New poster, digging up an old thread here. I've been asking 'round on some of the forums across the net re: 'stroms, but I like the idea of hearing from fellow New Englanders.
'Been riding a while, about 17 years now. Just parted ways with a Bandit 1200. Fine bike, but not entirely for me. Too much of nearly everything, but not enough wind protection or comfort.
Had my heart set on getting an SV650 with the understanding that it would be strictly for local rides on the weekend. The regular SV (now Gladius) is too naked for highway riding for me, and the versions with the fairings are too race-bike with the ergonomics.
Plan B was to get a heavy sport tourer; ST1300, FJR, or Concours. Then I saw the price tags and realized I'd have to settle for an older version; ST1100, C10, etc. I really want to go for something EFI this time around. I have had enough of carbs.
I'm on a budget: $4k for the bike, probably stretched to $5k. I could go higher, but I don't want to. Bikes are supposed to be cheap fun.
Then someone turned me onto the V-Strom. Seems perfect: SV engine + upright ergos and a screen for highway and light touring. I know its marketed as a dual sport, but that doesn't mean I actually have to really ride it off road or anything, right? Garandman (via a discussion on another forum) convinced me the upsized front wheel and 'trailie' suspension are probably suited for our craptastic New England highways too.
I mulled over the other cheapie alternatives: Kawi Versys, Ninja 650R, SVs, etc. Keep coming back to the 'strom: V-twin balance, simplicity, nice ergos, tons of accessories.
Okay, I'm sold. I want a V-Strom.
Now I'm just mulling over the finer points of DL1000 vs DL650, ABS vs not, used vs new, etc. That and watching CL very closely!