Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: bad Chad on December 06, 2021, 05:45:22 PM
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What would it be? You get one pick and it's yours, you get nothing more for the rest of your life. For this exercise, your starting point is you are 20 years old or more.
So think it through a bit, your a little more than 20 now, what m/c would have suited you for decades, even if it wasn't around back in the day you can still pick it as your "forever bike"
For me, I have had some great bikes, I really could have picked the Suzuki 78 Suzuki GS1000, but I have become such a fan of the bikes from Lake Como, that I just couldn't go that route. There are far more bikes of all makes that I haven't ridden, then ridden, but I can only go on what I know.
I would pick one of my current lumps, the v9 Roamer. For me, it does everything well enough, and if I only get one bike, that's what I would want a marvelous jack of all trades.
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If I could only have one PTW, it would be a Vespa. It's the perfect bike for a young beginner as well as a rider of advancing years.
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(https://i.ibb.co/YD2bLpC/Brough-Superior-05.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YD2bLpC)
BROUGH SUPERIOR SS100
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I could live fine with my 2015 V7
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SP1000 with my LeMans powertrain. 992 motor with close ratio gears.
Pete
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I've owned a lot of motorcycles over the years, but my most favorite motorcycle has been my Triumph T140. It does everything well enough, except touring, and I don't foresee its departure from my motorcycle stable anytime soon, if ever, as long as it doesn't get wrecked and I can still find parts.
But that said, I do like doing some longer distance rides. A KZ1000 or GS1000 would probably be a bit more of a suitable "do all" motorcycle for me.
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It would have to be a dual sport of some kind. I'd have to compare some.
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V85tt does it for me. The rest are all for sale.
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There’ll be heaps of guys cannot limit themselves to one, without saying....
“But I still like my........”
You asked for ONE....!
My current 2VPC Norge.
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I too, like many here have owned and still do own many motorcycles and I know that I have my favorites in the stable now.
My choice would be that I would be perfectly happy with the '04 EV Touring forever.
rad__
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As great as my more modern and more capable bikes have been it would have had to be the one bike I had in my late 20's that I should have kept.
1996 FLHRI (EFI EVO RK). The Weber-Marelli open loop EFI ran perfectly, as well or better than any later closed-loop system. It was smaller and lighter than today's big Harleys. Brakes were decent if not overwhelming. And I could have probably rebuilt it multiple times over as the years went on, even today.
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LeMans 5. Great all rounder scratching or touring.
Mike
(https://static.imgzeit.com/reduced/55c05669eb89a5c7/driveway22.jpg)
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Okay, I'll play your game Chad. I have actually looked back at my youth and wondered "what if?"
Rather than a '79 AMF SuperGlide, maybe I should have bought a Ducati or Guzzi?
The civilian peg G5 is a good ergonomic fit for me.
As a one and only bike it would have lived many lives by now.
1st life. Full touring mode. Vetter fairing with deer whistles. KC driving lights. Numerous saddlebag options. Fugly Vetters, then cavernous DB's, maybe Krausers and then... ?
2nd. Sport tourer. Probably an SP 1000 fairing, "Daytona" handlebars. Hella driving lights. Day-Long saddle. Finally, Givi E36s.
3rd. Cafe. Sfida 1/2 fairing and solo seat. Clip-ons, Tarrozzi rearsets... "oops! over budget. well then, we'll just bob the fenders and lose that OEM tail light."
'oh, my aching <blank> (neck, back, hands, etc.) I'm getting too old for this!'
4th. Drop it off at the Guzzi Doctor for a full restoration.
End of fantasy. LOL
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If the choices were limited to what existed at age 20 I would have picked a65 Honda 305 Supersport,100 mph top speed and more reliable than anything else.With a time machine my Stelvio .
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I’ve had about 35 or more bikes in the last 18 years. As TG Sheppard once sang, “I loved ‘em every one”; yet, this question is so easy, too easy for me. There are certainly some Guzzis in my top 5 but without even a flicker of a doubt, the bike far and away above them all, my former carbed KTM 950 Supermoto. Or. My current 990 SMT that I’ve highly modified to be as similar as possible to that former 950. For me personally, it is still the single greatest Swiss Army knife for paved roads I have ever driven, let alone owned. But more than its abilities, even just cruising down the road it put the biggest smile on my face nearly every single time I took it out.
(https://i.ibb.co/82Rfzf0/89-AE3-B7-E-989-E-4-CCC-94-AE-C7-DC389-D5-FAE.jpg) (https://ibb.co/82Rfzf0)
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For me I’d go with the V7 850 it just hits all the right spots for me. Classic nice lines fun to work on and the feel of that engine is unlike anything else. I know cliche and even despite the fact it’s at dealer I love it and hope to see it back. :clock:
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For me it would have to be an air cooled 650.. a KLR, DR or perhaps an XR..
