Jimellow

Thanks for the recommendation. Coincidentally, I just read an article in Sport Rider that compared the BMW F800S (too pricey), Kawasaki Versys, and Suzuki DL650 V-Strom.

The Versys and DL650 both sounded nice, and I noted that the DL650 had a higher ride height, and was quoted as being more comfortable over long distances.

I'm curious if there are Versys models available prior to 2008? I thought I read something about them being a European bike, and only being brought to America for 2008, but I could be wrong.

Also, is the DL650 V-Strom a newer version of, or related in any way to, the Suzuki SV-650?

I'd really like to buy used if possible, not only due to pricing, but also because I won't be riding scared and overly conscious of scratching or otherwise damaging the bike. Unfortunately, the used market around here seems to be pretty weak. I found a used 2005 Yamaha FZ6 with 2000 miles or so, and the seller is asking $5500 (http://reading.craigslist.org/mcy/601023331.html). To me, that seems a bit pricey, but the bike does seem to be in great condition, and it's the only used FZ6 I've found in the area.

Again, I've only been to a Yamaha dealer so far, but this week intend to check out Suzuki, Honda, and Kawasaki dealerships as well. My thought is I will go to dealers, sit on bikes, find ones that are comfortable, and note them so I can look for them in the used market.

I really want to ride, but that requires a bike first. My dad had a 1976 Honda 554 that was kept outside and not maintained, and we gave that away less than a year ago. I suspect he wouldn't have let me ride it, as it was rusted and likely not safe, but it would have been nice to have something to ride until I did get my own bike.

I'm definitely psyched to ride, and this beautiful weather doesn't help the fact that I don't have a bike yet. That being said, I don't want to rush into buying a bike and being discontent with my selection.

I also think it's interesting how dealers show their true colors in regards to safety vs making a sale. I went to a smaller Yamaha dealer on Saturday and the girl there was indicating I should consider a 998cc Yamaha YZF-R1, despite me telling her it was my first bike, and I was in the process of getting my license and taking a training course. Then, at the larger dealership, my dad was sitting on a 600cc FZ6, and the dealer assumed dad was the one going to be riding it. About halfway through the discussion, I asked if the bike would be a good starter bike for me, and he said, "No, it has a lot of power" (70-80 horses, I think), but then said with training classes, it might be doable. It's just interesting to see how some people are strictly concerned with selling the most expensive bike, whereas others are actually considerate of one's safety and prior experience riding motorcycles.

__________________
Desperation is no excuse for lowering one's standards.