You guys sound like a bunch of old men. Cruise control is so boring and mindless. And who gives a flying crap about gas mileage. Was the Connie your choice because the Wings are too pricey? My Connie gets crossed up under power, and drags the ground around corners. It sounds like yours has floorboards installed.
No, I actually use the machine for it’s intended purpose; sport touring . As that , I’ve put in multiple days of 14+ hours per day. I don’t know if you’re aware, but out here in the West , one can encounter highways where you won’t see a gas station for at 60+ miles and I’d rather than be walking in BFE looking for a gas station in 100 degree heat. I also like to keep gas station stops down to a minimum as again, I’d rather ride. If you bought this big heavy bike to run five minute rides to the doughnut store, hey, that’s your perogative.
With some of the long desolate stretches out here, I see no joy or bravado in keeping a right wrist constantly cranked on the right grip instead of using cc. My arthritic hand thanked me.
Also, being that my most of my ride was in CA and it was around the fourth, keeping the speed locked
5mph above the speed limit saved my bacon as i passed many a hidden CHP or had them pass on other side of road.
Better mpg, less fuel stops ( which helps me cover more ground), less hand discomfort, less tickets, these are real benefits but I’ll admit they are mostly appreciated if the bike is used for its intended purpose- continental cruiser.
I’ll admit that my bike has similarities with a gold wing- I have blue tooth to listen to my iPhone and use it’s gps, a large tail trunk too, but again these bolster its ability for long distance touring. If you don’t do this, you bought the wrong bike.