Reliability

That is not what I asked. What I am looking at is instead of buying A Bonneville and fixing it up, I am thinking about just taking the money from the Harley and build the Rocket up a bit. I like the idea of more Horse power but am concerned about the reliability. I average 25,000 miles a year riding. The rocket x was purchased in late Sept. and already has 12,540 miles. What I would like is to talk to those that have rode their carpenter bikes for awhile and have racked up around 20,000 plus miles. This gives a much better picture of the reliability of the modifications. No offence but if you work for carpenter that is great but would really like to hear from the folks that are not affiliated with the company.:):):)
 
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I'd suggest a call and discussion with bob himself about it. Tell him your goals and expectations and see what he says, he may have some insight for you.

Personally, I can totally understand your POV, I built a high powe turbo motor, blowing very high boost levels. It lasted 55k very hard miles, quite a long time for what it was but if you go 25k a year, that's not exactly viable as a DD.
 
sonny said:
That is not what I asked. What I am looking at is instead of buying A Bonneville and fixing it up, I am thinking about just taking the money from the Harley and build the Rocket up a bit. I like the idea of more Horse power but am concerned about the reliability. I average 25,000 miles a year riding. The rocket x was purchased in late Sept. and already has 12,540 miles. What I would like is to talk to those that have rode their carpenter bikes for awhile and have racked up around 20,000 plus miles. This gives a much better picture of the reliability of the modifications. No offence but if you work for carpenter that is great but would really like to hear from the folks that are not affiliated with the company.:):):)
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THATS a good idea talk to the other owners and if you need info I can help
 
Built a few Harley's and after mods did not last long before we were going back in and making repairs. It is something worth checking into and will call. Just being real careful.
 
sonny said:
Built a few Harley's and after mods did not last long before we were going back in and making repairs. It is something worth checking into and will call. Just being real careful.
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Yep the HOT rod Harleys dont last they run super hot stock so they are not going to last running even hotter.
 
You just about have to modify the new Harley's. Stock they run really really hot. Even with mods to the exhaust and air with a good tune they still run hot but not as bad. Maybe why Harley's now come with water cooled heads? The Rocket is a better animal.
 
My old man used to tell me there are two people that take watches apart that's fools and watch makers. What turned me on to the Rocket was going from 1450 cc's in the RK to 2300cc's .There was no way i was going to spend $5K on the Screaming Eagle System and only get 10 more HP.. After owning the Rocket all these years and becoming accustomed to the power i switched over in 2008 to a Hyabusa. I guess it's inherent in all of us to go faster... Now i have three bikes that suit my riding moods...:sleep::):eek:.. Each one has been very reliable for me...!
 
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On a serious note, I would think that any bike you modify and almost double the power is always going to be less reliable. I'm not saying that the builder is not good, but their are so many variables, that the builder has no control over, like.....

How the owner of the bike rides,maintains,stores, and how often he uses the bike are all factors in longevity.

My neighbor ruined his HD because he cold starts it and then drops the hammer to redline 30 seconds later. Undoubtedly a dope, but their are a lot of dopes out there.

Now if you modify a bike to add a little power and smooth out some of its design issues, say a mild tune, get rid of the cats and let it breath a little better I'm sure your reliability won't suffer much, if at all.

Now if I were you this is what I would do.
1) leave the Rlll in a mostly stock state for comfort and reliability.
2) drop a Bonneville off at carpenter racing ( or order the parts and do it yourself)and let him have his way with it. The reason I say that is.

A) you can pick up a used late model Bonneville Cheap.
B) replacement, and aftermarket parts are plentiful.
C) it's a lighter and eaiser bike to work on.
D) it will be less expensive to maintain and ride.
E) you will have a very fast retro looking bike and will take everyone by surprise when you blow their doors off.

Of course this might not be what you want and if your over 6'2 you will look a little bit over sized for a Bonneville?

Have fun making a choice and I'm sure it will work out for you. Their is no utopia and everything is a trade off.

Disclaimer: I am not saying that Bob Carpenters modified bikes are not reliable, this is just the logic I have in my own head about any highly modified engine.

Sorry for the long response, I was not busy today!
 
That is exactly what my first idea was. Buy a late model Bonneville and fix it up. ;););) I am just attempting to make up my mind. Getting second opinions and input is very helpful. thanks:):):)
 
I stopped by carpenter's shop two years ago ( I'm only 50 miles away) Bob was very nice and gave me a short tour of the place. Shop was clean as a whistle, very Impressed. When I get my bonneville, I'll be going there.
 
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