Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: bpreynolds on August 15, 2015, 08:06:38 AM
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Picked this up yesterday, a 2015 standard Stone. Craig and the fellas at C and D are always a lock. I cannot recommend them enough. Great guys all the way around. Only the second new Guzzi of the now 6 I have previously owned. Said goodbye to my '04 Stone. All the Calis I have owned have been the best of bikes but I think me and the cruisers are finished mostly. Craig treated me better than I deserved :thumb: All the previous V7s I test drove were Specials and they were great, completely gorgeous too, but having said that, this little Stone was and is a very nice surprise. So light, so flickable in its own way. What a hoot this little beauty was to drive home. The green is just eye popping on it. Keeping it under 5 grand for the break in - or trying to, LOL. More later. Too busy riding to type.
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg1_zpsv7hipgus.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg1_zpsv7hipgus.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg2_zpsm6jykwi0.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg2_zpsm6jykwi0.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg3_zps9oudjliv.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg3_zps9oudjliv.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg4_zpsw4boknwv.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg4_zpsw4boknwv.jpg.html)
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We need more dogs with girls pics :laugh:
Yeah , that color does it for me also Bipper , congratulations :bike-037:
Dusty
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Beautiful bike. Congratulations. I wish they kept that green for the 2016 V7 II Stones. Your bike will be a little more unique since it is a one year only color option.
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C&D Motorsports is a great place to buy a bike or get parts. Craig seems to get me parts for my bikes that others say are no longer available. Fair prices, above and beyond customer service. When I buy a new bike, you bet he'll get the sale.
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Awesome! Enjoy!!!
And yeah, great color.
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C&D Motorsports is a great place to buy a bike or get parts. Craig seems to get me parts for my bikes that others say are no longer available. Fair prices, above and beyond customer service. When I buy a new bike, you bet he'll get the sale.
Can't say enough about them. He suffered all my red suspenderish questions with patience and even spent 45 ridiculous minutes trying to install the makeshift Givi shield I brought with me to put on the Stone for the ride home.
We need more dogs with girls pics :laugh:
Yeah , that color does it for me also Bipper , congratulations :bike-037:
Dusty
Yup. To heck with all the "Guns and Girls" internet photos. We need a wives, bikes, and dogs site. :thumb: Or maybe not. :boozing:
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my wife really liked that color when we were down there. Great people
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What ... no air bag?
Where's the Queen's Throne and FM/Comm system?
How can anything that small be any fun?
Oh, wait... :thumb:
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Congrats! That's a good looking bike!
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Congrats! Great bike in a great color!
You'll definitely love it. I think I'll always have a V7 in my garage.
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I love the color!
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damnyoudamnyoudamny oudamnyoudamnyoudam nyoudamnyoudamnyoud amnyoudamnyou
That is exactly the bike I've been thinking of for a second/lighter bike. Awesome color. You need to get some weathered brown leather saddlebags and a scabbard for a Thompson.
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damnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyou
That is exactly the bike I've been thinking of for a second/lighter bike. Awesome color. You need to get some weathered brown leather saddlebags and a scabbard for a Thompson.
:grin:
Jonathan, you know I bought it just to spite you, right? What's the next motorcycle on your list, I've got some additional room in the garage.
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Thanks all for the kind words, The Guzzi's are a passion of mine & I do enjoy the customers as much as the bikes. I know we are a new shop but I grew up in my dads auto dealerships & ran his service departments over the years so taking care of business is second nature to me.
Brian hope to ride with you sometime, I love the part of the country while on two wheels.
Craig
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gorgeous. I love my V7, same bike in white. The green really compliments the style of the bike. its not too hard keeping it around 4000 rpm for break in. thats about 65mph or so.
goota love the V7
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Nice looking bike, and I too love the colour.
The smallblocks sure are fun. :thumb:
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BP,
Agreed...that is the most handsome V7 Stone made. Love it. They should have done the Audace in the same shade.
Ride well!
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I agree with the others, that color is awsome. The green really looks good with the black. Enjoy!!
Randy
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Very cool. But you got to get those stickers off the tank/fender!
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Congrats, great looking bike.
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Thanks for all the kind words. I'm really enjoying it. And I concur, a lot of really good fun.
Very cool. But you got to get those stickers off the tank/fender!
:1: I"m working on it. Getting out the steamer tomorrow. I've read a number of threads on here and around, but almost everyone who said they tried the steamer was able to get them off in one piece even.
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I'm also a fan of that color. A brown leather seat on that bad boy... Ooh!
Congrats and enjoy being one with the road.
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Beautiful color and I love my '13.
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The green almost matches our lawn mowers. I have a 2009 V7C, and the same mower as you...I hope your enjoying both of them.
Ken
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Checking in here with a brief 400 mile report.
Bike is proving to be full of nice little surprises. Tank range is phenomenal. I don't know how I missed this in earlier reports by Kev M and others but it's seriously ridiculous in a good way. At around 121 on the odo I stopped to put in some gas, thinking I'd probably see the light in the next 20-30 miles. Bike only took 2.5 gallons (48mpg) meaning I basically had another 121 or more to go in the tank.
Fun factor. Obviously, I'm keeping the bike at least somewhat sedate during break-in but even in just quick run ups to 5 grand around town and such, bike has been and continues to be unexpectedly quick and a big hoot. Keep in mind this is coming from a guy who just stepped off a 106 horsepower 400lb Street Triple. This is going to sound like some total bs but I'm not convinced with my limited talents I could ride the Street on the same roads any faster than this little bugger. It's flickable, very light, and early torque that comes on right off idle whereas it takes a second or two longer to get the Street into the "spot" and by then I'm usually already having to back off.
