So, yesterday I'm out on my favorite 80 mile weekend cruise and pull behind three Harley riders at a stop light...two single riders and one with a standard Harley chick on back...you know the type, think Mary in 20 years... :icon_mrgreen:
They were on what I would call Generic Harleys...not street rods or full dressers...sort of the Toyota Camry's of the HD world.
Anyway, they turn around, eye-ball my beloved GS, and start commenting among themselves. Not sure what they were saying due to the racket of their exhausts but it didn't seem friendly towards my bike. Not necessarily pr1ckish either...but there were eyes rolling and smirks in the direction of my ride.
To my complete and utter amazement-- when they start pulling away from the light the chick turns towards me, smiles, and waves as the riders gun their engines and take off at full throttle.
:icon_rolleyes:
It barely required effort to keep up with them...and I'm not that great a rider. Seriously, an Amish buggy would have presented more of a challenge. Admittedly, I had to downshift (to 5th) on the straightaways, but in the curves it wasn't even close...had to hit the brakes hard a few times to keep from running them over.
It was also great fun.
It was at the next stop light about 20 miles down the road that I noticed they didn't seem to know how to ride very well. All three riders kept both legs firmly planted on the road the entire stop (as though balancing was an issue) and all three were weaving through the lane as they pulled away from the light as though throttle control was not their strong suit. I thought two of them were going to side swipe each other as they tried to get up to a stable speed without wobbling into the ditch. My guess is they either had just bought the things or (just as likely) had owned them for years but only rode about 200 miles a year.
I guess my question after the above rambling is whether a 1200CC Harley is all that much faster than a GS...assuming similarly talented riders. I used to think the Harley would have an advantage on a straight road, but now I'm not so sure. Also, why do Harley riders seem to think their bikes are faster than what they actually are? Those three yahoo's really thought they were going to leave me in their dust.
P.S., 40 miles later when we parted company they nodded and waved as I rode off. I guess I sufficiently upheld the honor of cheap Japanese bikes everywhere. 8)
Haha, did anybody see the new South Park about the Harley riders? That was awesome.
I'm not really into being a diverse rider, but sometimes that's just how it is. Harley riders seem like they don't like imports, and I'm not to fond of Harley's. Maybe it's the type of people that ride them. Idk
similarly talented, on a long straight i would put my money on a harley. even with the extra weight, the engine is more than twice the size of the GS. also, they may be new riders, but also harleys are very heavy bikes, so maybe they just had their feet planted cause of the weight, same goes for the weaving. heavy bike man. GSrs take the super light weight to grantid. im sorry i dont know how to spell granted.
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 06:36:57 PMthey didn't seem to know how to ride very well. All three riders kept both legs firmly planted on the road the entire stop (as though balancing was an issue)
No, balance is not an issue... they obviously know how to ride... evidently you don't.
Its just good practice to have both feet on the ground when stopped. Both feet should also hit the ground at the same time when coming to a stop. In most states ITS THE LAW! If you don't stop and keep both feet down, you technically didn't stop!
Take the MSF, learn how to ride yourself and then feel free to comment on other peoples riding skills.
Sorry for bein a d i ck.. :cheers: Just hope to make us all better riders.
This topic particularly interests me, because for the last week or so my GS has been out of commission and I have been having to ride my father's bike. It is a Shadow 1100 (no, not technically a harley). My bike is much faster in a straight line, especially 0-60. They have the same top speed of roughly 110-115 but the GS gets there MUCH faster. I have found myself putting both feet down at lights on occasion, which is something I NEVER do on my bike. My left foot doesnt leave the shifter, EVER. Can't say anything for weaving, maybe I have better low-speed control than they did? :dunno_white: And the riding position hurts my back on this thing . . . and it's too loud . . . . and I look retarded wearing my sour apple green full-face helmet riding a black *and overly chromed* cruiser. . . . I want my GS back :cry:
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:06:51 PM
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 06:36:57 PMthey didn't seem to know how to ride very well. All three riders kept both legs firmly planted on the road the entire stop (as though balancing was an issue)
No, balance is not an issue... they obviously know how to ride... evidently you don't.
Its just good practice to have both feet on the ground when stopped. Both feet should also hit the ground at the same time when coming to a stop. In most states ITS THE LAW! If you don't stop and keep both feet down, you technically didn't stop!
Take the MSF, learn how to ride yourself and then feel free to comment on other peoples riding skills.
Sorry for bein a d i ck.. :cheers: Just hope to make us all better riders.
Actually, scott.... your left foot should hit the ground first.
If both feet hit the ground at the same time, that means you're not using the rear brake. Both front and rear brakes should be used during stops.
But I agree that BOTH feet should be on the ground while stopped. Helps with balance. When I'm on my dad's VStar1100, I HAVE to put both feet down. I can't put one foot up like I normally would on the R6
Quote from: annguyen1981 on November 09, 2009, 08:26:15 PM
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:06:51 PM
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 06:36:57 PMthey didn't seem to know how to ride very well. All three riders kept both legs firmly planted on the road the entire stop (as though balancing was an issue)
No, balance is not an issue... they obviously know how to ride... evidently you don't.
Its just good practice to have both feet on the ground when stopped. Both feet should also hit the ground at the same time when coming to a stop. In most states ITS THE LAW! If you don't stop and keep both feet down, you technically didn't stop!
Take the MSF, learn how to ride yourself and then feel free to comment on other peoples riding skills.
Sorry for bein a d i ck.. :cheers: Just hope to make us all better riders.
Actually, scott.... your left foot should hit the ground first.
If both feet hit the ground at the same time, that means you're not using the rear brake. Both front and rear brakes should be used during stops.
BUUUUUURN!!!! (micheal kelso voice from that 70s show. yea i know im alot younger then alot folks on here) :flipoff:
Quote from: annguyen1981 on November 09, 2009, 08:26:15 PM
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:06:51 PM
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 06:36:57 PMthey didn't seem to know how to ride very well. All three riders kept both legs firmly planted on the road the entire stop (as though balancing was an issue)
No, balance is not an issue... they obviously know how to ride... evidently you don't.
Its just good practice to have both feet on the ground when stopped. Both feet should also hit the ground at the same time when coming to a stop. In most states ITS THE LAW! If you don't stop and keep both feet down, you technically didn't stop!
Take the MSF, learn how to ride yourself and then feel free to comment on other peoples riding skills.
Sorry for bein a d i ck.. :cheers: Just hope to make us all better riders.
Actually, scott.... your left foot should hit the ground first.
If both feet hit the ground at the same time, that means you're not using the rear brake. Both front and rear brakes should be used during stops.
100% WRONG!
Check that with the MSF :icon_mrgreen: :cheers:
Do you drag your left foot while braking with the right? NO! you use your foot to brake if needed then when stoping BOTH feet hit the ground at the same time...
As per MSF training :thumb:
Yea Greg.. no Burn there buddy...
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:06:51 PM
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 06:36:57 PMthey didn't seem to know how to ride very well. All three riders kept both legs firmly planted on the road the entire stop (as though balancing was an issue)
No, balance is not an issue... they obviously know how to ride... evidently you don't.
Its just good practice to have both feet on the ground when stopped. Both feet should also hit the ground at the same time when coming to a stop. In most states ITS THE LAW! If you don't stop and keep both feet down, you technically didn't stop!
Take the MSF, learn how to ride yourself and then feel free to comment on other peoples riding skills.
Sorry for bein a d i ck.. :cheers: Just hope to make us all better riders.
Hmmm, I'm not going to debate the merits of keeping both feet on the ground at a stop--I've seen it argued for and against several times on this forum.
I can see how my original post was unclear about their foot usage however. Two of them were sort of pushing with their feet (Flintstone style) as they started creeping forward from a stop. They both kept their feet millimeters off the ground as they wobbled across the road until (I'd guess) about 30MPH. At least one of them used their foot for a major course correction as he accidentally tried to convert his ride from motorcycle to cub-cadet lawn tractor.
I'll take my chances learning how to come to a stop with two feet, one foot, or even no feet (momentarily) depending on the needs of the situation.
Yea.. where did you see that debated on here?? ???
Both feet down when stoped is not a discussion. There is no reason to not have both feet down.
How would you benefit from having a foot on the peg??
When stoped you should (1) Be in 1st gear (2) have BOTH feet on the gound :thumb:
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:36:37 PM
Yea.. where did you see that debated on here?? ???
I don't remember where and I'm too lazy to look it up...but it was usually in posts about shorter riders learning to ride without having to lower their bikes.
No need to suggest I'm a liar.
Ooo OK now Im callin you a liar...
My only intent here was to make sure other riders dont get the wrong idea of how you should be positioned when stopped.
BOTH FEET ON THE GROUND!
Show me a reason not to :dunno_white:
AS far as being too short to put both feet down... yea, thats UNSAFE! and if you cant put em both down... Park your bike and resolve the issue or get another bike.
I should have noticed the "free wladziu" in your sig.. and knew I was in for it...
My MSF instructors (both BRC and ERC) have taught me that when stopping, the left should come down first when the bike stops. THEN the right foot.
We'd actually get points deducted if we put both feet down at the same time 'cause that meant that the rear wasn't being used.
Im seeing that in my searches... Thats not what I was taught in MSF training. If you are putting any feet down you should already be stopped... so why Left foot first?
I see posts saying its so you can cover the rear brake?? However you never put any foot down unless stopped... so.. if stopped why keep one foot on?
That said... I am focusing on "when stopped" not while stoping... so.. Both feet down! :icon_mrgreen: Show me what good would come from having one foot on the brake while at a light?
Guess I was taught wrong.. All you one footed riders gohead w. your bad selvs :D
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:45:21 PM
I should have noticed the "free wladziu" in your sig.. and knew I was in for it...
"free wladziu" has been in my sig for months yet I have somehow refrained from accusing complete strangers of not knowing how to ride all this time.
It's a joke.
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:53:32 PM
That said... I am focusing on "when stopped" not while stoping... so.. Both feet down! :icon_mrgreen: Show me what good would come from having one foot on the brake while at a light?
When stopped while going uphill I prefer to hold the rear brake while keeping my right hand ready at the throttle in case I need to leave quickly...in case a car coming from behind fails to stop, etc. There were no hills in my MSF course so they didn't mention this but it "feels" safer to me.
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 09:05:20 PM
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:45:21 PM
I should have noticed the "free wladziu" in your sig.. and knew I was in for it...
"free wladziu" has been in my sig for months yet I have somehow refrained from accusing complete strangers of not knowing how to ride all this time.
Dude... Your whole post was accusing complete strangers of not knowing how to ride ???
Now there is a BURN for ya Greg :flipoff: :icon_mrgreen:
Im not tryin to start a fight... I love all you guys! :kiss3: :icon_mrgreen:
a 1200 Harley makes around 80hp, 30 more than the GS, but it weighs 700-900 pounds. the gs500f weighs 430ish with a full tank of gas plus has an extra gear. there is no way a Harley is gonna keep up with a GS after 15mph (harleys have twice the torque of the mighty GS :D ). my dads 930 pound GL1800 120hp v6 goldwing will not touch my modified gs500f untill 70mph.
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 09:08:55 PM
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 09:05:20 PM
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:45:21 PM
I should have noticed the "free wladziu" in your sig.. and knew I was in for it...
"free wladziu" has been in my sig for months yet I have somehow refrained from accusing complete strangers of not knowing how to ride all this time.
Dude... Your whole post was accusing complete strangers of not knowing how to ride ???
If "those" complete strangers decide to join this forum then I would make it a point to be civil to them...
Good point though... :oops:
also a harleys top speed is around 110-120 indicated, similar to stock gs500. the gl1800 top speed is 140 something (my dad is not willing to exceed that on a goldwing)
so, harley vs. gs500? gs500 will win just about every contest assuming both riders are of equal skill.
I was soo happy to get you on that one... Hahah.... :icon_mrgreen:
Glad we can agree to disagree :thumb: You keep one footin and Ill keep two footin :icon_mrgreen:
Together we can hate the tool bag Harley Riders :cool: (not saying they are all tools either) O0
I'll second the left foot first, that's what we were taught in my MSF. You can put your right foot down shortly after, but they told us to keep it on the brake until you actually stop.
Why aren't people allowed to ride bikes when they can't get their feet flat on the ground? That's the kind of ignorance that made me thing I should but a ninja250, 50 feet down the road I knew I made a mistake. Most sportbikes aren't designed so you can get both feet flat on the ground unless you're over 6foot. That would make a good beginners bike arguement, but for someone who knows how to ride, you don't need to get both of your feet flat on the ground if you're comfortable. I could ride a passenger, back the bike up, and do whatever else I needed on the balls of my feet. I often only put my left foot down because I could get my whole foot on the ground that way and was comfortable.
My dad has a sportster 883. I have only ridden with him once or twice when i had my 600, and it was TORTURE riding behind him. He wasn't trying to go fast, so I can't say it was the bike being slow, but still it killed me. When he wasn't looking I'd pick the wheel up 3 inches because I was going through withdrawal from actually riding a normal speed, but I kept getting the look in his mirror.
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 09:08:55 PM
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 09:05:20 PM
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:45:21 PM
I should have noticed the "free wladziu" in your sig.. and knew I was in for it...
"free wladziu" has been in my sig for months yet I have somehow refrained from accusing complete strangers of not knowing how to ride all this time.
Dude... Your whole post was accusing complete strangers of not knowing how to ride ???
Now there is a BURN for ya Greg :flipoff: :icon_mrgreen:
Im not tryin to start a fight... I love all you guys! :kiss3: :icon_mrgreen:
Dude i love when people say burn. as soon as i read ashton kucher pops into my mind yelling it at someone and i start laughing really hard. sorry to say though, while it did make me laugh, i dont feel it was super legit. cause his main thesis statement of the post was actually about how the GS can keep up with the biggins. so ill rate that burn at a 5.6 since he was suggesting that maybe they dont know how to ride, however we have obviously seen that differant MSF have taught differant styles of stopping.
All I know is in my MSF class, they taught me to apply both brakes when coming to a complete stop. MSF taught me that right foot should be on the rear brake while coming to a stop, then the left foot comes down first and then the right.
Why keep right foot on brake?
So the bike will not roll backwards at lights that are anything but flat - while - giving you full control of the throttle (no need to twist back while trying to let fingers go forward to release brake).
Why keep one foot on bike - left or right?
In case of extreme road camber both feet cannot touch together without tipping the bike sideways. Rare though.
Why keep left foot on peg and right on ground?
So you can change out of 1st gear before your right foot makes it back to the peg. Because you can do it this way faster than trying to bring your left foot from ground to peg to change gears.
Courses in my state in Australia teach... right foot on brake all the time, left foot on ground.
*I* say... do what works for YOU.
I've got a good Harley story.... let me put it up in a little while...
Michael
I raced a Harley the other day, and after some really hard riding I finally managed to pass the guy. I was riding on one of those really, really, twisting sections of Mountain road with no straight sections to speak of and where most of the curves have warning signs that say "15 MPH". I knew if I was going to pass one of those monsters with those big-cubic-inch motors, it would have to be a place like this where handling and rider skill are more important than horsepower alone. I saw the guy up ahead as I exited one of the turns and knew I could catch him, but it wouldn't be easy.
I concentrated on my braking and cornering. Three corners later, I was on his tail. Catching him was one thing; passing him would prove to be another. Two corners later, I pulled up next to him as we sailed down the mountain. I think he was shocked to see me next to him, as I nearly got by him before he could recover. Next corner, same thing. I'd manage to pull up next to him as we started to enter the corners but when we came out he'd get on the throttle and out power me. His horsepower was almost too much to overcome, but this only made me more determined than ever.
My only hope was to outbrake him. I held off squeezing the lever until the last instant. I kept my nerve while he lost his. In an instant, I was by him. Corner after corner, I could hear the roar of his engine as he struggled to keep up. Three more miles to go before the road straightens out and he would pass me for good. But now I was in the lead, and he would no longer hold me back. I stretched out my lead and by the time we reached the bottom of the mountain, he was more than a full corner behind. I could no longer see him in my rear-view mirror.
Once the road did straighten out, it seemed like it took miles before he passed me, but it was probably just a few hundred yards. I was no match for that kind of horsepower, but it was done. In the tightest section of road, where bravery and skill count for more than horsepower and deep pockets, I had passed him. Though it was not easy, I had won the race to the bottom of the mountain.
I will always remember that moment. I don't think I've ever pedaled so hard in my life. And some of the credit must go to Raleigh www.raleighusa.com, as well. They really make a great bicycle. I'm exhausted...
HAHA, a bicycle? lol
You buy the harley because you wanna ride a harley. You just dont care about other motorcycles.
Nobody buys a harley to go fast. Harley is brilliant at marketing based on image rather than engineering or performance. Leather handlebar tassles flapping in the wind, tattoos on fat arm reaching forward to doublesized controls on handlebar. Men with fun bags in dirty black tshirts and unwashed denim.
Harley lost the race with Japanese in the 1970s, well really in the late 1960s lost it to the British then Honda came out with CB750 and Kawi followed with KZ900 and there was no real more effort from Harley in that direction. They lost in a seven way raceoff against a Yamaha 350 in the 1970s. Norton commando from 40 years ago was much better for sport riding than a sportser, and the norton was at end of its long lifecycle. And I believe the sportster has not evolved that much.
They made XLCR and its nice and collectible but a ninja 250 will likely beat it anywhere including top speed.
You can get a harley motor in a modern bike, a Buell, but better hurry, Harley is killing Buell off in this down market.
I would rather have a clean 1935 ford car than a new harley, get the same old time mid america iron heritage stuff, and it has a roof on it and you can get a a heater for it and you can load it with another person and baggage and cruise nicely at 45 on old roads once in a while. And its about the same cost.
MSF ERC instructs to apply both brakes until coming to a complete stop. When arriving at the stop, you should be in first gear, and the LEFT foot should hit the ground first, followed by the Right. The reason for the left foot down first is to insure that you use both brakes until you come to a complete stop.
C'mon, tell me you've never seen the guy that comes to a near stop then puts both feet down and tries to 'Flintstone' the bike to a complete stop.
Left foot hits the ground first, then right...Not both at the same time. Then, while stopped, both feet should be down for stability.
My $.02
/threadjack
TBH, I don't recall what MSF said about it in 1987.
For shorter folk (or higher seats), there's no question that left foot down, bike leaned to left slightly is far more stable than trying to two-foot on your tippy toes. Bike leaned to left slightly is rather important here - straight up and down is not where you want to be with one foot down. Tripod is nice and stable.
As already pointed out, it also means that you can hold position on hills with the rear brake, so you don't have to try any complicated stuff with your right hand as you pull away. As I learned at some cost while visiting one of those equatorial countries where snow is not a consideration and the roads are thus somewhat steeper than we are used to, the front brake won't hold on a very steep uphill (stalled annoying little 2-stroke bike going up monstrous hill, two-footed it, slid backwards while holding front brake locked.)
For me, personally, putting both feet down means I have to go through a cycle of stand on the pegs and get my seat readjusted (old creaky joints - yes, pretty much every time I start out I have to do this) while just putting my left foot down does not require this rather graceless procedure. Where I sit when two-footing the GS leaves me with a horrible pain in my hips if I just pull my feet up onto the pegs.
...there is no One True Way.
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:53:32 PM
Im seeing that in my searches... Thats not what I was taught in MSF training. If you are putting any feet down you should already be stopped... so why Left foot first?
I see posts saying its so you can cover the rear brake?? However you never put any foot down unless stopped... so.. if stopped why keep one foot on?
That said... I am focusing on "when stopped" not while stoping... so.. Both feet down! :icon_mrgreen: Show me what good would come from having one foot on the brake while at a light?
Guess I was taught wrong.. All you one footed riders gohead w. your bad selvs :D
Ah... see Scott? We're BOTH right. lol
I'm talking about while you're stopping. I guess you're talking about while you're STOPPED. :cheers:
"The time to take your left foot off the peg and put it on the ground is just as the bike comes to a complete stop." (bottom of page 17)
http://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/Riding_Tips.pdf
Straight from the MSF manual. Now stop arguing.
(there's also a picture on page 48 of two riders stopped with only 1 foot down, it is just a picture though.)
That was very courageous of you. I will never follow them that close. Cos lets say, a cylinder head came off ... and hit your bike ... you could crash and die.
But other than that ... good deal.
Cool.
Buddha.
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:36:37 PMThere is no reason to not have both feet down.
Heh, I totally forgot about MSF wanting both feet down. I so rarely do it! As a few others pointed out, there are plenty of reasons. And at least around here, I'd say half the time there's enough of an incline or decline while waiting at a light that just keeping the bike in place with right foot still on the rear brake is a lot easier than holding it with both feet. I mean, if you're on a decent hill, good luck holding the bike there without using some brake! I'll try to be more conscious of it on the way home today, but I rarely see any sportbike or other small bike rider stopped with both feet down. :dunno_white:
Anyway, good harley story, I see the wobbly ones riding around here too and keep my distance. I don't know why I'd ever feel challenged by one. They're slow, heavy cruisers. But the sportbike-harley hate doesn't seem to prevalent around here, it's all good. :thumb:
Now this story gets interesting :icon_mrgreen:
I work at a motorcycle dealer, thismorning I brought up this debate while a customer was at the counter. Funny thing is... He was just ticketed last Thursday by the PA State Police for not putting both feet down when stopped :police:
So.. Now... We called our local MSF Instructor to see what the real deal is.. They are telling people to put your left down first covering the rear brake. They dont say wether or not to put the right down at all?? and he did not know if the state trooper was in the right or not.. The customer is going to fight the ticket based on how he was trained but we still dont know what the actual law is...
