Let's Talk Motorcycles

[Ryanh1801]

Please tell us the model and year of the bike....I can't imagine you owned many Harley's at the age of 22.

I have owned a Kawasaki KZ650 no problems, Honda Shadow 750 a few electrical problems, Honda Shadow 1100 no problems but only had it 2 years, 2 1200 Sportsters No problems, Dyna Wide Glide defective neck bearing, Fat Boy no problems, Street Glide no problems yet but only 3500 miles.

So I have had 5 Harleys and the only issue was a bad neck bearing which was covered even after the warranty was up is this denial??

Just a little 883 sportster that I got a deal on that I could not pass up, I think it had about 1500 miles on it when I got it. My fav. quote from a HD mechanic is, after I fought and fought with gaskets trying to get the oil leaks to stop, it would fix it for about 300-500 miles then start again. He told me I was doing it wrong and that they would have to install them, at this point I just said fine... About 400 miles later blowing oil out again... The service Manager told me, "Thats just what they do" So I sold it for way more than I bought it for and never looked back.

 

[Yuri_Rage]

Ryan, I used to be on your side. I think I used to say something like, "I'll never own one of those loud, crappy, shaking, vibrating, leaking, broken Harley Davidsons." Then my Dad bought a 2006 Sportster 1200 and told me how much he loved it. He talked me into one, and now I'm of a far different opinion. I, too, love my 2006 1200. I've had zero problems so far, it doesn't leak, it runs smoothly, and it's really a pleasure to ride. I know they aren't for everyone, but it seems that your opinion is a bit extreme.

On the other hand, I can't wholeheartedly recommend one, especially for someone on a budget. They tend to be expensive, and I wish that Harley would do some basic accessorizing for the price they charge. For example, the stock seat on mine was GARBAGE, and I paid $250 to replace it with something comfortable.

I would've looked harder at the Victory bikes except that I got a great deal on the Sportster. There are a few models that fit me pretty well, and they are quite a bit less expensive than HD.

The best bang for the buck will be in a used import cruiser. blacklab, I think that's probably where you should focus, given your riding experience and your responses so far.

 

[wihophead]

Just a little 883 sportster that I got a deal on that I could not pass up, I think it had about 1500 miles on it when I got it. My fav. quote from a HD mechanic is, after I fought and fought with gaskets trying to get the oil leaks to stop, it would fix it for about 300-500 miles then start again. He told me I was doing it wrong and that they would have to install them, at this point I just said fine... About 400 miles later blowing oil out again... The service Manager told me, "Thats just what they do" So I sold it for way more than I bought it for and never looked back.

What year was it? Was it a rocker cover? If the tech said that he is a total incompetent idiot. There is a possibility there was a casting defect which happens in all brands at one point or another. Saying that all Harleys are not reliable simply because you had a problem with the cheapest model available that you bough used which never even left you stranded is kind of bad information.

But then again I am from the Milwaukee area so I may be biased...LOL

So is anyone coming to the 105th????

 

[Brewiz]

Time for me to jump in, been riding for over 30yrs had all types and sizes but this one has been the best by far:

1998 Harely Davidson Road King 76,500 miles with NO major problems and just routine mtc. I have ridden it from Atlanta to Amarillo to Yellowstone to Sturgis and back home (14 days and over 5000 miles) and it never gave me any trouble. It has also taken me to Texas a few times again no problems.

But, the bottom line is to find something that you can afford and that you are comfortable on. If that is a Jap bike or a Eruo bike or an American bike
that doesn't matter, it's that you want to ride and that is the best way to see this great country.....

 

[wihophead]

Ryan, I used to be on your side. I think I used to say something like, "I'll never own one of those loud, crappy, shaking, vibrating, leaking, broken Harley Davidsons." Then my Dad bought a 2006 Sportster 1200 and told me how much he loved it. He talked me into one, and now I'm of a far different opinion. I, too, love my 2006 1200. I've had zero problems so far, it doesn't leak, it runs smoothly, and it's really a pleasure to ride. I know they aren't for everyone, but it seems that your opinion is a bit extreme.

