My short list is getting smaller.

I've elimitated the following bikes:

Kawasaki Concours - I really like this bike, but I already have a S/T bike that I really love and wouldn't think of selling.

Honda Goldwing - Ain't going to happen at this point. They're nice, but just too many gadgets, etc... Also, all thing needs is a roof and it **** near be a car.

Harley Electraglide Standard - I like Harleys and have owned many, but I'm just not in the mood for another Harley right now.

Rocket Roadster - I think if I decide to go this route, I'll just look for an '09 Standard Rocket and save a few bucks. The only changes for the Roadsters are the mid-mount pegs, pipes, a bit more torque and softer rear springs. I don't know what the price difference will be, but I'm sure I can get a better deal on a Standard Rocket. If the rear springs are that big of deal, I can change them.

Main bikes on my Radar at this point:

Standard Rocket - It had been quite awhile since I checked one out. I rode one some time ago, but had forgotten, apparently, how comfortable the bike was. I really like the sitting position. It fits me much better than the R3T. It sits lower, the pegs are in a comfortable location and so are the bars. I'll have to ride it again (been quite some time since I rode one), but I dig the ergos.

Thunderbird - I like the ergos on this bike too, plus it's quite a bit smaller and would be a little easier to throw around. The one thing I don't like is the seat. That thing is as hard as a brick. I weigh 150 lbs fully clothed and dunked in water. It'd take a 100 years for my ass to get that thing to break in a bit.

Thruxton - I really dig these bikes. I already have a bike for trips and I really think the Thruxton would be a fun bike to cruise around on out in the country. Of course, my Tiger is at it's best in those conditions so I'm a little reluctant.

At this point, I'm leaning towards the Standard Rocket. That's really what I wanted to begin with when I bought the Touring model. I let my wife influence my thinking a bit too much on that deal. She likes the look of the Touring better and likes the floorboards, etc... My problem with that is she MIGHT ride 6 times a year. The thing that really sticks out in my mind is what she said about the R3; "The tank looks like a whale's head".

I think it's kind of amusing that I'm contemplating simply switching models because Molinoman is contemplating the same thing, only the opposite direction. lol

Might I suggest taking a look at Honda's VTX 1800 line, Daryl. If you are not above buying used, you can steal low mileage, heavily customized versions of the 110 c.i. monster, many of which throw over 100 h.p. and 120ft/lbs of torgue to the rear wheel. Those can be had for $6-8K! Dealer-new leftovers from the '08(and very last)year models are selling for about $7500-8800, including a slew of spec 2 and spec 3 variants! Personally, I would recommend looking at the "F" model, either new or used , as it represents the pinnacle of Honda's development of the line. It is also the sportiest, most aggressively styled of the 6 different models of the VTX that Honda developed over the line's 7 year run. If you are looking for something more old school the "N" or Neo-Retro model might float your boat. These bikes are very reliable, well made and deliver more than enough oomph for all but the most power and speed lusty amongst us and, with modest a bit of work/money lots of power can be coaxed from the 1800's motor!

I think I would look really hard at a left over Classic rather than a Standard It already has the front floor boards and the handle bars set back closer to you for a more relaxed ride. My wife is like yours and doesnt ride with me much but I have the corbin bags and fairing that allows me to have the needed items for long trips but I also have the ability to yank the front end in the air and runs like a raped ape.

Daryl did I miss something? did your R3T die? or are you just looking to get rid of it.

I went the other way, from a Classic to a Tourer, with a Harley in between. I'm happier than I have ever been.

Daryl, dittos on what was said about the Classic, the bars are a bit closer to you in their pulled back position....I just happen to have one for sale. Maybe I'll ride over and let you take it for a spin.

It would have to be Wednesday or so as right now I'm in NO getting some pages added to my passport so that I can keep commuting to my job.

Dennis

Dave,

I have the R3T for sale. I'm likely going to pull the trigger on a Standard or the Thunderbird; leaning toward the standard. The dark horse is the Thruxton. I really like the Thruxton and my Tiger covers any need for speed, touring, etc... But again, I'm really leaning toward the Standard Rocket. It fits me much better than my R3T does.

Dennis, I'm off for 2 weeks so come on over and we'll do some riding.

you must be an Anglophile, Daryl. Obviously, it's ix nay on the onda Hay, eh?

I like Hondas fine (see above). I don't care for the styling of the VTXs. I also like the Roadstar Midnight. The problem around here is the dealer sucks and they own all of the Honda/Yamaha dealerships within 50 miles or better.

I stopped by the Harley shop today and tried out a few bikes. Frankly, I didn't like any of them. They've changed the seating position on most of the touring models and the seats are really wide. They cut into the insides of my legs. They must be catering to the *mostly* portly fellas that ride them.

I'm pretty well convinced I'll get a Triumph. I love the brand, get excellent service from the local dealer and there's not one on every street corner.

p.s. I don't know that I'm necessarily an "anglophile", but I ain't got nuttin' against 'em.

Daryl, I've got to go to the base (in Pensacola) to pick up some of my "old man" medicine in the morning. If....the weather doesn't look too bad I may give you a call when I get back to the house and drop off the Mustang and jump on the Rocket and come on out. I'm looking to do a quick jump on over to the general Quincy area to see where that "high point" is and get a picture to show Dave where the highest point in Florida is ...or is not.

I'll see if I can find your phone number and give you a call. If you are able to go I'll let you ride mine for a bit to see how you like the pull back bar position....no pressure on selling it to you...I just want you to see how it rides since it has been awhile since you have been on one.

I don't know if the rest of the N. FL gang wants to ride but you are welcome to ride as well. If you guys want to reply to this post. I will attempt to hold the rain gods at bay for this ride.

Dennis

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