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Not Riding Much - Need Advice

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Old Aug 10, 2008 | 05:43 PM
  #21  
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Ugly Troll
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Met a couple about 2 years ago on a trike. Talked to them about it as I'm thinking ahead a few years when I don't feel comfortable anymore on 2 wheels. He was a bit older, had health issues just about like you describe, and it was his reason for going trike. They both loved it! Says he rides way more now than he ever did on 2 wheels......they travel all over the country and the weather doesn't get in the way as much as it would with 2 wheels. Trike! I agree it's the way for you.
 
Old Aug 10, 2008 | 06:08 PM
  #22  
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# 1 for the trike! Enjoy them golden years "in the wind"
 
Old Aug 10, 2008 | 06:38 PM
  #23  
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My question is: have you done a rehab program for your arms and a strength program with weights. You seen to be saying "I;m old and can't do it anymore". I know, I went throught that with two knee surguries. You are not to old to do this if you want to. I'm 58, bad back, bad knee, and bad shoulder. I do weight training for strength, yoga for flexibility and ride everyday to build up my riding endurance. You have no control over 5 or 25 years in the end, only God does. By the way, I'm also a personal trainer so if you need a good program, let me know. Free to a brother rider.
 
Old Aug 10, 2008 | 06:50 PM
  #24  
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Thanks to all for the advice. I went to the HD dealer today, but no trikes have come in yet. I'll give them a look, but I'm biased to two wheels - I'm not real good at change.

The wife and I tried all the '08 models, but not many '09s arrived yet. I thought the Sportster might work for me, but after sitting on them I was surprised how much different the bike felt from my old Softail. I didn't fee that I could hold both of us on a tight turn at a stoplight. The Road King was my pre-visit favorite, but it is quite heavy and a stretch to the handlebars. I still love the look and the locking bags. I like the ability to add ABS brakes, but I would have to ride it to see if I can handle it - realistically, I'm not sure but it sure looked great. I don't fit the Fat Boy, too short, but the bars are well placed. Another attractive bike, just too long a reach to the bars. Yes, I could change them out, but I'm trying to find the best stock bike - that should allow any mods to be minor. The Street Glide is OK, but I'm not a big fan of fixed windshields - I also don't use a radio when I ride. Got on the Ultra just to try it - laughed out loud. My wife said the passenger seat is more comfortable than our couch - I agree.

I then tried a Dyna Low Rider, and it fit me pretty well. The rear seat wasn't quite as comfortable as some others, but that can be fixed. I took one for a ride and found it to be quite different from the Softail - a lot more "shake rattle and roll", not bad, just different. I also liked the added tach on the tank, a bit more information. Only major concern is storage - there is none. I could add bags and a windshield, but that puts me in the price category of other models.

Still looking, but the Dyna Low Rider is a strong choice as of now.

Thanks also for the metric advice. I've owned many brands over the years, and on all of the other forums if you even suggest a brand different from their own, people get nuts. It's a tribute to the HD forum members that you all try to help find the best solution, including other brands.

Great forum, great advice. Thanks to all.
 
Old Aug 10, 2008 | 07:52 PM
  #25  
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how about rent 1 for the weekend or a day and see what you like and what you can handle well
 
Old Aug 10, 2008 | 08:07 PM
  #26  
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I'd suggest taking a trike for a spin, you may just like it.
 
Old Aug 10, 2008 | 08:12 PM
  #27  
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my .02 cents... if you are looking for a "lower cost" harley go with the sporty. they are nice bikes (i dont believe the chick bike crap.)

as for the weight of a larger one, i ride a heritage and you get used to the weight.

if its a money thing... sporty is a great lower cost but high quality bike. the only reason dealers call them chick bikes is to get you to spend more $$. 800 or 1200 cc isnt chick anything
 
Old Aug 11, 2008 | 11:19 AM
  #28  
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Used, add a trike kit if needed. Saw a 1999 Fatty for $8500 today. Won't lose your a$$ if you end up selling.
 
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Old Aug 11, 2008 | 11:50 AM
  #29  
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Look at something with a sidecar I love the way I've seen a few of them done. If I have problems down the road that is what I plan on looking at
 
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