| Author | Message | ||
     Sprintst |
Sometimes it's easy to look at the issues we have, and forget about the good aspects......at least for me. So, a good thread about Buells! My '09 1125R isn't my first bike, and isn't my first Buell, I had an 08 1125R. Before that, lot's of Hondas, CB600F2, CB650, Triumph Sprint ST, Suzuki, others.... When I totaled my 08 a couple years ago, I seriously thought about a Ducati, a KTM and a few other bikes, but in the end, I knew the right choice for me was another 1125R. Now, I found a nice 09 with 120 miles on it, and I've had a lot of challenges since, but I'm still very happy with my choice. What I like and appreciate: - comfortable riding position for me. I can put on 500 mile days, and I'm almost 50 and overweight/out of shape - handles well, I keep up with the best riders I come across. They are always amazed how I can throw it into the corners - first bike I've had that I don't feel like I need more.... (power/handling/brakes/whatever). Hey, I'll take more, but this bike is pretty good - belt drive - never thought I'd like it, but it's quiet, simple, so easy to work on, no spacer, no alignment, no tension issues - front wheel - much easier to work on, no spacers, no need to pull the caliper to remove the wheel, just nice - body work - no hidden tabs you forget and break. Very easy to work on - overall engineering - much easier to work on than my Hondas or Triumph - V twin. Love it for a street bike, and I grew up with I4's, but what a great/fun motor for the street So, not a perfect bike, but I think one of the best bikes for me. It's interesting to think about the new RX, since I'd actually be giving up some of the things I like on the 1125R. | ||
| D_adams |
Sure enough, but don't go ride one. You'll end up buying it. | ||
| Jdugger |
> no need to pull the caliper to remove the wheel, just nice Man, I've even seen the video and I still can't get this to work for me! I think my belly pan gets in the way, as does the fact the pads don't have retaining clips (better airflow in the caliper). I finally broke down and just bought the dry break system -- glad I did. Pull the wheel and caliper together. | ||
| Bob_thompson |
Agreed totally Paul(Sprintst) and its the same for me and I AM an older guy, and 5'6" at 150 lbs with a short leg reach. It does fit me very well also. I also like the new 1190RS for its intended purpose but like you it goes a little too much toward a race bike and I'd be giving up some things I really like about my 1125R. My 2008 #296 has been utter reliable but then I only ride for sport in these Utah canyons and do not commute. HD shops have completely bailed on Buell here so I do all maintenance work myself with help from a Buell tech manual all the BadWebbers. On my longer rides I add some easily removable soft luggage to carry a few luxuries for comfort, pictures and snacks. AND its got plenty enough power and handling to have much fun with other sport riders "carefully" playing Geoff May. I love staying interested in all sport riding, EBR's racing venture and all the new technology and bikes coming out but I will ride my 1125R into the final sunset. It IS and has been the best bike of dozens I have owned over 50 years. | ||
| Crowley |
I've got no axe to grind here, but I find my '08 very easy to ride fast, and generally an excellent machine capable of staying in sight of the latest generation of 'hyperbikes'. I also have an '11 Ducati 1198, which hasn't been particulary reliable (rad split - very common and very expensive) and was an absolute handful handling wise. I've binned the Ohlins shock and fork internals and spent nearly £3k  on K-Tech DDS suspension. I do like the single sided swinger though, one nut, and the wheel's out. If I was honest, I'd have to say my 1125 was the better bike and you could buy 3 for the price of the Duc. I love my X1 the most though - It's a 'thinking mans Vincent'  | ||
| Jdugger |
> I do like the single sided swinger though, > one nut, and the wheel's out. The EBR swing arm kit isn't so far behind. One nut and the axle slides out -- but the wheel does not drop! The chain has to be lifted off the sprocket, but other than that everything is captive just like the Duc. Wheel swap in 30 seconds with one tool. | ||
| Sir_wadsalot |
The only problems I have with my 1125 are the valve adjustment is ridiculous, and it's not a sport tourer. If it had Ully tail/luggage I would keep it forever. | ||
| Tommymac92 |
it is a blast to ride, I did have to change out the stock seat though. 300 mile rides and my butt was hurting. Looking forward to getting it back out to ride this year since it was down last year thanks to sandy. |
