bike 1985 vice 1986 to 92

[blaine1]

i have a 85 have no trouble with it looking to get another bike those that did it would you get another 85 or get a86 and up to92 would like to know from people with experience we ride 2 up all the time have not driven a 86 and up would like to know the diff pro and cons thanks blaine

[VanRiver]

I personally like the MKII (86-92 Ventures) better....Significantly more storage capacity in the bags, 100cc more in engine umphfff, and I think they look rather pretty and more like a traditional bagger! I would think that if you are a 2 up rider you would appreciate these two factors of more power and extra storage.

 

Plus when you buy a 1986 and newer you don't need to worry about that pesky 2nd gear issue (cracking the case to fix the problem). The defect was fixed in 1985 after serial number 0001413 I believe.

 

But if you are more of a sport bike type of guy that likes to lean until the pegs scrape, like to remove the bags to lighten the load so you can do the twisties quicker then I would think the MKI (1985 and older) might be a better fit.

 

But of course, this is just my opinion....and I'm biased since I'm in total love with my 1986 MKII Venture Royale's. Hope that helps! Oh and by the way if you get a MKII do the V-Max final drive "upgrade" well worth it! It is plug and play and a cheap DIY project that will really enhance the performance of your 2 up riding.

Edited June 28, 2015 by VanRiver