Riding the Magna, Anew

How strange it was to ride my Magna again, after having become accustomed to the ST1300. Since the Magna hasn't sold yet, and is licensed and registered, I figured I would ride it to work. I want to keep it happy until I'm able to sell it. Here are my thoughts on riding my old bike anew.

One. What a rush. What a quick bike off the line. With no windshield, the blast of air was exhilarating.

Two. How did I ever endure that seating position? Feet so far forward compared to the ST. All my weight on my spine. I worried the ST would uncomfortable. Now I see it's more comfortable than the Magna.

Three. Turn baby turn. What the heck is wrong with the steering geometry on this bike. The ST turns effortlessly. The worse turning bike I've ever ridden was the V Rod Muscle. By comparison to the two . . . ST and V Rod . . . The Magna is squarely in the middle. Better than the Harley at turning a corner, but cumbersome compared to the ST.

Four. A chain isn't so bad.  I welcome the maintenance free aspect of the ST's shaft drive, but I have noticed some drive-train lash.  A feeling of sloppiness in transitions from deceleration to acceleration.  That, I guess, comes with the territory for shaft drives.  The Magna, by comparison, with its chain drive, is smooth in transition from deceleration to acceleration.  Like a dream.

First Ride - Honda ST1300A

I met the seller in the Walmart parking lot in Wisconsin Dells, WI.

After looking over the bike a while, I took it for a brief test drive.  First, around the parking lot.  Then, for a brief ride down a rural highway in the rolling Wisconsin hills.  It was 37 degrees, I pressed the button to "roll up" the windshield, and instantly felt warmer.  Fancy!

There's a distinctive whine which varies with RPM.  I've heard this noise before.  Where was it?  Oh yes, the Honda Interceptor a friend let me test drive a couple years ago.

I had to assume the whine was a normal ST noise; I haven't spent enough time around these bikes to discern normal from abnormal sounds.

The brakes are amazing.  I guess they have to be to pull that heavy bike to a stop.  The Magna's brakes, by comparison, are lackluster.  I haven't tested the ABS, and actually don't really want to.  Maybe I should -- in a secluded parking lot, just to get a feel for them.

The rear view mirrors are the best I've seen.  On a cruiser these are typically mounted on the handlebars, and are mostly useful for seeing my own elbows.  These mirrors are below my hands, on the fairing, and get a clear view of what's behind me -- a line of sight essentially under my arms.

The suspension is rock solid.  Super smooth ride but no jostling or hunting in the corners.  Crosswinds don't affect steering like a bike with a fork-mounted windshield.  Everything I wanted in a bike, everything I disliked about the Magna.  Obviously the ST suspension is not "cheapest components possible" like they are on the 3rd Generation Magna.

The power was impressive.  The GoldWing GL1100 I used to ride was underpowered.  Not so the ST.  It's a heavy bike, and it needs the 120 horsepower to compensate for its bulk.   But thanks to its rock solid suspension and its V4 torque curve, it didn't feel like a big bike.  It felt natural and easy.

Harley Test Drive: XR1200

My friends and I took a Harley test drive recently, and I wrote my review of the V-Rod Muscle. Dennis shares his thoughts on the XR1200.

Says Dennis:

My usual ride is a Dual-sport Suzuki DR650. This was the second time on the XR. I like it. The power is useable from low rpm to the 7500 rpm redline.

It is a little heavy on slow turns but speed up just a touch and a little counter steer and she will hug the turns.

The seat height is very low and the seat IS comfortable. The pegs are mid mounted, right where god intended them to be!

I like this bike and could live with it being my only ride. It is fun. I would miss the off road versatility of dual sport though.

Here are my 3 didn't likes:

1. The turn signal switches on both handles. I hate that.
2. The rear suspension doesn't have too much travel and can be harsh on bumpy Indiana roads. But it is better than the Nightster.
3. This is a weird one. The engine was too smooth. Yes, I just said that about a HD Sportster engine. It was fuel injected and fairly quite of pipe. I HAD to use the tach to know when to shift/down shift. I am used to doing that by the seat of my pants. You just couldn't feel it on the XR.

I am going to stick with my DR650, frankly I think my DR is faster 0 - 60. Now I just need to get a Kawi dealer to let me take out a Versys!

Thanks HD for the test ride!

Dennis snapped a few photos of the four bikes we test drove. From left to right, the V-Rod Muscle, The (V-Rod) Night Rod, the Tour Glide and the XR1200.

Another view, showing another angle of the XR1200.


The XR1200 from behind.

Harley Test-Drive: V-Rod Muscle

My riding buddies and I signed up for a Harley Davidson test drive today. Harley is sponsoring this test drive event called "Super Ride - Lead Yourself Into Temptation". Unlike your typical HD test drive, they give you the keys to the bike and you can go where you like, unescorted by dealership staff.

The four of us signed up to ride and the same time. Brian chose a Tour Glide,

Dennis chose an XR1200. Bob and I both wanted to ride the V-Rod Muscle, but they only had one. He was kind enough to agree to switch to a Night Rod Special.

