Opinion on the competition's new stuff?

[SWVA_08V2k]

Originally Posted by Romans5.8

I became a bit more of a Honda fan when I bought my wifes bike. Just a very well built machine, with an excellent warranty. Service seems great too. I think they have an enourmous 'gap' in their lineup though. You either have a very small Shadow line (not just engine size, the bikes are very small) or the mega-tourers or choppers. I had predicted that this new lineup was going to include some mid-sized bikes but, not really!

I think it could work though. My require some sort of modification or be a little 'ugly', but if you want seamlessly integrated trunk and bags, you spend $4,000 more and get the big one!

I have not spent much time on many Honda's. But the "Modern" ones I have ridden (750 areo, 1100 Sabre and a couple VLX's) did not impress me much. The 1100 Sabre was probably the most comfortable to me. I would love to take a GW out for a test ride just to see what they feel like since they are more of a Sport Bike than a Cruiser. I have not spent much time on anything other than cruisers.

[Romans5.8]

Originally Posted by SWVA_08V2k

I have not spent much time on many Honda's. But the "Modern" ones I have ridden (750 areo, 1100 Sabre and a couple VLX's) did not impress me much. The 1100 Sabre was probably the most comfortable to me. I would love to take a GW out for a test ride just to see what they feel like since they are more of a Sport Bike than a Cruiser. I have not spent much time on anything other than cruisers.

I've ridden a GL1800 goldwing, my wifes 750 aero (2011 model, latest update), and a Valkyrie interstate. The valk was fast as anything, smooth as silk, but a little cramped. The wing was ultra comfy and ultra sporty. A fantastic bike. But it certainly doesn't have the personality of a cruiser and it's definitely not cheap. The wifes aero is also a bit small and not exactly a powerhouse, but it's more than adequate for a 5 foot tall new rider. Well built and smooth too, and easy to work on. The valves for example, are adjustable with hand tools with no need for shims. Super easy. ESPECIALLY considering the price I paid for a brand new 750 aero, I've got nothing but good things to say about it. (Though I wouldn't have it long if it were 'my' bike, too small for me!)

[SWVA_08V2k]

Originally Posted by Romans5.8

I've ridden a GL1800 goldwing, my wifes 750 aero (2011 model, latest update), and a Valkyrie interstate. The valk was fast as anything, smooth as silk, but a little cramped. The wing was ultra comfy and ultra sporty. A fantastic bike. But it certainly doesn't have the personality of a cruiser and it's definitely not cheap. The wifes aero is also a bit small and not exactly a powerhouse, but it's more than adequate for a 5 foot tall new rider. Well built and smooth too, and easy to work on. The valves for example, are adjustable with hand tools with no need for shims. Super easy. ESPECIALLY considering the price I paid for a brand new 750 aero, I've got nothing but good things to say about it. (Though I wouldn't have it long if it were 'my' bike, too small for me!)

I have always tried stuck with Kawasaki because I have never had any problems with them and it always seem the ergonomics of their bikes have felt better to me. The 2 best fitting bikes I have had has been my 1600 meanie and the V2K. What I (meaning my GF/now wife) did not like was the passenger comfort. My biggest comfort issue with the V2K is the shape of the handle bars. I like drag bars better, they feel better on my wrists. But If i put drag bars on the V2K i would have to part orangutang or have the longest risers known to man.

[Scott_in_TX]

I think SWVA is right; they are trying to get away from the "Old Wing" label.
At least they are still trying new things in the U.S. market.

I kinda like that F6B!
If they were to put forward controls (I know, its a 6 cyl) and some pullback risers on it; I think they would have a hit.
I like that old Interstate too. Probably better!

It doesn't look like the NC700 will come as a DCT this time. Too bad.
I think an automatic tranny on a entry level bike could be a real good thing.

Scott

[pacomutt]

Originally Posted by Scott_in_TX

.......I think an automatic tranny on a entry level bike could be a real good thing.

Scott

They tried that a while back with a 400 twin.

[SWVA_08V2k]

Originally Posted by pacomutt

They tried that a while back with a 400 twin.

Didn't they call that a Honda Matic or something of the sorts.

[pacomutt]

Originally Posted by SWVA_08V2k

Didn't they call that a Honda Matic or something of the sorts.

Yeah, actually they had a CB750 with a kind of automatic first, and later had a 400 and then a 450 Hondamatic.

[Scott_in_TX]

Originally Posted by pacomutt

They tried that a while back with a 400 twin.

A couple of years ago Honda had the DN-01. They called its transmission a HFT (Human Friendly Transmission).
Last year they had the NC700DCT. They called it a Dual Clutch Transmission.

Both had an automatic mode.
Look Ma 'No Clutch"

Scott

[SWVA_08V2k]

An Automatic like a CVT trans kinda like what is in ATV's or Automatic as in you still have to change the gears but no clutch.

[Scott_in_TX]

Originally Posted by SWVA_08V2k

An Automatic like a CVT trans kinda like what is in ATV's or Automatic as in you still have to change the gears but no clutch.

Here is the 'cut and paste' info on the DN-01.

Honda's stunning new DN-01 is in a class of its own—the world's first crossover bike. Styled like a sportbike, but offering Honda's radical new HFT Transmission, it's an automatic unlike anything you've ever seen. You can shift it into six preset ratios, or you can let it function as a stepless, no-shifting Constantly Variable Transmission, or CVT. The DN-01 is a perfect choice if you're looking to get into motorcycling or if you're just a long-time rider who wants to be on the most cutting-edge bike out there.


Looking for the NC700 info I found that the 2013 VFR1200F has the DCT transmission. So, they haven't given up on an automatic.

Scott