I am a 56 yo lady and was the prowd owner of a ยด98 V-Star 650 until August, 05 when it was unfortunately sent to the great bike shop in the sky by an unyielding auto driver. Me? Lost the rest of the riding season, spent 3 months in a wheelchair and still on crutches. The good news is that I am alive and I can tell everyone that the emergency hazard avoidance techniques taught in the motorcycle safety courses really works! All rescue personnell (a few bikers) agreed that I would surely have had head injuries if not for the use of the technique that I was taught. I am looking forward to riding again in the spring of 06 and I would like something big enough for long distance touring (and reliable) but small enough for city handling. I am considering the Volusia 800. Any thoughts or comments?