Interstate or Tourer

[Fatboyman05]

I will finally  be able to buy my first Valk, either an Interstate or Tourer in just two weeks. Sold my fatboy 4 years ago, is there a weight difference I will notice between the Interstate or Tourer? (I will certainally be cautious at first getting reaquainted with scootering) Is there an easy way to unattach the trunk to lighten the load? (or if I just want to)

If you had it to do over again getting your first Valk, would you 100% go for the Interstate?

[Willow]

...  is there a weight difference I will notice between the Interstate or Tourer? (I will certainally be cautious at first getting reaquainted with scootering) Is there an easy way to unattach the trunk to lighten the load? (or if I just want to)

If you had it to do over again getting your first Valk, would you 100% go for the Interstate?

Yes.  Yes.

It depends on what you want to do with it.

[usmc1142]

welcome to the great world of valkyries!   There is a difference in handling from a tourer to an interstate, but after having a fatboy I'm sure you will do fine.  I hope you have fun, keep your knees in the breese,  John

[Detn8er]

If you had it to do over again getting your first Valk, would you 100% go for the Interstate?

No. Someone once asked me why I didn't get an I/S when I bought my Standard. My answer was I wasn't looking for one then and wouldn't be looking for one now.....Differt strokes and all that. I don't like fairing and all that jazz with them...some do. 

[RUDE DOG - Steelers]

Ive had a Tourer and currently a Standard.  If I was buying again, Id buy an Interstate since you can always slim it down with  the Super Valk  conversion of taking off the trunk and bags.

[Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005]

I can so hook you up with a nice one that's blinged out from one end to the other with many nolonger made and very hard to find Hondaline and aftermarket  accessories. The final drive splines and gears look same as new I'd get on it right now and take a trip across America ( if I had the time from work and the money    ).....Located on the beautiful end of Tennessee just outside Knoxville.

[NITRO]

I had a Standard that was totaled, then bought an Interstate this spring. I still think the Standard and Tourer look cooler, but the IS is an entire different class of bike that fits my needs perfectly. The trunk alone is the deal maker for me.

[JimL]

I think it does depend on what your planning to do with it.  If you are a solo rider that plans on limited long distance traveling, then I would probably go with the Tourer.  I personally like the looks of the Standard or Tourer better than the I/S...but everyone's tastes are different.

On the other hand if your significant other plans to ride on the passenger seat, then the Interstate is definitely the way to go.  My wife is much more comfortable on the I/S than the Tourer....and when she gets uncomfortable, motorcycling quickly becomes uncomfortable for me I can guarantee you.

It always seemed to me that I got more wind protection with the fairing on the I/S which I personally like (especially when it is cool), for those that like to feel the wind this is not so appealing.  Obviously the larger I/S fuel tank keeps one from having to stop for fuel as often.  When your traveling cross country that is pretty desirable, especially out in rural areas where there aren't as many places to get fuel.  Fuel stops aren't such a big deal if your riding locally.  My Tourer goes to reserve at 120 miles....the I/S as I recall goes to reserve somewhere around 160.

So this brings us full circle to what others have said earlier....it really depends on your individual taste and the type of riding you will predominately be doing.

[Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005]

I think it does depend on what your planning to do with it.  If you are a solo rider that plans on limited long distance traveling, then I would probably go with the Tourer.  I personally like the looks of the Standard or Tourer better than the I/S...but everyone's tastes are different.

On the other hand if your significant other plans to ride on the passenger seat, then the Interstate is definitely the way to go.  My wife is much more comfortable on the I/S than the Tourer....and when she gets uncomfortable, motorcycling quickly becomes uncomfortable for me I can guarantee you.

It always seemed to me that I got more wind protection with the fairing on the I/S which I personally like (especially when it is cool), for those that like to feel the wind this is not so appealing.  Obviously the larger I/S fuel tank keeps one from having to stop for fuel as often.  When your traveling cross country that is pretty desirable, especially out in rural areas where there aren't as many places to get fuel.  Fuel stops aren't such a big deal if your riding locally.  My Tourer goes to reserve at 120 miles....the I/S as I recall goes to reserve somewhere around 160.

So this brings us full circle to what others have said earlier....it really depends on your individual taste and the type of riding you will predominately be doing.

Well said Jim 

[C908]

I had a tourer for 10 years and always wished I would have bought the Interstate.The trunk,fairing and stereo make a big difference.

I had a Standard that was totaled, then bought an Interstate this spring. I still think the Standard and Tourer look cooler, but the IS is an entire different class of bike that fits my needs perfectly. The trunk alone is the deal maker for me.

I will finally  be able to buy my first Valk, either an Interstate or Tourer in just two weeks. Sold my fatboy 4 years ago, is there a weight difference I will notice between the Interstate or Tourer? (I will certainally be cautious at first getting reaquainted with scootering) Is there an easy way to unattach the trunk to lighten the load? (or if I just want to)

If you had it to do over again getting your first Valk, would you 100% go for the Interstate?

[Rams]

I think it does depend on what your planning to do with it.  If you are a solo rider that plans on limited long distance traveling, then I would probably go with the Tourer.  I personally like the looks of the Standard or Tourer better than the I/S...but everyone's tastes are different.

