2008 Mean Streak vs Boulevard M109R

[Solidgun]

Originally Posted by jaseman

I would say the Meanie is definately the better choice then. Maybe not the perfect choice, but much better then the 109. It's gonna be more user friendly to the less-experienced rider.

I'll probably catch some flack for this, but I might also recommend looking at something like the 900 Custom. Similar look to the Meanie, but less power and weight, making it more managable. Just my personal opinion though. Your gonna get what you want, and at least you already have a basic knowledge of how to ride.

Your recommendation is bang on what everyone else have said. In fact, I started out with looking at Boulevard C50LE and Vulcan 900 Classic. But I got really bored with ZX-6 when I was done with it and I was going to move up when I sold it, but I just happen to get a new job that made me move.

Over lunch, I just went over to the dealership and sat on each bikes again. I am leaning heavily toward MeanStreak as I feel comfotable and secure on the bike and I can touch the ground with both feet with good balance. I did the 45 degree angle leg hold and I could not hold M109R for long......MeanStreak, it was not an issue at all.

I just wish I hadn't looked at pictures of the 07 model as the new model is not the most appealing look after seeing the 07 design.

I got quoted $10,800+TTL....is this fair price?

[mkelley]

I think the red 08 model or the 06 SE model is nicer looking than the 08 SE. The 07 SE is definitely sharp.

[Solidgun]

I have only one option at the dealership....it is 08 SE only....personally, the red one just looks like any other bike.

[jaseman]

Originally Posted by Solidgun

I have only one option at the dealership....it is 08 SE only....personally, the red one just looks like any other bike.

Have you tried another dealer (if there is one around you)? Also, have you looked into finding unsold left-overs?

When I bought my 03, it was a two year old left-over. The dealer was a little out of my way, but had three of them, and was selling them for under $8,000 out the door. You probably won't find an 07 SE left-over, but you might find a color combo you like better than what your local dealer has. Plus you'll save some cash. Just a thought.

Plus, new, used, or left-over, whatever you buy, you can always paint it eventually.

[Solidgun]

Only dealer near me with this bike in stock or have ordered it to arrive prior to July.
I just figured this would have a better resale value than 900 Classic or C50 as I see those in the newspaper everywhere.

[furious70]

from what you've said, I'd def. go meanie over 109r. Does it have to be new? Lots of affordable used ones out there, for 1/2 of new sticker...

[Solidgun]

I don't want to buy new, but there are no other options around the area I live in and I really can't take anymore days off this year to pick it up in other parts of the country. I haven't found another cruiser style bike that fits me well. Would this lose its value quick like 900 classics I see around my area?

[mkelley]

Well, If you could buy it cheaper elsewhere in the country and have it shipped to you and still be cheaper than your dealer's quote, would that be an option?

[Solidgun]

I visited otdcyclesports.com as pointed out in one of the posts here to check out fair price and it only came to be $10699. I am sure I can get that kind of discount of $100.....other than that, I don't see a better price anywhere online plus $1000/1400 shipping charge quotes from various online motorcycle carriers.

[furious70]

where are u located?

[Solidgun]

Fargo, ND 58102

[jaseman]

Originally Posted by Solidgun

I don't want to buy new, but there are no other options around the area I live in and I really can't take anymore days off this year to pick it up in other parts of the country. I haven't found another cruiser style bike that fits me well. Would this lose its value quick like 900 classics I see around my area?

Finding a used Meanie is tough in any market. They just are not a very popular bike - mainly because the general public just doesn't know they exist.

As for resale? Your gonna take a dive on ANYTHING you buy new. As soon as you sign your name on the dotted line, the value drops drastically. Used 900 Classics and C50's don't have any worse resale value (at least around here) than anything else. They're less expensive used, because they cost less new. The actual percentage of price difference between new and used is about the same as any other bike. You just see more of them, because everyone feels they need a bigger bike after a year or two. If Kawi made a 2500, you'd see more used V2K's in the paper.

[chad1043]

Flack... Flack... Flack...

I''m not sure the handling will be where he would want it or is used to. That's my only flack...

Chad

[Solidgun]

I guess that is true on the resale value. Maybe I just don't notice it because I don't see Mean Streaks on sale almost anywhere....

But I am not too worried about taking a large hit on a new purchase anyway. I will be keeping this bike for a while if I buy one now. I foresee 5 years of good use until I upgrade if anything.

[dinoSnake]

Originally Posted by chad1043

Flack... Flack... Flack...

I''m not sure the handling will be where he would want it or is used to. That's my only flack...

Well that's true. I've been wondering if it is possible to raise my Meanie to get more ground clearance (versus the cruiser custom of lowering your bike). I've already touched the pegs down 4 times without trying "too" hard versus my Ninja.

But still, the Mean Streak is a sweetheart with delightfully light and fast steering, rock solid legs (no cruiser pogo-ing) and comfy ergos. He'll have to readjust his riding style to suit a cruiser, which of course is required. This ain't no Ninja but it's still a lot of fun.

[wayne1001]

here in NY I saw a used 05 Meanstreak with 2000 miles for $6000 yesterday.Look around, check ebay for new and used ones.

[dinoSnake]

I got a great deal on my brand-new 06 Limited Edition four months ago via CycleTrader.com. Got it direct from a dealer as a leftover.

[trocar]

I love my meanie, and have ridden the 109 a few times. Life the bike, but it does not seem as much of an all round "fun" bike. Bit too much in the add on department for my liking.

[Solidgun]

Originally Posted by dinoSnake

I got a great deal on my brand-new 06 Limited Edition four months ago via CycleTrader.com. Got it direct from a dealer as a leftover.

Thank you for this information....I just looked at that site and found new 2007 Mean Streak LTD near my location (1 state over) for $9899. Is that a good deal? I do love the 07 look better....

[mkelley]

Well if you prefer the 07 SE (who wouldn't), you probably ought to jump on the deal before someone else does.