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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: mentalfloss on October 14, 2015, 12:50:48 PM

Title: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: mentalfloss on October 14, 2015, 12:50:48 PM
My wife says I am a slut.....I am faithful in my marriage of 28 years she has never questioned that. She calls me a slut because I am always looking for my next motorcycle....lusti ng openly for something only two wheels and a motor can take care of....
SO... I have been buying motorcycles that are underpriced compared to what is in that class.

What do you think the best deals are on specific models of bikes?

MOTO GUZZI
Quota- I am kicking myself for missing on a nice quota this summer less than 120 miles away for about $2,500 with bags!!!! Dang! A lot of bike for the money. I want another one and will buy one.

2009 Stelvio- I know of a 2009 stelvio with a stucchi  aux tank and other goodies for sale for $6,000.....man that is a well sorted bike with lots of farkels for what a R1100gs brings!
When they get above $7,000 or so they lose some of the BANG.

Various Californias- you can get a real nice cali for under $3,000

BUELL
The ulysses is a steal right now- a 2006 can be had for as low as$2,250 on e bay in a buy it now last week. The 2006 has some things that need to be addressed but I see 2006 Ulysses going in the $3,000 TO $3,500
2007- 2009 For a little bit more....anyway you can get a smokin bike for under $5,000 with the Uly.
All buells seem to be a real value right now. Get that dream bike ...the Buell BLAST NOW while you can.

KAWASAKI
I bought a 1999 concours last spring for under $2,000 and it is sweet. A lot of bike for the money. Coast to coast like butter and toast. I do not really like a sport tourer as my first choice but I have put over 10k miles on this mile muncher this year.

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE BEST DEALS ON SPECIFIC MODELS?
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: mach1mustang351 on October 14, 2015, 12:55:17 PM
I gotta believe my "left over" 2014 Stelvio is the best bang for the buck bike.  Love it!!! All the ones you mentioned fit into that.  Unfortunately there arent a lot of deals up here in Alaska.  I guess I gotta start shipping bikes but here  :thumb:
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: oldbike54 on October 14, 2015, 12:59:50 PM
 It might be kinda odd looking , but the Yamaha FZ07 at $7k seems to be a whole lotta MC for the money . But , the Tonti frame Californias and the derivatives are a real bargain and make tremendous riders .

  Dusty
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: flip on October 14, 2015, 01:17:24 PM
Next month will be 27 years of marriage with my wife. She recently laughed at me because will were driving somewhere and apparently I didn't seem to notice several young ladies but my head was swiveling every time we met a motorcycle.

There are 2 older bikes that I really want that seem to be screaming deals lately: a Quota and a hydro engined Guzzi. I'm not a cruiser guy so it's just the engine on tje hydro that really appeals to me. Actually, if I could get a hydro engine in a Quota... :drool:

On new bikes, I've seen great deals on Aprilia Manas and Shivers. Used Shivers and Manas can be found at great deals too. That's why I now have an '08 Shiver.

I've noticed that the older style Ninja 250s are going for under $2000 these days. I've also been watching Suzuki SVs. I've been seeing some 1000s lately for around $4000. They are sometimes less than the comparable SV650s. That's a lot of bike for the money!


Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: kirkemon on October 14, 2015, 01:25:26 PM
Let me get this right, you can stay with one woman but not one motorcycle? :shocked:
Gee, I have a couple motors I bought 30 years ago. I've had them longer than my wife. Where's your loyalty?  :wink:
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: WitchCityGuzzi on October 14, 2015, 01:32:25 PM
I got my left over 2009 Stelvio that was set up like a current NTX (crash bars, bags, lights, etc)for 12,500. I considered it then, and still do now, to be an awesome bang for the buck deal. Considering what other ADV bikes are going for with nothing on them, and not having that lovely motor.....
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Triple Jim on October 14, 2015, 01:34:35 PM
I've noticed that the older style Ninja 250s are going for under $2000 these days.

They sure are.  As I recently posted, I bought a 2005 Ninja 250 for $1,100 a few weeks ago, so my daughter would have something she could get some riding experience on.  I quickly found out that I love it.  It does everything I've asked it to do, and done it well.  At the last gas station fill-up, I calculated 71 mpg, giving it a 300 mile range before reserve.  I thought it would be underpowered and buzzy, but it is neither.  I can't even hear the engine over the wind noise at 60 mph.  And I was surprised to find that the seating position is quite upright and comfortable, unlike many bigger sport bikes.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: jas67 on October 14, 2015, 01:40:13 PM
My wife says I am a slut.....I am faithful in my marriage of 28 years she has never questioned that. She calls me a slut because I am always looking for my next motorcycle....lusti ng openly for something only two wheels and a motor can take care of....

I don't see a problem  :evil:
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Guzzistajohn on October 14, 2015, 01:47:29 PM
Plenty of Tiger's on the market '03 to '07 models from $2200.00 to 4K.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: mentalfloss on October 14, 2015, 03:39:34 PM
Plenty of Tiger's on the market '03 to '07 models from $2200.00 to 4K.
YES i ment to post that.... Tigers both Steamers and Girlies are a real deal. I would totally do one! I mean own one....
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: canuguzzi on October 14, 2015, 04:05:46 PM
Honda ST1100. A competent motorcycle is there ever was one. A 100+ mph sofa. You even think about not making it to your destination trouble free.

Triumph Trophy 1200 96-2003. Uber fast, super strong motor and runs forever. The bike reeks personality. Sounds like a diesel tractor at idle but when it runs...

Yamaha Fazer 700. The ultimate middle weight hooligan.

Aprilia Future, a here to there in style bike.

All of them reasonably priced, reliable, top class performance and for the money it takes to get them, very little that comes close to being as good.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: LowRyter on October 14, 2015, 04:14:14 PM
good used Suzuki Bandit
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: oldbike54 on October 14, 2015, 04:18:37 PM
good used Suzuki Bandit

  :1: And the older pre-Vtec VFRers .

  Dusty
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: canuguzzi on October 14, 2015, 04:27:02 PM
good used Suzuki Bandit

 :1:

Now you're talking.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: jagwillie on October 14, 2015, 04:35:30 PM
I would recommend a good used 05 blue Bandit with 18K miles on it and as luck would have it, I have one in stock.
Bill Bassett
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Steph on October 14, 2015, 04:42:20 PM
If you liked the Quota type, what about a Yamaha TDM? You
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: fotoguzzi on October 14, 2015, 04:53:31 PM
your quite right about the Buells.. their value has tanked below a Guzzi.. and wow what a machine it is!

(https://fotoguzzi.smugmug.com/Buell/i-RJtqHnq/0/M/IMG_0899-M.jpg) (https://fotoguzzi.smugmug.com/Buell/i-RJtqHnq/A)
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: flip on October 14, 2015, 04:54:57 PM
If you liked the Quota type, what about a Yamaha TDM? You

The TDM hasn't made it to the USA in a long time. It looks like it would be a nice all around bike.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: rdbandkab on October 14, 2015, 05:32:41 PM
aprilia Caponord 1200.

ABS, ADD aprilia's semi-active suspension, ATC traction control, 3 mode settings for road conditions, (and probably lots of 3 letter acronyms!)
Under $11k in some places.

We've done over 8000 miles on ours since July.   

*saw a few Guzzi's on our way down to Big Stone Gap last weekend.   Looked like a Griso was one of them.  Just can't remember where!!!  119 out of Charlestown, WV to 23 in KY to Big Stone Gap, VA.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: wymple on October 14, 2015, 06:43:07 PM
Brand new left over Yamaha Warriors would be my bet. 1900cc's & not a damn thing wrong with them. They just aren't selling well.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: jas67 on October 14, 2015, 07:29:23 PM
  :1: And the older pre-Vtec VFRers .

  Dusty

I had two of them, as 750, and an 800 (1998-2001, fuel injected, no v-tec).    Both were great bikes.    The only think I didn't like was the chain, hence my current BMW F800GT (belt).
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on October 14, 2015, 07:32:44 PM
Quote
the Buell BLAST

Uhhh, no.  :smiley:
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: jim_W on October 14, 2015, 08:26:13 PM
I have to agree with  Norge Pilot, old ST1100 Honda's have got to be among the most reliable bikes on the road. I have a 2001 with well over 200,000 miles and it works just as it did when new.  I know several people who have owned them and no problems ever.  Even low mile examples are cheep now.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: mentalfloss on October 14, 2015, 08:32:09 PM
The first caponard (2002?) is a bang for your buck candidate...I see them for the $3,000 range and that seems like a LOT of bike for the money.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: dxhall on October 14, 2015, 08:41:17 PM
Buell Blast?  I thought I read somewhere that those were the worst motorcycle in the history of mechanized travel.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: canuck750 on October 14, 2015, 08:47:54 PM
Best Bang for the Buck - Sport Touring mile muncher - Kawasaki Concourse 1000, I had a 1996 for 8 years, fantastic zero problem bike, I traded it in for a 1 year old 2004 BMW R1150RT, the Kawasaki in my opinion was a much better bike then the BMW. I still own the Beemer just because I have never thought I could get my money back selling it. It had a few issues some of them very costly like a new ABS pump.

