Selling my '06 GT . . . what next?

[messenger13]

In a week or so, I'll be listing my GT in the Classifieds ... or maybe on eBay.
Obviously, I've been considering what my next bike should be.

My short list:

A new or slightly used Kaw Concours 14
A used GS
A used Harley VRod :eek: (No, really!)
I'd like to stay under $13K ... even less would be mo' better.

All suggestions considered and appreciated.

[zippy_gg]

Why the change of heart? No likey no mo'?
I noticed the FJR is NOT on your list...:rolleyes:

[messenger13]

I still love my GT, but if I want to change it has to be now. I guess I'm always just looking for new experiences. ;) (Hence the VRod mention.)

I won't buy without looking at the FJR again...

[Florian]

HD???? Vrod? Ride one for a weekend and youll change your mind. Cornering is non-existant....motor is nice, tho.

GS is great all around bike.....
Connie is nice - rode one at Mid-Ohio V Days....great bike, nice price a bit hot and your legs are splayed open more than on the GT.

Keep the GT.

Enjoy whatever you get.


F

[hschisler]

But but but..... you've always been associated with K-bikes. If you move to an R, or -- dare I say -- something other than a Beemer, the universe simply won't be right.

Whichever way you go I look forward to hearing about it. Good luck with your decision.

[bigpapa]

Wait and see if the next gen VFR GT materializes...

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/213378/images/1aug-6-front.jpg

[messenger13]

Wait and see if the next gen VFR GT materializes...Hhmmn... Interesting! I've only owned 7 Hondas in my past.
Perhaps it's time for messenger13 to return to the big 'H'. :cool:
Thanks for the heads-up...

[rlv]

Joe this really surprises me.
What the heck is going on?
Man you single handed sold more GT's than all the salesmen did in the USA, only thing is, you didn't get the money.

[messenger13]

Joe this really surprises me.
What the heck is going on?
Man you single handed sold more GT's than all the salesmen did in the USA, only thing is, you didn't get the money.To be quite open and frank, this is a financial decision. Period.

[rlv]

Joe,
I hate that this is happening to ya.
I could feel how you love that bike.
You are a young man and have time on your side.
Motorcycles are changing daily for the better.
Be patient

[rlv]

Joe, just a thought.
Have you ever seen a ZZR 1200.
Lot of fun, and lots of power, not much for the insurance premium neither.
You can pick up really nice 05's for around 5,000.00.
A really good ride, very strong in all gears just the way you like em, and maybe just a little bit bigger than an FJR. And guess what, the 05 comes in that beautiful blue.
A great bike in the twisties and eats the slab up and grins about it.

[messenger13]

Joe, just a thought.
Have you ever seen a ZZR 1200.You may not remember, but I had a '98 ZX-11 just a couple years ago. The ZZR1200 is basically just the update of the ZX-11 . . . therefore, it wouldn't be all that exciting to me. A good suggestion though. :) And, a great bike for the buck. Owning that ZX-11 is what makes the new Connie so appealing to me.

Just so I'm clear; I don't "need" to sell my GT for financial reasons, it just feels right doing it at this time. As of late, my main focus has turned back to my other love (music), and I just can't justify the associated costs (payments and service) that comes with keeping the GT.

[zippy_gg]

Just so I'm clear; I don't "need" to sell my GT for financial reasons, it just feels right doing it at this time. As of late, my main focus has turned back to my other love (music), and I just can't justify the associated costs (payments and service) that comes with keeping the GT.I hope you never have to replace the Final drive on your Fender! :D

[kevincook]

Joe,

It's good to see you around again. Good Luck with whatever you decide.

Kevin

[cccpastorjack]

See Joe...you go and talk me into getting one and then you BAIL on me! :D

My guess is that after you rode mine at Spring Training Camp, you realized how S-L-O-W yours was???? :histerica

Anyways, they are just machines...God knows your love for riding and He'll provide another. ;)

[ironbuttwannabe]

Hey Joe, nice to see you back again. If you want a LT along with a KLR, I know someone that might be interested in trading. :D You do have quite a selection of guitars. Let me know where you are playing sometime and I'll come up and listen.

