Posted by Witch Doctor on May 22, 2000 at 04:42:42:
Yesterday (Saturday), I went looking for a new bike. Was supposed to work at the house, but since it was raining, and Lisa didn't feel good, I figured what the heck, go see what is available. Let's say that I am less than impressed with the state of motorcycling here in Memphis.
1. First stop, the local custom bike store, which usually is packed with consignments. They had one bike, a 79 HD Low-Rider. 80" 4 speed tranny, lightly customized, $8500, firm.
2. Second stop, the Suzuki/Yamaha/BMW shop. Test sat 5 bikes, didn't like any of them. Bad seats, low handlebars, heavily orange peeled paint, poor chrome quality, and it didn't matter which of the three brands. I asked the salesman if they were expecting anymore Savages. They don't even want to stock parts for them, too little commission on the sale I guess.
3. Third shop, Bumpus Harley Davidson. Factory authorized dealer. No Twin Cam 88s. 5 used Evos at $16-24,000. One real HD, a 62 Duo-Glide for $16,594. Yeah right.
4. Fourth stop, the Kawasaki dealer. Not a chance, no Drifter (either size). Don't like Vulcans.
Has anyone else noticed trends similar to these where they are? Is the Savage the last cruiser made for the rider who enjoys the lifestyle? My 98 didn't have too much orange peel in the paint. I knew the seat wasn't great, but compared to what I test sat, it is a feather pillow. You'd think the companies would pay better attention to what riders really need, not just what some non-riding stylist in the R&D shop thinks is neat.
Going to another shop next weekend, that specializes in what I call real Harleys. Generator bikes, and only generator bikes. Maybe I'll be able to find something I like there.
Don't get me wrong, I still like my Savage. It is just time for a change to something a bit roomier. Besides, Lisa rides the dogs**t out of it in the spring, summer, and fall. Even if I get hers up and running again, she'll probably commute on the Savage, it gets better mileage than her Rebel ever did.
Catch ya'll later. Memorial Day is almost here, and I'm trying to decide between staying home, going fishing, or attending the Gulfport MS Blowout, a Bandidos sponsored three day party in the truest of outlaw style traditions.
Have fun, stay safe, if a beat up little orange Savage comes screaming by, wave. I'll wave back. 8-)
-wd