10-13-2013, 09:56 PM
(10-13-2013, 10:58 AM)ARMike_imp Wrote: I know...crazy comparison! I just joined this thread because have been lurking and am a long time Honda rider. In my young days I rode a CL down every back road I could find. Since then I've had several Honda dirt bikes. Now am in my early 50's and looking for a bike for the street. I did have a Bonneville because I like the old school look. Have ridden about every Harley but just can't seem to pull the trigger. I also like the BMW GS as I like to ride back and mountain roads and just explore. My wife doesn't ride with me so will be 1 up. I anxiously waited for the CB and looked at it soon it came out and like it. Then I just kept looking at HD's until the past weekend and I went back to the Honda dealer again. I really like the CB so started reading all the post. I also stated checking at the windscreens as this was a concern but looks like there are options. I like naked most of the time but some wind protection would be nice at times. Am planning on taking one out this weekend for a demo ride. Not sure what I am asking for in the post unless you can give me some input on if any of you ride both and your impression of the CB versus an HD. Am looking at the softails. Like I said though only back and mountain roads and very little highway or long trips. Have lots of beautiful mountain roads here in Arkansas to ride without ever getting on the highway.
Thanks for letting me just talk on my first post. Dang I love this bike!!
Having spent a year working in at the HD Dealership here in S FL, I've ridden every model HD makes; some of them extensively.
If you're going to get an HD, stay away from the Softails. HD scrapped the rear suspension to get the "hardtail" look, and Softails handle like crap and pound your back as a result. If you want to make the most of those mountain roads on an HD, get a touring frame bike (FL) or a Dyna series (FX).
Of course the RIGHT answer is get the CB. It has all the heritage, history, and style of any HD, but adds outstanding handling, braking, and performance. The CB will kick any stock HD to the curb (possibly barring the V-Rods, which aren't "real" HDs anyway). There's plenty of accessories for it now, including windscreens and luggage.
Of course, every new HD includes a social life if you want it. As soon as you buy an HD there's a thousand events available to you.