hmm, my stepdad is suggesting buying the V-Star 650 classic that they have as well. 2006 with 17xx miles, windshield, saddlebags, a few other extras, asking $5300 and he put in an offer on the website for $4800 to include a helmet and gloves, waiting to hear back what they say.

He likes the plus of all the extras, both for now and resale later down the road. Doesn't think the extra 150 pounds + on the bike will make much of a difference once I've ridden a little, especially because of the extra power. And also the fact that it'd carry another person better if i wanted/needed. Those were mostly his arguments.

And a few people on another forum have suggested the V-Star...but the S40 is calling me...ugh! Still in the same boat...there's something about the little suzuki...but then at the same time i figure I should get something a little bigger...

You might also check the cost of insurance and the cost of a  valve adjustment and oil change at your local MC shop.  The V-Star valve adjust is a bit more involved.

Serowbot wrote on 11/11/08 at 09:16:03:

So is the oil change,have to drop the exhaust just to do it.A rear tire change...hahaha.