Aces High Bulletin Board
General Forums => The O' Club => Topic started by: Black Sheep on July 01, 2007, 04:49:26 PM
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I'm torn as to which direction to go. I guess it depends on how much I'm gonna be riding - I bought a Rebel 250 with a few mods to see if I was gonna stick with it. So I am going to get something larger and more comfortable for longer excursions and less vibrations. I'm not getting into anything new - but I am leaning towards either a used Harley 883 or a BMW R1100. Or split the difference and get a Ducati Monster. All have pros and cons. I can go longer distance with the BMW and still feel my butt afterwards. Harley is a Harley. Loud and a head turner. All have touring field trips. Just want to see what kind of bikes people on here are riding.
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You won't like a Sportster for touring. Lots cheaper, but if you're going the Harley route, get one of the many (used) softail models---prolly 13 grand or so, in 5 years you can just about sell it for same. Can't speak to the other makes.
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Softtails are too big for my height and weight - unless it is severely lowered - I have ridden both and even a Shadow 750. But for some reason the BMW 1100 or 1200 fits right, as well as the smaller 883 Harleys.
I'm just not sure how much long distance I'll get to do.
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How small are you?
I will tell you this, the softtail I now ride is much better than the Sporty I rode. My brother has an Electra Glide and is 5'7". Never heard him complain.
If leg length is a problem look at the Low Rider.
Seat heights are given here, http://www.harley-davidson.com/wcm/content/pages/home.jsp?HDCWPSession=DHlnfpHv02VJ9HhTLJpyWtRhyHjGWl4TS8ZfsfJyMsJT6Lg2kTdT!510538031!899562415&locale=en_ca
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Try them all.
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
Softtails are too big for my height and weight - unless it is severely lowered - I have ridden both and even a Shadow 750. But for some reason the BMW 1100 or 1200 fits right, as well as the smaller 883 Harleys.
I'm just not sure how much long distance I'll get to do.
Stay away from that 883. Like most HD's they don't stop and they don't go round corners. It's no faster than a jap 250 from the 70's. 98 MPH was it's lot and I couldn't keep me feet on the pegs for the vibration. I guess it's nick named a b***h bike for more than 1 reason. Oh nearly forgot nothing worse than a small fuel tank.
It's up to you though. HD's look great and have prestige but if it's just the fun of the open road your after my money would go on a cheap Jap bike.
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
Softtails are too big for my height and weight - unless it is severely lowered - I have ridden both and even a Shadow 750. But for some reason the BMW 1100 or 1200 fits right, as well as the smaller 883 Harleys.
I'm just not sure how much long distance I'll get to do.
Wife has same issue, and Sportster is just to high for her to touch ground. She LOVED the Softails, but we didnt have the money to put out---many of the Jap vtwins, although they sat fairly low, were STILL a problem, as the pipes stuck WAY out to the side, which STILL was a problem for said 5'4" chick. She ended up with a used Suzuki Intruder (since replaced by the 'Boulevard')--its pipes go DOWN and back, instead of sideways. When I ride my '62 Panhead with her, I simply pretend I don't know her:D
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Ask from yourself
Do you wanna have a real motorbike or to have a '1%' wanna-be late pube rebel over hyped&priced well marketed "American quality & iron bike"?
The Massey Davidson or was it Harley Ferguson, proofs the old truth about the sellers and buyers...
BTW
What bike the feared HA wanted to actual drive in first case?
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If the vibrations of the Rebel turned you off you sure as heck don't need to be looking at Harley's.
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Just to add, I had a Shadow ACE for a while. I used to poke at the Harley guys and tell them the biggest difference between their cruiser and mine was that when I hit the starter, mine actually would run. :D
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I personaly have a Honda VTX 1800, which is huge for someone of my size(150lbs, 5'3"). the VTX 1300 would be nice for someone more your size. However this is just my riding style.
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I test drove a Suzuki Boulevard C40 (600cc) and I liked it. Belt drive is smooth and it kept up on the interstate with minimal vibrations.
I am 5'9" and 165lbs. I know that today, most bikes are much more balanced with a better center of gravity.
But like I said, If I know I'm gonna be doing 300+ miles a day, I'd be better off on an import. I may just have to get a Harley at some point later AND a touring bike now, but I want to ditch the Rebel for sure - It was a learner, and a good one at that.
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The Rebel is just 250cc, which whines out at 70mph. It has Jardine pipes on it and a Flowmaster Breather, jetted carbs, so it has a little more pep than stock. But it is still too light and too much vibration for the highway.
I feel much more safer on the road with pipes that are louder than bejesus. So anything I get is gonna get an exhaust overhaul.
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Try the Beamer, I bet you'll like it. Almost impossible to beat for touring/cruising. Goldwings are also popular, but it's basically a two wheeled car.
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I was thinking that as well - I like all the amenities that the Beamer has to offer, plus ABS, and they do ride amazing. Even a 15 yr old bike, when kept up, still feels new-ish.
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Originally posted by Chairboy
Try the Beamer, I bet you'll like it. Almost impossible to beat for touring/cruising. Goldwings are also popular, but it's basically a two wheeled car.
If he doesn't fit on a softtail he sure won't fit on a BMW unless he puts at least 6" 'lifts' on his boots.
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I have a 5'5 friend who does great on those bikes, there's adjustments that can be made to both the suspension and the rider's confidence. :D
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Blacksheep,
I am currently riding an R1150RT. It's my 4th beemer since I first got one in 76. I have driven across the country on them from coast to coast. As much as I like them and depend on them, the lack of a dealer can be an issue if you need work or parts. If you have a local dealership, by all means get the beemer. If you don't have one nearby, try looking at the Kawasaki Concours. It's an excellent touring bike and pretty affordable. The ergonomics are close to the beemer so it will be comfortable on a long drive.
If you plan on driving any distance in a day I definitely wouldn't count on the Harley. It won't be comfortable to do that kind of driving unless you are getting something like a glide. The glide is comfortable but won't corner worth a darn and is heavy.
If you have questions about beemers, let me know. I've driven and owned the old airheads, kbike and now an oil head.
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Originally posted by Chairboy
I have a 5'5 friend who does great on those bikes, there's adjustments that can be made to both the suspension and the rider's confidence. :D
Blacksheep: "Softtails are too big for my height and weight
A softtail has a seat height much lower than the BMW.
R1200RT - Seat height 32.2
FXST - Seat height 25"
So how is going to fit on a BMW that has a seat height 7" more?
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Originally posted by Maverick
If you plan on driving any distance in a day I definitely wouldn't count on the Harley. It won't be comfortable to do that kind of driving unless you are getting something like a glide. The glide is comfortable but won't corner worth a darn and is heavy.
Beg to differ as I put 12,000mi on a cross country trip in 6 weeks and never found the ST uncomfortable, even without a windshield.
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Do you wanna have a real motorbike or to have a '1%' wanna-be late pube rebel over hyped&priced well marketed "American quality & iron bike"?
so much hype that all the jap bikes have been tring to copy them for 20 years and still dont sell for half the price..harley did it the smart way..they didnt change there motor every year..and you can still get parts for 1930 harleys up till now...try to do that on a old honda cb or yamaha or any bike for that matter..good luck..they change there bikes every year..so you wont see many old honda's rolling around too much ...more old harleys on the road then any other bike in the world and they sell for more..just cause they dont change...nothing wrong with a harley at all..i like all bikes thou.. i think the only down fall for jap bikes is there constantly changing there designs from year to year. so when a bike is old and out of date they just stop making new parts for them. so a bike you grew up with and liked alot but dont like the newer style. tuff titty. your stuck cause of lack of parts for older models.
everyone allways knocks harley's around..but there #1..and for good reason..there cool and make alot of noise..kinda like muscle cars:) sure they break down and have issues. but when you pull in a gas station in a old mach 1. they croud around and ask you how much? its about attention somtimes. not just dependible or confy.lol if you dont want that..get a spree or a goldwing. good gas saver and a good cruzer.
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One thing to remember is if you lay the BMW down it is expensive to fix with those cylinderheads sticking out the side.
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Milo -
It has more to do with it than just the height - i just dont sit well on it - it doesn't feel comfortable.
Maverick -
There is a Beamer Cycle dealership that services in Nashville. And there are a few for sale on Craigslist - I'm in no hurry, so I may try these bikes out again if I can.
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Black Sheep, maybe you posted it but what is your height and weight?
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Originally posted by Cougar68
Just to add, I had a Shadow ACE for a while. I used to poke at the Harley guys and tell them the biggest difference between their cruiser and mine was that when I hit the starter, mine actually would run. :D
Umm..it's not 1975 any more, Harleys have EVERYthing rubber mounted, and in prolly 5 years, Honda will make nada to fix your bike, whereas there isnt anything I can't get for my 1962 FL (save 9 seconds in the quarter mile:rolleyes: )
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Originally posted by MiloMorai
One thing to remember is if you lay the BMW down it is expensive to fix with those cylinderheads sticking out the side.
First the idea is to not lay the bike down. You can't avoid a collision by hitting the ground. At that point you become a projectile and do not have control over where you go.
That's where the ABS brake system comes in real handy along with a decent maneuverability.
Any hard collision with the ground will screw up any bike. The beemers are pretty stout in the cylinder area. Replacing the valve cover is pretty easy. If you want them you can get engine guards for them same as you can for other bikes. My first beemer was down twice with no real damage other than a scarred up valve cover.
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I'd imagine vast majority of folks never come close to layin bike down...dropped mine in yard more than once (ONCE in front of a bar, was frightfully embarrassing, until they were satisfied that I HAD actually put my foot down in puddle of oil:)
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I am 5' 9", 165lbs. - I am relatively new to street bikes and did not feel comfortable on the 1200 Harleys for some reason. The 883 was fine, although I had to lean forward alot to compensate for the power. I am not looking for the fastest bike, as I will probably never hit 100mph+ on one. Comfort, stability and safety are my main concerns. It seems that maybe the ride height on the BMW that I rode briefly might have been lowered to accomodate my friend. He never said so, so I will ask him that. It was an older 1100, and they only make 1200 now.
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
I'm torn as to which direction to go. I guess it depends on how much I'm gonna be riding - I bought a Rebel 250 with a few mods to see if I was gonna stick with it. So I am going to get something larger and more comfortable for longer excursions and less vibrations. I'm not getting into anything new - but I am leaning towards either a used Harley 883 or a BMW R1100. Or split the difference and get a Ducati Monster. All have pros and cons. I can go longer distance with the BMW and still feel my butt afterwards. Harley is a Harley. Loud and a head turner. All have touring field trips. Just want to see what kind of bikes people on here are riding.
What exactly do you want to do with it?
If you want to ride the poker runs, want to ride an American-made bike, play dress up with bar and shield, do local group rides, ride bar to bar, and cruise locally more than anything; then a cruiser if probably the way to go. Cruisers are more laid-back in their riding, and more about the image. Many cruisers can still be set up for light-duty touring. T-Bags and luggage rack, saddle bags, hard bags and front fairing. It can be done. Lockable Hard bags and a good front fairing is better than soft luggage and bolt on fairings, IMHO, if touring is the goal: think HD Road King, Road Glide and Street Glide; Victory Kingpin Tourer; Honda Valkyrie Tourer; Kawasaki Nomad.
If you want to travel long distance, like to canyon carve (not necessarily fast), have the ability to haul along some gear (camping, clothes, whatever), then you might want to lean toward a sport-touring rig. I suggest a nekkid street bike with good front fairing or larger windscreen replacement than a full faired sport bike set up for touring: more comfortable seating arrangement, easier to work on, and usually cheaper insurance (less plastic). A Bandit instead of a Katana for example.
A good nekkid street bike with lockable side bags, a small fairing, decent windscreen, and enough power output to use for charging and powering things like cell phones, heated vests, heated handgrips (heated grips can make a real difference in cold weather riding), iPod or radio, radar detector, extra lights.... whatever works for you. Can be used well as a commuter, touring bike, and sporty canyon carving on the weekends.
Ducati, BMW, Triumph, Moto Guzzi.... best if you have a good dealer around you or are very comfortable in doing your own work. Also, generally not cheap to buy and maintain compared to Japanese bikes.
Harley will probably run more for insurance cc for cc to other bikes. Hogs get stolen a lot for parts and joyrides, so rates are higher.
Things to consider:
Fuel Injected is better than Carburated for most purposes. Shaft and Belt drive both better and easier (and cleaner) than Chain. If new to riding, staying under 1000CC and away from fully faired bikes usually means lower insurance. Get above 500 or 600cc to have a decent rig that can carry a load, and you won't outgrow it easily. Something in the 750 to 900 cc range if insurance is a concern. Get the MECHANIC'S manual for whatever bike you get, and subscribe to any Owner's Groups for that bike on the web to find out all the little things about it.
Also, changing the handlebars: full bar swap, clips, heli bars or bar risers, can make a BIG difference in your riding posture: I've owned six bikes in 20 years, and EVERY ONE OF THEM, I've changed the bars to bring them up a little and a little further back toward me.
Additionally is riding gear.
If touring is the goal, a full face helmet with a flip-up chin-bar (these are very convenient at times), good waterproof riding boots, both waterproof and light duty gloves, and textile riding jacket and pants (with zippered vents and jacket liner, and armored padding) makes for a good travel suit. Most textile riding gear is waterproof - no need to carry additional rain gear, and well vented jackets and pants are a godsend in hot weather while on the road.
This is not the kind of gear you find most cruiser riders using: ie... leather, denim, and beanie helmet, if any helmet at all.
Me currently:
2005 Victory Hammer (the other American motorcycle manufacturer) - Toxic Green, Corbin saddle for two-up riding, Stage-1, Willie and Max pillon bag to carry stuff around (doubles as backrest). Fun ride for around town and shorter trips. Local riding, usually just a t-shirt for me.
2003 Honda ST1300 sold a little while ago. Top truck, radio, iPod, heated handgrips. Long distance touring rig and sport ride. For LONG distance riding, there is nothing like a sport tourer with a power adjustable windscreen, music, and heated handgrips for comfort in bad weather conditions. --- seriously thinking of getting Kawasaki K-14 Concours next summer as it's replacement. Still have the full riding gear I used all the time with the ST, I rode it pretty aggressively; so armored riding gear and helmet.
Before the ST, I had a 2000 Suzuki 600 Bandit I set up for sport-touring. Hard bags, luggage rack, top box, had a river duffle bag (waterproof kayak bag) for the back seat (doubled as backrest). Power for electric vest, heated handgrips, a Zero-G Double Bubble windscreen, fork brace, fog-lights. That bike saw 10,000 miles a year for the four years I ran it, most on multi-day trips.
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yup,,get whatever makes you happy:) i like them all a little too much..for a mid sized bike i been really lookin at those new royal enfields that look just like the old ones..think there made in inda with original enfield cast.. i been thinking of getting the one with the sidecar cause they only run about 4,000 for a slightly used one...plus i love how there allmost like the orignals...i like the old snorting nortons too..old bsa lightings...i kinda stuck on the older style bikes...dont care much for the doggie style rockets my self..but i have rode a few..fast..just not my style..lol
http://cgi.ebay.com/ROYAL-ENFIELD-500-Red-cherry-color-AUSTRALIA_W0QQitemZ150138019809QQihZ005QQcategoryZ102690QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem <~~this one in aussie for 2800..but its a original...but i seen them in usa for about 1000 to 3000..i would like to have one just for runing around back roads..i wouldnt want one for long distance..lol
i like the james bond bmw.. cool bike..and i like the bmw cross country bike with the offroad racing suspension..defenatly a dif bike:)
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Originally posted by bj229r
Umm..it's not 1975 any more, Harleys have EVERYthing rubber mounted, and in prolly 5 years, Honda will make nada to fix your bike, whereas there isnt anything I can't get for my 1962 FL (save 9 seconds in the quarter mile:rolleyes: )
I've ridden modern Harleys and while they don't rattle your brains out in the same way the old ones would, they still present some significant vibrations. As for being able to get parts, my point was that I didn't have to, it always started. ;) Anyways, i won't need to get parts for it since I sold it off several years ago. Started to get afraid of riding and that was enough for me.