MSF Instructor said " What they teach in not necisarily the law, its safe operation" So.. Better check your State laws :thumb: MSF is not always teaching "The Law" :icon_eek:
http://www.southparkstudios.com/episodes/251889
Quote from: Pigeonroost on November 10, 2009, 09:50:09 AM
http://www.southparkstudios.com/episodes/251889
Dang blocked at school.
this debate will never end. it's funny really. all sportbike riders seem to hate "the harley guys" and harley guys always seem to hate "sportbikes". interestingly enough, if you ask either group, they'll tell you they've not spent ANY time on the other machine. and therefore, in my eyes, have no clue, and no right to "bash" the other genre. someone mentioned the weight of a 1200 sportster. it's right about 550 running order. i demoed one. nice bike. handled great. was easy to move around the parking lot at slow speeds, stable at 60mph(didn't go faster, county road). now, i've not ridden a GS so i can't say the harley is a better bike. what i can say, is that i've sat on a newer gs in a showroom and tried to manuever it around a bit to get a feel for it's weight. and while it does technically weigh less than the harley, it "feels" much heavier. (center of gravity, i know). it almost seems to me alot of guys are trying to compare apples to oranges. sportbikes and cruisers were built with different purposes in mind. but they were all built with one common goal; to ride on two wheels and get that "alive" feeling that comes from watching the blacktop whisk away beneath your feet. i've always felt it's about "the ride" and not "what you ride". and for every "squidly rider" or whatever you see on their harley, i can guarantee you that there's just as many on their sportbikes. around here, nobody seems to wear any gear(cruiser or sportbike). or if they do, it's usually on the back of their bike. you can be a moronic rider on any bike. the type of bike you own doesn't make you more or less of a rider.
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 10, 2009, 09:41:45 AM
I work at a motorcycle dealer, thismorning I brought up this debate while a customer was at the counter. Funny thing is... He was just ticketed last Thursday by the PA State Police for not putting both feet down when stopped :police:
sounds like a standard car driver response, unless you've got 4 points of contact on the ground you can't be taken seriously. Obviously the cop doesn't put both of his feet on the floor of his car when he stops at a stop sign.
My 4 mile commute between work and home can be done on my bicycle without putting a foot down the entire way. I can't sit on that thing without moving all day without taking a foot off the pedals. It's pretty hard to get pulled over on a bicycle though.
I didnt read through this thing cause it got all about feet it seemed like. But keep in mind it seems most of you complain about hd riders and then act like you better.....your complaining about them complaining? Bikes a bike....stero type is a stero type. How many punk kids do you see on sportbikes that cant ride? Percentage wise i bet pretty even with yuppies on a hd? So if im a yuppie and ride a gs im cool? WTF? And yes a 1200 sporty will eat a gs alive. They are pretty good handling and quick bikes. Sportys are faster than most big twins. I have a 77 xlch1000 thats probbaly hittin close to 1300cc and stock that sucker could eat any big twin and most sportbikes alive. Even in the twisties. She going into a rigid frame that wieghs 45 pounds so it should be a real flyer then. Remember the cafe xlcr's! (look it up XLCR) I will admit im not a fan of twin cams or evos. But ive worked on and had more than a few older hds and there is something to be said about the feel. I will admit ive been yelled at by sportbike riders on some of my choppers and ive been yelled at by hd riders on my gs, heck ive even gotten yelled at on my honda 750 chopper with 10 over forks and rabbit ears by guys on stock roadkings. A-holes a A-hole!
I like harleys. i think theyre pretty cool some of em. but mostly i like harley motors on custom choppers. and i ike sport bikes. dont know which i like more though. Ive cruised around on a hommade mini chopper and its sick to just relax and cruise wiht a big deep sound behind ya, but then i like sport bikes agility, and wheelies and stunts lol. But by no means do all sport bike people hate harleys or vise versa.
Quote from: gregvhen on November 10, 2009, 11:39:20 AM
by no means do all sport bike people hate harleys or vise versa.
Correct.
I ride regularly with a guy on a HD. He can ride I'll tell ya. And have a look at the way the Goldwing is thrown around on the dragon's tail / deals gap http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nrMQ3QwyPo - bloody good riding. Period.
The only issue I have with HD riders - I don't much like the bikes in looks - is their arrogance on the road. I'll nod at everyone on a bike going the other way. HD riders pretend not to see you. In fact, in the last 6 months I've received a return nod from a HD only once. But I keep nodding at them. :icon_mrgreen:
I don't care what motorcycle a person rides because we each need to ride the bike we feel most comfortable on. Cruisers kill my lower back so without modification I cannot ride them - not that I've ridden every one of them out there to know if there is one I do feel comfortable on. But just because you ride a certain bike - HD, R1, whatever - doesn't mean you're a better rider or more superior than someone else (regardless of brand or cc) and thus they aren't even worth acknowledging.
But have'n a go at HDs is all in good fun...
Now excuse me... I hear a HD coming. I've got to get out my Green Machine (google it if you don't remember or know) and give it a run :icon_mrgreen:
Michael
Quote from: Pigeonroost on November 10, 2009, 09:50:09 AM
http://www.southparkstudios.com/episodes/251889
That's what I was bringing up...If you guys haven't seen this episode of the Harley riders in South Park, then I suggest you watch. It's Hilarious!
Whoa whoa whoa.
In CANADA, we make fun of ANYBODY who puts down both feet at a stop.
I can't think of a SINGLE reason to put both down, most importantly for safety reasons. There is currently NO province in Canada that allows you to pass your Class 6 (bike) license if you were to stop like that.
Your bike will not tip over -- you simply lean onto the left leg, which is planted. The right foot remains on the rear brake. You should also never be out of gear. If there is a big rig bearing down on you, you don't want to have to gear down, find your pegs, and THEN consider where to go.
I repeat, whatever this MSF thing is that you guys always talk about, it seems archaic, and sometimes downright illogical. The billions of residents of Europe, and the 33 million in Canada can't all be wrong when it comes to never putting both feet down at a stop.
I've also heard (on other sportbike forums) that your bike is more likely to tip over with two feet planted
but hey, I've never ridden so what do I know?
I think the correct way is to put the bike in 6th gear, apply the parking brake, put her up on the center stand, and turn the handle bars to the left. The way if you get hit you will lunch to the side of the road and be in high gear ready to take off at the speed you have been hit. The parking brake will bring you to a nice safe stop. Also if your passenger just so happens to be a cat your supposed to wear it on your head for purrrrr-tection.
Quote from: newbie on November 10, 2009, 01:21:04 PM
I think the correct way is to put the bike in 6th gear, apply the parking brake, put her up on the center stand, and turn the handle bars to the left. The way if you get hit you will lunch to the side of the road and be in high gear ready to take off at the speed you have been hit. The parking brake will bring you to a nice safe stop. Also if your passenger just so happens to be a cat your supposed to wear it on your head for purrrrr-tection.
:bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:
Quote from: RyanMidd on November 10, 2009, 12:44:37 PM
Whoa whoa whoa.
In CANADA, we make fun of ANYBODY who puts down both feet at a stop.
I can't think of a SINGLE reason to put both down, most importantly for safety reasons. There is currently NO province in Canada that allows you to pass your Class 6 (bike) license if you were to stop like that.
Your bike will not tip over -- you simply lean onto the left leg, which is planted. The right foot remains on the rear brake. You should also never be out of gear. If there is a big rig bearing down on you, you don't want to have to gear down, find your pegs, and THEN consider where to go.
I repeat, whatever this MSF thing is that you guys always talk about, it seems archaic, and sometimes downright illogical. The billions of residents of Europe, and the 33 million in Canada can't all be wrong when it comes to never putting both feet down at a stop.
Yeah, I agree. I see no benefit of putting both feet down.
In a word; CONFIDENCE. As a beginning rider myself, I want the ability to get as much of both of my feet down when I stop as possible. Call it false security if you will, but to me, it builds my confidence. Confidence and comfort level are important i think to beginning riders.
As one of the shorter riders here I have to admit to being a "one footer". I feel a lot more confident with one foot solidly on the ground vs. dancing on my tippy toes at a light. I also like to use my right foot to keep the brake light illuminated if I let go of the front brake.
-Jessie
Still, a lil p*ssy on your head will help get your mind of the foot thing......purrrrr-tection..hhaaaaaaaa
As a beginner, you should be riding a bike that lets you get both feet on the ground, that just makes good sense. Being an experienced rider is a completely different story.
The only thing I really pick on when it comes to Harley riders, are all the 40-50 year old guys riding around with their sleeveless leather vests with patches and their "haven't showered in a month" look that ride around in groups of 6 like their in some kind of gang. It's one thing if you had a leather jacket with a matching patch like the guys on Wild Hogs who just like going on rides together, but the guys who you can tell seriously base their entire life around that bike and can't let go of the 'boy's club' mentality, just seem kinda pathetic. I have no real problem with Harleys, they're just not my thing. Maybe in 20 years. In the mean time, I LOVE Buells, if that helps.
Bike in gear, foot on rear brake, other foot on ground, watch mirrors ready to move incase a car is going to liberace you.
Quote from: RyanMidd on November 10, 2009, 12:44:37 PM
Whoa whoa whoa.
In CANADA, we make fun of ANYBODY who puts down both feet at a stop.
Get an army then you can talk.
Quote from: bubba zanetti on November 10, 2009, 04:24:06 PM
Bike in gear, foot on rear brake, other foot on ground, watch mirrors ready to move incase a car is going to liberace you.
+1 that is what i was thought in the stay upright course i did, i was trying to find a reference but could not find one
Thread Summary:
- Never Stop! Otherwise you will be trapped in an eternal 1 foot 2 foot argument and never ride again
- GS500 is better than a Harley
- Harley bikes are alright, but Harley riders are f**s
- Don't ride with Harley riders or Buddha will make you crash
Did I miss anything?
Quote from: PachmanP on November 10, 2009, 07:34:58 PM
Thread Summary:
- Never Stop! Otherwise you will be trapped in an eternal 1 foot 2 foot argument and never ride again
- GS500 is better than a Harley
- Harley bikes are alright, but Harley riders are f**s
- Don't ride with Harley riders or Buddha will make you crash
Did I miss anything?
dang it i already borke each one of these rules today, and the unlisted rules that you forgot. Today i stopped completly every 100 feet and dragged my feet between each stop. rule 2 i just told 14 differant people that any bike ever created is better than a GS especially if it has Harley in the name. Rule 3 - i saw a gang of harley riders today and thought to myself, wow, what a great group of non-fags. seriously i thought the exact words, non-fags. I rode with the non-nancy boy group of better vehicle equiped harley riders today, and every time we stopped we made sure not to crash by keeping 3 feet planted firmly on the ground. yes 3 feet we told our passengers to put down a foot as well. but not two feet cause that would be against te MSF rules.
I rode with a couple buddies, one had a slightly modded (stage 1?) 1200 Sportster, and the other was on an 800 Suzuki Volusia. That Sportster would easily leave my GS from 80 mph to 105, not even close, but the Volusia was lunchmeat at any speed.
Quote from: gregvhen on November 10, 2009, 07:04:10 PM
Quote from: RyanMidd on November 10, 2009, 12:44:37 PM
Whoa whoa whoa.
In CANADA, we make fun of ANYBODY who puts down both feet at a stop.
Get an army then you can talk.
