New Motorcycles that you want... [Archive]

arkline

01-15-2006, 12:07 PM

Until yesterday, I was laboring under the misconception that a Duc Multistrada might fit my bill for next in line.

Went down to the RED Desmo store, in the face of Seahawks traffic and UW basketball traffic. No trouble really. The Ducati dealership is great. Walking in you could just smell that new rubber and paint and grease and oil. Just a breath of fresh motorcycle, sorta like new car smell, but not from a spray can.

Anyway, I threw a leg over an '05 Multistrada that had barbacks and a lowered seat and found out:

1. It is just a bit over too tall for me. Even with the lowered seat. The sales guy started talking about spending some bucks on getting the whole thing lowered and I was watching the $ signs tote up in the back of my head.

b. The seat was freekin' hard. Now, I am an adequately padded individual and the stock 1150R seat will get me through a hundred miles or so before it is really uncomfortable. The Sargeant I bought is good for a tankfull at a time. But this Duc seat was uncomfortable from the first sit.

I didn't even bother with the Paul Smart. But I did try an ST4 on for size. Again, too tall and the lean into the wind on your wrists position just isn't something I like at all. At least not for the touring end of the ST designation.

They won't be getting in any of the new retro GTs for three months or so. I imagine that I can bide my time.

On the Hypermotard, the guy said that he's already gotten seven deposits. I hope all those folks are tall...

Rchop

01-15-2006, 02:03 PM

I kind of feel like that guy in the VW commercial that has a vw bug growing out of his head:rolleyes: I can just make out the KAW... on my forehead now:D :D

GPM

01-15-2006, 02:43 PM

I really like the new Ducati S2R Monster. Kind of miss the whole naked bike thing since selling my 1150R. Also, kind of interested in the Buell Ulysses. Many of the attributes of a GS at a much more reasonable price.

Too many toys, not nearly enough money.

Dallara

01-15-2006, 03:15 PM

Wow! That's a tough question... Alomost too many to list.

I have one of these on the way, and due in March:

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52474914-M.jpg

And if the price isn't too outrageous I'm gonna' get one of these:

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52474918-M.jpg

Don't really know why but I would love one of these just for fun:

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52474921-M.jpg

I'm gonna' have one these... Probably a used one... One day, period:

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52474924-M.jpg

More to follow...

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara)

Dallara

01-15-2006, 03:25 PM

As I said, more to follow...

Seems we are limited to posting four images per post, so here's my second round of lusted after motorcycles...

Who could resist one of these if they weren't priced higher than the Hope Diamond:

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52474926-M.jpg

And I would love one of these if they would ever just build the damn things (and if it came with the girl it would be a no-brainer, instant sale... Even if that made it cost more than the MV Agusta above):

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52474930-M.jpg

And I would probably already have one of these if BMW hadn't decided to price themselves out of the market (IMHO):

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52477236-M.jpg

This gorgeous new and petite Triumph Daytona 675 triple might be ahead of the Kawasaki Ninja 650R twin in my dream garage sweepstakes if there was a dealer closer than 200 miles:

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52478060-M.jpg

Ah, yes... That age old problem...

So many motorcycles, yet so little time!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara)

Dallara

01-15-2006, 03:32 PM

But here's the one I know Bob NYM wants most of all...

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52481074-M.jpg

Right Bob??? :p

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara)

kbc68

01-15-2006, 03:58 PM

The Kawasaki Z750S is a great fit for me also ,
Ducati S2R Monster is also
I liked the feel of
FZ1
http://i.pbase.com/o4/00/62300/1/54884036.2006_FZ1_red_1.jpg
919 Felt real good
http://i.pbase.com/o4/00/62300/1/54884078.919_large_01.jpg
and the intercepter
http://i.pbase.com/o4/00/62300/1/54884083.Interceptor_medium_02.jpg

Bones

01-15-2006, 04:25 PM

Well....it all comes around eventually.

I have been lucky enough to own a few of those posted by some of you, above, and have enjoyed them. I have the 1200GS in the same color pictured above, but with spoke wheels and NO servos....and THAT I am keeping.

So what is the next bike I am jonesing for?
Preamble: I have owned 3 flat twins, a V4 (VFR) and a few in line 4's (still have an FZ1 which I will sell in the Spring). I have the non street legal, track only, R6 and have done the sport bike experience, track days, etc. Have a dirt bike (KDX220R).

I want something fat, slow, that doesn't have much lean angle and that doesn't turn in so great and underpowered but with lots of torque, but that looks bitchin': HD Dyna Low Rider, in black, laced wheels, stage I intake and exhaust upgrade. If I ever get one, I will be the only HD owner I would know that would ride with a full face helmet and full armored gear at all times, who doesn't ride in a pack like a herd of buffalo.

Go ahead, flame me now. I can take it. BobFV1, let me have it. Dallara, scream "DON'T DO IT !!!" I can take it.

Have to sell the R6 and FZ1 first anyway.

Jeff

arkline

01-15-2006, 05:22 PM

Bones,

I used to lust after the FatBoy.

FATBOY, FATBOY, WHATCHA GONNA DO WHEN THEY COME FOR YOU?
FATBOY, FATBOY.

But I got over it when I started pricing them and looked around here at the dealerships. Even the best dealership's reputation is somewhat less than stirling. More of an accessory store than a bike shop.

