Jeff in TD

Years ago I used to sell Hondas and Suzukis, and I often came in on my bike on Monday and left it there until Friday, as the boss would let me commute on various used bikes (keeps gas/batteries fresh).

I've owned Hondas, Suzukis, a Buell, and currently have a Road King.

That being said, I would probably recommend the Honda, but if you could swing a Harley the resale value makes the cost of ownership reasonable.

I like the Harley, and fit and finish are first rate, but suspension leaves something to be desired, and I don't think reliability is quite up to the metric jobs.

As far as being concerned about road riding, that's probably a good thing. A disproportinate number of M/C crashes happen with riders that have been drinking, unlicensed riders, new riders or riders on unfamiliar machines, and riders that have no training.

Anyway, ride sober, with license and training card, be careful until you get used to the machine, and be safe and have fun!

Rob_OBX

Where is the best place to look for a deal on a Harley? seems like every one( except the sportsters) cost $15k or so whether new or used...

bought the wife an '03 sportster last night. nice bike, only 88 miles and has a few upgrades like laced wheels and lowed suspension.

Graham

Just a suggestion, if you would like to be a bit different have a look at the Aprilia bikes. I have the Futura which is a sports tourer and I really like it a lot. The other advantage is that the milage between service intervals are longer than those of a Ducati before you have to do valves etc. I also like to styling of my bike.

dakar

I'll toss my .02 worth for the Honda as well... then again I'm still riding a '77 Goldwing. why? Simple she starts right up everytime you push the button and runs like a champ. Not to mention the smooth power of 4 cyl's vs the V-twins rattling your teeth in comparison.

Dave

Jeff in TD

I think the Polaris Victory is in the same class as what you are looking at, and may be worth a look. I still don't think you could go wrong with the VTX1300 though.

As far as a place to look for a deal on a Harley, I bought mine in Garden City Idaho, at a place called Cycle Nuts and Bolts, and it was a good experience and several friends have also bought there. At the time they were the closest place I could find that sold bikes at MSRP, so you put down a non-refundable deposit and waited.

A matter of principal for me, I suppose, not to pay over MSRP. Also, people who paid several grand over saw depreciation like anyone else.

The market for HD's seems to have cooled off some since then, or possibly supply is catching up.

VPI

Well I think I have made a decision. I am going to get the Suzukie Volusia Limited. Something about it works for me. I am goign to try and make a deal tomorrow .

dieselnewbie

Congrats!

Enjoy and ride safe!

rubbert

BMW that's all

VPI

Well I did it today. The bike is being pulled out of the crate as we speak , I get to go get it at 4:00. It is the Suzuki Volusia Limited. I am super excited. Only problem is it is raining. . Having little experience on the bike and none in the rain I may put it on a trailer and bring it home. I know gotta learn some time but I would atleast like to be comfortable on the bike first.

dieselnewbie

Congrats! A new bike is something to get excited about!

Ride it on dry pavement before you ride in the rain.

I'd wait until it wasn't raining before I picked it up, even if I planned to trailer it anyway.

Why get it all spotted up and dirty with the rain before you even get it home?

Nice bike!

MikeyB

Congrats on the new bike!

MikeyB