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If you are just wanting a learner bike, consider a metric. \\; You could probably pick up a decent 1100 or so for around $3000.
I looked up some of the metric bikes and they are around $3500.00. I was of the opinion that an extra $1500.00 wasn't that much to have something I consider a much better bike (although I am just learning). And at $5000.00 if it falls I won't be to worried since I am prepared for it to happen. If I were to find a metric bike priced in the $2000.00 plus range I may consider it.
Metrics are as reliable as HD's. \\; We have two HD's, two Yamaha's and a Suzuki. \\; They are all great bikes. \\; My wife rode the Suzuki 13,000 miles before she bought her HD. \\; We never had a minutes trouble with it. \\; It's your money though so get what you want. \\; \\;If it were me, I'd put the extra $1,500 in the bank and use it when I was ready to get a \\;bike I considered more permanent. \\;
I have an 06 883L and I LOVE IT. \\; I rode it for 2 seasons as an 883, and just had it bored out this past winter to a 1200. \\; I love it even MORE now.
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