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New riding season is upon us in Montreal. I got the itch to get a new bike.
I think my needs changed. I've set it up for long rides; mustang seat, suspension and removable windshield, but last year I used it only once for pleasure, and the rest just commute to work. New girlfriend does not really like to ride. My mom crashed her touring bike and can't ride anymore.
Should I fight the itch? I mean, I really like the bike. But I also really want a naked bike. Something like a GSX 750, Ducati 797 or MT-09. Cant wrap my head around having a 1000cc bike as commuter.
"Trading up" is not an option. This bike is already at the top for me. I would not appreciate a big clumsy bike to ride in town. So my options with Harley are limited. But again, would a 400 pounds Italian beauty could really be better than this 550 pounds full metal, loud and obnoxious machine?
New riding season is upon us in Montreal. I got the itch to get a new bike.
I think my needs changed. I've set it up for long rides; mustang seat, suspension and removable windshield, but last year I used it only once for pleasure, and the rest just commute to work. New girlfriend does not really like to ride. My mom crashed her touring bike and can't ride anymore.
Should I fight the itch? I mean, I really like the bike. But I also really want a naked bike. Something like a GSX 750, Ducati 797 or MT-09. Cant wrap my head around having a 1000cc bike as commuter.
"Trading up" is not an option. This bike is already at the top for me. I would not appreciate a big clumsy bike to ride in town. So my options with Harley are limited. But again, would a 400 pounds Italian beauty could really be better than this 550 pounds full metal, loud and obnoxious machine?
Just look at this beauty
Opinions are welcomed.
I know what you mean and yes, that's a beautiful bike. When I sold my Street Bob I decided to go back to a naked bike like an MT-07 or 09. Almost did it until for the hell of it I test drove a consigned Roadster and couldn't resist. It's knowhere near as quick but getting away from Harley caused too much consternation....I cant explain it.
Now if $$ was no object ....a Ducati (I'm Italian you see) would have been an awesome second, third or first.
As far as a 1000 cc commuter, why the heck not, theres nothing like showing up at work with a big smile on your face and a partial chub. Sets the mood for the day dont you think 😁
i wanted a duck (the 916) going back to when i rode sport bikes back in the 90's, 2 years ago i finally had the chance to get one (not the 916) after looking at everything insurance, cost of maint. ect i bought a v rod. now i have a 1200c. i am glad i did not get the duck the v rod was faster then the sportster but not as useful of a bike.
I considered a Ducati Scrambler when they first came out, then I read up on European bikes.......the cost of maintaining one (even something as common as a Triumph or BMW) is too high......if you want that style of bike go Asian. Kawasaki makes a great commuter bike in the Versys series (300, 650 & 1000). I had a 15' 650 LT for three years before changing life style led me to a Sportster.
A 400lb Italian or even American, is not my idea of a beauty queen, LOL, but the Ducati motorcycle does look nice. And I don't even like the style of most newer bikes either.
As was said, in the end, its your wallet, and your butt. Do what makes both happy, and stay on 2 wheels. I wave at all riders. LOL ,last summer I was on my riding mower cutting a strip between my fence and the road. Its about 100yds long and about 15 adventure bikes came down the opposite side of the road. I gave them the 2 finger wave and everyone waved back.
I live in the hills and its 42 miles of winding road, so we see that a lot. Point is, you would still be riding. Till the government puts you on lockdown anyway. Of all the Adv bikes, I like the look of the KTM the most, but have heard real scary stories of regular interval service charges. I mean like $900+. Quite frankly adjusting the valves looks like it would be an all day job.
I also must add, that for me personally, any naked bike is a no-no. Bikes, trucks and cars, are utility vehicles, and if I cannot carry and lock up what I carry, then it serves very little purpose for me. I do not have the luxury of owning any vehicle that does no more than get me there. Thats just me.
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New riding season blues