You are kidding right? Canada has an excellent, professional army with a long and proud history of kicking ass. I hope no one has forgotten the sniper action in the early stages of Afghanistan in which the Canadian snipers
saved the bacon of US special forces.....making the longest confirmed kill at over 1500 yards during that action.
Check out Herbert McBrides, "A rifleman went to war" for a look at Canadian WW1 combat. As told by a US citizen who volunteered in the Canadian army as a sniper (remember we didn't get into ww1 until 1917)......
I think it's a shame that Canada is not given their proper respect as a key US ally in the GWOT by us Americans. We owe them a debt of thanks. Rant off now back to our regular motorcycle programming....
The big one, WWII, started in 1939 not 1941. This is probably news to most Americans reading here. Canada and Australia and NZ were in very deep alongside England while Americans were waiting things out. I don't want to talk about Russia. Same for the Great War, also known as WWI in USA although it wasn't the first world war.
I don't put any feet down when I stop. I just stop. Then I decide which way to lean. Then I pop one foot down. If I want to relax I put both down and stand and stretch.
Harleys are OK. I included them with 1930s Fords which I really like. Anyone who mods one is fine in my book. Anyone who rides one for any reason is fine in my book. I never met a harley person I didnt like a lot. I think tassles and faked dirt are weird but OK. I would like an XLCR. I cant afford one. I would just ride it, probably pretty slow, like 1.5 times the limit.
GS is not a sport bike. Its a mild, obsolescent training bike. If you are past sportbikes its fine to just ride around on and enjoy, like a Harley.
Quote from: commuterdude on November 10, 2009, 08:17:49 PM
Quote from: gregvhen on November 10, 2009, 07:04:10 PM
Quote from: RyanMidd on November 10, 2009, 12:44:37 PM
Whoa whoa whoa.
In CANADA, we make fun of ANYBODY who puts down both feet at a stop.
Get an army then you can talk.
saved the bacon of US special forces.....making the longest confirmed kill at over 1500 yards during that action.
mmmmmmmmm Canadian bacon. gargle gargle gargle. :icon_lol:
MSF course? I for one just took the riding test to get my license. easier and cheaper. I also disagree with the riding if full gear all the time. I usually ride with a helmet. unless its dusk, bad right, but I do a lot of riding facing the west, and don't have a smoked visor and cant see with out my sunglasses on that don't fit under my properly snugged helmet. And If you have rode in 105 degrees Fahrenheit and like 80 percent humidity in mid-day in August in Kansas, you know its flipping hot out. and when riding a distance, I would like to be comfortable and not dehydrated so I can focus on the road the the reasons why I ride. That was the biggest mistake I made, wearing a light leather jacket, jeans and a helmet 1 o'clock in the afternoon and felt like I was going to pass out 30 miles later. Ride in appropriate gear for the weather. I love my dad's Harley, great bike fun to ride, and powerful enough it scared me. Not anymore ofcourse, but in my opinion there is nothing wrong with loud and powerful. Just like a lobing out 383 stroker with headers and glass packs. Nothing better then hearing a HD salute. I about blow a load whenever I hear. HD represents America better than anything else in my opinion. I thought about taking over payments on my dad 883, then I'd have 2 bikes, but would be double broke! I want it bad. Any one wanna loan me some money I have zero desire to pay back and prolly won't? PM me.
Quote from: glynnd89 on November 10, 2009, 09:49:25 PM
MSF course? I for one just took the riding test to get my license. easier and cheaper. I also disagree with the riding if full gear all the time.
It's free in my state, so it's all the same here, but the point isn't to make passing your test easier, the point is to teach you how you to ride better, even though from reading your post I'm sure you've already convinced yourself that there's nothing a 30 year riding veteran could teach you that you don't already know.
How do sunglasses not fit inside your helmet? I've always worn normal glasses inside my helmets. Sunglasses should be even easier because you can go shopping and pick out a pair for $3 that is pretty snug to your head and fits inside your helmet fine.
Ever try a summer riding jacket? I can imagine a leather jacket is too hot in the summer, but riding in my summer jacket feels cooler than riding in a t shirt. I'm not going to go into the details because I know that sounds the opposite of how it would work, and you're not going to listen anyway, but it does.
Quote from: glynnd89 on November 10, 2009, 09:49:25 PM
I also disagree with the riding if full gear all the time. Any one wanna loan me some money I have zero desire to pay back and prolly won't? PM me.
Maybe if you offer to leave your motorcycles to the lender in your will someone would do it.
Seems like a pretty safe bet they would get their money back before too long.
I'm always willing to learn, and as I said it is a light leather jacket, no insulation, I'm just saying alot of people treat it like an over protective parent and thier baby child. After a certain force the helmet is gonna most likely be the difference between vegetable and dead. I'll take dead over vegetable any day. I've had my share of mishaps on bikes, and feel that the best way to learn the best way to ride is to put the mileage in, most driving and riding is instinct, but I always seek advice. And based on the notion that they'd get thier money back because I'd wreck and die, then the bike would be totalled. Haha.
I'm confused. Are we talking about riding technique, Harleys, or Canadians?
In MSF, I was taught left leg down, right boot on rear brake, hand on thottle, clutch in, 1st gear. Ready to take off or move if someone comes at you. You can't do that as quickly if you've got your hand clamped on the front binders. But hey, I'm open to other views. Give me a rationale. Bike stablity is one; I got caught in heavy cross-winds last week and was putting both feet down to keep the bike from falling over at a stop. I can't think of another reason, though.
The only time I thing 2 feet down looks amatuerish is when the rider *keeps* both feet down for the first 100 feet as he roars down the road. As if you could plant a boot to keep the thing up at takeoff speeds.
I think it's a comfort issue related to the riding position. I've never ridden a cruiser, but one foot down and one foot on the forward peg sounds awkward. Unlike one down and one on a standard peg as on the GS. Probably more comfortable on a cruiser to just plant both.
Quote from: noiseguy on November 11, 2009, 10:37:45 AM
I think it's a comfort issue related to the riding position. I've never ridden a cruiser, but one foot down and one foot on the forward peg sounds awkward. Unlike one down and one on a standard peg as on the GS. Probably more comfortable on a cruiser to just plant both.
Never thought of that but it makes good sense!
As for the hot weather riding, a mesh armored jacket with a wet t shirt underneath is a great compromise between comfort and safety. You just have to stop about every hour to re-wet the t-shirt.
-Jessie
Quote from: glynnd89 on November 11, 2009, 10:17:46 AM
I'm always willing to learn, and as I said it is a light leather jacket, no insulation, I'm just saying alot of people treat it like an over protective parent and thier baby child. After a certain force the helmet is gonna most likely be the difference between vegetable and dead. I'll take dead over vegetable any day. 1) I've had my share of mishaps on bikes, and 2) feel that the best way to learn the best way to ride is to put the mileage in, 3) most driving and riding is instinct, but4) I always seek advice. And based on the notion that they'd get thier money back because I'd wreck and die, then the bike would be totalled. Haha.
4) GOOD ! Here it comes ! :)
3) instinct ? like a cat flips over when tossed in the air ? how about preventing the tossing ? instinct says to cover your eyes/face when an accident is possible. please, don't try this. it's a much better idea to avoid the accident. instinct is fight or flight. AVOIDING the fight or flight is a much safer proposition.
2) not milage, miles mean much less than training, and practice practice practice. try a figure 8 in a 20' box, ride 10,000 miles without the practice, and then try it again. i'll bet you don't fair much better.
1) i love these little numbered responses. think i'm going to go backwards from now on, so you're the first. :) ....
1) those mishaps didn't kill you. with more gear, you can possibly live a more comfortable (your skin, where it started) life. i've met people that claim "well that damned hip replacement is only good for 10-20 years !" and I'm amazed. living in pain, agony, and immobility for the rest of one's life is now superior to 10-20 years of pain free mobility ? see my logic ?
:)
whoever posted that a gs is quicker than a goldwing- wow. din't know that. always figured the GW would out power the gs easily. (shrug) :)
Yes i would think a gold wing is quicker too. my freinds dad has one he blows my mind everytime i see him ride. btw, did you those things are so dang big they have reverse? GL vs. GS id bet on the GL anyday. unless stoppin at the chikcen coop is part of the race.
Quotewhoever posted that a gs is quicker than a goldwing- wow. din't know that. always figured the GW would out power the gs easily. (shrug)
that was me! 8) and my gs always wins untill 70 where its a dead heat to 85ish then he pulls hard on me untill im topped out and hes still powerin on.
QuoteYes i would think a gold wing is quicker too. my freinds dad has one he blows my mind everytime i see him ride. btw, did you those things are so dang big they have reverse? GL vs. GS id bet on the GL anyday. unless stoppin at the chikcen coop is part of the race.
rider skill makes a huge performance difference.. i am by no means sayin you arent skilled, :thumb: , but maybey the gl rider has amazing skillz? also my gs is highly modified which im sure makes a good difference. and yes i knew they have reverse plus they have air rear suspension a cd player complete with four speakers and an air bag (!) and abs! that thing impresses me more every time i ride it
CAN I SAY THIS LOUD ENOUGH FOR THE IDIOTS TO HEAR? If you have to have a ridiculously loud pipe to protect you as a rider you have several problems!
1. You are an idoit and don't know how to ride!
2. Take some Enzeses or something you have pee pee envey
3. No one can hear the obnoxoius pipes until you pass them any way and all you do is scare the crap out of people. (Note for you idiots that don't understand? That is a bad thing to do to a soccer Mom on the cell phone! Good call moron)
I could go on and on but those that disagree can't hear Logic or could even grasp it
Humm I guess that is why I own a GS and am not on a hog site? Just a guess?
Quote from: JB848 on November 11, 2009, 09:50:14 PM
CAN I SAY THIS LOUD ENOUGH FOR THE IDIOTS TO HEAR? If you have to have a ridiculously loud pipe to protect you as a rider you have several problems!
1. You are an idoit and don't know how to ride!
2. Take some Enzeses or something you have pee pee envey
3. No one can hear the obnoxoius pipes until you pass them any way and all you do is scare the crap out of people. (Note for you idiots that don't understand? That is a bad thing to do to a soccer Mom on the cell phone! Good call moron)
I could go on and on but those that disagree can't hear Logic or could even grasp it
I have a loud exhaust on my bike and car, not for protection but because i like loud vehicles. why are you tryin to hate? i grew up around car shows where everything has straight pipes. im not going to insult you just because your opinion is different than mine, just try not to hate every thing you dont understand otherwise you will be angry forever.
LMAO, Understand? I guess you are just dense. No need to say more.
Quote from: JB848 on November 11, 2009, 10:09:55 PM
LMAO, Understand? I guess you are just dense. No need to say more.
why am i dense? because i love the sound of rapidly combusting hydrocarbons? if you dont like it dont have a loud exhaust, simple. why are you so mad at people who like loud exhausts? did one of us hurt you in some way?
