| Author |
Message |
    
Tramp
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 26, 2005 - 07:17 pm: | 
|
armchair chuck yeagers.....
they're the reason OCC is doing so well... |
Court
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 26, 2005 - 08:07 pm: |
|
>>>Court is just non-specific in terms of what he can and cannot disclose, as a gent....
That's an accurate statement.
Let me be as specific as I can and tell you that this WILL BE (actually, that has proven inaccurate over the past 72 hours and should be *IS*) the best selling Buell ever produced.
The stories, coming out of Denver are going to be a bit vague for want of more facts, verification and in respect of certain parties and firms.
But if you want to have some fun . . . ask your dealer how many THEY bought (I don't mean ORDERED to have on their sales floor, I mean BOUGHT) in Denver.
Houston....we gotta problem and one of the best you can have.
The ULYSSES, within seconds of the Doctor spanking it's butt, exceeded Buell's wildest expectations.
Ahh...is there more, Court?
Yes, much more.
They hype and anticipation is proving to all be based on merit and fact. You, who are teetering, will join me, I predict, in your enthusiasm in the coming months. This is frankly one heck of a motorcycle.
It's telling that Steve Anderson, a well-regarded mental heavyweight who just happens to ride at a level commensurate with his smarts, is so upbeat. Watch for more members of the moto-community, not historically slanted or interested in Buell, to join the parade.
This bike does much well.
Watch Abe on the Buell.com video and you'll see what the problem is....the folks who know the most are plopping down hard earned bucks at a rate NO MANUFACTURER has ever seen.
The Elves got this right.
Debate your ZTL brakes till the cows come home.....but, wait till you ride this motorcycle.
Buell, as I think I'd mentioned about 60 days, ago, didn't just introduce a new bike they have redefined a segment of motorcycling.
Yeah...I'm hyped.
Court |
Tramp
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 26, 2005 - 09:46 pm: |
|
"Debate your ZTL brakes till the cows come home.....but, wait till you ride this motorcycle."
THANK YOU
-The lone "Erik: 2 words: Dual Sport" penman of the past two years .... |
Blake
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 26, 2005 - 11:56 pm: |
|
Blake:  All serious... geekly-geekedy-geekspeak-so-there! Nyah!
Bomber: Wise, self-defecating  ... If you can achieve the right zen state you'll see the truth.
Court: Enthusiastic purveyor of hot breaking news... Party time! Buell nailed it, the bike rocks, smart famous folk thinks so too and we all want one! Woohoo!
What do you do when your friends make you feel like an idiot?  . . .
Make sure they stay your friends! 
Way to go amigos! Thanks for being you.  |
Johnnylunchbox
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 12:29 am: |
|
Court - I respect your opinions. You've been around Buells a long time and you are always honest and passionate in your assessments.
I too am excited by the Ulysses, regardless of whether I can seriously consider it as a stablemate in my already overfilled stable.
However, I have to respectfully disagree when you say that Buell has redefined a segment of motorcycling. I believe Buell has wisely joined an existing segment of motorcycling that is historically lacking in the U.S., but is now ready to become more mainstream.
It is groundbreaking in that a U.S. company is finally venturing into a segment of motorcycling that is inundated with bikes such as v-stroms, tigers, GS' etc. That is phenomenal in that it gives consumers a different viable choice when perusing a field of Japanese and European powerhouses.
So with that in mind, what I don't want to see is Buell saying that the Ulysses fits into its own adventure/touring category and use that as an excuse to explain any shortcomings that may become evident when holding it against the benchmark of the current A/T bikes.
I love the new Ulysses (at face value). I would buy it in a heartbeat if the accountant/SO would let me, but I don't think it is particularly groundbreaking in the grand scheme of things. |
Trojan
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 04:35 am: |
|
I've just put down a deposit on one, so please don't buy them all in the US first
These will sell massively in Europe. Adventure bikes are the only sector in the M/C industry that is showing any significant growth over here, and it is no surprise thatthe BMW GS1200 outsells the Yamaha R1 now. I think Buell may have only one of two problems with this:
1. Keeping up with all the orders. If customers have to wait too long they will look elsewhere.
2. Getting people into H-D dealers to see it. There is still a major reluctance in the UK by sportbike riders to even enter a H-D shop, particularly as they are often treated like lepers by staff and stereotypical H-D beardies when they walk in wearing 'sports' leathers etc. This isn't helped when some dealers tuck what small Buell stock they have in the darkest deepest corner of the shop and have little or no knowledge of their product. |
Court
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 05:38 am: |
|
Johnny: First, thank you for your conversational tone and demeanor...great way to get a thoughtful and meaningful response.
>>>>but I don't think it is particularly groundbreaking in the grand scheme of things.
I agree. Most folks probably don't thinkthat. Most folks probably, like I did, think they are looking at a replacement for a V-Strom, Multi-Strada or F650....I know I did.
Based on several events that have occurred, 3 in the USA and one in Merry Ol' London United Kingdom England Great Britain, I think you, as time passes, will ebb toward my camp. I know I will be learning more.
