Don't miss my Harley

[Molly]

Recently sold my '09 Fat Bob (the last in a line of Harleys inc. four brand new) because I really wasn't enjoying it and would've had to thow more money at it to get it where I wanted it to be. Hadn't had it long enough or done enough to it to get attached. Besides, I'd often go out to the garage and at the last moment decide to ride the Guzzi V11.

Spent the money on this Triumph, another '68 Bonnie project bike and still have $10k left to play with. Can't say I wouldn't like another Evo Springer if one comes along at the right money but I do know that I've bought my last new HD.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/picture.php?albumid=2454&pictureid=30110

[popelli]

bought my first and only new harley 20 years ago

a soul less FXR which I sold after a very short period of ownership

since then I have bought 4 harleys and still own all of them

would I buy a new harley? thought about it seriously many times but the bottom line is the cost of removing / modifying the emission control shite to make it sound like a proper bike, the cost of personalising it to make it your own bike, the cost of the first years depreciation

in short the financial equation of buying a new hd basically doesn't add up

[Big Dave]

Overall money has little to do with it or we'd all own Scooters.

Value judgements are entirely subjective, particularly regarding recreational vehicles.

The $10k extra that's an issue to me is what sets it apart for the dude with the $300k boat.

[Headbanger]

Money has everything to do with it, I bought the bike I liked the best that fit my budget.

[Big Dave]

Money has everything to do with it, I bought the bike I liked the best that fit my budget.

And it just 'happened' to be a Harley?

There were no Hondas that could have done the same job for the same money?

I think you missed my point - You want a Harley - you pay for it. Happy to do so. How much depends on the size of your wad.

Why did I pay for it? - because I liked it.

[Headbanger]

Why did I pay for it?

Because otherwise it would have been stealing.....

[Big Dave]

Because otherwise it would have been stealing.....

Or you iz a Jernalist.

[Molly]

Money was a factor in that I just wasn't prepared to spend what it'd cost to be happy with it.

I'm not being anti-Harley all of a sudden. I loved my Evo Springer and put a lot of time (more time than money) into it. To me it sounded wonderful and had a personality. I also had an Anniversary FXST that I now regret selling after my wife reminded me that we had our first date on it. So, that too had some 'history' for me. Should've kept it. My FXWG Shovel was bloody MINT. Should've kept that too maybe.

But the '09 Fat Bob was, at the end of the day, just a bit of a disappointment and I can't think I'll ever want to sink around $30k into a new HD again. Couple of second-hand ones though? Now you're talkin'....

[carver]

bought my first and only new harley 20 years ago

a soul less FXR which I sold after a very short period of ownership

since then I have bought 4 harleys and still own all of them

would I buy a new harley? thought about it seriously many times but the bottom line is the cost of removing / modifying the emission control shite to make it sound like a proper bike, the cost of personalising it to make it your own bike, the cost of the first years depreciation

in short the financial equation of buying a new hd basically doesn't add up

Fuck, you own a XCLR?

do you like it?

[Molly]

Been trying to post a pic of the new Triumph. Hope this works:

Oh, arse. I'll come back to it tomorrow...

[peasea]

Money has everything to do with it, I bought the bike I liked the best that fit my budget.

That'd be the same for most folk. If you're like us you'll be shopping smart when it's groceries time; use your noggin. The same applies when it comes to bikes/cars. To buy a new vehicle is (to my mind) nuts. Let some other sucker roll it off the showroom floor, lose ten grand and trade it in.

I/we would prefer to pick up on the 'slightly used' machine for a much better price.

Being folk that keep machines for more than five minutes we consider ourselves to be fairly astute with purchases of mechanical toys and we maintain them well, with an eye to long-term ownership.

It's all about your own budget in the long run but I firmly believe that you need to own a bike for at least a year, preferably two, before being able to pass judgement on that bike.

Otherwise your appraisal is nothing more than a press release or a sales brochure quote.

Hardly the real world.

[Big Dave]

To buy a new vehicle is (to my mind) nuts.

My bike is my company vehicle. It needs to be most reliable and the depreciation is tax deductible.
A lot of people don't like working on vehicles either. New ones require less upkeep. Everyone has a different value on that and the warranty.

I also reckon I can make a pretty accurate assessment of a bike's capabilities and who it suits in less than 1,000km. I take your point about 'known issues' but that's another attraction on new with warranty.


So a Suzuki DR650SE is $9,100. It does everything the Harley does. Probably the most versatile bike on the market.
If it wasn't for something more than the money why aren't we all riding them huh?

[peasea]

My bike is my company vehicle. It needs to be most reliable and the depreciation is tax deductible.
A lot of people don't like working on vehicles either. New ones require less upkeep. Everyone has a different value on that and the warranty.

I also reckon I can make a pretty accurate assessment of a bike's capabilities and who it suits in less than 1,000km. I take your point about 'known issues' but that's another attraction on new with warranty.


So a Suzuki DR650SE is $9,100. It does everything the Harley does. Probably the most versatile bike on the market.
If it wasn't for something more than the money why aren't we all riding them huh?

Because it isn't about the money, is it?

[crazyhorse]

Totally agree. You buy the kind of bike you like and want - how new etc depends on how much you have to spend - but its still what you want!

Well done Molly, I agree, ditch it before it costs you more than its worth. :)

[Big Dave]

Because it isn't about the money, is it?

Yea. It is for me. I know quite a few folks that it isn't.

Be interesting to know what the average spend on accessorising a new Harley currently is.

The last time I asked it was $6k over the standard price - average.

[Big Dave]

I'm not being anti-Harley all of a sudden

I'm not trying to make a point either - just exploring angles.

[Ecclesnz]

This is an interesting thread for me.

I recently upgraded from an '87 Savage 650 to an '02 Honda Shadow Sabre 1100.

I spent a lot of time looking here and on tardme and quite a few other sites and to be honest the closest match I has was a sporty (for my budget).

While I readily admit I am still getting used to the bike there are times I winder what I missed not getting a sporty. Something a bit lighter and able to throw round just that bit more perhaps.

But then I have to look at the fact that so many people have reported harley's having problems, while I don't believe all the hype around it there is a certain amount it would be wise to take in.

Ultimately it's each person's choice. I can see the appeal of a harley but can't afford the one I want atm. One day I'll get there, at least I still get to ride in the mean time :D

[Molly]

I didn't put any money into my Fat Bob unless you include the new derby cover and a few beers to the mate that modified my baffles. I lost a grand on it which is lucky I suppose and down to the fact that there's a waiting list for them. Had it about four months and only did just over 2,000k.

I just didn't want to have to spend another couple of grand to sort the crap front suspension. I'd also resigned myself to having to have the black paint re-lacquered as it marked incredibly easily. But, when you're not really happy with a bike you'll find excuses like that. Lots of people love them but this particular one just wasn't for me.

Never had a Panhead though.... Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

[usa-vtwin]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Cruiser/auction-233905168.htm

You can spend to much and HOPE to get some of it back, but I wouldnt count on it!

[scumdog]

Yea. It is for me. I know quite a few folks that it isn't.

Be interesting to know what the average spend on accessorising a new Harley currently is.

The last time I asked it was $6k over the standard price - average.

Can't speak for 'new' as in brand-new but I've blown a whole $250 or so putting a luggage rack + some stick-on one-off flames on my bike.l

[scumdog]

This is an interesting thread for me.


But then I have to look at the fact that so many people have reported harley's having problems, while I don't believe all the hype around it there is a certain amount it would be wise to take in.

Urban myth and 'brand-slagging' dude.

They are no worse/better than most other brands of bikes out there when it comes to 'having problems'.

[sinned]

But then I have to look at the fact that so many people have reported harley's having problems, while I don't believe all the hype around it there is a certain amount it would be wise to take in.
I haven't heard much about problems with Harleys.


Urban myth and 'brand-slagging' dude.

They are no worse/better than most other brands of bikes out there when it comes to 'having problems'.
I am on my third new bike in three years and each has had problems.
No1: SV1000S - clutch fell apart and needed replacing at the 1000kms service.
No2: Speedtriple - thermostat failed and the coolent was pumped out when I stopped.
No3: Hayabusa 2 months old - rectifier failed and bike had to be rescued by AA.
Suzuki and Triumph have a sound reputation for reliability?
If the cars I owned failed at this rate I would be really pissed off.

[NOWOOL]

Yea. It is for me. I know quite a few folks that it isn't.

Be interesting to know what the average spend on accessorising a new Harley currently is.

The last time I asked it was $6k over the standard price - average.

