Man TT, but many not know a lot about it. Zack and Spurgeon have the perfect guest to explain it all to us in this episode of the Highside/Lowside podcast. Mat Oxley is not only one of the best reporters covering motorcycle racing in the English language, but he has also raced in the TT. He talks about the mystique of this unique event, the riders who have the nerve to race at 180 mph between ancient stone walls on a winding road, and who are some of the icons of the event from the past and the best of those racing today.
HS/LS S10 E1: New motorcycles of 2025
Season 10 of the Highside/Lowside motorcycle podcast kickstarts in traditional fashion: We're talking about the new motorcycles we're most interested in. Hosts Spurgeon and Zack are joined by Common Tread Managing Editor Lance Oliver to talk about what we've seen, what we've had a chance to test-ride so far, and what we're looking forward to. From the Yamaha YZF-R9, designed to be a sport bike that's more accessible, to the Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide RR, a $110,000, limited-issue bagger intended to be anything but accessible, we cover what's new in every category of bikes.
HS/LS S9 E12: Season finale with On Her Bike's Kinga Tanajewska
Spurgeon and Zack keep the tradition of inviting a special guest for the final podcast of the season. This time it's Kinga Tanajewska, originally from Poland, transplanted to Australia, and currently traveling the world for the past eight years and documenting her adventures on her YouTube channel, On Her Bike. The discussion covers everything from her take on who has the world's scariest traffic to her secret for smuggling a drone through border checks.
HS/LS S9 E11: Listener comments and questions
You're the guest for this episode of the Highside/Lowside motorcycle podcast as hosts Spurgeon and Zack respond to more questions and comments sent in by listeners. The results run the full range of motorcycle discussion, from the practical, such as which tools to pack and how to care for expensive motorcycle gear, to unexpected revelations such as the existence of two little kittens named Highside and Lowside.
HS/LS S9 E10: How to make lane-splitting legal
It's common practice in most of the world, but illegal in most of the United States, and inevitably controversial when someone tries to change the law. This episode of Highside/Lowside is all about lane-splitting. Why is something so generally accepted elsewhere so likely to result in road rage in this country? Your hosts Zack and Spurgeon are joined by Phil Stalboerger, a motorcyclist and professional lobbyist who helped get a lane-splitting law passed in Minnesota, to examine the issue from all sides.
HS/LS S9 E9: Motorcycles that don't exist, but should
Today's riders have a vast range of motorcycles to choose from, but that doesn't mean we have everything. In this episode, Zack and Spurgeon are joined by Spenser Robert, the mastermind behind so many CTXP videos you've loved, to talk about bikes they dream of that are missing from the current lineups. What do you wish your favorite manufacturer would build?
HS/LS S9 E8: Electronic rider aids, the good and the bad
Anti-lock brakes, traction control, wheelie control, launch control, quickshifters, dual-clutch transmissions, adaptive cruise control, electronically adjustable suspension, and riding modes galore! Are electronics taking over the motorcycling experience? And what are the upsides and downsides of all this electronic assistance? Ari Henning joins Zack and Spurgeon to discuss in this episode of Highside/Lowside.
HS/LS S9 E7: Does AI know motorcycles?
Does artificial intelligence have any real intelligence when it comes to motorcycling? Can you rely on it for advice? Your hosts Spurgeon and Zack are joined by Common Tread Editor Lance Oliver and they ask ChatGPT some questions about motorcycling and then grade the answers. There were some hits and some misses.
HS/LS S9 E6: Motorcycle slang and terms explained
Pillions and panniers. Gixxers and hogs. You can't get a drink at a sissy bar and damping has nothing to do with moisture. In motorcycling circles, it can seem like everyone around you is speaking a foreign language. This episode of Highside/Lowside comes to the rescue as Zack and Spurgeon explain and define some of the slang and technical terms of motorcycling.
HS/LS S9 E5: All about MotoGP, with guest Mat Oxley
For this episode of Highside/Lowside, Zack and Spurgeon are joined by one of the most experienced writers covering MotoGP racing, Mat Oxley. In this discussion, they talk about what makes MotoGP so great and also cover topics such as the origins and history of world championship road racing, the rise of two-stroke engines, the era of American dominance in the sport, a look at the future of racing, and more.
