Went to the Suburban H-D's (Milwaukee, WI) block party yesterday. They have a V-BAG for sale...it's a Road Glide fairing attached to the frame...what's the point?

846998470084701

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The point is a smooth running, water-cooled 110 hp bagger. Not my cup of tea, but I get it.

Some people want to tour on a Harley without seetling for a twinkie. It's their money and their bike. So what's wrong with that?

Sure wish those doing that would at least put fake gauges in the gauge holes. WTF? They don't have to actually work! Going to all that trouble and then stopping at 90%.
But Steppenwolf is correct. Who wants 1939 technology?

I'll say this: that's an interesting set up. Nothing more for me to say.

I think they've been stuck with that bike for a couple of years now. They want way too much $$$$$ for it if I remember correctly.

I've considered it on more than one occasion. Usually riding in the rain.

That is like taking a beautiful, sexy woman and dressing her in grandma's clothes, complete with large hat and carpet bag purse, sensible flats, 'cross your heart" bra, granny panties.....etc....yuck!

I love the bike and I like being comfortable but that is a bit silly!

It may not be that pretty, but if you want to cruise on the highway for a long distance, you would start to understand why after about 60 miles.

I have a real Road Glide and if I could swap the motor and transmission out for the revolution I would do it in a heart beat.

I think this bike is a statement to HD to put the motor in a bagger frame. I g

I understand it. I deal with it myself, since I have to carry tools for my job. the look isn't as repulsive for me as it used to be so I guess its growing on me. I suppose the real answer is going to be getting a second vrod and leave one for play and one for practical use.

i'd buy a road glide, road king, ultra, dyna, whatever as long as it had the street ripping balls of a v rod... until then i'll stick with my v and my bags and such...

I've ridden a 700+ mile trip on my V and a 800+ mile trip on a friend's Road Glide and I can tell you from mass-ass-experience that the V-ROD was NOT designed for touring!!

Unfortunately I don't have that-kind of money to spend so I'd probably buy a Road Glide and stick a Big-Bore engine in it instead.

LL Cool K...you're right. They said they've had it for over 2 years now.

.

I rode my V-Rod to Myrtle Beach. A friend who was down there had to fly back due to his buisness partner's untimely death. We had a local dealer down there selling bikes, and they agreed to take one of our bikes back for us.

Since the V-rod had limited range, I was voted into having my bike trailered back to Toledo, and I rode the road glide.

It's a nice cruising bike, but I was bored to death on it. It had no pickup over 70 MPH and it could barely get me through the blue ridge mountians. The handling was very neutral and sure. The instruments gave me a little motion sickness, 2 guages move with the bars, the rest attached to the fixed fairing. It took a little getting used to. The thing I liked the most was the cruise control. Other than that, I would have RATHER been on my V-Rod.

Having made several 800 plus mile days on the V-Rod (admittedly set up for touring), I can't imagine anything that would work better. Of course I moved up from a '67 BSA, which was good for about 40 miles before I lost all feeling in my arms and bottom.

Sure wish those doing that would at least put fake gauges in the gauger holes. WTF? They don't have to actually work! Going to all that trouble and then stopping at 90%.
But Steppenwolf is correct. Who wants 1939 technology?

I agree, but why fake gauges? I am sure you can find water temp and oil temp gauges, clocks, etc to put in them. Anything but those stupid looking round gaugeless plastic spaces. I have seen ones out here that they do not even bother to put a radio in.

Fred

IS that an ...............

Awesome

Here's another opinion:

http://www.1130cc.com/forums/showpost.php?p=906227&postcount=1

i have no problem riding my v long distances... and for the record if my v rod looked like gwyneth i would not have bought it....

i have no problem riding my v long distances... and for the record if my v rod looked like gwyneth i would not have bought it....
Who else am I going to use as a example, Kristy Alley? I had to have before and after picts. Plus for a blond She aint bad.

It may not be that pretty, but if you want to cruise on the highway for a long distance, you would start to understand why after about 60 miles.

I have a real Road Glide and if I could swap the motor and transmission out for the revolution I would do it in a heart beat.

I think this bike is a statement to HD to put the motor in a bagger frame. I g


I agree.:)

I agree.:)
Well...we'll find out tomorrow.

Who else am I going to use as a example, Kristy Alley? I had to have before and after picts. Plus for a blond She aint bad.

back in the day (a long long time ago) kristy didn't look too bad, but after the jenny craig commercials i'm certain that even if she lost all her excess weight and was smokin hot she still wouldn't appeal to me.. she is just annoying... i understand where you're comin from though

I would love a full, fixed fairing V. The problem with this bike is that the fairing is from a Road Glide and not designed for a V. How about a unique fixed fairing for the V a little like this one but more cutting edge like you see on a BMW.

Wow...a V-BAG BEAMER...yeah...that's going in the right direction for a v-ROD.

My (expensive) solution here was: add Screamin Eagle Road King to the DX in the garage.

I must say I'm quite pleased with this pairing. Loads of power from each, delivered in very distinct ways. And I don't hear the complaints from passengers on the SERK the way I did with the DX. I can ride either for hours on end but the Night Rod really comes up short in the 2-up department.

I love 'em both, but for different reasons. I'd like to see the Revolution in other frames too -- not just in the prototype Sporty we've all seen in speculation but in a more "traditional" HD setting as well.

just my 2 pennies worth, if you bag your V-rod I understand the motivations - it's just hard to have your proverbial cake and eat it too sometimes.....

I could see it. Even Victory has a bagger. Power, speed and comfort - hard to beat.

Regarding: "That is like taking a beautiful, sexy woman and dressing her in grandma's clothes, complete with large hat and carpet bag purse, sensible flats, 'cross your heart" bra, granny panties.....etc...."

Sounds like something I'd like to undress!

That is like taking a beautiful, sexy woman and dressing her in grandma's clothes, complete with large hat and carpet bag purse, sensible flats, 'cross your heart" bra, granny panties.....etc....yuck!

I love the bike and I like being comfortable but that is a bit silly!
Although I don't think I'd go for the Road Rod conversion myself I'd say it's more like bringing home a Victorias Secret Model and finding out she loves to cook and clean.

I've taken my dads FLHRC out for a ride and, although it sure as hell ain't my style (if it doesn't make me go faster or stop faster, I don't need it), I can see why this guy wanted to use a v as his platform. I personally think it's ugly as hell, but it's his style and he obviously put a lot of work into it so hell yeah!

:stilpoke: :soapbox:
The disparagement of V-Rod baggers around here is truly amazing. Some of it is done for the pure sport of it all, but some not. If you truly want to get what the owner of the bike in the first post thinks he is doing then you should have sat down and listened to him explain why it works for him. If you simply cannot stand the fact that there are some V-Rodders out there among you who appreciate something you do not and feel the need to pummel those folk, then you should stand up and do something real about it. I recommend spending your own money to buy up all the Vs made so that no-one dare do anything to one that might not please you. If you don't have the funds to make that work then maybe you should endeavor to berate V-Rod Bagger folk so that they become pariahs and abandon their quest to make themselves happy with the motorcycle they bought with their own money. Kind of like the airheads are with V-Rod riders and we all know how well that is working.

:them:

I would take this a little further than Lil.

Even the "sporting" posters would probably think twice about going into the VRSCR forum, or the VRSCSE forum and telling the owners of those bikes that their taste in V-Rods suck, but will post insulting comments freely in this forum. It is like going into someones home and telling them you hate their taste in furniture.

Those of us who have set up the V-Rod as a Sport Touring bike probably appreciate the abilities of the bike more and ride it further than the average V-Rod owner. I have 28,000 miles on my bike and Danii probably has 50,000 something on his. The equipment on my bike has made long trips practical and enjoyable. Properly set up, the V-Rod can be a good touring bike for a solo rider. HD realized its potential from the outset and made touring accessories for the bike (you do not see Yamaha making bags and shields for the Warrior). The only major drawback was range, which now can be corrected.

I had originally suggested that we call the forum the "V-Rod Touring Forum" instead of V-Rod Baggers to not attract the Bag Police. Perhaps that is still a good idea. It seems the word "Bagger" has negative connotations to many members, especially when applied to the V-Rod.

Fred

Well your completely correct, People such as I have no business here (But I have to say the "Why does everyone hate baggers" Thread originated in the General forum and was brought over here). It was all in good fun but as with most things that become large and Global in this instance the "Kidding and Joking type of family thing" all but disappears because people rarely understand other people outside of their 10 mile radius called life. I have nothing against what anyone does to whatever they have, you bought it, its your drive it off a cliff or paint it hot pink aint no big flip. I like Dannii, went for a nice ride with Him and Lance last year up to Big Bear Lake and than a nice Dinner. He has alot going on on that bike of His and I give Him a Cheap shot here and there (same with Pascal) and they do the same to me. But now the audience is much bigger so we are being seperated into seperate rooms as a way for the moderators not to her complaints all the time about this or about that. Hey we all have the playground called Off Topic to play in if we want. But your correct until I bolt on some bags or screw on a fairing I have no business here. Toodles.

PS I took Mrs. Paltrow with me.

David: I disagree, you are a welcome poster here. Personally, I enjoy your sense of humor and find your posts entertaining. You are a man of strong opinions and are wont to state them. Consequently, we all know your feelings on bags, shields, boots, gloves, engine guards (your a little schizophrenic there), etc. I am just suggesting that you can overdo it sometimes.

Fred

PS: Please put Gweneth back

No reason for anyone to take his or her V-Rod and go home. Don't we visit the Forums with the awareness that many members are capable of dishing jabs and jibes, and can become motivated to join in on the merriment sometimes more than others? Push and risk the chance of eventually getting pushed back. Like most of the banter around here it is all in good fun.

Well boys and girls, Max has asked me to sorta watch over this place (no surprise, right?) and while we considered calling it a "Touring" area, I went along with the "Bagger" name. If for no other than to attract folks like Lux! (Hi David). I have a pretty thick skin regarding the crap I've added to my bike to make it my own. And some guy beside me at a light yesterday complemented my bike in a big way. So I can deal with it.
But if anyone gets out of hand, and I miss it, send me a PM and I'll spank 'em.:spank:

Fred, 51K miles. Tenth rear tire I think (I lost count a while back).

PS;The Bat wing looks a lot better than then RoadGlide fairing, in my not so humble opinion.

Having just swapped out from a Nightrod to a RK, I can attest that the RK needs a Revolution motor to be nothing short of a class cruiser.

I miss my Vrod though...:sad:

Well boys and girls, Max has asked me to sorta watch over this place (no surprise, right?) and while we considered calling it a "Touring" area, I went along with the "Bagger" name. If for no other than to attract folks like Lux! (Hi David). I have a pretty thick skin regarding the crap I've added to my bike to make it my own. And some guy beside me at a light yesterday complemented my bike in a big way. So I can deal with it.
But if anyone gets out of hand, and I miss it, send me a PM and I'll spank 'em.:spank:

Fred, 51K miles. Tenth rear tire I think (I lost count a while back).

PS;The Bat wing looks a lot better than then RoadGlide fairing, in my not so humble opinion.


Batwing is much better...

It all depends on how many miles you like to put on your bike. If your just blastin' around town or out in the country for a day, your conventional V rod is great. If you want to cover a lot of distance, as quickly as possible, then you're going to need something more.

When I rode my Road Rod across country last year (4500 mi. in 2 weeks, and I was sightseeing) I would consistently do consecutive 600+ mi. days, cruising for hours on end at 85-95 mph. I can tell you - you cannot do that on a bike without a fairing. You also need to carry clothing for a variety of weather conditions, tools, maps, water, and a whole list of other things that you don't need within riding distance of your home.

For me, My bike is the perfect touring bike. Fast, smooth, and comfortable. In the mountain twisties, it still handles more like a sport bike than a touring bike, even with the all of the added weight; and when you really need to crank it up to pass those 18 wheelers on the interstate; well, you know how much power there is to spare.

So it's all about what you want to use it for. I have several other custom bikes in my garage, but as a touring bike to cover a lot of miles, fast and comfortably,nothing comes close to the Road Rod.

ROAD ROD thats funny! What seat do you have on there?

It all depends on how many miles you like to put on your bike. If your just blastin' around town or out in the country for a day, your conventional V rod is great. If you want to cover a lot of distance, as quickly as possible, then you're going to need something more.

