They are unreliable
The stories flow like the Mississippi. You have an old UJM motorcycle, so therefore, you must never actually ride it. Haters are going to hate. The truth is, a 2010 BMW can be unreliable as much as a 1978 CB 750 if there has been neglect and misuse /abuse. Any machine that has been properly cared for and maintained will perform the way its meant to. In the last 2 years on my old GS550, I’ve stacked up over 9k miles. Not once did I doubt if she’d be able to make it. (I was wrong the first time, but that was my fault 😉 )
They are slow
While performance bikes in 2019 are at an entirely new level, that doesn’t mean that that all are. A 50hp bike is the capable of a 0-60 time around 6 seconds. Just a few years ago, a BMW 3 series (non M) would also be able to pull off a 6 second 0-60. While you might not feel as stable at speeds over 80-90, an old UJM motorcycle is only as slow as the diplacement and rider are. Saying they are slow is simply cheap. A 1000cc GS from 1982 far from slow. Just like a 300cc bike from 2018 is also not slow.
You cant find parts!!
This is a good one. For 2 years of old UJM motorcycle ownership, i have yet to check yes on that box. There may not be an active aftermarket for OEM parts or exact replacement parts, but in most instances, there are parts to get your bike back on the road. Sites like Old Bike Barn and Dime City are a UJM riders best friend.
These are the 3 most common misconceptions about owning an old UJM motorcycle. What else have you heard ?? leave a comment below or share your story.
Keep riding. Whatever it is.