HS/LS S9 E4: The iconic Suzuki SV650
Zack and Spurgeon plan to dedicate some future podcasts to looking at iconic motorcycles that have had a lasting impact and they start with the Suzuki SV650. The lovable middleweight V-twin has been around for a quarter of a century now and has been pressed into duty for everything from commuting to work to winning pro racing titles. The hosts cover everything SV, from the model's introduction in 1999 to its unloved detour in the Gladius years to its return to its roots with the current model.
HS/LS S9 E3: The 100th episode of Highside/Lowside!
To mark the milestone of 100 episodes, Zack and Spurgeon took 100 as their theme. With the help of multiple guests, they look at that number from a variety of angles. Riding 100 mph. Simple modifications to your motorcycle that cost no more than $100. What will motorcycling be like 100 years from now? Help celebrate as Highside/Lowside does the ton.
HS/LS S9 E2: The Motorcycle Dating Game returns
Not sure which motorcycle is right for you? Need professional help in sorting through the options and finding the ride that will deliver you to motorcycling heaven? No problem! Zack and Spurgeon are back for another round of the Motorcycle Dating Game, helping riders make the right decision.
HS/LS S9 E1: Best mods for every motorcycle
It seems almost everyone modifies their motorcycle in one way or another, either for appearance or function. Zack and Spurgeon discuss the best mods you can make for different kinds of riding and also name a few they think you should avoid.
HS/LS S8 E12: World's funniest motorcyclist: Alonzo Bodden
You probably know Alonzo Bodden, the stand-up comedian, but did you know he's been riding motorcycles since he was 18? That means there's lots to talk about — and laugh about — as he joins Spurgeon and Zack for this episode of Highside/Lowside.
HS/LS S8 E11: Your motorcycle questions answered
The hosts once again put the listeners at the center of the conversation by responding to listener comments and questions. Such as: What embarrassing things have you done while testing a motorcycle?.
HS/LS S8 E10: Meet the hosts' dads on this special Father's Day edition
It's a special edition of Highside/Lowside for Father's Day, as Zack and Spurgeon interview their fathers about motorcycling and parenting.
HS/LS S8 E9: Used motorcycle dream garage
It's one of those fun hypotheticals: If you had $20,000 to spend on three used motorcycles, what would you choose? Zack and Spurgeon are joined by Patrick Garvin of J&P Cycles, a man who has bought and sold a lot of motorcycles, to reveal their choices.
HS/LS S8 E8: Motorcycle safety innovations
Spurgeon and Zack are joined by RevZilla's resident product expert, Pat McHugh, to discuss some of the latest innovations in motorcycle gear that improve our safety and comfort.
HS/LS S8 E7: How much horsepower is too much?
In an age when anyone with sufficient free cash flow can buy a 200-horsepower rocket of a motorcycle, ready or not, Spurgeon and Zack — no guest this time — take on the question of how much horsepower is too much. And how much is just right. Considering their experience level, you might be surprised to learn where these guys think the power sweet spot lies.
HS/LS S8 E6: Talking about riding and writing with Peter Egan
Spurgeon's excitement is visible as he welcomes his all-time favorite motorcycle writer, long-time Cycle World columnis Peter Egan, to the podcast. Topics include how he got his first motorcycle ride (it involves hitchhiking and a stranger on a Harley-Davidson, believe or not), how he got started writing, and many of his other experiences from a time when motorcycles were more popular and magazines were thick, printed on paper, and profitable.
HS/LS S8 E5: Are you the a**hole?
If someone sits on your motorcycle without your permission and you get upset, which one of you is the a**hole? Spurgeon, Zack, and guest Patrick Garvin discuss these and other ethical issues.
HS/LS S8 E4: Motorcycle trivia challenge
Spenser Robert steps in to do his best Alex Trebek imitation and hosts the first Motorcycle Trivia Challenge, with Zack and Spurgeon facing off as contestants. Questions were drawn from the motorcycle trivia books of Common Tread contributing writer Mark Gardiner.
HS/LS S8 E3: How modern are those vintage-style new motorcycles?
RevZilla's own Ari Henning joins Spurgeon and Zack to discuss modern bikes with throwback looks.
HS/LS S8 E2: Biggest moto blunders, Japanese edition
Joined by Abhi Eswarappa of Iconic Motorbike Auctions, Spurg and Zack tackle the most difficult blunders episode yet: Looking for mistakes made by the typically reliable Japanese motorcycle manufacturers.