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Thanks ted for the insight - I have a lot of reading up to do and deciding what to get based on how I will ride. I like the classic styling over the crotch rockets. But I do still like the BMW's. I want the capability to take longer trips and not feel like I just ran a marathon against 60mph winds. Something a bit more reliable over time since I am not an everyday mechanic, but I can do light maintenance and upkeep. Too many choices...
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Another idea is in many places ya can rent bikes for a day, good way to test drive
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I like these. Expensive, but beautifule bikes: (Turn your speakers down. The site has an annoying music track)
Victory Motorcycles (http://www.polarisindustries.com/en-US/Victory/)
I decided I couldn't afford them, so I got this last month:
Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom (http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/Detail.aspx?id=214)
Only $7,350 msrp, but most dealers can get it to ya for sround $6900 delivered.
Terror
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
I am 5' 9", 165lbs.
We are the same weight and height. The ST fit like a glove so maybe it is because you are new to bikes.
I am not pushing for the Hog, but any V-twin will do.
Mav, I have 2 friends who had to lay down their BMW and some other friends who had to lay down their V-twins for one reason or another. Even the BMW with crash bars was more expensive to fix than the V-twins.
To the person who made comments about the reliability of the Hogs > I guess you never had anything to do with any of the English twins. ;)
On helmuts. If you want restricted vision and hearing get the full face helmut.
BS, you want a seat height that will let you put a least one foot flat on the ground and preferably 2 two feet on the ground. Toe touching is not recomended.
I have another friend who has a R75 which he calls his Nazi B!!tch. No need to go into details.
Tank humpers are not comfortable to ride over long distances.
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Originally posted by Cougar68
If the vibrations of the Rebel turned you off you sure as heck don't need to be looking at Harley's.
Not true! The 88B Harley engine runs very smooth and the loss of power from the counterbalancing is hardly noticable.
With the addition of vibration absorbing footboards like the Fatboys have, the ride is very comfortable.
I just bought an '01 Fatboy a couple of months ago and took it on an Iron Butt ride last month, my 54 year old butt had no complaints. The only complaint I have is the range, but at my age, refueling every 150 miles or so seems to match my bladder capacity very nicely. :P
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Originally posted by Cougar68
I've ridden modern Harleys and while they don't rattle your brains out in the same way the old ones would, they still present some significant vibrations.
I switched from a Suzi Volusia ,805cc water cooled shaft driven offset crank V Twin engine, and the vibration was much worse that my '01 Fatboy 88B engine. The vibration frequency of the smaller engine was much higher and that vibration transfered to the handlebars and even filling the bars with buckshot didn't dampen it enough to keep my hands from numbing out after an hour or so.
The 88B engine runs sewing machine smooth, not like a 4 banger rice burner but very smooth considering the displacement.
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"rice burner "? you are so yesterday, they are now called metric bikes.
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Originally posted by john9001
"rice burner "? you are so yesterday, they are now called metric bikes.
Just showing my age, I called my '64 Yamaha YA-6 a rice burner, the term kinda stuck. Metric is just the PC way to say it which I suspect that you know considering the degree of sarcasm detected. :D
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Recent magazine article compared Yamaha Touring bike with Harley Classic (FLHRC). Harley won hands down on the cruises and long trips. Also noted in the article was that Harley has fuel injection and the jap bike was normally aspirated. Also noted is Harley's ride was much better.
I found it very interesting, no wonder jap companies are striving to copy Harley.
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Originally posted by Shuffler
Recent magazine article compared Yamaha Touring bike with Harley Classic (FLHRC). Harley won hands down on the cruises and long trips. Also noted in the article was that Harley has fuel injection and the jap bike was normally aspirated. Also noted is Harley's ride was much better.
I found it very interesting, no wonder jap companies are striving to copy Harley.
what magazine was that, "hogs forever"?
i think you meant the jap bike was carburetted, normally aspirated means it is not super charged or turbo charged.
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Originally posted by Flatbar
Not true! The 88B Harley engine runs very smooth and the loss of power from the counterbalancing is hardly noticable.
Yeah, but an 88 Harley is a Gurls Bike! (http://www.thesmilies.com/smilies/happy0012.gif) (http://www.thesmilies.com)
'05 Victory Hammer.
LED's replaced turn signals, side mounted (and illegal in CO) plate holder, chrome kit, Stage 1, Corbin Seat. New Vegas is similar, but I like still having a tach and wider front tire does not follow road grooves like skinny one on Vegas. Touring bars. Comfort Grips and Switchblade footpegs. Older photo, as I replaced the Victory Tank Badges with "Victory" script logos.
