| Author | Message | ||
     Sanjuro |
I've been reading your posts for the past few weeks and I thought it about time to contribute as I like to see new posts; and I'd like to contribute towards keeping this particular forum active as possible. I just broke 1100 miles last week on my 07 Black Uly (From what I hear, it's the faster one). A little about me: I've logged on over a 100,000 miles between my several street bikes; mostly "crotch rockets." This was a big change from my two steeds: ZX6, CBR 600. I was considering a CBR 1000, and a Ducati ST3 before choosing the Uly. I might expand on the reason another time; but for most of you, this should be self explanatory. Simply, my experience with the bike has been a lot of fun. But I've had some early frustrations having to do with the initial quality of service and QC/QA from the factory; and the fact that I've had to take it in after two weeks for a warranty related service was a bit disappointing. I am undecided at this point of using the local shop for maintenance work; but at least there is a guy that rides a Buell - and he seems to be a genuine enthusiast; and the scratches they've put on my brand new bike - they took care of, but still - the experience left a sour taste and the "enthusiast" could have been more understanding to my concerns. Overall, the after sales support has been disappointing both in terms of sales and service support but I'm probably going to give them a second and third chance. Since then, I've spoken with Al at American Sportbikes; cool dude with lots of knowledge, and I appreciated him taking the time to answer my questions. I'll be ordering more goodies from him in the future. On community: Buell riders - I like what I see. Impressive bunch; seems to be above the average on almost all aspects - most importantly enthusiasm and dedication to what we all love: To ride, and bond with our machine of choice. Although my new bike experience could have been better... I've had some great experiences with the bike regardless; it was, and it still the most fun I've ever had on two wheels. For now, I just wanted say a hello to everyone here and let myself be known - thus, I am no longer a "lurker"! Happy riding all, Nick | ||
| Bearly |
Welcome Nick, previously know as the "lurker" Glad you are having such a great time on a well engineered machine. Listening is good. Unfortunately I think sometime the very nature of boards such as some similar this this one is that you hear about all the problems. But as you've read, Bad web is a bit different in that there are people here that love to share all the good that comes with owning a Uly and the other Buells. There are folks that work for Buell (and ARE BUELL) on here that really want to help and institute changes when there is talk of trouble. I've never read where so many people will come to the aid of another with such genuine concern over a motorcycle. It's exactly what I wish it to be. That being said, I've recently completed a private study with my co worker who has a Black Uly, and discovered that it doesn't corner as fast as the my Yellow one!  | ||
| Xbimmer |
Welcome aboard! You will probably find more help here from fellow Buellers than from most any "Buell" dealership. My dealer's service dept has resisted in my year of ownership every problem I've brought to their attention, and guffed up three warranty repairs. I have another year of free maintenance services but I quit using them after the 5k. It's a common problem discussed here often, but the average HD dealer's lack of enthusiasm for the better bikes they sell is no reason whatsoever to regret your Buell purchase. My Uly rocks, and if I had the ability I'd have a stable full of Buells. Hang out here and you won't regret it!  | ||
| Court |
Nick: Welcome. . . I know your neighborhood and the great roads very well. You're going to love the Buell on those roads. I'm sorry to hear about your dealer experience as well. In the earlier years Latus was one of the premier dealers. I'm hoping this gets better over the coming year. Keep us posted and I'm eager to hear about your adventures. I'm beginning to feel the Uly tractor beam drawing me in. . . .yellow, black, yellow, black? Court | ||
| Hooliken |
Welcome Nick I am also a somewhat new convert to the ways of the Buell. The one thing I have noticed that I really appreciate about this forum is not only the extreme wealth of knowledge about our bikes. But the fact that differing opinions are welcomed and encouraged. In saying that what I really enjoy is that even when dealing with different view points I have yet to see anything digress to the point of hostility or see a site moderator get involved. Those of you who belong to other boards (especially sportbike specific) know exactly what I am talking about. So do not let the dealer experience turn you off to this amazing motorcycle. Get the service\parts manuals, order parts from American Sport Bike and only deal with the dealer only when absolutely necessary. And yes you are correct. The black Ulys are faster. I think the stealthy black has a lower drag coefficient or something..  | ||
| Crusty |
Nick; welcome. In spite of your early disappointing experiences, you're going to grow to love your Uly. It's an addicting ride that just keeps getting better. Hopefully, you'll find a better dealer soon. There are some good ones out there, with more appearing as the popularity of Buells increases. Court; go for the sexier ORANGE. Either that, or paint it AMAZON GREEN. Either color would look good, IMO. | ||
| Court |
Crusty. . . you got it. I've even been toying with the idea of seeing if I can con some of my old "Elf" pals to build a bit of a special one. How about a polished frame and some sort of translucent whatever with titanium grab handles and exhaust . . . . Yeah . . I may be infected.  | ||
| Maximum |
Welcome Nick! The biggest problem I have found with the Uly is how addicting it is. I'm in Seattle for a couple days experiencing withdraw symptoms!  But I think Crusty and Court are on the right track, custom colors is where it's at!   | ||
| Sanjuro |
Thanks for the welcome folks. Court, definitely - the bike has been spectacular for the roads around here where the green scenery is much better than the consistency of the country roads, e.g. Mt. Hood pass, German Town /Skyline, Hwy 14 and on fourth. Speaking of which, I'll attach a pic from my last ride through Hwy 14 - first rest spot where we grabbed some breakfast; notice the parking arrangement and guess who got there first. I have to admit I got a little crazy on my first time out with this bunch - but I have to say, I am a very happy customer when I can say I can chase down a sportbike through some high speed sweepers and arrive in comfort with luggage holding ice and a six pack...of Mountain Dew. The bike can really handle; shortly after burning off a pound of rubber from edges of my tires, I remember recalling that line on the Buell promotional video where Eric uses a cheesy sounding line of "this a sport adventure bike!" - "maybe that wasn't such a cheesy sales pitch after all" - I thought to myself before jumping back on my steed and unable to wipe off my ear to ear grin and ready for another round against the GXSRs. It was a glorious ride; and I am having fun with my motorcycle. Nick, | ||
| Sanjuro |
I thought I uploaded my picture - I'll try again. Maximum, nice pic and that color rocks - maybe that's the one that's as fast as the black ones I've been hearing about.  | ||
| Jflaig |
Welcome, and congrats on the best bike you'll throw out there. The little GSXRs might have laughed at you, but that was until you passed them. Whichever color you choose, ORANGE is best, you'll keep the ear to ear grin. They'll move when you start scraping pegs. It is easier than you think. As always, have fun, and enjoy the freedom. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Welcome Nick! Buellers are second to none! | ||
| Stewadi |
Welcome Nick!! Good to see another Ulysses fan up here in the Northwest! | ||
| Captain_nartman |
Welcome!!! N x | ||
| Panhead_dan |
Welcome Nick! I live here too- but over on the dry side of the state. The others are right when they say it just gets better. After about 2000 miles you will notice your Uly runs better and has more power. Not long after, you will be more familiar with it and less dependent on the dealerships. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty on this bike. It is user friendly! If you decide to ride where there is no rain, give me a call. Maybe we can hook up. I'm listed in the "Rider Assistance Network" on this site. Ride safe and CONGRATULATIONS!! | ||
| Sanjuro |
Thanks again guys. Frankly, the fastest color is whatever your own bike's painted I guess - but I'd betcha if the SR71 Blackbird was orange, an "Orangebird" if you will - I'd be it'd slow down a nautical miles.  Dan, I might look you up one of these days - I've traveled through your area before - actual breathing space, peaceful, - makes me want to retire sooner and get away from the grind here in the city. I'm noticing that the Buell is really getting better with more miles. I dig your profile, I've never thought about beer that way, but it makes perfect sense to me now that I think about it. ;) |
