Is logic really all that important?

[Adamm0621]

So, I got bit by the Mod bug the other day and started tallying up the price for all of the mods I want to do to my Monster.  The end price was close to 4k dollars, with the more expensive bits being upgraded suspension and steering-dampner.  Then there's all the carbon fiber pieces that I want, new seat, aftermarket mirrors, etc...  The way I look at it, the price of the mods is almost equivalent of a down payment on another motorcycle.  I've really been lusting after the dark 848 or the new dark 848 Evo.  What to do... Mod like crazy or add a new bike to the stable?

For general info, I currently have a 2010 696 with tail-chop, 14t front sprocket, frame sliders, and CF Termi exhaust.  I love the power of the 696 but wouldn't mind a little more on occasion.  I don't need two Monsters, so there's no point in getting the 1100, the Hypermotard is cool, but I'd definitely like the 848 if I ever get a second bike.

[NoisyDante]

Were clip-ons on your list of mods?  That alone really transforms the feel of the bike, puts you in a riding position very similar to an 848.  Not to stave off your bike lust, by all means build up your stable, variety is the spice of life.   [moto]

[muffinman]

...and what makes you think you won't spend another $4k in mods on your new 848?  

I can understand the temptation, though - the 848 dark is pure sex.

You ride a motorcycle, there is no logic.

[duccarlos]

You'll you spen 4K in one shot out throughout a period of time?

[Drjones]

Depends on what your budget is.  If your budget is $4k then adding another bike that is $13k isn't logical.

[Cider]

Some problems with modding:

• It doesn't make financial sense
• Changing something usually exposes or creates another problem to be "fixed"
• It's rarely satisfying, in the sense that when you're "done", you'll be looking for a new bike to start over on

If those things don't bother you, then mod away.  Personally, I think it's fun.

[Popeye the Sailor]

You could also buy a used bike for track use, etc. 4K is enough to buy all sorts of fun toys. While you will then be maintaining two bikes and the like, at least you can sell one-you'll find the moment you buy and install those mods, they aren't worth much.

There's also spousal approval, if you have one.


You could just send me money and I'll tell you how much better your bike looks now than before.

[duccarlos]

the kid's too pretty for a track bike, you know that!

[geoffduc]

I started to add up the cost of my mods to the S4Rs and Hyper, frightened the shit out of myself but hey what the hell its only money and besides it makes them special...

 

[Adamm0621]

I'm going to Afghanistan soon, so I'll have plenty of money when I get back.  My wife lets me do whatever I want with our money because I usually don't spend much on myself.  We're out of debt, we're selling the only car that we owe any money on, and the Monster will be paid off in a few months.  I'm just sort of brainstorming on what to do...Mod, or second bike.

[herm]

making payments on a new bike makes less sense that modding the bike you already have.

more so if you are already making payments on the first bike.

[Goat_Herder]

Even if you choose to put downpayment on the 848, you will still want to spend money on mods.  the difference is - you will want to spend even MORE money to mod 2 bikes.

I vote for modding what you have and get a track bike when you feel like going fast.  On a track, of course.

[Desmo Demon]

...and what makes you think you won't spend another $4k in mods on your new 848?

The best mods I've even done to my bike(s) are gas, oil, tires, and chain and sprockets. Everything else I view as a waste of my money.....and for what most people spend on mods, I just buy more bikes - 9 running ones currently in the stable.   

[GBusa]

 I usually go the mod route.
I usually also had more than one bike in the stable at a time, sometimes 3 the most 7. do too some moves, job changes ect, I find myself with but one machine at the moment.
So this go round, I've decided that outside of a few little things, My new 796 is almost perfect as it sits  
So that leaves me on the side of passing on major mods and adding a second bike to the stable.
While I plan on doing thrifty upgrades in the future to both.
Things like buying the like new take offs from folks modding models up the food chain from my bikes. Or waiting out the deals and such.
 Good luck with your decission.
 GB

[fastwin]

I'm no good here. I mod my bikes and buy new ones too. Not so much lately due to the bad economy. But that's been the trend for years. It's not that smart but they are all payed for and I have the ability to stop modding/buying whenever necessary. I think that's the key. "A man has to know his limitations"... Clint Eastwood. [moto]