Any Old Schoolers? Harley V-Rod Discuss Any Old Schoolers? in the Motorcycles forums; Just curious as to the progression the V-Rod has taken. Wondering how many V-rod owners currently own a traditional model or has in the past. How many are "brand loyal" ...

[Twinpeaks]

Just curious as to the progression the V-Rod has taken.
Wondering how many V-rod owners currently own a traditional model or has in the past. How many are "brand loyal" or new to Harley. I myself am hopelessly brand loyal and always loved going fast - quite the dilemma, spent a lot on stroker kits ect. The V-Rod was a natural progression for me, all that HP from the factory, built for speed and a Harley?

In my experience many die-hard old schoolers are not that well informed and some not even aware of the V-Rod's existence - and probably don't care either - LOL!
But many have shown appreciation and amazement at initial sight, that is says "Harley" on the tank! I think the DX, which is the all blacked out, low slung, fat tire version gets their attention a bit more.

[Buzz Kanter]

I think most Harley riders are aware of the Harley V-Rod line up, and am guessing they are becoming more cautiously accepting of them.

Speaking of old school, I still remember when most Harley riders thought the FXR looked "too Japanese" and when Evo riders thought the Harley Twin Cams weren't "real" Harleys.

Then again a lot of Harley riders today still feel a Sportster isn't a "real" Harley - go figure!

[usturbine]

I have been riding Harley's for over 41 years.

When i first saw the vrod debut in Sturgis 2002 i immediately liked it. Out of the box performance without spending several thousand dollars and water cooled to eliminate all the heat related issues. I figured it would be in a touring bike soon. I couldn't wait so thats how i converted my 05 SE to a tourer. now i have the performance the water cooled motor and the comfort i want for touring. best bike i have ever owned and still a Harley.

[Twinpeaks]

Originally Posted by Buzz Kanter

I think most Harley riders are aware of the Harley V-Rod line up, and am guessing they are becoming more cautiously accepting of them.

Speaking of old school, I still remember when most Harley riders thought the FXR looked "too Japanese" and when Evo riders thought the Harley Twin Cams weren't "real" Harleys.

Then again a lot of Harley riders today still feel a Sportster isn't a "real" Harley - go figure!

Buzz, Whenever that I frequent a really hardcore Harley bar or meet I get questions and looks that would support the opposite. Head scratching usually ensues any conversation. I( agree most Jarley riders or bikers in general but You'll notice I was referring to the die-hard old schoolers, as in the ones who do not frequent Harley dealers.

[sgtcowboyusmc]

I went to an old school once. It had to be at least 100yrs old.... OOPs that's not what you were talking about huh

Twin the only ones who don't know about the V-Rod is if they have been out of the game for a decade or more. If you pick up a HD related mag or go to just about any run there will be V Rods and I have been to some really small runs in western Az. You would have to not be paying attention not to know the V Rod exists. That doesn't mean the same as acceptance. One day the Feds will make us all ride water cooled bikes but until then I will be hard headed and ride my FXDI and will probably get an Electra Glide. I also have been gathering parts so I can keep it going for years to come! Hopefully til I am too old to ride!

[DesertSpeed]

I could never afford a Harley before. We test rode all the Harleys except the V-rods. Long story, but we ended up test riding an 06 VRSCD more or less by accident (mostly my wife's insistence that we ride "something") at a motorcycle show. Two weeks later we bought our Night Rod.
Everytime anyone tells me they can't stand my bike I say "Fine, stay off my bike." I don't really have time for anyone that puts down anyone else's ride. Lately, it's not hard-head H-D guys, it's the Yamaha Star riders.

[Twinpeaks]

That's not where I was headed with this thread but I get some of that as well. Not really from the old schoolers, they're just amazed that it's a Harley, but from the guys who think their Jap sheet is the cat's arss. I think they need to justify their purchase by doggin' the competition.

[1haugster1340]

Speaking of old school, I still remember when most Harley riders thought the FXR looked "too Japanese" ....

I still think the FXR is too Japanese looking and is the worst looking Big Twin ever put out by the MoCo. My 2 cents.

The V Rod is no doubt the future of HD. The air cooled engine days are numbered.

I love how all the Japanese motorcycle makers have dropped their real names, Yahmaha, Kawasaki and Suzuki, from their crusier lines and call them cool names like Star, Boulevard and Vulcan. A pathectic attempt to make their customers hide the actual make of their Harley wanna be bikes.

[unclepsycho]

When I still had my honda, and was wanting a Harley, a buddy let me ride his V-rod. well, uh... I actually thought it handled a lot like my honda, with a bit more power of course, it wasnt exactly the same, but so close that the cost difference wasnt worth it to me,.... maybe it was because I was wanting something for the wife and I to ride together..so I traded the honda for the Ultra Classic.... best move ever. (I did hafta fork out a few more dollars to go with the honda)

as far as being an "old Schooler''... I like air cooled... no radiator for me

[1haugster1340]

Air cooled for me too. The sound, the smell and the look!