10-25-2019, 05:36 AM
within any such list we could distinguish between "retro appearance" features and "retro performance" or function elements. The Kawa Z900 RS or the new BMW /5 lean towards the appearance side--their functionality and performance are much like that of the Z900 and RnineT engines/platform just under the skin. Most of the "retro" there is in the paint job and cosmetics. Air-cooled engines and twin shocks look retro but, more important, they are functionally old-fashion technology--one pays a certain price in performance for a bike that is retro inside and out. So the question becomes, do you want a bike that looks kinda retro, or one that reminds you of the sounds and sensations of operating a vintage bike--the experience of kickstarting, or the pings of an engine cooling down, or simply riding without electronic traction aids and digital display screens. Some will complain about spending money on a new bike that does not have the same power as some other bike, but it seems to me that those looking for a retro experience might prefer a bike that both looks and rides somewhat like an old bike, but without the upkeep and safety compromises of owning an actual vintage machine. Is carb maintenance worth carb authenticity--using a choke, tickling etc? would anyone still want a 6 volt system or drum brakes? the interesting category is when function and looks intersect--LED headlights, for instance, or spoked wheels with tubes. For some, "cruising at 70" will not be a particularly retro qualifier, but on today's highways maybe a practical one.