New Bikes in the PHP Garage!

[Power Hungry]

So this weekend we decided to make some changes to the current bike lineup in our stable.

For the last several years, Angela and I have both had a Harley Ultra Classic... Hers in blue and mine in red. These bikes have been a blast and while we haven't taken any really long trips with them, we have been all over North GA with them. It's fantastic being able to enjoy something like riding motorcycles with someone you enjoy being with and that also shares that passion.

Well, as time goes on I was beginning to feel like it was time for a little change and started looking for something to replace the Harley. Not that I didn't like the bike, mind you. It's a great bike and has never given me a moment's worth of trouble out of it. The real issue is that I have some pretty significant joint problems with my knees and the Ultra is just a really heavy bike to heft around. Because of this, I found that I spent a lot more time on my Kawasaki ZX-14R because it's considerably lighter and more nimble, and ultimately easier on my knees.

Of course, the ZX-14R is a sport bike and has absolutely nothing in the way of storage or cargo capacity. Great for day trips, riding to work, and such, but not good for a weekend (or week) away. Now I didn't want to sacrifice a good touring bike like the Ultra unless I could find something that would provide me with a similar capability for long adventures. Well, as luck would have it, Kawasaki makes the perfect touring bike that is a direct counterpart to my ZX-14R... The 1400 GTR Concours. With basically the same engine as the ZX (slightly detuned), a more upright riding stance, shaft drive, and creature comforts like heated grips and adjustable windshield, this bike is right up my alley. I've always been a big fan of inline 4 engines, and this one does not disappoint! 158 HP and 100 Ft./Lbs. of torque, this thing will really scoot!

Bill's Bike (click to enlarge):


As it happens, Angela's birthday is today so she decided it would be time to treat herself to a new bike as well. She loves her Harley and it really came down to the fact that the only other bike she wanted was another Harley. She had a Triumph Tiger that was a good bike, but it just didn't suit her well and ended up not getting ridden much. I told her she could take my Harley and hers and trade them in on something new that she would like. Well wouldn't you know it? She found just the perfect bike for her! A 2020 Street Glide Special in Zephyr Blue. Now when I tell you that this thing is sexy, believe me that it's an understatement!

Angela's Bike (click to enlarge):


We ended up trading in three bikes and ended up with two, but I think these are going to last us for quite sometime. Maybe not the last bikes we'll own, but certainly will last us several years.

Also, for those Harley fans who are screaming at me for getting rid of my Ultra for a "Jap" bike, don't fret. I still have a Harley in the garage... A 2007 Soft Tail Custom. It's a great bike when I want that big-twin feel going down the road, and with the leather saddle bags I can even use it for long trips if I should desire.

We're really excited and we're already planning the next few trips once the BETA Testing is out of the way and we can take a few days off. I hope you enjoy the photos.

Take care.