Lightweight yet more powerful bike?

[dannylightning]

Originally Posted by Sarris

I was told my local Suzuki stealer that it's a huge 18 hp.

BFD either way, eh?? O_o

yep it is 18hp


dont let weight throw you off too much, a properly balanced bike with a low center of gravity will feel really light, if you dump it and halve to pick it up you might have a hard time getting it up but i have a semi heavy but but it dose not feel all that heavy. do a lot of setting test on different bikes and see what feels the best.

[Water Warrior 2]

A good set of crash bars will allow you to virtually roll the bike up on it's wheels after a drop. Many cruisers have a wider crash bar for this reason. The OEM bars on most Zuks are for decoration only and the aftermarket is the place to go. MC Enterprises bars on Lynda's bike are good looking and functional. Light mounting, peg mounting and roll over protection all in one.

[Viirin]

Yeah i was thinking of getting crash bars but i don't think weaving through traffic would be much of an option then on crappy Irish roads - that and i don't want to make the bike any heavier

[Water Warrior 2]

Crash bars are fairly light weight being hollow tubing and are usually just a tad less the handle bar width. Most suppliers can give you the dimensions on line.

[Pete7874]

Thanks everyone for the comments and suggestions. I ended up going with an '08 Vulcan 500 LTD.

So far I like it a lot. I love how smooth and stable it is on the hwy, while still not too difficult to maneuver in parking lots. And I've gotten used to the extra weight. The 3-4 months I initially spent on the GZ250 definitely helped build up my confidence and helped become more comfortable before moving on to slightly larger machines.

[Viirin]

Slick looking machine you got there

[blaine]

Sharp looking bike.You got one of a dying breed.
:2tup:

[Water Warrior 2]

Nice looking ride. A proven bike with a reputation for being a good runner.

[SuziQ07]

Congratulations, great choice with your new 2008 Vulcan! The black is really sharp. I bought a brand new 2009 a few weeks ago. Almost 500 miles later I can definitely say it was a great purchase. The Vulcan runs really smooth and is surprisingly powerful. Looks like Kawasaki didn't make the 500 again for 2011. Enjoy your new ride! I'm still trying to get a few more miles on mine before the snow flies!! :roll:

[Pete7874]

Thanks, all!

Originally Posted by SuziQ07

The black is really sharp.

Yeah, that's why I went for 2008. Otherwise I would have bought new as well.

I'm still trying to get a few more miles on mine before the snow flies!! :roll:

Same here. This weekend was great weather. I still need to get a small windshield for it.