Author Topic: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC  (Read 11134 times)

Offline Kent in Upstate NY

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 2274
Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« on: September 17, 2015, 10:18:40 PM »
2011  low mileage.
« Last Edit: September 17, 2015, 10:39:45 PM by Kent in Tehachapi »
Correctional educators don't make the criminals you fear. We make the criminals you fear smarter.

Offline Turin

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • Posts: 5151
    • crap and stuff
  • Location: Chandler, Arizona
Re: Reasons not to buy this. NGC HDC
« Reply #1 on: September 17, 2015, 10:25:47 PM »
That the one with the adjustable suspension? I wouldn't kick her out of my garage.
1997 Daytona RS
1991 Rennsport California III
1991 LeMans 1000
1987 LeMans SE Dave's Cycle Racer
1984 LeMans III
1985 Sidlow Guzzi
1974 850-T Sport
1969 A-series Ambassador
1996 Triumph Daytona 1200
1996 Triumph Daytona 900
1982 Alfa Romeo GTV6 Balocco SE 3.0

Offline flip

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 1398
  • Aprilia Caponord 1200, Aprilia Shiver, gone MG B11
Re: Reasons not to buy this. NGC HDC
« Reply #2 on: September 17, 2015, 10:28:29 PM »
If I was somehow forced to own a harley, that would probably be the one I'd put in my garage.
North Carolina

Offline Kent in Upstate NY

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 2274
Re: Reasons not to buy this. NGC HDC
« Reply #3 on: September 17, 2015, 10:35:44 PM »
You are not helping. :laugh:
Correctional educators don't make the criminals you fear. We make the criminals you fear smarter.

Wildguzzi.com

Re: Reasons not to buy this. NGC HDC
« Reply #3 on: September 17, 2015, 10:35:44 PM »

Offline rocker59

  • Global Moderator
  • Gaggle Hero
  • *
  • *****
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • Posts: 24024
  • "diplomatico di moto"
  • Location: NW Arkansas
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #4 on: September 17, 2015, 10:50:28 PM »
No help here.  I can't think of a reason to not buy it...
Michael T.
Aux Arcs de Akansea
2004 California EV Touring II
"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." - Theodore Roosevelt

Offline mgmark

  • Hatchling
  • **
  • Posts: 145
  • Those schnitzengrubens can wear you out.
  • Location: Chattanooga, TN
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #5 on: September 18, 2015, 01:52:30 AM »
A couple of buddies have owned these since new, both still like them. Lots of aftermarket available.
1984 LeMans > 1985 LeMans + 1978 LeMans > 1989 Lemans > 20 years later, 1985 Lemans > 1980 SP1000
2019 Triumph T100 Bonneville

MGNOC #11062

Offline Kev m

  • Not your normal Hombre
  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 30454
  • Yo from Medford, NJ
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #6 on: September 18, 2015, 04:55:52 AM »
I can't help you.

Think Harley Griso, or the closest thing to a Buell they ever built (that wasn't a Buell).
Current Fleet

18 Guzzi V7III Carbon Dark
13 Guzzi V7 Stone
11 Duc M696

Offline Cam3512

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 6594
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #7 on: September 18, 2015, 05:13:21 AM »
Itty bitty tank looks stupid?
Cam in NJ
'67 Stornello Scrambler
'71 Ambo Police
'74 V7 Sport
‘20 V85TT

http://mgnocnj.forumotion.com

Offline twodogs

  • Gaggle Mentor
  • ****
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • Posts: 704
  • Location: ia
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #8 on: September 18, 2015, 05:30:18 AM »
Had the 09 model, kind of the same feel as my MG 1200 sport, they IMHO are very nice bikes with a lot of grunt, had no problem selling mine when the time came, would like to of kept it :bike-037:
2-2023 Yamaha TW200
2022 Triumph 850 sport

Offline kingoffleece

  • SplitWeight(tm) seat covers
  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • Posts: 4033
  • Rated 5 STARS Motorcycle Consumer News
  • Location: Valley of the Sun
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #9 on: September 18, 2015, 05:35:17 AM »
I'd add that to the garage in a heartbeat.
SplitWeight(tm) seat covers. A King of Fleece LLC product.

Rough Edge racing

  • Guest
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #10 on: September 18, 2015, 05:42:09 AM »
I can't help you.

Think Harley Griso, or the closest thing to a Buell they ever built (that wasn't a Buell).

 It's a fat Buell,  :grin: People rag on Sportsters .. I think they are fine....If you like the styling then go for it..

Offline BRIO

  • Gosling
  • ***
  • Posts: 257
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #11 on: September 18, 2015, 05:53:58 AM »

Offline leafman60

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • *
  • Posts: 6795
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #12 on: September 18, 2015, 06:16:28 AM »
XR1200X

I've been tempted more than once too.  I had decided on an orange left over at a local dealer but, thankfully, it was sold by the time I got back to them.

Great fun. Handles good for its weight.  Lots of add-on upgrades available. A Man's Bike.

biking sailor

  • Guest
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #13 on: September 18, 2015, 06:22:31 AM »
When I traded my 1200 Sport for the Stelvio, I was looking around (as I always am, like a rat on crack when it comes to motorcycles) and my dealer had a XR1200X that he had me test ride.  My impressions were very similar ergonomics to the 1200 Sport, except the steering was quite a bit heavier. Enough to be a turn-off on a bike that has any pretense of sportiness.  Didn't set up as high on the bike as a Griso, so to me the Griso is a much more aggressive riding position (again different body shapes and all).  Also the small tank (which has been mentioned), lack of luggage capability (which can be overcome but not very seamlessly as the Sport), and the seat is not nearly as comfortable.  And I still just can't bond with the tight "V" twin, long stroke engine architecture, despite the loads of torque it put out right off idle (that's just a me thing and shouldn't apply to others).  I do like the feel of a 90 degree "V" twin with a more squared bore and stroke.

At the end it was kind of a "blah" because I was comparing it to the 1200 Sport, which I still think is quite an over-achiever. 

Offline lucian

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • Posts: 3316
  • Location: Maine, Ayuh
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #14 on: September 18, 2015, 06:24:04 AM »
Whatever floats you boat, very good choice if you want a sportster. The R9T is getting bashed for the non adjustable front forks, and it has a little more lean forward riding position. The sportster looks very standard, while the Griso is somewhere in between. Won't go into the whole dealer network thing, but I wouldn't trade my griso for either of the two mentioned, although I have not ridden that particular sportster. Can't see any reason not to own it , you only live once. dave

Offline lucky

  • New Egg
  • *
  • Posts: 40
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #15 on: September 18, 2015, 06:25:59 AM »
No reasons not to buy.  Mine was a blast.  I geared it up so that it was less buzzy and upgraded the shocks.  I wish I had had the room to keep it.
It didn't have much suspension so it would give you a pounding on a rough road, but it was a hoot and handled very well within its design parameters.
However, I have to say the Griso has it beat on every count except sheer visceral gnarliness . . .


Offline Adk.IBO

  • Gaggle Mentor
  • ****
  • Posts: 690
  • Location: Adirondack Mountains
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #16 on: September 18, 2015, 06:57:46 AM »
Immediate deal breaker for me? The retractable side stand that is to hard for my short legs to deploy with out getting off! Good feel in the showroom otherwise.
« Last Edit: September 18, 2015, 06:59:09 AM by Adk.IBO »
'09 Norge new in '11, sold in '17, 37000 very good miles, thanks to this forum. '17 Roadster new in '17
Luke 23:34

Offline Kev m

  • Not your normal Hombre
  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 30454
  • Yo from Medford, NJ
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #17 on: September 18, 2015, 07:07:38 AM »
Itty bitty tank looks stupid?

Nah, that tank LOOKS perfect. It is on the small side, but after 150 miles you're probably ready to get off.

Then again, a friend of mine posted earlier this week that he was on his for 9 hours on Sunday.

It's a fat Buell,  :grin: People rag on Sportsters .. I think they are fine....If you like the styling then go for it..

What does that make a Griso, a Fat Ducati?

Personally I think this really is the closest thing to a tube-frame Buell (like my old S3T) that Harley themselves ever built.

Of course the S3T was brilliant in a lot of ways, great fairing, almost 6 gallon tank for lots of range.

I got really close to buying a denim white XRX - but I had the Stone on order at the time and I didn't want to give up the Stone.

I'm glad I didn't, but part of me wishes I had the XRX also.

Current Fleet

18 Guzzi V7III Carbon Dark
13 Guzzi V7 Stone
11 Duc M696

Offline 1stgarry

  • New Egg
  • *
  • Posts: 11
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #18 on: September 18, 2015, 07:26:14 AM »
I've had two of these - the original XR1200 and then the XR1200X.

Whoever said it's 'a fat Buell' is talking out of their hat (no offence). 
I've owned half a dozen Buells from an S1 through to an XB12, and there is no comparison apart from Harley owned both companies, and the same basic engine was used in both. 
But it is what Buell and Harley did with those engines that sets them so very far apart. 
A simple test ride on both will prove that point.

Anyway, the Harley is probably the best 'out of the box' performer they've ever produced. 
Despite it's weight it handles really well. 
I did a couple of bike tours in Europe with friends on GSXRs, Milles, etc, and I can say that the XR did NOT disgrace itself. 
Like most Harley Sportsters, you can push these beyond what you think they're capable of, and as long as you have respect for that big grunty V-twin, you'll have a ball.
If you've ridden Harleys before, you'll find the XR's brakes, handling and grunt are a revelation. 
Get a test ride, and see if it suits your riding style! 

Offline fotoguzzi

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • Posts: 19932
  • vee git tooh soon oldt und too late wise -my Dad
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #19 on: September 18, 2015, 07:37:46 AM »
well they don't make Buells anymore so get that!
MINNEAPOLIS, MN

Offline bouts

  • New Egg
  • *
  • Posts: 41
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #20 on: September 18, 2015, 07:44:23 AM »
I'm not much of a HD person, but I have to admit, that looks very nice, and could be a contender if I were looking to add a bike to the stable.  Sorry, no points on why NOT to buy...

Rough Edge racing

  • Guest
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #21 on: September 18, 2015, 08:00:41 AM »

What does that make a Griso, a Fat Ducati?

Personally I think this really is the closest thing to a tube-frame Buell (like my old S3T) that Harley themselves ever built.

Of course the S3T was brilliant in a lot of ways, great fairing, almost 6 gallon tank for lots of range.

  Kev. my 97 Cyclone weighs 440 pounds...the Harley and the Griso are over 500 ...So to me they are fat  :wink: 
 I do like the XR...but not the large black mufflers....But then again I'm not in the market for buying one..

Offline Kev m

  • Not your normal Hombre
  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 30454
  • Yo from Medford, NJ
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #22 on: September 18, 2015, 09:14:21 AM »
  Kev. my 97 Cyclone weighs 440 pounds...the Harley and the Griso are over 500 ...So to me they are fat  :wink: 

Cyclone is a different animal... but BTW - MCN disagrees and thinks your Cyclone (at least stock) weighed about 469 wet.

"Handles OK for a Harley" seems to be a common theme , how do they handle as another brand ?

  Dusty

Sometimes I think people confuse handling (ability) with feel.

They HANDLE very well, but yes, steering effort is higher than many would be used to.

Current Fleet

18 Guzzi V7III Carbon Dark
13 Guzzi V7 Stone
11 Duc M696

Offline 1stgarry

  • New Egg
  • *
  • Posts: 11
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #23 on: September 18, 2015, 09:23:54 AM »
Kev I have the slim tank Buell S1, and everything else seems lardy in comparison.   :laugh:

The XR handles better than 'alright', but can't be compared to modern cutting edge motorcycles (does that exclude MGs?  :wink:).
« Last Edit: September 18, 2015, 09:24:31 AM by 1stgarry »

Rough Edge racing

  • Guest
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #24 on: September 18, 2015, 09:31:23 AM »
Cyclone is a different animal... but BTW - MCN disagrees and thinks your Cyclone (at least stock) weighed about 469 wet.

