Kawasaki Concours Forum

Riding => It's not a Concours - other Bikes => Topic started by: VirginiaJim on March 25, 2017, 08:47:21 AM

Title: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 25, 2017, 08:47:21 AM
Stay tuned...
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conrad on March 25, 2017, 09:01:47 AM
Same bat channel same bat time?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 25, 2017, 12:57:47 PM
Yep, I'm building suspense.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: scubadoguk on March 25, 2017, 03:42:04 PM
Said frankie howard ?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: mikeyw64 on March 25, 2017, 03:46:21 PM
Infamy
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 25, 2017, 04:15:50 PM
The wife and I were out doing some errands yesterday and we stopped in at the local Indian dealer in Fredericksburg.   My wife has always liked Indian Motorcycles and as up to now it's been more about me than her, decided to get a 2016 Roadmaster.  Didn't do a test ride.  Just bought it.  Liked the dealer, liked his people.  Rode over a hundred miles on it today.  Enjoyed the heck out of it.  My wife loves the comfort.   Definitely have to get used to it as it's a different ride than the C14.  More relaxed.  Got plenty of power as well.

It's got cruise control, TPMS, ABS, alarm, radio, keyless start (uses a push button).  Seats feel good, at least on the short ride we did today.  I think I could get used to it.  Oh, electric screen as well.

[smg id=818]
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on March 25, 2017, 04:27:14 PM
An art deco Indian? Interesting. Keeping the c14?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: B.D.F. on March 25, 2017, 05:20:16 PM
Congrats on the new ride Jim! The very best of luck with it and hope you enjoy it over time.

Like Gary said, going to keep the C-14?

If that thing is 'button start', does it have the dreaded (gasp!) fob?

Brian

The wife and I were out doing some errands yesterday and we stopped in at the local Indian dealer in Fredericksburg.   My wife has always liked Indian Motorcycles and as up to now it's been more about me than her, decided to get a 2016 Roadmaster.  Didn't do a test ride.  Just bought it.  Liked the dealer, liked his people.  Rode over a hundred miles on it today.  Enjoyed the heck out of it.  My wife loves the comfort.   Definitely have to get used to it as it's a different ride than the C14.  More relaxed.  Got plenty of power as well.

It's got cruise control, TPMS, ABS, alarm, radio, keyless start (uses a push button).  Seats feel good, at least on the short ride we did today.  I think I could get used to it.  Oh, electric screen as well.

[smg id=818]
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 26, 2017, 07:35:00 AM
Of course it has a fob!  No knobby to turn either.   At this point, I'm undecided.  I don't do well with two bikes, but at this time it's still in the stable.  I've been babying the Indian a bit on the break in but I did pass a car at speed with us 2-up.  No problems in the power band.  That low center of gravity is different as far as low speed maneuvering.  Although that might be due to the very wide handlebars.   I prefer the low speed maneuvering of the C14.  And speaking of handlebars, all the wiring is in the bars...nice touch. 

Even if I do eventually sell the C14 (I'll have to wash it...sigh), I'll still be here.  This is my home.  Where else can I torment people I like with wild abandon?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conrad on March 26, 2017, 08:09:07 AM
Of course it has a fob!  No knobby to turn either.   At this point, I'm undecided.  I don't do well with two bikes, but at this time it's still in the stable.  I've been babying the Indian a bit on the break in but I did pass a car at speed with us 2-up.  No problems in the power band.  That low center of gravity is different as far as low speed maneuvering.  Although that might be due to the very wide handlebars.   I prefer the low speed maneuvering of the C14.  And speaking of handlebars, all the wiring is in the bars...nice touch. 

Even if I do eventually sell the C14 (I'll have to wash it...sigh), I'll still be here.  This is my home.  Where else can I torment people I like with wild abandon?

Isn't that what families are for?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 26, 2017, 08:14:19 AM
Exactly.  We were down at my wife's family home last week.  All I did was get insulted.  Felt like Rodney Dangerfield.  I loved it.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conrad on March 26, 2017, 08:16:09 AM
There you go. If they didn't care then they wouldn't insult you.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 26, 2017, 08:56:38 AM
That's the way I feel about it...

I'm also thinking about some accessories for it that I can put on the shelf.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conrad on March 26, 2017, 09:26:01 AM
Yes, that will take some careful consideration.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: jimmymac on March 26, 2017, 10:59:41 AM
Enjoy, Jim! I like those bikes. 8)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 26, 2017, 12:08:30 PM
This is the first air cooled twin I've ever rode and if it wasn't for my wife liking it so much, I wouldn't have given it the time of day.  However, after riding it, I do like it.  It's a different style of riding, though, more sedate.  I'm going to take it up to the Blue Ridge Parkway and see how it does.  I've got a ride coming up into southern Ohio in early June with my sportier friends.  I've got to make a decision at some point which bike I'm taking.  There would be no question with the C14 as I would be up near the front with another C14 who usually leads.  If I take the Indian, I think I'll stay near the rear of the pack until I know how its going to handle.  I asked the dealer how it takes the corners and is it easy to scrape and he said no, but I don't think he rides like I do on the 14.  Nor does he have a clue about sport tourers..
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: O.C. on March 27, 2017, 04:24:15 AM
Hey Jim, congratulations on the new ride, I hope that the three of you have many smiles and miles together

How about some pictures  8)   
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on March 27, 2017, 06:33:06 AM
Congrats Jim! I love that the Indian name is making a come back and really like the looks of the bikes. Like O.C. said, didn't happen unless there are pics!
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on March 27, 2017, 06:37:56 AM
BTW: I just watched Harley and the Davidsons on Amazon. Interesting show and wondering how accurate it is. But looked almost like a 6 hour add for Harley and it made the guy that ran Indian look like a total villain.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 27, 2017, 06:49:41 AM
It has to be accurate, it was on TV.... ::)    I don't know much about either manufacturer's history.   All I know is my wife and I like the bike bery bery much.  I think all of our two up riding is going to be on that.

Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on March 27, 2017, 06:52:45 AM
Yup, I'm thinking your wife will be a wee bit more comfy on the back of that! Nice!
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: CRocker on March 27, 2017, 07:08:04 AM
Nice bike!  And...yes...a totally different riding experience...
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 27, 2017, 07:25:13 AM
Yup, I'm thinking your wife will be a wee bit more comfy on the back of that! Nice!