I'm up to $3,000 in accessories so far and yes, buy the time I'm done I'll be at about $6,000. The Harley parts just cost more (ie $220 for a tank pouch to hold my ipod and $110 for a tiny piece of fender trim). I think the reason is that there are SO many accessories for the Harleys compared to other bikes. I imagine once I'm done accessorising I'll start shopping for another bike. Bikes are like tools: One doesn't fit every job.
I'm sure I would have dressed up my previous bikes to the same degree if there was the accessory market for them.

As to reliability; The most reliable bikes I've owned have been air-cooled twins: simple and reliable.

[peasea]

.
But then I have to look at the fact that so many people have reported harley's having problems, :D

Problems? I've no problems and my friends who ride HD's are much the same. Minor irritations and self-inflicted shit (like blown head gaskets from thrashing a cold engine) can happen to any brand.

[AllanB]

Yea. It is for me. I know quite a few folks that it isn't.

Be interesting to know what the average spend on accessorising a new Harley currently is.

The last time I asked it was $6k over the standard price - average.

Some years ago I read that in the USA Harley D's marketing calculated average owners spend 30% of the purchase price of a new HD on 'extras' during their ownership. HD's extra catalogue is huge and full of go-fast and bling for your ride.

That Trademe linky for the $50k HD - that seat has big tassels.

[AllanB]

But then I have to look at the fact that so many people have reported harley's having problems, while I don't believe all the hype around it there is a certain amount it would be wise to take in.

Old farts who rebuilt their Knuckle-heads every other month decades ago and sports bike riders who expect to set a NZ track record around Taupo on a big twin.

Pick any bike you are interested in, get to a dedicated on-line forum and you'll find if there are any issues.

[Headbanger]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Cruiser/auction-233905168.htm

You can spend to much and HOPE to get some of it back, but I wouldnt count on it!

Should be able to get $14 grand for her.

[Molly]

I remember some local septic bragging that she had $60k in her Evo Springer. I laughed my arse off. It was probably worth about $15k.

[Big Dave]

Can't speak for 'new' as in brand-new but I've blown a whole $250 or so putting a luggage rack + some stick-on one-off flames on my bike.l

So far I have spent $5.95 on customising the Buell.
A can of rattle can black to paint the windscreen.

Probably dropped $5k on my T'bird. Most of it on suspension.

[vindy500]

$2,500 starter motor? lol.

[Molly]

$2,500 starter motor? lol.

Eh? I replaced the starter clutch in my '03 Softail. Cost about $120 through HD I think but would've been less if I'd just sourced the Denso part through a Nissan dealer.

On the whole I've always found HD parts (parts, not accessories) to be well priced.

[vindy500]

Eh?

its in that auction....

[Molly]

Oh. Christ. Must be made of gold.

[Big Dave]

On the whole I've always found HD parts (parts, not accessories) to be well priced.

Motorclothing is often very good value too. I prefer H-D boots. The H-d Johnny Rebs are $100 cheaper than Johnny Rebs

[usa-vtwin]

Reminds me of idiots that spend more on building a replica gt falcon than what an original one would cost lol

[Headbanger]

Motorclothing is often very good value too. I prefer H-D boots. The H-d Johnny Rebs are $100 cheaper than Johnny Rebs

Mine leak :shutup:

[Big Dave]

Mine leak :shutup:

Eventually mine have too - depending on how much groundage they have had. All my boots have, given enough abuse.
You know about the sandwich bag between sock and boot trick?

I have the waterproof FXRs currently. Very happy with them.

[peasea]

Eventually mine have too - depending on how much groundage they have had. All my boots have, given enough abuse.
You know about the sandwich bag between sock and boot trick?

I have the waterproof FXRs currently. Very happy with them.

Eventually....everything does.

[Molly]

I had some Cat (Caterpillar) boots on when I got knocked off. They split wide open and I ended up with a metatarsal stiking out through the skin.

Foot injuries are bloody painful. Buy the best boots you can afford.

[peasea]

I had some Cat (Caterpillar) boots on when I got knocked off. They split wide open and I ended up with a metatarsal stiking out through the skin.

Foot injuries are bloody painful. Buy the best boots you can afford.

Shit! I thought those CAT things were supposed to be tough-as.

[Molly]

Shit! I thought those CAT things were supposed to be tough-as.

You'd think so and they certainly seemed it. They just weren't up to the job when it really mattered. Hard to know if other boots would've stood up better though.

[peasea]

You'd think so and they certainly seemed it. They just weren't up to the job when it really mattered. Hard to know if other boots would've stood up better though.