When I rode my Road Rod across country last year (4500 mi. in 2 weeks, and I was sightseeing) I would consistently do consecutive 600+ mi. days, cruising for hours on end at 85-95 mph. I can tell you - you cannot do that on a bike without a fairing. You also need to carry clothing for a variety of weather conditions, tools, maps, water, and a whole list of other things that you don't need within riding distance of your home.

For me, My bike is the perfect touring bike. Fast, smooth, and comfortable. In the mountain twisties, it still handles more like a sport bike than a touring bike, even with the all of the added weight; and when you really need to crank it up to pass those 18 wheelers on the interstate; well, you know how much power there is to spare.

So it's all about what you want to use it for. I have several other custom bikes in my garage, but as a touring bike to cover a lot of miles, fast and comfortably,nothing comes close to the Road Rod.


more pics please...:)

The seat is a Sundowner, (all of the parts on the bike are HD)

Jedi - I'll try tonight to figure out how to post some pics

BTW, This bike drew more attention and comments (universally positive) on the road than all of my other bikes combined, and I have a couple of real head turning custom choppers.

Harley riders, BMW tourers, and rice rocketeers, followed, flagged me down and pulled u turns to check out the bike and ask questions.

Most agreed that the Motor Co has dropped the ball by not making this bike

It all depends on how many miles you like to put on your bike. If your just blastin' around town or out in the country for a day, your conventional V rod is great. If you want to cover a lot of distance, as quickly as possible, then you're going to need something more.

When I rode my Road Rod across country last year (4500 mi. in 2 weeks, and I was sightseeing) I would consistently do consecutive 600+ mi. days, cruising for hours on end at 85-95 mph. I can tell you - you cannot do that on a bike without a fairing. You also need to carry clothing for a variety of weather conditions, tools, maps, water, and a whole list of other things that you don't need within riding distance of your home.

For me, My bike is the perfect touring bike. Fast, smooth, and comfortable. In the mountain twisties, it still handles more like a sport bike than a touring bike, even with the all of the added weight; and when you really need to crank it up to pass those 18 wheelers on the interstate; well, you know how much power there is to spare.

So it's all about what you want to use it for. I have several other custom bikes in my garage, but as a touring bike to cover a lot of miles, fast and comfortably,nothing comes close to the Road Rod.
What he said. When you want to pass some slowpoke, headed up a mountain pass, loaded with all your stuff, you just twist the throttle and zoooom. And I have to say a fairing makes a lot of difference on a long ride. As do the engine guard chaps. I have located a custom builder in Ft Worth who can make hard lower fairings for my bike, and I'm considering them, once I figure out how to duplicate the vent that the new glides have on their lower fairings.

Danii, have you looked into the hoggchops? You could prob modify it to fit the V's engine guard.

http://www.hoggchopps.com/hoggProduct.htm

Here are some photos of my bike

Here are some photos of my bike

Thats pretty trick setup. Did you do that yourself?

Danii, have you looked into the hoggchops? You could prob modify it to fit the V's engine guard.

http://www.hoggchopps.com/hoggProduct.htm
Thats the guy - he's in Fort Worth.

MERLINHAWAII: Very tastefull. I love the Road Glide grafhics. You even filled the gage holes. Good work.

Fred

Here are some photos of my bike
merlin

looks like you and i have something in common.

my vrod draws attention evrywhere i go and still no negative comments.

looks like you and i have something in common.

Aloha D,

I saw the pix of your bike a little while back, and have been meaning to tell you how nice it is. It also sounds like we were in the same neck of the woods at about the same time last summer. Sorry I missed you - maybe next time.

I had high expectations for my bike before the trip, and it exceeded any expectations that I had. As you know, these are phenomenal machines, and are truly in a class of their own.

Merlin

I had high expectations for my bike before the trip, and it exceeded any expectations that I had. As you know, these are phenomenal machines, and are truly in a class of their own.

Merlin[/QUOTE]

Merlin

thanks for the compliment. your bike looks sharp as well. i wish i had the black engine. i think it would set off the orange a little better.

i finished mine just before Sturgis last year it only had 17 miles on it from the dealer from the ride home before i left for Sturgis after all my work. first Sturgis trip i never had to take my tool kit out of the saddle bag.

mine also exceeded my expectations. i have now got the 5 gallon tank i am changing the handlebars for a more comfortable position and have put the HD progressive springs on my shocks. those were the only issues on my Sturgis trip. the Vrod has over 5000 miles and the ultra has less than a hundred since the Vrod has been done.

my wife loves it and has no complaints. in fact i offered to put on the King tour pack during our trips for more room and she said she didn't like the look and would just eliminate a few more clothes. so we still pack the same just shy a shirt and pair of pants.

do you ride 2 up and if so what do you have for rear suspension?

Dennis

dpierce and merlin, those are great lookin v conversions. I was planning on doing the cyclevisions conversion before sturgis, but...:broke:

BTW...merlin, what about heated grips to finish your set up?:mrgr:

Aloha Dennis,

My trip was a shakedown cruise too, and I had no trouble whatsoever.

I met up with an old girlfriend in Wyoming, and she rode with me for a bit, but for the most part I was on my own. She only weighs 115#, but I noticed NO difference in the handling of the bike with her on the back. I had the stock suspension at the time and had no real issues with the rear, but I bottomed out the front suspension a few times hitting pot holes and bumps on the interstate at speed, which tends to wake you up real quick. I now have progressive wound springs for the front.

I have the extra tall windshield (18"), which I was a bit ambivalent about at first, but now I won't ride the bike with anything smaller. Aside from all of the wind going right over the top of my head, I think that it is an integral part of the fairing aerodynamics. When riding, the sensation is that of being in the cockpit of a jet fighter, encapsulated, with all of the turbulence going around you. You feel much more like your riding IN the bike, rather than on it. If you're going faster than about 30 mph., you can ride in the rain, and the only thing that gets wet is your legs. Well into triple digit speeds, it didn't flop around or do anything weird, and I'm convinced that it adds to the overall performance of the bike.

Merlin

Aloha Knightenforcer,


BTW...merlin, what about heated grips to finish your set up?


Here in Hawaii, the grips automatically begin to heat up at about 6:00 a.m.

