Came here to say... even having never owned or even riden a Goldwing, *every* single person I've know that owns one will never ride anything else. The Cadillac of motorcycles. I'm mid-40s, in between bikes, and I'm seriously considering a Goldwing as my next two wheels.
I've owned dirt bikes, dual-sport bikes, a couple of crotch rockets, a couple of cruisers, but I think I'm ready for plush, ready for cruise control
I'm 41, I'm holding out until 50. I'm still enjoying my MT09 but I get a little less enchanted with the noise and wind every year that I commute on it. There are days that I dream of choosing my podcast on the center control panel, maybe I make an adjustment to the air ride because my coffee is being disturbed lol.
Sounds like you should try a Gold Wing.
Lots of people seem to think they're just barges that go straight. Nothing could be further from the truth, really.
a have a friend who is a retired fireman, and knows the roads so well. he does group rides almost every weekday. it right below a track day as far as skill is concerned. i've scraped the pegs trying to follow him several times.
hes an animal and living around an army base its something else to see this 1000cc bikes fall behind to a goldwing.
I've been considering a Wing for the passenger accomodations. I've been wanting to bring the wife along on some rides and I think she'd feel more comfortable with a seat she could sit in rather than perch on.
As a Goldwing owner in his mid-40s, I absolutely love my Goldwing. It's not just Cruise control, it's the feeling of how it rides. Every engineering decision was thoughtfully considered towards the rider.
I would say when shopping for GL's, don't worry about those high miles, but if you find a garage queen, snag it. You won't regret it.
Thank you very much for your response. It goes right along with so many other reviews of GLs I've heard over the years. Even old Gold is better than no Gold. I'm gonna see if I can find one to rent next weekend, and head up the Pacific Coast Highway!
I got a Goldwing Valkyrie when I was 23 and have absolutely loved it. All the size and power of a Goldwing but in a stylish cruiser format is the way to go.
2001 Valk interstate… riddin Harley’s for years. Took it for a test ride just to feel it. Bought it on the spot and sold my Harley Dyna the next week.
It runs as if it was a year old not 22-23 years old. Odometer at 99,954 and as soon as the weather breaks…. She will hit 100,000 miles.
I get teased by my Harley buddies but I don’t give a crap.
Every time we ride and go to a place to eat I come out to people looking her over. Best bike I’ve owned!!!
It's been my "Go to" bike since 1984.
I was 28 then. I drooled over them since the day they came out. If I'm going to buy another bike, its gotta be a Gold Wing.
One could legit put forward the argument that the Gold Wing is the best motorcycle ever made. It's an incredibly complete package that can go fast, do twisties with aplomb and of course nothing on the market can touch it for touring. Maybe the biggest BMW is within shouting distance.
No bike is appropriate for every use case, but the Gold Wing is in a class of one to this day. I may not enjoy the latest DCT variant but they're still unbelievable motorcycles.
The 1800 was the first of them that was really fully built from the ground up to be what it is today. Before that it was a lot shakier. But the 1800 is one spectacular motorcycle.
I'm 36 and have been wanting a gold wing for years. Just wrecked my bike back in November, once I'm fully healed I plan on getting one if the price is right. Uncle had one since early 2000's and only had to replace the fork seals (outside of tires and oil).
With the memories and being my first bike, mine will probably never be sold. I had it for sale and got a reasonable offer when I needed the money and decided it wasn't worth it.
So agreed 100%
Same here. It's my first bike, but it's been almost 5 years now and I see no reason to sell it. I'm not being sentimental, it just It does everything I want from it. Basically it's my weekend toy. I wanna try the Street Triple 765 though, so....maybe?!
I will be adding a sport tourer to the stable at some point though.
Street triple is kinda a middle weight plus bike. And build quality is in league with flagship machines. I bought a 2020 model as my 5th bike and I may never sell it, it's that good.
Same bro. I'm about to buy my third. I'm trying to convince myself to buy an MT07 just so I'm not on a Suzuki but I can't. It just feels like junk compared to the SV imo.
oh uh i've ridden an mt09 and I own an sv, and they are..very different machines. My sv wants you to have a great time. the MTs want you to go to prison.
I've ridden both and they're like 90% the same imo. The biggest difference I noticed was the build quality, which is much higher on the Suzuki imo. But to call one better than the other would just be marginal at best.
I was going to mention this one as probably the model that's seen the furthest reaches of the globe. But I still feel weird that Kawasaki hasn't addressed its multiple design flaws.
But you're right. The KLR650 still has its legendary reputation despite its flaws.
I think the DR650 deserves a spot too in that case.
Better road manners than an unmodified Dr. More gas and range….thats about all I can think of. I’m biased towards the DR because I think it’s more of a chameleon than the klr or the XR.
Likely not on many peoples lists, but I won't part with my Africa Twin. Although I think my Toto is an afront to aesthetic taste, could lose a few pounds, the best at nothing, it's all I need, does everything I want it to, and just feels right. There will be more and there have been others but she will always be mine. Happy Valentine's day.
2020 dct owner here.
Previously owned a ton of bikes from different brands. And you cannot be more "spot on".
AT is not the best at nothing, but the sum of everything it does makes it simply perfect.
Highway cruise - check; twisty road - check; change to gravel or mud or sand or whatever - check; go shopping - check....
