Sportster vs M50

[dilligaf_nz]

I know I'm probably going to open a can of worms asking this question, but here goes anyway.

I am wanting to get back into riding having originally ridden two-stroke tearaways and then a Honda CB750 in my younger days (Last lot of riding was about 15 years ago).
I'm thinking of buying a cruiser (cause I figure if I buy a sports bike I'll wrap myself around some solid object in fairly short time) and I'm trying to decide between a M50 and a 1200 Harley Sportster.
My budget will be around the 12 grand mark and the bike will become my primary transport. I commute to work everyday (around 35km's each way) through Auckland motorway traffic.
The way I see it is I'll be able to get a new (2009) M50 for my money and I'm sure it will be OK on trips as well. However I have always wanted to own a Harley (blame a wayward step-brother for that influence) and I figure for my budget I will be looking at something second hand, and I have been told that the Harley will be harder to get through traffic and they are less reliable than Jap bikes. Also, I have heard that they are prone to running rough in wet weather.

Anybody got any advice or personal experiences they can share to help me make my decision?


Thanks

[The Lone Rider]

I know I'm probably going to open a can of worms asking this question, but here goes anyway.

I am wanting to get back into riding having originally ridden two-stroke tearaways and then a Honda CB750 in my younger days (Last lot of riding was about 15 years ago).
I'm thinking of buying a cruiser (cause I figure if I buy a sports bike I'll wrap myself around some solid object in fairly short time) and I'm trying to decide between a M50 and a 1200 Harley Sportster.
My budget will be around the 12 grand mark and the bike will become my primary transport. I commute to work everyday (around 35km's each way) through Auckland motorway traffic.
The way I see it is I'll be able to get a new (2009) M50 for my money and I'm sure it will be OK on trips as well. However I have always wanted to own a Harley (blame a wayward step-brother for that influence) and I figure for my budget I will be looking at something second hand, and I have been told that the Harley will be harder to get through traffic and they are less reliable than Jap bikes. Also, I have heard that they are prone to running rough in wet weather.

Anybody got any advice or personal experiences they can share to help me make my decision?


Thanks

Not sure about harder to get through traffic, but generally harleys are much much more expensive to keep on the road.

A good place to look for some states as far as clearance and power is to go to www.bikesz.com and look up the bikes you are after.

[munster]

I bought a cruiser for the same reasons you did, if I had a sports bike I'd be wrapped round a tree too.

I recently bought a 2007 M50 and haven't regretted it one bit. Great bike, great looks, great economy. No issues at all. For $12k, you'd be looking at new. The styling on the 2010 M50 doesn't cut it for me, I prefer the '05 - '09 model.

[PeeJay]

Not sure about harder to get through traffic, but generally harleys are much much more expensive to keep on the road.
.
Sportster would have to be one of the cheapest bikes to keep on the road. Service costs are minimal, excellent fuel economy 20km/L on a trip, tyres last for ages, they sound good and can get along pretty good as well.
Get a rubbermount 04 and later, excellent bike.

[Headbanger]

hmmm....No Harley I have ever owned was unreliable, nor did they run rough in the wet (or rougher in the wet) and they were cheap as chips to keep on the road. an oil change and a set of tires every so often was about all there is to it, and my tires lasted freakin ages,

Having said that, They aren't any safer, probably less so as they are slower to change direction, need more room to slow down, and generally take a fair bit of effort and skill if you want to make something happen quickly, and they are still capable of being ridden at speeds that are likely to cause an accident and injury, Its just that this speed will be much lower.

[ukusa]

check out a Trumpet, you could get a late model America or Speedmaster for that sort of money.

[rainman]

M50, all the way.

Or the Triumph advice above, if you like the look.

[peasea]

I know I'm probably going to open a can of worms asking this question, but here goes anyway.

I am wanting to get back into riding having originally ridden two-stroke tearaways and then a Honda CB750 in my younger days (Last lot of riding was about 15 years ago).
I'm thinking of buying a cruiser (cause I figure if I buy a sports bike I'll wrap myself around some solid object in fairly short time) and I'm trying to decide between a M50 and a 1200 Harley Sportster.
My budget will be around the 12 grand mark and the bike will become my primary transport. I commute to work everyday (around 35km's each way) through Auckland motorway traffic.
The way I see it is I'll be able to get a new (2009) M50 for my money and I'm sure it will be OK on trips as well. However I have always wanted to own a Harley (blame a wayward step-brother for that influence) and I figure for my budget I will be looking at something second hand, and I have been told that the Harley will be harder to get through traffic and they are less reliable than Jap bikes. Also, I have heard that they are prone to running rough in wet weather.

Anybody got any advice or personal experiences they can share to help me make my decision?


Thanks

We have had two 1200 Sportsters in the family, one was a converted 883, a '96, and it went well, handled fine and was utterly reliable. People who say that HD's are expensive to maintain are mistaken.

The current 1200 is a fuel injected '07 Custom that cost $13,500 with 12,800k's on it. It rides nicely but doesn't corner as well as the older model and scrapes readily but thanks to the rubber-mounted engine it's a better tourer and a good looking bike. It depends what you want.

A buddy of mine recently scored a 2001 Sportster S (twin-plug heads, fully adjustable suspension and twin disc front end) for $8,200 with 50k on the dial. It's been utterly reliable, so far, too.