What he said. When you want to pass some slowpoke, headed up a mountain pass, loaded with all your stuff, you just twist the throttle and zoooom. And I have to say a fairing makes a lot of difference on a long ride. As do the engine guard chaps. I have located a custom builder in Ft Worth who can make hard lower fairings for my bike, and I'm considering them, once I figure out how to duplicate the vent that the new glides have on their lower fairings.
At 60 I don't feel I'm not old enough yet for a geezer glide, I enjoy my VSCRD and Buell too much. But when I do reach that age, (and only I will know when this is, not tied to some peoples preconceived age in years) I hope there is a Road Rod Bagger as described in these threads from the MOCO. Like by wife's 330I Sport BMW.
Fast, smooth & luxurious.

Aloha Dennis,

My trip was a shakedown cruise too, and I had no trouble whatsoever.

I met up with an old girlfriend in Wyoming, and she rode with me for a bit, but for the most part I was on my own. She only weighs 115#, but I noticed NO difference in the handling of the bike with her on the back. I had the stock suspension at the time and had no real issues with the rear, but I bottomed out the front suspension a few times hitting pot holes and bumps on the interstate at speed, which tends to wake you up real quick. I now have progressive wound springs for the front.

I have the extra tall windshield (18"), which I was a bit ambivalent about at first, but now I won't ride the bike with anything smaller. Aside from all of the wind going right over the top of my head, I think that it is an integral part of the fairing aerodynamics. When riding, the sensation is that of being in the cockpit of a jet fighter, encapsulated, with all of the turbulence going around you. You feel much more like your riding IN the bike, rather than on it. If you're going faster than about 30 mph., you can ride in the rain, and the only thing that gets wet is your legs. Well into triple digit speeds, it didn't flop around or do anything weird, and I'm convinced that it adds to the overall performance of the bike.

Merlin

i have the progressives front and rear. never rode with the stock suspension so cant compare. the front is great but when we are loaded the rear will bottom on rough roads. i hope the progressive HD springs will stop that. my wife and i add about 330lbs plus the bags and tour pack loaded probably another 70-100 lbs.

i started with the 12 windshield but got to much wind. now have the 14 inch and can just see over it and no turbulence. my wife gets a little more turbulence than the ultra but says it is ok. i have a 12 inch recurve from Clearview on the way. it is suppose to push the air a little higher than the 14 and i like the shorter version. hope it works like they say.


anyway cant wait to hit the road for Sturgis.

DPierce02: I may have to come to Sturgis to worship at the alter that is your bike. Everytime I see it, I am more and more convinced that HD has its entire collective head up its ass to not make this bike. It is basically off the shelf HD components and unless Cyclevisions has some sort of patent on the mounts that HD cannot get around legally, they could do it in a heartbeat, especially with the changes to the 08's (Engine, ABS, Clutch, 5 gallon tank (07)). The only things stopping me from converting mine is that it is my bike is too high mileage and already too optioned up to convert, and the misplaced hope that HD will bring out a Revolution Touring Bike.

Fred

DPierce02: I may have to come to Sturgis to worship at the alter that is your bike. Everytime I see it, I am more and more convinced that HD has its entire collective head up its ass to not make this bike. It is basically off the shelf HD components and unless Cyclevisions has some sort of patent on the mounts that HD cannot get around legally, they could do it in a heartbeat, especially with the changes to the 08's (Engine, ABS, Clutch, 5 gallon tank (07)). The only things stopping me from converting mine is that it is my bike is too high mileage and already too optioned up to convert, and the misplaced hope that HD will bring out a Revolution Touring Bike.

Fred
Fred

thanks for the great compliment. i fell in love with the vrod motor the first time i saw it in sturgis 02. i figured the MOCO would have it in a touring bike buy 04. got tired of waiting and after seeing what cycle visions had to offer and a great deal on the left over 05 SE vrod and couldn't wait and made my version of the vrod bagger.

it is great to ride all the power i need without having to spend an additional 3-6g on a motor upgrade to get the same performance.

the best part is it is as comfortable as my Ultra, can carry almost the same stuff except for the difference between the chopped tour pack vs the King, gets about the same mileage, now has the same size tank, and the best part is i can flat foot the ground and it is about 250 lbs lighter than my Ultra.

At 60 I don't feel I'm not old enough yet for a geezer glide

IMHO these bikes are about as far away from a geezer glide as you can get.

It is not by coincidence that ALL of the fastest bikes in the world have full fairings.

The inherent shortcoming of the stock V Rod is that it is an ultra high performance machine, capable of running with most of the fastest street bikes, but cannot take advantage if it's true performance potential because it lacks the aerodynamic advantage of a fairing. How long can you hang onto the bars of a stock bike at triple digit speeds?

Although the Road Rod was designed as a touring bike, and most owners are not going to be chasing down 'Busas with them, the additional performance potential over a stock bike is significant.

I agree that the Road Glide fairing does not have the aerodynamics of a Ducati. But because I don't have the time or patience to handcraft and mold the ideal fairing, I went with what is available, and am very satisfied with both the performance and appearance. The additional comfort that it provides, also cannot be ignored when you are in the saddle for 12 hours a day

Merlin

IMHO these bikes are about as far away from a geezer glide as you can get.

It is not by coincidence that ALL of the fastest bikes in the world have full fairings.

The inherent shortcoming of the stock V Rod is that it is an ultra high performance machine, capable of running with most of the fastest street bikes, but cannot take advantage if it's true performance potential because it lacks the aerodynamic advantage of a fairing. How long can you hang onto the bars of a stock bike at triple digit speeds?

Although the Road Rod was designed as a touring bike, and most owners are not going to be chasing down 'Busas with them, the additional performance potential over a stock bike is significant.

I agree that the Road Glide fairing does not have the aerodynamics of a Ducati. But because I don't have the time or patience to handcraft and mold the ideal fairing, I went with what is available, and am very satisfied with both the performance and appearance. The additional comfort that it provides, also cannot be ignored when you are in the saddle for 12 hours a day

Merlin
I feel the same way about my Bat Wing. I figure the total cost was about $750, including the new headlight, mounts and Bra. (The rest of the stuff I already had bolted onto the oversized plexiglass screen I made). The tourpack and tourtank were another $850, total cost.
I can go as fast as I want, don't experience any more wind effect than I did with either of my windshields (lets not start with the 'wobble discussion, ok!). I figure it cost me a couple miles per gallon.
Looks, of course, are in the eye of the beholder. But I like the batwing and skinny front fender. Plus, being Dutch on both my parent's side, I'm a cheap bastard. I priced the Cyclevison options, and besides being somewhat permanent (all mine are bolt on mods, and can be easily be reversed, should I lose my mind or something), it looked like about $5000 for all the parts, and I'd lose the anodized look (which I have managed to retain).
I'm looking forward to Sturgis. I plotted 3400 miles that I'll be doing, not counting riding from Spearfish. Probably need another fargin rear tire when I get back.
Anyone looked into an automotive rear radial for the touring bikes?

