Do you ride?

[Petander]

https://ridermagazine.com/2020/04/03/to-ride-or-not-to-ride-that-is-the-question/


I do,I decided to devote all summer for riding while I still can. Nobody knows what's coming.

[grayscale]

I do ride ( 2002 HD FXSTDI ) but am having rotator cuff surgery this month so riding ( and casting ) are pretty much off the table for me this summer.

[BigAlofPa.]

ATV sometimes. My son rides it more than me these days. I got a new back support. So hoping i can get more trail time.

[Idaho45guy]

Sold my last bike a few years ago.

Keep getting tempted to buy another one, but the extremely narrow window of ideal riding conditions up here prevents me from pulling the trigger on another one.

I bought a Jeep Wrangler a few years ago to take the place of a bike and froze my butt off multiple times. Would drive to town when it was 80 degrees out, socialize, then head home when the sun went down and it was 50 degrees and was miserable.

Sold the Jeep and bought a UTV and enjoy it in the woods, but it only has 400 miles on it after two years. It is great fun when conditions are ideal, but miserable 90% of the time.

No greater feeling than riding on two wheels on a scenic mountain road on a warm Summer day. Best therapy ever! I miss it.

[sigep1764]

2011 Triumph Street Triple R. Ride 5 times a week , at least, from March to November to work and back as long as it ain't raining. Had a 2017 Z900 before this that was stolen. I usually trade every two to three years.

[beemer]

I rode hard for 25 years, I have 2 BMW R/90's that I haven't rode on 10 years. Life got in the way and I had to quit, still miss it and always will. I loved tinkering with the bikes almost as much as riding.

Among other things the traffic is bad and people have their head stuck up a cell phone.

Dave (Beemer)

[smithnframe]

I take my Brough Superior out as often as I can!

[Dave W.]

Read the title and though it was about riding horses, we have 5. In my younger days I rode scooters. The last one was a Yamaha 750, Midnight Special, shaft drive, it was a nice ride. But raising three you children on my own, the bike no longer fit that life style, so it got traded for a Winchester model 1894 30/30 with an octagon barrel. I still have the rifle.

[rking22]

I used to, 87BMW, but there are way to many idiots that can’t seem to understand how to operate a highway! Used to be I would cuss, oh once a week. 2016 it was impossible to ride anywhere with any traffic, to many think their car is a phone booth! My son sold his, I haven’t sold mine but I probably will. Really miss it in the spring!

[Finster101]

Have an 08 RoadGlide with a little over 80K on it. I bought it new. Winter is the better riding season here. It's too hot in the summer and there is also a pretty good chance you will get wet on your home bound commute.

[Thundarstick]

I ride year round if the temperature is above freezing. Currently on a Honda NC750X. I'm about to mount up and ride into work, so many of my miles are commuting, but I do like long rides to no where as well. I plan on riding until I can't!

[Hickory]

Just had my bike serviced, ready to go when I find the time.
Which won't be long, it's sorta cold right now.

[Czech_too]

Used to, '75 Norton, bought new, then a '98 Buell, still have both.
Before retirement I rode to work, weather permitting, and did several rallies over the years, Maine, Missouri & Virginia come to mind. Rode to FL one year to visit family.
Now the interest just doesn't seem to be there. Why I couldn't say.

[Hickok]

Been riding dirt and street all my life. Right now I have a Yamaha FZ6R and an Indian Scout Bobber waiting until the warm gets here. Here in the mountains of WV, yesterday 5/9/20, we had an inch of snow. Yuck!

[MrWolf]

We only got flurries here. Haven't ridden in years as people are idiots. I do have my utv but is a Ranger 570-4 crew with bed. Basically a work utv but still nice to travel the woods.

[Petander]

http://www.therideadvice.com/how-motorcycle-riding-is-good-for-you/

I had a ten years break in riding,too. All kinds of stupid excuses. Started again @ 55 and now @ 57 I feel I have it back. For good.

[jlm223]

2013 Harley Davidson Street Glide it's the 103, I have had it two years, ride when I can!

[15meter]

Stlii ride, 09 Sportster, I've got 15 more years of riding to beat the old man's record. He quit at 78. Left knee wore out and he couldn't get on anymore.

He never owned a bike, but around the farm when there was a choice between my motorcycle and the pickup the motorcycle got used.

I always left the key in it "just in case"

Don't think my mother knew about it or she would have gone ballistic.

[elk hunter]

I started riding a BSA 125 about 1958 or 1959. Sold my last of many bike's, an 1100 Goldwing, in 2015 after a garage fire left it sitting outside all summer. I had been riding Honda's since the early to mid 60's when I traded in my 1952 Harley on the first Honda 305 Super-HawK, the cafe style race bike, the local dealer was putting it together when I walked in. WOW! what a revelation, no shake or rattle, easy to start every time, just get on and ride. I like the idea of riding but the reality is I really shouldn't even consider it. Age has a way of adjusting our priority's.

[KenH]

I take my Brough Superior out as often as I can!
You don't happen to own one of the original bikes do you? I had never heard of Brough Superior before you mentioned them. I've spent the last hour reading - fassinating. OR, do you perhaps own the current production of SS100? 102 hp and only 410 lb - that thing should a trip to ride.

I rode most of my life, with the last 25 yrs on a Goldwing putting an average of 20,000+ miles/yr on the bike as basic transportation. I finally sold my bike at 72 yr of age due to bad knee and back issues.

