View Full Version : Can You ID This Bike
Excuse me if the pic was discussed here before. I hope all is well and you were all safe riding this summer.
Just for fun, Trip has promised $$$ money (or free membership to this site) for the first member to identify this bike.
This picture was posted several months ago on the H-D boards and was supposed to be a spy shot of the 09 electra glide. It looks metric to me and does not look like the final H-D that came out a few weeks ago.
I just may not recognize Suzuki, Yamaha or Kawasaki features on a customer's modified bike, but I can't figure out what bike this is. Does anyone recognize this bike or could it be possibly be the long awaited new Kawasaki touring bike???
NOTES: Trunk looks a little like a Venture. Side bags not so much. The rider foot position on the passenger boards could be for comfort or could indicate bad engine heat like the Victory Vision. I do like the handlebar height and the height of the gauges at the top of the fairing. I don't see rear speakers however.
http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/attachments/kawasaki-touring-sport-touring/21036d1215384436-voyager-replacme nt-hd-20tour-20prototype.jpg
Enhanced:
http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/Jons_Nomad/HD2520Tour2520Prototype.jpg
Dang! It does look like a prototype Nomad with twin cams & hemi heads with central sparkplugs. Ignore the bar & shield on the tamk & look at the water pump. Look at the lower fork legs. Look at THE NOMAD HELMET LOCK ON THE REAR CRASH BARS. Look at the Nomad seat & Nomad turn signals. Look at the bolts where the frame bolts together like a Nomad. But look at the two brake hoses to the front caliper. This bike has linked brakes.
I think it is a slightly disguised prototype of the new Nomad.
redeye
08-22-2008, 01:17 PM
DAMN, you have good eyes there Cadd. I can't see anything other than a Blue M/C.
Yellow Jacket
08-22-2008, 01:22 PM
Or, it could be a PhotoShop conglomeration. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
Either way, it does look good!
dantama
08-22-2008, 01:40 PM
Nomad fork leg, brake caliper and rotor
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1b402ffb.jpg
Mystery bikes
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/8ec09697.jpg
Very different from a Harley's
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/88fb1092.jpg
Don't know if it is a individuals cobbled together bike, or if a factory test rider got busted out on a camouflaged bike.
I saved the picture on my computer and opened it up and magnified it 400 X. I don't think it's a fake.
I'm hoping it's a Kawasaki. 2005 BMW LT's days will be numbered.
If that is the new Nomad, count me in for one.
Great eyes! I agree the front wheel assembly definitely is Kawasaki. Could the Kawasaki full touring dream be alive?
Nomad fork leg, brake caliper and rotor
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1b402ffb.jpg
Mystery bikes
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/8ec09697.jpg
Very different from a Harley's
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/88fb1092.jpg
Don't know if it is a individuals cobbled together bike, or if a factory test rider got busted out on a camouflaged bike.
Dang! It does look like a prototype Nomad with twin cams & hemi heads with central sparkplugs. Ignore the bar & shield on the tamk & look at the water pump. Look at the lower fork legs. Look at THE NOMAD HELMET LOCK ON THE REAR CRASH BARS. Look at the Nomad seat & Nomad turn signals. Look at the bolts where the frame bolts together like a Nomad. But look at the two brake hoses to the front caliper. This bike has linked brakes.
I think it is a slightly disguised prototype of the new Nomad.
Or the '09 Voyager????
chuckster131
08-22-2008, 03:15 PM
I say its the new HD water cooled scooter that has been talked about now for 2 yrs.
I say its the new HD water cooled scooter that has been talked about now for 2 yrs.
If your right, H-D must have stripped all their OEM chrome off this bike for testing because it looks a little plain for a Harley.
I say its the new HD water cooled scooter that has been talked about now for 2 yrs.
Why would it have Nomad helmet locks?
I say its the new HD water cooled scooter that has been talked about now for 2 yrs.
Why would it have Nomad helmet locks?
I agree:
http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/Jons_Nomad/HD2520Tour2520Prototype-1.jpg
misunderstood
08-22-2008, 04:09 PM
Be nice if it was a Kawasaki, but looks like a Harley emblem on the tank. ::)
skeeter
08-22-2008, 04:22 PM
<marquee>MOO!</marquee>
dantama
08-22-2008, 04:32 PM
If it is a factory effort, it could be a Harley with Kawasaki bits on it for camouflage, or it's a Kawasaki with some Harley camo.
If you read car mags, you see to what extent car companies go in regards to camo so that they can test cars on the street.
Here's a slightly clearer picture I made of it.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/f5785e6b.jpg
Be nice if it was a Kawasaki, but looks like a Harley emblem on the tank. ::)
You are right. The part looking most like a HD is the tank. However, did you notice to two piece seat which matches Nomads. Seat/Front end/......
Nomad Tank
http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/Jons_Nomad/158_VN1600D7F_40023_Rscale-1.jpg
Harley Tank
http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/Jons_Nomad/2008-Harley-Davidson-Touring-FLH-1.jpg
Spy Tank
http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/attachments/kawasaki-touring-sport-touring/21036d1215384436-voyager-replacme nt-hd-20tour-20prototype.jpg
No way it can be a HD.. the rider has a full face helmet http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
... and his jacket / pants / boots fashion statement is just all wrong !
dantama
08-22-2008, 04:54 PM
Here is a video on how car companies camouflage a car.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdnFaSVzdGc
The main reason that they hide cars isn't so that other companies won't know, it's so you and I won't know. It becomes almost impossible to sell a 2008 vehicle, if a totally redesigned 09 is already seen. They need a chance to sell all they can before unveiling the new one.
