| Author | Message | ||
     Coloradogirl |
I am new to this site but old on the Advrider site. Here is an post I put on the Advrider site. Would like to see what the Uly experts have to say. I am really thinking about a 2008 ULY . As some of you may remember I was a BMW adventure rider. Loved the bike except for a few issues. The biggest one was the bike was too heavy. If I dropped it I was toast. So I started to rethink my riding and my bike. So after some long thought I have started to look at the 2008 HD Uly. So here are my thoughts based on having ridden Beemers for a few years. First the ULY has a much stronger dealer network Believe it or not ULY parts on the whole are cheaper the beemers ULY needs less service, no valve adjustments, no throttle body sync, no spline lube. ULY is Lighter much lighter. 425lbs dry Better mileage 50+mpg vs 40mpg (on a good day) More HP and more Torque than my 2003 1150GS Better handling OK now for some negatives It is not a beemer Small gas tank 4.4gal vs 8gal taller by a bit. Less wind coverage with stock screen aftermarket unknown? Now for some nuetrals or unknowns All day riding comfort compared to my beemer ? Heated Grips the both come with them stock Off Road ability ? OK am I crazy is the ULY a looser or a winner. I would love to here your opinion. | ||
| Desmo900 |
Ding! Ding! Ding! Winner! Winner! Winner! I've had alot of bikes and my Uly is hands down my favorite of them all. For each of the negatives you have mentioned there is a solution in the BadWeb search engine... except for the "not a Beemer" one. but who wants a beemer anyway? | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
There are several recovering BMW riders among our ranks. You will raise the ire of many here with the whole "HD Uly" thing, though.  One of the things that is an intangible that you didn't mention, fun! Every where the 1150GS is sedate and insulating, the uly drives to provide positive rider feedback. The Uly isn't designed to insulate the rider from the experience but to distill every positive part of the experience into excitement and grins. If you haven't ridden one, do. It will answer all your questions for you. The "niggles" you mentioned have fairly simple solutions. The rest is simply taking a hit from the big ole Uly crack pipe. PS. Welcome to Bad Web! Best people on the planet! | ||
| Cyclonedon |
Coloradogirl, just do one thing. Test ride a Ulysses and then you'll be hooked Best all around motorcycle ever built!!! I have a 2006 model Ulysses and I'll have this same motorcycle in 20 years from now if I'm still alive! I'm NEVER going to get rid of it, it's a keeper!!! | ||
| Bertotti |
I was going to buy an R1200 GS adventure. I can't say that it felt heavier because I didn't notice the weight when I got on it. I only bought the Uly because of a low ball bid on my old bike. I didn't do any real research on the Uly I just went to the local HD and looked at it. I sat on it a few times and bought it. Now I am very glad I did. Less expensive service. I have a good dealer here if I need it, and it is very fun to ride. I has never been on a bike with this much torque. Plus there are plenty of farkles and ways to make it yours. Ride it and you'll leave with it. I did lay mine down parking it and it really wasn't that hard to pick up, just don't grab the seat to do so in the excitement of laying it down. Let me be the first to say congratulations on your new bike even though you haven't bought it yet, you will. | ||
| Jlnance |
Welcome to Badweb! First the ULY has a much stronger dealer network That is a scary thought  Dealers seem to be the weak link with Buell. Many HD/Buell dealers aren't really interested in Buell (and not all HD dealers are Buell dealers.) If your local dealer is a good one, it makes a lot of difference. You need a testride to answer your other questions. It has a much different character than a BMW. Whether you like that or not is simply a matter of preference. People who like the Ulys tend to like them a LOT. | ||
| Firstbatch |
As an avid motorcyclist and having had several BMW's in the stable over the years I can say without question that the Uly is the most fun motor I have had the pleasure to ride. Factor in the incredibly low entry price, especially for a lightly used model, and the Uly is simply a must have. I agree that a test ride would give you the final answer to many of your questions, but unless you can arrange a longer sampling like a weekend ride then you may not come away with the full appreciation for what the Uly is all about. If the stars are lined up for you to be able to add another bike or replace the GS then just jump in and gather up a Uly. No test rides for me and it has been pure pleasure since. I'm with Cylonedon.....the Uly will be a keeper forever! | ||
| Coloradogirl |
I guess more places then the quality. I would hope that even a non Buell HD dealer would be better help then a honda dealer if you were stuck on the road. But maybe I am wrong. | ||
| Supertoon |
As noted above,I would strongly recommend renting one for a weekend, the only way to be sure. After driving mine home from the dealer I thought I had made a big mistake,pinging from low octane, pogo suspension, fan howling away and my right thigh on medium broil. However get the thing figured out and dialed-in and now it rates as one of the best bikes I have ever had. It is by far the most comfortable bike I have ever owned, it has un-comparable driving experience and mine came with a really light front wheel!  | ||
| Wesman |
Oh....you're a tall gal....right? | ||
| Bienhoabob |
Cologirl, Are you also know as Dakota Dave? /www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=262239 | ||
| Froggy |