[lightman]

I used to ride and race dirt bikes. I never got real interested in riding on the street. I used to ride one of several of my friends bikes down the highway and back about once a year and that seemed to scratch any itch I might have had for getting back into riding. Between my friends I rode about 4 different Harley's and 2 or 3 different Hondas and one Ducati. That thing was scary fast! My MS has pretty much stopped all of that.

[Gtrubicon]

I’m a dirt rider, I ride a ktm 525

[snowwolfe]

Been riding since 1973. Current rides are a 2018 V Strom 1000 and a 2019 Kawasaki Z400. Always owned bigger, heavier, fast bikes.
Remember those days when you buzzed around on a small light bike? Something that was pretty quick and handled great while being easy to move around and it got fantastic fuel mileage? My other ride is a 2018 V Strom 1000 all decked out with hard bags. Great for road trips or for running to the grocery store and plenty of power. But it lacks some of the fun factor I was after.
Was cruising craigslist last month and found a 2019 Kawasaki ABS Z400 with 58 miles and 10 months of warranty remaining. Dealer described it as perfect condition without a scratch. Called him up and placed a deposit on it and finally picked it up last week. Cost me $3,500. This bike is a hoot! Has a 12,000 redline so you can actually run through the gears without worrying about going to jail. It is a twin cylinder and has 44 hp. Handles like its on rails and sips gas. Seems to be a great fit for my 67 year old 5'10 frame. Shifter and brakes are right where they need to be. Could use a better windscreen and one is on order. A softer seat would also be nice. St Farm charges me $20 every 6 months for liability coverage.
If you get a chance to go back to small, try it, its a blast.

[Digger]

Various street bikes thru the years, mostly twisty mountain roads ... loved them.
Really enjoyed the riding style as I still have a small scar on my knee from leaning just a bit too far once and never hurt the bike.
still have a 79 honda CX 500 sitting in the shed from back when .
As stated in some of the others here , more people on their cell phones these days with more careless driving makes the mountain roads more dangerous .
Forgotten how many times I have encountered over the line drifters while in my truck.

[Finster101]

"If you get a chance to go back to small, try it, its a blast. "

I also have a 93 Fatboy that I just finished building a motor for. It's quick and light compared to my bagger, a entirely different riding experience.

[Nobade]

I spent most of yesterday in the woods on my trials bike. We're not allowed to have any events so far this year so woods riding is about all that's available. But it makes me happy and is a really good workout. Still commute by bike when it's warm enough despite being run over last fall. At least it was cold when I was healing so I didn't miss much riding!

[Bulldogger]

I take my Brough Superior out as often as I can!

Seriously???!!!

Fine ride. Still have the total loss oiling?

Bulldogger

[WILCO]

https://ridermagazine.com/2020/04/03/to-ride-or-not-to-ride-that-is-the-question/


I do,I decided to devote all summer for riding while I still can. Nobody knows what's coming.

Yes. I ride. Have logged 1,076 miles this season.
Not knowing what the future holds, I decided to cram in as much as I can.

[dangitgriff]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200510/32447ad70fdfec412f182c198bfbe2ce.jpg

[Ural Driver]

Me and my Momma.....


261919

[gnostic]

I'm still riding a 2004 600rr Honda I bought new. I've made some changes like an inverted fork with 320mm rotors and Racetech springs for 180 lb. rider, geared it down, two up in the back and one down in front with aluminum sprocket and 520 z-link chain, Power Commander, full Yoshi exhaust without catalytic converter. It weighs 378 lbs. wet and was mapped in Las Vegas at Racers Edge, it makes 117HP. As of yet, I haven't been shot out of a cannon, but I'm guessing it feels like my bike at 11k rpm. This bike is made for a 1% rider....

[Petander]

"If you get a chance to go back to small, try it, its a blast. "

.

Well yeah,my wife has a Kawi ER-6n. Really nimble and nice little twin. I did oil change and basic maintenance,after the test drive I couldn't hold my horses any more and called about a 2000 Kawi ZX-12r Ninja. Need for speed. Sold a nice Benelli shotgun...

Had it for two weeks 1500 miles now,I'm all smile. My past with several crotch rockets gives no mercy,I tried easy cruising and got my first Road King last year... it is a -99,a fine bike but I need the occasional acceleration rush... Living in the woods I also dirt bike with an old Africa Twin.

[Spooksar]

2010 Victory Jackpot and a 2005 Kawasaki 800 Vulcan that doesn’t get ridden much, both my boys learned how to ride on it.

[abunaitoo]

During this lock down, all I've been riding is my butt in this chair.
But I do sneak out once in a while.

Long, long time ago, I did have a Yamaha RD 400.

[gwrench]

I've had a lot of bikes over the years. Dirt bikes to begin with and street bikes in the last 20 or more. The last was a Triumph Tiger. I like them all but have come to terms with being a fixer, not really a rider. I only buy neglected and forgotten stuff for cheap. It's fun to get them going again and have a little thrill but I soon lose interest.

I need the project, not the item itself. Once it's up and going I sell and start looking again.

[Petrol & Powder]

Throughout my life I have been in and out of motorcycle phases. I'm currently in a no motorcycle phase. As much as I like motorcycles, they are often impractical as primary vehicles. In an urban environment a small motorcycle can be an excellent commuting tool. You can park it almost anywhere, they use very little fuel and weather isn't as big of a factor on a short ride. I have used motorcycles as a commuting vehicle but for the most part, they are toys.
The number of bad drivers in our country is staggering. Many drivers are incapable of devoting even minimal attention to the task of driving and when you add texting behavior, they become downright deadly. The current texting while driving situation is a serious concern for all motorcyclists.

