slowlorisglory

Hey Paul, Nice Bike! I'm wondering why you say that a Monster or a 600 sport bike would be MORE dangerous. I believe you, I just don't understand why Thanks for all the feedback everyone . . .

Just wanted to add that it's truly an honor to have so many dedicated and accomplished riders giving me advice. The internet truly is a wonder. As is THIS :notworthy: :notworthy:

Oh man . . . So I had a meeting all set up to look at the Moto Guzzi today. Last night I emailed the guy and cancelled. Decided the big MG is just too big a bike for a first time rider. Now, I'm reading responses here, looking at photos online, and having second thoughts . . . Maybe I could pull it off. Maybe I could have a great time on this bike without dropping it or killing myself. Part of the reason I am reconsidering buying the bike is that I passed the CA state motorcycle written exam today - without even opening the driver's manual! So I guess my basic knowledge of motorcycling is at least decent. (I do plan to go back and read the manual to be safe). However, does this mean that I will be able to handle a 500+ lb. bike on the hills of San Francisco after a 5 year hiatus from riding an 80cc glorified moped? My gut says no. Sigh. Okay, that settles it. Safety first, right? Aside from safety concerns, I really feel like the size of the bike would largely inhibit my enjoyment of it. At least for the first few months until I got used to it. Let me ask you all 1 thing, though. When I finally decide to buy my V11 LeMans, how hard will it be to find one at this price, in great shape, in this color?! Hard I'm betting! In the meantime, I am seriously considering a Ducati Monster, 600 or 750. I know, I know I said I didn't want to be another Dude on a Ducati . . . but it's that or an Asian bike, and I don't want an Asian bike! I know they're great bikes, but I want some style with my flare, you know what I mean? Feedback?

My gut is telling me to go for it without question. I've been reading obsessively about Moto Guzzi online and definitely feel an affinity for the spirit of the company and the style of the bikes. The V11 specifically is perfect for me because I'd like a fast bike with an edge but also don't want to kill myself as I have only ridden little And I don't want to be another dude on a Ducati. This bike is unique and attractive for all the right reasons. I guess my main concerns are 1. Price 2. Feasibility of taking on this bike as my first real motorcycle. Any and all help greatly appreciated!

Hey All, This will be my first bike. Is this a good deal? From Craigslist: "This Moto Guzzi V11 Le Mans sport touring bike is tan colored with Hepco & Becker luggage rack and hard sidecases. This Italian beauty has a 1100cc V-twin engine that produces an unmistakable Guzzi growl and delivers tons of smooth power via a shaft drive. Stopping power is provided by dual disc fronts and single disc rear brakes. It seats two but has a hard seat cover that goes over the passenger seat for 1-up riding. The battery was replaced last year, and the bike has 32k miles on it. I'm also throwing in a set of super heavy gauge Brinks cables and u-lock that were used to secure it. The Le Mans is the same as the V11 Sport Naked but with the addition of a small fairing for more comfortable riding. This bike is similar to a Honda VFR or a BMW K1200GT but with a distinctive cafe racer heritage and less sport bike influence." He wants $4900 for it. Few questions for the community: Is it relatively easy to remove the fairing on the Lemans? I'd like to have the bike naked and use the fairing for longer trips. I realize I'll need to add new mirrors, but are there any other considerations I should know about? Thanks all. Adam