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Touring bike to Vrod

3.6K views 20 replies 14 participants last post by  Fenstermaker  
#1 ·
Just glancing at recent posts and noticed what seemed like quite a few folks moving from a touring bike to the Vrod.

I've got, and had, several of both and probably getting rid of my last touring bike to get back on a V.

Just me or several touring to V converts?
 
#4 ·
Had my 06 flhti for 8 yrs and decided to lose the weight and way more fun in the twisties. Got bags when I need to use it but I just really enjoy the bike. Raced bikes back in the day and this fits the bill perfectly. May not get the mileage out of the tires but easier maintenance and bulletproof.... Let the mods begin......
 
#5 ·
There are kits to turn your V-rod into a bagger, you know. I still can't believe that the COMPANY has still not gone and said "You know we should put that revo motor in a bagger". :stilpoke::hmm:







:hidesbeh:
 
#6 ·
Depends. If you're coming from a newer, six speed, and don't mind a big heavy bike, then no, you'll hate the v-rod. All my buddies ride '12 and newer baggers and hate my bike. When we're going anywhere on the highway, and they're motoring along comfortably at 85 and my v-rod is buzzing along at 6500rpm, making the mirrors buzz so bad I can't see what's behind me, barely getting 30mpg, I sort of agree with them. When I'm cruising around town NOT looking like an accountant having a mid life crises (your average street glide owner), roasting rear tire coming off lights, and lane splitting through traffic that would take their mirrors and bags off, then I'm happy.

All about compromises
 
#7 ·
Swapped my 2010 Road King police for a 2012 V Rod. Perfect! Faster, lighter. No regrets

@carpman:
Depends. If you're coming from a newer, six speed, and don't mind a big heavy bike, then no, you'll hate the v-rod. All my buddies ride '12 and newer baggers and hate my bike. When we're going anywhere on the highway, and they're motoring along comfortably at 85 and my v-rod is buzzing along at 6500rpm, making the mirrors buzz so bad I can't see what's behind me, barely getting 30mpg, I sort of agree with them. When I'm cruising around town NOT looking like an accountant having a mid life crises (your average street glide owner), roasting rear tire coming off lights, and lane splitting through traffic that would take their mirrors and bags off, then I'm happy.

All about compromises.

What year do you have? Mine is smooth at 85-90 mph - and not bad well into triple digits. I have a small "bullet" style cowl, which makes everything better.
 
#9 ·
What year do you have? Mine is smooth at 85-90 mph - and not bad well into triple digits. I have a small "bullet" style cowl, which makes everything better.
2004. I have a reasonably high wind screen that cuts down on wind buffeting, but the racket from the engine gets exhausting at anything much over 75. Whereas I used to be able to log 300miles on my Honda and feel fresh and ready to go, getting off the v-rod after a half hour on the highway makes me feel like I just spent a day at a busy construction site, surrounded by jackhammers.
 
#8 ·
I had a 2012 road king which I traded it in for a 2013 Road Glide. After 2 years with the road glide, I am now looking for a V-Rod. 26 year old here. Have only owned Harley. Most of the guys I ride with ride sport bikes, which seems fun, but I would only get one for track days.

I think baggers are on their way out.
 
#10 ·
Baggers are not even in my thought pattern. The bagger "fad" has blown up so big, it's like an epidemic. I enjoy being outside the forest, but, better yet, I enjoy the V for what it does.

I'll never understand the fascination with baggers when they are not touring with them or even doing long runs, just parked at the bar like their Dyna used to be.
 
#11 ·
In 2014, I have traveled 13k miles on my VROD. I love it and I believe VROD is a all around motorcycle. You could drag race, use your VROD for a bike show, ride through a twisty road, and lots of power. It is awesome.

It is my understanding, it is not wise to ride with someone for a long period on VROD because the passenger seat isn't designed to do that. You always could modify on that seat so it won't be a problem, right?
 
#12 ·
It is my understanding, it is not wise to ride with someone for a long period on VROD because the passenger seat isn't designed to do that. You always could modify on that seat so it won't be a problem, right?
This is one of the things delaying my purchase. My GF likes to ride with me now, so I need something she will be willing to ride. She personally likes the look of the Muscle, but she hasn't ridden passenger on one. Maybe that'll change her mind.

There are not too many options for riding 2-up on a V-Rod.
If anyone has any pictures of their mods for passenger seat/backrest, please post them.
 
#21 ·
A lot of great experiences. I have owned; 2009 RK, 2010 Softail, 2011 RKC, 2012 Road Glide Ultra and now a 2015 Muscle.

Like some of you have said, the baggers are neat but many don't do a lot of real long distance. I got tired of the added weight of the touring bikes.

After spending $5,000 to make the 103 perform like they should from the factory, I decided it was time for a V Rod.

What a great bike. Less weight, advanced motor and with the budman riser a comfortable ride. More modd to go. Moto lights, ISO grips, v&h slipon, and luggage rack.

Great bike!