| Author | Message | ||
     Gfahey |
OK, I'm 51. I haven't ridden for about 25 years but, have never stopped thinking about riding again. The good news is that the bikes now are just fantastic. Buells have uttterly stolen my heart. I love the Cityx and the XB 12Ss but, I will want to take wifey along occasionally and since I carry a lot of camera gear around, love the luggage capabilities of the 12x. My question? I'm a pretty capable rider and feel confident that I can pick up where I left off years ago. My problem is I have not ridden a 12x. I sat on an 06 model last year but, the seat height frustrated me from the get go. I'm just under 5'10" and have heard the 07 models (along with the optional lower seat) might work for me. Also, is the 12x something that I can not feel intimidated by? What I mean is, is this a bike that would have me thinking "Whoa! I should have bought a 500cc bike!"? You know what I mean? From what I've read, this bike can pretty much do it all, although I don't expect this to be an enduro by any means. I live in an area with a lot of potholes, frost heaves, dirt roads so, I think the 12x's suspension will soak up the roads pretty well. I mean, I've run through about 20 bikes in my head (and researching on the web) and I keep coming back to the 12x. It fits my criteria (with perhaps the KTM 990 Adventure a close second. This bike being a scorcher which I feel will get me in trouble!). Any advice on this greatly appreciated. I know I've GOT to take one out but, there are none in the showrooms here right now. I'll have to wait till spring. But, I am saving the $$ anyways. You know what got me started on a 12x? When one passed me one summer's day and I was stunned at the sound. I saw a bike in the rearview and, as always, slow down and let them pass me. What I heard (and felt) was sublime! The rumble was intoxicating and I wanted it! Sorry to ramble. I want back into the game and value opinions on this. Dear God, please don't discourage me too much OK?  | ||
| Old_man |
If you try the new one and you think it still too high for you, why not consider the 12Ss. It might work for you. A tank bag and saddle bags could be made to work, carrying your equipment. (Message edited by old man on November 25, 2006) | ||
| Irideabuell |
Gfahey, I'm 42, 5'6" tall and have a 2004 xB12s. I've owned lots of bikes since I was 16 and this one is by far my favorite of all. The height is fine for me. There's a little tip-toe action on occasion, but it's totally manageable. With your extra 3-4 inches over me it should be a breeze for you. If you've ridden substantially in the past the power shouldn't be overwhelming - provided you've had a bike of comparable displacement. It takes some getting used to, but ride it like crazy for a couple of months and it will "fit like a glove". I grew up in central VT, so I know what kind of roads you're likely to face in Maine. What I wouldn't give to be heading for Maine (where my Dad was from) on a warm spring day through the mountains of NH on the way. The 12 would be fine on the occasional washboarded, dirt roads with an eye toward hitting that twisty pavement. Luggage wise, I have all the Buell luggage and find that sufficient for my use. However, there is a ton of info on all BWBs' feelings on what the best luggage is, so soak it up. Lastly, the ride for a passenger is not the most comfortable. I have the Select seat and my wife will only go on short rides with me. Now, if your wife is a thin, skinny-butt like my nieces they will love it and can travel much further. My wife is my height and a size 8 if that gives you a point of reference. Best of luck with your selection. I know there isn't a great deal of dedication to the Buell brand in the tri-state area up there. None of the dealers in VT sell them. If you're ever in Orlando, FL give me a shout. I can show you first hand all about Buells as can many of the BWB family members. | ||
| Diablobrian |
The HP of the bikes is probably more than what you were dealing with back in 81 or so, the bottom line is your ability to control your own right wrist. Being an at least semi-mature adult(like most of us here) that should not pose too great of a problem. It msy take a bit to gain confidence starting and stopping a bike as tall as the Uly. The upcoming SST outfitted with a Uly tail may be another option to consider. A kind of best of both worlds with extra ground clearance, not as tall, while keeping the hard bags and passenger seat. There should be one of the Uly/SST hybrids build very soon after they are released. If you feel comfortable with the 07 Uly there is no reason I can see not to get it if you have the means and desire. Like I've said before: Riding is one of life's great passions. You cannot explain what it means to be a rider to someone that doesn't ride. They have to feel it. | ||
