Moving from V7 to V7II, any experiences?

[neverquit]

I am thinking of buying a V7II and would appreciate hearing about the differences in the two machines.  I have ridden many miles on an older V7 but never had the opportunity to ride a V7II.  The V7II is said to have a lower center of gravity due to the change in engine mounting.  Is this noticeable between the two models, does it enhance the handling or comfort?  I am most interested in the ABS braking and how that has been performing.  Also, are the brakes linked in anyway or does the ABS just work independently on each wheel?  Thanks.

[rob-mg]

At 6'/1.82m, I find the V7 II Special/Stone noticeably more comfortable than the V7 in terms of leg room, presumably due to the change in engine placement. The difference was a factor in my decision to purchase a V7 II Special, as well as a factor in my decision not to purchase a Ducati Scrambler.

I tried the V7 Racer, a bike with a more forward riding position, and found that it didn't work for me for a number of reasons, including leg room. I didn't try the V7 II Racer, so don't know what the impact is, if any, of the change in engine mount.

[pete roper]

The new gearbox is a lovely thing.

[sib]

I went from a '13 Stone to a '16 Stone mainly for the ABS.  In my opinion, the lower placement and more forward tilt of the '16 engine gives me significantly more knee room.  The slightly lower pegs also make the ergos a bit more comfortable for me.  It seems to me that the '16 is sprung a bit more softly than the '13 was, giving me a more comfortable ride.  (I'm 5'-9.5" or so, and weigh about 200 in gear plus I carry about 25 lbs of H&B cases.)  Like others have said, the 6-sp gearbox is excellent.  Clutch engagement is slightly smoother.  The ABS has kicked in once or twice during fast stops on gravel-covered roads (damn New England winter weather).  I think in the long run the ABS will save my skin enough to justify my "trade-up".  I put about 7000 mi on the '16 last season and couldn't be happier.

[neverquit]

Thanks for the information.  You've given me a good picture of the differences between the two models.