Please don't take this the wrong way. Please.
I started riding bikes back in the 60's (Yes, I'm a geezer, 52). My first if any of you remember them was a toat goat, kind of a mini bike almost. Centrifical clutch, two speed you had to stop before shifting. I think it was a Briggs & Stratton 5 hp engine. The smallest real bike I've ever owned was a Honda 350 at 15, 1970, forget the model. I don't consider myself a big guy, 6' 200lbs (well, maybe a tad overweight
. I've had numerous bikes over the years and loved them all, dirt and street. I now like to take my son on trips with me, some friends from church and tour the northwest. The Ultra does this remarkably well. Forward to today, my wife would like to learn how to ride hence the gz250. I try and take a msf course every few years on my bike just to make sure I've still got "it". The course near our home uses these, the Honda Rebel, and some ofther dual sport bikes, all in the 250 range for the beginner riders. The gz250 is like riding a mini bike compared to my Ultra. I did take it down our street and back and actually found it to be very uncomfortably light. For some reason, the weight of the Ultra makes it easier for me to control. We won't be taking the 250 on the super slab, and hopefully only have it for a year or so and move her onto something more road worthy. I feel the 250 will get the smithereens blown out of it on the highway. Again, I'm NOT knocking the gz250, an excellent starter bike. I am a devoted HD guy now and hope to have my wife on one when she feel comfortable. Why HD? Because of support, availablitiy of accessories, aftermarket suppliers and resale. #1 in my mind is if it's a bike, then good on ya! I don't mean to put down anyone, or any bike, and long as you ride responsibly. I thank you all for the help locating a windshield. As it goes, ride safe!
PS: you might be seeing my wife on here so behave yourselves!