[justashooter]

suzuki boulevard series. very stable and reliable easy riding road bikes much more economical than a harley. the S40 i ride year round is just highway capable, but more of an in-town bike. very simple and inexpensive, and easy in parking lots. ideal to cut your teeth on.

[adcoch1]

09 Suzuki vstrom 1000 is my touring and weather warrior bike. Used to co.mute on it. Before that had a 1500 goldwing for a little while. Had tons of beater bikes over the years, seems like I buy barely runnin junk and get it going good, sometimes even looking nice, then sell it to fund something else. The vstrom isn't going anywhere though. The other bike is a 75 honda xl175 street tracker project. Looking for a modern trail bike or moto bike to ride with my son. Got him a 50 2 summers ago and just got him an xr80. The next daughter down is 5 and is already asking about pink plastics for the 50..

[Iron Whittler]

Yep. I still ride. Been riding a little over 50 yrs. Currently have a 2015 Can Am Spyder RT Limited with semi auto trans. Rode Yamaha, Norton's, Goldwing's, and H D. Had the Spyder out Sat. Got to say the reverse is nice. Just have to keep a close eye on the loose nuts holding the steering wheels!!!

[nvbirdman]

I ride a 2013 Harley Softail Heritage. Don't do much highway riding at my age (76). As soon as things open up a little more I have to take my grandson to a motorcycle training course. One of my daughters also rides.

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

I put tens of thousands of miles on this, but it's now owned by someone else.
160744

I've owned over a dozen bikes over the years, now I only have one left.
227317

[skrapyard628]

Last year was given a scooter and have been cruising around town on it. Its an Aprilia Sportcity 250 that the previous owner upgraded a few things on. I get the normal scooter rider jokes from by buddies but its still fun to tool around town or run a few errands with it.

[Finster101]

Last year was given a scooter and have been cruising around town on it. Its an Aprilia Sportcity 250 that the previous owner upgraded a few things on. I get the normal scooter rider jokes from by buddies but its still fun to tool around town or run a few errands with it.


I used to do a "See The Keys On Your Hands And Knees" trip to Key West every year. Could be anywhere from 10 to 20 of us. We would all rent scooters when we got there and then tour the island on Saturday in parade formation wear our usual attire vests, boots and doo rags. We got quite a few looks. Good times.

[Ickisrulz]

2019 CRF250L that I ride around on the secondary and back roads for fun and then hit the trails with my son who has a CRF125F.

We have a 2018 Slingshot too.

[rbuck351]

I started riding at 16 yrs old on a Honda c110, big 50cc. Moved up to a 250 Honda Hawk, then a 250 Ducati scrambler. Started working as a mechanic in a Honda/Kawasaki shop at 18 until about 25 and rode and raced dirt track and cross country on smaller bikes 100/125 class. Had one of the second year Kawasaki 500 H1 triples that stock would do 13.2 quarter mile. Had several other small Hondas for dirt riding and a Kawasaki 100 built for flat track. Got married and stopped racing and found a CB500 4cyl that had been crashed into the back of a station wagon. Straightened the frame and the forks and rode it for a few years. Moved to Alaska for 32 years and just kept the wifes Honda TL 125. Retired 4 years ago moved to north west Montana and bought the bike I have wanted for a long time. A 93 BMW r1100rs. It is quiet, smooth. trouble free, handles like a small bike and a lot faster than I would have thought.

The roads around Eureka are made for motorcycles. I haven't had it out a lot this spring as SWMBO has kept me busy too much. A few short runs to the grocery store and a few 20/25 mile rides taking the long way home so far but I'm only 71 now and I'm getting caught up on honeydos from our move to MT.

Summer is close and traffic is light away from the bigger cities so maybe the boss lady will cut me loose for a ride to Libby then Kalispell and back to Eureka. Should be a fun ride at a bit over 200 miles.

But yep I ride and won't quit until they scrape me off the pavement or I can't throw a leg over any more.

[Lloyd Smale]

The last Harley left about 10 years ago. Side by side went too because like Idaho guy I just rarely used it. Ive got a 4 wheeler for camp and for the most part if im playing its in my wrangler. Its got heat, air conditioning and I can take it to the grocery store or through the mud holes.

[Nazgul]

2016 Indian Chief Dark Horse. Love it.

Don

[Nazgul]

261997

Don

[dragon813gt]

I bought a new Harley and a few weeks later took a job that has me traveling five days a week. Had two kids between then and now as well. The bike has around 380 miles on it. It’s paid off, losing value and just sitting in the garage. I dropped insurance almost immediately because I just don’t have the time to ride. Complete waste of money is what it was. I’d maybe take it out if it didn’t ride so bad. I always said I’d never buy a Harley and I should have stuck to it.

[Petander]

My riding has been 95% crotch rockets 5% dirt for decades.

I had a 10+ years break,luckily saw the light again and got my first Harley just last summer. It was a difficult adjustment, basically a state of mind -thing. I thought I'll sell it but got it built better instead, Progressive Monotube forks and rear shocks,for example.

