Funny, my Vrod is as comfortable to ride as my Ultra or RG. I do put a small wind deflector on it to keep the wind off my chest.

Maybe you should try one then decide. The riding position on a Vrod is still that of a cruiser which it is and not a sport bike. A sport bike is a whole different world in riding position.

 

If you want a sportbike then IMO a VROD would not be the best choice. A VROD is somewhat sporty but far from being a sportbike and big bucks to just sit around collecting dust. If you want the benefits and ride of a sportbike then get something that is lightweight, short wheelbase, inexpensive (Japanese) and best of all get something used as it is only going to be an occasional ride. Get a naked bike and the riding position will not be too radical and the cost will be even less.

Its great to have a choice, different bikes for the occasional change of pace is great. I ride my turbo Busa every year to Reno (650 miles one way), ride around the Sierra Nevada mountains for three days then ride back. Easily 2000 miles in 5 days on a sportbike. There is nothing like leaning into curves and having WAY more power in the right hand than you can use. Having a sportbike is great for my get away alone time and the Road King is for travel time with my girlfriend.

I would have to say the Harley lets me appreciate life and the fantastic views while the sportbike wakes me up and reminds me I am alive. Hope you find your good two bike match.

 

I have a 2000 Suzuki Hayabusa. I still ride it regularly to work during the summer because it's air and liquid cooled. It has a longer wheel base than the usual Japanese sport bikes. I don't really consider a VROD a sport bike, but more of a performance bike.

 

A 20 something former neighbor bought a Kawasaki ZX10R a few years ago. He offered to let me ride it and politely declined, explaining that my 50+ year body no longer bent like that. He even complained about the riding position when he rode over 40 miles.

I still have my old sports touring bike, a 1992 Yamaha FJ1200. Fast enough and handles well enough to keep me happy.

 

I agree that a v rod doesnt reallu sound like what you are looking for. I still own an 06 zx 10r, as a matter of fact i am doing a track day tomorrow at barber. I am 40 years old and until my purchase of a rgc last year all i have ever owned was sport bikes. Although i am truly pleased with my harley nothing can take the place of a true sport bike. Granted i dont have a sport bike for the street any more.... but man... 164hp at rear, ohlins suspension, race dots... the only thing that feels better is a woman.

 

Oh and 103mega... that is one bad *** machine

 

The Duacti Diavel offers a very upright riding posture, perfect for "mature" riders.

 

Well, this morning I went out and test drove a 2010 Honda VFR1200 and totally fell in love with it. I would be as happy to ride it as I would a Harley. Bought it with a 1000 miles only for $11.5 K. Very happy

 

Buy a Hayabusa - it's large as far as sport bikes go - Rides really well - just add a power commander if you want it to go 200 MPH - I know a lot of seniors that tour on Busa's! - Killer looks - the Kawasaki Z14 is now the king in the HP world - a bit faster - but to me me the Busa is still king - I sold mine about a year ago when I felt it was the right thing to do - it wasn't - I'm still kicking myself in the *** for selling it - In June i'll be 66 - Just might be a great birthday present to myself -

 

+1 I have a 2002 Ducati Monster (620) which I bought for my wife. Got it used lasted year with 130 original miles, yes 130. I take it out every now and then just to marvel at how light the bike is. Its to comfy but its a nice little toy.