The want is strong.

"Pickup_man" (zekeh)
04/20/2016 at 12:01 • Filed to: None

Harley Davidson just released the 2016 Roadster, which as you can see is a hopped up, more sport oriented Sportster. I currently have a 2008 883 Sportster, which I love, but have been wanting to make some changes to. The new Roadster is everything I want to do to my current bike, all wrapped up in a convenient package, and with a warranty. It’s blacked out 1200cc, with the bobbed rear fender with the blinker/taillight combo, has a good looking set of shorty pipes that wont be obnoxiously loud, nice wheels, a usable passenger seat for shorter rides, and my favorite part, decent shocks, USD forks, and dual disks!

Currently my bike is probably worth around $4,500, and the Roadster starts at $11,199. Upgrading would be a $6,699 difference, and that’s tough to justify purely from a I have a good bike that meets all my needs point, but when considering all of the work and parts I would have to buy for my current bike, it actually seems to be a pretty good deal.

Regardless of what kind of “deal” it may be, and my wants and desires, the finances probably wouldn’t allow it right now anyway because the wife and I are trying to hammer away some debt as quick as we can. Perhaps in a few years I can pick one up with 973 miles on it, for a heavily discounted price. Until then I’ll continue to drool in front of my screen, and possibly on the dealership floor.

DISCUSSION (12)

MrFurzzy > Pickup_man
04/20/2016 at 12:06

I never thoughit I would want to buy a new harley, but I think you just changed my mind. That is a very good looking bike!

Dru > Pickup_man
04/20/2016 at 12:09

I always said I would most likely never own a Harley. You may have just changed my mind.

Luc - The Acadian Oppo > Pickup_man
04/20/2016 at 12:10

I just got into an argument with someone on how I dislike cruisers then you turn around and post this?

A cruiser that I would possibly consider. Damn you!

Nonster > Pickup_man
04/20/2016 at 12:11

It looks good, but more importantly they let it have some real suspension with some reasonable travel and cornering clearance and some decent brakes!

Still pretty pricey though. Would be sweet if they did an 883 version

Pickup_man > MrFurzzy
04/20/2016 at 12:15

I was never a Harley guy until I bought my Sportster I’m still not a “ Harley guy” but I’ve come to appreciate some of their bikes. I think you still pay quite a bit for the name, but they’re solid bikes and are very well put together. In general I think they’re doing a decent job of keeping up with technology, but I would like to see them come out with some completely new, modern designs, mainly in the engine department, instead of just updating what they currently offer.

Pickup_man > Dru
04/20/2016 at 12:16

This is a seriously cool bike, almost (but not quite) a new XR1200. I’m glad to see them putting some good performance parts on at least some of their bikes.

jimz > Luc - The Acadian Oppo
04/20/2016 at 12:18

since I’m that guy, I wasn’t arguing with you about “cruisers.” my reply over there explains more.

this isn’t really a cruiser anyway due to the setup of the controls and handlebars. Cruisers generally have pull-back handlebars and mid-forward or forward controls, sometimes with footboards. This is kind of a “cruiser-morphed-into-cafe-racer-lookalike.”

Pickup_man > Luc - The Acadian Oppo
04/20/2016 at 12:24

Haha, I saw that. This is a cool bike and I’m glad to see HD putting on some nice performance parts.

FWIW, most cruisers are built to a purpose, riding long distances, in fairly straight lines in comfort with little to no intent of performing any sporty maneuvers. When you’re building a highway bomber, not a whole lot of “technology” is needed. Still, most cruisers aren’t as antiquated as they seem. If cruisers aren’t your thing, they’re not your thing, stick to what you like, just be careful not too harass other types of bikes too much.

Pickup_man > Nonster
04/20/2016 at 12:26

Dare I say it’s almost (but not quite) a modern XR1200?

I agree that it’s a bit spendy, but that’s just the HD tax unfortunately.

jimz > Pickup_man
04/20/2016 at 12:40

that’s why the company’s initials are “H. D.” Everything costs Hundreds of Dollars.

Pickup_man > jimz
04/20/2016 at 12:58

This is true.

Mmmmm > Pickup_man
04/20/2016 at 13:49

As much as I dislike cruisers, that is a good looking bike.