Highside/Lowside - A Motorcycle Podcast

RevZilla

Spurgeon Dunbar and Zack Courts co-host in-depth conversations about the most exciting topics in the world of motorcycles. Produced by RevZilla's Media & Content team, Highside/Lowside features the insights and opinions of the most prominent moto-minds in podcasting.

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20 episodes
Updated April 17

Episodes20

Newest first

April 17 · 1 hr 50 min
S11E12: Motorcycle Questions: Answered!
We're wrapping up season 12 with a listener-favorite… giving you the chance to ask Zack and Spurg any question you want! Should test rides be banned? Why don't US manufacturers make a range of bikes like the Japanese? What is Zack's beef with Kawasaki Vulcans?! And those questions and more… Plus, a Craigslist ad for a Suzuki GSX-R and Fiat 500 hybrid that you're not gonna want to miss! Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
April 3 · 2 hr 18 min
S11E11: From NBA President to MSF Student: Returning to Motorcycles after 40 years
Former President of the Los Angeles Lakers, Tim Harris, joins the show to discuss his life as a returning rider to answer the question: is it ever too late to start riding? Tim rode from age 16 to 22, then spent the next four decades "frozen in motorcycle ice" while building a family and a career. Now back in the saddle in his 60s, Tim shares the hilarious and humble reality of relearning the "friction zone" and surviving the "intervention" of worried coworkers. We also dive into new data from AIM Expo about Gen Z's interest in motorcycling and answer a listener's question about how to convince a reluctant spouse to let you start riding later in life. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
March 20 · 1 hr 42 min
S11E10: Best (and Worst) Sounding Motorcycles!
Zack and Spurg dive into the auditory soul of motorcycling and what makes an engine sound "iconic." From the rhythmic clatter of a Ducati dry clutch to the "vicious" scream of an Aprilia V4, we break down the sounds that transports us to the racetrack and the open road. We also pay tribute to the legendary Japanese industrial designer who survived the atomic bomb to create the iconic Kikkoman soy sauce bottle AND the Yamaha VMAX. Stick around for a special Engine Sound Guessing Game and a heartfelt discussion on the risks and rewards of putting kids on the back of a motorcycle. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
March 6 · 2 hr 5 min
S11E09: What If Motorcycles Were Banned? A trip back in time to explore the future
In honor of "Back to the Future" turning 40, industry experts like Ryan Fortnine, Matt Oxley, and Ari Henning take a trip back in time with Zack & Spurg to explore five massive motorcycle "What if" scenarios: What if Boeing built motorcycles? What if Harley-Davidson abandoned "heritage" for "cutting-edge"? How would a different World War II outcome have changed German and Japanese engineering? What does a truly safe motorcycle look like? If gas motorcycles were banned tomorrow, would the community survive on electric and hydrogen alone? Plus, Zack analyzes his actual Alpinestars airbag crash data, comparing his 65-mph highside to Marc Marquez's infamous tumbles. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
February 20 · 2 hr 5 min
S11E08: Marc Márquez: The Magnificent or the Merciless?
Is Marc Márquez the greatest of all time? To kick off the 2026 MotoGP season, Zack and Spurg sit down with legendary racing journalist and historian Mat Oxley to discuss why Márquez is a "generational talent". They dive into the incredible story of how Marc learned to save front-end slides with his elbows, the countless surgeries it took to keep him on the grid, and how Spain has created the most successful racing culture in the world. The guys also take a look towards the future at the 2027 MotoGP rule changes that could reset the entire field—and whether Márquez's body will let him stick around to see them. This entire conversation was inspired by Mat's new book, "Marc the Magnificent: Seven-times MotoGP King". To check out Mat's book for yourself, here is a link to his website. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
February 6 · 2 hr 16 min
S11E07: Best New Motorcycles of 2026: Our Picks
The $6,000 Harley-Davidson, Honda's automatic clutch, the "vicious" KTM 990 RC R superbike, and much, much more are discussed as Zack and Spurg preview the most exciting motorcycles, tech, and industry shifts coming in 2026! We also have an "Am I the A-hole" debate involving a delivery robot and a parked Harley… and we're joined by gear expert Pat McHugh to discuss the future of hearing protection: Cardo's active noise-canceling helmet. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
January 23 · 2 hr
S11E06: Zack Courts Returns! (And Shares His Crash Story)
Can you imagine crashing a superbike at a press event in a foreign country? Zack can! Zack Courts returns to the show and shares his experience (both on and off the track) at the KTM 990 RC R press event in southern Spain. Spurg & Zack also discuss changes in motorcycle policy at the Circuit of the Americas and whether or not a high BMW price tag is worth it off-road. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
January 9 · 1 hr 47 min
S11E05: Is the Suzuki GSX-R the Ultimate Sportbike?
In the last episode before Zack's triumphant return, Spurg and guest host Ari Henning celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Suzuki GSX-R by digging into its rise, fall, and rebirth as one of the most prolific motorcycles in the industry. The guys also dive into the challenge of finding a good used GSX-R and discuss the "Gixxer Bro" culture. Plus, stick around for a very special Engine Sound Guessing Game! Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Dec 27, 2025 · 2 hr 6 min
S11E04: @Fortnine Doc Sends Ryan F9 Around the World!