Do it all, never fail air hammers..!!
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My '69 Ambassador. Owned for 24 years - the longest I've ever kept anything.
(https://i.ibb.co/Sdt0H9x/IM000884-JPG.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Sdt0H9x)
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71 Ambassador.
-AJ
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This is an easy one for me. My 2012 Victory Cross Country Tour. I haven’t found anything it doesn’t do exceptionally well since I bought in March 2013. It could be pushing 100K trouble free miles by this time next year. I’d buy another without question if this one were to get taken out.
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If you are talking about the bikes that were available when I was 20 it would have to be the Yamaha XS750 triple. Shaft Drive, Enough factory accessories to make it a full on touring bike, Easily converted into a cafe for when the mood struck. Enough power for a side car when I aged.
When bikes could be configured to become what you want when you want.
Bikes today are so specialized which is why I have several to meet the different types of riding I want to do.
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My V7 Sport. That's why I've had it for decades, through all the everything of life. It is my bike.
2-up on it is a drag. That's why we got our shovelhead. But if I could only have one, it's an easy choice.
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G5 - classic looks, plenty of power for me, I can tear it down, no need to kick, good brakes, comfy for a passenger, sounds great and I can turn it into a skinny jeans wearing metrosexual warm white wine drinking cafe bobber sidewalk sculpture if necessary.
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Hands down, Griso.
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Or a Sunbeam S7 or S8. Don't know what it's like to ride one but I've always thought it the best looking of all bikes.
-AJ
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFeuPWgDB9k
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I could always go back to a S o r t e d separate construction, Triumph Thunderbird. As long as it was sorted. Not the piece of junk that was made of used parts that was my first bike. Reasonably light. pretty fast. It had no centrestand though. That would have to be fixed too.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFeuPWgDB9k/quote]
Good video, foto :grin: :thumb:
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I would have to go with my present Stelvio!
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Good question. I can't answer it and I think it would be impossible to answer.
If I knew then what I know now it would be a different answer. I loved my GPZ900's in my early 20' and could easily live with one now. They were great in their day and one in good condition could hold its own today.
As I have got older I am drawn to simplicity and this is one area where the GPZ does not shine. I could not see myself on one as a seventy year old.
To be honest I would struggle to answer if I could only have one bike for the rest of my life. It would have to be simple, versatile and a blank canvas that I could change as I change. A small block Guzzi would fit the bill.
Steve
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Its really hard to say because there are a lot of bikes that may be the one... but I haven't ridden them yet. Also I need to look foward to the future when I get older, and have different needs then now. I had a 82 Suzuki GS650GL back in my mid 20's. I had that think for like 20 years, and I tell you it did everything. Small and light enough to move around. Fast and good handling enough to keep me happy. Nice on the road trip, even 2 up. It was a little cruzer, and little sporty, and little everything. It was kinda bland though and one reason I finally got rid of it. My cal stone metal is pretty close also. Not quite as sporting as I like, but as you know, all the T frame bikes are kinda mix and match.. Would have wanted it outfitted like a V7 sport or 1000S, or a more standart T3 style now.. But really in a few years it might look just like it is, with a sidecar to last me my years.
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good question. I'd be happy with most of the bikes posters mentioned. Answer depends hugely upon my age and location.
I had a 1980 Suzuki GS1000G for about 18 years. Too heavy for me today and where I live.
For most of the places I can imagine living, it would be a 1996 or newer Suzuki DR650. A versatile do-it-all machine that can be customized into more specialized roles.
A couple sets of wheels/tires, gas tanks, sprockets, windshields, luggage, etc, and you have a small fleet of motorcycles.
The DR 650 would be a hard bike to give up now. Tough to imagine going back to any bikes that are more specialized. Luckily, more than one is still an option.
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I would have to say my 99 EV.
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I'd have to sell my fleet and get a 2021 Centanario V7
The Breva 1100 is too big and heavy for my after-work rip around runs in the mountains behind my house. It's supreme for 2-up rides and grocery-grabbing but not the best for the tight steep twisty roads I most enjoy.
The v65 is perfect for afternoon rips but my wife hates riding it with me, and it's not very powerful. The cafe/brat setup I have rides just fine on dirt roads, but it lacks luggage and it has been a needy pain in my ass the entire time I've had it.
The Ambassador is great for solo sporty (beyond its capabilities) riding back roads or our 2-up day rides, but not great for commuting or touring, not that long distance capable if you need high-speed highway miles to get where you are going. And it's 'too nice' for the fire roads around me.
I think I would trade the lot for a guzzi with retro looks and enough umph to carry me + wife and some soft bags at highway speeds.. With a second set of wheels wearing DS or scrambler tires for my dirt road excursions.
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I don't consider myself a particularly high mileage rider but at 59 I am probably in excess of 350,000 miles. That's a lot of rebuilding on most bikes.
Don't know what I would choose but it would definitely be a V-Twin between 750-1100 cc.
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Knowing what I know now it would be and Adventure bike. Upright seating, roomy cockpit with comfortable ergos, wind protections, wide bars, LT suspension, ability to carry lots of stuff on/off road in a variety of systems and a huge alternator for powering all manner of aux stuff.
This is what I’ve found is the “best” setup for me personally tho I do enjoy all manner of bikes. But if I need one to do everything it’s going to be a long legged, high, upright bike with a lot of electric capability. My 990SM has 500 watt capability and it’s enough to run heated gear and gadgets as well.
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Interesting that a BMW GS didn’t come up.
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I would be fine with my Cal 1100. Have owned it for twenty years and still like it.
Larry
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LeMans 5. Great all rounder scratching or touring.
Mike
(https://static.imgzeit.com/reduced/55c05669eb89a5c7/driveway22.jpg)
Mike, that is a pretty bike.
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Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello! If I can't have that it would probably have to be some ADV bike and I do really like my V Strom 650, but would hate to not have my V7III Special or a new V7........see, not possible to have only one bike.....not sure how some people do it.
Scott
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Mike, that is pretty bike.
Thanks Black Cat,
You've got a "to die for" collection of bikes yourself.
1968 Norton Fastback
1976 Lemans
1981 CX-100
1993 1000S
1997 Daytona RS
2007 Red Norge
I'll have a LeMans 1 someday to match to the LeMans 5.
I'd love your Fastback but I won't own a kickstart bike anymore.
Mike
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Lots of rebuilding depending on the bike. Plenty of bikes out there able to do that sort of mileage if you are willing to ride them that much.
Truth.
With my pick of the EVO Harley it would've been easy to buy a crate motor and just transplant it the first time, then rebuilt the one while the other is used. Rinse and repeat as needed.
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The LeMans V would be an excellent choice, I rode my earlier Le Mans as my main bike for 10 years and while I don’t think the V is as pretty, when I rode one a few years ago I was much impressed with how it worked. The maintenance was the same, excellent for the long haul.
Of the bikes I’ve owned, an ‘88-‘90 R100GS would be my choice. I have a ‘90 now and it’s a truly great all rounder, it does almost anything well except high speed motorway riding, and it does that well enough for 500 mile days. I did 200 miles off road in a day once on a previous ‘88, heading south in Baja with bags mounted. Also, like a Guzzi, easy to maintain for decades.
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(https://chipchickcom-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Jetsons11.png)
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If it had to be a bike available to me at 20, I'd have to say a G5 or SP1000.
Reality was, that MGs weren't part of the motorcycling world I lived in, it would still be another 35? yrs before I actually saw one in the flesh.
fwiw
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If I have to go back to my 20s, CB 305 Honda. Up to current, my Triumph Bonneville T120.
kk
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The beaut thing about the way that Chad phrased the question, is that it’s not hard to think of #1.
The hard bit in the answer is NOT to mention #2...
That’s the part that makes you think...(most respondents managed it).
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I have tired a few times for a forever bike and it seems to last around 10 years then something else catches my eye or it's starts to bug me.The 09 650 VStrom I just bought should be it, just a very competent bike, but doesn't set the soul on fire.I think a V85TT would work. It it had to be something from my 20's I would say a T-3.
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I love a standard bike. Would probably be an air cooled Ducati Monster
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I am kind of amazed at the number of people that were able to choose a bike that can't easily evolve with changing needs and/or wants. Especially since most of us have been riding a long time, and possibly a lot of miles.
When I think about everywhere I have ridden in my lifetime and what bikes took me to those places it really is an impossible task to come up with one bike even though I posted the most versatile bike I am familiar with.
Of course the V7III I currently own is very similar to the XS750 except for the lack of a frame mounted fairing to mount to it.
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So question is: what m/c would have suited you for decades, even if it wasn't around back in the day you can still pick it as your "forever bike"?
Nothing in the rules says I can't pick a bike that is not around today. So I pick the upcoming, yet unnamed adventure version of the V100 Mandello. Everyone on this thread that already mentioned adventure bikes should understand why. I also appreciate Ohlin's semi-active suspension, IMU functions like cornering ABS, and CC, alongside the more traditional MG traits.