The most literally surprising thing I've encountered with the bike is its highway manners. I got this thing thinking it was gonna be like a Vespa. It would be cute and, thus, my wife would ride more with me on it - something that is happening. It would be fast and easy to get out of the garage - completely true. It would get decent gas mileage and be a super in-town bike Check. My test rides some years back on Specials and such had left me with the idea that while they were fine urban assault vehicles, they just seemed a bit busy for my tastes on the big roads. Well I dunno whether it was those bikes or my riding preferences/tastes that have changed, but I can certainly and honestly say this '15 Stone is smooth as silk at 5 grand and 80-83mph. At those speeds I have not yet felt the urge to slow down per se nor the slightest bit of intruding buzz. And here's something else that may sound like bs, but I personally am enjoying the bike more at those speeds than my previous Calis even which shook a good bit more and transmitted more vibration through the bars at 75-80 - though certainly not enough to be termed annoying. I'm left with the idea that with a different seat and maybe dialing in that pogo suspension a bit more, the bike could really be ridden far and well beyond the city. And no, I mean it would do this with ease and not just a matter of "hey look at me I'm riding a 750 across the country" kinda thing. I mean it could really do this in a fine and accomplished way.
Regardless, many smiles so far.
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Bike is proving to be full of nice little surprises. Tank range is phenomenal. I don't know how I missed this in earlier reports by Kev M and others but it's seriously ridiculous in a good way. At around 121 on the odo I stopped to put in some gas, thinking I'd probably see the light in the next 20-30 miles. Bike only took 2.5 gallons (48mpg) meaning I basically had another 121 or more to go in the tank.
LOL. Yeah, you missed it, probably because of my long-windedness :boozing: But here was one such discussion
http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=68237.0;nowap
And here comes another long-winded post. :laugh:
I'll be curious to hear when your low fuel light comes on.
For me, it tends to come on with only about 3.3 gallons used give or take (meaning leaving a theoretical 2.5 gallons left, but maybe a realistic TWO full gallons usable).
So when it comes on I've got anywhere from 50-70+ miles left before I even have to start LOOKING for fuel (and that's leaving myself at LEAST a 40 mile cushion to find it).
On this particular bike I've worked out a metric based on when the low fuel light comes on (which is an indication of the mpg I'm getting on that particular tank). I rounded the numbers a bit to make it easier to remember.
If the light comes on at 150, 160, 170, or 180 miles, I START LOOKING for fuel at 200, 210, 225, or 250 miles respectively.
So
Light on at 150 = ~45 mpg, so I look for fuel at 200, but I SHOULD be good to 240 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
Light on at 160 = ~48 mpg, so I look for fuel at 210, but I SHOULD be good to 257 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
Light on at 170 = ~52 mpg, so I look for fuel at 225, but I SHOULD be good to 273 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
Light on at 180 = ~55 mpg, so I look for fuel at 250, but I SHOULD be good to 289 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
I guess I could probably adjust that upward... maybe add another 20 miles to each of the looking for fuel points.
150, 160, 170, 180 means 220, 230, 245, 270
or maybe simplify
150, 160, 170, 180 means 220, 230, 250, 260
But I found it easier to pick more easily remembered start points of 150 and 200 for the number runs.
And considering I try to keep this in my head, along with similar fill/range points for the Sporty (4.5 gallon tank, light at 3.4 around 150 miles, means ~44 mpg, fill by 175ish) and the Ducati (3.96 gallon tank, light at 2.8, around 150 miles, means ~ 54 mpg, refuel by 180ish, but theoretically can go over 200 miles, ESPECIALLY when Jenn is on it cause she's no stranger to nearly 60 mpg on that thing).
I don't try to remember multiple fill points on the Sporty or Duc... though I do have them in notes on my phone for the Duc.
It seems that the Duc and V7 are more sensitive to how they are ridden, as I regularly see 5-10 mpg swings in tank average mileage, but the Sporty varies much less, usually only by couple of mpg. So I only have the one reference point for the Sporty in my head and maybe only one other on my phone.
Well I dunno whether it was those bikes or my riding preferences/tastes that have changed, but I can certainly and honestly say this '15 Stone is smooth as silk at 5 grand and 80-83mph. At those speeds I have not yet felt the urge to slow down per se nor the slightest bit of intruding buzz.
THIS is really interesting to me.
I'm wondering what the difference is because on my V7 Stone there was a PRONOUNCED feeling of maybe it was low end vibration or something that made me feel like I didn't want to be on the highway at 70 mph even for the first thousand or two thousand miles. That feeling changed by the second service for sure.
Now I have to admit, I also had some seriously crappy old AGV helmets that were not helping the experience, and my new Arai (Defiant FF) and Shark (Heritage 3/4) fit MUCH better and have honestly changed the experience a bit as well. So maybe part of my reluctant feel at first on the V7 wasn't the bike but was ME... but even if that was part of the experience, I'm sure it wasn't all of it. Because even then I rode Jay's V7C back-to-back (swapping off with him that day as he rode the Stone) and even he felt differences. Like the V7C was just a little "looser" and more willing to rev.
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OP:
Congrats on the new scoot! Glad to see you're loving this bike.
I wonder how tall you are and how much do you weight. A lot of people complain about suspension, but you don't seem to have any issues. So I'm curious.
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OP:
Congrats on the new scoot! Glad to see you're loving this bike.
I wonder how tall you are and how much do you weight. A lot of people complain about suspension, but you don't seem to have any issues. So I'm curious.
I weigh 145 wet, 5'9, inseam a bit longer than would be expected at 32". Haven't yet felt cramped but I will likely lower pegs or get a 2nd seat and modify it.
LOL. Yeah, you missed it, probably because of my long-windedness :boozing: But here was one such discussion
http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=68237.0;nowap
And here comes another long-winded post. :laugh:
I'll be curious to hear when your low fuel light comes on.
For me, it tends to come on with only about 3.3 gallons used give or take (meaning leaving a theoretical 2.5 gallons left, but maybe a realistic TWO full gallons usable).
So when it comes on I've got anywhere from 50-70+ miles left before I even have to start LOOKING for fuel (and that's leaving myself at LEAST a 40 mile cushion to find it).
On this particular bike I've worked out a metric based on when the low fuel light comes on (which is an indication of the mpg I'm getting on that particular tank). I rounded the numbers a bit to make it easier to remember.
If the light comes on at 150, 160, 170, or 180 miles, I START LOOKING for fuel at 200, 210, 225, or 250 miles respectively.
So
Light on at 150 = ~45 mpg, so I look for fuel at 200, but I SHOULD be good to 240 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
Light on at 160 = ~48 mpg, so I look for fuel at 210, but I SHOULD be good to 257 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
Light on at 170 = ~52 mpg, so I look for fuel at 225, but I SHOULD be good to 273 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
Light on at 180 = ~55 mpg, so I look for fuel at 250, but I SHOULD be good to 289 based on that consumption (still leaving 1/2 gallon in the tank unusable).
I guess I could probably adjust that upward... maybe add another 20 miles to each of the looking for fuel points.
150, 160, 170, 180 means 220, 230, 245, 270
or maybe simplify
150, 160, 170, 180 means 220, 230, 250, 260
But I found it easier to pick more easily remembered start points of 150 and 200 for the number runs.
And considering I try to keep this in my head, along with similar fill/range points for the Sporty (4.5 gallon tank, light at 3.4 around 150 miles, means ~44 mpg, fill by 175ish) and the Ducati (3.96 gallon tank, light at 2.8, around 150 miles, means ~ 54 mpg, refuel by 180ish, but theoretically can go over 200 miles, ESPECIALLY when Jenn is on it cause she's no stranger to nearly 60 mpg on that thing).
I don't try to remember multiple fill points on the Sporty or Duc... though I do have them in notes on my phone for the Duc.
It seems that the Duc and V7 are more sensitive to how they are ridden, as I regularly see 5-10 mpg swings in tank average mileage, but the Sporty varies much less, usually only by couple of mpg. So I only have the one reference point for the Sporty in my head and maybe only one other on my phone.
THIS is really interesting to me.
I'm wondering what the difference is because on my V7 Stone there was a PRONOUNCED feeling of maybe it was low end vibration or something that made me feel like I didn't want to be on the highway at 70 mph even for the first thousand or two thousand miles. That feeling changed by the second service for sure.
Now I have to admit, I also had some seriously crappy old AGV helmets that were not helping the experience, and my new Arai (Defiant FF) and Shark (Heritage 3/4) fit MUCH better and have honestly changed the experience a bit as well. So maybe part of my reluctant feel at first on the V7 wasn't the bike but was ME... but even if that was part of the experience, I'm sure it wasn't all of it. Because even then I rode Jay's V7C back-to-back (swapping off with him that day as he rode the Stone) and even he felt differences. Like the V7C was just a little "looser" and more willing to rev.
Several things. First, that is some great and fabulous info. Thanks for posting. So far, the range and mpg numbers have been really pleasing. I just always assumed I'd have to buy a KLR or a big ADV or touring bike to get that kind of range. Just fantastic.
As per the mpg numbers being more sensitive on your Duc and V7, I dunno but I would add that I've experienced this very same thing with all smaller bore bikes I've owned. The couple of Vespa 150s I owned previously could get as high as 70 if ridden conservatively or as low as 50 if riding them the way I did - full throttle on the daily highway commute. Same thing with the smaller vintage bikes I've had but that's likely compounded somewhat by them being carbed. But my large bikes - especially my Calis and even the Stelvio - would get almost the same mpg even being driven aggressively.
I too find the highway engine manners and my previous experience with the demo bikes as interesting. I mean I only rode one a year and a half ago so the memory is modestly fresh, and I rode two others prior to that even. I left all of those rides happy to be getting back on my then Jackal and thinking how it felt like I was flogging the bike in pushing it to do 75. This Stone has been nothing remotely like that. My first ride on the bike was a 170 mile trip back home where I drove 70-80 most of the way. The only things that remotely bothered me on that trip was legroom, windblast, and stiff suspension - all of which can be adjusted. But the engine? Not even a complaint. What's funny too is that the bike probably tops out at 105 or so; thus, it's surprising to me the bike is so seemingly at ease being that relatively close to its top end.
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You've hit the nail on the head. Congratulations, and
I'm left with the idea that .......... the bike could really be ridden far and well beyond the city. ......... I mean it could really do this in a fine and accomplished way.
A big reason why we love it so. I can see some long trips in your future; you are up for so much fun!
