Congrats on the bike. Sounds like you went in eyes wide open.
(07-07-2017, 01:02 PM)tinboatcapt_imp Wrote: I Picked it up today. My first NEW motorcycle since 1972. I've had a few bikes but they have been older low miles units, or something need a little TLC. This one is a zero miles, brand new, I get to put the first scratch on it bike.
It is the standard. All black with a simple windscreen and luggage rack. Simple, I've done the Tupperware but I wanted to get back to basic motorcycling. I have ridden many of the 80's standards and still own an '81 CB650C.
My first impression is very favorable. The ride home from the dealer is 66 miles of secondary roads and small towns. What a delight this motorcycle is. Any thoughts that this was a remake of the 80's was quickly banished. This bike is retro in appearance only. My main ride up to now has been a very favorable experience with an ST1100; Over 100K miles of smiles with little but gas, tires, and oil...oh and coolant.
So how do they compare? The CB is much easier to handle in slow speed situations such as stop n go traffic and parking lots. I believe it is nearly 200 pounds lighter without the shaft drive, water cooling, and luggage. The CB with stock suspension handles the corners nearly as well as the ST with its Traxxion Dynamics Cartridge front and Penske rear suspension. I find the seat isn't terrible, but then I'm spoiled with the custom seat on the ST. Perhaps there is a custom seat in the CB's future.
One aspect of fully faired, water cooled bikes is the heat. The manufactures, try as they might to control it, the heat can get uncomfortable behind all that tupper ware. On the other hand, that plastic can be handy when encountering the inevitable rain on long trips. I suspect I'll find the naked bike a tad uncomfortable if I don't stay in the hotel until more favorable weather.
In all, I am totally pleased with this completely different bike from my history with sport tour bikes. A few short rides this week then I am off next weekend to a gathering about 150 miles from home, Some group riding, then back for about 4-5 hundred miles for the weekend.
I'll post a ride report after the ride and first service.
Jim
I have to agree. I really wonder why in this day and age the hot radiator exhaust can't be ducted behind the rider.
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