(http://home.earthlink.net/~tedrbr/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/dsc00929.jpg)
I like most bikes, but I don't ever see myself owning a Harley; too much I don't like about them, plus I don't like doing what everybloodybody else is doing. Aftermarket for them is pricey, initial costs too often well above recommended retail, higher insurance on average. Bah.
Nor a Triumph unless they truly have those electrical problems sorted out.... in fact, so long as they use Bosch instead of Nippon Denso, I'll steer clear of most European rides. Bosch QC still sux.
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R100RS was the best sport touring bike I've ever traveled on. I know people with 300,000 miles on their R series BMW who get the same gas milage as when they first bought it. I once put 27,000 miles on mine in less then three months without a hint of a problem.
P.S. R Series are also very easy to work on.
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
Thanks ted for the insight - I have a lot of reading up to do and deciding what to get based on how I will ride. I like the classic styling over the crotch rockets. But I do still like the BMW's. I want the capability to take longer trips and not feel like I just ran a marathon against 60mph winds. Something a bit more reliable over time since I am not an everyday mechanic, but I can do light maintenance and upkeep. Too many choices...
Considering that; I'd have to recommend a nekid street bike (sometimes referred to as a "standard") from Japan first. On average good reliability, cheaper to fix and service than European rides. Even some "standards" have you leaning forward, but adjusting the handlebars is usually a very easy fix to bring your ride position up to what's comfortable for most. Primarily, I'd suggest Susuki Bandits and SV's. They have been a round for a while, are easily converted to touring duties, and relatively cheap and easy to maintain. 2000 Bandits (IIRC) got larger alternators added to them to handle additional power requirements for add-ons rides would mount.
Cruisers are much more about image, and dressing one up can get more expensive than a standard motorcycle to get it right. You can get away with more on a standard, and there are a lot of options. Also, many of the Harley crowd won't accept you on any cruiser other than a Harley (I luvs when Harley "bikers" yell at me on my Hammer to "buy an American bike"... as if I needed another reason to avoid Hogs.....).
Of course, if you've a regular passenger, they may prefer the ride of a cruiser with a backrest, or a sportier ride found with a standard.
Whichever way you go, a good windscreen that gets the wind off your chest will do wonders for longer rides. I usually have mine come up to below eye (about even with my chin) level, takes wind off my chest, but does not interfere with my vision if caught in the rain or fogs up on me while riding.
BUT, you got Tennessee in your sig, so non-American rides may be an issue where you live and with whom you may ride with or around. Some folks take the Harley-or-Death thing way too seriously (and I'll take Polaris Victory over them any day).
And of course, any time you buy a used bike, do a complete service, or get a warranty from the dealer...... you are often buying someone else's problems.
If there is anyone around that rents bikes in your area, spend a weekend on types of bikes you are interested in. Another option would be events like the Honda Hoot in your neck of the woods and sign up for demo rides.
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I ride a 250 ninja I have setup for cheapass touring. It works pretty well for me and I can't afford anything else anyway.
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x26/ex250mike/60207/Image6025.jpg)
I don't have much advice for you but I thought I'd mention a couple bikes no body else has.
1) suzuki v-strom: comes in 650 or 1000 v-twin. Smooth, reliable, versatile, light and nible enough to still be fun in the twistys. Seems to be very popular with the adventure touring crowd.
2) kawasaki Vulcan 500: Kinda like your rebel 250 but with the 500 parallel twin from the ninja. Cheap, light, smooth, reliable and still puts down 50 hp to the wheel. Has a better power to weight ratio than most mid sized cruisers.
3) ducati muti strada: Comes in a 620? or 1000cc. Slightly less powerful than the v-strom but IMO much sexier. Makes a good sport touring bike. However, matainance is a bit expensive.
I don't know anything about your skill level. However, you are coming off a sub 300lb ~20hp bike. You may or may not be ready to jump up to a 500+lb 80+hp. You may want consider something more intermediate weight and power wise.
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Originally posted by tedrbr
Yeah, but an 88 Harley is a Gurls Bike!
Naw that is an 883.;)
What a sicky color.:p
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Originally posted by TPIguy
I ride a 250 ninja I have setup for cheapass touring. It works pretty well for me and I can't afford anything else anyway.
....................
I don't know anything about your skill level. However, you are coming off a sub 300lb ~20hp bike. You may or may not be ready to jump up to a 500+lb 80+hp. You may want consider something more intermediate weight and power wise.
Nice example of modifying for light duty touring. The V-Strom is also a good recommendation, if adventure touring (dirt roads and easy jeep trails) is an option. Dual sports like the V-Strom make great commuter bikes too, as you look over most traffic, or sit high enough for good visibility.
OH, Black Helmets. I will never, never, never ever own a black motorcycle helmet ever again. Crossing a helmet-law state in triple digit temperatures is bad enough if the sun isn't turning your helmet into a rotisserie cooker.
Similar goes for riding jacket: I've got one black textile jacket for the Hammer, but my touring jackets are a lightweight GRAY Hein Gericke for hot weather riding, and a hivis Blue Aerostich for Spring and Fall touring --- but then, I'm out west and crossing deserts on sunny summer days plays into it.
