The vulcan 500 cc you posted looks gorgous in my opinon. If I ever buy another vulcan, it is going to be hard to get over the memories of all the problems I have with my vulcan 750. I think I'll be paranoid that it will break down.
I went to a bike shop today. Here are my thoughts.
The rebel 250cc is a cute bike to look at. It is doable but cramped. During slow sharp parking lot turns I'd have to take my foot off the peg to prevent the handle bar from hitting my knee.
Also sat on a yamaha virago 250cc. It feels like a bigger bike( maybe due to the handle bar shape). The guy said it would take off faster than the rebel due to the v twin motor.
I also for kicks sat on a honda shadow 600cc I think. There is no problem with room there. A bit heavier though.
They didn't have any vulcans there. All of their other bikes looked huge. The Gold wing looked like my living room. They didn't have any suzuki either.
Saturday I'll drive around to some other shops and see what they have to offer.
Then I think I'll try to find a used bike like the one I'll settle on.
The rebel 250 and the virago 250 are now off my list. If a 125 lb girl can only get up to 60-65 with the rebel then it might only do 55 with my weight.
It is looking more and more like a 500cc bike or the 800 intruder. (maybe another 750)
Oh, a rebel will haul a 200 .lb guy a good bit faster than that. I've had one a touch over 80 before and that's what I weigh, but I do think you'll be happier with something in the 500cc range.
If you're really committed to your 350 pound limit, then the only bike that I think would work is the Suzuki Savage (now called the Boulevard S40) mentioned by Brent in his page one post.
If you're willing to accept another 100 pounds of weight on the bike, then I'd suggest the next bike up in the Boulevard line, the S50.
I own a Savage, and it fits my 5' 11", 175 pound frame just fine, but it might be too small for you. Find one to sit on, if you can.
Hope this helps.
Edit: P.S. The Savage (S40) has a 655cc single cylinder engine, providing more than enough power to get you up to highway speeds quickly (and keep up with traffic when you get there).
For every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple, and wrong. -- H.L. Mencken
First, I must mention that I don't have any personal experience riding the Vulcan 500. But from the article I linked below, the experts certainly have a good opinion of it. Also, since it has been around for a while now, you should be able to find used machines if you prefer.
I like the article for another reason... they also selected the Valkyrie for best bang in its class ..no surprise really.
I own both the Rebel and the S50. Way to many myths about the Rebel only being able to 60-65mph. Even 2up I've had mine over 70mph. If you hear someone can't get their Rebels faster then 65mph they need to take their bike to a shop and get it fixed. I'm 5'7", but i do have a 32" inseam and I have found the seating position on my rebel is just as good as my friends 700 magna (his seat is more comfortable however). The S50 does have more leg room then both bikes and will outperform just about any other cruiser up to and including the 800cc class in a speed competition. It's weight to power ratio is excellent and since you are looking for lighter weight is certainly is in the running. It really depends on what you want out of your bike. If economy is an issue The Rebel is a tough act to follow with 76mpg average compared to the S50's 51mpg. Insurance rates of $185 compared to $393 for the same coverage. 600 mile service $123 compared to $225. If speed and performance is what your looking for then the S50 is a good choice. There is alot to consider and there is alot to choose from other then these 2 to be sure. Good luck. I'm sure whatever you decide on will become the next love of your life.
..no surprise really.