IMHO these bikes are about as far away from a geezer glide as you can get.

It is not by coincidence that ALL of the fastest bikes in the world have full fairings.

The inherent shortcoming of the stock V Rod is that it is an ultra high performance machine, capable of running with most of the fastest street bikes, but cannot take advantage if it's true performance potential because it lacks the aerodynamic advantage of a fairing. How long can you hang onto the bars of a stock bike at triple digit speeds?

Although the Road Rod was designed as a touring bike, and most owners are not going to be chasing down 'Busas with them, the additional performance potential over a stock bike is significant.

I agree that the Road Glide fairing does not have the aerodynamics of a Ducati. But because I don't have the time or patience to handcraft and mold the ideal fairing, I went with what is available, and am very satisfied with both the performance and appearance. The additional comfort that it provides, also cannot be ignored when you are in the saddle for 12 hours a day

Merlin

you bring up a point i never thought about, the aerodynamics.

its nice to pull out to pass and hit the triple digits and not have any additional wind or turbulence pulling on my arms. when i ride my non fairing bikes around at home just doing sixty for a few miles wears my arms out.

As you said Dan, looks and aesthetics are subjective interpretations, but Physics is not.

Why the MoCo has not come up with a substantial fairing for the V Rod is one of life's great mysteries. And I'm talking about not just for touring but for cutting edge performance.

When Harley decided to explore new frontiers with the V Rod, they did it right by letting Porsche design the engine, which, as we all know, has turned out to be engineering masterpiece. The frame design is a departure from Harley tradition in the right direction as well. But other components of a complete performance bike package have been left unfinished.

The aftermarket has taken up much of the slack, but IMHO, a sportbike inspired full fairing has been conspicuous by it's absence.

After several years of waiting , many like yourself, DPIERCE, myself, and especially Randy Aaron have decided to not wait any longer.

As you said Dan, looks and aesthetics are subjective interpretations, but Physics is not.

Why the MoCo has not come up with a substantial fairing for the V Rod is one of life's great mysteries. And I'm talking about not just for touring but for cutting edge performance.

When Harley decided to explore new frontiers with the V Rod, they did it right by letting Porsche design the engine, which, as we all know, has turned out to be engineering masterpiece. The frame design is a departure from Harley tradition in the right direction as well. But other components of a complete performance bike package have been left unfinished.

The aftermarket has taken up much of the slack, but IMHO, a sportbike inspired full fairing has been conspicuous by it's absence.

After several years of waiting , many like yourself, DPIERCE, myself, and especially Randy Aaron have decided to not wait any longer.
Yupper! By the way, I'm thinking that I have mounted the batwing pretty low, and have not experienced the unstable effect RJ noted with a higher mounted RK fairing. Brent reports the same from Tampa with his. Mounting just any fairing is not a slam dunk.

IMHO these bikes are about as far away from a geezer glide as you can get.

It is not by coincidence that ALL of the fastest bikes in the world have full fairings.

The inherent shortcoming of the stock V Rod is that it is an ultra high performance machine, capable of running with most of the fastest street bikes, but cannot take advantage if it's true performance potential because it lacks the aerodynamic advantage of a fairing. How long can you hang onto the bars of a stock bike at triple digit speeds?

Although the Road Rod was designed as a touring bike, and most owners are not going to be chasing down 'Busas with them, the additional performance potential over a stock bike is significant.

I agree that the Road Glide fairing does not have the aerodynamics of a Ducati. But because I don't have the time or patience to handcraft and mold the ideal fairing, I went with what is available, and am very satisfied with both the performance and appearance. The additional comfort that it provides, also cannot be ignored when you are in the saddle for 12 hours a day

Merlin

:plause:
I agree with you 100% The term "Geezer Glide" I used was affectionately associated with the Electra’s & Glides that my friends ride. By the time I feel I must move to one of these I hope there is a V-Rod Glide like yours available.
Notice I have a non-Harley windscreen and am starting to miss my Buell's bags.
So again, I apologize. My remarks were not directed at you or your machine, but were more in praise of it. Something like yours is what I hope is in my future.
Sam

I was redirected to this thread this mornings, and thought I'd add an update. Following a bud on his triumph triple sport tourer, I discovered a slight 'wobble" at speeds above 115 (hate it when that happens). Its rock stable below that, but I figured I needed to address the problem.
I wound up moving the bottom of the fairing out about 2", and as high as possible with my current brackets (which was simply a rearrangement of my "rube-ish" brackets). This makes the fairing have the same anghle as the forks, instead of more vertical as before. This forced me to a: relocate the V-Gauge. I mounted it to the block that screws into the top of the triple tree (where the stock headlight mounts), and B: remove / relocate my 12V socket. I also put the speakers back on the fairing, and cleaned up the edge of the HD leather Bra (which is slightly larger than the KenDay fairing). I also found the cause ofthe mysterious feedback with the amplifier system (impedence mismatch created by the autocomm Y connection).

I haven't done the high speed test yet......
I am posting pics in my ongoing batwing thread.

http://www.1130cc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=49044

I have done 125 so far - with my taller (10 inch) windshield. It was rock stable and I was comfortable in the cockpit, holding the bars with gently. I was going uphill on the interstate and it was still pulling - but had to slow due to traffic. I have absolutely no doubt that redline in 5th is achievable.

Has anyone added lower fairings to their vrod?

I took my 2004 A model and added the Road Glide fairing, floorboards and the tour pack prior to going to Sturgis in 2006. At that point I had put about 12,000 miles on the bike with a mustang seat and windshield. The trip to Sturgis and back from upstate New York was much more comfortable with the new fairing and other additions. There was a problem with the cross winds in SD but every bike with a fairing had to deal with the same issue. Coming through Chicago in 90+ degree heat with stop and go traffic was no problem for me but had all the airheads I was travelling with stressing about overheating. After taking another long trip this past summer I traded my bike in for a new VRSCR which I am in the process of transforming into a sport tourer w/fairing. This conversion is not for everyone who has or thinks about a VROD. If I had not put almost 30,000 miles on my 04 in three riding seasons I would probably not being doing the conversion to the new bike. The bottom line is that the VROD can be many things to different people, it is not just a fast cruiser. To make one into a touring bagger does require some imagination and expense. It is easier to simply go out and buy a road glide or an ultra classic. However, those bikes don't have any reall balls, they run very hot and, if you want to get maximum power and comfort, you have to change the pipes, add a power commander or other such device and probably change the headers to a true dual system. I sell bikes part time and I hear about the heat issue all the time. The problem with selling VRODs is that they don't look like traditional Harleys and the traditionalists just can't get past that fact. Take someone like me or a person coming off a BMW or Honda and that is not a problem. The MOCO will put the revolution in a touring bike someday, once they get over the corporate fear that the traditional Harley rider will revolt. I really think 09 will be the year but we will have to see what is said at the winter dealer meeting in January. JMHO.

Has anyone added lower fairings to their vrod?
I've been riding with engine guard chaps for a couple of years. I take them off when the temp is above 70F, as it gets a bit warm behind them. The heat from the radiator curls around behind them, especially on the Right, where the pipes add heat as well. According tothe V-Gauge, there is negligible effect on gas mileage, and top end doesn't seem too badly affected either. The forward foot position requires some leg muscles, and the pants tend to ride up, without them. The engine guard chaps solve this issue (I'm not allowed to wear jeans to work).

I hooked up with these guys ar ROT last summer (http://www.hoggchopps.com/hoggProduct.htm), holding a set up against the engine guards, and am still on the fence. I think that if I buy a set of blanks, with no cut outs, I can make them work. I will add a set of add-on cooling vents (adjustable, like on the new HD's) I saw advertised somewhere else, for summer riding.

I'm not sure how I will paint them, but pewter denim looks a lot like the frame. It'll be the first add that is painted. Maybe I can get someone to make a bra for them....

BTW, I am liking the shorter windshield, even in winter. My head is free of any turbulence.

Coming through Chicago in 90+ degree heat with stop and go traffic was no problem for me but had all the airheads I was travelling with stressing about overheating.

Dealing with the heat on a touring bike is another big factor

When I rode across country in the summer of '06, mainland America endured a scorcher of a heat wave.

Daytime temps all across through Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Utah were in the 100+ range. Coming down through the desert in Nevada into Arizona it was even hotter

For me, the day that I crossed the desert in So. Cal. east of San Diego (I'll never do that in the summer again), Death Valley recorded 145*. I reckon where I was it was in the 120*-125*range. I pulled two back to back 650 mile days because it was so unbearably hot, I just wanted to get out of there.

I wanted to stay away from the So. Cal. Freeway traffic, so I stuck to the desolate rural hgwys. Flying along at 85-100mph for hours on end in 125* heat, I'm thinkin' if anything breaks down or goes wrong I'm gonna die out here from the heat before anybody comes along to find me.

I had an oil temp gauge on my bike, and I was afraid to look at it because I felt that the engine just had to be melting. When I finally worked up the courage to look, it read 185*

These are great bikes

Merlin, please populate your gallery. I did a search, and found more pictures of your awesome bike. Great job! I am getting there, but slow.
V/R
Joe

Merlin, please populate your gallery. I did a search, and found more pictures of your awesome bike. Great job! I am getting there, but slow.
V/R
Joe

Sorry,
Can you please direct me to the instructions link for uploading gallery pix again?
Thanks
Merlin

I took my 2004 A model and added the Road Glide fairing, floorboards and the tour pack prior to going to Sturgis in 2006. At that point I had put about 12,000 miles on the bike with a mustang seat and windshield. The trip to Sturgis and back from upstate New York was much more comfortable with the new fairing and other additions. There was a problem with the cross winds in SD but every bike with a fairing had to deal with the same issue. Coming through Chicago in 90+ degree heat with stop and go traffic was no problem for me but had all the airheads I was travelling with stressing about overheating. After taking another long trip this past summer I traded my bike in for a new VRSCR which I am in the process of transforming into a sport tourer w/fairing. This conversion is not for everyone who has or thinks about a VROD. If I had not put almost 30,000 miles on my 04 in three riding seasons I would probably not being doing the conversion to the new bike. The bottom line is that the VROD can be many things to different people, it is not just a fast cruiser. To make one into a touring bagger does require some imagination and expense. It is easier to simply go out and buy a road glide or an ultra classic. However, those bikes don't have any reall balls, they run very hot and, if you want to get maximum power and comfort, you have to change the pipes, add a power commander or other such device and probably change the headers to a true dual system. I sell bikes part time and I hear about the heat issue all the time. The problem with selling VRODs is that they don't look like traditional Harleys and the traditionalists just can't get past that fact. Take someone like me or a person coming off a BMW or Honda and that is not a problem. The MOCO will put the revolution in a touring bike someday, once they get over the corporate fear that the traditional Harley rider will revolt. I really think 09 will be the year but we will have to see what is said at the winter dealer meeting in January. JMHO.
Hi,Tomvrod.I'd be interested in more details on the fairing you plan to use for the VRSCR & any other changes you have in mind.
Cheers,Tnbrit.:)

Someone needs to post a RoadGlide how-to. I think there is some stuff re: Installation Instruction on the Cycle Vision site. I have posted Bat Wing installation instructions here: http://www.1130cc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=49044

This option is about $4000 less expensive, and should work on an "R" as well as on an A/B. .

Sorry,
Can you please direct me to the instructions link for uploading gallery pix again?
Thanks
Merlin

Click on your name above your avatar, should get a pop up list, one of the options will be to visit your gallery, go there and you will see the button for upload, press it. The rest should be self explanatory.

