KC Goes Hog-Wild for High-End Choppers
by Amy Johnson

 

Motorcycles were once thought to be the exclusive domain of tattooed leather-clad gangs. Those days are long gone. With many high-end models now costing more than a car, motorcycles have evolved into a posh status symbols. They still carry the same feeling of a wild and free lifestyle—but graced with a hint of luxury.

 

For those who dream of riding off into the sunset, a touring bike is the way to go. Peter Bobowski, a longtime sales associate for Engle Motors, notes that touring bikes “have an upright feel and you can ride them longer.” The 2008 BMW K1200 LT embodies the best of what a touring bike has to offer. A higher output engine, modified gearbox, an electrohydraulic center stand, and heated seats are among the 44 standard features included. This four cylinder motorcycle is built to be a smooth comfortable ride, while still packing a powerful engine.

The 2008 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide is “the top of the line that Harley makes,” says Tom Allen, sales manager at Gail’s Harley-Davidson. Allen notes that this touring bike includes “all the bells and whistles” including air-adjustable rear suspension, new rear-isolated drive system, and a chromed six-speed engine, to name a few. Steve Jackson, sales associate at Worth Harley-Davidson, points to this as being “a bike someone’s going to take a lot of long trips on, if you’re heading off to California you’ll want to be on this bike.” It has an intercom system that allows passengers to talk to each other through their helmets, adding a sleek combination of style and comfort.

Feel the need for speed? The brand new BMW HP2 Sport is powered by 130 horsepower and the most powerful Boxer engine ever produced by BMW Motorrad. It also features new Quickshifter technology that allows faster gear changes, and double overhead camshafts included in the opposed twin cylinder motor. Bobowski points out that these bikes were manufactured specifically for a niche market and are therefore few and far between in quantity. Those lucky enough to own one will definitely be burning pavement.

Craving a custom feel? Look no farther than the brand new Harley-Davidson Rocker C. According to Allen it is a “totally different renovation and has more of a factory custom look.” A chromed powertrain cover, curved handlebar riser, front fork lowers, and a new 2-in-1 convertible trick seat are among some of the many features of this motorcycle. “Engine-wise it’s the same, but its old-style, chopper look is great for cruising around looking cool, going to bike nights,” Jackson says. “It’s the stuff you see on TV out bar hopping.”

Bobowski said “the neat thing about motorcycles is that many get 60 miles plus per gallon, we have a lot of people coming in and looking at motorcycles as their main form of transportation.” Whether looking for a primary form of transportation or a weekend toy, enjoy a smooth comfortable ride in these highend hogs. And with summer and gas prices heating up, now is the time to rev up this new spin on luxury vehicles.

 

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