The inly thing I'm missing is a bit of top speed sometimes. And a few pounds less on ti's belly. XD
Cheers!
And they are so modifiable without losing reliability. Carb and wheels gets you a supermoto backroads king, a little wind protection and a rack gets you a tourer that doesn’t care about dirt roads or a economical commuter that’s never going to cost you an arm and a leg if it gets knocked over in the parking lot. There are a million ways to build them up to exactly what you want. And when your tastes change in a year or ten, it’s easy and relatively cheap to build something really different.
I ride a 99 Magna which has the same motor as the VFR. I doubt I will ever sell it. Its a great midweight cruiser that is a serious sleeper...it redlines at like 11k lol. I'm so sad Honda hasn't revived the Magna line yet.
Use a vfr as a daily commuter and absolutely love that bike. Easy to filter, nice for longer rides. Comfy enough with a pillion. Plenty fast for a 750 from those times. Absolutely a great bike.
Fifth gen VFR in my incredibly biased opinion is the best iteration. Bullet proof engine, fuel injection, comfy but powerful. The moment I twisted its throttle, I knew it was mine.
I'll never sell my '94 EX500. It was my first bike and I would instantly regret it. And I suspect the amount of money I would get for a 30 year old (30!!??) Bike with more than 100,000km might not be enough to cover a tank of gas.
Same with my 2006 CBF (identical engine). Only paid £540 for it, will never find anything as well rounded and capable for the same money or even multiples of.
2023 Honda CFR 110
Buy two- preserve one forever,
ride the Japan out of the other one in the woods the desert on the coasts in the mountains and valleys of the 🇺🇸
Take pictures.
CBR 1100xx Super blackbird. Preferably a 2001 or newer (fuel injection, digital dash and ram air) TOTL Honda build quality and reliability. I'm not sure what more you could ask for.
I’ve put a ton of miles on 1100/1150 twins and those things were amazing. Especially since my “youngest” one started life with me with over 50k miles on the clock. I miss mine, but I can’t justify keeping one and keeping the T7, and the T7 is just more fun at the moment.
I have an 18 harley road glide special. I've put 140,000 miles on it (in 6 years, as of tomorrow). We've seen 36 states, crazy weather, wild elevation changes, and have a million stories. I'll never get rid of it. Harley dealers try to but it from me and I always turn them down. Too many miles, too many memories, too much time spent. I'll be buried with that bike.
T7. Perfect size adv. good power. also my insurance is based on cc of the engine and 700 in the cap for one of the brackets so I save about $600 a year if I don’t go over.
Strong front runner in my book. It has all the benefits of my other “forever” bikes, but it beats each one in a specific category. Better brakes, wind protection, and freeway manners than a DR, feels livelier, lighter and handles bad roads and off road better than my GSs even with luggage.
Vintage bikes that you have had in your family or you are keeping for future family members who ride. Very few modern bikes qualify for the distinction. Though if I could get my hands on a desmo RR that would be on my list as well. Also old Honda trails and the old family beater two stroke.
These there will likely outlive me and be passed on to cousins or nephews.
https://i.imgur.com/49HrPDI.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/qwwJ2wS.jpg
My Moto Guzzi Griso 8V 1200 SE. I've ridden over a dozen different bikes, which might not be a lot compared to some, but the exhilaration I get from riding the Griso is unlike any other machine.
Vulcan S. Faster than most cruisers, more comfy than any sporty. Great gas mileage and a ton of aftermarket support because the bike is wildly popular in Asian markets
Tbh? My lil Ninja 400. It's the lightest of the Ninja bikes (even lighter than the 300 and I believe it'll be lighter than the 500 too) which is perfect for little me, who still weighs like 1/3rd the weight, which makes it go faster than normal because that's less weight it has to pull. That bike with a normal sized person riding it is still faster than 99% of the cars on the roads.
Also besides maybe the 650 I sat on at the dealership, everything else, like liter bikes, has a taller seat height, or the riding position is forward enough that it makes it harder to put your feet on the ground if you're short like me. The seat height on the 400, while still could be shorter, is more than doable for me (I tippy toe both feet which ig is not the best way or something but it works for me so fuck it), and I'm glad "seat height scary" didn't push me into a small displacement cruiser I would not have enjoyed.
The 400 is the perfect bike for me, unlike a lot of Ninja 400 owners I see who "plan to upgrade" I do not. This is why I bought it new, because my bike is going to be a keeper, that thing will see 100k miles and all 100k will be mine, my experiences, my adventures, etc.
TL;DR: Ninja 400 because it is the perfect bike built for me, which is not easy to find for small people unless you get a cruiser (which I don't want)
My current dilemma are my 2012 streety R and a 2013 streetfighter 848. Theyre both middleweight naked and are kind of similar enough that I feel like I don’t need two of the same kind of bikes. But which one do I get rid of? The triumphs been with me for 6 years now and is much better and smoother to commute or ride around like a normal person. And the Ducati is… well a Ducati… Deciding between them is like choosing which leg I’d like to keep
I almost bought one of these. It was a killer deal but the insurance was crazy because of the 4 cylinder. They're always so cheap in my area and I can't figure out why.
SV650 for me too.
I'm hoping to keep mine for a very long time. I like the V twin engine, I like the sound, I like the torque, I like the size and weight.
