09-18-2017, 05:25 AM
(09-18-2017, 04:30 AM)VLJ_imp Wrote: The odd thing is I now seem to be comparing the CB1100 more to the XSR900 than to the T120. Since my bar risers-modded XSR has the same seating position as the T120 (more legroom than the CB1100), and since it has an inline motor like the CB1100's (a Triple rather than an I4), I'm still struggling with the notion of swapping out equal-or-greater comfort/more affordable/faster/punchier/150 lbs lighter/better handing/better braking/equally reliable for prettier/cooler/lower seat height/larger fuel tank/greater pride of ownership.
I have a harder time making that leap than I do in justifying the Honda over the Triumph. Long-term, I trust the Honda more than I trust the Triumph Twin. I have greater faith in the Honda's reliability, and also in its ability to continue that pride-of-ownership feeling. Compared to the Yamaha, however, I don't see the Honda proving to be any more reliable, though I certainly find it to be far more desirable, with significantly more pride of ownership.
The Triumph covers the Honda in many regards, but possibly not in the all-important one: simply put, which bike would I rather own? I would love to come out and see that Honda in the garage, every day. I might grow bored with either bike, but I suspect I'd grow bored with the Triumph more quickly than I would with the Honda...with one caveat: the Honda must not bore me in the first place. As long as I initially enjoy riding the Honda, I strongly suspect that my enjoyment of it would only grow over time. The more its smooth, solid, competent character seeped into my bones, the more I would grow to love it.
It just has to pass that first hurdle, and I can't test ride the bike to learn the answer.
Very much the case with me