In the "Biker Scene" How are old hondas treated?

[jmorgan]

So im new to riding street bikes, How are fellow bikers towards various brands of bikes? Obviously people in this forum tend to have a bias towards honda, so how are you treated at the local bike night in town?

I've never been to one, atleast not on a bike.. Is there any brands that are made fun of behind the owners back(or infront?).

I really thought my CX500 was one to be laughed at, but I have become shocked at how many people ask about it and really check it over even just bringing it to get inspected, and filling up with gas. I guess that V-twin isn't something you see everyday! I even looked at some new bikes and came back to liking the way mine looks, sure i'd prefer it to be lower and a bit more custom stance, but I defiantly like it alot more then wide saddle cruisers that really don't get my attention.

Anyone have stories?

[Custom85VT]

Well I might not be a good example as my bike is about as un-Honda as a Honda can get, but I do get a lot of “Biker Scene” people coming up and looking my bike over with enthusiasm. Anyone who wrenches could appreciate many of the engineering marvels I have pulled off on a budget. :cool:

[grappler]

Well the "older folks" tend to look at me as another one of those "rascally kids" on a crotch rocket. A not undeserved view as most of the crotch-rocket riders in So Cal ride like brain dead monkeys.

Not really what your asking but thats how it is for me.

[Rocky]

The year was 1971. A friend of mine had triumph, I had a honda. We go to a biker bar. We leave. My bike is still sitting there---his isn't.

Things haven't changed.

[SleazyRider]

Hahah thats great!

[kitty kat]

So I'm new to riding street bikes, How are fellow bikers towards various brands of bikes? Obviously people in this forum tend to have a bias towards Honda, so how are you treated at the local bike night in town?



Over here in UK, we joke about about Hondas (except those who own one), but that is all it is, a joke. At the various bike meets I go to every type of bike is accepted, even mine which is desperately in need of some cosmetic work. :(
I was at a meet last Monday and a group of cruisers pulled into the meet area, but parked away from everyone else, they were all from some club or something. A friend of mine rode in with them and tried talking to them when they parked up but the back marker just turned round to him and told him that if he wanted to ride with them or talk to them it would cost him £50 a year :eek:
Talk about unsocial.
I am an associate member of our local Harley chapter (I ride a Japanese bike) and have been welcomed by most of the group, despite the fact I do not wish to own said make of bike.

[Schneiderman]

My first streetbike was a 1982 Honda CB650 and everyone thought that was a way cool bike, myself included.

[buellosaurusrex]

The tide is turning....if slowly...and the Japanese bikes of Yesteryear are suddenly becoming 1) desirable, and 2) valuable.
Reason? The kid that learned to ride on the CB350 is now earning in excess of 100k per year.....has just turned 50, and is re-discovering his inner child.
Think I'm full of it?
Read Motorcycle Classics.

[92katana750]

I think if you drive a motorcycle your accepted. I ride a 84 xj650 and a 92 gsx750f, everyone loves 'em. My dad rides a 84 yamaha 1000 virago, 94 1100 honda saber(?), a 750 virago etc (he loves bikes!), and every where we go people with bikes just seem to walk up to us and start talking. hell i've had some people slow down on the high way to ride along. be proud of what you ride, it's yours and you chose it for a reason!

[kitty kat]

I love the way other bikers come and talk to you.
The other week I went on a long ride for the day, on my way home I stopped at the side of the road in a rest area in order to relax in the evening sun and eat my tea. I am doing just that, when another biker pulls up behind me, gets out his flask, pours himself a coffee and stops there for half an hour chatting to me. You don't get the same camaraderie when driving a cage.

[weezerfan84]

Never had anyone pull up next to me yet, but I also ride a lot on public streets. I do have some buddies that I ride with from time to time, which is pretty fun. Where I live you have your cruiser group and you have your crotch rocket group, and they rarely ever intermingle. I like cruisers, but they're just not a bike I would like to ride on a daily basis. I like to rush from going fast on occassion, which is why I'm gonna try and get an RR around this time next year. Been looking at the CBR 600RR, R6, GSXR600, ZXR6, ZZR-600, and Ninja 636. Most likely if I can I will try and end up with the CBR600 because it has that torque curve that I would like to have in city driving, but the 2005 636 is an awesome looking bike! We'll just see what happens between now and this time next year.

[jrbooe]

My attitude has always been, it doesn't matter what you ride as long as you are riding. Yes, people like to joke about my metrics when I am on them. However, because I also ride a Sportster I get my share of joking comments about being on a skirtster as well. Anymore, because my CB is 30 years old, when I am on it I get a lot of comments from people who say they like seeing an old school piece of iron still on the road.

[renbent]

Great bike, know exactly where your coming from bro

[Maico Shark]

I can understand how young people want to be accepted....and respected. But for me the motorcycle has always been a symbol of solitude. I have my gregarious moments and have owned customized party vans, but when I ride a bike I am usually alone, going at my own speed, and following whatever whim that enters my thoughts. I am a solitary cruiser and a midnight rider who could not care less what some other person may think of my 1985 Honda. It was the best bike I could find for $500 and has went 2 years with just chain oil & tightening.

I guess it depends on why you ride and what you seek. To me it seems as close as I'll get to flight and the embodiment of freedom. All else is vanity.

[Speedzter2000]

I go to a lot of car cruises and motorcycle shows. Never have I received a negative comment. I hear "WOW! I had that bike when I was learning how to ride..." I had a GS550, and now have the GPz. Like someone said previously, people remember these bikes from their youth, and it's a source of nostalgia for them. Many years ago I knew people who hated "Jap bikes" and spoke of parties where they burned them and what not, but those days are long gone. At least around here. I did have ONE instance where a smart donkeys rear-end was making snide comments about my bike. He was blabbing about how he was going to get this that and the other thing. How my bike was a piece of junk compared to this other bike. Meanwhile, he's in his 30's, lives at home with Mom and Dad, and rarely works. And doesn't even have a tricycle. Yeah, right...whatever....
I never wash the GPz, and don't give a hoot what others think, and neither should you. Ride your own ride. Getting caught up in the hype is just that. I know of other people who have re-mortgaged their homes to get a $20k or so motorcycle, and that is not the "American Dream" to me. Being up to your eyeballs in debt for 30+ years doesn't sound like a dream to me. More like a nightmare.
Anyway, get what you want, and ride the snot out it. At least you're out there riding!!
Good luck!:D

[SleazyRider]

Ya i ride a 76 CB400... Shes a cutie that moves thats for sure.

Ive got a friend at work and we were talking about bikes...and he said "You should have gotten a harley man" and harley this and harley that... And i said...Well...wheres your harley? Wheres YOUR bike?

Although he LOVES his honda civic :) haha

[MrBash]

These are very interesting thoughts. I had no idea that people had bad thoughts for Hondas. I've been riding for three weeks now and I purchased a 2004 honda Shadow Aero (first bike) and I love it. I do about 60 - 70 on the highway and I generally keep to myself. I can careless what other riders think. I DO wave at every bike though. I'm waving at the bike, not the rider.

My bike has 6700 miles on it and I paid $4,400 for it. Got my leather boot, leather jacket and leather gloves...I feel good on the freeway. Although I like crusing the streets more often. Sometimes the freeway can be way too windy especially afternoons. Along with the loud aftermarket pipes, I love my bike. I've parked my daily driver and I ride everywhere I go everyday. I throw on my jeans over my slacks and wear my boots to work. When I get to work I take the jeans off, hang the jacket and change into my work shoes.

I like the fact that my bike has a drive shaft and I get 54mpg.

So why do people not like Hondas?

Here's my Honda...
http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/MrBashian/Bike.jpg
and here's my Jeep...B!tch hahahaha
http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/MrBashian/JeepwSRCBumper.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/MrBashian/20b3ce67.jpg

[buellosaurusrex]

It's not necessarily Hondas, rather, "other" makes besides HD. Some even look down on American icons such as Indian, and snub their noses at newcomers such as Buell, Victory, etc. This attitude dates back to the sixties when biker gangs rode Harleys almost exclusively and didn't care much for Mr. Clean on his Honda 50.
Times have changed. Ride what you want and be proud of it!

[Nighttrain]

The old CB's are rapidly gaining in price and earning respect as vintage bikes. Not that I care what anyone else thinks, I like what I ride.

[jrbooe]

I love my Harley but I have a very soft spot in my heart for my CB. Many people have asked me since I bought the Harley, why I am clinging on to the Honda. I have owned the bike for 30 years, it owes me absolutely nothing and I owe nothing on it. Plus she is pretty and very reliable.

[gammaqueen]

I personally like all kinds of bikes. I don't give a flip what the name on the side says. As long as you are riding, you understand the feeling of freedom that I get every single time I ride. Last night on my way home from work I was riding the Ninja and I don't relly know what made that night different. It could have been the stars, or the cool breeze, but I never felt so alive, it was awesome. You all know what I am talking about, no matter what bike you ride.

[buellosaurusrex]

We certainly do!

[59caddy]

i always wanted a harley. most my friends all ride harleys.
when i bought my honda, i bought it because it was affordable and it had the look/style that i like. best part is it was only 3800. had it been a harley, you can immediatly add a minimum of 10k to that sticker price.
so when i brought my bike home, i was scared to show my friends, one i especially because he was the most die hard of them all. he wont ride anything but harley, has to be harley frame, harley motor. he even has a harley tattoo the entire size of his chest. nonetheless i expected the most crap out of him.
surprisingly he likes my bike, was very curious about the drive shaft and every other difference. he even asked to take it for a spin while i rode the harley.
sure he jokes with me about riding in the back (far enough to not be associated with him) he jokes that i cant park on the same side of the street etc etc.
bottom line, he was happy to see me on a bike.
he and i go on rides together all the time.
so like others have mentioned, you will get sh!t talked, you will be made fun of, but bottom line is your on a bike and others respect that.

on a side note. i recently had problems with my bike. NO harley guys would work on my honda. cant say im surprised, but thats the only 'discrimination' i have ever received

[point]

It rarely matters what kind of bike you ride. It's just that you ride. Any time I go on a trip I always wind up chatting with some other biker at a cafe or gas station.
I did a 3 day ride last week around Vancouver Island and the Sunshine coast and at each ferry crossing I met other bikers and usually had lunch with them. Maby it's becaus I am on the high side of 50 but I have no trouble with other people. Everybody will make a polite comment on your bike regardless of what you ride.

[benztechnc]

Awesome news people! I have been kind of worrying about something along this line of thought. I worry that when my brother and I park the bikes outside a store or such, someone will come up with a comment about a honda and a harley side by side. I feel much better, because i know that if there isn't another bike out front, then they didn't ride in and then they just don't understand. It's about the riding. Yeah, I love the sound of my sporty, and the lines and the looks. It's a beautiful bike. But my brothers Honda 919 (hornet) is also beautiful. It's just way too powerful for me at this time in my life. He also jokes that he'd rather park beside me, because he knows that if anyone wants to take one, it'll be mine. LOL

[Bpatts]

I always thought it was always cool when I would be at a stop light or at a gas station and another biker enthusiast would come up and say "wow, I haven't seen a Nighthawk in years, how many miles? this that and the other thing"

I've never been discriminated by other bikers, and I to have gone up to vintage Harleys and new for 2009 BMW gs 1200's and everything in between and say "you bike is in immaculate condition, I can see you take care of it very well"

that simple sentence can spark a whole life story on the bike, and thats cool with me.

[hillbillysurf]

I haven't experiences discrimination from any other bikers at all.

[a1c_joker]

When I first started riding with the group back home that my parents ride in, I had an 82 Honda 700 Magna V45. It was the oldest bike there, and if memory serves, the only Honda. Everyone else was on either a Yamaha, Harley, or a Suzuki. To answer your question, jmorgan, I didn't experience any discrimination. I could hold my own on that old Honda and outrun half of 'em! The group we rode with seemed to care about the ride and the experience versus WHAT you're riding. IMO, that's the way it should be.

[Sapper81]

I have an 07 Shadow 600 and I've had the Harley riders at work tell me how nice mine looks. Went to a "biker bar" this summer and left all my gear on it and no one messed with it. My buddy was on his Ninja 650 and no one gave him crap. The people around here figure as long as you ride you are cool, if someone gives you crap its because they only ride on the weekend. My one friend did get laughed at on his old Honda but he is also goofy looking :)

[GI Jack]

I dunno, I parked my bike in town next to some customs guys in their 40s(been riding long time), and they where amazed to see some 20something on a bike older than him. So, this other guy in a full custom honda pulled up, stayed awhile and pulled off, and they started making fun of him. I guess cause it had a large v-twin, with an exhaust note that sounded similar to my half liter UJM.

A lot of older big-cruiser guys I've talked to started on a bike similar to mine, if not the exact same one.

[bobby95m3]

Great Thread!

[Frank_W]

Glad to hear that the Harlier-Than-Thou crowd is accepting. I ride an '02 Yamaha Road Star 1600cc, and all I ever hear is, "Man... Nice bike!!"

[barkerdrmmr182]

These are very interesting thoughts. I had no idea that people had bad thoughts for Hondas. I've been riding for three weeks now and I purchased a 2004 honda Shadow Aero (first bike) and I love it. I do about 60 - 70 on the highway and I generally keep to myself. I can careless what other riders think. I DO wave at every bike though. I'm waving at the bike, not the rider.

My bike has 6700 miles on it and I paid $4,400 for it. Got my leather boot, leather jacket and leather gloves...I feel good on the freeway. Although I like crusing the streets more often. Sometimes the freeway can be way too windy especially afternoons. Along with the loud aftermarket pipes, I love my bike. I've parked my daily driver and I ride everywhere I go everyday. I throw on my jeans over my slacks and wear my boots to work. When I get to work I take the jeans off, hang the jacket and change into my work shoes.

I like the fact that my bike has a drive shaft and I get 54mpg.

So why do people not like Hondas?

Here's my Honda...
http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/MrBashian/Bike.jpg
and here's my Jeep...B!tch hahahaha
http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/MrBashian/JeepwSRCBumper.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/MrBashian/20b3ce67.jpg



sweet jeep man love wheelin myself when im not in the fetal position holdin onto a gas tank j/p

[barkerdrmmr182]

The thing I like is bikers are cool. Doesn't matter what you are ridin you still get a wave when you pass. you still get a looks good man when you show it off. you may get a little when you gonna buy a real bike but they are just messin around. everyone respects on another may give you some greif but thats all were doin we still respect what you have and want you to come ride with us.

[gkim4107]

Around here, there is a group that meets up downtown, that is primarily made up of BMW's, they ride with anyone who wants to join for a quick ride up to the blue ridge park, to just puttin around town. The only ones who refuse to join is the sport bike croud. there are a few old hondas, a couple harleys, couple other japanese bikes, but like I said mainly bmw's. If an old UJM brakes down, all of them stop.

[rengelke]

I ride a 89 1100 Shadow. I get looks from cars and other riders. I only occasionally pass another rider that won't wave but who cares it's my bike and I love it.

[hemenlandm]

Last year at the Nebraska State ABATE show, our local VJMC club displayed about six of our restored '60s and '70s Hondas. There were many beautiful bikes at the show but our display got more visitors. These were the bikes most of us started with and it was with appreciation and admiration that people made about the bike their "neighbor, friend, brother, etc" had. I've got a 1971 CL 350 Scrambler that provides many memories for my fellow "seniors".

[Archangel]

I went for a ride the other day and stopped for a burger and drink and a 2008 crotch rocket came rolling up.
lets see 1981 CB 650C and a new 2008 crotch rocket.
only thing in common both bikes,and both from japan.

Large blackman gets off and comes in to the store and ordered he turned around and took a long look around at the crowd and says to me that your bike yep! I replyed he said Cool Looking good. I replyed ya.. it's not bad for a 27 year old bike , I have rather enjoyed fixing it up and getting it running.
He replyed how long have you been working on bikes?
I replyed 3 months.
WHAT!!! was his reply.
Yep one of the perks of an older bike Great to learn on and you feel more connected to your bike that way.
It is like my right arm I don't leave home with out it.
Ok well as long as it is not raining or I have to take the family along.

[wawadave]

I went to hells angels acres 96 (Vancouver island)on a 1981 cx500. got 3rd place in slow bike race and 3rd in street bike sand drags.

only honda at the thing!

But had a few jeers and heard the latest honda jokes but have to admit it was fun and most were a grate bunch yes they were.
can,t post pictures yet but soon.

but i still have two nortons.
the honda motor was used in a harbor skiff.Alternator died $350 for new one parked it in my dead bike pile.

But you can go any where on a honda. Just not as nice as many harleys.

[CDImagician]

I ride my 78 CB400 with my friend that has a Fat boy. He likes my bike. When we ride he complains that he can't keep up with me around the windy turns. Fat boy doesn't lean enough. My 78 runs good, leaves a puddle of oil where I park it. The years have passed and the tables have turned I guess. I've had a few comments from people in the bars I go to. But its kind of like cival war reenactment. I'm getting comments from guys riding shovel heads and pan heads. Then we start arguing about stuff like veitnem and The carter administration. In general people like to see an old motorcycle still running. The paint on my gas tank is faded and sun bleached. My jacket is frayed in some spots and also faded. The bike is comfortable to ride and I can't bring myself to paint the tank. Maybe I'll grow a beard instead. Go on a long cruise.

[goodies]

I have a Honda Shadow, and a cruiser chick. My BF just ordered a 09 Triumph Bonneville. He is a standard type of guy. I think we are going to be a cool and contrasting pair. LOL!

[Archangel]

2 people at work have bikes one has a new honda
and one has a custom made bike both bikes make my bike look sick
but they ask to park next to my bike and I said no problem as long as we split the offspring then I told them I could use a younger
custom 850 ha ha
But not joking they keep telling me how good my bike looks for its age and milage.
the custom made bike is a looker if you are in to goth
It has vampire women and skulls and such all over it
some time I will have to take a pic of it and post it on here.

[chaindad]

Old Hondas are revered on this site!!! We LOVE em'....
Just sayin'....

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d53/chaindad/FAITH/bikin356-1.jpg

[Archangel]

I guess the older bikes are very sought after. but not for as is stock bikes.
every one I meet says somthing like.
when you gonna lower it?, chop it, or you should make it into a cafe racer

My favorite is

If you ever decide you want to sell it.

