K11 Owners Group

Scott_Anderson · Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2014 9:48 am Post subject:

When I returned to riding after a 25yr hiatus the bike I started with was a 750cc Yamaha v-twin. I rode it for about 9mo before I got my 1st K1100LT.

I sold the Yamaha, but I honestly admit there are still some days I wish I still had it.......something smaller, lighter weight, more nimble for commuting.
I've considered a K75 for work commuting, but I leave home a little earlier and ride a little longer.
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Ride safe.

1995 K1100LT 0302044
1997 R1100RT ZC62149
2017 FLHTK Ultra Limited
Garmin StreetPilot 2820
Garmin Zumo 550
Garmin Zumo XT
"One who does not ask questions is ashamed to learn" Danish proverb
1997 K1100LT 0302488(R.I.P.)

Flying Duck · Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2014 10:27 am Post subject:

Normally I wouldn't recommend one as they're still a bit heavy for a learner bike, but since you've already put some miles on the K11LT and seem to like K bikes, you might want to consider getting a K75 standard or K75C. A K75S would work too but if you like a more upright riding position then that wouldn't fit the bill. A K75RT, though not as bad as a K11LT, is still a bit topheavy.

You can also Google around for learner or beginner motorcycle and find some pretty common recommendations.

This is just personal bias since I owned one once but I had a Nighthawk 650 for a few years and found it to be a very easy and enjoyable bike to ride back when I didn't have many miles under my belt.
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93 LT (x2)
94 RS
86-97 K75F(K75/100/1100 Frankenbrick)
86 K75C w/paralever, hi perf cams,TURBO!
91 & 92 K75Ss
91 K1
86 custom K100
14 WR250R
IBA #17739 (SS1K, BBG, 50CC)
Buy parts HERE

Weatherman2112 · Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2014 5:10 pm Post subject:

Ernie-NH · Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2014 8:44 am Post subject:

Good morning Weatherman...

After his MSF course,, I had my grandson start on a Buell 500 ! Lightweight, not top heavy, very easy to control, responsive, great on gas, low enough to get an average height rider's feet firmly on the ground when stopped,,and unlike BMWs, serviceable nearly anywhere where Harley's are serviced. The seating position is a bit 'bent forward' but not severe like other 'sport bikes', ( you can swap out the handle bars anyway if need be )... plus I had no problems to secure camping gear and all other stuff for longer trips. IF you see one on C/L, just go have a look and maybe a test ride, think it might impress you... and then in a year of Charlotte "high risk" riding, sell it for a "K" bike !! That's just my $0.02

Remember... ride conservatively, always create an escape route, avoid using the front brake, do not stop in neutral when in traffic, keep eye ALWAYS on the rearview... and be safe !!

Best regards....// Ernie in NH
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AMA,, American Deaf Bikers
Airhead Beemers Club
'11 G650gs
'95 K1100LT
'76 R100/7

Jim · Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2014 11:39 am Post subject:

Sorry, Ernie. I take exception to your "avoid using the front brake".

I say never use the front brake on gravel, sand or any other loose or exceedingly slippery material. Other than that, the front and rear brakes need to be used together.
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Jim
1997 K1100LTSE 94,000 - has gremlins!
1995 R100RT Classic 16,650 crashed - repairing
1992 K75RTP 46,000
1992 R100R 24,000 - FOR SALE

"We shall not all die, but we shall all be changed."

Ernie-NH · Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2014 3:42 pm Post subject:

Hi Jim...

Yes....... ..BUT... Weatherman is a NEW rider, fresh from MSF,, he has to learn when/how to use the front brake properly. I parking lots or very slow moving traffic, the front brake could put him down. However, my use of the word "never" or "dont" should have been more clearly stated eh ?

See you soon....// Ernie in NH
_________________
AMA,, American Deaf Bikers
Airhead Beemers Club
'11 G650gs
'95 K1100LT
'76 R100/7

sccommuter · Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2014 9:54 pm Post subject:

I gained my experience on a 1982 Honda CB 750 custom. In-line 4 cylinder with plenty of speed and acceleration. Light, nimble and could flat foot it. Took it on a 2k+ mile trip with no problems but a sore/tired butt. At 5'9" and shrinking due to age, I find myself somewhat vertically challenged on my LT. It's manageable, but I do have to pay attention to where I put my one foot down. It took me 6 months before I dropped mine in a Walmart parking lot on my way to my first Hungry Mother gathering. Embarassed

I made my grand entrance sans my left mirror cover. I find weight distribution on this bike very important as it is top heavy. When I load it for a long haul I try to load the heavier items in the side cases and the light weight gear gets strapped on the pillion.
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1995 K1100 LT
Illegitimi non Carborundum

Weatherman2112 · Posted: Mon Apr 07, 2014 12:28 am Post subject:

Ernie-NH · Posted: Mon Apr 07, 2014 5:22 pm Post subject:

Hi guys...

Well YES, you're absolutely correct, both brakes should be used after you learn the feel and what each can/cannot do alone. I cant tell you how many times I've seen new riders ( usually in a parking lot ) either on the ground, or standing beside a down bike, because they panicked at slow speed and "down she went" ... so 'right or wrong Weatherman" keep your cool, use both brakes when you're confident and when you have developed that feel...If I remember right, somewhere around 70% of the bikes total braking force comes from the front brake system..

Once again.... ride safe !.../ Ernie n NH
_________________
AMA,, American Deaf Bikers
Airhead Beemers Club
'11 G650gs
'95 K1100LT
'76 R100/7

molerat · Posted: Sat Apr 12, 2014 10:25 pm Post subject: