New X Rider

[Utah Jeff]

Thought I'd drop in and say hello. Just got my X a few weeks ago - traded in my trusty Valkyrie, after 3 years riding the Valk I got bitten by the new bike bug and couldn't pass up the deal on this '03 leftover. Still getting comfortable with the X, but so far I'm happy I made the trade.

I'm impressed by the online X community so far - both on the main board and this one. From what I can tell there is a real brotherhood among X riders. Looking forward to getting to know some of you and hopefully getting together for some riding!

Jeff

[Wilsondude]

It's goood to have another X'er! There is a growing number of us in Utah, and, although we don't have twice a month meetings and such, we do like to get together and ride! You can get lots of tech help here, also. We usually try to get out on Sat. or Sun., weather permitting. Dave (ILuvUMan), Clayton (cjt), Kevin (kxb44), and I (Mark) went for a nice 300 mile jaunt Saturday - Buhyootefull! Welcome to the board.

[cjt]

As Mark said we had a good ride Saturday. I live in Orem so not to far away. Hopefully we can get another ride in soon and you can join us for the fun. Some good people on the board here always willing to help with any problems.

Clayton

[Utah Jeff]

It's goood to have another X'er! There is a growing number of us in Utah, and, although we don't have twice a month meetings and such, we do like to get together and ride! You can get lots of tech help here, also. We usually try to get out on Sat. or Sun., weather permitting. Dave (ILuvUMan), Clayton (cjt), Kevin (kxb44), and I (Mark) went for a nice 300 mile jaunt Saturday - Buhyootefull! Welcome to the board.

Thanks for the welcome, Mark!

300 miles is my kind of ride. Sorry I missed it! Hope to make the next one. I went for a short ride myself on Sat. It was nice to see a few other bikes out on the roads.

Which pipes are those on your bike? They look great. One selfish reason for wanting to get together with some other X-ers is to hear your pipes, so I can decide which ones I need to save my pennies for. Right now I'm leaning toward the Muzzy 2-2's. Don't suppose anyone local has 'em?

Again, thanks for the welcome.

Jeff

[Utah Jeff]

As Mark said we had a good ride Saturday. I live in Orem so not to far away. Hopefully we can get another ride in soon and you can join us for the fun. Some good people on the board here always willing to help with any problems.

Clayton

Calyton,

Before buying our first home here in Lehi about a year ago, the wife and I lived in Orem (in the Clayton Apts. - go figure!).

Thanks for the welcome to the board. Looking forward to riding with some other X-ers.

Jeff

[Wilsondude]

Cobra Angled Slash Cuts. Probably gonna add Thunder Monster baffles soon. Vroom, Vroom!

[Mountain Flier]

Hey Jeff, welcome to the board and congrats. on the new X. I noticed that you made the smart choice of buying an R. Hope to meet you soon. :D
Kirby

[Utah Jeff]

Hey Jeff, welcome to the board and congrats. on the new X. I noticed that you made the smart choice of buying an R. Hope to meet you soon. :D
Kirby

Hey Kirby,

Thanks for the welcome. Man, those pipes look awesome on your scoot. From what you wrote about them in the other thread, it sounds like they have a nice sound also. Can't wait to hear 'em. The retro look of those pipes sure go well with your bike. Looking forward to meeting you also.

Jeff

[doc_cj]

Welcome to the list, Jeff!

I'm still meeting a bunch of these folks as well, and from what I'm seeing this is a good bunch of folks. I know we're all just pawing at the dirt ready to go for more than just a few hours at a time.

The bike looks pretty nice and it looks like you've certainly been bitten by the bug on fixing these sleds up. Just curious, how do you find the ride compared to the Valk? I've not riddne a Valk, but I did ride a 1500 Gold Wing for a short time.

[Utah Jeff]

Welcome to the list, Jeff!

I'm still meeting a bunch of these folks as well, and from what I'm seeing this is a good bunch of folks. I know we're all just pawing at the dirt ready to go for more than just a few hours at a time.

The bike looks pretty nice and it looks like you've certainly been bitten by the bug on fixing these sleds up. Just curious, how do you find the ride compared to the Valk? I've not riddne a Valk, but I did ride a 1500 Gold Wing for a short time.

Hey Doc,

Thanks for the welcome! I'm a little jealous of you - you live near some of my favorite riding spots. Hwy 12, Zions, Bryce to name a few. Utah has some gorgeous scenery, doesn't it? All the more enjoyable when enjoyed on two wheels...

The Valk is a great bike. Truth be told, I miss it a bit. I thought I'd have that bike for a long time. Part of the fun of these machines is fixing them up how we want them, isn't it? After setting up the Valk the way I wanted and riding it for a few years, I just kind of got bored with it recently. I thought for a minute about getting a Wing. Then my wife said we're not old enough for a Wing yet :D so I started looking at the X. The more I looked, the more I liked. Then I took a test ride and really starting liking the X.

The Valk makes it power very smoothly, I'm sure like your Wing did. For me it was maybe a little too smooth. Before the Valk I had a 750 ACE, which has a single-pin crank v-twin. One thing I really enjoyed about that 750 was the feel of riding it. I could feel the engine doing it's thing, and the exhaust sounded great. The Valk, on the other hand, is anything but a v-twin. Very smooth, nice sounding exhaust (I had glasspacks on mine), but a very different sound than a v-twin.

The Valk's riding position is a lot like a Wing, meaning feet below you instead of in front of you as on most v-twin cruisers, due to that wide engine case (as you know). None of these things really bothered me when I owned the Valk, but when I rode the X I realized how much I enjoyed the feel of a v-twin cruiser, not to mention the riding position.

I always thought the Valk was a great handler, but at low speeds it could be a handful. On paper the X is a few pounds heavier than the Valk, and with the low-mounted engine on the Valk I assumed the Valk would have a lower COG and therefore easier handling. Surprisingly, from my first ride on the X I have felt more at home than I ever did on the Valk. I really like how this bike handles. I haven't had a chance to get the X into any twisties yet, but so far I am impressed with the X's handling.

I guess that about sums up the differences between the two bikes in my mind. Right now my plan is to get the X paid off then start thinking about a Wing (maybe we'll be old enough then!). The wife and I enjoy long trips and the Wing would sure be nice on those rides. And I'd still have the X for me. Think I'll need a bigger garage though!

Jeff

[doc_cj]

Whoa ... Jeff ... you should write for the motor mags. Your descriptions were better than some their riders. Your comments about COG and relative riding position were great descriptions.

I'm with your wife on the Wing ... not sure any of us are ready for that bike (yet). But I do like them, and I especially like the idea if I'm going more than 200 miles a day. I don't know about you, but an hour or so at a time is about all I care for on a motorcycle. I tend to break my trips up into lots of little ones. The Wing would make it a bit easier, but shifting my big butt around on any seat gets tiring after the first 100 miles.

Instead of paying off the X and getting a Wing, pay off the X and get the wife an X of her own. I'm still working on mine, but I figure two bikes are way better than one. Of course, I guess you could go Wing for distance and X for local/short trips. Ah ... what a life ... if the rest of life's little decisions were only as hard. :wink:

I also like what you said about the difference in sound. I had a Sabre 1100 before the VTX and there's a bit of differnce in the sound. I like my X, but I've been thinking of swapping out the pipes. There's a good chance I'll go for the Roadhouse brand, but I read a good report on Cobra's Speedster Longs so now I'm not sure. I want more "oomph" but not that window-shaking sound. There's a couple good threads on other parts of the board that debate the relative merits of the various brands, and like a lot of things on these ol' scooters it all boils down to personal taste.

[Wilsondude]

Sat on a Wing recently - their target buyer has got to be around 5-8. Sooo small! Guess I'll just hafta add all the creature comforts to my X :wink:

[ILuv_UMan]

On paper the X is a few pounds heavier than the Valk, and with the low-mounted engine on the Valk I assumed the Valk would have a lower COG and therefore easier handling. Surprisingly, from my first ride on the X I have felt more at home than I ever did on the Valk. I really like how this bike handles. I haven't had a chance to get the X into any twisties yet, but so far I am impressed with the X's handling.
Jeff

Actually the Model C VTX 1800 is about 10 lbs lighter than the Valkyrie (705 vs. 715). The Retros (with lots of tank trim) are heavier however. :shock:

The seat on the VTX 1800 is several inches lower than the Valkyrie. That is the primary reason for the lower center of gravity (COG). Get a non stock (OEM) seat and you'll drop another inch or so, thus dropping your COG even more. :)

Welcome aboard Jeff. By the way, VTX 1800 is dual pin and fuel injected. I'd hate to even think of synchronizing six carburetors, that you find on a Valk.

PS: If you or anyone else knows of anyone who needs a brand spanking new Metzler tire for thier Valk, let me know. I happen to have one (long story) for a really good price.

[Utah Jeff]

Thanks, Doc. Though difficult to try to describe two different bikes in words, I gave it a shot - glad it made at least a little sense. It helps a lot when your audience understands and relates so well to what you are saying.

