Throttle & Roast episodes

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, including safety, support during breakdowns, and the camaraderie that enhances the riding experience. He also examines d...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert discusses the recent 2025 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 on Japanese imports in the 1980s, which were aimed at supporting Harley-Davidson during a peri...

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...

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2025 (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 while showcasing their stylish outfits and a variety of motorcycles, from vintage classics to modern...

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 and arrival times. The conversation emphasizes the importance of features that enhance trip plannin...

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 the bike for loose parts and overall condition is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride as warmer weath...

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 for your head shape and highlights different safety ratings and popular helmet brands. We also share s...

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 accidents. Niels stresses the importance of staying sober while riding and ensuring riders are properly ...

The "Throttle and Roast" podcast, hosted by Niels Meersschaert, explores coffee culture in motorcycle life. 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, noting the sporty modifications made to standard bikes and the importance of cafes as social hubs for riders. The episode also features a ...

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 motorcycle. Maybe humanity's transition from the horse to the steel horse isn't all that different? Send...

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 with cars, highlighting their unique handling characteristics, fuel efficiency, and the influence of He...

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 showcases how these brands have shaped the motorcycle industry while maintaining their legacy. Listen to l...

We explore the diverse range of motorcycles available today, addressing the paradox of choice in the motorcycling world. Starting with scooters, highlighting their benefits for new riders, including smaller engine capacities, automatic transmissions, and upright seating positions. We also cover standard motorcycles, dirt bikes, dual sports, adventure motorcycles, cruisers, sport bikes, sport tourers, touring bikes and even some style variations like bobbers and cafe racers. Overall, the episode ...

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...

We review the standout motorcycle gear from 2024. Highlights like the Sena 60S Bluetooth headset, featuring advanced mesh communication, improved speakers, and a new wave intercom that offers limitless range with cell service. Also discussed is the Arai XD5 dual sport helmet, noting its comfortable fit for a wider range of riders, removable face shield, and redesigned peak to reduce wind buffeting. And many other items we think are standouts. These innovative products showcase significant advanc...

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 discusses the rise of electric motorcycles in 2024, examining their advantages and disadvantages. Key benefits include instant torque, no gears for easier handling, and zero tailpipe emissions, addressing the challenges of strict regulations. However, the absence of engine noise may deter some riders, and range limitations pose practical concerns, especially in less populated areas. Niels emphasizes the balance between th...

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...

In this episode of the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert delves into the essence of motorcycling as the ultimate escape from life's stresses. He discusses the romanticized notion of the open road, emphasizing self-reliance and spontaneous exploration. Niels highlights the unique, immersive experience of riding, where motorcyclists connect with their environment in ways that cars cannot offer. Ultimately, the podcast champions the idea that it's about the journey and the adventu...

In the Throttle and Roast podcast, host Niels Meersschaert explores the intriguing relationship between coffee and motorcycles. He discusses various motorcycle types, including standard, sport, cruiser, dual sport, touring, and adventure bikes, and recommends coffee pairings for each. From a reliable cup of drip coffee for standard bikes to a bold cold brew for long touring rides, Niels highlights how the characteristics of your bike can influence your coffee choice, creating a unique blend of c...

In the latest Throttle and Roast podcast episode, host Niels Meersschaert delves into the exciting new motorcycles showcased at EICMA 2024. Covering adventure, standard, and sport bikes, he highlights the powerful KTM Super Adventure S and EVO, featuring advanced technologies like an automated manual and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, he discusses the Yamaha Tenere 700, which has gained popularity for its balance of performance and affordability, now enhanced with ride modes, traction co...

In this podcast episode, Niels discusses the importance of motorcycle headsets, exploring their features and benefits. He explains how these devices enhance the riding experience by providing clear GPS instructions, enabling music and podcast listening, facilitating hands-free phone calls, and allowing intercom communication with fellow riders. Niels also addresses reasons why some riders might choose to skip headsets, such as riding bikes with built-in speakers or using open helmets that limit ...