Think I found my first Bike

[GhettoPeanut]

After messaging in here for a while and doing some research, I'm going to see if i can't locate a Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD. Seems like a nice bike that lots of people like, good for starters and intermediate alike.

Just wanted to see what the rest of the community thinks of this bike, or if they know of a bike similar. No crotch rocket suggestions, not interested, just not me personally.

Thanks people!

 

[MiataNC]

Keep a look out for smaller Honda Shadows as well (750cc and under). They are similar in style/purpose to the Kawasaki you are looking for. They have been sold for decades. Plenty of aftermarket support, and plenty to shop in the used market.

 

[GhettoPeanut]

Keep a look out for smaller Honda Shadows as well (750cc and under). They are similar in style/purpose to the Kawasaki you are looking for. They have been sold for decades. Plenty of aftermarket support, and plenty to shop in the used market.

750 cc is to big for a starter bike, gotta keep it under 600.

 

[JulesMaximus]

750 cc is to big for a starter bike, gotta keep it under 600.

It's not so much the power in bikes like that but the weight. It is easier to learn to ride on a smaller, lighter cruiser than it is on a big heavy one.

 

[GhettoPeanut]

It's not so much the power in bikes like that but the weight. It is easier to learn to ride on a smaller, lighter cruiser than it is on a big heavy one.

I hear you on that one, which is why i wanna keep it on the smaller side. i really have 0 experience with this stuff, so i'm airing on the safe side of things. my buddy let me sit on their 650 ninja, and i'm pretty sure i'd be fine on a bike that weight, however, its a crotch rocket, and i'm sure cruisers are heavier by nature.

if i had it my way i'd be getting a Harley 1200+ shovel head (flat black). love those shovel head bikes.

 

[MiataNC]

Honda made smaller versions of the Shadow, which is why I said 750 and under.

The two bikes are not that different, and there are a lot more Shadows on the used market than Vulcans. The 750 Shadow weighs @60lbs more (436lbs-Kawi/496lbs-Honda), and only has 15-25hp more depending on the year than the 500 Kawi. Performance will be similar given the broad low end torque delivery.

I am not trying to talk the OP out of the Kawasaki. I am just pointing out that there are more options out there if he can't find any.

 

[GhettoPeanut]

I am not trying to talk the OP out of the Kawasaki. I am just pointing out that there are more options out there if he can't find any.

no no, this is good. I found one kawi out where I am so far, so alternatives are always welcome just in-case i cant find what i want.