[quickbeemer]

When I sell my much loved LT, I'm transferring to the dark side while my knees can still take it.......

[ironbuttwannabe]

http://lh3.ggpht.com/ltnelly4you/RuyKIzYvGuI/AAAAAAAAAGo/e8NSstr6tvw/9-14%20ride%20001.JPG

:bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:

[nplenzick]

Joe,
Have you looked at the the Triumph Sprint ST.
I sat on one this past week at my BMW/Triumph dealer, pretty neat and different. 12K for the ABS model. Don't know much about it maybe others can chime in but Triumph has really been coming on strong lately.

[DavidTaylor]

You know my opinion of the GS, so that would be my first choice. But I would also take a look at the new Triumph Tiger 1050. I really like the looks of that bike and I haven't heard a bad thing about it yet. I would steer clear of the V-Rod until they put that motor into a sport touring frame, but the Buell 1125R with the Rotax engine could be a fun option. The Connie is a nice bike as is the FJR, but neither of those speak to me. If the V5 VFR comes true that could be the hot ticket.

[sfarson]

Go for something diff. The V-Rod. Yeah, the cornering needs to be managed, but this is only in the tightest of curves. Not an issue for 99% of roads.

Have owned two V-Rods over the past six years. Completely and utterly reliable. Never a problem. Bike is an attention magnet. Exhaust note is sweet, as is the appearance. But the biggest reason it is worth a test ride -- there's something about being on a performance cruiser, a cruiser that flies. Nothing like it.

Come along on a ride... Juniper Pass on the VRSCDX (http://www.farson.com/video/dxjuniper.wmv)

http://www.farson.com/dx/dxsilverheels.jpg

[dwsdad]

Check out he B-King. The heart and soul of the 'Busa sans the plastic. A friend traded his Duc 1098 in on one and absolutely loves it and has no regrets about the trade.

[Stixx]

Joe,
Have you looked at the the Triumph Sprint ST.
I sat on one this past week at my BMW/Triumph dealer, pretty neat and different. 12K for the ABS model. Don't know much about it maybe others can chime in but Triumph has really been coming on strong lately.
\\


I drove one of those saturday and while it was indeed a very nice put together package , the bloody thing cooked me in only a short ride down the interstate and back through town . By the time I got back to the dealership on a hot day I was done. Lovely bike for those who ride in colder climates, definitly not for the south as far as I'm concerned.

[jsciullo]

In a week or so, I'll be listing my GT in the Classifieds ... or maybe on eBay.
Obviously, I've been considering what my next bike should be.

My short list:

A new or slightly used Kaw Concours 14
A used GS
A used Harley VRod :eek: (No, really!)
I'd like to stay under $13K ... even less would be mo' better.

All suggestions considered and appreciated.

The Connie looks real interesting but maybe too close to the GT that you already have. The GS does it all including shaft problems and you can probably take some of those dirt roads you missed on your trip. Vrod - sorry but does nothing for me at all.

You said anything goes... why not try an older airhead or vintage bike. You wont be able to go Mach 1 like your used to but taking a low speed turn in a older bike will get your heart pumping just as fast. They are inexpensive and easy to maintain. Heck you might even be able to get two different kinds of bikes for the price of a used Connie or Vrod. An old cafe racer Triumph and Im partial to an older Moto Guzzi Eldo or Ambo. I understand what your mean by the experience!!!

Jim in Dublin

[nplenzick]

\\


I drove one of those saturday and while it was indeed a very nice put together package , the bloody thing cooked me in only a short ride down the interstate and back through town . By the time I got back to the dealership on a hot day I was done. Lovely bike for those who ride in colder climates, definitly not for the south as far as I'm concerned.
Where do you think most of the heat was coming from? Exhaust, motor, or both?

[messenger13]

http://www.farson.com/dx/dxsilverheels.jpg
Oh Dag! I think I just peed my pants! :o

Now THAT is schaweeeeeet! And the Harley boyz hate em, which is just another reason I should get one. :p

[JPSpen]

I hate to say this, but don't overlook a good used RT...

I just picked on up on friday and I'm having an absolute blast on it...

I'm riding it like I stole it cause,,, I DID !!!!!

