I have 2000 to spend, help!

[gitarjunky]

I know there are the diamonds in the rough out there, where I can give someone 2000 dollars cash and get a great bike. I just don't know what models to look for, and what kinds of things I should look for in general as far as buying a used bike goes. I've heard 82-85 Honda VX45 (I think that's right) are good buys but....A little help would be appreciated! Thanks!

[AmericanWeiner]

I'm just going to piggy back here-

Would a GS500E be a good starter bike? 51hp and 30 seems (almost) within the guidelines specified, and it's within my price range (The ones I've seen are $1600-$2000 in good condition).

For suggestions- I'm looking at at least (hopefully) $3000 (likely higher, though) to spend on gear, the MSF course ($250 here ), and a bike.

[Sev]

I'm just going to piggy back here-

Would a GS500E be a good starter bike? 51hp and 30 seems (almost) within the guidelines specified, and it's within my price range (The ones I've seen are $1600-$2000 in good condition).

For suggestions- I'm looking at at least (hopefully) $3000 (likely higher, though) to spend on gear, the MSF course ($250 here ), and a bike.

http://totalmotorcycle.com/BBS/viewtopic.php?t=100

Seek and yeeee shall find.

[AmericanWeiner]

I'm just going to piggy back here-

Would a GS500E be a good starter bike? 51hp and 30 seems (almost) within the guidelines specified, and it's within my price range (The ones I've seen are $1600-$2000 in good condition).

For suggestions- I'm looking at at least (hopefully) $3000 (likely higher, though) to spend on gear, the MSF course ($250 here ), and a bike.

http://totalmotorcycle.com/BBS/viewtopic.php?t=100

Seek and yeeee shall find.

The Suzuki GS500F is a good beginner ride because it has an easy power band, looks awesome (like a mini GSXR) and is suitable for most any body size.

I knew I should have been reading that blue text. Is the only difference on the E and F's the stylings?

[funsocaltiger]

I believe so, just think "F stands for fairing"

[Aggroton]

i think any 80s japanese bike is good to start. realiable...very easy to learn to work on...and you can really run them.

[9000white]

i dont recommend the early 80's v45 honda's--they are great engines but are very complex and difficult to work on.if you have to pay a shop to work on them (assuming that you can find one that will) they will break you with their labor and parts prices.

[mattf]

To do it all again, I would start on the GS500E. Go for it.