Here we go... new to the forum, looking forward to joining the community.

[HighwayHum72]

Hello folks, HighwayHum72 here out of Upland, Southern California, Inland Empire (909), San Bernardino County. I have recently discovered this community as I researched as much as possible when I figured out that the bike I wanted the most of all is the Buell Lightning. I looked at everything and there is something to say about the feeling you get when you know what you want with all your heart. There are a lot of choices out there and I couldn't be happier because I just came home with a new to me 2004 XB12S. It needs a professional detail but the motor is sound and it drives well and everything works as it should. It has 20,000 miles and a perfect service history. The exhaust is very pleasing to the ear, a beautiful chrome Jardine branded unit. I am not an experienced street rider. I own and ride dirt bikes all year in the San Bernardino mountains including the local lakes (Big Bear, Arrowhead, Silverwood) as well as in the desert areas and vast stretches of BLM land spanning across California ,Mexico and Nevada. I ride some dual sport rides on my Kawasaki KLX but I currently only have my learners permit so I cannot ride on the highway, legally. I very much enjoy my 02 Yamaha WR426F on the trails and occasional day on the track. I think I went to the track twice last year because its just too easy to get hurt and after spending most of my twenties in a cast, I am over the injuries that come from riding aggressively. I have screws in my wrist and I realize that another wrist injury might very well result in losing my entire hand. It happens, more than you know. I am enrolled in the MSF license course scheduled later this month and I look forward to learning the material they provide over 2 days totaling 16 hours of classroom and riding instruction. Completing the course actually earns you the full M1 endorsement in California and I think it is a $258 well spent. It took me about 1 city block, on the XB12s, to realize that this little streetfighter bike demands respect and responsibility. I intend to ride with both and I know after my first day out that this is the start of something great. I'll be back here often to learn and have a good time. Nice meeting you folks. Here's the new little bastard...

 

[Cooter]

You sound like a competent dirt rider, and that area has some of the best riding! I used to do Ocotillo Wells, Gorman, and of course Glamis and Dumont for a sand fix:love_heart:

You will be just fine on the XB, they are set up short and wide like a dirt bike, and are super torquey like your WR thumper. Have fun out there and welcome to the Forum!