My wife's knees have been bothering her on the longer trips.   It's much better on this bike.  She likes the wider board for her feet and she remarked that she isn't getting knocked in the back by the top case anymore.  All in all, it's a big upgrade from 2 up on the C14.  The cruise control holds the speed very well, unlike the Voyager I had years ago.  The only downside I can see at the moment is less storage than I'm used to on the C14.  The side cases are much narrower, but the top case is larger than the Shad46 I have now.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: lather on March 27, 2017, 10:27:42 AM
Conger rats Jim!
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 27, 2017, 10:28:46 AM
Another thing.....the fob unlocks and locks all the cases..
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 27, 2017, 11:15:44 AM
Just to be absolutely clear.....I'm not going pirate.   Wearing the same stuff I always do.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: B.D.F. on March 27, 2017, 01:11:15 PM
Says the guy riding the 'thump- thump', V twin. That is kinda' like saying "Why I remember the second time I lost my virginity..... and the third time, now that is a great story!".

 :rotflmao: three times.   C'mon now Jim, one begins sky- diving when one's feet leave the airplane deck, not when one's feet hit the ground.

Brian

Just to be absolutely clear.....I'm not going pirate.   Wearing the same stuff I always do.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: blue14 on March 27, 2017, 03:42:19 PM
Just to be absolutely clear.....I'm not going pirate.   Wearing the same stuff I always do.

I would guess its difficult carrying a sword in your assless chaps, painful even.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 27, 2017, 07:02:03 PM
Hey don't knock it til you try it...

Also, I am somewhat disappointed that this thread is so mellow.  It's starting to pick up but no one is making fun of me.  Not sure what to think of that.  I may have to ban someone...  Blue14 and Brian are exempt for their feeble attempt at mocking me.. :rotflmao:   Possibly they are French?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on March 27, 2017, 07:22:25 PM
I do believe you need a new helmet....
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 27, 2017, 08:34:54 PM
Close, but no cigar.  However, you may have stumbled upon something quite by accident.  I do love all things Deco.  Always have.  Possibly I lived in those times from a previous life.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conniesaki on March 27, 2017, 11:02:54 PM
Hey ... shouldn't PC people be mad and try to forcing Indian to change its name?

If they did get mad and 'won'   ::) I think the name should be changed to Injun ... with corporate claiming it's just a funny way to spell engine.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: just gone on March 27, 2017, 11:20:07 PM
Also, I am somewhat disappointed that this thread is so mellow.

If only you had purchased the ugly two tone mint green and cream one, then I would have been pushed too far and said something requiring sword action or banishment.  However since you purchased a more attractive blue monotone one, I wasn't pushed to the point of uncontrollable rudeness.  Maybe if you get some "Get Back whips" I could be inspired to do better? (pink ones would do it I should think.)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 28, 2017, 06:20:15 AM
Better...  He dealer did talk about a bell and how it is supposed to protect the rider/passenger/bike but the protectee can't buy it for themselves.  Said he sells a lot of them.  Didn't mention whips.  Swords cut whips if one is fast enough.  I don't want anything dragging off the bike.

Hey ... shouldn't PC people be mad and try to forcing Indian to change its name?

If they did get mad and 'won'   ::) I think the name should be changed to Injun ... with corporate claiming it's just a funny way to spell engine.

right...
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Jim M. on March 28, 2017, 07:17:24 AM
Congrats! Last year the Fredericksburg dealer had the demo truck there and I rode all the different models since I'm probably not far from getting some kind of old man touring bike next. I'm still going to keep the C-14 for 1 up riding though. I came in thinking the Roadmaster would be the one, but after riding them, I settled on the Chieftain. I think that's going to be the one when it's time.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 28, 2017, 10:15:53 AM
 :thumbs:   I like the old man comment.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: tweeter55 on March 28, 2017, 12:07:09 PM
:thumbs:   I like the old man comment.
older...not old, Jim.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 28, 2017, 12:10:57 PM
Got a haircut hair cut today.  Asked me if I wanted the senior discount.  Absolutely, I said.  Saved 2 bucks.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: O.C. on March 28, 2017, 12:21:58 PM
"Hair"........................you've got HAIR  ::)   
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 28, 2017, 02:38:23 PM
Let me re-phrase that....see my earlier post.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: sanmo on March 28, 2017, 03:15:07 PM
So if they charged a buck to cut that lonesome hair, with the senior discount you are a hair lighter but a dollar richer?
That Roadmaster is a sharp looking bike. :)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 28, 2017, 06:06:17 PM
Actually 2$ richer.  They 'cut' 2 off the price.  But I just gave it back to the barber in the form of a tip.  We have a Korean barber shop in Fredericksburg and it's the best barber shop I've ever been to.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conrad on March 29, 2017, 04:43:18 AM
Just to be absolutely clear.....I'm not going pirate.   Wearing the same stuff I always do.

Uh huh. But instead of a parrot on your shoulder you'll have a robin right?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 30, 2017, 03:28:12 AM
Uh huh. But instead of a parrot on your shoulder you'll have a robin right?

Correct.  I even have the peg leg limp.

Maintenance wise the bike has no valve adjustments and the spark plugs are so easy a cave man could do it.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on March 30, 2017, 03:31:42 AM
Morning Jim. You're up early. Have you been following Indian's reentry into flat track racing?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 30, 2017, 05:17:56 AM
The dealer told me about it.  We went to a flat track race some years back just outside of Richmond at Colonial Downs.  We certainly enjoyed it, especially the women riders.  Would go again if they have it.  I heard Indian did well at the latest event.

Maintenance note: 

No valve adjusts required.  My grandson could change the two plugs on the bike himself.  There really isn't a lot to do to this bike except change the oil and filter (screw on).  It's located about the same place as the gen1's.    I'm going to see if Murph's oil filter protector works on it this weekend.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on April 02, 2017, 06:15:05 AM
Finding neutral is difficult with this bike.  I've been spoiled by the C14.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on April 02, 2017, 08:00:16 AM
Finding neutral is difficult with this bike.  I've been spoiled by the C14.

Same with the Ducati. Not sure I would say difficult but way harder than the C14.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: B.D.F. on April 02, 2017, 05:23:37 PM
I <believe> Kawasaki is the only motorcycle company using that positive neutral- finder. They certainly brought it to the market and were the only ones to use it for a long time at least.

Brian

Finding neutral is difficult with this bike.  I've been spoiled by the C14.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on April 02, 2017, 06:15:58 PM
Jim, you're not going to devolve into a 50/50 rider are you? They were out in force today.  >:(  :cannon:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on April 03, 2017, 04:09:57 AM
Put 250 miles on it yesterday with the wife.  I must say I like the power.  My wife likes the comfort.  Way more softer ride than the C14 and it handles very well believe it or not with Dunlop Elite III's.

I did the Blue Ridge Parkway to Humpback Rocks and then back east on 33 from Elkton.  Took the mountain curves with ease and going downhill was a breeze taking corners and braking..  Brakes work well on this bike.

Have to take it in for the 250 mile initial service this week.  I'm probably going to have the dealer do all the work on this for the most part as there isn't a center stand for it.  I may have him flush the brakes as the fluid is really dark.  Will check on what new fluid looks like first.   This bike has been sitting awhile (maybe a year or so).  Don't have to worry about the clutch side as it uses a cable.  Probably will order one of those as a spare, though.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on April 09, 2017, 02:03:38 PM
I've had to make a decision and I'm not going to say I'm sad about it...  In fact, I'm tickled to death over it...   The C14 is going up for sale after I go over it.  I'll have some farkles going up for sale such as the Russell seat, I think a couple of shields, CB luggage, and possibly some other stuff that I can't think of at the moment.  I've had the bike for 10 years and it's been a good run.

Don't think for one minute I'm leaving here, so don't get happy.  I just love the Indian and the wife likes it better than the C14.  The stock seat is comfortable and it's got everything else that I can think of.  I like the power delivery and the smoothness of the ride.  I had thought that the C14 was going to be the last bike but after riding the Indian RM I think I can get a good 10 more years on the saddle.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: O.C. on April 10, 2017, 12:33:31 AM
Finding neutral is difficult with this bike.  I've been spoiled by the C14.

Forgive me for stating what may seem obvious JIm.

As you know I recently changed my C14 for a Versys 1000, and by pure chance have just started wearing some older bike boots that I had, before which (other boots), finding neutral was a real pain in the butt, maybe try some different boots or adjust the lever ............Just a thought

And while we are at it, all this talk about ride outs with the new bike , and no piccies ...cummon Jim  ;)   
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 19, 2017, 09:52:36 AM
I'll attach some pics later today.   Took it in to get their 'Stage 1' performance kit installed (air intake, pipes).   Also added fins on the pipes and a mirror to the top case (so I can still look marvelous, baby).  What a difference that kit makes.   I didn't really have an issue with the power on this bike but that opened it up quite a bit more.  I might even be able to keep up with a C14 now.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on May 19, 2017, 02:24:51 PM
needs fringe
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 19, 2017, 04:38:56 PM
 :_shudder_Emoticon   Not into fringe.   Don't like it.  I'm ok with leather, though.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: B.D.F. on May 19, 2017, 07:32:43 PM
May, you be stylin'!

A couple more performance mods and that thing will be nearly as sporty as the Toyata in the photo....

 :rotflmao:

So Jim tell us, do they really have cookies on 'The Dark Side'?  ;)

Brian

I'll attach some pics later today.   Took it in to get their 'Stage 1' performance kit installed (air intake, pipes).   Also added fins on the pipes and a mirror to the top case (so I can still look marvelous, baby).  What a difference that kit makes.   I didn't really have an issue with the power on this bike but that opened it up quite a bit more.  I might even be able to keep up with a C14 now.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 21, 2017, 05:59:26 AM
Yeah, they do.  ;)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on May 22, 2017, 09:43:05 AM
I'll attach some pics later today.   Took it in to get their 'Stage 1' performance kit installed (air intake, pipes).   Also added fins on the pipes and a mirror to the top case (so I can still look marvelous, baby).  What a difference that kit makes.   I didn't really have an issue with the power on this bike but that opened it up quite a bit more.  I might even be able to keep up with a C14 now.

Sweet bike! I gotta say Jim, if I were going to a luxury cruiser, that would probably be at the top of my list.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 23, 2017, 10:10:32 AM
I'll tell ya, I thought the C14 would be my last bike.  The next one would be convertible.   Had no intention to buy one of these bikes, but they were taking 3K off the top and I really liked the dealer and all his people.  Bought it without riding it.  I did sit on it and it felt marvelous.   Never ever thought I would buy American iron.  On the ride home, the lower revving power was phenomenal.  I bought the stage 1 upgrade because I'll be riding with a sport touring group into Ohio and I wanted a little more edge to the power curve.  It certainly has that now.  I wouldn't call it a beast but it's the next best thing.  The seat is so comfortable that I won't be buying aftermarket.  I can't say enough good things about this bike.  Oh, I'm missing the FTP switch.  I really used that a lot on the C14.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on May 23, 2017, 11:09:22 AM
Flash To Pass? The Indian high beams don't have that?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 23, 2017, 11:41:56 AM
Not as far as I've found.  Still a lot of stuff I don't know yet.  I mean they have the low/high switch but I haven't figured out the FTP works, if at all.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on May 23, 2017, 02:35:13 PM
Have you counted how many times the Indian name is stamped on the bike?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 23, 2017, 02:49:30 PM
Not yet..
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: 556ALPHA on May 24, 2017, 05:33:48 PM
Beautiful bike Jim, sounds like a winner.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 25, 2017, 06:06:00 AM
So far, it really is.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 25, 2017, 01:41:56 PM
This bike is no different than the C14 when it comes to battery terminals loosening up.  Went to check them and the negative was so loose, I could turn the bolt with my fingers. Fixing that now.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on June 16, 2017, 07:57:24 AM
Back from the Ohio trip with our Sport Touring buddies.  The Roadmaster is not a Sport Tourer.   However it did keep up with the crowd albeit with me second to last in the group...my choice.   Normally I'm right behind the leader as he has an 09 C14.  I scraped something twice.  Haven't figured out what yet.  We really enjoyed the trip and the bike.   Neutral is actually easier to find than on the C14.   If you forget to downshift it's easier to get to 1st than the C14.  So, I'm definitely going to sell my 08 at some point.  Changed out the Area P for the stocker.  My goodness that thing is heavy!   Rode it back into the garage and couldn't control the throttle...  I've got to get it VA inspected and ride it some more.   I can't believe how easy it was to adjust my riding on the Roadmaster coming from the C14.  Going back is more interesting as the foot placement feels very awkward now.  I'm really liking the floorboards on the Roadmaster.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conniesaki on June 16, 2017, 08:08:22 PM
Neutral is actually easier to find than on the C14.   If you forget to downshift it's easier to get to 1st than the C14.  So, I'm definitely going to sell my 08 at some point.

(https://www.kingwood.com/message_board/chat/templates/standard/img/emoticons/giggle.gif)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: jimmymac on June 16, 2017, 08:50:52 PM
(https://www.kingwood.com/message_board/chat/templates/standard/img/emoticons/giggle.gif)
Werd, Brother. What a hack! :rotflmao:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on June 17, 2017, 01:12:23 PM
Now I have to find that smiley and incorporate it into our bunch.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: B.D.F. on June 17, 2017, 03:51:44 PM
Maybe not a great idea Jim, I am not sure if he is laughing with you or..... well, you know.

 :rotflmao:  (with you, not the other one)

Brian

Now I have to find that smiley and incorporate it into our bunch.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on June 26, 2017, 03:29:32 AM
Heat?   You don't know heat.  Got stuck in traffic jam on I-95 yesterday evening (stop and very little go).  Air cooled engines aren't the thing to be sitting on in stop and go in summer temps.  I thought my legs were cooked.  The C14 feels like it's got AC compared to this bike.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: jimmymac on June 29, 2017, 07:57:18 AM
The things Connie riders cry about... Good stuff! ;D
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on June 29, 2017, 08:41:45 AM
The things Connie v-twin  riders cry about... Good stuff! ;D
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 01, 2017, 06:00:36 AM
 ;D
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 25, 2017, 09:29:56 AM
Got the C14 out of the garage and took it for a spin around the sub-division.  I can't believe how light that bike is compared to the Roadmaster.  The throttle response is so quick.  I have to adjust myself to it again.  Flicking through the gears is like butter, no noise.  I put the OEM muffler back on and am riding in stealth mode.  The rear brake sucks compared to the Indian.  I also put the stock shield back on it and the air flow is to die for.  Having issues adjusting to the foot position and those tiny pegs....oh my.   I also feel like I'm sitting on a bar stool.   The power feel is so much different than the Indian.  I'm actually nervous riding it...

It's amazing the difference between the two bikes...

Going to get it inspected and then start preparing to sell it.. :'(
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: just gone on July 25, 2017, 09:44:36 AM
Got the C14 out of the garage and took it for a spin around the sub-division.
 I can't believe how light that bike is compared to the Roadmaster.
 The throttle response is so quick. 
  Flicking through the gears is like butter, no noise.
  I put the OEM muffler back on and am riding in stealth mode.
  I also put the stock shield back on it and the air flow is to die for. 
  It's amazing the difference between the two bikes...
  Going to get it inspected.....

Here is where it happened.

and then start preparing to sell it.. :'(

I just wanted to highlight where V'Jim went off the logic rails and into CMP territory, just in case anyone missed it.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on July 25, 2017, 09:46:35 AM
 :rotflmao:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 25, 2017, 10:27:52 AM
Et tu Pinkerbell?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on July 25, 2017, 10:58:58 AM
:rotflmao:

This brings up a question about CMP but I think I have to ask it in the forum.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on July 25, 2017, 12:38:52 PM
Et tu Pinkerbell?
Sorry. It's that damn foreign motorsickle you got through me off.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 25, 2017, 02:07:41 PM
Right.... :rotflmao:   You do realize that the C14 is made in Japan and the Indian in the US...
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: jimmymac on July 25, 2017, 02:11:38 PM
Congrats on 5,000 posts, Pinkenstein!
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 25, 2017, 02:49:20 PM
Wow!  Now I have two to choose from  :finger_fing11:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on July 25, 2017, 03:25:08 PM
Congrats on 5,000 posts, Pinkenstein!
Is there a prize?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on July 25, 2017, 03:26:39 PM
Wow!  Now I have two to choose from  :finger_fing11:
;D Kinda like Jekyll and Hyde.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: jimmymac on July 25, 2017, 03:31:02 PM
I don't know what came over me! :D
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 31, 2017, 05:57:51 AM
Partial gravity wave picked up in VA over the weekend.... :yikes:

Went out for a nice ride to the Blue Ridge Parkway on Sunday with the wife.  Decided to go down 56 towards 29.  Turned off the Parkway on to 56 and immediately see a yellow warning sign about potential gravel spots on the road.   It's important enough to have a picture of a MC on it.   Initially thinking  :yikes: but then thinking how bad can it be?   There really weren't any places to turn around either.  It really wasn't that bad most of the way down.  Could feel the tires kicking out a few times.  I wasn't going that fast, however I was fast enough to pass some bicycles along the way....  :rotflmao:   About 3/4s of the way down, we hit something that caused the bike to slide and tip to the right (must have been a right handed curve I think.  I really don't remember it happened so fast).  Weren't going that fast either.  Both of us kept it from going down with our right feet/legs.  Quite frankly I don't know how we got upright again.  We must have done something right.  I jammed my right foot and my wife jammed her leg and foot just above the ankle.  We found a place to stop at the bottom and just rested off the bike for about 20 minutes.   We finally made it home after about 300 miles and later that night drank vodka martinis...  Note to self, never take 56 again.  Didn't see much traffic of any sort on the road..a few bikes and a car or two.   I wonder why?  No damage to the bike at all that I could see.  I even washed it later that evening.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on July 31, 2017, 10:08:06 AM
Glad it all worked out ok Jim. Including having a good excuse to drink vodka martinis. Not like you need an excuse  ;)

(https://i1.wp.com/www.powerlineblog.com/ed-assets/2017/07/Fixing-Adult-Mistakes.jpeg)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: just gone on July 31, 2017, 11:02:24 AM
  I even washed it later that evening.

You do realize that you typed that out loud, right?  :yikes: :nuts:




I'm glad you're both OK.  :thumbs:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 31, 2017, 03:30:28 PM
I was in shock..
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 23, 2017, 06:36:25 PM
Took out the C14 to get the yearly inspection 3 months late...  Could barely ride it.  The dark side is winning.  Had trouble finding the shifter and the bike felt like a toy.  Needed a new tire.  Got that put on and then it promptly started raining.  No problems with handling in the wet.  The shifting on the C14 is like butter.  The bike is so smooth.  The power is phenomenal.  But it is too tall now.  The rear brake is soft.  Have to bleed it again.  I hate to say it.  I like the Roadmaster better.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on August 23, 2017, 06:51:55 PM
Abandon hope all ye who enter
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 24, 2017, 04:24:11 AM
 :'(
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: kwakrider on August 28, 2017, 01:09:59 PM
Abandon hope all ye who enter

 ;D ;D
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on October 29, 2017, 09:04:12 AM
Went to the Indian Demo Days at our dealer in Fredericksburg this past Friday.   Really went for the free food, though.  Item of interest is that there was one 08 bike parked there.  Never did find out who that rider was but there was another I was speaking to that had an 08 as well.  Is the Dark Side winning?  Only the Shadow knows for sure.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conrad on October 30, 2017, 04:57:19 AM
Went to the Indian Demo Days at our dealer in Fredericksburg this past Friday.   Really went for the free food, though.  Item of interest is that there was one 08 bike parked there.  Never did find out who that rider was but there was another I was speaking to that had an 08 as well.  Is the Dark Side winning?  Only the Shadow knows for sure.

An '08 bike? As in an '08 C14?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on October 30, 2017, 06:24:57 AM
Yep...
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 07, 2017, 08:41:25 AM
TPMS to the rescue.   Pulled out the other day on my semi regular trip to Dunkin and noticed the pressure in the rear tire was lower than normal.   Bike thought so too and issued a warning light.  Came back afterwards and found a nail in the center of the rear tire.  Pulled it out and plugged it.  Will keep an eye on it, nevertheless. 

It's difficult to check air pressures on this bike due to the fenders and no center stand.  I always watch them when starting out to get a feel of anything going wrong.

That's the first time in nearly 25 years I've got a puncture on a bike.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rhino on November 07, 2017, 10:08:36 AM
Are you sure it was a puncture and not too much Dunkin that caused the tire to be a little flat?  ;D

TPMS to the rescue.   Pulled out the other day on my semi regular trip to Dunkin and noticed the pressure in the rear tire was lower than normal.   Bike thought so too and issued a warning light.  Came back afterwards and found a nail in the center of the rear tire.  Pulled it out and plugged it.  Will keep an eye on it, nevertheless. 

It's difficult to check air pressures on this bike due to the fenders and no center stand.  I always watch them when starting out to get a feel of anything going wrong.

That's the first time in nearly 25 years I've got a puncture on a bike.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Rubber_Snake on November 07, 2017, 10:21:32 AM
That's the first time in nearly 25 years I've got a puncture on a bike.

25 years??  That’s amazing.  I would get nails/screws/staples in my rear tire at least once a month when I was working the road.  Always kept plugs on hand and used them. 

Of course, by the nature of the job, I did a LOT of riding on the shoulders and center dividers...

Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 07, 2017, 04:54:52 PM
What's strange is that I normally ride in the leftmost third of the lane.   I changed that here recently to ride more in the right third instead.   Going back to my wicked ways..
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 10, 2017, 02:20:46 PM
Did a short ride to the Dunkin Donuts and back.  I didn't die from a plugged rear tire.  I will say this, though.  I bought a slime kit with the sticky strings.  Those strings are way tooooooooooo big.  You need them half the size/width.  The only thing they would work with would be a railroad spike.  Don't waste your money on that although the raspy thingy works pretty well and I guess you can use the glue with it.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conniesaki on November 10, 2017, 10:03:45 PM
The rear tire?  :o That's where you git most* of yer braking!






* OK, more than most of the rest of us  :P
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 11, 2017, 08:23:58 AM
True dat and way way more than what the C14 has.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 30, 2017, 07:27:34 AM
Well I found something on the Indian that scared the crap out of me the other night.   I don't ride much at nights so I haven't encountered the **** poor headlight.  It's so bad, that when cornering at low speeds (45 or so), I couldn't see shi*!  Had to guess where the road might be.  Thank goodness for white lines.  Straight line is barely tolerable I found out.  So I'm going to have to play with the adjustment as I did with the C14.  If that doesn't work then it's this:


https://www.customdynamics.com/indian-fairing-trubeam?cat= (https://www.customdynamics.com/indian-fairing-trubeam?cat=)


and this:


https://www.customdynamics.com/hi-lo-halo-led-headlamp-adapter-for-trubeam-7?cat=40 (https://www.customdynamics.com/hi-lo-halo-led-headlamp-adapter-for-trubeam-7?cat=40)


I may just do it anyway.   One would think on a bike like this the lighting would not be an issue.   I was literally scared to death coming home the other night.




Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Jim M. on November 30, 2017, 07:37:06 AM
Went to the Indian Demo Days at our dealer in Fredericksburg this past Friday.   Really went for the free food, though.  Item of interest is that there was one 08 bike parked there.  Never did find out who that rider was but there was another I was speaking to that had an 08 as well.  Is the Dark Side winning?  Only the Shadow knows for sure.

Just saw your post- That was me. I hit all the demo days. The Chieftain is on my short list. Unfortunately, the only Chieftain they had that day had the ape hangers. I rode it anyway, but I didn't like that at all. Still waiting to see if Indian comes out with the Flat Track replica. That would be a MUST have!
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on February 03, 2018, 04:26:11 PM
I guess we'll have to see about that one.  Fingers crossed but I'm happy with my Roadmaster.  Did 370 miles last Saturday on it...pain free.  Got my first recall.  Connector for the top case can get wet and cause the brake lights not to work.  Taking it in sometime to get that fixed.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on May 28, 2018, 09:17:58 AM
Owner update after a year of ownership.


I still love the bike and am not regretting buying it.   Had plenty of power and does all I need of it.  Can pass anyone I want and it stops on a dime.  Love the cruise control.  Love the way it turns heads.


Aggravation points...


