How do you feel about the new bikes coming out these days?

[Silverbird]

I am going to pick on Honda here a little. They are asking $12,500 for a new 600 and just shy of $30,000 for a loaded Goldwing

I understand the dollar is in the crapper and so is the economy, but why are bikes getting so expensive? I am particularily dissapointed in the Japanese bikes, and there seems to be a deal breaker for just about every one of them.  BMW, Ducati and a few Triumphs are really pulling out the stops and giving us some incredible bikes even if the prices even higher.  

I suppose I could answer my own question and say emission standards, rider aids and safety features jack the price up but more technology means more things to fail.   I don't mean to complain even though I am, just wanted to see how you all feel about what you are getting for your money when you buy a new bike these days.

[Andrew]

Buy new

Let someone else take the hit. I will still be happy with a "new to me" bike

OK I have to admit I was considering a New BMW GSA but just could not swallow the $$$$ Yes I could afford it but just could not justify it.

[mxvet57]

I'll be looking for a used Super Tenere this coming summer.

[bassjones]

I'll be looking for a used Super Tenere this coming summer.

  to replace the FJR?

[mxvet57]

  to replace the FJR?

To complement it.

[sprk_sprd]

"How do you feel about the new bikes coming out these days?"

Meh.  I don't like the new prices.  I don't like the new designs (i.e. new Ducati Monsters, new Ninjas, new Triumph Speed/Street Triples, etc.).  

I find I'm stuck on bikes from the mid-90s to mid-00s.  I think the bikes that came from that period are the best in terms of design, pricing, what-you-get-for-money, etc.  I understand that manufacturers have to keep improving performance in order to outsell competitors.  But enough already.  We don't need to shave off another 0.05 lbs, or squeeze out another 2.8 HP.  Whether we're talking sportbikes, sport-tourers, full baggers, cruisers...these are street bikes!  Bikes for people who will never be able to (and don't need/want to) replicate the track-tested performance of racers.  So while the manufacturers think they're doing us a favor by implementing even more newfangled technology every two years, I think there is such a thing as too much of a good thing.  

Maybe that's why my current two bikes are 2005 and 2007 models....that I bought from Craigslist in 2010 and 2011.  I doubt I'll ever buy new again.

[BIWOZ]

Hmmm, let's check Australian prices (and our dollar is slightly above yours at present):

BMW R1200RT SE  $33 700 ride away
BMW K1600GTL  $39 500 ride away
BMW R1200GS (standard) $28 000 ride away

Honda VFR 1200 (circa) $26 000
Honda GL1800 Goldwing >$42 000

The dealers are reluctant (because of legislation) to put RRP on their websites. I've gleaned most of these prices from test reviews.

[Mr.Black]

  to replace the FJR?

To keep in the trunk.

[garry]

I find myself drawn to the Euro brands. The only bike from the Big 4 that is on my radar screen is the Ninja 1000.

[falconati]

There are so many good used bikes for cheap, that it doesn't make sense to buy new.  You could get a new Duc 1199 Panigale...or buy my relatively inexpensive MV for thousands less.  It all depends on what is important to the buyer.  If they see value in the warranty, newer model year, or new features, then it makes sense to buy.  I'm able to be fine with less, though I do see myself drooling at the electronic cruise that some models have.  The RT is one of those models that I just always seem to want to buy new...

[R Doug]

I find myself drawn to the Euro brands. The only bike from the Big 4 that is on my radar screen is the Ninja 1000.

+1

That and the new Honda VFR *IF* is had a larger tank and better luggage capacity.  However, I have been bitten with the adventure-touring bug so I keep looking at the likes of the new Tiger and I am anticipating the 1200 KTM Adventure.  

[AutoXer]

For any bike I plan to keep a long while (which is pretty much every bike I by) I would rather buy new, as there is no way to know how much a previous owner hammered the bike.  

That said, in a time where the economy is bad and sales are down, I think it ridiculous that the manufacturers are piling on high-priced, unnecessary technology that forces the prices up even more.  Okay, fuel injection and maybe ABS were okay, but c'mon, "anti-theft" systems begging to leave you stranded and that can't be bypassed if you lose your key fob?  Wireless throttle controls that can leave you stranded too?  Different computer modes ?(this ain't a video game - try learning to ride instead of faking it and needing a computer to save your ass)  Traction control??  (It's called "control your right wrist and use some brains!!).  I'm not interested in any of that.  Give me a simple, reliable bike and I'm there with money in hand.  

[stevent]

For any bike I plan to keep a long while (which is pretty much every bike I by) I would rather buy new, as there is no way to know how much a previous owner hammered the bike.

