Faults:

Engine light keeps coming on. Not all the time, but when it does, it feels like it is running on one cylinder. Had it to two dealerships, and they do not know what is wrong. Going back to an American made bike.

General Comments:

Like the looks, and when it was new, the bike responded well on long trip to NC.

Now the problem with the engine light; the bike has been serviced on the schedule provided in the owner's manual.

General Comments:

Pros. Great look. Great for cruising.

Cons: A little under powered. Seat could be more comfortable.

Faults:

My odometer cable disconnected shortly after my first scheduled maintenance was performed by my selling dealer, which was repaired by them at no charge.

General Comments:

This was my first bike, and not knowing much about them, luckily, a friend was very helpful in my final choice.

I'm 58 years old, and this was a great choice for me as a starter bike, not something I felt I would grow out of right away, after getting some experience.

Aside from the odometer problem mentioned, I've not experienced any others. I feel most readers will see I've really gotten to enjoy the freedom and exhilarating feeling the rider gets as a bike enthusiast. The vast majority of my riding has been on rural routes wherever possible, cruising at speeds of 30 to 45mph. I just got back from my longest trip ever, Boston to Saratoga Springs, NY which I traveled via highways. The biggest problem with the 650 is seat comfort, many rest-stops are needed, having to stop every 30 to 50 miles for 15 to 20 minutes. Also, would be great if it had a sixth gear, though I was able to cruise at 65mph (posted speed), and accelerate to 75mph if passing, the bike tends to sound "whiny".

At this time I feel as if I might trade up for 800-1200cc, but the additional bike weight(s) is stopping me.

I'm quite comfortable handling the 550 pounds (approx) of the 650 V-Star.

General Comments:

Good value for the money spent.

Seat comfort is only good for about 75 miles.

General Comments:

I have owned this bike for about 7 months now, and never had a problem with it. I also have been riding it in below 30 degree weather, and never had a problem starting or stalling.

I think this bike has enough power for any beginner rider. I've had my bike up to about 91-93 mph, but that's pushing it.

Seems to be a great bike that will be reliable for many years.

Faults:

Stalling in first gear from a start.

General Comments:

To be honest, the stalling problem is my fault. Being a 1st time rider, I have to take time to get the feel of the clutch. Driving a truck for a living I should know this. Each clutch has a different feel to it. Anyway, after solving my "brain problem" I realized that you have to really ease the clutch out for a smooth start.

That being said, I love this bike. Shifting is smooth and acceleration is great. Enough torque for the thrill factor, but not too much to get you in trouble.

I've read reviews that complain "Bike doesn't want to go above 60mph. I can understand this if you are a experienced rider, but for the beginner you shouldn't go that much above 65 anyway. By the way I had mine up to 70 on the highway with no problems.

One problem I have is the discomfort on long rides. I am a big guy 220lbs so a gel seat will fix that. All in all I feel this is the perfect bike for the beginner like me. Will I trade for a bigger one? Of course, but not until I have the mileage under my belt to justify it.