Now that I also have a crotch rocket and a dirt bike, I enjoy cruising with my -99 Road King very much. My mind is not my 57 years of age...

https://i.postimg.cc/KjsfT7T2/IMG-20200512-202127-825.jpg

[Smoke4320]

in 1970 bought a Bridgestone 100. Had dual sprockets 1 for trails/climbing and 1 for street
Pic is a Bridgestone 175 . exactly the same except for the sprockets and engine size
262128
since then had numerous trail and street bikes. my favorites were Road glide for big bike and a Honda 550 super sport 4 in 1 for mid size

[Mohawk Daddy]

First experience with motorized two wheelers was on a high school buddies Simplex 125 in 61. Got my own Norton 500 single in 64 and was lucky to survive that one. Had a few others up till 75 when family and career interfered. Long hiatus of 35 years. Got a 91 Kawasaki Concours 1000 ten years ago. Still put around town on it and use it for running errands in summer: groceries, bank, post office, etc. They're still fun to me but you have to keep alert even at town speeds.

[Idaho45guy]

Just ordered a half windshield for this yesterday. Girlfriend seemed to get pelted by bugs and rocks in the chest area every time we went riding last year. I told her it was because they had a large target(s)...

Had one good day this week, then rain and thunderstorms the rest. Maybe next week I can take it out.

262141

[Lloyd Smale]

I remember when I was a kid my dads neighbor had a 250 bridgestone. He was in the air force and was sent overseas tad for a year and left his bike in my dads garage. I spent hours just sitting on that bike. Thought it was about the coolest thing in the world.
in 1970 bought a Bridgestone 100. Had dual sprockets 1 for trails/climbing and 1 for street
Pic is a Bridgestone 175 . exactly the same except for the sprockets and engine size
262128
since then had numerous trail and street bikes. my favorites were Road glide for big bike and a Honda 550 super sport 4 in 1 for mid size

[Petander]

I find books like this one essential for survival. Especially when you have a long snowy winter with lots of car driving. Driving really messes up the motorcycle reflexes.

https://i.postimg.cc/43GwynzN/IMG-20200501-005303.jpg


https://i.postimg.cc/BQqqTC4x/IMG-20200430-214805-881.jpg

[Mohawk Daddy]

Petander: that's an outstanding riding outfit. And I really like the looks of that winding road that disappears into the woods. But I don't understand the extra gas can. What is that, 20 liters, 30? You don't really carry that do you?

[Finster101]

I think the gas can may be the results of an OOOPs.

[Petander]

I think the gas can may be the results of an OOOPs.

That's correct. :)



Petander: that's an outstanding riding outfit..

Thanks - I do prefer leather track-style suits but now still being cold weather with possible rain ... modern stuff is just very good.

[sigep1764]

Is that a ZX12R???


I find books like this one essential for survival. Especially when you have a long snowy winter with lots of car driving. Driving really messes up the motorcycle reflexes.

https://i.postimg.cc/43GwynzN/IMG-20200501-005303.jpg


https://i.postimg.cc/BQqqTC4x/IMG-20200430-214805-881.jpg

[45workhorse]

Went from a 650 Suzuki in 86, no riding at all to a 2003 Road King in 2019, just a slight difference! Best way to clear your mind ever. Even with all the mobile phone booths, all over the road!

[Petander]

Is that a ZX12R???

Yes it is. My second one, the original 2000 with full power :) . Talking about ZX:s, I have had two ZX-9R:s (-98 and -03)and an old (-89) ZX-10,too.

Adjusting to a Road King after all the Ninjas is... interesting.

[tinsnips]

Goldwings for years,dirt bikes when i was younger,yesterday i bought a CanAM defender 1000 Lonestar easy to give grand kids rides in.

[Finster101]

Yes it is. My second one, the original 2000 with full power :) . Talking about ZX:s, I have had two ZX-9R:s (-98 and -03)and an old (-89) ZX-10,too.

Adjusting to a Road King after all the Ninjas is... interesting.


The Road King has to be a little easier on the back for longer rides. Definitely two different styles of riding. I have a friend with 3 Ducati's and while its fun to go out on a shorter, spirited ride on one every now and then, I'll take my Roadglide if I'm going to do a 6 or 7 hundred mile day.

[sigep1764]

Ive had one Cruiser style bike and it was an adjustment. Good grunt down low but tapering off very quickly. Getting used to the front end wanting to flop side to side took time and muscle. Put 30k miles on that bike before going back to a sportier ride and have stuck with those. We will see what the future holds. Always wanted one of each style, cruiser and sport bikes, in the garage at the same time.

[Petander]

Always wanted one of each style, cruiser and sport bikes, in the garage at the same time.

I'm at three now. A RK, a Ninja and a -95 Africa Twin, low prices,low insurance costs. Lots of fun in the woods. Good sports!

I'm still not sure whether I NEED a cruiser at all but time will tell. I may not be old enough yet. (spell "grown up")

But any bike is better than no bike at all.

https://i.postimg.cc/d3Pp4M1V/130820194697.jpg

[Rapidrob]

I ride trail scooters in the rocky Mountains off NM. With hundreds and hundreds of miles of trails in the state you can spend hours exploring the forest and desert lands.
I have restored/upgraded several trail scooters from the late 50's to 2005 to ride. The rides are a good work out for me and the bikes as the Rocky Mountains are appropriately names.
Here is one of the vids I did riding my 2005 Hawg-Ty that I have added electronics to for GPS,cell phone charging and lights.
With the tires inflated to 5 PSI and a TAV added ( torque converter belt drive) the bike will climb just about any trail I have encountered so far.
With the stay at home order in place, the library's are closed which have access to very high speed internet. I have several more vids that I cannot upload in a timely manner due to the slow internet at my place.