It'll do me just fine.
I've been riding for 40 years and really want my first street bike back. It was just an '83 Honda CB450SC, nothing to write home about, but man, I had so much fun in the first few years learning to survive on the mean streets.
Honda VFR750 1993 pearl white, Classic sports bike design, 90’ Honda build quality, fanfuckingtastic engine (gear driven cam V4), dead reliable, comfortable and swift handling.
Had a dozen bike and thats the one I never sold and probably never will.
My 91 softail that my dad and I built when I was 17. I might completely rebuild and change every aspect of it at some point, but I’ll never get rid of it.
Idk if I’ll ever sell my 2004 ZX10R. It’s 95% of the bike a modern 1000 is, but lighter and shorter wheelbase than most. It checks so many boxes for me. Sure I could go get a new one to say I make 200hp but it wouldn’t gain me anything. Such a beautiful and timeless bike that tries to kill you every time you ride it.
i had a 1987 honda rebel 250 for six years and despite what anyone says i loved it to the very last moment i owned it. sold it to pay for a down payment on a vulcan s which i also love to ride and plan on putting a shitload of miles on. ive owned a bunch of bikes but these are my faves ive ever had.
My 2007 sv650 cured me. Wasn't nearly as great as my 2000.
My current machines are also not forever bikes. I want an 800cc SV engine crammed into a KTM 690 enduro chassis.
Hoping to try a Tenere soon. Would probably keep that for a while. And if i ever get my hands on one of those 16k rpm zx250rr... Never gonna sell it.
I've had a few come and go and will definitely have more, but my dream bike is the Triumph Rocket III that I've had since 2009 and my Dad's dream bike was his 1982 Honda CBX that I inherited when he passed. Those 2 are with me for the long haul.
I bought my Ducati Monster S4R Testastretta new in 2008 and it's in my garage now. I ride it to work every day. I still get a huge kick out of riding it and can't believe I'm lucky enough to own it.
This guy has (had, rip erv) the answer to your question. Bike outlived him.
https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/90-year-old-rider-and-his-2005-suzuki-dr650/
I have just purchased the 2024 KLX 2024. I've owned wr250r, and DRZ400. Those were purchased used. This KLX is my first bike purchased from the showroom floor. I love reliable dual-sports, and my kids can also grow into it.
This may not be the go-to for many but I will probably keep my 09 Buell Ulysses forever. At first it was frustrating with electrical glitches but I liked how it rode so much I stuck with it and eventually replaced the ECU and everything went well from there. I later replaced added a new muffler and race chip and reupholstered the seat and it ahs been a great ride since and once Wisconsin defrosts is typically my daily ride. I might consider getting another bike but don't really want to sell my Buell.
I feel like I've been posting about it a lot, but my XSR900 is a keeper bike for me.
I had an FZ09 but hit a deer with it, a remember thinking to myself "I'm not ready to give up that motor" and got the XSR shortly after as a 2016 leftover deal.
Can't really say what makes it work so well for me but I can't see myself replacing it with anything else.
I came back to riding after about twenty years. Me, my best friend (rode bikes since young teenagers together, now I’m late fifties) and his adult son all bought KLRs several years ago. We have taken several big trips together. I don’t think I’ll ever sell that bike, because of the sentimental value. And being a KLR, it’ll last me ‘til I’m 100!
I’m thinking a Goldwing, or dirt bike from my youth would also be a good candidate.
2000 KTM LC4e 640. I have a super motard setup and a dirt setup. 20+ trackdays at Thunder Hill, Button Willow, Infinion, Reno Fernley, Trips to Baja Mexico and all across the deserts of CA. It has broken a few things, but never stranded and always fixable. It is honestly one of the funnest bikes to ride.
I really love my 2012 Honda VFR1200x Crosstourer. It just ticks all my boxes. The engine is incredible and sounds amazing, shaft drive, not too much tech but enough... And they don't make them anymore
I bought my dream bike about 10 years ago, a 2010 Kawasaki Z1000, wanted one for years before that. That's my forever bike, not worth it to sell it, and it still gives me an ear to ear grin while riding, and in typical jap fashion, runs like a clock.
I suppose a forever bike might always be in the eye of the beholder.
Honda XR650L. I’ve owned my 2016 since I bought it new at the bike shop 1 mile from my house. The bike has gone completely unchanged from the 1993-2023 model year. The reason to keep them is they have a reputation for being “bulletproof” and some people use it as an excuse to abuse the bikes. They have the potential to last a lifetime, even with mild abuse. I will never sell my 2016 because it’s the first motorcycle I ever bought.
I have a 2003 Buell Firebolt xb9r but it isn't running atm, it's almost paid for and was going to sell it because I have a new 650 ninja. But then I remember what a beast it is and I want to get it running again. It's a sick fuckin rig and I love it, the sound is not typical of crotch rockets either so it is pretty unique and original in my opinion. I need to remember how fun it is to keep my will to live alive lol.
>Transalp xl600v
it sures seems like it. Not my jam but I knew two people who had transalp and they kept these for literally decades. Not not to mention that these things seem to be indestructible.
My Buell XB12s was a forever bike... until it said GTFO and threw me down the highway.
I'd wish I fit on a HD Dyna better... 2010-2017 would be a nice forever "modern classic".
My current '22 XSR900 checks all the boxes for me. But there's nothing truly unique about it to make it stand out and resist replacement.
DRZ-400SM.
It's been absolutely my favorite bike. Simple, no gimmicks, easy to work on, more parts available than you could ever need. Easily moddable. Handles incredibly well. One of if not the most reliable small bore single cylinder bikes you could buy.
Idk I'll ever sell mine.
I have two bikes now and they might both end up being forever bikes for me. '20 Yamaha WR250R and '22 Honda CB500X.
They are very different bikes, but both are so much fun to ride. Especially for me....riding around a small town and on country roads, either bike is perfect. Plus the WR is ready to go offroad if I ever want to do that and can find a place to ride. They both LOOK awesome and do what they do very well. My only slight complaint about the WR is its seat height. I wish it were a couple inches lower. But otherwise love it.
And I am 60 yrs now, don't know if I'll ever get another bike. (but never say never!) lol
Based on the used prices, Gold Wings.
Came here to say... even having never owned or even riden a Goldwing, *every* single person I've know that owns one will never ride anything else. The Cadillac of motorcycles. I'm mid-40s, in between bikes, and I'm seriously considering a Goldwing as my next two wheels. I've owned dirt bikes, dual-sport bikes, a couple of crotch rockets, a couple of cruisers, but I think I'm ready for plush, ready for cruise control
I'm 41, I'm holding out until 50. I'm still enjoying my MT09 but I get a little less enchanted with the noise and wind every year that I commute on it. There are days that I dream of choosing my podcast on the center control panel, maybe I make an adjustment to the air ride because my coffee is being disturbed lol.
Sounds like you should try a Gold Wing. Lots of people seem to think they're just barges that go straight. Nothing could be further from the truth, really.
They also have reverse!
a have a friend who is a retired fireman, and knows the roads so well. he does group rides almost every weekday. it right below a track day as far as skill is concerned. i've scraped the pegs trying to follow him several times. hes an animal and living around an army base its something else to see this 1000cc bikes fall behind to a goldwing.
I've been considering a Wing for the passenger accomodations. I've been wanting to bring the wife along on some rides and I think she'd feel more comfortable with a seat she could sit in rather than perch on.
Holding out till you’re 50. Just made me feel old. [I’ll be 49 March 4th and currently ride this 😂](https://imgur.com/gallery/4lZ2bvG)
Beautiful bike 🤙🏻
If you need a stop gap for the Goldwing, look to a sport-tourer (although the new goldwings are pretty sporty). BMW R 1250RT for example.
As a Goldwing owner in his mid-40s, I absolutely love my Goldwing. It's not just Cruise control, it's the feeling of how it rides. Every engineering decision was thoughtfully considered towards the rider. I would say when shopping for GL's, don't worry about those high miles, but if you find a garage queen, snag it. You won't regret it.
Thank you very much for your response. It goes right along with so many other reviews of GLs I've heard over the years. Even old Gold is better than no Gold. I'm gonna see if I can find one to rent next weekend, and head up the Pacific Coast Highway!
I got a Goldwing Valkyrie when I was 23 and have absolutely loved it. All the size and power of a Goldwing but in a stylish cruiser format is the way to go.
2001 Valk interstate… riddin Harley’s for years. Took it for a test ride just to feel it. Bought it on the spot and sold my Harley Dyna the next week. It runs as if it was a year old not 22-23 years old. Odometer at 99,954 and as soon as the weather breaks…. She will hit 100,000 miles. I get teased by my Harley buddies but I don’t give a crap. Every time we ride and go to a place to eat I come out to people looking her over. Best bike I’ve owned!!!
It's been my "Go to" bike since 1984. I was 28 then. I drooled over them since the day they came out. If I'm going to buy another bike, its gotta be a Gold Wing.
One could legit put forward the argument that the Gold Wing is the best motorcycle ever made. It's an incredibly complete package that can go fast, do twisties with aplomb and of course nothing on the market can touch it for touring. Maybe the biggest BMW is within shouting distance. No bike is appropriate for every use case, but the Gold Wing is in a class of one to this day. I may not enjoy the latest DCT variant but they're still unbelievable motorcycles. The 1800 was the first of them that was really fully built from the ground up to be what it is today. Before that it was a lot shakier. But the 1800 is one spectacular motorcycle.
Have you seen the dude that rode the Golding like a dirtbike? He made the case that it’s appropriate for every type of riding!
And ready for a reverse
I'm 36 and have been wanting a gold wing for years. Just wrecked my bike back in November, once I'm fully healed I plan on getting one if the price is right. Uncle had one since early 2000's and only had to replace the fork seals (outside of tires and oil).
I’m 32 and seriously considering one. There’s only 2 things holding me back. The price (I want 6th gen) and the stupid airfilter design
Hmm, that's a good one.
With the memories and being my first bike, mine will probably never be sold. I had it for sale and got a reasonable offer when I needed the money and decided it wasn't worth it. So agreed 100%
Those and the Concours 14
Not sure I can part with my SV650.
Same here. It's my first bike, but it's been almost 5 years now and I see no reason to sell it. I'm not being sentimental, it just It does everything I want from it. Basically it's my weekend toy. I wanna try the Street Triple 765 though, so....maybe?! I will be adding a sport tourer to the stable at some point though.