It is reasonable to me that if Kawi was coming out with a new Nomad/voyager, they would hide it and give the dealers as much time as possible to sell the old Nomad. Engineers need to do real world testing out on public streets. So disguising the new bike would need to be done.
The guy on the bike looks like my idea of a test rider. Not concerned about image at all, riding pants and jacket that don't match, helmet too. Tired of putting miles on just for the sake of miles (rather than going on a trip) and rests feet up on the passenger boards for a change of position.
Don't know, could be an Internet hoax, but I lean towards a factory test mule that got caught out on public streets on some body's cell phone camera.
No way it can be a HD.. the rider has a full face helmet http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
... and his jacket / pants / boots fashion statement is just all wrong !
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/f5785e6b.jpg
I just wish for two things:
1. Kawasaki has Brought back a full touring bike.
2. The test rider is over six feet tall. If that's true, big guy's rejoice because unlike the GW, there's some leg room on that bike!
dantama
08-22-2008, 05:01 PM
I hope it's a Kawasaki, and that the hard bags are just camouflage to make it harder to detect, and that the real bike has the present Nomad bags!
Here is a video on how car companies camouflage a car.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdnFaSVzdGc
The main reason that they hide cars isn't so that other companies won't know, it's so you and I won't know. It becomes almost impossible to sell a 2008 vehicle, if a totally redesigned 09 is already seen. They need a chance to sell all they can before unveiling the new one.
It is reasonable to me that if Kawi was coming out with a new Nomad/voyager, they would hide it and give the dealers as much time as possible to sell the old Nomad. Engineers need to do real world testing out on public streets. So disguising the new bike would need to be done.
The guy on the bike looks like my idea of a test rider. Not concerned about image at all, riding pants and jacket that don't match, helmet too. Tired of putting miles on just for the sake of miles (rather than going on a trip) and rests feet up on the passenger boards for a change of position.
Don't know, could be an Internet hoax, but I lean towards a factory test mule that got caught out on public streets on some body's cell phone camera.
I just don't see H-D doing these type of radical body changes when they just revamped their 2009 touring line up. The bags, trunk, fairing, forks, engine, exhaust and seats are all different and not clearly from any current manufacturer's models. This leads me to believe that it's a new design from a manufacturer who has been out of the big full touring market for a few years (see: Kawasaki).
I hope it's a Kawasaki, and that the hard bags are just camouflage to make it harder to detect, and that the real bike has the present Nomad bags!
+1
chuckster131
08-22-2008, 05:22 PM
I really hope it is a new Kaw, as it does look very nice!! Maybe there will be some light shed in Eureka Springs next month, as I will be there for the vroc reunion.
I thought the bags were OK, if not great, but I don't like the trunk. Can't tell about the fairings though.
chuckster131
08-22-2008, 05:30 PM
The trunk looks to be Venturish and the fairing well to me looks like the fixed one that HD has on the electra glide
but I don't like the trunk. Can't tell about the fairings though.
dantama
08-22-2008, 05:30 PM
Just for fun I took a Nomad door and pasted on the picture to see how the dimensions correlate.
If it was a clock, from 11:00 to 8:00 looks like a match for dimensions to the old, but not 8:00 to 11:00.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1870a4af.jpg
I can't figure out how the one in the picture opens without interference. I'm hoping it's just clever camouflage to make it not look so much like a Nomad.
ice793
08-22-2008, 05:53 PM
its gotta be a mad,the guys prob embarassed and put a fairing with harley stuff on it,and i ride with my feet on the pass boards for comfort, im not sure u can do that on a harley cause the pass boards are a tad higher though i could be wrong as i dont ride one.
lomax
08-22-2008, 06:48 PM
.....that engine does not look like the engine we know and love. Ours has a balance shaft ahead of the crankshaft and this engine does not. It also looks like a separate transmission on this bike. But my eyes ain't as good as they used to be either. Maybe a newly designed engine????
rflnomad
08-22-2008, 07:30 PM
If it is a H-D I don't see the pushrod tubes on the cylinders. But, the exhaust looks more H-D than on a Nomad. Not the mufflers; the head pipes.
Would be nice to see a new Voyager. ( I'm keepin the Nomad..)
dogdoc
08-22-2008, 07:57 PM
probably a computer generated composite of who knows what to fake us all out as usual...lol
Blue Rebel
08-22-2008, 08:00 PM
The engine shape, actually looks like a H-D from their older bikes.
ruruson1
08-22-2008, 08:21 PM
THe Mirrors and the Floor boards are very similar to the nomad. it also has more leg room than any harley I've seen or been on.
mrghost
08-22-2008, 08:33 PM
Very interesting. what my eye keeps locking on to is the crashbar. look at the shape of the crashbar where it bolts to the frame. that looks like the nomad bar to me but who knows for sure?
rickyboy
08-22-2008, 08:44 PM
A lot of good observation by the members. Cadd, you have an especially good eye, I think. I think this thing belongs to H.D.. I believe the trunk is H.D. all the way, and I also agree that the badge on the tank looks like the ones I've seen on the newer Harleys. But I'm no expert.
gopjohnny
08-22-2008, 08:55 PM
one think I know for sure,
it isnt mine LOL
I know it's a one piece at a time bike ! Like the old Johnny Cash song. This rider works for and The bike must be a KAWA HARLEY YAMA SUKI ....!
