[alanmcorcoran]

I can't tell you which is better but I can tell you my ~$16K Strat has a belt and my ~$3K GZ has a chain. When I've looked at bikes, the higher end models tend to have less chains and more direct drive or belts.

On other item re economy - I suggest you look for a newish used GZ - many people buy them and then either never ride them or trade up shortly after getting them so there are a lot of low mileage used models out there. When you are doing the economic math be aware that, dollar for dollar, bikes tend to require more frequent maintenance than cars and, generally speaking, do not last as long. That being said, the GZ is still going to be cheaper to operate, maintain and insure than a car, but perhaps not as dirt cheap as you might think. In addition, you are going to have to invest in a helmet (good ones are pricey) and riding gear (boots, jacket, raingear, gloves, armored pants - it can add up - I've spent well over $1000.) You will go through tires faster as well.

Again, it is still going to be cheaper than a car, but I'd be curious about a head to head comparison of a GZ against something like a ford focus. Riding a bike is a risky form of transportation - almost everyone on here has had their bikes down at least once - fortunately, most of us have avoided serious injury (but some have not!)

I guess what I am saying in a very roundabout way is - get a motorycle if you want to ride a motorcycle - don't get one to save money.