That's the rub (so lame) I suppose. Like anything, you don't know the weakest link until it breaks.

I was involved in drag racing for 25 yrs and most of that time was spent either chasing more power or fixing what it broke.

Daft really.

With bike gear it's about hope.

[Headbanger]

Caterpillar-Underpowered, overpriced, And the owners are one-eyed fanatics.

Must be an American thing.

Anyhow, The Cat boots I have seen looked more like dress boots or "boss" boots then what I would consider industrial. I'd certainly never wear a set to work.

Come to think of it my work boots are far more comfortable and stronger then my bike boots, I might just revert back to wearing them on the bike.

Steel Blue FTW, Greatest boots ever made.

[Ecclesnz]

I readilly admit I'm not one of the typical "Harley baggers".

I see lots of people going on about problems left right and centre. I also see people who have owned one for years and decades and never had a problem.

There are people who I will always ask advise from before I buy something mechanical. I am not mechanically minded and my main source of advise is head mechanic at a huge workshop.

He is more than happy to explain the good points and bad points about most things with engines and he has worked on many harley's. His concern was that with my budget the harley I could mostly afford was a sporty. he has worked on too many, or helped with too many, that have had problems. However if I had had more time and more choices down here for one he is happy to spend time helping make sure I get a good one.

Once I have a better budget I will be taking him up on this I hope.

[PeeJay]

I readilly admit I'm not one of the typical "Harley baggers".

I see lots of people going on about problems left right and centre. I also see people who have owned one for years and decades and never had a problem.

There are people who I will always ask advise from before I buy something mechanical. I am not mechanically minded and my main source of advise is head mechanic at a huge workshop.

He is more than happy to explain the good points and bad points about most things with engines and he has worked on many harley's. His concern was that with my budget the harley I could mostly afford was a sporty. he has worked on too many, or helped with too many, that have had problems. However if I had had more time and more choices down here for one he is happy to spend time helping make sure I get a good one.

Once I have a better budget I will be taking him up on this I hope.
If he has been working on ironheads and early evo sportys then he might have a point. But the late model sportys are very reliable, We hear of these "problems" but can anyone be more specific? From what I have seen the majority of "problems" are owner induced.
One of the most underated, reliable boring bikes around is a stock 883. Over engineered, understressed, excellent crash survivability, ie they are built out of steel, very low running costs, they will run forever with regular maintenance. Dont bore it out, dont change the exhaust, just leave it alone and ride it.
of course if you are buying a Harley so people will look at you then you will have to add chrome and noise, otherwise they will think you are on a Honda!

[scumdog]

If he has been working on ironheads and early evo sportys then he might have a point. But the late model sportys are very reliable, We hear of these "problems" but can anyone be more specific? From what I have seen the majority of "problems" are owner induced.
One of the most underated, reliable boring bikes around is a stock 883. Over engineered, understressed, excellent crash survivability, ie they are built out of steel, very low running costs, they will run forever with regular maintenance. Dont bore it out, dont change the exhaust, just leave it alone and ride it.
of course if you are buying a Harley so people will look at you then you will have to add chrome and noise, otherwise they will think you are on a Honda!

What he said.

Normajeanes sporty has about 43,000km on it.

Biggest 'reliability problem she has had with it has been a faulty oil-light switch.

I'ts a 1200'S' and has boringly taken the two of us all over the South Island a few times.

The only time it has 'failed to proceed' was at Tarras - and that was some klutzy 'mechanic' who hadn't tightened the eath-strap on the battery.:shutup::innocent:

[Headbanger]

Your all too polite.

Simple fact is that Sporties are reliable as fuck, and any fuckball who says otherwise is tugging on it. They are low revving understressed bikes built simple and solid as fuck.

Look how many of them are still on the road as good as new 20 to 30 years after being produced. Fuck me I'm impressed.

You want to know about HD reliability then talk to a full time Harley Mechanic, Not one that works at a dealer either. The answer you will get is they are all pretty good.:blink: But like all mechanical devices shit can fail, Sometimes it just takes a decade or two.

[b1unt3d]

I find that it is the fit and finish that is extremely lacking on Harleys.

[scumdog]

I find that it is the fit and finish that is extremely lacking on Harleys.

Compared to???

[Big Dave]

There are a few fasteners on the underside of the exhausts that can rust, apart from that I would say that the bikes I've tested have had very nice paint and style points. Probably the best.