You nailed it! I'm ready for a down payment.
Just for fun I took a Nomad door and pasted on the picture to see how the dimensions correlate.
If it was a clock, from 11:00 to 8:00 looks like a match for dimensions to the old, but not 8:00 to 11:00.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1870a4af.jpg
I can't figure out how the one in the picture opens without interference. I'm hoping it's just clever camouflage to make it not look so much like a Nomad.
beezer
08-23-2008, 06:53 AM
it's a Victory
mcdaddy
08-23-2008, 07:58 AM
Looks to me, ....like you guys noted, the frame matches, the front forks/wheel/brake matches, the seat matches, even the saddle bags are close enough that the Nomad door looks real close.
The only major component that doesn't match is the engine.
Another observation ...
<blockquote> .....that engine does not look like the engine we know and love. Ours has a balance shaft ahead of the crankshaft and this engine does not. </blockquote>
What you can't see is the matching pipes on the other side of the bike because it's a V4 .. doesn't need a balance shaft .. but you need more space behind the crank, just like the photo, for the 6 speed w/reverse http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
What was it the "Fact or Fiction" thread said:
<blockquote> C) there will be a new Touring bike! Not a V-twin - and that's all he said! </blockquote>
unwind2
08-23-2008, 08:03 AM
The saddlebags look like Victory bags. Some of you more computer savy guys...can you put a pic of it beside a pic of a Victory and Nomad for comparison?
btw I have put my feet on the back boards like that before too on long trips just to change riding position.
VulcanE
08-23-2008, 08:25 AM
The gas tank looks 1600ish to me. The fairing looks like the HD Roadglide. If it is a Johnny Cash bike (witch all my co-workers calls mine), It is one sharp ride.
I like it ;)
nomad
08-23-2008, 10:34 AM
not a harley...i don't see the engine pushrods...just like another poster stated.
oldbiker
08-23-2008, 12:07 PM
It's a Yamaha Royal Star Venture
coacha
08-23-2008, 12:09 PM
It's a Yamaha Royal Star Venture
That is what I think too.
rickyboy
08-23-2008, 12:14 PM
Is that just another guess oldbiker?
What about the badge ? Is tthat not a Harley badge??
mcdaddy
08-23-2008, 12:25 PM
<blockquote>It's a Yamaha Royal Star Venture </blockquote>
Not if you compare the RSV engine
http://www.leonardtemple.com/images/venture/Venture_right.jpg
http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/attachments/kawasaki-touring-sport-touring/21036d1215384436-voyager-replacme %20nt-hd-20tour-20prototype.jpg
ianicky
08-23-2008, 12:46 PM
You guys have got it all wrong its the new Truimph full dressed tourer with the new V twin http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
The cylinders do look too skinny and because of that I did consider that this could well be a V-4 engine. That would allow the cam chains to be in the middle and the plugs to be on top.
What would be interesting would be a double-twingle where each pair of 500cc cylinders in a bank fire at the same time. HehHehHeh....
it's a Victory
Dude! Have you ever seen a Victory? No way!
nomad
08-23-2008, 01:33 PM
i think the new vision is awesome..
What ever it is, one could say "It has a very dubious parentage" Or it is just amazing what you can order if you don't have a single manufacture's parts manual...!
dantama
08-23-2008, 02:15 PM
I photo shopped this Venture and the mystery bike and they have very similar dimensions. I didn't save the photo because it wouldn't have made sense to anyone, but after you get done stretching it and trying to get the correct angle, a lot lined up like the boards and rear crash guards etc.
I suppose that if I wanted it to be a Nomad, I could convince myself it was, but if I wanted it to be a Venture, I could just as easily do that.
Here is a picture of both.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/43eeca2b.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/f5785e6b.jpg
Look at the rear bag rail and at the Nomad rear bag rail. These puppys are virtually identical.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh269/caddmannq/Nomad/Prototype.jpg
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh269/caddmannq/Nomad/nad2.jpg
nomad
08-23-2008, 07:45 PM
i don't see a water pump cover...its seems to be air cooled.
Yellow Jacket
08-23-2008, 09:02 PM
I still think it's a photo conglomeration. If I end up being proved wrong, I will buy myself a beer! :)
misunderstood
08-23-2008, 09:05 PM
Just noticing too how far back those handlebars reach. WOW !!
It's built for an American sized rider whatever it is.
bobzinger
08-23-2008, 10:37 PM
Ugly Pipes!
Im just going to add this to some already good observations - That motor almost looks like a punched out version of whats in the Vulcan 900's. Notice the airbox. If it is Kawasaki, maybe they are going a different direction from the 2000 motor. I couldn't get the picture up here but here is the link to Kawi's site and the photos of the 900. The mystery bike could have an 1800 motor(?). Compare the photos - oh and I do hope they keep the Nomad bags.
http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/detail.aspx?id=275&content=photos
ridemslow
08-24-2008, 09:06 AM
Harley's not going to change. They've only used about 6 or so different engine designs in the last 65 years, so why change now? It's a Kaw, but as for the dressings, I don't know. Look at engine, forks seat and things others have mentioned, and you too will see it is a Kaw. :-/
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh269/caddmannq/Nomad/900.jpg
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh269/caddmannq/Nomad/mystery.jpg
There's the 900. Obviously the intake, jugs and head are similar, though nothing else is.
One thing that leads me to think this mystery bike could be a V-4 prototype is this: When I talked to Mark at Dobeck performance about the state of current fuel injected V-Twins he voiced the opinion that the huge pistions on a long stroke engine were inhibiting combustion efficiency in a way that it was very difficult to get a good clean burn under a variety of RPM & load conditions. It was also difficult to have even a moderately consistant temperature throughout the combustion chamber. Because of this he said that manufacturers would have to run these engines leaner and leaner (read hotter and hotter) to fight smog production, and that that would (and had) inhibited performance to the point that increasing displacement of V-twins had pretty much reached a point of diminishing returns, in that making the engine larger made it dirtier too, and keepin it smogable meant reducing performance or engine life (or most likely a bit of both.)
One way to combat that and still get the potato-potato sound would be a V-4 that fired the two front cylinders together and two rear cylinders together. This is what I called a "double-twingle". The "twingle" was a parallel twin (like a Triumph Bonneville for instance) with cams and ignition set up to fire like a single cylinder engine. The double-twingle (or maybe "v-twingle"?) would still have a long stroke and two very meaty power pulses, and therefore good low end torque, but cleaner combustion than a twin of the same displacement.
From the side it could look virtually like a V-twin, and from the front the radiator obscures the looks anyway, so it doesn't matter. You would see 4 exhaust pipes, kinda like a V-max.
I think this would be a real coup for Kawasaki, as I do not think anyone has ever built an engine of this design before.
Interesting point Cadd - If what your saying is true... my guess that'll be badged "Voyager". By the way - I was thinkin that tranny under the jugs could be a newly developed six speed hence the different look. At any rate - it's fun to speculate.
rksaw
08-25-2008, 02:25 AM
Out of curiousity, when is the owner's meeting--the first week of September? the second? The shoe will drop the day after the show, right?
Bob, I don't think it's a photo conglomeration...I just think you want a beer.
Here's some things about the pic that you can't deny tho........
1. The engine guards and the saddle bag guards are exactly the same as a Nomad
2. The floor boards are exactly the same as a Nomad
3. The front forks and wheel assembly is the same as a Nomad, even down to the slotted holes in the disc rotor and disc brake caliper.
I really can't see where this is an HD. I think it's a Kawasaki product that's been camo'd in certain places. What I'm not sure of is whether it's a new version of the Nomad or the new Voyager.
Or, this could be a total fake, photoshoped and distributed by Dan Lund....LOL.
Idaho
08-25-2008, 07:12 AM
I can't believe you guys. This is no problem to ID. It is a Blue Motorcycle. What do I win?
I would like a 1600cc V-4. One that would have a redline at 6000 rpm, and would actually come close to reaching that in 5th gear. The Nomad gearing would work fine as it is.
dantama
08-25-2008, 09:47 AM
I would like a 1600cc V-4. One that would have a redline at 6000 rpm, and would actually come close to reaching that in 5th gear. The Nomad gearing would work fine as it is.
Having a real soft spot for the early 80's V-65 Honda V4 engines, I would love to have a V4 again.
It could easily have a 10,000 rmp red line, the V-65's did 25 years ago. They still had a good amount of torque down low, but wow when it got between 8 and 9.
Well, when I started this thread I was hoping someone would identify this bike because with the economy I have just given up hope for a new full sized touring bike from kawi and didn't want to get my hopes up only to be disappointed yet again. I have also read that the European and Asian markets are the big money makers for the metric manufacturers and these customers are buying scooters and motorcycles less then 500cc's. The big touring bike market is focused in the United States and I didn't think Kawasaki would pull the trigger on a new Voyager.
I never had a minute worth of problems with my 2006 Nomad but I sold it because I wanted more of a full touring bike with better passenger comfort.
The reason I am intrigued by this possible Kawi development is I bought a used BMW over a new Gold Wing because it had a little better leg room. The BMW is a great ride, but still limits my ability to stretch my 37" inseam legs out and my knees get sore pretty quick. The older Voyagers I have sat on seemed to be built for a taller rider and the bike in this spy shot has high handle bar positioning and looks to have good leg room. I'm crossing my fingers that Kawasaki is bringing back another option for the full touring market.
When I saw the pic, I saw a lot of similarities to the Kawasaki bikes and the flame of hope is alive again. I will be watching the Internet closely next month for news from the Kawasaki owners meeting. I think we will know one way or the other within a month.
Yellow Jacket
08-25-2008, 12:29 PM
Jon, I hope you're right. If you think about it, what would be better camoflage than to put some HD/Yahaha looking parts on it. It would be great if that is a prototype for a new Nomad/Voyager. Let's all keep our fingers crossed.
Now, I'm going to go get a beer! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
Jon, I hope you're right. If you think about it, what would be better camouflage than to put some HD/Yahaha looking parts on it. It would be great if that is a prototype for a new Nomad/Voyager. Let's all keep our fingers crossed.
Now, I'm going to go get a beer! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
Bob,
I hope it's camouflaged because I like this photo shopped pic with the Nomad bags much better than the original spy shot.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1870a4af.jpg
Jon
doctorgski
08-25-2008, 03:45 PM
I bet that we are looking at the new VOYAGER. They say that two bikes will be drooped this year, believe me it will not be the NOMAD. The nomad is too good a bike, it sales too well, and in its current form, it is a strong challenger to the HD road king. I personally think it's a better bike by far than the road king. What they are missing is a full decked out touring bike, like the Gold wing, the Venture, the BMW LT and the new Victory Vision, oh you can't forget the HD Ultra Classic. So with this in mind I think we will see some changes in the Nomad, like a bump up in the cc to 1800, and some other minor changes. The bikes that will be dropped will be the 1500 classic, and the 2K. You know the 2K has not been the strongest seller in the ol' stable, and it's had some problems in the longevity category. It has been said in this forum, that the larger the displacement of a V-twin the harder it is to make them comply with the EPA standards. That a BIG displacement motor, a lot of money goes onto keeping it EPA safe, and if its not going to be able to rack up a lot of miles before a work over, that's not good for the future. The 1500 classic has just see it's better day...and a good one at that. So, the new VOYAGER I believe will be a V-4, about 2000cc total, and will have all the bells and whistles. If that is the case, that will be my next bike, and looking at the picture, if that's it, oh yes baby! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
rksaw
08-25-2008, 04:13 PM
Dr G.,
I think you have made some good observations. It's all speculation, but it is certain, MaKaw fans are anxious to see what '09 brings.
Rich
beezer
08-25-2008, 05:28 PM
it's a Victory
donoller
08-25-2008, 05:29 PM
ok guys it looks like a victory, i seen on the road two weeks ago.
ok guys it looks like a victory, i seen on the road two weeks ago.
Then it's a Victory that doesn't look like any other Victory ever built and is decked out in surplus Kawasaki parts. It's also the first water-cooled Victory too. Plus the drive is on the wrong side for a Victory.
I don't really think there's a great chance that it's a V-4 Kawasaki, but I think there's there's a Zero chance that it's a Victory.
beezer
08-25-2008, 05:57 PM
0.0
Beezer, instead of being cryptic and inscrutable, why not give us some opinion or evidence or logic of why you think it's a Victory?
beezer
08-25-2008, 07:21 PM
I just wanted to throw another option into the mix. I hope you're not mad http://s2.images.proboards.com/cheesy.gif
No, just curious why you thought it was a Vic. For all I know you're banging the CEO's wife on the side or something. ;)
nomad561
08-25-2008, 07:41 PM
Look at the way the tranny bolts up to the motor.Definately not a typical HD design.
beezer
08-25-2008, 07:42 PM
they need a more subtle cruiser to appease the masses
The masses are buying Gixxers.
beezer
08-25-2008, 07:59 PM
not them CQ, old guys like us ;)
http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e54/1beezer/crazycyclist020.jpg
naugaman
08-25-2008, 08:56 PM
I have not read all the posts but did someone notice the goat bag?
http://www.oldguysrule.com/images/products/secondary/667.jpg
Another shirt you might like Beez...and any other wild old guy on here! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
rksaw
08-26-2008, 12:30 AM
Victory has a distinct engine that they work hard not to cover up with an air cleaner. Also, I don't think that's a goat bag.
I have not read all the posts but did someone notice the goat bag?
It's hard to tell, but when I lightened the photo it did look like there was something goat-like down there.
not them CQ, old guys like us ;)
Excellent shirt Beez! My wife got me this great coffee cup like that for the office. Everyone says it looks just like me.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh269/caddmannq/SillyPutty/rule.jpg
http://www.oldguysgear.com/index.php/cPath/1
No, just curious why you thought it was a Vic. For all I know you're banging the CEO's wife on the side or something. ;)
So that's why Beez is calling all the time...LOL.
beezer
08-26-2008, 05:24 PM
No, just curious why you thought it was a Vic. For all I know you're banging the CEO's wife on the side or something. ;)
So that's why Beez is calling all the time...LOL.
rutro, busted :)
No, just curious why you thought it was a Vic. For all I know you're banging the CEO's wife on the side or something. ;)
So that's why Beez is calling all the time...LOL.
Not you dude! The CEO of Victory.
(as if!...right? ;) )
elnomad
08-28-2008, 12:27 PM
I knew I'd seen the side cover before but it's on the wrong side of the bike. It is a Victory side cover. However, either the bike is totally custom with a mish-mash of parts or it's a VERY good product of Photoshop or something similar.
phenrichs
08-28-2008, 01:06 PM
I knew I'd seen the side cover before but it's on the wrong side of the bike. It is a Victory side cover. However, either the bike is totally custom with a mish-mash of parts or it's a VERY good product of Photoshop or something similar.
This is EXACTLY what I was thinking. Too many parts just dont seem to flow into each other to be a single model.
bobzinger
08-28-2008, 02:26 PM
http://www.giffordmotorcycles.com/victory-prices/06BlackTc.jpg
rickyboy
08-28-2008, 03:53 PM
Excuse me if the pic was discussed here before. I hope all is well and you were all safe riding this summer.
Just for fun, Trip has promised $$$ money (or free membership to this site) for the first member to identify this bike.
This picture was posted several months ago on the H-D boards and was supposed to be a spy shot of the 09 electra glide. It looks metric to me and does not look like the final H-D that came out a few weeks ago.
I just may not recognize Suzuki, Yamaha or Kawasaki features on a customer's modified bike, but I can't figure out what bike this is. Does anyone recognize this bike or could it be possibly be the long awaited new Kawasaki touring bike???
