[Rickster]

Bikes with a high CG, have a more nimble feel to them, and are easier to flick from side to side at speed, Cruisers have a more solid , planted feel to them at speed, and when it comes to slower speed maneuvering, a low CG bike can feel lighter, and therefore give the rider a sense of confidence.

It's like the difference between driving a Cadillac, or a sports car, the Cadillac is more comfortable, and confidence inspiring at all normal speeds, but when you start picking up the pace a bit, it doesn't take to long before the sports car starts pulling away from the Caddy.

I suspect you are riding that Strom a bit timidly on that gravel road, and if that the case, you will feel more comfortable on a cruiser style bike, but when your confidence level gets a bit higher, you will find that the Strom will ride circles around any cruiser style bike, on any road you chose.

The V Stroms arn't a performance bike, in the same sense that a GSXR is, but they still shine when they are pushed a bit. If you are the kind of rider that never wants to push the envelope, maybe a Strom isn't the best bike for you. Please don't take this the wrong way, I'm not trying to say you are a woos, I'm just saying that everyone enjoys a different style of riding, and if your thing is slow & easy, more power to you.

If your offended, just tell me to &*^$ off, and I'll go away, but if you really want to find out what that Strom will do,,,,,, I'm just up in St Paul..... We can meet in Zumbrota some day, and ride HWY 60. I'm always up for meeting people that love to ride.

I'll be back from my trip by the 4 of July.