G oog le BadWeB | Login/out | Topics | Search | Custodians | Register | Edit Profile


Buell Motorcycle Forum » XBoard » Buell XBoard Archives » Newbie says hello and has ?'s « Previous Next »

Author Message
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Sharpstick
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 04:39 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Hi there, new to the forum here but I've been lurking for a month or so. Live and work in Dallas TX area.

I've ridden before on a CBR600 (that was 10 years and 80lbs ago but I'm not counting anymore) . I've decided to purchase a bike and have narrowed it down to the XB. Still up in the air on whether to go with a S or R.

My questions are first and foremost on which helmet to go with. I know I want DOT+Snell and I'm willing to spend the money for a quiet and comfortable lid. Anybody know of a resource with a couple of reviews to help me decide? Personal experiences and suggestions would also be appreciated.

Also where is the best place to purchase in this area? Both of the Dallas HD dealerships are asking at or over MSRP. Is that what I can expect to pay? I'm very open to a untitled 05 or demo. If you don't mind telling me what did you pay and from where. Has anyone ever bought from "Daves" in WI had him ship it to you?

thanks
sharpstick
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

12r
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 05:03 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Welcome to the madness. If you liked the CBR6 I'd recommend a Firebolt, otherwise the Lightning is a good choice. I rode a CBR600RR last year and the Firebolt is less flattering than the CBR to ride around corners but it makes up for entry speed and mid-corner poise with a monster helping of torque. IMO the Firebolt has the edge when the suspension and tyres are dialled in but the CBR works better out of the box.

Helmets - I have an Arai RX7-RRIV and an AGV Ti-tech. The Arai is very comfortable and has phenomenal ventilation but it isn't quiet by any stretch of the imagination. The AGV is very quiet in comparison but the ventilation is marginally less effective. The Arai visor mists easily in cool weather and it's a faff to keep opening and closing it during mixed riding conditions. The AGV has a coated visor that stays totally clear in all conditions.

I use the Arai when it's > 70 F and the AGV the rest of the time.

(Message edited by 12r on June 08, 2006)
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Kurosawa
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 06:20 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Here ya go. More than you ever wanted to know:

http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-helmets/motorcycle-helmets.htm
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Brineusaf
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 06:24 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Welcome...
I paid just below MSRP (milquote), but had to pay additional shipping and other fee's so I think I spent more than most.

I wear a KBC Force RR. Ventilation is middle of the line, comfort is good, but it isn't quite either.

People's personal opinions are just that personal. I would suggest (as others probably will) going to a local shop around your area and trying on anything and everything that catches your eye. Certain shops might be kind enough to take the display helmet on a "short ride around the block."

Best of luck with whichever choice you make, and make sure you own more gear than just a helmet... hate for this to be your last post.
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Slaughter
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 08:37 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

I can strongly recommend Arai Signet. Not really a racing helmet (a touch heavy) but I use it for racing AND highway because it fit so well. Good ventilation AND I crash-tested mine in racing at Willow Springs:

Turn 1 - high side AT LEAST 3 hits in the one crash:

1 - the pavement
2 - Johnny Lowery (Duc 749 following me) hit the helmet with his front wheel
3 - my XB sidecase slammed down on the side of the helmet, driving my face into the dirt.

I owe my life to Arai.

(Message edited by slaughter on June 08, 2006)
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Daves
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 10:05 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Sharpstick,
Welcome to Badweb!
Can I interest you in a trip to Wisconsin for that new bike?
Give me a call if you want to talk details.
1-866-757-1651
ask for dave in the sales dept.
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Navygunner
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 11:23 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Hey Sharpstick,
I live up around the Denton Area. We have just started a BRAG organization based out of the Allen HD dealership. Look us up when you get around to purchasing.
As far as helmets and good prices, I would recommend the Arai Quantum II. It seams to cut down on wind noise and weighs next to nothing. Motoliberty off of Royal and 35 has Arai helmets at a very good price. Usually 10 to 20 percent off MSRP. They stock many other brands also. Well worth the look.
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Blake
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 02:16 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Welcome JP!

I like Shoei helmets and recommend them highly.

See if you can't get yourself a demo/test ride on "S" and "R" versions of the XB, or even give the big Uly a try.

Keep us updated on your progress towards ragaining two-wheeled status. : )
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Holling
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 03:14 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Welcome Sharpstick,

For city riding and commuting to work I would say buy an S for its upright riding pos. If the bike is just going to be a weekend toy for the countryside I would go with the R.
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Diablobrian
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 05:25 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Welcome to badweb!

First off, get the best quality helmet you can afford that fits your head. Don't
worry about the design, if it doesn't fit your head it won't do you any good.

I love my firebolt, remember you can modify the ergonomics of either version
quite easily. Either one's a winner, go with what moves you: )
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Mutation_racer
Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2006 - 05:40 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

welcome to the bad web.also our dealer is liberty hd buell in n.j. and if you want to buy it from us will give you a great deal and ship it to you also call me with any ? ask for anthony c 732-381-2400 ex22
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Sharpstick
Posted on Friday, June 09, 2006 - 05:41 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

Thanks for the feedback. Arai has 2 styles that felt good on me. I'll compare and see if the Quantum II or Signet were one of them.


Kurosawa, thanks for the link. BIG HELP

Daves and Mutation, I'm waiting on my wife to return to work after our second child and I've got some stock grants that will mature in the early fall. I'm planning on purchasing in that time frame. I'll be speaking to both of you before I buy. THANKS
jp
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Mutation_racer
Posted on Friday, June 09, 2006 - 09:24 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

good luck and welcome to the buell family
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message

Navygunner
Posted on Friday, June 09, 2006 - 09:34 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only)

http://www.thunderbikes.org/
This is our Brag Groups websight. Stop in and say hello anytime.
« Previous Next »

Add Your Message Here
Post:
Bold text Italics Underline Create a hyperlink Insert a clipart image

Username: Posting Information:
This is a private posting area. Only registered users and custodians may post messages here.
Password:
Options: Post as "Anonymous" (Valid reason required. Abusers will be exposed. If unsure, ask.)
Enable HTML code in message
Automatically activate URLs in message
Action:

Topics | Last Day | Tree View | Search | User List | Help/Instructions | Rules | Program Credits Administration