MSRP Question

[formikec]

Hello All. Haven't been on here long enough to read everything, but been lurking for a while.

I'm about to get my first scoot and am curious about everyone's experience with new models and MSRP vs. haggling the dealers.

Do they come off the MSRP much? If so, what to expect? What's your experience?

Bought lots of new cages, never a new scoot.

???

TIA

[hollywood]

A salesman let it slip that they would be willing to go 6 to 10% off the MSRP. I called every dealer in the state and asked for the OUT THE DOOR PRICE that includes TTL. Told them they would get one phone call only and that I would only call back if they were the low bidder. The main thing is to know what you are looking for and what you'll settle for. Also ask about last years models that they still have on the floor - they will bargain with you on them.

[lw]

I shopped extensively online looking for the best Out the Door price before purchasing my '07. After adding in the cost of travel for pickup, the local dealer was right there with the best prices on the bike I wanted. That was July 12th. The rest as they say, is Nomad history.

[ells]

Welcome Formikec. Haven't bought a new Kaw recently but I would sure go for a $1500 to a couple $K off the MSRP, out the door except for maybe license and taxes. People do pay more. There was a thread here not too long ago with folks telling what they spent on new and used. Maybe someone will give the link or you will find it.

Here's that link http://kawanow.proboards77.com/?board=general&action=display&thread=103&page=1

You should at a minimum expect to get 1,000 off MSRP.
I called around a little and they will almost always knock off around 500 for black. Black must be cheaper for them.

If I remember right the dealer took the complimentry 1,000 off MSRP. Taxes and lisensing raised it another 1,000. They gave me 3,000 trade-in for my honda shadow so I was out the door for 10,000

[ringadingh]

Welcome to the board, It pays to shop around, When I was looking for mine a couple years ago, I was surprised at the difference in prices between dealers.

[rlfaubion]

Be respectful, make a ridiculous offer, and shut up! They (the stealer) must speak next. (important to follow the preceding), Leave your number and move on to the next contact. You'll become known as "The Killer", which will eventually please you. Welcome to wonderful world of Nomads and a great forum for them.

[skeeter]

Hey, formikec. I beg to question- first bike ever or first new bike? What bike are you looking to get? What kind of riding experience do you have? Personally I would not get a Nomad for a first bike. I rode a few different bikes on occaision, borrowed from friends (when I was young and had friends). Nothing big. Recently owned a Suzuki 125 then a Yamaha 650 before I got the Nad. Lot of bike with a lot of power. Too much power for a beginner in my opinion. Tell us more about you. Lot of people here with good advice and happy to help.
Would also buy a used first bike(making an assumption here) until you figure out what really fits you. Plenty deals out there. Nothing wrong with riding course either. Would like to take an advanced course myself to see if there's something I don't know.

[markusmaximus]

Hey, formikec. I beg to question- first bike ever or first new bike? What bike are you looking to get? What kind of riding experience do you have? Personally I would not get a Nomad for a first bike. I rode a few different bikes on occaision, borrowed from friends (when I was young and had friends). Nothing big. Recently owned a Suzuki 125 then a Yamaha 650 before I got the Nad. Lot of bike with a lot of power. Too much power for a beginner in my opinion. Tell us more about you. Lot of people here with good advice and happy to help.
Would also buy a used first bike(making an assumption here) until you figure out what really fits you. Plenty deals out there. Nothing wrong with riding course either. Would like to take an advanced course myself to see if there's something I don't know.

I have to agree with Skeeter. I rode a Vulcan 500 for 3500 miles before I moved up to the Nad. This is too big a bike for new riders. Good luck in the search.

[Cajunrider]

Hey formikec, I bought my first bike on 4/3/08. It was a leftover `07 Nomad still in the crate. The selling price they gave me was $11,599 + TTL came out to $12,915. This was for a 2 tone. I have since seen black `07's for $10,699 + TTL at New Orleans Power Sports. Let me say that the Nomad was a bit much for me in parking lots and Stop & Turns at intersections for the first few hundred miles. I purchased the Ride Like a Pro DVD and practiced religiously in parking lots for a few days and things got much better. I'm not familiar with your stature but I am 6'0" and 230 lbs. I wouldn't tell you to do the same as I did, that would be your decision and yours only. I will say that if I would have went with a smaller bike I would probably be dissapointed and looking at bigger bikes already. Good luck and ride safely.