I know where there's another 'S' for sale, $10,000, I think it's a 2000 but has less k's on it. It also has a bit of Screaming Eagle stuff on it but not sure exactly what's there. If you're serious I could find out more.

Re-sale will be better on the HD, they tend to hold their value.

[MSTRS]

Latest KiwiRider has the M50 at SummerFest price of 10995. On road.

[240]

In my opinion I would go for the m50.
The main reason is that the brakes and suspension are likely to be far and away better the Japanese tend to do things right.
Nothing wrong with hd I have owned one and loved it,but going back to Japanese is like returning to a responsive modern car after owning a 1960s english car.

[Big Dave]

No wrong answer really - They are both good motorcycles.

The Harley should actually cost you less to keep on the road. Obviously there are exceptions to every rule and individual machines are different. The H-D motor is very cheap to service - a major is around $300 (No shims - self adjusting valves) and parts are relatively cheap. They are also economical on fuel.

The unreliability thing is a bit of a myth created by the heavy customisation of the machines often leading them to be 'fixed until they break'.
Ask AMPS how many times they have had to call out the truck on a rental in the last 7 years. On those abused machines (c'mon - who doesn't pin a rental?) - the answer was still 'bugger all' last time I asked.

You keep it in good order it will probably last longer and hold better resale than the Suzuki. But that is a big 'probably'.

It will cost a shitload more to insure and poses a greater security challenge.

The Suzuki has all the benefits of being a Suzuki. Dealers everywhere, great backup, general parts availability (although slightly expensive IMO) and a whole lot of ride and forgetaboutit.

In the end - I would ride both and buy the one that sings to you loudest.

[Big Dave]

In my opinion I would go for the m50.
The main reason is that the brakes and suspension are likely to be far and away better the Japanese tend to do things right.
Nothing wrong with hd I have owned one and loved it,but going back to Japanese is like returning to a responsive modern car after owning a 1960s english car.

Depending on model, Modern Sportsters have Japanese (some have showa) suspension and Nissin or Brembo brakes.

[peasea]

In my opinion I would go for the m50.
The main reason is that the brakes and suspension are likely to be far and away better the Japanese tend to do things right.
Nothing wrong with hd I have owned one and loved it,but going back to Japanese is like returning to a responsive modern car after owning a 1960s english car.

You obviously haven't ridden a Sportster 'S' then.

[Big Dave]

>>check out a Trumpet, you could get a late model America or Speedmaster for that sort of money.<<

Merit in that suggestion too.

America is still one of the best handling vehicles in the class.

[peasea]

>>check out a Trumpet, you could get a late model America or Speedmaster for that sort of money.<<

Merit in that suggestion too.

America is still one of the best handling vehicles in the class.

My brother-in-law in Cairns has an America, which was the darling of the garage until he bought a new 1600 T'bird.

[scumdog]

In my opinion I would go for the m50.
The main reason is that the brakes and suspension are likely to be far and away better the Japanese tend to do things right.
Nothing wrong with hd I have owned one and loved it,but going back to Japanese is like returning to a responsive modern car after owning a 1960s english car.

Each to their own but mrs Scumdog (normajeane on KB) rides a 1200 'S' Sporty, never complained about any excess vibration or in fact any other issue.

It had 40,000+ km and and so far the single biggest 'repair' was a new drive belt (stones wl punch holes through them - OK if in the middle of the belt but likely to cause it to tear if on the edge of it - oh, and some Suzukis use belts too).

Change oil-filter-tyres when they need it is about all the attention it needs.:yes:

Factory HD adjustable front and rear suspension + twin floating vented front discs means it handles reasonably well too.:niceone:

[Jantar]

I think its a pity that some riders see the only alternative to sports bikes as being cruisers. there is a whole range of bikes that fill in that middle ground and would probably make better commuters as well. However out of the M50 or a HD Sporty, I believe the Sporty would be the better bike for your purpose. (And I am a suzuki man from way back).

[nallac]

I'd go the Sporty........you've always wanted a H-d, get one.

Fun bikes to ride, sooo much ya can modify/cutomise to your tastes.

Haven't ridden a M50 so can't coment on them.

[Shadows]

I know I'm probably going to open a can of worms asking this question, but here goes anyway.


I am wanting to get back into riding having originally ridden two-stroke tearaways and then a Honda CB750 in my younger days (Last lot of riding was about 15 years ago).
I'm thinking of buying a cruiser (cause I figure if I buy a sports bike I'll wrap myself around some solid object in fairly short time) and I'm trying to decide between a M50 and a 1200 Harley Sportster.
My budget will be around the 12 grand mark and the bike will become my primary transport. I commute to work everyday (around 35km's each way) through Auckland motorway traffic.
The way I see it is I'll be able to get a new (2009) M50 for my money and I'm sure it will be OK on trips as well. However I have always wanted to own a Harley (blame a wayward step-brother for that influence) and I figure for my budget I will be looking at something second hand, and I have been told that the Harley will be harder to get through traffic and they are less reliable than Jap bikes. Also, I have heard that they are prone to running rough in wet weather.

Anybody got any advice or personal experiences they can share to help me make my decision?


