Opinions on Boulevard S50 vs S83 or M50?

[PrincessBandit]

I'm wondering whether one of these might be a better option for me than the bandit, which I'm finding quite top heavy. I sat on an S50 this afternoon and like the idea of my feet being flat on the ground with some flex still in my knees.

I truly love my bandit and would love to hold onto it, but wonder if ultimately a short arse like me, with no much in the way of muscles might be better off going down the cruiser path.

Any opinions for me to consider?

p.s. budget is limited so hence the models listed.

[duckonin]

I'm wondering whether one of these might be a better option for me than the bandit, which I'm finding quite top heavy. I sat on an S50 this afternoon and like the idea of my feet being flat on the ground with some flex still in my knees.

I truly love my bandit and would love to hold onto it, but wonder if ultimately a short arse like me, with no much in the way of muscles might be better off going down the cruiser path.

Any opinions for me to consider?

p.s. budget is limited so hence the models listed.

U may have a limited budget, but they are all good bikes...

[Edbear]

I agree, they are all good but I lean slightly towards the M50 as it provides a muscle look and a lot of fun! Same engine as my C50T which means in a lighter bike, good power.

You'll have to get used to less cornering ability, but it's a whole different riding style. I love my bike and can't honestly justify any other bike for my riding. I commute every day and it's okay for splitting, light to handle and instant grunt when needed.

Touring of course is its forte and I can load it up to the nines with the saddle bags. I love the screen and don't need earplugs. You might like to try a C50T if you can find one second hand before you make up your mind.

[AllanB]

All nice bikes.
Kawasaki did a nice VN800 as well - now replaced with the larger VN900

And don't overlook the Honda 750 Shadow - that has a very low seat height.

Or a nice Nightster maybe

Dare I say - test ride.

[MidnightMike]

I'm wondering whether one of these might be a better option for me than the bandit, which I'm finding quite top heavy. I sat on an S50 this afternoon and like the idea of my feet being flat on the ground with some flex still in my knees.

Any opinions for me to consider?

p.s. budget is limited so hence the models listed.

It would be a good idea to check out what Kawasaki has too.

The VN500 (great price for a brand new bike) http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-230161548.htm

Or stepping it up the VN900: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-215531807.htm (Verrrry nice.)

I was down at BayCity Motorcycles this afternoon (hence mentioning those two) The VN500 is very low though, would suit you perfectly (Read the ad)

U may have a limited budget, but they are all good bikes...

Except the S40 - It didnt take long for them to swarm trademe's cruiser listings....

I agree, they are all good but I lean slightly towards the M50 as it provides a muscle look and a lot of fun! Same engine as my C50T which means in a lighter bike, good power.

I agree with Edbear, if I was going boulevard I'd be picking up an M50. Second hand prices are quite good now. They are around 12.5k new on the road, second hand you're looking at 8.5-10k depending on km's etc.

Eg: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-233937121.htm

Or if purple isn't your thing: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-232519227.htm

[popelli]

Any opinions for me to consider?

only the obvious a harley sportster, second hand they are often cheaper than the japanese versions

[YellowDog]

Hey Princess, I think you should persevere with the Bandit as it is a proper bike and not a cruiser (nothing against cruisers).

I must say that I have been steering the more petite ladies I know towards the new Gladius or even an older SV because they are smaller/lighter bikes.
The new Boulevard range does look very nice indeed. There are a lot of M50s around because some owners are disappointed by the power (or lack of it). It is however down to your own preference and riding style.

If budget is limited and you are set on a cruiser, why don’t you look at the M50’s predecessor being the Marauder. It’s a much lighter bike and has a great classic look about it.

Good luck

[rainman]

why don’t you look at the M50’s predecessor being the Marauder. It’s a much lighter bike and has a great classic look about it.

I got one of dem. I love it, but y'know, I'm probably not that discerning

Has a great low centre of gravity, very comfy to ride. If I had to buy another bike, I'd give serious consideration to an M50.

But the only way to know is to test ride.

[DELLORTO]

only the obvious a harley sportster, second hand they are often cheaper than the japanese versions

na dont get one of those......the engines are made by briggs&stratton {lawnmower makers} get a s50 my dad has one, they look good,sound good and are realy fast

[s8306]

I'm wondering whether one of these might be a better option for me than the bandit, which I'm finding quite top heavy. I sat on an S50 this afternoon and like the idea of my feet being flat on the ground with some flex still in my knees.

I truly love my bandit and would love to hold onto it, but wonder if ultimately a short arse like me, with no much in the way of muscles might be better off going down the cruiser path.

Any opinions for me to consider?

p.s. budget is limited so hence the models listed.

Go on to Intruder Alert Cafe and ask there,it's a site dedicated to the Intruder/Boulevard range.

[scumdog]

na dont get one of those......the engines are made by briggs&stratton {lawnmower makers} get a s50 my dad has one, they look good,sound good and are realy fast

Oh-kaaay...so you think she needs a good looking good sounding fast bike.

But not a Harley:???

[AllanB]

Got another for your list .......

Triumph bonnie

Either the America (cruiser style) or the new SE (nice low seat).

[Edbear]

Oh-kaaay...so you think she needs a good looking good sounding fast bike.

But not a Harley:???

Weren't you trying to get the Dyna T up to the Sportster performance level? How's it going?

[Virago]

The biggest problem with the cruisers that boast a "low seat height", is that they often have way-forward foot controls. When coupled with stubby drag-bar style bars, the short-arses end up riding in the "paper-clip" position - feet and hands stretched forward, arse poking out the rear. Ridiculous looking, and very uncomfortable after a while.

The best option is to sit on as many as possible, and test-ride where you can.

[Winston001]

only the obvious a harley sportster, second hand they are often cheaper than the japanese versions

+10

You'd have to try one if you really want to change.