Mine also has a light front wheel. I believe I also accidently filled it with helium. Not all Buell dealers are the same. Some are great, some suck. You constantly hear about the sucky ones on here, so feel free to ask questions here. I agree that if possible that you rent for a weekend, but I was sold before I even sat on mine | ||
| Dentguy |
Try to talk with some other Buell owners in your area about a good dealer like Jlnance said above. I just heard a story, maybe on BadWeb about somebody who broke down near a Harley dealer and they wouldn't touch the bike. They had to take the bike much further to get it fixed, while on a trip. In my area you can't order parts or get service through the Harley dealer unless it sells Buell also. Just remember a Harley dealer and a Harley/Buell dealer are very different. I hope that doesn't scare you, just find the good dealer near you. Good luck. | ||
| Supertoon |
I am beginning to worry less and less about dealer support, you will read more bad news than good news of these types of forums. I have had and heard of horror stories for all kinds of motorcycle makes in all kinds of different places. Do try and find a sympathetic ear at you Buell dealership but just ride it like you stole it and deal with shit as it happens. | ||
| Ejc |
Although not all Harley dealers carry Buell, there may still be more H-D/Buell dealers than BMW. In Wisconsin, it seems to be the case. I'm not sure about Colorado. | ||
| Cityxslicker |
Uly!, the only other alternative is to take a CityX and ride it like a ULY ;) I have taken 2 BMW GS's in on trade on the ULY. I think that says quite a bit about the bike. | ||
| Doncasto |
I am also a previous BMWer that found the bikes to be substantive . . .in both quality and . . .unfortunately, weight and wheel base. After a brief sojourn without a Buell, I now own a 2007 Uly . . .and have found it to be the first Buell I have ever owned that arrived from the factory in a ride-able, dialed in condition. For most, the first issue seems to be seat height . . .not for me, however. I have had a local upholsterer, Dan Ballard, rebuild my stock 2007 seat . . .to make it taller, to add more of a seat pocket and to include gel pads. With this seat I have managed the single longest continuous motorcycle ride in some 40 plus years of riding. I did a round trip from Boulder to Dana Point, Ca last month . . .and came back in a "stop only for gas and food" 17 hour, 1042 mile run. My Uly is a daily driver for me . . .and I plan on keeping as such throughout the winter. The dealer situation is hit or miss in Colorado . . .even some of the Buell friendly dealers have staff that do not quite come up to the mark. The best approach to the HD/Buell dealer dilemma is to always cross their threshold fully informed and prepared. You have already taken a huge step in that direction in discovering the BWB . . . I suspect that your closest dealer will be in Grand Junction . . .and although I have had some promising phone contact with them years ago . . . I have not visited their store and know little about there present ranking in the world of Buellishness. There are several dealers that I can recommend along the front range . . .High Country Harley Davidson/Buell being the one I patronize. I would suggest, as others have before me, that you take every available opportunity to ride the Uly before making you purchase decision. The bike is not perfect, but it approaches that level for me . . .and the several minor considerations I have had proved to be easily remedied. Hope this helps . . . Don Casto Boulder, Colorado PS. You live in a great part of the state . . .I have been lucky enough to have driven through your neighborhood on several occasions. | ||
| Tipsymcstagger |
I know there is a "Dealer - Rate Yours" thread, but it might be nice to consolidate that info into a "good" and "bad" dealer list organized by state so those going on long road trips can have an idea where to go and where to avoid should they need dealer support. Tipsy | ||
| Madduck |
I sold my 1150GS about 6 months before the Uly was released based on a friends first look. Haven't regretted decision yet. the Uly has one real advantage over the BMWs, ease of changing gearing. You only really get that with belt or chain. My 1150 had the adventure gearing which is about the best choice BMW has ever had. Comfort wise the Uly wins hands down on any distance trip. In the winter it gets cold, I had the Aeroflow half fairing on the GS and do miss it some when it gets cold. Fuel tank range is the only thing I really miss, but there are fairly economical solutions if that becomes a huge issue. My favorite thing about the Uly is that solutions to any "quirks" are of the "inexpensive" variety, very different from BMW. I do carry tools and a spare belt but they don't really take up much room. Best of luck in your purchase decision. | ||
| Old_mil |
All the advantages you cite are dead on, and big advantages the Uly brings to the table. As far as it not being a Beemer - that's an advantage. That's what lets you escape from the inferior BMW dealer network, the expensive parts, the bad warranty, and so on. >Small gas tank 4.4gal vs 8gal Yes. The Uly doesn't have the range of the Adventure, even with the added mpg. >taller by a bit. Perhaps. But it's so much lighter, and so much better balanced that it doesn't feel that way. It's a much more manageable bike than the GS adventure. >Less wind coverage with stock screen aftermarket Lots of aftermarket options, parabellum makes a series of screens that will give you all the protection you could want. >All day riding comfort compared to my beemer? Bout equal, I'd guess. It's no less comfortable than the 4 BMWs I owned before abandoning the brand. >Off Road ability? Better, due to the lighter weight, better CG, and belt drive. The Uly is a huge winner, and will probably be the best bike you've ever owned. Buy, and enjoy. | ||
| Jlnance |
I would hope that even a non Buell HD dealer would be better help then a honda dealer if you were stuck on the road. One would hope. The thing that many don't realize is that HD dealers that are not Buell dealers can not order Buell parts. This limits their ability to help you, even if they are inclined to do so. | ||
| Bake |
I have 2 Buell so I am definatly a fan and was going through the same dilemma and just bought a GS because our Buell dealer wasn't playing ball. Unfortunately my view is the HD shops are Buells weakest link and I am not a HD hater either... as there is also 1 of them in the garage (wifes bike) It's all temporary anyways isn't it? | ||
| Coloradogirl |
OK folks, I have a few more questions for this very informative group. 1. A few people have mentioned some simple mods to help with the small fuel tank. Can anyone elaborate more. 2. Does anyone have an O8, from what I have read in MCN it is a pretty big improvement in a lot of areas but the biggest being the turn radius lock to lock any more comments from those in the know. 3. I plan on adding the ULY luggage set though I have seen that Tourtech has there stuff for the ULY as well. I love top loading but the H&B stuff is priced very well and looks good on the bike. comments please 4. I am 5'11" with a 33.5 inseam does the stock screen work OK for my height or would the Buell tall screen be worth a look? 5. Power mods for the bike anything I should know or look at. 6. Are there any must do mods, ok how about very nice to do mods to the ULY that I should consider. 7. Last I live near some really cool off road jeep trails. Is the ULY really up to this kind of riding.- places like Engineers pass from Ouray to Lake City and many others- can the ULY handle roads like this Thanks you have been very helpful. If I get the trade I want the ULY will be mine. Still up in the air but I am at least hopeful. | ||
| Jlnance |
Glad it might work out for you. Are there any must do mods, ok how about very nice to do mods to the ULY that I should consider. 1 - The headlights suck, you will want something better if you intend to drive at night. 2 - XB9 primary chain mod since it sounds like you will be running off of pavment. 3 - Your muffler will rust. You can paint it periodically, or get it ceramic coated. I did the ceramic coating and I love it. 4 - Ceramic coating the headers as well will keep the heat down and keep them shiney (if you care.) I would have done mine, but getting them off the bike was intimidating. If you're more mechanically inclined than I, consider it. | ||
| Bertotti |
treadmarks just put a big bore kit in. I like the oem luggage but also prefer the top loading stuff. HB has top loading stuff and I think it will fit the oem rack but would certainly find out from someone else. As far as wind screens that is so subjective to the individual you really need to try some to see which you like. There are several other Uly riders in Co. I would pm them. One of them has taken some of the trails in the mountains out there in some areas you would really wouldn't want to try if you don't have some off road experience. I think your ability will dictate where you can go. Avoid sand and mud. | ||
| Old_mil |
There have been a few individuals who have added tail mounted auxiliary fuel cells to their Ulys, there was a picture thread floating around here somewhere. Other than that, you can't expand the fuel capacity with a tank replacement or anything of the sort. I would get the 08. The Touratech luggage is beautiful, but pricey. Initially went with soft bags so that I can run with them off when I'm riding locally, but went to a hard bag setup with Fehlings racks from 2 Wheel Touring and Storm cases. At your height, your helmet will be in clean air. Sounds like a parabellum shield would be a good option. I wouldn't go with the tall Buell shield as I've heard questionable comments about it on here. | ||
| Saltydog |
A Uly at Engineers pass....get good at picking it back up. Uly can not off road. I own a Uly and after reading what you are looking for in a bike my advise is that you strongly look at a KTM 950 Adventure...there I said it. Ride both and then tell me how that orange ktm looks in your garage (I'll let you know how a black one looks in mine soon...). After spending the last 15,000 miles (replacing everything that can break off from falling over...twice) trying to ride the Uly like a dual sport I have to throw in the towel and accept its a tall road bike... | ||
| Coloradogirl |
OK Saltydog, what does break when you fall down. The passes here in colorado are mostly rock big ones and bigger ones. I like the KTM I like the new one with ABS a lot but I really am more road then off road. So I am not sure how important off road is to me. If I can take an occional jeep road or dirt road that may be just fine. Also do you think the KTM is as good a road bike as the ULY for me long distance comfort is very important. | ||
| Adrian_8 |
To ride those rough Colorado passes they are probably right, you need a KTM...a 450...nothing much bigger...These big heavy 950-1200cc bikes are not for this kind of stuff...On second thought...a Road King could do Engineer Pass with the right rider. It is very simple.. get the right tool for the job. | ||
| Bake |
I would think the KTM is the most off roadable, followed by the GS then the Uly. Being as you don't plan a lot of off road I'd say the Uly would be real nice for you plus being the lightest of the 3 would be a real bonus. No doubt the Uly can tour with the best of them. |