NOTES: Trunk looks a little like a Venture. Side bags not so much. The rider foot position on the passenger boards could be for comfort or could indicate bad engine heat like the Victory Vision. I do like the handlebar height and the height of the gauges at the top of the fairing. I don't see rear speakers however.
http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/attachments/kawasaki-touring-sport-touring/21036d1215384436-voyager-replacme nt-hd-20tour-20prototype.jpg
Enhanced:
http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/Jons_Nomad/HD2520Tour2520Prototype.jpg
I really think it is a Harley. Does it have a lot of items that look to be from the Nomad? Ya I think so. Let's not forget that the Nomad has a lot of features that are worth copying. Someone mentioned the trunk looking like one from a Venture. Sure but with the Harley side hinges to allow their traditional side lift opening. No rear speakers? I think there are speaker pods below the arm rests.
I think that, like cars, "the lines" on bikes have long ago, gone back to the curved look and H.D. could definitely take a page out of a few books to update their ol' school look. I think the guys at Harley have been slow to accept some of the good thing "metrics" have to offer. Maybe this is their attempt to sway over the metric people. Me though? Never a Harley owner. My metrics have never let me down. I'm willing to bet there are a lot more "let down" Harley riders than there are "metric cruiser" riders.
But that's just one guys opinion. I could be wrong.
Lets keep guessing.
nomad
08-28-2008, 06:04 PM
i thought it looked like an air cooled bike. could be a new harley. the metric bikes are beating them bad in the market right now. maybe they are trying to change the look?
beezer
08-28-2008, 06:37 PM
I've been looking at Harleys. I sat on a Rocker C yesterday. Cool looking but the seat was hard as a rock. I think it's just for bar hoppin. It's not for the serious kind of riding I do with Ole Dawg, chawneyboy and Ringadingh.
http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e54/1beezer/crazycyclist012.jpg
phenrichs
08-29-2008, 09:32 AM
The only reason I can't Fully believe that it's a Harley is the engine. Notice that there are no visible pushrods for the bottom-side cams. This engine must be over-head cam. I know the vrod is but that is also liquid cooled. Is HD finally going to admit that ALL metric manufacturers have been right all along by making more reliable and powerful machines by using overhead valve and cam?
rksaw
09-03-2008, 06:09 PM
So has anyone heard when the Kawi Franchise Owners' Meeting is? The '09 line-up should be out after that.
socwkbiker
09-04-2008, 01:03 PM
Nope.
Yep. Ummm, what was the question? http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
phenrichs
09-04-2008, 02:26 PM
On the delphi forum someone posted this pic as well. they also had three others, two of which were distorted but the forth one actually had two of these machines side by side. The engine is what is throwing everyone off. It is not typical to any brand.
09 Connie (Black and red versions, which are big improvements over neutron silver) and Vulcan 500 are on the Kawasaki site, so I assume all the updates will be released soon. ( And I doubt they are cutting the line-up back to just those two so I'm not worried that the Nomad has not been released.)
dantama
09-04-2008, 05:59 PM
On the delphi forum someone posted this pic as well. they also had three others, two of which were distorted but the forth one actually had two of these machines side by side. The engine is what is throwing everyone off. It is not typical to any brand.
Can you get us a link to those other photos please :)
lomax
09-04-2008, 07:19 PM
....here ya go Dan. Some pretty interesting comments on there!
http://forums.delphiforums.com/kawvulcan/messages?msg=82032.1
redjay
09-04-2008, 07:35 PM
Hi, I think it is a Victory motorcycle of some description. The cylinders (jugs) and engine casings are what made me think it was a Victory.
VulcanE
09-04-2008, 11:22 PM
I stopped by the local dealership today, and was talking with the owner. He was asking when I'm going to trade? I said when does the '09 models come out, and he said in about 2 more months. I told him about this bike, and how it has everyone guessing what it is. He told me, with a big smile, "They are dropping 2 cruisers, and it is rumored that Kawasaki is coming out with a 1700cc touring bike based on the Nomad, and would have a trunk, fairing, radio, and all the goodies so it can compete with the Venture, Electra Glide, and the Gold Wing". That's all he would say. So...... we'll just have to bite the bullet and wait and see. But, It does sound nice. I think to compete with the Gold Wing, it would have to be a V-4.
dantama
09-05-2008, 11:37 AM
....here ya go Dan. Some pretty interesting comments on there!
http://forums.delphiforums.com/kawvulcan/messages?msg=82032.1
Lomax, thanks for the link. Interesting pictures for sure.
Sorry guys with a dial up, lots of photos.
I definitely doubt that it is a fake now.
This picture shows two of them riding, and shows them reflected in the hood. The reflection has the white SUV etc and seems like it would be too hard to fake two of them and reflect them correctly.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/b1101a42.jpg
Here it is cropped and I isolated the visual distractions out (works better for me :) )
Notice the chrome strips between the fender and bags like Kawi likes to do.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1654f56a.jpg
And here is the fairing. Incorporating driving lights in it looks good to me.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1252fa6e.jpg
And the trunk. The photo is distorted, I certainly hope the proportions look better without distortions. Better yet, I hope that the bags are camouflage and it really has the regular Nomad bags.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/d38635a8.jpg
And just for fun and comparison, here's Ells riding with them :)
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/702f17d7.jpg
rksaw
09-05-2008, 11:56 AM
Thanks Dan...looks exciting!
dougster
09-05-2008, 01:45 PM
I think Cadd is right. It looks like a Nomad. The engine looks very much like the VN900. Maybe it is that engine, doubled! Four cylinders, like Cadd said. Also, there is a thread on the VROC forum showing four pictures of the two bikes.
phenrichs
09-05-2008, 02:06 PM
Damn it!!!! I can't find the right post now. Flip the picture around so that it is facing the other direction and it all makes sense. The large engine case is the primary. It is actually a picture of the left side of the bike that has been flipped. Somewhere someone posted the pic reversed and the engine instantly makes sense. Seeing that version to me seals that it is a complete photoshop as far as the side view goes. I thnink we could all agree that the following shot of the two bikes is too lacking in any detail to tell what they are.