Sometimes I think people confuse handling (ability) with feel.

They HANDLE very well, but yes, steering effort is higher than many would be used to.

 Yes, probably 470  stock wet......But mine is a bit lighter with the 3 gallon tank and some junk missing.......I think many have negative opinions about Harleys based on the old AMF stuff and wife's tales.

 
« Last Edit: September 18, 2015, 09:32:21 AM by Rough Edge racing »

Offline Kev m

  • Not your normal Hombre
  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 30454
  • Yo from Medford, NJ
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #25 on: September 18, 2015, 09:47:00 AM »
Kev I have the slim tank Buell S1, and everything else seems lardy in comparison.   :laugh:

Ride a V7 or a baby Monster (air-cooled) :wink:


The XR handles better than 'alright', but can't be compared to modern cutting edge motorcycles (does that exclude MGs?  :wink:).

Yes, that excludes MG.


I think many have negative opinions about Harleys based on the old AMF stuff and wife's tales.

FAR too many do, far too many.

Love my Sporty.

It's heavier and makes less power than my S3T did, but it fits what I want better.

Current Fleet

18 Guzzi V7III Carbon Dark
13 Guzzi V7 Stone
11 Duc M696

Offline LowRyter

  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • *
  • *
  • Posts: 16692
  • Location: Edmond OK
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #26 on: September 18, 2015, 09:56:46 AM »
I am not a Sporty fan but I'd sure like to ride an XR.

I did ride one of these


« Last Edit: September 18, 2015, 10:16:03 AM by LowRyter »
John L 
When life gets you down remember it's one down and the rest are up.  (1-N-23456)

Offline 1stgarry

  • New Egg
  • *
  • Posts: 11
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #27 on: September 18, 2015, 10:02:09 AM »
Yup, I have ridden a V7, it does physically feel small, but doesn't look as small as it feels (hope that makes sense!).
But the S1 has it beat size-wise, because of the miniscule seat!!!  It's only slightly bigger than a bicycle seat and as uncomfortable as a bicycle racing seat.  The slim S1 was affectionately nick-named the razorback for that very reason!!! 
If I knew how to post piccies on here, I'd post up my S1.   :grin:

Offline Kev m

  • Not your normal Hombre
  • Gaggle Hero
  • *****
  • Posts: 30454
  • Yo from Medford, NJ
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #28 on: September 18, 2015, 10:07:33 AM »
Yup, I have ridden a V7, it does physically feel small, but doesn't look as small as it feels (hope that makes sense!).
But the S1 has it beat size-wise, because of the miniscule seat!!!  It's only slightly bigger than a bicycle seat and as uncomfortable as a bicycle racing seat.  The slim S1 was affectionately nick-named the razorback for that very reason!!! 
If I knew how to post piccies on here, I'd post up my S1.   :grin:

I guess my point was I can't see how a V7 or M696 would seem "lardy" next to an S1 (not visually, but by feel).

Man, you know what felt tiny, my VT500 Ascott - that was just too small to me.
Current Fleet

18 Guzzi V7III Carbon Dark
13 Guzzi V7 Stone
11 Duc M696

Offline bacongrease

  • Gosling
  • ***
  • Posts: 388
  • Location: Iowa
Re: Reasons not to buy this HD XR1200X . NGC HDC
« Reply #29 on: September 18, 2015, 10:09:52 AM »
more fat for the fire.....    whatever...


http://www.jamesrussellpublishing.biz/sportster1200.html


 :Beating_A_Dead_Hors e_by_liviu


...

 

20 Ounce Stainless Steel Double Insulated Tumbler
Buy a quality tumbler and support the forum at the same time!
Better than a YETI! BPA and Lead free.
Advertise Here