Quote:
Originally Posted by speeder
Thanks again for the replies! The stories of high-miler late model Harleys are common these days. Their general reliability and longevity is now amazing and just adds to the appeal of buying a late model used bike for today's prices. It also makes it a legit touring bike, IMO, since you don't have to anticipate being broke down on the side of the road.
As for the "why don't you look at a BMW" type advice, I know that it's given in a helpful spirit but wanting a Harley-Davidson is not the same as just "wanting a motorcycle". It's not like someone is going to do extensive research on the various brands and make a spreadsheet and go, "Harley it is!" 
Any more than someone is going to read CR on used cars and say, "20 year old used Porsche 911 it is!" 
They have a soul and they are a company that for better or worse has a unique idea about what a MC should be. Well, it was unique until every Japanese company started building Harley clones, at least.  A lot of people really enjoy riding them, but they are cruisers. That style of riding is the only kind that appeals to me on the street, *easy does it*, if you will. I test road a couple new ones back in the '90s and frankly could not believe how well they rode. Easy to turn, effortless torque and a ride that's unmatched in a heavy touring bike, again IMO.
I'm an American and I just want to hit the road on a full-dress Harley and dial in some Glen Campbell or Johnny Cash on the stereo. What can I tell you...  |
Denis,
I think your objective is admirable, but honestly, as a machine, Harley's really are not very good. They don't do anything really well, when compared to the alternatives. I've owned 4, and each had character, but were all pretty bad motorcycles. If you just want to cruise the frontage road at 55mph with Taylor Swift blaring on the radio, then yeah, could be a good experience. If the road gets twisty, you'll be held back by a machine that won't get out of its own way, dragging floorboards and making you work too much and giving you oh**** moments at every turn.
When I tour, I like a nimble machine with long legs. A Harley ain't it. Almost any BMW will give you a much better experience if you need 80mph quiet, efficient touring on the strada, and nimbleness in the esses.
BTW, they're a pain around town and in traffic. Loud, rough, uncivilized, etc. Maybe you just need to get one to get it out of your system