Can you say eye-opener?
I have 30yrs. experience on motorcycles but NEVER on a sport-touring bike. After much research I purchased a used 2004 Connie because I wasn't sure I would like sport-touring.
My eyes were opened! The research paid off. I love this old-tech tourer. I lowered the pegs. Installed Heli-bars and cruise control. Combined with a Rifle windscreen and Givi topcase the package was complete except for farkles I will list later.
Proof is a 6005 miles ride that included a
non-stop IRON BUTT RUN from Mexico to Canada in 33 hours. Comfort was GREAT! Wet weather - protection better than any of my other bikes.
If the newer sport tourers are better (and I'm sure they are) I doubt they can be twice as good.
It would be a hard sell to get me to spend $15,000 on a machine that is only newer and incrementaly better than the Connie.
I am a VERY analytical biker and in my humble opinion the Connie still competes with modern bikes in the long distance arena.
Especially, when you consider the initial capital outlay. And we all know buying the bike is just the beginning. Everyone adds accesories to make the sled comfortable to themselves.
The engine is smooth. The tranny is effortless. The comfort is great for long days because the rider is protected from turbulance while sitting on a plush saddle.
* See the big grin on my ugly mug as I know I bought this bike cheap!
I do have some gripes...
The bike is top-heavy at parking lot speed. Just take your time and be smart about your parking and this won't be a problem.
The brakes are a little weak for the bike. Consider the weight of the bike full of seven(7) gallons of gas, me, all my touring gear and you have to slow down sooner than usual to avoid hard brakeing.
The centerstand is hard to use when the bike is loaded with gas and gear. I have an extended lift handle to help with this.
You know these are not objections that should keep a person from considering a Connie.
ALL BIKES have something to complain about!
I don't claim to be the world authority on sport-touring. However, I do have many years in the saddle and I LOVE this bike.
I would recommend the Connie for a person who doesn't have a lot of stop and go driving.
Mostly because of the closeness of the lower gears ratios. I know some will disagree with me, but it seems while in town, I am shifting all the time until I reach that beautiful sixth gear.
The Connie can adapt to city driving alright, but its' forte' is the interstate and the curving backroads that are calling all of us.
May the wind at your back...not be your own.
Upgrades/Accessories: Murphs fork-brace
Fender-extender
Rifle tall windscreen
Heli-bars extra tall
Murphs bar-end weights and grips
Murphs deluxe screw kit
Murphs hiway bars
Murphs gas tank quick release
Electronic cruise control
Gen-mar peg lowering kit
GIVI topcase w/light,backrest,rack
Tank bag
Tank bra
Garmin gps
Escort radar detector
RAM mounts
Powerlet socket
Helmet locks
Battery tender
hi-brites on saddle bags
*Positive outlook on everything in general
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Reviews are provided on an "as is" basis with no warranty and should be considered entertainment only. Reviews should not be used for any purpose whatsoever, including but not limited to, making decisions about any referenced vehicles, products, modifications or other information.