1960 Trail King. Two speed oil filled transmission-500 pound cargo capacity-used in its day for Uranium prospecting.
[/url]262318

Heathkit Hilltopper 1971. Wide tires,low pressure great in sand and climbing boulders. Geared 10:1
262319


Hawg-Ty in Coyote Canyon,NM
[url]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BocznN5ZefM&t=44s
[url]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BocznN5ZefM&t=44s

[Nobade]

Neat! I never knew trail scooters was a thing. Looks like fun. My ride this weekend...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200518/3467cf4b91d98c555935a73ba3b7ed54.jpg

[mac60]

OK - just got back from the dealership. Just bought a Harley XL1200NS Sportster. My current ride is a Kawasaki VN1500. This is my first HD. Plenty of low end torque, just enough power and good mileage. It's pouring down rain, so I didn't ride it home - I'll pick it up tomorrow after work.

[Idaho45guy]

I'm at three now. A RK, a Ninja and a -95 Africa Twin, low prices,low insurance costs. Lots of fun in the woods. Good sports!

I'm still not sure whether I NEED a cruiser at all but time will tell. I may not be old enough yet. (spell "grown up")

But any bike is better than no bike at all.

https://i.postimg.cc/d3Pp4M1V/130820194697.jpg

Ooh! The Africa Twin is an amazing bike! I nearly pulled the trigger on a V-Strom but secretly lusted after the Africa Twin. I owned a Suzuki DR-650 for a couple of years but it was too dirt oriented for anything other than zipping around town or the woods.

[Idaho45guy]

OK - just got back from the dealership. Just bought a Harley XL1200NS Sportster. My current ride is a Kawasaki VN1500. This is my first HD. Plenty of low end torque, just enough power and good mileage. It's pouring down rain, so I didn't ride it home - I'll pick it up tomorrow after work.

Congratulations! I've only owned one Harley; a `97(?) Road King. I got it cheap and took it straight to the HD dealer for a total fluid change and changing of anything it needed to make it perfect. $1200 bill. Rode it for 2-3 years without any issues. It was a great bike.

[Petander]

I ride trail scooters in the rocky Mountains off NM. With hundreds and hundreds of miles of trails in the state you can spend hours exploring the forest and desert lands.
I have restored/upgraded several trail scooters from the late 50's to 2005 to ride. The rides are a good work out for me and the bikes as the Rocky Mountains are appropriately names.
Here is one of the vids I did riding my 2005 Hawg-Ty that I have added electronics to for GPS,cell phone charging and lights.
With the tires inflated to 5 PSI and a TAV added ( torque converter belt drive) the bike will climb just about any trail I have encountered so far.
With the stay at home order in place, the library's are closed which have access to very high speed internet. I have several more vids that I cannot upload in a timely manner due to the slow internet at my place.

1960 Trail King. Two speed oil filled transmission-500 pound cargo capacity-used in its day for Uranium prospecting.
[/url]262318

Heathkit Hilltopper 1971. Wide tires,low pressure great in sand and climbing boulders. Geared 10:1
262319


Hawg-Ty in Coyote Canyon,NM
[url]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BocznN5ZefM&t=44s
[url]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BocznN5ZefM&t=44s

Very interesting , thanks for sharing!

World economy (and brand popularity) are so very strange things, where I live 20+ year old 60+ k miles touring Harleys run @ 10 k USD and up. But you can find 30 k miles Ninjas & Africa Twins for 1500.

I'm waiting for a better weather for my first ever Road King Twin Cam oil change,got all the tools,filters,gaskets and seven quarts of Amsoil ready. Compared to jap bikes,this is going to be different. Need to take a look at those tensioners,too.

[Finster101]

Petander, do yourself a favor and get the updated oil pump, cam plate and tensioners for the Road King. A relatively easy change if your a bit mechanical and will take the worry of the lousy spring tensioners out of the equation. Feel free to PM me if you would like.

[panhed65]

I have ridden the same 1965 FLH for well over 30 years, don't really remember exactly. several before that, still have a 63 model G servicar. not ridden much last 2 years due to people and their cell phones. things are not what they once were. still ride the atv's nearly every day here at the house, miles of trails.
Barry

[Biggin]

Late to this party. Still got my 09 klr 650 probably run it until I quit or it quits. Don't ride as much as I used to due to work and pure laziness. Sold my Raider a couple years ago wishing I had that one back. Might buy mr a Harley or something some day.

[Petander]

Petander, do yourself a favor and get the updated oil pump, cam plate and tensioners for the Road King. A relatively easy change if your a bit mechanical and will take the worry of the lousy spring tensioners out of the equation. Feel free to PM me if you would like.

Thank you Finster,

I think I'll let professionals take a look inside and then decide between A) a new pump and a hydraulic tensioner system or B) get rid of chains altogether and go with sprockets and new cams etc...

Peace of mind

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

Ooh! The Africa Twin is an amazing bike! I nearly pulled the trigger on a V-Strom but secretly lusted after the Africa Twin. I owned a Suzuki DR-650 for a couple of years but it was too dirt oriented for anything other than zipping around town or the woods.

How come I never heard of the Africa Twin ?
Looks awesome.

[Idaho45guy]

How come I never heard of the Africa Twin ?
Looks awesome.

Yeah, they are sexy and capable bikes, but a bit spendy at $15k to $20k for new ones...

262430

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

Yeah, they are sexy and capable bikes, but a bit spendy at $15k to $20k for new ones...

262430

I did a bit a research last night after posting. Seems they weren't imported to USA until '16 or '17.
I'm not sure what to think of these new 1000 and/or 1100cc engines in that style of bike.
But the 650 and 750 that were made 10 to 20 years ago sound interesting...but none in USA :(

There are 3 of the 1000cc bikes listed for sale near me. one is advertised as NEW 2017 model (60 miles on ODO) for $9k

[Finster101]

I did a bit a research last night after posting. Seems they weren't imported to USA until '16 or '17.
I'm not sure what to think of these new 1000 and/or 1100cc engines in that style of bike.
But the 650 and 750 that were made 10 to 20 years ago sound interesting...but none in USA :(

There are 3 of the 1000cc bikes listed for sale near me. one is advertised as NEW 2017 model (60 miles on ODO) for $9k


I have a good friend with one of the newer ones. I can't say I know that much about them but he loves it and has had it for a couple of years now. He bought it in Mich. flew up and rode it back.

[petroid]

Used to ride. Hit a deer doing about 80. Wasn't pretty for me, the bike, or the deer, but I walked away. Deer ended up in my freezer. Fixed the bike and sold it. Figured that was my cue to bow out. Careful riding can eliminate a lot but not all accidents and you just don't have much protection on a bike.

[Petander]

I have touched a whitetail's tail once while on a Ninja...

I haven't ridden or even touched the new Africa Twin,it has much more power than the old one. Here you can get ten old ones for the price of one new, I"m on my second old one now. Enjoy it a lot.

Back to Road King : it got Progressive Monotube front and Progressive 412 rear suspension last year. New Metzelers. I like my vehicles safe. At that point I didn't know about the Twin Cam tensioner problems... I might have passed the whole bike,had I known that there's nothing documented about those tensioners in otherwise good service history booklet.

I'm learning to like the easy laziness,cruising around with no destination. The floorboards are still a bit scary, I do scratch the tarmac every now and then...

[Meatpuppet]

BMW K1600GTLE - Just got back from 4 days riding Deals Gap and surrounding area in TN. Empty roads, great weather, local shops open.... It was epic!

Always stay at the Cherohala Mountain Trails Campground (https://cmtrails.com) in Tellico Plains......

[osteodoc08]

I’ve had several bikes over the years. My last 2 were a Yamaha metric cruiser and a Kawi ZX-14R street bruiser. That’s been my favorite bike. I can see me traveling on a nice HD street glide after the kids are out of the house and having a Kawi Concourse for longer travels.

[sav300]

Ok Ok, I confess, bought myself a 2013 cam-am spyder ltd edition.
Cause it has foot-boards and does not hurt my arthritic feet.
After owning bmw`s for years.

[snowwolfe]

I plan on buying one of these when they hit the states:
https://www.rideapart.com/articles/405943/honda-ct125-hunter-cub-overview/

Dual range transmission, should make a great bike to travel the woods after installing decent tires.

[Nobade]

I plan on buying one of these when they hit the states:
https://www.rideapart.com/articles/405943/honda-ct125-hunter-cub-overview/

Dual range transmission, should make a great bike to travel the woods after installing decent tires.Doesn't look like it'll get the dual range, but with the bigger FI 125 and current low first gear it'll likely not need it. And there's a ton of hop up stuff out there for that Grom motor so you can make it rather interesting if you choose too. I also have my eye on one if we get them here.

[osteodoc08]

Ok Ok, I confess, bought myself a 2013 cam-am spyder ltd edition.
Cause it has foot-boards and does not hurt my arthritic feet.
After owning bmw`s for years.

I rode one of those and understand the allure. Still waiting to tryout the slingshot.

[snowwolfe]

I’ve had several bikes over the years. My last 2 were a Yamaha metric cruiser and a Kawi ZX-14R street bruiser. That’s been my favorite bike. I can see me traveling on a nice HD street glide after the kids are out of the house and having a Kawi Concourse for longer travels.

The ZX14 is soooooo tempting. Owned a 2012 Concours and it was pretty quick. I bet the 14 is on a whole other level. Been watching the used classifieds looking for a late model Concours, ZX14, or 2019 or newer Versys 1000.

[Chad5005]

I rode until oct.28th 2007,a 20 year old came in my lane and hit me head on,sending my 97 H-D wide glide to the scrap yard and putting me in a wheelchair.i miss it sometimes,i had just made Sturgis,myrtle beach and biketober fest in Daytona that year,i had the wide glide,a 77 H-D FLH I had built out of a box and a 1200 Suzuki bandit at the time of the wreck

[Idaho45guy]

I rode one of those and understand the allure. Still waiting to tryout the slingshot.

I wouldn't buy anything made by or associated with Polaris. They are the Fiat-Chrysler of the motorsports world. Just garbage. I thought I got a great deal on a used Polaris Sportsman 500 ATV that a neighbor got from his elderly father. 1000 miles and still on original tires. I cleaned it up, had it serviced, and rode it a couple of times before I discovered that you couldn't cross creeks in it or go through mud holes because the belt would slip. Then was way out in the boonies one day going up a mountain and the belt started to go. Barely made it home.

If you go on a forum for Polaris products, there are endless threads about problems and typical issues that owners have.

I bought a Honda and have never had an issue.

Just yesterday I added a half-windshield and took it for a spin around town and was amazed at how much more comfortable it is to ride.

Honda owners spend their money on accessories while Polaris owners spend their money on repairs.

262786

[fastdadio]

Count me in. I'm just as passionate about riding as I am about my shooting sports. My dad, uncles and cousins all ride. I cracked my first throttle over 50 years ago on my cousins Lil Indian mini bike, and I was hooked for life. I got my cycle license endorsement in 1973 and have owned motorcycles ever since.
I read quite a few comments above about the burger munchin, cell phone yappers leading folks to make the decision to quit riding, and I agree, it's worse now than it ever was. I ride on and off road, and as the years go by, I find myself riding less and less pavement, to the point I am seriously considering selling my road bike. I will always have my trail bikes though, and the older I get, I'll just get lighter smaller ones.
Here's a couple of mine;
262797
262798

[smilin jack]

Yep, started riding at 14 and still riding motorbikes when I'm on the high side of 70.

Solo 6 week Alaska ride in 2016. Stopped a week on way up to visit grand kids in Canada.
Stayed a month on my brother's couch in Homer AK to go deep sea fishing on his charter boat.

My 2006 Suzuki DR650 made the trip just fine. Wore out the front tire and the drive chain. Replaced front tire in Homer, and the drive chain in Whitehorse, Yukon on the way home. 8500 mile trip. Bike is still going at 91000 miles.
Smilin Jack on ADVrider.com

[Idaho45guy]

Yep, started riding at 14 and still riding motorbikes when I'm on the high side of 70.

Solo 6 week Alaska ride in 2016. Stopped a week on way up to visit grand kids in Canada.
Stayed a month on my brother's couch in Homer AK to go deep sea fishing on his charter boat.

My 2006 Suzuki DR650 made the trip just fine. Wore out the front tire and the drive chain. Replaced front tire in Homer, and the drive chain in Whitehorse, Yukon on the way home. 8500 mile trip. Bike is still going at 91000 miles.
Smilin Jack on ADVrider.com

That's awesome! I couldn't go more than 10 miles on my DR650 without my prostate going numb.

[snowwolfe]

Picked this up yesterday. Kawasaki 2020 Z900. Tried real hard to like the Z400 I bought recently but it just didn't put much of a smile on my face after a few miles of riding. This should wake me up!

[sigep1764]

Had a 2017 Z900, first brand new thing I have ever bought. It is a fantastic machine. ECO mode allows 80mph cruising and almost 50mpg. Power wheelies on command and its designed to be Sat In, Not On. I never felt perched on the seat like I did on my CBR. Some drug dealer stole it after a year of ownership. He was caught and has been in jail since.

[Thundarstick]

I had to absolutely make myself NOT buy a a Z900RS!

Honda NC750X, I put in 300 miles yesterday visiting a son in one town, and grandchildren in another.

[Petander]

I took the windshield off my Road King,much better. I got fed up with buffeting.

Wind buffeting can really get you, now it's all "naked&normal". The whole bike feels more relaxed now. I think this will be good for me in terms of speed... to find that relaxed cruising mindset I'm after. Kawi ZX is another world...

A white helmet wouldn't be bad... heck there are crazy blind people out there driving cars.


https://i.postimg.cc/3RGtWTVB/IMG-20200610-WA0000.jpg

[fastdadio]

I have a quick detach windshield for my Sportster. I get crazy buffeting when I wear my full face helmet, and almost none at all with my 3/4 helmet. So I just switch helmets. I only use my windshield for long/multi day trips, or if I expect bad weather and then wear the 3/4. Most day trips and commuting, I wear the full face. Works for me.
263494

[Petander]

https://i.postimg.cc/4xptN7nM/IMG-20200725-231539-859.jpg

https://i.postimg.cc/KvM3Jk7z/IMG-20200725-231435-819.jpg

[Chihuahua Floyd]

Picked up a Suzuki C-50 last week. First bike in over 35 years. Already been cut off and run into curb. Plan for it to be my daily driver as long as not raining or need to carry something.
CF

[MT Gianni]

That's awesome! I couldn't go more than 10 miles on my DR650 without my prostate going numb.

First mod on the DR was a new seat. Then I strengthened the handle bars and put a windshield on it. I am considering stopping riding as at age 66 I need to spend more time with my grandkids than by myself.

[KCSO]

Sold my 26th bike this spring due to health issues. I wish I was riding now.

[Thundarstick]

A buddy and I put in 415 miles Friday in Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and a little nibble of Illinois. I'm loving it!

[Elpatoloco]

Been riding my whole life.

Currently 3 bikes in the stable

1967 Honda 305 scrambler
1998 Harley FXDL
2014 Harley FXDF

[fast ronnie]

I still ride, but not on the street. I race a Top Fuel Dragbike. Got a race coming up in three weeks, but don't know if I'll get new pistons in time. I hurt some parts at Samoa dragstrip a couple of weeks ago.

[abunaitoo]

I did ride back in the 90's
Yamaha RD400.
2 stroke
Wasn't all that fast, but it was quick.
Driving a car here is bad enough, those on bikes are really in danger.
I miss that rice burner.

[robg]

started in a field at 15 rode to work for 40 years in all weather went on winter rallies .stopped a couple of years ago when i hurt my back at work .haven't missed winter riding .like to have an off road bike just for fun.started on BSA with right foot change the jap stuff with left foot change ,finished up in a triumph dealer.