YOU HAVE TO SELL IT TO ME. I AM FIRST ON YOUR LIST.
my reply.
Ya.. RIGHT!! KEEP DREAMING!:)

[terminaltsi]

imo, any true enthusiast appreciates all types of bikes, cars, trucks, whatever. i love everything with wheels. sure, i ahve some biases but i'll never talk down to anyone because of what they choose to own.

[kschilk]

All kidding aside, ya' just gotta' respect Honda for all it's done for motorcycling in general. No other factory has or ever will come close to making the contributions to all facets of motorcycling, that Honda has...especially in the world of racing.

[freeonthree]

Poeple who make fun of certain brands of, or types of motorcycles need to grow up. Not everyone can afford a Harley, and not everyone wants one.
Some people are into the twisties, and some of us are into the scenery. If it has 2 or 3 wheels, it a motorcycle, or scooter, and they all get us in the wind, and thats all that matters. Dennis

[Upinflames]

What I think is sad are the guys out there that are so narrow-minded as to look at other types of bikes besides their own with disdain. Very prevalent with Harley owners. What they don't realize is that without comparison, their bike would be commonplace and therefore fall towards boring. I have a chopper with a 100" RevTech and have people that will say "nice Harley". In reality, it may as well be classed with a metric as it only LOOKS like a harley. I dig Harleys. I dig all bikes small or large. It's what you get out of them that shows true biker mentality. Maybe they criticize that you don't have a Harley because they spent a buttload of money and figure that everyone should have to spend a large sum for a cool ride. I also ride a Yamaha Stratoliner S so I get to look from both sides of the bleachers.

[freeonthree]

If some dude ever makes fun of my trike, im going to call him an appliance operator. I built my ride, so he won't have a comeback for that one. Dennis

[mic214]

MrBash,

Your bike is a beauty! (And I like your Jeep too, I have a 93' YJ that keeps on trucking!). I just got my bike, a 2007 Yamaha V-Star Custom. When I was looking at bikes, it was a toss up between the Honda Shadow and the V-Star. I like the cruiser styling. The V-Star was close to home and I got a good deal on it. I plan to keep mine for a very long time!

Ride safe,

Mick

[freeonthree]

The Jeep is long gone. Had it in the early 80's.
Cruisers are better for general riding, and your less likely to ride fast when your busy looking good going down the road. Thats my opinion. Dennis

[hsartteacher]

Poeple who make fun of certain brands of, or types of motorcycles need to grow up. Not everyone can afford a Harley, and not everyone wants one.
Some people are into the twisties, and some of us are into the scenery. If it has 2 or 3 wheels, it a motorcycle, or scooter, and they all get us in the wind, and thats all that matters. Dennis

you are so right, Dennis! Thanks!! :)

[freeonthree]

You look like a very fast high school art teacher. Zooooooooooooooooooom ! :) Dennis (Low and Slow)

[raderistheman313]

im 14 and this is inspiring and yes the neighboorhood kids make fun of my 71 yamaha 125 emduro

[freeonthree]

Don't let em get to ya, their just being immature. Dennis

[wawadave]

im 14 and this is inspiring and yes the neighboorhood kids make fun of my 71 yamaha 125 emduro
ignore them thats a classic!!!

[Archangel]

Ask them this, If your 1971 Yamaha 125 isn't cool then why does ever other biker that sees your bike stops and does a double take.

[briang]

Cause if they just stared at it the coolness would burn their eyes out of their heads.

[tiscut]

Hondas hold their value amazingly well, I wouldn't say I'm biased but they've never let me down.

[Archangel]

Burn there eyes out.......maybe so or.

That or they just have never seen such a sexy bike like that.

[Badlands-4-2]

I was at the 50th Sturgis rally many years ago. I remember seeing a large group of Goldwings on main street. This was dead center of the Harley only world. If there was ever to be a culture clash, this was it. On the contrary, there was great respect for the Honda's.

[BillTheCat]

I have been in the bike community all my life and have gone through many personality changes as far as what I ride and who I ride with. The older I get the more I like talking to and associating with people that do not judge others
on appearance or what they ride. I find that more often than not people that love motorcycles all kinds of motorcycles are fun and people that are fixated on a particular brand or style ..... can be immature and narrow minded therefore not so much fun to talk to :p All I am saying is if they don't like what I ride tough darts bad boys.;)

[rwhitesr]

i know around here as long you are riding it don't matter what you are on. as long as its two wheels

[captainhowdy]

Poeple who make fun of certain brands of, or types of motorcycles need to grow up. Not everyone can afford a Harley, and not everyone wants one.
Some people are into the twisties, and some of us are into the scenery. If it has 2 or 3 wheels, it a motorcycle, or scooter, and they all get us in the wind, and thats all that matters. Dennis


If only I could persuade people that my beat old Toyota, with the windows down fit into this statement, if only, if only. Until then, I'll continue scheming about making it a really big ATV! :rolleyes: But I digress. In the 505, old hondas seem to fit in with the environment (except one, the rider is a total pedophile, but that's an other story.)

