I have never seen any bike animosity here at FR, unless its disgruntled poser-trolls from DU.
I do suggest whatever you get is whats comfortable to you, otherwise I would say look for fuel injection first, shaft or belt, I have both, each has its attributes.
Windshields I cannot live without in my older years, and I am partial to a water cooled engine.
I meant good natured animosity. Like the Ginger and Maryanne debate. Of course, some smart aleck always throws in “Mrs Howell.”
After looking at the bug strikes on my pickup, I will definitely get a windshield!
Windshields I cannot live without in my older years, and I am partial to a water cooled engine.
That's good advise. Especially the windshield. It makes a big difference fatigue-wise on long rides.
Take what you like out on some test rides. Unfortunately, you won't be able to do a couple of hundred miles, which is what it will take to see how comfortable the bike is on distance runs. What's important is that you get something that you like the looks of and is comfortable for you to ride. There is generally a lot of emotion tied up into brands, so take what most folk say with a grain of salt unless they can talk facts and not hyperbole.
I'd also agree with the other folk that you're not going to save any money getting a bike because of the reasons mentioned. You also have to understand that if it is primary transportation, that you obviously can't do everything on a bike that you can on a car. Lack of cargo space is an obvious issue. Weather is another. I ride year round here in North Texas, but I'll tell you that when it drops below 20 degrees it's freaking cold on a bike, regardless of your gear.
All that said, if you want and can afford it, get the bike. It's so much more enjoyable than a car, that there really isn't any comparison.