Pros and Cons of Vaquero?

[cheriann]

I know I haven't been on here for a while, and I have tried combing the board for answers about owning a Vaquero. I read through most of the thread on Owners of Vaquero, etc.... I am finding some issues, which I know is normal when a new model comes out, but having trouble keeping them all straight! (Blonde thing, I guess!!! LOL!)

Hubby has found me a deal on a 2012 blue Vaquero, which we are about ready to pull the trigger on (I'll trade in my 900). Can I ask if it is worth it? Is it a good bike? Are the Vaquero owners happy? Any thing I should worry about or replace immediately? Is there a better thread to find these answers in?

Thank you!!!!!!

[jestephens]

You are in the correct forum and welcome. IMO, there is nothing of the Vaquero that MUST be replaced as soon as you get it other than the windscreen, and that' primarily dependent on your height and helmet style e.g. Full face v/ Half.

That said, I've changed several things, but that's because I can't leave any bike alone.

New, my Vaq had somewhat of a whine in the belt at low speeds, but that has gone away some time ago, now at 3500 miles. Louder shifting is a trait of the 1700's, but that too has gotten quieter with mileage.

Many of the guys on this thread will argue till the cows come home that the Voyager is a "better deal" because of some included accessories and tourpack. But the Vaquero is a different bike, with a different look and a different attitude. You'll love it

[cheriann]

Originally Posted by jestephens

You are in the correct forum and welcome. IMO, there is nothing of the Vaquero that MUST be replaced as soon as you get it other than the windscreen, and that' primarily dependent on your height and helmet style e.g. Full face v/ Half.

That said, I've changed several things, but that's because I can't leave any bike alone.

New, my Vaq had somewhat of a whine in the belt at low speeds, but that has gone away some time ago, now at 3500 miles. Louder shifting is a trait of the 1700's, but that too has gotten quieter with mileage.

Many of the guys on this thread will argue till the cows come home that the Voyager is a "better deal" because of some included accessories and tourpack. But the Vaquero is a different bike, with a different look and a different attitude. You'll love it

Thank you!!! It's funny you mention the Voyager vs Vaquero. I have already been getting that from others, but I am firm that I want the Vaquero

[sacarriker]

Originally Posted by cheriann

Thank you!!! It's funny you mention the Voyager vs Vaquero. I have already been getting that from others, but I am firm that I want the Vaquero

Get the green one. It is bad ass! Our local dealer has one with 21 inch wheel on front performane air inductoin system with cover that matches the front wheel, and cobra tri-ovals. The tri ovals match the bags perfectly. My wife loves the comfort of our voyager. If i was riding solo the vaquero is pretty nice.

[cheriann]

Originally Posted by sacarriker

Get the green one. It is bad ass! Our local dealer has one with 21 inch wheel on front performane air inductoin system with cover that matches the front wheel, and cobra tri-ovals. The tri ovals match the bags perfectly. My wife loves the comfort of our voyager. If i was riding solo the vaquero is pretty nice.

I honestly haven't seen the green one yet. I wonder why they charge another $1,000 on the asking price for that color?

[mobandy78]

Originally Posted by sacarriker

Get the green one. It is bad ass! Our local dealer has one with 21 inch wheel on front performane air inductoin system with cover that matches the front wheel, and cobra tri-ovals. The tri ovals match the bags perfectly. My wife loves the comfort of our voyager. If i was riding solo the vaquero is pretty nice.

I saw that bike on YouTube! That 21" front wheel makes that bike a sweet looking ride! I think I'd really consider that set up if I can ever get myself to buy a new Vaquero. It really makes the bike look custom!

[Pitchinguy]

Pros: That bike is hot! That bike is cool! And, the blue is sweet & will go well w/your eyes.

Cons:I don't have one.

[cheriann]

Originally Posted by Pitchinguy

Pros: That bike is hot! That bike is cool! And, the blue is sweet & will go well w/your eyes.

Cons:I don't have one.

LOL!!! Aw shucks.... *blushing* ........thank you!!!!!!
I looked at a picture online of the blue and WOW! It is gorgeous! Can't wait to see it in person!!!!

[bearbait]

I replaced my 1600 Nomad with a 2011 Vaquero and couldn't be happier. Just returned from my first long trip (New York to the Dragon in North Carolina) and enjoyed every minute of it.

I replaced the stock wind deflector with a 12" windshield, and bought the quick release passenger backrest to help hold my touring luggage on the bike.

It is a good bike, and there are no immediate "worries" other than - as jestephens said - the wind deflector. Of course, YMMV.

[cheriann]

Originally Posted by bearbait

I replaced my 1600 Nomad with a 2011 Vaquero and couldn't be happier. Just returned from my first long trip (New York to the Dragon in North Carolina) and enjoyed every minute of it.

I replaced the stock wind deflector with a 12" windshield, and bought the quick release passenger backrest to help hold my touring luggage on the bike.

It is a good bike, and there are no immediate "worries" other than - as jestephens said - the wind deflector. Of course, YMMV.

Thank you so much! I guess my first replacement will be the windshield. Thank you for the measurements!

[mobandy78]

Good questions, cheriann. I want to see these answers too. I'd love to have a Vaquero, but it may be a year or two before I can pull that trigger.

[cheriann]

Originally Posted by mobandy78

Good questions, cheriann. I want to see these answers too. I'd love to have a Vaquero, but it may be a year or two before I can pull that trigger.

WHEW! Glad someone else wanted to know too!!! I know many have been discussing their Vaquero here, but I wanted a thread with immediate pros and cons all in one place

[quad_hunter]

I too just love my Vaquero. Like others replaced the windshield right away with a Cee Bailey 9". If your making a deal, try and get them to throw in the aux. driving lights for free, and while they got it apart they might as well throw in aux. cig. lighter plug. Other then that, enjoy and don't be afraid to pull the trigger.

[tazfl]

I just traded in my 2008 nomad on a new vaquero (green / black) a few weeks ago. I absolutely love this bike and I think you'll have a hard time trying to find any reason to regret making the trade. Like others have already said, the stock windscreen /shield is a joke. I just ordered a taller shield for mine a couple of nights ago.
Make the trade, you'll be glad you did.

[cheriann]

Originally Posted by tazfl

I just traded in my 2008 nomad on a new vaquero (green / black) a few weeks ago. I absolutely love this bike and I think you'll have a hard time trying to find any reason to regret making the trade. Like others have already said, the stock windscreen /shield is a joke. I just ordered a taller shield for mine a couple of nights ago.
Make the trade, you'll be glad you did.

You got the green one!!! How pretty! Glad you are so pleased with the bike!!!! I will start shopping ahead today for the new windshield!!!! Thank you!