Throttle and Roast - Motorcycle Enthusiast Podcast

Tank of Coffee
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Are you a motorcycle enthusiast who cannot start the day without a perfectly brewed cup of coffee?  Join Niels Meersschaert on Throttle and Roast as he blends his 25 years of riding experience with a profound love for artisanal coffee. From cruisers to café racers and cappuccinos to cold brews, learn to enhance your riding experiences, perfect your coffee rituals, and even combine them for an unforgettable adventure.  We love a variety of motorcycles, riding both street and dirt, and almost every segment: ADV, cruiser, sport bike, scooters, and vintage.  The show gives you the tips to find the best gear, techniques and insights to have the ultimate motorcycle adventures.   

  1. Change your Perspective, Change your Ride

    3D AGO

    Change your Perspective, Change your Ride

    Change your perspective isn’t just a phrase; it’s a powerful tool for shaking up your routine and rediscovering your passion for motorcycle riding. Too often, riders find themselves stuck in a cycle—same routes, same destinations, same habits—leading to a sense of monotony or even a loss of enthusiasm. By intentionally seeking to change your perspective, you can transform not only your riding experience but also your overall outlook on life. One way to change your perspective is to draw inspiration from photography. In photography, shifting your vantage point—whether by using a different lens or simply by kneeling down or climbing up high—can dramatically alter the way a scene appears. Apply this concept to riding: instead of always taking the same approach, experiment with new angles. For instance, if you typically ride only for leisure on weekends, try using your motorcycle for daily commutes or errands. This simple shift in purpose can turn the mundane into the memorable and help you build a deeper connection with your bike. Another way to change your perspective is by varying your routes and destinations. If you always gravitate toward the quickest highway or the same familiar coffee shop, choose a slower, more scenic backroad or a new, faraway café. Allow yourself to focus on the journey rather than the destination. Letting go of the “rush” mindset frees you to notice details you’d otherwise miss and fosters a sense of exploration. Weather and timing also offer opportunities to shift your perspective. Many riders avoid less-than-perfect conditions, but venturing out in the rain or early in the morning can reveal new joys and challenges. Riding at dawn, for example, brings a quiet solitude, while riding in the rain builds confidence and adds memorable stories to your journey. Each new condition expands your envelope of comfort and riding skill. If you’re planning overnight trips, rethink where you stay. Instead of defaulting to chain hotels, consider a bed-and-breakfast in a small town or even camping under the stars with a hammock or tent. These changes in accommodation can create entirely new experiences and a stronger connection to the places you visit. Finally, don’t hesitate to get an outside perspective. Taking an advanced riding course or seeking feedback from experienced instructors can open your eyes to new techniques and dispel old fears. Sometimes, all it takes to reignite your passion is to see your riding through someone else’s eyes. In summary, to keep the spirit of riding alive, actively seek ways to change your perspective. Whether it’s through new routines, routes, weather, destinations, or learning opportunities, a fresh viewpoint can transform your motorcycle journeys into adventures once again. Wingman of the Road tent Send us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!  Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    Check out our favorite products to use on and off your motorcycle.