HS/LS S8 E1: Season eight starts with a look at new motorcycles coming in 2024
Spurgeon and Zack are joined by Common Tread Managing Editor Lance Oliver as they look ahead to the new motorcycles they're anticipating most in 2024.
HS/LS S7 E12: Season seven finale with Alastair Fagan
Spurgeon and Zack are joined by that witty chap from 44teeth. He's quizzed on all the topics covered in this season of the podcast.
HS/LS S7 E11: Listener comments and questions
What's the best method for inflating a tire on the roadside after you've repaired a flat? Will riding a motorcycle make me more attractive to that individual I'm interested in? Is it a sacrilege to put modern brake components on a classic bike? Should three-wheelers be allowed to use motorcycle parking? And weightier, how do you rebuild confidence after a crash? Hear Zack and Spurgeon's answers to these and other listener comments and questions in this episode of Highside/Lowside.
HS/LS S7 E10: Motorcycles that changed history
Spurgeon and Zack are joined by Common Tread Managing Editor Lance Oliver and all three choose two motorcycles they feel you should know about. Far from a definitive history of significant motorcycles, this is more of a subjective discussion of a few models these three find interesting. Some of their choices probably aren't what you'd expect.
HS/LS S7 E9: Doodle on a Motorcycle
Popular YouTube content creator Doodle on a Motorcycle joins Spurgeon and Zack to talk about how she got started riding motorcycles despite coming from a family where nobody rode, share some of the tips she's learned and experiences she's had from her many road trips, and discuss her perspective as a woman rider traveling solo and building a community in the motorcycle world.
HS/LS S7 E8: Electric motorcycles with Ryan F9
Zack and Spurgeon are joined by their favorite guest from Canada, Ryan F9, to talk about the good and bad, the promises and disappointments, of electric motorcycles. Will electrics ever displace the internal-combustion motorcycles we've come to know? Or will motorcycles of the future take some other form? Our trio takes on all angles of the topic in episode eight.
HS/LS S7 E7: Are trikes bikes?
The podcast takes on the topic of three-wheelers. Are they motorcycles or something else? Two wheels in front or in back? What if they have a steering wheel instead of a handlebar (Polaris Slingshot)? What if they lean (Yamaha Niken)? RevZilla's Spenser Robert joins your hosts Zack Courts and Spurgeon Dunbar to discuss.
HS/LS S7 E6: Mount Rushmore of motorcycle engines — Touring edition
If Mount Rushmore featured motorcycle engines instead of the profiles of dead presidents, what would be up there? Spurgeon and Zack are joined by our J&P Cycles colleague Patrick Garvin to debate what's the best powerplant for getting you down the road when the road is long.
HS/LS S7 E5: The Moto Dating Game is back!
Episode five brings the return of the Moto Dating Game, in which your hosts Spurgeon and Zack try to match up riders with the right bike for their needs. This episode's Dating Game contestants range from a five-year rider who wants something practical and comfortable for long commutes and out-of-town trips to an experienced rider who wants to sharpen her skills by doing track days.
HS/LS S7 E4: Best Beginner Bikes: The CTXP post-show breakdown
The latest CTXP video tested five very different motorcycles with only one thing in common: They are all potentially good choices as a first motorcycle for a new rider. But of course there are a lot more than five good choices for a beginner bike these days. So in this episode of Highside/Lowside, Ari Henning joins Zack and Spurgeon as the go more in depth on the different categories of motorcycles and specific models that might make a good choice for a first ride. It's a great resource for an aspiring rider and even experienced riders are likely to learn something about the many new accessible motorcycles on the market today.
HS/LS S7 E3: Kawasaki ZX-4RR: Drool-worthy or fool-worthy?
Zack and Spurgeon take a closer look at one of the most interesting new motorcycles of 2023, the Kawasaki ZX-4RR 400 cc sport bike. They're joined by Abhi Eswarappa, founder of the Bike-urious website and co-founder of the Iconic Motorbikes online auction site. Abhi is not only a fan of small motorcycles, but he's also gained encyclopedic knowledge from watching thousands being sold over the years, so the discussion ranges beyond the ZX-4RR to other memorable fizzy 400s from the past.
