Another new rider question

[curtd59_imp]

Hello all.
I raced dirt bikes as a teenager, and had my share of crashes. I've ridden scooters and motorcycles around the world as an adult - even in russia and ukraine which are very dangerous - but done so infrequently I did ditch a bike on a tram track a few years back in the rain (bad judgement). So I'm not ignorant or incompetent. I'm just not a frequent rider. My only interest is recreational - mostly coffee-shop tourism (I write for a living). I'm short but strong. I have zero interest in speed. I'm a paranoid driver. And my family is in the funeral business so I've cleaned up enough bodies in the middle of the night that I fully understand the risks and need for gear. WHile I'm a fan of Triumphs, I think the CB1100 is the most elegant bike there is. If it was a 600 to 650 I wouldn't ask this question, but just out of due diligence, am I asking for trouble by buying an 1100?

Yes I know lots of people ask this question, just for the sake of due diligence I thought I'd ask the community. -thanks.

[Gone in 60]

Interesting question, and I'll jump in on this, since I ride both of the bikes you're referencing. I have a Bonneville, which is frequently referred to as an elegantly styled bike suitable for newer riders. The CB1100 has substantially more power, but is very tractable - it's docile at most speeds, and will putt along at low speeds with no problem, but it will push you back if you twist the throttle.

It is, however, noticeably heavier feeling at low speeds than my Bonneville. That can make for a challenge for a new rider. That being said, keep in mind that if you drop a Bonneville, you can go on Craig's List and put one back together with all of the parts that are available. If you drop a CB1100, which was built in much smaller numbers, you'll be on a scavenger hunt for quite a while if the damaged parts aren't readily available new. Also, due to the increasing rarity of the CB1100, your purchase price will be more than a Triumph. There are plenty of low-mile, clean Bonneville-based bikes out there, fewer CB1100s at this point.

[GoldOxide_imp]

Hey Curt -

There might be a physique issue too. I have ridden both the CB1100 and Bonneville and like 'em both. Most of my riding gear is Triumph, so a fan I am.

That said, and similar to Gone, the CB1100 is definitely more powerful - more willing to accelerate easily and quite simply refined (my opinion, of course). For my body frame, the Bonnie frame type was small and harsh. I would have not survived long tours on it. The CB1100 was more tolerable for me, but ultimately a pain in the ... legs. I am over 186 cm in height. I like Triumph, but bought the CB1100.

[emptysea]

I'd suggest sitting on both the Triumph and the CB1100 (maybe a Royal Enfield and/or a Janus while your at it and if you're feeling whimsical). See which feels right for you. If you get a chance to test ride, then by all means, do so. If not, sitting is probably the next best test.

Good luck

[Gone in 60]

Yeah, a Royal Enfield is another classically styled bike that won't break the bank. Sitting on them is a very good idea, and will quickly give you an idea of whether or not your dream bike would be a good fit before you get too attached to the idea. You mention being short but strong. Me too, at least in the leg department, with a 29" inseam. The CB1100 is a slightly wider bike through the seat area. I can flat-foot my Bonneville, which makes for easy handling while stopped. I'm not quite able to do the same with the CB, and it's a little top-heavy, but, when it leans I've got a lot of leg strength to hold it up.

At 5' 8" with short legs, overall I find the ergonomics of both bikes comfortable.

[Nachodaddy]

As long as you don't lose the lottery and get one with an unstable or runaway idle problem,you will likely enjoy it.

[GoldOxide_imp]

As long as you don't lose the lottery and get one with an unstable or runaway idle problem,you will likely enjoy it.

Wonderful tip: Don't lose the lottery.

Must try harder.

Thanks Nach!