Thanks.[[/QUOTE]/QUOTE]

A Sporty will slot through traffic no trouble at all, they're narrow as. It's the big blocks that can struggle a bit. You'll build up a very strong left hand dealing with the clutch though.

If you get one less then 20 years old with the 5 speed box, reliability is excellent. Nay, superb. Anybody who tries to tell you otherwise is simply perpetuating the bullshit.

The only thing I'll state in the negative is that the brakes aren't the best - but in an emergency I've still managed to stop in time while others riding behind me on Jap bikes have not.

Keep an eye on your odometer because the range you get out of those little tanks isn't ideal for touring.

PS. Fuck this new forum format is shite.

[Shadows]

generally harleys are much much more expensive to keep on the road..


*cough* *cough* *cough* bullshit *cough*

[retro asian]

The styling on the 2010 M50 doesn't cut it for me, I prefer the '05 - '09 model.

I like what they did with the back, but not a big fan of the M90/M109 front end.
I'd probably choose a newish sportster if I could afford it, in saying that I am very happy with my '04 VL800 (a slightly lesser bike than the M50).

The Harley looks better for filtering through traffic (as it's narrower)?? But I haven't ridden one.

[Headbanger]

Suzuki cruisers look shit to me.

Superb brakes or not I wouldn't want one, If ya like the idea of a Harley then buy a Harley, They are fuckin awesome, everything you expect them to be and even more, I can't see the logic in buying a fugly nippon imitation of a Harley.

Didn't the yanks nuke those fuckers?

[Big Dave]

My brother-in-law in Cairns has an America, which was the darling of the garage until he bought a new 1600 T'bird.

I could very happily stick 4" fork extensions on a tbird and call it job done till I rode the wheels off it.

I feel the same way about the Dark Custom Street Bob.

They ar a bit over the OP budget though.

[Big Dave]

Suzuki cruisers look shit to me.

I think that's called a controversial post.

I had a M109 in silver that I really liked the look of - till I dropped it anyways. Then it made me want to give myself upper cuts / :-)

[shellfish]

Here's my 2c.

Ive owned both sorts of bikes

I owned a 2007 1200 Sportster in the UK, and it was my daily commute. It ran really well, great for getting through the traffic on the motorway. Rubber mount engine meant that long trips were realitivly easy. IF you can do your own maintenance its a good buy - harley dealers charge like wounded bulls. Rust on older Sportsters are an issue, but the rubber mounted ones seemed about average with other bikes inmy opinion.
Once I got back to NZ, I went shopping for a similar bike and ended up with a 2006 Suzuki 1400 Intruder.
A similar bike.
To compare the two:
Sportster felt more rural - nothing beats the noise from a harley motor
The Intruder is more comfortable to ride - the curve in the seat stops the wind from trying to push you off the back of the seat.
Maintenance costs are similar
Custom parts more available for the Sportster.
I was always more weary of leaving the Sportster parked - they are magnets for theives

All that said, if you realy want to own a Harley the sportster is a fair bike (but some Harley riders look down their noses at you...)

From someone who has owned both, my pick would be the Suzuki, happy to leave it parked in Wellington, can do my own maintenance and its a slightly more comfortable ride.

Shellfish

[CookMySock]

some Harley riders look down their noses at you...Surely you jest?

Steve

[Shadows]

Surely you jest?

Steve


Hell no. Skirtsters, they call 'em. I don't give a fuck though because the proof of the pudding is in the eating of the big blocks out on the road...

[Shadows]

Suzuki cruisers look shit to me.

Superb brakes or not I wouldn't want one, If ya like the idea of a Harley then buy a Harley, They are fuckin awesome, everything you expect them to be and even more, I can't see the logic in buying a fugly nippon imitation of a Harley.

Didn't the yanks nuke those fuckers?

Thanks for speaking my mind for me!

[Big Dave]

>>Hell no. Skirtsters, they call 'em.<<

Yebbut people with the brains of a cabbage opinions don't count. Or they ain't ridden a XR1200X.

[Big Dave]

You have to wonder about the type of person who tags a conversation 'harley idiots' anonymously hey? Speak up laddie boy! :-)

[Edbear]

Hell no. Skirtsters, they call 'em. I don't give a fuck though because the proof of the pudding is in the eating of the big blocks out on the road...

Ask Scummy, he bought a T-bird and it wasn't as quick as the Sportster. The 1200S is one bike I would have tomorrow!


>>Hell no. Skirtsters, they call 'em.<<

People with the brains of a cabbage opinions don't count.

Perzackery! But I agree that while both of the OP's choices are great bikes in their own right, they are not the 'same'.

One issue for me, as a commuter, and one reason I chose the C50T over the C90 was liquid cooling. Each time I hear that radiator fan come on in slow traffic I am pleased to have it as the old GSX-F I had could overheat.

[Shadows]

Ask Scummy, he bought a T-bird and it wasn't as quick as the Sportster. The 1200S is one bike I would have tomorrow!

LOL I had mine listed here for six months - where were you????

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/93708-HD-XL1200S-Sportster-Sport?p=1957520#post1957520

[BMWST?]

every one knows adv bikes are the NEW cruisers....

[Edbear]

LOL I had mine listed here for six months - where were you????