HS/LS S7 E2: Motorcycling in India, the world's biggest motorcycle market, with Sagar Sheldekar
It's a whole different world on the other side of the world, where three times as many new motorcycles are sold every month in India than are sold in an entire year in the United States. Zack and Spurgeon get some insight from popular YouTuber Sagar Sheldekar. Plus Not The News, listener comments, shirt giveaways, and more.
HS/LS S7 E1: Talking about new motorcycles for 2023 with Common Tread editor Lance Oliver
What are the most interesting new motorcycles coming out in 2023? Zack and Spurgeon discuss that question with Common Tread editor Lance Oliver. They also cover Not The News, listener comments, shirt giveaways, and more.
HS/LS S6 E12: Season finale with Donut Media's Jeremiah Burton!
Zack and Spurgeon are joined by Jeremiah Burton, the man behind Donut Media's motorcycle content and lots of other projects. The guys grill him with all kinds of questions, and they also cover Not The News, listener comments, shirt giveaways, and more.
HS/LS S6 E11: More Listener’s Comments and Message from Spurg’s Dad
Zack and Spurgeon are back at it again with another round of listeners' comments from this past season of Highside/Lowside. Tune in to see if your comment gets featured and for a special message from everyone’s favorite, Spurgeon’s Dad, Spurgeon Sr.
HS/LS S6 E10: The Real Deal with Moto Gear
The world of motorcycle gear is an intimidating place for beginners and seasoned riders alike. With ever changing standards and material science always advancing at a hare’s pace, sometimes it takes an expert to understand all the goings on with motorcycle apparel. Joining Zack and Spurg is RevZilla’s own product expert, Pat McHugh.
HS/LS S6 E9: Biggest Moto Blunders, European Edition
Highside/Lowside presents another episode, and this time, the hosts focus on the biggest blunders in European motorcycling history.
HS/LS S6 E8: Motorcycle Navigation! From Maps to Apps
How do you navigate your motorcycle rides? Where are the best roads, how do you share them with your riding buddies, and what devices or maps do you use to get where you're going? Spurgeon and Zack are on the mics to explore the best ways to navigate on a motorcycle. Special guest and REVER co-founder Justin Bradshaw joins for an in-depth discussion that covers GPS units, smartphones, apps, paper maps, and more!
HS/LS S6 E7: Biggest Motorcycle Controversies!
For all the fun and positive experiences that come with life on two wheels, some motorcycling topics and laws are incredibly controversial. How do you feel about helmet laws? Loud pipes? Lane splitting? In this episode of Highside/Lowside, Zack and Spurgeon take a deep dive into some of the spiciest debates and divides you'll find among riders.
HS/LS S6 E6: First Track Day: What's Stopping You?!
Motorcycle track days are an incredible opportunity to develop skills while having fun. Spurgeon, Zack, and Jen Dunstan discuss the challenges of attending a track day, and how to overcome them.
HS/LS S6 E5: What makes a dual-sport and why it matters
Dual-sports are versatile, tough, and lightweight. What's not to love? Spurgeon, Spenser, and Patrick Garvin talk about the best (and worst) of the DS world.
HS/LS S6 E4: The WORST moto purchases
Zack, Spurgeon, and special guest Andy Greaser talk about regrettable motorcycle purchases, and how to avoid them.
HS/LS S6 E3: What's going on with Suzuki?
Suzuki is pulling out of roadracing, and it hasn't produced a new engine in years. Spurgeon, Zack, and Lance Oliver discuss the situation at Suzuki.
HS/LS S6 E2: Beater bikes: Ride, die, or save?
Ari Henning guest stars with Zack and Spurg to talk about which is better: preserving a motorcycle, or using it up completely.
HS/LS S6 E1: How many bikes in the garage is too many? HSLS Season 6 premiere!
Patrick Garvin joins Spurgeon and Zack to talk about the best number of motorcycles to own. Is it possible to have too many?
HS/LS S5 E12: An interview with Carey Hart
Spurgeon and Zack wrap up the season by talking with one of the coolest characters in motorcycling, Carey Hart.
HS/LS S5 E11: Some of Our Favorite Listener Comments from Season 5!
As we round the penultimate episode of season 5 for Highside/Lowside, we bring back a fan favorite, the listener’s comments! Spurgeon shows us a bit of his skills on the guitar and does an impression of Zack! How many times will these two guys mention the Suzuki V-Strom? Leave us some more comments!
HS/LS S5 E10: Imposter motorcycles!