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I am kind of amazed at the number of people that were able to choose a bike that can't easily evolve with changing needs and/or wants.
Because they were asked to choose only one.
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I am kind of amazed at the number of people that were able to choose a bike that can't easily evolve with changing needs and/or wants. Especially since most of us have been riding a long time, and possibly a lot of miles.
Well, it's a hypothetical question so some may just accept the limitations of the question and answer as best they can.
But to directly address your amazement I can explain my own answer and perhaps it's easier for me than some.
I spent a good amount of time chasing what I THOUGHT I should want.
And though I enjoyed every one of the experiences (really did, even the ones I hated a little), it took me far too much time to realize I was chasing what I'd already had and shouldn't have let go.
My choice is easy NOW, maybe it wouldn't have been or wasn't in my late 20's and early 30's.
But hindsight is 20-20.
and though I'd likely never want to voluntarily live within the limitation of this thread, FOR ME AT LEAST the choice itself is easy.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AM-JKLWIcOYNQ166fdOJ0Zes3h4bov_7BZfcRyOe274Dz5DC709WvAVDnyVE6jU_Xi4y37oW0FVH-zZSVrVF2VmZLurchc4A8pKkaaCJanEn4U1M-z5VJVf_O4PVlF43TLS9QV344vMEtai33ZMZ7XOu7dINmA=w1327-h903-no?authuser=0)
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THE 2008 1200 Sport
(https://i.ibb.co/JC2rx7j/3-F7-F31-D8-9-A26-4-AB9-8-A7-E-DF53087-E2717.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JC2rx7j)
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'75 Eldorado. Police model.
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I'm happy with my first-series V7 Special, now with cast wheels. I wish it had a single-sided swingin' arm. By the way, as many of you will know, when the V7s with cast wheels come from Mandello, they have tubes in their tires. The wheels are rough where the tire beads seat - you cannot assume that tires without tubes will just mount and work on those cast wheels. Ask me how I know...
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It's my Hot Dog and Mustard 98 EV. Hasn't left me stranded has always got me home.
Bill
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Or a Sunbeam S7 or S8. Don't know what it's like to ride one but I've always thought it the best looking of all bikes.
-AJ
The S7 Deluxe (The S7 is 1946 to 1948) and S8 from 1949 onward have the same driveline.
I would liken riding an S7 Deluxe to near any plunger rear suspension bike but the big 16 inch tyres/tires add some cushion as does the cantilever sprung seat (a spring in the top frame tube)
The SOHC engine sounds like most British twins but somewhat like a two cylinder Morris Minor.
They have a heavy external flywheel and the mechanics are very car like.
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One bike based on logic and experience from 20 yo on (1979)
Easy, the 1996 to present Suzuki DR650SE (which I bought new in January 2008)
The same bike churned out for 25 years plus.
I even picked up a 2021 brand new take off tank this year so splashed out on a new MY21 black rear fender headlight cowling and SM front guard.
Modified of course but does everything.
Two sets of wheels (I got Procycle 17 inch wheels and big brakes for it back in 2009) a Corbin seat etc and it could do to the supermarket (off road or not) or round the world.
To own one is to know one.
(https://photos.imageevent.com/time_warp1959/misc/tr5t/hhy.jpg)
(https://photos.imageevent.com/time_warp1959/misc/tr5t/IMG_2658Small.jpg)
Road wheels, big tank equals over 600 kms non stop.
(https://photos.imageevent.com/time_warp1959/misc/tr5t/IMG_1129%20-%20Copy.jpg)
(https://photos.imageevent.com/time_warp1959/misc/tr5t/IMG_2515Smallc.jpg)
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My heart wants to say my first love the Yamaha XS1100, but the Griso has pulled even with it. I've never been able to ride back to back, and the Griso is also a forever bike but the sentiment for the XS is strong.
But If I had to choose 1 bike only for the rest of my life it would be the 1200 Sport. Decent at Sportish riding, Supremely comfortable, nimble, reliable and easy to ride, with full touring luggage capability, plus it is rare, unique, and flat out gorgeous.
Going to upgrade the HB 30's to Journey 40's with the white flash, will paint white flashes on the Junior 55 Topcase and accent both with red pinstripe to match what I did on the white fairing and seat cowl pieces.
(https://i.ibb.co/8XVxk9b/IMG-20200719-115858413-HDR.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8XVxk9b)
(https://i.ibb.co/hXzJ4rF/IMG-20200730-083334141-HDR.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hXzJ4rF)
(https://i.ibb.co/XZRfSPq/IMG-20210621-102644210.jpg) (https://ibb.co/XZRfSPq)
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Just one? Inconceivable!
