What's a good 1 to 2Kish motorcycle?

SomethingClever · #1 10-12-2004, 05:47 PM

I used to own a 1981 Yamaha Maxim 550, which was a pretty great bike for $800.

I want something similar, although this time around I'm thinking possibly of a V-twin (mid-80s Honda Shadow?)

Specifications: I don't want a crotch-rocket. I like standard bikes.. no fairings, windshields or fancy looking stuff. No dirtbikes, either. To give you an idea, I think the best looking bike in the world is the naked Ducati Monster.

Has to be reliable and start every time I want it to without a lot of fiddling around.

Any ideas besides the Shadow?

mostsmooth · #2 10-12-2004, 06:31 PM

[ QUOTE ]
Has to be reliable and start every time I want it to without a lot of fiddling around.

[/ QUOTE ]
dont get a duc then

Boris · #3 10-12-2004, 06:40 PM

The Honda V30 is a great city bike. I used to own one and liked it lots. Problem is I got too paranoid about idiot drivers not paying attention.

SomethingClever · #4 10-12-2004, 07:17 PM

[ QUOTE ]

dont get a duc then

[/ QUOTE ]

If I get a Ducati, it'll be less than 8 years old. Not one of the older ones with the finicky reputations.

Of course, I probably won't get a Ducati until I'm crushing 15/30.....

SomethingClever · #5 10-12-2004, 07:22 PM

[ QUOTE ]
The Honda V30 is a great city bike. I used to own one and liked it lots. Problem is I got too paranoid about idiot drivers not paying attention.

[/ QUOTE ]

Just googled this bike and it looks pretty fresh.

Although a bit on the small side. I'm 6'1" and I don't want to look like I'm riding a big wheel. Is this bike big enough for me?

Agreed on idiot drivers.

Boris · #6 10-12-2004, 07:48 PM

I'm 5'11" and the bike fit me well. I have shorter legs and a longer torso than the average build. You might also want to check out the V45 if need something bigger.

balkii · #7 10-12-2004, 07:58 PM

dude dan this bike is parked like 1 block from my house, if you wanna see it up close i'll show you .

HUSKER'66 · #8 10-13-2004, 06:36 AM

Depending on where you live, you might find a late 88-93 Suzuki GSX1100G. Comfortable cruiser with plenty of power (1127cc)and your woman won't give you grief about the ride on back.

Do a search here for your price range and area:

http://www.cycletrader.com/index.html

Husker

lostinthought · #9 10-13-2004, 01:19 PM

I bought a 1992 Honda Nighthawk 750 for $1900 in great condition a couple of years ago and it has treated me very well.

It was my first motorcycle, and I'm very happy with the purchase.

SomethingClever · #10 10-13-2004, 02:08 PM

I see that one a lot. Are you sure it's a V30?