Opinions wanted on the 1400 touring

[groundhog105]

My wife hasn't  ridden with me for two years because our BMW R1200ST is hard on her arthritic knees getting on and off and the knee angle while riding.  So, I have reluctantly decided that if I want her along we will have to get a cruiser that sits low for ease of her getting on and off. Today we went to North County BMW/Moto Guzzi and sat on the California Touring. Jan was able to easily get on and off and gave the thumbs up. My hesitation for the Guzzi is the dealer network since this bike would be used for travel over the U.S. AND Canada. I would like some opinions from those the have the 1400 as to reliability and how it is for traveling long distance. The only other cruiser I would consider is HD because of the dealer support and I have owned a couple of Harley's in the past and found them to be comfortable and reliable.

[Vasco DG]

In 2013 my wife and I spent ten weeks covering some 13,000 miles from memory touring around the USA and Canada on one of the first Cali 14 Tourings. No problems apart from finding a shop in SLS that could change a tyre

Pete

[groundhog105]

Thanks Pete. I remember now that you did that.  How was maintence on the 1400?  Are the valves hydrolic or screw and lock.  Did you find it comfortable living off it for 13,000 miles?

[lucian]

If you purchase the  cali from a reputable shop and keep up on the routine service you will likely have no problems. The only known problems have been minor things like loosening screws on exhaust heat shields, and a few exhaust crossover tubes cracking on early models. Mine has suffered none of these and has been perfect for 8000 miles thus far. We will be heading to Nova Scotia on it soon for a second time from Maine for a 3000 mile trip and have no fears at all. I have loved mine so far for road trips two up,  very stable at highway speeds and the cruise control is superb. I also found the Harley's a little to loud and vibratory on long hauls but I would imagine the new counterbalanced engines are better. If you like smooth and quite you will appreciate the cali. Throw in standard abs, traction control,  rain mode and superior braking and handling at a much better price point and the choice becomes easier. I understand the dealer network angle , but with my luck if I rode a Harley , it would break down in front of a Moto guzzi dealer and visa versa, so I tend not to spend time worrying about, just buy what you like to ride the most, keep it up to snuff, treat it like you want it to last and enjoy the moment. Best of luck with your choice, better strike while the irons hot!     dave

[groundhog105]

Thanks Dave
      The more I read about the 1400 I am leaning that direction. Sounds like the dealer network is not an issue and it looks like a better bike out of the box power, handling, and braking than the HD. Plus my Lemans would like the company.

[JeffOlson]

I don't have one, but it's the bike I wanted before I got my Norge! I love my Norge, but the California Touring is a beautiful bike! (My Norge was significantly cheaper and has a bit better weather protection for wet winter riding...)

[Brattus]

I had a Cali Vintage and the wife had problems from time to time getting on and off. So before I brought the 1400 Touring the dealer had a demo bike so took her out to get the final seal of approval. It is lower and easier to get on and seat is more comfortable Just waiting for the 50 lt topbox to change from Givi 40 lt one I transferred from the Vintage

[lucian]

Hopefully CB Joe will chime in with his opinion of his new cali. I know he was planning a recent road trip.

[Tom]

Richard and Faye came up for the National Rally in NH from AZ.  He on his Cal Touring 1400 and she on her Indian Scout 1200.  Both good bikes.  The Touring's hard bags were filled.  Felt heavy but handled well and with plenty of power.  He took the heel lever off for shifting.