    18 min
  2. Why Skyrocketing Gas Prices Make Motorcycles a No-Brainer

    APR 27

    Why Skyrocketing Gas Prices Make Motorcycles a No-Brainer

    In this episode of Throttle and Roast, host Niels Meersschaert takes a deep dive into one of the most pressing issues facing drivers and riders today: skyrocketing gas prices. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East sending oil markets into a frenzy, Niels breaks down exactly what's happening at the pump — and why motorcyclists may actually be in a better position than most. Niels starts with the big picture: West Texas Intermediate crude oil, a key U.S. benchmark, recently hit $99 per barrel — a staggering 67% increase from just one year ago. At its peak, right before a temporary ceasefire was announced, prices surged as high as $113 per barrel, nearly doubling year-over-year. While the ceasefire brought some brief relief, the underlying pressure on fuel prices remains very real. At the pump, those oil price increases have translated into a national average of $5.04 per gallon for premium fuel, according to AAA — nearly a dollar more than the $4.06 average just one year ago, a 24% jump. And since gas prices tend to trail oil prices, there's reason to believe the worst may not be over yet. To give the numbers even more depth, Niels draws on over a decade of personal fuel tracking data using the app Fuelly, covering every tank of gas across all of his motorcycles and cars since 2016. His local premium gas station is currently charging $5.29 per gallon — higher than even the worst prices he recorded during the 2022 post-pandemic surge, which averaged $5.16 per gallon. His ten-year average price per gallon sits at $4.31, meaning today's prices are roughly a dollar above what he's paid on average over the past decade. But price per gallon is only part of the story. Niels argues that the more meaningful metric is cost per mile — and that's where motorcycles really shine. Using U.S. Department of Energy fuel economy averages, a typical car gets about 24.4 miles per gallon, a light truck averages just 17.8 mpg, and the average motorcycle comes in at 44 mpg. Translated into cost per mile at today's premium prices, cars cost about 20 cents per mile, trucks a painful 28 cents per mile, and motorcycles just 11 cents per mile. Even comparing a motorcycle running on premium to a car running on regular gas, the motorcycle still wins. Niels also shares his personal experience with his Vespa scooter, which he uses for local errands and short trips. Over hundreds of fill-ups, it has averaged an impressive 68 miles per gallon — putting his cost at just 8 cents per mile. He replaced a second car with the scooter and hasn't looked back, using it for everything from grocery runs to hardware store hauls. His takeaway: more people should seriously consider scooters as a practical, affordable alternative to a second vehicle. The episode wraps with a challenge to listeners: given that motorcycles cost roughly half as much per mile as a car — and trucks nearly three times as much — will rising gas prices push you to ride more, or will they keep you off the road? Niels invites listeners to share their thoughts via the show's text line or voicemail at throttleandroast.com/voicemail. Links Send us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!  Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    Check out our favorite products to use on and off your motorcycle.

    15 min
  3. Riding with Purpose: Groups, Charity, and Community

    APR 20

    Riding with Purpose: Groups, Charity, and Community

    What does it mean to ride with purpose? In this episode of the Throttle and Roast Podcast, host Niels Meersschaert explores how motorcycling can be more than just a solo escape from the everyday grind. While riding alone has its own undeniable value — the freedom, the fresh air, the chance to clear your head — this episode makes a compelling case for getting out on the bike with others and channeling that energy toward something greater than yourself. Niels begins by breaking down the world of group rides, starting with the most accessible entry point: small group rides. With just three to seven riders, small groups offer a level of flexibility and camaraderie that larger rides simply can't match. Logistics are easier — finding parking, stopping for fuel, or grabbing a meal becomes a seamless experience rather than a coordination nightmare. Perhaps more importantly, smaller groups tend to attract riders with similar paces and road preferences, making for a more enjoyable and connected experience overall. For those who haven't yet tried riding with others, this is the ideal place to start. That said, Niels doesn't dismiss large group rides. He encourages every rider to experience one at least once, acknowledging that there's something uniquely powerful about the sight and sound of dozens or even hundreds of bikes moving together. Whether it's a poker run, an organized rally, or a large charity event, these gatherings offer a different kind of purpose — one built around spectacle, solidarity, and shared identity. The trade-off, of course, is that large groups often require accommodating the lowest common denominator in terms of pace and route, which may not satisfy every rider's appetite for adventure. The heart of the episode, however, is charity riding. Niels highlights several well-known rides that give motorcyclists the opportunity to use their passion for a meaningful cause. Kyle Petty's Charity Ride Across America, which has been running since 1995, crosses the entire United States over eight days and raises money to provide camping experiences for children with chronic illnesses. The Veterans Charity Ride uses motorcycle therapy — often with sidecar-equipped bikes — to support wounded veterans. The Ride for Kids event, organized by the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, holds rides at locations across the United States, making it easy to find one near you. Looking beyond North America, Niels spotlights Two Wheels for Life, a UK-based charity that supports healthcare workers in Africa by providing motorcycles, training, and equipment. And finally, he highlights one of the most globally recognized charity rides of all: the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride. Inspired by the aesthetic of the TV show Mad Men, this ride asks participants to dress dapper — often in three-piece suits — while riding vintage or retro-style motorcycles. It supports prostate cancer research and men's mental health, and it takes place every May at locations around the world. For those who haven't found a cause that speaks to them among existing events, Niels closes with practical g Send us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!  Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    Check out our favorite products to use on and off your motorcycle.