Mal
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Oh, man! Mine is the exact same color! Let me tell you, you're gonna love it. Excellent choice.
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For me, it tends to come on with only about 3.3 gallons used give or take (meaning leaving a theoretical 2.5 gallons left, but maybe a realistic TWO full gallons usable).
The fuel light on my '13 V7R comes on about the same point (actually, 3.4 gallons used / 160 miles).
Usable fuel, at least on mine is 5.1 Gallons. I "tested" this one time, and ran out of fuel.
5.1 gallons filled it to within a few mm of the filler collar.
So, that works out for a run-till-dry range of 240 miles. I always make sure that I fillup before I get to 220 miles.
..... Because even then I rode Jay's V7C back-to-back (swapping off with him that day as he rode the Stone) and even he felt differences. Like the V7C was just a little "looser" and more willing to rev.
My V7R had some of that feeling when I got it at 4k miles. Now it is at 8k, and that feeling is gone. It is just as willing to rev (and do so smoothly) as my V7C was.
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My light came on yesterday at 169 and bike took 3.8 at the pump but I slightly overfiilled due to small hole for nozzle in tank - can barely see around it down into tank to know where gas is coming up. No biggie, just have to remind myself to pull the nozzle and check level as it gets towards top. But wowee zowee, 169 and 45mpg with another what, 1.3ish left in the tank? Are you kidding me? :thumb:
Hey I might do a seperate post on this but I called Corbin this morning. Their RD department in Cali is seeking a V7 from which to build a Corbin model - they don't base these off stock pans; rather, they build their own off the stock bike per se. Dunno if anyone lives near them but they might offer a nice little discount to someone who would be willing to let them keep your V7 for maybe a week or so while they develop on it. And the benefits would be for us all!
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George, Griso owner from the Seattle area, has ridden, stock seat, no windscreen and a very small dry bag for luggage, his Griso to Datil New Mexico last year and to our Not a Rally in Cottonwood Arizona this year.
He showed up in Datil this summer on a V7-II! He installed after market rear shocks and some rear sets but still uses the stock seat, no windscreen and small dry bag for luggage. Over 2300 miles ONE WAY!
He won the longest solo trip to the rally, and the Oldest Rider award - 80 years old (we actually thought he was 85, bad on us). His last seven bikes have been either Griso's or V7's.
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Travman,
I heard from an anonymous source that the green
is available for the V7 II Stone. FYI—
Jim
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Travman,
I heard from an anonymous source that the green
is available for the V7 II Stone. FYI�
Jim
:thumb: We shall see. That is certainly what I would choose.
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The fuel filler restrictor sits loose under the fuel cap locking ring. You can just remove the fuel cap and locking ring, lift out the restrictor and replace the locking ring and fuel cap.
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love your bike congrats!
Is it 6 speed?
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love your bike congrats!
Is it 6 speed?
Much thanks. I'm loving it too. It's a 2015 so no abs or 6th gear, but I dunno if a sixth gear would make that much of a difference for me personally - bike is not remotely buzzy or bothersome at 80, a very smooth 5 grand on the tach at that speed. I don't guess a sixth gear could hurt but much to my surprise, as stated, haven't felt like I needed one so far.
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Congratulations on the new bike! :boozing:
Guzzi has come a long way with the fueling on the new bikes for sure. All the new single TB models are astounding in how well they run.
John Henry
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Congratulations on the new bike! :boozing:
Guzzi has come a long way with the fueling on the new bikes for sure. All the new single TB models are astounding in how well they run.
John Henry
:thumb:
Hoping someone will sell me an OEM touring screen but the headlight and dash take off a good bit of blast - much moreso than my previous Street Triple which made me a total parasail on the highway without a screen. If I don't get any response on WTB thread in Swap Meet by the end of the day today, I'll probably order the Dart Marlin screen.
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I removed the OEM screen from the Classic as it deflected the wind exactly onto my visor. The rear sets provided that little bit of forward lean to combat the wind to the body. A chap who has an '09 trimmed his OEM screen closer to the instruments, which moved the point of impact down from his visor, solving the problem for him.
Mal
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:thumb:
Hoping someone will sell me an OEM touring screen but the headlight and dash take off a good bit of blast - much moreso than my previous Street Triple which made me a total parasail on the highway without a screen. If I don't get any response on WTB thread in Swap Meet by the end of the day today, I'll probably order the Dart Marlin screen.
Congratulations on your new ride.
I tried to get the OEM screen for my bike but now were available so instead I went with an MRA screen from Twisted Throttle. For some reason I can't seem to insert a picture of the MRA screen.
If the Marlin had been available back in March I probably would have gone with that one.
Regards,
Gerry
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Warning. Long and hyperbolic post.
Just got bike home from first service by Craig and the fantastic fellas at C and D in Robinson IL. Great guys. Bike now a bit over 1100 miles. Trip to Robinson and back was slightly over 300 miles total through wonderful Indiana countryside - pictures below. At the close of my trip I decided to modify the title of my thread.
That's it. Favorite bike ever. :thumb:
Though they all elicited some smiles and admiration and many others bordered on it, or they were "best this" or "favorite that" I don't think I've ever really out and out said that about any motorcycle, mainly because I know how ridiculous, personal, and biased it sounds - and too how influenced by the moment it can be. My former GT1000 was a favorite all around bike, my Stelvio had a fabulous engine, my Calis were the most dependable and 2-up rides, Vespa best urban bike, etc. Your greatest bike is the one you're gonzo about that week. But I'm not kidding nor too influenced by blind love here. This one's it. Favorite bike ever. No qualifications. In the last 11 years or so since returning to motorcycling, I've managed to cover a bit over 100k miles, have owned probably a total of 11 bikes or more, and have test driven probably 20 or more at least. I've gone 139mph on a motorcycle (didn't enjoy it). I've had bikes that barely weighed over 400lbs but with 106 horsepower (Street Triple); I've driven bikes that were heavier and had over 150 ponies. I've owned Vespas, vintage bikes, and a 250 I started upon. But this Stone has managed to steal me heart among them all. Don't get me wrong, there are nits to be picked, but there are nits to pick with any bike. It's just that with this one, I mainly don't care. It makes me forget them. :boozing:
As stated before, my fondness for it certainly didn't start off that way. I test drove some Specials and even one Stone. Whatever. Cool bikes. Cute, I thought. Baby bikes. They didn't make me want to run out and buy one though I certainly thought the new engine felt considerably more modern than the old unit. When I traded in the 1100 Stone for this one I thought the V7 would be only a 2-up bike for city driving, maybe a leisurely country road or two. Not much else. I was wrong. I used to think my former and fantastic Street Triple was maybe the most flexible engine I'd ever had in a motorcycle but after spending 400 miles on the Stone, I jumped on the Street and promptly green horned the clutch and stalled the engine pulling out of my driveway forgetting that it doesn't have that same kind of torque right off idle.
Since purchase and spending time in the admittedly hard saddle it has become the bike for which I didn't even know I was looking. It does everything altogether better than any one thing any of those bikes before it could do.
On the 1st 150 miles to C and D I went through paved woods, highway, twisties, long straights, you name it. I battered the throttle up and down. Through some stretches of Jefferson National Forest, I drove the bike as fast I have any motorcycle through twisted pavement. On the highway I stayed mostly in the 80-90mph range. On previous bikes on this same highway, I would have to pull out the Cramp Buster or the Go Cruise after about 60 miles or so, but the bike is so calm and not buzzy/busy even at those speeds, it seemed pointless as my wrist didn't need it nor even ask for it. Seems ridiculous. Top speed is what, maybe 105 and a change? You'd think at 85 even it would be begging me to slow down just a few or back off. It doesn't remotely. Smooth as silk.
Pulling into Robinson just for kicks I thought I'd put some gas in it, thinking that my hard riding on the way there would have greatly diminished its efficiency like it has with every other motorcycle and/or 2 wheeled vehicle I've owned - I used to regularly get 55mpg out of a 150 Vespa if that's any measure of what my right wrist can do to economy. At the pump in Robinson with 151 on the trip meter I was daydreaming and splattered gas on the tank as it unexpectedly overfilled at 3 gallons even, meaning around 50mpg and I still had another 2.3 or so gallons left in the tank if I'd wanted it. Likely due to the highway work and some constant speeds here and there, it had actually averaged BETTER economy even than around town, even in the face of my aggressive riding in the twisties.
The Dart Marlin was mostly a perfect companion as temps that day were 95 plus and it flows mostly non-buffeting good air. Worth mentioning that even in these kinds of temps the engine heat never became an issue. Plus, as per the Marlin, you must understand how incredibly difficult it is for a white man of my age and inclination to resist such packaging as this. :grin: I'm used to receiving windshields in the most generic of refurbished cardboard that looks as if they were packaged under an Asian sweatshop master of the cruelest regard. I may put this box on the wall in my garage. Friggin' snazzy.
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg1_zpswiuqofcq.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg1_zpswiuqofcq.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg2_zpsviilqs5e.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg2_zpsviilqs5e.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg13_zpsfzftwrcr.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg13_zpsfzftwrcr.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg11_zpsynxkrgp8.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg11_zpsynxkrgp8.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg9_zpsl2atsysl.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg9_zpsl2atsysl.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg8_zpseneynntl.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg8_zpseneynntl.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg7_zps2zpslfjn.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg7_zps2zpslfjn.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg4_zpsxai4lclw.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg4_zpsxai4lclw.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg1_zpsyuwjyuvo.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg1_zpsyuwjyuvo.jpg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image.jpg5_zpsxzlwz5yy.jpg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image.jpg5_zpsxzlwz5yy.jpg.html)
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I was just telling another WG board member the same thing the other day, that my V7 Stone is probably my favorite bike of all time.
It's not the fastest, most comfortable, best suspension, or bar brakes, or just about any other one thing. But it's just right in so many ways.
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Pondering next spring trading the 2012 V7R on a new one with ABS and 6 speed. Love the look of the new Racer. Might consider a Stone also.
Might consider an Audace, but not sure if I can handle the weight.
Still LOVE my STR 675!
Great reviews and comments...
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2013 V7 Stone is my all time favorite bike as well. And I've owned a lot of bikes!
Heck, the more I ride it, the more I like it. Just passed 30,000 miles on my Stone.
Would take it anywhere.
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That's it. Favorite bike ever. :thumb:
And it gets better and better with use. You'll see.
Thanks for sharing the joy.
Mal
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I'm glad you punks are digging your v7s, I wish I had one! The one thing that bugs me just a little, only because it looks wrong on this bike, is the side stand.
The forward angle from the piviot, is just weird. I know why it where it is now, I have a v65, where they mounted the pivot to far forward for short legged punks!
Any way, I think I might be able to hold my nose about the side stand and find a way to own one if I'm lucky.
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The sidestand is not a problem - at least until the pivot bolt wears. A vast improvement in function over that on the 1100 Sport. The V7's is easy to access AND supports the bike when loaded with luggage.
Mal
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Still LOVE my STR 675!
By all accounts - including my own - a great bike.
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I'm glad you punks are digging your v7s, I wish I had one! The one thing that bugs me just a little, only because it looks wrong on this bike, is the side stand.
The forward angle from the piviot, is just weird. I know why it where it is now, I have a v65, where they mounted the pivot to far forward for short legged punks!
Any way, I think I might be able to hold my nose about the side stand and find a way to own one if I'm lucky.
The pivot point is right behind the left rider peg! EASILY reached by Bridget, the one (left) legged midget.
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Great write up bpreynolds. I'm picking up my V7 II Special (blue) this Saturday and I cannot wait.
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Great write up bpreynolds. I'm picking up my V7 II Special (blue) this Saturday and I cannot wait.
Congrats! Post a thread with some pics when ya git it! :thumb:
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Got my seat build back from Baldwin today. Sent him a spare V7 seat from the 2-up Racer pillion kit. I asked him to keep the retro look (no wide pan insert), raise me up about an inch and a half or 2 even, install really firm foam, and keep the whole seat deck level all the way back. Guy did a fantastic job. Gives the bike a kind of Scramblerish look. First 30 miles or so are a good report but I had not factored in that raising me up that much would also change my reach to the bars - leaning over slightly more so I will likely get some risers maybe but gonna spend some time on the seat before I make up my mind completely. Threw in a pic of my stock saddle together with the Baldwin just to give ya idea of build. Garage is a total mess around the bikes. Keep saying I'll clean it up when I finish work on T-Bird but that just seems to continue.
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zpsxhuvadeo.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zpsxhuvadeo.jpeg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zpsdzk0bwwi.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zpsdzk0bwwi.jpeg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zpsutvxpxbr.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zpsutvxpxbr.jpeg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zpshdjp119w.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zpshdjp119w.jpeg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zps3dh91dci.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zps3dh91dci.jpeg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zpseffvzysj.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zpseffvzysj.jpeg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zpsvkyp1kl7.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zpsvkyp1kl7.jpeg.html)
(http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc57/bpreynolds/V7%20Stone/image_zpsonvtzgny.jpeg) (http://s212.photobucket.com/user/bpreynolds/media/V7%20Stone/image_zpsonvtzgny.jpeg.html)
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Yup. To heck with all the "Guns and Girls" internet photos. We need a wives, bikes, and dogs site. :thumb: Or maybe not. :boozing:
Oh yeah , do it Bipper :thumb:
Dusty
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Oh yeah , do it Bipper :thumb:
Dusty
Did I just see the word "Moderator" beside your name? When did this happen? Maybe it's always been this way and I was just too blind to notice? Well you deserve it. Good look at keeping the peace around here :wink: You are one of the more level headed fellows in a majority of slant noggin bunch. :thumb:
Yup. Looks just like the stock ironing board seats on Bonnevilles and Scramblers.
Thanks for the compliment in the other thread. The guy does a ton of Triumph seats so it does make sense.
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Bipper , the mod thing is fairly new , and thanks , although some would certainly disagree with your assessment of me :laugh:
Luap made me an offer I couldn't refuse :grin: Just trying to carry on the good work done by others .
Dusty
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Bipper , the mod thing is fairly new , and thanks , although some would certainly disagree with your assessment of me :laugh:
Don't worry about those folks. As you know, agreeing on everything is how we roll around here, right? :thumb: I'd say you being elected moderator is the closest thing to unilateral agreement we've seen around here since...well I don't remember that really ever happening but oh well. :boozing:
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New member here. Love this thread as I could just as well written it. Picked up my new white '14 Stone back on Aug. 8th from Cleveland Moto. To say I'm happy with my choice is an understatement. Had wanted one since they first came out. Glad I waited for the right one and the big $$$ off was the icing on the cake. Have 1400ish miles on it now and like it more everyday. Added HB Jr. Bags and Ago engine guard, everything in black which makes the white really pop. Get more comments on the looks than any bike I've ever had. Rode with some friends last week in the local twisties. My Stone, an FZ07, new CB1100 and a BMW r1150. What a blast! This bike is a great daily commuter, fantastic weekend fun bike, and will handle road trips too. Loves the two laners, but handles the super slab fine. So ya, Favorite bike ever sounds about right.
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Thanks for posting pics of the finished product. That looks like just about exactly what I want. If I can't find a local to upgrade the 1.5 seat I just bought, I may have to reach out to this guy, he does nice work.
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Thanks for posting pics of the finished product. That looks like just about exactly what I want. If I can't find a local to upgrade the 1.5 seat I just bought, I may have to reach out to this guy, he does nice work.
I've had a couple Ned's rebuilds to mixed results, one fantastic Russell (but looked hideous), and I would say he did quite well with this seat and the build quality is on a professional level for sure. I'll report back more after I get some risers on the bars and get more miles on the seat.
