Demo Ride opinion

Ok I own a used Valkyrie, with 42K. I spent the day before my Indian Demo ride on a 2008 Street Glide with 4500 miles.

While neither V-Twin was a smooth or powerful as the Valk I didnt expect them to be. Overall I consider the Indian to be the best looking of the 3, very stunning, a work of art.

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The brembo brakes are the best money will buy, (pay attention HD) the Glide had lever pulse as most HD's do. I like the Ergos of the Vintage I rode, the hand controls are simple and comfortable. The trigger control for the dash is excellent. I dont recall a fuel gauge, which would be nice. When I started the bike I felt the off idle throttle response was vague, almost disconnected, not mechanical. It reminded me of a newer car with "fly by wire" throttle system. They have no mechanical connection to the injection system and there's about a 1/2 second delay to inputs. This was only off idle sitting still, not under load, maybe due to the heated O2 sensors?

The clutch was smooth as butter with a light pull, the trans was good too, positive shifting simple to adapt to. Once underway the fuel injection seemd smooth and clean. I would have to say the engine vibrated more than I expected, on roll-ons in 4th and 5th it really rumbled the seat and bars. I noticed my throttle hand was asleep in 10 minutes of riding but that's mostly due to my physical issues. Different grips would help me. The suspension was very smooth even under rugged road conditions, predictable and stable. The chassis was also very compliant, no suprises, nice feel, long rake. I would opt for different bars or risers, I was reaching for the stock bars on the Vintage. I'm 5-11 210lbs. My reach is average.

The exhaust was quiet, maybe to quiet for my liking. I actually felt like the motor made some strange noises at times, I think I could hear the rockers or something on occasion, not a bad thing but something to get used to. I wonder if the shape of the valve cover makes the noises echo? I also felt there was quite a bit of drive-line lash. It almost felt like a shaft drive when I let off the gas at times, not sure why? The bike I rode had 2500 miles on it.

Overall I would have to say it was a good experience. HD has had many years to refine most aspects of their bikes. Indian is just starting with a good head of steam. I think they've brought a decent product to the table. The other riders at the demo were all 50+ and riding HD's so the target market is paying attention. I cant honestly justify a $30K bike right now but when I can I will no doubt own a Roadmaster or Vintge, the Valk of course and a Heritage Springer too.

I hope to see this motorcycle company do well. I believe they have a great start and the knowledge to refine their product through customer feedback. Each model has its strong points, they are all beautiful in my opinion. The styling alone is first class, the brakes, trans, hand controls all exceed expectations. Overall a good start.
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