03-20-2018, 02:15 AM
(03-20-2018, 02:06 AM)The ferret_imp Wrote: LOL thanks Doc, but specs aren't my thing. Especially things like rake, trail, wheelbase, bore and stroke, compression ratio, what size throttle bodies it has,the size of the discs, suspension travel, and exact displacement ...even wheel size
I agree with this part though
A bike needs to just feel right.
Sit on it and feel comfortable...handlebar grips are where you expect.
Foot controls are where you expect.
in addition it can't be gutless (I put more stock in torque than horsepower)
or a barge when it comes to weight, (I have to be able to pull it off the side stand and put it on the centerstand)
plus I have to be able to get the balls of both feet down at a stop
and it's important that it looks good to me.
I have never bought a bike on specs, and I "expect" salesmen to know less than I do on a bike I am considering purchasing. I'm concentrating on 1 bike, they have to know a little bit about dozens or a hundreds for a multi line dealership.
Does not stop your immersion in them!
(03-20-2018, 02:06 AM)The ferret_imp Wrote: LOL thanks Doc, but specs aren't my thing. Especially things like rake, trail, wheelbase, bore and stroke, compression ratio, what size throttle bodies it has,the size of the discs, suspension travel, and exact displacement ...even wheel size
I agree with this part though
A bike needs to just feel right.
Sit on it and feel comfortable...handlebar grips are where you expect.
Foot controls are where you expect.
in addition it can't be gutless (I put more stock in torque than horsepower)
or a barge when it comes to weight, (I have to be able to pull it off the side stand and put it on the centerstand)
plus I have to be able to get the balls of both feet down at a stop
and it's important that it looks good to me.
I have never bought a bike on specs, and I "expect" salesmen to know less than I do on a bike I am considering purchasing. I'm concentrating on 1 bike, they have to know a little bit about dozens or a hundreds for a multi line dealership.
Specs may not be your thing, although you are good at "ferreting out" information; but they do mean something to you:
Bore size is related to power.
Stroke relates to torque and efficiency. Longer stroke = more burn time. Shorter stroke = higher RPM and more HP. It is a balance.
Higher compression = more power, but may also require premium fuel.
Size of throttle body (or carb) is proportionate to CFM, which is needed with higher RPMs.
Larger discs is a mechanical advantage for stopping ability.
Suspension travel = comfort (rather short on my V7II = harsher ride).
Displacement is usually proportionate to power.
Wheel size affects handling. My Bonneville was 16" wheels and it really liked the canyons.
They all help focus on what bike is best for you.