It has been about 8 years since I have ridden regularly, but back then I rode everywhere rain or shine. I am looking to buy another bike and start riding again. I am planning on "reacquainting" myself by getting a fairly inexpensive used bike. One that I won't have a fit over if I do something stupid like miss the kickstand or back into it with my car...then, after I have proven to my wife that A> I will actually ride a bike and B> not kill myself. I plan on getting either a Honda VTX 1800 or the Suzuki M109.

Now I said all that to get your opinion on this.

I have found two local bikes that are under or around my budget, but couldn't really be more different in appearance.

One is a 1980 (yep 80) Honda CB 900. It supposedly only has 5000 original miles and "runs like new" and has loads of "touring" add-ons.

The other is a 1993 Suzuki Intruder 1400. It has close to 37,000 miles and is in very good condition.

Basically, I wanted to know if anyone here has personal experience with either of these bikes. I used to ride a 1982 Honda CB 750 and learned how to ride on a 1978 Hondamatic 450. So I am not really scared too much by the age of the Honda. But since I want to eventually move up to a 1800cc engine should I start off at 1400? Would the 1400 be biting off too much after such a long layoff?

Any opinions will be appreciated.

 

Both will probably be good bikes if as you said they have been properly maintained. One downfall of an older metric bike is the availability of parts. You might check with Honda, and Suzuki dealers to see if you can still get parts for the bikes.

As for 900 vs. 1400, I would opt for the bigger. If your going to run freeway speeds the 900 will be pretty much wound out all the way to maintain the speed needed to keep up with traffic flow. That is a safety concern you should consider. Also since you are an experienced rider you will adapt to the 1400 very quickly.

These are just my opinions for whatever that's worth...lol. But good luck with your decision, and welcome back to 2 wheels.

FBR

 

I have a nice 1100 shadow but i do want 6,000 for it but it has benn lowered ad is very easy to ride it is listed here in the forums but as for the other 2 either is a good bike the age of the honda means nothing after all it is a honda the 1400 you might find it a bit cramped as a friend of mine bought one and didnt keep it long till he bought a 1100 shadow

 

Thanks for the advice. I went with the 1400 Intruder. And man it was great for the first 45 miles then crapped out and is now sitting in the service department....just my luck! Ah well, maybe I can finally convince my wife to let me get a new bike.

 

I'll pick Honda. Handling's easy with reliable engine boost.


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I've got a Suzuki VS800, it is an awesome bike. Depends on the dealer, but mine still stocks parts for my bike, it is a 94

 

You should get a Hayabusa asap, no questions asked.

 

Good luck with the Intruder. It's a good bike if the prev. owner didn't mess w/it (high miles though). I hope it works out for you.

 

When you get the bike back from the dealer, check the battery connections. Make sure they are secured with star washers. Intruders are notorius for crapping out like that due to batteries. Check out the gbat for a great replacement.

 

nrw

 

I agree..... I prefer Honda bcoz its easy to handle.....

 

Both the bikes are good one. But i will prefer Honda. As you said you are having experience of Honda, go for it.

 

that makes it two votes from 2 knot posters for a Tutorials board, and I will make that three.Can we now have one please.Can I get any supporting second vote for my proposal for a 'New Knots' board please?Derek _______________________________________Website I designed for instant payday loan company.