I will keep searching and see if I can find it.
Top Cat
09-05-2008, 02:33 PM
I fliped the pic OP. Is this what you were talking about?
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd308/topcat63/HD2520Tour2520Prototype.jpg
phenrichs
09-05-2008, 02:36 PM
Can't see it TC.
Top Cat
09-05-2008, 02:41 PM
You can't see the pic? It shows on my screen.
phenrichs
09-05-2008, 03:19 PM
No i get "this image or video has been moved or deleted" message from photobucket.
rksaw
09-05-2008, 03:29 PM
I've got the same thing.
phenrichs
09-05-2008, 03:34 PM
Good its not just me.
dantama
09-05-2008, 04:08 PM
Seeing that version to me seals that it is a complete photoshop as far as the side view goes. I thnink we could all agree that the following shot of the two bikes is too lacking in any detail to tell what they are.
I will keep searching and see if I can find it.
Gotta disagree with you there.
A lot of things in the different view, including the side view, are congruent. Too congruent for somebody to keep photoshopping.
In the car hood view, it shows a somewhat heart shaped tail light. In the trunk view is what looks like one half of what could be a heart shaped tail light.
Enlarge the hood view and there is a light under the trunk that has a chrome corner.
Look at the trunk view and there is a light under the trunk with a chrome corner.
Look at the side view and all those are there too.
Look at the reflector on the hard bag latch in the side view. It's in the trunk view too.
The evidence to me points to the opposite conclusion. It is not a complete photoshop. Too many components from too many angles all congruent.
cactusjack
09-05-2008, 04:15 PM
I fliped the pic OP. Is this what you were talking about?
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd308/topcat63/HD2520Tour2520Prototype.jpg
...nice! Guys, preview your post before you submit it, especially if it has images or links in it. Not singling you out, TC. It happens a lot, just using this as an example.
dantama
09-05-2008, 04:24 PM
Seeing that version to me seals that it is a complete photoshop as far as the side view goes. I thnink we could all agree that the following shot of the two bikes is too lacking in any detail to tell what they are.
I will keep searching and see if I can find it.
Gotta disagree with you there.
A lot of things in the different view, including the side view, are congruent. Too congruent for somebody to keep photoshopping.
In the car hood view, it shows a somewhat heart shaped tail light. In the trunk view is what looks like one half of what could be a heart shaped tail light.
Enlarge the hood view and there is a light under the trunk that has a chrome corner.
Look at the trunk view and there is a light under the trunk with a chrome corner.
Look at the side view and all those are there too.
Look at the reflector on the hard bag latch in the side view. It's in the trunk view too.
The evidence to me points to the opposite conclusion. It is not a complete photoshop. Too many components from too many angles all congruent.
Here are some cropped photos showing the bits I was talking about. Pretty hard to fake things from many angles and keep congruent.
Original side view
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/d87e4094.jpg
New side view
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/f6bd353c.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/8da7bf8c.jpg
phenrichs
09-05-2008, 04:49 PM
Whoever built it is starting to really piss me off. I have seen this thing on many other forums and I will bet whoever posted the pics to the net the first time is laughing their ass off watching thousands of motorcycle nuts squirm to figure out what the hell it is.
Top Cat
09-05-2008, 04:56 PM
I fliped the pic OP. Is this what you were talking about?
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd308/topcat63/HD2520Tour2520Prototype.jpg
...nice! Guys, preview your post before you submit it, especially if it has images or links in it. Not singling you out, TC. It happens a lot, just using this as an example.
I can see the image in my post and I can see the image in your reply. How is previewing going to help?
Top Cat
09-05-2008, 05:00 PM
Can you guys see it now ???
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd308/topcat63/HD2520Tour2520Prototype.jpg
beezer
09-05-2008, 07:14 PM
I see it TC and it makes better sense flipped.
beezer
09-05-2008, 07:15 PM
Now I think it's a Hyosung.
nomad
09-05-2008, 08:04 PM
at least we know its not some kind of ploy....they have been seen on the streets. good call on the victory. could very well be true.
dantama
09-05-2008, 08:35 PM
Here's a higher quality photo reversed.
There definitely is camouflage on the fairing, it's hiding the driving lights etc. not a bra.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/4fab8a39.jpg
rksaw
09-05-2008, 09:15 PM
When you flip the photo, the chrome pieces on the trunk look like hinges. That would allow you to flip it open from the right side of the bike.
mcdaddy
09-05-2008, 10:09 PM
If it's flipped because someone thought the original was backwards, then it would be the only bike I've seen with no kickstand on the left side and what looks like a brake pedal.
Top Cat
09-05-2008, 11:22 PM
It's probably got a hydraulic center stand like the BMW's ;)
There is a lengthy discussion about this too on VROC under, "Joker what's the scoop?" Joker is a long standing member there and the original four photos were posted to Picasso by another long time member.
dantama
09-06-2008, 11:44 AM
There is a lengthy discussion about this too on VROC under, "Joker what's the scoop?" Joker is a long standing member there and the original four photos were posted to Picasso by another long time member.
For those of us that have our ISP banned from accessing VROC :)
What are their conclusions?
beezer
09-06-2008, 11:58 AM
at least we know its not some kind of ploy....they have been seen on the streets. good call on the victory. could very well be true.