I like the looks of the Muscle, so I focused on it for a few shots. It's the bike in the center, and it features symmetrical pipes, which I prefer. All other V-Rods have right-side-only exhaust. You can see Bob's "Night Rod" after-market Vance & Hines 2-into-1 shorty exhaust on the bike on the left. And you get another shot of the Tour Glide on the right.

The V-Rod Muscle features a front cowl over the neck and triple tree that is distinctive from all other V-Rod derivatives. You can see it here as it appears "bolted" on in front of the "gas tank" (which isn't a tank at all). I'm not really a fan of the look, but it does set it apart from the other V-Rods.

Satin finish exhaust pipes, as opposed to the typical shiny chrome finish, set this bike apart from the others as well.

Just wanted to illustrate the symmetical exhaust - one pipe on each side of the bike. Somehow that seems right to me.

The dealer asked each of us to sign a waiver, then gave us an overview of the bike's controls before turning us loose. We hopped on the interstate for a quick 10 mile jaunt to the next exit. We exited onto SR 39 south, through Monrovia. This is one of our favorite roads.

With the Night Rod's after-market exhaust, everyone could hear when Bob rolled on the throttle. With a loud crack, the bike would jump forward. In a few seconds he was out of sight.

I was improessed with the motor, transmission and suspension on the V-Rod Muscle. But if I had to choose one word to describe my test drive, it would be this:

OUCH!

Willie G. Davidson, what the hell were you thinking? This is a horribly uncomfortable seating position. Imagine the top half of your body leaning forward, like you were riding a sport bike. Now imagine the bottom half of your body reaching forward, like you were riding a cruiser. Here you are, bent in the middle at less than a 90 degree angle, like you're riding some sort of medieval torture device. And how the heck can you design a bike so that you can see the front wheel while you're riding down the road. The front wheel was so far out there, I was checking the front tread at 70 mph (posted Interstate speed limit, thank you very much.)

And the first time I had to turn it, I thought it never was gonna turn. Very slow into the corners, and it took some persuasion to initiate the lean. This got better as the ride went on, as I developed a feel for the bike and what it took to lean it.

Once I got the hang of how to turn it -- with a firm grip on the bar and a decisive push -- the suspension was rock solid as a threw the bike through the twisties.

The torque curve also took some getting used to. Most other Harley's I have ridden had so much grunt down low, you could practically take off from a dead stop by letting the clutch out at idle. It would get the bike going with only the slightest encouragement from the throttle. With the V-Rod, I had to rev it up in order to pull away. I didn't have to rev it like a sport bike, but unlike any other cruiser I've ever ridden.

Once I got used to the power delivery, I was amazed at the breadth of the power band. A Harley with a tachometer, and a (nearly) 10,000 rpm redline! That really is the oddball of the Harley family.

We stopped at a gas / beer/ bait store in some off-the-map location, amidst twisty roads. It was a hot day, some bought gatorade to keep hydrated.

I snagged a photo of Dennis snagging a photo of the XR1200.

You can see the photos Dennis took, and read his Test Drive Report here.

The two V-Rods parked side by side. Bob's "Night Rod" on the left, the "Muscle" on the right.

By the way, Bob test drove a V-Rod Muscle last year and gave it a favorable review.

From here we turned back and retraced our steps to the dealership. To my surprise, they didn't try any arm twisting or coercion tactics. The friendly sales rep talked to each of us about what we liked about the bike. Some of us asked about available options - different handlebar configuration, different seats, or anti-lock brakes. We were each entered in a contest to win a gift card or a free motorcycle, and each of us walked out with a brochure and the salesman's business card.

And they let us go at that.

Not a bad way to spend a morning.

As for the V-Rod Muscle, I'm giving it a thumbs down because of the seating position. The day Harley puts mid-mount controls and/or serious pull-back risers on the bike, I'll give it a serious look.

Another Step Closer

Recently I mused, in "The Next Step", about a certain je ne sais quoi that was somehow missing from my riding lately.

• I considered possible mechanical issues with the bike -- wheel bearings, fork springs, shocks.
• I wondered whether the new massive Tombstone-style windshield was adversely affecting handling. (See "Memphis Fats For The Magna")
• I considered the possibility that my skills themselves needed a tune up.
• Finally, I considered whether I was simply "tired of my current bike" and needed a different one. Different for the sake of different, just to experience something new.

In the past I've owned a 500cc UJM "Standard" motorcycle (actually an original "Baby Magna"), an ancient Gold Wing, and now the current Honda Magna, which is touted as the "original power cruiser" (or "Muscle Cruiser"). The same engine as the Honda VF750R Interceptor, in a cruiser frame, with a fairly neutral or standard seating position. With driver footpegs barely forward of "standard" position, the Magna is hardly what would pass for a true "cruiser" configuration by today's standards.

But I've never had a Sport Tourer. I've never had a Dual Sport. I've never had a Sport Bike. And while I've test driven some of these, I don't feel that you can truly experience and get a feel for a bike in a brief drive. I need to own and ride the bike for a year to truly know it.

