Budget Harley sound

[sean_q_]

"There's a Harley!" said my g/f, seeing a big, shiny black
Kawasaki Nomad parked by the curb as we walked by.
She thinks every large cruiser with lots of chrome
and studded upholstery with fringes and tassels is a Harley.

Well, why not, I thought as I looked up the specs later on.
50 degree common crankpin V-twin; it might make an exhaust
sound that at least resembles a Harley (45 degrees).

Anyone know how close the resemblance? If the "Harley sound"
is my highest priority (followed by shiny bits and fringes
and tassels) it seems to me that a Vulcan or Nomad 1500 (92 ci)
could make me smile for maybe 1/3 the cost of the Real Thing.

If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Ps. which one looks most like a Harley?

[Note: this article not cross posted or cc'd to RMH]

SQ - Thinking the Unthinkable, but after all I believe in going
my own way, no matter which way the rest of the world is going...

[Bob Myers]

Post by sean_q_
Anyone know how close the resemblance? If the "Harley sound"
is my highest priority (followed by shiny bits and fringes
and tassels) it seems to me that a Vulcan or Nomad 1500 (92 ci)
could make me smile for maybe 1/3 the cost of the Real Thing.

If the "Harley sound is really your highest priority, I would suggest
that the most cost-effective solution is a Kymco scooter, with the
addition of a properly-programmed sound chip and an amplifier.

(About 1/2 a :-), methinks...)

Bob M.

[T.J. Higgins]

Post by sean_q_
Ps. which one looks most like a Harley?

To my eyes, the Honda A.C.E. (American Classic Edition).

[The Older Gentleman]

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

[Andrew]

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

That's the one that got them sued for copyright infringement (if I remember
right. Perhaps it was patent infringement.)
HD apparently owns that sound.

[Beav]

Post by Andrew

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

That's the one that got them sued for copyright infringement (if I
remember right. Perhaps it was patent infringement.)
HD apparently owns that sound.

I believe they *tried* to sue, claiming the Harley sound was a trademark,
but they failed. If I'm wrong, I'm sure you'll be able to show me the error
of my ways via some proof.

They DID manage to trademark the "Hog" name though.

[Andrew]

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

That's the one that got them sued for copyright infringement (if I
remember right. Perhaps it was patent infringement.)
HD apparently owns that sound.

I believe they *tried* to sue, claiming the Harley sound was a trademark,
but they failed. If I'm wrong, I'm sure you'll be able to show me the
error of my ways via some proof.

No, they sued, but I don't know the outcome.
It doesn't take more than the blowing of some wind to file a suit.
As far as proof goes, I have none, and don't intend on researching this,
since I could care less about the topic (read HD.)

Post by Beav
They DID manage to trademark the "Hog" name though.

Great, that's awesome.

[Beav]

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

That's the one that got them sued for copyright infringement (if I
remember right. Perhaps it was patent infringement.)
HD apparently owns that sound.

I believe they *tried* to sue, claiming the Harley sound was a trademark,
but they failed. If I'm wrong, I'm sure you'll be able to show me the
error of my ways via some proof.

No, they sued, but I don't know the outcome.
It doesn't take more than the blowing of some wind to file a suit.
As far as proof goes, I have none, and don't intend on researching this,
since I could care less about the topic (read HD.)

The end result is that Harley actually *don't* own that sound though and
that was the point.

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav
They DID manage to trademark the "Hog" name though.

Great, that's awesome.

Innit? :-)

[Odinn]

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

That's the one that got them sued for copyright infringement (if I
remember right. Perhaps it was patent infringement.)
HD apparently owns that sound.

I believe they *tried* to sue, claiming the Harley sound was a
trademark, but they failed. If I'm wrong, I'm sure you'll be able to
show me the error of my ways via some proof.

No, they sued, but I don't know the outcome.
It doesn't take more than the blowing of some wind to file a suit.
As far as proof goes, I have none, and don't intend on researching
this, since I could care less about the topic (read HD.)

The end result is that Harley actually *don't* own that sound though and
that was the point.

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav
They DID manage to trademark the "Hog" name though.

Great, that's awesome.

Innit? :-)

See how internet rumours get started? Harley never sued another
motorcycle manufacturer about the sound of the engine. They DID sue a
Toy manufacturer that RECORDED a Harley engine and played it back.
Harley DID win that suit. This is the only suit in which Harley sued
someone about the sound of the engine.

[Andrew]

Post by Odinn

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

That's the one that got them sued for copyright infringement (if I
remember right. Perhaps it was patent infringement.)
HD apparently owns that sound.

I believe they *tried* to sue, claiming the Harley sound was a
trademark, but they failed. If I'm wrong, I'm sure you'll be able to
show me the error of my ways via some proof.

No, they sued, but I don't know the outcome.
It doesn't take more than the blowing of some wind to file a suit.
As far as proof goes, I have none, and don't intend on researching this,
since I could care less about the topic (read HD.)

The end result is that Harley actually *don't* own that sound though and
that was the point.

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav
They DID manage to trademark the "Hog" name though.

Great, that's awesome.

Innit? :-)

See how internet rumours get started? Harley never sued another
motorcycle manufacturer about the sound of the engine. They DID sue a Toy
manufacturer that RECORDED a Harley engine and played it back. Harley DID
win that suit. This is the only suit in which Harley sued someone about
the sound of the engine.