No It's not a GT for sure but it's still plenty fun...

I now understand why police all over the world ride them...

John

[Florian]

Oh Dag! I think I just peed my pants! :o

Now THAT is schaweeeeeet! And the Harley boyz hate em, which is just another reason I should get one. :p

Cant wait to hear your reply after riding your tailbone for an hour....the seating is awful, certainly not what youre used to.


F

[messenger13]

Cant wait to hear your reply after riding your tailbone for an hour....the seating is awful, certainly not what youre used to.Just got back from SouthEast Harley. They have an '07 that they rent for $69/day. I'm going to rent it and that should tell me all I need to know.

[Ted]

To be quite open and frank, this is a financial decision. Period.

Hey Joe - fwiw - Ducati has .99% financing thru Oct 31 on:

2008 Hypermotard 1100
2008 Hypermotard 1100 S
2008 1098 Superbike
2008 1098S Superbike
http://www.ducati.com/od/ducatinorthamerica/news/detail.jhtml;jsessionid=R2ER4Z55NRVB4CRNCB2SFFAKFUIHUIV4?newsId=24181

[bflemingor]

I've had three V-rods & like to older ones w/o the phat rear tire. My fav is my '04, which I'll keep until it turns to dust. That said, I've done two 3K + trips on it and now have an LT for that duty - as well as SO rides.

The V-rod is soooo similar to the LT - power like a light switch at 4K... :D

Around here, you can buy a really nice '06 for $9500, and earlier models for as little as $6K - a steal! I'm really glad the Hardley guys don't like the Rod :rotf:

[RonKMiller]

Just got back from SouthEast Harley. They have an '07 that they rent for $69/day. I'm going to rent it and that should tell me all I need to know.


HA HA. :)

HA HAH HAH AHAHHAHAHHAHAHHA HHAHHHAHHA! :histerica:rotf::histerica:histerica:histerica

Joe, you REALLY crack me up dood! Nuttin' like going from a high speed tourer to a top fuel dragster!!

(you're going to think your GT was really s l o w.)

Good to have you back, man. Been really boring around here without you. :sleep:

[Ted]

Very nice video - you should send it to HD Marketing - hell, you've got me wanting one!

[paalao]

Joe,
I hate that this is happening to ya.
I could feel how you love that bike.
You are a young man and have time on your side.
Motorcycles are changing daily for the better.
Be patient


Sorry but is he young? I always thought he was in his 60`s :D

How about getting a good LT?

[messenger13]

Sorry but is he young? I always thought he was in his 60`s :D

How about getting a good LT?I'm 43. And as we all know, that is much too young to be riding an LT. :D

[ironbuttwannabe]

I'm 43. And as we all know, that is much too young to be riding an LT. :D
:histerica :histerica :histerica

[paalao]

I'm 43. And as we all know, that is much too young to be riding an LT. :D

43!!! just a child!! :p

I am 45! And just past minimum age for an LT
(hehe I Know there are some youngsters here driving the Old Man`s Bike)

So when you grow up you can get yourself an LT, something to look forward to :D

[Bobnoxous]

Just got back from SouthEast Harley. They have an '07 that they rent for $69/day. I'm going to rent it and that should tell me all I need to know.Definitely worth it. If I hadn't rented the RT, I would've bought it instead of the GT. I was disappointed that the local Honda and Suzuki dealers wouldn't do the same. Have fun with it.

[gr8fulfred]

Have you thought about the Street Rod version of the V-Rod? It appears to be a little less raked out and it has your feet located properly underneath you instead of out front.

[motorhead]

One of the NEW VESPA "Turbo Charged" scooters !!

[mantan]

43!!! just a child!! :p

I am 45! And just past minimum age for an LT
(hehe I Know there are some youngsters here driving the Old Man`s Bike)

So when you grow up you can get yourself an LT, something to look forward to :D

I am one of them youngsters! Bought my LT in 02 @32. It is not getting much use for the last 2 yrs since I got the GSA. Maybe replaced soon with something lighter :-)

[paalao]

I am one of them youngsters! Bought my LT in 02 @32. It is not getting much use for the last 2 yrs since I got the GSA. Maybe replaced soon with something lighter :-)

Is it getting to heavy for you to handle?
Kids!! They dont make em as they use to do :rotf: or something in that arena :D

[mantan]

Is it getting to heavy for you to handle?
Kids!! They dont make em as they use to do :rotf: or something in that arena :D

ha! even though I am a lightweight (140ish) the weight of the LT never bothered me. I have 36K miles on it. However, my 5yr old son is just starting out on dirt (Yamaha TTR50) and I want something to go along with him. Also the LT just does not feel fast enough now...

Back to the topic, how about a KTM 990 Adv, similar to GS but more fun according to some.

[RonKMiller]

How about one of these?

http://www.martinjetpack.com/video-demonstration.aspx

[dmatson]

Got take a ride on a KTM950 or 990 most fun you can have and still be legal. If your looking for a FJR I have a friend who is selling his, beautifully set up for distance.

[bowlesj]

Just got back from SouthEast Harley. They have an '07 that they rent for $69/day. I'm going to rent it and that should tell me all I need to know.

All right Joe, I've got an '03silver anniversary edition v-rod for you for around $14G.

I'll send a pic asap. The guy tells me lot's of chrome, which by the way, you hate, polished aluminum frame, stage 1 kit, screamin eagle this and that.

See what you think. When you posted your short list, I figured the v-rod would fit with your bad boy rocker image.:D

Later

[Handlebar]

All right Joe, I've got an '03silver anniversary edition v-rod for you for around $14G.

I'll send a pic asap. The guy tells me lot's of chrome, which by the way, you hate, polished aluminum frame, stage 1 kit, screamin eagle this and that.

See what you think. When you posted your short list, I figured the v-rod would fit with your bad boy rocker image.:D

Later

03 for 14G :confused: ..the 09 VRSC is 14999..and the night rod (pictured in previous post) is 16699

[zippy_gg]

03 for 14G :confused: ..the 09 VRSC is 14999..and the night rod (pictured in previous post) is 16699you have to take all the add-ons into consideration.:bike: Plus the bike probably has very low miles...

[bowlesj]

03 for 14G :confused: ..the 09 VRSC is 14999..and the night rod (pictured in previous post) is 16699

I wouldn't pay $5 grand for one. Just lettin Joe know there is one available. Price is always negotiable.:)

[REWDOC]

My short list:

A new or slightly used Kaw Concours 14
A used GS
A used Harley VRod :eek: (No, really!)
I'd like to stay under $13K ... even less would be mo' better.

All suggestions considered and appreciated.
Joe, I just had a local Japanese Bike Shop (private mechanic, non-dealer) mount a new rear tire for my LT yesterday. We were talking about lighter bikes which might substitute for an LT. He told me that he heard that there is a recall on Concours 14s. Something about the frame and it may have to be replaced. I don't know if it's true, but you might want to investigate this before buying one.

[ibbones]

I think that as much as you have enjoyed the 06GT, why not a 09 GT?

[messenger13]

Have you thought about the Street Rod version of the V-Rod?The "Street Rod" version of the VRod just doesn't work for me. I sat on one at the bike show when it was first released and hated it.


How about one of these?
http://www.martinjetpack.com/video-demonstration.aspx
Great suggestion! Unfortunately, the wife "shot it down". :( :D


All right Joe, I've got an '03silver anniversary edition v-rod for you for around $14G.

I'll send a pic asap. The guy tells me lot's of chrome, which by the way, you hate, ...:eek: Yikes! You know me too well John. "Lots of chrome"? ... NO CAN DO! That's why I'm looking at the Nite Rod. Almost all black and aluminum. That's how I roll. ;)


He told me that he heard that there is a recall on Concours 14s. Something about the frame and it may have to be replaced. I don't know if it's true, but you might want to investigate this before buying one.Thanks for the heads-up ... I'll look into this further. I sure hope this isn't validated. Then again, the Gold Wing appears to have survived a frame issue. I guess it's all how the manufacturer deals with an issue.

[kevincook]

Joe,

I just wanted to point out that some of the best values available are for slightly used BMWs. You already own one! :) Since you already took the big hit for the depreciation it might be best to keep the GT. You know you will regret getting rid of that bike.

Good Luck,
Kevin

[Patric]

Well , I think everybody should have a R11XXGS &/or R1200GS . they Will go / stop / turn , go where ever you want to go . I ran mine up the dempster Hwy , to Inuvik . They have a pretty good ride , & will go anywhere .

[cccpastorjack]

Don't do it Joe!!!! Don't do it!!!!

Like, Kevin...if you do, you KNOW you are gonna miss that bike! It's the best one you've ever owned. ;)

[Beemerider]

Thanks for the heads-up ... I'll look into this further. I sure hope this isn't validated. Then again, the Gold Wing appears to have survived a frame issue. I guess it's all how the manufacturer deals with an issue.

Er, that recall would be for the ZX14:

Manufacturer: Kawasaki
Model Year: 2006, 2007
Models affected: ZX14
NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V222000
Potential Units Affected: Not Specified

Problem: Kawasaki is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 ‘Ninja’ ZX14 motorcycles. The rear suspension can collapse when a crossmember separates from the frame. Failure of the frame could result in the rear of the motorcycle collapsing creating the possibility of a crash resulting in injury or death.

Corrective Action: Dealers will check the torque of the engine mount adjusting collars and inspect and possibly replace the frame if necessary. The recall was expected to begin during May 2008. Owners may contact Kawasaki at 1-866-802-9381.

[Flash9677]

Try and find a V-Rod Street Rod. Higher suspention, fully adjustable, greater lean angles. Harley built them to attract the sport bike crowd. Few takers, so there are a few around at good prices. As I recall, a dealer in NJ was selling brand new ones a couple of years back for 10K otd. You should be able to get a good deal if you can find an owner willing to part with his.

[Jim]

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=372965

[Flint]

I to have been doing some very serious eyeballing of the V Strom 1000. They only list as weighing 480 pounds dry and make a gob a horsepressure. I did a test ride on one while in Indiana two years ago and being from there knew the rural roads pretty well so, I hammered it down a couple of broken pavement roads at ever increasing speeds and was duly impressed. Smooth and light and powerful with a huge bottom end surge. They list brand new ones for $8,999.00 without the luggage.

Triumph is doing the Rocket III in a touring version with the power tuned down a bit and the torque turned up a bit. I have never talked to anyone who owned a III that didn't just love the feel and the power of that bike?

Have fun looking.

Denny

[nplenzick]

I to have been doing some very serious eyeballing of the V Strom 1000. They only list as weighing 480 pounds dry and make a gob a horsepressure. I did a test ride on one while in Indiana two years ago and being from there knew the rural roads pretty well so, I hammered it down a couple of broken pavement roads at ever increasing speeds and was duly impressed. Smooth and light and powerful with a huge bottom end surge. They list brand new ones for $8,999.00 without the luggage.

Triumph is doing the Rocket III in a touring version with the power tuned down a bit and the torque turned up a bit. I have never talked to anyone who owned a III that didn't just love the feel and the power of that bike?

Have fun looking.

Denny
I have an 08 650 V Strom, you might test ride one before committing to a 1000

[messenger13]

I thought Suzuki quit making the 1000 a few years ago. :confused: Am I wrong, or did they start making it again?

[DavidTaylor]

I've ridden the VStrom 1000 and while it's an OK bike I don't think I would buy one. This is after lusting for one for a few years and was sure that's what I wanted, and then getting to spend a few hours on one and being a bit disappointed. I'm happy I bought my 95 GS rather than a newer VStrom.

[Lzyellodog]

You know my opinion of the GS, so that would be my first choice. But I would also take a look at the new Triumph Tiger 1050. I really like the looks of that bike and I haven't heard a bad thing about it yet. I would steer clear of the V-Rod until they put that motor into a sport touring frame, but the Buell 1125R with the Rotax engine could be a fun option. The Connie is a nice bike as is the FJR, but neither of those speak to me. If the V5 VFR comes true that could be the hot ticket.

The Tiger is a sweet ride. Although somewhat pricey. I thought I saw it for around $15000. The only thing I do not like about the Tiger are the handle bars. They just do not go with the rest of the bike. Would be fun to own one.