So recently I began lusting for "something different for the sake of being different" -- and pined for a Ninja 500R. (See "Trip Report, Lust Confession") Because it was a sportier configuration, because it looked cool, because I've never owned anything like it before. Because it's affordable. Because a friend of mine highly recommends that amazing 500cc Kawi parallel twin engine.

But I took a step back from my bike lust, at the advice of another friend, who said, "If you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with."

So, instead of fantasizing about fixing whatever ailed me by switching bikes, I decided to work on fixing whatever was wrong with my current bike.

And the first step in fixing whatever is wrong, is pinning down exactly what it is that doesn't feel quite right.

So I took the first step. I took off that massive Memphis Fats windshield and rode today without it.

Wow, what a difference!

There is some sort of essential visceral exhilaration that I feel when accelerating rapidly with the wind rushing over me. It is an important part of riding a bike, for me. If I don't have that feeling of rushing wind, I feel like the whole experience is muted. Like eating my favorite dish while I have a head cold (which deprives me of enjoying the flavor and aroma of the food); or listening to my favorite CD on tiny little tinny sounding speakers. Some essential robustness of the experience is lacking. I feel robbed.

Without the windshield, the handling is also improved. The bike seems more responsive to the throttle, and less sensitive to the breeze, than it did with that massive "barn door" mounted to the front forks.

Okay, this is good to know. I can keep the "barn door" for long trips. Being a Memphis Shades windshield, it's easy to remove. I'll only put it on for 100+ mile trips on the Interstate, when the prolonged wind blast is so fatiguing. I'll leave it off for my daily commute, and my local jaunts through the twisties.

Already the bike feels better, the experience seems more satisfying.

But there was still something else that didn't seem quite right. Some sort of squirming in the back wheel that I feel from time to time, even in the straightaways, at low speed. I'll have to investigate further. Could the tire be cupped, or in some other way defective?

But I'm no longer daunted by the task of sorting out "whatever doesn't feel right" with the bike. I'm encouraged by the no-windshield experience. Ready to tackle the next aspect that needs tweaking.

Bring it on.

Rider Magazine: 2010 VFR1200F

The May issue of Rider magazine includes a full road test of the all-new 2010 Honda VFR1200F. You can read the article on the Rider Magazine website

Also, check out their archived VFR road tests from 1983 to 2002.

3 Middle Weight All-Arounders

MCN presents a comparison of the Kawasaki Versys, the BMW F650GS, and the Suzuki V-Strom. See the review here...



The review doesn't go into much technical detail, but you do get to watch three riders having fun leaning these bikes over. The videography captures the bikes in action both from the roadside vantage point, and from bike-mounted cameras.

I don't buy my motorcycles on the basis of reviews like this, but when I "fancy" a motorcycle, I like to review these types of videos to get a feel for the bike.

Triumph Speed Triple Review

This positive and well-written review is enough to make me give the bike another look.



See the full article at Web Bike World

I test-drove one myself last spring.

Revisiting the V-Rod Muscle

About The Author
Bob contributed a report after his brief, 5-mile test drive of the 2009 Harley Davidson V-Rod Muscle. The bottom line was ... not worth the hefty price tag. But while on vacation in Vermont, he had a chance to put the bike through its paces on some fantastic roads. You'll see by the following trip report -- he changed his tune....

Yesterday I took one hell of a Harley test drive. I called the Harley shop over in Barre, VT to inquire about renting a VRod muscle for a few days. They didn't have any on the rental program, but would be glad to let me take one out for a few hours for free.



Beauty. So I drove 44 miles down to the shop and picked up a brand new, shiny V-Rod Muscle. I rode it up I-89 to the Stowe exit - highway 100. I took highway 100 up past the Ben & Jerry's factory and some other landmarks to Stowe, VT. From Stowe I rode up 108 through "Smuggler's Notch", stopping along the way to take some pictures. 108 is a curvy, hilly piece of road; a royal pain in the ass in a minivan, but amazing on the V-Rod.

Over the notch and around 50 miles later, I showed the bike to my wife and her parents. Initially the plan was for me to take her for a quick, scenic spin through the notch, drop her off, and head back to the dealership. Well, my wife loved the bike and ended up riding all the way back to Barre with me. This is the longest trip we've ever taken together and it was a blast!

All in all I rode the bike around 100 miles on some of the most scenic roads you can imagine.

I am a certified V-Rod Muscle fan and a Harley convert. I plan to buy one within the next 5 years. I may even sell the Magnaceptor.

Test Drive: Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle

Friend and former coworker Bob recently test drove the Harley Davidson V-Rod Muscle, and had this to say:


The V-Rod Muscle is a bad-ass bike.

One thing I noticed is that when you're on the bike, you can't see much of it.

The seating position is odd -- I kind of felt like an ape sitting on it.

In the riding position the parts you can see don't look that cool. But it sounds cool. At stop lights it has a very pleasing rumble and vibration - like a dragster ready to rip through a quarter mile.