Mitch

[cactusjack]

Here's that link http://kawanow.proboards77.com/?board=general&action=display&thread=103&page=1

You should at a minimum expect to get 1,000 off MSRP.
I called around a little and they will almost always knock off around 500 for black. Black must be cheaper for them.

If I remember right the dealer took the complimentry 1,000 off MSRP. Taxes and lisensing raised it another 1,000. They gave me 3,000 trade-in for my honda shadow so I was out the door for 10,000

Black has a lower MSRP than the other colors. The Kaw website used to list 2 MSRPS - 1 for black, 1 for slower bikes. ::)

[mdm44]

Hello Formikec. From another newcomer, welcome. Do a search on Cycletrader.com. I looked around in the Central Valley of California, and couldn't find much dealing on MSRP. I found a new red/titanium 2007 online for $11,390 OTD last week. It was the best deal I found listed. It was an easy transaction. I rode to Oakland, California, and took the new bike home in the matter of a couple of hours.

What Skeeter and the others said is true, this is a lot of bike for a first ride!

[Todd]

Here's that link http://kawanow.proboards77.com/?board=general&action=display&thread=103&page=1

You should at a minimum expect to get 1,000 off MSRP.
I called around a little and they will almost always knock off around 500 for black. Black must be cheaper for them.

If I remember right the dealer took the complimentry 1,000 off MSRP. Taxes and lisensing raised it another 1,000. They gave me 3,000 trade-in for my honda shadow so I was out the door for 10,000

Black has a lower MSRP than the other colors. The Kaw website used to list 2 MSRPS - 1 for black, 1 for slower bikes. ::)


BRAHHAHHAHHAHHAHHAAAAA!!!!!!! Nice CJ!!!

[jussmatt]

Formikec... welcome aboard. There's a lot of good advice on here and these guys know what they're talking about. There are a couple of things to also consider though...
Where are you located? Some places further south might be willing to come off a little more than some northern places simply because the market for bikes (and riding) is longer and there is more competition between dealerships.
Location might have something to do w/ pricing also because of sales taxes.

I also didn't "haggle" much on the price of the Nomad, but I did make sure they threw in a lot of extras... Helmets, gloves, jackets, etc.... don't be afraid to ask!!!

Lastly... there are still a lot of 2007s out there that I'm sure dealers are willing to get rid of at very low prices....you just might have to find them...thus driving a little further to a different dealership in order to save some extra $$ in the long run.

My 2cw!! And good luck!

[dantama]

On my last nomad, I got an 06 in Jan 07 new from the dealer.

I went on Cycle Trader and told it to only show new bikes. I found the cheapest in the country (winter, lots of cheap ones) that was a year old. It was 10,477.00

I called the two local Kawi dealers and told them what I could get, and would they match it, as I'd prefer to buy local.

Both of them would, after a little while to think. I didn't pressure, or haggle, I just asked and gave them time to decide.

After that I just had to choose what color I wanted. One shop had two tone, the other all black.

When I went in, I was careful to look over the paper work and make sure that it was only $10,477.00 No other fees, like dealer prep, doc fees etc. Make sure when you give them your figure, that it is that price + tax and license fees charged by the state (they have no say on what those fees are, but don't let them tack anything else on if they already agreed to that).

My dealer was honest, and it was only the agreed upon fee, plus the state fees. No document fees etc.

This may work better in the winter, and certainly works better on last years model that didn't sell. But even if buying new, finding the cheapest in the country, finding out what it will take to ship it, will let you know what you can for sure get one for.

Theoreticly, getting it locally could save shipping, but by adding shipping to the lowest price lets you know where your break even point is. If the price they give you back is higher than the other + shipping, you know where you stand. I saved the shipping costs on mine, and was able to support a local dealer.

I can go in there with my head held high, I didn't "talk" them into it, I asked, they agreed. If it wasn't good for them, they would have said no.

This works well with Valdez's technique, and I agree strongly with what he said.

[waterman]

Here's that link http://kawanow.proboards77.com/?board=general&action=display&thread=103&page=1

You should at a minimum expect to get 1,000 off MSRP.
I called around a little and they will almost always knock off around 500 for black. Black must be cheaper for them.

If I remember right the dealer took the complimentry 1,000 off MSRP. Taxes and lisensing raised it another 1,000. They gave me 3,000 trade-in for my honda shadow so I was out the door for 10,000

That's curious about black being cheaper. When I bought, they quoted $600 less for the two tone compared to black. He said black sells faster but the two tone is faster on the road. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[formikec]

Hey, formikec. I beg to question- first bike ever or first new bike? What bike are you looking to get? What kind of riding experience do you have? Personally I would not get a Nomad for a first bike. I rode a few different bikes on occaision, borrowed from friends (when I was young and had friends). Nothing big. Recently owned a Suzuki 125 then a Yamaha 650 before I got the Nad. Lot of bike with a lot of power. Too much power for a beginner in my opinion. Tell us more about you. Lot of people here with good advice and happy to help.
Would also buy a used first bike(making an assumption here) until you figure out what really fits you. Plenty deals out there. Nothing wrong with riding course either. Would like to take an advanced course myself to see if there's something I don't know.

Thank you all for the warm welcome and the volunteering of information.

Other than having ridden scooters, minibikes, and an occaisional motorcycle, and having taken the MSF course, this will be my first wholely owned bike.

My first inclination was to look for something along the lines of a VStar 650 Touring (touring for the longer trips and 2-up riding). Then, I heard the 650 wasn't large enough for what I need. I will be occaisionally riding on the interstate and people around here travel comfortably at around 80 mph on that track. I don't want to get run over when I do get brave enough to venture onto it, and I want enough power to get in the left lane, pass, and get out. I also don't want a small enough bike that the big rigs will blow me over.

So, there's the delima. I don't really have a problem with a big bike, I'll just ride it backroad for a while, take my time, and get used to it. If that is what it takes to be safe and I won't ride it anywhere with a destination (just ride to learn).

I have looked at many bikes recently, sat on many, tried to see what feels balanced and comfortable, etc. Honestly, I found the 08 Nomad easier to handle than some of the smaller bikes. I guess it is more balanced than some.

What really turned me off of a smaller bike was someone's comment that it will be maxed out at 80mph, won't take the inclines very well (there's hills here in TN), and won't be good for 2-up riding (which won't come until I have practiced 1-up for a substantial time). I just don't want to get killed for lack of power (or too much either), and don't want to be trading/selling soon after buying to upgrade.

Maybe an 1100 V Star would be better?

Still, this time of year, around here, it is darn near impossible to get a good price on a used bike. I see/hear the "I have $13k total in the bike" for a bike that you can get 2-5 years newer for the same price they want. I understand the cost of accessories, but it's a sellers market right now.

[jussmatt]

You're right Formikec.... it is a sellers market right now w/ gas prices going through the roof!! A riding buddy of mine and I were talking about that this morning.... you can get a new bike for $1K-$2K more and have a full warranty than a used one!!! It's crazy out there right now!!!

IMHO, the Nomad is a great choice...if you weren't comfortable with it's size...then maybe a VTX1300...or something like that.... not trying to steer you in any direction. My thoughts are to trust your gut. If it's telling you the Nomad is to big...then don't do it. If it's telling you you're ok with it...go for it! I was one of those who had a smaller bike to start with...and yea, I felt like I was getting run over or left behind most of the time for lack of power and presence!! NO issues with such with a Nomad though!

Best of luck on your choice...just listen to your voices...that's what I do!! LOL!

[cactusjack]

Here's that link http://kawanow.proboards77.com/?board=general&action=display&thread=103&page=1

You should at a minimum expect to get 1,000 off MSRP.
I called around a little and they will almost always knock off around 500 for black. Black must be cheaper for them.

If I remember right the dealer took the complimentry 1,000 off MSRP. Taxes and lisensing raised it another 1,000. They gave me 3,000 trade-in for my honda shadow so I was out the door for 10,000

That's curious about black being cheaper. When I bought, they quoted $600 less for the two tone compared to black. He said black sells faster but the two tone is faster on the road. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

Obviously, he was delusional...or dyslexic! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[waterman]

That's curious about black being cheaper. When I bought, they quoted $600 less for the two tone compared to black. He said black sells faster but the two tone is faster on the road. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

Obviously, he was delusional...or dyslexic! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

I don't know CJ. I think you had better come in from the sun. You might have fried something. ::)

[Top Cat]

formikec, I was out of motorcycling for 12 years. Biggest bike I had previously was 650. Bought a VStar 650 Silverado in 06 to get back into riding. That bike would accelerate as fast as my Nomad. Two up riding at 65 or 70 mph it seemed like it was working hard. Never had a problem with it just wasn't comfortable for two up riding any distance.
I am still glad I started out with the smaller bike. I traded it last year for the Nomad. Got more for trade than I paid for the Yamaha.
If you think you can handle the Nomad, go for it. I just didn't think I was ready for a bike that big.

Hey, formikec. I beg to question- first bike ever or first new bike? What bike are you looking to get? What kind of riding experience do you have? Personally I would not get a Nomad for a first bike. I rode a few different bikes on occaision, borrowed from friends (when I was young and had friends). Nothing big. Recently owned a Suzuki 125 then a Yamaha 650 before I got the Nad. Lot of bike with a lot of power. Too much power for a beginner in my opinion. Tell us more about you. Lot of people here with good advice and happy to help.
Would also buy a used first bike(making an assumption here) until you figure out what really fits you. Plenty deals out there. Nothing wrong with riding course either. Would like to take an advanced course myself to see if there's something I don't know.

Thank you all for the warm welcome and the volunteering of information.

Other than having ridden scooters, minibikes, and an occaisional motorcycle, and having taken the MSF course, this will be my first wholely owned bike.

My first inclination was to look for something along the lines of a VStar 650 Touring (touring for the longer trips and 2-up riding). Then, I heard the 650 wasn't large enough for what I need. I will be occaisionally riding on the interstate and people around here travel comfortably at around 80 mph on that track. I don't want to get run over when I do get brave enough to venture onto it, and I want enough power to get in the left lane, pass, and get out. I also don't want a small enough bike that the big rigs will blow me over.

So, there's the delima. I don't really have a problem with a big bike, I'll just ride it backroad for a while, take my time, and get used to it. If that is what it takes to be safe and I won't ride it anywhere with a destination (just ride to learn).

I have looked at many bikes recently, sat on many, tried to see what feels balanced and comfortable, etc. Honestly, I found the 08 Nomad easier to handle than some of the smaller bikes. I guess it is more balanced than some.

What really turned me off of a smaller bike was someone's comment that it will be maxed out at 80mph, won't take the inclines very well (there's hills here in TN), and won't be good for 2-up riding (which won't come until I have practiced 1-up for a substantial time). I just don't want to get killed for lack of power (or too much either), and don't want to be trading/selling soon after buying to upgrade.

Maybe an 1100 V Star would be better?

Still, this time of year, around here, it is darn near impossible to get a good price on a used bike. I see/hear the "I have $13k total in the bike" for a bike that you can get 2-5 years newer for the same price they want. I understand the cost of accessories, but it's a sellers market right now.



Sounds like you need either a Vulcan 900 LT or a Boulevrd C-50.... Test drive the Vulcan 900... 150 lbs lighter than Nomad and rides BIG.

Nico

[ringadingh]

Ive had a lot of bikes over the years and the Nomad is the largest by far.
All of the previous bikes have been sport bikes, with more power , faster acceleration and a lot less weight. The weight is what I had to get used to, The Nomad is about 200 lbs heavier than any of my other bikes, and it took me a while to get the hang of it to feel comfortable on. I was used to throwing my bikes around a bit when going through the twisties, while the nomad goes through them as well, its like comparing a Corvette to a Caddilac. Their both nice but very different.

[coacha]

Hey, formikec. I beg to question- first bike ever or first new bike? What bike are you looking to get? What kind of riding experience do you have? Personally I would not get a Nomad for a first bike. I rode a few different bikes on occaision, borrowed from friends (when I was young and had friends). Nothing big. Recently owned a Suzuki 125 then a Yamaha 650 before I got the Nad. Lot of bike with a lot of power. Too much power for a beginner in my opinion. Tell us more about you. Lot of people here with good advice and happy to help.
Would also buy a used first bike(making an assumption here) until you figure out what really fits you. Plenty deals out there. Nothing wrong with riding course either. Would like to take an advanced course myself to see if there's something I don't know.