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFeuPWgDB9k
That’s video is a work of art. Damn I want one now
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I love a standard bike. Would probably be an air cooled Ducati Monster
this is very persuasive
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One bike based on logic and experience from 20 yo on (1979)
Easy, the 1996 to present Suzuki DR650SE (which I bought new in January 2008)
The same bike churned out for 25 years plus.
I even picked up a 2021 brand new take off tank this year so splashed out on a new MY21 black rear fender headlight cowling and SM front guard.
Modified of course but does everything.
Two sets of wheels (I got Procycle 17 inch wheels and big brakes for it back in 2009) a Corbin seat etc and it could do to the supermarket (off road or not) or round the world.
To own one is to know one.
(https://photos.imageevent.com/time_warp1959/misc/tr5t/hhy.jpg)
Nice graphics and color. I don't think that combination ever made it to the USA.
What year is that bike?
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The only bike I know of that would satisfy the various versions of me from age 20 til now would be a frankenbike police Eldo with an 1100 cc mill, triple disk brakes, automotive alternator, spotlights, upgraded suspension. With a tractor solo seat.
(https://i.ibb.co/Y2Zp1vN/IMG-0001.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Y2Zp1vN)
Something like these beaters I cobbled together from spares, only better trimmed and executed.
(https://i.ibb.co/2PqS1KM/My-Eldo-Brookside-Motors-Vintage-day.jpg) (https://ibb.co/2PqS1KM)
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Because they were asked to choose only one.
Yep, which is why I and some others selected one bike that can be transformed as our wants and desires change. I do get that this is just a theoretical exercise.
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That's like asking, "If you could only eat one genre of food the rest of you life...". Well I like all kinds of foods and also like all kinds of bikes. As the saying goes, 'Variety is the spice of life'.
If I HAVE to make a choice it would be a larger dual-sport/ADV bike. Preferably an air/oil cooled twin with enough oomph for highway work but light enough to be fun in the twisties and light off-road work. Compliant suspension and shaft drive (really dislike chain maintenance). Good looking with a bit of styling panache and uniqueness.
Wait - I'm describing my V85TT :shocked: :thumb:
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I'm happy with my first-series V7 Special, now with cast wheels. I wish it had a single-sided swingin' arm. By the way, as many of you will know, when the V7s with cast wheels come from Mandello, they have tubes in their tires. The wheels are rough where the tire beads seat - you cannot assume that tires without tubes will just mount and work on those cast wheels. Ask me how I know...
I noticed this the other day and meant to ask.
I've removed/installed the cast wheels on my V7s, but I've NOT changed the actual tire (I drop them off at a local shop, though I keep meaning to "change" that in the future).
Anyway, Cam's bike had spokes when you bought it.
Are you saying you bought a set of the OEM Cast Aluminum wheels and couldn't get them to seal?!?
All the literature I just checked (including the service manual and owner's manual) for my 2013 with those wheels specifically say: Tubes for the spokes and Tubeless for the cast. And, I really doubt the two shops I've brought my V7 wheels to would have just replaced the tubes without charging me (or at least asking me if I wanted to change the tubes) if you know what I mean.
So I'm curious.
Anyone here with a late-model V7 change their own tire on a cast wheel?!?
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(https://i.ibb.co/R7vprm5/Blue-Sport-1100.jpg) (https://ibb.co/R7vprm5)
Wasn't available when I was 20 but doesn't matter according to BC. 20 Year old me would think the ergonomics, with Heli bars, were perfect; 54 year old me can see I can't ride it forever but I still get a lot of smiles per gallon.
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Just one? Inconceivable!
Maybe a /5 or /6 BMW.
Or a GS model.
Lots of them have super high mileages, they are relatively easy to work on,
plenty of parts and services are available to keep them on the road, and they're
adaptable for everything from long-distance touring to vintage racing. I might
pick the R75/5.
-Stretch
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This is an easy one for me, because of the versatility. I am not willing to give up off-road riding. So... the Husqvarna 701 Enduro. By far the best all-around motorcycle I've ever had.
- Can handle technical single track and be pushed almost as hard as a true 450 dirt bike.
- Long service intervals like a street bike
- Easy to swap wheels - I would want 3 sets (21"/18" aggressive knobs for off-road, 21"/18" street-biased tires for day-to-day, and a set of 17" super-moto for sport riding)
- Full rally tower conversion kits, extra fuel tanks, and racks-luggage available for long-hauls
- Totally competent two-up on or off-road
- Can be lowered when I am too old to climb on that high-horse.
- and no painting ever. Want to "restore" the bike or give it a new look? Just slap on a new set of plastics (custom graphics are easy too).
And while we're at it...
one car: my current 4WD F250. It has to be a big truck. 'nuff said.
one kind of food: Mexican
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There can be only one…my 1974 Norton Commando roadster! I bought it new in Springfield,Illinois in 1975,it had sat on the dealers floor for a year at 2695.00 then they dropped the price 800.00 and I knew this would be my last chance at a new Norton! I rode it to Lake Tahoe in October of 1978 and stayed for 5 years! Unless you are fairly lucky you have probably never had a chance to ride one… It is such a charismatic piece,full of foibles but when properly fettled a ride like no other!!!
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There can be only one…my 1974 Norton Commando roadster! I bought it new in Springfield,Illinois in 1975,it had sat on the dealers floor for a year at 2695.00 then they dropped the price 800.00 and I knew this would be my last chance at a new Norton! I rode it to Lake Tahoe in October of 1978 and stayed for 5 years! Unless you are fairly lucky you have probably never had a chance to ride one… It is such a charismatic piece,full of foibles but when properly fettled a ride like no other!!!
I love my Commando, and will never sell iit, but as an only bike it would crush my soul. So many sunny days not riding due to some stupid thing needing fixing.
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A friend of mine a long time Norton owner rode his Interstate from CT to the Mid Ohio about 10 years ago and no one belived him even though his bike was covered with mud from riding on back dirt roads.
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Probably the 76 LeMans or the 93-1000S.
I would keep those types of bikes but not a dirt only bike and I have no interest in a GS of any year.
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Chad posed the question about living with ONE bike, not “I really like this one on a sunny day” or, “my KLR is great for 174 - 273 mile days, but I still need my Sport for canyon carving...” Blah, blah..
There are also examples of..
“I just change the wheels if I want to ride in the mud”, or, “I simply pop in another engine if I want more power”, or, “I alter the ‘bars to suit my mood..”
I like the aspect of the question that contains the meaty goodness.
The whole point is that, it’s not always sunny, there are not always canyons..etc.
The ONE bike that you will not sell in your remaining lifetime, it has to do everything from here on to the end and if you sell it, you’ll never own another.
It’s the eternal compromise.
Your “favourite bike” may not necessarily be the “best bike”, because when thinking about favourite rides, you’ll be selecting little jewels from a great pile of dross, that makes up a goodly proportion of your total experience.
The ONE bike that has to fit all tasks and when you’re on it, you know there will never be another.
Even if your next ride demands something different.
Likely as not, if you select wisely, it’ll not be great at anything, but acceptably good at everything.....
A bit sad really... : :sad:
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What Huzo said, sort of.
Yes , one bike, and not one you road as a kid, that’s why I picked 20 years of age for the starting point. It doesn’t matter if the bike didn’t exist when you were 20, it just means any bike yo road as an adult. You can use whatever criteria you want, Huzo is just offering his own ideas for motivation.
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It's easy to be dissatisfied in life, especially in the western world where there's plenty of options, free time and disposable income (or cheap credit.)
how many people in the world will only ever own a small displacement two stroke or Honda CT-derivative four stroke single bike? If the alternative to having just one bike forever is not having a bike at all, I would be happy to have just about any bike. Getting to choose whatever I want is a win-win.
My choice of V7 Sport is less practical to fix & repair than my FLH shovelhead (which would happily be my alternate forever bike) but I can live with the consequences of choosing either, whether that means tall bars and a King & queen seat on my Guzzi or clip-ons & rear sets on my shovel..... And if needed, the old CT90 parked in the shed beside my other bikes would be completely adequate to keep me in the wind. That's exactly why it's there.
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It's easy to be dissatisfied in life, especially in the western world where there's plenty of options, free time and disposable income (or cheap credit.)
how many people in the world will only ever own a small displacement two stroke or Honda CT-derivative four stroke single bike? If the alternative to having just one bike forever is not having a bike at all, I would be happy to have just about any bike. Getting to choose whatever I want is a win-win.
My choice of V7 Sport is less practical to fix & repair than my FLH shovelhead (which would happily be my alternate forever bike) but I can live with the consequences of choosing either, whether that means tall bars and a King & queen seat on my Guzzi or clip-ons & rear sets on my shovel..... And if needed, the old CT90 parked in the shed beside my other bikes would be completely adequate to keep me in the wind. That's exactly why it's there.
But you are not in the Western world.
You are in Chad’s world and he did say “if..”
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Kevm, the front rim, which I assume is from a V7 Stone, required two trips to my good wheel/tire guy to smooth out the sealing surface to make it work. I figure that's why Guzzi puts tubes in the cast wheels. They know the inner surfaces of the rims are not finished well enough to ensure good seating for tires w/o tubes.
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Kevm, the front rim, which I assume is from a V7 Stone, required two trips to my good wheel/tire guy to smooth out the sealing surface to make it work. I figure that's why Guzzi puts tubes in the cast wheels. They know the inner surfaces of the rims are not finished well enough to ensure good seating for tires w/o tubes.
I'm asking IF Guzzi does in fact actually put tubes in them. I have no evidence of that other than your experience.
Their tech info, which is indeed a weak link and may be wrong, SEEMS to claim they don't.
Your posts on the matter have me quite puzzled and curious though.
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But you are not in the Western world.
You are in Chad’s world and he did say “if..”
What's it like in Chad's world? Do people have a funny accent or do they talk normal?
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What's it like in Chad's world? Do people have a funny accent or do they talk normal?
Dunno mate.
I live in the best country in the world, so I’m of limited use.
Everyone here talks normally.
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I agree with Huzo, and for that it has to be my 1976 T3 that I have had for 22 years. With Fac dampers, Wirth springs and Hagon shocks it handles very well. With its Lemans 1 tank, Sp bars, and Lemans 3 foot controls it is very comfortable and looks cool. With its 3 Brembo brakes, it stops well. With its cafe fairing, heated grips and Wixom saddlebags it is great for long distance. It has Gilardoni cylinders and electronic ignition. It is totally reliable, doesn't leak and uses no oil. It does quite well on the terrible gravel road that I live on, will run 80 all day on the interstate, if needs be, in good weather or bad. My various other bikes may be faster or handle better or be lighter or more valuable, or more "exciting" but nothing is as good of an all arounder as the old T3. I hope that one of my kids or grandkids keep it when I am gone.
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No, it's not normal in my world, far from it.
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Chad posed the question about living with ONE bike, not “I really like this one on a sunny day” or, “my KLR is great for 174 - 273 mile days, but I still need my Sport for canyon carving...” Blah, blah..
There are also examples of..
“I just change the wheels if I want to ride in the mud”, or, “I simply pop in another engine if I want more power”, or, “I alter the ‘bars to suit my mood..”
I like the aspect of the question that contains the meaty goodness.
The whole point is that, it’s not always sunny, there are not always canyons..etc.
The ONE bike that you will not sell in your remaining lifetime, it has to do everything from here on to the end and if you sell it, you’ll never own another.
It’s the eternal compromise.
Your “favourite bike” may not necessarily be the “best bike”, because when thinking about favourite rides, you’ll be selecting little jewels from a great pile of dross, that makes up a goodly proportion of your total experience.
The ONE bike that has to fit all tasks and when you’re on it, you know there will never be another.
Even if your next ride demands something different.
Likely as not, if you select wisely, it’ll not be great at anything, but acceptably good at everything.....
A bit sad really... : :sad:
Which is why I picked a UJM. The ultimate compromise, but so capable of being so many things. And picked the Yamaha XS750 because it came with all the available accessories to make it a world traveler. You didn't have to remove anything to install the frame mounted fairing that I recall. So 4 bolts and move some plugs and you had a naked roadster. Strip it down, through on some knobbies and you have a scrambler. Cafe bars and rear sets and you have a sport bike.
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What's it like in Chad's world? Do people have a funny accent or do they talk normal?
Picture Nightmare on Elm Street as a musical comedy.
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As much as I love the Beast if there could only be one it would be my current going on 21 years old V11 California Stone. It just does.....
(https://i.ibb.co/5W838gW/262811789-4757737560952511-2412725756200418861-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5W838gW)
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As much as I love the Beast if there could only be one it would be my current going on 21 years old V11 California Stone. It just does.....
(https://i.ibb.co/5W838gW/262811789-4757737560952511-2412725756200418861-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5W838gW)
That’s a gorgeos and rare white one. Did you paint it yourself? I wasn’t aware the white made it to these shores. I’m wrong, likely. Glad you posted this. I’m now considering what color to go on the tank to my Cali Stone project (it also has the grey fenders and side covers. Anyhow, a sharp and good choice there.
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Nice graphics and color. I don't think that combination ever made it to the USA.
What year is that bike?
I bought it new (Metallic blue) in January 2008 @ AU$8500 ride away and had never owned a single cylinder 4 stroke nor did I test ride it.
No need to preach to the choir for those who own a DR even in dead stock form.
