Total Motorcycle Community Forums

The Harley is about $1200 to 1500 more than the Honda. Harley has 2 year warranty. and 100cc bigger.

But which is the overall best bike? Is the Harley worth the extra money?

How's the belt drive on the Harley?

I heard it takes 3 years to get a new Harley, has that changed? The web page makes it sound like you can walk in and buy one.

Thanks

Keith

...

It doesn't take three years anymore....there was a time when customers had to go on a waiting list to get a Harley, but thats not the case anymore....if you see it in the showroom and have the cash, it's yours.

The other questions are loaded since everyone's going to give their preference.

<b>Facts</B>
The new Sportster rides tons times better than models even just a few years ago.

The Harley should retain its value better than the Honda

The advantages of Belt Drive systems over chains is that they're much cleaner, not needing messy lube or cleaning solvents. They do need periodic adjustments, but less frequent attention than chains. The advantage over the shaft is purely a weight issue and consequently how the bike is going to handle, but they too are low maintenance.

<b>Observations</b>
The Honda does look nice.

The Honda is liquid cooled, Sportster air cooled. Air cooled can become a pain in traffic jams and the like.

With Harley you are paying for the name, so this decision could come down to your gut and what you want to be seen riding.

Have you test driven them...I'm thinking they should give two different rides.

the waiting lists to get harleys are a thing of the past.

You can walk into most any harley dealer and probably find something you like if you are into harleys. Most HD dealers have pretty much the entire lineup in most available colors.

In this case I would probably try to get a test ride in each bike and get the one that feels better for you.

both are good bikes. The sportsters have improved a lot since the 2004 redesign.

Without a doubt the Harley will have better resale value

Thanks,

Looking again i see another model X1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster is actually same price as the Honda Shadow Spirit.

So guess i will do as you guys advise and get a test rid eon both

Thanks again

Keith

I would get the H-D, period.

Have you looked at the Triumph line of entry/mid-sized cruisers? I own a Triumph Speedmaster which cost less than the HD and Honda and has been an awesome bike! I do know dealer support might be an issue for you, but my dealer is a 30 minute drive away so it isn't a problem.

Plus, if you like attention, whereever I go I get people walking up to me asking questions about my bike...can't beat the nostalgia of Triumph or the looks, IMHO.

thanks