xenotron wrote on 12/30/07 at 06:47:43:

John, I have no idea what an A2 license is...in some states the restriction is around 5 HP for a difference between scooter and motorcycle.  Either way, the LS650 is powerful enough to be considered more than just a beginner bike...which sounds like the issue with your spouse.  Therefore, in the long run it would be best that you consider it a "full size bike" and get the spouse trained and insured for a regular license.  After all, it is capable of speeds above 90 mph.

As for horsepower, the 33 BHP figure is more accurate.

Reelthing wrote on 12/30/07 at 08:56:47:

Dang it...I think that I just learned something.  The carb difference make more sense now.

How about it Mr. KLX650?

FYI -- the A2 license is a United Kingdom thing.  The A license, for any engine size, is limited to those over 20.  For teens and tweens the limit is 33 hp with the A2 license.  (Those over 20 could get an A2 license also if they are comfortable with the HP restriction.  Heh -- I've driven cars with less!)

Doesn't matter as to the rated HP, as with the A2 license you could, in theory, take a Hayabusa, restrict it to 33 hp, and it would be legal.  So even if the Savage you get is an older one with a higher HP rating you could restrict it down to 33.

As Greg noted, 33 hp is more likely than 40.  While I could not find any authorative information, 30-33 hp is about what most claim for a Stock LS650.  What the HP is actually doesn't matter -- it is what HP is claimed for it by the authorities.

I'd go for it -- at worst they'll make you restrict it.  

The
boulevards are learner so stock they are a little less power.

When I was learning (in uk) we were restricted to 12bhp 125's which I had and crashed so I put a bankable sidecar on the 350 I'd bought for when I had passed my test (you could learn on a Z 1300 if you had a sidecar back then) and got my licence that way.
Clive W  

Thanks very much for the info guys   its very much appreciated.

I must oppologise for not introducing myself in the corrrect part of the forum, I never saw that bit lol  

Look forward to chattin to some of you soon

Greg asked,"So the restricted carbs are actually the same as the regular BS40?  The parts are basically interchangeable?  Are the jets the same too?"

My understanding is that it is an easily removed plate? maybe just the gasket at the end of the intake that essentially chokes down the air/fuel flow to the required HP,  that can be removed when your license gets upped. Remember in Germany they have a TUV vehicle inspection that is very technical and specific that they require every year I as I remember. I used to get mine (car) done by the AAFES contractor which was next to the class 6 (liquor) store. A jug slipped in the frame rails was found as the car was inspected in the pit and all passed with ease. US Green plates. The regular West Germany (at the time) inspection was to insure the vehicle was drivable for the next year? they checked for body rust/rot, tire tread depth, exhaust had to be stock at that time, glass, etc. Was expensive as was their insurance and driver training program. In the little village we lived in they had problems with Shari having her own car and gadding about at will, and I had 2 and a company car all parked at home (+ hers) and the landlord made me move some to work as they were causing comments.  Max