| Author | Message | ||
     Hughlysses |
In the official AIMExpo 2014 brochure here: http://issuu.com/babcox/docs/aimexpo_show_director y_2014?e=1577724%2F9628590 It also says EBR will be among several manufacturers offering demo rides. | ||
| Classax |
Technically all 2015's are "new model introductions" but I'm hopeful! | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
fingers crossed. | ||
| Dualsportdad |
and this: http://video.foxnews.com/v/3834039917001/hottest-b ikes-on-the-market/#sp=show-clips | ||
| Dynasport |
I'll be there Saturday morning. I plan to ride an SX and it would be amazing to get to ride an AX! | ||
| Hughlysses |
For some odd reason, there's lots of discussion about the next EBR bike in this thread: http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/713 493/750384.html?1413387574, which is supposed to be about the $2k discount on 1190SX's. I find it very odd that there's absolutely no mention of tomorrow's new EBR model reveal at EBR.com, on EBR's Facebook page, or anywhere else you might expect them to promote it. The only place it's shown up is in the events listing for AIMExpo. | ||
| Dualsportdad |
I just saw this on xb forum. https://m.facebook.com/ErikBuellRacing/posts/10152 434805872496?comment_id=10152440373217496&offset=0 &total_comments=1¬if_t=feed_comment Kinda a bummer. Anyone going to the show meeting up for lunch or anything? Would be cool to get a group together and all of storm the ebr booth and meet Eric. | ||
| Classax |
Don't confuse new model (year) release with a NEW Model release. Suzuki is doing one two and there is nothing new but the bold new graphics on the GSXR line for this year. | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
They are not going to debut the 1190AX because its not a 1190. But they still could be debuting the ???AX can we get a over and under pool started on the CC size of the AX | ||
| Hughlysses |
Well, KTM's already got a 1290 adventure bike, and didn't they change the rules for V-twins in WSBK next year to allow 1300cc? Hmmm.... | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
Kawasaki put a blower on one of their bikes.... hmmm Maybe a turbo charged nitro burner! | ||
| Classax |
They could really blown us all away and debut the: 1190 Service Manual Race ECM Race Exhaust New Race Display version of the gauges Race bodywork Quickshifter option Hard bags Softbags That would really make my day, although I'd be in the AX when it arrives as well. | ||
| Hughlysses |
OTOH, it could be EBR's first "BNC" announcment.  | ||
| Ljm |
Well, they did add the sx since last AIM , and may showcase it, talk about future plans a little, talk racing some, have the pipe and email, and call it good. | ||
| Hughlysses |
I certainly hope this means something more than officially re-introducing the SX:  | ||
| Xb9er |
Something tells me we won't see a new EBR model introduction tomorrow. I'm thinking the schedule was made before the correction and the guy on the video clip from the news didn't get the memo. | ||
| Court |
Anybody find it odd that HERO appears nowhere on that agenda? | ||
| 2kx1 |
Is EBR still going to be the North American distributor? | ||
| Hughlysses |
Is EBR still going to be the North American distributor? Nothing has ever been said to the contrary. | ||
| Finedaddy1 |
Court - Yes I do find that odd. I've been trying to keep up w/ this myself, hmmmm. Curious as to what the game plan is. Only time will tell. | ||
| Hughlysses |
Something tells me we won't see a new EBR model introduction tomorrow. I'm thinking the schedule was made before the correction and the guy on the video clip from the news didn't get the memo. If so, somebody at EBR is REALLY asleep at the wheel. The erroneous statement from AIMExpo and correction by EBR happened on September 15. The official schedule above is dated September 24. Hopefully we'll see SOMETHING of interest today. OK, I'm guessing the release will be the 2015 RX and SX with ABS, quickshifters, and other minor enhancements, and US release of whatever Hero models are going to be imported next year (HX250R, etc.). | ||
| Hughlysses |
Phantom post by Court! The only mention of AIMExpo by EBR is this quote from their FB page:
Very odd that there is no mention of a new model intro today. Granted, the show is not open to the public until Saturday, but you think they'd say SOMETHING about it. | ||
| Hughlysses |
Well, motorcycle.com is expecting EBR to do something:
| ||
| 99buellx1 |
My guess, the announcement of a small displacement Hero/EBR project being released as an EBR. | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
Is there someone there that will share the info with Badweb at 11:30. This is worse than being 7 years old on Christmas eve. | ||
| Crusty |
tick....tick....tick.... | ||
| Noone1569 |
I'll post up as soon as I get to the booth | ||
| Hughlysses |
Yamaha just intro'ed a 300+cc R3 at the show. EBR 300+cc version of the Hero HX250R might be just the thing for today's intro. | ||
| Noone1569 |
http://i.imgur.com/p2VE9PTh.jpg | ||
| Tq_freak |
Bold new colors!!!! in all seriousness that looks pretty badass | ||
| 99buellx1 |
Like that very much. | ||
| Mackja |
Wow I really like that!! | ||
| Hughlysses |
Nice! Reformatted so you don't have to click:  | ||
| Noone1569 |
No announcement at 11:30 | ||
| Finedaddy1 |
Yes!! Colored wheels, a step in the right direction. Come on belt drive.. | ||
| Hughlysses |
