2005 Kawasaki 1500 Classic?

[TAFNAP]

I am a new rider this year and presently am riding a Suzuki Katana 600. I use it mostly as a comuter bike and to go rides with my wife as much as possible, but my wife is very uncomfortable 2 up for any distance which is understandable. I want to but a crusier and when purchasing new tires tonight at a local Kawi dealership (only dealership) that could service me asap. They mentioned that they had a still in the box 2005 1500 Classic. My wife and I was thinking about moving into the crusiers next year but now are wondering if I (we) should move up this year.

Little background I took the saftey course and passed I have riden probably over 1500 miles on the Suzuki with no issues and can handle it 2 up no problem. My neighbor just bought a 2000 Kawasaki Classic 1500 and I rode it with a little shake but no real problem, I am 6' 1" about 250 and am thinking about getting this 2005 the dealership is offering.

A couple questions I have is should I get it?

Sounds like from what a read a great all aound bikle?

Is it worth $8,600 stock no mods?

Kelly Blue book has it as $6,995 but I am assuming it is not taking in the fact it has zero miles on it?

Thanks as a newbie wanting to learn and ride.

[funny book]

It's a great bike, no doubt about it. The 1500 Classic is the best deal out there for big bore bikes. Not quite as comfy for your passenger as a Nomad, but can easily be set up to be close.

IMO, $8,600 is high for an '05 at this point though. The '07's are out soon, & that's only a grand off the '06 list price. I found my '06 Nomad for $1,500 off the MSRP a month after they hit the showroom floor. If you search around, I bet you could find an '05 for less, or an '06 for what they're asking for that '05. Or maybe get them to throw in some extra gear for that price.

Good luck man!

[Frankt07]

i have an 05 1500 and love it. my gf loved it too until she got her own bike. as for the price, it doesnt sound bad considering its brand new with zero miles. and you will get a factory warranty for a year. if they could leave the price at near what it is out the door, i would jump on it. you wont regret it and your wife will love you for it

[secondhandsmith]

They have 05 on the local dealer floor here for 7299

[Scubat]

You will love the 1500. I love mine! You can't go wrong for the money! You should be able to buy a new 2005 right now for $7500 or less as along as it is stock. Good luck.

[TAFNAP]

That is exactly what I was thinking more around $7,000 to $7,500 but not $8,600 without anything.

Also what are you guys getting for MPG?

I was thinking of these add ons asap or as part of getting the bike.

1. Back rest for rider
2. Floor Board for rider
3. Saddle bags
4. Windscreen
5. Light Bar
6. Engine Protection Bars
7. Highway Pegs

In that order of importance. Does that sound resonable or would you suggest something different?

[Scubat]

Nice ideas , but I would go for the Pipes, Air kit and fuel managment system before those toys!