"...there are people who may be older, who got to a point where they felt like, um, they-they weren't feeling safe on two wheels. They thought maybe they'll never ride again..."
I'm not certain those are the best choice of words to promote the Spyder. Keeping the 'Spyder riders are too old or infirm for two wheels' image in front of the public.
I think after giving me a season to ride the new ST, they should hire me to do videos for them. Help appeal to the younger crowd. I know in these tough times younger guys typically aren't able to afford one. However, why not at least try to appeal/market to me? This kind of advertising is alienating.
I bought the ST for a few different reasons.
1. I like unique rides, I don't like to follow what everyone else is doing.
2. I've owned a sporty standard (650R Ninja), and tried a Victory Cross Country Tour (large 2 up tourer). I want the best of both. If these can really outcorner cruisers, have the driver and passenger comfort for the long haul, then this is exactly what I am looking for.
3. Take out the part of motorcycling I don't like (having to worry about loose gravel roads (from going down), metal bridges, sand/leaves on a turn, stopping 2 up all day with a passenger and gear on a trip (tiring), etc.
4. Big enough of an aftermarket already to customize how I want it. With the Corbin saddlebags/trunk (additional storage how I want it), highway pegs, belt guard, skid plate, heated grips, GPS integrated with the bike to announce over the speakers along with my music, backrest, I am estatic just looking to owning the finished product.
I am looking forward to owning the ST. I believe it will be a bit more relaxing on the parts that riders don't like about motorcycles. I'm the type to ride in the rain, ride all season until there is salt on the roads. My other vehicle is an AWD Honda Ridgeline sport utility truck that to me is the perfect complementing vehicle for when I need it, but the Spyder is going to be my main commuter, my weekend day rider, my trip taker.
I believe a lot of motorcycle riders try too much have that rider image, but then they don't ride that often for x, y or z reason which are all legitimate(physical comfort, mental comfort, fatigue, not liking to ride in the rain). Motorcycles aren't seen, aren't as safe, etc. I look forward to having the larger profile, the yellow ST visibility, but still have that open ride, the handlebar control.
I typically lead when riding with my group, with my brother being the sweeper. It works out pretty well, I think now it will work out even better. With the GPS integration giving directions, and with me being ahead I can tell the group over our G4 headsets if there is an obstacle approaching in our way giving them additional time to react, etc.
I'm 28, I love motorcycling, and I am pretty confident I will enjoy riding my Roadster even more.