[fiberoptik]

I did ride back in the 90's
Yamaha RD400.
2 stroke
Wasn't all that fast, but it was quick.
Driving a car here is bad enough, those on bikes are really in danger.
I miss that rice burner.

Had one with a race engine in 86? Saw a pretty face and decided to pop a wheelie for her. Bike stood straight up for 3 gears. Scared the crap [emoji90] out of me. No more wheelies. Had a 900 Ninja, 86 Yamaha fz750, & a Kawi Gpz1100 built for road racing. Took the 1100 on a trip from Yuma,Az. to Cardif by the sea, Ca. My average speed was 175. I liked that bike.
Was run into and robbed in August 84 on the way to propose. Knocked into the 3 ft. wall, saw my knee hit & left a red streak. Ambulance driver found the kneecap 30 ft. away. The Army hospital shot me full of morphine and waited for me to die. 3 days later they put my kneecap back in. I walked out of hospital in 2 weeks. I still carry El Paso gravel in my back. In 88 I was hit again. Flew 50’, slid 50 yards. Lost most skin from forearms. I stopped riding in 89. Still have FZ750 & GPZ1100 in garage in Michigan. They need some work but I’m no mechanic. If I rode like I had a bullseye [emoji457] on me & was hit twice BEFORE CELLPHONES [emoji336] I can’t imagine trying it now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Russel A]

Learned to ride on an old Yamaha DT360 many years ago.
Current bikes are as follows.
2008 FXSTC
2006 SPORTSTER
2001 BUELL CYCLONE

[Petander]

I just made a big mistake,trying out a -17 KTM 1090 Adventure R. I had it for three days...

It's good to have old friends working at bike stores,eh? Dang,this would be my bike #15 I think... definitely one of the best.

https://i.postimg.cc/xj7f0d7m/IMG-20200804-075055-394.jpg

https://i.postimg.cc/SRGHYDdj/IMG-20200804-075851-678.jpg

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

>>>SNIP

It's good to have old friends working at bike stores,eh?

https://i.postimg.cc/xj7f0d7m/IMG-20200804-075055-394.jpg

I love your Photos :)
Looks like an awesome Bike

[Ozark mike]

82 gl1100 standard with a few mods done over the years original engine with about 250000 miles even rode it thru a few winters had to wrap rope around the tires when the goin got slippery still get comments on that at the grocery store and whatnot

[Cosmic_Charlie]

I'm on my second Suzuki DL1000 VStrom. Got a left over 2014 in 2016 for $7500. Had it out to Tacoma WA a couple years back. Run a lot of gravel roads on it too. Been riding for 45 years and don't plan to give it up any time soon.

[AK Caster]

I'm on my second Suzuki DL1000 VStrom. Got a left over 2014 in 2016 for $7500. Had it out to Tacoma WA a couple years back. Run a lot of gravel roads on it too. Been riding for 45 years and don't plan to give it up any time soon.

I own a 2018 model. Most comfortable bike I ever ridden on the highway and that includes the 2 Wings I owned. I did have the front seat redone. This winter plan on changing the rear sprocket as the gearing is to high. Cant use 6th gear till 70mph.

[Cosmic_Charlie]

I own a 2018 model. Most comfortable bike I ever ridden on the highway and that includes the 2 Wings I owned. I did have the front seat redone. This winter plan on changing the rear sprocket as the gearing is to high. Cant use 6th gear till 70mph.

Because they set them up so lean I did intake, fueling and exhaust mods on mine. Left the stock header and cat. Runs turbine smooth and really pulls. Lost some mpg but it was worth it. When I ride longer gravel I take the tire pressure down to 28 psi. Really settles the front end down. The V Strom is a marvelous all rounder.

[AK Caster]

Never had an issue with how mine runs. Motor is great. I average just over 50 mpg and run it pretty hard. All it needs a regearing change via the rear sprocket.

[Petander]

I love your Photos :)
Looks like an awesome Bike

Thank you - those KTM:s are good bikes imo. Lots of different models.

Here is my Guzzi California 1400, I tried a simple fuel mix fix, a cheap little device called Booster Plug. It works very well, I'm getting noticeably more power and torque - and using more fuel.

This is a nice nimble sporty cruiser with a modern personality, good to have more oomph.

https://i.postimg.cc/G2p34mM6/IMG-20200815-203142-095.jpg

[Butzbach]

R
I started riding a BSA 125 about 1958 or 1959. Sold my last of many bike's, an 1100 Goldwing, in 2015 after a garage fire left it sitting outside all summer. I had been riding Honda's since the early to mid 60's when I traded in my 1952 Harley on the first Honda 305 Super-HawK, the cafe style race bike, the local dealer was putting it together when I walked in. WOW! what a revelation, no shake or rattle, easy to start every time, just get on and ride. I like the idea of riding but the reality is I really shouldn't even consider it. Age has a way of adjusting our priority's.

My Dad had a ‘62 305 Dream when we were growing up. I rode in front on the tank. Good times!

[Ozark mike]

I was looking at a dream here a while back. Boy are those things expensive anymore good bikes tho

[Butzbach]

I was looking at a dream here a while back. Boy are those things expensive anymore good bikes tho

I know you won’t want to hear this but he offered it to my uncle for $1.00 in the mid 80s. My uncle was touring with his wife on matched Goldwings so he wasn’t interested! My Dad had a Honda 500 four at the time. He never road the Dream and needed the space it was taking up. He sold it eventually but I don’t recall the price. It was black with a red seat.