On the other hand if your significant other plans to ride on the passenger seat, then the Interstate is definitely the way to go.  My wife is much more comfortable on the I/S than the Tourer....and when she gets uncomfortable, motorcycling quickly becomes uncomfortable for me I can guarantee you.

It always seemed to me that I got more wind protection with the fairing on the I/S which I personally like (especially when it is cool), for those that like to feel the wind this is not so appealing.  Obviously the larger I/S fuel tank keeps one from having to stop for fuel as often.  When your traveling cross country that is pretty desirable, especially out in rural areas where there aren't as many places to get fuel.  Fuel stops aren't such a big deal if your riding locally.  My Tourer goes to reserve at 120 miles....the I/S as I recall goes to reserve somewhere around 160.

So this brings us full circle to what others have said earlier....it really depends on your individual taste and the type of riding you will predominately be doing.
[/quote

Well said.     The only thing I would change about my Standard Skunk is I wish I could find and I/S tank I could paint and put on it.

blackrams

[Trynt]

I would go with the Interstate.  They have many upgrades that are nice to have (heavier shocks, H.O. alternator, ICM with more advance, better headlights, tunes, rubber mounted engine, larger fuel tank, trunk).  As Steelers Said you can supervalk it.  The trunk can be made to come off more quickly by slotting the  trunk mounting brackets (see Big BF's site) or by cutting the fender rail studs and tapping them to accept bolts.  You'll have to add a fender mounted taillight from a standard if you remove the trunk.  Valks handle differently with the trunk mounted.  It has been my experience that they tend fall into a turn and need correction, particularly when the trunk is heavily loaded. And as Jim said, your better half will like the security of the Interstate perch.

[JimL]

This photo sort of debunks my earlier statement about liking the looks of the Standard/Tourer better.  Now that Lucky 13's black I/S is "retired", no doubt about it, this is truly one of the finest looking Interstates on the road.

[B]

I'm an interstate guy... But it depends on how you plan to ride. For distance traveling, you can't beat the interstate.

[Willow]

For distance traveling, you can't beat the interstate.

I can.



But then I have gone both ways.

[Fatboyman05]

I added some info but it didnt post. to keep it short for me, I am selling my truck, buying a Valk and a small car. the Valk will be for me full time and the car will be for my daughter when she's at school. I'll use the valk for around town, to school, and for trips. I cant imagine not doing long trips after my Rolling Thunder trip on the fatboy. my only expected passenges will be my daughter on occasion,....  um, as far as I know   .....

I am now in the position to have and use a bike like I never could back when I had the fatboy. short summary for a long story.

I think I'd like having the extra fuel and storage capacity when I need it.

[Chattanooga Mark]

I've only had two Valkyries, both Interstates so I'm biased towards them. The Valkyrie Interstate is IMHO, the best of the best. A Valkyrie Interstate is also one of the best bargains in all of motorcycling. I really like the dual headlight set up, the larger fuel tank, the radiator pods, the AM/FM/CB/AUX set up as well as the factory intercom between rider and passenger. Like most things, once you have them, it's not fun doing without it. I'd not buy a motorcycle I plan on riding much without the attributes the Valkyrie Interstate has. If it had factory cruise it would be even better.

It's SO much easier to make an Interstate into a Tourer than the other way around. Adding any of the interstate's factory goodies is a VERY expensive route for a Valk Standard or Tourer.

All the best,

Mark
 

[Bama Red]

But then I have gone both ways.

Well, I see the repeal of "Don't Ask - Don't Tell" is already having results.

[MP]

But then I have gone both ways.

Well, I see the repeal of "Don't Ask - Don't Tell" is already having results.

Da**!   Spilt coffee on the keyboard with that one!   

MP

[Spirited-6]

and when she gets uncomfortable, motorcycling quickly becomes uncomfortable for me I can guarantee you.

Jim, that brought a BIG smile on my face this morning. She`s  little, but she`s loud. HUH.
If I had it to do over, I would go for a IS and remove trunk for my taste. That is the only thing that I don`t like on the IS, and I`m talking "looks" 

[Dubsvalk]

I have a tourer and I plan to add the interstate trunk and a faring.  I would buy SmokinJoe's Interstate in a heart beat if it were in my budget.  It is absolutely a beautiful and well maintained bike!  Even the Interstate handles like a sport bike and is as comfortable as any bike out there.  I wouldn't hesitate to get an I/S if I could.
Bernie

[Hoser]

I have had all three, I would never sell my tourer, but I wish I had kept my Interstate in addition to it.  :'(    Hoser

[Fatboyman05]

I must admit that I do like SmokinJoe's Interstate but the budget wont allow it. I've been seeing several blue and gray and green and gray Valks lately online but I'm not so sure I like the gray. I need to see it in person...

I wish I could get two of them, now that would be nice!

Sometimes I just think too much about these sort of things....

[captsharky]

Hi,
Looked into the IS faring route, and went with a Woody. Not the bike is great but it's not an IS. So this one should be up for sale next week if all goes as planed. I am working on buying an Black IS that up close looks like new.


I am working on buying an Black IS that up close looks like new.

[Jabba]

I have both.  I like the Standard better.  I like it naked.  The wife likes the IS.  I like the IS for LONG road trips.  The Std for commuting and day rides.

You gotta identify how you ride, and what you like.

Jabba

[Disco]

Adding any of the interstate's factory goodies is a VERY expensive route for a Valk Standard or Tourer.

...yes it is...   

[JimL]

I must admit that I do like SmokinJoe's Interstate but the budget wont allow it. I've been seeing several blue and gray and green and gray Valks lately online but I'm not so sure I like the gray. I need to see it in person...

I wish I could get two of them, now that would be nice!

Sometimes I just think too much about these sort of things....

I think we all know what you mean about the budget thing (I can't wait to get my son out of college and off the payroll)!  One thing I will point out from my personal experience is that it is hard to find some of these items after you buy the bike.  I bought my first I/S in 2006 which is 5 years after they went out of production.  I then got the urge to add accessories a year later and found them very hard to find.  If you think you will eventually want some of the chrome accessories, if at all possible get as much as you can when you buy the bike.

[Crazyhorse]

If I could have only one bike it would be an I/S.



But as Hotglue would say variety is the spice of life.

[JimL]

and when she gets uncomfortable, motorcycling quickly becomes uncomfortable for me I can guarantee you.

Jim, that brought a BIG smile on my face this morning. She`s  little, but she`s loud. HUH. If I had it to do over, I would go for a IS and remove trunk for my taste. That is the only thing that I don`t like on the IS, and I`m talking "looks" 

Don, your a much braver man than me....I am much too "skeert" to call her "little"!

[fudgie]

No, a I/S is a old mans bike. 

I wanted one when I 1st got my valk. I got a Tourer instead. Now I dont want a I/S. I got tunes and a HD fairing on it now.

[JimL]

No, a I/S is a old mans bike. 

Old Man...who are you calling an "Old Man" you young whipper snapper!  As soon as the nurse is done changing my diaper, I'll come over there and thrash you with my walking stick!

[Spirited-6]

and when she gets uncomfortable, motorcycling quickly becomes uncomfortable for me I can guarantee you.

Jim, that brought a BIG smile on my face this morning. She`s  little, but she`s loud. HUH. If I had it to do over, I would go for a IS and remove trunk for my taste. That is the only thing that I don`t like on the IS, and I`m talking "looks" 

Don, your a much braver man than me....I am much too "skeert" to call her "little"!

Damn Jim. You did`nt tell her I said that !!!! Talk about "throwing a guy under the BUS" 

[Bob E.]

I have a Standard.  But if I had it to do again, I'd get an IS...mainly for the larger fuel tank, snappier ICM, factory stereo/CB, and fairing. 

[ChromeDome]

No, a I/S is a old mans bike. 

Old Man...who are you calling an "Old Man" you young whipper snapper!  As soon as the nurse is done changing my diaper, I'll come over there and thrash you with my walking stick!

+1

[olddog1946]

I would have to agree about all the different strokes for different folks comments.  I personally think the IS fairing is downright ugly, but have to admit that I like most everything else about it..now if I could put an 82 goldwing fairing on my std....mmm

[T-Bird]

I started out with a 98 tourer then decided I wanted a IS and founda real nice one. After a few months I found out  I just wasn't a interstate type of guy. I now have a 98 standard with all the tourer goodies.
1998 tourer

2000 Interstate

1998 standard

This is what the standard looks like now.

This is what I ride now instead of an Interstate

[Jabba]

But if I had it to do again, I'd get an IS...mainly for the larger fuel tank, snappier ICM, factory stereo/CB, and fairing. 

My standard will EAT my IS.  Flat out.  I guarantee it.  is my STD fast or my IS slow?  I dunno.  But I PROMISE that my standard will smoke the green IS.

I do have a Dyna 3000 on the standard though.

Jabba

[Fatboyman05]

the relative speed difference between an IS and a Tourer may be noticable but I am positive that the IS will be way faster than my 95" fatboy was...... I just used to think it was fast..

[Pete]

My standard will EAT my IS.  Flat out.  I guarantee it.  is my STD fast or my IS slow?  I dunno.  But I PROMISE that my standard will smoke the green IS.

I do have a Dyna 3000 on the standard though.

Jabba

Mine are both stock and the 97 standard is quite a bit stronger than the 99 IS.
If only one 97 Standard.

[Jess from VA]

the relative speed difference between an IS and a Tourer may be noticable but I am positive that the IS will be way faster than my 95" fatboy was...... I just used to think it was fast..

Dude I rode a Hog (pretty quick punched Evo) for 18 years.  Even an out of tune Valk of any variety will smoke your fatboy (assuming skilled riders).  No offense intended.  No brag, just fact.  I have a good riding buddy with a '09 Road Glide, and after three upgrades to high compression 103", cams, stage 4 airkit, special heads, etc (at least $12K spent over and above the new bike) he can now keep up with my ISs.  And to be honest, if he gets the jump, I can't catch him, but same for me.