Don't miss my Harley

[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

[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-Mo...-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,

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-Mo...-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.