Hi,Tomvrod.I'd be interested in more details on the fairing you plan to use for the VRSCR & any other changes you have in mind.
Cheers,Tnbrit.:)
Hey Tnbrit;

The basis for any conversion of the various VROD models starts with a company in California called Cyclevisions. See cyclevisions.com. Their stuff for converting the A, D, DX or R models is also sold by some other shops online and in the Drag Specialties Catalog. They recently came out with a fairing mount bracket for the R and D models. They also have a floor board mount for the DX and A models, a road king style bag mount for the A and D models and a tour pack mount for the A and B models. My R model is almost done and I will post pics once I get the fairing back from the painter and the shop installs it on the bike. I am using the Harley Sport bags on the bike, for lack of a better alternative that will allow the use of a touring case. I also plan to mount a GIVI case on the luggage rack. The conversion of both the R and my prior A model were not without troubles, i.e. brackets did not fit just right, etc. All in all the cyclevisions stuff is high quality and very solid. The biggest challenge that I had with my A model was the placement of the power commander, my shop will not learn how to properly use the race tuner. The 07 and 08 models do not have the same problem since the electronics have been moved to the rear of the bike. I also added a radio to the fairing on the R model. I opted not to install the extra gauges at this time. The road glide conversion is more costly than adding a bat wing fairing but you do not have to manufacture any parts and IMHO the bike handles better with the road glide fairing. Lastly, I added a Heavycycles LRD tail light with the "V" and turn signals built in. Again not cheap but quality stuff. Before I ramble on any more, I should have pics available next week.

I wonder if anyone has ever tried using the old FXRT fairing on a V-Rod? It was designed with the intent of being offered on the Project Nova V-4, hence the large intakes flanking the headlight. When that bike was cancelled Harley hung the fairing and bags on the FXR chassis. I think it would be a good choice for a sport touring V-Rod or Street Rod.

I wonder if anyone has ever tried using the old FXRT fairing on a V-Rod? It was designed with the intent of being offered on the Project Nova V-4, hence the large intakes flanking the headlight. When that bike was cancelled Harley hung the fairing and bags on the FXR chassis. I think it would be a good choice for a sport touring V-Rod or Street Rod.
Pics??

like this:
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Photos/Web/44513vrod.jpg

Wow! That's cool. Put that on a Street Rod with some Corbin Beetle Bags. Maybe add some adjustable reservoir shocks and go hunting FJR-1300's on the way to the GP at Laguna. Thanks.

Those fairings are very rare. Be prepared to spend big bucks.

Nice! Thanks, Daniii!

The batwing fairing beats that yellow one by a mile. I've grown to really like the V-Rod baggers but I can't appreciate the look of that one...I don't like the awkward 1980's look it gives to an ultra-modern bike.

Wow! That's cool. Put that on a Street Rod with some Corbin Beetle Bags. Maybe add some adjustable reservoir shocks and go hunting FJR-1300's on the way to the GP at Laguna. Thanks.I wouldn't be hunting any FJR's. Em er fast.

So is the Street Rod Daniii. Beyond a certain point on public roads it is more the rider than the bike, something I had demonstrated to me and my room mate on his GSXR-750 by a Goldwing rider ( ! ) on a very challenging road. A Street Rod is up to it. Mine wouldn't be slammed like that one or have the goofy fenders. Picture an otherwise stock Street Rod with that fairing and Corbin Beetle Bags ( or Hepco & Becker 30 liter Junior bags ) and a different windscreen.
With all the police bikes that used that fairing they are now rare and expensive? Huh. I expected most of them to be gathering dust in people's garages after they turned those cop bikes back into Low Riders.

I have seen them at swap meets for less than 100 bucks, complete. The only reason I did not go that way was the Road Glide fairing has better storage. To each his own. I enjoy seeing different things. I might like it, I might not, but I like that it is different. Different is good. JMHO, Joe

I have 4 bikes 3 of them use fairings that I put on. And IMHO the FXR fairing rocks. It was designed for high speeds and it works well. It stabilizes the bike by putting down pressure on the front wheel.
99790

99791
http://www.1130cc.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=98597&d=1196752054

Those fairings are very rare. Be prepared to spend big bucks.
There is one on Ebay right now Link (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/EP9580-NEW-Harley-primed-FXRT-fairing-58200-88_W0QQitemZ360007588674QQihZ023QQcategoryZ35557QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

So is the Street Rod Daniii.
Won't even come close to the FJR if both bikes are stock!

VRSCR 120hp Dry Weight 618 lbs.
FJR 145hp Dry Weight 580 lbs.

Jetgod, Congratulations! It will feel like you are on vacation for a while.
Thank you for your service. Welcome to the ranks! V/R Joe

Wait till Lux see the lower fairings I'll be mounting in the next week.....

Road on a 1300 mile trip on my A with a sundowner seat, bags and removable shield...Yes my azz was sore, but still a great ride. I now also have an ultra for long hauls. If they come out with a revo bagger, then I won't need 2 bikes.

Put an Airhawk seat on the sundowner, and you're good for 12 hour days......

Jetgod, Congratulations! It will feel like you are on vacation for a while.
Thank you for your service. Welcome to the ranks! V/R Joe
Thanks Joe! I start my new job on 7 January. Oh wait that is January 7 now! LOL :D

Awesome! Here is a challenge for you - live on the new job's pay. Stuff every penny of pension into a savings account, at least for a year. If you can do it, the cushion you build will last quite a while, and eliminate problems. One other observation - if you are staying put for a while, you will be amazed at how things get better, and time goes faster and faster. Blink, and it is New Years! (Happy New Year, BTW!) The other realization is that even with a military pension, you will have to work another 20 years or so!

Awesome! Here is a challenge for you - live on the new job's pay. Stuff every penny of pension into a savings account, at least for a year. If you can do it, the cushion you build will last quite a while, and eliminate problems. One other observation - if you are staying put for a while, you will be amazed at how things get better, and time goes faster and faster. Blink, and it is New Years! (Happy New Year, BTW!) The other realization is that even with a military pension, you will have to work another 20 years or so!
Yea as soon as I get some bills completely paid off I am going to do just that. New job I will make same payments as I always have and the pension/disability will pay off my bills. Hope to be debt free (except for my house) after the first year.

Sweet! Does the new job offer overtime? I know I worked a ton of it my first couple of years, and did just like you are doing - pay off old stuff!
Then the new stuff comes along, and so on, and so on, and so on!

Sweet! Does the new job offer overtime? I know I worked a ton of it my first couple of years, and did just like you are doing - pay off old stuff!
Then the new stuff comes along, and so on, and so on, and so on!
Yes during my off week I can work the three middle days as often as I want to. I just can't work more then seven straight days without two off in between. Safety reasons. I plan on using that for the rallies I attend. That way nothing comes out of my budget and I still get to have fun!

