Ok, I'll start. I ride a Honda Steed 400cc
Like
Reliable. The ****** thing takes a licking and keeps on ticking. It's a really robust machine. The engine, drive train, everything about it is well built.
Stable. I've hit some big pot holes and I rode over a dead dog at 60mph. There's never been a point at which the bike felt wobbly or unstable. I feel pretty safe on it.
Inexpensive to fix and maintain. I live in Thailand and every mechanic here knows Hondas inside out. Parts are inexpensive and are readily available. Simple design means every mechanic is capable of fixing it. You don't need a super star or a brain surgeon to find a problem.
Low speed handling. Even though it sports a 21" front wheel, it's relatively easy to negotiate at parking lot speeds and the turning angle is pretty good as well.
Dislike:
Comfort. Even though I have an aftermarket touring seat, it's still not very comfortable. The seat is too close to the handle bars and I wind up sitting on my tail bone. I find that I have to stop every half hour or so to relieve the pressure.
Balance. It's not a well balanced bike. It feels a bit top heavy and the weight distribution is not ideal. Other bikes (Hondas and others) are much better balanced than the Steed.
Power. The power is adequate 90% of the time, although sometimes I wish I had a 600cc or bigger especially when riding two up with someone over 170 lbs.
Pillion. Everyone complains about passenger seating. It's too small and the passenger pegs are too high.
Let me know about your experiences. I wonder how other bikes and riders compare.
