Looking for metric Cruiser

[Roadhawg]

Thinking about something like a 1100 Honda Shadow or 1300 VTX.

Must be shaft drive! I am getting tired of always having to oil and adjust chain!

Would like to hear from anyone that has owned and or rides a Honda VTX.

Several people have told me that the VTX is a very solid, reliable cruiser?

1300 VTX versus 1800 VTX? 

Any opinions, feedback, input would greatly be appreciated!

RH

[Biker Valley]

Since my FXRP was stolen, I've been on my backup which is a Kawasaki Vulcan Classic, 1500. I swear by it at 150K + miles. Nice low center of balance too, Big bike but great on tight turns. It's never let me down. Still miss my FXRP though. That was fast!

[jim hoehne]

I ride a Yamaha Road Star and love it! My wife has two of them.  When I was looking for a bike in 2003, I looked hard at the VTX and was real close to buying one when I discovered the Road Star. I bought the Road Star because I love the sound. It is a simple bike with air cooling, pushrods, and has a carb. The belt drive is maintenance free. Yamaha is second only to Harley for aftermarket goodies to add.

You can't go wrong with either bike. The VTX is a fine motorcyle.  Good luck with your search.

[Roadhawg]

Thanks for your input!

I just looked at a 2004 Vulcan 1500 Nomad, what a nice lookin ride!

I mean this bike is loaded with chrome, hard saddlebags, fuel injected, custom grips, and many other nice features. 29K miles, It is about 250 lbs heavier than my current ride a 99  750 Honda Shadow, but much more power and shaft drive!

I also looked at a few Road Stars, and they too, are a very nice lookin rides!  However, unless you get a relocater kit installed ($200.), you cant change the oil filter without removing the tail pipe. My bike mechanic prefers Honda.

At this point, I am torn between the Vulcan, and a 2000,  1100 Honda Shadow ACE tourer 29 K miles, another nice lookin ride, and about half the price of the Vulcan. But, first things first, I must sell my Chopper to pay for all this!  Just something to think about.....

[jim hoehne]

Good luck with your search. I can't think of a modern bike that I wouldn't be happy to own and ride.  Your comment about the Road Stars and oil filter accessability is incorrect. I own 3 Road Stars. I am active on several Road Star forums.  I can change the oil filter in less than one minute.   I've never heard of such a thing.  Who ever told you that doesn't know anything about Road Stars.

All the best to you, Happy New Year!

 

[Biker Valley]

Personally I'd go with the Nomad. Easier to work on, reliable and I think more comfortable. Same frame and engine as the Vulcan Classic. The Nomad is more the touring model with the bells and whistles.

[Roadhawg]

BV

Yes, I like the Nomad, no doubt!

Jim

Oil filters...

You might have bikes with the relocater kit installed?

I dont know, just sayin what I have heard.

Happy New Year right back at ya!

[lesley lux aka ghostryder]

this may not help but  i like the chain anyday i can fix it on the road easly try that on a shaft drive . not a good day when ya have to call a tow truck.