Throttle and Roast - Motorcycle Enthusiast Podcast

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert explores the various types of motorcycle drivetrains, focusing on chains, belts, and shafts. He explains the mechanics of chain drives, highlighting their efficiency and durability, while also discussing the differences between unsealed, O-ring, and X-ring chains. Listeners will gain insights into the advantages of each dri...

In this episode of the Throttle & Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses the alarming risk of motorcycle theft and the personal connection riders have with their bikes. He explains why motorcycles are particularly vulnerable and shares practical tips to protect your motorcycle and reduce the likelihood of theft, both at home and while on the road. The emphasis is on layering security...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert shares his first impressions of his new 2025 BMW F900GS after trading in several old bikes. He discusses the bike's aesthetic appeal, highlighting its modern design with a single headlight and rugged look. Niels also emphasizes the improved handling, noting the lighter weight makes it more agile on the road. With vario...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert addresses one of the common frustrations faced by motorcyclists: parking. He discusses the nuances of parking on different surfaces, including pavement, gravel, grass, and dirt. Niels highlights the challenges that arise, such as slipping, the instability of kickstands on soft ground, and the impact of weather conditions. L...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses the impact of Ewan McGregor and Charlie Borman's Long Way series on the motorcycle community. The journey began in 2004 with Long Way Round, showcasing their adventure on BMW R-1150GS motorcycles, while the latest Long Way Home has them riding some 50 year old classic bikes. Niels reflects on how these docume...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert addresses a common concern for motorcyclists: riding in less-than-ideal weather. He discusses strategies to enhance comfort and safety in wet, cold, and hot conditions. For wet weather, Niels emphasizes the importance of quality gear, such as Gore-Tex gloves and breathable riding suits, to avoid discomfort from moisture. He...

KTM has faced significant challenges leading to its recent bankruptcy, primarily stemming from an aggressive growth strategy focused on unit sales. While partnerships with Bajaj helped boost lower-cost bike production, post-COVID inflation disrupted supply chains and reduced demand. Rising interest rates negatively impacted sales, leaving KTM with substantial debt of nearly 1.5 billion euros and h...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert emphasizes the importance of visibility for motorcyclists to enhance safety on the road. He discusses various tweaks that riders can apply to their motorcycles, including using headlights, fog lights, and flashing light modules to stand out. Niels highlights that while color may play a minor role in visibility, the use of e...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses BMW's newly unveiled boxer models, including the R Roadster, RS, and RT. He reflects on the evolution of the Roadster design and compares performance and character across models. The new R promises a compelling option for those seeking a Street Fighter style with strong performance, while the RS blends sporti...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert delves into the fears and doubts faced by motorcyclists, like the fear of the unknown. He addresses concerns new riders may have about purchasing their first bike and the challenges of handling it, focusing on balancing and mastering the clutch. Niels reassures listeners that these fears are natural and offers practical tip...

Jochen Zeitz stepped down as CEO of Harley-Davidson after five years, having transitioned the company’s focus from expanding its demographic to catering to its traditional, older customer base. Originally joining the board in 2007, Zeitz took over as CEO in 2020 during the pandemic, implementing a strategy called "Rewire." This plan prioritized high-end touring bikes and cut back on lowe...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert reflects on his recent coffee ride and the concept of the ideal riding temperature. He shares his personal experience with gear choices, including a non-vented waxed cotton jacket and a windshield, and how these influenced his comfort during the ride. Niels discusses the significant role weather plays in motorcycling and th...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, Niels Meersschaert delves into the multifaceted concept of motorcycle design. Unlike the matrix, it’s not a simulation, but motorcycle design is real.  We can touch it, see it, feel it.  Niels discusses how design transforms ideas into tangible forms, emphasizing that motorcycles are not just visual objects but also involve ergonomics, sound, and...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert reflects on a comment in a local motorcycle group urging riders "don't waste your time with clubs". He explores the importance of community among motorcyclists, discussing various ways to connect with others, such as forums, podcasts, and riding groups. Niels highlights the benefits of riding in groups, inclu...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses the recent tariffs announced by the Trump administration, particularly their implications for motorcyclists. He explains what tariffs are and how they affect pricing for imported goods, especially motorcycles. Niels highlights historical tariffs on motorcycles in the U.S., including the significant tariffs imposed...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses the advantages and disadvantages of riding a motorcycle alone. The freedom to set your own schedule, change plans spontaneously, and explore new routes are some of the key benefits of solo riding. However, it also comes with downsides, such as missing the camaraderie and shared experiences that come from riding wi...

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR) is an annual charity event that combines classic and custom motorcycles with dapper attire to raise funds and awareness for men’s health issues, including prostate cancer and mental health. Founded in 2012 in Sydney, Australia, the event has grown to attract over 100,000 riders in nearly 900 cities worldwide. Participants gather to enjoy a scenic ride...

In this episode, host Niels Meersschaert discusses modern motorcycle navigation systems, highlighting their conveniences and limitations. He examines popular app-based routing tools like Rever, Calimoto, and Beeline, focusing on their features, such as twisty road routing. While these apps offer quick route planning and point-of-interest features, they lack critical details like waypoint distances...

As spring approaches, it's time to prepare your bike for the riding season after a winter hiatus. Host Niels Meersschaert emphasizes the importance of checking the battery, inspecting for fluid leaks, and ensuring proper oil and brake fluid levels. He also stresses the significance of monitoring tire pressure regularly, as it can change with temperature fluctuations. A thorough inspection of...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert explores the vital importance of helmets for motorcycle safety. He outlines the main categories of helmets, including half, three-quarter, full face, and modular helmets, detailing their features, advantages, and how they provide varying levels of protection. Niels also discusses the significance of finding the right fit fo...

In the latest episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert addresses the critical topic of navigating motorcycle safety, particularly as the riding season approaches. He emphasizes the inherent dangers of motorcycling, citing troubling statistics from 2022, including over 6,000 fatalities in the U.S. and the significant role of lack of training and alcohol consumption in acci...

The "Throttle and Roast" podcast, hosted by Niels Meersschaert, explores the connection between coffee culture and motorcycle culture. In the introduction, Niels emphasizes the enjoyment of coffee alongside rides, highlighting the role of coffee shops in preparing riders and fostering camaraderie. He discusses the Café Racer motorcycle style, which originated at the Ace Café in London, n...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert examines the parallels and distinctions between equestrians and motorcyclists. Drawing from his own experiences with horses, Niels reflects on the historical significance of horseback riding while highlighting similarities in control techniques, riding positions, and the mental aspects of handling both a horse and a motorcy...

The Throttle Roast podcast, hosted by Niels Meersschaert, delves into the history and cultural significance of motorcycles. The episode traces their evolution from early steam-powered velocipedes to modern machines featuring internal combustion engines. Key milestones include the first production motorcycle and the rise of iconic brands in the early 1900s. The podcast also compares motorcycles wit...

The Throttle and Roast Podcast, hosted by Niels Meersschaert, delves into the fascinating histories of iconic motorcycle brands that have endured through the years. The episode discusses the evolution of bicycles into motorcycles, highlighting key innovations and notable manufacturers, including Royal Enfield, Indian Motocycle, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, MotoGuzzi, BMW and Honda.  The episode showc...