No sign of ABS sensor on front wheel, so I guess no change on the brakes. | ||
| M2typhoon |
Some flashy new colors is not what EBR needs to succeed. | ||
| Ratbuell |
...many abs systems use sensors in the wheel bearing. No visible sensor doesn't mean an upgrade isn't in place... | ||
| Classax |
RATS I should have waited for 2015, that puRRTY right there! Bike has some really nice lines. Now I feel stupid riding that faster black one all year. Race ECU and exhaust pics please to go with the showa race shock I just ordered! | ||
| Hughlysses |
It seems pretty likely that the EBR new model announcement in the AIMExpo brochure was a goof. I'm sure glad I didn't spring for tickets & hotel and drive ~400 miles to find that out. Elsewhere on the AIMExpo site, it says this about what's being debuted by the manufacturers:   | ||
| Classax |
Posted on Wednesday, October 15, 2014 - 02:50 pm: -------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------ Don't confuse new model (year) release with a NEW Model release. Suzuki is doing one two and there is nothing new but the bold new graphics on the GSXR line for this year. Nice new color and accessories, improved clutch feel, I say its a win, win. | ||
| M2typhoon |
Tim, How can it be a win-win when those pasta rockets are now going to have variable valve timing and something similar to a triptronic transmission. These bikes need ABS now, not later otherwise EBR's won't sell here in the states. | ||
| Mackja |
I don't get all this hub bub about ABS, frankly I could care less. I really don't think it's a big issues, maybe I am wrong about it. VVT is beneficial for mainly for emissions and fuel quality issues, yeah you might get a few more ponies but not a bunch. Keep it simple, I like being able to do some of my own work, keeps the sport more affordable. To much electronics and it will be like owning a BMW automobile, see what it take to fix one of those things! | ||
| Ratbuell |
1. ABS is becoming market expectation 2. Go ride something with ABS and fake a panic stop. I used to be on the "don't care" side...till I rode an early FLHTP with ABS. Incredible. The only adjustment I had to make to my riding style? Put feet down NOW, because you are no longer moving. I could hammer both brake levers hard enough to cause the bikes weight to shift...all it did was...stop. NOW. No drama, no stress, just...stopped. If I have the option to get ABS on a future bike...I'm getting it. No question. If ABS fails, you still have brakes. Just not antilock. Just like a car. | ||
| Mackja |
Well Harley ' s never had much brake to begin with lol. All kidding aside, touring bike I can completely understand, and in a panic situation they probably would come in handy. I don't think I would pay extra though. | ||
| Hughlysses |
So, Ryan, did you get disgusted at no EBR announcement and leave the show, or are you gonna post some more pics?  Seriously, thanks for posting the above pic. | ||
| Classax |
M2typhoon EBR has a marketing problem. They need to speak better about who they are trying to be. Which is a home grown company that makes advance street and track bikes for the every rider. Sure you can have your VVT and triptronic tranny but what is it going to cost you to service it? WHo can service it? Yes you can have 250Hp for the street but who will insure it. It cost the average guy $100 more just because the bike is called a Ninja. I know I speak for a lot of people my age (40+) when I say I don't need gimmicks or a ton of electronics. I want a simple machine that does what I ask it when I ask it that's easy to work on. Notice the custom market is going towards cafe racers and ole school bikes, guys are putting big power relatively speaking in them, but are gravitating towards simplicity and mechanical soundness. As for ABS, its mandated for 2016 in the EU so relax its coming. I dont' care for it because when I'm hard on the brakes I like the linear feel of knowing how much I have left. With ABS the braking rate is always variable relative to brake lever pressure, which on track or regulating a stopppie is exactly what you DON't want. Panic stops its wonderful, everything else not as much. In short its a win for EBR they have a beautiful bike there, and win for the customers because they can concentrate on fixing some of the non mechanical issues they have with the owner and dealership experience. | ||
| Reepicheep |
I wouldn't pay more than $1000 to keep variable valve timing the hell off my motorcycle. OK, maybe $1500 to keep that crap away from my bike, but not a penny more. Oh wait, you are saying it should be ***added***? Huh? I'd take ABS if it was simple and non invasive. It won't make me stop faster though, the one time I had to brake to save my life I intersected the car turning in front of me while I was doing a perfect 12 oclock stoppie on a fully loaded Uly. Wish I had that on video, it must have been something to see. The witness police indicated it was pretty cool. It would be nice in low traction quickly changing environments though (like braking while hitting a wet paint line or un-noticed diesel spill). | ||
| Hughlysses |
Another photo of the gunmetal gray 1190RX posted by EBR dealer Ray Price of Fayetteville, NC to their FB page a few minutes ago:  | ||
| Tq_freak |
Holy sh1t that's a good looking bike. and it was damn good looking to start. I wonder if its paint of color impregnated plastic like the other colors / 1125's / XB's | ||
| Hughlysses |
Ironically, there are a bunch of seminars at the show today and tomorrow for sales tips, marketing, etc. Hopefully some of the EBR factory folks are attending.  | ||
| Sparky |
Maybe it's just me, but it seems like the secondary muffler just kinda blends in with the rest of that bike. That's cool. | ||
| Froggy |
Any new colors on the SX? | ||
| Noone1569 |
Yup http://i.imgur.com/Ed4O47Fh.jpg | ||
| Skifastbadly |
I think the air scoops for the front brakes are uglier than the Milwaukee Brewers' last two months. | ||
| Figorvonbuellingham |
So no AX? | ||
| Classax |
Ironically, there are a bunch of seminars at the show today and tomorrow for sales tips, marketing, etc. Hopefully some of the EBR factory folks are attending.   So no AX? | ||
| Ljm |
If any of you all are still there would you ask them about the white plastics for the rx that they said would come out for the European models? | ||
| Emufriedchicken |
I was hoping for the change in radiator pod colour from white to same as body work on the SX on all colours...that's the only concern I have with the whole range of EBR | ||
| Xb9er |
ohhhh Daddy likey! | ||
| Hughlysses |
Another photo I found: http://instagram.com/p/uN8REooXQv/ Classax- this guy says "new colors and factory race exhaust". | ||
| Meoff_69 |
The sx radiator color isn't white.... it's an unfinished aluminum color (grey). It looks white in pictures but I'm poison it is deff not white. I do agree that it should be sane color as the rest bike. | ||
| Hughlysses |
Etennuly has painted a lot of Uly parts to match molded-in plastic colors; I'll bet he could do similar for those of you that want your SX parts to match. | ||
| Finedaddy1 |
Color scheme looks quite nice, I wander if the wheels on the SX will get any color? I was really expecting or hoping to see something from EBR, like we did from Yamaha, the leaked photo of the FJ-09 or the new R3..pretty cool. Seems like these guys have their finger on the pulse. | ||
| Cmmagnussen |
So EBR somehow allowed the expo and Fox news to claim they were releasing a new model (the news section was the best advertising I have seen from this company) Then show up to the expo with a rattle canned Rx...... This leaves a couple of questions. Why did they waste the fuel driving from Wisconsin to Florida and when are they firing/suing the expensive piece of furniture they brought in from piaggio? They had better drop something impressive out of the rafters this weekend because all the 2k discounts in the world wont keep this company afloat | ||
| Hughlysses |
Well, they could always reveal something tomorrow. | ||
| 1313 |
Well, I'll bite... Was there anything interesting Hero-wise from the show? Trying to not be too myopic, 1313 | ||
| Figorvonbuellingham |
What about the Zero's? They were at Indy last year. Pretty cool bikes. | ||
| Buellmojo |
I like the new color scheme on the RX.  I liked it back in 2002 too. | ||
| Torquehd |
wow.... compare that ugly ass bike to what Erik and his team were producing in '02... | ||
| Buellmojo |
OK!  | ||
| Torquehd |
much better. The gunmetal looks great too. I'm almost surprised it wasn't released that way last year. | ||
| M2typhoon |
Classax, I have a couple issues with your argument. 1st is the maintenance schedules for the EBR's. I've heard more than I'd like to hear how that is a turn off to new to the brand buyers. Most of these folks want something that can go more miles between servicing and let's be honest here, many of these people don't have the mechanical prowess to do it themselves. Also, the price of the bike that doesn't have ABS and a TC system that's not adjustable on the fly. I would have expected at least these two changes from them so they can become more competitive. If they want to sell bikes and make a profit, then this is how they need to do it, not by adding paint colors or factory race exhaust. | ||
| Hybridmomentspass |
so they followed Ducati and the Senna editions. | ||
| Reepicheep |
Yes, that color scheme was lovely in 2001...  | ||
| Hughlysses |
Orange wheels for the SX would be sweet! BTW- Cory West posted this link to his FB last night; looks like this is race exhaust Classax was looking for, as well as ECM and race fairing. Cory's supposed to be at AIMExpo this weekend according to a post in the racing forum. http://t.co/DbNTkm8Hfl (Message edited by Hughlysses on October 17, 2014) | ||
| Hughlysses |
I found these pics from the show on a Ducati forum this morning. Ljm, here's your white plastics for the RX:  Geoff May racebike:  Appears to be a factory race exhaust on this 1190SX, as well as Ohlins forks:  | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
That's what I'm talk'n bout! | ||
| Dammitquikgentry |
Very nice but I agree with m2typhoon | ||
| Rick_fears |
Yes!! That white RX is hot. Not a fan of the grey. It looks tacky. But that white. Mmmm. The things I would do to that bike...... lol | ||
| Malott442 |
The exhaust on the sx is actually just a set of tips to go on the factory cat. That and an ECU to match are 400 bucks through EBR. The bike Cory West drove this weekend at Barber had that same setup. I was hoping to hear about a Hero arrangement of some sorts. Hero's current lineup is limited to a relatively small selection of utilitarian scooters and small displacement motorcycles. I want to see the rolling generator and the thumper show up. Here's Hero's current lineup. The Maestro and Pleasure are 100 ish cc.  The splendor classic is 100cc  The passion pro TR is a 100cc adv bike  The Hero Impulse is a 150cc dual sport  The Karizma zmr is the largest displacement bike at 250cc  Hero's biggest obstacle with US marketing is our greed on bigger cc motorcycles. We have interstates everywhere, negating the usefulness of anything under 250cc, at least in my opinion. | ||