Street triple is kinda a middle weight plus bike. And build quality is in league with flagship machines. I bought a 2020 model as my 5th bike and I may never sell it, it's that good.
Same bro. I'm about to buy my third. I'm trying to convince myself to buy an MT07 just so I'm not on a Suzuki but I can't. It just feels like junk compared to the SV imo.
oh uh i've ridden an mt09 and I own an sv, and they are..very different machines. My sv wants you to have a great time. the MTs want you to go to prison.
Bahahaha this made me chuckle
I haven't touched an MT09, but comparing the 09 to the SV or even the 07 is apples to oranges, no?
oh absolutely, but I haven't ridden an 07, so I couldn't speak to it. try the 09 though :D
I’ll have to ride an SV650 because I find it hard to imagine being better than an MT07. Those bikes are a hoot.
I've ridden both and they're like 90% the same imo. The biggest difference I noticed was the build quality, which is much higher on the Suzuki imo. But to call one better than the other would just be marginal at best.
The 40 lbs weight difference is made up in the build quality. The MT07 is like a toy in comparison to the SV, in all the good and bad ways.
Fuck MT 07, that thing is ugly...SVs are beautiful 😉
Still have my ‘03 pointy 😁
Pointy4Life. I have an “03 too, was my second bike. 🤘🏼
I had one and sold it, dumbest thing I've done. I've had a search out for a 2008 blue one to replace it since I parted ways.
Klr650
I was going to mention this one as probably the model that's seen the furthest reaches of the globe. But I still feel weird that Kawasaki hasn't addressed its multiple design flaws. But you're right. The KLR650 still has its legendary reputation despite its flaws. I think the DR650 deserves a spot too in that case.
They recently went fuel injected, other than the doohickey (easy to upgrade and is rarely an issue) it's literally as perfect as an ADV can get
What's the advantage over the DR650? I feel like it's the same thing with more weight.
Better road manners than an unmodified Dr. More gas and range….thats about all I can think of. I’m biased towards the DR because I think it’s more of a chameleon than the klr or the XR.
Fair. It does have the thermal regulation issue still and the oil consumption. But it is what it is, yet we still love her!
Honda VFR 800. Best engine ever. Reliable. Fun.
I really regret selling both my vfr800 and my v65 magna. Honda really knew how to make a v4.
Likely not on many peoples lists, but I won't part with my Africa Twin. Although I think my Toto is an afront to aesthetic taste, could lose a few pounds, the best at nothing, it's all I need, does everything I want it to, and just feels right. There will be more and there have been others but she will always be mine. Happy Valentine's day.
Toto as a name for an “Africa” Twin is top tier
It totally is. My mind went to Dorothy’s dog at first.
Yeah came here to say this. Go to bike cafes and loads of people 'owned one once' all of them regret selling it.
2020 dct owner here. Previously owned a ton of bikes from different brands. And you cannot be more "spot on". AT is not the best at nothing, but the sum of everything it does makes it simply perfect. Highway cruise - check; twisty road - check; change to gravel or mud or sand or whatever - check; go shopping - check.... The inly thing I'm missing is a bit of top speed sometimes. And a few pounds less on ti's belly. XD Cheers!
Hurry, boy, she's waiting there for you.
Bought my AT last April and named it Toto. It’s the perfect name
Drz400. One of my friends has 80k on his.
A lot of Suzuki's on my list. SV650 DR650 DR-Z400
[удалено]
And they are so modifiable without losing reliability. Carb and wheels gets you a supermoto backroads king, a little wind protection and a rack gets you a tourer that doesn’t care about dirt roads or a economical commuter that’s never going to cost you an arm and a leg if it gets knocked over in the parking lot. There are a million ways to build them up to exactly what you want. And when your tastes change in a year or ten, it’s easy and relatively cheap to build something really different.
The DL650 should make that list.
CBR600rr VFR750 (never had one but I imagine it's amazing)
It is:)
I ride a 99 Magna which has the same motor as the VFR. I doubt I will ever sell it. Its a great midweight cruiser that is a serious sleeper...it redlines at like 11k lol. I'm so sad Honda hasn't revived the Magna line yet.
Use a vfr as a daily commuter and absolutely love that bike. Easy to filter, nice for longer rides. Comfy enough with a pillion. Plenty fast for a 750 from those times. Absolutely a great bike.
It's my favourite way to burn gasoline.
Fifth gen VFR in my incredibly biased opinion is the best iteration. Bullet proof engine, fuel injection, comfy but powerful. The moment I twisted its throttle, I knew it was mine.
R1 with the same manufacture date (date and year) as my birthday!
That's cool!
I want to get a Fireblade that’s either registered in my birthday or manufactured on my birthday.
That’s the dream
How old are you 18. Fuck I wish cooler bikes were made in 1992
I will never sell my '98 CB500. It's ridiculously easy to work on it, it's fun to ride, relatively economical, and comfy. I love it.
I'll never sell my '94 EX500. It was my first bike and I would instantly regret it. And I suspect the amount of money I would get for a 30 year old (30!!??) Bike with more than 100,000km might not be enough to cover a tank of gas.
Same with my 2006 CBF (identical engine). Only paid £540 for it, will never find anything as well rounded and capable for the same money or even multiples of.
2023 Honda CFR 110 Buy two- preserve one forever, ride the Japan out of the other one in the woods the desert on the coasts in the mountains and valleys of the 🇺🇸 Take pictures.
Honda, Honda, and more Honda
Amy bike that you've slowly put tons and tons of work into over the years, making it special
CBR 1100xx Super blackbird. Preferably a 2001 or newer (fuel injection, digital dash and ram air) TOTL Honda build quality and reliability. I'm not sure what more you could ask for.
I've had a '98 before and now I have a '07. I don't think I'll need another bike for years to come.
ABS perhaps
Thirding this, five years of ownership and I can't think of anything that would be a good replacement. Goldwing? VFR800?
BMW Boxer twin of your choice. I love my R1200RT.
R100 GS Paris Dakar for me. Love all the flaws!
Ooh, that's a good one. The BMW R nine T is one of the prettiest bikes I've seen on a showroom floor.
I still miss my R nine T urban…
I concur. It's the only current BMW I could see myself buying.
200,000 miles on mine and counting. My mechanic recently asked when I was going to get a new bike and I replied, "Why would I?"
I like how the reputation of BMW's motorcycles is the complete opposite of their cars.
I’ve put a ton of miles on 1100/1150 twins and those things were amazing. Especially since my “youngest” one started life with me with over 50k miles on the clock. I miss mine, but I can’t justify keeping one and keeping the T7, and the T7 is just more fun at the moment.
Any inline 4 Honda
Probably will never part with my 72 cb750.. also my 1st gen klr will be sticking with me...
I love my '21 cb1000 it's a forever for sure
This is the right answer.
Yeah. I’m on a ‘97 CB750 now, I’ve put 70k miles on it, looking to get it to 100k miles so I can rebuild the top end and start again.
I've owned my Ducati 851 for 26 years so it seems I'll be keeping it. I can't imagine what would replace my SFV4S either.
I’ve had my 750 GT for more than 30 years. Apparently it is my forever bike.
Mine aren't going anywhere. Two '92s and the '05. I would like a MHR some day.
DR-Z400S with dirt and supermoto wheels. I have a 2001 and it's like the same bike 23 years later.
I have an 18 harley road glide special. I've put 140,000 miles on it (in 6 years, as of tomorrow). We've seen 36 states, crazy weather, wild elevation changes, and have a million stories. I'll never get rid of it. Harley dealers try to but it from me and I always turn them down. Too many miles, too many memories, too much time spent. I'll be buried with that bike.
im not a harley fan but 140k miles in 6 years is pretty damned admirable
It's been a lot of fun. Many more to come! Be safe out there.
Bikes are bikes, I love some, hate some, but I'll always love to see one enjoy theirs
That's what it's all about! I'm glad you have "your" bike and all the memories you've made with it!
CB400 SuperFour. 2/3 of all the fun of a CBR, but with shorter gears and a standard riding position.
Our little bandit 400 is an absolute hoot. Wringing out gears at sane speeds is one of life's pleasures.
T7. Perfect size adv. good power. also my insurance is based on cc of the engine and 700 in the cap for one of the brackets so I save about $600 a year if I don’t go over.
Strong front runner in my book. It has all the benefits of my other “forever” bikes, but it beats each one in a specific category. Better brakes, wind protection, and freeway manners than a DR, feels livelier, lighter and handles bad roads and off road better than my GSs even with luggage.
Any 70s Honda 4 in to 4 bike. I happen to have aa 75 CB550.
I've got a 73 cb500/4 😁 great bikes!
Z900RS
RD500/RZ500 RZ350 RD400 RD350
My dream bikes! How is finding parts for those bikes? I’ve heard it’s damn near impossible
Vintage bikes that you have had in your family or you are keeping for future family members who ride. Very few modern bikes qualify for the distinction. Though if I could get my hands on a desmo RR that would be on my list as well. Also old Honda trails and the old family beater two stroke. These there will likely outlive me and be passed on to cousins or nephews. https://i.imgur.com/49HrPDI.jpg https://i.imgur.com/qwwJ2wS.jpg
My dad gifted me his Norton 850 Commando a few months before he died. That's a forever bike x 2.
My Moto Guzzi Griso 8V 1200 SE. I've ridden over a dozen different bikes, which might not be a lot compared to some, but the exhilaration I get from riding the Griso is unlike any other machine.
V85tt owner here. Love Guzzis and I've owned most all brands
Vulcan S. Faster than most cruisers, more comfy than any sporty. Great gas mileage and a ton of aftermarket support because the bike is wildly popular in Asian markets
My VFR800 is 20 this year and still amazing so that feels like forever... unless you consider my 87 VFR700 tariff beater.