New member here. Love this thread as I could just as well written it. Picked up my new white '14 Stone back on Aug. 8th from Cleveland Moto. To say I'm happy with my choice is an understatement. Had wanted one since they first came out. Glad I waited for the right one and the big $$$ off was the icing on the cake. Have 1400ish miles on it now and like it more everyday. Added HB Jr. Bags and Ago engine guard, everything in black which makes the white really pop. Get more comments on the looks than any bike I've ever had. Rode with some friends last week in the local twisties. My Stone, an FZ07, new CB1100 and a BMW r1150. What a blast! This bike is a great daily commuter, fantastic weekend fun bike, and will handle road trips too. Loves the two laners, but handles the super slab fine. So ya, Favorite bike ever sounds about right.
I think it's fantastic and rare when a bike can elicit these kinds of emotions from both a new member like yourself and an older member and rider like me. :thumb:
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I think it's fantastic and rare when a bike can elicit these kinds of emotions from both a new member like yourself and an older member and rider like me. :thumb:
I keep saying this on the subject (have I already said it in this thread, if so mea-culpa), but I REALLY think they've tapped into something here.
Modern bikes have gotten so powerful and disconnected from the experience of riding (fooling you into thinking your not actually going fast when you are, making corners and stops so effortless) that when you come across a bike that RECONNECTS THE RIDER TO THE EXPERIENCE it catches on.
I THINK that's a large part of the success of Harley in general, the Sportster specifically.
I THINK that's a large part of the success of the Bonnies.
I THINK that's why even Royal Enfield has been selling.
There's are nuances too it too - like approachability which includes pricepoint, size, performance. Not all will be success to the same level, but they all have a piece of that formula. They allow newbies to enter the motorcycling world, they engage old timers and remind them of what they loved about it in the first place.
I'm NOT taking anything away from the performance of the top dogs or the people who still crave that. If that's your thing, good on ya, have at it, etc.
But the ability to have just a much fun at a slower (arguable safer) pace and concentrate on the whole experience, not just HOW FAST can I get from point A to point B or how much faster and lower can I take this corner is a big part of the fun for me. That's not to say I don't sometimes also care about the former points, but even then the bikes are somewhat self-limiting in a good way.
In the brief only little more than 2 decades I've been riding, I don't think I've ever been more satisfied with the fleet in my garage right now.
I should admit though that my riding is very different from 20 years ago when I was single or newly married with no kids and could literally disappear for 500 miles a day every weekend day that I wanted (and usually did). So this attitude might change again, but I hope not. I hope that in the future I continue to find joy from slowing down a little, taking the backroads, enjoying the bike for the beautiful and more basic machine that it is (lack of creature comforts and all).
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...and concentrate on the whole experience, not just HOW FAST can I get from point A to point B or how much faster and lower can I take this corner is a big part of the fun for me.
:thumb:
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Agree with Kev and BP. I've never owned a "modern" bike. I'm a life long rider, and the newest bike I've ever owned was also the only other new motorcycle I ever purchased, a 1982 Suzuki 550 Katana. Since then it's been vintage Yamaha's. I sold my '76 XS650 cafe last year to help fund the Stone this year (get good $$ for cafe's!). I had that bike for 15+ years. I still have my '80 XS850 Special. Been riding it for 9-10 years now. I just wanted something "new" that was still just a plain do it all bike. My buddy traded his Thruxton in last month for a new left over CB1100. We swapped bikes last week while riding and both came away thoroughly impressed. The big Honda handled well and for two up riding as he does is an excellent choice. After riding my stone, he was blown away. Couldn't believe how well it got along- handled well, good power, just shear ease of riding. His best comment was "This bike is just so elemental". I couldn't sum it up any better. It's as straight forward a bike as there is. You feel everything (in a good way) and it does what's asked of it. There is a definite movement back to these types of bikes - V7, Bonneville, SR400, TU250, Royal Enfield, FZ07 and others. It's just nice to have a new, fuel injected bike that makes me smile even more than my old Cafe' did!
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I keep saying this on the subject (have I already said it in this thread, if so mea-culpa), but I REALLY think they've tapped into something here.
Modern bikes have gotten so powerful and disconnected from the experience of riding (fooling you into thinking your not actually going fast when you are, making corners and stops so effortless) that when you come across a bike that RECONNECTS THE RIDER TO THE EXPERIENCE it catches on.
:1: It has often been said the Californias saved the company by selling in some number. I believe there is good proof now the same may one day be said of the V7.
I'm not saying it's easy for a manufacturer to create a fast bike, or maybe it is, I dunno, but there are a zillion of them out there. What seems more difficult is to create a bike that touches on so many different things and is still not just a show pony. I just arrived back in the hills to be with my mom on 77th birthday today. Might do a ride report thread but I drove the bike probably 350 miles yesterday through rural KY and the Daniel Boone National Forest. The bike was flawless and even fine for the highway stints I had to do at the end. What else can I say, the bike is fantastic.
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New member here. Love this thread as I could just as well written it. Picked up my new white '14 Stone back on Aug. 8th from Cleveland Moto. To say I'm happy with my choice is an understatement. Had wanted one since they first came out. Glad I waited for the right one and the big $$$ off was the icing on the cake. Have 1400ish miles on it now and like it more everyday. Added HB Jr. Bags and Ago engine guard, everything in black which makes the white really pop. Get more comments on the looks than any bike I've ever had. Rode with some friends last week in the local twisties. My Stone, an FZ07, new CB1100 and a BMW r1150. What a blast! This bike is a great daily commuter, fantastic weekend fun bike, and will handle road trips too. Loves the two laners, but handles the super slab fine. So ya, Favorite bike ever sounds about right.
