Added a sidecar to the stable 10 years ago on a whim, great addition. Started with a Ural (!) and upgraded to a moderate displacement sorta custom build a few years later. Excels as a grocery getter and minivan, big bonus is stability - yeah, I'm retired and aging. Actually rekindled my love of riding aimlessly and just enjoying the day, achieving the speed limit on winding country backroads in the area became my days challenge.
Sold my GS and downsized several times until I ended up with a CB500X for light off road and general two lane riding. Sidecar rig handles multi state multi-day travels well enough and certainly doesn't encourage minimalist packing. Spent the time and money to set it up properly so it handles decent and drives well.
Been shopping for another bike to add to the stable, three is my self imposed limit, and am surprised by the evolution of my criteria.
Originally I "decided" upon a sub liter sports tourer - wind protection, luggage, frequent day trips primary consideration and suitability for 5-6 day travels when desired. Moderate displacement and weight being critical factors.Tired of 4 cylinder buzz, v twin just didn't trip my trigger. Found several flavors to fit the bill - BMW 900, Yamaha 900 the main ones. Totally intrigued by the MotoGuzzi v7 850 but no dealers anywhere near me, same with a few other more exotic choices. Triumph 660?
After lots of test rides and written out notes, spreadsheets, watched video review, etc I am admitting my criteria is evolving. I just don't really want to mess with all the weight, mass, and plastic. Insurance, maintenance, accessories, fuel. Ego no longer demands I be able to hold my head high when I ride past Starbucks.
REALLY starting to lean towards a scooter or an electric bicycle!
WTF!
Not sure I'm ready to honestly be seen riding a scooter but the idea doesn't immediately make me gag and retch. Electric bicycle? Cost as much as a decent small motorcycle! Still want one.
If I was to replace my CB500X I'd definitely consider the latest crop of excellent 300 CC machines.
Toying with the idea now of a new Honda Trail 150 and a bumper hitch for the pickup for when the photographer wife and I go off on photo expeditions.
What a long strange trip it has been.