The legendary Ryan from FortNine drops in to go deep into his most ambitious project yet: a feature-length documentary chronicling a record-breaking, 16-day motorcycle trip around the entire world. With Zack Courts still out on the mend, Spurgeon Dunbar is joined by CTXP producer Spenser Robert to ask Ryan about his chaotic time in India, the freezing "Nullarbor" of Australia, the logistical miracles worked by Ducati fixers at the Turkish border, and what it's really like to live on a bike for 24+ hours at a time. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Dec 12, 2025 · 1 hr 48 min
S11E03: A New CEO & the $6,000 bike: What's Going On At Harley-Davidson?
Spurgeon is joined by Common Tread's Lance Oliver to take a deep dive into the financial and structural changes rocking the Harley-Davidson corporate world. From a surprise CEO change (Artie Starrs from Topgolf and Pizza Hut) to a dealer revolt and the future of the brand, we're cutting through the clickbait to deliver a rational, fact-based look at the Motor Company. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Nov 28, 2025 · 2 hr
S11E02: Motorcycle Dating Game Is Back!
The Motorcycle Dating Game returns! Patrick Garvin and Spurg match Highside/Lowside listeners to their perfect motorcycle. And they all lived happily ever after! Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Nov 14, 2025 · 1 hr 47 min
S11E01: The Best (and Worst) of EICMA 2025
Fan-favorite Lance Oliver joins HSLS to break down the biggest news from EICMA 2025: The surprising new Suzuki SV-7GX, BMW's controversial F 450 GS (and its AI photos), Honda's wild V3R 900 E-Compressor concept, and the rise of brands like CFMOTO and Royal Enfield. Plus, they debate the "trickle-down" tech trend and ask: are big motorcycle shows like EICMA even relevant anymore? But where is Zack Courts? Spurgeon Dunbar explains Zack's absence (get well soon!) as well as the engine-sound guessing game, whether or not you should get a bigger bike, and much more! Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Aug 29, 2025 · 2 hr 17 min
S10E12: Garrett Gerloff: World Superbike, Crashing & Why He Loves Scooters
It's the Highside/Lowside Season 10 finale, and we're going out with a bang! World Superbike racer Garrett Gerloff joins Zack and Spurg for a wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from the mindset of a pro racer to the simple joy of riding a Yamaha Zuma. If you've ever wondered what a world-class rider thinks about group rides, speeding tickets, or even the Honda Gold Wing, this is the episode for you. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Aug 15, 2025 · 2 hr 8 min
S10E11: Answering Your Toughest Motorcycle Questions
Zack and Spurg dedicate a full episode to you! Join us as the guys tackle your best comments and questions of the season: Are motorcycle throttles designed backward? What's the future of cruisers as Harley-Davidson's market share shifts? And what are the pros and cons of flipping your front track day tire to save a buck? And more! Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Aug 1, 2025 · 2 hr 12 min
S10E10: The Rise of Chinese Motorcycles: Are They Finally Worth the Money?
Are Chinese motorcycles finally ready to compete with the established giants from Japan and Europe? In this episode of Highside/Lowside, Zack and Spurge dive deep into one of the most talked-about topics in the industry. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Jul 18, 2025 · 2 hr 43 min
S10E09: 3 Stories of Overcoming Trauma After a Motorcycle Crash
The most intense and inspiring conversation in Highside/Lowside history, Zack and Spurg are joined by three riders who faced life-altering motorcycle accidents and fought their way back to the machines they love. This episode is a powerful testament to the passion, resilience, and spirit of the motorcycle community... and the unstoppable drive to get back on two wheels, even when the world tells you it's impossible. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Jul 4, 2025 · 1 hr 58 min
S10E08: The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Group Rides
Are motorcycle group rides the best way to make friends or the fastest way to make enemies? In this episode of Highside/Lowside, Zack and Spurg tackle the highs, the lows, and the unwritten rules of riding with other people. From the dusty trails of an ADV rally to the organized chaos of a track day and the etiquette of a local poker run, we cover what you need to know to survive and thrive. Plus, we dive into a classic "Am I the A-hole?" about confusing intersection etiquette and why being "too nice" can actually be dangerous. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a new rider looking to find your crew, this episode is packed with tips, horror stories, and laughs. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Jun 20, 2025 · 2 hr
S10E07: The Honda Gold Wing's Journey: From Naked Bike to Touring Giant
Six generations, 640,000 sold and some of the most fanatical fans the motorcycling world has to offer. The Honda Gold Wing has had a huge impact on the industry both at home and abroad. Spurg and Zack explore the Gold Wing's origins and how it's managed to be a top seller in the touring world after 50 years. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
Jun 6, 2025 · 1 hr 48 min
S10E06: The Life of a Teenage Motorcycle Star
Being a top competitor in MotoAmerica takes a level of talent, intelligence, and dedication that few possess... especially at 17 years old! Professional motorcycle racer Kayla Yaakov joins the show to give a glimpse of what life is like for one of the most exciting and inspirational racers in the sport! Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos
May 23, 2025 · 1 hr 51 min
S10E05: The Best Way To Rent (and Rent Out) A Motorcycle!
Whether you already own a motorcycle or not, there are so many reasons to rent! But what is the best way?! Ride-share app? Rental Company? Dax Harlow (from MotoQuest) and Ari Henning join the show to discuss the ins, outs, and anecdotes of renting (and renting out) bikes around the world. Check out more from RevZilla: Common Tread: News, opinions, and written reviews RevZillaTV: Bike reviews, How-To's, and product videos