Second best all around bike, Kawasaki KLR 650, have bought four of them, replaced my worn out 2005 with a new one this summer and found a 2008 and a 2012 for my sons. A true Swiss army knife of motorcycles, if I could only own one bike it would be the KLR, IMHO its the best all around, do it all and CHEAP trouble free bike out there.

Most smiles for the miles, my 1972 Eldorado.

Most enjoyable to look at, 1973 V7 Sport.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Travman on October 14, 2015, 08:54:26 PM
Ambassador. Classic full fender good looks. Exotic Italian that is as easy to work on as a Chevy small-block. Parts availablity.  A classic that can be used as an everyday bike. Still undervalued.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: mentalfloss on October 14, 2015, 09:00:33 PM
Buell Blast?  I thought I read somewhere that those were the worst motorcycle in the history of mechanized travel.
I was just kidding about the blast.....the blast is not a bang for your buck it is not a blast to ride  either! I rode one one time and was not impressed but I do see them for 500 bucks!
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: oldbike54 on October 14, 2015, 09:01:16 PM
Buell Blast?  I thought I read somewhere that those were the worst motorcycle in the history of mechanized travel.

 Nope , that would have been either the BSA Beagle , or the Lilac/Marusho variants  :laugh:

  Dusty
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: dxhall on October 14, 2015, 09:32:38 PM
BSA Beagle?  I remember my dad's advice when I left home those many years ago:  "Son, never buy a bike named after a dog that slobbers."  I've always followed his advice ...
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: oldbike54 on October 14, 2015, 09:49:08 PM
BSA Beagle?  I remember my dad's advice when I left home those many years ago:  "Son, never buy a bike named after a dog that slobbers."  I've always followed his advice ...

 Could be why there was never an Ariel Blood Hound  :laugh: The Beagle however was real , although a very strange contraption .

  Dusty
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Lannis on October 14, 2015, 10:35:40 PM
Could be why there was never an Ariel Blood Hound  :laugh: The Beagle however was real , although a very strange contraption .

  Dusty

Little 75cc pushrod thing that never went far - but at least it was a real motorcycle.   It took the Ariel 3 to finally put BSA under.   I suppose everyone thought that BSA had finally lost their corporate mind ....

Lannis
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: oldbike54 on October 14, 2015, 11:03:07 PM
Little 75cc pushrod thing that never went far - but at least it was a real motorcycle.   It took the Ariel 3 to finally put BSA under.   I suppose everyone thought that BSA had finally lost their corporate mind ....

Lannis

 Yeah , the Ariel 3 was probably the Rube Goldbergiest contraption to ever leave the gates at Small Heath . It did inspire that weird little Honda 3 wheel leaner that also didn't sell very well in the states .

  Dusty
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Scud on October 15, 2015, 12:19:21 AM
The Moto Guzzi V11 Sports give me a great Bang/Buck ratio.

Outside the marque, I've been looking at the BMW K75s and K100RS - the flying bricks. I've been thinking about a cheap, reliable, mileage muncher that I could leave on city streets and airport parking lots without much worry. I think they may be finding a bit of a collector following too.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Guzzistajohn on October 15, 2015, 12:46:13 AM
YES i ment to post that.... Tigers both Steamers and Girlies are a real deal. I would totally do one! I mean own one....

My girly rocks! Love my old lemans but the tiger has been great!
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: mach1mustang351 on October 15, 2015, 01:24:53 AM
The Moto Guzzi V11 Sports give me a great Bang/Buck ratio.

Outside the marque, I've been looking at the BMW K75s and K100RS - the flying bricks. I've been thinking about a cheap, reliable, mileage muncher that I could leave on city streets and airport parking lots without much worry. I think they may be finding a bit of a collector following too.

My dad has a brick with over 120k on it. As a pure touring machine, I have not risen anything more comfortable, or as smooth. I used to give my dad grief for having such a big, heavy brick... my stelvio is bigger...
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Dean Rose on October 15, 2015, 07:51:24 AM
Best bang for the buck is a used Guzzi.


Dean
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: segesta on October 15, 2015, 09:46:06 AM
Best bang for the buck? Likely my 2014 California 1400, which I'll have to sell for 52% of MSRP. =8^0

But in general, I agree with those touting sport tourers, like ST1100 or Concours or FJ1300, which are out of fashion but great motorcycles. I recently picked up a 2010 BMW K1300GT with 11K miles for $13,000. Original MSRP ~23K. It has 160 hp, 98 lbs of torque, good wind protection, capacity for a long trip, heated seats (including passenger), heated grips, cruise control, TPMS, Xenon headlamp, center stand, and adjustable seat. Even used I paid a good sum, but it's a great motorcycle.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: rocker59 on October 15, 2015, 10:18:50 AM
This Ohlins-equipped 2003 V11 Lemans Rosso Corsa is a LOT of bike for $4995

http://www.motointernational.com/catalog/used-motorcycles-and-scooters/used-2003-moto-guzzi-v11-lemans-rosso-corsa-1100

Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: mentalfloss on October 15, 2015, 10:37:14 AM
I am intrigued by the BMW r1200cs touring/cruiser oil head and see them for $3,500 to $5,000 pretty regularly.
I would rather have a guzzi cali for less dough though.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Joe A. on October 15, 2015, 10:58:38 AM
 a Jackal for $2500-$3500 is an incredible grin producer for not a lot of $.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: lucydad on October 15, 2015, 11:09:28 AM
I saw a 1971 Honda CB 350 in perfect condition in Durango, CO two days ago.  Ridden by a young lady.  Looking great, and the bike sounded sweet.  Brought back memories. 
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Rough Edge racing on October 15, 2015, 11:25:24 AM
your quite right about the Buells.. their value has tanked below a Guzzi.. and wow what a machine it is!

(https://fotoguzzi.smugmug.com/Buell/i-RJtqHnq/0/M/IMG_0899-M.jpg) (https://fotoguzzi.smugmug.com/Buell/i-RJtqHnq/A)


  97 tube frame Buell for 2500 bucks....Insane fun ride...

    (http://i.imgur.com/ZygzW9vl.jpg)
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: motofoto on October 15, 2015, 03:50:28 PM
The 1st Gen Aprilia Tuono is an amazing bike for what they trade for these days.  I had one for a few years, and it was the best bike I ever owned.  I actually didn't keep it as it was actually too capable for my style of riding.  I'm in the city a lot and I never used any of the power.  Sold it to a buddy, and he loves it too. 
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Scud on October 15, 2015, 04:43:33 PM
This Ohlins-equipped 2003 V11 Lemans Rosso Corsa is a LOT of bike for $4995

http://www.motointernational.com/catalog/used-motorcycles-and-scooters/used-2003-moto-guzzi-v11-lemans-rosso-corsa-1100

Stop!!!! I cannot look at that bike again..... it makes me want to buy a one-way ticket to Seattle.... please stop........ you're hurting me.

Yes. That is possibly the best bang for the buck EVER.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Lannis on October 15, 2015, 04:47:22 PM
Stop!!!! I cannot look at that bike again..... it makes me want to buy a one-way ticket to Seattle.... please stop........ you're hurting me.

Yes. That is possibly the best bang for the buck EVER.

Agreed, and it's got all the right stuff on it, same mods I would have made for my personal bike .....
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: sdcr on October 15, 2015, 05:39:41 PM
here a couple that iown, or have owned in the past.

1995-? MZ Skorpion. In either Tour or Sport trim. Powered by an yamaha's bullet proof, 4 valve head 660cc Single. puts out about 42 hp, but extremely light weight, about 350 pounds. A very fun big single with electric start. These are no longer imported from Germany, ( or even built ) anymore.
You can find these on CL or Ebay for anywhere from $1300 - $2800.

1996 - 2001 BMW r1100 R. Actually, even the RT and RS versions, along with the naked R versions are inexpensive. These a are powerful, arguably reliable mile eaters. Comfortable, handle well, and even look good , relative to modern BMW motorcycle designs. These easily go 100,000 plus miles if maintained. These were expensive when new, but I've seen early ones as low as $2000.,With really nice 2000+ models at well under $5000.

John
83 Le Mans III
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: jas67 on October 16, 2015, 08:15:45 AM
1998-2001 VFR800.    Low miles examples are frequently available for around $3k.     Add bags, and they're a great sport tourer with that great V4 sound.   My only complaint was chain maintenance, which is why I replaced it with a belt-driven F800GT.