On the other hand, them cruiser bikes are still low enough that I don't have to get a footstool to get up and on.

Somebody puhlease, 'splain to me why there is such a tremendous pressure to centralize mass and achieve a low center of gravity on so many great bikes, when the rider has to sit on top at 32-34 inches seat height? Doesn't that obviate all that engineering effort?

Dallara

01-15-2006, 05:45 PM

Oh, I just LOVE threads like this !!!

Bones, Bones, Bones...

Far be it for me to offer you advice, but since you and I trade that all the time I simply cannot with clear conscious let you even consider something like a Harley without saying something, like:

DON'T DO IT, BONES !!!

Please, please, please don't it. Why?

Well, knowing you the way I do, because I think it will be the shortest love affair in the history of the planet! :eek:

Let me make one suggestion, Bones - Go and rent one for a weekend first. I have done this numerous times when I have *thought* I had that Harley itch. Each time it has cured me, and each time it has taken less and less time to cure me. I have ridden or rented HD Duece's, Fatboy's, Dyna Sports', Heritage Softail's, and Road King's (the Road King is the best of the bunch, BY FAR... it actually handles better and stops better than all those others, and is way more comfortable), and every time I do I realize just why I will probably never own a Harley (I say probably because who knows, one day they make something neat...).

Friend of mine has a really nice 2004 Road King... Got it for a pretty good deal, too - just over $18,000 new. Recently he has been lusting for more power... He put on a set of pipes, then a different air cleaner/filter set-up, had the fuel-injection re-mapped to suit... and slapped it on the dyno two weeks ago to see what he wrought.

68 Horsepower! (it made 64 prior to the $700 worth of upgrades, not counting labor).

Now I know some will say they aren't buying a Harley for horsepower, but 68 beans is mighty meager when it has to haul around right at half a ton (bike and rider).

Personally, if I just had to have a "cruiser" I'm afraid that either Victory, Yamaha, or Kawasaki would get my dough. Yamaha's new "Star" line is pretty tasty, and so are some of the Kawasaki Vulcan's. Victory has come a long way, and any of these will give you more for far less money than the HD.

Okay, I've said my piece. I feel better now... Even if you do get a Harley I will rest easy knowing I tried... :)

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara)

TorqueMonsterMT-01

01-15-2006, 06:22 PM

I used to lust after the FatBoy.

FATBOY, FATBOY, WHATCHA GONNA DO WHEN THEY COME FOR YOU?
FATBOY, FATBOY.

I felt the same way until I rented one in Hawaii for three days.

Acceleration was scary. (Meaning I was scared of the traffic behind me.)
The brakes were terrrible.
The handling was very heavy, but I suppose this is normal for any cruiser.

At the end of the day, I agree with Allan. Rent one first just to make sure that's what you want.
****************
My dream bike?
Motomorini Corsaro 1200

http://www.motorradmarkt.at/bike/m/moto_morini_corsaro_1200_2005.jpg

Dallara

01-15-2006, 07:06 PM

Oooooooooooooooooooooo!

That Moto Morini looks NICE!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara)

arkline

01-15-2006, 07:10 PM

The biggest problem I see with that Corsaro is that I don't think we'll ever see one here in the States. At least outside someone's private stash or as a collector's item.

I no longer look at cruisers as any solution to any problem I have in the two wheeled world. Now Guzzi is coming out with the Norge and that looks more my style. But yet again, no word that it will be imported.

I tried an '06 FJR 1300 on for size at the recent bike show. With the seat in the high position it was an RCH too tall. Everything else seemed okay.

The new Nortons, ah, the new Nortons. Production, for the rest of us, is supposed to begin some time in '07.

"How much will they cost?
The Commando 961 will sell for $10,995
The Commando 961 S will sell for $13,195

Dallara

01-15-2006, 07:16 PM

Hey, Ron...

I know the story about Dreer's new Nortons (did'ya know they actually hit me up to be an investor at one time?)...

And they have been saying things like "Next year, next year..." now for nearly two years. I almost put a deposit down on one back in 2003, but after my experience with the Ducati MH-900-E decided I would rather wait and see if they ever made it to production.

And it's weird...

First they were going to be called Norton 952's, and now it's 961's. I have no idea what's going on there as I stopped corresponding with them months ago.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara)

arkline

01-15-2006, 07:31 PM

Allan,

Dreer & Co. are a local legend in the vintage world up here. I've been following their story since they were doing restorations, then upgraded parts for restos, and then the complete "new bike". They've been painfully slow in their development, their "marketing" is spotty, and they have an odd business model. And they've managed to piss off a lot of people here and abroad in their quest to own the Norton name and logo. But that seems to be par for the course when you look at Pa Norton's brain child. And the world of motorcycling in and around Portland. Must be the rain and the incomprehensible freeway as makes them folk moderately crazy!

Dallara

01-15-2006, 08:17 PM

Ron,

I first contacted Kenny Dreer a few years ago when he had actually done a Triumph Street Tracker that had appeared in "Cycle World". He and I talked many, many times on the phone and he slowly talked me out of trying to get him to do another of the Triumph-based Street Trackers. At first he convinced me that he could do a Norton based one better, which was fine by me as I was always a fan of the Ron Wood Norton's that Alex "Jorgy" Jorgenson rode for years...

