Harley Davidson and Indian vs. Crotch Rockets?

Luke K

New member
I know that theres a lot of quality import bikes out there, and of course I will probably own one at one point in time ( i.e. honda, yamaha, etc.) However, I'm prepping to buy my first bike and I want to know why so many people are so dead set on either Harleys or crotch rockets? I've done a lot of research and the only info i can find about comparing the two styles of bikes usually consists of trash talking with no REAL information. I prefer the ride of a standard bodied bike and tend to not favor the crotch rocket, but I'd like to know some real information as to why people prefer one or the other. Please consider all factors; touring, speed, comfort and continual maintenance.
 
You've "done a lot of research" yet you tossing out the standard Harley-Sportbike bait? HA!!

Go back and research small dual sports, large dual sports, super moto, standards, sport bikes, standards that look like sport bikes, sport touring, touring, small cruisers, big cruisers, touring cruisers -- and just not to limit yourself, scooters and super scooters.

Anything you *can* get is a compromise.
 
the new harleys are a little comfort but still loud but . i also belive that people buy them for the name

now cbr's r1's r6' gxrs ect. are way faster handle way better on the road thats what they are built in the first place but they can also be a little uncomfort for some . so heres what you do go to a bike shop sit on both types and see how you like them the harleys will be a lot haveyer than a crotch rocket
 
you ever seen a old Crotch Rocket?
depends on what type bike you want
how to want to ride
want to race
or kick back and cruise

i like them all but they each have there places
cant compare the two
i fi was young and had the need for speed Crotch Rockets woul dbe a great choice
i prefer my harley fast yet i can kick back and enjoy road signs not a blur

maintenance is same with any thing its how well you handle it

harley sportster 80,000 miles
been across country more than once

best advice go sit on a few bikesmaybe test drive one or two ride what you like best its your butt that matters not what i think
 
Let me try to boil it down for ya:

Crotch rocket riders have this feeling of assumed superiority because their bikes will beak the sound barrier and they think it takes more skill and prowess to operate such a machine. As such, they tend to look down upon and sometimes attack anyone that doesn't identify with this philosophy. This is a mistaken assumption as it is actually irresponsible and foolhardy. Anybody can throw a leg over a bike and go fast.

The Harley crowd stands on the patriotic, longevity and experience aspect of motorcycling. They have grown to enjoy riding a motorcycle and going fast for the thrill of it is unnecessary. There are many different walks of Harley riders. The worst kind of Harley rider is the one that engages in this constant rhetoric and argues for the sake of it, attacks non Harley riders and assumes his style of pseudo superiority.


That deals with the riders. The machines are a different story.

The crotch rocket bike is fast, and reliable if its taken care of properly. The vast majority of these bikes are ridden hard. These bikes are designed to deliver power and performance that does not lend itself to longevity. The nature of the hard riding and abuse makes them wear out quickly. Most racer wannabe bikes last less than 60,000 miles, but there are exceptions.

The Harley is on the other side of the universe. These bikes are not designed to go fast, and are not built to perform like the others. (this is part of the crotch rocket pilots rhetoric) The true performance that comes from a Harley can only be realized 30 years down the road. These bikes also will run well and are designed to be extremely reliable for years and years.... for many many miles. -If they are taken care of and not abused.

The reality is that ALL bikes need regular maintenance, and break down when abused. If you expect to tour on a crotch rocket instead of an Electra Glide keep some theragesic on hand at all times. If you take a Harley instead of a CBR to the tail of the dragon put on a disguise.

btw: I happen to ride a Harley. My best friend rides a ZX-14. I will ride with just about anyone,... until he rides like a freakin' moron. Then he gets the boot.
 
The only comparison between Harleys and crotch rockets is they both have 2 wheels and are motorcycles.
They are 2 totally different machines which offer a different riding experience.

Someone here mentioned it's like comparing a formula one race car to a 1960's muscle car.
 
Back
Top