That right there.. There's just too many dumb shits running around with crescent wrenches and screwdrivers "improving" performance.. I'll buy used if it's box-stock and some kind of service history, otherwise I just bite the bullet and buy new, preferably a discounted leftover.

Right now the only thing that gets my attention is the new Triumph Explorer 1200, I have no intention of replacing my GS but if I did it would be at the top of the list. I'd also look for a left over or lightly used 1200 RT or an '08 or newer stock HD Road Glide with the ABS Brembo's. I can live w/o all the gee-whizz electronics but ABS is a life saver in this wet climate and electronic suspension adjustment is nice though not really necessary, as with Cruise Control and the various sound systems.  In fact I'd be more inclined to buy a late '80's Airhead than a new bike.  

[desertxxrider]

I don't have much love for the new bikes, most are too pricey, complicated and hard to service anyhow. If I was paid to race and needed a state of the art bike it would be different.

[Mr.Black]

I would like my wife to join in but her hips and back can't tolerate the Bandit. If a new bike were in our future I would consider the C14. As for the price of others in this class, the Kawi seems to be my pick.

Other than that, an older dual sport would be ok. Not new though. Too much $.

[Rogue]

The US$ is actually NOT in the crapper.  It's just that the Japanese Yen has gained strength recently due to Japans recovery from their recession, so the prices of Japanese made stuff has gone up.  There isn't much the Japanese can do about it because they are operating on razor thin margins already at this exchange rate.

The US Economy is doing much better than the rest of the world and just recently, the US$ has gained strength.  This is NOT good for our economy as it makes US made goods more expensive in Europe and Asia.  We want the exchange rate to be relatively stable and not gain any more as this benefits US manufacturing.

The Euro-zone crises has caused the EURO currency to lose value.  

I do hear you on the prices.  $11k for a top line 600 and $15k for a liter bike.  If you haven't shopped for a new motorcycle in the past 5 years you're in for sticker shock.  Keep in mind that a H-D Road Glide costs $20k.  

[bassjones]

I have two more years and then I'm getting a C14 or FJR. Probably lightly used unless I can get a new leftover.

[sprk_sprd]

There are so many good used bikes for cheap, that it doesn't make sense to buy new.

+1

[DogBoy]

Hmmm, let's check Australian prices (and our dollar is slightly above yours at present):

BMW R1200RT SE  $33 700 ride away
BMW K1600GTL  $39 500 ride away
BMW R1200GS (standard) $28 000 ride away

Honda VFR 1200 (circa) $26 000
Honda GL1800 Goldwing >$42 000

The dealers are reluctant (because of legislation) to put RRP on their websites. I've gleaned most of these prices from test reviews.

Canadian and European prices are also much higher than US prices. The only Japanese 600 supersport priced at $12,500 USD is the Honda CBR600RR and that is after a $1000 ABS option added to the base MSRP. Triumph is in line with the other Japanese brands the MV Agusta 675 F3 is almost $13,500.

OP answered his own question with the low value of the dollar. New bikes are pretty amazing. When this discussion has come up previously, comparing new bikes with counterparts from 10 or 15 years ago, and adjusting for inflation, would make many new bikes seem like a pretty good deal.

[Rincewind]

When I was in high school 20-years ago, I recall sportbikes costing about 1/2 what they do today.  But that was 20 years ago!  Today's prices are about the same as before, if you compare costs of 2-wheel sportbike vs 4-wheel econocars.  In other words, bikes are still relatively cheap in the overall picture.  

Are electronic aids pushing the prices overboard?  Not in all cases -- look at he SV650 and DL650 for instance, which have had available ABS for years.  

There are still plenty of great spanking bikes for under $10k, such as most of the Japanese standards, the Monster 796, Shiver 750, Street Triple/R.  In my opinion these are good values in today's market.  For not much more, there are quite a few stonking new bikes in the $10k-$12k range.

The premium-level bikes (BMW, Goldwing, Harley) still have premium level pricing pushing $20k or more.  But in the overall picture, a $20k price ceiling is nothing compared to the 4-wheeled world.  I think the new prices are fine, and some of the preowned prices are quite outstanding.

[FJRmgm]

There are so many good used bikes for cheap, that it doesn't make sense to buy new.

+1 to that.  A lightly used bike that is a couple of years old is not a problem.

I got out of the bad habit of "just have to have the latest and greatest no matter what it costs" years ago..

[keepergale]

 

When I was in high school 20-years ago, I recall sportbikes costing about 1/2 what they do today.  But that was 20 years ago!  Today's prices are about the same as before, if you compare costs of 2-wheel sportbike vs 4-wheel econocars.  In other words, bikes are still relatively cheap in the overall picture.  

Are electronic aids pushing the prices overboard?  Not in all cases -- look at he SV650 and DL650 for instance, which have had available ABS for years.  

