|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Scooter
Mall |
2007 Monday, January 1 Hi
Mama, Dear
Annie, Dear
VTwin Mama, Can you recommend an automatic transmission motorcycle, comfortable (weight and height) and powerful enough, for a small, phobic man to commute 55 miles each way to work on? Lane Davis Dear
Lane, One way to begin your research is to take a look at my Auto Tranny Models list . . . here you will find auto tranny motorcycles currently in production, models you might find on the used market (that are no longer made), as well as scooter-styled bikes that have a bit more oomph to them for that longer commute you have. Now let's look at some factors you need to consider. First, the bigger the cc engine power of a bike, the heavier it will be (in general). However, if your commute incorporates hilly terrain, you want to be sure that you don't pick something undersized or you could be struggling to keep up with traffic flow. Second is the seat height . . . as a shorter rider, you'll need to visit dealer showrooms and check your reach to hand and foot controls as well as your leg reach to the ground at a stop. One way to minimize motorcycle weight and balance issues is to consider "triking" your chosen model . . . even the mid- to mega-range scooters now have options to transform a make/model into a trike. My recommendation: if $$ for the purchase is not restricted, I'd be looking at Ridley (they sit low right off the bat!). If the cost needs to be lower, I'd head to the local Suzuki dealer to look at the Burgman scooters. If you don't mind waiting a bit, Piaggio (Italy) is bringing in a three-wheeled motorcycle that's got the community buzzing . . . the MP3 has two wheels in front and one in back. The reviews are pretty good but at 250cc, it may not be right if your commute must include highway travel (or the aforementioned hills). There have also been sightings of another two/one wheel bike with 1000cc from Canada . . . but it's not clear if it's actually an auto tranny or not. One more thing I'd like to bring to your attention. Just because a motorcycle doesn't require manual shifting or there are more wheels, doesn't mean you should just hop on and go. Just like you didn't just get in a car and drive off into the sunset, you need to consider training and/or practice. There are some motorcycle schools that are offering specific classes for scooter and trike riders. The place to start would be to check what the local course provider for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) is offering in your area. In many cases, successful completion means you'll have your license in hand and a possible reduction in insurance costs. Ok, off you go to explore some more . . . let us know how it's going! It's what we do best . . . share and care! Mama Friday, January 12 For Lane who is considering getting a bike for commute economy: I would never for a second want to discourage anyone from a motorcycle if riding is their dream, however I feel the need to mention that I got more miles per gallon out of my car than I do out of my motorbike! I had a 1.25l Ford Fiesta car, which was fantastically efficient, if not nearly so much fun. I know you guys in America probably don't even have cars nearly that small! They do offer advantages in practicality and dryness for long commutes though. I think the problem is that anything with carburetors is always much less fuel efficient than things with fuel injection (maybe Lane should take this into account when thinking about bikes?). Fuel Injection is definitely on my wishlist for the next bike :) Michelle (note from Mama: an interesting thought, which I'm glad you shared!) Monday, January 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Your
readers have identified the advantages as: I am interested in any feedback or further suggestions you and your readers might have. Thanks! Rick Walters (Walters Manufacturing) Dear
Rick, Tuesday
Update: I also plan to display the bike at the Chicago Supercycle show on Feb 3rd and again at the International Motorcycle Show the following week. Monday, January 29 Hi
Petra, I've come to think the Burg is a great starter bike, and for myself it saved me from the problems I was having with my clutch hand riding my Suzuki Boulevard M50. None of the solutions for making the clutch easier or closer worked for the M50. Could have bought something totally different, but I was very intrigued by the Burgman, bought it and just love it! I'd like to help dispel the myth that these bikes are just Euro-weenie toys. It's really a great starter bike (well, for a person big enough for a bike this big!) and it can seriously move. I think of it more like a mid-size tourer than a scooter! I also believe that more bikes in the future will go towards automatic transmission, and while I'm glad I learned how to shift . . . not having to do it makes it that much easier to concentrate on all the crazy drivers around us here in the land of the Tourist (Florida). Take care, Rhonda Dear
