Planning Episodes

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 inspira...

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 o...

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 curr...

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...

This podcast episode explores the Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) organization and its mission to create scenic off-highway routes for adventure and dual sport motorcyclists. The episode highlights the two newest BDR routes—the Lost Coast California BDR-X, a 500-mile loop along the state's rugged northern coastline, and the upcoming Montana BDR, a 1,000-mile journey across 13 mountain ranges. Listeners will also learn about the different types of BDR routes, including full BDRs, BDR-X loops, ...

In the final episode of 2025 of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses motorcycle resolutions for 2026. He emphasizes the importance of obtaining a motorcycle license, sharing steps for both new and experienced riders. Niels suggests getting a new bike and highlights training opportunities, including beginner courses and advanced riding clinics by organizations like the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and BMW. The episode aims to inspire listeners to improve their riding ...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert guides listeners on how to take their ADV bikes a little dirty. He suggests starting in local gravel parking lots to build confidence before venturing onto maintained dirt roads. Niels highlights the importance of understanding bike dynamics on different surfaces and offers tips for safely navigating these terrains. By taking small steps to explore off-road riding, both new and experienced riders can enhance their skills ...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast Podcast, host Niels Meersschaert draws a parallel to the Goldilocks principle as he explores the ideal riding conditions for motorcyclists. He reflects on his own experiences this year, discussing how relentless rain and extreme heat have made it challenging to find that "just right" time to ride. Niels emphasizes the discomfort and safety concerns that come with conditions that are either "too wet" or "too hot," reminding riders to listen to their insti...

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 the challenges of maintaining comfort without the climate control systems found in cars. He highlights...

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 with others. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Niels emphasizes the unique aspects of solo ridi...

This episode has valuable tips for planning your perfect group motorcycle rides. We break down the complexities involved in organizing a ride with multiple participants. Most group rides work better with smaller groups—ideally no more than ten riders—can simplify logistics such as finding suitable stops for fuel and food. He discusses key factors to consider while planning, including the advance notice given to participants, the ride's goals and destinations, and the overall ride characteristics...

We explore the different types of roads available for motorcycle riding, focusing on backroads, highways, city streets, and stroads. Why many riders prefer highways, citing safety, speed, and the compatibility of popular cruiser motorcycles with these roads. What those highway-only riders are missing out on. Wonderful potential adventures and hidden gems that backroads offer, vs the boring monotony of the more straightforward highway experience. Ignore what Steppenwolf said, instead of the highw...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses how to effectively prepare for motorcycle road trips. He explores the varying preferences of riders, from meticulous planners to spontaneous adventurers, offering insights on how many miles to ride each day. Niels emphasizes the need for realistic expectations regarding comfort and endurance when riding compared to driving. By focusing on the essentials of trip planning, including what gear you may want to bring...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert explores the dilemma of whether to put your bike away for winter or keep riding in cooler temperatures. He discusses winter motorcycle care, including the importance of preparing your bike for storage, focusing on key maintenance tasks such as fueling, using a fuel stabilizer, and caring for the battery. Niels shares his personal experience with his five bikes and offers tips for enjoying rides during the colder months wh...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert takes listeners on a journey through some of the most iconic historic routes with incredible scenery for your motorcycle in the U.S and abroad. He highlights the famous Route 66, known for its Americana charm, and the Lincoln Highway, one of the first transcontinental roads designed for automobiles. Niels also delves into the historic roads on the East Coast and some routes you should try on the west coast. Europe has sev...

Send us a text In this discussion, Niels explores the concept of choosing the right motorcycle based on mood. From practical errands to seeking thrills, he delves into the diverse experiences offered by different types of bikes. Do you take out your classic bike, sport bike, cruiser, ADV or scooter? Let your mood be your guide. How do you put together a dream garage? Cycleworld's take Moto Adventurer's take Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on Instagram, FaceBook, and X (Twitter)...

This episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, hosted by Niels Meersschaert, explores the combination of coffee and motorcycles by discovering fun roads and independent coffee shops. Niels shares tips and inspiration for planning your own coffee rides, including how to pick destinations, choose routes, and make the most of your journey. Whether you're a coffee lover, motorcycle enthusiast, or both, this episode offers an exciting blend of adventure and caffeine. Links mentioned in the show Re...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert reflects on the end of the riding season and shares tips for preparing motorcycles for off-season storage. He discusses the changing temperatures, fall foliage hazards, and ways you can leverage gear to extend your riding season and not have to park your motorcycle till the spring. Articles mentioned from the Tank of Coffee website: What to do in the off season Cold weather motorcycle riding Support the show Send us a te...

Send us a text In the "Throttle and Roast" podcast episode, Niels Meersschaert talks about how to shake up your motorcycle rides to keep things interesting. He suggests adding weekday rides to the usual weekend routine, trying out dirt roads on an adventure bike, exploring backroads instead of sticking to highways, and planning rides with a meal as the destination. Overnight trips like weekends, long weekends, or longer can add additional variety. These ideas aim to add variety and excitement to...