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Here was my "short list" of bikes I'd be happy with as a first bike:

Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic
Suzuki M50 or C50
Kawasaki Vulcan 800 cc (preferably the "Classic")

I went to my local shop and they had a new Vulcan 800 Classic marked down to within $100 of a Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic. Of my "short list", the Vulcan was the only one on sale. This marked down price was within several hundred dollars of late model, low mileage USED Vulcan Classics in my area. I know it is recommended to buy used as a first bike, but I could not pass this up.

In addition, they gave me free delivery and knocked about $150 off dealer prep as freebies.

Things I like about the Vulcan:
1. Very cool looking
2. Water cooled engine
3. Plenty of power

Things I kind of don't like:
1. Chain drive (in particular, the maintenance associated with it, not chain drive per se).

I would have preferred a shaft drive, but like the Stones say "you can't always get what you want."

[edit] I will post a pic shortly, I have been kind of busy and have not been able to get around to that just yet.

sweet dude...have fun and take er easy.

and post some pics!

WOW- nice buy.

Try not to drop her!

Cool bike - can you post a picture?

I just bought a 2002 Vulcan 800 Classic in mint condition for a decent price. It's my first bike, and what a ride! I finally had the nerve to take it on the state hiway near my house last night, and it ran at 70mph without breaking a sweat or any vibration. It looks great, too.
Be careful! Practice low speed manuvers, and WEAR SAFETY GEAR. I dropped my beauty on the hilly gravel road leading up to my house last night at about two mph. I was wearing a long sleeved denim shirt, and today I'm wearing a big spot of road rash. This afternoon I'm buying a leather jacket and some better gloves.
Anyway, best of luck on your new bike, the chain drive will be no problem, and above all, be safe!

Congratulations ..............
Regards, Wizzard

I love that feeling of pulling out of the dealership on your new ride, I'm stoked for you dude.

Nice bike! I sat on a Vulcan classic the other day and couldn't believe how balanced it felt. It may be on my short list now too.

OK I finally got some time to post a pic:

http://totalmotorcycle.com/BBS/album_sh ... ic_id=2939

I too bought new as a first bike and was willing to risk damaging it. I looked at it from the point of a full warranty and not having to worry about how the bike was cared for. So far it's worked out for me, but I can definatley understand the buy used concept.