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Calboy
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« on: September 24, 2019, 09:41:07 PM » |
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Does any of you feel the pressure of riding a bike that hasn't been in production here in The States for 16 years?
I bought one three months ago because I had always wanted one but got distracted chasing other dreams on two wheels so to speak.
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Moonshot_1
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« Reply #1 on: September 25, 2019, 11:41:50 AM » |
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Does any of you feel the pressure of riding a bike that hasn't been in production here in The States for 16 years?
I bought one three months ago because I had always wanted one but got distracted chasing other dreams on two wheels so to speak.
Our Valks are of a timeless design. Nothing like it. No pressure. Just Joy. |
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Mike Luken
Cherokee, Ia.
Former Iowa Patriot Guard Ride Captain
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Bagger John - #3785
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« Reply #2 on: September 25, 2019, 11:42:24 AM » |
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Does any of you feel the pressure of riding a bike that hasn't been in production here in The States for 16 years?
Nope. ...other dreams on two wheels... I have those too. They're called Concours 14s, and will likely be joined by a KTM 1290 Super Adventure as soon as I get more garage space. Possibly a pre-2008 Road King and Road Glide too. As long as I can get service parts - OEM or aftermarket - I'll enjoy my F6s. I budget so much per month for the spares fund (equivalent to a bike payment) and order the various OEM gaskets, seals, O-rings, carb and other engine components, electrical and chassis stuff...in short, everything known to go bad on these bikes or which is required as part of a service procedure. No other highway machine really captures my fancy or fits me as well as these bikes. C14s, the S-A each have a purpose in the stable but it's not fair-weather touring. I'll ride and maintain mine right up until I can't. FWIW, I know a few people riding GL1000s on a frequent basis. Another riding buddy used to run around on a chopped '49 Panhead - it was his daily ride. Yet another had an '82 GL1100 until said bike was involved in an accident and the frame was damaged. |
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Big Rig
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« Reply #3 on: September 25, 2019, 11:51:41 AM » |
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Gryphon Rider
Member
Posts: 5227
2000 Tourer
Calgary, Alberta
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« Reply #4 on: September 25, 2019, 12:38:42 PM » |
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I'm not sure what you mean by pressure. Pressure to do what? Anxiety about what? I remember once someone pointed out water spots on the valve covers after I did a quickie wash without drying it right away, so I suppose there is some pressure to keep it clean so it represents well, but not enough for me to clean it when I otherwise wouldn't. That has nothing to do with the bike's age, though.
Pressure to have the latest and greatest? Nah... I drove an '81 GMC pickup until a couple of years ago, when it was going to cost too much money to get it roadworthy, replacing it with a 2002 Dakota.
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Chrisj CMA
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« Reply #5 on: September 25, 2019, 12:42:42 PM » |
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Gnarly
Member
Posts: 74
FlyinJenni2
Resume Speed,KY
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« Reply #6 on: September 25, 2019, 02:10:02 PM » |
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Not positive I understand your question, but my answer is found below, in my 'signature line.'
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I've loved many bikes, over the last 52 years of riding, but this Valkyrie machine may have propelled me headlong into IDOLATRY....
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tcblack
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« Reply #7 on: September 25, 2019, 02:42:30 PM » |
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The only pressure I feel is the pressure not to crash it. But then, since my spare parts are more rare than spare parts for my Valk - I think the real pressure is on me alone.
Honestly, no pressure. I love the bike. I also ride a 43 year old Bike and a 45 year old bike. No pressure their either.
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Sarcasm is my love language, do you feel loved yet?
- 1998 Valkyrie named Eir. Eir was the Valkyrie whose name may translate to Peace or Healing.
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Valkorado
Member
Posts: 10503
VRCC DS 0242
Gunnison, Colorado (7,703') Here there be twisties.
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« Reply #8 on: September 25, 2019, 03:31:17 PM » |
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The pressure of having two and deciding which one to ride goes away once I pick one and ride!
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Have you ever noticed when you're feeling really good, there's always a pigeon that'll come sh!t on your hood? - John Prine 97 Tourer "Silver Bullet" 01 Interstate "Ruby"  |
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Jess from VA
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« Reply #9 on: September 25, 2019, 03:34:29 PM » |
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The only pressure I ever felt was when it leaned over on my foot.
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Pappy!
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« Reply #10 on: September 25, 2019, 04:24:12 PM » |
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Typical Valk riders are not pressured to ride something else. We already are!
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Rams
Member
Posts: 16317
So many colors to choose from yet so few stand out
Covington, TN
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« Reply #11 on: September 25, 2019, 05:44:06 PM » |
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Does any of you feel the pressure of riding a bike that hasn't been in production here in The States for 16 years?
I bought one three months ago because I had always wanted one but got distracted chasing other dreams on two wheels so to speak.
I have no idea of this "pressure" you're asking about. Chasing other dreams on two wheels? All I can say is ride what makes ya happy. I love my fat lady and when I recently had the opportunity to replace a crashed one, I searched and found another that filled my heart with joy. Pressure? Ya got me, I have no idea what you are eluding to. The only pressure I feel is when I look for certain bling and I feel my wallet tightening up.  Rams |
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VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.
Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.
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Oss
Member
Posts: 12632
The lower Hudson Valley
Ossining NY Chapter Rep VRCCDS0141
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« Reply #12 on: September 25, 2019, 06:57:08 PM » |
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Actually, yes I did So I bought NJF6Cowboy's Interstate  another shot  Can never have enough Valkyrie's Oss But I do have a nice collection of spare parts, nothing like TroutDude though, just an alternator, spare rear wheel and pumpkin, levers, oil filters, spare bags and rear fender and swingarm. You just never know.....  |
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« Last Edit: September 27, 2019, 12:15:22 PM by Oss »
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If you don't know where your going any road will take you there
George Harrison
When you come to the fork in the road, take it
Yogi Berra (Don't send it to me C.O.D.)
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f6gal
Administrator
Member
Posts: 6882
Surprise, AZ
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« Reply #13 on: September 25, 2019, 08:01:54 PM » |
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Does any of you feel the pressure of riding a bike that hasn't been in production here in The States for 16 years?
Nope. ...other dreams on two wheels... I have those too. They're called Concours 14s, and will likely be joined by a KTM 1290 Super Adventure as soon as I get more garage space. Possibly a pre-2008 Road King and Road Glide too. As long as I can get service parts - OEM or aftermarket - I'll enjoy my F6s. I budget so much per month for the spares fund (equivalent to a bike payment) and order the various OEM gaskets, seals, O-rings, carb and other engine components, electrical and chassis stuff...in short, everything known to go bad on these bikes or which is required as part of a service procedure. No other highway machine really captures my fancy or fits me as well as these bikes. C14s, the S-A each have a purpose in the stable but it's not fair-weather touring. I'll ride and maintain mine right up until I can't. FWIW, I know a few people riding GL1000s on a frequent basis. Another riding buddy used to run around on a chopped '49 Panhead - it was his daily ride. Yet another had an '82 GL1100 until said bike was involved in an accident and the frame was damaged. Bagger John! Good seein' ya here!! |
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Calboy
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« Reply #14 on: September 26, 2019, 11:18:54 AM » |
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By pressure I meant looking down the road and realise that will come a day when parts, big and small, won't be available anymore. I should have probably used different words, now that I thought about it, and called it fear. The fear that parts will become scarce and repairs not possible.
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« Last Edit: September 26, 2019, 11:21:55 AM by Calboy »
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scooperhsd
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« Reply #15 on: September 26, 2019, 01:15:23 PM » |
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When you put it THAT way - well, besides my 1998 Valk, I also drive a 2000 VW TDI New Beetle. The issue on the Valk is that a number of "dealer shops" no longer want to work on anything that is over 10 years old, especially if the problem is electrical in nature. Parts will eventually become a problem on anything.
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Jess from VA
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« Reply #16 on: September 26, 2019, 02:00:36 PM » |
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The 1500 Wing was made from 1988 to 2000 (13). The more similar than different 1500 Valk from 1997 to 2003 (7). There were enough production units made worldwide for Honda to continue to provide support for many years until now, and continuing. Yes, some parts are out of production, and the list grows. Motorcycle salvage continues to be a profitable business as well, and this too is helpful to us based on just how many were made.
Maintaining your bike(s) and it's parts in good order is as important as ever.
I'm confident we can keep them running for many years to come.
I'm pretty sure mine will outlive me (or outlive my riding days anyway).
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« Last Edit: September 26, 2019, 02:02:37 PM by Jess from VA »
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Chrisj CMA
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« Reply #17 on: September 26, 2019, 02:16:45 PM » |
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When you put it THAT way - well, besides my 1998 Valk, I also drive a 2000 VW TDI New Beetle. The issue on the Valk is that a number of "dealer shops" no longer want to work on anything that is over 10 years old, especially if the problem is electrical in nature. Parts will eventually become a problem on anything.
I agree parts will eventually be more of a problem. That’s why I have collected critical parts to insure the continued life of my Valkyrie well beyond availability of whatever parts become rare. If you plan on keeping your Valkyrie, I recommend you start if you haven’t building up a supply of vital parts |
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hubcapsc
Member
Posts: 16788
upstate
South Carolina
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« Reply #18 on: September 26, 2019, 04:05:00 PM » |
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When you put it THAT way - well, besides my 1998 Valk, I also drive a 2000 VW TDI New Beetle. The issue on the Valk is that a number of "dealer shops" no longer want to work on anything that is over 10 years old, especially if the problem is electrical in nature. Parts will eventually become a problem on anything.
I agree parts will eventually be more of a problem. That’s why I have collected critical parts to insure the continued life of my Valkyrie well beyond availability of whatever parts become rare. If you plan on keeping your Valkyrie, I recommend you start if you haven’t building up a supply of vital parts I've never heard of anyone's water pump going out, and they are still available new, but... there's not one to be found in any seller's store on ebay... where do they go? -Mike |
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Chrisj CMA
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« Reply #19 on: September 26, 2019, 04:24:52 PM » |
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When you put it THAT way - well, besides my 1998 Valk, I also drive a 2000 VW TDI New Beetle. The issue on the Valk is that a number of "dealer shops" no longer want to work on anything that is over 10 years old, especially if the problem is electrical in nature. Parts will eventually become a problem on anything.
I agree parts will eventually be more of a problem. That’s why I have collected critical parts to insure the continued life of my Valkyrie well beyond availability of whatever parts become rare. If you plan on keeping your Valkyrie, I recommend you start if you haven’t building up a supply of vital parts I've never heard of anyone's water pump going out, and they are still available new, but... there's not one to be found in any seller's store on ebay... where do they go? -Mike I have a new one ready to go |
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Jess from VA
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« Reply #22 on: September 26, 2019, 05:41:13 PM » |
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Well, I immediately thought of several smart ass replies to you on that one (since your bike always looks like it never left the showroom). So I'm not going to ask you to identify the least attractive part (or guy) on your bike.  But now take a look at the beautiful chrome timing cover, engine guards, braided stainless hose cover and clamp, Cobra filter cover, and tell me that water pump cover wouldn't look much better chrome (or at least high polished, which is hard to do with the big cooling fins). |
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Chrisj CMA
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« Reply #23 on: September 26, 2019, 05:46:57 PM » |
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Well, I immediately thought of several smart ass replies to you on that one (since your bike always looks like it never left the showroom). So I'm not going to ask you to identify the least attractive part (or guy) on your bike. But now take a look at the beautiful chrome timing cover, engine guards, braided stainless hose cover and clamp, Cobra filter cover, and tell me that water pump cover wouldn't look much better chrome (or at least high polished, which is hard to do with the big cooling fins). Well you did nail it. I admit it. I am the least attractive thing on my bike when I’m on my bike. |
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hubcapsc
Member
Posts: 16788
upstate
South Carolina
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« Reply #24 on: September 26, 2019, 06:30:21 PM » |
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Who want's a used one? My water pump works fine, and I don't know anyone who's has gone bad. I don't aim to buy one of every part that's still available and stash it away, but I wouldn't mind getting a used one that works for cheap to hang on to just-in-case one day mine's busted and new ones are no longer available. And, now that I've looked, I'm curious as to why, with all the parted out engines on ebay, there's not a single water pump. I ebayed a nice used 61311-MZ0-000 and a couple of nice used 17115-MZ0-000's today... both are unavailable new and both are better than the ones on my bike... I like used ones  I plan to install my clean used alternator from a bike with 20,000 miles on it this weekend and then send my alternator off to the MARS guy if he's still around... -Mike
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Oldfishguy
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« Reply #25 on: September 27, 2019, 07:41:29 AM » |
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Parts will not be a problem. With EBay and other forms we will always have access to parts and a reasonable price. Finding a willing mechanic, that will be the problem. Those owning these machines in a decade or two will be riders that can work on their own machines.
I have several early 1970’s Honda SOHC CB’s and parts are easy to come by.
Fear not, the advent of the internet is just beginning.
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Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005
Member
Posts: 13834
American by Birth, Southern by the Grace of God.
Beautiful east Tennessee ( GOD'S Country )
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« Reply #26 on: September 27, 2019, 09:30:18 AM » |
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 I've seen alot of people that thought they were cool , but then again Lord I've seen alot of fools. |
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hubcapsc
Member
Posts: 16788
upstate
South Carolina
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« Reply #27 on: September 27, 2019, 10:24:26 AM » |
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I haven't seen the yellow bike in so long I'm starting to think it's not real   -Mike "it's photoshopped!" |
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SpidyJ
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« Reply #28 on: September 27, 2019, 12:00:55 PM » |
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Pressure !?!? The only pressure I've felt was to sell my last bike and find a Valk. Pressure is off now, replaced with joy and amazement every time I ride.....like in about 30 minutes.  |
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1999 Fast Black Interstate
Peace,
johnnywebb
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Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005
Member
Posts: 13834
American by Birth, Southern by the Grace of God.
Beautiful east Tennessee ( GOD'S Country )
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« Reply #29 on: September 27, 2019, 12:17:49 PM » |
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I haven't seen the yellow bike in so long I'm starting to think it's not real -Mike "it's photoshopped!" . I'll be on it next weekend for the memorial ride for Eric. |
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I've seen alot of people that thought they were cool , but then again Lord I've seen alot of fools. |
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Ramie
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« Reply #30 on: September 29, 2019, 09:56:28 AM » |
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Does any of you feel the pressure of riding a bike that hasn't been in production here in The States for 16 years?
I bought one three months ago because I had always wanted one but got distracted chasing other dreams on two wheels so to speak.
Our Valks are of a timeless design. Nothing like it. No pressure. Just Joy.
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“I am not a courageous person by nature. I have simply discovered that, at certain key moments in this life, you must find courage in yourself, in order to move forward and live. It is like a muscle and it must be exercised, first a little, and then more and more. A deep breath and a leap.”
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