Rhonda, I'm soooo glad to hear that you continue to enjoy your riding experience with this bike . . . and having met you last year at the AMA Women & Motorcycling Convention makes it a double treat for me! Mama Wednesday, January 31 Dear
VTwin Mama, Particulars are: 7 speed trans, either regular shift, push button shift on handlebar or full auto option. It's going to be more of a sport bike than cruiser. it is also going to be buckets o' cash, limited production, high performance, bike. I was going the Ridley route and still might if the price is not too ridiculous. My concern is the complexity of the system they will use. Sounds like a Lamborghini with paddle shifters. Info is now available on Aprilia website. Thanks, dmemph51 Dear
dmemph51, Monday, March 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, I like your site and have learned much from the letters posted there. Keep up the good work! Shawn Annis Dear
Shawn, Wednesday, March 7 Hi
Petra, In your note about the Piaggio MP3 you say that you still have to hold it up at stops . . . as far as I know that isn't exactly correct. My boyfriend works for our government's department for transport and he has ridden one of these. Apparently there is a button which you press when you're stopped which locks the tilt, so it stays upright without you having to put your feet down. This releases automatically as soon as you use the throttle, but you can also push it around locked which must make parking a bit easier. Incidentally he thought the ride was great, felt just like a 2-wheeler, but because the extra wheels and tilting mechanism makes it really heavy, the 250 version is pretty slow. Anyway, just thought I'd add to the info about this new bike, which seems to be generating a lot of interest. Cheers, Michelle Dear
Michelle, Friday, March 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Mun, I'm not sure if the click sound is normal or not. Consider riding over to the dealer's service department for a heart-to-heart chat. If you're not sure, ask! Otherwise, I'm hoping auto tranny bike owners will chime in with sage advice! Mama Friday, March 9 hey
Petra, I had to try out a leather jacket I bought from a vendor at Daytona Bike Week. I'll take pics and put it on the message board, because I think it's a good jacket for those of us with blubber and big hips . . . it has a stretchy section on either side of the waist, so fits over the hips. Has reflective stripes in the back and front, and has Kevlar in it. Fits great! And
it would look soooooooo cool on me on that Suzuki Boulevard M109 . . . lol.
Don't you know, my favorite dealer has a red one too! Can't wait until
you and Marty can try one, to see what you think, since you've been on
different bikes and can provide a more objective view. Dear
Kat, I look forward to hearing more about that jacket you found and I'll keep you up-to-date when I finally take the M109R for a test spin! Mama Oh
VTM, 1. Rider is 50 y.o. 5'11 180# woman who enjoys the handling of her Piaggio 125 (the Beverly model, which is not known in the states, but is like the 250 except for the engine size) on a Caribbean island which is flat, few intersections, and no twisties. Took MSF course last summer and has driven nothing but her maxi-scooter since, putting about 1,000 miles per month on it, but has not done emergency handling to be considered a seasoned motorcyclist. Being liquid cooled, dual injectors etc., "My Li'l Pony" has plenty of power to pass and cruises nicely at 60+m.p.h. She particularly enjoys a large/tall windshield and large wheels for leaning. Her headlamps are dual, off center (gets drivers' attention) and has running side lamps. Running board preferred over pegs. Scooter frame allows for denim skirt, splash-resistance and legs spared in a fall or side impact. Also extra balancing w/ knees shifting to center/other side. Auto trans. a real plus on commutes. Had a gash in tire but it stayed rigid--is this standard on all motorcycle tires now? Safety tires gotta have!!! 2. Looking for: A bike to drive around KC and open road/camping for a few weeks this summer, then store until next summer at which time she may want shipped overseas. She is most concerned about safe handling on all road conditions, wet, sandy, twisty. She does not anticipate mountainous terrain but some day, who knows. Expect one month travel this July then 11 months storage followed by year-round commuting beginning summer 08 (she does not own a car). Parts and service availability very important for years to come. Crateable for shipping later of course. She drives at night sometimes in the rain so ample and powerful lighting is a must. Pillion sometimes used in city/suburban areas, not x-cntry, but likes attractive/comfort there also. Don't need a ride that will impress drivers but will help command respect for my right to be on the road. 3. Currently considering: Yamaha V-Star Silverado. Suzuki Burgman 650 Exec. Honda Silver Wing. 4.