It would appear it is the end of the line for the DR650SE here in Australia due to no ABS (Of course DR owners know the stock front brake is a form of ABS)
It said one bike and the DR will do anything, on road, off road, long distance, single track, back roads dirt or tar, go to shops and light enough at around 150 kgs + to be manageable but still give a plushish ride.
A less is more, just get it done without fuss bike that has the charm of something from simple bike times of long ago.
Of course you can modify them to do everything better or with added comfort as an option but it will still have the DR character.
I will never sell mine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bfJlPyycdI
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I bought it new (Metallic blue) in January 2008 @ AU$8500 ride away and had never owned a single cylinder 4 stroke nor did I test ride it.
No need to preach to the choir for those who own a DR even in dead stock form.
It would appear it is the end of the line for the DR650SE here in Australia due to no ABS (Of course DR owners know the stock front brake is a form of ABS)
It said one bike and the DR will do anything, on road, off road, long distance, single track, back roads dirt or tar, go to shops and light enough at around 150 kgs + to be manageable but still give a plushish ride.
A less is more, just get it done without fuss bike that has the charm of something from simple bike times of long ago.
Of course you can modify them to do everything better or with added comfort as an option but it will still have the DR character.
I will never sell mine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bfJlPyycdI
Exceptionally well said. My sentiments exactly. I will have at least one DR650 until my riding days are over.
One of the simplest, most trouble-free ways to experience a long ago aspect of motorcycles.
If you don't look down while you are riding it, easy to experience ones youth or even a never experienced nostalgic aspect of the past.
My DR reminds me of my first ride on a four stoke motorcycle. A early 1970's Honda SL 100 when everyone I knew was riding a two stroke. I still remember thinking "What a tractor!'
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Probably my Ural Retro.
(https://i.ibb.co/sQWY89b/4-EE4-AD5-C-364-A-4-F6-A-AA29-8949-E50092-C5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/sQWY89b)
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What would it be? You get one pick and it's yours, you get nothing more for the rest of your life. For this exercise, your starting point is you are 20 years old or more.
So think it through a bit, your a little more than 20 now, what m/c would have suited you for decades, even if it wasn't around back in the day you can still pick it as your "forever bike"
Nope. Can't do it. I'm glad I don't have to.
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Nope. Can't do it. I'm glad I don't have to.
Yeah, Chad is starting to piss me off with these demands.
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That’s a gorgeos and rare white one. Did you paint it yourself? I wasn’t aware the white made it to these shores. I’m wrong, likely. Glad you posted this. I’m now considering what color to go on the tank to my Cali Stone project (it also has the grey fenders and side covers. Anyhow, a sharp and good choice there.
Thanks, Stock paint, a little weathered after 20 years. Bought in 09/01 and only one repair for a rear drive seal that needed a shop. It has been a do everything bike
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When I was actually 20? An SRX600. Now, a V7 850 Stone.
There were some real wobble rockets back in 1986, but none of the really fast stuff appealed to me.
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Odd as it may sound, a Tenere 700. As my buddy John said, have to have a dual sport.
I was going to say a 2007 to 2009 R1200GS Hex Head. But then I remember the headache of owning a BMW, even though the bike was enjoyable to ride and very capable when ridden right.
Thinking back on my KLR and DR experiences, wishing for a 650 twin in them for better highway power brought me forward to the Tenere 700, which is simple and true to ripping down dirt roads, flowing through twisty curves and always just "playful" doing it. The only thing I think I would really miss are the long highspeed runs, but not being limited to pavement would make up for it.
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My 1981 BMW r100rt still have it and tour on it. I can count the number of break downs on one hand and was always able to repair on the road. The fun factor is not there like my other bikes but hands down the most reliable and overall comfortable bike to ride.
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My 1981 BMW r100rt still have it and tour on it. I can count the number of break downs on one hand and was always able to repair on the road. The fun factor is not there like my other bikes but hands down the most reliable and overall comfortable bike to ride.
Solid choice!
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This is an EXTREMELY difficult choice, but of all the motorcycles I have ridden / owned, (34 in 54 years....), I would say my 1983 BMW R80RT.
(https://i.ibb.co/SK9gPL0/Screen-Shot-2021-12-12-at-9-23-25-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/SK9gPL0)
(https://i.ibb.co/FbrxJwN/Screen-Shot-2021-12-12-at-9-22-59-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/FbrxJwN)
I bought this bike brand new, back in the day, and it was my only transportation for about 5 years...all seasons / all weather. I put about 50,000+ trouble free miles on it before trading it in on my first Harley, a 1992 FLH-S (Electra Glide Sport) :thumb: :wink: