Javern said:
HONDA made the mistake...wether it be not enuff testing, poor design of the frame, etc.
I'd have to say it isn't an issue of the frame design or not enough testing, because the frame cracks are showing up on the later model bikes, not the older ones. So there was something in the process that went bad later in the game. I don't think there has been any "spontanious" frame cracks in anything older than the '03s, but I am sure someone will correct me if I am wrong.
FORREST,
The 1800 is an awesome machine! You haven't said whether or not you have ridden it, but if you have, you already know that. Your wife will love the back seat. As Dale C. said, there are a much larger number of happy 1800 owners than there are ones with problem bikes. Understandably, the owners with problem bikes are a much louder minority, as I would be if I spent all that $$ on something with problems.
Reading these boards gives some the impression the sky is falling. It isn't. It might rain every now & again, and no one likes to get wet.
I've got almost 54k on my '01 (would be a lot more if my "favorite uncle" :unclesmile: would let me stay home long enough to ride... lol) and I wouldn't trade it for anything!!
As also stated by others, if y'all are the worrysome type, I guess you'd be better off walking away fromt his deal. Would hate to ride worrying everytime I hit a pothole my bike was going to explode. But if it makes you feel any better, there has been no major accidents or injuries caused by the frame cracks. Sure, some will say "yet", but it is something you can mitigate the risk on. Inspect your frame and then get on an ride it like you stole it!!
Another option would be to find a good deal on an older bike, an '01 or '02, have the ECM done, and enjoy it. There are lots of great deal on used bikes with low miles and not much customization done to them. Or for that matter, there are some that are already tricked out and you'll save money on the extras. That is what I did.
Life is too short to spend it sitting on the sidelines worrying! I'd get the bike again in a heartbeat!
Good luck with your decision