New, left over 2014 Interceptor (VFR800).     They couldn't compete with the Ninja 1000 (which is much more of a sport tourer than an all out sport bike) for the same money, and are now being blown out at the bargain price of $8k for the regular model, and $9k for the Deluxe (ABS, traction control, heated grips and self cancelling turn signals).   MSRP was $12.5k/$13.5k.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: GearheadGrrrl on October 16, 2015, 08:49:02 AM
New left over 2013 Yamaha Super Tenere for around $10k- More reliable than an R1200GS for half the price!
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: segesta on October 16, 2015, 10:20:14 AM
I am intrigued by the BMW r1200cs touring/cruiser oil head and see them for $3,500 to $5,000 pretty regularly.
I would rather have a guzzi cali for less dough though.

The knock on the "C" was that it had an enormous engine, yet somehow produced only 60 horsepower. But maybe its very undesirability--like those 1980s Rolexes with odd, dingy dial colors--will make it collectible.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: ken farr on October 16, 2015, 10:48:52 AM
My 2cents worth:

1)  Jackal-Stone.
     Fix the frickin seat, and your good to go.

2)  1st. generation Kawasaki Concours.

3)  Suzuki Bandit.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: jas67 on October 16, 2015, 11:39:03 AM
The knock on the "C" was that it had an enormous engine, yet somehow produced only 60 horsepower. But maybe its very undesirability--like those 1980s Rolexes with odd, dingy dial colors--will make it collectible.

Wow, I had no idea that they only made 60 HP, and at only 5,000 RPM to boot.   I guess they were tuning it for the target market that are used to low-RPM torque, and not reving past 5,000 RPM.    It does make 72 lb*ft of torque at 3,000 RPM.    The same-era R1100R (and RS, RT, GS) motor's torque peak was 71 lb*ft @ 5,250 RPM (80 HP at 6,750).     I think that the target market (cruiser riders) would definitely be happier with the lower reving R1200C motor, as it is what they're used to, but, what BMW missed is that V-twin fans would never be happy with the Boxer's sound.

So, IMHO, they built a bike that apeals neither to the target market, nor, they're faithful.    Hmmmm, sounds like just Harley Davidson and the XR1200.    OK, the XR1200 does appeal to some outside the H.D. faithful, I like 'em, and I know other anti-cruiser people who like 'em too.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: oldbike54 on October 16, 2015, 12:36:33 PM
 The 1200C Beemers have become popular among sidecarists , all of that low RPM grunt, the telelever fork , and the fat tires make for a good tug . Rode one about 100 miles in one day , could not wait to dismount . Horrible seat and handlebars .

  Dusty
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: shapemaster on October 16, 2015, 01:06:24 PM
My wife says I am a slut.....I am faithful in my marriage of 28 years she has never questioned that. She calls me a slut because I am always looking for my next motorcycle....lusti ng openly for something only two wheels and a motor can take care of....
SO... I have been buying motorcycles that are underpriced compared to what is in that class.

What do you think the best deals are on specific models of bikes?

MOTO GUZZI
Quota- I am kicking myself for missing on a nice quota this summer less than 120 miles away for about $2,500 with bags!!!! Dang! A lot of bike for the money. I want another one and will buy one.

2009 Stelvio- I know of a 2009 stelvio with a stucchi  aux tank and other goodies for sale for $6,000.....man that is a well sorted bike with lots of farkels for what a R1100gs brings!
When they get above $7,000 or so they lose some of the BANG.

Various Californias- you can get a real nice cali for under $3,000

BUELL
The ulysses is a steal right now- a 2006 can be had for as low as$2,250 on e bay in a buy it now last week. The 2006 has some things that need to be addressed but I see 2006 Ulysses going in the $3,000 TO $3,500
2007- 2009 For a little bit more....anyway you can get a smokin bike for under $5,000 with the Uly.
All buells seem to be a real value right now. Get that dream bike ...the Buell BLAST NOW while you can.

KAWASAKI
I bought a 1999 concours last spring for under $2,000 and it is sweet. A lot of bike for the money. Coast to coast like butter and toast. I do not really like a sport tourer as my first choice but I have put over 10k miles on this mile muncher this year.

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE BEST DEALS ON SPECIFIC MODELS?

I guess it all depends on the type of riding you are doing and what you want this bike for.
Also, do you want new or used and is it a case of really wanting a Guzzi and just getting into the brand or are you a long time rider of this brand and want a specific bike?

For best bang I'm sure it's not going to be what you would guess or even want so just buy what you want.

