New member from Memphis

[Talarspeed]

Hello Everyone!

I just wanted to introduce myself and ask a couple of questions. First- a little about myself. I’m 43 and returning to riding after a 25 year absence. I rode dirt bikes for about 7 years as a teenager. I currently ride road and mountain bicycles (about 200 miles a week.) I am looking at purchasing a cruiser. I am 5’9” and 190lbs. I will be taking the MSF first and then purchase the bike within 2 weeks. This will occur mid-September. My goal of riding is back roads initially and maybe some commuting to work. I will definitely take some longer cruises for about 400-600 miles a day. (One planned drive is from Memphis to Lexington Kentucky in the spring). I see myself on country roads enjoying the experience of the ride.

First question is about modifying pipes. Why do the majority of people modify the stock pipes? From what I read it appears that there is a vanity component to achieve a particular sound of the bike. Is there a functional component that increases MPG? Power? Performance? What is the range of costs of this modification?

My considerations for cruisers are V-Star Custom 650, Vulcan 500, Suzuki M50.

The Vulcan 500 is the one that I’m most skeptical about. With my goal of longer trips, I’ve read that this is not the most comfortable bike and there is trouble getting after market seats. I would love to bump this to a 900 Custom (I love that green color!), but the size might be too much for a first bike.

The M50 is my bike of choice from reading the web. Once again- is this too much bike at 800cc? It sounds perfect for my goal of longer trips. This week will be spent visiting all of the shops for the first time.

One thing about my personality is that I like to buy things that allow room to grow into. I’ve always bought at mid-to-high end items. (Cameras, computers, bicycles, cars.) I am definitely the person that outgrows an item and wants the next level. This is why I’m looking at M50 and might consider the Vulcan 900. I research purchases to death and very rarely regret spending money into new ventures.

I will buy new due to not wanting to buy someone else’s trouble. Besides, I’m not much of a wrench. The plan is to put ½ down and finance the other half.

Thank you for any feedback

[Elvis]

There are many seasoned riders here and they will offer their input for sure but because I read some reviews, I think I have a few things to say.

Yamaha 650 may not be the best choice for long trips on the highway. They found the engine too busy on the highway, the front suspension was not good either. I just can't understand why on earth, Yamaha 650 doesn't have shaft cover!!. Don't recall any reviews on Kawi 500 but perhaps one could put it in the same class as Yamaha 650 so its power for highway riding may be questionable.

Having said that a guy next door rides the 500 2-up, guess in town it's quite alright.

I ride a C50, am slightly shorter and weigh a little less than you. Considering your prior experience (albeit long ago) and height/weight/physical condition, I should think you could handle the M50. A big plus with C/M 50 series is that they're all fuel injected. If you want a lighter bike, check out the S50, it doesn't have the latest technologies, but I personally love those bikes, proven old technology, light and fast. And great looks too. There are members here who swear by their S50s or formerly the Intruder 800.

I love the Kawi 900, too. Notice that it's got all the bells and whistles; belt drive, rear disc break, positive neutral finder, fuel injection, great styling and colour schemes. In terms of weight, not too much heavier than the C/M 50.

A friendly advice: Get your MSF training first, in the mean time dealers will introduce good deals to make room for the upcoming year's bikes. You could then test ride your favorite bikes and make an informed decision.

If I were in the market to buy a bike, I'd test ride the following bikes: S50, M50, Kawi900, Triumph America, Shadow 750-1100, Yamaha 1100-1300, VTX1300, H-D Street Bob (started to dream, better shut up now).

Best place to get info on M50 is here.

Good luck!

[jdw82]

From Georgia

[Trapper]

M-50's a fine bike for you.

[jgreth]

Ah another Memphian. Once you get your bike maybe we can ride a bit.

[Uncle B]

A TEXAS

HOWDY " " NEIGHBOR


Oh what a great trip!!!

• I ride a 2006 Suzuki C50T Boulevard.

• A Classic Cruiser with Bold Style and No Equal.

You may have seen the Suzuki Boulevard C50 around town, a classic cruiser that has been capturing the spotlight wherever it goes. Now you have the chance to experience its awesome V-twin performance - and enjoy the benefits of key features designed for the open road. Meet the Boulevard C50T. Like the C50, it boasts a fuel-injected 45-degree V-twin engine that cranks out a load of torque down low, matched by exciting top-end performance. It also has a spacious riding position and smooth suspension for comfortable cruising. With a multitude of features, the C50T establishes its own unique identity. The C50T has an aerodynamic windshield and a custom-designed backrest, encouraging you to take to the open highway for true long-range cruising in maximum comfort. The C50T also has a range of custom features, from whitewall tires to studded seats, for its own bold look. The Boulevard C50T. A Classic cruiser that is as comfortable as it is stylish.

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[robertc729]

Originally Posted by Trapper

M-50's a fine bike for you.

[SNAFU]

to M-J!

You'll like the M50.

[Talarspeed]

Thank you for the replies! For the first day looking, I sat on Vulcan 900s, C50s, V-Star 650s, Aero 750s. I really liked the 900s and the C50. I wish the dealer had the M50. For vanity reasons I like the 'muscle' look of the M50. All dealers mentioned that if I had a 500 mile trip planned, even if it was only one trip, I better stay in the 800cc+ range of bike choices. I'm going to wait until closer to purchase time in late August and call around for the M50. If there are any left I will travel to see it.
The C50 and Vulcan 900 felt really big to me. But I'm used to smaller dirt bikes. All dealers assured me that with my experience that the size won't be an issue. I feel I will also have a better indication after the MSF course. Thanx again for the replies!

[1badbaker]

With the experience and your size, I think you'll be fine on the M50. I'm about 30# lighter than you and have never had problems with the weight of the M.

As far as modifying the pipes with the M, it's basically just for the sound. It'll run you about $30 for a couple of hole saws if you already have a drill.

[cms58]

from west Georgia