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david.r.feeney
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« on: June 19, 2019, 10:15:48 AM » |
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Howdy folks, David here. Looking for advice! Right now, I have a 2003 VTX 1800 Retro Spoke which I’ve ridden since 2005. It's all setup as a comfy bagger for me and the wife. We are short trip riders... since 2005, I've put less than 11,000 miles on the VTX. Looks like I'll need to put $500 or $1000 into the VTX this Summer from the local stealership for a tune up, oil, brakes, inspection, etc. It's due, but having no problems or issues (except I broke some of the Mustang seat parts but it still holds together AOK. THAT SAID... • I can get a good deal on a new 2014 Valkyrie at $8,999 from a dealer in Florida. I live in PA. I am working with the dealership now by email. • I’d have the dealership install Honda backrest, windscreen, bag hardware = $1200 parts and labor. • I’d have the Valk shipped from dealer in FL to my home in PA. Should cost about $800. • With fees, dealer installs, and shipping to my door, the final cost for the new 2014 Valk shipped to my door is about $12,999. Long story short, I am trying to get a less expensive bagger for occasional riding (not long distances) that has the Goldwing engine and Honda reliability,etc. My concerns: • The Valk will be less comfortable for my wife as a passenger. However, we are not long-distance riders. For short drives around our home, I think she could be OK with it. • The Valk has significantly fewer accessories than a GL1800. Will be a hassle to find accessories. Can’t find highway bars, new seats are custom and expensive, etc. End of the day, I could be perfectly happy putting $1000 into my VTX and keeping it forever. BUT I GOT THE FEVER FOR A GREAT DEAL ON A VALK!  Any feedback? I appreciate your wisdom. David |
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Rams
Member
Posts: 16326
So many colors to choose from yet so few stand out
Covington, TN
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« Reply #1 on: June 19, 2019, 10:39:06 AM » |
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If I was happy with the current bike, for the money I’d keep it.
I’m sure others will offer different opinions.
Rams
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« Last Edit: June 19, 2019, 01:22:39 PM by 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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LB
Member
Posts: 84
2003
Upstate South Carolina
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« Reply #2 on: June 19, 2019, 10:53:23 AM » |
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Keep the VTX.
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The emperor has no clothes
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« Reply #3 on: June 19, 2019, 10:58:48 AM » |
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$13k for an average of 800 miles a year doesn’t seem very prudent to me. But if the money is not the issue, go for it.
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98valk
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« Reply #4 on: June 19, 2019, 11:24:54 AM » |
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your Honda VTX is Honda reliability. and only two spark plugs to change on occasion.
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1998 Std/Tourer, 2007 DR200SE, 1981 CB900C 10speed
1973 Duster 340 4-speed rare A/C, 2001 F250 4x4 7.3L, 6sp
"Our Constitution was made only for a Moral and Religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the goverment of any other."
John Adams 10/11/1798
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« Reply #5 on: June 19, 2019, 11:33:56 AM » |
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You can do the oil and brakes on the VTX.
Can't you find a local dealer with 2014's close to the price you are being offered?
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« Reply #6 on: June 19, 2019, 11:35:59 AM » |
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3fan4life
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Posts: 6959
Any day that you ride is a good day!
Moneta, VA
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« Reply #7 on: June 19, 2019, 12:10:20 PM » |
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Looks like a pretty good deal, and close enough to kick the tires before you buy it. Also, Don't forget about the F6B |
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1 Corinthians 1:18  |
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hubcapsc
Member
Posts: 16788
upstate
South Carolina
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« Reply #8 on: June 19, 2019, 12:24:35 PM » |
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The 2014 Valkyrie is a great bike. If your VTX is set up to be comfortable for you and your wife, and you want more of that from the Valkyrie, it is probably going to take a lot of work!  -Mike "mine is finally comfortable..." |
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Dave Ritsema
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« Reply #9 on: June 19, 2019, 01:38:34 PM » |
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If you like a sound system, cruise control and good wind protection consider an F6B.
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VRCC 2879
Lake City Honda Warsaw IN
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sandy
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« Reply #10 on: June 19, 2019, 02:47:24 PM » |
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your Honda VTX is Honda reliability. and only two spark plugs to change on occasion.
VTX has 2 plugs per cylinder = 4 plugs |
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Bighead
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« Reply #11 on: June 19, 2019, 02:53:43 PM » |
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your Honda VTX is Honda reliability. and only two spark plugs to change on occasion.
VTX has 2 plugs per cylinder = 4 plugs Was about to state the same  |
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1997 Bumble Bee
1999 Interstate (sold)
2016 Wing
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vanavyman
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« Reply #12 on: June 19, 2019, 02:57:23 PM » |
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I’d look at the F6B too. Lot of them on the market and easier to get passenger comfortable. Mileage will increase if you both are happy with the ride. In my opinion, the new Valkyrie is a great bike and cheap, as is, in Standard configuration. When trying to modify it the money ads up.
Dan
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« Last Edit: June 19, 2019, 04:10:29 PM by Da Bear »
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2015 Red GL1800 Level 4 w/2015 Tailwind Trailer
1999 Valkyrie Custom Interstate w/2006 Bushtec Roadstar Trailer
2000 Valkyrie Interstate Roadsmith Trike (Wife's)
Member Number 33081
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david.r.feeney
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« Reply #13 on: June 19, 2019, 11:28:49 PM » |
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Folks, thanks for all the great advice. Very helpful. Here is how I am searching: NATIONWIDE, GOLDWING, NEW, 2010-2017 https://www.cycletrader.com/New-Honda-Gold-Wing/motorcycles-for-sale?make=Honda%7C2316874&model=GOLD%20WING%7C764856945&condition=N&year=2010%3A2017&sort=price%3AascI am looking for new old stock upto 2017. I have read that 2018 and 2019 Goldwings have problems: https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/does-the-new-gold-wing-have-a-big-problemI guess I am trying to turn an affordable VALK into a GOLDWING AUDIO COMFORT minus the audio system (which I can live without). Plus I do like the unique looks of the VALK. MIKE'S PICTURE OF HIS VALK IS EXACTLY WHAT I AM THINKING OF... But, end of the day, I think I should A) Keep my trusty, much loved 03 VTX RETRO (4 spark plugs and all) OR B) Pay the money and get a GOLDWING AUDIO COMFORT OR BOTH! We'll see. Regardless, thanks for the advice and keep it coming. David |
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cookiedough
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« Reply #14 on: June 20, 2019, 03:28:09 AM » |
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It seems we all get the itch for something new and different, even though nothing wrong with what we have now. I would test drive FIRST a local new valk just to make sure you and the misses are comfy on it, you may not be. I liked the f6b fit me better than the new valk did stock vs. stock.
Why spend 11-12K new old stock valk when there are used 2-4 year old valks or f6b''s with lower mileage for well under 11K already most likely setup mostly to your liking? Never understood say spending 20K on a NEW goldwing when there are so many lower mileage say 30K miles 5-10 year old ones for 1/2 of 20K?
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phideux
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« Reply #15 on: June 20, 2019, 04:47:37 AM » |
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I don't now what your stealer is going to do for $500-$1000, but for a tune-up, oil change and brakes, you can do it yourself in less than an hour, for less than $100. YouTube or a VTX forum will show you how. If yo have the itch for another bike, keep the VTX and buy used. There are a ton of garage Queens out there and it is a buyers market.
I found a 10yr old Goldwing in almost perfect condition with less than 20,000 miles on it for less than that 14 Valk is gonna cost you, and I bet you can find one locally.
Not trying to talk you out of a Valk, I have 5 bikes and my Valk gets ridden the most.
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bscrive
Member
Posts: 2539
Out with the old...in with the wooohoooo!!!!
Ottawa, Ontario
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« Reply #16 on: June 20, 2019, 05:15:06 AM » |
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I have to agree with Mike.
It took a lot of work to get my 2014 Valkyrie to the way I wanted it. The handlebars themselves are a bit of work to do if the OEM bars don't suit you.
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 If global warming is happening...why is it so cold up here? |
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Chrisj CMA
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« Reply #17 on: June 20, 2019, 06:17:08 AM » |
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your Honda VTX is Honda reliability. and only two spark plugs to change on occasion.
Why would he want to change only half of the spark plugs?   |
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pocket aces
Member
Posts: 624
2001 Standard / Well not so Standard anymore.
Tampa, Fl
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« Reply #18 on: June 20, 2019, 06:40:00 AM » |
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Keep the VTX! Go to vtxoa.com
A lot of great people there and many tutorials to help do maintenance work.
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Beardo
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« Reply #19 on: June 20, 2019, 06:55:04 AM » |
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If most of your riding is 2-up, there’s no question a Goldwing is the best bike for that. Don’t believe the crap about the suspension being junk on the 18+ Wing. Sure, a salesman/company who sells $3000 suspension will tell you the stock suspension is junk. Some people will believe him and fork over the money and they’ll say it’s a whole new bike. It might be. But there’s lots of miles on the stock suspension with nothing but smiles. I’ve owned an 18 for over a year and ridden it across the continent a couple times 2-up and solo and to work every day, I’ll tell you that it’s the best suspension I’ve ever ridden, for what it’s made for. Sure, if you want to take a half second off your lap time at Laguna Seca, you’ll probably want to upgrade. MANY 18+ Goldwing owners say the new one handles better stock than their previous Goldwing with Traxxion suspension. I loved my Valkyrie more than any bike I’ve ever owned but the Wing does everything better, except for the looks...there’s no better looking bike than a classic Valkyrie. I wouldn’t buy a newer Valkyrie and try to turn it into a 2-up bike. That’s not what it’s made for. Having said that, there’s nothing wrong with the older wings either and their price has dropped considerably. With the miles you put on, thats probably your best bet, unless you have money burning a hole in your pocket. There’s nothing like the Honda six cylinders. |
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« Last Edit: June 20, 2019, 07:07:21 AM by Beardo »
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david.r.feeney
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« Reply #20 on: June 20, 2019, 07:32:14 AM » |
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Messages received, folks! I do a little bit of wrenching on the 2003 VTX, and I've used this site (and YouTube) in the past. https://tech.bareasschoppers.com/engine/changing-engine-oil-vtx/https://tech.bareasschoppers.com/brakes/bleeding-brakes-vtx-1800/The dealership near me is talking $425 for all fluids, tune up, plugs, and PA inspection: https://www.eastcoastcycle.com/pages/index/servicesThe 2003 VTX Mustang seat has some broken parts under the seat (metal parts detached from the bottom of the seat, my fault probably). They still hold AOK, but I am looking at... 1) Using metal epoxy to glue the metal parts back on (cheap) 2) New 2003 VTX Mustang seat, about $650 anywhere I look (without studs, etc). https://www.denniskirk.com/mustang-seats/vintage-wide-touring-seat-with-driver-backrest-79341.p455305.prd/455305.skuI figure I've been gabbing like a schoolgirl about my VTX, you should at least see a photo: https://photos.app.goo.gl/3RU623RewLvz4bHr8https://photos.app.goo.gl/DwgqKV7scCStKF528Thanks! David |
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« Last Edit: June 20, 2019, 07:34:24 AM by david.r.feeney »
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old2soon
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« Reply #21 on: June 20, 2019, 08:29:44 AM » |
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From an admitted old fart in the ShoMe-keep yer VTX and add another motorsickle to yer stable.  BUT dats like JIST ME!  Also when it comes to MY PERSONAL SAFETY far as the wrenchin goes I trust myself and my Brother-A K A daprez-as the Folks I trust to work on Phatt Ghurl-my I/S. Add Bob-A K A attic rat to that list. Choiceschoiceschoices.  RIDE SAFE. |
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Today is the tommorow you worried about yesterday. If at first you don't succeed screw it-save it for nite check. 1964 1968 U S Navy. Two cruises off Nam.
VRCCDS0240 2012 GL1800 Gold Wing Motor Trike conversion
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98valk
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« Reply #22 on: June 20, 2019, 08:59:08 AM » |
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Messages received, folks! I do a little bit of wrenching on the 2003 VTX, and I've used this site (and YouTube) in the past. https://tech.bareasschoppers.com/engine/changing-engine-oil-vtx/https://tech.bareasschoppers.com/brakes/bleeding-brakes-vtx-1800/The dealership near me is talking $425 for all fluids, tune up, plugs, and PA inspection: https://www.eastcoastcycle.com/pages/index/servicesThe 2003 VTX Mustang seat has some broken parts under the seat (metal parts detached from the bottom of the seat, my fault probably). They still hold AOK, but I am looking at... 1) Using metal epoxy to glue the metal parts back on (cheap) 2) New 2003 VTX Mustang seat, about $650 anywhere I look (without studs, etc). https://www.denniskirk.com/mustang-seats/vintage-wide-touring-seat-with-driver-backrest-79341.p455305.prd/455305.skuI figure I've been gabbing like a schoolgirl about my VTX, you should at least see a photo: https://photos.app.goo.gl/3RU623RewLvz4bHr8https://photos.app.goo.gl/DwgqKV7scCStKF528Thanks! David Nice as somebody else mentioned a F6B will fit u best. esp the handlebar to seat reach. the 1800 valkyrie has more of a sport tourer lean forward handlebar position. The classic valkyrie actually has almost the same reach as the GL1500 and 1800 goldwings which included the F6B. |
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1998 Std/Tourer, 2007 DR200SE, 1981 CB900C 10speed
1973 Duster 340 4-speed rare A/C, 2001 F250 4x4 7.3L, 6sp
"Our Constitution was made only for a Moral and Religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the goverment of any other."
John Adams 10/11/1798
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_Sheffjs_
Member
Posts: 5613
Jerry & Sherry Sheffer
Sarasota FL
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« Reply #23 on: June 20, 2019, 11:37:51 AM » |
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Having a new 2014 Valk and running it for about two years here is my take - Two up: not that good. Adding windshield: not so easy but maybe you will find that perfect one. I feel that it is a good bike for the way it came. My opinion. Keeping the 1520 Valks.
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LB
Member
Posts: 84
2003
Upstate South Carolina
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« Reply #24 on: June 20, 2019, 12:58:45 PM » |
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your Honda VTX is Honda reliability. and only two spark plugs to change on occasion.
4 plugs |
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98valk
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« Reply #25 on: June 20, 2019, 02:08:13 PM » |
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your Honda VTX is Honda reliability. and only two spark plugs to change on occasion.
4 plugs one side has two. |
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1998 Std/Tourer, 2007 DR200SE, 1981 CB900C 10speed
1973 Duster 340 4-speed rare A/C, 2001 F250 4x4 7.3L, 6sp
"Our Constitution was made only for a Moral and Religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the goverment of any other."
John Adams 10/11/1798
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