On the other hand, I can't wholeheartedly recommend one, especially for someone on a budget. They tend to be expensive, and I wish that Harley would do some basic accessorizing for the price they charge. For example, the stock seat on mine was GARBAGE, and I paid $250 to replace it with something comfortable.

I would've looked harder at the Victory bikes except that I got a great deal on the Sportster. There are a few models that fit me pretty well, and they are quite a bit less expensive than HD.

The best bang for the buck will be in a used import cruiser. blacklab, I think that's probably where you should focus, given your riding experience and your responses so far.

I had to laugh when I read your post because I felt the same way....that is why I bought the Shadows. I used to say "I like the look not the leak" before I knew anything about Harley Davidson.

Then I took out a friends Softail and I was hooked. I owned a couple Sportsters until I saved enough money to get my first big twin and I never looked back.
It is just a feeling you can't describe when you hop on an American icon and hit the road. The sound and the feel must be experienced by oneself to even begin to understand.

 

[JohnA111]

IMHO, Harley's are two wheeled cars that are ridden from bar to bar, the majority of the time being spent maintaining, cleaning, showing, and buying accessories / clothing with HD brand on them. They don't go around corners for crap. But yes, they do offer a unique experience with loads of torque and comfort.

If that's what you like, the "mystique" of the motorcycle, go for it!

If it turns out after some time in the seat that you actually like riding a motorcycle, yearn for twisty roads and scenery, and find the experience somewhat athletic do not go for it.

I personally prefer a sportbike, having ridden both types. When soccer mommie's cell phone conversation becomes more important than my life, when she pulls in front of me, I'll take my swerving chances on my 919 rather than my old KZ1000 or Sportster.

Remember, anyone can sit down and twist their right wrist. It would be in your best interest to motorcycling to master the rest of the art - buy a standard or sport bike (not a race / RR bike). My top recommendation has to be a Suzuki SV650, Kawi EX500, or Honda 599 / Hornet.

 

[DUCCCC]

Please educate me. Cause I would love to hear. I have owned both brand of bikes and will never even consider buying a HD again. People that say HD are reliable are in denial, pure and simple. Course the only riding I do now is on the dirt, I would rather not take the chance of get road rash/run over anymore.

My Sportster never faltered, or dripped a drop of oil, which is way more that I can say for the 1995 Kawasaki GPz1100, which was the most troublesome POS I ever owned.
I've been riding bikes since about 1980. Aside from starting out on a Suzuki DS185 and then a RM125, my personal bikes have included a '74 Honda CB400/4, an '85 Yamaha RZ350, the '95 Kawi lemon, the '98 XL1200S, and now an '01 Ducati SS 750ie. I have experience on dirt, cruiser, standard, and sportbikes. Just as my Kawi experience left a bad taste in my mouth, it seems that you got either a bad one, or you got a poorly maintained used one. Either way it sounds like we're fortunate you're not in Harley's marketing . I ain't going to get in any pissin' match here, and I ain't the one who came out with FUD. RDWHAHB.

 

[DUCCCC]

...Remember, anyone can sit down and twist their right wrist. It would be in your best interest to motorcycling to master the rest of the art - buy a standard or sport bike (not a race / RR bike). My top recommendation has to be a Suzuki SV650, Kawi EX500, or Honda 599 / Hornet.

Excellent quote, and if the OP hadn't said specifically that they wanted a cruiser then I'd second the SV650 recommendation in a heartbeat.

 

[sause]

I own two Jap bikes (a '76 Honda CB 750 and a '81 Kawasaki Vulcan 750) and I like them both. I have riden all the families at HD offer and I am saving my money up for Dyna for my next ride. People in my family own 4 HD's and none have had a problem in 8-10 years. I would like to say that the riders course is the best way to start riding a bike.

Edit: I even rode my Kawasaki to the Harley 100th. That was fun.

 

[beergears]

Can we all agree that the safety course and just about any bike would do for now... until our friend knows what he likes better (cruise, trail, touring, a little sporty spark?)

I bet sport-touring... a good all-around compromise btwn performance, reliability, fun to ride, weather protection, ability to tour/carry tent+camping stuff.

The SV650 Suzuki base and variants are terrific bikes, easy on the wallet, and plentiful on the used market.

(I am secretly waiting for Honda to revive or start importing some models they sell overseas like the Transalp or the bigger Varadero... even with my 29" inseam!)

 

[wihophead]

I own two Jap bikes (a '76 Honda CB 750 and a '81 Kawasaki Vulcan 750) and I like them both. I have riden all the families at HD offer and I am saving my money up for Dyna for my next ride. People in my family own 4 HD's and none have had a problem in 8-10 years. I would like to say that the riders course is the best way to start riding a bike.

Which Dyna....rumor has it the Wide Glide is going to be retired this year.
I like the new Fat Bob.
My wife just ordered a Softail Deluxe.

 

[Flyin' Lion]

This is the 2nd-best advice written on this thread. (The WINNING advice is about taking MSF courses!!) Don't write off "standard" bikes, or the "streetfighter" types. I LOOOVE a good, simple, flickable bike to thrash around some corners. Dualsports rock!

I have 3 bikes, for 3 different purposes. Mine all happen to be BMW's, but they are really, really different from each other. We like old bikes and working on them ourselves, so that opens up a lot more possibilities for us. Beemers work for us and we like the BMW community a lot, too...Beemer folks tend to camp and rallys are centered toward riding, not being nekkid and acting the fool. Suits us!

The most important thing to do is to get whatever bike gives you the "Wheeeeee!" factor. That's what it's all about, isn't it? Don't go by looks alone, get on the thing and see if it gets your blood pumpin'. After all, when you're ridin' it, you aren't lookin' at it! (Which explains why mine never get washed. Except in the rain.)

Online info is also good. There's a great riding group in your area:


http://wetleather.com/

and lots of good threads about first bike advice on here:

http://www.twtex.com

(although the site has been down today for some reason. Trust me, it usually isn't! )

Best of luck

+1 on Beemers. My one and only streetbike was a Yamaha, but if I bought another bike, it would be Japanese or German (if I was willing to spend more money).

 

[sause]

A super glide with forward controls. I just need something that can move me since I'm a bigger guy. Though I loved riding the V-rod so a Night rod could be in the works too.

 

[Flyin' Lion]

How about one of these:

 

[Ryanh1801]

looks like a snowmobile.

 

[Bedlam]

My advise to you: Don't get anything but a hog if it's the comradery you're looking for, get a Goldwing if it's touring you're looking for, and a Standard if you just want to have fun around town/country roads and short tours.

I have to disagree on the comaradarie thing. Over the years, I see the real motorcyclists caring less and less about "brand" when hanging out. Sure, you still have the brand snobs out there, but those who truly enjoy the ride don't really care what you bring, so long as you ride well and responsibly and occasionally pony up for a piece of pie at the end of the ride.

I've been a member of the Beemer community for years, matter o' fact, that's how I met my hubby. And even within the BMW community, you can find all different types of folks...for instance, there's the LT crowd, who mostly resemble the GoldWinger's (a bit older, more-well-to-do) and the F650 folks (younger, hipper)...and all the range in between. But for my money, it ain't what you ride, it's HOW you ride it...and how you treat me at gas stops and eating breaks.

BTW, an F650 is a dandy first bike...see the ChainGang for details:

www.f650.com

It's pretty close to a "standard" and can be a dualsport pretty easily if you wanna hit some gravel or dirt roads. Plenty of fun for commuting, too. I put over 6K on mine last year before shoulder surgery...yeeeehaaaaa!

 

[wihophead]

I agree... I will be riding with my FIL and other Beemers to the 2008 BMW MOA Rally

My Father in law's wife and riding partner passed away a week after their 50th wedding anniversary last May and in June he had an accident were he fell a sleep in a turn which he later found out was due to severe sleep apnea which may have been aggravated by the loss of his wife. He had to have a rod put into his leg do to the accident. He was contemplating selling his bike since he didn't have his riding partner anymore. He was so excited when I told him we wanted to go to the rally with him. This is going to be a very special family ride.

http://www.bmwmoa.org/rally/rally08/

 

[JohnA111]

I have to disagree on the comaradarie thing. Over the years, I see the real motorcyclists caring less and less about "brand" when hanging out. Sure, you still have the brand snobs out there, but those who truly enjoy the ride don't really care what you bring, so long as you ride well and responsibly and occasionally pony up for a piece of pie at the end of the ride.

Just seems like there's the Harley crowd, and the everybody else crowd. But..... I will say that anyone helps anyone when you're broke down or hurt (god forbid).

 

[Yuri_Rage]

Just seems like there's the Harley crowd, and the everybody else crowd.

I think this is somewhat location dependent. For example, my Dad lives in south-central PA, near York, where a major Harley factory is located. The climate there is VERY Harley-centric, and you're not likely to even get a friendly wave from a Harley guy if you're on a Honda. In fact, if you own a Sportster, you're a bit of an outcast since it's such a "small" bike.

However, out here in the southwest, there isn't nearly so much Harley snobbery. Sure, there are a few die-hards, but I generally get the same friendly reception whether I'm on my old Honda or my new Sportster.

In the end, it's all the same - buy a bike you like that's in your price range and enjoy it. Brand-loyalty is WAY overrated, IMHO.

 

[Sir Humpsalot]

And while I agree with the vast majority of what Sir Humpsalot said, I do have to object to the group rides comment. I go on group rides all the time on my SV. The group is of standard and sportbike riders, mostly, not cruiser riders, though. But we still definitely do it, and so do guys on Japanese cruisers. My dad rides (among other bikes) a Vulcan, and he goes on group rides down in Tucson all the time.

I honestly, truly believe that the rate of accidents or at least mishaps must at least double during group rides. In my experience, they just aren't as safe as riding your own ride, by yourself, without the pressures of keeping up or showing off or whatever. Sure, we can repeat the mantra: Ride Your Own Ride, but at the end of the day, somebody is going to have a lapse of judgment that he probably wouldn't have had if there was nobody there to impress or keep up with.

Don't get me wrong. I love group rides for the adrenaline factor.

And that's exactly why I don't do them. I know other guys who love group rides for the poker-run, drink a beer at each stop kinds of parties. And that's exactly why I don't do those either.

I'm sure there is a happy medium out there, of sane, responsible riders who ride slow and sober and perfectly cautious... and, well, I don't think that sounds like much fun.

To each their own though. I can't deny there will always be some folks that are fun to ride with. You only live once, right?

 

[Sir Humpsalot]

I am not sure I understand that statement....
Only buy a Harley if you plan on doing group rides???

I do very little group riding, in fact it is not uncommon for just the wife an I to do a 250 mile scenic ride on a nice day.

Although I will be doing a small group ride to the BMW MOA rally in Wyoming this July though. It is a short 2000 mile round trip......

1000 miles each way? That's gotta be what? At least 14 hours or so in the saddle!!! Is your Harley really comfortable to do a breakfast-to-dinner ride like that?

Well, then again, how bad could it be? It's not like you'd have to waste an entire day just to get there...

Go to bed early, leave at 3am when there's no traffic, ride through a beautiful sunrise, stop for breakfast out in the middle of nowhere, preferably eat with farmers. Farmers eat well. Arrive at 6:30pm, have an hour or two of daylight left to sight-see, indulge in 5 or 6 hours of heavy drinking, and wake up refreshed the next day, ready to roll. Sounds like fun!

 

[PeteOz77]

Please, before you look any further, check into the Yamah Vmax. Best cruiser type bike ever built. 140+HP, shaft drive, Yamaha dependability (other than the trans problems of 85-86) and sweet looking ride.

Truns a sub 10 second 1/4 mile, great fuel economy, extremely comfortable on long rides, super reliable, very low maintenence..

What more can you ask for?

 

[Sir Humpsalot]

Heck yes!!!! If I had a storm trooper costume, that is TOTALLY what I would buy!!!!! :fro:

Seriously, that's a pretty cool bike... but it's a LOT of bike...

 

[buraglio]

Personally I would never own a Harley. They are just not reliable bikes and love to break down. Honda's are where it is at for motorcycles IMO. You can ride them forever with out having a problem. Only problem is the Honda will lose its value a lot faster than a HD.

+1
I would never down talk any motorcycle, but I have had marvelous luck with my honda.
I bought a 1973 Honda CB750 when I was 18 (15 years ago) and rode it everywhere. Actually, for most of my college years it was my most reliable transportation. I rode it all year round (in Illinois) unless the snow/ice prevented (I was broke and it took the least gas). To this day, I can go to my garage and start it up. It has only had the top end rebuilt one time, in 1997.
I bought this as a starter bike to prepare me to buy a harley when I had money. Once I had money, I never even considered a harley. It may not be the coolest, most rebellious or fastest, but that Honda is one of the best purchases I've ever made.
Here are some pics.

nb

 

[MikeFlynn74]

My current ride- Love it.

 

[wihophead]

1000 miles each way? That's gotta be what? At least 14 hours or so in the saddle!!! Is your Harley really comfortable to do a breakfast-to-dinner ride like that?

Well, then again, how bad could it be? It's not like you'd have to waste an entire day just to get there...

Go to bed early, leave at 3am when there's no traffic, ride through a beautiful sunrise, stop for breakfast out in the middle of nowhere, preferably eat with farmers. Farmers eat well. Arrive at 6:30pm, have an hour or two of daylight left to sight-see, indulge in 5 or 6 hours of heavy drinking, and wake up refreshed the next day, ready to roll. Sounds like fun!

She is very comfortable....

We don't ride straight through, that isn't the way to enjoy the sites and the people.

We generally ride 300-400 miles a day with frequent stops in small towns when we can, then we make camp at night. Riding 90MPH just to get to your destination is not my idea of fun. You know the saying...."half the fun is getting there"

I picked this bike up in September and put 3500 miles on it in 6 weeks. I am hoping to at least get 3rd place in our local HOG club mileage contest this year. My BIL took 3rd this year with just under 15K and I know he will never let me beat him...lol
First place was over 25K but he is retired....

All this talk of riding is really starting to bum me out especially when I look outside and see all the damn snow....

 

[NUTT]

Yeah.... for a first bike get something that fits into the following category:

Used
Inexpensive
Light enough to pick up

Make sure it has good tires & working brakes. Either learn to do the maintenance yourself (it is quite easy) or be prepared to overpay a mechanic.

My first bike was a 1996 Kawasaki Vulcan 750 that I got for $1,000 and sold for $1,600. Current bikes, '01 Suzuki SV650 & '01 Kaw KLR650 (big dirt bike w/ license plate).

Take the MSF course & never ride without a minimum of helment, jacket, gloves, boots.

 

[beergears]

in the rec.motorcycles newsgroup archives, there is a guy who explains about his tendon reconstruction, the pain killers, etc., after the gravel as removed form his hands...

And to think what something as simple as 2-bit work gloves could have spared..

Everytime I see a rider on a near-new machine (= having spent a few thou.) I always wonder why s/he did not spend another 30 bucks for gloves. You actually get a much better grip feel with gloves anyway.

 

[Desert_Sky]

How about one of these:

actually those are getting some killer reviews.


I own a Honda VTX1300C. Nothing but good times on this bad boy. The only work ive done is basic maintenance and It been nothing but good times. It's not he fastest bike in the world, but it makes up for speed with incredible tourque.

 

[brewt00l]

<sarcasm>Who could have guessed that a thread about motorcycles on the internet would have gone in this direction??</sarcasm>

IMHO considering the type of riding you want to do, your skill level (or lack there of), your budget for the initial purchase and budget for periodic maintenance will point you in right direction for your first bike.

Take your local MSF course

Test ride everything you can get your hands on

If you decided to buy used, make sure you take a friend that knows their way around a bike to help evaluate the true condition