Oscar Wilde said that “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” On this episode of Highside/Lowside, Ari Henning joins Zack and Spurgeon to take a deep dive into those motorcycles that might just be pretending, the imposter-cycle if you will. Maybe they’re a wolf in sheep’s clothing or even worse, a sheep in wolf’s clothing. Find out and let us know what you think!
HS/LS S5 E9: Are Motorcycles the Cheapest Way To Get Around?
Ahh yes the age old question, “are motorcycles the cheapest way to get around?” With cheap bikes, low insurance cost, high MPGs it should be a no brainer, but the answer isn’t always as simple as you may think. Our most frugal of team members, Spenser joins Zack and Spurgeon to break down the pros and cons of motorcycle ownership and whether motorcycles are really the best transport for the frugal!
HS/LS S5 E8: Should You Modify Your Cruiser? When?!
Thinking about taking your boring stock cruiser and giving it some more ponies? Maybe you want to take a long trip and comfort is your goal. Whatever your intentions, Patrick Garvin joins Zack and Spurgeon to talk about the reasons to and to not modify your cruiser! What do you think? Do you have a mod that you absolutely love? Tell us about it.
HS/LS S5 E7: Our motorcycle heroes
Everyone has got a story and on this heartwarming episode of Highside/Lowside, Jen joins Zack and Spurgeon to talk about the most influential people in our moto lives. Don’t hold back, tell us who has made the most impact in your motorcycle journey!
HS/LS S5 E6: Essential packing tips for moto trips
Finally getting geared up for that moto trip you’ve been planning forever but not quite sure what to pack? Ari Henning join Zack and Spurg break down what you’ll find in their back when packing for trips on two wheels. Also, in the news, the Isle of Man TT launches live streaming service and Triumph completes the TE-1 Electric motorcycle prototype.
HS/LS S5 E5: The best spectacle in motorcycle racing: Off-road edition
The world of motorcycles offers spectacles of all kinds for viewers and dirt enthusiasts have plenty of options to choose from. Our very own Brandon WIse join Spurgeon and Zack to tell us about some of the best off-road events and races to watch these days. Tell us your thoughts! Did we miss your favorite, tell us all about it!
HS/LS S5 E4: The Moto Industry’s Biggest Blunders! USA Edition ft. Patrick Garvin
The world of motorcycling has had its highs and its lows throughout history. Today Patrick Garvin joins our hosts to discuss the latter, specifically the goofs and blunders in the ole US of A. Tell us if we missed any other flubs or mis-steps!
HS/LS S5 E3: The Moto Dating Game with Zack and Spurgeon!
Zack and Spurgeon take a stroll down motorcycle lover’s lane and play a few rounds of the Moto Dating Game. Will our lonely riders find their moto match? What do you think about the picks our hosts have chosen? Can you come up with some better matches? Tell us your thoughts!!
HS/LS S5 E2: The UGLIEST (and most beautiful) Bikes of all time!
As they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and there are plenty of bikes out there that give you that fizzy feeling when you see them. Spenser Roberts returns to chat about some of those bikes as well as some motorcycles that you may want to erase from your memory. Tell us what you think!
HS/LS S5 E1: 2021 Motorcycles That Disappointed? What’s next for 2022?
Zack Courts and Spurgeon Dunbar return for season 5 of Highside/Lowside along with guest Lance Oliver to talk about the best and worst motorcycle releases of 2021 and what they look forward to most in 2022.
HS/LS S4 E12: A life on two wheels with Itchy Boots
HS/LS S4 E11: Comments from YOU… and Spurgeon’s Dad?
HS/LS S4 E10: Sport tourers: Are they dead, or have they just evolved?
HS/LS S4 E9: Loud pipes save lives and other moto myths
HS/LS S4 E8: Build-a-Bike: The 2-Year Challenge
HS/LS S4 E7: Motorcycles for the Big, Tall, & Small
Motorcycles take all kinds of shapes and sizes, as well as the riders. Jen Dunstan joins Spurgeon and Zack to talk about different types of bikes out there and how a rider’s height and size might be a factor in choosing your next bike.
HS/LS S4 E6: The best motorcycle movie scenes (& some of the absolute worst)
In this episode of Highside/Lowside, guest Spenser Robert joins Spurgeon and Zack to discuss some famous and some not so famous motorcycles in movies.