I recall the threat of the suit, if not the actual suit against Yamaha.
Odinn, great God, you've killed all the fun. :-)

[Odinn]

Post by Andrew

Post by Odinn

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav

Post by Andrew

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

That's the one that got them sued for copyright infringement (if I
remember right. Perhaps it was patent infringement.)
HD apparently owns that sound.

I believe they *tried* to sue, claiming the Harley sound was a
trademark, but they failed. If I'm wrong, I'm sure you'll be able
to show me the error of my ways via some proof.

No, they sued, but I don't know the outcome.
It doesn't take more than the blowing of some wind to file a suit.
As far as proof goes, I have none, and don't intend on researching
this, since I could care less about the topic (read HD.)

The end result is that Harley actually *don't* own that sound though
and that was the point.

Post by Andrew

Post by Beav
They DID manage to trademark the "Hog" name though.

Great, that's awesome.

Innit? :-)

See how internet rumours get started? Harley never sued another
motorcycle manufacturer about the sound of the engine. They DID sue a
Toy manufacturer that RECORDED a Harley engine and played it back.
Harley DID win that suit. This is the only suit in which Harley sued
someone about the sound of the engine.

I recall the threat of the suit, if not the actual suit against Yamaha.
Odinn, great God, you've killed all the fun. :-)

I think what everyone here is confusing is that Harley tried to
trademark their sound, like MGM trademarked the sound of the lion roar.

On 1 February 1994, the company filed its trademark application with the
following description: "The mark consists of the exhaust sound of
applicant's motorcycles, produced by V-twin, common crankpin motorcycle
engines when the goods are in use".

What resulted was that 9 other motorcycle manufacturers filed opposition
to the trademark application. After 6 years of litigation between
Harley trying to get the trademark and the other manufacturers fighting
against the trademark, Harley withdrew the trademark application.

Harley didn't sue any other motorcycle manufacturer about the sound.

[The Older Gentleman]

Post by Odinn
See how internet rumours get started? Harley never sued another
motorcycle manufacturer about the sound of the engine. They DID sue a
Toy manufacturer that RECORDED a Harley engine and played it back.
Harley DID win that suit. This is the only suit in which Harley sued
someone about the sound of the engine.

He's right. and Harley only *considered* trying to patent the
potato-potato sound.

I blame 9/11, myself.

<Postscript after raeding further>

Patent, trademark.....

[don (Calgary)]

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close. Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

[sean_q_]

Post by don (Calgary)
If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close. Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

What about the Road Liner?

SQ

[don (Calgary)]

Post by sean_q_

Post by don (Calgary)
If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close. Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

What about the Road Liner?
SQ

I haven't heard any of the liners with after market pipes. Certainly
the stock pipes don't sound like a Harley. In fact to my mind they
don't sound like a motorcycle.

That motor is a roll on demon though. You could pull a house with that
thing.

[sean_q_]

Post by don (Calgary)
That motor is a roll on demon though.

I know. Taking one for a test ride it was all I could do
to hang on to the grips, even at 3/4 throttle.

SQ

[saddlebag]

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Really?

[don (Calgary)]

On Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:06:12 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Really?
http://youtu.be/mXNJ3ZgE_AM
http://youtu.be/Co-4LeL0qIw
http://youtu.be/BTHJhUcwMZc
http://youtu.be/n9IGClTpW-w

Like I said, loud, including the Harley.

While it is very subjective, just running straight or big radius non
baffled pipes does not appeal to me, nor does it make a bike sound
like a Harley. That said you have to go back to pre evo days to hear
that distinctive Harley sound.

[sean_q_]

Post by don (Calgary)
you have to go back to pre evo days to hear
that distinctive Harley sound.

Don, say it ain't so! The Evo sounds like a Harley to me,
even on a Sportster (with aftermaket pipes, of course,
such as Screamin' Eagle).

SQ

[don (Calgary)]

Post by sean_q_

Post by don (Calgary)
you have to go back to pre evo days to hear
that distinctive Harley sound.

Don, say it ain't so! The Evo sounds like a Harley to me,
even on a Sportster (with aftermaket pipes, of course,
such as Screamin' Eagle).
SQ

I agree with you about the Sportster, but not so sure about the Evo.
At the end of the day, if you like the way it sounds, that's all that
counts.

[sean_q_]

Post by don (Calgary)
I agree with you about the Sportster, but not so sure about the Evo.

The Sportster does have an Evolution motor, kind of... more or less...
in a sort of a way... after a fashion... (since 1986). (Rubber-mounted
since 2004). (FI since 2007).

I've read that the Evo is Harley's best motor. Ever. But of course every
version has its fans, and I suppose there are some who will assert
that the knuckle-head engine is mankind's greatest achievement since
someone invented the lever.

SQ

[don (Calgary)]

Post by sean_q_

Post by don (Calgary)
I agree with you about the Sportster, but not so sure about the Evo.

The Sportster does have an Evolution motor, kind of... more or less...
in a sort of a way... after a fashion... (since 1986). (Rubber-mounted
since 2004). (FI since 2007).
I've read that the Evo is Harley's best motor. Ever. But of course every
version has its fans, and I suppose there are some who will assert
that the knuckle-head engine is mankind's greatest achievement since
someone invented the lever.
SQ

I've heard the same about the Evo.

