[Xlr8n]

My brother has a C50 and it is a very well balanced machine with good manners and power. It would fill the role of commuter better than my MS 1600. It is the only mid-size cruiser with FI and shaft drive, making maintenance nothing more than changing fluids. The new 900 Kaw is going to be just a little bigger and a little more powerful, if that is an issue. The manufacturers keep trying to raise the bar on each other, so I would decide how much power you feel you need and go from there. It's pretty easy to get caught up in the 'need more cc's' trap, but you probably would never find yourself complaining about having too many cc's, as long as the bike if easy for you to handle, as opposed to getting a new bike and then a couple months later wishing you would have gotten one with a bit more power. (Yes, this is THE most heard complaint from first time buyers) I would definately recommend that you buy a bike that you feel you can safely handle. You can always trade up in a few years. But, back to your question, the 800 Kaw and Suzi's are both very reliable machines and both have gotten great reviews. I'm sure you'll be happy with either. I would try to ride both and buy the one that makes you smile the most!