Maybe the soccer mom should get off the phone and pay attention to the road. I can hear a Harley blocks away. much before I see it. So if you are in town at an intersection, granted you don't have your stereo blaring, and just "don't see" a bike, why don't we attack 2 senses instead of just one. Have you had your hearing checked lately. Maybe I can hear a Harley from a distance because when I was riding in a car with my parents and we heard a Harley, we all enjoyed the rumble and pointed it out. So by positive reinforcement, i am tuned to hear a Harley. Check out this link, starts out a little biased, but ends in good statistics. http://www.bikernet.com/news/PageViewer.asp?PageID=902. Have with it what you will.
Quote from: black and silver twin on November 11, 2009, 10:15:17 PM
Quote from: JB848 on November 11, 2009, 10:09:55 PM
LMAO, Understand? I guess you are just dense. No need to say more.
why am i dense? because i love the sound of rapidly combusting hydrocarbons? if you dont like it dont have a loud exhaust, simple. why are you so mad at people who like loud exhausts? did one of us hurt you in some way?
Problem is is you don't get it. You like it cool. No problem. The problem is your such an idiot that don't get that not everyone does. Your sound carries and into other peoples privacy. I don't want to hear your bullshit loud pipe on anything. Do you give me a choice? No! You are a selfish little prick that only cares about yourself like all of you that run the noise makers!
Dude you dont have to call people morons, or say theyre wrong or dense just cause theyre OPINION is differant than yours. Alot of people like loud vechicles. and most often you can hear them before they pass you. and most often they dont scare you. What scares people more, and this even happened to me, an 18 year old, at the street fighterz ride of the century, so youd think i would expect it, but a couple guys on sport bikes, not harleys, flew past me at like 80 Mph when i was just sitting there. i didnt hear them coming then all of a sudden FFFFFMMMMMMMMMMMmmmmmm. scared the crap out of and I was watchin all the other guys take off, expecting loud noises. Ive never been thrown off by a harley. and in my OPINION, loud harleys sound cool.
Quote from: JB848 on November 11, 2009, 10:26:04 PM
Quote from: black and silver twin on November 11, 2009, 10:15:17 PM
Quote from: JB848 on November 11, 2009, 10:09:55 PM
LMAO, Understand? I guess you are just dense. No need to say more.
why am i dense? because i love the sound of rapidly combusting hydrocarbons? if you dont like it dont have a loud exhaust, simple. why are you so mad at people who like loud exhausts? did one of us hurt you in some way?
Problem is is you don't get it. You like it cool. No problem. The problem is your such an idiot that don't get that not everyone does. Your sound carries and into other peoples privacy. I don't want to hear your bulloh my goodness loud pipe on anything. Do you give me a choice? No! You are a selfish little prick that only cares about yourself like all of you that run the noise makers!
wow your angry over nothing >:( i was just playin, dont get in to a hissy fit. yes your right you can hear my exhaust but its only for a second then were gone, dont freak, you might have a heart attack
and there are plenty of very loud sport bikes too, just a differant type of loud. harleys tend to be a low, deep rumble brum brum brum loud, and sport bikes have the high, humming constant braaaaaaaaaaaammmmm loud.
Are you against smoking in public too? Its not like They sit out your house and rev up their shaZam! just to smite you. The people that like it, like it. The people that hate it, hate it. Good thing is, you don't have to be around each other all times of the day. Get over your rights, because they have rights too. And they both seem to be so extreme opposites on the spectrum, there is no compromise, so ignore it and move on. Its 2 seconds of your day.
this is a perfect example of how my Government teacher was trying to explain loose and strict construction of the constitution. you say they are invading your right to privacy, but....wait.... hang on i had it in my head now i dont remeber if you were loose or strict. in know loose construction is actually the conservitive side, which sounds opposite but it is. and loose is the leberal side. becasue a liberal POV would be "I may not agree with what you say, but i defend your right to say it" and the conservitive would be "somethings are just not right" like calling an african american the N word, would technically be okay due to the freedom of speech, that would would be liberal cause its word word okay by the constitution. but the conservitive would say, calling that man the N word is not okay, because you do not have the right to say ANYTHING you want.
So..... you are saying they cant ride the loud bikes because it invades your peace, so youd be extremely conservitive? I think thats right. at least on this issue. or would you be liberal because technically you have the right to peace? hmmmm.
strange because i disagree with you that they shouldnt ride them, but typically i am a conservative fellow.
OK Idiots: When your rights infringe on others you don't have it never did!
The problem is that needs of the one are not! More important then the many..that is selfish and ignorant!
To me both rights are infringed, so like two penalties by both teams, my rule they offset, so replay the down, niether sides will ever come to an agreement. So I'd forget it and move .
Quote from: JB848 on November 11, 2009, 10:57:57 PM
The problem is that needs of the one are not! More important then the many..that is selfish and ignorant!
cry me a river :cry:
Something doesn't have to physically hit you to be asinine. It's fine if you like the sound of a loud motorcycle, but that doesn't make it suited for public use. It's the same whether it's a harley or a sportbike, they're both obnoxious. I think twins are more annoying than inline4s, but only because the rumble is deep enough to shake my house and scare my dogs, sportbikes don't go much beyond sounding annoying. Just for the record, I've been around bikes that were so loud that it DID hurt my ears.
From what I gather, even Harley Davidson is getting tired of all the strife that comes with the noise.... http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/newsandupdates/harley_davidson_motorcycle_noise/index.html
Personally, I do like the sound, but that doesn't mean I'm willing to forget the fact that there's people around me trying to go on with my life. If you're gonna start playing that game you're no different than all the people we talk about in cars who are so concerned with their own life that they completely forget there's anything going on outside of their car. Apparently it's different when we do it?? I had a loud pipe on my bike when I was 20, and yes, it was because I felt like being an ass and wanted everyone to stare at me. There's no other reason for a loud pipe unless you're on a track. If you're that concerned with performance there's plenty of other mods you could do to your bike that doesn't smack the rest of the general public in the face.
As far as people smoking in public, I haven't started ripping cigarettes out of peoples mouths, but yes, it is completely obnoxious and screwed up that your 'right' means I need to hold my breath every 20 seconds when I'm walking somewhere downtown, and am physically unable to get inside a building without walking past a crowd of smokers who will blow smoke right in your face without a second thought. At least normal drug addicts have the decency to do it in private so the rest of us don't have to deal with it.
Quote from: tt_four on November 12, 2009, 06:25:32 AM
Something doesn't have to physically hit you to be asinine. It's fine if you like the sound of a loud motorcycle, but that doesn't make it suited for public use. It's the same whether it's a harley or a sportbike, they're both obnoxious. I think twins are more annoying than inline4s, but only because the rumble is deep enough to shake my house and scare my dogs, sportbikes don't go much beyond sounding annoying. Just for the record, I've been around bikes that were so loud that it DID hurt my ears.
From what I gather, even Harley Davidson is getting tired of all the strife that comes with the noise.... http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/newsandupdates/harley_davidson_motorcycle_noise/index.html
Personally, I do like the sound, but that doesn't mean I'm willing to forget the fact that there's people around me trying to go on with my life. If you're gonna start playing that game you're no different than all the people we talk about in cars who are so concerned with their own life that they completely forget there's anything going on outside of their car. Apparently it's different when we do it?? I had a loud pipe on my bike when I was 20, and yes, it was because I felt like being an ass and wanted everyone to stare at me. There's no other reason for a loud pipe unless you're on a track. If you're that concerned with performance there's plenty of other mods you could do to your bike that doesn't smack the rest of the general public in the face.
As far as people smoking in public, I haven't started ripping cigarettes out of peoples mouths, but yes, it is completely obnoxious and screwed up that your 'right' means I need to hold my breath every 20 seconds when I'm walking somewhere downtown, and am physically unable to get inside a building without walking past a crowd of smokers who will blow smoke right in your face without a second thought. At least normal drug addicts have the decency to do it in private so the rest of us don't have to deal with it.
Well said :thumb:
An afterthought as well.... Since when do we consider it someone's right to be on an obnoxiously loud motorcycle? There are laws that say how loud a bike is supposed to be, and 99% of the bikes on the road with aftermarket pipes are illegal anyway. That doesn't sound anything like a right to me, it just sounds like people not caring, and taking any defense they can think of.
:icon_lol: :icon_lol:
So, one Monday night I get bored and write a little story about 4 goofballs on Harleys (and one goofball on a GS) and by Thursday we get...
South Park
The handling dynamics of different weight motorcycles
Know it "alls" from the land of Franklin :icon_razz:
When people look retarded wearing sour apple green full face helmets
Feet...who knew?
That 70's show
The MSF...motorcycling Bible or over-rated?
Short people...NO MOTORCYCLES FOR YOU!!!!
Goldwings (Really?, Goldwings? :dunno_white:)
Proper braking technique
Bicycles
Over-Zealous law enforcement
Canadians (Really? Canadians? :dunno_white:)
Cats as substitute head gear
ATG(AMSN)TT (All, Most, Some, None)
Loud pipes
Smokers should die---which, I guess they will anyway---which, I guess we all will anyway
The constitution
Once this thread de-volves into which oil we should be using I'm not reading it any more........
:laugh:
Looks like everyone was due for some debates :icon_mrgreen: Hasnt been much controversy here lately O0
<---- 2 foot down, gear wearin loud piped obnoxious bike rider :cool:
I brought up that 70s show! :icon_mrgreen:
There are law requirements on how loud the bike can be though. And if no one was allowed to ride harleys (which sounds like what you want) then why should anyway be allowed to ride Hondas, cause they dont sound the same as Suzukis. and why should people be able to put on those fart cans on their foreign cars making them sound annoying and differant from a Chevy or Ford. Why should we be allowed to drive Chevys or Fords if they sound differant than a Dodge. Why can we ride Ducatis if they sound differant from KTMs. Oh thats right, i remember because we live in America. where not everyone has to drive or ride the same vehicle.
I love that 70's show, it's one of the few shows I can watch daily and still haven't gotten tired of it.
What about fuel economy
I am no legal scholar so I may be talking out of my ass here but after reading this full thread I figure I'm due my share of controversy ;)
Is there actually a "right" to not be disturbed??? I don't think that was addressed by the constitutional convention.
Kind of like discrimination. There are a lot of things that would be discrimination but there are only about 8 groups protected under federal law (sex, race, age, disability, color, creed, national origin and religion.... not sure if sexual orientation is covered nationally). If my employer fired me because I had long hair it would be discrimination but since that is not a protected group I would have no legal recourse.
Back to the original question/point, I know there may be local ordinances for maximum sound decibels but I don't think there is any "right" to not be disturbed. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.
-Jessie
For that matter, do you have the "right" to health care? Don't recall good health mentioned in the Constitution either.
Quote from: scottpA_GS on November 09, 2009, 08:06:51 PM
Quote from: XealotX on November 09, 2009, 06:36:57 PMthey didn't seem to know how to ride very well. All three riders kept both legs firmly planted on the road the entire stop (as though balancing was an issue)
No, balance is not an issue... they obviously know how to ride... evidently you don't.
Its just good practice to have both feet on the ground when stopped. Both feet should also hit the ground at the same time when coming to a stop. In most states ITS THE LAW! If you don't stop and keep both feet down, you technically didn't stop!