I have to agree with Skeeter. I rode a Vulcan 500 for 3500 miles before I moved up to the Nad. This is too big a bike for new riders. Good luck in the search.



My Nomad was my first bike. I guess I'm stupid or something then. So welcome from the dumb redneck from Florida.

[skeeter]

[quote author=formikec board=general thread=4082 post=76391 time=1211912958
Thank you all for the warm welcome and the volunteering of information.

Other than having ridden scooters, minibikes, and an occaisional motorcycle, and having taken the MSF course, this will be my first wholely owned bike.

My first inclination was to look for something along the lines of a VStar 650 Touring (touring for the longer trips and 2-up riding). Then, I heard the 650 wasn't large enough for what I need. I will be occaisionally riding on the interstate and people around here travel comfortably at around 80 mph on that track. I don't want to get run over when I do get brave enough to venture onto it, and I want enough power to get in the left lane, pass, and get out. I also don't want a small enough bike that the big rigs will blow me over.

So, there's the delima. I don't really have a problem with a big bike, I'll just ride it backroad for a while, take my time, and get used to it. If that is what it takes to be safe and I won't ride it anywhere with a destination (just ride to learn).

I have looked at many bikes recently, sat on many, tried to see what feels balanced and comfortable, etc. Honestly, I found the 08 Nomad easier to handle than some of the smaller bikes. I guess it is more balanced than some.

What really turned me off of a smaller bike was someone's comment that it will be maxed out at 80mph, won't take the inclines very well (there's hills here in TN), and won't be good for 2-up riding (which won't come until I have practiced 1-up for a substantial time). I just don't want to get killed for lack of power (or too much either), and don't want to be trading/selling soon after buying to upgrade.

Maybe an 1100 V Star would be better?

Still, this time of year, around here, it is darn near impossible to get a good price on a used bike. I see/hear the "I have $13k total in the bike" for a bike that you can get 2-5 years newer for the same price they want. I understand the cost of accessories, but it's a sellers market right now.

[/quote]

I see your doing your homework. You probably wouldn't be happy with the 650 for the reasons stated. Good intermediate bike. OK on longer rides single rider. Lng rides 2 up, forget it if your with a group. You'd probably want out of the 1100 soon also. The Nad does handle better than most smaller bikes. Nico had a good suggestion. Know some big guys on 900s with no problems with power. So you've had some experience, are going for the course, willing to take it slow. Practice the parking lot seriously no matter what bike you get and find a buddy to ride with that won't put you in danger. If you were close I'd put you thru the paces myself. I'm sure there's someone closer. (Central Texas here)

[nomad1600]

Formikec

Heres some info for you to think about if you do choose to get a Nomad

2007 Vulcan Nomad 1600
List Price: $12,899 Ebony
List Price: $ 13,099 2-tone (because its faster)

Dealer Invoice: $11,111 Ebony
Dealer Invoice: $ 11,281 2-tone

Freight Charge: $200
Assembly Credit: -$147.00
Ready to sell cost: $11,164 Ebony
Ready to sell cost: $11,334 2-tone

This model has a dealer holdback of 5%.

Hope this helps in getting a good deal.

[sancho]

My Brother sells kawa in ct (my line on parts cheap) when I bought mine he advised me to get them to drop as close to 1000 as possible then get them to throw in extened warrenty for 2 or more years thats worth a few hundred itself,

[ells]

I can confirm that an VN800B is just as fast at top-end (5th gear) as the 1600 Nomad. Also have ridden it two-up (two slightly above average weight adults) in the Colo. Mts back roads including Trail Ridge (12,000 ft) with no power problems whatsoever on steep grades and wise use of gears and RPMs. Freeway cruising and the overall solid feel and raw power is however (surprise!) much better on the Nomad. My wife is far happier on the Nomad and I do way prefer riding it for overall feel and comfort. But, still ride the 800 frequently for economy and short solo trips to keep the mileage on the Nomad down. Plus, the 800 has become the all-around kick-around bike, not so worried about weather, wear and tear, (or scratches!) since its value will hardly decrease almost no matter what, but that last part is not relevant to someone considering a new 900.