As long as they start, I am usually content.

[Road Glidin' Don]

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly. They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

[don (Calgary)]

On Wed, 14 Jul 2010 20:29:22 -0700 (PDT), "Road Glidin' Don"

Post by Road Glidin' Don

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly. They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

Well, I am not sure I would go that far. <g>

[saddlebag]

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly.  They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
they sound just about like every other air cooled twin out there:

I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

[don (Calgary)]

On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:33:35 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly.  They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

And I'd wager, IRL I could pick out the Harley well over 90% of the
time and if they all had stock pipes I'd bet my success rate would be
near perfect.

Now before folks take this the wrong way (read before Neil starts
tossing his rattle again) I like the sound of a lot of bikes. In fact
most bikes. I am especially pleased with the sound of my Venture,
which sounds nothing like a Harley. I have heard some of Yamahas 1700
and 1900 V-twins that have a very pleasing note.

I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".

What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious and IMHO too many people go to them in order to
make their bike sound like a Harley

[saddlebag]

Post by don (Calgary)
On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:33:35 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly.  They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

And I'd wager, IRL I could pick out the Harley well over 90% of the
time and if they all had stock pipes I'd bet my success rate would be
near perfect.
Now before folks take this the wrong way (read before Neil starts
tossing his rattle again) I like the sound of a lot of bikes. In fact
most bikes. I am especially pleased with the sound of my Venture,
which sounds nothing like a Harley. I have heard some of Yamahas 1700
and 1900 V-twins that have a very pleasing note.  
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".
What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious and IMHO too many people go to them in order to
make their bike sound like a Harley

I agree with just about everything you said, but I still can't believe
anyone could tell the difference in a double blind test. I mean if
the engines are spinning the same speed what is the difference? They
are both push rod driven, single crankpin, ~45° air-cooled twins. Does
the Yamaha ceramic cylinder lining damp a couple of audible
frequencies that you and Superman can discern? And with mufflers?

[sean_q_]

Post by don (Calgary)
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".

All I can try and tell you is why *I* obsess over it, not why
anyone else does.

Note the word "try". I don't exactly know why I like the sound
so much, I just do. A Harley could well have been the first bike
I ever heard as a tot. Who knows. Imprinting works for hatchling
birds so why not us. Actually I think I was born in a Canadian
Army sidecar (pulled by a 45 ci side valve WLC *) on the way
to the hospital. My parents have never admitted to it, but
the sound of that motor has always sounded strangely familiar...
such as John Belushi's sidecar rig in the film _1941_.

* Canadian version of the WLA

SQ

[[e-mail]]

Post by don (Calgary)
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".

Me either, I like the sound of a Suzuki TL1000R.

Post by don (Calgary)
What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious

Second that.

[Road Glidin' Don]

Post by don (Calgary)
On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:33:35 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly.  They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

And I'd wager, IRL I could pick out the Harley well over 90% of the
time and if they all had stock pipes I'd bet my success rate would be
near perfect.

You're probably low-balling with the 90% figure. I've never heard a
metric bike that sounded even anywhere close, no matter what was done
to it. The louder they get, the worse (and hollower) they sound.
100% correct identification could be guaranteed.

<snip>

Post by don (Calgary)
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".
What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious and IMHO too many people go to them in order to
make their bike sound like a Harley

Well, for reasons aside from self-consciousness, I think it would be
different. Occasionally, when working on my bikes and starting them
without the mufflers attached... Very cool. People also get a kick
out of the spectacle and sound at drag races for the same reason...

[saddlebag]

Post by don (Calgary)
On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:33:35 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly.  They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

And I'd wager, IRL I could pick out the Harley well over 90% of the
time and if they all had stock pipes I'd bet my success rate would be
near perfect.

You're probably low-balling with the 90% figure.  I've never heard a
metric bike that sounded even anywhere close, no matter what was done
to it.  The louder they get, the worse (and hollower) they sound.
100% correct identification could be guaranteed.
<snip>

Post by don (Calgary)
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".
What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious and IMHO too many people go to them in order to
make their bike sound like a Harley

Well, for reasons aside from self-consciousness, I think it would be
different.  Occasionally, when working on my bikes and starting them
without the mufflers attached...  Very cool.  People also get a kick
out of the spectacle and sound at drag races for the same reason...

Speak into the horn...

I read the other day that ear buds were thought to contribute to
hearing loss. Supposedly, it is because of the proximity to the ear
drum. I tell you what, after decades of playing electric guitar,
attending rock concerts, listening to obnoxious bikes in parking lots
and on dynos, and working in a factory with high hp motors spinning at
12-27k rpm all day long, if I go deaf from listening to the jackass
blabberings on CNBC thru my earbuds on my ride to work, I'm calling
the pearly gates and having a talk with the guy who designed these
damn audio sensors of ours!

[don (Calgary)]

On Fri, 16 Jul 2010 18:59:52 -0700 (PDT), "Road Glidin' Don"

Post by Road Glidin' Don

Post by don (Calgary)
On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:33:35 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.  Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly.  They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

And I'd wager, IRL I could pick out the Harley well over 90% of the
time and if they all had stock pipes I'd bet my success rate would be
near perfect.

You're probably low-balling with the 90% figure. I've never heard a
metric bike that sounded even anywhere close, no matter what was done
to it. The louder they get, the worse (and hollower) they sound.
100% correct identification could be guaranteed.

Well I set my target just a bit lower cuz sometimes it's hard to hear
the pipes clearly over the voices in my head. <g>

Post by Road Glidin' Don
<snip>

Post by don (Calgary)
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".
What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious and IMHO too many people go to them in order to
make their bike sound like a Harley

Well, for reasons aside from self-consciousness, I think it would be
different. Occasionally, when working on my bikes and starting them
without the mufflers attached... Very cool. People also get a kick
out of the spectacle and sound at drag races for the same reason...

I think most of us like the explosive sound of straight pipes,
especially at the drag races. I have posted here before about the
thunder boats and how terrific they used to sound.

On my bike though, thanks but no thanks. I prefer something a little
bit more mellow. I do get pissed at the very few bikers who
deliberately use loud pipes to disturb people, setting off car alarms
and shit like that. It's their choice to have them, but using them in
that manner just wrecks it for the rest of us.

What's happening up there with your noise bylaw? Has LE been out
ticketing anyone?

One of our Aldermen brought forward a Notice of Motion to introduce an
excessive vehicle noise bylaw down here. I wrote a very compelling
and persuasive letter to the Aldermen and the Mayor pointing out the
weaknesses in the Edmonton bylaw and provided several points for them
to consider as they debated the motion. I also organized a mini
letter writing campaign locally. For what it is worth we seem to have
had some effect. While the motion was passed it was ammended to
something that will be put off to next year, after the election and
will not target motorcycles. As it now stands it will be nothing like
the Edmonton bylaw. I listened to the debate and was please to hear
most of the issues I raised in my letter were brought up in Council.
One of my strongest points was the proposed bylaw should go through
Standing Policy Committee and that requirement was included in the
amendment. This means the public will have the opportunity to speak
for it or against it. I think I will avail myself of the allotted five
minutes.

I've also heard Red Deer has something on the table.

[Beav]

Post by don (Calgary)
On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:33:35 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by Road Glidin' Don

Post by don (Calgary)

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close. Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly. They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

And I'd wager, IRL I could pick out the Harley well over 90% of the
time and if they all had stock pipes I'd bet my success rate would be
near perfect.

I think most people who like the sound of bikes (almost any bike) would be
able to tell a Harley from any other.

Post by don (Calgary)
Now before folks take this the wrong way (read before Neil starts
tossing his rattle again) I like the sound of a lot of bikes. In fact
most bikes. I am especially pleased with the sound of my Venture,
which sounds nothing like a Harley. I have heard some of Yamahas 1700
and 1900 V-twins that have a very pleasing note.

I love the sound of a Trumper Triple. Any of them. And Ducatis with
Termignoni pipes.

Post by don (Calgary)
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".

They think it makes them look, feel and sound cool.

Post by don (Calgary)
What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious and IMHO too many people go to them in order to
make their bike sound like a Harley

And they fails to do that.

[don (Calgary)]

On Sun, 18 Jul 2010 11:46:36 +0100, "Beav"

Post by Beav

Post by don (Calgary)
Now before folks take this the wrong way (read before Neil starts
tossing his rattle again) I like the sound of a lot of bikes. In fact
most bikes. I am especially pleased with the sound of my Venture,
which sounds nothing like a Harley. I have heard some of Yamahas 1700
and 1900 V-twins that have a very pleasing note.

I love the sound of a Trumper Triple. Any of them. And Ducatis with
Termignoni pipes.

Triples in general sound good to me. I had a Yamaha 750 triple and it
had a very distinctive growl.

I think the only bike I owned, I didn't like the sound was my Suzuki
X6 Hustler. I think you called them "Super Six" over there. It was a
fun and fast bike, but I could never get comfortable with that two
stroke sound.

[BrianNZ]

Post by Beav

Post by don (Calgary)
On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:33:35 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag

Post by Road Glidin' Don

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded >

identical.

45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close. Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly. They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

And I'd wager, IRL I could pick out the Harley well over 90% of the
time and if they all had stock pipes I'd bet my success rate would be
near perfect.

I think most people who like the sound of bikes (almost any bike) would
be able to tell a Harley from any other.

Post by don (Calgary)
Now before folks take this the wrong way (read before Neil starts
tossing his rattle again) I like the sound of a lot of bikes. In fact
most bikes. I am especially pleased with the sound of my Venture,
which sounds nothing like a Harley. I have heard some of Yamahas 1700
and 1900 V-twins that have a very pleasing note.

I love the sound of a Trumper Triple. Any of them. And Ducatis with
Termignoni pipes.

The noise police aren't quite here yet and race pipes are the go.
Mistral for the Guzzi, Tig-Craft for the Aprilia, Akrapovics for the
KTM.....and Conti's for the Ducati!!

Post by Beav

Post by don (Calgary)
I can't figure out why people obsess over trying to emulate the
"Harley Sound".

They think it makes them look, feel and sound cool.

Post by don (Calgary)
What I don't like are straight non baffled pipes. To my ear they are
just plain obnoxious and IMHO too many people go to them in order to
make their bike sound like a Harley

And they fails to do that.

[Beav]

Post by saddlebag

Post by Road Glidin' Don

Post by don (Calgary)

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close. Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Exactly. They just sound like a baloney-making machine.

The Roadstar rumbles I posted have that potato...I'm going to
stall...potato, potato sound that every other de-tuned, de-baffled
Harley I've ever heard had. Of course, when the idle is properly set,
http://youtu.be/z55sW645ybw
I'd bet if I mixed up the sounds and had people here guess, the
results would come out 50/50.

The motorcycle version of "Are these tits fake or real" :-)

[The Older Gentleman]

Post by don (Calgary)

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.

Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

Post by don (Calgary)
Try as
they might to make them sound like Harleys, Roadstar owners just
succeed in making their bikes louder.

Whatever.

[saddlebag]

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by don (Calgary)

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by sean_q_
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Some Yamaha 1700 thing I rode a couple of years ago sounded identical.
45 degree V-twin, and even with pushrods.

If you are thinking about the 1700 Roadstar, not even close.

Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

I own one and I don't think mine sounds much like a Harley at all, but
then I have a two into one pipe and don't set the idle at 36 rpm.

People who ride behind me often comment on what a nice sound it has.
It is well baffled, but still has a nice thunderous punch when opened
up.

Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples, followed by V4s, then
Ducatis.

I always thought BMWs had about the lamest sounding exhaust note, but
supposedly the work they've done to the engines in the last year or
two has really improved that. I'm eager to hear one.

[don (Calgary)]

On Thu, 15 Jul 2010 18:53:13 -0700 (PDT), saddlebag

Post by saddlebag
Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples,

I agree with you on the triples. Sweet sound!

[The Older Gentleman]

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman
Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

I own one and I don't think mine sounds much like a Harley at all, but
then I have a two into one pipe and don't set the idle at 36 rpm.

*Shrug* You guys spend more of your time around Harleys than I do.

Post by saddlebag
People who ride behind me often comment on what a nice sound it has.
It is well baffled, but still has a nice thunderous punch when opened
up.
Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples, followed by V4s, then
Ducatis.

*Any* triple sounds good (with the exception of a BMW K75). Trident,
Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha....

Post by saddlebag
I always thought BMWs had about the lamest sounding exhaust note,

Boxers are distinctive, if nothing else.

Post by saddlebag
but
supposedly the work they've done to the engines in the last year or
two has really improved that. I'm eager to hear one.

The new ones rasp nicely.

[S'mee]

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman
Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

I own one and I don't think mine sounds much like a Harley at all, but
then I have a two into one pipe and don't set the idle at 36 rpm.

*Shrug* You guys spend more of your time around Harleys than I do.

Post by saddlebag
People who ride behind me often comment on what a nice sound it has.
It is well baffled, but still has a nice thunderous punch when opened
up.
Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples, followed by V4s, then
Ducatis.

*Any* triple sounds good (with the exception of a BMW K75). Trident,
Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha....

Post by saddlebag
I always thought BMWs had about the lamest sounding exhaust note,

Boxers are distinctive, if nothing else.

Post by saddlebag
but
supposedly the work they've done to the engines in the last year or
two has really improved that.  I'm eager to hear one.

The new ones rasp nicely.

All well and good but from the stand point of what my ears have heard
only two have ever sounded truly stimulating, raucous<sic> and well
just RIGHT.

That would be Moto Guzzi when they did a 500cc V8 4stroke and that new
V4 made in the states. Most motors sound like well, motors, but those
two? Ah, they make you want to take the mirrors off and hit the road.

[TOG@Toil]

Post by S'mee

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman
Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

I own one and I don't think mine sounds much like a Harley at all, but
then I have a two into one pipe and don't set the idle at 36 rpm.

*Shrug* You guys spend more of your time around Harleys than I do.

Post by saddlebag
People who ride behind me often comment on what a nice sound it has.
It is well baffled, but still has a nice thunderous punch when opened
up.
Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples, followed by V4s, then
Ducatis.

*Any* triple sounds good (with the exception of a BMW K75). Trident,
Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha....

Post by saddlebag
I always thought BMWs had about the lamest sounding exhaust note,

Boxers are distinctive, if nothing else.

Post by saddlebag
but
supposedly the work they've done to the engines in the last year or
two has really improved that.  I'm eager to hear one.

The new ones rasp nicely.

All well and good but from the stand point of what my ears have heard
only two have ever sounded  truly stimulating, raucous<sic> and well
just RIGHT.
That would be Moto Guzzi when they did a 500cc V8 4stroke and that new
V4 made in the states. Most motors sound like well, motors, but those
two? Ah, they make you want to take the mirrors off and hit the road.

Moto Guzzi made a V4? That one must have dropped off my radar.

[S'mee]

Post by ***@Toil

Post by S'mee

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman
Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

I own one and I don't think mine sounds much like a Harley at all, but
then I have a two into one pipe and don't set the idle at 36 rpm.

*Shrug* You guys spend more of your time around Harleys than I do.

Post by saddlebag
People who ride behind me often comment on what a nice sound it has.
It is well baffled, but still has a nice thunderous punch when opened
up.
Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples, followed by V4s, then
Ducatis.

*Any* triple sounds good (with the exception of a BMW K75). Trident,
Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha....

Post by saddlebag
I always thought BMWs had about the lamest sounding exhaust note,

Boxers are distinctive, if nothing else.

Post by saddlebag
but
supposedly the work they've done to the engines in the last year or
two has really improved that.  I'm eager to hear one.

The new ones rasp nicely.

All well and good but from the stand point of what my ears have heard
only two have ever sounded  truly stimulating, raucous<sic> and well
just RIGHT.
That would be Moto Guzzi when they did a 500cc V8 4stroke and that new
V4 made in the states. Most motors sound like well, motors, but those
two? Ah, they make you want to take the mirrors off and hit the road.

Moto Guzzi made a V4? That one must have dropped off my radar.

Where do you get that? I specificly said a V8 4stroke...drink more tea
or coffee.

Oh and the V4 I was thinking of (and forgetting the manufacturer) was
http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/news/motus-motorcycles-kmv4-motor-video/
Time will tell if the kmv4 actually goes to market though.

[TOG@Toil]

Post by S'mee

Post by ***@Toil

Post by S'mee

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman
Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

I own one and I don't think mine sounds much like a Harley at all, but
then I have a two into one pipe and don't set the idle at 36 rpm.

*Shrug* You guys spend more of your time around Harleys than I do.

Post by saddlebag
People who ride behind me often comment on what a nice sound it has.
It is well baffled, but still has a nice thunderous punch when opened
up.
Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples, followed by V4s, then
Ducatis.

*Any* triple sounds good (with the exception of a BMW K75). Trident,
Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha....

Post by saddlebag
I always thought BMWs had about the lamest sounding exhaust note,

Boxers are distinctive, if nothing else.

Post by saddlebag
but
supposedly the work they've done to the engines in the last year or
two has really improved that.  I'm eager to hear one.

The new ones rasp nicely.

All well and good but from the stand point of what my ears have heard
only two have ever sounded  truly stimulating, raucous<sic> and well
just RIGHT.
That would be Moto Guzzi when they did a 500cc V8 4stroke and that new
V4 made in the states. Most motors sound like well, motors, but those
two? Ah, they make you want to take the mirrors off and hit the road.

Moto Guzzi made a V4? That one must have dropped off my radar.

Where do you get that? I specificly said a V8 4stroke...drink more tea
or coffee.

I parsed it as you saying that Moto Guzzi also made the V4. "That
would be Moto Guzzi when they did a 500cc V8 4stroke and that new
V4 made in the states" No worries.

Post by S'mee
Oh and the V4 I was thinking of (and forgetting the manufacturer) washttp://www.asphaltandrubber.com/news/motus-motorcycles-kmv4-motor-video/
Time will tell if the kmv4 actually goes to market though.

<Checks link>

Ah, yes, ISWYM. Another dreamer?

[S'mee]

Post by ***@Toil

Post by S'mee

Post by ***@Toil

Post by S'mee

Post by The Older Gentleman

Post by saddlebag

Post by The Older Gentleman
Nah. I've Googled it now. Warrior. Probably the same engine, and
definitely not my style. Stock pipes, and at tickover sounded just like
an equally-silenced HD. Hardly surprising, given the engine layout.

I own one and I don't think mine sounds much like a Harley at all, but
then I have a two into one pipe and don't set the idle at 36 rpm.

*Shrug* You guys spend more of your time around Harleys than I do.

Post by saddlebag
People who ride behind me often comment on what a nice sound it has.
It is well baffled, but still has a nice thunderous punch when opened
up.
Personally, I like the sound of Triumph Triples, followed by V4s, then
Ducatis.

*Any* triple sounds good (with the exception of a BMW K75). Trident,
Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha....

Post by saddlebag
I always thought BMWs had about the lamest sounding exhaust note,

Boxers are distinctive, if nothing else.

Post by saddlebag
but
supposedly the work they've done to the engines in the last year or
two has really improved that.  I'm eager to hear one.

The new ones rasp nicely.

All well and good but from the stand point of what my ears have heard
only two have ever sounded  truly stimulating, raucous<sic> and well
just RIGHT.
That would be Moto Guzzi when they did a 500cc V8 4stroke and that new
V4 made in the states. Most motors sound like well, motors, but those
two? Ah, they make you want to take the mirrors off and hit the road.

Moto Guzzi made a V4? That one must have dropped off my radar.

Where do you get that? I specificly said a V8 4stroke...drink more tea
or coffee.

I parsed it as you saying that Moto Guzzi also made the V4. "That
would be Moto Guzzi when they did a 500cc V8 4stroke and that new
V4 made in the states" No worries.

Post by S'mee
Oh and the V4 I was thinking of (and forgetting the manufacturer) washttp://www.asphaltandrubber.com/news/motus-motorcycles-kmv4-motor-video/
Time will tell if the kmv4 actually goes to market though.

<Checks link>
Ah, yes, ISWYM. Another dreamer?

In the land of Budweiser <ptoie> and nascar? it's either dream or go
mad. 8^( Oh and listen to the sound of that V4!!! oh
mommaanddaddymewant!!!

[Robert Bolton]

Post by sean_q_
"There's a Harley!" said my g/f, seeing a big, shiny black
Kawasaki Nomad parked by the curb as we walked by.
She thinks every large cruiser with lots of chrome
and studded upholstery with fringes and tassels is a Harley.
Well, why not, I thought as I looked up the specs later on.
50 degree common crankpin V-twin; it might make an exhaust
sound that at least resembles a Harley (45 degrees).
Anyone know how close the resemblance? If the "Harley sound"
is my highest priority (followed by shiny bits and fringes
and tassels) it seems to me that a Vulcan or Nomad 1500 (92 ci)
could make me smile for maybe 1/3 the cost of the Real Thing.
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?
Ps. which one looks most like a Harley?

I drove up to Fairbanks for the 4th, stopping at the gas station near
the Talkeetna junction to gas up the RV. That place was pretty
packed, but there was a Harleyesque looking bike sitting there at the
pump without its rider, so I pulled up to it thinking that he was
inside paying for his gas and would be out soon.

He did come out soon, but he and his girl both had a hot dog and
bottle of water in hand. The guy caught my attention because of the
bad ass pose he struck as he stood there looking at his bike while
eating his hot dog. I sat there till the hot dog was gone, but backed
up and moved to another line of pumps when it became apparent he was
going to stand there and finish his water while he posed.

Not long after, a guy in a pickup pulled up to where I had been,
thinking the bad ass would be leaving soon. It didn't take pickup guy
long to pick up on the fact (hey, a pun!) that Bad Ass wasn't going
anywhere. You could see pickup guy smoldering. Bad Ass finally
finished his bottle of water, climbed onto his bike, but then sat
there for a couple of minutes (literally) while he played with
something...maybe a GPS? Pickup guy got so peaved he rolled his truck
right up to the bike, sitting there about 12 inches from the front
wheel of the bike. Bad Ass stopped playing with his toy, leaned back,
and gave Pickup Guy the evil eye.

Pickup guy backed up, got out, and went inside to do something. Bad
Ass in the mean time finished playing with his toy, SLOWLY put on his
riding clothes, let his chick hop on the back, fired her up (the
bike), and slowly road off into the sunset on his black Star.

I don't remember the flames, but it was black so must have been the
Royal Star Venture S -
http://www.starmotorcycles.com/star/products/modelimagelib/586/1/1/0/image.aspx

It may be a 70 degree V-4, but other than that it's apparently pure
Testosterone.

Robert

[don (Calgary)]

On Wed, 14 Jul 2010 22:01:14 -0800, Robert Bolton

Post by Robert Bolton

Post by sean_q_
"There's a Harley!" said my g/f, seeing a big, shiny black
Kawasaki Nomad parked by the curb as we walked by.
She thinks every large cruiser with lots of chrome
and studded upholstery with fringes and tassels is a Harley.
Well, why not, I thought as I looked up the specs later on.
50 degree common crankpin V-twin; it might make an exhaust
sound that at least resembles a Harley (45 degrees).
Anyone know how close the resemblance? If the "Harley sound"
is my highest priority (followed by shiny bits and fringes
and tassels) it seems to me that a Vulcan or Nomad 1500 (92 ci)
could make me smile for maybe 1/3 the cost of the Real Thing.
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?
Ps. which one looks most like a Harley?

I drove up to Fairbanks for the 4th, stopping at the gas station near
the Talkeetna junction to gas up the RV. That place was pretty
packed, but there was a Harleyesque looking bike sitting there at the
pump without its rider, so I pulled up to it thinking that he was
inside paying for his gas and would be out soon.
He did come out soon, but he and his girl both had a hot dog and
bottle of water in hand. The guy caught my attention because of the
bad ass pose he struck as he stood there looking at his bike while
eating his hot dog. I sat there till the hot dog was gone, but backed
up and moved to another line of pumps when it became apparent he was
going to stand there and finish his water while he posed.
Not long after, a guy in a pickup pulled up to where I had been,
thinking the bad ass would be leaving soon. It didn't take pickup guy
long to pick up on the fact (hey, a pun!) that Bad Ass wasn't going
anywhere. You could see pickup guy smoldering. Bad Ass finally
finished his bottle of water, climbed onto his bike, but then sat
there for a couple of minutes (literally) while he played with
something...maybe a GPS? Pickup guy got so peaved he rolled his truck
right up to the bike, sitting there about 12 inches from the front
wheel of the bike. Bad Ass stopped playing with his toy, leaned back,
and gave Pickup Guy the evil eye.
Pickup guy backed up, got out, and went inside to do something. Bad
Ass in the mean time finished playing with his toy, SLOWLY put on his
riding clothes, let his chick hop on the back, fired her up (the
bike), and slowly road off into the sunset on his black Star.
I don't remember the flames, but it was black so must have been the
Royal Star Venture S -
http://www.starmotorcycles.com/star/products/modelimagelib/586/1/1/0/image.aspx
It may be a 70 degree V-4, but other than that it's apparently pure
Testosterone.
Robert

If you Google Yamaha Venture and hockey stick bracket you will
probably find several links related to where, in an attempt to make
their bikes sound like a Harley, Venture owners have designed a
bracket that allows them to mount Harley touring model pipes on their
Ventures.

They do sound louder and I am sure folks like Neil would tell us they
sound like a Harley.

By the way pick up guy should have run over bad ass guy.

[sean_q_]

Post by sean_q_
which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

Googling for "metric", "cruiser" and "sounds the most like a Harley"

Post by sean_q_
SHARP BIKE,SOUNDS THE MOST LIKE A HARLEY OF ANY JA
1995 Honda Shadow 1100

http://www.gowilkes.com/classifieds/view.php?id=168620

Post by sean_q_
The Yamaha Roadstar sounds the most like a Harley to me
and it is a pushrod engine...

http://forums.gunbroker.com/post.asp?method=ReplyQuote&REPLY_ID=714177&TOPIC_ID=115166&FORUM_ID=4

Post by sean_q_
When I was a child, I thought as a child. But now that I am grown,
I just wish I could act like a child and get away with it.
I can't come to work today. The voices said,
STAY HOME AND CLEAN THE GUNS!
The statistics on sanity are that one out of every four Americans
is suffering from some form of mental illness. Think of your three
best friends. If they're okay, then it's you.
"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter
and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves."
~Abraham Lincoln

SQ

[Odinn]

Post by sean_q_
"There's a Harley!" said my g/f, seeing a big, shiny black
Kawasaki Nomad parked by the curb as we walked by.
She thinks every large cruiser with lots of chrome
and studded upholstery with fringes and tassels is a Harley.
Well, why not, I thought as I looked up the specs later on.
50 degree common crankpin V-twin; it might make an exhaust
sound that at least resembles a Harley (45 degrees).
Anyone know how close the resemblance? If the "Harley sound"
is my highest priority (followed by shiny bits and fringes
and tassels) it seems to me that a Vulcan or Nomad 1500 (92 ci)
could make me smile for maybe 1/3 the cost of the Real Thing.
If not the Kwak, which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?
Ps. which one looks most like a Harley?
[Note: this article not cross posted or cc'd to RMH]
SQ - Thinking the Unthinkable, but after all I believe in going
my own way, no matter which way the rest of the world is going...

Actually, the cost between a NEW Kawasaki Nomad and a NEW Harley Road
King (the closest thing to the Nomad) is not a huge difference. The
Nomad MSRP is just over $15k and the Road King is just under $17k, both
can be had for under MSRP if you shop around.

OTOH, if you are looking for used, you can pick up a used Nomad with
5000 miles on it for $5000, but it will still cost you $10k for the Road
King.

The maintenance costs on the Nomad are a bit more than on the Harley
when you factor in the maintenance on the shaft vs a belt on the Harley.

[sean_q_]

Post by sean_q_
which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

When I asked for an impartial answer to this question from
a bike salesman I've been dealing with for several years,
he replied "Yamaha Roadstar 1600. 48 degree pushrod V-twin."

Naturally it was mere coincidence that he worked
at a Yamaha dealership.

SQ

[don (Calgary)]

Post by sean_q_

Post by sean_q_
which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

When I asked for an impartial answer to this question from
a bike salesman I've been dealing with for several years,
he replied "Yamaha Roadstar 1600. 48 degree pushrod V-twin."
Naturally it was mere coincidence that he worked
at a Yamaha dealership.

I am sure it is part of their canned sales presentation.

As much as I like Yamaha products, the Roadstar is one bike I would
not want to own. I like the looks of its classic V-Twin cruiser style,
but it just doesn't do anything particularly well, except vibrate.
Last weekend I had a couple of Roadstar guys tell me they didn't like
the Road King because it was too smooth. lol.

[The Older Gentleman]

Post by don (Calgary)

Post by sean_q_

Post by sean_q_
which metric cruiser sounds most like a Harley?

When I asked for an impartial answer to this question from
a bike salesman I've been dealing with for several years,
he replied "Yamaha Roadstar 1600. 48 degree pushrod V-twin."
Naturally it was mere coincidence that he worked
at a Yamaha dealership.

I am sure it is part of their canned sales presentation.

I'm sure you do. You really ought to stop theorising and inventing facts
to support your pre-conceived ideas. It just doesn't work.

Post by don (Calgary)
As much as I like Yamaha products, the Roadstar is one bike I would
not want to own. I like the looks of its classic V-Twin cruiser style,
but it just doesn't do anything particularly well, except vibrate.
Last weekend I had a couple of Roadstar guys tell me they didn't like
the Road King because it was too smooth. lol.

I wouldn't want either. A Glide, though....

[S'mee]

On Jul 14, 2:38 pm, sean_q_ <***@no.spam> wrote:

It bears repeating because it is so true "the cheapest way to get that
harley sound is with two clothes pins and two balloons"

[The Older Gentleman]

Post by S'mee
It bears repeating because it is so true "the cheapest way to get that
harley sound is with two clothes pins and two balloons"

Oi loikes that.

[brad herschel]

Don't you think trying to duplicate another exhaust is sort of "ah,
funny?"

[S'mee]

Post by brad herschel
Don't you think trying to duplicate another exhaust is sort of "ah,
funny?"

Only a xenophoic shit would ask that.

[The Older Gentleman]

Post by brad herschel
Don't you think trying to duplicate another exhaust is sort of "ah,
funny?"

When you put it like that, it is a bit silly, yes :-)

Far better to try and duplicate a jet fighter, as Honda supposedly did
when developing the CBX.

(Thy shoved microphones through the wire fence surrounding an air base
in Japan and recorded F4 Phantoms on take-off).