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I rode when I was in my teens but dropped the hobby before I went to college. Now I'm looking to get back into it but don't know what type of bike I should start out with. No crotch rockets though, only American iron. Advice?
I used to ride. Sold my bike when I had my first child. A year later I bought it back...rode a couple years and sold it again. Was pretty short seasons in Alaska. A couple years ago I bought a model T Ford. It's the most fun I've ever had doing 35 mph! But I do miss riding a bike on ocassion.
I currently ride a '06 HD FLHTCUI (Ultra Classic), aka "Geezer Glide." I have the Ultra because I make at least a couple of 1500-2000+ mile RT rides a year. Plus I use it for commuting to/from work year round.
As far as what type of bike to get, it depends on what kind of riding you want to do. Are you planning long trips, weekend jaunts, riding solo or two-up, etc?
The MoCo put out a new 96 c.i., 1550 cc engine and six speed transmission this year for all models except the Sporster. The old engine was an 88 c.i., 1450 cc and a five speed tranny.
Anyway, I recommend Harley because they are tried and true vs. the other models like Big Dog, Victory, etc.
If I would get a bike, it would NEED to be a Harley. I was raised with them, my uncle rides one, and I just love the look. I was looking at an '07 Fatboy and an '07 Road King.
I'll just be riding for weekend jaunts maybe take it up to the mountains. Usually it'll be just me but sometimes I'll take my ball-and-chain along as well.
I rode when I was in my teens but dropped the hobby before I went to college. Now I'm looking to get back into it but don't know what type of bike I should start out with. No crotch rockets though, only American iron. Advice?
Do you mean --motorcycle? Harley?
I am thinking of getting a bicycle--intrepid souls ride in Atlanta traffic.
They must be the 'Most Fit' among us---planning to tour the state next month--there is growing interest in 'Bikes'--of all kinds here>>>
From AJC>>>
http://tinyurl.com/2mr6my (broken link)
I took the weekend class four years ago and it rained the entire weekend, so we had to learn in the rain. It was great! I wanted to buy a Sportster and actually sat on a Fatboy and felt comfortable. Being it was my first bike and I didn't have a garage I settled for an old Honda. Unfortunately I've had nothing but problems with it since. My boyfriend had to replace the breaks and rebuild a couple things, including making me a new seat. He actually made it and it's the nicest thing on the bike. I just moved to SC and I should be able to practice a lot more here with the great weather and hopefully get that Harley in a year or so.
I took the MSF coarse at the end of last year. Got my license but no bike. I'm really trying to talk my self out of it. It has been very hard though. Winter has helped with the decision to not buy a bike. My wife does not want me to get one. My favorite web site is called pashnit. That is what really made me want to ride.
I rode when I was in my teens but dropped the hobby before I went to college. Now I'm looking to get back into it but don't know what type of bike I should start out with. No crotch rockets though, only American iron. Advice?
speedy, I've been riding for over 40 years now. You name it and I've probably owned it. I currently own a 2005 H-D Road King and it is a great ride. I know your into cars so you would appreciated what you can do to / with a RK. I would think you would be able to pick up a late model RK with low miles at a very reasonable price, unless money is no object. Many owners of pre 2007 Road Kings are looking to get into the '07 model. It has a bigger motor (96 cu.in. vs. 88 cu. in.) and six speed trans vs. 5 speed. I have the big bore kit in mine which makes it 95 cubic inches as well as exhaust and computer programmer for the e.f.i. unit. I never feel I don't have enough power with 2 up and the bags loaded. I also don't feel myself looking for an extra gear and I cruise at 75 on the highway. My bike weighs in at aprox. 1100 lbs. with 2 on and the bags full and it handles like a dream. You'd be surprised how well mannered it is. I am also contemplating building another bike. Perhaps a version of a 1930s' EL model or maybe a bobber. I'm still thinking about it. Anyway good luck with your endeavor. I would suggest taking a riding course if you haven't ridden for years. Go to http://msf-usa.org and you can get info where they will be giving it in your area. I go every year and always learn something and you'll make new friends to boot. Most riders that haven't taken the course and have been riding for years are amazed to find out how many bad habits they have developed over the years. If you need more info. pm me, and remember.........ALWAYS RIDE STRAIGHT.........
I agree with exhdo about taking the class. I had so much fun and learned a lot, plus made a few friends. Just don't drop the bike, it could be extremely embarrassing. I dropped it before I even got on it and I wanted to crawl into a corner.
speedy, I've been riding for over 40 years now. You name it and I've probably owned it. I currently own a 2005 H-D Road King and it is a great ride. I know your into cars so you would appreciated what you can do to / with a RK. I would think you would be able to pick up a late model RK with low miles at a very reasonable price, unless money is no object. Many owners of pre 2007 Road Kings are looking to get into the '07 model. It has a bigger motor (96 cu.in. vs. 88 cu. in.) and six speed trans vs. 5 speed. I have the big bore kit in mine which makes it 95 cubic inches as well as exhaust and computer programmer for the e.f.i. unit. I never feel I don't have enough power with 2 up and the bags loaded. I also don't feel myself looking for an extra gear and I cruise at 75 on the highway. My bike weighs in at aprox. 1100 lbs. with 2 on and the bags full and it handles like a dream. You'd be surprised how well mannered it is. I am also contemplating building another bike. Perhaps a version of a 1930s' EL model or maybe a bobber. I'm still thinking about it. Anyway good luck with your endeavor. I would suggest taking a riding course if you haven't ridden for years. Go to http://msf-usa.org and you can get info where they will be giving it in your area. I go every year and always learn something and you'll make new friends to boot. Most riders that haven't taken the course and have been riding for years are amazed to find out how many bad habits they have developed over the years. If you need more info. pm me, and remember.........ALWAYS RIDE STRAIGHT.........
Hey thanks for the advice, I appreciate it. The Road King is the one that is standing out to me but the Fat Boy looks like it's easier to ride. I'll definetly try out both and will take a MSF course as well.
A friend of mine has an '07 Fat Boy but previously owned an '05. He said the difference is quite noticable between the two engines and transmissions when you get in the mountains and on the highway. He said there wasn't much difference in around-town riding though.
I'm looking to sell my '02 Eldorado since I don't drive it much more after buying the Escape. I plan on using the money from that (around $20K) to get the bike. The only thing I'm afraid of is dropping it especially if I buy it new.
Thanks again, great advice.
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. Advice?
Harley Davidson FLHTCUI aka "Geezer Glide"
What kind of 'Bike'?