For my opinion it all depends on what you are doing with that bike specifically.

I always tell my son buy a bike you'll want to go out in the garage and clean and polish on and just look at because you enjoy the engineering and design and over all appeal, both in appearance and riding pleasure.  Don't buy based upon economic sense or just to be bigger than the neighbors bike, etc.
No bike with all the features can sway me to buy it now because I don't buy because it has heated grips or seats or
other features when it's butt ugly brown like baby poop but oh does it make sense because of the wonderful features it has.

Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: LowRyter on October 16, 2015, 04:59:39 PM
The knock on the "C" was that it had an enormous engine, yet somehow produced only 60 horsepower. But maybe its very undesirability--like those 1980s Rolexes with odd, dingy dial colors--will make it collectible.

I can't think of a more disappointing bike that I ever test rode.  It's anemic engine performance certainly exceeded the bike's handling. 
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: jas67 on October 16, 2015, 06:04:25 PM
I can't think of a more disappointing bike that I ever test rode.  It's anemic engine performance certainly exceeded the bike's handling.

Just like a a lot of other cruisers.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: ohiorider on October 16, 2015, 06:21:56 PM
Wow, I had no idea that they only made 60 HP, and at only 5,000 RPM to boot.   I guess they were tuning it for the target market that are used to low-RPM torque, and not reving past 5,000 RPM.    It does make 72 lb*ft of torque at 3,000 RPM.    The same-era R1100R (and RS, RT, GS) motor's torque peak was 71 lb*ft @ 5,250 RPM (80 HP at 6,750).     I think that the target market (cruiser riders) would definitely be happier with the lower reving R1200C motor, as it is what they're used to, but, what BMW missed is that V-twin fans would never be happy with the Boxer's sound.

So, IMHO, they built a bike that apeals neither to the target market, nor, they're faithful.    Hmmmm, sounds like just Harley Davidson and the XR1200.    OK, the XR1200 does appeal to some outside the H.D. faithful, I like 'em, and I know other anti-cruiser people who like 'em too.
BMW missed a lot with the C Series.  However, I understand that many of the ones on the used market end up as sidecar tugs.  Maybe that humongous Telelever suspension is a reasonable alternative vs modifying a telescopic front end with Earles forks.

Yep, they were low hp engines, with smaller valves, and tuned to meet the contemporary cruiser market's hp and torque specs.  I demo'd one of the first ones our dealer had in stock, and spent a couple hours on it.  Not a bad machine at all, just unusual.  I recall reading they kept the Telelever (and even emphasized it) to show off BMW technology.  Well, Seigfried ....... how did that work out ....?

And you're right ...... the 'faithful' couldn't figure it out either.  They're not cruiser riders.  OTOH, it didn't take them long to figure out the GS configuration in the mid 1980s.

Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: SPEIRMOOR on October 16, 2015, 06:38:55 PM
Honda 919
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Petrus Rocks on October 17, 2015, 06:33:48 AM
I'm a twin fan- Guzzis and Buells.  my Ulysses has been a phenomenal all-around bike.  Biggest complaint is the seat height.  nice long distance bike too.  So many lower priced Guzzis it's like a feast for the starving.  The Jap bikes are competent  but a bit complicated and soulless for me.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: Dean Rose on October 17, 2015, 10:50:40 AM
So many lower priced Guzzis it's like a feast for the starving. 

If I had the funds, I'd have a garage full like our friend Tom in Hawaii. I do have a nice EV that I might swap for an SP.


Dean
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: NC Steve on October 17, 2015, 12:22:17 PM
Suzuki 1250 Bandit is on my short list of possible next bikes to buy.
Great power, huge torque down low, unheard of reliability, been made for nearly 20 years so parts are cheap and plentiful, and bikes can be bought for a song.

Also the Suzuki 650 V Strom, a helluva fine motorcycle, and a real value.
Clean used ones can be had in the $4K range, and new 2014 ABS models can be bought $6995, out the door.
Again, parts are plentiful and cheap. A great do-it-all bike.
Title: Re: Best bang for the buck in motorcycles...whatch think?
Post by: EldoMike on October 17, 2015, 12:28:43 PM
I'm a twin fan- Guzzis and Buells.  my Ulysses has been a phenomenal all-around bike.  Biggest complaint is the seat height.  nice long distance bike too.  So many lower priced Guzzis it's like a feast for the starving.  The Jap bikes are competent  but a bit complicated and soulless for me.

Seat height is the only thing that has kept me off one....damn these short legs... :sad: