I rode the Honda Shadow yesterday, but the money end isn't going to work out between us. The owner is a coworker and she'd offered to work with me on paying for it (some now, some later), but she needs more than I have to pay off the note on it. Bummer. Was a great ride, and I really liked the bike.

Couple days ago went and played around with a 2009 Vulcan 900.... that's a sweet bike. Wish I could talk myself into spending $8K on a motorcycle, but I can't. Not for a first bike. Might consider one of the new Vulcan 500s.

Supposed to go take a look at a little Rebel this weekend. We'll see how that goes.

Maybe look at V-star 650s

I bought a 2003 650 Custom for $3200 in 2005 w/ 47 miles on it; sold it last year for $3200 w 5k miles

Great bike. Zero issues.
Other than being a little short in 5th gear at 70-80-mpg; needs a taller 5th gear or 6th. I’m 6’ 230 and it hauled me around just fine.

Maybe look at those?
Heck of a lot cheaper; good bike; smaller; good to learn on/improve on etc. for not a lot of $$$.

V-star 650 is a great choice

Just got home from road testing the Rebel... it's a last resort. If you're taller than about 5-7 I'd recommend against it. It's really small, smaller than the Nighthawk. Runs well, and has decent pickup, it's just physically small.

LOL, I'm just a hair over 5-7, 150 lbs. How was it as far as vibration compared to other bikes you've tested?

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/mcy/1275409360.html sold.

It's a lot quieter than the Shadow I rode the other day, but I can't really comment on vibration... it wasn't something I noticed. It got it up around 50 mph and it didn't feel strained at all. I'm only 5-10 (though significantly heavier at 230).

Thanks FMB. I'm still in window shopping mode, so I appreciate your input on actual road tests. I got my permit yesterday and will now sign up for a safety course, so hopefully soon I'll be doing some road tests myself.

Dont get one period. You're Welcome

:Scanlon: times have changed.
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Thank you FMB for starting this thread!!

Only MV can scam on chicks on his sweet bike

Well, I'll probably be picking up something on Thursday. It'll either be a 2001 Vulcan 500 LTD or a 2009 Vulcan 500 LTD. Haven't made up my mind if I want to spend more money or less money, but it'll be one of those two on Thursday.

Both models are exactly the same except for color.

sweet.
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http://www.rubbermag.com/news/0710/i...1016_vdmba.jpg

I still love this look for bikes. Don't hate the jap bikes.

Don't ask me price.