Considering middleweights - comments please?

 I've been smitten by the cruiser bug thanks to my Pastor who let me ride
his. I'm considering middleweights
650cc - 1100cc range from all the usual suspects.

I'm a small framed guy of 5'5'' with 28" inseam so I'm trying to consider
bikes that would most easily accommodate mods to fit my stature. I'm trying
to find good reasons not to go with the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 (because of the
aesthetics) and am looking at the Yamaha V-Start Silverado, and the Honda
Shadow Spirit. I like both of the latter's looks over the Vulcan but I still
can't get over the features of the Vulcan for the money.

I recall my last bike slung greasy water all over my leg when riding on damp
highway or in the rain. Also, where I used to ride back in the day, there
were potholes everywhere and my front wheel had to be trued several times a
year. Does chain drive and spoke wheels still require alot of attention like
they did in the 80's?

Does the Silverado's air cooled engine pose any longevity concerns? And what
about the heat factor of that between your legs on a hot summer day at a
long stop light?

Does the Shadow's way forward looking footpegs and foot levers pose a
concern for a short rider?

Given that I'm an experienced rider (of smaller bikes circa 1980's) and
stand 5'5" 155 lbs, and plan to ride mostly 20-60 mile jaunts with an
occasional highway run of ~150 miles solo, what does everyone think my best
bang for the buck is for a new machine?

'Jones'n.....

 

 On Fri, 19 May 2006 21:14:52 GMT, William Jones said:


How long since you've been on a bike?

--
"I refuse to answer that question on the grounds
that I don't know the answer."
- Douglas Adams

 

I've rode a couple of times over the years (when I could cop a ride from
someone else who owned a bike) but to say I am a bit rusty is an
understatement. In my college days (early 80's),  an old Honda CB400 was my
only mode of transportation for 3 years.

 

Ok, pretty good advice.  But really, he should buy a Ninja 250, or a Pacific
Coast.  Both are cheap, easy to ride and reliable.  The cruiser I had ( 1986
Rebel 450) just didn't work for me.

For BIG miles I understand the Ventures, H-Ds, Goldwings, and FJRs, etc...

What he (the OP) describes is just style, like shoes, they are all good
bikes, and won't leave him stranded, but the more I think about it a
Silverwing or Burgman could be a good choice.

I think he needs to shop around more.  Shopping for bikes is fun.  Hell, if
he has money he should check out the BMW 650.  Or Suzuki 650 vtwins and
these are low $.

Bryan