Replace XJ with V-star ??????

Ok I have a 1986 XJ700 with 24,000miles that I put some time and money into last winter. This summer I started to ride with a touring group and really have enjoyed the longer trips.
My XJ is a wild ride on the highway with its engine vibrations and i am concerned about its age going that speed.
I still have some work to put into the bike but I am thinking that it might be time to sell and invest into a 01-07 V-star.
I don't have the space to store more than one bike so it must go or I must keep it.
Input on people that have came to this crossroad and what you did.
I am thinking that if i go a carborator bike no smaller than 1100 or fuel injected I could get away with a 950.

 

I had an 1100 V-Star for 3 years. It pulls with torque, not horsepower (if that makes sense) has a rev limiter, and got 53 MPG.
Acceleration should be comparable.

However, the engine has a "buzz" starting at 65 MPH that is a stronger/harder vibration than the XJ's. You need a test-ride.

 

I had the same problem you currently are experiencing. We sold our row house and bought a house with a 3 car garage. Now my Maxim, my touring bike and it's sidecar, and the motorcycle lift live in 2 bays of the garage.

If you can get comfortable on the seat there is probably no reason you can't get by fine with the Maxim. Comfort and the fancy extras are what caused me to purchase a full blown tourer. I can ride 800-1000 miles in a day, 275-300 miles per tank full of gas, and still have feeling in my keester. The Maxim was good for about 200 miles in a day.

It cost me a lot of money for the extra comfort.

Loren

Loren

 

If you're riding long, overnight trips you might prefer a Tour Deluxe. The luggage comes in real handy and that V4 is smooth and quiet.

If you have a passenger a Venture might be a better choice.

 

Thanks guys.
I have decided to upgrade and sell the XJ. I have a 250mile trip planned for Saturday then I think I will list the XJ.
I am planning a couple of weekend and some longer trips for next year and will be much happier on a larger more comfy bike.
Keep the ideas coming as I didn't look at the Venture till you mentioned it.
Brian

 

After your XJ a Venture (or other touring bike) will feel very top heavy at low speed. Don't let that put you off, you'll adjust to it quick enough.

Hopefully you know about counter steering. Unless you're a little thing you can probably manhandle that 700 around pretty well. On larger machines they pretty much just push back - gotta counter steer them or it'll feel like you're trying to guide a cow.

 

I am also planning to upgrade. But I'm saving my pennies and buying the new bike first, before I sell the Maxim. It has been great for commuting and day rides, but barely adequate for road trips. I've been on two road trips on this bike, and I feel that I really need more top end torque, especially when packed with camping gear.
Saw a sweet Royal Star on CL last night. Dream, dream, dream............ :roll: