Common Sense Motorbiking. Where Is It?
Published: September 25th, 2006
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What has happened to common sense motorcycling? Why are we being bombarded by these 150+ hp monsters that go 200 mph? Do we really need them?
What has happened to the common sense bikes? The ones like the Honda PC800. A mid-size standard with shaft drive that gets good gas mileage and insurance rates. That's comfortable enough to commute on, or do some intermediate touring. Am I the only one who is sick of uncomfortable, and impractical, harley clones (back issue) and 200 mph crotch rockets (same back problem). Do I really need an RV on wheels (read Honda Goldwing)? Am I the only one in the U.S. who feels this way?
I know there are standards (Honda 919, Suzuki Vstrom) which can fit some of the bill, but not all. I know Honda has the ST1300, Yamaha has the FJR, and now Kawasaki brings out the new Concours. Do I really need a 1.3, or 1.4 liter engine on a motorcycle? Will getting from 0-60 in 2.5 seconds improve my morning, or evening commute? How about the 40 mpg (if I'm not going 0-60 in 2.5 secs)? Is it wrong to want 50, or 60 mpg around town? If we're really honest, 50-70 hp on a motorcycle is really all you need (maybe that's even too much)?
A lone voice crying in the wilderness.
Get Motorcycle.com in your InboxWhat has happened to the common sense bikes? The ones like the Honda PC800. A mid-size standard with shaft drive that gets good gas mileage and insurance rates. That's comfortable enough to commute on, or do some intermediate touring. Am I the only one who is sick of uncomfortable, and impractical, harley clones (back issue) and 200 mph crotch rockets (same back problem). Do I really need an RV on wheels (read Honda Goldwing)? Am I the only one in the U.S. who feels this way?
I know there are standards (Honda 919, Suzuki Vstrom) which can fit some of the bill, but not all. I know Honda has the ST1300, Yamaha has the FJR, and now Kawasaki brings out the new Concours. Do I really need a 1.3, or 1.4 liter engine on a motorcycle? Will getting from 0-60 in 2.5 seconds improve my morning, or evening commute? How about the 40 mpg (if I'm not going 0-60 in 2.5 secs)? Is it wrong to want 50, or 60 mpg around town? If we're really honest, 50-70 hp on a motorcycle is really all you need (maybe that's even too much)?
A lone voice crying in the wilderness.
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