04-26-2014, 11:16 AM
I've owned my '06 599 since new and traded it in on a Black '14 CB1100 about 3 weeks ago, and I also owned a Sportster, but AMF era. I just wish I had more miles on the CB right now to give you a better comparison of the two.
I tend to drive bikes hard but don't beat them and I love cornering but I'm not as fearless as I use to be. Part of the reason I chose a Retro is because the "Image" of the bike can sometimes dictate how I would drive it. You know, like wearing a bandana and chaps because I'm piloting a Harley. So maybe I'll slow down a bit with the CB.
Overall, the straight line performance is fairly equal with the 599. The higher HP seems to be offset by the increased torque in the CB but I'm in break-in mode. I doubt it would corner as well as the 599 but it seems to have potential there. the engine is as smooth as silk - bests the 599, but I'll miss that "growl" from the pipe. No 6.0 earthquake following you in the mirror either like on the Harley. I could make out car types well behind me on the CB. Very comfortable to drive and predictable so I hope over time it also doesn't become too boring.
I hope this helps in your decision Julian.
I tend to drive bikes hard but don't beat them and I love cornering but I'm not as fearless as I use to be. Part of the reason I chose a Retro is because the "Image" of the bike can sometimes dictate how I would drive it. You know, like wearing a bandana and chaps because I'm piloting a Harley. So maybe I'll slow down a bit with the CB.
Overall, the straight line performance is fairly equal with the 599. The higher HP seems to be offset by the increased torque in the CB but I'm in break-in mode. I doubt it would corner as well as the 599 but it seems to have potential there. the engine is as smooth as silk - bests the 599, but I'll miss that "growl" from the pipe. No 6.0 earthquake following you in the mirror either like on the Harley. I could make out car types well behind me on the CB. Very comfortable to drive and predictable so I hope over time it also doesn't become too boring.
I hope this helps in your decision Julian.