A waste or not?

[curtisc83]

I posted on this forum a little while ago asking for a opinion on bikes to get. I got some great info and advice and I think this forum is great. So I have another question I can't seem to find a clear cut answer myself. I am going on leave from Afghanistan in August for a couple of weeks. And due to my Ex-Wife taking my Monster 620 and selling it I have no bike to ride when I'm on leave.

I understand bikes are luxury items and I will never get my money out of it. That being said I would like to order one so the day I touch down I can go straight to the Ducati and pick it up. Now while all of this sounds ultra cool there would be a down side. After I am done with my leave its going to sit in storage for at least 6 months maybe more.

Its it worth it? I know its my decision but would it be wise to wait till I get back to get something? I'm not concerned with its worth or anything like that since bikes lose value no matter what you do to it.

I just figured since this forum has people from all walks of life maybe someone ran into a similar dilemma in there life at some point and had some insight.

Oh I called around already and I can't find a rental that isn't a gold wing type bike in my area so that's not a option.

[muskrat]

Here's a rental option http://www.eaglerider.com/rentals.aspx but it's expensive.

If you buy a Duc make sure you drain the gas before you leave unless it's a used model with a metal tank.  I would recommend using something like Stabil otherwise, especially sitting for so long or you'll come back to a warped tank.

thank you for your service.

[curtisc83]

So the 2011 Ducs have the tank warping issue too?

[Raux]

A rental, and there are other than HD in the area, is going to cost you about $1k per week.

so take that for a 2k deposit and work with a local dealer to help you out maybe.

[abby normal]

You're one of america's fighting heroes.  Buy the bike ...you deserve it.

[justinrhenry]

if it were me i'd probably go ahead and buy it.

if it weren't me and i were able to give an objective opinion i'd say you should wait. 

[BastrdHK]

Where are you located?  I'm sure there is a DMF'er or two within driving distance that would be willing to help you with the pickup/delivery/storing process.  If your near South Carolina or Chicago....I'll help you out! 

[Raux]

what I saw initially he was in the Austin, TX, area

[curtisc83]

Wow thanks for all the posts I do want the bike...LOL...I already talk to the dealer in Austin and they would work with me given my unique situation and all. I guess then I will get the bike since I haven't ever treated myself to a new bike. My 620 was used.....I do miss that bike but if I'm going to spend more money I want ABS at least.

[seevtsaab]

A bike sitting for 6mos should be no problem, treat the gas or drain it, or better yet, do both.

Prolly ought do something about the battery, preferrably put a battery tender on it.
Mine sits stone cold for 5 months a year.

[curtisc83]

I could have someone start it once a week and let it run for 10-20 mins or so would that help or would that do more harm?

[GLantern]

I could have someone start it once a week and let it run for 10-20 mins or so would that help or would that do more harm?

That generally causes more harm then good.

[Raux]

get front and rear stands, take it off the ground, take the battery out, drain the fuel.
btw if you PCS when you return you'll have to do the same for the fuel and unhook the battery.

[Speedbag]

That generally causes more harm then good.

+1

Condensation hell. 

[ManaloEA]

I just picked up my '11 696ABS, and the dealer told me that if I was going to store the bike for a while (such as during the winter months) to attach a battery tender and fill it with gas. I would have thought differently like everyone else...