Trying To Find Information on VTX1800R

[burkea]

Hey, anyone that can provide some information the following issues. I am looking to buy an VTX1800 in June and I not owned a bike in 10 years. I have been reading some and talking to others about the VTX1800 or VTX1300. I plan to dress it with the usual stuff, windshield, bags, mustange driver seat and pass backrest, with cruiser control device. and etc. I am 5'8, 68" and 250 lbs with a 30 inseams. I also understand the bike (VTX1800) is somewhat top heavy, can anyone explain. I would appreciate any additional information. Oh yes, I taking the Basic rider course and expert rider course in Apr and May. Thank Rem:?:

[POGOGOLF]

Hey, anyone that can provide some information the following issues. I am looking to buy an VTX1800 in June and I not owned a bike in 10 years. I have been reading some and talking to others about the VTX1800 or VTX1300. I plan to dress it with the usual stuff, windshield, bags, mustange driver seat and pass backrest, with cruiser control device. and etc. I am 5'8, 68" and 250 lbs with a 30 inseams. I also understand the bike (VTX1800) is somewhat top heavy, can anyone explain. I would appreciate any additional information. Oh yes, I taking the Basic rider course and expert rider course in Apr and May. Thank Rem:?:

Well, first off...welcome! Secondly, I have an '02 1800 C model, not an R, but, the bikes (1800's) are approx. 715-725 pounds, so if that equates "top-heavy", then I guess they are. I, personally, don't think they are top-heavy, but they are BIG bikes that take a bit of getting used to, especially if all you've ever ridden were something in the 800CC or less category. In my neck of the woods, we ride mostly hilly, curvy roads, so I believe I am speaking from experience when I tell you, the 1800 C handles these roads as well/better as any cruiser out there! Can you scrape the pegs, "Yes"; can you weave and twist and turn and ride this beast with confidence, "Yes"; can a person be intimidated by this bike, "Yes, it's not for everyone"; would I buy this bike again, "WITHOUT A DOUBT!!!!!" Don't know if this hurt or helped, just trying to give you my perspective. Whatever you choose, enjoy!!

[burkea]

Jeff, thanks for the reply. I will continue to lend forward on getting the bike and beginning the return of my riding days. I wanted to cut my teeth on something bigger then lesser. like the 1300. I think both bikes are a good buy, but I really think in the long run I will enjoy traveling with the bigger bike. I plan to take some tripes to Ky, SC, and TX and perhaps DC as well. I will take my time to get use to this bigger and more powerful bike. Do you have any suggestion on how I should preceed?

[POGOGOLF]

Jeff, thanks for the reply. I will continue to lend forward on getting the bike and beginning the return of my riding days. I wanted to cut my teeth on something bigger then lesser. like the 1300. I think both bikes are a good buy, but I really think in the long run I will enjoy traveling with the bigger bike. I plan to take some tripes to Ky, SC, and TX and perhaps DC as well. I will take my time to get use to this bigger and more powerful bike. Do you have any suggestion on how I should preceed?

Simple, ride as often as you can, on as many different types of roads as you can, and, in all types of weather. You'll love this bad boy!!!! JMHO.

[BamaX]

Hey, anyone that can provide some information the following issues. I am looking to buy an VTX1800 in June and I not owned a bike in 10 years. I have been reading some and talking to others about the VTX1800 or VTX1300. I plan to dress it with the usual stuff, windshield, bags, mustange driver seat and pass backrest, with cruiser control device. and etc. I am 5'8, 68" and 250 lbs with a 30 inseams. I also understand the bike (VTX1800) is somewhat top heavy, can anyone explain. I would appreciate any additional information. Oh yes, I taking the Basic rider course and expert rider course in Apr and May. Thank Rem:?:

Personally, the difference in the weight of the two (about 100# give or take) is only noticible getting it off the stand and at stops. After that, underway, the weight seems to not be a factor. Now, understand what Jeff said, both bikes are big and heavy and will take a little getting used to. However, after you are comfortable, the weight actually helps you track thru the corners and especially in windy conditions. So....I guess what I am saying, get the 1800 you will not be disappointed and you will like the fuel injection also.

If it were my buck now, I would consider the 1800N. The Neo is a very cool looking bike either dressed or not. I would get removable bags (Boss Bags are the best), removeable windshield (both National and Memphis Shades make one) so that when you want to "dress down" for some riding in the AL summer heat, you can.

My $ .02. Good luck with your decision.

[BigMac]

I was in your shoes last year. I haven't ridden a bike in about 28 years, then I got the bug. I am 6'5'' 280lbs 35" inseam. After about a month of dealing with a couple of dealers I got my 2003 1800R with $1000 worth of free accesories("It does not go far"). I got on it from the dealer and drove it to the DMV to take the drivers test and pasted without a problem. It is a bit heavy, but I like that. Once your going, you can't tell. As far a accessories for the big guy, the 4" risers really make you comfortable. I also put on a Mustang seat with the front backrest and love it. I could not use the Honda windshield because of my height so I got a rifle windshield which was 27" in height. Sorry I could go on, but I have had it for 7 months and put 5000 miles on it. Love it.

[joergli]

Hi,
I joined your club just this morning?
Living near Frankfurt am Main/Germany.
I own a 1800 since July 2002, have droven already 12.000 miles ( 2 x from Germany to Finland - each trip around 2,500 miles).
Yes "she" is heavy, but when driving - no better choise in big bikes.
Have fun.

J O E R G

Being 5"11 with a 32 inch inseam I understand what they mean about top heavy. When I first got 1800 my first impression made me nervous at stop or very slow speed, even dumped it once in the driveway when I let it get to far over. It's definitely not a sport bike. The best mods I made was to change out the seat (saddlemen) and some 11.5 inch progressives shocks. It lowered the center of gravity and has made the bike a joy to drive even at the slowest speeds. If you are interested in getting a feel for what it's like with the lower seat and shocks, I live up in Monrovia. Drop me a PM and we can set up a time.

[FlatTop2165]

All I can say was the last bike I had was a '79 Yama 1100SX and All I can say about my "Beast" is Swwwweetttttt. With all the goodies she is wearing yes she is heavy, but she can dance with the best of 'em. As long as I don't let my ability overtake my opportunities. You can't go wrong with any of the VTX's.