#10: Confessions of a closet cruiser fan
My very first motorcycle (above picture) was a so called soft cruiser, a Yamaha Virago 250, as a matter of fact not so much different from what I am riding today: a Harley Davidson Sportster 883.
I used to be a restless traveler between different marques and types of motorcycles, undecided and unwilling to settle for one specific style, although there was a certain pattern.
When I purchased my Nella, the F650GS dual purpose Beemer, I thought for a while that I had found what I was looking for. I liked the bike very much, it was a very practical bike and served all my needs. But is was just another fling, and when it was over I was left with nice memories, yet no regret of letting it go.
Speaking of pattern however, in retrospective, I always liked vintage bikes and naked bikes the most. Since my technical skills are limited (as are time and willingness for wrenching), a real classic bike was out of the question, which left me with only two options readily available on the Canadian market: The Triumph Bonneville or the Harley Davidson Sportster, another model which has been continuously updated but basically kept the same over many decades.
My first choice became the Sportster. First and foremost because you get a lot of bike at very reasonable cost, and the dealer network is awesome. The Sporty is retro pure, has many aftermarket farkles to add, and it offers the style I like the most. A classy bike! My Rover will be the first bike I am going to modify (or better: will have professionally modified)... maybe to resemble the new 'old' 72 look.
Pic from interweb
One great thing about Harleys is that there is so much room to modify them to suit you and a plethora of after market parts and accessories.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you are so taken with Rover.
At times I've been tempted to go for a Bonneville SE or T-100 for a more upright seating position compared to Max.
I hear you, the Bonneville remains a temptation to me as well.
DeleteFor farkling nirvana I don't think you can do better than Harley - so many options!
ReplyDeleteReally though, it doesn't sound like you're a one-bike kinda gal! :)
Psst, don't tell hubby. I have already one bike and the scooter...
DeleteHowever with insurance cost in BC a third bike is out of the question even if my better half would approve of it.
I've been enjoying your photo a day posts. Interesting and entertaining.
ReplyDeleteDan, thank you for taking the time and reading my ramblings.
DeleteWhy a "soft" cruiser? My first cruiser was a Honda Rebel 250. I bought it when I was 18. I only had it for 4 or 5 years before reality (parenthood!) set in. I've never gotten particularly attached to any one bike or car. But I've made lots of good memories on or in all of them. :-)
ReplyDeleteI know, it sounds a bit odd. This is how those little chopper-like entry bikes got marketed in Germany. A Honda Rebel would also be called that...
DeleteI love the Bonneville SE, it is still my dream bike. I am very content at the moment discovering Scarlett and what we are capable of. My relationship with Scarlett started last weekend and I am totally in love with her. I have only bought 2 farkles so far a tank bag and cramp buster. I am trying to decide what type of saddle bag I prefer, but in no hurry. Glad you are loving Rover. Farkle away and enjoy!
ReplyDeleteFarkle away! I like that, and ditto!
Deletei can relate, i personally never go far from cruiser style. i love the new/old 72 as well and only wish (for me) that it had a wide front tire with maybe springer front end. but as is its definitely a throw back and would be a blast to have...
ReplyDeleteHermosa Beach All parts and components are blacked out,giving it a very cool,toughb and mellow look.
ReplyDeletebeach cruiser bicycles
If the frame isn't locked to the tire a thief could remove the front tire and get away with your bike.
ReplyDeletebike grips