[ithinktherefore]

I just spent a few hours in a Harley dealership today. I want to be absolutely sure I pick the bike that's right for me. So far, I'd been to every metric brand's dealership, and the Meanie/Marauder wins hands down. There's very little I don't love about it.

I remembered seeing the V-rods when they first came out, though and thought I'd give them another look. Everybody else here seems to hate the silver. Maybe it's just me, but I thought the silever anniversary edition 2003 v-rod was one of the most beautiful bikes I've seen. I checked out a few, and the one that had the screaming eagle pipes seemed about perfect for me. It wasn't ovely loud, but my girlfriend got wet just listening to the idle. I didn't know a Harley could be that silky-smooth.

It's been a good decade or so since I've ridden a bike, and I'm no gear-head. The only thing I didn't like about the bike (which I haven't ridden yet) is the fact that it seems to be geared toward higher revs, and I'm just not going to be near the redline... ever. Also, I'm a bit concerned about the rake of the forks since most of my riding will be at suburban speeds.

I saw this thread and just wondered if anyone had anything else to say that hasn't already been said. I'd especially appreciate any input from those who have experience riding a v-rod.

 

[ithinktherefore]

I was wondering about the torque figures. I assumed the meanie was higher. I just didn't know by how much. Everyone seems to love the engine in the v-rod, but I'm just not going to be revving it too high. I'll take the torque any day.

I've saat on a good two dozen bikes in the past month, and the meanie and v-rod FEEL the smallest for their rather hefty weight. I had also heard that the meanie tends to handle better, yet have heard from several meanie owners that they would have bought the v-rod if it weren't for the price difference.

You're right, of course, a lot of this stuff is subjective. I myself, for instance, prefeer the instruments on the v-rod. To me it's a "cleaner" look. **** shame about the wheels, though. No excuse for that lack of judgement.

I'll probably only own one bike for the next 5-10 years, so I'm more concerned with making sure it's the right one than I am with price (within reason).

Thanks for the input. Anyone else?

Oh... and I was thinking that I might like the belt drive better. Any specifics on why you prefer one over the other?

 

[ithinktherefore]

Oh, I don't think there's any comparasin whatsoever between the meanie and a typical (older style) Harley. I've always loved the Fatboy look personally, but I tried riding one and I could have sworn I was piloting a tugboat. I'd love a full dresser heritage softail if I was going on a long trip, but I want to have some fun around town. Maybe it's me personally too, but I want something a little radical. Half of what I love about the v-rod is just what a freakshow it is. I don't see many of them on the road and people ****-sure take notice.

 

[ithinktherefore]

Sure, sorry... I guess I meant: "What are the differences in ride quality that you've noticed?"

 

[ithinktherefore]

gotcha. thx. good input.