The wife had a little 50cc scooter for a while. She liked it fine, kept it close to home, of course. Even with her limited riding range she quickly learned that cagers simply do not see two-wheelers as well as other four-wheelers. When we moved to Lehi from Orem she decided she didn't want to ride it anymore, as there was nowhere she would want to ride it that was close enough. I've brought up the idea of getting her own bike, but the shifting intimidates her - it was a couple of years after we got married before she learned to drive a standard transmission. I doubt she'll ever be on her own bike. I'm ok with that, I like having her with me on the bike - she's a great passenger.

I know what you mean about short stretches on the bike - I enjoy long rides, but I'm always ready for a stretch when it's time to stop for gas!

Jeff

[Utah Jeff]

On paper the X is a few pounds heavier than the Valk, and with the low-mounted engine on the Valk I assumed the Valk would have a lower COG and therefore easier handling. Surprisingly, from my first ride on the X I have felt more at home than I ever did on the Valk. I really like how this bike handles. I haven't had a chance to get the X into any twisties yet, but so far I am impressed with the X's handling.
Jeff

Actually the Model C VTX 1800 is about 10 lbs lighter than the Valkyrie (705 vs. 715). The Retros (with lots of tank trim) are heavier however. :shock:

The seat on the VTX 1800 is several inches lower than the Valkyrie. That is the primary reason for the lower center of gravity (COG). Get a non stock (OEM) seat and you'll drop another inch or so, thus dropping your COG even more. :)

Welcome aboard Jeff. By the way, VTX 1800 is dual pin and fuel injected. I'd hate to even think of synchronizing six carburetors, that you find on a Valk.

PS: If you or anyone else knows of anyone who needs a brand spanking new Metzler tire for thier Valk, let me know. I happen to have one (long story) for a really good price.

Thanks for the welcome! FI was one if the selling points that drew me to the X. It's nice to just push the starter and have her fire up. Starting the Valk could be a bit of an art at times.

I see you're in Tooele. I got my X at Steadman's - had a very positive purchasing experience there. Much better than I was being treated at Monarch - where I don't plan on returning.

Don't the Valk and Retro X have the same size tires? Seems like I remember that they do. Maybe you can sell the tire to a Retro X rider. Shoot, how much you asking? I'm assuming it's a front tire as I think the C Model has the same size rear as the Retro X and the Valk?

Jeff

[Drywallman]

Cobra Angled Slash Cuts. Probably gonna add Thunder Monster baffles soon. Vroom, Vroom!
Mark, I just installed the Thunder Monters in my pipes last weekend. They are a lot louder then the Quiet baffles.
Welcme Utah Jeff, Lots of info here. Looking forward meeting with you, may be at a tech session. If weather changes for the better a ide would be nice.
Drywallman

[Wilsondude]

Louder and better, or just louder? Still want to De Smog, but am now thinking about waiting till I buy a new airbox (the CDS on Ebay). Sunday might be another decent day to ride, and you know that I wanna hear those pipes, Lewis!

[ILuv_UMan]

[quote="Utah Jeff":2i4aehvx]On paper the X is a few pounds heavier than the Valk, and with the low-mounted engine on the Valk I assumed the Valk would have a lower COG and therefore easier handling. Surprisingly, from my first ride on the X I have felt more at home than I ever did on the Valk. I really like how this bike handles. I haven't had a chance to get the X into any twisties yet, but so far I am impressed with the X's handling.
Jeff

Actually the Model C VTX 1800 is about 10 lbs lighter than the Valkyrie (705 vs. 715). The Retros (with lots of tank trim) are heavier however. :shock:

The seat on the VTX 1800 is several inches lower than the Valkyrie. That is the primary reason for the lower center of gravity (COG). Get a non stock (OEM) seat and you'll drop another inch or so, thus dropping your COG even more. :)

Welcome aboard Jeff. By the way, VTX 1800 is dual pin and fuel injected. I'd hate to even think of synchronizing six carburetors, that you find on a Valk.

PS: If you or anyone else knows of anyone who needs a brand spanking new Metzler tire for thier Valk, let me know. I happen to have one (long story) for a really good price.

Thanks for the welcome! FI was one if the selling points that drew me to the X. It's nice to just push the starter and have her fire up. Starting the Valk could be a bit of an art at times.

I see you're in Tooele. I got my X at Steadman's - had a very positive purchasing experience there. Much better than I was being treated at Monarch - where I don't plan on returning.

Don't the Valk and Retro X have the same size tires? Seems like I remember that they do. Maybe you can sell the tire to a Retro X rider. Shoot, how much you asking? I'm assuming it's a front tire as I think the C Model has the same size rear as the Retro X and the Valk?