HS/LS S4 E5: The wildest and weirdest motorcycle world records
Spurgeon and Zack dive deep into the Guinness Book of World Records to find us the wildest and weirdest motorcycling related world records. Find out what we think is the best, do you agree? Let us know!
HS/LS S4 E4: Harley's new model, Marquez's big win, and our favorite moto events
We've been missing big events like MotoGP in Austin and shows such as IMS, so in this episode of HSLS Spurgeon, Zack, and special guest Patrick Garvin discuss the state of Moto events. Also, we speculate on Harley's new bike and take a look at Marc Marquez's big win in Germany!
HS/LS S4 E3: Motorcycling is dangerous! HSLS survival tips ft. Ari Henning
Motorcycling is fun, but it’s also dangerous. In this episode the guys, along with Ari Henning, talk about street vs. track vs. trail vs. moto-cross racing, and go through the dangers, safety tips, and mistakes of each.
HS/LS S4 E2: Two-up tales! Dos, don'ts, and dates gone awry on a motorcycle
Riding a motorcycle is hard. Doing it with a passenger is harder. Spurg and Zack talk about some of their favorite stories as both pilot and passenger over the years.
HS/LS S4 E1: It's been a CRAZY year for motorcycles (& it's only June!) with Jen Dunstan
Spurg, Zack, and guest host Jen Dunstan discuss the bikes they've been riding since last season's finale, what the pandemic has meant to motorcycling, and what it all means for the year ahead.
HS/LS S3 E12: Talkin' Bikes with FortNine's RyanF9
For the final episode of Season 3 of HSLS, we invited our friend and fellow moto-media junkie, RyanF9 to throw on the headphones and join the podcast to do what we do best... talk about motorcycles.
HS/LS S3 E11: Answering our favorite listener comments
Spurgeon and Zack answer comments, questions, criticism, and other HS/LS fan mail in this full-length episode. The wide variety of topics covers everything from personal bikes to the latest motorcycle news.
HS/LS S3 E10: Harley Pan America, Hayabusa, KLR650, radar cruise, and more!
From Harley-Davidson's first foray into the world of ADV, to long-standing models like the Hayabusa and KLR, this episode of Highside/Lowside is all about the bikes that belong at the forefront of our mind.
HS/LS S3 E09: Mechanical motorcycle mistakes we all make
Spurgeon, Zack, and Ari debate the merits of working on your bike yourself versus taking it to the pros.
HS/LS S3 E08: Motorcycle mishaps... and how to avoid them
HS/LS S3 E07: Best motorcycle tech
What's the best motorcycle technology to appear in the last 20 years? The worst? Spurgeon, Zack, and Ari debate the merits of rider aids, airbag vests, radial tires, TFT dashes, and more.
HS/LS S3 E06: South America to Japan: Dream trips on dream machines
If you could take any trip you wanted, on any bike, anywhere in the world, what would you choose? Spurgeon, Joe, and Zack stave off cabin fever with this hour-plus discussion about their dream trips around the world.
HS/LS S3 E05: Dumbest weather-related riding mistakes
Spurgeon and Zack take a trip down memory lane.. while it's raining, snowing, freezing, and more! Foul weather can strike at any time, and on a motorcycle, we have no choice but to face the music. Well, maybe not every time. Spurg and Zack also discuss some solutions and strategies that can save the day when dark clouds roll in.
HS/LS S3 E04: The best (and worst) motorcycle news of 2020
Spurgeon, Zack, and Lance review the biggest news of 2020, good and bad, from all corners of the industry. What went wrong? What went right? And how do the developments of 2020 shape our expectations for the next year? The guys leave no stone unturned in this hour-plus analysis.
HS/LS S3 E03: The 150-horsepower, 249-pound adventure bike (does not exist)
Spurg, Zack, and Joe discuss the traits of the perfect ADV bike (and how they would construct it if price was not an issue). From realistic (if not wildly expensive) ‘off-the-shelf’ options, to borderline impossibilities that bend the laws of physics, finding the best setup for an ADV bike ends up saying more about the rider than the ride itself.
HS/LS S3 E02: Likes/Dislikes: Triumph Trident versus Yamaha MT-09
HS/LS S3 E01: Can a motorcycle be too cheap?
The guys are BACK and kicking off Season 3 of Highside/Lowside with a new-look, and the same great sound, as they talk about the most interesting topics in the world of motorcycling. In this episode, Spurg welcomes new co-host Zack Courts, as well as Common Tread’s Managing Editor, Lance Oliver, as the three discuss the pros/cons of buying a cheap motorcycle.