My bike [The Magnaceptor -- Ed.] is smooth as butter at idle. Sometimes I can't tell it's running. Boring! The V-Rod has a low, mean growl at full throttle, and plenty of torque.This bike surprisingly had great brakes (dual rotors out front, single rotor in rear). It was heavy and not nearly as nimble as the Magnaceptor. I found it hard to swerve, and different to turn due to the low, drag-style handlebars. This is a good bike in a straight line.

I loved it, but would like it to be more nimble. Its a great cruiser, and would make a nice commuter.

That V-Rod muscle was BAD, but the $19000+ wasn't.

About The Author
Bob has been riding, fixing, and modifying motorcycles since his youth. He has ridden a variety of bikes over the years. Last year he whiled away the winter months by transplanting the motor from a Honda Interceptor into his Honda Magna. He calls the new creation "The Magnaceptor". This is his first contribution to "The ATGATT Rat"

Test Drive: Buell 1125R

Friend, former co-worker, and moto fiend Bob test drove the Buell 1125R, and filed this report:

The 1125r was super powerful and had a mean full throttle growl. This thing would absolutely scream given the proper idiot! They didn't warn me about the 2 finger brakes, but I learned very quickly.



I hit the brake so hard the first time (slow speed) I thought the back end was coming over my head. These brakes are ridiculously potent.

Also, the front wheel lifted several times during the ride - a neat surprise.




The bike got really hot near the back of my legs once it warmed up. That was annoying. I hear the 1125cr is the same way. The seating position was terrible, making the bike useful for quick trips only. It handled like nothing else I've ever ridden though. I was able to make very tight turns at slow speeds. Wow - if the thing was more comfortable to ride...

I need to ride the 1125cr.

About The Author
Bob has been riding, fixing, and modifying motorcycles since his youth. He has ridden a variety of bikes over the years. Last year he whiled away the cold months by transplanting the motor from a Honda VFR750F into his Honda Magna. He calls the new creation "The Magnaceptor". This is his first contribution to "The ATGATT Rat"

More about The Magnaceptor.

Photos courtesy Buell.com

15 Motorcycles You Should Drive At Least Once

Here's a list of bikes we've ridden and reviewed:

* Buell 1125R
This bike could've gone on to win races and change the world.

* Buell Lightning
This bike went as far into Sport Bike territory that Buell could go while using a Sportster Engine. Hint: It's pretty far!

* Buell Ulysses
This bike was a world class adventure touring bike. It could've settled into a number 2 spot under the BMW GS, given time and proper corporate support.

* Harley Davidson Dyna Street Bob
This is classic Harley Davidson "factory custom" which has the look and feel of a customized bike, but is straight from the factory. It's a concept they've invested in heavily, and there are lots of happy folks buying customized-from-factory bikes like this.

* Harley Davidson Dyna Super Glide
This entry level Dyna is an underspoken Harley. It has classic Harley look and feel, but it has comfortable mid-mounted controls, a low seat height, and all the modern features. It's the practical beauty I bought for my wife.

* Harley Davidson Night Rod Special
Harley takes a core bike like the V-Rod, darkens the frame, and the motor, paints the bike in flat black, and calls it a Night Rod Special. I call it variations on a theme.

* Harley Davidson Nightster
Take that metaphorical "Can Of Blackness" and apply it to the Sportster, and you get the Nightster. A sheep in black sheep's clothing.

* Harley Davidson V-Rod Muscle
A truly revolutionary bike, based on Harley's innovate water-cooled, German engineered V-Twin engine. Plenty of power.

* Harley Davidson XR1200
Rearset pegs and high cornering clearance on a Harley Davidson. It was originally only sold in Europe, but is doing quite well here.


* Honda Gold Wing GL1100
Honda invented the true "Touring Motorcycle" and you should experience one of the originals. The Original Wing was sold Naked, with aftermarket bags and fairings which could be added. Honda listened to the marketplace, and created their first custom-built dedicated Touring Motorcycle.

* Honda Interceptor
Honda believes in the V4 engine, and placed into its showcase platform for new technology, the Honda Interceptor.

* Honda Magna VF750C
Knowing the wonderful V4 engine had a broader appeal, and broader capabilities, than just sport bike riding, they transplanted the V4 into a cruiser frame, and the original "Power Cruiser" bike was born, the Honda Magna. Unlike other bikes who claim the title "Power Cruiser", this one is affordable, comfortable, and the power is where you can use it.

* Victory Kingpin Tour
I think it's great that America has competition for the role of "America's Bike Manufacturer". I am impressed with the fact that they built these bikes from the ground up with new technology; not encombuered by tradition or history. As a result, they've built smart looking, good riding motorcycles. They've garnered a loyal following. Will they ever enjoy the legendary brand loyalty that Harley Davidson does?

* Victory Vegas 8-Ball
A stripped down verion of the Victory Vegas - a single seat, all blacked out version of their entry level cruiser appeals to me for its simplicity. It ran smoothly, with little vibration. The drive train has an uncharacteristic whine that says, this isn't a Harley Davidson. I suppose it depends on what you're looking for. This one lacked the raw visceral experience of a Harley Ride, but it promised a different sort of ride. Is this the ride you want for yourself?

Test Drive: 2009 Buell Ulysses XT

Ryde4Ever contributed the following review.