    13 min
  4. Gas tanks are too small.... or are they?

    APR 13

    Gas tanks are too small.... or are they?

    Many riders insist that tanks are too small on modern motorcycles, but the real story is far more nuanced than a simple glance at fuel capacity suggests. In this episode of Throttle and Roast, host Niels Meersschaert digs into the full picture of motorcycle range, examining why manufacturers build smaller tanks, how fuel economy changes everything, and whether the complaints flooding social media actually hold up in the real world. Niels begins by establishing the extremes of tank capacity currently available on the market. The smallest street motorcycle tank belongs to the Honda Grom at just 1.6 gallons, while the largest is found on the BMW R1300 GS Adventure at 7.9 gallons. Most of the bikes people complain about fall somewhere in between those two extremes. Manufacturers choose smaller tanks for two primary reasons: aesthetics and weight. A larger tank dramatically changes the visual profile of a motorcycle, and with fuel weighing roughly six pounds per gallon, a fully loaded large tank can add nearly 50 pounds of weight concentrated high on the bike, affecting low-speed handling and overall feel. As modern bikes have also added electronics, ABS, TFT displays, and other features that riders demand, manufacturers have had to find weight savings somewhere, and the fuel tank is often the easiest place to trim. But tank size alone does not tell the full story. When you factor in fuel economy, the range equation shifts considerably. The Honda Grom, despite its tiny 1.6-gallon tank, achieves around 125 miles per gallon in real-world use according to the fuel tracking tool Fuelly, giving it a range of roughly 200 to 250 miles. Meanwhile, the BMW R1300 GSA, with its nearly 8-gallon tank, returns around 40 to 44 miles per gallon in practice, translating to 315 to 395 miles of range. That is a meaningful difference, but far less dramatic than the raw tank size comparison would suggest. Niels backs this up with over 15 years of personal fuel data tracked through Fuelly. His Vespa GTS 300, with a 2.2-gallon tank, averages 67.6 miles per gallon and delivers close to 150 miles of range, more than enough for his typical short errands. His BMW F900GS, despite having less than half the tank capacity of his old R1200 GSA, achieves nearly the same practical range thanks to better fuel economy on the newer, smaller engine. Even his BMW R18 Classic, a cruiser that many riders criticized for having a tank that is too small, delivers a Send us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!   Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    We sometimes use affiliate links in our content.  This won’t cost you anything extra, but if you purchase something from one of the links, we may earn some money for coffee.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our favorite products.  Looking to start a podcast of your own?  Get a $20 credit on any paid plan with Buzzsprout. We host our podcast website https://www.throttleandroast.com with PodPage. Sign up with them to host your podcast website & it automatically can pull your podcast feed from Buzzsprout!  So much easier to have an amazing looking podcast website!

