Re: small bike
 

And about 3 tanks of gas in the cage. Lynda also took time off work so it really added up. Still a bargain in my opinion. When Lynda went for her road test the examiner said she was very good and wished all newbies had her skills.

Re: small bike
 

I just want to throw in my two cents :poked:

I moved from the GZ to the VStar because of several factors.

First and most important to me was comfort. From the seating difference, to the weight of the bike. A heavier bike will be more comfortable because it will absorb bumps more instead of sending them right to the rider.

Secondly power, I'm able to maintain speed regardless of incline, wind, or any other factors. I am also able to run Interstates to back roads on my 650.

Thirdly is the fun factor, after about a week of riding the VStar I was comfortable enough to ride in traffic and maneuver just like the GZ.

I would encourage anyone that has put significant time in the saddle on their GZ, to move up if they so desire to. It's all about personal choice the GZ has it's limits as do all bikes, but I loved my little bike while I had it. I'm also 5'6" 170+lbs so it isn't about my size.

Re: small bike
 

Congratulations rusty rider! I have been thinking about a V-star too. Did you buy the custom or classic model and what year? The blue with ghost flames are sweet! Maybe you have a picture you could post? :biggrin:

Re: small bike
 

I love the Vstar bikes. Have had several. I think (opinion) the Vstar 650 is the most easy and natural move to a larger bike most people with a GeeZee could make. Of course there are other makes that make moving up easy also. The mid sized Shadow and the Boulevard. But the Vstar tops my list.

Re: small bike
 

I purchased a Custom, and I have found it to be a nice bike to transition from a GZ to the VStrar. I don't have an updated picture since I added a windshield, and mounted my saddle bags correctly. Here is a picture after just purchased it.
[attachment=0:zthj24pw]new bike001.JPG[/attachment:zthj24pw]
By the way I was able to ride to work the last two days in chilly Indiana.

Re: small bike
 

I'll say it again, i really like the look of that bike. The 'night train' resemblance is awesome.

Re: small bike
 

rusty rider, thank you for posting the picture of your new bike. It's awesome! I do like all the subdued black on the engine. The custom model is my favorite. Yesterday an '05 sold on eBay for $2900. Someone's getting a nice Christmas present!
:2tup:
Have you noticed any difference in handling with the shaft drive, such as gravel? Happy Holidays!

Re: small bike
 

Thanks Dupo, coming from you I consider that quite a complement. :)

Caroledee1, I can't say that I have noticed a difference in handling. If I were going from motorcycles with equal power I might be able to tell you the difference between chain and shaft drive, but this was like going from a chevette to a corvette. :rawk: Happy Holidays everyone. :2tup:

Re: small bike
 

Caroledee ... there wont be any difference in handling between shaft/chain. Just less maintenance, quieter and a tad less rear wheel to ground hp vs a chain drive.

Re: small bike
 

That sounds good, Dupo. A workmate told me his shaftdrive was kind of hinky on gravel roads. May have been his speed more than anything. :roll:

Re: small bike
 

Call him a dummy lol. Shaft/Chain has nothing to do with how it will handle on a road surface.

Re: small bike
 

It wasn't a BMW or GoldWing, was it ??

Re: small bike
 

Easy Rider, no it was a Kawasaki.

Re: small bike
 

OK, so we don't need to go into the rotational torque of a transverse engine! :shocked:

Re: small bike
 

No, I really don't think so. :lol: It would just make my head hurt!

Re: small bike
 

Hinky characteristics on a gravel road might have more to do with tires, suspension, speed and front end geometry. Then there is the rider himself, what is his skill level and what is he expecting of his bike.