I went and test rode a Buell Ulysses XB12XT. The thing that got me there was the free gear lock that they were giving away to anyone who test drives a Buell. Well, that and any chance to ride a bike that I have never ridden before!

This is a model that has intrigued me for some time. It is like a sport bike that can actually deal with gravel and mild fire roads. Hmm, sounds like BMW’s territory. And, being a dual-sport rider myself, it always appeals to me if a bike is designed to handle a little rough riding.

I rode the XT model, which is the touring model that comes with the rear trunk and hard, locking side cases. The cases are large and each can handle a full face helmet. Who needs a gear lock when you have all of this locking storage! The bike was a medium red and looked great.

Buell utilizes specially tuned Harley Davidson engines. The seating position is a touch high, for me anyway. I have a 30” inseam. I was tip-toeing my boots on each side while sitting still. What’s this? The seat is comfortable. I mean actually comfortable. This is a rare thing on most stock bikes.

I acquainted myself with the controls and pegs. The turn signal switch is on one side, the first indication that this is not a reworked HD. Unfortunately it doesn’t have self-canceling ones. The pegs are about an inch back of being straight down, but very comfortable and easy to find. The shifter did seem a bit small, but I never missed a shift. It had an easy to read speedo and tach.

The salesman warned me that the front end could and would come up in first and second if you get too heavy on the throttle. When he told me this, I was thinking, “Yeah, sure. I have ridden 2 different 1200cc Harley Davidsons in the last month. They didn’t come close to lifting the front end”.

But I took his word for it and was careful.

The engine is fuel injected and starts right up after waiting a few seconds for the pump to pressurize, like other HD engines. At idle it vibrates a lot, but I noticed less through the handle bars then on the Nightster or XR1200. And it smooths right out as soon as you start moving.

One of the staff from the dealership had to “lead” the ride, but it was just the 2 of us and he was happy to be a little jaunty in his riding style. He was also on a Buell.

One of the first things I noticed is that it does have more power than the Sportsters that I have ridden. It was noticeably stronger. Maybe this thing can pick up the front end easily. It also weighs about 100 lbs less than the Sportster models. I checked the claimed horsepower and torque. 103hp and 84ft/lbs. Better than the XR 1200’s 90hp and 73.8 ft/lbs. And you can really feel the difference. The Ulysses would leave my DR650 from the line and never look back.

I loved the riding position. I kept thinking, “I feel like I am sitting on my DR”. The reach to the handlebars was almost exactly the same. The grips were about the same width. Nice upright sitting position. The only difference being the pegs were back about an inch. (and the much more comfortable seat, DR seats are crap). The small fairing does a great job at clearing the wind. No helmet buffeting or gorilla arms. BTW, my back, shoulders and rear all felt just fine when the ride was over.

It took me a few turns to get used to the handling. I realized that it was the meatier rubber. It took a little more muscle and/or purposeful lean to start into a corner. After that realization, I was really able to enjoy the handling. Very nice and aggressive cornering. And wonderful, instantaneous power delivery. The ride was really smooth and bumps were easily absorbed. The transmission shifted smoothly and the engine delivered loads of power whenever you needed it, at any RPM. The last stretch of the ride was on the interstate. It was busy with 18 wheelers and SUVs. There was a lot of dirty air being pushed around. But the Ulysses was quite composed and handled it without a problem.

The Ulysses XB12XT is an excellent example of a “do it all” type of bike. I can see riding the twisty roads in southern Indiana very aggressively. It would be comfortable on very long road trips. The passenger seat is even quite comfortable for 2-up riding. It would be fun and agile commuting to work.

The only problem I have with it is the seat height while sitting still or slow maneuvers in a parking lot. I could get used to those fairly quickly.

If I had the money right now and walked into a HD/Buell dealer, I would be hard pressed to choose between the XR1200 and the Ulysses.

Positives:

• Handling and comfort
• Powerful smooth engine and transmission
• Comfortable

Negatives:

• Seat height
• Price for XT model

Buell Gear Lock

One last thing, the free gear lock is pretty nice. It will come in handy when I want to lock my jacket or pants to the bike instead of wearing them in to the store or the restaurant.

About the author

Dennis has been known to haunt various dual-sport websites under the moniker Ryde4Ever. He's ridden dirt bikes since emerging from the womb, and has owned everything from Ninjas to Vulcans to Chinese dual-sports. He doesn't brag about his riding ability, but could quietly ride circles around most riders on the road. His current steed is a Suzuki DR650. This is his third contribution to "The ATGATT Rat".

Test Drive: Honda VFR800F Interceptor

Not all of my test drives start at the local dealership. This one began when I met a friend at an annual motorcycle gathering.

Last year she had offered to let me test drive her VFR. I wasn't able to take her up on her offer last year, but was very interested in riding the Interceptor.



Would she remember this year? Would her offer still stand?

She saw me and immediately said, "Do you still want to ride the VFR?"

I said, "I was hoping you'd say that."

I hopped aboard the VFR, and spent several minutes acquainting myself with the configuration of footpegs, shift lever and brake. Everything seemed so different.

The VFR the same basic engine as my Magna, but I knew from my research that there were differences in the cams, exhaust, air intake, and carburetor jets.

I sat on the bike and listened to it run, and tried to hear anything in the cadence and whine of that V4 motor that reminded me of the Magna. I could find nothing. Neither were like the Harley V-Twin's famous sound. But they also were somehow different from each other.

Taking it out of gear without raising the kickstand, it immediately stopped running. Oops, I should've known that this feature existed.

Starting it again, it thrummed back to life effortlessly. Letting out on the clutch and moving forward, I had that momentary fright of not knowing where to put my feet. The moment that has been described as a "Where The Heck are the Footpegs" moment.

Underway, I had 10 miles of twisty country roads on which to enjoy the bike.

Compared to the Magna, the VFR handles like a dream. It is controlled by pure thought. A merely incline of the head causes the bike to steer in the direction I want. I can see the appeal of this. I immediately felt better in my lower back -- the rearset pegs tipped my pelvis and relieved pressure on the low back.

"Hey, this could work! This could be my next bike!"

But after a mere 10 miles the pain began in the shoulders. The ergonomics, even of the so-called "Barcolounger" of sport bikes, will not work for my 40/80-year-old frame.

I cannot abide a sport bike position, in my shoulders, even though the low back seems to prefer it. Is there not a happy medium?

I came back with a grin on my face. "Have we made a convert of you?"

Unfortunately no. Still searching for suitable ergonomics. Upright seating with a slight rearset to the pegs looks like it might do it.

I just havent' found a bike that fits the bill...

Test Drive: 2009 Harley Davidson XR1200

Ryde4Ever submits this test drive report

What is the difference between the XR1200 and the Nightster 1200? It is like night and day! (Pun intended).

Since I recently rode a Nightster (see the test drive report) there will be some comparisons.

Today I rode an orange 2009 XR1200 at the local Harley dealership. Very nice people!

I had talked to one of the salesmen last week and he said, "Sure we have a couple XR1200s. Call me some morning and we will set you up for the afternoon."

This was part of the Super Ride, test ride any bike on the floor promotion.

Unlike one of the other HD dealers that only allowed a ride on demo days and in a group, this deal lets you ride solo without any supervision.

I went about 11 miles. Mostly within the speed limit, but a couple secluded areas let me hit around 70 mph.

The seat is still low enough for my 30" inseam to fit and touch the ground with both feet. It is very comfortable, much better than the Nightster. It is taller than the other Sportsters but not too much. The pegs are right below you where they should be, in my opinion.

Fit and finish was typical HD, excellent!

The reach to the handlebars is less of a reach than on the Nightster. It has an analog tach and a digital speedo. Both are very easy to read even in bright sunlight. The turn signals are typical HD on both handles, but they are self-canceling.

The engine is fuel injected and starts up instantly and runs smooth. It vibrates a lot at idle, but I don't think it is as bad as the Nightster. As soon as the engine hits about 2200 rpm, it smooths out.

I did notice a few more vibes through the pegs on this one but only at lower RPMs. It is funny; while slowing, somewhere around 2200-2300 you notice the tingle, kind of like the bike is saying, "Ok, you can down shift now."

This bike is great! It is exactly the type of Harley that I would gladly own. It has amazing torque at any speed.

In fact, so much that it is a bit touchy at the throttle. Me, not being used to the turn signal switch on the right side, accidently twisted the throttle a touch while trying to turn on the signal. The kick about threw me off the bike. The 5-speed transmission was smooth as silk, just like the Nightster's.

The amazing thing: this bike LIKES to turn! It feels good leaning way over. And no scraping of miscellaneous parts when doing so.

Turn on the power mid-turn and it just hunkers down and tells you to lean a bit further.I also noticed the front brakes really work well. Not much front end dive when you hit them.

I am used to riding a tallish 360 lb (wet) dual sport bike. I easily hopped on this much heavier bike and felt pretty comfortable in a few miles. I barely noticed the extra weight. It is wider but just felt right. The air filter doesn't seem to hammer your right knee like on the Nightster.

There is also much more rear suspension travel. Most normal bumps are absorbed. Some of the bigger ones are still a bit jarring. But, nothing like the Nightster.

Acceleration felt similar to the Nightster. My DR650 could probably stay right with this bike up to about 60, then that XR would leave me sitting.

Positives:

• Engine and tranny
• Seating position
• Handling and braking. Did I mention great handling?

Negatives:

• Throttle is a bit touchy
• Still a bit rough on very bumpy roads
• Price $10,799 in black and $11,079 in orange

About the author
Dennis has been known to haunt various dual-sport websites under the nom de plume Ryde4Ever. He's ridden dirt bikes since emerging from the womb, and has owned everything from Ninjas to Vulcans to Chinese dirtbikes. He doesn't brag about his riding ability, but could quietly ride circles around most riders on the road, including yours truly, The ATGATT Rat. His current steed is a Suzuki DR650.

