[Jon D.]

Took your advice and checked the reviews on this sight for the dual sports. Seat height is an issue but more than that, other than a 400 Suzuki no one recommended them for highway riding. We do live in a rural area and will be doing some easy cruising. 55-65mph riding for an hour or two a trip. Will surf around the web for other options, but I do value the info here and take it into consideration first. thanks for the option. Ride safe and God bless. Jon D.

[Jon D.]

I was stationed at the amphib base until 1985. I currently live in Kansas, you should continue to read the postings in this sight. You will be better able to make an informed decision should you read further. Please remember that most people in these forums are drawing from their own experience to best help you and others. Because I am familiar with the area you will be riding, any of the smaller bikes will suffice. Keep in mind all of the young military guys that may be spending their first time in a big city setting. You will need to be extra mindful of your surroundings. Definitely take the MSF course, it will help you in seeing ahead and avoiding serious dangers. I wish you all the best, keep in touch. Ride safe and God bless. Jon D.

[Jon D.]

I realize that the s40 is a 600cc class bike, but at the time I had mine ,my room mate owned a Kawasaki 454ltd. In a regular cruising situation on the city streets of Norfolk, I really had to wring it out just to keep up with him. The S40 is a single thumper that is not rev happy, and you will find a large number of smaller displacement motorcycles that will just flat out perform over the abilities of the S40. I would almost wager that my old GS400 had more ooomph than the S40. Although I do agree with the philosophy found on these pages, I think that the S40 is getting a bum rap due to the 600cc displacement. It just acts different than any twin or four on the market with the same displacement. Remember, this is just an opinion. I have ridden this bike and am familiar with it’s behavior. Ride safe and God bless. Jon D.

[Jon D.]

I have been wavering between the S40 vs. S50. We live in Kansas and the winds that we deal with are something else. A breeze is about 15mph and that is pretty much the norm. 20-30+mph winds are not uncommon, so the weight of the bike is a factor. I don’t need her getting blown off the road. Have not looked at the Shadow, does it have foward controls. We sat her on the 750 shadow, but she hated the controls. I also appreiciate your comment on observing her abilities at the MSF course. Hadn’t considered that. Thank you Jon D.

[Jon D.]

I realize a large number of people lean toward the 250cc range. Uncle Bernie has a fine article on the S50, but if you are new to riding the S40 is a fine linear bike that should fill your needs as you gain experience. It is not a rocket ship and will be more prone to stutter if you give it to much gas vs. front wheel staring at the sky. I found it to be a very easy bike to handle, back when it was still called a Savage. You may be able to find one that is used that is well within your budget. Make sure to take the MSF. Ride safe and God bless. Jon D.

[Jon D.]

I hope your points system doesn’t get abused. From what I’ve noticed the majority of the people that visit are looking for insight to motorcycle riding. I would think that anyone that chooses to abuse it will pretty much stand out like a sore thumb. Good luck, great site. Ride safe and God bless.

[Jon D.]

Thanks for the reply, but…..well….her legs won’t reach the ground. The V-stars are great bikes, but she doesn’t like the foward controls. The S50 was the only bike over 750cc that actually fit her. Great posture and flat foot when stopped. I actually can’t understand how some of the bigger guys ride it w/o getting cramped up. Glad to know that there is a Yamaha fan on this site. Ride safe and God bless. Jon D.

[Jon D.]

oops!

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