Thank you :)
There is a lengthy discussion about this too on VROC under, "Joker what's the scoop?" Joker is a long standing member there and the original four photos were posted to Picasso by another long time member.
For those of us that have our ISP banned from accessing VROC :)
What are their conclusions?
I'll go have a look.
OK, some comments from VROC.org:
A close look at the fork assembly, rotors, calipers and passenger floorboards shows that this is clearly Kawasaki. (Okie Smoke)
The front end is definately a VN 2000 classic front end, hollow axle, dual
piston brakes, standard kawi rotors, and VN2000 downtubes (note the
reflector from the VN2000 classic)....The Passenger floorboards are from the 1600 Nomad...
The air cleaner looks oddly like the 900 air cleaner box, and the cylinder stacks are oddly similar to the 900...Someone on delphi made the comment that maybe it's 2-900's stuck together to create an 1800 v-4... (Flip)
Doesn't look like a current Vulcan engine to me. The from exhaust is not on the side of the jug like a Vulcan. Also, the bottom cases don't line up to
the jugs like any of the Vulcans. (Steve)
Looks like mirrors off a 1600 Nomad, and helmet locks on the rear engine guard. (Garry)
This same pic was discussed on another forum. Its definitely a Photoshop job. Some Harley, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Victory. I recognize the bags as Victory V92 touring bags and the engine cover is the LEFT side of a Victory. Passenger backrest is part Goldwing but at an odd angle to the rest of the bike. the guy has his feet resting on nothing and the crash bar has a ghost front horizontal bar.
I don't think you'll see that bike in any dealer showroom, ever. (Penmaker)
Some pretty savy folks say it's not [Photoshop]... (Okie Smoke)
So no conclusion, Dan. sorry.
skeeter
09-06-2008, 02:47 PM
feet are resting on passenger boards. do it all the time at that angle. agree with the V-4.
Lots of folks said it was Effin' Ugly. While it's not as pretty as my Nomad, It doesn't look that bad to me. I could live with the styling, except for the lowers. I hate lowers and they'd get stripped off the first day.
nomad
09-06-2008, 03:53 PM
definitely not photoshop....and yes i saw the rear floorboard thing too. i say this is a victory of some kind or a new kawa.
Sorry Dan, forgot. CMQ gives a good summary although I got the sense that there was a strong level support for some sort of Kaw. I found it interesting that the original four pics were posted to Picasso by Okie-Smokie (Nate) there who claimed they were from a cell phone cam and he seemed to know more about the pics but wasn't saying how he got them.
dantama
09-06-2008, 08:04 PM
Interesting thoughts. Thanks Cadd and Ells.
I think it would be super if it was a V-4, but I won't get my hopes up.
I'll go on the record saying that I think it is a real bike, cobbled together with some comauflage to throw the public off long enough to sell what is in the showrooms now. It is not a faked photo, it's a faked bike.
I don't know if it is a kawi that is camouflaged, or if another company used Kawi parts to camo their product.
I hope that it is a Kawi product. And I think whatever it is, we'll see it in show rooms this fall or next year. I hope it's the show rooms I go to.
...I'll go on the record saying that I think it is a real bike, cobbled together with some comauflage...
My opinion as well. I'm 99.9% sure it's a Kawasaki with camo bodywork.
I think it's a kawasaki. To many similiar parts. We should know the answer after the dealer's meeting next week.
Should be interesting...
If this is the fairing, I think it is great looking. I love the molding around the driving lights.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1252fa6e.jpg
Yeah, but why aren't the turn signals integrated? It has stock Nomad turn signals.
phenrichs
09-08-2008, 09:29 AM
If this is the fairing, I think it is great looking. I love the molding around the driving lights.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1252fa6e.jpg
So no one has mentioned it yet but are we looking at 2 distinct sets of photos of 2 motorcycles?
In this pic there is nothing covering the fairing but in the pic Dan posted farther up the page there is definitely something covering the fairing.
mcdaddy
09-08-2008, 02:03 PM
<blockquote>So no one has mentioned it yet but are we looking at 2 distinct sets of photos of 2 motorcycles?</blockquote>
I saw a post on the delphi forum ... supposedly a comment from the picture taker: ... when "they" (hence plural) saw him taking pictures, they accelerated quickly away.
coacha
09-08-2008, 10:01 PM
Hopefully some of the rumors and these pictures will be answered at the dealer meetings.
rksaw
09-09-2008, 12:27 AM
If it's flipped because someone thought the original was backwards, then it would be the only bike I've seen with no kickstand on the left side and what looks like a brake pedal.
Yeah, I looked again and didn't see a heel/toe shifter.
skeeter
09-09-2008, 01:11 AM
Q- would the yellow stripe on the side of the road give us a definitive answer to direction?
and it does look like just a brake pedal.
moenko
09-12-2008, 07:59 AM
Stick-on fork reflectors? That's a HD trademark - although they don't look like HD ones? Could this be a model of some sort, offered outside the USA only ??
Stick-on fork reflectors? That's a HD trademark -
Yes it is, but look at the tank badges. They're trying to make it look like an HD so people won't know what it really is.
I hope the exhaust is camouflaged. That chrome ain't very pretty.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/4fab8a39.jpg
BTW - I just paid $100 for a three year subscription to BMW Owners of America magazine along with other benefits of owning a beemer. I guess I'll just put my new BMW-MOA sticker on a new Kawasaki. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
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