Take the MSF, learn how to ride yourself and then feel free to comment on other peoples riding skills.
Sorry for bein a d i ck.. :cheers: Just hope to make us all better riders.
UM,No. Iin the MSF class I took 2 years ago, they have you do a stop & put down your shift foot, always keeping your brake foot on the brake. Several of the drills do this & if you put both feet down, they ding you points. On a tall bike, like a R1200GS-A, you almost have to one foot it... On a hill, it is good practice to use your foot brake to hold, so you can throttle up...
Even though he hated their taste, Mel Blanc insisted on chewing real carrots to provide the chomping sounds when he voiced the cartoon character Bugs Bunny.
Quote from: XealotX on November 12, 2009, 03:58:05 PM
For that matter, do you have the "right" to health care? Don't recall good health mentioned in the Constitution either.
They didnt have healthcare back then, and part of the greatness of the framers is their ability to see that things might change in the future. how that relates to healthcare, they made it to the constitution could be ammended.
while were on healthcare. Obamas plan is a joke. and i really hope it doesnt pass. yea itll give everyone healthcare but the care will suck. and all the plan does is change it from what we have now (somepeople have healthcare/health insurance and somepeople have neither) changing to (everyone will have healthcare but you must follow our rules when you want to be healed or compensated or whatever) like if you live is springfeild, and springfeild ran out of flu vaccines, you cant go over to jamestown where they are overstocked, because you live in springfeild. which is just bull.
Jumpin Jesus on a pogo stick now you went and did it. You said the chosen ones name and spoke badly of something on his agenda. The zombies will be coming to get you now.
any Harley with loud pipes should be confiscated on the spot and crushed. too bad the cops all have them or want them.
Healthcare is a right most anywhere except USA. Thats good, right?
Why all you peeps be hatin on loud pipes.
Quote from: gregvhen on November 12, 2009, 06:47:13 PM
They didnt have healthcare back then, and part of the greatness of the framers is their ability to see that things might change in the future. how that relates to healthcare, they made it to the constitution could be ammended.
Dear God, is this what has become of our education system?
Thumbing through my copy of the Constitution I find that the framers wrote a document with
ONE purpose...
to limit the power of the government. A government take over of health care is the furthest idea from the Framers original intent.
Quote from: XealotX on November 12, 2009, 08:03:05 PM
Thumbing through my copy of the Constitution I find that the framers wrote a document with ONE purpose...to limit the power of the government. A government take over of health care is the furthest idea from the Framers original intent.
+1
Everyone else is in here, might as well join...
Re: Rights. Not all rights are guaranteed in the Constitution of the United States such as the right to not be tortured during war (Geneva Conventions). Rights in general are Philosophical constructs that I don't think most motorcyclists even know exist and certainly don't appreciate why they matter - though I'm sure they appreciate having them. I really like having rights and I don't like them infringed upon... which leads to the whole debate about crime + punishment. You infringe on the rights of others and you should be punished by losing rights of your own.
Re: Loud Pipes. I personally hate loud pipes - but I also hate the midnight racers who rev up to 14k and disrupt the peace. I don't have a problem with HDs - they are inanimate objects. I have a problem with the way HD riders act. I also have a problem with most of the guys who ride 600+cc sport bikes. They don't act like civilized, rational people, they act like turds or tards.
Anyway... I use Rotella T 15w-40 oil in my GS :icon_twisted:
Rotella...you mean dead dino juice?
Everyone knows you should only run synthetic oil in a GS. Preferably changed every 200 miles while running 93 octane fuel.
Anxiously awaiting a reply. :icon_lol:
I prefer the 105 octane racing fuel from the dragstrip. and I use the cheap oil from dollar store, and change it after every ride with a spark plug gap of 4.5 mm :cookoo: :cookoo:
Quote from: gregvhen on November 12, 2009, 06:47:13 PM
like if you live is springfeild, and springfeild ran out of flu vaccines, you cant go over to jamestown where they are overstocked, because you live in springfeild. which is just bull.
I wouldn't even worry about that one. Jamestown isn't going to have a surplus. Goldman Sacs is going to have it, and they're not going to let your fingers anywhere near it.
Quote from: johnny ro on November 12, 2009, 07:29:08 PM
any Harley with loud pipes should be confiscated on the spot and crushed. too bad the cops all have them or want them.
I was at a bike cruise once, it was about 300 harleys, and me and one other kid on sportbikes. At one stop there were a couple local cops, and all they did was stand around talking about how cool the harley's were, giddy little school girl style. The fact that every one of the bikes were illegal couldn't have been farther from their mind. Some of the Harleys the cops ride in town are pretty loud as oh my goodness too.
EDIT: I always wondered why so many people on here said "oh my goodness", I know see it's an automatic forum infringement on my RIGHT to say s-h- shaZam! -t
Which aftermarket exhaust should I buy to make my bike sound like a Harley? Would LED turn signals make it sound better?
.
I like boobs! Boobs, bikes and beer FTW! :icon_twisted:
Quote from: XealotX on November 12, 2009, 08:38:02 PM
Which aftermarket exhaust should I buy to make my bike sound like a Harley? Would LED turn signals make it sound better?
no sorry friend, only LED tail lights and underglow make the bike louder. LED turn signals will add about 10% to your low end though. Just wont sound too much differant.
Lets be clear! Don't wish bad things to anyone. But when the little bit of grey matter you have between your ears possesses you to run a straight pipe at a very loud decibel..I think because of the lack of that grey matter your lack of grey matter would be better suited against a tree at high speed for fertilizer. The tree has more right to live then you do and will not produce mentally deficient offspring!
Nothing personal just MHO
Quote from: JB848 on November 15, 2009, 04:45:35 PM
Lets be clear! Don't wish bad things to anyone. But when the little bit of grey matter you have between your ears possesses you to run a straight pipe at a very loud decibel..I think because of the lack of that grey matter your lack of grey matter would be better suited against a tree at high speed for fertilizer. The tree has more right to live then you do and will not produce mentally deficient offspring!
Nothing personal just MHO
Struth, I'd hate to see you get all nasty and personal. Maybe a trip to your local hardware store for a tin of HTFU is in order. So some people run loud pipes on their bikes, get over it, it'll be a cold, cold day in hell before I put a quieter pipe on.
my GS has a V&H full setup on it, and it's obnoxious. It came on the bike though, so that's what I've got. Next time I get a bike I'm going to try make it quiet, my goal will be honda prius under 5mph quiet.
Quote from: JB848 on November 15, 2009, 04:45:35 PM
Lets be clear! Don't wish bad things to anyone. But when the little bit of grey matter you have between your ears possesses you to run a straight pipe at a very loud decibel..I think because of the lack of that grey matter your lack of grey matter would be better suited against a tree at high speed for fertilizer. The tree has more right to live then you do and will not produce mentally deficient offspring!
Nothing personal just MHO
nothing personal but thats proabably the stupidest thing ive ever read. :laugh:
Quote from: gregvhen on November 15, 2009, 07:31:40 PMnothing personal but thats proabably the stupidest thing ive ever read. :laugh:
Hahaha "but I said 'with all due respect'!"
Edit in case you don't get the reference: Ricky Bobby (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Af-Id_fuXFA)
Chopper gives advice on the need to HTFU http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unkIVvjZc9Y (1.47)
Enjoy Australian comedy :icon_mrgreen:
Michael - BTW, I don't own a portable gaming console.
Quote from: badguy on November 15, 2009, 07:37:59 PM
Quote from: gregvhen on November 15, 2009, 07:31:40 PMnothing personal but thats proabably the stupidest thing ive ever read. :laugh:
Hahaha "but I said 'with all due respect'!"
Edit in case you don't get the reference: Ricky Bobby (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Af-Id_fuXFA)
AHAHA man i love that movie.
Quote from: tt_four on November 15, 2009, 06:23:22 PM
my goal will be honda prius under 5mph quiet.
Last time I checked, the Prius wore a Toyota badge. Good analogy though.
lol my wife hates it when I pass people on the highway because I always say "slingshot engage" first.
:D
hahaha that's hilarious
Quote from: redhenracing2 on November 15, 2009, 08:59:55 PM
Quote from: tt_four on November 15, 2009, 06:23:22 PM
my goal will be honda prius under 5mph quiet.
Last time I checked, the Prius wore a Toyota badge. Good analogy though.
Yeah, cars aren't really my best subject. The only reason I even know they're quiet is because of that episode of the office.
The Office is great. along with the other NBC Thursday shows.
I wish I could start a topic that got the red lines on the folder for 25 replies or whatever. :icon_sad:
post something about boobs, that would probably do it.
Quote from: gregvhen on November 17, 2009, 10:36:15 AM
I wish I could start a topic that got the red lines on the folder for 25 replies or whatever. :icon_sad:
The trouble is, like this thread has proven, you'll get a lot of replies that aren't worth the time spent typing them. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to remove the baffles from my exhaust to make it louder so I can infringe on the rights of even more sheeple.
Are we missing the fact your safer on a super freakin loud bike? How many accidents are caused by people "not seeing" a motorcycle. Its hard not to see a bike thats so loud it sets off car alarms. Never had any problems being seen on the ironhead or the cb750 both with open headers. With stock pipe on the gs, people about run over me all the time!.....point and match!
several years ago, i owned an '88 chevy s-10. pulling out of a gas station one night a weld broke on the exhaust, disonnecting the muffler from the pipe. the truck stalled for a moment so i punched the gas to get out of oncoming traffic. it was pretty freaking loud. it's 10pm at night but it's friday and it was a main road in town so pretty packed with traffic. i got pulled over immediately and given a ticket for "noise violation." :bs: I think that it shouldn't matter how loud your car/bike etc exhaust is, during certain times of day. now, if it's 2am and your neighbor is working on his racecar, then i could understand complaining about disturbing the peace, noise violations etc. i love the sound of a nicely tuned car/bike. when a 1969 camaro rolls up to the stop light next to me, i expect my car to vibrate from the sound of his engine. gives me a stiffy every time. it's a personal preference thing though. some people like it, some don't. we should just learn how to get along. i think there are more pressing issues in this country we need to worry about rather than worry about how loud some guys exhaust is. but hey, that's just my opinion. ;)
Quote from: gregvhen on November 17, 2009, 10:36:15 AM
I wish I could start a topic that got the red lines on the folder for 25 replies or whatever. :icon_sad:
You're probably trying too hard.
This has to be the dumbest thread I've ever started (which is saying something... :D)
Definitely doesn't take much to derail a topic and send it flying off in an unexpected direction.
Quote from: jserio on November 17, 2009, 01:46:27 PM
i think there are more pressing issues in this country we need to worry about rather than worry about how loud some guys exhaust is. but hey, that's just my opinion. ;)
It's the little things that count, right?