[captainhowdy]

I love the way other bikers come and talk to you... You don't get the same camaraderie when driving a cage.

Only place I've seen it is in Miata owners. No matter the driver, if the top's down you can throw a hand up and get a wave. (Just saying there is hope. :o )

[slumlord]

Only place I've seen it is in Miata owners. No matter the driver, if the top's down you can throw a hand up and get a wave. (Just saying there is hope. :o )

... and the Cummins Diesel owners of Dodge pickup trucks. If you see a dualie comin' at you,you look for the little red strip on the door badge that is exclusive to the Cummins. You nod or wave,and both drivers know what the wave is for

[slicknick218]

im 14 and this is inspiring and yes the neighboorhood kids make fun of my 71 yamaha 125 emduro

If you ever decide you want to sell your scoot so you can get a bigger bike or street ride or whatever your reason there will be people like myself on this site that would be interested in taking that old Yamaha off your hands.

Oh BillTheCat I just wanted to say that I love your signature line! I wish it weren't true but that seems to be what the US has become. I've never seen it said in a better way.

[Giant81]

I say it doesn't matter what you ride just ride.

However, witht hat said, I'm sure I'd get razzed pretty good bing 6'9" and showing up on a shadow 250 or something.

[Winter]

I have been in the bike community all my life and have gone through many personality changes as far as what I ride and who I ride with. The older I get the more I like talking to and associating with people that do not judge others
on appearance or what they ride. I find that more often than not people that love motorcycles all kinds of motorcycles are fun and people that are fixated on a particular brand or style ..... can be immature and narrow minded therefore not so much fun to talk to :p All I am saying is if they don't like what I ride tough darts bad boys.;)

Indeed. All of these old bikes big, small, beautiful and ugly add a lot of variety and character to the scene. Harleys are okay but it is getting so there are thousands and thousands of people riding harleys that all look like interchangeable parts. Same bikes, everyone has matching harley vests and socks, etc. It is all okay. I am just saying that if some old gal pulls along side you in a Vespa scooter, her ride is interesting and you know that she is "her own man." Not one of the thousands of white collar workers trying to pose as a bad boy on the weekend.

[Goliath616]

I say it doesn't matter what you ride just ride.

However, witht hat said, I'm sure I'd get razzed pretty good bing 6'9" and showing up on a shadow 250 or something.

sheesh what a noob :rolleyes: don't you know that the Shadow don't come in a 250cc size, man I thought you were here to learn something.....




:D just kidding ya :p yeah I bet you would get razzed, but at 6'9'', I bet they wouldn't say anything to your face :eek: it would all be said way out of earshot of you, although if I seen you pull up on a 250 anything (being 6'2'' and 400lbs. myself) I would probably fall over laughing at ya :o then I would buy ya a beer :cool:

[point]

Here's a story of mine that shows the community of bikers. I lived in L.A. in the early 90's and rode a Canadian exclusive 380 Suzy. 2 stroke triple. I loved that bike and it went like a cat on a hot tin roof. It was completly stock and a shiny little bike.
One day I went for a ride and wond up at the Griffeth observatory and went in for a tour. Upon exiting there was about a dozen big shiney HD choppers and a crowd of hard core biker dudes all standing around my bike and looking at it. WTF? Now what happens I ask myself. I went over to the bike and the guys were actually admiring the bike. They had never seen one like it and I spent the next little while telling them all about it. They were genuienly interested in the bike because it was different and well maintained. Size, pettigree or style didn't matter to these guys. It was a bike.
Now that was cool.

[slicknick218]

I say it doesn't matter what you ride just ride.

However, witht hat said, I'm sure I'd get razzed pretty good bing 6'9" and showing up on a shadow 250 or something.

I'd probably tease you about riding up on a 250 but then I'd then be secretly wanting to sit on the bike just for giggles because I'm 6' 3" and it would be a little like the old CB175 that I had. But it would just be a conversation starter and like the other guy said I'd probably buy you a beer once I was finished laughing at your expence.

[LethalThreat]

I have only seen a small group of HD riders give my bike a digusted look. A lot of people stop and check it out since it is so rare to see a CB750SC around. I frequently get asked what it is because people are thrown off by Z bars and HD sportster seat.

[BillTheCat]

I say it doesn't matter what you ride just ride.

However, witht hat said, I'm sure I'd get razzed pretty good bing 6'9" and showing up on a shadow 250 or something.

A good Razzing in the spirit of fun is one thing. If you are going to hang out with bike people you better grow some alligator skin. :D
But looking down on or just being mean is not fun or cool. People need to lighten up and not be so arrogant to think that they got the only way to be a member of a particular community. Its all good!:cool:

[kcfanxiii]

the ones that care, aren't worth talking to IMO. when i was at BBB, several harley riders complemented me and my friend. i was on an 85 virago 700, and my buddy has an 87 suzuki gs450. most said they started on the same bike, and loved hearing from somebody that reminds them of them 20-30 years ago.

the bike night i frequent is mostly a few years older than me, so i always get into conversations with old timers. they want to know everything about my bike, and are excited to see the younger generation starting to ride.

[Aussie Keith]

I ride a 2008 M50 and an 82 CB 750 and still enjoy the honda you have to remember these bikes where the start of the super bikes and hold a lot of memories for the 50+ age group that cut their teeth on these great bikes I still get comments on mine whenever I take it out.

[SVM9]

This day, the whole biker scene is much more accepting of anyone on a bike. Sometimes I ride my plated dirtbike into Two Wheels Only on a crowded Day. All kinds of bikers come up to talk, including the Harley folks.

[MagikMan74]

This is a WONDERFUL thread! I've been sort of wondering the same thing. I've owned a ninja a few years back and at the time I didn't worry at all what others had going through their head, it was all ZOOM ZOOM!

I'm 5'10" 195lbs and about 2 months ago or less I bought myself a little Rebel 250. The main purpose of that was two part, to get me back on a bike and to get me into the cruiser style. I've already sold her and gotten myself a '00 Zuki Marauder 800.... Glad to hear I'll be just as accepted as my buddy who just bought himself an '04 H-D Sporty.

Now bring on the Spring!

[trailrider72]

Well so far I have taken my modded 1972 honda trail 70 to a Harley rally, and a bike night.

The response was great!

Wish I could post the pic of a hot blonde posing on it there.

[Archangel]

I love riding the trail 70's the bike is a sight to see a full grown man on .

[DiscoLemonade]

Man reading about all your old guy's honda's making me very lonely for my old bike..

had night hawk cb750. I let it go waayyy too cheap in desperate times.

[Spin-2]

I started off on a 1981 Honda CB400. Bought the bike at a rummage sale for $250 and it was running. Put $200 in to it and now it is a great runner. Still have it. A great bike to learn on, and now moved up to a 94 Yamaha Virago 750. Most bikers I'm around are just into bikes and will visit with anyone.

[SHTF Rat]

Only people I've ever heard talking down or negaitve about other bikes, or hondas, is Harley owners.

My Uncle has been riding since the 60s.. His whole life it's always been Harley.
When I told him about my Honda, he scoffed and said "why don't you get a real bike"

Another uncle, a weekend warrior RUB of all things even scoffs in regards to Honda when I told him I got a CB650c said "You gonna get a Harley once you're done learning on it?"

A business colleague also a Harley rider/owner said "it's a piece of sh**, get a real bike".

Anyway, prior to owning this 81 Honda CB650c, it's always been classic American cars for me or 4WD Chevy/GMC.. But, now that I have the bike and been on a few rides, I love it and want to do it as often as possible..

Knowing the attitude many Harley owners have in regards to UJM, I felt very uncomfortable in the local Harley Davidson superstore when I went to buy some gear..

I needed a new helmet, some gloves and goggles and this was the closest shop to buy a helmet.. I felt awkward when the pretty girl asked me "what kind of Harley do you ride"...

Anyway, I seen a few post here about the CB's being considered as vintage, being desirable and increasing in value/price.. I was planning a bobber/chopper custom for mine, but now I wonder, perhaps I should opt for a full restoration instead..

[capnfred]

The only comment I get riding with the HD gang is wow thats the frist bike I rode..... what year is yours.... its an 85, v45... other than that I find that everyone feels that if your riding, you ok.... so keep the greasy side down, the shiny side up..

capn

[black27696]

My uncle has ridden for 40+ years. He's had triumphs, victorys, indians, hondas, yamahas, and right now an '04 harley ultra classic. People that disrespect you based on a bike don't deserve respect themselves.

[Archangel]

I was on a ride with 175 bikes and most of them just spead up as they passed my bike one guy took pics of my bike and told me it was in incredible condition it was to 2nd oldest bike there and the bike with the most mileage on it it has 114,thousand miles.

Show me a Harley with that many miles and It will be bike in the back of a truck.

I I like all kinds of bikes and I have all ways owned american cars vans trucks.
If some one had given me a real bike ( Harley ) I would be riding one but tell then Honda it is..

next time some one tells you to get a real bike tell them if your bike bothers them so much then tell them to buy you one..

[MichaelW]

My uncle has ridden for 40+ years. He's had triumphs, victorys, indians, hondas, yamahas, and right now an '04 harley ultra classic. People that disrespect you based on a bike don't deserve respect themselves.I'll go along with that.