Test Drive: 2007 Harley Davidson Dyna Street Bob

We found a Harley Davidson dealership that allows test drives (not all of them do) so we paid them a visit. My wife wanted to try a FXDWG - Dyna Wide Glide. They had none on the showroom floor, so we picked something similar, an FXDB -- Dyna Street Bob. This one had the narrow wheel up front, the 96 cubic inch motor, after market pipes, and ape hangers.

I hesitate to write a report about a customized bike -- the pipes were not stock. But since this is a common customization -- it seems like everyone who buys one of these bikes puts on after-market pipes -- it seems a relevant review.

I had expected a dealer-escort along a four mile course. Instead, the kid handed us the keys, and told us not to be out too much past 4. It was 2:45. He pointed us toward a twisty road and said have fun.

We rode for about 45 minutes out of town up an old twisty road.

After that amount of time, my ears were ringing. The vibration was not as bad as I had heard or imagined. Rubber mounted engine, I guess. I could feel the vibration in the hand grips.

The power and throttle response was worse than I had expected. I would describe the performance as Lackluster. I've heard it said that a Harley engine "Turns gasoline into noise and vibration with the least amount of power imaginable."

[See Editor's Note, below]

Backfiring on deceleration, for a moment it reminded me of the Magna before I cleaned the carbs. Makes me wonder whether there really was a problem with the fuel injection mapping. I know that the fuel injection has to be modified when custom pipes are installed. Looks like they didn't quite get it right.

I'll never know how much of the power and performance problems were related to faulty fuel injection mapping, and how much was simply "as good as it gets". I'll have to test drive other bikes - perhaps with stock fuel injection mapping and stock pipes - to be sure.

Back to the dealer, they debriefed us on our ride, and tried to urge us toward a purchase. They knew we were in the "early planning stages" of my wife's next bike, and that there would be no bike-buying today. They had my wife pick out her favorite color, talked about finance options, yada yada yada. Very low key, not hard sell tactics.

"What did you think of the Street Bob?" they asked her.

"Too loud," she said.

"What about you?" they asked me.

"Not enough power, too sluggish." I replied.



Editor's Note: This review was lifted from a longer post of mine, in which I reviewed several different bikes and also gave an account of the trip there and back.

Also, I should note as a follow-up, the problems I describe in this bike, including the unfair cliche about Harley-Davidson noise-to-power ratio, seem to have been caused either by the after-market pipes, or the fuel-injection mapping, or both. The stock 2009 Harley Davidson Dyna Super Glide, which has the same engine and same chassis, didn't exhibit any of this behavior.

Test Drive: 2007 Victory Vegas 8-Ball

The local dealer offers test drives, so we picked out the Victory Vegas 8-Ball. The Vegas 8-ball had the least chrome of any bike they had -- a totally blacked out engine -- so I figured I'd give it a shot. I really like the looks of it, and had read great reviews in Rider Magazine.

We took the bike unescorted on a dealer-prescribed four mile circuit, through city streets and a twisty parkway, and back to the dealer. Too short of a run to really get a feel for the bikes, but much better than simply staring at the bike on the showroom floor, and even better than sitting on the bike while the salesman holds it upright.

The 8-Ball was well balanced with weight down low. Easy off the stand and comfortable to sit on. Ergonomics were comfortable. I had never ridden with foreward controls and found them to be comfortable, more than I expected. Handling and throttle response were excellent.

The acceleration doesn't compare favorably to the V4 Honda Magna that I currently ride, but it was better than the Goldwing GL1100 I'd previously owned, and better than the Victory Kingpin Tour, which I also test drove. The Tour is a great bike, but is weighted down with bags, and it does affect the acceleration off the line.

The engine made an unfamiliar sound, a whine that varied with the engine speed. It was noticeable on both the 8-Ball and the Kingpin Tour, but moreso on the Tour, which I attribute to the windshield focusing some of the sound back at the driver.

But the 8-Ball was a nice looking bike, and would merit a closer look if I were ready to purchase a new bike. I really like the styling, though I recognize that that's a personal preference. The stock solo seat would have to be replaced with a two-up seat, in my case, but otherwise it looks ready to ride.


This review was snipped from a longer post of mine, which included several test drives at two different dealerships, plus the tale of getting there and back.

Test Drive: 2007 Buell Lightning XB12STT

I found a Buell dealer who allowed test drives. I had hoped to ride a Ulysses. I had read the press, and wanted to try it out. It looked plausibly interesting.

Turns out they had no Ulysses on the showroom floor, so the dealer hooked me up with a XB12STT, which is more sporty in configuration.



I had expected a dealer-escort along a four mile course. Instead, the kid handed us the keys, and told us not to be out too much past 4. It was 2:45. He pointed us toward a twisty road and said have fun.

Keep in mind this is my first experience with a sport riding position. Firing up the Buell, the mirrors start to shake. Plenty of power right down low on the tach. There was a brief moment where I had that panicked sensation of not being able to find the footpegs, after which I found the pegs and had no problems in that department.

The bike has the tiniest shifter peg and brake pedal I have ever seen, I spent the next half-hour hunting for the shifter lever.

