let's argue about obsolete old motorcycles

[misterprofessionality]

What about a CB250 Nighthawk? They're like a small runabout version of our beloved CB1100. You can pick them up for less than $2K.

i worry about having a mini cb11. why wouldn't i just take my cb11? i would feel sad if i get anything and it just sits in my garage and gets poked and prodded every now and again. perhaps if it were something I could use to teach my wife to ride, like a rebel 250, that could have a greal good use. she would need something super duper low and as light as possible, without being a moped.

My XR650L is finally sorted (or I have deluded myself into thinking that). Too tall for most people, but of the three bikes that one is the one I gravitate towards more than the others. A bit over 300lbs she is a delight to ride around town. Only one carb! Still, one too many, but after discovering ultrasonic cleaners I'm good.

Having said all that and more else where let me direct your attention to Moto Guzzi. Around the early 2000's they started using EFI. Personally I think I would avoid those and get an older carb or a newer one with better EFI systems.

2003-04 the California/EV line had hydraulic valve lash adjusters - they had a small problem and had to do a recall but they were solid after than so why they went back to lock nut and screw is beyond me. Valve adjustments are very simple and with the heads out in the open they are stupid easy to work on.

Typically the owner keeps up with the fluids, adjusts the valves, chance tires and burns gas to keep rider and machine happy. Parts are very easy to find (except the Tupperware from older models).

They are as fast if not a bit faster than Harleys (talking similar generations here - newer models will smoke a Harley), like to rev with redlines in the 8K region (my Griso redlines at 8500 but will easily do 10K if the limiter didn't kick in). If you run below 3K you're lugging it.

they handle worlds better than a Harley, typically don't hold their value worth @#$%. But some older models are uber desirable and fetch stupid money. Finding a good dealer near you is almost impossible but there are a couple nationally that do very well and provide telephone support and parts. There are a couple good forums to keep you grounded.

If you like the simpler bikes, and ones that are not seen around every corner (save Seattle) Guzzi is your bike. Typically the Guzzi uniform is a beer gut and suspenders (red), many have beards.

Finally; Until the last 5-7 years, the best Guzzi was a used one as they typically came all sorted out. Factory fresh ones seemed to need more work. QC, while not up to Honda standards, is much better now. Once sorted going well over 200,000 miles is not unheard of.

I like everything i'm reading here, though I would typically stick to my rule of "if it's from italy, do not buy it." then again, if it's from italy, chances are it will give me more opportunities to work on it and problem solve! so in this case, it is a nice outside-the-box idea.

Man, I’m all about the sportster idea. Keep an eye on Craigslist and you can stay under 3 grand. It’d also be a cool bike to ride around the streets of Charleston. Sportster are cool, I’ll always hold that line.

the one i linked you looks great. like it could easily be raised in the rear, lowered in the front, change the seat position a bit and you've got the kind of bike Harley should be making...