Gee, I started out in the early 80's with a Kawasaki 440LTD. For 2 years it was my only transportation. I even sold it for more than I paid for it.
For the next almost 30 years, I had various trucks. Then . . .wac
In April I bought a pair a Hyosung 250's; one new (mine) and one used (for my girl). We both took the MSF course. She didn't pass. A neighbor and I tried to teach her to ride. She just couldn't get it. After she put her feet down while going about 15mph and wrenched her knee pretty good, she just gave up trying to learn how to ride. The shop I got the bikes from is owned by a friend so he was willing to take her bike back and we only lost $100 on the bike, plus the MSF course fee, and tag/title/tax. Not too bad, but I was a bit disappointed that she just didn't have the confidence to ride.
Another reason the shop owner gave me such a good deal on selling her bike back was I purchased a 2012 Cross Country Tour from him. I picked it up the day after my birthday, so it was kinda my birthday present to myself. I kept the new 250 for myself also.
This brings us up to now . . .
After having the XCT for about 2 months, I've only put about 1500 miles on it. It's kinda hard to ride in 110+ temps. The 250 just doesn't put out near as much heat, so actually makes a better commuter bike (also now has about 1500 miles on it). If I'm only going to and from work, I take the 250 most of the time. If I'm going further than 10 miles one way, or am going to be on a highway for more than a couple of miles, I take the XCT.
I haven't taken any long trips (only a few short ones; 150 miles or less one way) on the XCT. I have NO plans for taking the 250 anywhere out of town. It's strictly an in-town commuter.
It's kinda strange switching out between a 350 lb and a 900 lb bike though. If finances work out just right, I'll be trading the 250 for a Vegas 8-ball next summer. At least then I'll have "somewhat" similar bikes to ride instead of such a drastic difference.
For a new rider, I can't say enough good things about the Hyosung 250's. They're cheap ($2500 new, if you know the shop owner and he's desperate to get rid a 2009 left over with one mile on it), unlimited mileage two year warranty, light weight, and very easy to learn on. Plus, they are styled like another well known American bike maker. They don't look like a 250! They also don't disappear up the crack of my butt like every other 250 out there did (I'm not a small guy 6ft+ 215 lb).
The XCT is more comfortable, and a better bike in every way except for low speed and backing into parking (and that's only because of the weight difference).
Now if I had to do it all over again, what would I do different?
1. Get a girl that can ride? Naw, I kinda like this one . . .thumb up
2. Start with a Vic instead of a small rice burner? Nope, I just didn't have the skill or confidence needed to ride an XCT (or a Vegas) right off.
3. Well, I guess I would do just about the same as I did . . .
So that's my story, and I'm sticking to itcheers