When I was a kid our neighbors were Mongols. Great bunch of guys if you ask me. But I was a starry eyed little kid that was impressed with the whole bike/biker thing. It was sad the day my neighbor was killed after being shot off his bike in Escondido.

Now fast forward a decade or two and I'm riding my metric and see the sneers at say Street Vibrations. I just laugh. Sheet man, I'll ride almost anything and don't see any reason at all for animosity. So shut up and ride. Once we are on the ground and walking around, its all cool because then we are just people that like to ride bikes.

Run what you brung.

Well except for that Honda thing. :p

Just kidding.

[AlphaZed]

As a Honda rider, I tend to be more aware of comments made about Hondas. Recently, at Alice's Restaurant (http://www.alicesrestaurant.com/) in Woodside, CA, two riders from some vintage Honda club were there. One was on a 70's CB750 and the other was on a 60's 305 Scrambler.

Both bikes were absolutely mint and soon became the center of attention! Even the guys riding those mass-produced, factory choppers came over to look. A conversation ensued and SO many riders had fond memories of the bikes! Older riders talked of owning or riding similar Hondas and the younger ones remembered theirs dads, uncles, neighbors or etc having them and about drooling over them as kids.

Anyway, I think old Hondas (and Nortons, Triumphs, Harleys and many others,) whatever the vintage, are all very well received! :-)

[BillTheCat]

Anyway, I seen a few post here about the CB's being considered as vintage, being desirable and increasing in value/price.. I was planning a bobber/chopper custom for mine, but now I wonder, perhaps I should opt for a full restoration instead..

Yes they are Vintage desirable and increasing in value. But there are a blue million of them still out there and still running. That is a testament to the quality of bike it is. After all they were the first true superbike.
If you customize it just don't do anything irreversible like cutting
the frame. Save all your old parts for a later restoration. A easy custom that is becoming popular is to Cafe them. You dont need to chop the frame to do this And every thing can be put back later.

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/3807/12e65d8d17d1f49ffffb5bf.jpg

[Archangel]

on the 88 mile ride this last weekend out of 175 bikes only one had problems it's shifter pedal vibrated off during the ride Ya you guessed it It was a Harley , o well At least it was a minor problem.
And like I said I like them all to me what you ride is not as important as how well you take care of it and that you ride it.
I just hate to see a bike in bad disarray or repair.

[treecutter]

I pulled up to the resturant on my vulcan and this dude says kawasaki ha if its not a harley its not nothing. so I say you ride a harley then and he says I lost my harley years ago haven't had one since and wouldn't ride nothing else. I look im right in the eye and say I enjoy my nothing a lot more then you enjoy your nothing. Some people are numb there so stuck on harleys they will go without a bike and all the joy of riding because the only bike they would ever be seen on cost thousands more then a metric. I think that most people are just happy to have a ride.

[AlphaZed]

I pulled up to the resturant on my vulcan and this dude says kawasaki ha if its not a harley its not nothing. so I say you ride a harley then and he says I lost my harley years ago haven't had one since and wouldn't ride nothing else. I look im right in the eye and say I enjoy my nothing a lot more then you enjoy your nothing. Some people are numb there so stuck on harleys they will go without a bike and all the joy of riding because the only bike they would ever be seen on cost thousands more then a metric. I think that most people are just happy to have a ride.

I had some Harley clad, tatted-up guy ride up to me on a SCHWINN STRING RAY BICYCLE saying "if it ain't Harley, it ain't $hit!" I almost wet my pants while laughing in his face!

[tolona]

Dude, I had a Norton 650, loved it but eventually I had to hoist it up on the wall and call it an art object.... The hondas rule..... steve from IL

[AlphaZed]

Dude, I had a Norton 650, loved it but eventually I had to hoist it up on the wall and call it an art object.... The hondas rule..... steve from IL

I hope it didn't leak oil all over your wall! ;-)

[EatSomeIron]

1981 Honda CM400
Pulled up next to a guy on a big beefy harley. I had only been riding a week so I had been following him instead of pulling up next to him, but I had to turn here. The light was red and I pulled up while debating, 'Do I turn and nod at him? Or will he ignore me?'
I turn and nod, he nods back and motions me to flip up my visor. He says, 'nice bike, thats the same one I learned on' We chatted for a minute till the light changed, then he told me to ride safe and gave his throttle a good twist.
Stellar.

[lexaaa]

Would like to post my coming bike,.. but cant as i am new here

The only comment I get riding with the HD gang is wow thats the frist bike I rode..... what year is yours.... its an 85, v45... other than that I find that everyone feels that if your riding, you ok.... so keep the greasy side down, the shiny side up..

capn

Who are they?

Anybody know her:

think my link is removed ??