New to the gig (riding) because of commuting. I have to ride a ferry from the island I live on to the mainland and got very tired of waiting in line, summer being a real drag. So, motorcycles go to the front, cost about 60% less in fare, and of course gas, etc adds to the savings. I started with a Rebel, as I hadn´t ridden since I rode down the plank off of Noah´s ark....but after a year and I think a lemon, I went for the thumper. Bought a new one, 2012, love it, I don´t have to shift all the time to keep it in its \