The first thing I'd like to say is that it's HOT in Texas during the summer months. Yes, I don't prefer sitting at idle at lights during the day.
As far as the cycling goes, it's my opinion with limited experience perhaps that this Honda is very versatile. You can flat haul ass from a dead stop, or by launching your Silverwing onto a busy freeway. You can also comfortably cruise around town for pleasure, or use the Silverwing for grocery shopping.
I purchased a carry bag for the back seat. And combined with the large storage area under the seat, you can haul $60 worth of groceries on it.
The folks at Honda need to reclassify this bike I think. I'm thinking it belongs in a class all by itself. When people ask me what I ride, I just tell them "it's a Honda."
Ride characteristics:
It is very smooth and stable even at 85 mph. At speeds above 55 mph you really need to keep your head behind the windshield though, or take a wind whipping.
It easily ramps up to highway speed with just a turn of the throttle. So, gaining position on the highway is done with ease.
The bike corners well it seems, but so far I haven't really tested its performance characteristics to its limits.
Safety:
Some motorist driving in the suburbs tend to pull out in front of me. Brighter colors for bike exterior might be a good idea for this Honda; brighter clothing and/or an attitude adjustment for auto drivers might be the answer too. Maybe I should drive a Hummer instead.
I recommend taking an advanced motorcycle safety and performance course, and wearing as much armored clothing as possible.
So far I have only seen one driver begin to pull into my lane on the freeway that did not see me at first. Given that; it appears that riding on freeway is safer than riding in busy sububan traffic.
Riding strategy:
Motorcycle riding courses tell you that keeping your distance from other vehicles is a good strategy for avoiding a collision. So far, the opposite is true in stop-and-go traffic for this motorcycle.
Gas mileage: I've recorded 60 mpg on the highway running at a 70 mph average.
Pros: Reliability, performance, ergonomics, storage, fuel consumption, comfort and styling.
Cons: Plastic piece buzzing noises, rough ride over road defects and no airbags
Reviews are provided on an "as is" basis with no warranty and should be considered entertainment only. Reviews should not be used for any purpose whatsoever, including but not limited to, making decisions about any referenced vehicles, products, modifications or other information.
