What the heck is wrong with our bikes?

[gottaboxer]

I've had a few different "power cruisers" in the past few years and always wanted to try a Valk but they were too much money for my budget. I finally got a great deal on one and I love it. Yes the looks aren't stellar but I'm putting my own touches on it and the riding experience outweighs any concerns I have about the looks. I'm not a big guy so I find a small windshield works just fine. I find the radiator pods lessen buffeting too compared to other bikes. I think now in 2019, the Valkyrie would sell better (at a better price point) because of the diversity of makes and models available. Back in 2014 most wanted a Harley clone. Now with all the new naked standard and adventure bikes, I think a Revised Valkyrie might sell better now.... Just my 2 cents.....

[ChubbyDodds]

As with the CTX 1300, the initial price was too high. Sticker shock scared a lot of potential buyers away, I believe. That and the look that took some time to get accustomed to also hurt sales.

I didn't even look twice at the Valkyrie when it first came out. Over time, I found myself reading more reviews and looking for videos to watch.

Now, I love the look of the bike. Maybe an acquired taste, but it was worth the wait for me.

[F6Dave]

I've had a few different "power cruisers" in the past few years and always wanted to try a Valk but they were too much money for my budget. I finally got a great deal on one and I love it. Yes the looks aren't stellar but I'm putting my own touches on it and the riding experience outweighs any concerns I have about the looks. I'm not a big guy so I find a small windshield works just fine. I find the radiator pods lessen buffeting too compared to other bikes. I think now in 2019, the Valkyrie would sell better (at a better price point) because of the diversity of makes and models available. Back in 2014 most wanted a Harley clone. Now with all the new naked standard and adventure bikes, I think a Revised Valkyrie might sell better now.... Just my 2 cents.....

That's a good point.  For years Harleys and their clones dominated the market.  Now with Harley riders aging and sales fading, the clone sales fade as well.  This sales void is making room for some long overdue variety in the market.

[st2sam]

Tuff question I'm still trying to figure it out?





If and when I figure it out I'll let you know.
In the mean time I'll keep riding.

[AdrianR]

The R 1200 GS is by far lighter, faster and more comfortable even on long distances because the shock absorbers are better, no comparison (they say it's a flying carpet and it's true, though I've never been on a flying carpet  ). The wind protection, the heated grips and seats, synchronised brakes, the handling, the adjustable bags etc.

I truly loved my 2013 :



But the Valk is the coolest bike I know 

But it's butt ugly!  lol

[AdrianR]

I honestly don't care.  I think the bike is cool looking... When I first saw it I was shocked...and then after I owned it for a couple weeks a couple things bothered me about it..., but now I have grown very used to it...I still think it's bad ass....and VERY, very different...  But then, I've always strived to be a bit different...  I luv the blue color...it turns heads all the time...

This is without getting into riding the bike.  I luv the sound of the drive train...and of course the way it rides...suspension is excellent...  just needs a better seat...better tires...other then that...cool as hell...

[tngarren]

Just sold my '07 Heritage. Really great bike for 13 years but I needed a new experience. I had a check cut to buy a used '18 GW DCT non tour, but couldn't get past all the stuff I have no use for - riding modes, radio, Car Play, speakers, navigation, etc. and $18K. I just bought a used (6K mikes) '14 Valk for $8,700. It was generally market price. In the paper work, I saw where the seller bought it new in '18 for $9,000.  My heart sank a little. I know there is work ahead to create a Valk that has the accommodations of a Heritage - bags, windshield, pegs, throttle lock, etc.  But the end result will be a smooth, powerful, reliable, relatively unique cruiser with no potato, potato sound.  Life is about experiences, so I hope this is a good one.

[..]

Just sold my '07 Heritage. Really great bike for 13 years but I needed a new experience. I had a check cut to buy a used '18 GW DCT non tour, but couldn't get past all the stuff I have no use for - riding modes, radio, Car Play, speakers, navigation, etc. and $18K. I just bought a used (6K mikes) '14 Valk for $8,700. It was generally market price. In the paper work, I saw where the seller bought it new in '18 for $9,000.  My heart sank a little. I know there is work ahead to create a Valk that has the accommodations of a Heritage - bags, windshield, pegs, throttle lock, etc.  But the end result will be a smooth, powerful, reliable, relatively unique cruiser with no potato, potato sound.  Life is about experiences, so I hope this is a good one.

I resisted the urge for a few years but then I saw this for sale..........................




If you need a slightly lower footpeg then Knight Design can help.

http://www.knightdesignllc.com/Products/Motorcycle/Honda/GL1800/Honda-GL1800-Goldwing-1-Front-Foot-Pegs.html

[hubcapsc]

Just sold my '07 Heritage. Really great bike for 13 years but I needed a new experience. I had a check cut to buy a used '18 GW DCT non tour, but couldn't get past all the stuff I have no use for - riding modes, radio, Car Play, speakers, navigation, etc. and $18K. I just bought a used (6K mikes) '14 Valk for $8,700. It was generally market price. In the paper work, I saw where the seller bought it new in '18 for $9,000.  My heart sank a little. I know there is work ahead to create a Valk that has the accommodations of a Heritage - bags, windshield, pegs, throttle lock, etc.  But the end result will be a smooth, powerful, reliable, relatively unique cruiser with no potato, potato sound.  Life is about experiences, so I hope this is a good one.

 

-Mike