Let's give something away

[BlueSky]

Adventure bikes seem all the rage right now.  I don't see me buying another bike but in any case my 29" inseam legs are too short for those. 

As soon as I can get my Ventures spruced up, I'll probably be selling them.  Probably.  I do exercise and can still handle them.  The Kawasaki being lighter I hope to ride a while longer.  With its 500lbs and 74 hp it's fun to ride around town.  

[saddlebum]

  On 5/3/2024 at 2:37 AM, Chaharly said:

I think that everybody knows that Yamaha has exited the big cruiser/touring market.  So where does that leave you?  I know that many  aren't riding as much as you used to.  I also know that there are a lot of die hard Venture riders here.  So the question isimple.  What are you. now riding?  With no new Ventures being made, will you. just retire from riding after your correct bike is doesn't and out.  Will you. look for a nice used Venture or go to another brand,.  What brand will you go to?  Basically, what are your plans moving forward?"

 

I'm still riding my 88 Royale! I always keep a second, newer bike to tool around town with but the Venture will always be my first love. My plan is to start collecting MKIIs and MKII parts and essentially keep riding these bikes until it's no longer possible. So far there hasn't been a bike that fits me AND performs as well as the first gens do.  i wouldn't mind finding a mint 1985 1200 though. 

 

If you guys recall (you may not) I used to have a 99 that I totaled with a death wobble that I couldn't get ahold of and decided to go back to first gen. I like the full fairing and the upright seating position. All else fails I may get a second gen, or a later model Goldwing. My mom has a triked 2005 that used to be my dad's and that bike just doesn't fit me like the Venture. I would definitely need an aftermarket seat made for taller riders and probably some risers for the bars. I also hate how cramped I feel in the toes with the motor right there and I basically have to go "spreadeagle" to use the highway pegs.  I've ridden the newest style Goldwings and that would probably be my ultimate stopping point after the Venture, but I'm sure they're an ABSOLUTE mess to work on!

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I have two 89's in good  condition and as long as I am able I will continue to keep them running. If I do end up making a change I most likley will go to an adventure bike of sorts. Harleys are way out of my budget and besides I am not the type to pamper a bike anyway. As long as it is sound mechanically I am happy, prferrring to ride than polish.

I never cared for how the gold wing handles and the shifter location just does not work well for my foot. IMHO the bike is more suited to small people with small feet.

Edited May 4, 2024 by saddlebum