    33 min
  5. How to Choose Your First Motorcycle: A Beginner’s Guide

    APR 6

    How to Choose Your First Motorcycle: A Beginner’s Guide

    Choosing your first motorcycle is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a decision that deserves careful thought and planning. This comprehensive guide walks beginners through every critical aspect of the process, ensuring new riders select a motorcycle that matches their needs, skill level, and aspirations while prioritizing safety and enjoyment. The guide begins by introducing the concept of a "license to learn"—the understanding that your first motorcycle is not likely to be your ultimate dream machine, but rather a stepping stone that builds your skills and confidence. New riders are encouraged to separate the emotional allure of high-powered, flashy bikes from the practical requirements of learning to ride safely and comfortably. The guide stresses that starting with a more manageable bike is not a compromise, but a strategic decision that can lead to a more rewarding and safe riding experience. One of the key factors discussed is choosing a motorcycle that isn’t too heavy or powerful. The guide explains how large engines and excessive weight can make it harder for beginners to control the bike, especially at low speeds or in challenging situations. Instead, it suggests looking for models with moderate engine sizes—typically in the 250cc to 500cc range—that offer enough performance for learning and everyday riding without being overwhelming. The guide also highlights the importance of seat height and overall ergonomics, advising new riders to test-sit multiple models to find a comfortable fit that allows them to reach the ground easily and operate controls with confidence. The guide outlines the main categories of motorcycles suitable for beginners, including standard/naked bikes, cruisers, sport bikes, dual-sports, and adventure bikes. For each type, the pros and cons are discussed, helping readers consider where and how they intend to ride—whether commuting, touring, or exploring off-road trails. The merits of new versus used motorcycles are also examined: new bikes offer warranties and modern features, while used bikes can be more affordable and forgiving of the inevitable beginner scratches and drops. Practical advice is given on what to look for in a used bike, including service history, signs of damage, and ease of maintenance. A curated list of beginner-friendly motorcycle models is provided, featuring reliable and accessible options from various manufacturers. Honorable mentions expand the list for those seeking something a bit different, like retro styles or small-displacement sport bikes. The guide concludes by reiterating that the best first motorcycle is one that fits both the rider and their ambitions, balancing excitement with practicality. By following these steps, new riders can make an informed choice, ensuring their first motorcycle experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Suggested bikes ADV/Dual SportHonda NX500Honda CRF300LSend us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!  Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    Check out our favorite products to use on and off your motorcycle.

    40 min
  6. New Bikes, Big Updates, and Hidden Gems for 2026 ADV Riders

    MAR 30

    New Bikes, Big Updates, and Hidden Gems for 2026 ADV Riders

    In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert dives into the ADV and off-road news that matters most as riders gear up for the 2026 riding season. From updated Italian middleweights to Japanese rally-inspired machines, extended warranties, and true Hidden Gems for 2026, this episode has something for every kind of adventure rider. Ducati Desert X — Italian Middleweight Gets a Refresh Kicking things off is the updated Ducati Desert X, now powered by the new V2 motor found across the Ducati lineup. The new engine sheds a couple of pounds — bringing curb weight to approximately 461 lbs — and, more importantly, ditches the famously demanding Desmo valve system in favor of a traditional spring-based valve train. This change alone is a significant quality-of-life improvement, as Desmo valve services were notoriously complex and expensive. Power remains essentially unchanged at 110 hp and 68 ft-lb of torque from a slightly smaller 890cc engine. The fuel tank has been redesigned to carry weight lower on the bike, improving off-road handling and reducing that top-heavy feeling. Suspension is serious: 9.1 inches of travel up front from fully adjustable 46mm forks, and 8.7 inches out back. A new 5-inch horizontal TFT display, 6-axis IMU, six riding modes, and revised ergonomics with a more aggressive attack position round out the updates. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combination keeps this bike firmly in adventure-off-road territory rather than the more road-biased Multistrada lineup. Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid — The GSA of the Tenere Family Next up is the long-awaited US arrival of the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid. Think of this as the premium, adventure-ready version of the already well-loved Tenere 700. The biggest complaint about the base model was its budget suspension, and the World Raid addresses this head-on with 46mm front forks offering 9.1 inches of travel — matching the Desert X — and a rear shock bumped up to 8.6 inches, both fully adjustable. The old LCD display is replaced with a full TFT screen, and the bike gains ride-by-wire, cruise control, lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, ABS, and improved LED headlights. The most visually striking upgrade is the new 6.1-gallon fuel tank, adding 1.8 gallons over the standard model for significantly extended range. All of this comes at just $2,000 more than the base Tenere — a strong value proposition when you consider that many Tenere owners were already spending $2,000–$3,000 just to upgrade the suspension aftermarket. KTM and Husqvarna — Four Years of Peace of Mind Following Bajaj's acquisition of KTM, there has been considerable concern among buyers about build quality and warranty coverage, particularly around CAM issues on 890-based engines. The previous 12-to-24-month factory warranty did little to inspire confidence. Bajaj has responded by extending the warranty on nearly all 2026 KTM and Husqvarna models to four full years — a move that should go a long way toward rebuilding buyer trust and bringing customers back into dealerships. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!  Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    Check out our favorite products to use on and off your motorcycle.

