Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge To TBA or not to TBA?

I've had both the xvs650 and the TBA. For a novice rider I would recommend the XVS650 Dragstar (sorry Friar). It is a very well balanced bike, very forgiving, lower centre of gravity and easier to rider in slow maneuvers like parking and u-turns than the TBA. The XVS650s are very reliable, well built (but not as well as the TBA). The engine is a legend and will keep running and running. They're easy to work on and being an older cheaper bike, you won't feel quite so bad when you drop it - which you probably will. The TBA has about 50% more power (power to weight) but the xvs650 is not slow by any means and has ample torque - even for two up riding. It loses some power because of the drive shaft but that's makes maintenance easier. The seat position is lower and the pegs are closer (a benefit if you're height challenged). If you choose the Yamaha you won't regret it. You can always trade up to the TBA later if you lust for more power.

On the other hand, that's a lot to pay for an old bike - even if the mileage is low (and accurate) it may need some perishable parts replacing sooner than later.

To sum up - for the novice rider the Yamaha Dragstar is the better choice IMO. But for the money the TBA is better value.