HS/LS S2 E12: How can motorcycling make a comeback? - Season 2 finale
Is the high tide mark of motorcycling truly behind us? How can motorcycling break through to the next level? Spurg, Joe, Ari, and Zack sit down for a full-length discussion about motorcycling, its past successes, its current situation, and its all-important future.
HS/LS S2 E11: Annoying things motorcyclists do; INTERVIEW: Zach Parham, President and CEO of J&P Cycles
Has a motorcyclist ever annoyed you? Lemmy, Spurgeon, and Joe are back on the couch for another Highside/Lowside to discuss their biggest complaints from around the world of two wheels. But don't worry, they didn't get off easy. The guys must also reveal their own moto sins.
HS/LS S2 E10: Our favorite motorcycle engines; INTERVIEW: Genevieve Schmitt, founder 'Women Riders Now'
The power plant is what propels us all forward, and some just do the job better than others. In this episode of Highside/Lowside, the guys discuss their favorite motorcycle engines of all-time. Whether it is the acoustics, performance, or overall look and feel, in the end it all comes down to opinion, and the fellas have more than a few on the topic.
HS/LS S2 E9: The best motorcycles under $3,000. INTERVIEW: Robert Pandya, owner of SpokesPeople LLC
Motorcycling is exhilarating. It can also get pretty expensive, pretty quick. Unfortunately, this keeps a lot of would-be riders from ever taking their first spin. In this episode, the guys discuss cheap ways to get into the game as they cover their favorite bikes under $3,000.
HS/LS: S2 E8 - What makes a motorcycle a cult classic? INTERVIEW: Zack Courts, motorcycle media titan
Is it the brand? What about the line and the style? Does a engine make it so? The guys are here in the latest episode to discuss what makes a motorcycle a cult classic. And stay tuned for an interview with Zack Courts!
HS/LS: S2 E7 - Best motorcycle mods for your buck. INTERVIEW: Chris Diaz, veteran, rider, and future Ph.D.
No motorcycle is perfect, and every rider is different. That's why we modify. Whether it's suspension or seats, exhausts or hand controls, one of the most common experiences for all motorcyclists is making the bike their own. In this episode, the guys talk about the most important modifications that they like to make on their own rides.
HS/LS: S2 E6 - What to expect on a vintage motorcycle? INTERVIEW: Jeff Kiniery, dirt rider and RevZilla's Director of Facilities
Old motorcycles are cool. They look cool. They sound cool. They are the epitome of the word itself. That being said, they can also be a massive annoyance. With old parts and antiquated technology, riding a vintage motorcycle is harder, less comfortable, and often includes far more repairs than a modern bike. On this episode of HS/LS, the guys discuss what to expect from these old machines, and if the upside outmatches the downside of it all.
HS/LS: S2 E5 - Is 2020 the BEST time to buy a used motorcycle? INTERVIEW: Ari Henning, writer, host and aficionado
This year may very well be the best year, ever, to procure a used motorcycle. The guys talk about all the reasons why, and Spug interviews the one-and-only Ari Henning in this edition of Highside/Lowside.
HS/LS: S2 E4 - The BEST and WORST Motorcycles of 2019. INTERVIEW: Yves Assad, motorcycle photographer
Whether it's motorcycles or movies (and everything in-between), mid-December is the time to start looking back at the 350-ish days prior and evaluate the good, the bad, and the things we are amped to see in the 370-ish days before we get to do it all again the following year.
HS/LS: S2 E3 - Bad motorcycle, or just bad for YOU? BONUS: Lance Oliver interview!
Everyone's got an opinion, and that's what makes it fun! In this episode, Lemmy, Spurgeon, and Joe take to task the question of bad motorcycles vs. bad matches between motorcycles and riders.
HS/LS: S2 E2 - Do you care where your motorcycle is made? BONUS: Chris Fillmore interview!
Does "Made in..." matter anymore? It's a question that stirs emotion, but perhaps it's just that, emotion. Times and technology have changed a lot about the world, and in this episode, the guys debate whether or not a motorcycle's geography of origin makes a difference. And in this week's interview, Spurgeon sits down with Pikes Peak legend Chris Fillmore to talk about some of the controversial decisions made regarding motorcycles at the event.