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Best of both worlds? A naked bike. I like the tech specs and it has a bit of touring and cruiser looks to it - lowest seat height and not too powerful or heavy. Dealer in town. 2 yr warranty. Any comments about this? Anyone ridden?
Ducati Monster 695
http://www.ducati.com/en/bikes/my2007/ModelPage.jhtml?family=Monster&model=M695-07
It's alot like the BMW 650 GS - Don't know about pricing on the two.
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(http://www.gunsmoke.com/motorcycling/r100rs/images/bmw_r100rs.jpg)
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
Best of both worlds? A naked bike. I like the tech specs and it has a bit of touring and cruiser looks to it - lowest seat height and not too powerful or heavy. Dealer in town. 2 yr warranty. Any comments about this? Anyone ridden?
Ducati Monster 695
http://www.ducati.com/en/bikes/my2007/ModelPage.jhtml?family=Monster&model=M695-07
It's alot like the BMW 650 GS - Don't know about pricing on the two.
Ducati Monster 695 I've ridden the Monster at a test ride event. Again, I'd have to bring the bars way back and up to own one comfortable --- drag style handlebars are the worse, IMNSHO! Pretty sure that handlebar changes on Duc will mean changing out connections for throttle and clutch as well --- I don't remember a lot of slack available, but you'd have to check with Monster owners to be sure, if you wanted to change seating position.
Fun bike. Some folks swear by Monsters and, like the Bandits, have been around a long time to gain a cult following. In fact, most "Ducks" have a pretty loyal following among their owners.
BWM F 650 GS "Funduro" - Adventure bikes - you either love them or hate them. They make great commuter bikes, and much fun on unimproved roads. Not exactly meant for true off-road use. Also, I've never tried riding one for LONG distances (500 mile day on a vacation trip), and not sure how many miles most folks can put in the saddle on one of those before getting a serious case of monkey-butt. You'd have to talk to a Adventure or dual bike owner. I'm not so sure I'd like to spend a lot of hiway miles on a F 650 GS.
And, I really can't say as I'd compare the Monster to a Funduro. Monster is a nekkid street fighter close to the "standard" motorcycle concept, the Funduro is an adventure dual sport.
Unless you intend to run dirt roads A LOT (not sure what part of Tenn you in), the safer bet would probably be the Duck to hardball running.
In either case, having a good dealer in your area can be very important, especially if you are not up to major maintenance on the bike yourself.
That said, Monster is a good mid-level bike. Easier converted to light duty touring use. Been around long enough to develop a good aftermarket line of goodies for the bikes (larger windscreen, wrist rest, heated grips, luggage rack, top truck, saddlebag and pillon bag luggage options, tank bag, aftermarket seats....) to set it up just the way you want it to be. Decently small, light and nimble for commuter use. Has a decent amount of power. Not sure how much the alternator puts out to handle add ons, but I'm sure there are some User Group sites on the web you can search for answers or ask questions.
With good riding gear --- armor padded leathers if you plane track days or vented armor padded textiles if you plane long trips and don't want to carry additional rain gear --- you will be able to run some pretty long trips in comfort.
Additional riding tips: A couple long distance rider tricks to be comfortable in the saddle:
Beaded seat cover --- know the tacky beaded seat covers for cars? Well they make them for bikes too.... very nice to have on very hot days as it gets air under your butt. You can attach them with straps, or velcro, or just lay them on the seat and let your body weight keep them on. Should have a small cloth between them and seat to protect the seat cover if used a lot (or seat gets visible "dimples".
Back support. Typical wrap around your waist back support -- the kind you see manual labor or stock personnel using --- can help prevent lower back problems on long trips.
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I think the downside to touring on the ducati monster would be lack of wind (and rain) protection. There is no faring or windscreen to speakof. Which is why I mentioned the multistrada. Same basic engine, but a more touring friendly design.
Whatever you do buy you'll probibly end up customizing it some anyway, so that may not matter after all.
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Originally posted by TPIguy
I think the downside to touring on the ducati monster would be lack of wind (and rain) protection. There is no faring or windscreen to speak of. Which is why I mentioned the multistrada. Same basic engine, but a more touring friendly design.
Whatever you do buy you'll probibly end up customizing it some anyway, so that may not matter after all.
One of the advantages of the Monster though, it's been around long enough to address that issue with after-market providers. I know there are some small headlight fairings available to Monsters..... getting one with a decent enough and functional windscreen will be the trick, and painting it to match the bike of course. And, since it's a Duck, probably not very cheap. Multistrada is probably better for light duty touring and needs less add ons... but it's a unique look --- some like, some don't, and still a Duc = so pricey.
If costs are a factor, I'd still steer him toward a Bandit or SV. MultiStrada comes in there with them as to abilities, but Bandit and SV been around longer, and he was looking for used, and the Suzukis have a much more established after-market.
I like the abilities of the 'Strada..... I just can't get used to the look of the fairing from the front.
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Hayabusa, mmmm....
(http://www.sfu.ca/~mstanger/WebGraphics/HayabusaSide.jpg)
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Originally posted by g00b
Hayabusa, mmmm....
Bah! What good it a super sport race replica you can't get insurance for/can't afford insurance for, and have no where but a rented track you can really open it up on? Most 'Busa's are just used as an expensive form of unintentional suicide.
600 to 900cc sport bikes are far lighter, more nimble, and much more fun anyways, in pure ricky racer mode.