Highside/Lowside - A Motorcycle Podcast

S11E12: Motorcycle Questions: Answered!

S11E11: From NBA President to MSF Student: Returning to Motorcycles after 40 years

S11E10: Best (and Worst) Sounding Motorcycles!

S11E09: What If Motorcycles Were Banned? A trip back in time to explore the future

S11E08: Marc Márquez: The Magnificent or the Merciless?

S11E07: Best New Motorcycles of 2026: Our Picks

S11E06: Zack Courts Returns! (And Shares His Crash Story)

S11E05: Is the Suzuki GSX-R the Ultimate Sportbike?

S11E04: @Fortnine Doc Sends Ryan F9 Around the World!

S11E03: A New CEO & the $6,000 bike: What's Going On At Harley-Davidson?

S11E02: Motorcycle Dating Game Is Back!

S11E01: The Best (and Worst) of EICMA 2025

S10E12: Garrett Gerloff: World Superbike, Crashing & Why He Loves Scooters

S10E11: Answering Your Toughest Motorcycle Questions

S10E10: The Rise of Chinese Motorcycles: Are They Finally Worth the Money?

S10E09: 3 Stories of Overcoming Trauma After a Motorcycle Crash

S10E08: The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Group Rides

S10E07: The Honda Gold Wing's Journey: From Naked Bike to Touring Giant

S10E06: The Life of a Teenage Motorcycle Star

S10E05: The Best Way To Rent (and Rent Out) A Motorcycle!