| Malott442 |
I want to see the RNT brought to America. It is the ULTIMATE retiree and tailgater tool. Imagine, a scooter that you can load in the back of your truck/camper. Once you get to your destination, you use the scooter as a pit bike/errand runner. At night, you plug it in your camper for a power supply. And the headlight pulls away to be used as a flashlight. That is super convenient. And it has a 6 speed gearbox!  The Hastur may need a headlight makeover, but it has every element of being a perfect urban/twisty/beginner/etc. bike. Packed full of features! Hydrailuic clutch, inverted forks, direct link shock, radial calipers up front, exposed trellis frame and swingarm. I spy EBR(LSL) footpegs. I love how this bike looks.  (Message edited by malott442 on October 17, 2014) | ||
| Hughlysses |
I found this flyer posted at ebrforum.com (sponsored by EBR dealer AF1 of Texas) this morning with info on the exhaust, ECM, and a reduced effort clutch kit: http://ebrforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=27 1&d=1413495476 | ||
| Malott442 |
For race use only, hehe. Right...... | ||
| Dmhines |
Cool. Will be ordering exhaust. Lighter Clutch more involved than I was hoping. | ||
| Froggy |
Carbon fender on that white SX | ||
| Classax |
i{I have a couple issues with your argument. 1st is the maintenance schedules for the EBR's. I've heard more than I'd like to hear how that is a turn off to new to the brand buyers.} Unfortunately this is true. Most of these folks want something that can go more miles between servicing and let's be honest here, many of these people don't have the mechanical prowess to do it themselves. Service intervals would be familiar to Ducati and Aprilia guys. For the record the 1199/1299 also has similar intervals every 7.5K miles with the major service at 15K miles. But I see you point, a race breed machine has these kinds of high attention to service details. Its not a GSXR you can leave in the yard and run when you want. EBR is going to attract that kind of buyer. The guy who would look at a Panigale, RSV4 or HP4 as a street and trackday bike is the target market for the RX Also, the price of the bike that doesn't have ABS Current gen ABS on track bikes gets turned off and the hardware pulled. Again a race breed machine doesn't have much need for it. Good for the street but the way the world is going yes I'm sure its on the way, but I'm glad I can still buy bikes without. and a TC system that's not adjustable on the fly. I would have expected at least these two changes from them so they can become more competitive. Having ridden the bike a while, the predictive TC surprisingly good. Its like having a single mode, TC, and wheelie control interface. In all this time I have never had the need really to change it on the fly. A couple times caught out in the rain, I've uppped it but had to pull over anyway. Once going down a gravel road I uppped it all to 19 and had a blast. On track between off and 6 depending on the grip. But never really said to myself man the TC is needs adjusting right now, let me look down mid corner and change it. I know RSV4 guys who hate the location of their switches because they hit them inadvertently. I suppose for a racer, the playstation controller would be good. Not that big an issue because the TC is actually one of the better ones I've ridden having had a chance to play with it. My hands are huge (XL) gloves and I have no problems operating the display. For the price point, no quickshifter is nearly unforgivable. A track focused bike released in this day and age should have had bluetooth OBD ll and internal GPS for the lap timer. But its hard to balance the mix of mechanical excellence and electronic compensation. If they want to sell bikes and make a profit, then this is how they need to do it, not by adding paint colors or factory race exhaust. If they want to stay afloat they need to have the folks who own the bikes NOT unhappy in anyway. They need the owners to be ecstatically happy about their purchase to the point that they are willing to market for EBR. If you want a VTWIN superbike you have two options. RX or 1199/1299, you are right, for the price the RX could have been more but not much more, but for the performance I don't see how. They build a great bike now they need to build a great marketing strategy and owner and dealership infrastructure. Or the people who supported them will pan them and the brand will surely die. | ||
| Tq_freak |
Carbon fender on that white SX Good Eye Froggy, it looks like the rear hugger might be carbon also Looks like Carbon Heal Guards too (Message edited by tq_freak on October 17, 2014) | ||
| Froggy |
Probably more carbon we can't see, like the fan shroud inserts | ||
| Meoff_69 |
I wonder when we can expect to be able to buy these "accessories"? | ||
| Hughlysses |
Cory West posted this video this morning: http://instagram.com/p/uQXhqBLQbK/ Looks like CF front fender, heel guards, and rear hugger. Edit- he responded to a question on FB and noted that the fan shrouds are also CF. (Message edited by Hughlysses on October 18, 2014) | ||
| Hughlysses |
Video review from the EBR booth, including walkarounds of the EBR and Hero bikes on display: http://twowheelobsession.com/2014/10/16/2015-ebr-h ero-motorcycles-lineup-overview-first-look-aimexpo / The narrator obviously isn't up in current events as he doesn't have a clue about Hero. The HX250R is shown but he spends no time on it instead commenting about the low quality of the other models. | ||
| Malott442 |
Narrator, no offense intended, should have NOT narrated that video. "@ 3:10, doesn't look like overall good construction.... looks almost Chinese." Bwahaha close enough, why not? How is he running a website called two wheel obsession when he is not obsessed with motorcycles????? (Message edited by malott442 on October 17, 2014) | ||
| Ljm |
So, the Hero bikes are there next to or in the EBR booth? | ||
| Hughlysses |
^ Yes, apparently. The HX250R still looks really good- it shows up at about 2:45 in the video. Yamaha just introduced a 300+ cc R3 sport bike at the show. The market seems to be ripe for these kind of bikes. (Message edited by Hughlysses on October 17, 2014) | ||
| Court |
....If they want to stay afloat they need to have the folks who own the bikes NOT unhappy in anyway It would have been neat . . perhaps not possible . . to offer the reduced clutch lever kit free to existing owners who wanted it. Think about it . . . First . . . say there are actually 50 owners (we can't seem to substantiate that number yet) and that 505 opted for it . . . that's 25 bikes . . . a very economical way to start recovering that lost good will. A the HERO bikes on display available in the USA? . . . I'm thinking it's a "testing the waters" exercise. | ||
| Malott442 |
I believe you're right on testing the waters... I think the price point would be important. But more important in my opinion is the appeal. We as a country want more displacement than they are offering. 400cc would be minimum in my mind. For anything I buy for myself. I also agree on the good will strategy being a good idea. 25 kits won't be missed. | ||
| Xb9er |
the Hero Classic motorcycle in the video looks pretty cool. I absolutely love the RX in the new color way and I hope other non EBR/Buell owners will too; like it enough to buy one. I'm kinda bummed about no new EBR models. I understand they're still a new company and all good things take time; however, if they want any substantial market share, they need more models of motorcycles. I know on here there is large hope for the AX to be an adventure bike, so along with its introduction I hope they also introduce something a little more street friendly to attract that end of the market. Oh yeah, bring Hero to the U.S., the sales numbers might surprise us all. | ||
| Meoff_69 |
I wouldn't mind then doing my clutch for me for free... after all I have sx number 19 | ||
| Ratbuell |
I think the Hero offerings are intriguing...but we have interstates here, they need to be viable. But, the tech is admirable. Customer SATISFACTION, objective #1. Customer CONVERSION, objective #2. Chicken...or egg. Which comes first? | ||
| Pmjolly |
I like my RX clutch just fine. I don't understand the complaints. I never had a problem with it. My biggest issue is no service manual, but that is minimized by EBR promising any info I need, when I need it if the service manuals are not released. | ||
| Elvis |
There's a lot of odd, inexplicable negativity around here (not specifically in this thread, but across the forum) considering the huge task EBR is trying to accomplish, the progress they're making in achieving that goal and the support they need from people like us. "Damn it! EBR has been selling production motorcycles for a full 3/4 of a year now. Why has it been a few months since they introduced any new models? Why are they not winning World Superbike Races? Why are they only the third biggest motorcycle manufacturer in the US?" They've already got three models. That's huge. They've already been on a WSBK grid. That's huge. They're already selling more bikes than Motus, Fischer MRX, Confederate etc. That's huge. It's an extremely long, extremely difficult process. People didn't like the stiff clutch pull, so they fixed it. That's exactly the kind of thing they should be doing now - refining and perfecting the very solid bikes they have. There are a lot of things they could do better (and I'm sure they're working on those things). There are a lot things they could do worse. Perfection isn't a valid goal. Being better today than you were yesterday is a valid goal, and they seem to be achieving that goal. Go EBR! (Message edited by elvis on October 18, 2014) | ||
| D_adams |
Yeah, wait until carpal tunnel hits, THEN you'll understand it. | ||
| Crusty |
There's a lot of odd, inexplicable negativity around here (not specifically in this thread, but across the forum) considering the huge task EBR is trying to accomplish, the progress they're making in achieving that goal and the support they need from people like us. "Damn it! EBR has been selling production motorcycles for a full 3/4 of a year now. Why has it been a few months since they introduced any new models? Why are they not winning World Superbike Races? Why are they only the third biggest motorcycle manufacturer in the US?" They've already got three models. That's huge. They've already been on a WSBK grid. That's huge. They're already selling more bikes than Motus, Fischer MRX, Confederate etc. That's huge. It's an extremely long, extremely difficult process. People didn't like the stiff clutch pull, so they fixed it. That's exactly the kind of thing they should be doing now - refining and perfecting the very solid bikes they have. There are a lot of things they could do better (and I'm sure they're working on those things). There are a lot things they could do worse. Perfection isn't a valid goal. Being better today than you were yesterday is a valid goal, and they seem to be achieving that goal. Go EBR! +1  | ||
| Meoff_69 |
Court.... The white plastics are race plastics. The other race bike doesn't have mirrors either | ||
| Court |
Ahh . .that makes total sense. No signals or reflectors either. I'm partial to white bikes and cars and that looks awesome. | ||
| Crusty |
I disagree. Back in the early 60s, that was the prevailing attitude throughout the motorcycle industry.Then Honda came along and sold something like a brazillion little bikes to people who weren't serious riders. Little bikes are easier to ride. Hell, I learned to ride on a Honda 90; a big 350 was too powerful and fast! Motorcycles have become much better, but people are still the same. I'm looking at that Hero Splendor and thinking that my daughter up in Maine would probably love that to get around on during the warmer months. | ||
| Court |
I'd jump on that 150cc Impulse. | ||
| Court |
>>>So EBR somehow allowed the expo and Fox news to claim they were releasing a new model Hahahahaha . . . somewhere . . . . somehow . . . someone might believe that. If they do . . .I have just the bridge for them out my window,. | ||
| Malott442 |
@Crusty. I could see that happening, but we would need a good marketing campaign. Honda's boom was before my time, but if my memory serves me correct, wasn't theres "You meet the nicest people on a Honda"? Marketing will be the key to any Hero success. I nominate myself the official Hero stunt rider. I think I could stunt any one of their bikes. | ||
| Classax |
As I have said. don't confuse new model year release with a new model release. EBR has done alot but in this market they have a lot more to go to win new customers. As I see it they already have the reputation for innovation and excellent handling, Now they need to re establish a reputation for reliability, simplicity and performance. I don't know that I want a bike with electronic suspension and all the bells and whistles the new R1 is said to have. Too much to go wrong, and it often hides design flaws. Especially for a rider my size, 1' and nearly 80lbs above the "norm" I am still waiting on a service manual. (Message edited by Classax on October 18, 2014) | ||
| Hughlysses |
>>>So EBR somehow allowed the expo and Fox news to claim they were releasing a new model Hahahahaha . . . somewhere . . . . somehow . . . someone might believe that. If they do . . .I have just the bridge for them out my window,. OK, but apparently nothing "happened" in the EBR booth at 11:30-12 on Thursday as scheduled in the official 2014 AIMExpo program. Wouldn't you think there'd at least have been a "For 2015- Bold New Colors!" sign in the booth? As I have said. don't confuse new model year release with a new model release. OK, but if that's true, why hasn't the website been updated with the 2015 models or new accessories? There really seems to be very little "marketing" effort. | ||
| Hughlysses |
Here's another pic of (apparently) the same bike with the new color scheme taken from EBR's FB page. It looks much more silvery in ambient light:  | ||
| Fast1075 |
I just got back from the AIM expo. Funny thing at the outdoor exhibit. The Yamaha and Suzuki camps had long lines of people waiting for test rides. At the EBR trailer, the longest wait was to have enough (4) people at once to do a test ride. It was dismal. I was thinking about a test ride, but didn't after I sat on an SX and found it so tall in the saddle I could hardly get it off the side stand, but that wasn't a show stopper. The clutch was the show stopper for me. Brutally stiff. Indoors, it wasn't much different. Very poor interest. No more than one or two people at one time. No fanfare. No enthusiasm. There were some Hero bikes there, and a very polite young man in a suit to answer questions. The hixxer was on display, most likely the same prototype that has been around a while. I was a bit disappointed at the patchy appearance. Some of the bike is very well done, but some of the parts look to be an afterthought. For sure, unless the actual production bike is different, it will not sell all that well. The footpegs are too high for even my 27" inseam. The seat is way too wide at the tank, making what should be a lowish seat height see much higher than it really is. Sadly, even this bike is a long way out. At LEAST another year. Hope they use the time to make it better, because the new R3 Yamaha is going to OWN the 300 cc bike market. The little horizontal cylinder café racer looking bike is pretty neat, and I bet they sell a ton of them "somewhere". I asked about the Hastur. I was told it was an "engineering exercise". (Message edited by fast1075 on October 18, 2014) | ||
| Xb9er |
Thats strange about the lines. I would have thought everyone would have wanted to see/feel/ride the new competition. | ||
| Crusty |
Fast1075; was the engine running when you tried the clutch? It makes a big difference. When the engine is running, the clutch pull isn't that bad. You should have at least taken a demo ride. It doesn't cost anything and you might have been pleasantly surprised. I was very interested in a new Triumph back in 1996 until I did a demo ride. Then I discovered that I didn't like it at all. That same week, I took a Buell S2-T out for a demo ride and was totally enraptured. I wasn't all that interested until I took that demo ride. I took an SX out for a demo ride last month and was very impressed. I'm not looking for a Streetfighter as such; but I've had quite a few thoughts about getting an SX and converting it to a Sport - Tourer. I liked it that much. | ||
| Dynasport |
I test ride an SX at the Expo today. They were only taking two riders out at a time. The reason you didn't see long lines to take a test ride is because there were so few slots. The Expo opened at 9 this morning and I got to the EBR tent before 9:30. Most of the slots were already taken for today. But I did get a ride and it was awesome. I rode this bike  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr I asked about the AX and was told that their work for Hero had slowed things down. The guy said they were still in the prototype stage and to expect the AX some time next year. I told him I have an XB12XT and want something I can sport-tour on. He said that in the near future a windscreen and soft bags are going to be introduced for the SX. I told him the pegs were a bit high for me on the SX to tour on. He pointed out they are adjustable and could be moved further down than they were on the bike I rode. For my old fat body I'd also want the handlebars a little higher. I would think that wouldn't be too hard to accomplish. Really, the SX might work just fine for me. I still like the hard bags I have on my XT and don't think that even with the adjustments I mentioned that it will be as comfortable to me as my XT. I'm still looking forward to see what they do with the AX. But bottom line is I think the SX may work for someone more interested in the SPORT side of touring as a light touring bike. The EBR guys were great to talk to and the SX was a very impressive bike to ride. It was a great day! | ||
| Dynasport |
I made a short video of the race bike (the yellow bike with the secondary muffler removed and the ECM recalibrated which they said was available for $400) they had at the Expo. I asked the guy if he could start it up so I could hear it and he said sure. I'd post it here, but I don't know how. I don't have a Youtube account or Vimeo account to post videos so I don't know where to put it to link to. I don't really want to get an account with Youtube or Vimeo just to post a 15 second video here. (Message edited by DynaSport on October 18, 2014) | ||
| Dynasport |
Here are some more photos I took at the Expo today.  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr  EBR at AIME Expo by dynasportfxdx, on Flickr | ||
| Fast1075 |
No, I didn't try it with the engine running. With the engine off it was about like an old AMF era Sportster if you have ever rode one of those. If I was tall enough to reach the "you have to be this tall to ride this ride" line, I might have risked the clutch. After earning a living as a mechanic for 45 years, my hands are a bit arthritic, so I have to be careful. By comparison, My XB12 was a "two finger" clutch. One pull on the SX caused pain. When I first got there they were running 4 bike including the ride leader. I went by several times during the day, and never saw more than 2 customers. There simply were not a lot of people coming over to take a look. | ||
| Dynasport |
All the rides were either one leader and one rider or a leader and a trail bike with two test riders. I don't know why they kept the rides so small. Perhaps that's all the bikes they could devote to this as such a small company. I hung out at the tent for a little while before my ride and while there weren't lots of people, everyone who came over seemed really enthusiastic about the bikes. I guess I wasn't there when Fast came through. EBR had a table with wheels, the rear subframe, and the frame on it that you could pick up and examine. The people who did that were amazed how light everything was. I was there when two rides came back in addition to the ride I took. All the riders were very excited about the bikes when they got back from the ride. The ride leader did try to make it a fun ride. I had a good time. | ||
| Dynasport |
Something else I thought about and wanted to mention. Kudos to EBR for even having demo rides. BMW didn't. KTM didn't. Ducati didn't. Honda didn't. Aprilia didn't. Moto Guzzi didn't. Victory didn't. After all, just a few miles away in Daytona Biketoberfest was going on with many manufacturers having demo rides there. But there was tiny EBR doing demo rides. I also rode a Yamaha FJR and a $40,000 Harley CVO Street Glide. The Yamaha demo wasn't bad. The Harley one was pretty pathetic. Straight to the an intestate like road. Down a couple of exits and get off. Get back on going the opposite direction and back to the convention center. Yamaha/Star seemed to do the best job on the demo rides. If you were riding a bike with ride modes and such like the FJR, they took extra time showing you how to set the different options up. They also had a pretty efficient sign in process. Their rides were popular with lots of people in their tent. Remember, though, that they had a very large variety of bikes to ride. They had sport bikes, sport touring bikes, cruisers, adventure bikes, power cruisers, standards (naked). Just about anything you can think of except a Goldwing type bike. | ||
| Hughlysses |
Dan- thanks for posting the pics and info. | ||
| Finedaddy1 |
EBR if you're listening, please color match your wheels, fenders and the aluminum piece, above the fan shroud, on the SX. Possibly the fan shroud itself. If I buy this bike that's the first thing I'm going to do. | ||
| Classax |
The Clutch thing was an issue for about a week, and again it gets better with the engine running and even better still with a few revs. The bike isn't that tall is it? I always find bikes too cramped,but the love the 1190 ergos, so may be it is. WHY ISN'T EBR ADVERTISING THEY ARE THE ONLY OEM WITH MULtI POSITION REAR SETS AS STOCK!?!?!?! UGH! That will cost you between $400-$800 on any other bike alone! | ||
| Classax |
Things I notice on the stock race bike. Vortex rear sprocket QUICKSHIFTER working with stock race ECU!!!!! GPShift kit!!! Quick turn throttle? Showa Race shock RACE UPPER AND REAR fairing I feel my wallet getting lighter as we speak. | ||
| Dynasport |
Are you guys sure that aluminum looking piece everyone is complaining about is actually aluminum? I felt of it and it felt plastic like the pieces around it. Regardless, it wouldn't be that hard to paint yourself if the color of it bothers you that much. | ||
| Anonymous |
Classax- You missed the carbon engine case protectors, rigid footpegs  Cory prefers the throttle setup. More goodies coming....maybe Santa can help out? | ||
| Crusty |
....maybe Santa can help out? You can't fool me; there ain't no Sanity Clause! | ||
| Classax |
You can't fool me; there ain't no Sanity Clause!  | ||
| Crusty |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_VeZBOCsUE | ||
| Classax |
 Crusty! I'm always awe struck to run into people who have a like passion for pop culture quotes from the pre technicolur era of film and TV! Annon, I did miss them, I already have the case protectors and a set of foot pegs that will go on once the GP shift kit is ready. I got word from talking to the factory boys that CAT-less race exhaust is LOUD!!! Too loud is not an option for me I may wind up with the new Factory ECU and exhaust tips especially if it works plug and play with a quickshifter. I'm going to have to delay gratification until I can get a sound meter on it until I can get a sound meter on them. Two of our tracks and my HOA have sound ordnances during certain hours. They give my neighbor citations for his Panigale regularly, and the guy behind us has taken to only firing up his harley with straight pipes on the weekends LOL. Plus I like to be able to hear myself think while I ride. | ||
| Rick_fears |
....More goodies coming....maybe Santa can help out? Hmmm. Some goodies released around the holidays maybe? | ||
| Court |
Some goodies released around the holidays maybe? Should be within the next month. | ||
| Unibear12r |
You have to remember that all the money that EBR, EBR fans and after market providers represent is but a drop in the bucket towards subscriptions, repeat sales and advertisement to those that do the comparisons. Biting the hand that feeds you can be pretty hard when something is that close. Considering how scattered everything was between the end of Buell and the beginning of EBR what has been done is HUGE. Expecting a new model this soon seems unrealistic on our part to me. I remember the 1125's unveiling and I'd say it's better to take a little extra time and do it right than rush and EBR appears to be in no need to rush at this point. Spending a lot on advertising does not sound like a good return for investment at this point either with the current production and sales. When I had told my brother that I had bought an EBR he had gotten the message just from the articles. It's a world class bike. The word is getting out. It appears that the main aftermarket and product improvements such as pipes, ECM and ABS start coming as soon as a few months or perhaps the next model year. This is not a slow pace regardless of the company size and great news. I have to agree the biggest issues are support and dealers. I live next to many of the best twisties in the country but the closest dealer is an hour and a half superslab away and that is unlikely to ever change. Getting the service and parts manuals out are a big deal. It was the same kind of delay for the 1125 so I'm guessing another four to six months but a pleasant surprise for Christmas is still possible. Buy able download or a mail able thumb drive like the owners manual would be great. My dealer is very enthused about EBR but knows little about them or sport bikes in general. Out of six 1190s that I know they have had they have sold two and those two really sold themselves. I may be a bit too critical though as the other four have only been sitting for a month or less. We got a late start out here. When I asked about manuals they just said EBR expected me to always bring my bike in for repairs. But then again they are a Harley dealer. I'm hoping for enthusiasm to win out over old habits some day. | ||
| Mike13 |
Hey Glen, which dealership are you speaking of? AV Harley? | ||
| Unibear12r |
Not AV Mike, to the best I know they are not an EBR dealer other wise I would have bought an RX from them. No my comment about the dealer was not intended to be so negative as to point out the weak link is always THE dealers. AV improved a lot over time and I wound up buying more than one Buell from them. This EBR dealer may do the same thing. |