Dreer said he would think about how he could do such a bike and get back to me. Each time a few weeks would go by and I wouldn't hear from him, so I would call him back. He cooled considerably over the Norton Street Tracker idea over a few months, finally admitting that his VR-880's were simply taking up all his time. He said he would be happy to build me one of those so we started trying to tack that down. He sent me a video or two, occasionally some pictures, and we continued to talk on the phone. He had a waiting list on the VR-880's at the time, and no matter how many times we talked the price for one was always a moving target...

Then one day he told me that he wasn't going to be building any more VR-880's because he was going to build a complete "new" Norton...

He said he would keep me in the loop on this new bike, but again it was always me that had to call or initiate contact. Then I started trading e-mails with a guy there named Jonathan Oesch about their intention of building the 952's. This was in September of 2003. He was the guy who hit me up to be an investor.

If you want to hear something funny, I have an e-mail here dated October 16th, 2003, and part of it says:

"Norton is proud ot announce the sales launch of the new 952 Commando. Beginning October 20th, 2003 at 9:00 am PDT deposits will be taken for the first 200 Norton 952 Commandos to come off the production line. These bikes are going to be sold exclusively on the Norton website and will be both numbered and signed. Delivery is scheduled to begin in June (2004)"

Not too long after this I got turned over to a Rob LaVigne, and not too long after I got hooked up with him I got an e-mail that stated the price for the "production" 952's would be $14,995, but these first 200 would be "specials" and would go for $19,995, with the buyers having to put up a $1,995 deposit. These specials were alos to be available in Black, Red, or Yellow... (notice how if you look on the Norton site now the bike is only available in Black, and the deposit is only $500 !!!) That e-mail also said the "signature edition" specials would be produced in the summer of 2004, with the "production" bikes being available in numbers in 2005.

There was more e-mail correspondence, and many more phone calls, and each and every time the delivery dates got moved further and further back. The excuses ranged from legal hassles over the name to ongoing changes in the product spec to running out of money, and then back through them all again at random. It got to be a bit of a joke...

It didn't lessen my desire ot own one, nor my respect for Kenny Dreer and what he was trying to accomplish (nor his past accomplishments)... It just soured me a lot on being one of his early depositors! :D

I hope he gets it all done and gets the bike out in production. I think it is a truly beautiful work of motorcycle art, but for right now I am going to concentrate on trying to pick up this vintage Norton that was offered to me for sale (and I hope the guy still wants to sell it to me... but that's another story). I think I might have more fun with that.

Maybe one day, when Kenny has his production up and running I will take another serious look at Dreer's creation, but right now I only see it as so much vaporware.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara)

Bones

01-15-2006, 08:52 PM

Indeed, I will experience a HOG before pulling the trigger. I just posted that because the thread had to do with "WANT" and that is one of those things on the list.

What made me laugh was Torquemonster's comment about being afraid of traffic...behind him! :D

I have studied a few things about Harley and all the other marques and have come to some conclusions that some of you may agree or disagree with. I will share them soon when I have more time to type it all out.

But Dallara.......you would have to understand that NONE of my "want" related to a Harley would have anything to do with performance in the conventional sense, or with comfort in the usual sense, either. Clearly, it would be in the same category as someday owning a 1967 Cadillac, like my Grandfather had. Feel, smell, noise, shape, mojo... that is what that Caddy was. It sure wasn't fast, it didn't turn well, etc. But it was a cool car.

I am keeping my GS, which I think runs circles around most real bikes in any of the places I will ride other than a track, and is REAL comfortable and a ton-o-fun. And you can load it up like a pack mule, too, and it will still ride like a dream. BUT........someday....you never know.

And Dallara, you have every right to give advice. I have asked before and you have delivered, right on the money, every time. Plus...remember the "deal" we made by direct email about advice? You have carte' blanche.

Jeff

DarthRider

01-15-2006, 09:11 PM

I met Kenny in the mid-late 80's at a Norton National Rally, real nice guy and fun to talk Nortons with.
His "stage of development" then was starting to shift from restos to resto-engineered-hot rods, using actual Nortons. This would ultimately lead to selling components, the name acquisition and building a clean sheet motorcycle.
His bike and mine were competing in the same bike show. They were actually remarkably similar, especially the engine specs, and we had never met or seen each other's bikes before, or even heard of each other.

I've watched his bikes develop and I sure hope he makes it, they're cool. They have some new financial partners, maybe they can help.

I think they're making a big mistake though with the ~$10,500 price of the next generation bike. Besides requiring much higher production numbers to even survive...
A really cool, really low production number bike with an interesting name can & will fetch $20-30K or much more in small numbers..."Mr. Leno, your Norton is ready, along with your Ecosse!"

But one in the mid-tens, or even if it slips to $15K before it hits the streets (if it ever does), has no attraction for most potential buyers. A few people buy anything new. A few speculators will snag one hoping to sell it on eBay in a year and retire. A few old Norton guys will buy one 'cause they got the dough and it's a Norton...well, sort of.."Mr. Leno, your Indian & Triumph are ready."
But the high-rollers, collectors & investors won't be interested at that price & production level.

