Only you can make this decision of course and it must be made with research. Looks like you’re doing it now, so good on you! If you posed this same question on a Vulcan forum, you’ll probably receive similar responses in favor of the Vulcan. Continue your research.

The America is about 50 pounds lighter stock (497 vs 551), but by the time you add all the stuff we inherent chromo America owners put on the bike, you’ll catch up pretty quickly. If EFI is important to you, you may want to consider waiting until the 2008 models are released in the October time-frame. I read somewhere (don’t ask me to search for the link) that per US law all companies producing more that 500 units must produce EFI equipped vehicles beginning in 2008. So, if that’s important to you, wait and see. It’s not that far out.

If I were to do anything different, I’d buy used. Motorcycles are like exercise equipment, there’s always someone out there who thought it was a good idea at the time, but realized for one reason or another, it’s not for them. You can easily find a good deal on either model with low mileage for a significant savings.

Initially the 2-year warranty was important to me due my experience with legacy Triumph’s and Norton’s, so I went the new route. In two and half years the only component that actually failed on my bike was a driving light bulb. All other maintenance actions were of the standard, preventative nature (oil, pads, etc.). In all fairness some folks experienced problems with the chain guard, front disk rotor, or CDI unit on these bikes. Again, with what I know now, I’d go used.

For some of us ancient’s, where the bike was assembled and shipped from is important even though this defies logical argument. I’m not going to beat this horse any further, but my Triumph must contain a “J” in the 11th character of the VIN.

I’m rambling and not making it any easier on you. Surf through this site and gather information. Surf through Vulcan sites and do the same. It’s tough using your “head” once the queen bites you in the butt as she did me so many years ago. There’s just something about an English V(ertical)- Twin that’s hard to shake.

Regards,

Tom