Total Motorcycle Community Forums

I'll give it a Cool simply because it still exists. Vulcan 500 is gone, Honda VLX is gone. As Blues points out, the S40 is a small-framed bike that is best for people smaller in stature. The displacement associated with a "first bike" seems to be going up and up. Nice that some full-framed, moderate displacement options like this still exist. Cool.

I never said the S40 was better. While the S40 might a be a small-framed thumper, it's highway capable and the smaller frame is less intimidating. I think people believe that their first bike should be the last bike they own. The reality is, a beginner bike is something to learn on, not marry.

The seat height on the V-Star 650 is 27.4" and the Sportster Iron is 26.9". It's hardly a top-heavy bike.

The S40 is not a viable choice for people my size (6'1", 225 lbs). I've sat on them numerous times - I just don't fit. For people who can fit on one, the S40 is a great bike. For people who don't fit an S40, I'm glad Yamaha makes an option, the V-star 650.

jstark47 wrote:The S40 is not a viable choice for people my size (6'1", 225 lbs). I've sat on them numerous times - I just don't fit. For people who can fit on one, the S40 is a great bike. For people who don't fit an S40, I'm glad Yamaha makes an option, the V-star 650.

Likewise.

This is a classic starter bike and it gets better with age. I gave it an awesome!

Getting a cool from me for the reason that this will be the bike that beginners will be buying 15 years from now

I have almost zero interest in the cruiser segment, but the reality is that cruisers are half of the market and this looks to be a solid starter cruiser at a good price point. I actually sat on one at the Yamaha dealer in Richardson, Texas. If I liked cruisers this bike would easily make the short list for a first bike.

+2 Cool

This is likely to be my top rating for any cruiser but I was strongly tempted to bump it to +3 in honor of b2c.

Hanson wrote:I have almost zero interest in the cruiser segment, but the reality is that cruisers are half of the market and this looks to be a solid starter cruiser at a good price point. I actually sat on one at the Yamaha dealer in Richardson, Texas. If I liked cruisers this bike would easily make the short list for a first bike.

+2 Cool

This is likely to be my top rating for any cruiser but I was strongly tempted to bump it to +3 in honor of b2c.

Uncool for me. It's still on the market because its a reliable good starter cruiser. It'll last quite some time with good upkeep and has more than enough power for the interstate or a regular rider in the twisties (brum needs to stop posting his ride videos- we know what he wants power wise . Still- it's an old design that just doesn't speak to me. If I ever got one, I'd throw this kit on it and then I'd be back to interested

http://bluecollarbobbers.com/web/index. ... 4&TreeId=1

I voted: Awesome

We need more great beginner bikes like this. The 650cc and under sized motorcycle market is well... undersized! And the V-Star 650 is a great choice for new riders, easy to maintain, inexpensive to own and stone reliable. It may not have the grumble and growl but it will stir the emotions for a long time.

The only issue I have with it is it's 500lb+ weight, a little less weight would be welcomed.

Mike