And someone just wanting a really cool motorcycle that will outperform the NewNort in *every* way has way too many choices. Each with a dealer network, spares, trained techs and an aftermarket.

The only thing that will make a $25K Nort a "collectible" is exclusivity, which is gone as soon as you start selling basically the same bike for "half-price".

I honestly wish them luck and I hope they sell lots, but...
Maybe I can win one if I keep entering the raffle at the Cycle World Shows!

Dave

Rchop

01-16-2006, 12:26 AM

Just listening to you guys talk about Harleys makes me think about the reasons I built my new BMW powered cruiser. I had a V-star, I sold it to buy an R1100RT, I got rid of that and bought a Honda VTR 1000 Superhawk, got rid of that because I wanted to live longer:rolleyes:, I bought a BMW CLC because I couldn't bring my self to buy a Harley. I sold the CLC because I wanted more power. I finally decided I liked the cruiser comfort but had to have the boxer power, but BMW just didn't get it with the eurocrap (oops..did offend someone:cool: ) design "C" model.
As I have always said, " if you cant find it...build it".
After working out the bugs...my test ride tonight proved that I am on to something. Comfort, power (lots and lots of it!!) great sound (unique, I mean) without being too loud and all the options: turn signals, horn, brakes that work well, electric oil cooling fans and a place to plug in my heated vest!
I wish you could all ride it:D

http://www.frsengineering.com/0346.JPG

BTW...I have to agree with Dallara. I think BMW is pricing themselves right out of my pocketbook. Who do they think they are...Harley Davidson!!

TorqueMonsterMT-01

01-16-2006, 02:00 AM

Bones;
Don't take me wrong about Harley. I certainly don't condemn another man's choice of ride. Allan and I vollied some shots back and forth a few months ago about this subject. ( I bow to his superior experience and knowledge BTW, and this is not a sarcastic statement. Allan, we all want more stories like the NR story!)

The choice to buy a Harley is just as passion inspired as any other mount. At least for real riders. However, the cost of admission is high and there are definately some issues that a person should investigate fully before paying.

On a different note though, HD and the supporting staff of a million companies offer lots in the way of mods and upgrades. I've seen some really nice hogs over the years. $$$$$

"" if you cant find it...build it"."

Randy, as an engineer in the aircraft repair business, I can appreciate this concept.

Cheers,
Jeff

Bones

01-16-2006, 05:57 AM

Dallara, Torque and Rchop,
Points all well taken, for sure.
I am not purchasing anything at the moment, just ruminating about lots of things motorcycle related.

Like so many things style related, some things stir your inner being and others don't.

I think I *understand* the Ducati thing, but have ridden them and really don't have any desire to own one. But they sure do get some guys' and gals' juices flowing.

There is nothing that entices me at all about any of the Japanese metric cruisers I have seen, but they do sell and lots of folks like them.

I just like Harleys when I see them, but hate a lot of the baggage that comes along with them.

Don't worry, I am not buying anything for now. But if someone offered to lend me their HOG for a weekend, I would take them up on it.

Rchop..........if I was in Cali, I sure would take you up on the offer to ride yours. THAT is beautiful.

Jeff

Dallara

01-16-2006, 07:20 AM

Randy (Rchop),

Your incredible creation is more and more stunning every time I see a new picture of it. Bold, brash, and yet elegant... Especially in its simplicity. Subtle, yet a clear statement impossible to ignore.

My hat's off to you, your vision, and your expertise in design, execution, and fabrication. Kudos to you.

Just out of curiosity, are you planning on building replicas of this one for sale as part of your business? If so I think you could sell quite a number of them... I think even the "chopper" crowd can appreciate lighter weight, more power, better reliability, less maintenance, a higher comfort level, better handling, and superior braking - and all in something totally unique, yet classic. After all, the Oilhead is as much an evolution of the timeless BMW Airhead as the HD TC-88 is an evolution of the original flathead, knucklehead, panhead, and shovelhead Harley-Davidson.

I think if you would build 'em, they would come... How much could you duplicate one for and still make a profit?

Thanks!

Allan (Dallara)

jamming

01-16-2006, 08:31 AM

OK, Guys and Gals, get ready to light em up.
I have a friend here in Buckeye AZ that is in the process of opening a custom paint shop. Its a hobby job for him as he's retired. He's a Harley guy and building a custom chop. Or should I say I'm building the chop in his shop. I used to build choppers as a side job. I'd buy a frame, engine, front end..etc, build it, sell it. and I'M A BMW GUY!!!!! I know, I know. To me its a labor of love, I'd never ride one, however, building this one, I've come to the conculsion, I CAN build one that is comfortable to ride.
I'm looking at building a custom frame with a rake and trail not severe at all, a hair steeper than say, an Eltra-glide, not as long, with ground clearance, and a set of custom carbon graphite bags and a CF frame mounted fairing.
I want to build a V-twin sport tourer.
So as soon as I finish this one, Bernard has offered his shop for me to use, its fully equiped, TIG, mandrel bending, AND a custom painter, now the chop I'm building for him is a couple of months away, and I hope to finish mine in a year or so after that.
I have a lot of research to do and I'm working on it now. I'm a mechanical engineer and an Aircraft Mechanic by trade, so its in my kitchen so to speak.
I'll keep you all up to date as it comes along.
Until then I take delivery of a BMW R1200ST tomorrow, I'll ride it to death. I'll always be a BMW faithful, 25 years so far, no reason to change now.
Roger