***Thread drift alert***
Noticed this post. Glad to hear both you and Brian are liking the bikes! Perhaps I'll run into you one of these times up at Cleveland Moto. Perhaps I already have.......
John Henry
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Not to stay off track...
ZZ, Probably have- what do you ride? Been to any of the Mods vs Rockers or DGR?
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I have a 2012 V7C, do you have contact info for Baldwin. I would like to get my seat done like that too. Can you tell us how much that was? Thanks, Robert
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I have an'09 Stelvio, an'01 EV, and a '16 Eldorado.
ZZ
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Awesome! Enjoy the bike! I have a 2013 stone and love it! Runs great and super fun! I really leaned towards the stone as it led me tons of options to customize.
Cheers and happy/safe riding!
Chris
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I keep saying this on the subject (have I already said it in this thread, if so mea-culpa), but I REALLY think they've tapped into something here.
Modern bikes have gotten so powerful and disconnected from the experience of riding (fooling you into thinking your not actually going fast when you are, making corners and stops so effortless) that when you come across a bike that RECONNECTS THE RIDER TO THE EXPERIENCE it catches on.
I THINK that's a large part of the success of Harley in general, the Sportster specifically.
I THINK that's a large part of the success of the Bonnies.
I THINK that's why even Royal Enfield has been selling.
There's are nuances too it too - like approachability which includes pricepoint, size, performance. Not all will be success to the same level, but they all have a piece of that formula. They allow newbies to enter the motorcycling world, they engage old timers and remind them of what they loved about it in the first place.
I'm NOT taking anything away from the performance of the top dogs or the people who still crave that. If that's your thing, good on ya, have at it, etc.
But the ability to have just a much fun at a slower (arguable safer) pace and concentrate on the whole experience, not just HOW FAST can I get from point A to point B or how much faster and lower can I take this corner is a big part of the fun for me. That's not to say I don't sometimes also care about the former points, but even then the bikes are somewhat self-limiting in a good way.
In the brief only little more than 2 decades I've been riding, I don't think I've ever been more satisfied with the fleet in my garage right now.
I should admit though that my riding is very different from 20 years ago when I was single or newly married with no kids and could literally disappear for 500 miles a day every weekend day that I wanted (and usually did). So this attitude might change again, but I hope not. I hope that in the future I continue to find joy from slowing down a little, taking the backroads, enjoying the bike for the beautiful and more basic machine that it is (lack of creature comforts and all).
Kev,
You couldn't have said it any better!
Cheers,
Chris
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I snapped this picture before I took off to Pittsburgh PA from Tucson AZ last month with 1300 miles on the odometer. It returned with 6,000 on it.
It's got a Guzzi windshield that Laminar Lip says that they'll make an extension for but it was okay for taking off the pressure. The Rizoma mirrors were low to the wind with anti-glare.
After about 4,500 miles, the suspension softened just a little.
(http://6e03aa98bcc77146ae28-3ac901b1d4ca88bbebf58065706ee716.r78.cf5.rackcdn.com/V7_2015/V7Stone1.JPG)
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I have a 2012 V7C, do you have contact info for Baldwin. I would like to get my seat done like that too. Can you tell us how much that was? Thanks, Robert
Website is motorbikesaddles.co m. Owner's name is Loren. His (and the business email) is loren@motorbikesaddles.com. I sent him a cheapy spare I got off ebay; he redid the saddle for I believe $420 plus shipping. I'm quite satisfied with it - very well built and very nice though it did lift me up so much AS PER MY OWN DIRECTION for the build, that I may now need risers :grin:
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I keep saying this on the subject (have I already said it in this thread, if so mea-culpa), but I REALLY think they've tapped into something here.
Modern bikes have gotten so powerful and disconnected from the experience of riding (fooling you into thinking your not actually going fast when you are, making corners and stops so effortless) that when you come across a bike that RECONNECTS THE RIDER TO THE EXPERIENCE it catches on.
I THINK that's a large part of the success of Harley in general, the Sportster specifically.
I THINK that's a large part of the success of the Bonnies.
I THINK that's why even Royal Enfield has been selling.
There's are nuances too it too - like approachability which includes pricepoint, size, performance. Not all will be success to the same level, but they all have a piece of that formula. They allow newbies to enter the motorcycling world, they engage old timers and remind them of what they loved about it in the first place.
I'm NOT taking anything away from the performance of the top dogs or the people who still crave that. If that's your thing, good on ya, have at it, etc.
But the ability to have just a much fun at a slower (arguable safer) pace and concentrate on the whole experience, not just HOW FAST can I get from point A to point B or how much faster and lower can I take this corner is a big part of the fun for me. That's not to say I don't sometimes also care about the former points, but even then the bikes are somewhat self-limiting in a good way.
In the brief only little more than 2 decades I've been riding, I don't think I've ever been more satisfied with the fleet in my garage right now.
I should admit though that my riding is very different from 20 years ago when I was single or newly married with no kids and could literally disappear for 500 miles a day every weekend day that I wanted (and usually did). So this attitude might change again, but I hope not. I hope that in the future I continue to find joy from slowing down a little, taking the backroads, enjoying the bike for the beautiful and more basic machine that it is (lack of creature comforts and all).
thats where i'm at as a motorcyclist. There is great moto blog called "scooter in the sticks" that has been around for many years. The fellow is a photographer and a rider of a Vespa 250/300. He likes to take it a bit slower, enjoy the experience, take some great photos, and reflect on life. Check it out.