Here it is in a nutshell. I have an F650....been riding daily since the ULYSSES intro. It's a great BMW, very capable, tons of luggage and great fit and finish. But, and this is where we need to talk, it handles like a P-I-G. It's not only not confidence inspiring, it's almost scary. I had the chance to ride some test S-3's in 1997 (some here recall the story of my first aerial adventure on a Buell) that had the front geometry modified. It was dead stable at top speed, but exhibited very unsettling low speed handling.
Anyway....at present there's little more than I can say. I'd ask, for the moment, that you withhold casting your thoughts in stone until you see, ride or we begin to get some "BadPut" (that's when a Badwebber rides a new Buell).
As an aide to show you what I am talking about, I hope you keep a close eye on the industry press. There are, I suspicionate, more than 2 moto-mag staffi who are slapping the side of their instruments, confirming lap times and challenging their own results....."how can this be?....they'll say..."it's a dual-sport".
At that point, I expect you and I will need to discuss further the "groundbreaking" observation.
Trojan: You NAILED the two major concerns. Demand, in the first 72 hours, has been, even to the most optimistic, beyond wildest expectations. If you want to get a sense of the problem, check out the development video at www.buell,com (the website has been changing nearly daily).
In addition, I suspect that Erik's recent trip to Merry Ol' London United Kingdom England Great Britain will be a pre-cursor of things to come. Expect the dealer ship to rise and the product to appear at very visible (that's where you come in.  ) places.
Your observations are spot on.
Court |
Reepicheep
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 08:14 am: |
|
quote:Dhutty - that's a good idea, but how are you going to get a gorilla with a suitcase to ride the new Ulysses????
Pick Me! Pick Me! |
Bomber
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 09:09 am: |
|
In the spirit of seeking the truth . . . . .
self-defecating
er, is there any other kind? |
Johnnylunchbox
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 11:28 am: |
|
Court - I see what you are getting at. I was purely thinking in terms of mere dual-sportedness (I think I coined a new word) or adventure-touredness (aha!!! another one). Clearly there will be the KTM or the KLR with better offroad prowess, but I can make a reasonable prediction that the Ulysses will outhandle any A/T out there (and probably even some full on sportbikes). So in that respect -if I understand what you are talking about- I stand corrected. The Ulysses will be groundbreaking. It will definitely be interesting to see what the motorcycle press has to say.
Steve |
Court
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 01:25 pm: |
|
>>>(and probably even some full on sportbikes).
Save that.
Print it.
Highlight the word "some".
send me an E-MAIL on August 15th.
Let's talk.
Court |
Mikej
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 01:37 pm: |
|
"August 15th"
   |
Ceejay
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 01:44 pm: |
|
After looking at the website, still wanting to see one in person, all I could think about was the amount of thought that the buellers-Erik, Elves, employees, guys at the bar, etc. put into that thing. I always thought the my tuber was made, and I am not complaining here, in order to build; capital, name, and idea to get to the next step which I thought was the XB platform but it almost looks as if the XB's had this in mind more than they had street bikes, very well done and I hope they ride as well as they look |
Charlieboy6649
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 - 11:49 pm: |
|
In response to the original question. I believe they will. I believe,"Sell like hotcakes" was the original term...? |
Tramp
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 12:29 am: |
|
IThankYew |
Phatkidwit1eye
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 02:48 am: |
|
Being one of the younger members of the board, I have to say the bike is really growing on me. Once I got over the whole "more power" thing. I really am starting to see this bike as something I would buy. Hopefully they have a even better version in a few years when I turn 25. Maybe by then I will be able to keep my X1, own a Ulysses and be able to afford the insurance for both. Only thing keeping me from buying one right now is insurance. |
Tramp
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 07:25 am: |
|
this happens with younger fellers. as the eyars bring you more sociosexually confidence, the compensatory need for more "Power" (can I get a flag, here, Dr. Freud?) diminishes
proportionately. unless, of course, there's a "proportion issue" elsewhere ...
You'll know if there is, if you dream about buying a 'vette..... |
Xring
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 09:56 am: |
|
I'm not in the market at all, and particularly not for an "adventure tourer" or whatever you want to call it (is there a standard term yet?). But it is growing on me. After reading the CW test, I must admit my curiosity is aroused.
Did everybody catch the part about the exhaust gaskets? They say the engine has another pony or two in proper tune.
I hope they sell every one they make; the only thing I'd worry about is if the Harley dealers try to bump the sticker price as they are accustomed to doing with the HD's. Maybe they're not supposed to do that with the Buells...
Good luck and good job to Buell and company. It seems the engineering and especially the marketing and introduction of this bike has been exemplary.
Bill |
Oldguy
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 01:32 pm: |
|
Went in to the local HD/Buell dealer yesterday to see when they would have a Ulysses on display. "We're dropping Buell" was the response. Then talked to owner of the Suzuki dealership a couple doors away and he said adding Buell could be a good move. Sounds like what we've been saying for years, "It's the dealers". Maybe someone at Buell should put a call in to Santa Maria, CA.
Glenn |
Budo
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 01:43 pm: |
|
Only HD dealers may have Buell. Modesto was owned by Modesto HD which was up the street. Modesto Buell appeared to be an independant shop when they were actually physically removed from the HD shop. Which of course was a good thing. |
Johnnylunchbox
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 09:20 pm: |
|
Court - printed and highlighted (no... seriously I did).
Can anybody loan me a cool 11 grand? |
Oldguy
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 09:39 pm: |
|
I know that about Modesto. Maybe it's time for Buell to put it's bikes into stores where people are looking for sporting bikes and the sales force might have a clue. It's pretty obvious to most of us that the many HD/Buell dealers don't "get it" and don't know how to sell Buells. Many have dropped Buell and maybe it's time to drop the "must be a HD dealer" requirement.
I'm sure we all want Buell to grow their sales and moving to dealers that understand sport bikes could help that happen.
Glenn |
Jon
| | Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2005 - 10:03 pm: |
|
Buell instigated many of these departures, it wasn't always the HD shops dropping Buell. Buell and Harley assessed their dealer network and in several cases cut off the offending dealers.
I am fortunate to have a couple of good dealers out here in the Bay Area. |
Shanetbolt
| | Posted on Friday, July 29, 2005 - 01:48 pm: |
|
Oh hey guys...I saw my first Ulysses yesterday going home from work. It was waiting for a green light on the off ramp in Waukesha on J and 164. It turned north and it was yellow. I hurridly went to Hals to see if they had one on the floor. The answer was no, but they should be at the Milwaukee Rally this weekend. The sales guy also mentioned that it probably was a COV or Eric himself.
Well I am anxious to get a closer look and for a demo ride. |
Midknyte
| | Posted on Friday, July 29, 2005 - 02:50 pm: |
|
Buell instigated many of these departures, it wasn't always the HD shops dropping Buell. Buell and Harley assessed their dealer network and in several cases cut off the offending dealers.
Heh, and you know they're trying to save face by say "we [dealer] dropped them [Buell]" |
Mfell2112
| | Posted on Friday, July 29, 2005 - 07:35 pm: |
|
Shane you thinking of buying a Uly? I think that bike is right up your alley.
Regards
Mike |
Steve_mackay
| | Posted on Friday, July 29, 2005 - 08:44 pm: |
|
Shane, I'll email ya when Hals gets their 1st one. I'm anxiously awaiting it's arrival myself
I looked for ya a TWT at Culvers Tuesday |
Whatever
| | Posted on Sunday, July 31, 2005 - 10:01 am: |
|
Where is it Court? What is up? Thanks for the warm greeting at Homecoming... you made my day that day!!! This summer has been hell on earth.
After accepting the fact the M2L was going away, the attorney and I are now very very close to working out an agreement with the bank... just started riding again yesterday...
OK saw specs on buell.com ... Dangitttt! I would have to grow about 5 and 1/2 inches to be able to ride the new X ?!?!? OR get a really huge pair of platform moto-boots 
Char
(Message edited by Whatever on July 31, 2005) |
Court
| | Posted on Sunday, July 31, 2005 - 11:01 am: |
|
>>>Where is it Court?
Headed out riding and waiting to play with a Ulysses!
Good to see you and glad all is working out!
Court |
Regkittrelle
| | Posted on Sunday, July 31, 2005 - 12:49 pm: |
|
Court.. I am in absolute agreement with you re the Ulysses. This is, to quote myself, a "shockingly good" motorcycle. |
Court
| | Posted on Sunday, July 31, 2005 - 04:46 pm: |
|
>>>send me an E-MAIL on August 15th.
I guess you can ditch that August 15th, BIKE hit the stands sooner than I'd expected.
Good bye pundits......the "Truth Train" is quickly pulling away.
|
Todd451
| | Posted on Sunday, July 31, 2005 - 05:18 pm: |
|
Hi, I have posted only once previous but have been reading regularly for several years. I have never owned a Buell but I will probably own a Ulysses. I have always liked the style & concept of Buells, especially the tube frame bikes. Actually, I have been moved by them. I kind of love them in a way I never loved my SV650. But I never bought one because I already have so many things to maintain. Four kids & their bikes, etc. I was afraid to spend big money (to me) on a bike that might not be too reliable. I am convinced that the XB's are reliable and I love the ergo's of the new bike. Having grown up riding dirt bikes in the woods here in Tennessee I have always been a little uncomfortable in a sport, or even semi-sport riding position. I have looked at the BMW's and thought that would be perfect for me but will probably never spend that kind of money. I really like the idea of exploring the country on a bike like the Ulysses. I am thrilled will all of the positive press. I hope that I am not too short for it at only 5'7". A tall seat on a light weight dirt bike is one thing, but... |
Whodom
| | Posted on Sunday, July 31, 2005 - 05:34 pm: |
|
Todd,
See the review at sacborg http://www.sacborg.com/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=1&t=013152 written by Reg Kittrelle. He says he's 5'8" with a 30" inseam, and didn't have any problem handling the Ully with the low seat (see photos of a Ully with a low seat in this thread: http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/4062/130817.html?1122845302) |
|
