NGC - to sell or not to sell ....... (CB1100)

[ohiorider]

I hope you know my post was neither a complaint nor an insult. It was an observation, a glimpse of myself, overthinking, missing the forest for the trees, trying again and again to justify with my head the truths my heart already knew...

We both go back a long way on this forum.  I sometimes misinterpret a response to something I've posted.  In this case, I believe I did.  And like you, I often attempt to justify or change what I already know (or think) to be true.  Sometimes, I can bend it, other times, not.  Remains to be seen about this bike. 

Bob

[jas67]

Bob,

Have you ridden a V7 III yet?   If not, you really should.
In fact, ride the CB1100 TO the Guzzi dealer, and then test ride a V7 III, then ride your CB1100 home

If you get back on the CB1100 and think about the V7 III the whole way home, and how much better you like it, then sell the CB1100 and buy the V7 III   

If you get back on the CB1100, and think, "Yeah, I actually really like this bike."    Then keep it.

[tazio]

Best I remember our 82 900 CB customs, in-line 4s redlined at 10500rpm

Made me look at mine in the garage.
Looks like 9500

[DaSwami]

Great bottom pic Tazio.

ohiorider, I am puzzled what was wrong with the factory CB front forks.  But I've never modified a stock suspension in my life.  either I'm not picky or I am missing the boat.  Either way, good luck.  I've come to appreciate the technical prowess of the CB.

[cookiemech]

Bob,

Have you ridden a V7 III yet?   If not, you really should.
In fact, ride the CB1100 TO the Guzzi dealer, and then test ride a V7 III, then ride your CB1100 home

If you get back on the CB1100 and think about the V7 III the whole way home, and how much better you like it, then sell the CB1100 and buy the V7 III   

If you get back on the CB1100, and think, "Yeah, I actually really like this bike."    Then keep it.

I think this is a clear and reasoned approach, and a great way to distinguish the way each bike makes you feel. Assuming that the bikes are somewhat equivalent in serviceability, durability, and parts availability, I'd recommend the same thing.

And I know this is a Guzzi forum, so I need to tread softly . . . but does anyone here really believe that the Guzzi would provide the same long, trouble-free service as the Honda? Maybe that doesn't matter . . . 

[Sheepdog]

The Honda has it’s advantages, but I wouldn’t say reliability is significantly better. The Honda has a better dealer network...for me, that’s about it. Besides, which bike will still have most parts available in twenty years? Honda changes its designs (well, most of them) too frequently to support their bikes indefinitely...

[John A]

It's only a motorcycle, some you sell, some you don't . Ideally you should only sell one to get one that you want more. That's the best advice I can give and it works on tools, houses, pistols

[JJ]

It's only a motorcycle, some you sell, some you don't . Ideally you should only sell one to get one that you want more. That's the best advice I can give and it works on tools, houses, pistols

"When in doubt...farm it out!!" 

[mjptexas]

"Life is too short to drive ANY boring motorcycle..."

Well said.  If it doesn't make you smile when you ride it, find one that does!

[twowheeladdict]

Great bottom pic Tazio.

ohiorider, I am puzzled what was wrong with the factory CB front forks.  But I've never modified a stock suspension in my life.  either I'm not picky or I am missing the boat.  Either way, good luck.  I've come to appreciate the technical prowess of the CB.

You must either buy only high end bikes with fully adjustable suspension, ride where the roads are race track smooth, or are missing the boat.

I have upgraded the suspension on most of my bikes.  Some because they had budget suspension.  Some because they were not set up correctly for my weight and riding style.  Do you check the static sag of the front and rear suspension on your bikes?

[Kev m]

does anyone here really believe that the Guzzi would provide the same long, trouble-free service as the Honda? Maybe that doesn't matter . . . 

Meh... There are so few guarantees in life. And really, Honda isn't a guarantee. Even IF the odds are slightly more in its favor, does it really matter in the big picture?!?

I'd rather spend double and throw away a bad Guzzi than deny myself one and live with a boring bike I didn't want just because I perceived the odds were better it would be trouble free.

[Chuck in Indiana]

^^^^ plus one brazillion, Kev. 
 

[DaSwami]

You must either buy only high end bikes with fully adjustable suspension, ride where the roads are race track smooth, or are missing the boat.

I have upgraded the suspension on most of my bikes.  Some because they had budget suspension.  Some because they were not set up correctly for my weight and riding style.  Do you check the static sag of the front and rear suspension on your bikes?

Oh dear. The only static sag I'm familiar with is that of my aging ball sack.

I honesty don't give a rat's butt. I have a suspension, I'm not riding a Rokon, I'm happy.  The only issue I've ever had was my 2013 Stone, the rear suspension was indeed quite bad.  It would pogo me right off the seat when I hit a pothole.  Other than that, I've lived just fine with all of them.

I have a DR650, it is plush, long travel, it's also dual purpose.  For my road bikes, my expectations are lowered but the ride is always manageable.