Concerns: Suzuki is pricey but has some nice features. After market exhaust silencer makes one wonder if it has an annoying dirt bike whine. Also, their Boulevards are used by police here but salt air ruins them, e.g., Suzuki has bad lasting/repair reputation. Interesting clutch/transmission but is such high tech reliable/easy to find repair/parts? Does windshield go high enough to block wind/bugs/chickens from a 6-foot rider? Honda has good reputation for reliability and parts but told the S-Wing handles like a small scooter on hwy. Wheels are smallish. Large screen available? Thanks for all you're doing for us! BTW, good knowing we share the same vintage. I'm a Scorpio and really think this, our 50th year, is fabulous! Scooter Crone of the Caribbean Dear
Scooter Crone of the Caribbean, Tires: I'm going to guess that your model has tubeless tires, which "because of their self-sealing construction, tend not to have catastrophic failures." If that bike does have tubes in the tires, the gash you sustained somehow did not puncture through to the tube. Both tube and tubeless tires are available on the market. I took a look at your Piaggio Beverly 125 and I now understand what you mean about the larger wheels, higher windshield, and styling that you like. Given that you would be riding a new scooter for such little time and dealing with proper storage before shipping it overseas (potentially), I wonder if it wouldn't be wiser to check into a rental of a bigger scooter for your current summer trip needs. Depending on where overseas you would be taking the bike will in part determine the availability of service/parts. While much is to be admired about liquid-cooled bikes, an air-cooled bike will perform just fine and has less parts and weight. The main reason to consider liquid-cooled is if you anticipate a lot of traffic stop/start riding where an air-cooled bike is at a disadvantage for the obvious reason. Salt is corrosive no matter what (just ask a US northern rider who deals with salt on the road during winter months or a US coastal rider!). Clean water rinses are a plus a good breathable cover can make a difference (a cover so the elements aren't eating away while it's stored, breathable so moisture doesn't get trapped under the cover). I know the models you are considering have smaller tires, but I know Rhonda has been running around on her Burgman 650 with no problems. I highly doubt she would have chosen this bike if it had a whinny exhaust. In my pictures from a recent motorcycle show, I have a picture of me (I'm 5'10") on a Burgman and I see that I would be looking over the windshield but that it is high enough to keep the wind off of me from my head down. I also know that Rhonda has been out at higher speeds and don't recall her noting any problems. In those same pictures you'll see me on a Piaggio MP3, with two wheels upfront and one in back. Handles like a two-wheeler, but more traction up front for those wet, sandy, twisty conditions you mentioned. I'm hearing though that it's currently only going to be available in a 250cc and 400cc version. There is some chatter on my site about the Silver Wing . . . easiest to find it by going to the bottom of my Home Page and use the Google search tool specific for VTwin Mama. You'll find the pages with pictures and commentary. I'm now going to toss open the discussion to mega-scooter riders for more input . . . it's time to chime in readers! Mama For Scooter Crone who is looking at something bigger than her 250cc: Thought I'd chime in with some comments about the Burgman 650. Regarding the whiney transmission, I would have to admit that the Burgman does not sound like a regular motorcycle. It has a sort of dieseling sound, not high pitched, but not that nice deep rumble either. The only things I've seen about exhaust modifications are people trying to get a richer sound out of it, or find one that looks cooler/sportier. She was asking about windshields, and I can say there is a good company called Clearview which is making windshields for the Burgmans. They make a very tall touring shield for those who want them. The original shield is at exactly the right height to be annoying. I'm 5'9" but that shield seems to be the wrong height for almost everyone, and apparently most people replace them with taller ones. I cut mine down to make it sporty looking, but might eventually go with a larger one. The executive model has a control to let you raise the windshield at the push of a button. That's pretty cool and might eliminate the need for buying a larger one. Regarding headlights for night riding . . . the Burgman has very good