Page 1 of 2
What would be a good "commuter bike"?
Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 5:14 pm
by Docusate
Something that can go on freeways/highways, comfortable for long runs and is also a newbie bike. Something that can last me for a long time.
Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 7:19 pm
by Scott58
My Rebel works well for me.
Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 9:29 pm
by allawybiker
Docusate, I just purchased my first bike - a 2005 Suzuki Boulevard M50 - which is a 820cc cruiser style bike. I have had some experience riding friends' bikes before, but this is my first own bike. I really like the bike, very comfortable, low center of gravity, really easy to ride, and has a lot of power. It is not a sport bike, so you won't be racing with it

But for commuting and long runs, it will be great. Personally, I wouldn't go for a bike with smaller than a 600cc engine if the bike will be used for long highway trips.
You have to go to the shops and try sitting on different bikes to see which you are most comfortable with. Also most stock seats are not the most comfortable seats you will find, so bikers usually replace their seats with custom after-market ones such as Corbin and Mustang.
I hope this helps..good luck..
Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 9:41 am
by rnr262
For in town, I love my Rebel! I've only had it briefly on the interstate since it's still in it's break in period so I can't comment much on how it performs there.
I commute on my V-Star to work (or have for the past 3 weeks, so don't consider me an expert) and think it handles perfectly. I have no problems on the interstate, and enjoy it in town too.
Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 10:35 am
by Telesque
My bike works fine for me for commuting.
It's a 600cc cruiser, it'll do 70+ MPH, and it doesn't kill my butt or back to ride for an hour or more at a time (It takes me nearly an hour to get to work). Once I get some saddlebags, getting groceries won't be such a problem either.
I'd definately suggest a Cruiser/Standard over a sport bike if you plan on using it as a commuter. They're fun to ride in town, but driving in a straight line for an hour is a different story.
Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 10:48 am
by Keyoke
Honda CB400 s/dream, Honda rebel, Suzi' savage - there's quite a few to choose from!!
Also, check out the GS500e - nice nippy bike that makes a great all-rounder
Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 2:22 pm
by nyrblue35
Keyoke wrote:Honda CB400 s/dream, Honda rebel, Suzi' savage - there's quite a few to choose from!!
Also, check out the GS500e - nice nippy bike that makes a great all-rounder
how can honda call this a dream?
looks more like a nightmare to me.

Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 2:51 pm
by Telesque
nyrblue35 wrote:Keyoke wrote:Honda CB400 s/dream, Honda rebel, Suzi' savage - there's quite a few to choose from!!
Also, check out the GS500e - nice nippy bike that makes a great all-rounder
how can honda call this a dream?
looks more like a nightmare to me.

Maybe you're supposed to sit on it, and dream about being on a real bike.

Can't knock it though- It's only got two wheels, so it can't be all bad. I'd definately give it a go if I were offered.
Re: What would be a good "commuter bike"?
Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 5:47 pm
by huh
Docusate wrote:Something that can go on freeways/highways, comfortable for long runs and is also a newbie bike. Something that can last me for a long time.
first you must decide what style of bike you want.. crusier,sport,standard,sport standard,touring,sport touring,chopper or dual sport.
there are plenty of bikes to choose from. most will be comfortable once you give your body a chance to get used to the riding position.
a light bike with good low and mid-range power will be a good place to start.
like the suzuki sv650.
Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 8:35 pm
by BuzZz
nyrblue35 wrote:
how can honda call this a dream?
looks more like a nightmare to me.

Those things are cool!!! keeping in mind what they are... track bikes. There was a time not too long ago, Grand Prix grids were full of these bikes, 50cc's of hellish fury, ready to go out and battle to the death.
And this little production bike would kick all of thier tails.
