I finally managed to get out on the Futura yesterday, fully 3 weeks after getting it back from being serviced & MOT`d. A combination of work and family commitments along with torrential rain had got in the way.
The route I took was a little under 50 miles all on roads I know well so I could concentrate on getting to know the bike rather than worry about where to go. The roads were a little greasy and the last owner had put brand new tyres on just before I bought it so I was just taking it easy to bed the tyres in.
Anyway, first impressions , very comfortable saddle with lots of room to move around and excellent suspension so even the really crappy roads don`t seem to upset the bike at all . From a riders point of view it was as if the roads had magically been repaired by the council. The engine felt very smooth for a twin , nice even power delivery from low down but with a noticeable whoosh from about 5500rpm. I didn`t take it over 7000rpm so I cant say if there is a real top end rush or not. Everything worked well and was easy to use, even the back brake and mirrors. The only bad thing was the wind noise as the combination of my riding position and the screen seemed to make sure all the noise was concentrated above my visor.
I have a fairing extender on another bike so I`ll try that next time to see if it helps.
The ST range must have been the natural competitor for this bike , I`ve had an ST2 & ST3 and IMO both give more feedback and are more sporty to ride than the Futura . The Futura is definitely quicker than both and probably a lot more comfy to be on for long periods though. I also suspect it would be way better two up with much less bashing of helmets ( ooh er missus) as the engine is so much smoother. The panniers are better too.
Based on the ride it doesn`t seem to have the elusive soul that my Monster or Moto Guzzi have but it may just need more time in the saddle getting to know it . I guess I`ll find out between now & May when it will either have wormed its way under my skin or I`ll sell it. Either way I`m very happy to use it through the winter as the fairing does a great job of deflecting wind from your body and hands, I wasn`t even a teeny bit cold when I got home although I was wearing RST Paragon heated gloves which are brilliant and available from the Gaylord Shopping Chanel.
Don`t google Gaylord whatever you do , who knows what you`ll come across.
All in all pretty good for a 20 year old bike that cost hardly anything and I even quite like how it looks.
www.demon-tweeks.com