I wouldn't be that picky if I lived out in the country, somewhere spaced out, but the city is loud enough as it is. There's no harm in having the slightest little bit of respect for the people around you. I've already stated my opinion: If you're loud enough to scare my dogs, you're being an ass.
i have always touched with my left foot first. We were also taught how to slow ride aswell and using the rear brake for doing so. i dont make sense to put both feet down at the same time... by the time i go o put my left foot down i have given myself the distance to slow right down and slow ride into the stop.
we were also taught to never take the bike out of gear whilst stopping in traffic.
i may be wrong here but i feel it is the most sensible way to keep balance and use both brakes effectively. you can put your right foot down after you have stopped.
it may just be a rider choice and how comfortable they are doing so.
If you really want an awesome sounding, loud exhaust for the GS there is no substitute for the whistle tip.. Woo Woooo!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSOSJ68xOBA&feature=PlayList&p=7BEFA0606FE70714&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=10
Quote from: tt_four on November 17, 2009, 04:32:58 PM
Quote from: jserio on November 17, 2009, 01:46:27 PM
I wouldn't be that picky if I lived out in the country, somewhere spaced out, but the city is loud enough as it is. There's no harm in having the slightest little bit of respect for the people around you. I've already stated my opinion: If you're loud enough to scare my dogs, you're being an ass.
soooo, my bike should be quieter than my footsteps? is yours?
Quote from: newbie on November 17, 2009, 12:50:14 PM
Are we missing the fact your safer on a super freakin loud bike? How many accidents are caused by people "not seeing" a motorcycle. Its hard not to see a bike thats so loud it sets off car alarms. Never had any problems being seen on the ironhead or the cb750 both with open headers. With stock pipe on the gs, people about run over me all the time!.....point and match!
Ah the old "loud pipes save lives" chestnut.
# 1: People pull out in front of trucks because they don't want to be stuck behind a slow thing.
# 2: People pull out in front of motorcycles Not because they don't see them BUT because they don't care. It's just a bike, screw em, they can stop. It's the very same thinking that probably sees your disdain at bicyclists.
What loud pipes do is tell the driver... not that you are there, they already know that... but that you Could be and maybe even are a Bikie. A 1%er. And they do Not want to piss off a 1%er.
I'll ride my bike as a normal person and get certain driving around me.
I'll ride with navy blue pants on and all black boots and in an Official Posture and I get Different more courteous driving around me.
I'll ride with my leather vest on with club patch on the back and several other patches on the front and I get Total Respect.
Tin tops Do see you. And in that instant make a snap judgement... screw him, might be a cop, might be a 1%er.
Do this experiment.... walk through a shopping center as a normal everyday person and pay attention to how people are around you. Then walk through with your bikie gear on carrying your helmet and notice how the other people are Different around you.
Motorcyclists do not pull out in front of other motorcyclists when driving cages. Truck drivers do not pull out in front of other truck drivers. Because they know what it takes to operate those vehicles. Car drivers do not know and don't give a toss. And they pull out Despite seeing you.
Michael
Quote from: mister on November 21, 2009, 04:41:16 AM
Quote from: newbie on November 17, 2009, 12:50:14 PM
Are we missing the fact your safer on a super freakin loud bike? How many accidents are caused by people "not seeing" a motorcycle. Its hard not to see a bike thats so loud it sets off car alarms. Never had any problems being seen on the ironhead or the cb750 both with open headers. With stock pipe on the gs, people about run over me all the time!.....point and match!
Do this experiment.... walk through a shopping center as a normal everyday person and pay attention to how people are around you. Then walk through with your bikie gear on carrying your helmet and notice how the other people are Different around you.
Motorcyclists do not pull out in front of other motorcyclists when driving cages. Truck drivers do not pull out in front of other truck drivers. Because they know what it takes to operate those vehicles. Car drivers do not know and don't give a toss. And they pull out Despite seeing you.
Michael
Very well put. (all of it really but I like these last 2.)
If I go into a store with the jacket and helmet, I have noticed the difference in how people recognize you as a rider / biker, 1%-er.
Right now I don't have my muffler installed (which is loud by itself.) and with the open pipe, it really has the loud and deep growl (which I like) but I definitely know it is annoying. I have also noticed that people really don't hear it until you are right up on them. Now, when you are in front of them, I am sure they hear it plenty.
Cautious, careful riders are what counts.
Quote from: gregvhen on November 21, 2009, 12:35:03 AM
Quote from: tt_four on November 17, 2009, 04:32:58 PM
I wouldn't be that picky if I lived out in the country, somewhere spaced out, but the city is loud enough as it is. There's no harm in having the slightest little bit of respect for the people around you. I've already stated my opinion: If you're loud enough to scare my dogs, you're being an ass.
soooo, my bike should be quieter than my footsteps? is yours?
Who said your bike needs to be quieter than a footstep? Do you have dogs that are scared by the sound of your footsteps? My bike is louder than my footsteps, but I also do my best to keep it quiet until I'm out of town. The unfortunate truth, is that the same people who love their loud pipes are the same people who can't stop revving their engine at red lights and stop signs shaking the sidewalk, and redlining their bike from light to light. It's people going out of their way to be obnoxious, just for the sake of being obnoxious. Cars may hear you sooner with a loud pipe, but the negative affects that loud pipes have had on the entire motorcycle community put us at more risk than the one or two cars that may pull out in front of you in a day, because now we've got people who see us and still pull out, and any various amount of stupid things I've had car drivers try to do to me just because they hate people on motorcycles. If you're paying attention, those cars pulling out shouldn't surprise you, put that guy in the F-150 that just tried to squeeze you off the shoulder when he passed you on a narrow 2 way street is your new problem.
Well, from experience as an EMT it seemed to me that the majority of motorcycle accidents where a car hit a moto seemed to be those louder cruiser style bikes. No, I didn't sit down and take numbers. The sport bike seemed to be the single vehicle accident and was usually a squid.
I really really do wish someone would do a study on this! Heck maybe once I get myself back into school maybe I'll make it one of my projects. Of course we haven't had any real motorcycle studies since the Hurt report which was right around the time I was born maybe before!
One nugget of information that was on the news tonight not related to motorcycles. 98% of all auto vs pedestrians. The pedestrians are at fault! This is in O-town other cities may vary.
Mary
Dogs get scared at a lot of things, or atleast go crazy at a lot of things. I'm sure your dogs arent suffering from PTSD or something just from loud bikes. They were obviously scared of some physical matter that came with a previous loud noises. Maybe some shouting, with kicking that followed immediately. Maybe a previous owner or breeder. Dogs aren't born afraid of loud noises, just like humans aren't born racist. They can be taught to not be afraid of the loud noise. Especially since it causes no harm.
Quote from: Toogoofy317 on November 23, 2009, 11:25:00 AM
One nugget of information that was on the news tonight not related to motorcycles. 98% of all auto vs pedestrians. The pedestrians are at fault! This is in O-town other cities may vary.
Unfortunately car manufactures have managed to get laws written that way. A rule that says it should be everyone's responsibility to stay out of a car drivers way are beyond me. I understand the physics behind it, big car vs. small pedestrian means the pedestrian should keep their eye out if they don't want hurt, but common sense says that if you want society were people are actually safe, you need to make the dangerous ones people the ones that can handle responsibility. As someone who walks somewhere a lot, I can tell you I've got to walk just as defensively as I ride a bicycle or motorcycle, because if you go through a cross walk when you have the right of way, and a car driver want to go through it, you will get honked at/screamed at/hit if you're not careful, and the lawyers at their insurance company will probably make it go away. There's a cross walk infront of where I work with neon yellow signs that say "Yield to pedestrians" and someone still gets hit there numberous times a year, it's discusting. Cars get off of the off-ramp and come shooting throug a crowded downtown still going 55mph .
Quote from: glynnd89 on November 23, 2009, 12:30:18 PM
Dogs get scared at a lot of things, or atleast go crazy at a lot of things. I'm sure your dogs arent suffering from PTSD or something just from loud bikes.
I don't know what to tell you. I'm not talking about overly sensitive or abused dogs. My dogs are scared when something is so loud that it shakes my house. That sounds like a fairly valid response to me for something that doesn't really have the IQ to understand how an internal combustion engine works, or why some 50 year old guy is so insecure that he needs a screaming harley to feel ok about himself. By the time a bike is loud enough to scare them I'm already annoyed at that person for being too loud on a neighborhood street, and that's well beyond the legal noise level.
German Shepard I used to own was scared of Thunder and Fireworks. I've known other G Shepards to be scared of the same.
Cage driver may turn their head in the direction of the noise. The car slowly goes that way too. Crash. BUT, I think before blaming That as a reason you'd need to assess the type of rider riding the loud pipes.
I ride with some loud pipe riders. And they ride to live. But others I see out on the road ride like they own the road and everyone else is an inconvenience that's just in their way and do some of the most dumbass things in traffic. They never ride off sedately from lights... they roar off - the louder the roar the better. Again, not all loud pipe riders. It's like a squid on loud pipes.
It's a bit like people who drive with their arm dangling out of the window. Not resting an elbow. I'm talking, whole arm dangling down the outside of the door like Mr Cool. They drive like dickheads. I see the arm and sure enough dickhead driving is seen. Not saying other people don't do stupid things on the road. But every time I see dangle arm I see dickhead driving.
Despite cagers not giving a toss and pulling out anyway, a lot of bike/car crashes could have been avoided by the rider taking different action.
On a forum somewhere was posted a video of a girl on a CBR600 I think. Four lanes of traffic. Far right lane was dead stopped. Next lane going left was Very slow. Her lane was pretty empty and she was moving at a good speed. Lane on left was questionable. Car on left hits brakes, swerves and locks and comes into her lane. She drifts right. Car from left coming over to close small gap across her lane and car on her right. She keep heading towards the gap and... over she goes.
The question posted was... what could she have done to avoid it?
My Take: She was going too fast for the conditions. Surely she had to anticipate a car jumping out from the lane on her right into her free flowing lane, yet, she rode as if this would not happen. Surely she could see the lane ahead on the left was stopped and the car on her left was still hurtling towards it and would either need to come into her lane or not stop at all.
Point being. As not at fault as she appears to be, How she rode lead to the crash. If she's ridden slower in the thick traffic... if she properly scanned the road ahead... no crash with her.
Not saying cagers are totally innocent. They aren't. They see you and move over anyway. Just that, there are actions we can take and positions on the road we can place ourselves that mean, if a cager does something idiotic we are still ok. Simple things...
Not riding in anything's blind spot. Owning the lane - too many moped rides ride on the gutter side, inviting cagers to squeeze them. Letting idiots go by. Not riding right up the ass of the cage in front. Expecting sideroad intrusions and having an idea of what you'll do if one happens. And so on and so forth.
Michael
Quote from: mister on November 23, 2009, 06:36:55 PMIntelligent and coherent points. And so on and so forth.
Michael
Man, I think you're too smart for this thread, you're supposed to be calling people stupid and insulting them for not being as loud as you...
:cheers:
I read the first page or two but had no patience for the next 5. haha.
But anyway, my dad rides a softail deluxe. It has a monster engine but makes no where what it should hp wise for that size. This is the same for just about all harleys. I dont get it, but harleys are for certain people and certain riding styles. I occasionally ride with my dad and about 7 other harley guys on the weekends and even though they are 700+ pounds and not making what they should for their size motor, they still win in a straight line when compared to a gs500. But like the thread starter said, once the street curves, forget it. I get frustrated riding twisties with these harley guys. But harleys arent meant for that. Its a nostalgia thing, at least it is for my dad and his 7 rider buddies. Its less about performance and more about looks, comfort, and nostalgia. I mean im not into that, but to each his own. and all these guys arent "prejudice" towards metric bikes. no doubt there are some harley guys that are, but they guys i know are like me, if youre on a motorcycle...good. Thats all. doesnt matter what it is. And thats how it should be.
Actually, TT according to the report. When it was the pedestrians fault they were Jay Walking, wearing dark colored clothing at night, walking with back to traffic. Pedestrians do have the right of way in Cross Walks or in parking lots. I think that is fair :dunno_white:
I dunno even when riding I get annoyed by loud bikes part of the reason I haven't gotten an aftermarket exhaustyet
Mary
Quote from: XealotX on November 17, 2009, 04:22:09 PM
This has to be the dumbest thread I've ever started (which is saying something... :D)
Definitely doesn't take much to derail a topic and send it flying off in an unexpected direction.
No, No. . .
On the Contrary
XealotX, you're a genius.
I should take lessons.
Although I would not have had the kahunas to start this "Harley Rider Driving Skills" topic in the General GS500 Discussion area, your first post here energized the entire message base!
This topic speaks for itself; 8 pages of posts and still growing.
And a tad more interesting than 8 pages of "How do I get rust off a headlight bracket". <
snicker>
XealotX, you nailed it with this one! :cheers:
Harleys...
Best passed in a power wheelie.
Keep the grin to yourself.
:D
Hi, don`t know if its the same in the states but in the UK,Bikers usually give a nod or wave to each other,its very rare to get a nod back from a Harley rider,its an import here so its not about having a foriegn bike.I just class them as image bikers.
Balancing at lights is fun,i was taught to hold rear brake,with left foot down,incase you get shunted..like its gonna make any difference.
Quote from: JAY W on January 07, 2010, 12:58:28 PM
Hi, don`t know if its the same in the states but in the UK, Bikers usually give a nod or wave to each other, its very rare to get a nod back from a Harley rider, its an import here so its not about having a foreign bike. I just class them as image bikers.
This Harley Drivers (not riders) thing is kind of on topic, so. . .
1.) Harley drivers: The polar opposite of Adventurer-Tourer guys.
2.) Both feet always hit the ground at a stop. (If your GS500 weighed 800# and had a 22 inch seat height, you would put both feet down too!)
3.) All summer long they rattle the neighborhood with their loud pipes.
4.) Soon as September hits and the temperatures start dropping into the 60's, all becomes silent.
5.) By November the only bikes on the road are a few BMW's and fools like me.
6.) Beamers ALWAYS wave, Harleys NEVER wave, and UJM's will usually wave at speeds below 85 MPH.
Disclaimer: The sport is many different things to many different people. I understand the Harley thing. No problem, I respect their piece of the pie.
When I pull up to a Harley Road King on my stinky little Yamaha, I feel cheesey. His loud pipes, all the chrome. I'm instantly out-classed. :embarrassed:
But then again. . .
Put that Harley Road King next to a BMW K1200LT and presto! The Harley starts looking like a mass-produced, Chinese made, child's toy. Guess it's all relative, eh?
-Ej-
P.S. So where's
XealotX with a follow-up? Now's his chance to shine. (http://mysite.verizon.net/vze2wc9e/grin47.gif)
Let him know; The Mother of all off-topic threads has been revived!
I give credit to the ones I see riding in winter. Maybe its not actual harleys, could be japanese versions. Probably a mix. You also hear a few ducatis on my road right past when I winterize.
All I have to say is loud pipes are rude, obnoxious, ignorant, stupid, offensive, offensive, outrageous, repugnant, repulsive, revolting, unacceptable, offensive, reprehensible, repugnant, repulsive, revolting.....etc,etc
Oh Yeah and just plain moronic!
Quote from: XealotX on November 17, 2009, 06:22:09 PM
This has to be the dumbest thread I've ever started (which is saying something... )
Definitely doesn't take much to derail a topic and send it flying off in an unexpected direction.
Thanks XealotX for such a productive Topic! I challange others to do the same :)
Quote from: johnny ro on January 07, 2010, 07:23:17 PM
I give credit to the ones I see riding in winter. Maybe its not actual harleys, could be japanese versions. Probably a mix. You also hear a few ducatis on my road right past when I winterize.
European bikes are made for riding in awful weather, especially rain. That all it does is rain there.
Quote from: tt_four on January 08, 2010, 07:50:08 AM
Quote from: johnny ro on January 07, 2010, 07:23:17 PM
I give credit to the ones I see riding in winter. Maybe its not actual harleys, could be japanese versions. Probably a mix. You also hear a few ducatis on my road right past when I winterize.
European bikes are made for riding in awful weather, especially rain. That all it does is rain there.
I don't know if that is always true. Kay was looking at a '96 Ducati Monster 600 a friend of mine was selling cheap last year. He was a fair weather rider and always kept the bike garaged. Looking at the bike I noticed the wire harness connectors were rather exposed to the elements compared to other bikes like the GS that tuck the connectors away in the headlight bucket or under the tank/bodywork. Since Kay was going to be storing the bike outside I was worried about rain getting into the connectors and corroding the terminals. Any Monster owners that can comment on that?
-Jessie
well ok, I'll agree with that. Ducati's are kinda an exception to general motorcycle usage. I know they've got great handling and all that, but the motors in those 600s are junk, and they're basically the European "Harley", the bike for people who want to look good. Not to say the bikes wouldn't be fun, but Italian stuff is about style. If I was ever lucky enough to own an MV Agusta it definitely wouldn't see much bad weather.
When I was talking about European bikes, Triumph was at the front of my mind, with BMW coming in a close second, so I'll narrow that down to at least British and german.
So I just transferred to a new office for my job, and I got this awesome seat right next to a window. This guy I was in training with years ago always comes over to look out the window to see what it's like outside. Anyway, he looks out and tells me he always keeps an eye on the weather because he just bought a $22k Harley road king. It was like the $22k was part of the description like the "F" in GS500 and GS500F. Haha. When he said that it reminded me of this thread so I figured I would dig it up. I'm gonna go riding with him when it warms up so I'll see how his bike compares to my $1500 91 GS.
In case you need help against your friends hardley: http://www.techeblog.com/index.php/tech-gadget/motorcycle-with-rocket-pods-shoots-rockets-at-the-push-of-a-button
the bike you ride doesn't make you a dickhead. i've seen plenty of dickheads riding around in all kinds of weather on all kinds of bikes.
Quote from: jserio on January 21, 2010, 05:09:16 PM
the bike you ride doesn't make you a duckhead. i've seen plenty of duckheads riding around in all kinds of weather on all kinds of bikes.
What's a duckhead?
d-i-c-k-h-e-a-d. gotta love the vulgerism filter. ;)
Ok, well I'll second that then. As much as I don't have the highest opinion of harley riders, and as much as I love sportbikes, I've always felt like 95% percent of the guys on sportbikes aren't worth the time of day. There's a couple really nice guys who just like to ride, but a huge portion of them are snotty 20 year old kids with too much money, or middle aged overweight men who have too much money and needed something 'cool' to spend it on, and both of them tend to bring a rotten attitude to anything they do.
This thread is still in circulation?????
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Truth be told, once the temperature dropped below 20 degrees I parked the bike in the corner of the garage, plugged the battery into a tender, and forgot all about it and this website for the past month. :oops:
Quote from: XealotX on January 23, 2010, 10:22:24 AM
This thread is still in circulation?????
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Truth be told, once the temperature dropped below 20 degrees I parked the bike in the corner of the garage, plugged the battery into a tender, and forgot all about it and this website for the past month. :oops:
Its a durable concept, to wonder what is wrong with Harleys.
I have voted nothing really wrong above.
The same debate popped up the other day on my favorite car site, the truth about cars. People ranting and raving on both sides of the question and calling each other stupid. Weird. Get a life, eh? Except for "open pipes" issue, they should all be confiscated and crushed.
I work with a guy named Harley. I don't think he'd like to be confiscated and crushed. :dunno_white: :icon_mrgreen:
Michael
they want us to silence our exhaust and yet they won't allow us to put silencers on our firearms? :cookoo: :icon_mrgreen:
Last time I searched, you could buy silenced .22 air rifle online. its low power and all that but well you can plink away and not bug the neighbors. Kill rabbits etc. Its not a firearm, so unregulated, since doesn't use gunpowder.
I also saw internally shock absorbered air rifles, to reduce kickback, it improves accuracy.
People like guns in NH. I work in Mass and I never bring the subject up there.
Somehow a loud Ducati bothers me the least of all loud bikes. I hear cruiser for 5 whole minutes before they come through my little valley then another while they fade away. Reminds me of some bomber sortie.
Quote from: johnny ro on January 25, 2010, 07:40:29 PM
Last time I searched, you could buy silenced .22 air rifle online. its low power and all that but well you can plink away and not bug the neighbors. Kill rabbits etc. Its not a firearm, so unregulated, since doesn't use gunpowder.
I also saw internally shock absorbered air rifles, to reduce kickback, it improves accuracy.
People like guns in NH. I work in Mass and I never bring the subject up there.
Somehow a loud Ducati bothers me the least of all loud bikes. I hear cruiser for 5 whole minutes before they come through my little valley then another while they fade away. Reminds me of some bomber sortie.
A silencer on a Spring Powered air rifle will do no good because it's the spring making the noise. It's also the spring and ram which give the recoil.
A compressed air powered air rifle however (usually filled from a dive tank into their own smaller tank), can have a silencer that works. And Those types are pretty well recoiless. And are thus more accurate.
Michael
Quote from: johnny ro on January 25, 2010, 07:40:29 PM
Somehow a loud Ducati bothers me the least of all loud bikes. I hear cruiser for 5 whole minutes before they come through my little valley then another while they fade away. Reminds me of some bomber sortie.
I think as time goes by, I tend to prefer the sound of a V twin, I'd say it's most likely thanks to buell. Inline 4s still sound way faster, and the high pitch is more annoying. The only time I don't line twins is when they're really close to you. Their sound is deep enough that you can feel it, which I don't like. As annoying as an I-4 is at 12k rpm, it's just the noise. Harleys and other V twins manage to offend more than 1 of my senses all at the same time.
Quote from: XealotX on January 23, 2010, 10:22:24 AM
This thread is still in circulation?????
Geez, look who finally showed up. Of course this thing is still going.
This thread is fascinating! (http://mysite.verizon.net/vze2wc9e/beatdeadhorse.gif)
Your starter post (ten pages back) about the Harley issue, it needed to be said.
Well done,
Thank you XealotX!
so are the majority of you guys saying you wouldn't ride with a harley owner? or are you secretly jealous of harley riders and choose to bash them in order to profess your twisted love to them? :icon_mrgreen: i've said it several times, i don't think it's about what you ride, it's about THE RIDE. two wheels is two wheels. have fun and be safe. :cheers: