Thinking about getting a motorcycle

[Jay2TheRescue]

A couple of friends are really pushing me to get a bike so I can go riding with them. I could also extend the useful life of my Sierra by shifting some mileage off of it when the weather is nice.

Only problem is I don't seem to like cheap bikes. There is an Indian on Craig's List right now that I just love.

[i-DSi]

If I may advise something: buy a Japanese bike.
They are by far the most reliable and in general very easy to handle.
You live in the States, so maybe you're mind's set on big homemade V-twins?

[Jay2TheRescue]

I don't like the look of most of the Japanese bikes. I really love the Indians, but they are hard to find, and prohibitively expensive new (A new Indian will set me back at least $35,000) I do like the looks of the Harley Davidson Heritage Soft Tail Classic though.

[Jay2TheRescue]

How can a Japanese bike even begin to compare with this?

[i-DSi]

I see...
We have a completely different taste as well for motorcycles as cars.
But it would be a boring world if we all drove those perfect Japanese machines, wouldn't it ?

[Jay2TheRescue]

Most of the Japanese bikes are sport bikes. The only Japanese bikes I'm even remotely interested in are the Honda Gold Wing, and the Suzuki Boulevard. I'd like either a touring bike or a cruiser.

[theholycow]

I think the photo that was posted is horribly ugly. However, if I were choosing a bike, how it looks would be my lowest priority (unlike cars where it's a medium priority; I have minimum requirements that must be met, while I have no interest in turning heads or looking great). Comfort, repair/maintenance/parts costs/difficulty, and price would be my top priorities, with fuel economy a medium priority.

The Gold Wing is kinda ugly to me too, but it seems like it would be extremely comfortable and pleasant.

Beyond the Gold Wing (and possibly similar models from other manufacturers), I prefer the look of sport bikes; and I bet with adjusted gearing they would be the most efficient, with their smooth plastic cladding covering everything instead of having lots of bulging stuff.

[Jay2TheRescue]

I should also add, I like the Triumph Bonneville, and 09 models & up are fuel injected, so they should be pretty reliable. I have been told that since I'm tall, a Bonneville is probably too small for me.

[Jay2TheRescue]

I'm looking at cruisers & touring bikes because if I'm not comfortable I won't ride it.

[R.I.D.E.]

Harley V-Rod

regards
Gary