I researched for a couple of years about the type of "bike" to get back onto after a 30 year hiatus. I looked at Honda GW & BMW cruisers in my final checks. I was close to a decision till I came upon a scooter rally in the Denver area. Something like a Harley-went-wrong type of thing. One thing lead through another (too small for me and I moved up) and found out about the Burgman class. Never looked back. I did my research based upon many things such as dependability, ride, looks, ability (of the bike), handling and economy. www.burgmanusa.com was an excellent resource, and very decent people informationally speaking.
I also took a hard look as to what I was going to use the transportation for. Realized I would be a commuter about 99% of the time, and in Denver with traffic (quick stops & maneuverability), as well as the mountains (going from 5280' to 14,000'), long road trips across the prairie (motor to handle it at speed), as well as the quick stop at the local store (easy in & out/nimbleness). I knew I wanted on board storage for the laptop and various weather gear. Well this motorcycle has enough for 2 full faced helmets or about 6 (+-) bags for groceries or a full sized water melon. The lit 55 liters of trunk allow for variety. The 3 glove boxes (1 lockable) are an extra bonus and has a DC port for your devices too. It hits on all cylinders (2) with all the other things I needed. Heck, the last time I rode, a 650-750 WAS a big bike.
Lastly, I went for a ride with all my friends from church with all their various bikes (every brand represented). The eyes rolled as they thought of an underpowered "scooter" in the midst, and the idea of having to "wait" on me was prominent. Well elevation to 8,800' and 1.5 hours "twisty" corners later and out came the questions to every degree. The Burgman 650 kept up more than fine, and I found myself rolling off the throttle as I awaited their shifting. Without it you spend more time thinking about the road. Leaning into switch back curves only scraped the air, and she handled beyond what I thought it would. We as a group have ridden together without comment since, and are all going up to 10k this week with our church for a camp out. Funny how everyone sees it as a bike and not a scooter.
Buy one and don't look back. I will be buying another one of these but only when mine dies out. I anticipate with excellent maintenance that I will have this one for quite some time. I simply have a "Burgman Smile".
