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Am considering this model for my first bike. I am a bit concerned that it is Air Cooled...
Does anyone one have any feedback on this model? Preferences?

You have to weigh the type of riding you do like all country or Interstate vs city or bumper to bumper type. That is where cooling method is critical or not very critical. That semi-objective statement said my opinion is:

On a modern street bike (meant to pull around a adult plus a adult passenger) its difficult for myself to understand why any maker would not use liquid cooling. Yes any add on to any system increases the chance of maintenance or breakdowns but in this area the upsides are too great as compared to the downsides. Like your oil and filter, maintain it properly and it will keep you on the road. don't maintain it and you will break down in some where very inconvenient and cost a lot to fix (along with a ruined trip).

What does your v-star 650 have that other 500 to 650's do not have?

It's actually a great bike, ask blues2cruise what she thinks of hers, and check out her blog on the trip to SF that bike was loaded for bear and performed way above my expectations...

Thanks for the tip....
Ill be doing both Highway and city. Mostly Highway though. I can't really imagine enjoying riding in a city...too many distractions and idiot drivers.

Air cooled has easier maintenance: No radiator, coolant pump, pipes, no need for coolant, cheaper to maintain, all natural cooling, increased reliability. Lighter by a little (maybe).

Cons: less hp that liquid cooled bikes

phunner wrote:Am considering this model for my first bike. I am a bit concerned that it is Air Cooled...
Does anyone one have any feedback on this model? Preferences?

I have a 2004 model. It has taken me through mountains and cities and plenty of freeways.
I have also been in many slow speed bumper to bumper situations on hot days and have never had a problem.

The only thing I noticed was that when I was riding over a mountain highway in cold weather and a fairly high speed was that I got less gas mileage.

Apparently the cold air and higher altitude (thinner air) has an effect. Other than that, being air cooled has never been an issue.

I ride a brand new 2007 650 Custom. My only real complaint is that it could use a higher (lower numerically) gear ratio in 5th to lower cruising rpm's at 55 and up. It sounds great when the engine grunts and it is very comfy. I could have used a larger engined bike but I picked this one because the price is nice.

i have an 06 classic and i enjoy it.
i'm 220 lbs ( mostly muscle- yeah right) and on the Chicago Expressways, i can push the bike ot keep up w/ traffic.
I will say this
a) You can get more power from the gears- just cant be afraid to let the engin rev higher. MOst people arent comfortable w/ the higher revving engins, but our yamaha's are built for that
b) after your warrentee expires, look on the internet for the " C, C & D" forum. All V Star owners there and they can help you w/ Modifications and show you how you can buy aftermarket kits to increase performance.
Enjoy and be safe!

I am brand new to riding and I am trying to choose between the V-Star 650 and the Vulcan 500. I like them both, kinda leaning towards the V-Star.

Which one fits you better?