| Dano_12s |
G f,You should line up a test ride,07 has the low seat stock.12X sounds like a good fit,pass. comfort is great,extra travel really soaks up the road.Good luck. | ||
| Gentleman_jon |
When I decided to get back into riding a few years ago, after a very long hiatus, I shared your concerns. As my nephew Ben observed, " Things have changed a lot since you used to ride, Uncle Jon". Boy, did he get that right!  The good news, is that in spite of their much greater power, the bikes of today have so much better frames, suspension, brakes and tires, and are so much more reliable, that they are easier to ride than the beloved mounts of one's youth. And the best part is: you don't have to kick start them!! That leaves the question of engine power, which has at least doubled, in many cases, over the last 25 years. I was amazed to discover that even though current engines are so powerful compared to the old days, they are so much more docile, that the power is not a problem if one can exercise the amount of self control that every fifty year old should have. Your assumption that the XB12X will suit your local roads seems about right to me. The great thing about this bike, is that in spite of its off road capability, it is still an excellent corner carver. Bottom Line: GO FOR IT. PS. The XB9's are perhaps a bit more docile in the hands of someone just getting back into it than the Twelve, so you might want to test ride a City X as well. I used a Blast as my re-entry vehicle, as the last bike I owned was an English 500 single. I sold that after about a month, and got an XB9. Thirteen thousand miles later I switched to a Twelve. I think that progression may have helped me be get back into riding in a safe and orderly way. PPS. The riding gear of today is light years ahead of the old stuff. The recommendation of many members of this board is to get some good gear right away, and wear it all the time. Especially important for the "Senior Streetfighter". | ||
| Gfahey |
Jon, So true. The wildest bike I rode was back in 1975. It was a Maico 400 and it was a beast. I'm sure the stats today make it pale in comparison but, the Maico 400 was THE dirt bike then. I never took it out of 2nd gear. Today that bike would have dual disc front at the least and superb suspension. Still, it was FUN! I have to say that I still can't quite get over how short the WB looks on a Buell. When I sat on a City X I felt I could kiss the front tire! The Uly is bigger but, when I see photos of 2 up on it, I think "will this thing flip at the flick of my wrist?". I also believe getting a Buell has the benefit (if you want to call it that) of being "in" with the Harley crowd. Harley's used to be a blue collar bike when I was younger. Now? Everyone has one! I dig them. How can you not? But, I am old school in that I like the up high and upright seating that a Uly affords. It suits me as I rode a lot of dirt bikes. I feel more in control and able to get of trouble better than if my feet were forward and my butt low. But, getting back to my thoughts. the Buell, for all intents, is a Harley for guys like me. That's how I see it. I intend to get good gear. Love the armor that's so prominent now. "Senior Streetfighter" scares me. Not the "streetfighter" part but the "senior" part. I'd prefer something like "Mature Hooligan". Yeah, that's it! Thanks to all for the input. Love to hear anything and everything. Great community for the Buells too. I like that. | ||
| Crusty |
I'm 5'8" tall with a 30" inseam. I have an '06 XB12X with the Low seat. The only time I have trouble with the bike is when I try to back it up. I have to get off, then back up. If you're used to dirt bikes with long suspension, you'll have no problems with the size of the Uly. You will have to learn some throttle control, as the front wheel just loves to come up, especially with a passenger. I suggest you try a demo ride. If you like it, then get one. | ||
| Jlnance |
