Kawasaki VN1500 - advice needed

[Keeno]

Hi all

1st post on these forums and im looking for a bit of advice. Im from N.Ireland. Well anyways here's my burning question/questions



Im trading in my honda hornet 2003 for a cruiser type bike, the honda is by no means a superbike but i find myself going too fast and too hard on it, its not worth my licence. Also my girlfriend has hinted that if i got a cruiser she would be more interested in going on the back, the hornets too high of the ground for her to be comfortable.

Ive been to a local dealer in N.Ireland and he has a Kawasaki VN1500, its 2003/2004. The dealer said that he does not know the exact date the bike was made but that it is either 2003 or 2004? Surley he should know this? Its a brand new bike and is unregistered.

The bike is for sale for £6495 but im not sure if thats a bit much for a 2003/2004. Ok I may be the first registered owner in 2006 but if I try to sell the bike in a few years time the age would probably be a factor.

This is a link to the actual bike : http://www.2ucomputers.net/vn1500.jpg

Any opinions or idea's on what questions i should be asking this guy?

Any input would really be appreciated.

[Tbone800b]

I'm not an expert on these matters. Someone should be along to help you soon. I do admit it is a nice bike and that there are a lot of very happy 1500 owners around here. I guess it would depend on availability in Ireland that would determine if it's a good deal or not.

[relli]

the VIN# or vehicle identification number should tell you the year-great bike

[samarnold55]

I'll also add the disclaimer that I'm not an expert...But I did purchase my 1500 used too.

Go ahead and give the bike a thorough look over several times checking everything. (tires, brakes, controls, seat, paint, fuel system, frame, electrical, etc. etc.) If you took the MSF class, run through the TCLOCS check. Go for a test ride and check for any vibrations, noise, or other problems. Ask to see the maintenance records to make sure oil changes and service were all completed on schedule.

As far as price goes. I paid $6200 for a 2002 last summer. Seemed like it was in the ballpark as far as a reasonable price for the bike. I don't know what the value would be across the pond, but if vehicles are like everything else that is probably a reasonable price. Seems like a can of pop was 1 pound compared to the $1 we pay in the states. If that is a good idea of the exchange rate, then I would say they have it reasonably priced.

Good luck.

[Targetbuster]

That makes it what, $8100 US?? If it is an '04, brand new and what you want go for it. All depends on availability. Over here, that wouldn't be a screaming deal. Over there?? I don't know.

[relli]

BTW -full warranty?? i deal with a lotta people that put lo miles and let thier veh sit for long periods. gaskets,seals,dry out ect...........i would just make sure the warranty is intact for the full 12 month unlimited miles.