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/93708-HD-XL1200S-Sportster-Sport?p=1957520#post1957520

Too broke unfortunately! I was also offered one in low k mint condition at a very good price, and was disappointed to have to turn it down. Who knows what this year will bring though...

[Rob Taylor]

Oh god.The Harley verses Jap again...Heres my 2 cents worth...........Harleys are as realiable as the Jappas if not,more so.Cheap to Maintain.Generally better looked after because of the money invested.If you want to ride & forget ,get a Jappa.If its more than "Just a bike" your looking for,Go buy the Harley you have always wanted....Done Ps.Go look at www.ktlbikes.co.nz

[porky]

And the harley comes with self cancelling indicators!!!!! Had ton of bikes some good .....some not so good.......Last ride was a sportster complete with stage 1. Impressions...bit of a storm in a tea cup all this division among the ranks B.S. whats good for one may not suit another. Sportster went okay, bit noisy, especially for the pillion, bit soft in the arse but good for re sale. Take both for a ride. Form our own opinion and dont care what others say. I got rid of mine because i wanted bigger with more pillion comforts. Road king didnt cut it, VTX 1800 did, and as a consequence i keep getting fed a pile of grief from my harley mates. Word of warning, a cruiser isnt going to guarantee a pension and happy retirement years. For me i missed the tree and polaxed the car on my sports bike and the brakes on that were pretty good. My 2 cents worth, its got more to do with whats between the ears than style of bike. Oh and a serious off tends to reinforce the fact its the stopping that counts. Good luck on our choice.

[dilligaf_nz]

Thanks for all your great input. I finally made a decision and have bought a new 2009 M50. After test riding a Harley, a Triumph America and the M50 I decided the M50 would suit my needs for now. Once her indoors gets all used to the idea, and I move to a house with better security, I think I'll find a nice shiney Harley parked in the garage.

[popelli]

Re-sale will be better on the HD, they tend to hold their value.

bought a well used and abused evo elcetarglide 14 years ago fpr $15,500

still have it and its worth around $10 - $12 now

in that time its been pretty reliable and has been ridden all around NZ the states and europe

no jap bike I have ever had has been as reliable or dependable as the harley, dead simple to work on and maintain, parts are cheap and depreciation sweet fa

the new suzuki may look like a great buy, but add in the cost of depreciation, expensive parts and its nowhere near as good a buy

most of the stories of unreliability are like ducati electrics, great stories

evo sporties are a great bike, you will not regret buying one

[The Lone Rider]

bought a well used and abused evo elcetarglide 14 years ago fpr $15,500

still have it and its worth around $10 - $12 now

in that time its been pretty reliable and has been ridden all around NZ the states and europe

no jap bike I have ever had has been as reliable or dependable as the harley, dead simple to work on and maintain, parts are cheap and depreciation sweet fa

the new suzuki may look like a great buy, but add in the cost of depreciation, expensive parts and its nowhere near as good a buy

most of the stories of unreliability are like ducati electrics, great stories

evo sporties are a great bike, you will not regret buying one


I was sitting being tattooed last Friday, and I was asked why all his friends on harleys spend so much time fixing their bikes and he sees me every day on my bike without fail.

The only answer I could give him was that it was because they had harleys.

[scumdog]

I was sitting being tattooed last Friday, and I was asked why all his friends on harleys spend so much time fixing their bikes and he sees me every day on my bike without fail.

The only answer I could give him was that it was because they had harleys.

Your answer was a load of codswollop!:yes:

Or maybe a troll?

Ask anybody, H-Ds are no more prone to breakdowns than any other brand.....or have you proof that says different?

Oh, and define 'fixing'?

[nallac]

evo sporties are a great bike, you will not regret buying one

I kinda regret buying mine because of all the money i spent on modifying to suit my tastes,(never recouped the out lay)..when what i really wanted was a Buell.
Couldn't afford a Buell then...Madly in love with the Buell i got now ......

[The Lone Rider]

Ask anybody, H-Ds are no more prone to breakdowns than any other brand.....


Have you got proof?

Take your pick to which you think is most appropriate:

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fixing

[scumdog]

Have you got proof?

Take your pick to which you think is most appropriate:

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fixing

No, I mean real people that you have met who have had their Harley conk out, and the reason for said conk-out.

[popelli]

I was sitting being tattooed last Friday, and I was asked why all his friends on harleys spend so much time fixing their bikes and he sees me every day on my bike without fail.



fixing them or tinkering with them ????????

there is a subtle difference

I tinker with my panhead a little - it now puts out more power at the back wheel than a standard evo

[The Lone Rider]

Fixing.

As in, the bike won't start
The engine hiccups and cuts out
The charging isn't working
The gearing is clunky and hard to get into X gear

For any number of reasons, most commonly "I'm not sure.. I have to take it to XYZ Harley shop"

aahhhh, I even remember the broken down harley that took the fingers off it's riders hands in nelson, when he was trying to figure out why it wouldn't turn over.

[scumdog]

Fixing.

As in, the bike won't start
The engine hiccups and cuts out
The charging isn't working
The gearing is clunky and hard to get into X gear

For any number of reasons, most commonly "I'm not sure.. I have to take it to XYZ Harley shop"

aahhhh, I even remember the broken down harley that took the fingers off it's riders hands in nelson, when he was trying to figure out why it wouldn't turn over.

Ya must know every unlucky Harley owner around...or those that don't believe in maintenance..

[Shadows]

Ya must know every unlucky Harley owner around...or those that don't believe in maintenance..

Either they all own iron heads or it's just a load of shit.

[scumdog]

Either they all own iron heads or it's just a load of shit.

Even my ironhead wasn't THAT bad...when I first got it (2nd hand from the US, been in a bad crash, had a kajillion miles on it and badly worn valve-guides) it burnt an exhaust valve at Omarama after crossing the Lindis - trailer ride No1, then a few years later it broke a chain at Queenstown and nobody stocked chain of that pitch there - trailer ride No2.

And when hot it use to lose spark to one plug at times - tracked down to crash-damaged ignition coil (But it always got me home)

And that was it for the almost 10 years I owned it.

And as Shadows implicated above, ironhead Sportys were not reknown for low maintenance or reliability.

[peasea]

Either they all own iron heads or it's just a load of shit.

I'd say it's a load of shit. Apart from a few guys who have sought-after Triumphs, BSA's and Nortons as hobby bikes, by far the majority of the people I know ride Harleys, many of them into six-figure odo' readings. I've helped out with the odd belt change (thanks to road works more often than not) and a few have had to replace rocker box and cylinder barrel gaskets. Hardly major work and it can be undertaken with a basic tool kit.

[The Lone Rider]

Or more recently when in the workshop of one of the local harley dealers,

"I'm having a look at this bike because the owner says the clutch isn't working properly"

[scumdog]

Or more recently when in the workshop of one of the local harley dealers,

"I'm having a look at this bike because the owner says the clutch isn't working properly"

Yeah, you would NEVER hear that in a Suzuki/Honda/Ducati/Truimph/Yamaha or any other brand dealership would you eh???


(Stop trolling - the joke's old...)

[The Lone Rider]

Yeah, you would NEVER hear that in a Suzuki/Honda/Ducati/Truimph/Yamaha or any other brand dealership would you eh???


(Stop trolling - the joke's old...)

Yes, you are.

So I have more proof than you it seems.

[Shadows]

One wonders how the workshops providing services to all of those "other" bikes survive when their clutches don't even wear out.

Maybe you could support them by getting a new rear tyre ;P

[peasea]

Or more recently when in the workshop of one of the local harley dealers,

"I'm having a look at this bike because the owner says the clutch isn't working properly"

The great thing about oriental bikes is; they keep wankers off everything else.

Did I say that out loud?

[peasea]

[QUOTE=Shadows;1129699228]One wonders how the workshops providing services to all of those "other" bikes survive when their clutches don't even wear out.

Maybe you could support them by getting a new rear tyre ;P

Is that a cable-operated, drum rear brake I see?

[The Lone Rider]

Still waiting for proof of Harleys being more reliable, as Tommy has pointed out.

Where's your facts?

[dilligaf_nz]

:jerry::jerry:
Typical, my questions always provoke arguments AFTER I make a decision...
:jerry::jerry:
At least in the meantime, we get to provide some entertainment. Pull out the popcorn, put up the feet, and watch :yes:
Perhaps we all need to get together and have a big hug..:grouphug:
:clap::clap:

[The Lone Rider]

:jerry::jerry:
Typical, my questions always provoke arguments AFTER I make a decision...
:jerry::jerry:
At least in the meantime, we get to provide some entertainment. Pull out the popcorn, put up the feet, and watch :yes:
Perhaps we all need to get together and have a big hug..:grouphug:
:clap::clap:

Well the good thing is, you went with what YOU wanted.

This thread has mainly established people will argue for their preferred bikes.

[Big Dave]

Where's your facts?

Where's yours? 'Some guy in a tattoo shop says.'?

I'll re-open debate with:

I rang AMPS rental dept and asked how many break downs they have had on those abused vehicles. It's a while ago - but the answer was none - in about 5 years.

As stated earlier in the thread, I rate both vehicles mentioned in the OP, but the 'Harleys are unreliable thing' - since I've been testing and reviewing the vehicles at least - is a myth.

Highly modified vehicles - of which there are lots of Hogs - are/can be unreliable. But so is a Honda or Triumph or anything if it's had 50% more power grafted on. I've still got the busted gearbox bits to show for it.

[The Lone Rider]

Where's yours? 'Some guy in a tattoo shop says.'?
I rang AMPS rental dept and asked how many break downs they have had on those abused vehicles. It's a while ago - but the answer was none - in about 5 years.

It's the same argument as everyone else here.

In the post you are referring to, his 5 friends that own Harleys are constantly fixing them, for the last 10 years.

I don't think AMPS or a friend of a friend of a friend of a friend or word of mouth or propaganda is reliable fact.

If I had said Harleys were great and something else was bad, I bet someone would have asked for proof why it was bad and Harley good - if they are so much into their own bike.

[peasea]

Still waiting for proof of Harleys being more reliable, as Tommy has pointed out.

Where's your facts?

'Facts' is plural, so it should read "where ARE your facts?" Dumb-arse.

Anyway. Fact 1: My last Harley gave me tens of thousands of k's of trouble-free riding. It never stopped on the side of the road.

Fact 2: My current Harley has given me the same.