    10 min
  7. Spring into 2026

    MAR 23

    Spring into 2026

    The podcast episode focuses on preparing your motorcycle and yourself for the 2026 riding season. It covers inspecting the bike for any damage, checking fluid levels, and ensuring proper tire pressure and tread. Before riding after a long winter break, inspect the motorcycle to ensure it is safe and ready. This includes checking tire pressure, lights, and the engine.  It covers getting yourself mentally & physically ready for the new riding season, as the skills and muscles used for riding differ from those used for driving. Finally, some tips on what to do in your first few rides of the season. Slacker Sag Measurement tool mentioned in the episode Send us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!  Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    Check out our favorite products to use on and off your motorcycle.

    19 min
  8. Motorcycle Navigation in 2026: Phones, GPS, and Remote Screens

    MAR 16

    Motorcycle Navigation in 2026: Phones, GPS, and Remote Screens

    In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert delves into the evolving landscape of Motorcycle Navigation in 2026. The discussion begins with the ubiquitous smartphone, a device most riders already own and often default to for navigation purposes. While phones offer versatility—serving as communication devices, cameras, and note-takers—they come with significant drawbacks when used on motorcycles. Niels emphasizes that phones aren’t built to withstand the intense vibrations, weather exposure, and rapid changes in lighting experienced on a bike. Mounting a phone on handlebars exposes it to risks like camera or microphone damage, water intrusion, and overheating from sun exposure. These factors can lead to critical device failures, potentially leaving a rider without a means of communication in emergencies. Moreover, using a phone for navigation drains the battery rapidly, and even with a powered mount, charging may not keep up with usage, especially in hot conditions. The touchscreen is not glove-friendly by default, and the screen’s visibility suffers in bright sunlight and at unconventional angles. Overall, while using a phone is cost-effective, Niels concludes that the risks often outweigh the benefits. The conversation then shifts to dedicated GPS devices, which are purpose-built for motorcycle navigation. Unlike phones, these units are designed for glove operation, durability, and weather resistance. Brands like Garmin dominate this space with models like the Zumo XT and XT3, offering features tailored to motorcyclists, such as robust mounts, weather sealing, and downloadable maps for offline use. These devices also include specialized options for adventure and off-road riders, like high-definition topographic maps and group ride tracking. While dedicated GPS units are more expensive than simply using a phone, their longevity and resilience make them a worthwhile investment for frequent riders. Niels also acknowledges specialized Android-based units like the DMD NOR 7E, which combine the flexibility of customizable apps with rugged hardware, albeit at a higher price and with a steeper learning curve than consumer-friendly units like those from Garmin. Finally, Niels explores remote screen solutions, a growing trend in 2026. These devices act as external displays for your smartphone, which can remain safely tucked away in a pocket or bag. Brands like Carpuride and Chigee offer motorcycle-specific CarPlay and Android Auto screens that provide large, weather-resistant displays at a lower price point than many dedicated GPS units. The Beeline Moto 2 is highlighted for its minimalist, intuitive interface that helps riders keep their eyes on the road, using simple navigation cues or even a compass mode for more adventurous, freeform riding. This blending of smartphone intelligence with handlebar-mounted displays offers a balance between convenience and device protection, particularly appealing for road-focused riders. Dedicated GPS Units Garmin Zumo XT 3 (newest model)Garmin Zumo XT 2 (priSend us Fan Mail Support the show Thanks for listening!  Click the "Send us a Text Message" link above to send us your questions, comments, and feedback on the show!  Please make sure you leave the podcast title.  Or if you prefer to leave an audio message, leave us a voicemail on our website! Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest from the show.    Check out our favorite products to use on and off your motorcycle.

    37 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Are you a motorcycle enthusiast who cannot start the day without a perfectly brewed cup of coffee?  Join Niels Meersschaert on Throttle and Roast as he blends his 25 years of riding experience with a profound love for artisanal coffee. From cruisers to café racers and cappuccinos to cold brews, learn to enhance your riding experiences, perfect your coffee rituals, and even combine them for an unforgettable adventure.  We love a variety of motorcycles, riding both street and dirt, and almost every segment: ADV, cruiser, sport bike, scooters, and vintage.  The show gives you the tips to find the best gear, techniques and insights to have the ultimate motorcycle adventures.   

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