Hi Jon, Welcome to Badweb. I haven't ridden for about 25 years but, have never stopped thinking about riding again. Welcome back! I would highly recomend Harley's Riders Edge class if your dealer offers it. It is their "learn to ride" class. You of course alreay know how to ride, but the class will give you 2 days of very good practice on someone elses bike. The way most dealers work he program is you get your money back if you buy a bike from them, so the class is essentially free. The seat height frustrated me from the get go. I'm just under 5'10" and have heard the 07 models (along with the optional lower seat) might work for me. My understanding is there is only one 07 seat, which is lower than the 06 seat. The 06 had high and low versions, but the low was not as comfortable. For 07 they figured out how to make the seat both low and comfortable. Also, is the 12x something that I can not feel intimidated by? What I mean is, is this a bike that would have me thinking "Whoa! I should have bought a 500cc bike!"? I think you will be with the engine size. A 1200cc air cooled V-twin does not have nearly the HP of a 600cc race style bike. I live in an area with a lot of potholes, frost heaves, dirt roads so, I think the 12x's suspension will soak up the roads pretty well. I think it will handle that very well. I know I've GOT to take one out but, there are none in the showrooms here right now. I'll have to wait till spring. DaveS will be happy to sell you one if you're willing to ride it back from Wisconsin.  | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
G, I rode dirtbikes when I was in my teens. I got back into riding now in my thirties. I approached reentry as though I had never ridden (and my skill set was very rusty anyway). I took the MSF course like any new rider (should). I took the attitude that pride comes before the high speed get off, and that I wanted to ride until I couldn't drive any longer. I picked the Uly as my reintroduction bike. I could have bought a KLR, SV or something else as a starter bike and converted, but I wanted to buy one bike and grow into a long term relationship with it (cue harps and violins). The Uly has great power and handling, and it is fairly forgiving. I have pushed beyond my 7/10th riding ability and have been able to pull back before anything bad happened. I don't think the 12 is going to be a problem for you as long as you show it due respect until your skill-set has returned. It isn't like you are buying a ZX-14. It doesn't have that kind of power. You will also not be looking to trade up in 6-18 months. | ||
| 12r |
The most dangerous time if you're coming back to motorcycling is the 12-24 months after you start riding again. Most people go steady at first and just operate the controls, so to speak, but after a while the confidence creeps back and with it the enthusiasm to take a few chances. Stay cool, believe everyone else is blind and assume nothing. As for the bike, the XB12 is one of the best - it'll burble around town or pull your arms off.  | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
Fryeburg Maine!! Thats COLD country!! I stopped in Saco for a lobster in May, and about froze.... What ever you end up with, I would highly urge you to take a MSF, or Riders Edge class, and buy some heated gloves!!  | ||
| Djkaplan |
"I'm a pretty capable rider and feel confident that I can pick up where I left off years ago. " An attitude like that might be the recipe for disaster - 25 years is a long time. I'd definitely take it slow and easy, especially if you're going to be riding with a passenger. I read some statistics that reported older riders who are re-entering the sport are having the highest rates of fatalities. I'd heed Gentlemen_Jon's advice... "I think that progression may have helped me be get back into riding in a safe and orderly way." The bikes aren't anymore dangerous to ride than when you stopped riding, but without constant honing of your riding skills, you may not be able to exploit the greater braking and handling capabilities to keep yourself and your passenger out of trouble. | ||
| Diablobrian |
Also the brakes on modern bikes are more powerful than they were 25 years ago. be gentle and on a Buell use the front brake for primary stopping power. 80+% of your braking force is in the front brake. The rear is almost too powerful for the weight bias and will lock up very easily. This is the opposite of the days of drum rear brakes. The good news on that front is that the feedback from the brakes is also much better and with a little saddle time you will get to know just how hard you can stop your new bike. While it is possible to brake hard enough to go over the handlebars you have to be either a)trying to, or b) in a panic situation. Practice helps avoid the panic induced crashes. if you take it easy, practice good habits, use good judgement, and wear your gear you should be fine on a new bike. |