There's a start.

[The Lone Rider]

Fact 1: Have seen a number of Harleys on the side of the road, trying to be fixed. Over the last 3 years.

Fact 2: Have ridden with a number of people who own Harleys. They have also had a number of repairs in the last 3 years.

That's another start.

[Big Dave]

I don't think AMPS is reliable fact.
.

I do - I can put a name on it if you like. Louie baby.

I added a bit more to the post too. Sounded sterner than I meant it first up.

[The Lone Rider]

I do - I can put a name on it if you like. Louie baby.

I added a bit more to the post too. Sounded sterner than I meant it first up.

You don't think fact is also a guy asking me why all his friends spend time fixing their bikes?

There's more to it than just a bunch of people online saying to get this or that. Any number of people can give whatever reason they want, and obviously anyone can disregard "fact" as poppycock.

Oh and I agree with the comment about mods. Have read it in your own articles, as well as Heavy Duty and Live To Ride, many a comment about upping the cubes and lowering reliability, for example.

[Big Dave]

Fact 1: Have seen a number of Harleys on the side of the road, trying to be fixed. Over the last 3 years.

So have I - but no more than other brands, proportional to how many more Harleys there are than on the road to other brands.

I've had new Japanese and Euro bikes die while road testing them. Only Harley that stopped was one I errrr...crashed.

[The Lone Rider]

So have I - but no more than other brands, proportional to how many more Harleys there are than on the road to other brands.

I've had new Japanese and Euro bikes die while road testing them. Only Harley that stopped was one I errrr...crashed.

Well I'm happy to agree to disagree, as my experiences have been complete opposite. This includes time spent in the USA, and a close friend of mine who is a certified Harley Mech right out from Harley, now working in a shop in Phoenix, who I frequently hear stories about things breaking down.

I will say, he has the same bloody harley he had some 20 years ago. Still running - but did take a lot to keep it running.

He however loves his Victory and I haven't heard a thing bad about it.

[onearmedbandit]

'Facts' is plural, so it should read "whare ARE your facts?" Dumb-arse.



Are you sure about that lol?

[onearmedbandit]

'Facts' is plural, so it should read "whare ARE your facts?" Dumb-arse.



Are you sure about that lol?

[Big Dave]

Heavy Duty

When we travel to the releases I get billeted with Brum occasionally. Top man. I listen and learn. He and Boris together are a crack up.

[The Lone Rider]

When we travel to the releases I get billeted with Brum occasionally. Top man. I listen and learn. He and Boris together are a crack up.


Doc was recently in CHCH... but no word yet on when the Harley Owners Group NZ Nationals are going to be featured.

[Big Dave]

my experiences have been complete opposite

It's all we can report. Tell it as we seen it.

My Buell is in its fifth year and has been quite satisfactory. It's limped home once - but the only time it failed to return to base was with a busted belt.
Other things were fixed on recall before they busted.

[peasea]

Fact 1: Have seen a number of Harleys on the side of the road, trying to be fixed. Over the last 3 years.

Fact 2: Have ridden with a number of people who own Harleys. They have also had a number of repairs in the last 3 years.

That's another start.

I don't recall the last time I saw (or heard about) a Harley on the side of the road with anything worse than an empty gas tank or a loose connection somewhere. Perhaps the people you know with Harleys are either not that savvy with them or are getting ripped off by their local shops, ie; repairs being carried out that aren't really required. For example; my missus took her previous (utterly reliable) Sportster to a supposedly reputable shop in Auckland (that BD sings the praises of) for a WOF. They passed the bike but told her that the rear pads should be replaced. She declined their kind offer to have it done while the bike was in there and we took the rear caliper off for a nosey. The pads were in excellent shape and did not need replacing. Tossers. So; how much of the repair history of your friend's bikes is fact and how much is b/s?

[The Lone Rider]

I don't recall the last time I saw (or heard about) a Harley on the side of the road with anything worse than an empty gas tank or a loose connection somewhere. Perhaps the people you know with Harleys are either not that savvy with them or are getting ripped off by their local shops, ie; repairs being carried out that aren't really required. For example; my missus took her previous (utterly reliable) Sportster to a supposedly reputable shop in Auckland (that BD sings the praises of) for a WOF. They passed the bike but told her that the rear pads should be replaced. She declined their kind offer to have it done while the bike was in there and we took the rear caliper off for a nosey. The pads were in excellent shape and did not need replacing. Tossers. So; how much of the repair history of your friend's bikes is fact and how much is b/s?

You are forgetting there is a HUGE amount of people not engine savy, electrical or anything at all. One of my closest mates and a club member, despite pulling the same Km's a year I'm doing and the number of times I've shown him how to do basic things like adjust a rear wheel, he just doesn't get it. That's just people who don't have it in them... there's a lot of people who simply don't have the knowledge. I for one wouldn't work on any of my engines without someone who knows more than me around. But I'll happily cut up fenders and re-mount things, change the wiring to suit my needs.

Who knows people's bike histories. The tattooists friends are people I haven't met many times (or all of them) and the guys I've ridden with.. well you'd have to ask them what keeps breaking. I don't think people I've ridden with for years could remember all or any of the problems I've had with my own bike (which they would blame on me rather than the bike anyway)

Edit:

You will find similar posts and opinions in this thread about Hyosungs:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/121005-Are-Hyosungs-worth-getting?p=1129699278#post1129699278

I for one think they are decent enough bikes, having experienced the 650 cruiser they make. A lot of people refer to them as Korean crap (as though they are lower on the scale compared to Japanese)

[peasea]

You are forgetting there is a HUGE amount of people not engine savy, electrical or anything at all.

Uh huh......

Late 70's.........side of road....broken bike........one biker asks "How much oil is in it?" Other biker asks "Where does that go?"

While in some circumstances a little knowledge can be dangerous, at other times it can be useful.

[The Lone Rider]

Uh huh......

Late 70's.........side of road....broken bike........one biker asks "How much oil is in it?" Other biker asks "Where does that go?"

While in some circumstances a little knowledge can be dangerous, at other times it can be useful.

I can't account for others ability to fix bikes. If I could I'd do all my own engine work. Likewise I wish The Dave could do most of his own basic maintence.

Look at how many people take cars and bikes in for an oil change!

[scumdog]

My Suzuki has cost me more $$$ in repairs than all my Harleys put together.

Fact.

[peasea]

I think the most unreliable bike I had anything to do with was a Suzuki. It was owned by a mate and I simply just got sick of hearing about the breakdowns. I helped where and when I could but at the end of the day it was a lemon. Even Tridents of the day were less hassle. Fact.

[popelli]

The two most unreliable bikes I ever owned were a Honda and a Moto Guzzi

[peasea]

:rofl::rofl::rofl:
You owned a Honda???

[popelli]

yes and that was over 30 years ago

and I still remember it as the most unreliable piece of crap I have ever had the misfortune to own

[peasea]

yes and that was over 30 years ago

and I still remember it as the most unreliable piece of crap I have ever had the misfortune to own

I did have a lot of trouble with a 1968 650 Triumph I had but only early on in the piece.

After I put both con rods through the cases I rebuilt it, modified the head, punched it out to 686cc, fitted two Dellorto carbs and made a 2-1 exhaust it not only went well it never stopped. I got years of trouble-free riding and a lot of it was commuting across Wellington and then Auckland. Bloody good value for money that bike.

I have never owned a Jap bike and I never will.

[Big Dave]

I have never owned a Jap bike and I never will.

I don't think it's worth having a stick up your arse about.

If I need a machine to do a job, I'll choose the best machine for the job - place of manufacture is only one consideration.

[peasea]

I don't think it's worth having a stick up your arse about.

If I need a machine to do a job, I'll choose the best machine for the job - place of manufacture is only one consideration.

I haven't got a stick up my arse, I just hate Jap bikes. They steal their styling from others and make cheap knock-offs that have the resale value of dried shit.

Jap cars are fine in that they are reliable and cheap but to me (and anyone who cares) motorcycling is special. Jap bikes are not. They might be, like their four-wheeled counterparts, cheap and reliable but (IMHO) they're shite.

But that's only my opinion :bleh:, not a stick up my arse.

[The Lone Rider]

They steal their styling from others and make cheap knock-offs that have the resale value of dried shit.


Then again, how many ways can you make a bike with a V twin engine of a cruiser type and make it look different from anything else.

Look at a lot of the custom Harleys. Overall, they all are basically the same thing in the way they look. Custom bobbers look like bobbers. How many ways do you want to re-design it and call it a bobber?

And cheap knock offs.. don't know about that. Pound for punch the M109R has some heavy hardware pulling harder than anything Harley can come up with - short of throwing in a Kendal Johnson engine or an El Bruto.

Some people like the original Colt M16s. But push comes to shove I rather have one of the re-worked and better engineered Knights Armament M16s. Same gun.. just better and won't jam.

Anyway, aren't all the new parts for Harley now made in Japan? Except for a number of the upper end aftermarket bits.. or of course the thousands of small companies making aftermarket parts for Harleys. Harleys are dime a dozen in the states. Had I'd been in the states I'd probably have one.

[peasea]

Then again, how many ways can you make a bike with a V twin engine of a cruiser type and make it look different from anything else.

Look at a lot of the custom Harleys. Overall, they all are basically the same thing in the way they look. Custom bobbers look like bobbers. How many ways do you want to re-design it and call it a bobber?

And cheap knock offs.. don't know about that. Pound for punch the M109R has some heavy hardware pulling harder than anything Harley can come up with - short of throwing in a Kendal Johnson engine or an El Bruto.

Some people like the original Colt M16s. But push comes to shove I rather have one of the re-worked and better engineered Knights Armament M16s. Same gun.. just better and won't jam.

The last thing you want is jam in your gun.

[Big Dave]

But that's only my opinion :bleh:, not a stick up my arse.

It's just such a lovely term innit.

There were four graphic artists standing around the computer trying to work out why the publisher had knocked back the cover to Rip It Up magazine. We all thought it was a killer, but it got red x'd.

'Why?' we asked.

'Because he's got some stick up his arse', fumed Editor Scot Kara.

The expression has stayed with me since.

[peasea]

It's just such a lovely term innit.

There were four graphic artists standing around the computer trying to work out why the publisher had knocked back the cover to Rip It Up magazine. We all thought it was a killer, but it got red x'd.

'Why?' we asked.

Did it have a Jap bike on it?

[Big Dave]

Did it have a Jap bike on it?

Coldplay. But I can't connect a pun.

[peasea]

Coldplay. But I can't connect a pun.

Coldplay; there's a good reason to bin the whole magazine.

[240]

I haven't got a stick up my arse, I just hate Jap bikes. They steal their styling from others and make cheap knock-offs that have the resale value of dried shit.

Jap cars are fine in that they are reliable and cheap but to me (and anyone who cares) motorcycling is special. Jap bikes are not. They might be, like their four-wheeled counterparts, cheap and reliable but (IMHO) they're shite.

But that's only my opinion :bleh:, not a stick up my arse.

Thats great mate you stick with your ww2 technology machine and enjoy it,and what car do you drive a Morris Marina??:yes:

[peasea]

Thats great mate you stick with your ww2 technology machine and enjoy it,and what car do you drive a Morris Marina??:yes:

It depends. For the missus to commute through the morons we have a Jappa that we don't really give a fuck about and for touring together (ya know, special romantic trips that take days) when we want some comfort and some torque we have a 5.7l Berlina. I had lotsa Morrie Minors when I was a teenager though, they were cheaper to run on a daily basis than the American cars I owned, which I kept for weekend fun. Marina's are a bit thin on the ground now.

My WWII technology gets me to work every day, rain hail or shine. Pushrods and a carb', I love it, I wax it and I maintain it. However, the latter requires minimal input. Oil and filter changes, the odd tyre and rear disc pads a while back. It's a hard life.

[scumdog]

?




Anyway, aren't all the new parts for Harley now made in Japan? Except for a number of the upper end aftermarket bits.. or of course the thousands of small companies making aftermarket parts for Harleys. .

So how come that (apparently) with all those good Jap parts they still break down?:scratch:

[The Lone Rider]

So how come that (apparently) with all those good Jap parts they still break down?:scratch:

More that maybe if you think they are so reliable, it's because the Jap parts have started to be put in them

[scumdog]

More that maybe if you think they are so reliable, it's because the Jap parts have started to be put in them


Started?

My '81 ironhead had Showa forks and a Hitachi starter motor and more.

But it's still a Harley.

[The Lone Rider]

Started?

My '81 ironhead had Showa forks and a Hitachi starter motor and more.

But it's still a Harley.

Must be why it started and the front wheel didnt fall off.

Lots more jap parts going on them now then ever used to be.

[scumdog]

Yeah...but they're HARLEYS!!

[peasea]

Top 5 Selling Cruisers 2009

1. Yamaha XVS650
2. Harley Davidson FLSTF
3. Harley Davidson FXD
4. Harley Davidson FXST
5. Harley Davidson XL883


Four out of five ain't bad.

But wait, there's more............

Top 5 Selling Touring 2009

1. Harley Davidson FLSTC
2. Yamaha FJR1300
3. Harley Davidson FLHR
4. Harley Davidson FLHTCU
5. Kawasaki ZG1400A

[Usarka]

There is a simple and easy answer to the question: - if you want a harley get the sportster. If you're not fussed get the M.


edit: get a night rod.

[AllanB]

Get a naked SV650.

[bluebird]

I have no opinion on Harleys or Suzukis, just the people who ride them, but in my experience more bigots and racists ride harleys than suzukis, so it's a choice by association in the end as a nice bike is a nice bike and they both are.

[peasea]

in my experience more bigots and racists ride harleys than suzukis.

And your point?

[bluebird]

don't have one , this thread should be put out of it's misery.

[scumdog]

don't have one , this thread should be put out of it's misery.

Wot 'e sed.

And it's the person astride, not the ride that counts....

[240]

Top 5 Selling Cruisers 2009

1. Yamaha XVS650
2. Harley Davidson FLSTF
3. Harley Davidson FXD
4. Harley Davidson FXST
5. Harley Davidson XL883


Four out of five ain't bad.

But wait, there's more............

Top 5 Selling Touring 2009

1. Harley Davidson FLSTC
2. Yamaha FJR1300
3. Harley Davidson FLHR
4. Harley Davidson FLHTCU
5. Kawasaki ZG1400A

Those Harleys are cute wee bikes can you ride them on a car license like a scooter??:innocent:

[Usarka]

Top selling lists don't mean squat. If they did we'd all be gooing over pictures of a Honda Super Cub.

[dilligaf_nz]

don't have one , this thread should be put out of it's misery.:corn::corn::corn:

[peasea]

Those Harleys are cute wee bikes can you ride them on a car license like a scooter??:innocent:

No, you need to man up and get a real license.

[peasea]

Top selling lists don't mean squat.

Sure they don't (Tui ad); if HD was at the bottom of the list all the Jap riding folk would be dining out on the stats for sure.

[peasea]

don't have one , this thread should be put out of it's misery.

Why? Coz people are offering opinions that you don't like or agree with?

[nallac]

No, you need to man up and get a real license.

I always thought the real tough harley riders don't need no stinking license.

[peasea]

I always thought the real tough harley riders don't need no stinking license.

Or brakes.

[popelli]

Get a naked SV650.


that really is sad

a jap copy of a ducati monster that was so good it has already been discontinued

the ducati monster now almost 20 years old and still in production