Motorcycle Repair: Used Bike Purchase, kawasaki vulcans, favorite bikes

Question
Can't really trust the dealers to answer this question, so I think a highly experienced mechanic such as you might be willing.  I am an intermediate rider (off and on for 30 years) and want a mid sized street bike, mostly for commuting around town, but capable of minimal touring for 1-2 day trips, maybe in the 700-900 cc range.  Can you name me your 2-4 favorite bikes that show high reliability, durability of parts, ease of access for maintenance/repair.  Simple, basic, heavy-duty parts, much more importance than looks/style.  

Limited finances, but was auto mechanic for many years, and so I have a decent small shop in my home and would do maintenance and repairs. So looking for anything from mid '80s to 1998 or so, in price range.  If this is just a naive question, just say so.

THANKS for you time.

David


Answer
Hi David,

I recommend Honda Shadows, Magnas, Goldwing and CB series; Kawasaki Vulcans, KZ and GPz series, Yamaha Secas, XS's, XV's, and FZ/FZR series. Avoid Suzuki GS series...they have faulty charging systems. See more about them here: www.thegsresources.com

BMW and other european brands are ok if you can find/afford such.

Send me an email sometime. I'll return numerous MC repair files for your use. My email is: mshively1@woh.rr.com

Respectfully,
Mark Shively
Dayton, Ohio