It may be due to the fact I'm quite large, maybe my size overcomes the harshness of a stock suspension, and if I bottom out I just increase the preload, basically whatever setup is proper for two-up riding works well for me. The bike don't care, and I'm good.

Anything else kemosabe?**

** = click to see full image

[ohiorider]

Great bottom pic Tazio.

ohiorider, I am puzzled what was wrong with the factory CB front forks.  But I've never modified a stock suspension in my life.  either I'm not picky or I am missing the boat.  Either way, good luck.  I've come to appreciate the technical prowess of the CB.

DaSwami,

The short answer.  The stock forks and shocks really beat me up riding over our beaten roads.  I weigh in at about 165, and the suspension is simply too stiff for me.

The longer answer.  I know most on this forum would have no reason to follow changes Honda has made to later models of the CB1100.  In 2014, from a 5 speed to 6 speed transmission.  With this engine's torque, I could care whether I had a 5 or 6 speed.

However, when they brought the CB1100 back to the US in 2017, one of the most notable changes was supplying the bikes with what they advertised as new Showa Bending Valve Fork technology.  Google it for more info than you'll ever want.  Here's a link to one article about it.

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/2017/08/2017-honda-cb1100-ex-smooth-ride-from-new-front-fork/

I suspect Honda made this change for a reason.  I understand that several newer Harley models equipped with Showa forks come with Showa Bending Valve front suspension.  Several of the CB1100 forum owners on the CB Forum have made this upgrade, by swapping out their older fork legs for the ones from the 2017.  About $500 a leg.
EDIT:  checked BikeBandit website.  They sell each fork leg for slightly over $400.00.

Bob

[bad Chad]

Shit or get off the pot Bob.  This isn't brain surgery.

[blu guzz]

i have known a few friends that have bought these.  all sold within 6 months due to lack of excitement (paraphrasing those owners).  i don't know.  there are plenty of retro bikes that do well in the marketplace. 

[cookiemech]

i have known a few friends that have bought these.  all sold within 6 months due to lack of excitement (paraphrasing those owners).  i don't know.  there are plenty of retro bikes that do well in the marketplace.

If I can just make it to the 29th of this month (July), I'll beat the odds . . . 

[twowheeladdict]

Oh dear. The only static sag I'm familiar with is that of my aging ball sack.

I honesty don't give a rat's butt. I have a suspension, I'm not riding a Rokon, I'm happy.  The only issue I've ever had was my 2013 Stone, the rear suspension was indeed quite bad.  It would pogo me right off the seat when I hit a pothole.  Other than that, I've lived just fine with all of them.

I have a DR650, it is plush, long travel, it's also dual purpose.  For my road bikes, my expectations are lowered but the ride is always manageable.

It may be due to the fact I'm quite large, maybe my size overcomes the harshness of a stock suspension, and if I bottom out I just increase the preload, basically whatever setup is proper for two-up riding works well for me. The bike don't care, and I'm good.

Anything else kemosabe?**

** = click to see full image

Don't ever ride a bike with well sorted suspension.   Ignorance is bliss and keeps an extra 2 grand in your pocket.

[ohiorider]

Shit or get off the pot Bob.  This isn't brain surgery.

Fork surgery, Chad

[Frulk]

      Guess I'll weigh in here as somebody that actually OWNS and RIDES a CB1100 on a daily basis and currently has 16.9K miles on the odo.

      Ohio Rider. I've been following your journey towards a better ride quality on the CB on two sites for a while now.  I cant help but believe that SOME of your problem is directly related to your slight stature. I weigh 240 (250 if I've been drinking) and I experience none of the concerns you have related about the OEM suspension. In fact, I knocked out a 600 mile day 3 weeks ago on secondary blacktop across some of the same road surface imperfections you encounter back east (potholes/frost heaves/gaping expansion strips/etc.) and had ZERO complaints about the bikes ride. Not saying it has a Gold Wing like ride or suspension, just that I have no complaints.
 
       An observation: Are you still riding on the OEM seat? The OEM seat in my estimation was BRUTALLY hard. I pulled it off with less than 200 miles on the bike and replaced it with an K&H I bought off the other site you and I frequent.  I just went out to the garage and pressed on the seating surface in a number of spots with my thumb. The seat bounced right back. But, under the fabric was a dimple were I pressed. I waited about 30 seconds and that dimple slowly had filled in.  Makes me believe that there are two types of material in that seat....a foam base and then some type of gel covering. I then pressed on the stock seat I pulled off the bike. Noticeably harder to compress with my thumb and bounced back immediately, no dimple under the material.  The K&H seat is NEVER the reason I pull over for a break.

       I can't help but believe that at least SOME of the difference in our opinions about the ride quality of the CB is due to those two factors. Other differences may be I have less chronic back/neck issues than you, more disc material that cushions the impact of road feedback, or in the words of 2wheeladdict "ignorance is bliss" and maybe I don't know what a good suspension should feel like...fill in anything else that may be appropriate here.
       

       Kevin M's comment is EXACTLY what I was thinking when I read your initial post. You eluded to the fact that the bike was a bargain and maybe that was one reason you bought it. I would think with all the suspension work you've paid for the bargain margin has been significantly eroded by now. I'm not going to tell you what to do because I'm not you and it's not my money but as I see it you have a few choices.


1) Sell it and cut your losses NOW.

2) Continue down the path you're on and it may or may not work out in the end.

3) Gain approx. 80-85 pounds, buy a K&H seat like mine and see if my theory is valid.


               Hope it all works out in the end for you...Frulk

 

[ohiorider]

Frulk, probably the most straightforward comments I've seen about my issues re the CB1100.  I appreciate your observations.
- I'm getting closer to taking your suggestion #1.
- I'll continue, but getting closer to discontinuing this chase (your suggestion #2.)
- the weight gain might not be in the stars .... a different saddle may be (your suggestion #3.)

Bob

[DaSwami]

Ohiorider,

The stock Honda seat is horrible IMO, but not for the reason Frulk states.  It's as soft as a marshmallow and using the "arse test" (as opposed to the thumb test) it offers little to no support for me, I am compressed right to the seat pan and my posterior and aforementioned sack go nighty night.  The K&H transformed the bike for me.

Best of luck, but I'm on my third and fourth CB1100 and I don't think I will ever part with them until I can't push them across the garage anymore.

[ohiorider]

Ohiorider,

The stock Honda seat is horrible IMO, but not for the reason Frulk states.  It's as soft as a marshmallow and using the "arse test" (as opposed to the thumb test) it offers little to no support for me, I am compressed right to the seat pan and my posterior and aforementioned sack go nighty night.  The K&H transformed the bike for me.

Best of luck, but I'm on my third and fourth CB1100 and I don't think I will ever part with them until I can't push them across the garage anymore.

DaSwami, I do have issues with the saddle. Not sure it's softness related.  Just seems like I'll need to install handlebars that sit me up slightly straighter, footpegs that are about 3/4" lower and forward,  and a saddle that offers more support under the thigh area.  Unless I'm running 65-70mph, I currently feel like I'm leaning too far forward, with feet too far rearward, and no saddle support under the thighs.  All easily resolved, I think.

I rode my buddy's 2016 T120 a couple of days ago, and it fits me better than the CB.  More leg room, footpegs slightly further forward.

Maybe the solution is to sell the CB and 1200 Sport, buy a T120, and throw a few bucks at the R100GS (which is about to happen, anyway.)

Bob

[jas67]

Maybe the solution is to sell the CB and 1200 Sport, buy a T120, and throw a few bucks at the R100GS (which is about to happen, anyway.)

 

That sounds like a great solution.  The new Triumph Classics are fantastic bikes!

[keener]

There are some great   I  fours  out there ........
this is one of them ........the Honda ...not so much .....why ....because they forgot what an inline four is supposed to be ..







https://www.visordown.com/road-tests-first-rides/first-ride-kawasaki-z900rs-review

[ohiorider]

That sounds like a great solution.  The new Triumph Classics are fantastic bikes!

You're serious when you say you think this sounds like a 'great solution?'  Actually, so do I.

Bob

[Zoom Zoom]

Bob, I've been following the thread and someone suggested a better seat. Do you have an Airhawk or some other cushion you could try? Perhaps that could help you decide if spending some on a seat would make things the way you want. I'm just thinking experiment with free solutions before spending money.

After that, all I can suggest is to go to dealers and ride things prior to making any decision to lay down your money. Test rides are free after all. Personally, I'm looking forward to seeing the baby Stelvio but that is a waiting game there.


John Henry

[Chuck in Indiana]

Bob, I've been following the thread and someone suggested a better seat. Do you have an Airhawk or some other cushion you could try? Perhaps that could help you decide if spending some on a seat would make things the way you want. I'm just thinking experiment with free solutions before spending money.

After that, all I can suggest is to go to dealers and ride things prior to making any decision to lay down your money. Test rides are free after all. Personally, I'm looking forward to seeing the baby Stelvio but that is a waiting game there.


John Henry

I'm still waiting for the Ippogriffo. 
Just the same, Bob.. to me, a bike either does what I want, or endears itself to me in a way that is hard to describe. It doesn't sound to me like the CB does either for you. If it were mine, it would already be gone. <shrug>

[Markcarovilli]

Bob

sounds like the Triumph is the answer - if you are taking votes, that's mine.....

Mark

[DaSwami]

There are some great   I  fours  out there ........
this is one of them ........the Honda ...not so much .....why ....because they forgot what an inline four is supposed to be ..

https://www.visordown.com/road-tests-first-rides/first-ride-kawasaki-z900rs-review

Well, it's not supposed to be liquid cooled in my book. Looking at that bike "in the flesh" that radiator is fugly.  And the liquid cooled cylinder heads kill the vintage look. IMO.  Everyone who reviews talks about the abrupt and snatchy throttle also. 

To each their own.