Maintenance...lack of a center stand is a PITA.  Gonna have to buy a jack to put it up in the air.
Adding air to the tires is a pain with all the fenders and such in the way.  Finally put a touch of paint on the tire where the air valve is located so I don't have to bend down so much.
Headlights suck.   They look marvelous in the daytime but really fall down at night if you have to corner.
Rear tire attracts nails
Really get's hot in stop and go, worse than the C14 as far as I'm concerned.  As long as the bike is moving it's fine.  Stopped, not so much.



Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on December 25, 2018, 09:17:45 AM
Well, I've finally succumbed to the Dark Side.  I was out on the Indian the other day on a run to Dunkin and realized that I like the loud pipes, I like the throbbing engine, I like the gurgle and pop back under deceleration, I love the ergonomics, and everything else with the bike.  Sold the C14 to a good friend and I'll be seeing it on a regular basis.  Not to worry about dressing up like a pirate but I am wearing chaps (assless of course) and leather clothing.  I also love the amount of accessories available for these bikes.  It's nearly overwhelming considering what we had/have for the C14.  I'm not going anywhere and still hanging out here.  Where else do I have a captive audience that I can torture or lop off heads?


By the way, some of you complain of heat with the C14.  C14 got nothing compared to the heat output of this bike.  In fact, I think that it is one of the foremost contributors of global warming on the planet.  Like the C14, it's hot in the summer and cool in the colder months.  Have to get a higher capacity battery for it as it does not like cold temps at all...well neither do I but I still ride year round especially with Dunkin just down the road.


The people are the same as us that ride Indians.  All good, all willing to help another rider.  Our Indian group chapter here sponsors a children's charity organization and I think all of the riding chapters sponsor some sort of charity or cause.


Anyway, just wanted to give you an update on my status and hope all of ya'll have a very merry Christmas!


Just saw your post- That was me. I hit all the demo days. The Chieftain is on my short list. Unfortunately, the only Chieftain they had that day had the ape hangers. I rode it anyway, but I didn't like that at all. Still waiting to see if Indian comes out with the Flat Track replica. That would be a MUST have!


It will be out this coming Feb I think. I love it.  Dealer in Fredericksburg says he has 7 sold already before it even hits the showroom.


https://www.indianmotorcycle.com/en-us/motorcycles/ (https://www.indianmotorcycle.com/en-us/motorcycles/)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Freddy on December 25, 2018, 05:24:15 PM
 :chugbeer:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: just gone on December 26, 2018, 10:47:03 AM
..... I like the loud pipes, I like the throbbing engine, I like the gurgle and pop back under deceleration............ I am wearing chaps (assless of course) and leather clothing.
:pukeface: :loco: :nuts: :doh: :censored: :battle: :banghead:

The people are the same as us that ride Indians.
  Ahhhhh...NO. I respectfully disagree. Much different sense of ...style? Different sense of something for sure.  ???

All good, all willing to help another rider. 
Probably true for 99%   :thumbs:

Anyway, just wanted to give you an update on my status and hope all of ya'll have a very merry Christmas!

Backatcha V'Jim!  :chugbeer:   ...and may you come back to your former mental acuity and good sense in the Happy New Year!  ;) ;D
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 08, 2019, 06:41:16 AM
Update:  Bike is in the shop to get the squeal taken out.  This has been going on for a year or so on and off.  Worse in the colder temps.  Have had the belt adjusted several times by a tech that knows what he's doing but it still comes back.  Bout ready to push it off a cliff and told him so.  I said it can't be an adjustment it's got to be something else.  Well, they called yesterday and said it appears to be a bearing in a pulley (not sure which one yet) so they're ordering another pulley.  Also said might as well change the belt as it's due at 30k.  I'll probably wind up paying for the belt but not the other stuff as I was smart enough to get an extended warranty.  I'll let you know how that goes.


Still love this bike even with the embarrassing squeal.  Can't sneak out through the neighborhood with that going on.  Anyway once that get's sorted this is what's on the agenda for next year.  Gutting the cat (sorry Max) to minimize the heat on the right leg.  Just too freakin hot.  Upgrade the headlights so that I can see in the dark rounding corners.  Most god awful LED lighting I've ever seen.  Possibly update the rear lighting with an Admore system.  That's probably all I can afford.


That should be it besides the normal maintenance.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Poseidon on November 08, 2019, 06:59:59 AM
Have you had a chance to check out the new Challenger yet? Should be showing up in local dealerships soon if it is not already there.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 08, 2019, 07:08:07 AM
Haven't seen one in person yet.  Reviews appear to be favorable however.  Personally I'm sold on the power plant but not so much on the looks.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: just gone on November 08, 2019, 10:12:55 AM
Have you had a chance to check out the new Challenger yet? Should be showing up in local dealerships soon if it is not already there.

Kinda funny that:
Quote from: Indian Website
"CARVE CORNERS. ALL OF THEM.

Inverted front suspension, lightweight cast-aluminum frame, and hydraulically adjustable Fox® rear shock deliver curve-hugging handling and unyielding stability.


(https://cdn1.polaris.com/globalassets/indian/2020/model/model-pages/challenger/overview/features/indian-challenger-features-2-lg.jpg?v=75c5082e)

Yep, it hugs the curves on both sides of the center line. I guess that's what they mean by "all of them"  ;D
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Poseidon on November 08, 2019, 11:45:13 AM
Maybe that was an ad for the foreign markets.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on November 08, 2019, 02:30:31 PM
Isn't that Jax from SOA?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: maxtog on November 08, 2019, 03:14:38 PM
Gutting the cat (sorry Max) to minimize the heat on the right leg.  Just too freakin hot.

Don't matter none to me.  My posts were about the C14- saying that OUR cat is not restrictive (doesn't affect performance much at all), based on feedback.  Not sure what affect with heat, but on the C14, it doesn't seem to be an issue (at least on the 2+ gen).
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Conrad on November 09, 2019, 06:47:07 AM
Isn't that Jax from SOA?

 :rotflmao:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 24, 2019, 06:30:29 AM
Got the squeal taken out.  Turns out it was a hog caught underneath the rear fender.  Forgot I rode over it.  Seriously folks, turns out to be a combination of things to include replacing the belt, rear pulley assembly and bearing, and cush drive.  No squeal these last two days.  Most of it covered under the extended warranty.  I had to pay for an hour and a half of labor.  I've got 26000 miles on it and the belt was due to be replaced at 30k.  I've got the extended warranty which took care of all the parts.  Belt alone was $239 I think.  Considering with the extended warranty I would have to pay $50 anyway, paying $100 in labor isn't too bad for what they did.  Just hope it holds.  Another guy in our group has the same thing going on with his 16 and is going to get it taken care of as well.  It's a pleasure to ride it again.