lights. They are good in normal mode, but if you hit the brights they are amazing. I was actually shocked the first time I hit them at how bright they are, and at the distance in front of me they lit up. I wish the lights on my car were that bright! Oh, and about the small tires . . . they don't seem to impact handling except maybe in the wind. However, that is not too bad since it's a big heavy bike. At first I thought the small tires were impacting how hard I was coming down on pot holes and other bumps, but I adjusted the shocks on the back and that is no longer an issue. I hope that gives Scooter Crone some helpful information. Oh, don't know if you mind a recommendation for another website, but there is a site called BurgmanUSA, which is a wealth of information on the Burgman. Rhonda (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your specific observations!) Friday, March 16 For Rhonda who offered her commentary on the Burgman 650: Many many thanks for taking time out to give your most helpful insights, Rhonda! Burgman is now on my short-short list. Can you believe I've got my eyes on a Beemer? I'd hafta see if I feel comfortable on such a beast in a large parking lot and around the block before I'd buy it. The Burgman may be all I need tho. xxox, Scooter Crone (note from Mama: shopping can be a joy when research is done!) Wednesday, March 21 Dear
Readers, Friday, March 23 Hi
there, I'm not interested in learning either -- I took an MSF class a few years ago and had a bad accident trying to incorporate shifting with the riding -- very traumatic. It took me two years before trying out scootering (on a little 50cc). So, do you know of any dual-sport scooter or motorcycles that either have an automatic transmission (CVT) or an auto clutch (like the FJR)? Thank you, I Just Wanna Go On Vacation Dear
I Just Wanna Go On Vacation, Readers, have I missed a model?! Mama Tuesday, March 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jackie, It's all about gear ratios. If we only had one gear, say third, it would be a slow clumsy acceleration and a screaming noise at high speeds! So gears with different ratios are used. Of course, on a manual transmission, you need the clutch and shift to connect each gear to the drive output. On a auto tranny, two planetary gearsets create all the necessary ratios without any messy extra movement! So, an electronic shift, from what I understand, still has the normal manual gear set-up, but instead of having to pull in a clutch lever and shift, the clutch lever is eliminated and replaced with highly technical (aka, I don't know) thingies. But one still has to shift, if even by just touching a button. Good news for those who like to control how close to redlining they come, bad for those who really want the bike to do it all. So, for more cc than you currently have, you've got the Yamaha FJR1300 at 1298cc or the upcoming Victory Vision at about 800cc, which is supposed to be ready this fall. Mama Monday, April 9 Hi Ma, After 4 years and 60,000 miles (two USA crossings) I have nothing but good things to say about this bike, both in the handling and maintenance dept. Extremely low center of gravity and for you short folks, just carve down the foam seat an inch or so (I did this myself with an electric kitchen knife) for a solid flat footed stance. The only reason I bought a newer one was that some lady rear-ended me at a stop and totaled my last bike (her insurance company bought my latest one). I wasn't even scratched (my legs did take flight though which kinda freaked out some local construction workers, heh heh)! Keep on RIDING ! Shawn Dear
Shawn, Tired about hearing what an inspiration you are? Tough . . . here at VTwin Mama we say what's in our hearts and I for one am sooooo glad you wrote in to share a motorcycle that not only works for you but has carried you so many miles. 60k miles is nothing to sneeze at and I smiling because I know you have a memory that relates to many of those . . . Thanks for the tip on carving down the seat . . . for those who don't own an electric knife (!) or simply wish to leave it to professionals, look for local upholstery shops . . . they can usually handle a seat modification. Ride on, ride on . . . we'll be looking for you and won't hold back on any biker waves! Mama Monday, April 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, First I have one link I did not see on your site - you may want to add it under Rick Walters site. It is roughly equivalent: Big Brute V Twin Super Bike. Second: I have been waiting for the Victory Vision to hit the production stage. That has happened. However, the official site lists the transmission as a 6 speed with no further details provided. Also, I tend to be a traditionalist in style. The bike looks a bit too much like a science fiction creation to suit me. What I have been looking for is a midsize cruiser with an auto transmission. For years Clay Ridley was the only option. I have refrained from pulling the trigger for a couple of reasons. First, I have heard both good and bad reports of the bikes performance. I need something that won't get me killed on the highway. Second, there is no dealer in my state so maintenance and repair would be my job and I usually don't have that kind of time. Third, the bike is, at least in my opinion, overpriced for it's size. Fourth, I really would prefer something produced by a major manufacturer for many reasons. There has been some movement in this arena in recent years. I was hopeful that Mr. Walters, would be the answer to my dilemma. However, his price point of $33,000 is way more than I would want to pay for something that is not my primary method of transportation. I am buying a bike, not a BMW. I have been in communication with both Honda and Yamaha. However, both are several years away from bringing anything that would suit my needs to production. At this point I am considering giving up or perhaps buying an old Suzuki 400 or Hondamatic on eBay. If I can get one in decent shape or one of those 250cc CFMOTO bikes. Any suggestions? Thanks for listening and keep up the good work. Paul Norris Dear
Paul, The only other pathway I can offer is from my Disabilities/Medical pages, which is under the main heading, Ride Techniques. Here are sources in the left column to other sites that offer insights to relocation and modification of controls and even sources to people who will work with you one-on-one. In this way you could choose a motorcycle that meets your cc size/price/etc. and then change from there. I'm thinking this is going to be a lot less expensive. Take a look . . . I'm hoping it offers new ideas to research. Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, The manufacturer of this sign of the times technology is Walters Manufacturing out of Plano, Illinois. This merits at least a simple look see. I believe that we will be seeing a lot of these on the road soon. Check it out! I'd like to see what other people think of this. I will check back. I want one and hope it hits a dealer soon. T. Hernandez in Chicago, IL Dear
T., Tuesday, May 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, I recently read an article in Iron Works Magazine about a 3 speed transmission made for the v-twin bay a company in Illinois. I have never heard of them. Walters Manufacturing or something like that. In their description it states that it is a 3 speed tranny that requires no manual intervention. Just open it up and it goes. It shifts flawlessly and it has REVERSE!? There is no clutch whatsoever. Considering it's for a V-Twin this would indicate that it is not for a small wannabe bike. I have problems with my left hand and arm. Riding can be a task not to mention dangerous for me. I want to ride again. I'm hoping that this new automatic is everything I hope it is. I will not downgrade to a souped up scooter! If it costs more I would be willing to pay it!!! I was in the market for the Hondamatic. Now I have a better option. I want a newer bike not a relic that should be on display somewhere. I can't find my magazine (darn). I want to contact that company to find out where the heck they have these new automatic motorcycles. I checked out the Ridley. For a person my size that is more like a mini-bike, I would look like a circus clown on that thing. It's not for me. Tempting but no thanks. Any way, if anyone out there has one of these Walters' automatic transmissions for motorcycles, please post here, I would like to know what it is really like, past the hype and other claims of having reverse. Does this thing really work and where does a person get a bike with it already installed? Nely R. in Wichita, KS Dear
