Converting to an Interstate

[otmaximus]

I'm in the market for an Interstate, but they are few and far between in SoCal. Is it worth it to try to convert another model? I want the triple bags and dual headlights. But otherwise I don't have any requirements. I can handle most maintenance and modifications, but I'm not looking for any major project or headache.
Paul

[Michvalk]

The worst part is the wiring harness as they are quite different. There are a couple of members who have changed over to Interstates, but, seemed to me to be very expensive and time consuming. Maybe you need to Start expanding your search. That way you could work a road trip into bringing it home

[Big Rig]

I would suggest checking the classifieds, find one you like, have one of us check it outfor you, then go get it and ride it back...cheaper faster and you get to ride it....

[MP]

Put Cobra light bar on, get three headlights then.  Add IS bags and either IS trunk or aftermarket trunk.  I have these on my 97 std.  This can be done easily.

However, to go the full IS fairing route is hard, because of the electronics.

MP

[mmurffy03]

bags trunk and fairing could set you back $3500.00 plus painting them on top of at least 5 grand or more for a standard or tourer with a fair amount of miles 20k to 35k plus your labor and that's not a weekend project for even most owners of a Valkyrie  more like a winter job to get it rite

[Daddie O]

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/mcy/3709429713.html

Talk him down, fly up and ride it back.

[PharmBoy]

I converted an "03 standard into a tourer with Woody fairing and lots of chrome including (wheels, forks, & trees) and all the standard "add-ons" including Progressive front springs and Ultimate seats.  It was expensive for him and took 7-8 months.  He could have bought the best Interstate out there much cheaper.  He ended up with a super bike, all black and chrome, but nothing to compare with an Interstate in my opinion...Jim  (And I'm still adding a trinket or two now and then to it.)

[Oldfishguy]

Figure out the color you want, do a national Craigslist search, be patient, and when one comes up for sale- pounce!  Buy a one way airline ticket and bring it home.   I did that last summer and it was a great trip for me and the wife.  I like customized bikes but start with something close to what you want as a base and build from there.  

Good luck in your decision and purchase.

David

[Sircharles]

Slowly making my 97 into a tourer, of sorts.
Should be photo ready in a month-ish.
Adding floor boards with heel toe, a Woody's fairing, custom made trunk, and various shiny bits, and an Ultimate saddle.
On top of a paint job (original black in 97 was shamefully bad) tires and a radio,,,way to much money.
You would be far better off to buy an interstate and have shipped to you.
However, if you like tweaking things, making stuff, and winding up with something a little different, then
a rebuild is the way to go.
If you are litteraly going to build an exact interstate, just buy it.
I have never built a project that could amotize my sweat equity....EVER.
In my humble opinion.

[sandy]

Search for Western Honda in Scottsdale, AZ. They have a black interstate for sale. Ask for Brian the sales manager.

[old2soon]

There are currently 3 I/S for sale in our classifieds. One of them is in Tucson Az. Hope this helps. RIDE SAFE.

[old2soon]

Also found 3 I/S for sale on E-bay. Agreed on expanding your search parameters. Of course you MIGHT have one fall into your lap like i did.  If you do find one out of state there is a good chance you may have a board member close enough to maybe go have a look see for you. Hope you find one for yourself.  RIDE SAFE.

[fon1961]

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/mcy/3709429713.html

Talk him down, fly up and ride it back.

Or buy u an IS tank and add bags based on ur own unique tastes...

[Willow]

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/mcy/3709429713.html

Talk him down, fly up and ride it back.

Or buy u an IS tank and add bags based on ur own unique tastes...

Interstate tank -  at least $500 plus $200 painting.

Interstate bags -  at least $800 plus $400 painting.

Interstate trunk - 1t least $900 plus $100 painting.

Dual headlights -  $150 - $300 (?)

Sell what you've got and buy an Interstate.

[Jess from VA]

I am only guessing, but believe it would cost you about one and a half to two times the cost of a used IS (they're all used) to make an IS out of a Std, plus a bunch of work and swearing.  If you want an IS, buy one.

[John Schmidt]

Hey Willow, what are those "duel" headlights fighting over? 

[Jabba]

Not worth it.

Buy a IS. 

Buy, fly and ride.  EASY.

From experience.

Jabba

[Willow]

Hey Willow, what are those "duel" headlights fighting over? 

lol, John!  I was able to bring peace to the post.   

[mmurffy03]

http://newjersey.craigslist.org/mcd/3702365667.html
http://cnj.craigslist.org/mcy/3685312442.html

[fon1961]

If you're going with all IS components they are right. It would be much cheaper and esier to sell your bike and buy an IS.

[otmaximus]

Thanks everyone for your feedback. It sounds like I'm sticking to buying an I/S. I'll expand my search to all of Cali, they make registering an out of state bike difficult. Not impossible, but not worth the risk. I was hoping for black or black and red, but I may broaden my horizon there. That bike in Sacramento looks nice!
Paul in SoCal