The Challengers hit the dealership in Fredericksburg this past Thursday and one of them sold immediately.  Looks a lot better in person than it does in pictures.  I hope that Indian and Polaris do well with it.  Not for me though.  I like my Roadmaster.  The Challenger does not have heated grips or seats or the Indian look which kills it for me, but others may like it.  The floorboards appear to be mounted higher so the cornering would be better as far as scraping things.  Mine scrapes all the time as I forget I'm riding a cruiser rather than a sports tourer.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on November 24, 2019, 06:38:44 AM
How much is the doggie in the window?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 24, 2019, 06:54:46 AM
He's definitely not for sale...dealership dog.  He's a cutie pie and loves everyone that walks in.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: MtnRider on November 24, 2019, 07:45:31 AM
I took the Connie in to get a repair estimate for the insurance and my wife picked me up. After I talked to the service gal we went into the showroom. If I would have agreed to trade the C14 in I'm pretty sure i would have rode a '19 Roadmaster home. She really liked the comfy seat and looks. I could see it as a second bike but that ain't happening....  Nice ride.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 24, 2019, 08:36:22 AM
Mine's a 16 and it doesn't have all the doodads the 19 has now such as the Nav screen.  19's have the rear jug deactivation feature to alleviate the heat and from what I understand works very well.  The best features on the RM for me were the cruise control, heated grips, heated seats, electric windscreen, and ABS.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: MAN OF BLUES on November 24, 2019, 06:34:04 PM
JUST ASKING, AS A POLITICAL DOUCHE BAG..

where are we going, i.e., with this forum, derived from a very beneficial, and user friendly point, to answer any and all Issues, and to corroborate the concours ownership experience?...

I do not see questions, and viable answers any more.. and pretty much see just government hat/dissertation.


where have WE come to, in this .....?????

and, can we all get back to the original... reason... this place exists?

Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: gPink on November 24, 2019, 07:10:37 PM
Eleven years in on a single model motorcycle (not including the c10 ) with at least two dedicated forums, there is a distinct possibility that new questions are drying up and unregistered guests finding answers without needing to sign in and ask.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 24, 2019, 08:13:21 PM
JUST ASKING, AS A POLITICAL DOUCHE BAG..

where are we going, i.e., with this forum, derived from a very beneficial, and user friendly point, to answer any and all Issues, and to corroborate the concours ownership experience?...

I do not see questions, and viable answers any more.. and pretty much see just government hat/dissertation.


where have WE come to, in this ..... ??? ??

and, can we all get back to the original... reason... this place exists?


Wrong place to ask that question, Rich.  Post it in Open.  It's a good question and more should see it.  Personally, after having owned a C14 from day one for about 10 years I do remember things and will help where I can.  We're all getting older and some like me, have moved on to other bikes and pursuits.  Plus it's getting to be winter and things slow down some. 


Pinkerton has a good point as well.  I started on a C10 back in 2002 so I've been on a Concours from then until 2016 or so.  Kwakers doesn't appear to want to be in the Sport Touring business as we know it, unfortunately.  That isn't helping the cause.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: B.D.F. on November 25, 2019, 05:41:08 AM
I think there is a much bigger picture here than this, or any, forum participation.

We are getting older and younger people are taking our place, as it has always been. And these new people are different, as it has often been in the past. The younger people today, and I am really speaking about anyone under 40 or even 45 perhaps, are different than <most> of us participating on motorcycle forum(s) and far fewer of them ride motorcycles. In fact, I find today's younger adults are extremely different than the generation before them; they grew up in the electronics / communication age and were never interested or participated in more basic, simple things such as general mechanical things such as carpentry (even rudimentary home repairs / upgrades), anything mechanical, including both using and working on mechanical things (cars, motorcycles, tractors, boats, ad nauseum). They are simply orientated very differently in general existence than earlier generations; if you want to do / know something, have fun, 'recreate' and so forth, today's people do it with an electronic screen. So motorcycles are square in the middle of this change: we speak of 'sport tourers' falling off in popularity but it is ALL motorcycles, not a particular type.

To really see this trend, look around at motorcyclists wherever / whenever we collect- we all have gray hair! Sure there are 22 year old squids on sport bikes around but they are a small percentage of the overall motorcycling community. This forum is slowing down because interest in motorcycles is slowing down and it is not a subtle amount or a gradual change. Before long, the entire industry will sort of implode on itself with manufacturers offering fewer and fewer models, and of course fewer manufacturers (speaking of major manufacturers here, not boutique brands).

Seriously, look around at, say, 30 year old male Americans who grew up in suburbia and seek out what they know about and do- betcha' you will find the percentage of that group who can perform mechanical tasks or even know about them is down, way down, compared to those of us over 60. Younger adults today not only do not actually do these things, they do not even know anything about them; I had a conversation with a man in his 30's not too long ago about cesspool problems- he did not know what that was or what they did. Fine and well, so I asked him where he though the waste might go when one flushes the toilet and he got a blank look and said 'I have no idea but it must go someplace'. And that was a college educated, reasonably bright individual (degree in economics).

None of this is a complaint by the way- I grew up being quite ignorant of how many things worked that the previous generations knew about simply because I was not exposed to those things and did not need to know about them- such things as farming for example: corn and peas grow in cans in the supermarket, right? Seriously, I know they are farm crops but honestly, I could not grow vegetables or manage any type of farm environment if my life depended on it..... and it sorta', kinda' does. But I just ignore those things and leave it to others to provide those things and services. As it is with today's younger people- their knowledge is becoming ever more compartmentalized and really, it has to do so so that they can survive in their world. Let's face it, most people older people today are just not skilled with 'today's' things such as cable TV, computers, routers, modems, cyber security, etc., etc.. Ask a very intelligent group of 70+ year old people to explain the basics of inverse kinematics and it becomes pretty obvious that different generations need different skills sets to survive and hopefully, thrive.