Once upon a time they (Harley) stood out in this regard, now the Japanese and Brits have generally matched them.

Of the test bikes I've had, notably the poorest 'fit and finish' has been on several Italian machines, but it still wasn't worth bitchin' about either.

[sinned]

I find that it is the fit and finish that is extremely lacking on Harleys.
Would you be prepared to give some examples of this lack of fit and finish?

Compared to???
While a HD is not presently my kind of ride I can't help but be impressed with the quality of the modern Harley.

[peasea]

What he said.

Normajeanes sporty has about 43,000km on it.

Biggest 'reliability problem she has had with it has been a faulty oil-light switch.

I'ts a 1200'S' and has boringly taken the two of us all over the South Island a few times.

The only time it has 'failed to proceed' was at Tarras - and that was some klutzy 'mechanic' who hadn't tightened the eath-strap on the battery.:shutup::innocent:

Do your own mechanic-ing do ya?

[peasea]

Your all too polite.

Simple fact is that Sporties are reliable as fuck, and any fuckball who says otherwise is tugging on it. They are low revving understressed bikes built simple and solid as fuck.

Look how many of them are still on the road as good as new 20 to 30 years after being produced. Fuck me I'm impressed.

You want to know about HD reliability then talk to a full time Harley Mechanic, Not one that works at a dealer either. The answer you will get is they are all pretty good.:blink: But like all mechanical devices shit can fail, Sometimes it just takes a decade or two.

With you there dude. Simplicity and 'rebuildability' still has a place in this modern, throw-away world; bikes you can fix without a degree in computerisationalismisticalatude V2.1.

Carbs and pushrods will get you home and that's what counts.

[scumdog]

Do your own mechanic-ing do ya?

Why, what made you think that eh??:shutup:

[peasea]

I find that it is the fit and finish that is extremely lacking on Harleys.

"Fit and finish"? What's wrong with it? HD don't cover up the whole shebang with plastic (and expensive) fairings and covers, what you see is what you get and in my (albeit limited by comparison to some on kb) experience things are finished and fitted very nicely thank you.

Do I detect a hint of bias here? :laugh:

[peasea]

Why, what made you think that eh??:shutup:

Just reading between the lines.
Now, get off the pooter and go tighten something.

[peasea]

There are a few fasteners on the underside of the exhausts that can rust, apart from that I would say that the bikes I've tested have had very nice paint and style points. Probably the best.

Once upon a time they (Harley) stood out in this regard, now the Japanese and Brits have generally matched them.

Of the test bikes I've had, notably the poorest 'fit and finish' has been on several Italian machines, but it still wasn't worth bitchin' about either.

Italian food is pretty sloppy too. Shall we talk about their women?

(Grabs riot shield and Remmington....shaver, not gun)

[b1unt3d]

Would you be prepared to give some examples of this lack of fit and finish?


I'll take a couple pics of my dads 06 Softail Deluxe tomorrow.. after only a couple years, there are a few areas where stuff is already flaking. My uncle has an 08 nightster, and it is already doing the same thing. Just wasn't impressed with the overall level of quality with either bike, after only a year of ownership.

[peasea]

I'll take a couple pics of my dads 06 Softail Deluxe tomorrow.. after only a couple years, there are a few areas where stuff is already flaking. My uncle has an 08 nightster, and it is already doing the same thing. Just wasn't impressed with the overall level of quality with either bike, after only a year of ownership.

A mate of mine bought a W/g new and the rear rocker cover's chrome started flaking. Took it back, got it fixed, no problem. Maybe these guys should approach the dealer.

[Molly]

My wife's '06 883L had beautifully finished, deep metalic paint an perfect, glossy powder coat on the frame. Side by side with an '06 Triumph we also had at the time the quality of the finish really stood out.That said, the black paint on my '03 FXST and '09 FXDF marked really easily. I even considered having them re-lacquered with something harder wearing.

My neighbour has a black '06 Suzuki and the paint is flawless. It looks like it's just rolled out of the factory. HD could address this but how many less bikes would they sell if they didn't? No less.

[b1unt3d]

Bike is only 3 years old, garaged for winter, parked in the shade, covered for rain etc. Less than 10 000 km on it..

[peasea]

Bike is only 3 years old, garaged for winter, parked in the shade, covered for rain etc. Less than 10 000 km on it..

Brake fluid is pretty savage stuff, it can peel most things off most things, given time. Not saying you're off target here but is the fluid reservoir slightly over full? If it is, and the fluid expands when it's hot, the bleeding at the gasket will most assuredly peel the coating off.

My previous bike (a 1990 FXR) suffered the same problem but it was a lot older. However my 2000 W/g shows no signs of peeling in the same place.

I'd be having a chat to the dealer anyway, see where they stand and what they have to say. Keep us posted.

[Molly]

Bike is only 3 years old, garaged for winter, parked in the shade, covered for rain etc. Less than 10 000 km on it..

Could be wrong but I'm sure I have one of those lids in my shed. If you get no joy with the dealer pm me and I'll pass it on to you.

[b1unt3d]

It's actually my dad's bike, so I don't know if he is going to do anything about it. I was just very put off when I saw that, considering how much he paid for it and how old it is. My uncle has an 08 nighster and there is similar flaking on multiple areas of his bike as well.

Thank you very much for the offer Molly :)

[Molly]

Well, pass on the offer anyway. Bloody sure it's out there in one of my 'bits and pieces' ice cream tubs.

[ratusratus]

and im only at work:yes:

[Big Dave]

and im only at work:yes:

You missed your medication.

[ratusratus]

i think i didnt i might have didnt

[usa-vtwin]

My 08 Nightster has no flaking bits, no corrosion - it's as good as the day it rolled off the showroom floor, has 8000km on the clock.

[peasea]

My 08 Nightster has no flaking bits, no corrosion - it's as good as the day it rolled off the showroom floor, has 8000km on the clock.

Nothing's flaked my missus' 07 1200C either.

It's like anything, you get one or two niggles with a few machines, no matter what brand. Same with cars.

[scumdog]

My 08 Nightster has no flaking bits, no corrosion - it's as good as the day it rolled off the showroom floor, has 8000km on the clock.


Likewise normajeanes '97 1200'S' Sporty with 40,000+km on it.

Only the odd stone-chip etc to give away that it's not only 3 or 4 years old.

[peasea]

Likewise normajeanes '97 1200'S' Sporty with 40,000+km on it.

Only the odd stone-chip etc to give away that it's not only 3 or 4 years old.

A 'stone chip'?
Is that a plug-in for drug addicts?

[rosie631]

Could be wrong but I'm sure I have one of those lids in my shed. If you get no joy with the dealer pm me and I'll pass it on to you.

Do you still have this Molly? Mine looks exactly like the one in the pic. I am really struggling to find the love for my new bike. Just does not seem to have the same soul as the three other Harleys i've owned in the past. Very reliable. No question that it's gonna start first time, every time but when i take off i don't have the big grin on my face that I used to. Am considering selling it and getting something older. Got to get some more miles on her first as part of me thinks I just haven't given her a proper chance.

[usa-vtwin]

hey Molly, was that you cruising down Papanui Rd today around 3.30pm on the Triumph?

[scumdog]

Do you still have this Molly? Mine looks exactly like the one in the pic. I am really struggling to find the love for my new bike. Just does not seem to have the same soul as the three other Harleys i've owned in the past. Very reliable. No question that it's gonna start first time, every time but when i take off i don't have the big grin on my face that I used to. Am considering selling it and getting something older. Got to get some more miles on her first as part of me thinks I just haven't given her a proper chance.

Yeah, some times the soul has to grow on you as the miles build up.

Patience grasshopper, patience...

[Big Dave]

Bike is only 3 years old, garaged for winter, parked in the shade, covered for rain etc. Less than 10 000 km on it..


That can - and does - happen on any bike. You gotta clean those finished lids before replacing. It's in some owners manuals.

[b1unt3d]

That can - and does - happen on any bike. You gotta clean those finished lids before replacing. It's in some owners manuals.

All maintenance is/was done by the dealership.

[Big Dave]

All maintenance is/was done by the dealership.

I'd be asking them about it then.

[Molly]

Do you still have this Molly? Mine looks exactly like the one in the pic. I am really struggling to find the love for my new bike. Just does not seem to have the same soul as the three other Harleys i've owned in the past. Very reliable. No question that it's gonna start first time, every time but when i take off i don't have the big grin on my face that I used to. Am considering selling it and getting something older. Got to get some more miles on her first as part of me thinks I just haven't given her a proper chance.

