Thought I'd throw in my initial thoughts. New 2012 TG sat in our garage for a month while the weather warmed up, then a week ago we got to ride it 3 times. First impression is that it is much different than testing a ride at the shop or trying out a friend's ride. It's ours, so the smiles started pretty quickly and just kept getting bigger.
First time out was by myself, to get oriented somewhat, and to do some of those things recommended by the experienced riders - start slowly, maintain posted speeds on curves, and even found that empty parking lot to do circles and figure eights, some of it with the left hand in the pocket. Keeping the feet up came quick. Pushing and pulling to steer is one thing, but keeping the right hand steady on the throttle takes some getting used to. I would say it was a very worthwhile afternoon.
Next two times the SO was along, watching the middle line and reminding me about the "big rear end". I even welcomed the additional eyes and some of the reminders about what I was doing, was not doing, or should be watching.
We both noticed the additional heat (and it was only about 78-80 degrees), but it was not yet unbearable. And we both have decided that the stock exhaust is pretty miserable sounding, even compared with my 2004 Ultra Classic which had stock on it. I may even consider earplugs until we decide what to do with it. She says the ride is good (40 lbs in shocks and 24 lbs in tires for now) and feels very comfortable.
So for now the ride is good, and the more miles the better it will be. It's going to be a very nice summer with a lot of smiling.
I have read a lot of these threads about the heat resolutions others have done and the risers and wind deflectors. So as the summer gets hotter and we ride more there will be those other things to consider.
Ride safe and keep the shiny side up!
Bingse
First time out was by myself, to get oriented somewhat, and to do some of those things recommended by the experienced riders - start slowly, maintain posted speeds on curves, and even found that empty parking lot to do circles and figure eights, some of it with the left hand in the pocket. Keeping the feet up came quick. Pushing and pulling to steer is one thing, but keeping the right hand steady on the throttle takes some getting used to. I would say it was a very worthwhile afternoon.
Next two times the SO was along, watching the middle line and reminding me about the "big rear end". I even welcomed the additional eyes and some of the reminders about what I was doing, was not doing, or should be watching.
We both noticed the additional heat (and it was only about 78-80 degrees), but it was not yet unbearable. And we both have decided that the stock exhaust is pretty miserable sounding, even compared with my 2004 Ultra Classic which had stock on it. I may even consider earplugs until we decide what to do with it. She says the ride is good (40 lbs in shocks and 24 lbs in tires for now) and feels very comfortable.
So for now the ride is good, and the more miles the better it will be. It's going to be a very nice summer with a lot of smiling.
I have read a lot of these threads about the heat resolutions others have done and the risers and wind deflectors. So as the summer gets hotter and we ride more there will be those other things to consider.
Ride safe and keep the shiny side up!
Bingse