Jeff[/quote:2i4aehvx]

Yes it is a front tire for the Valk. Only the rear tires are the same for the VTX and Valk. And no, the front tire for the Valk is only made for the Valk. I'd sell that brand new stickered Metzler front tire for the Valk for $95. The tire I have is a Metzler ME880F 150/80HR17

[Drywallman]

Louder and better, or just louder? Still want to De Smog, but am now thinking about waiting till I buy a new airbox (the CDS on Ebay). Sunday might be another decent day to ride, and you know that I wanna hear those pipes, Lewis!
Don't really know if better, haven't had a good run with them yet. But I guess if sunday is a good day for a ride I'll find out.
About the desmog, Ive been tied up between work and the better half,but we'll get'er done for ya. May be we should have a tech session, I know that their are others that want Desmog as well. Oh yes you also need to get caps to cap off your air box (3/8) and one line on the manifold (1/4) I believe. I just got an assortment from Auto Zone.
Drywallman

[Wilsondude]

Tech session sounds good for the DeSmog. Anyone else interested?

[Mountain Flier]

I have some rubber caps left over from my desmog...you're welcome to them. If you're up this way, stop by and I'll give them to you. Let me know when you guys are getting together for a tech session and I'll bring them over.

[ILuv_UMan]

Tech session sounds good for the DeSmog. Anyone else interested?

I might do desmog. Haven't decided for sure, my bike runs to good. What's the old saying, if it ain't broke don't fix it? :)

I'd proably have to check my valves and I don't know if my ground has ever been checked. Geeesh. I'd have a whole new bike if I ever got under that tank. :roll:

Found coyote on Message boards. He put on some Genmar 1.5 Riser extensions and decided later to go with regular Aeromach risers. He sold the extensions for $40. I'm sure I'll need ALL the help I can get putting those on. Every inch counts :? :wink:

[Utah Jeff]

Thanks for the welcome, Drywallman.

Please count me in for the next desmog tech session. I can offer a small (single car), but heated garage if needed.

Jeff

[skipdrag]

I am in for a tech session. I have no clue if my bike has been desmogged or not. I will check this again in the morning to see you guys have decided on.

[Drywallman]

today would be a good day for a desmog session if anyone is interested
Drywallman

[skipdrag]

I am interesteed. When and were?

[Utah Jeff]

Is there a tech session today? Did I miss it??

:shock:

Jeff

[Drywallman]

Is there a tech session today? Did I miss it??

:shock:

Jeff
Tech session was at Willsondudes house. The Desmog went well and fun for all. Terry (no handle),Mike (SkipDrag) , Mark (Wilsondude) and Lewis (Drywallman) attended. Need to add you to the list of names and numbers so you can be contacted for these sessions. PM me with you info if you want to be added to the X'ers phone list.
Drywallman

[Mountain Flier]

Tech session was at Willsondudes house. The Desmog went well and fun for all. Terry (no handle),Mike (SkipDrag) , Mark (Wilsondude) and Lewis (Drywallman) attended. Need to add you to the list of names and numbers so you can be contacted for these sessions. PM me with you info if you want to be added to the X'ers phone list.
Drywallman

It was nice seeing you and Mark today. Nice to meet Terry and Mike, also. Let's hope for good weather next weekend so we can get out for a ride. I think it would be fun to ride with you guys. :D

[Utah Jeff]

Sorry I missed the tech session. Hope to catch the next one. I'll PM you my contact info, Drywallman.

The wife and I did get out on the bike today for a short ride, her first on the X. Was nice to get out!

Jeff

[Wilsondude]

We just got this session together on short notice, but thanks for the great help from Lewis, Mike, and Terry. Actually, Lewis called me on my cell at the perfect time; he may have saved me from going over to the "dark side" - (joining one of those clubs, ya know?!). Probably better to have a "group" of peepole who just like to get together and enjoy each other's company!! No question!

[ILuv_UMan]

We just got this session together on short notice, but thanks for the great help from Lewis, Mike, and Terry. Actually, Lewis called me on my cell at the perfect time; he may have saved me from going over to the "dark side" - (joining one of those clubs, ya know?!). Probably better to have a "group" of peepole who just like to get together and enjoy each other's company!! No question!

Trust me. Don't join any organized group, the fun will cease immediately and you'll immediately be assigned some official capacity. Egos replace brain cells/logic. http://www.headachesupportgroups.com/echat45/skelwalk1.gifJust RIDE and ENJOY and GOOD TIMES WILL BE HAD BY ALL