[Mike Burnham]

That was well said Chibb. In your heart is set on a Harley, than you may not be happy with a Intruder. It is true they have less vibration, and with shaft drive they don't have belts to wear and slip. The Intruder VS800 next to the Harley 883, the Intruder has better handling, larger stock tank, and the VS800 will out accelerate the 883. What the 883 has going for it is, you can find more after market parts, and it is more accepted in Harley circles. If you want the Harley prestiege, then you will not be happy till you own one. Keep in mind, if you buy a small used starter bike, you can have you skills down and shop around for the Harley you realy want. Every one I have seen starting on a Harley, tend to not have a great grasp of the weight of the bike. The 883 is sluggish, and with out the bike being able to respond to what you want it to do right off, you may have problems starting and stopping with grace. Also keep in mind, if you drop the bike you have to pick it up. Some states will require you to pick up the bike in the test. Maryland does not, but I have a few freinds I ride with from other states that have experienced this in their driving test. Preparing your driving skills on a heavier bike will take longer to be ready for you driving test.