Certainly not either a touring platform nor a cruiser.
Now, for big displacement AND touring.....
The new "Connie"; Kawasaki Concours 14
(http://www.motorcycledaily.com/092306_concours_top.jpg)
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Ted,
I like the Concours and almost bought one last winter. If the ergonomics had been just a tad better for me personally I would have. Having said all that, I'd put my 04 R1150RT against the new Concours any day, but it would be a really really long competition.;) They are both great touring machines.
The 06 and earlier version of the Concours had a very tried and true powerplant. To me it was about as bullet proof as any of the BMW mills including the boxer and it's varients.
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I've ridden the older Concours. Nice, comparatively low cost to other Sport Tourers, but the brand was showing it's age, similar to the older Honda ST's.
Got a new Honda ST in 2003 when they came out. Overall it was a good bike, but dealer support was spotty, and the Honda's engine heat problem was a major PITA on some trips. I sold the ST, and got a good price for it too, and am looking to buy the new Kawasaki Concours.... but I'm going to wait till next year.
I want to see if there are any major problems with the bike from other riders first.
Most bikes have some problems. ST's had heat problems. BMW LT's had failing rear shaft/hub splines. Other BMW's had the flat spot in power curve and hesitation on power on. Some older Wings had the engines cooking the stators ....and not easy to get to to replace. Old Yamaha Venture Royales had the problem with gear indicator failing, which locked out the starter sequence......and really not easy to get to to replace correctly. Triumphs and their electrical problems......
I want to see if there is anything major in the new Connie before I commit. I'll just run the Hammer for now. Local dealer supposed to be getting in his new Connies in a month, so I get to see one in person and sit on it.
For a Sport Touring Rig for me these days, it HAS to have a power adjustable windshield (been spoiled by owning ST1300 and riding BMW RT and LT's), enough alternator output to handle the extras (iPod, radio, heated vest and handgrip hookups, charge cell phone....), hard lockable luggage, as well as plenty of engine power and comfort. Everything about the new Connie says it's a lighter, more powerful, more nimble version of my (now gone) ST1300. If there are no reported problems, and heat management is better than the ST, I'm sold.
Only reason I shy away from the Beemers is spotty dealer support if something is over my head, price of parts (especially with today's exchange rates), and IIRC, they still use Bosch electronics.... and Bosch quality control has been inconsistently bad for years now (I know a few Master Mechanics who cuss and swear about Bosch often and loudly).
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Most bikes have some problems. ST's had heat problems. BMW LT's had failing rear shaft/hub splines. Other BMW's had the flat spot in power curve and hesitation on power on. Some older Wings had the engines cooking the stators ....and not easy to get to to replace. Old Yamaha Venture Royales had the problem with gear indicator failing, which locked out the starter sequence......and really not easy to get to to replace correctly. Triumphs and their electrical problems......
Know just what ya mean...the rubber pad thingie on the kick starter fell off of mine....had to replace the external generator a couple years ago (had to use flashlight batteries taped together to get home )--notice the ingenious neutral indicator:D
(http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m248/bj229r/IM000139.jpg)
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If you don't mind a cruiser look at the Suzuki C90. Fuel injected,drive shaft and can be had for $8500 as a leftover now. I ride an '05 and love it. I have saddlebags and a tourpack for the sissybar for my week long trips. My wife is 5' 2" and can ride my bike with ease.
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Originally posted by bj229r
Know just what ya mean...the rubber pad thingie on the kick starter fell off of mine....had to replace the external generator a couple years ago (had to use flashlight batteries taped together to get home )--notice the ingenious neutral indicator:D
Dang! An original Suicide Shifter? I've actually seen some later retrofitted Hogs with suicide shifters added (by the tank, although one was down by where the passenger foot peg would have been --- guy had to reach down and back to shift.....). Guess they are making a comeback? Nice bike bj229r.
Kickstart?! I haven't had a bike with kick start for 15 years or more. My Hammer is 1634cc's.... it'd take three of us jumping up and down to kick it over --- almost as bad as trying to kick start a Boss Hoss.
"Flashlight batteries taped together to get home" -- adventures in motorcycling. Flat tire repairs along side the road. Power shifting home after clutch cable breaks. Bypassing blown fuses. Blown headlights. Zip ties in place for bolts that have worked loose and fallen off. 1,001 used for 100mph tape. Fouling spark plugs.
Fun.
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
Softtails are too big for my height and weight - unless it is severely lowered - I have ridden both and even a Shadow 750. But for some reason the BMW 1100 or 1200 fits right, as well as the smaller 883 Harleys.
I'm just not sure how much long distance I'll get to do.
Softails too big for hieght? How short are you????
Softails were built with seats 26-28 inches off the floor! (26 fully fueled) Same as the Sportster! The problem you may be running into is "width". That "width" is nice on long rides btw. Most tall guys over 6' don't like the Softails because of the short porch on them.
I Have 28" legs and my Softail fits them rather nicely! If you throw a Corbin/Mustang/Lepara low profile seat on it, you can get it down an inch or two without lowering it. (I went with a Corbin)
Now if you sat on the puffy pillow seat that is the 07 Softail Custom, totally different story. That damn seat just bugs me. Told the dealer I wouldn't buy the custom unless the dealer took that damn pillow case off the bike and put a Corbin on it.
If you want to cruise...a Softail, Duece or Dyna will do ya. The 883 is a nice "sporty" bike, but its gonna get blown around on the road. The Sporty weighs in at 557 lbs while the Softail comes in at 621. That extra 60-70 lbs really helps with the side blasts of semi's.
As for the Beemers...cant say how they ride, but the DO look nice. Rode with a guy on a BMW, we joked that there was a button on it for rear wings to pop up so he could take off. ;-) As for getting on and off a BMW 1100/1200 good luck. I tried on at a bike show....I had to JUMP up to get into the saddle....dismount was equally difficult. Those things have a 32inch seat height!!!!
Good luck with you search....hope you find what fits ya!!!
Ride Safe.
Softail
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I split a ton of miles (~120k) tween an older Goldwing ('78) and a then new '88 Honda Shadow 1100 ..used both for back an forth to work when I had 93 miles to go one-way.
Spend a day goin to different dealers, sit on the bikes that interest you ..test drive 'em if they'll let you.
There isnt any other way to tell if its a good fit or not.
Wife and I rode on the Goldwing up to Reno air races
for a few years while we were in Socal
.. was a day trip, and she fell asleep on the way home
on one of the rides ..that's how comfortable it is.
(She woke up as I was passin a silver BMW car doin ~125mph
on a long straight 2-lane ..he kept crawlin up my butt so I slowed down till he passed me ..then he slowed down .. so I blew by him and 'cruised' till I could not see him anymore.. you will run across jerks now an then)
The old 'Wing had a Winjammer fairing and bags, lotsa chrome..was a good ride.
The Shadow was actually more comfortable for longer distances with me solo on it. I put a small windscreen on it because the windblast at anything over 70mph was tiring across the shoulders and neck.
I really liked the shaft drive on both for -zero- maintenance,
the aluminum rims on both for -zero- maintenance
(no spoke adjustments, ever :)
..and they looked nice
..I ran mobil 1 oil in both (5w-30)
..only maintenance I did on the two of them was tires,
oily change ever 5k, plugs every year,
and the 'Wing I changed out the timing belt
when I got it just to make sure it was ok.
I had two near misses ..one with each bike.. was *very* glad I had rode motocross when I was younger because reflex is what kept me from bein a statistic.
I sold my bikes to get a car so the family could travel across the U.S. when I came to work for Kesmai .. long ago. (we dint have a car capable then :)
-GE (someday .. may get a cruiser ..dunno)
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Originally posted by tedrbr
Dang! An original Suicide Shifter? I've actually seen some later retrofitted Hogs with suicide shifters added (by the tank, although one was down by where the passenger foot peg would have been --- guy had to reach down and back to shift.....). Guess they are making a comeback? Nice bike bj229r.
Kickstart?! I haven't had a bike with kick start for 15 years or more. My Hammer is 1634cc's.... it'd take three of us jumping up and down to kick it over --- almost as bad as trying to kick start a Boss Hoss.
"Flashlight batteries taped together to get home" -- adventures in motorcycling. Flat tire repairs along side the road. Power shifting home after clutch cable breaks. Bypassing blown fuses. Blown headlights. Zip ties in place for bolts that have worked loose and fallen off. 1,001 used for 100mph tape. Fouling spark plugs.
Fun.
It's not really suicide, the clutch pedal has counter springs which (theoRETICally) hold the pedal right where ya leave it--ya have to adjust clutch fingers to match it. It's safe enough to put left foot down at a stop light, but a little iffy to just walk away from bike whilst in gear. When it was built in 1962 it was a police bike, been toying with buying enough stuff to make it look just like that, but kid going to college in a year-and-a-half:cry
(PTHhhh, fuses are for girls, NO fuses!)
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Originally posted by Black Sheep
I'm torn as to which direction to go. I guess it depends on how much I'm gonna be riding - I bought a Rebel 250 with a few mods to see if I was gonna stick with it. So I am going to get something larger and more comfortable for longer excursions and less vibrations. I'm not getting into anything new - but I am leaning towards either a used Harley 883 or a BMW R1100. Or split the difference and get a Ducati Monster. All have pros and cons. I can go longer distance with the BMW and still feel my butt afterwards. Harley is a Harley. Loud and a head turner. All have touring field trips. Just want to see what kind of bikes people on here are riding.
Get a Fatboy, but not a newer one because of the bigger back tire.
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Since we're showin em off ;-) this is with the stock seat...I put a corbin on it about 2 months later.
(http://www.geocities.com/softail_rider01/bike.JPG)
Softail
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Here is my current bike. I tried to post it as a photo here but it doesn't seem to be coming through. The links work however.
I removed the heated Corbins on the bike for the stock seats. That's the first time I have had a beemer with somewhat comfortable stock seats. The Corbins were really nice looking but hard as a freaking rock.
http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=7970&stc=1&d=1169859611
http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=7969&stc=1&d=1169859451
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Mav the link is trying to go thru the forum---ya can probably right click on the actual photo and save it, then do the photobucket thing
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HHhmmmm when I click on it all I get is the picture, no forum page at all. Dunno what I did wrong. Don't have a photo bucket account or anything like that.
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We need an account to view that site.
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Sorry, I'd drop the post but it's been over 2 hours. :(