Hi Rosie. Expect so. I'll hunt it out tomorrow. Planning some shed time as I'm fitting a larger front sprocket on the Speedmaster to lower the cruising RPM. As for your HD, give it at least one summer before you do anything rash.


hey Molly, was that you cruising down Papanui Rd today around 3.30pm on the Triumph?

Don't think so. Haven't had the bike out since last weekend and even then only had a few hours so just went towards Little River from my home in Huntsbury so wouldn't have been over that way. Must've been some other handsome bastard... ;-)

[rebyl]

I started off in the 70's with Triumphs, had some Yamahas and a couple of Kawasaki's, last few bikes have been 3 ST1100's, good bikes but not enough character...but did everything extremely well, also tried a couple of Goldwings but they had to much plastic but were great bikes for tours, then came 3 Valkyries which really were the best bikes I have ever owned,, in every way, power, presence, handling, looks attitude etc etc.
Then I had a brain fart and sold the Valks and bought a 2008 Harley Ultra Classic, neat bike, no regrets, but still wish I had the Valks as well.
Would also love a Buell Ulysses, but hey...you can't have everything....so what I am saying here is that they are ALL great bikes and each to his own...In the Wind Is in The Wind, no matter if its a 50cc Jawa or a Triumph, Harley, Honda etc etc.
Just enjoy what you have, when we get off our machines and go inside we are all the same, we talk bullshit and have fun.
Enjoy it while you can........see you at the Cols Kiwi tomorrow:spanking::devil2:

[mister.koz]

I've always heard people say that harleys aren't reliable blah blah but at the same time i've never heard anything specific apart from the old ones being rattly...

Anyways, i am on a 1000cc sportsbike and i love it but i have always been tempted to check out the Harley's, my biggest worry would be getting that harley bug...

Any suggestions on what to take for a test ride?

Bare in mind if i did get the harley bug i would be buying the cheapest clapped out one i can find... just put a titanium system on the 10r! the wallet is broken and bruised

[Molly]

Octoberfest is coming up soon. I suggest you ride 'em all!

[mister.koz]

Octoberfest is coming up soon. I suggest you ride 'em all!

:blink: huh? beer drinking? have i missed something?

[Molly]

The dealer's open day. At least, from memory, that's what I think it's called. Oh, hang on... Biketoberfest. Same thing though.

[mister.koz]

The dealer's open day. At least, from memory, that's what I think it's called. Oh, hang on... Biketoberfest. Same thing though.

oh cool :) sounds like a plan.

I bet i'll get leered at, turning up on a zx10r with sports armour to a harley day hehehe

[Dooly]

I bet i'll get leered at, turning up on a zx10r with sports armour to a harley day hehehe

Hahaha. I turned up to a Harley demo day 2 yrs ago on my Ducati.
Fortunately I was dressed in black leathers so did'nt stand out so much.
Think I was the only non HD there amongst dozens.

Checked the hogs out and brought a Speed Triple which was out the back, for sale.
(Mind you, I was'nt there to check the hogs out, despite them sending me an invite):yes::lol::lol:

[Molly]

I went to an open day and came home wanting a new Road King. Careful what you ride. It might prove expensive.

[peasea]

Mind you, I was'nt there to check the hogs out, despite them sending me an invite):yes::lol::lol:

So, what did you go there to check out? The guys in leather?

[peasea]

oh cool :) sounds like a plan.

I bet i'll get leered at, turning up on a zx10r with sports armour to a harley day hehehe

Who knows? You might, if the weather is right, get shot. Hope is eternal.

[scumdog]

oh cool :) sounds like a plan.

I bet i'll get leered at, turning up on a zx10r with sports armour to a harley day hehehe

Nah, they wouldn't know what a ZX19R is.....:whistle:

[FJRider]

Nah, they wouldn't know what a ZX19R is.....:whistle:

But they would know it was not made in the US of A ... ;)

They're pretty sharp ... some of those Harley riders ... :whistle:

[Dooly]

So, what did you go there to check out? The guys in leather?

The Speedy.

But was hoping to catch a glimpse of you in your tassles.

[peasea]

The Speedy.

But was hoping to catch a glimpse of you in your tassles.

I don't have tassles. I ride in a dressing gown and slippers, thank you.

[Max Preload]

Suzuki and Triumph have a sound reputation for reliability?

Where'd you hear this fairy tale? :lol:

[sinned]

Where'd you hear this fairy tale? :lol:
I don't recall hearing any fairy tales. If you have evidence to support your lol lets hear it.