09-09-2015, 07:55 AM
Of my three bikes, one has a shaft, the other two have chain. Don't think about either. What is nice about the chain; you can change your final drive ratio very easily (if not cheaply) and when it comes time to get new chains and sprockets - complete new drive train! Yay! Once you get the lube situation noodled out it's just not that messy like the good ol' days.
The one thing I do not like about my shaft drive (Moto Guzzi CARC), that CARC section is heavy and it's all that weight and the suspension has to accommodate it. Does not seem to be a problem in the real world though.
I find the CB to be VERY easy to ride; especially in town. She is light on her feet, plenty of low end torque and smooth. I think I have learned something new regarding me; for the open road I prefer twins. Just the thrum of a big steam locomotive that the Griso gives, it's more relaxing and organic - for me. There are many times I which the CB had the Griso motor (I never think the inline four would be cool in the Griso......).
But it does sound like the CB should be in your top three choices for shorter urban/country rides. I'm also fond of big singles and would recommend a big single dual sport - unless your inseam makes that a poor choice. There is more vibration, but it's not a buzz, and they are typically light and just a hoot to toss around on the road (the KLR is not so light). Kinda like what motorcycling use to be before things got so complicated.
The one thing I do not like about my shaft drive (Moto Guzzi CARC), that CARC section is heavy and it's all that weight and the suspension has to accommodate it. Does not seem to be a problem in the real world though.
I find the CB to be VERY easy to ride; especially in town. She is light on her feet, plenty of low end torque and smooth. I think I have learned something new regarding me; for the open road I prefer twins. Just the thrum of a big steam locomotive that the Griso gives, it's more relaxing and organic - for me. There are many times I which the CB had the Griso motor (I never think the inline four would be cool in the Griso......).
But it does sound like the CB should be in your top three choices for shorter urban/country rides. I'm also fond of big singles and would recommend a big single dual sport - unless your inseam makes that a poor choice. There is more vibration, but it's not a buzz, and they are typically light and just a hoot to toss around on the road (the KLR is not so light). Kinda like what motorcycling use to be before things got so complicated.