Biker Dash
Well-Known Member
It is pretty well known that I am a huge fan (almost rabid) of the 1st gen Yamaha V-Max. Have been since I was 12, when the bike first came out. It took me forever to finally get one, but I did.
After a few years on her, I have discovered that, just maybe, the V-Max is not the correct bike for me. Yes, it is pretty comfortable, and physically fits me well. It has all the power I need. (and then more) And it is one that moves my soul.
That being said, it is not the bike I am needing.
One of the biggest things about the V-Max is the sheer power of the bike, and how aggressively the power comes on. Seriously... There have been more than a few times when I was wishing for less power. Also, less aggressiveness from the engine in how it delivers its power would make for a more relaxed ride. That would help in me feeling less tired after a ride.
I looked around, and found many that come close to having a riding position that is comfortable, and even a few that felt perfect. Sadly, none fit the bill.
Then I looked at some Harleys.
Two in particular; the Fat Boy and the V-rod.
Yes, I am strongly considering getting myself a Harley Davidson.
(waits for the angry mob with pitchforks)
Yes, I feel as if I am committing blasphemy and heresy by even considering this. But, if there is a chance that I can end up on a bike that better suits my needs, then I really should consider it.
As I mentioned, the two that seemed to fit me best that I have looked at (and fit within my price range) are the Fat Boy and the V-rod.
The V-rod I am considering is an 02. It has an aftermarket (Screaming Eagle) exhaust on it, which means the only controls that fit are the forward controls. I can barely reach them. Another V-rod, with the mid mount controls, felt perfect. The bike itself felt extremely well balanced. It has enough mass to it to feel steady, but with the balance of it, the bike does not feel heavy. I am told that it does have less power than the V-Max, but other sources say it may still have more than I want, and may be a bit more aggressive in its delivery than I desire. Also, there is the issue of the forward controls. HD offered models with mid mount controls, and an exhaust to match. I have to find out of those will fit on an 02 or not, and if they do, how much will it be to get the items so I can do the swap?
The Fat Boy I saw was too new and too pricey for me. But the bike felt nearly perfect. I would need an older one that was in decent enough shape, but falls within the price range that I can afford.
Suggestions, people?
Will the exhaust and controls I need fit on an 02 V-rod? Will it have a powerband that is civil enough that the bike does not wear me out? How does it handle. The same questions (except the exhaust/midmount controls one) can be asked about the Fat Boy.
Anything at all that you guys can share with me about the two bikes will be helpful.
After a few years on her, I have discovered that, just maybe, the V-Max is not the correct bike for me. Yes, it is pretty comfortable, and physically fits me well. It has all the power I need. (and then more) And it is one that moves my soul.
That being said, it is not the bike I am needing.
One of the biggest things about the V-Max is the sheer power of the bike, and how aggressively the power comes on. Seriously... There have been more than a few times when I was wishing for less power. Also, less aggressiveness from the engine in how it delivers its power would make for a more relaxed ride. That would help in me feeling less tired after a ride.
I looked around, and found many that come close to having a riding position that is comfortable, and even a few that felt perfect. Sadly, none fit the bill.
Then I looked at some Harleys.
Two in particular; the Fat Boy and the V-rod.
Yes, I am strongly considering getting myself a Harley Davidson.
(waits for the angry mob with pitchforks)
Yes, I feel as if I am committing blasphemy and heresy by even considering this. But, if there is a chance that I can end up on a bike that better suits my needs, then I really should consider it.
As I mentioned, the two that seemed to fit me best that I have looked at (and fit within my price range) are the Fat Boy and the V-rod.
The V-rod I am considering is an 02. It has an aftermarket (Screaming Eagle) exhaust on it, which means the only controls that fit are the forward controls. I can barely reach them. Another V-rod, with the mid mount controls, felt perfect. The bike itself felt extremely well balanced. It has enough mass to it to feel steady, but with the balance of it, the bike does not feel heavy. I am told that it does have less power than the V-Max, but other sources say it may still have more than I want, and may be a bit more aggressive in its delivery than I desire. Also, there is the issue of the forward controls. HD offered models with mid mount controls, and an exhaust to match. I have to find out of those will fit on an 02 or not, and if they do, how much will it be to get the items so I can do the swap?
The Fat Boy I saw was too new and too pricey for me. But the bike felt nearly perfect. I would need an older one that was in decent enough shape, but falls within the price range that I can afford.
Suggestions, people?
Will the exhaust and controls I need fit on an 02 V-rod? Will it have a powerband that is civil enough that the bike does not wear me out? How does it handle. The same questions (except the exhaust/midmount controls one) can be asked about the Fat Boy.
Anything at all that you guys can share with me about the two bikes will be helpful.
unk:
