| Author | Message | ||
     Chrisgrant |
Yeeeeeeeeeeeeee-Haaaaaaaaaaaaa Made a deal over tha phone, put down a deposit, pick it up Sat. I was planning on waiting til March to get it but thought I'd get a better deal at the end of Dec. instead. H-D is extending the warranty on new bikes through April 2010 to help keep bike sales up though the winter months to boot, so why wait. What color you ask, the faster black one, of course. Man. Can't wait, can't wait, can't wait!  I don't have riding gear yet so you guys help me out with your thoughts and opinions, if you don't mind. Jacket: I'm thinking about a Olympia AST http://www.olympiamotosports.com/ast_mens/ast_mens .htm helmet: Nolan N-102 or Shoie Multitec-$200 more for the Shoie. the Nolen seems more comfy, but what about noise? gloves: ??? I'm sure that I'll have many more questions to come. Thanks guys, Chris | ||
| Cyclonedon |
good choice on the bike! I have a 2006 XB12X black and I love it! about the riding gear, I have a FXRG nylon set, jacket & pants which works out nice for me but if I could afford it, I would go with the Aerostitch roadcrafter set. I have a HRC helmet which again is ok but the Shoei Multitec is the better helmet, but higher priced! enjoy the new bike! | ||
| Bozinski |
I'm happy you were able to pick up a new Uly. I'm thinking about doing the same, but I could use a bit of input on the Ulysses from owners. The internet is full of glowing media reviews, but I'm more interested in what owners say. Here's the deal, I'm a one bike owner so far...an '83 Yamaha XV500 Virago. It's my first bike which I've had two and a half years and now I'm looking to step up to a bike I can ride more often and be more comfortable on. I am very interested in either a dual-sport/adventure-sport, or a sport-tourer. Here's my requirements for another bike. It must get MINIMUM 150 miles per tank without hitting reserve (200+ miles would be better), assuming conservative riding. Less is okay if I'm thrashing the bike, but I want good commuting/touring range. Range can either be a function of a huge fuel tank, great fuel economy, or a combination of both. It must have either very long maintenance intervals of over 10,000 miles (for valves, drivetrain, etc. I don't mind changing oil and air filters) or else utilize technology which eliminates certain kinds of periodic maintenance. I'm tired of the 2500 mile valve adjustment/carb sync intervals on my old Virago. I need a bike with luggage potential as I have found I hate going anywhere without rain gear, extra clothing layers, and minor maintenance equipment. I need a bike that is a capable enough street performer to allow me to explore higher handling limits than I can get with my current ride, but be versatile enough to handle rural gravel roads in the Amish country and multiple rough railroad crossings around my workplace. For the last year or so, I had pretty much decided that a DL650 V-Strom would be about the best bike to cover all those needs and still be very affordable. Several other bikes fall into consideration such as the new KLR650, a used R1150GS (still can't afford the 1200GS yet), an F650GS, the new Kaw Versys, and even an unsold 2005 Honda VFR800ABS which I can get for a really great price (plus I really like V-4s). Also I know of a '97 VFR750 which I could pay cash for outright. But I recently came into a bit of bonus money and am also overseas with the military so I can currently take advantage of HD/Buell's military purchase program which would save me a minimum of $1000 on a new Ulysses. I've been reading up on the Uly and like what I've seen so far, especially the seeming lack of maintenance intensive parts that other bikes might still utilize. Also, it looks like Buell fixed most of the shortcomings of earlier XB12Xs with the 2008 model. My biggest concerns are that it still has a "relatively" small gas tank, and that it may still be way more bike than I should get for my second bike. It probably has three times the power of my Virago and hugely more handling capability. Any thoughts on maintenance, mileage, and useability for someone who still considers himself a beginning (but eager and conscientious) rider? And, for any of you which might know the difference, is a Uly worth the extra cost over, say, a DL650 when horsepower is not my primary criteria? Thanks for your time and Merry Christmas from Afghanistan! | ||
| Buellborn |
What a great bike! Enjoy! | ||
| Hdbobwithabuell |
Chris - congratulations! Boz - Go find a Uly to test ride. The biggest issue I think you'll encounter is the seat height. I'm 5'10" and cannot flat foot this bike with both feet. Took about 3 or four days to get comfortable at a stop. The great thing is, you can stop this bike like a dirt bike with one foot down, no problem. The only thing that I'm worried about is the overwhelming urge to hit bumps in the road to see if I can "get some air". Last tank, at 1500 miles on the odometer, fuel light came on at 155 miles. This has been gradually improving as I get some miles on the motor. Don't worry about the 1200cc's. You have plenty of power if you want it, but its very manageable. No unexpected surge that pulls the seat out from under you. | ||
| Orangeulius |
Hey Bozinski. I get a little over 150 miles on my 06 Uly per tank, uh per frame. Your maintenance woes will almost disappear with the Uly. I had a 650 Virago 2 bikes ago. The Uly is such a gas. What you will really like is the handling. I had a VRod before the Uly. It was like being strapped to a rocket! It was best in a straight line. The Uly is best in its cornering ability. Once I traded in my VRod the grin factor was exponential. I don't think you will be intimidated by it at all. You'll aLso get the pleasure of having the best support group anywhere, BadWeb! May god watch over you in Afghanistan. Hope you get stateside soon. Best, Orange. | ||
| Panhead_dan |
Get the Uly. You deserve it. But. I'm a firm believer in "small steps save lives". You said that your motorcycle experience is from a 500 virago, no? The dl650 wee-strom is a great bike and may be better suited to your current level of experience. From all reports I've seen, the dl650 kicks ass. I wouldn't ride one. | ||
| Johnnylunchbox |
Chris, not trying to rain on your parade, but the normal warranty will run up to about 2010 I think. Regardless, congrats on a great bike. You'll love it. Boz, no shame in the Wee-Strom. It's a great bike, and may be better suited for you as your second motorcycle. It'll save you some cash, and the Uly will always be there when you decide to buy one. | ||
| Dentguy |
Chris, not trying to rain on your parade, but the normal warranty will run up to about 2010 I think. Johnnylunchbox....I think what he meant is that they were extending it 4 months to April 2010 so people don't wait until spring to buy. But I could be wrong. Congrats on the bike Chrisgrant. (Message edited by dentguy on December 20, 2007) | ||
| Bertotti |
Chrisgrant after a bunch of research I choose this helmet. I haven't received it yet but the one I tried I liked a lot. I found it to be very quiet but it seems to me they run a size small. I could be wrong since I have never owned a full face before but all the 3/4 helmets I have owned have been small or medium but this helmet I needed a large. http://shopping.scorpionusa.com/C55D9C025BA44D11A3 713BF0D546303C.asp?cat_id=FBF05AC4DB8843C1B0FF7689 3F5540D5&pcs_key=F96867DA3C0E42C9ACC818055864F411& retpage=%2FF4BD78EED51D4762989F1184B1165B96%2Easp& nm=Solid+1000&spath=&path=Home+%3E+Equipment+%3E+S treet+Helmets&sc_id=3E3190B9C70E416A8A2F8EA96B5CE4 AB | ||
| Nipsey |
I will be curious to hear what you think of the Scorpion Bertotti. I like the concept of the inner shield but the 1000 did not get a great review from Webbikeworld. I had planned on going that direction but am now leaning toward the Shoei RF1000 | ||
| Bienhoabob |
Bozinski, If you can handle Afghanistan, you can handle a Uly. Rule of thumb: 4.4 gal @ 50 mpg = 220 range. Drive it hard, 4.4 gal @ 40 mpg = 176 range. The Uly power is manageable. No unexpected surprises or surges when different rpms are reached. Maintenance on the '08 Buells seems to be just fluid changes thru the year, then a change of plugs to begin the riding season. The bikes mentioned above would fun to own. I think I would add the new BMW F800GS to the list, too. When you get back, visit different dealers and see what bike fits you the best. Also don't forget about the other XB Buell models. Take Care, Bob | ||
| Raceautobody |
John, I am also curious to hear about that helmet. I have been eye balling that one too. Now if nothing else when the weather changes we should get together for a ride. Al | ||
| Bozinski |
Hey all, thanks for the input on the Ulysses so far. As long as I'm hearing that it gets in the 50 mpg range after break-in, then I would be OK with that. I know the mileage numbers that Buell posts are impressive, but most magazines which test the bikes before they are broken in are riding them hard and reporting significantly lower numbers which would compromise my range. I'm in aircraft maintenance with the Air National Guard and am currently deployed, but I have a civilian job back home that I commute to about 72 miles one way, so I'd like to be able to make a complete round trip without stopping. I have sat on '06 & '07 models and been pretty comfortable. I'm 6'0" with about a 32-33" inseam. I can't remember if I could flat foot, but I don't recall it feeling awkward. I haven't ridden a Uly, but just testing the suspension compression on the sales floor I remember it feeling silky smooth. It had a real quality feel, better than some other bikes. Unfortunately, I won't be able to test ride one if I intend to buy it through military sales before I leave Afghanistan, and once I'm home I'm not eligible for the discounted rate as it only applies to overseas sales. I can get a discount off MSRP and also not have to pay sales tax by ordering it and arranging financing here and having it delivered to a dealer back home. If I decide not to buy one here, then I'll most likely go ahead and get a Wee-Strom or one of the VFRs I mentioned before in order to save a bit of money. How is the aftermarket for Buells? Some of the popular adventure touring sites like Touratech are a little thin on Uly accessories. I like modding a bike over time to make it more distinct or useful. Anyone ride their Uly late into the season up north, like Ohio for instance? How does it cope with cold and precipitation? I don't intend to ride in the snow, but when it's not freezing cold I would still like to be able to take it out. The new standard heated grips are very appealing. The coldest I've ever ridden was about 60 miles in the mid-30s. Even with windproof gloves and a pair of over-mittens I still would have killed for some hot grips. If I buy a bike without them, then I plan to add them...maybe a heated seat too. Oh yeah, are there any problems with the Uly's electrical output? Is it enough for some decent accessories or not? | ||
| Crusty |
Chrisgrant; I'm also looking at the Olympia AST jacket. My wife has a Roadcrafter, and it's a good suit, but I think the AST will be a better jacket for me. As far as the helmets, both are good. Try them both on and buy the one that feels best. Nothing sucks more than a ten hour ride with a two hour helmet. Bozinski; I live in Massachusetts and ride year round, providing the roads aren't Icy. At 31,000 miles, the Uly is the most dependable and lowest maintenance motorcycle I've owned in 39 years of riding. | ||
| Ulywife |
Chris & Crusty - M2nc has the Olympia AST jacket and he loves it. He was wearing it when he went down last March. The jacket showed no wear or tear after his spill. The liner is nice as well. He feels that this is his most versatile jacket. He only goes to his mesh jacket when it hits 85+ degrees. Don't forget some riding pants. M2nc has a pair of Tour Masters we picked up from newenough.com for less than $140. They also held up well from his spill. | ||
| Bertotti |
Make sure to deal with the military sales guy The one I had in Japan gave me a good deal but it could have been so much better. Either way you need to use it while you are there. | ||
| Michael1 |
I have an Olympia AST. best jcket I have ever owned...and I have tried out a bunch. The versatility is great (20's to 90'sF) without an issue. Atleast when I am moving in the hot weather. It's actually waterproof and comfy. My gripe's...the velcro adjusters for the sleeves get in the way off the bike. On the bike, they are just fine. It's well built, great armor and just plain works. I pair it up with a pair of Olympia's Airglide pants. They work as well down to the low temps, with some smart layering underneath. The versatility with the mess pant, rainproof line is awesome. I can ride with them over my jeans/kahki's in 40F+ comfortably. Anything under and I need some thermals. And...I have a Nolan N102. It's a nice helmet when you ditch the little sun shield. As it whistles at highway speeds and doesn't do much, that a pair of sunglasses can't. It's comfy, protects great...I tried it out. I crashed and hit my head hard. I had a slight concusion, but otherwise was fine. The shell didn't crack, but the foam underneath did. The interior is quite plush and comfy. I've worn this helmet for an Saddle Sore 1000 iron butt with out any comfort issues. The anti-fog insert works superbly. It doesn't leak in the rain either... But it is loud. I do wear earplugs all the time and it's not a huge issue...but if I am going over 40mph, I need earplugs. If I was to do it again...I'd get the Shoei, though. But for a value point...you can't beat the Nolan if it fits! | ||
| Jflaig |
Chrisgrant, congrats on the bike. I also have the AST jacket and love it. You are right to look at full gear early. Enjoy it. Boz, are you due to take mid-tour leave anytime soon or are you about to complete your tour? If mid-tour is coming up, give me a call and I'll try and get you a test ride on my 06 Uly. Contact info in the RAN section. You can't go wrong w/ a ULY. Thank you for your service. This is the best forum to ask questions. | ||
| Maximum |
I also have the Olympia AST which I wear from the teens to around 80 degrees. I liked it so much that I purchased an Olympia AirGlide jacket and pant system for 80 degrees and higher (but I can use comfortably down to the 50's with the liner). One caution with the AST...don't wear it while trying to adjust your headlights. It turns out that the ballistic nylon doesn't like contact with a hot header pipe! Bozinski: I checked out the military sales while in Iraq in '06, but ended up getting a much better deal on one here in the US! As for the tax thing...you don't have to pay it when purchasing the bike, but you will have to pay tax on it when you go to register the bike with your DMV. But the military sales folks probably didn't mention that. | ||
| Chrisgrant |
Anyone know a site to get a good deal an Olympia. What about gloves? I haven't even tried any on yet. | ||
| Maximum |
I couldn't find anyone discounting Olympia gear. I ended up getting a 10% military discount from my local Olympia dealer. Gloves are very personal, I have tried many and liked certain things of each...but never found a glove that I would call perfect. For winter, I do like the Olympia Cold Throttle, but I found them to run slightly big. I normally wear Medium gloves, but in this case I wish that I had purchased size small. | ||
| Atoms |
Boz, This is my first winter with my Uly. I'm in Chicago. I took it out today for a little 20 mile ride to a Buell/HD dealer in Berwyn. It was 38F and the bike ran great. It sat for about a month in garage so it was not a surprise that it was a tiny bit hesitant to start, but on the second try it fired right up. It also performed admirably in the snow on the interstate when I rode it home from Georgia last April. My plan is to take it out once a month or so as the conditions on the streets permit. I do keep an eye on the battery and hook it up to a tender for a few hours every few weeks. | ||
| Adrian_8 |
Want to stay warm in just about any temperature?...Buy a Gerbing heated jacket..and G-3 gloves. Cold is a bad memory... | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Chrisgrant, Since you are close AND you will have a nice shiny new Uly, you MUST come show it off at March Badness V!!!!! You'll be a mere 133 miles from the festivities! http://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF-8&hl=en&tab=wl | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
PS. I LOOOOOOOOVVVVVEEEEE the gear I have gotten from both Aerostitch and NJK Leathers. Both are well made here in the USA and are great quality. I have worn my Darien Pants from Aerostitch for two seasons, and it's as good as new. I don't wear my Darien Jacket nearly as much since I bought the gear from NJK. I have mesh, textile, and leather jackets from NJK and love every one of them. The fit like they were tailored for me. | ||
| Bertotti |
Al I'll call you come spring or sooner and we'll ride. | ||
| Cyclonedon |
here I found this information on the web about the Olympia AST jacket. http://www.webbikeworld.com/r3/olympia-ast/ http://www.olympiamotosports.com/ast_mens/ast_mens .htm it's a rather impressive jacket. I saw Maximun's jacket at this year's homecoming but then again, how could you miss it? A bright high viz yellow jacker riding on a bright red Uly! He has put lots of miles on with his and he's happy with it so you can't go wrong there. | ||
| Chrisgrant |
Ft_bstrd, More info on March Badness, please. The link didn't work for me. | ||
| Ulywife |
Chris - March Badness is a Buell demo sponsored event put on by Stone Mountain HD/Buell and the local 3%er's. It's based out of T.W.O. (Two Wheels Only) in Suches GA. This will be their 5th year and it has grown by leaps and bounds each year. It's a great place to ride, hang out by the campfire at night and meet tons of BadWeBrs. Here is the link on Quick Board: http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/406 2/318457.html?1198288131 |
