What bike should I buy?

[pedro.b]

Finally got my full class 6 so time for something new. I'll be trading in my 07 VL250 and have 2 options.

Option 1. 1996 Kawasaki VN1500 with 19,600kms on it.
Option 2. 2007 Suzuki Boulevard C50T with 14,800kms on it.

Both will cost me similar money after the trade. Both are very tidy. The VN1500 is almost an easier deal as it is with a dealer where the C50T I need to sell my bike before the deal.

What are everyone's thoughts?

[Jantar]

Only 2 options?

That is one hell of a big jump from 250 cc to 1500 cc. I would suggest that you look at something in the 650 cc range as a next step.

Also you have been riding a cruiser style 250, so have a test ride on some other styles as well. Rather than test a full sports bike though have a look at some of the more upright options, even a Hyosung 650 is worth testing. Test ride as many styles and size of bike as you can before limiting yourself. As you have been riding a cruiser style, you'll probably feel more comfortable sticking with it, but do try as many different types and styles as you can.

[pedro.b]

I'm in a bit of a rush cause I need a new bike for the Burt Monroe next weekend and I'm an impulse buying kind of guy. I've riden a few 1200 Harleys and always had my heart set on an Electra glide until I realized the sum you pay just for the Harley name.

I have tired a couple of other styles a Ninja and a Buell but am set on a crusier/bagger style bike.

[munster]

Well, I know which one I'd buy, but it's not up to me.

It has to suit you. Do you like it, does it fit, carb vs injected, pillion comfort, does your significant other have an opinion, maintenance costs, tyre costs etc etc etc

Seeing as you're impulsive sort of person, ride them both (not at once), then buy which one you like best.

[skinman]

IMO newer is better unless you like to work on your bike when not riding it. although the ks are similar things will still age and be more likely to fail. 3yrs old versus 14yrs. also I suspect that insurance may be more for a 1500 than an 800, rego also

[Edbear]

Well I could hardly comment.... If the Harley world is out of reach the C50T is simply the best all-round cruiser you can buy!

Others are good, the VN900 the VTX1300 even the Hyosung 650 Aquilla is okay but nothing yet has toppled the C50T off top spot and there is a reason for that.

[Rosso]

Go for the C50T , they are a great cruiser and very reliable , also have plenty of grunt .,
I loved mine and did some great touring in the South Island and up here in the North without a problem.
It was an easy step from the Suzy C50T to the Triumph Thunderbird 09 and then on to the Heritage Softtail , all good fun , whatever you do, don't close your mind off to any of the bike brands out there , it all comes down to " Ride It , Love It, Buy IT "
Enjoy your rides , I'm 67 and really loved all my bikes over the years , this is a great country to tour and I ain't finished yet ..........
Ride Safe

[pedro.b]

Thanks for all your suggestions and advise guys appreciate it. Unfortunately the C50T is at the other end of the country and none of the dealers down here have one so I'm not going to be able to test ride it.

I was leaning towards the C50T myself just due to the age difference. I want something that is comfortable to ride, looks good and can take some bags luggage (as I like to do various bike rallies).

[Rosso]

I can say that the C50T is a very comfortable bike .

[hellokitty]

Hey Pedro.b don't rush into buying a bike - I did that and ended up with a bike I hated and wasted time and money replacing it.
Do your research and test ride plenty of bikes.

If you are unsure, perhaps rent a bike for the day to try out different riding positions?

[Edbear]

Thanks for all your suggestions and advise guys appreciate it. Unfortunately the C50T is at the other end of the country and none of the dealers down here have one so I'm not going to be able to test ride it.

I was leaning towards the C50T myself just due to the age difference. I want something that is comfortable to ride, looks good and can take some bags luggage (as I like to do various bike rallies).

I can say that the C50T is a very comfortable bike .

Very unfortunate you can't find one to ride! Mine has the screen, bags and backrest standard. I can ride it all day but different bums have different needs and some have fitted custom seats despite the comfort of the stock one. As for looking good.. what more can I say...?

For a tour, all we do is stick a backpack on the rear rack and with the Kentucky Drive bags my wife and I have plenty of luggage capacity!

I bought mine new in Feb. '07 and it's only done 27,oookm. How much does he want for it? I seriously considered selling mine after my accident and did list it on TM but as I'm getting better I'm more inclined to hang onto it.

[orsem]

Thanks for all your suggestions and advise guys appreciate it. Unfortunately the C50T is at the other end of the country and none of the dealers down here have one so I'm not going to be able to test ride it.

I was leaning towards the C50T myself just due to the age difference. I want something that is comfortable to ride, looks good and can take some bags luggage (as I like to do various bike rallies).

Have you tried any dealers in Chch. Avon City Suzuki seem to have hundreds of bikes, trades and new on their shop floor. Might be worth a look?

[Toaster]

different bums have different needs

Says it all really

[Edbear]

Says it all really

[ukusa]

I'm in a bit of a rush cause I need a new bike for the Burt Monroe next weekend and I'm an impulse buying kind of guy.

You sorta answered your own question here, BM ain't that far away. Time is your enemy, and your choices for the short time period are slim.
Personally I'd probably always take a newer bike over an older one (unless buying a vintage/classic), but you don't seem to have a choice. The 1500 does seem to be a bit of a jump in size though, be careful.