So that is my view of what is happening: our time is passing and the things that we do / know / like are fading away. Some will disappear, many will decline and all will be substantially different. It is just the natural order of things....

On the bright side, there seems to be no danger of 'Political douche bags' declining Rich so nothing to worry about regarding standing out.  :rotflmao:

Brian

JUST ASKING, AS A POLITICAL DOUCHE BAG..

where are we going, i.e., with this forum, derived from a very beneficial, and user friendly point, to answer any and all Issues, and to corroborate the concours ownership experience?...

I do not see questions, and viable answers any more.. and pretty much see just government hat/dissertation.


where have WE come to, in this .....?????

and, can we all get back to the original... reason... this place exists?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: MtnRider on November 25, 2019, 09:33:36 AM
Very well considered & written, B.D.F.. Probably the best analysis I've seen on either forum. Thanks.    :thumbs: :chugbeer:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Poseidon on November 26, 2019, 09:27:41 PM
Sorry to interrupt, but I noticed that they still have that green Chieftain. I was there shortly after they got that bike in. It was over a year ago if I remember correctly. Can’t believe they still have it. It looks a lot better in person and I’m not even a big fan of the color green. Looks good on that bike tho. The green paint and crome compliment each other well.

(http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=22290.0;attach=31433;image)

In my opinion, the Challenger is going to appeal more to the Victory crowd than those that like Indian. I need to see one in person and hopefully test ride one at some point. Not sure if I’ll like the Challenger or not, but the new power plus motor has caught my attention. It will be interesting to see what other bikes they put that motor in. It will also be interesting to see how much more performance guys like Lloyd can wring out of it with some aftermarket parts and a dyno tune. Definitely some potential there.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 27, 2019, 05:06:33 AM
Challenger isn't for me and I think that you are right on about the Victory crowd it may appeal to.  It's just not Indian enough for me.


As I stated earlier, the squeal appears to be gone.  However, the battery has decided to kick the bucket.  I had replaced the original with a Wicked Start Renegade as it had more CCA to crank over the massive engine this bike has.  The original went 3 years but was showing signs of failure during the cold months.  The Renegade went 9 months and essentially failed when it got cold.  It has a 1 year warranty.  Turns out the reliability of that brand is less than average and their warranty replacement procedures are very specific against the consumer.  Wish I knew that before I bought it this past March.


Instead of buying online again I went with Batteries + Duracell brand US made battery.  Will be installing that today.  It has a two year warranty.  If it goes bad I can take it in and actually talk to someone local.  That means more to me these days.


I brought in the original Indian battery (I've kept it around) and asked Batteries + to test it and they concluded indeed it was bad.  The battery was fully charged yet his tester was saying it needed to be charged again so I wasn't imagining it at least.  It was doing the same thing the Renegade did a few days ago.  During starting it coughed a few times and then started but the clock would reset.  Here we go again.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Poseidon on November 27, 2019, 09:28:13 PM
I’ve been sticking with either yuasa or interstate batteries for my replacements. Had good luck with both.

I take it that green chieftain isn’t Indian enough either then?
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on November 28, 2019, 05:51:38 AM
One, I'm not in the market to buy another bike but if I were, it would be a Roadmaster.  Two, I'm not really crazy about that green color at all.  But that's the interesting thing with Indian, they have quite the color palette for their bikes so if you don't like a certain color, one you do like will be coming down the pike after awhile.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: Poseidon on November 28, 2019, 07:18:26 AM
I’m not in the market either, but I like to window shop and see what’s out there. I’m not a fan of Green either but the color of that one just popped.

(https://cdp.azureedge.net/products-private/prod/f54201f2-a4d5-4148-ac15-bd01e80a7f8c/943d900c-b8cb-4d25-9055-c513bda3f92b/00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000/6fa68585-4e73-43d4-9192-a961012821f2/94aac7ba-3918-48ff-a955-a96d0163b3a9/6000000001.jpg)

I like the Icon blue also, but I have yet to see one in person.

(http://cdnmedia.endeavorsuite.com/images/organizations/2f6fb18d-0219-47a3-8ba2-4a5123522365/inventory/2538177/N19TCAAAAW-BrilliantBlue-IND2598-01.JPG)

I know it was a limited run color like Polaris has done in the past. It would be nice if they would publish the numbers on how many they make in the odd colors. They did a limited run victory Magnum in Blue and Purple just before they shut down the brand.

(http://i.imgur.com/y2zckw5.jpg)

(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7d/1d/aa/7d1daaff6e68ca6c03ecfb6ce26cabd1.jpg)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on January 10, 2020, 04:14:15 PM
Well, I sold the Indian... :'(
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: tweeter55 on January 10, 2020, 04:17:04 PM
Well, I sold the Indian... :'(
No way!!!
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: lather on January 10, 2020, 04:29:29 PM
What can this mean? :yikes: :yikes: :popcorn:
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: MAN OF BLUES on January 10, 2020, 05:14:37 PM
What can this mean? :yikes: :yikes: :popcorn:

I think he rode the C14 he sold to his neighbor, again.. and got wood...

 8) 8)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on January 10, 2020, 06:26:09 PM
And bought another one you nitwits.. :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: 


2020 Roadmaster Icon 116 cubic inches, stage 1 and stage 2 upgrades.  3 driving modes tour, standard, and sport.  Tour is plenty powerful for me.  Don't see why I would use any of the others. This one has navigation built in.  I wasn't in the market to buy but the color spoke to me.  The difference in power between the 111 with stage 1 and 2 is remarkable.


Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: lather on January 10, 2020, 07:15:03 PM
 :chugbeer: :chugbeer:&
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on January 10, 2020, 07:42:35 PM
I think he rode the C14 he sold to his neighbor, again.. and got wood...

 8) 8)


Those days are over...I'm solid in the Indian camp now.
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: just gone on March 15, 2020, 05:34:02 PM
fyi:

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-15/sunday-strategist-indian-motorcycle-shifts-to-conquest (https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-15/sunday-strategist-indian-motorcycle-shifts-to-conquest)
Title: Re: A funny thing happened on the way to the forum...
Post by: VirginiaJim on March 16, 2020, 06:33:53 AM
Indian is selling bikes for sure and not because they are less expensive.  I don't want to see HD fail.  Competition creates innovation.