What a concept! Overtime! Being on a fixed income for 20 plus years, it is a new concept. A nice one, too! I know I went way overboard, so the lesson I learned was to try to maintain a balance between work and home. I say try - as it can be difficult.

That is like taking a beautiful, sexy woman and dressing her in grandma's clothes, complete with large hat and carpet bag purse, sensible flats, 'cross your heart" bra, granny panties.....etc....yuck!

I love the bike and I like being comfortable but that is a bit silly!
Stop it you're turning me on!!!:D

More like a beautiful woman, dressing her in comfortable clothes, proper headgear, purse, comfortable shoes, (bra optional)(panties, too) and riding her to her full potential and enjoyment! Folks who ride with no helmet or eye protection squint and struggle, at speed. So they get sunglasses, or goggles. Are they silly? Nope. Not to me. Fairings and bags are practical, and extend the riding season. Anything that allows me to ride more is a good thing. Riding is good - more is better! Joe

As I said in an earlier post, it's all about how many miles you plan on putting on your bike

Road Rods place an emphasis on function for the long haul, but IMHO not much form is sacrificed in the process

Fairings and bags are practical, and extend the riding season. Anything that allows me to ride more is a good thing. Riding is good - more is better! Joe
:them:

I have been riding my Road Rod for a couple of months now and all I can say is that anyone with doubts should ride one. Then you can experience the performance difference on the road and the street. The bike is rock solid.

I did a seven hour ride and yes my bum was hurting but that was because of a stock seat. I am in the process of having a my stock seat upgrade by Americana Soft Seats.

The best is the looks I get from other HD riders who know something is different and take a double take. Best is when I take off when the light turns green and the expression on riders faces are priceless.

Well it about bagger time of the year here in Mich.the leaves are
starting to turn.I haven't put this bagger on for a couple of years,
you think it time ? Sorry for the old picture taken before the turbo.

Because the Road Glide is a fat, wobbly horror with an 18th century 45 degree V twin roasting itself underneath you.

So if you want a touring bike with a Harley badge, a V-Rod is an excellent place to start.

There must be a nicer fairing than that huge shed though...

:2cents:

I think an R with it's taller frame, mid controls ( Jeez I detest floor boards ), the same Corbin Beetle bags and an FXRT fairing would look good and just might be the right tool for the job.

It is, Phil! Still working on the bags, tho!
At the Plant tour, I must have had ALL the HD platform folks snapping pictures of my R. I think they liked it. I do. Joe

The bat wing fairing that the HD uses just doest float my boat. I like the look of the Road Glide Fairing and the fact that it is frame mounted. Besides you have two more small compartments in the fairing for storage and 4 perfect holes for speakers. We don't need no stinkin gauges, we have idiot lights...LOL

It is, Phil! Still working on the bags, tho!
At the Plant tour, I must have had ALL the HD platform folks snapping pictures of my R. I think they liked it. I do. Joe

Have a look at Tomvrod's gallery. His bike looks right. No bogus neo-slammer Electraglide bodywork. No East LA chop shop fenders threatening to drag on the pavement, no fish tail exhausts and goofy floorboards, his bike has modern lines and we know how well R's can scoot. Beemers and Honda ST's need to check their mirrors, that's a Harley freekin Davidson climbing up from behind.

4000 miles on a Tall Boy seat. Adding the Airhawk makes a HUGE difference. My a$$ was numb within an hour on the tall boy seat and never once got sore with the airhawk.

My tailbone hurt more than my a$$.

I'm considering ordering the new "Muscle" bags and seeing if I can mod the mounts to put them on my A.

Dan,
You might have to change out your pipes, or, mount the bags higher. Sam (the project lead) and I crawled around, trying to see if those F bags would work on an R. I think they will, and if my FXRT bag idea does not work out, I will get a set. 600 bucks thru zanottis. Joe

Dan,
You might have to change out your pipes, or, mount the bags higher. Sam (the project lead) and I crawled around, trying to see if those F bags would work on an R. I think they will, and if my FXRT bag idea does not work out, I will get a set. 600 bucks thru zanottis. Joe

I've got the 16 ga pipes, which are lower than the swept pipes, and I'll plan on mounting them higher. Only issue is access with the tourpack.

I know. Unless you changed them since the crash, you had the 16GA when we loaded it into Dave's truck. If you had'nt washed it, my fingerprints are still on it. Take a tape measure to the top of the pipe to the bottom of the tour pack. I think a new exhaust would allow you to use the F bags, and keep the tour pack.
Are you getting a new batwing, or having yours repaired? Joe

I know. Unless you changed them since the crash, you had the 16GA when we loaded it into Dave's truck. If you had'nt washed it, my fingerprints are still on it. Take a tape measure to the top of the pipe to the bottom of the tour pack. I think a new exhaust would allow you to use the F bags, and keep the tour pack.
Are you getting a new batwing, or having yours repaired? Joe

I'll just get a new bra and cover everything up! I need a new top windshield clamp. Those suckers are fragile. Don't know what I'll do about the lower where it's scuffed.
I won't change the 16ga. I like the sound and the power they give. I even have a spare set in the garage. (But those are fine). I'll take the opportunity to rewire the audio, since the wires got charred (but everything still works!).
I do need a right side engine guard. I should have one, but don't know where I put it if I had one.
The right side Kruyakyn turn signal mirror got cracked, but it was scratched and the mirror was tarnished anyway. I'd like to put a set of muscle mirrors on the bike.

Cool. Looking forward to pictures!
BTW, Get well soon! Joe

I finally washed the somewhat bashed batrod. Not bad, considering... Here is what it looks like as I unloaded it from Dave's pickup truck.

Don't be modest, Dan. You did win an award at the rally! For the folks who don't know, Dan won! The best comment I overheard was "geez, he rode thru a hurricane, crashed, and then set it on fire in order to win!" That is some serious dedication!:notworth:
Joe

And I won't be upping the anty next year...

And I won't be upping the anty next year...

And none of us are getting any younger!

Is anyone aware of a Vrod bagger for sale? I have had a lot of experience on a Vrod,
but am now thinking that I would like to try a bagger. Any thoughts will be appreciated.

Vtrod

There is currently a 2004 Road Rod for sale on Ebay until Nov 3. (not mine). item number 270287254951