So a chance to drive the new kid on the block happened today. Here are my thoughts.
Looks, hey this is familiar but different. Look at those radiators, power means heat, this thing might be fun.
Turn on the key. The digital dash lights up, very clear in the sunlight, night view must be cool. It does a self test and almost says "I'm here for you".
Press the starter and it wakes up, low tone growl. Again the voice but now it seems to say "I'm ready for you".
Climb aboard and it sits kinda tall. Seat not so great, but neither is mine. This can work, let us find a way.
First gear give you the clunk of Honda. Pull away and test the brakes, smooth, linear and friendly.
Away we go, easy shifting with the typical 1800 clunks. Ride position is new to me and it feels good. Faster and faster, wind feels good but my helmet sucks for a no windscreen ride. Look at that digital display. Your speed is a clear number, tach is a bar of segments, everything it easy to read. Very nice.
But curves, will this thing handle. You can drive it through the turns or just ride it through. It floats into and out of the corners with ease and almost no effort. In fact the effort I was using was from my not being used to this position, in time it would be automatic and seamless. Roll on the power and it flies, grab the brakes and you get what you ask for.
Back to base and think long and hard, what does this need. It needs nothing more than a rider and a road. What could make it better? Scuff pads for the tank, seat modification for an old butt, maybe bags, and a rack for stuff. The horn and turn switch are reversed in position so canceling the signals honked at the Harley's, wave ... its me. This is a great bike with the ability to run long and hard for years. Me, I like it. This one is sold, but not to me. Should you see one in your mirror it will be there only because the rider wants to follow, this machine can lead the average pack.
This machine makes Jerry look good, something he needed. But what changed in my friends look, its the smile. He looks good after he rides with a smile from Alice in Wonderland. Naturally Sherry is there with him. A great couple, a new bike, and John Paul won't be able to keep up.
Gil
Happy 4th