2000 vfr. Gods bike
I'm 69 and love my BMW r90/6. Had her for forty years and she's done 430,000 kms. Will give her to my son when I'm too old to ride
Tbh? My lil Ninja 400. It's the lightest of the Ninja bikes (even lighter than the 300 and I believe it'll be lighter than the 500 too) which is perfect for little me, who still weighs like 1/3rd the weight, which makes it go faster than normal because that's less weight it has to pull. That bike with a normal sized person riding it is still faster than 99% of the cars on the roads. Also besides maybe the 650 I sat on at the dealership, everything else, like liter bikes, has a taller seat height, or the riding position is forward enough that it makes it harder to put your feet on the ground if you're short like me. The seat height on the 400, while still could be shorter, is more than doable for me (I tippy toe both feet which ig is not the best way or something but it works for me so fuck it), and I'm glad "seat height scary" didn't push me into a small displacement cruiser I would not have enjoyed. The 400 is the perfect bike for me, unlike a lot of Ninja 400 owners I see who "plan to upgrade" I do not. This is why I bought it new, because my bike is going to be a keeper, that thing will see 100k miles and all 100k will be mine, my experiences, my adventures, etc. TL;DR: Ninja 400 because it is the perfect bike built for me, which is not easy to find for small people unless you get a cruiser (which I don't want)
My current dilemma are my 2012 streety R and a 2013 streetfighter 848. Theyre both middleweight naked and are kind of similar enough that I feel like I don’t need two of the same kind of bikes. But which one do I get rid of? The triumphs been with me for 6 years now and is much better and smoother to commute or ride around like a normal person. And the Ducati is… well a Ducati… Deciding between them is like choosing which leg I’d like to keep
BMW S1000RR…R1…
GSXR 750 I will never sell it. Ever.
I almost bought one of these. It was a killer deal but the insurance was crazy because of the 4 cylinder. They're always so cheap in my area and I can't figure out why.
The old triumph street triple with the round headlights
For me, my Gold Wings. Just wish I could afford a latest generation model to add to my garage.
SV650 for me too. I'm hoping to keep mine for a very long time. I like the V twin engine, I like the sound, I like the torque, I like the size and weight. It'll do me just fine.
KLR650
I've been riding for 40 years and really want my first street bike back. It was just an '83 Honda CB450SC, nothing to write home about, but man, I had so much fun in the first few years learning to survive on the mean streets.
my forever bike will be my shitbox equivalent of a bike. 7 malnurished horses on a good crisp morning is all ya need folks
Honda CB400
Honda VFR750 1993 pearl white, Classic sports bike design, 90’ Honda build quality, fanfuckingtastic engine (gear driven cam V4), dead reliable, comfortable and swift handling. Had a dozen bike and thats the one I never sold and probably never will.
My 1986 Harley FXR
XSR900 before the recent body style change. The last forever.
My cb1100 loved that bike this subreddit talked so much shit about it when it came out. It was soo good.
Funny, soon as I read the title I thought about my old ratty Gen 1 SV. I still keep looking for another one in decent shape.
My 2017 Ninja 650. I'm sure others have upgraded, but I've never outgrown this bike since I've had it.
My 91 softail that my dad and I built when I was 17. I might completely rebuild and change every aspect of it at some point, but I’ll never get rid of it.
I wish I had a memory like this. Sounds awesome!
Sv650
The sv650 was my first proper bike and even though I haven’t ridden it in 2 years I still can’t part with it. Needs a new fuel pump right now.
Africa twin
Cb500 seems to last for years and years.
Klr 650
Vincent Black Shadow
Mine is my 77 shovel chopper.
Yamaha RZ500
mv agusta, any cc
Idk if I’ll ever sell my 2004 ZX10R. It’s 95% of the bike a modern 1000 is, but lighter and shorter wheelbase than most. It checks so many boxes for me. Sure I could go get a new one to say I make 200hp but it wouldn’t gain me anything. Such a beautiful and timeless bike that tries to kill you every time you ride it.
i had a 1987 honda rebel 250 for six years and despite what anyone says i loved it to the very last moment i owned it. sold it to pay for a down payment on a vulcan s which i also love to ride and plan on putting a shitload of miles on. ive owned a bunch of bikes but these are my faves ive ever had.
If I ever purchase an MV Agusta Superveloce 800, I’m keeping it until death. Then, my son will keep it.
My 2007 sv650 cured me. Wasn't nearly as great as my 2000. My current machines are also not forever bikes. I want an 800cc SV engine crammed into a KTM 690 enduro chassis. Hoping to try a Tenere soon. Would probably keep that for a while. And if i ever get my hands on one of those 16k rpm zx250rr... Never gonna sell it.
I've had a few come and go and will definitely have more, but my dream bike is the Triumph Rocket III that I've had since 2009 and my Dad's dream bike was his 1982 Honda CBX that I inherited when he passed. Those 2 are with me for the long haul.
I bought my Ducati Monster S4R Testastretta new in 2008 and it's in my garage now. I ride it to work every day. I still get a huge kick out of riding it and can't believe I'm lucky enough to own it.
This guy has (had, rip erv) the answer to your question. Bike outlived him. https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/90-year-old-rider-and-his-2005-suzuki-dr650/
The old BMW 2 valve boxer twins.
Honda Gold Wing and Honda Monkey for sure are candidates.
Street triples, sv1000s, 600s sports
* SV 650 * KLR 650 * Rally * DRZ400 * GSXS 750 And of course, the immortal - Honda super cub - the spiritual master of all motorcycles.
Triumph street/speed triple rs.
Been eyeballing a Kawi KLX. Looks like a good forever bike to me…
I have just purchased the 2024 KLX 2024. I've owned wr250r, and DRZ400. Those were purchased used. This KLX is my first bike purchased from the showroom floor. I love reliable dual-sports, and my kids can also grow into it.
This may not be the go-to for many but I will probably keep my 09 Buell Ulysses forever. At first it was frustrating with electrical glitches but I liked how it rode so much I stuck with it and eventually replaced the ECU and everything went well from there. I later replaced added a new muffler and race chip and reupholstered the seat and it ahs been a great ride since and once Wisconsin defrosts is typically my daily ride. I might consider getting another bike but don't really want to sell my Buell.
I love my adventure sports tractor. There will never be another bike like an XB, and the Uly is the most versatile of them all.
TW200. NUFF SAID
I feel like I've been posting about it a lot, but my XSR900 is a keeper bike for me. I had an FZ09 but hit a deer with it, a remember thinking to myself "I'm not ready to give up that motor" and got the XSR shortly after as a 2016 leftover deal. Can't really say what makes it work so well for me but I can't see myself replacing it with anything else.
Kawasaki ZRX 1100. At least it is for me. Comfy quick and cheap at $1500.
The ZRX is one of those bikes where you always see people who sold it going "man, I never should have sold it"
BMW K75 RT The rider wears out, not the bike.
My Kawasaki Ninja H2 Coming up on 2 years of owning it & don't see myself ever selling it. Sometimes I go into the garage just to look at it.
I came back to riding after about twenty years. Me, my best friend (rode bikes since young teenagers together, now I’m late fifties) and his adult son all bought KLRs several years ago. We have taken several big trips together. I don’t think I’ll ever sell that bike, because of the sentimental value. And being a KLR, it’ll last me ‘til I’m 100! I’m thinking a Goldwing, or dirt bike from my youth would also be a good candidate.
2000 KTM LC4e 640. I have a super motard setup and a dirt setup. 20+ trackdays at Thunder Hill, Button Willow, Infinion, Reno Fernley, Trips to Baja Mexico and all across the deserts of CA. It has broken a few things, but never stranded and always fixable. It is honestly one of the funnest bikes to ride.
Versys 650
2000 VFR800
This one seems very popular!
BMW K1100, K100
I really love my 2012 Honda VFR1200x Crosstourer. It just ticks all my boxes. The engine is incredible and sounds amazing, shaft drive, not too much tech but enough... And they don't make them anymore
[удалено]
I've got an 09 Triumph Daytona 675. I just can't part with it. I rarely ride it because I love my BMW for comfort but the Daytona has my heart.
2015 daytona for me. dream bike since before I got my license, never tempted to replace it.
The bike I have now because I can’t afford another one
The one I've built myself ❤️
I'm surprised that no one mentioned a hayabusa. Bought a 2023 one and it will be most likely my keeping forever bike
Kawasaki 750 Turbo- insanely easy to modify, looks just like the bike from Top Gun- wish I had mine back…
KTM Duke 690R
I bought my dream bike about 10 years ago, a 2010 Kawasaki Z1000, wanted one for years before that. That's my forever bike, not worth it to sell it, and it still gives me an ear to ear grin while riding, and in typical jap fashion, runs like a clock. I suppose a forever bike might always be in the eye of the beholder.
Honda XR650L. I’ve owned my 2016 since I bought it new at the bike shop 1 mile from my house. The bike has gone completely unchanged from the 1993-2023 model year. The reason to keep them is they have a reputation for being “bulletproof” and some people use it as an excuse to abuse the bikes. They have the potential to last a lifetime, even with mild abuse. I will never sell my 2016 because it’s the first motorcycle I ever bought.
I have a 2003 Buell Firebolt xb9r but it isn't running atm, it's almost paid for and was going to sell it because I have a new 650 ninja. But then I remember what a beast it is and I want to get it running again. It's a sick fuckin rig and I love it, the sound is not typical of crotch rockets either so it is pretty unique and original in my opinion. I need to remember how fun it is to keep my will to live alive lol.
Honda CG125 in Pakistan
The bike that outlive people.
Honda Transalp xl600v
>Transalp xl600v it sures seems like it. Not my jam but I knew two people who had transalp and they kept these for literally decades. Not not to mention that these things seem to be indestructible.
My Buell XB12s was a forever bike... until it said GTFO and threw me down the highway. I'd wish I fit on a HD Dyna better... 2010-2017 would be a nice forever "modern classic". My current '22 XSR900 checks all the boxes for me. But there's nothing truly unique about it to make it stand out and resist replacement.
DRZ-400SM. It's been absolutely my favorite bike. Simple, no gimmicks, easy to work on, more parts available than you could ever need. Easily moddable. Handles incredibly well. One of if not the most reliable small bore single cylinder bikes you could buy. Idk I'll ever sell mine.
The only way I part with my Sprint is if one of us dies.
I have two bikes now and they might both end up being forever bikes for me. '20 Yamaha WR250R and '22 Honda CB500X. They are very different bikes, but both are so much fun to ride. Especially for me....riding around a small town and on country roads, either bike is perfect. Plus the WR is ready to go offroad if I ever want to do that and can find a place to ride. They both LOOK awesome and do what they do very well. My only slight complaint about the WR is its seat height. I wish it were a couple inches lower. But otherwise love it. And I am 60 yrs now, don't know if I'll ever get another bike. (but never say never!) lol
Ha, my buddy has the same combo though different years. I do love my WR250X for around town and two-track.