HS/LS: S2 E1 - Are you a REAL motorcyclist? And an interview with RyanF9!
The first episode of our second season of Highside/Lowside saw the introduction of a new, extended format, as well as one of the most often debated topics in moto-circles: What makes a motorcyclist a motorcyclist? On the outside, it seems pretty straightforward. “Do they ride a motorcycle?” But, as the guys get into, when you dive a bit deeper, there are plenty of nuances and “what if…” scenarios to consider. Also, big shout out to RyanF9! He’s a rad dude, with a great story, and we were stoked for his interview.
HS/LS: S1 E12 - Motorcycle sales suck... Do you even care?
It’s no secret, the American market for motorcycles has seen more lucrative days. Is it due to a more safety-focused citizenry? Are there more engrossing digital alternatives in 2019? What’s the deal with it all, and just as importantly, do you care? The guys discuss it all, and question how much it could impact those of us who make our way on two wheels.
HS/LS: S1 E11 - Will electric motorcycles end an industry?
Everyone has been so concerned with the question of whether electric motorcycles will be “good enough” that they haven’t asked the bigger question of “will they be too good?” It’s a legitimate possibility. And if technology has taught us anything so far it is that we should never cease to be amazed at just how relentless it is in its progress. In this episode, the guys discuss what an electric revolution might mean for today’s motorcycles.
HS/LS: S1 E10 - Are there too many types of motorcycles?
Having options is generally thought of as being a good thing. But is it always and without exception? The past few years have seen a proliferation of motorcycle types as manufacturers try to maximize their sales across all markets. It’s a pretty good reason, but the guys are left to wonder what it might mean for the industry as a whole.
HS/LS: S1 E9 - Should riders be required to wear motorcycle gear?
If you ride a lot, you’ve undoubtedly heard it: ATGATT (All The Gear, All The Time). You also probably have a strong preference for either side of the equation. Though gear is a great safety measure, is it really the government’s job to require riders to wear it when they swing a leg over their machines?
HS/LS: S1 E8 - Is technology ruining motorcycles?
Technology touches every facet of our lives. For the most part, it’s been a really cool thing. But has it gone too far in motorcycles? We can go faster, farther, with more comfort, and more safely than ever before, but in doing so have we lost at least a little bit of what it is to ride a motorcycle in the first place? Maybe, but then again, maybe not.
HS/LS: S1 E7 - Do motorcycles have soul?
How is it that we can care about something so much that is made of basically the same materials as our kitchen toaster? Lemmy, Spurg, and Joe discuss whether or not character is inherent in a motorcycle from the moment it is manufactured, or if that tug on your heartstrings that you feel upon ignition is only cultivated with time in the saddle.
HS/LS: S1 E6 - Is motorcycle racing dying?
Racing motorcycles is an expensive, time-consuming, and effort-exuding hobby. But it is also an absolutely enlivening experience. In a modern world saturated with copious amounts of dopamine-inducing screen time, is there still a place for the visceral, adrenaline-pumping experience of racing a motorcycle in reality?
HS/LS: S1 E5 - Small motorcycles: Does size matter?
It’s an age-old question; binary, yes or no? But it’s really not that simple. When it comes to the size of a motorcycle, it all comes down to what exactly a rider intends to get out of it. In this episode Lemmy, Spurg, and Joe tackle the topic and look to dispel common misconceptions about small bikes.
HS/LS: S1 E4 - Cruisers: Love 'em, hate 'em
They are still the most popular style of motorcycles on the road in the United States, for better, or for worse. Everyone has an opinion on cruisers, and the Highside/Lowside guys are no different.
HS/LS: S1 E3 - The best in motorcycles for 2018
2018 was gone in a blink. But that doesn’t mean the moto-ongoings won’t have an impact on the industry for years to come.
HS/LS: S1 E2 - EICMA 2018: Best bikes and big takeaways
When it comes to motorcycle news, there are few places where it drops like on the EICMA floor. As one of the most important motorcycle shows of the year, the 2018 version provided Lemmy, Spurg, and Joe plenty to talk about in this episode.
HS/LS: S1 E1 - Why scramblers aren't scramblers anymore
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 has gotten a lot of love since it was announced, and all the talk made Lemmy and Joe ruminate on the history, style, and future of the “scrambler” classification as a whole.
Highside/Lowside Podcasts
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