Good luck on your decision.

[Jim]

The Tiger is a sweet ride. Although somewhat pricey. I thought I saw it for around $15000. The only thing I do not like about the Tiger are the handle bars. They just do not go with the rest of the bike. Would be fun to own one.

Good luck on your decision.

You can get a new '08 here in So Cal with ABS out the door for $12,300 including tax and license.

[Lzyellodog]

You can get a new '08 here in So Cal with ABS out the door for $12,300 including tax and license.

Nice. I guess I need to go to SOCAL. CT $15000 plus tax title etc.

[zippy_gg]

Nice. I guess I need to go to SOCAL. CT $15000 plus tax title etc.Or... I can ride it home for ya! :D

[the1mavin]

In a week or so, I'll be listing my GT in the Classifieds ... or maybe on eBay.
Obviously, I've been considering what my next bike should be.

My short list:

A new or slightly used Kaw Concours 14
A used GS
A used Harley VRod :eek: (No, really!)
I'd like to stay under $13K ... even less would be mo' better.

All suggestions considered and appreciated.

Three totally different rides...I can never decide either. At least till I sat on the Concours! I am partial to the Concours 14 - I totally love mine. My only worry is the valve adjust since it will be interesting to say the least. 800 mile days on the stock seat with the stock shield are not an issue (although I am vertically challenged and am considering some minor seat adjustments). I've mounted up a small Baehr for by handheld CB and mp3; radar screamer to keep me on my toes; heated grips and a fuse block. Otherwise it is pretty much good to go stock. Hang on when you want to go fast and put it in 6th on the superslab for 40mpg.


I hang out here too --- http://forum.concours.org/ Check it out for all the low-down.

The GS is next on my list though and if I weren't so short it may have tempted me away from the Concours. For me the GS screams - Mexico, Alaska! I don't have quite enough vacation for those trips yet so I put it on hold for a couple years.

I rode the V-Rod and the ergos are not my style at all anymore, although it is the quickest Harley I ever rode.

Good luck with your decision. PM me if you have any Connie questions.
Tim

[nplenzick]

I thought Suzuki quit making the 1000 a few years ago. :confused: Am I wrong, or did they start making it again?
Still make the 1000 they list for $8999.00
Can't get the 1000 with ABS though.

[Handlebar]

did you get to go test ride the Vrod for a day?.. with the forward controls, I like the floorboards vs the pegs. Rumor was going around the last few months that HD was going to put out a dresser with a bigger revolution engine.. that would have shaken things up a bit. truely an awesome engine..
Hbar

[kmdovie]

lol...i have a suzuki c50t up for sale... 2005 with 16,400 miles on it... not as comfortable as the lt...but probably more reliable... $4,500...

i've heard the kaw con 14 puts out a lot of heat on your legs... have never ridden one so can't say it as a fact...

[bmwhd]

Come to the dark side my friend :cool:

New FJRs can be had for under $13k and used ones set up with all the LD goodies are there to be had as well.

Since there are essentially zero reliability issues with this bike, a used purchase makes sense.

[messenger13]

did you get to go test ride the Vrod for a day?.. with the forward controls...No, I haven't. With school starting up again, I am crazy busy. And this Saturday one of my best buds is getting married ... so that hoses that. Hopefully I can rent one soon though ... just for giggles. I have pretty much come to realization that a VRod just isn't going to be my next bike though, for numerous reasons. Sure would like to have one though, . . . someday.

Come to the dark side my friend :cool:

New FJRs can be had for under $13k and used ones set up with all the LD goodies are there to be had as well.

Since there are essentially zero reliability issues with this bike, a used purchase makes sense.Don't know why Todd, but the FJR just doesn't do anything for me. I especially find that odd since the R1 is one of my favorite sportbikes on the planet. I also really like the new FZ1 as well. I do know that the FJR's powerplant is rock solid. Just wish the bike stirred my soul.

I guess I've basically decided that the Concours14 is going to be my next bike. And the fact that their making it in BLACK for '09 pretty much sealed the deal. :cool:

[bmwhd]

I look forward to your impressions. The C14 is by all appearances an awesome ride.