1996 Suzuki GSX-R750
Even though it’s over two decades old, the 1996 Suzuki GSX-R750 is a fantastic choice for sport bike lovers. It’s old enough that it isn’t fuel injected yet, so working on it yourself shouldn’t be too hard. It’s new enough that it looks like one of the modern sport bikes, or near to it. And when you twist the grip, the GSX-R750 is a pure speed machine.
It’s the first year for the Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD), which boosted power to 128 horsepower. It’s so much fun for short distances. Anyone with back problems will hate it after 30 minutes or so when you have to unfold yourself off the tank. But if you want to get to your destination fast, this is the bike for you.
Amazingly, the older Suzuki GSX-R 750 is dirt cheap. You can snag one for $2,00 to $3,500, ready to roll.
2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic
For the big boys who like big toys, the Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic should be on your radar. This is a serious cruiser motorcycle. The Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic looks beefy, and at 644 pounds dry, you need to be beefy to handle it. The Classic appearance includes black paint, chrome bling and available accessories like a windshield, backrest and leather tassels that blow in the breeze.
Inside the frame is a 1,470cc V-twin engine that has serious rumble and gritty torque for any driving conditions. The rake is perfectly comfortable for long-distance cruises, much like taking your couch for a 1,200-mile drive down the Pacific Coast Highway.
If it had the HD badges, this bike would be way more expensive used than it is. Although it’s a brilliant choice with astonishing reliability, the 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic can be found in some places for $3,000 to $4,500.