Rchop

01-16-2006, 10:34 AM

Jamming, start a build thread. I would be interested in watching your progress.
Dallara, Thanks for your kind words. I do plan on building more in the future. Hopefully this will be my retirement job. As far as price...that has yet to be determined. I spent 2 years part time on this prototype. The next one should be a lot faster to build. I still have to decide what works and what doesn't on this one before I move on to the next.
I would like to build a few a year since that would let me keep the price higher. That's one thing about custom bikes...the more unique...the more you can charge for it;)
I have been told by people in the industry that I should ask 30 to 40K for this one. Certainly well out of my price range:p but, a deal for a hand built custom compared to the market today.
Time will tell...

Bones

01-16-2006, 03:16 PM

Dallara and Torque,
Two more thoughts on the wish list including a big fat pig.

The thing that started me thinking about having this back on my "list" again, was riding a friend's old, modified Goldwing. He took the baffles out of the aftermarket pipes and the engine was not running perfectly smoothly, to say the least. At idle and on acceleration, it sounded EXACTLY like my Dad's 1947 Century Seamaid (an antique Mahogany boat with a hundred coats of varnish on it and an old flat six with straight through exhaust). Very rumbly, very visceral.

This big old wing with wierd mods was heavy, had poor lean angle clearance, had brakes that didn't work very well, had frame flex that was noticable, etc, etc. But I have to say, it was quite an enjoyable ride in its own piggish way.

This is not to say old wings are bad. Just that this one was odd and had all these anti performance characteristics.

The experience was EXACTLY like dealing with my Father's old wooden boat, which was a pain in the ass to use, because we had to launch it each time, and it was the antithesis of his early 90's fiberglass Cobalt, that is very analgous to a late 90's BMW bike.

In any case, that is where the desire rests. It is a "day boat" concept.

Second, Dallara, you mentioned the Stage I upgrade on your buddy's Roadking. Cost aside, given the fact that the pigs are long stroke twins with pushrods and very, very limited rpm's, the small hp gain actually turns out to be a reasonable torque improvement. Kind of deisel like in its pull, I suppose.

We'll see. Gotta have a list.

I may be the only one here WITHOUT a Ducati somewhere on the list, though.
I also don't love the Triumphs I have been around (both old and new, especially the new ones).

Oh well.

Jeff

Tipstall

01-16-2006, 05:01 PM

OK, I know I will getted laughed at for this. I need a new dirt bike and really would like it to be street legal. I don't need anything like a fun blown motorcross bike as I would use the power, and too old to afford the falls, don't ask about the ladder I fell off this weekend. My son on his XR never gets out of second gear.

http://www.kawasaki.com/kawasaki_main/images/products/MOTORCYCLE/2221_800.jpg

Ken

Bones

01-16-2006, 05:30 PM

Ken,
I am not laughing. I have a KDX220R and have often wished is was just street legal enough to ride from one area to another on the road to get to a new set of trails or fields. Go for it.

Jeff

BobFV1

01-16-2006, 05:39 PM

I want an old, beat-up R1150GS Adventure with the super-size extended tank and big old knobby tires - really ratted out. This would be my streetfighter, and I could always make new friends by telling people that my name is Charlie Boorman, my dad Directed "Zardoz", and I am in the process of motorcycling around the world...

Deans BMW

01-16-2006, 06:16 PM

Bone Man, have a look at the new Yamaha, Star Motors, Roadliner. At the San Jose show, I looked and sat on all the Harley cruiser type bikes. The Roadliner was by far the best of the lot, very well engineered, excellent fit and finish and felt the best when sat on. I was amazed, much better than the Harleys and a lot less expensive.

Tipstall

01-16-2006, 07:38 PM

Bob,

This is for sale locally, not beat up, nice accessories. Only 1,300 miles

http://bmwmotorcyclesofrockford.com/0380.jpg

Ken

DarthRider

01-16-2006, 10:24 PM

Bones -

The next time you get that Harley urge (I think you can get shots for that) just take a look at this ad.

Dave

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52717812-L.jpg

BobFV1

01-16-2006, 10:46 PM

Bob,

This is for sale locally, not beat up, nice accessories. Only 1,300 miles

Ken

PERFECT! I want it!

socalrob

01-16-2006, 11:20 PM

Ken,
Modern dirt bikes are a kick. That does look like fun. I got myself a Honda XR400 this past summer, I didn't need it to be street legal as my son rides with me & he's years from being street legal, so I gotta tow anyway. That said, it would be fun for down the block runs to the store.

Bones,
At the risk of getting flamed, the draw of a HD for me would be a bike that is fun to ride slow, that is a pain to ride fast, so that I, of limited self control, would ride it slow, have a good time lookin cool, & maybe live longer. Its still funny how non riders look at a guy in his 40's that can afford any bike, & just get a blank look when you tell them, NO, I DON'T RIDE A HD! Like I'm the idiot because of course EVERYONE KNOWS HD's are the best bikes made.

Also, at least here in LA, I see a fair number of HD riders in full face helmets & full gear. In fact, looking at the HD website, looks like they are pushing gear with real protection these days.

__________________________________________________ _____________

My bike of the month is the Ducati Classic naked roadster with the big round headlight. Saw it at the LA show, & it was just beatiful. I liked the turn indicators hanging off the handlebars, & the horn details. & the spoke wheels. I bet it rides nice too. Retro but modern. Like the new Norton might be, but IMHO, styled better. I have a Ducati dealer 3 miles from my house, I will not go in there.

I also really like the new R1200S. Even that red stripy paint job is looking better. All except the muffler. Why, why, why, can't BMW, if they can't figure out for themselves, just copy the tailpipes off the MV Agusta F4? There is something mildly disturbing / obscene about the RS's tail pipes, & not in a good way.

socalrob

01-16-2006, 11:24 PM

With the new GSA1200 coming out, I will be curious to see if GSA1150's can be had cheap. It'd be one hellava bike to own if you could get one with cases & lights & stuff for 8-9K.

Does anyone know if the spline "problems" have been fixed on the 1200 boxer moter?

DarthRider

01-16-2006, 11:42 PM

Vhat schpliner problems, impudent Amerikaner?
Ve hav NO schpliner problems...you just do not maintain der schplinens schlipen thing very OK.
Zo, ef ve hoppen to design von dat does not go schcrapen-kerplunken en ze next model, it is only a coincidentz, zense ve hav no problem vit dose, yah?!
Shutenzee up und buy a new bike...Gerta needz new shoez!
Heinz

BobFV1

01-17-2006, 08:18 PM

DarthRider

01-17-2006, 09:40 PM

"...That is some weird shit..."
Thanks! I do what I can...

Dave

geechie

01-18-2006, 11:35 AM

I wish you could all ride it

Damn, Randy, Me too!!

That is one beautiful machine. It's very elegant and just about perfectly understated. A marvelous creation.

Have you heard from "Cycle World" yet?

George

Rchop

01-19-2006, 12:05 AM

Thanks George...No I haven't heard from them. I actually sent a couple of e-mails to the editor and never got a response. I guess it's not their style.
I did get an e-mail from the editor of a magazine called "100% Biker" today asking for pics and info for a feature. In the UK no less!!
The 38K+ hits on my website must range far and wide:)

RiceBurner

01-19-2006, 06:51 AM

Bones -

The next time you get that Harley urge (I think you can get shots for that) just take a look at this ad.

Dave

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/52717812-L.jpg

I can see me buying one of them when they become available 2nd hand... ;)

until then - I just want a Rockster.

And if I want to ride at a gentler pace - I'd buy a Brit-classic before any HD. Matchless G80 for preference.

Sir Limpsalot

01-20-2006, 05:27 AM

RiceBurner, dear boy, welcome back. Was beginning to think we'd lost you.
As for the Harley Jeff, I would say take a test ride and if you still want one then buy it!
I don't know much about any Harley/Cruiser type bikes but I do know that the pleasures derived from motorcycling can be as many and varied as the individuals who ride.
Many years ago (30 actually) I became dissatisfied with British motorcycle magazines, still am truthfully. I discovered "CYCLE" magazine and in Cook Neilson, Phill Shilling and Kevin Cameron found kindered spirits. Later I added "CYCLE WORLD" and Alan Girdler and his new boy Peter Egan also became firm favourites.
Egan excelled in touring articles, did a great one called "the lost highway" about the old "Route 66". Bear in mind this would have been about 1980 or thereabouts, long before the current nostalgia trip kicked in.
He wrote about another trip, this time on a big Harley. Called "shooting the coast" it told of a long weekend away with his wife on a (I think) Heritage Softail. It looked like an old Electra Glide and wherever they stopped people would comment on the fine restoration job he'd done...............
He wrote of thudding along at no great speed as they picked a scenic route along the coast to San Francisco, stopping frequently to take in the views. They looped inland and over the course of the weekend visited a couple of places of historical interest before wending their way home.
Didn't need a high top, or cruising, speed. Didn't need great brakes or cornerng clearance. Enjoyed the relaxed chugging of the motor and so forth.
For possibly the first time I began to see that there may be more to motorcycling than the frenetic need to drag my footrests on every corner and get every last available revolution from the engine before snicking up a cog. I tried to calm down a little, still trying really.
Certainly, these days, you can get the whole relaxed touring feel on any number of fine machines without going the H.D. route, but if you fancy one????
Look, you buy a motorcycle. You don't marry it. If, in 12 months you find it no longer suits your needs or desires then trade it in. It won't sue you for half the house! Certainly you may end up a little poorer in the wallet but you'll be richer in experience. Good luck.
Si

geechie

01-20-2006, 11:02 AM

Damn, Si. Those are some very intelligent insights. People keep telling me you're something special. They may just be right.

George

BobFV1

01-20-2006, 05:32 PM

Had an R1200GS loaner bike today - what a blast - zipped around town, felt light, agile, powerful - If I had the money I would throw one in the stable for sure!

Deans BMW

01-20-2006, 06:40 PM

Hugo VW over on the Pelican site Photoshopped this, what do you think, esp if it had the 122 HP R1200S engine, would you call it a speed double?:omg:

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploads6/R1200R1137782474.jpg

Dallara

01-20-2006, 06:59 PM

Well, I'd call it... Sort of ugly. :eek:

Muffler is too fat and looks all wrong to me. Front instrument binnacle is really weird.

Geez... I hope that'a not what an R1200R looks like if they bring one.

But that's just my two cents... Of course, YMMV.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - Proud to be Banned Where Annoying Frogs Run Free)

RiceBurner

01-20-2006, 08:15 PM

well, that would never hjappen.... for one, it's using R1150 bits (the rockster lights by the looks of it, and the eyebrow and tank wings), and BMW wouldn't do that.

Where is that can FROM?? a hairnet???

Scottybooj

01-21-2006, 03:46 AM

As for harleys, (i was a harley kid...learned to ride on my dad's FLH Police Special which we still own)...I must say....

It's EXTREMELY DIFFICULT going from my bike back to the FLHP. Granted, it's a 1985, so the brakes aren't what you would get now, nor is the overall 'tightness' of the bike like the new ones.

But, the new rides from H-D, can be QUITE enjoyable. Much easier to flick around then the previous frames and most have VERY quick acceleration.

I like that new iteration of the V-Rod. The one with the controls under your knees and the handlebars altered to make the riding postion more similar to a V-max.

That MV-Agusta F4 ORO is the TITS!!!! God it's so god damn beautiful.

Randy, my dad's heading out to SoCal and has expressed so much enthusiasm over your bike that he would love to be able to stop by your place and see it in person. If that's cool, send me an email or private message. scottybooj at hotmail . com

Sir Limpsalot

01-21-2006, 10:57 AM

Well, George thank you for those kind words:embarassed: Don't know what to say.............................................

Dean O, that "photo shop" 1200 looks just fine to me, I've found recently that the BMW stylists work takes me time to appreciate fully*. When the 1100GS first came out I thought it the ugliest thing I'd ever seen. Now I regard the 1200GS as "ruggedly handsome". I'm trying to learn my lesson and not jump in with knee jerk reactions.
Of course, having said all that, we still have no idea what they're going to come up with as an "R" replacement.
Si.
*The only recent exception being the 1100S which I thought was stunning at first sight. It's good to see the 1200S keeps the general "look" of the original.

arkline

01-21-2006, 12:06 PM

I note that nobody has mentioned the Victory line as a suitable substitute for a genuine H-D. Every time I see one at a show, I am really astounded by the fit and finish of those bikes. The Ness' versions are even better with paint that is so deep you could almost drown looking down into it. They are really 'spensive though. And I really can't imagine doing many miles at a time on one.

http://www.polarisindustries.com/NR/rdonlyres/12222B7E-3159-440E-899D-B7792D033B2F/460/06_hammer_gallery1.jpg

Their touring rig is just flat out ugly, in my humble and perhaps confused opinion. So ugly in fact, their web site doesn't have a picture of the whole bike at once

http://www.polarisindustries.com/NR/rdonlyres/7FECDE38-A520-460E-B76C-1292DAAA4EFF/514/06_tc_gallery7.jpg

Rchop

01-21-2006, 06:51 PM

I saw a Victory 8-Ball customized by the local dealer. All black with black powdercoated wheels. Best looking new v-twin I have seen in a long time:thumbs_up: :thumbs_up:

Deans BMW

01-21-2006, 08:56 PM

Ron, check out the Yamaha Star Roadliner, puts the others to shame, IMHO.

BobFV1

01-21-2006, 09:22 PM

Yes - interesting that there are some beautiful new cruisers and they are not being made by H-D, the Yamaha and Victory key among them. This while BMW has quit on the R1200C!

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/061205top1.jpg
2006 Star Roadliner S

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/12june05_yamaha2006star.htm

arkline

01-21-2006, 09:40 PM

Love the way that sprocket matches the rear wheel. Very classy. Wish someone would figure out how to get disks to really compliment the wheels they turn with. I thought the wheels on Darth's Triumph where very nice, but the brakes mostly hide the front wheels.

Bones

01-21-2006, 10:39 PM

It is very interesting how differently folks react viscerally to different lines, colors, paint schemes, frames, etc., etc.

I will readily acknowledge the fine fit and finish of the Victory bikes. But I have seen several in person, including being ridden and they just don't move me one inch. It is not that I don't appreciate what is being done with them (which I think is very different than what Yamaha, Suzuki are doing in their cruisers). It is just that it doesn't do it for me.

Oh well. That is why there are so many bikes that all move off the showroom floor.

I once SWORE I would never own a sport bike, too. That was before I ended up not only owning one, but then made it non street legal and dedicated to the track, only. Never say never....and never be afraid to change your mind.

Jeff

TorqueMonsterMT-01

01-21-2006, 11:05 PM

I tested the Roadliner S while i was in Tulsa this week. I have to admit that I don't care much for cruisers, but since Yamaha made this motor bigger than my MT motor (Albiet with the same HP and torque) I had to see what it is all about.

Apparently yamaha is playing the supply and demand game again. The dealer in Tulsa has one for testing, but taking orders for delivery models. Frankly, I think they would sell more to walk-in-ride-out customers due to the quality feel of the build and quality. Maybe the proiduction just isn't up to speed yet.

Generally speaking, it is simply a well refined cruiser. Fit and finish is VERY good unlike the Japanese cruisers from the 90s.