The horrible shaking is really only noticeable at idle, and the bike has plenty of torque, of course. Plenty of power on tap, I couldn't lug it low enough for it to complain, and it surged happily forward like a quarter horse at about 5 grand on the tach. I could almost do this, I thought.

But I could not abide the riding position. This is not a knock against the bike; but rather reflects that I am not accustomed to a sportbike seating position.

I really felt like I was going to pitch over the handlebars. In an aggressive stop I really felt that the rear wheel would loft. I imagine my impressions would be different if I'd ever ridden a sport bike of any stripe before.

We rode for about 45 minutes out of town up an old twisty road. My wife took a turn riding the Buell. Her report:

"This thing has plenty of power to spare, just twist the grip and it goes." She had that devlish gleem in her eye. I was so surprised. I figured my dear cruiser girl would never go for anything like that.

What she said was true; especially compared to the cruisers we had ridden, the Buell was sporty and fun.

"What about the seating position?" I asked. That was what bothered me the most.

"It's okay, I got used to it." she replied.

I was totally surprised.

Back to the dealer, they asked us our impressions. I described my wife's devilish grin, and how much fun it was to ride.

"So you liked it?" they asked.

"Not particularly..." I shrugged. It was an interesting ride, and a fun one, but the negatives outweighed the positives. Perhaps I'd feel differently with a different seating position. If I ever get a chance to ride the Ulysses, I'm still interested.

...

This post was taken from a longer one, which included other bike reviews, and an account of getting to and from the dealership.

Test Drive: 2007 Victory Kingpin Tour

The local Victory dealer offers test drives, so we picked out the Victory Kingpin Tour. The Kingpin Tour had the saddlebags and trunk that made it a practical tourer.



I'm interested in touring bikes like some women are interested in another pair of shoes. In fact my feelings on owning multiple motorcycles draws a parallel to a closet full of shoes ... you need something for every occasion.

I took the bike unescorted on a dealer-prescribed four mile circuit, through city streets and a twisty parkway, and back to the dealer. Too short of a run to really get a feel for the bike, but way better than just looking at them on the showroom floor.

The Kingpin reminded me of the GL1100 Gold Wing in terms of comfort and acceleration. It's a complement when speaking of comfort. Both bikes certainly "have it going on" in the comfort department. Seats and seating positions, wind protection are all superbly comfortable.

However, the comparison to a Goldwing -- at least the 1100cc version that I had previously owned -- is not really a complement. When I say that the Victory Kingpin Tour reminded me of the Wing in terms of acceleration, I mean that I asked it to move, and it whined and complained and clamoured up to speed. This is why I no longer own the GL1100.

I liked the windshield height, the breeze still hit me in the face but was deflected from my chest. Personal preference.

It was very well balanced with weight down low. Easy off the stand and comfortable to sit on. Ergonomics were comfortable. I had never ridden with forward controls and found them to be comfortable, more than I expected. The floorboards and heel-toe shifter were a new experience for me.

Fit and finish was very nice. It felt like a substantial bike. There was an audible whine that I'm not accustomed to, related to the engine speed. I've heard it from other bikes, I'm sure it's just something I'm supposed to get used to. It's not a deal-breaker for me -- if I loved everything else about the bike, I'd be willing to overlook the unusual engine sound.

....

I snipped this review from a longer post of mine, which contained several test drives, plus the tale of getting there and back.

Test Drive: 2009 Harley Davidson Night Rod

Friend and fellow rider Brian also participated in the recent Harley Demo Day at South Side Harley. He rode the Night Rod Special.

His report: "Pretty much the same configuration as the VRSCAX I rode last year, except a funky little shield above the panel, and that black and orange paint job.

"I liked it a lot. Haven't ridden cruiser style much, so it took me half the ride to figure how to get my feet of the ground.

"Had lots of power, and wasn't Harley loud."

Musings on the nature of Motorcycle Reviews...

Brian is pretty laconic in his review, but it still contained some useful information. As the owner of a BMW R1150R, Brian's favorable review of the power is noteworthy. It helps to know where the author is coming from. If it had been reviewed by someone whose regular ride was a VT500 shadow, I'd say the reviewer would be "easier to impress" in the power department than the author whose regular ride is a larger, more powerful bike.

Regular reviewers, professional authors who ride bikes and write about it for a living, are able to draw from a wider basis of comparison than your average rider. But, I imagine, it helps to know the biases or the preferences of the author when reading their review. Those are a little harder to discern. Journalists strive for objectivity, or the appearance thereof, though as humans we cannot help but retain, at our core, simple, subjective feelings that color -- to some extent -- even our so-called objective reports.

Back to the example at hand, Brian's not really a Harley fan. He's happy to have as his daily ride, something different than the plentiful Harley cruiser. So, for him to overcome this neutral or slightly negative view of Harley Davidson to write favorable remarks about the Night Rod -- this also says something.

It must be good. They must be doing something right. To lure someone who typically would not consider a Harley Davidson into test driving the bike, and afterwards, to have only positive things to say.

Will this translate into sales for Harley Davidson? Penetration of a new market segment? That is their hope for the V-Rod line. Will it work?