There are still plenty of great spanking bikes for under $10k, such as most of the Japanese standards, the Monster 796, Shiver 750, Street Triple/R.  In my opinion these are good values in today's market.  For not much more, there are quite a few stonking new bikes in the $10k-$12k range.

The premium-level bikes (BMW, Goldwing, Harley) still have premium level pricing pushing $20k or more.  But in the overall picture, a $20k price ceiling is nothing compared to the 4-wheeled world.  I think the new prices are fine, and some of the preowned prices are quite outstanding.

   Exactly right

[HipGnosis]

in a time where the economy is bad and sales are down, I think it ridiculous that the manufacturers are piling on high-priced, unnecessary technology that forces the prices up even more.  Okay, fuel injection and maybe ABS were okay, but....  
I'm not interested in any of that.  Give me a simple, reliable bike and I'm there with money in hand.  

+1
I haven't bought a new bike since my very first one - and that was because I couldn't get a loan for a used bike.  But I'd be all over an updated 750 Nighthawk or KZ-750 or GS750es!

[bomber]

When I was in high school 20-years ago, I recall sportbikes costing about 1/2 what they do today.  But that was 20 years ago!  Today's prices are about the same as before, if you compare costs of 2-wheel sportbike vs 4-wheel econocars.  In other words, bikes are still relatively cheap in the overall picture.  

Are electronic aids pushing the prices overboard?  Not in all cases -- look at he SV650 and DL650 for instance, which have had available ABS for years.  

There are still plenty of great spanking bikes for under $10k, such as most of the Japanese standards, the Monster 796, Shiver 750, Street Triple/R.  In my opinion these are good values in today's market.  For not much more, there are quite a few stonking new bikes in the $10k-$12k range.

The premium-level bikes (BMW, Goldwing, Harley) still have premium level pricing pushing $20k or more.  But in the overall picture, a $20k price ceiling is nothing compared to the 4-wheeled world.  I think the new prices are fine, and some of the preowned prices are quite outstanding.

^This right here, (excpet it's been a lil more than 20 years for me) . . . . with the exception of the small bike, beginner ride category, by any measure, these are the good old days right now.

;-}

[R Doug]

When I was in high school 20-years ago, I recall sportbikes costing about 1/2 what they do today.  But that was 20 years ago!  Today's prices are about the same as before, if you compare costs of 2-wheel sportbike vs 4-wheel econocars.  In other words, bikes are still relatively cheap in the overall picture.  

Are electronic aids pushing the prices overboard?  Not in all cases -- look at he SV650 and DL650 for instance, which have had available ABS for years.  

There are still plenty of great spanking bikes for under $10k, such as most of the Japanese standards, the Monster 796, Shiver 750, Street Triple/R.  In my opinion these are good values in today's market.  For not much more, there are quite a few stonking new bikes in the $10k-$12k range.

The premium-level bikes (BMW, Goldwing, Harley) still have premium level pricing pushing $20k or more.  But in the overall picture, a $20k price ceiling is nothing compared to the 4-wheeled world.  I think the new prices are fine, and some of the preowned prices are quite outstanding.

+1 rep points for you.  Well said.

[black hills]

I haven't really benn shopping lately, can you still find left overs at huge dsicounts?  I bought my '03 CBR954 brand new in '04 for $7000? I see the new VFR1200 is down to $12,000 at the local dealer? I don't think the prices are too bad all things considerd?

[squeezer]

I'm still seeing new bikes that generate some serious lust without being silly pricey. I'd love to have either the Triumph 800XC and Ninja 1000 (or both) in my garage and they come in around that 10K mark. That said, I've never bought a new bike. If I get one of those, it will probably have a couple of years and few miles on it.

[steelerider]

Buying a brand new bike is really hard to justify - there are so many barely used machines out there going for a sweet deal. Heck, even buying a left over '11 in the dead of winter can literally save you thousands. Dealers get anxious to move old stock, and often an manufacturer will throw in an extra $500 to help. Craigslist is full of bikes with 2-3K miles, and an owner who cant afford the payment, or just decided that riding isnt for them. The recession hammered the price of Harleys around here, since you could take your pick of a gently used / pamperd bike.
Having said that, I think the Jap bikes are losing ground to the euro manufacturers. Triumph, BMW, Ducati have been breaking ground recently with exciting new models. What has suzuki, or Honda done recently that gets your blood going? The new VFR seems to be a dismal flop. Compared the to Multistrada? Not even in the same ball park.

[bucktownbilly]

To complement it.

Good call.  Most likely have to pay someone to take your FJ at this point

[madmanmarz]

"How do you feel about the new bikes coming out these days?"

Meh.  I don't like the new prices.  I don't like the new designs (i.e. new Ducati Monsters, new Ninjas, new Triumph Speed/Street Triples, etc.).  

I find I'm stuck on bikes from the mid-90s to mid-00s.  I think the bikes that came from that period are the best in terms of design, pricing, what-you-get-for-money, etc.  I understand that manufacturers have to keep improving performance in order to outsell competitors.  But enough already.  We don't need to shave off another 0.05 lbs, or squeeze out another 2.8 HP.  Whether we're talking sportbikes, sport-tourers, full baggers, cruisers...these are street bikes!  Bikes for people who will never be able to (and don't need/want to) replicate the track-tested performance of racers.  So while the manufacturers think they're doing us a favor by implementing even more newfangled technology every two years, I think there is such a thing as too much of a good thing.  

Maybe that's why my current two bikes are 2005 and 2007 models....that I bought from Craigslist in 2010 and 2011.  I doubt I'll ever buy new again.

Are you a terrorist or something?

[2DFlyer]

There are so many good used bikes for cheap, that it doesn't make sense to buy new.

+1 to that.  A lightly used bike that is a couple of years old is not a problem.

I got out of the bad habit of "just have to have the latest and greatest no matter what it costs" years ago..

I haven't gotten burned yet buying used and for me there's an inverse relationship between purchase price and enjoyment - up to a point.  That and as often as I change bikes the depreciation would hurt too much.  I'll probably keep the current ride till the 2013 selling season shouldn't lose much more than a couple of services and a set of tires.

[blackbuell]

I'm all excited about some of the new bikes Moto Guzzi is making. Trouble is, most of them won't be brought to North America this year.

Jon

[wibornz]

This is how I tend to justify my purchases.  Mind you, the last six motorcyles that I have bought, I have paid cash for.  Anyways, lets say you want to buy something like a motorcycle, you figure out how much money it is going to cost you to own it per month.  Then you figure out how many hours you have to work to earn the money to pay for the item.  Then determine if you are willing to work that amount of time each and every month to pay for it and you are using it enought to justify having it.

Example,  my 08 C-14 was 11600.00 out the door, with tax, plates, title and extended warrenty.

My plan is to ride it for six to seven years, and put 150,000 miles on it.

Cost of bike = 11600
insurance = 289 a year = 1734 for six years
tires = 300 a year =  1800 for six year
upkeep = 250 a year 1500 for six year

Total for the bike is 16634  / 72 months = 231 dollars a month.  
meaning that I have to get about six to eight hours a month to justify having the bike.

I easily hit that mark every month that I have owned my bike, and I am sure that by the time I sell it, that if I get even a 2,000 for it when I sell it used, my cost will even be lower.  If I get 150,000 miles on it in 6 years and average 50 mph doing so, I will average almost 42 hours a month riding the bike   HELLYEA.

Not factored into this cost is the sanity the bike saves me just by me being able to ride.  Many of my employees, friends and family are better off because I ride.  I tend to get irritable when I don't get to ride.  This also does not include the priceless trips that I have taken with friends, family and my more importantly with my sons.  Some of these things can't be easily measured.  

If the bike is not making the cut though it has to be sold.  For instance, I bought my wife a brand new Versys 650 in 09, put factory bags on it and other things to make it perfect in her words for her.  She rode it three times in 2011 for a total time of less that 2 hours.  I told her it was being sold.  It has been sold.

So do the math.  I tend to like new bikes better than used.  I put the miles to them, so I like to know what has been done to them and how they were maintained.  I have also found that if you are good with a dealer, you can save big dollars off the cost, parts, and service.

[gritsngravy]

Generally I believe bikes have never been better when looking at things like build quality, performance and reliability.  The thing that has bugged me over the last several years is the manufacturers obsession with light weight, tiny, cramped impractical bikes.   Don't get me wrong tech is a good thing but I'm a street rider and as such I'm kinda old school, I like centerstands, a decent seat, I even like the cheezy tool kit's under the seat.  

My '07 6th Gen VFR is virtually the same as an '02 model save for a few tweeks here and there and that's just fine with me.    My Suzuki reminded me of the glory days of the big inline 4 standards that used to rule the roads.    There are many large comfortable standard esque street bikes out there but they typically don't make to cut and are never imported to the US due to historically poor sales.  

No matter, I'm stocked up for now and my next big purchase will be of the four wheel variety.  

[black hills]

This is how I tend to justify my purchases.  Mind you, the last six motorcyles that I have bought, I have paid cash for.  Anyways, lets say you want to buy something like a motorcycle, you figure out how much money it is going to cost you to own it per month.  Then you figure out how many hours you have to work to earn the money to pay for the item.  Then determine if you are willing to work that amount of time each and every month to pay for it and you are using it enought to justify having it.

Example,  my 08 C-14 was 11600.00 out the door, with tax, plates, title and extended warrenty.

My plan is to ride it for six to seven years, and put 150,000 miles on it.

Cost of bike = 11600
insurance = 289 a year = 1734 for six years
tires = 300 a year =  1800 for six year
upkeep = 250 a year 1500 for six year

Total for the bike is 16634  / 72 months = 231 dollars a month.  
meaning that I have to get about six to eight hours a month to justify having the bike.

I easily hit that mark every month that I have owned my bike, and I am sure that by the time I sell it, that if I get even a 2,000 for it when I sell it used, my cost will even be lower.  If I get 150,000 miles on it in 6 years and average 50 mph doing so, I will average almost 42 hours a month riding the bike   HELLYEA.

Not factored into this cost is the sanity the bike saves me just by me being able to ride.  Many of my employees, friends and family are better off because I ride.  I tend to get irritable when I don't get to ride.  This also does not include the priceless trips that I have taken with friends, family and my more importantly with my sons.  Some of these things can't be easily measured.  

If the bike is not making the cut though it has to be sold.  For instance, I bought my wife a brand new Versys 650 in 09, put factory bags on it and other things to make it perfect in her words for her.  She rode it three times in 2011 for a total time of less that 2 hours.  I told her it was being sold.  It has been sold.

So do the math.  I tend to like new bikes better than used.  I put the miles to them, so I like to know what has been done to them and how they were maintained.  I have also found that if you are good with a dealer, you can save big dollars off the cost, parts, and service.

you can't put a price on passion, do what makes you happy and don't worry about justification

[Dan K]

I think many of the new bikes coming out these days will make excellent used bikes in a few years.

-Dan

[atadaskew]

I am going to pick on Honda here a little. They are asking $12,500 for a new 600 and just shy of $30,000 for a loaded Goldwing

I paid $15K for my brand spanking new 2002 Goldwing 1800 in 2002.
It is now $25K , 10 years later and basically the same bike.

What justifies this price increase?

$12500 now buys you a Honda 600 or a 2012 Moto Guzzi Griso SE...

[Uncle Leo]

My biggest gripe is there is no 500 class anymore. For people starting out, or for those who just want to go smaller after years of riding a lot of big beasts, it's either overhyped 600s or 650s, or over shrunk 250s. Remember the 500s? The last being the Suzuki GS500 and Kawasaki Ninja? Remember how GOOD they were? Easy to ride, nearly unbreakable, you could farkle the snot out of them or just leave them alone, but above all, they were fun !!! That, and you didn't need to trade in for a larger bike that a salesman or your riding buddies told you that you simply had to have.

[AutoXer]

My biggest gripe is there is no 500 class anymore. For people starting out, or for those who just want to go smaller after years of riding a lot of big beasts, it's either overhyped 600s or 650s, or over shrunk 250s.

Exactly the problem killing the industry (in the U.S.).  Where are the great INEXPENSIVE 400-500cc bikes for beginners and for good basic economical transportation?  By selling only expensive "image" and/or "super performance" we have severely limited the number of new riders coming in, and there is no consideration by the general public or political idiots of motorcycles as viable alternative transportation.  

[Rogue]

Kawasaki and Honda entered the market with new/fairly new 250cc sportbikes that are pretty good.  Suzuki recently updated the GSX500F.  So yeah, the entry level bikes from Japan are here.  Even Ducati is in on it with their Monster 696.

[atadaskew]

I always thought the Honda VF500 Interceptor was cool.

[Rogue]

It was very cool.  I had one for a few years and regret ever selling it.  But the 600’s killed it.  

The replacement for it are the Suzuki Gladius 650, Yamaha FZ6, Kawasaki ER650’s.  

So there are the 250’s, one 500, a few 600’s for the entry level market.  Plenty to choose from.

[sfalexi]

My personal uneducated opinion....

prices are going up faster and faster and the bike upgrades are going up.....ummmm.....not even close to as fast.  And my income is going up......even slower

I'm military, and our pay raises don't quite hit inflation.  I did a little test, and bike prices seem to be going up about 3% a year for the past 6 years or so.  My income has not.  And an FJR now is the same as an FJR about 6 ears ago.  Goldwing is the same, well, a lot of bikes are the same.  Just more expensive.

And cars are getting tons of upgrades, and even some nice cheaper ones coming out.  I can get a mazda 3 for less than a baseline BMW.  Bikes (in the us) are forcing themselves to be a "luxury" item.  I mean, why should a new paint job cost 3% mroe than last year?  Or the addition of some plastic bags cost $1000 more than without?  

I'm not happy with bike prices.  Can't be a respectable form of cheap transportation when our most known bikes are not cheap, and little Yarises, Mazda 3s, smart cars, etc. are just as cheap or just SLIGHTLY more than a 600cc bike, and much easier to get financing and insurance for.

Alexi

[Rogue]

And cars are getting tons of upgrades, and even some nice cheaper ones coming out.  I can get a mazda 3 for less than a baseline BMW.  Bikes (in the us) are forcing themselves to be a "luxury" item.  I mean, why should a new paint job cost 3% mroe than last year?  Or the addition of some plastic bags cost $1000 more than without?  

I'm not happy with bike prices.  Can't be a respectable form of cheap transportation when our most known bikes are not cheap, and little Yarises, Mazda 3s, smart cars, etc. are just as cheap or just SLIGHTLY more than a 600cc bike, and much easier to get financing and insurance for.

Alexi

Great points.    All true.

[wibornz]

Cars are a cheaper form of transportation than many bikes.

[keepergale]

And slower and less fun too!

[Rogue]

The Mazdaspeed 3 sells for $26k and it's a ton of fun.  The Mini-S (base model) also starts at $25k.  These two cars I think are more fun than a GW or full dress tourer.  

[Testcase]

Ten years ago, I bought a full-optioned out Mustang GT convertible for shy of 30K. I was browsing the car show this weekend and saw this year's version of that car for 46K!! I was pretty flabbergasted. I couldn't see paying that much for one today...

For bikes, I have a hard time breaking the 10K barrier in my head. North of that line seems... extravagant.

[bomber]

the prices for new bikes seem to be supported by the market (with some lag, of course) ..  . .

just sayin!

[black hills]

Ten years ago, I bought a full-optioned out Mustang GT convertible for shy of 30K. I was browsing the car show this weekend and saw this year's version of that car for 46K!! I was pretty flabbergasted. I couldn't see paying that much for one today...

For bikes, I have a hard time breaking the 10K barrier in my head. North of that line seems... extravagant.

seems car dealers play the sticker price game more now than they used too? I bought a new pickup this year and the sticker was $42,000 I paid $32,000? I don't get the point of the high sticker, then subtract rebates, etc. I don't need to feel like I'm getting as good deal?

[atadaskew]

The Mazdaspeed 3 sells for $26k and it's a ton of fun.  The Mini-S (base model) also starts at $25k.  These two cars I think are more fun than a GW or full dress tourer.  

A brand spankin' new Mazda Miata is cheaper than a Honda Goldwing.
It is also more fun.

[SummerLove]

My personal uneducated opinion....

prices are going up faster and faster and the bike upgrades are going up.....ummmm.....not even close to as fast.  And my income is going up......even slower

I'm military, and our pay raises don't quite hit inflation.  I did a little test, and bike prices seem to be going up about 3% a year for the past 6 years or so.  My income has not.  And an FJR now is the same as an FJR about 6 ears ago.  Goldwing is the same, well, a lot of bikes are the same.  Just more expensive.

And cars are getting tons of upgrades, and even some nice cheaper ones coming out.  I can get a mazda 3 for less than a baseline BMW.  Bikes (in the us) are forcing themselves to be a "luxury" item.  I mean, why should a new paint job cost 3% mroe than last year?  Or the addition of some plastic bags cost $1000 more than without?  

I'm not happy with bike prices.  Can't be a respectable form of cheap transportation when our most known bikes are not cheap, and little Yarises, Mazda 3s, smart cars, etc. are just as cheap or just SLIGHTLY more than a 600cc bike, and much easier to get financing and insurance for.

Alexi

I think it is a little unreasonable to compare a 600 SS to an economy car. They are exorbitantly expensive to insure, chomp on tires and way quicker.
If you want cheap transportation with a motorcycle look at a standard. The 650s are all in the 7k range and the Bandit/FZ-1/Ninja 1000R are all 10-11k which is a lot less than you can walk out the door of most dealerships with even the base model of their cheapest car. Not only that but they will be a lot cheaper to insure too.
You can't compare race replica to a budget economy car because they cost the same or close to each other. Nobody is going to buy a 600SS because it's cheaper the run than a car but they might buy a Ninja 250/650/1000R or a Bandit or an FZ. Hell my monster has been cheaper per mile than my explorer ever was.

[NoGear]

When I return from this deployment I have to look for a new car. Unlike a lot of other returning soldiers the only thing new about the car I buy will be that it's "new" to me.  I'm not spending the money on a new car. One car that I'm looking at is a Mini. Looking at the miles and price of one coming back in from a 1 year lease or one that was a demo vehicle I can't justify buying a new one. I can get a year old one for $5-8k less!!  

Like others in 2013 I'll be looking for a used Tenere' or BMW. I want a dual-sport/adventure bike but don't want to pay full price.  One of my soldiers wants to buy a bike when he gets home and was going to blow $8k on it. A quick search found 8 of them that are 2-3 years old and all with under 3K miles on them selling for $3-5k.  He doesn't plan on buying new now either.

[bomber]

My personal uneducated opinion....

prices are going up faster and faster and the bike upgrades are going up.....ummmm.....not even close to as fast.  And my income is going up......even slower

I'm military, and our pay raises don't quite hit inflation.  I did a little test, and bike prices seem to be going up about 3% a year for the past 6 years or so.  My income has not.  And an FJR now is the same as an FJR about 6 ears ago.  Goldwing is the same, well, a lot of bikes are the same.  Just more expensive.

And cars are getting tons of upgrades, and even some nice cheaper ones coming out.  I can get a mazda 3 for less than a baseline BMW.  Bikes (in the us) are forcing themselves to be a "luxury" item.  I mean, why should a new paint job cost 3% mroe than last year?  Or the addition of some plastic bags cost $1000 more than without?  

I'm not happy with bike prices.  Can't be a respectable form of cheap transportation when our most known bikes are not cheap, and little Yarises, Mazda 3s, smart cars, etc. are just as cheap or just SLIGHTLY more than a 600cc bike, and much easier to get financing and insurance for.

Alexi

Alexi -- first, thank you for your service.

Second, active duty folks have NEVER been able to afford new, top of the line bikes (or cars, for that matter) -- that hasn't changed over the last 40 years (and likely  the 40 before that -- that's the bad news -- the good news is that there are many great used bikes that ARE likely in your price range

[Davy F.]

I think the Japanese manufacturers have been hit very hard by the financial recession which in turn made them very cautious with what they were bringing out or even updating. I think they have now taken stock (or been very slow to catch on) and we are starting to see them approach the marketplace from different angles. Plus they've seen that the European market is still strong with BMW, Triumph and Ducati bringing out exciting new models for different segments that they had traditionally stayed away from even in these gloomy times. Diversification is the key.

Take this new Honda NC700X, Relatively cheap, good specifications, excellent fuel economy, modern design and aimed at the new rider market. I threw my leg over it and it has a lovely riding position, the usual Honda build quality and certainly the dealer is very excited about this new machine. And that is what motorcycling needs more than anything, new riders.

[Scottyfizz]

I'll be looking for a used Super Tenere this coming summer.

Dammit Ed! I'll fight ya for it.

[NoGear]

I think the Japanese manufacturers have been hit very hard by the financial recession which in turn made them very cautious with what they were bringing out or even updating. I think they have now taken stock (or been very slow to catch on) and we are starting to see them approach the marketplace from different angles. Plus they've seen that the European market is still strong with BMW, Triumph and Ducati bringing out exciting new models for different segments that they had traditionally stayed away from even in these gloomy times. Diversification is the key.

Take this new Honda NC700X, Relatively cheap, good specifications, excellent fuel economy, modern design and aimed at the new rider market. I threw my leg over it and it has a lovely riding position, the usual Honda build quality and certainly the dealer is very excited about this new machine. And that is what motorcycling needs more than anything, new riders.

except they have no plans on bringing that bike to the U.S.   It sounds like an excellent first bike or a commuter bike.  I'd buy to ride to work as long as I had another bike for fun.

[falconati]

aaaaaaand it'll probably be honda-priced, not market-priced.

[fireman]

Aside from the price issues, I think manufacturers are listening to what consumers want. Just look at bikes like the Tiger 800 and 800XC or the Versys 1000. Both are not terribly expensive, and will appeal to a lot of riders. And look at how the dual sport category has grown in the past 10 years. So I think the new bikes these days are great. As far as money goes, if I can afford a new bike, I'll buy one, if not, I'll buy used.

[Davy F.]

aaaaaaand it'll probably be honda-priced, not market-priced.

Well, the new NC700X is priced at £5700 OTR here in the UK. That converts to approx. $8800. Now let's put that in another context. A new Yamaha Super Tenere here is £12,000. Converted to $$$'s = $18, 565.  But a Super Ten is approx. $14,000 in the States. Convert that to £££'s = £9,045. So , the new Honda, should it be released in the States could possibly be around $6/6500.

Not that it really matters if Honda doesn't release it in the States.

[Rincewind]

Well, the new NC700X is priced at £5700 OTR here in the UK. That converts to approx. $8800. Now let's put that in another context. A new Yamaha Super Tenere here is £12,000. Converted to $$$'s = $18, 565.  But a Super Ten is approx. $14,000 in the States. Convert that to £££'s = £9,045. So , the new Honda, should it be released in the States could possibly be around $6/6500.

Not that it really matters if Honda doesn't release it in the States.

A Honda V-strom/Versys like that could do very well in the US.  I agree it's a very nice looking design.  But Honda haven't brought us an adventure bike since 1990!  That's 22 years ago! 

[Hunter]

Kawasaki and Honda entered the market with new/fairly new 250cc sportbikes that are pretty good.  Suzuki recently updated the GSX500F.  So yeah, the entry level bikes from Japan are here.  Even Ducati is in on it with their Monster 696.

I was all set to jump on this about the price of today's beginner bikes but while quickly looking up some MSRP's I came to a different conclusion.

2012
CBR 250 @ $4099
Ninja 250 @ $4199
Monster 696 @ $8795

I was thinking why can't the manufacturers come up with a smaller/medium bore, lower tech, sport bike for around $3000 to $3500 for the beginners as it seemed to me that 4 grand was a lot of bones to lay down for a starter bike. Then I looked and even the Johnny Pag (Chinese) FX3, all I could find was a 2010 price, was $3400 so a '12 would more than likely be over $3500. Of the JP bikes or Lifan that I've seen up close, I probably wouldn't give 35 dollars for one. That, to me at least, makes the price of the CBR / ZX a steal. I guess if you bleed marinara sauce, the Duc is a relative bargain as well.

Of the other new bike offerings, nothing has come out that I feel like I just have to have sport bike wise. I can't come anywhere near accessing the power or handling of my old 9 on the street especially after the engine and suspension mods I've done. I will be buying a ST rig in the next year or two when my son gets a little older if he shows continued interest in motorcycles, if not I'll just get a Miata for us to take to the mountains.

[atadaskew]

except they have no plans on bringing that bike to the U.S.   It sounds like an excellent first bike or a commuter bike.  I'd buy to ride to work as long as I had another bike for fun.

Why can't your ride to work bike be fun to ride?
Posted on: January 19, 2012, 10:14:45 AM

Well, the new NC700X is priced at £5700 OTR here in the UK. That converts to approx. $8800. Now let's put that in another context. A new Yamaha Super Tenere here is £12,000. Converted to $$$'s = $18, 565.  But a Super Ten is approx. $14,000 in the States. Convert that to £££'s = £9,045. So , the new Honda, should it be released in the States could possibly be around $6/6500.

Not that it really matters if Honda doesn't release it in the States.

Seeing that the NTV 700 Dullville was $11200 in the US, very doubtful that the NC would be properly priced.
It also looks like the Dullville will not be coming back for 2012.  Something about a Mayan prophecy.  They were waaay ahead of their times predicting that overpriced underpowered bikes would not sell.

[NoGear]

Why can't your ride to work bike be fun to ride?
Posted on: January 19, 2012, 10:14:45 AM

Seeing that the NTV 700 Dullville was $11200 in the US, very doubtful that the NC would be properly priced.
It also looks like the Dullville will not be coming back for 2012.  Something about a Mayan prophecy.  They were waaay ahead of their times predicting that overpriced underpowered bikes would not sell.

Well, it could be except I don't want to ride my FJR to work everyday if I had a bike that was cheaper and better suited to going in and out of traffic.  Especially if it got better mpg than the FJR

[Davy F.]

A Honda V-strom/Versys like that could do very well in the US.  I agree it's a very nice looking design.  But Honda haven't brought us an adventure bike since 1990!  That's 22 years ago! 

Well there you go then................
And I wasn't too far off with the price.  

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/honda/2012-honda-nc700x-preview-91209.html

[Rincewind]

Well there you go then................
And I wasn't too far off with the price.  

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/honda/2012-honda-nc700x-preview-91209.html

I gave you a rep point for your close estimating.  

http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,69504.0.html

[jsanford]

I like that more and more new bikes are equipped with ABS.  Other tech advances seem like hype, though.  Take TPM--it malfunctioned on my F800ST test ride in '07, scaring me half to death, and has recently proven itself inoperable on my '09 Yaris.  I haven't heard a single airbag deployment story from the Goldwing.

I bought two bikes new for very different reasons.  The BMW because I could and I hope to own it for a decade or two or three.  The Monster because it was not much more than used--they hold their value in the PNW--and every single used one had suffered some sort of neglect or abuse that, once repaired, would price the bike more than new.  My monster was also the last 695 in the showroom and priced to sell two weeks before the 696's were due to show up.

The Guzzi was used and belonged to the owner of the local dealership, who is the same height as Grant and had already modded the bike to accommodate that.  Smartest purchase In motorcycles I've made by far.

European bikes seemed to be designed for basic transportation.  So are some Japanese bikes, but they don't import many to the U.S..