The thing that struck me was that the weight seemed to feel fairly light once in motion. The magazines say this is due to the aluminum frame and subsequent lower COG. I can attest that the weight feels lower or lighter. Overall though, the HP and torque is rated almost identical to my MT but with the peak torque coming in at a lower rev range. (2500 Vs my 3750). This is where you feel the weight. Accelleration is substantially slower than my MT due to the 705 lbs Vs the 525 lbs of the MT-01.

At the end of the ride, I gave it a solid look over. Yamaha has refined the Japanese cruiser by reducing reliance on plastic and making a very respectable bike in its particular field of play. If I were a cruiser guy, I certainly would consider this bike, and would probably select it over a HD.

geechie

01-22-2006, 09:37 AM

Hey Dean,

Thanks for the HugoVW PhotoChop job. He does really good work. I think I like his concept better than the one that DJ posted. If BMW get the real deal somewhere in either of those two ballparks... Well, maybe the roadster in the garage isn't a dead idea after all.

And FWIW; if I were I going in the direction of a V-Twin cruiser, I'd certainly be casting lustful glances in Victory's direction.

George

DarthRider

01-23-2006, 02:18 PM

Something for the Yammie fans...good news & bad news.
I talked with a guy who swore me to secrecy about a lot of this but I can just give you the highspots.
This guy is not connected, he is the/a connection.
Bear in mind anything can change but this is 3-day old "fresh".
Good news:
The new V-Max is for real. The website now up asking for styling input is pure marketing, building demand, gathering email addresses. No surprise here. They have the final design already.
The rumors of 200HP are not rumours. The rumours that it will be de-tuned are false! My speculation is they are going after Triumph's Rocket III and all the Harley cross-over sales that monster is catching. And other market "mini-segments" too of course.
The styling will be *very close* to what we're seeing. It will have a rear seat?!! If you haven't been on that website and done that 360deg. view thing...DO IT! Especially look at the front view and the intakes. These are not fake "Buick Portholes"!
The motor styling will look *very* close to this...sort of "Brough Superior Chick", very "mechanical". The only "pretty" water cooled motor on the market, IMHO.
It will be a 2007 and yes, Virginia...*this* one is coming to the States!

The bad news:
The MT-01 is NOT coming here. Sad but not surprising. Yamaha is not interested in selling a super-low volume cult bike here, which is what it would be. They're right, they wouldn't sell here. I'd buy one but...

Some weird juju going on with Yamaha & Suzuki who are in the same town in Japan and can't keep secrets from each other. Some Red Herring bikes being shown trying to hide the real ones. This is going to get interesting!

I hate being coy and dramatic, I started to say nothing, but I had to! If you want/need to send this on, PLEASE delete my name from it and just say "from a source". Please.

DJ Down Under

01-23-2006, 05:31 PM

Thanks Dave....btw...how do you spell your second name...:) ....kidding....here's some V-Max info.. http://thekneeslider.com/archives/2005/10/20/new-yamaha-vmax-from-tokyo-motor-show/

DJ

DarthRider

01-23-2006, 06:00 PM

DJ -

My last name is spelled "Head".
Strangers call me "Mr. Head".
My buddies call me "Pecker" for short.

I get no respect...

Dave

Deans BMW

01-23-2006, 06:43 PM

You are kind of cute when you are being coy and dramatic.

TorqueMonsterMT-01

01-23-2006, 07:42 PM

Mr. X,:secret:
Thanks for the inside information. I suppose for me this is actually good news and bad news from a different perspective.
The good news is that when I import my MT-01 to the US in a few years, it will be very rare and fairly valuable.
The bad new is that spare parts might be a pain in the ass (even though some internal engine parts are common to the Warrior).

Either way, I am very satisfied with teh bike.:love: :kiss:

DarthRider

01-23-2006, 08:42 PM

Jeff -
Don't post those lips! (I got wood...)

Dean-O -
Actually, I am kind of cute.

Dave

Dallara

01-24-2006, 10:13 AM

Hey, TorqueMonsterMT-01...

You don't have to worry a bit about getting parts for your MT-01 here in the states.

When I was a Honda dealer I had a couple of non-USA-imported Japanese domestic models and discovered there was a whole system set aside within Honda to provide parts for just such bikes. It wasn't common knowledge to most dealers, but a Honda rep who was a friend showed me the ropes of it and after that it was easy. I could even get factory service manuals for them in ENGLISH... Which shocked the hell out of me since the bikes weren't sold outside of Japan.

Oddly enough, through a completely different set of circumstances I discovered only a couple of years ago that Yamaha has a very similar set-up in place for providing parts for non-USA-imported models... and even very old ones.

I needed a piece for a model made back in the late 1970's-early 1980's, and though at first Yamaha USA told me that they didn't have the part in the USA, or even Japan, a week or so later a very nice lady dropped me an e-mail and said they had located the part, brand new and in the box, in Malaysia, and that if I was willing to pay the shipping I could get it right away.

I jumped at it, and the part was only $60 or so, and surprisingly enough the shipping was only about $20... And I had the part in my hand 10 days later!

BTW, when it comes time for you to bring your bike into the USA let me know. I learned a couple of tips and tricks for getting the bikes through customs and getting US titles, etc.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - Proud to be Banned Where Mods Think They're Gods)