David, a couple cautions if I may. I do have a passing familiarity with motorcycles.
First, unless you are purchasing a new bike, do not purchase one from a dealer. There is simply no need. Motorcycles are often impulse purchases, many markets have numerous only slightly used models available.
Second, the dealership may try and cover up flaws or wear. Jesse or I could give you a fairly comprehensive list of things to look over on a used bike to ensure you aren't purchasing a lemon.
Third, most bikes of Japanese or European origin are fairly bulletproof, and not that easily broken by abuse. Forgive me for leaving Hardleys off that list, perhaps they belong on it and my experience is simply old. I would not rule it out.
Fourth, never, ever under any circumstances go into debt for a toy, which is what a bike is. If you can't afford the shiny one you want get a used one you can afford. Plenty of used bikes out there with lots of ooomph left. I've never in my life bought a new bike and I don't know that I ever will. Let some other sucker take the depreciation.
Fifth, whatever bike you get (who's identity had better be soon forthcoming since you put up this thread) wear your damn gear. Last week I read a thread on Advrider about a youngster who took his vintage Japanese bike to the southwest. Just today I saw that last year that same biker was totaled by a drunk driver. The biker has brain damage that's likely permanent (his girlfriend was quite proud today that he is now potty trained). He wasn't wearing gear, and his worst injury was of course to his head. Wear your gear.
Sorry to be so paternalistic, I imagine you don't need two of those.
:wink2:
you can't take it with ya anyway