Nely, Tuesday, May 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, I was so pleased to find out that this automatic motorcycle transmission has the strength to pull a mini-van with an attached trailer. This leads me to believe that this motorcycle transmission will not strain when installed on a 700 pound bike. Considering a minivan must weigh at least 3 to 4 times (I guess) more than a full size bike. So I would think that this motorcycle transmission would be worry free. I mean, it is designed for greater weight so pulling me and the bike would hardly cause any strain on it. It just seems logical. Maintenance would probably be minimal. Yes, the transmission is pricey. Then I thought to myself . . . this is the first of it's kind! It's destined to be a collectable. I like collecting things too. It is well worth the price tag. You get what you pay for. If you want a small price get a small bike. You want a full size bike? You get a Walters automatic motorcycle transmission! I have thought it over and discussed this with my friends, many mixed feelings. The consensus is that this motorcycle transmission is a true luxury for those who know they deserve the best. (Like Me!) It works out for me, I am deathly afraid of inclines at the mall parking when using a clutch. I just know that one day I will have an accident. I also get hand fatigue while riding in the city. Some times my bike jerks or kicks hard when shifting, I am not the best at it. With an automatic motorcycle transmission I will not have to worry about that anymore. I can just concentrate on riding and traffic. The reverse feature has me intrigued, Now I can pull my bike back with ease, no strain or worries about losing balance and dropping my bike in those awkward positions that happen from time to time. In one of your postings regarding automatic motorcycle transmissions it states that the Hondamatic has a number of enthusiast groups. I believe that the Walters Automatic Motorcycle transmission will out do that following and collectable appeal and value retention. In closing, I am making arrangements, I am buying one already installed in a new bike, regardless of cost! No more competing with the joneses! This tops them all! I'm 39 years old I love to ride! This will improve my quality of life. T. Hernandez in Chicago Dear
T., Tuesday, May 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Sylvia, Wednesday, May 30 Dear VTwin Mama, We found it locally, parked in front of the owner's house with a for sale sign in it. It is a 1978 with less that 2k miles on it!! Keep up the good work . . . Dan & Riza in NM Dear
Dan and Riza, I'm glad you're enjoying your visits to the VTwin Mama site . . . as you can see, we assist riders of all types and challenges! Let us know how it's going! Mama From Susan who is blogging her beginning steps in the riding adventure: Thank you so much for everything. I actually bought a bicycle. It sure is clear that I need to do this first! : ) I can barely ride it. We actually almost bought a cycle last week. But I better just learn the plain old bike first. 2 days later: So, I'm really getting comfortable on the bicycle and even rode with my husband on his Honda Nighthawk 750 Sunday! : ) Anyway, I saw a CF Moto V3 and V5 today and loved the V5. I felt such a sense of relief that I could do this on that bike. My balance and confidence have really improved over the past week with all I'm doing. My question is that I am concerned about finding anywhere to service the CF if there are any problems. This dealer is about 40 minutes away. We read the manual last night (by the way, it was an hysterically funny translation from Chinese to English) and changing the air filter, for instance, is not for the faint of heart. I'm wondering if anyone has had problems getting parts, service, etc. I don't know if a QLink dealer would service the CF and honor the warranty. I'm in S.E. Florida. I was thinking maybe I should get the QLink, just cause there may be more places for service. But the price is great for this one ($2999 put together). And the couple who owned the store were really helpful. Today: I just spoke to a local motorcycle repair shop. They said there are so many Chinese machines around now, but there are tremendous problems getting the parts. He said that they will come up to speed eventually, but for now, buyer beware. Other than the scooter dealer where I would buy it, there are no places to go to for repair. We downloaded the manual, which had very explicit instructions for every issue, but no one around to fix it. I wrote to the company a few days ago, but no response. That is really a shame as this is the perfect vehicle for me. So I'd love to hear your readers' thoughts/experiences on this. Anyway, I love your site and will stay involved. Thanks for everything, Susan (note from Mama: given that both the CFMoto V5 and the QLink Legacy are the exact same bike, and QLink simply licenses the right to put their logo on it and market it as such, one would imagine that the warranty would be transferable. The only real way to know is to ask though. Given that these are imports, I don't consider a dealer 40 minutes away a real stretch. That's actually quite good and is probably because you're in the 2nd biggest motorcycle market, i.e. Florida! A good, thoughtful dealer that really is at the ready to assist is worth their weigh in gold. You only need a bigger dealer range if you plan on traveling greater distances with the bike. Otherwise, a good towing plan is useful if you are concerned. Also, double check with insurance companies before purchasing either as it can be sticky getting insurance for imports yet . . . the big companies aren't all set up to insure these bikes.) Wednesday, June 20 For Susan who is concerned about support for the CFMotos: I do not know where many of your contributors come from, but my wife Helen owns Ciao Bella Scooters near St. Louis, Missouri located in Alton, Illinois and they carry both the V5 and V3. They have mechanics who work on their products as well. Test drives are available for properly licensed riders, and they rent the automatic motorcycles as well. I have ridden the V5 many times and it is a very nice handling automatic motorcycle. So, perhaps a bit of bias, but still think they are excellent products. Kevin (note from Mama: biased maybe, but you still get to have a riding opinion! Thanks for sharing this information! Like all shops, it's best to get to know the parts and service people, as well as the owner when possible, as they form the support team!) Tuesday, June 26 Dear Readers, Dear VTwin Mama, Do you know anything about these bikes? Are they reliable, easy to service, and get parts? I have checked them out online along with the CF Moto Xtreme but am leaning more toward the Legacy. Any information you can give me would be greatly appreciated. I live in Connecticut and QLink is in Penn. RoseAnn Dear
RoseAnn, Just to clarify, CF Moto is the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) of the QLink Legacy and they call their model the V5. QLink licenses the right to distribute the V5 under the Legacy name, so they are the same motorcycle. From what the letters I've received, it appears that QLink is doing a better job of offering more dealerships in the U.S. but that one cannot buy a service manual and that parts still have to come in from China (other than what the dealer will have stocked). So it's really all about how many of these models a dealer has sold because they are only going to have as much service experience and stocking as bikes sold. Also, the distance to the dealer could pose a challenge should you need assistance. I could find no reference to a CF Moto Xtreme, even on the company's site, so am guessing it's referring to either the V3 (sport style) or the V5 (cruiser style). If you scroll through the letters on my Bike Type: Auto Tranny pages, you'll find previous letters from readers about any of these models, especially those posted within the last year. In addition, any information we have on auto tranny models can be found on my Bike Type: Auto Tranny Models page here you will find a list of everything currently being produced, along with scooters that are of interest to check out, and out-of-production models. This will broaden your knowledge base and give you more to consider! Mama Wednesday, July 18 For RoseAnn who is interested in the QLink Legacy auto tranny motorcycle: Go to this page on Women Riders Now there is a link for the machine you're interested in. Best of luck. CHW-Z. (note from Mama: thanks for pointing out a woman's review on this motorcycle!) Tuesday, October 23 Dear VTwin Mama, Lee, the salesman at Beaufort is one of the most honest people I have dealt with. He will follow upon your purchase and you can contact him any time. As for the bike? I love it, though there are no dealers around here that I know of. I bought online and the bike is sweeeeet!!!! For cruising around town and all, it is ideal. Haven't been on the highway yet so can't say how it will do. Handles really nice and rides nice and looks like a motorcycle though it only has a 250cc engine. I totally love it and I would recommend Beaufort as the place to buy if one wants to buy online. I paid $2695 for it and that was with shipping, gatel ift fees etc. Delivered right to my front door too!! Took my neighbor and I about an hour or so to put it together and then it was off to test ride! Sweeeeeet!!!!! Only thing I can think of that may be a problem is I don't know where I would go to have any repairs done if need be, no dealerships here in Denver. This is just my opinion and input on the bike but as far as it goes, it is a great little bike. Any comments on this are welcome. Thanks, William Dear
William, Hi VTwin Mama, Any suggestions would be appreciated but I think that the riding season is just about over here in Ontario, we have had a few really good frosts and I have found that the wind chill while riding is really wicked. Thank you in advance. Cheryl, a newbie but no longer terrified Dear
Cheryl, Of course with practice comes better balance control at the slow speeds, so less wobbling. Still, the throttle may not be adjustable or something that even practice will smooth out so you have tighter control at the lowest of speeds. People with auto tranny bikes ... chime in if you have better suggestions than mine! Mama Wednesday, November 7 For Cheryl who is working on slow turns on an auto tranny motorcycle: I have a Honda CN250 Scoot ( a very sweet ride) that I take turns about riding with my Savage 650. I can go pretty slow on the scoot and I think it is just due to riding it a lot, feeling very comfortable on it. Maybe do a lot of practicing with your throttle speeds. It is probably easier to balance at a slow speed if you don't have to think about it too much. Anonymous (note from Mama: more practice = more control, or at least an understanding of the specific handling characteristics of a make/model. Not all throttles have the same responsiveness level, but all can be practiced until every nuance is learned, including limitations.) I have a Ridley Automatic and I found that I had to use the back brake ever so lightly. Try it, it and see if it works for you. Joan (note from Mama: an excellent point that I missed! Slight application of the rear brake can temper the throttle control. Reminder: using the front brake tends to pull a bike down in a turn, so it's the definitely the rear brake you want to use.) Wednesday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, It was amazing I tell you! Of course, you all felt that "passing" feeling before but anyways, I passed. The school was so kind and actually brought in a Honda Rebel for me to ride instead of the Nighthawk they originally had. They lowered the Rebel 3 inches and all I had to do was just wear the Harley boots I got. =) Now I'm looking into some bikes here and there and was wondering are there companies that make Automatic Motorcycles, and if there are, which ones? I want to look at all my options that are out there ya know, can't be too picky. =P Kelcy the 4'8" rider Dear
Kelcy, Yes, there are automatic transmission motorcycles available. Ridley is made here in the US and the rest are being imported from other countries like China, Japan and Italy. To see what's currently in production, what you can find used but out of production, and what to consider in the mega-scooter line-up, take a look at my Auto Tranny Motorcycle Models page. This will get you started on your research! Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kelcy, I'll simply add that I test rode a 2006 Autoglide when owner Clay Ridley was in Myrtle Beach that year for a rally. I was impressed with the get-up-and-go power, I liked the sound of the bike, the seat height at 24.5" is a huge advantage for shorter riders, and the center of gravity was very low, thus making it easy to handle. If you're interested in seeing what else is available in auto tranny motorcycles, hop onto my Auto Tranny Motorcycle Models page! Mama Friday, December 7 For Kelcy who was interested in thoughts on the Ridley auto tranny motorcycles: I have a Ridley and it is a great bike. The only problem I have had with it is the wide gas tank and somewhat heavy front end. It hampered my steering, although I did OK. I still thought that I started out with a bike that may have been a bit much for me and although I still have it and won't sell it, I learned of another automatic bike at about 1/5th the cost of a new Ridley. It is a QLink Legacy 250 automatic. I went to look at them and fell in love. I have had a slow start on riding and it was so frustrating because I just was plain scared. That of course, is not the bike's fault. Since I got the Legacy I can't wait for the warmer days to go ride and I am having a blast. So if you want an automatic starter bike, I highly recommend it. Then you can go to the Ridley when you want a bigger bike. Of course, you may get the Ridley and never look back as we are all different. Good luck! Joan (note from Mama: you've brought a good point ... that just because a motorcycle has an automatic transmission, doesn't mean you still don't have to learn all the other handling rules and characteristics for safe and confident riding! As Joan points out, even in the auto tranny style, there are options on size for those who just don't feel comfortable starting out on something bigger and heavier.) |
| © 2007 VTwin Mama | Disclaimer |