[skeeter]

[


My Nomad was my first bike. I guess I'm stupid or something then. So welcome from the dumb redneck from Florida.[/quote]

It was never my intention to degrade anyone. My hat's off to ya.

Welcome from Nebraska formikec.

I can confirm that an VN800B is just as fast at top-end (5th gear) at the 1600 Nomad. Also have ridden it two-up (two slightly above average weight adults) in the Colo. Mts back roads including Trail Ridge (12,000 ft) with no power problems whatsoever on steep grades and wise use of gears and RPMs. Freeway cruising and the overall solid feel and raw power is however (surprise!) much better on the Nomad. My wife is far happier on the Nomad and I do way prefer riding it for overall feel and comfort. But, still ride the 800 frequently for economy and short solo trips to keep the mileage on the Nomad down. Plus, the 800 has become the all-around kick-around bike, not so worried about weather, wear and tear, (or scratches!) since its value will hardly decrease almost no matter what.


I have a Vulcan 800 as well.... maybe 5 less hp that the Nomad and almost 200 lbs lighter!!

[coacha]

[


My Nomad was my first bike. I guess I'm stupid or something then. So welcome from the dumb redneck from Florida.

It was never my intention to degrade anyone. My hat's off to ya. [/quote]

Skeeter, don't sweat it my brother. I have a excellent sense of humor and I poke fun at myself all the time. Believe me, I practiced many hours before I went out on the main roads.

[mrfuni]

Formikec
I moved up from an 1100 Honda Aero to the Nomad. I had the Honda for 2 years and bought it used. Since I was just getting back to riding after 25 years, I wanted to be sure it was right for me, and the Honda was an easy bike to ride. I sold the bike within a few hundred dollars than what I paid for it. Moral here, if you buy it right and take care of it, you won't lose your shirt.
Also I found the 1100 uncomfortable on the interstate and I needed wheels with more weight and power. I love my Nomad and never, ever regretted my decision.
Ride safe and ride your ride,
Joe

[formikec]

Thanks again everyone for all the info. I'm still looking for the right deal.

[bkmaxvrb]

formikec,

I did exactly as you mentioned you were contemplating in an earlier post. I had been off motorcycles for over a decade. Even then, I was unlicensed and borrowed a friends bike for very short hops around the neighborhood. To say I was inexperienced was an understatement.

I got my permit, studied, read, got informed and took the MSF course. At the end, I was licensed but still inexperienced.

I read and studied some more and found a co-worker that was selling an 1100 Yamaha V-Star. I found that the V-Star is an excellent beginners bike, especially for larger riders such as myself. I forget where, but I had read that the V-Star was recommended as a beginners bike due to its low center of gravity and forgiving handling.

I enjoyed that bike and did not outgrow it after a year or two. I rode it for about four or five years while I gained experience in the bike, my riding skills and basic maintenance. All the while, I read and researched my next bike. That bike would be the one that encompassed all I liked about the V-Star and improved upon the things I didn't like. It would have to serve me well as I developed a favorite type of riding style.

The Nomad was that bike. I had to wait a couple of years before I could buy one due to moving and other bills. But, I did find one. A dealer had a left over 06 and, by the spring of 07, he was more than willing to lower the price to get it off his tax roll. He also gave me a fair price on the V-Star as well as a good finance rate.

I have no complaints about the Nomad or the dealer. I go there for all my maintenance issues and I always give them the first shot at parts and accessories. More often than not, I will buy there, even if he comes in a couple of bucks more, for the convienience.

Good luck in your choice. It seems like the 1100 V-Star might be the bike for you for now. The Nomads will always be around waiting for you.

[burkazoid]

As I've said on here before, I got my 2005 Nomad near the end of January 2006. The fact that they were going to have to start paying rent on the bike spooked them, but also that the bike had sat on the showroom floor for at least six months (I had sat on it six months prior). I also haggled with them, but mostly about the trade-in I had (my 2004 Vulcan 800 Classic).

I wound up getting the Nomad out the door for $9,995. They also completely paid off what I owed on the trade, and also picked up the TTL. They got a little bit of interest off me the first month in financing, but I only ever made one payment to Kawasaki before transferring the balance over to my AMEX for a set 4.9% for the lifetime of the transfer balance.

If you can wait, I say wait until January and then haggle about the previous years model. If they have any of them sitting around, they'll be dying to get rid of it.

[formikec]

Well, guys, I think I have narrowed it down, but need to do a little more research to be sure.

I guess I've checked out just about every bike out there from the Honda VTX's, Suzuki c50t, Yamaha Stars, and the Kawasaki 900LT. Also still like the feel of the Nomad, but it is a big, big, bike.

I think I've narrowed it down to the Kawasaki 900LT. It doesn't seem too small for two up riding, and not too big for me to get lots of miles on before turning to something bigger later (if needed).

I know this is a Nomad forum, but anyone have comments on the new 900LT?

Thanks again for all your info and help!

[billmac]

I have a nomad and my son has a 900 LT. I really like his bike. It is 200 lbs lighter than my heavy Nomad. It gets much better mileage but has the same 5.3 gallon tank. It is a well balanced bike and easy to handle. Great on the road or in town. However, long highway runs or with passengers the Nomad is my choice.

[ells]

Haven't heard much but good things about the 900LT. Based on my experience with the 800, I'd say it is probably a good choice for you.

[kawgirl]

My first bike was a Suzuki Intuder 800. That bike would scream down the highway. I went to the Nomad for more comfort on longer distance rides. I was a little skeptical bumping up to that size but after riding a friend's Vulcan Classic 1600, I figured out I could handle the Nomad. I haven't regretted my purchase for one second.
Good luck with your search and decision. The 900 sounds like a good choice too.

[misunderstood]

Here's that link http://kawanow.proboards77.com/?board=general&action=display&thread=103&page=1

You should at a minimum expect to get 1,000 off MSRP.
I called around a little and they will almost always knock off around 500 for black. Black must be cheaper for them.

If I remember right the dealer took the complimentry 1,000 off MSRP. Taxes and lisensing raised it another 1,000. They gave me 3,000 trade-in for my honda shadow so I was out the door for 10,000

That's curious about black being cheaper. When I bought, they quoted $600 less for the two tone compared to black. He said black sells faster but the two tone is faster on the road. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

Think they were just trying to move the 2-tone inventory. They'll say anything to move inventory. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[formikec]

Sorry to move this thread back up, but wanted to thank everyone again and tell you what I decided.

I bought an 02 Nad. It was in Orlando, I flew down and rode it back out to Nashville, TN. 720 miles in two days, and loved each mile.

I am very happy with my choice. Having been on the interstates, secondaries, and back roads, I can safely say I wouldn't want anything smaller on the interstate, but might enjoy something smaller on the back roads, but it this bike is great.

I'm really enjoying my Nad. Thanks again for all the advice!

Michael in Middle.TN

http://a6.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/36/l_810bb04a434348c3ba367aee9276c87d.jpg

[jussmatt]

Sorry to move this thread back up, but wanted to thank everyone again and tell you what I decided.

I bought an 02 Nad. It was in Orlando, I flew down and rode it back out to Nashville, TN. 720 miles in two days, and loved each mile.

I am very happy with my choice. Having been on the interstates, secondaries, and back roads, I can safely say I wouldn't want anything smaller on the interstate, but might enjoy something smaller on the back roads, but it this bike is great.

I'm really enjoying my Nad. Thanks again for all the advice!

Michael in Middle.TN

http://a6.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/36/l_810bb04a434348c3ba367aee9276c87d.jpg

Sweet Looking Nomad You've Got There Mike!!!! Congrats Bud!! Enjoy Every Mile!!!!!

[ringadingh]

I couldn't see the pic but Im sure it gorgeous, enjoy the bike, Mike

[jussmatt]

I couldn't see the pic but Im sure it gorgeous, enjoy the bike, Mike

Mike got himself a 'Blondie'!! LOL!

[operater]

My dealership that I went to in a small town close to where I live had a special price plan when I went in to buy mine....I got $2100.00 off which by the way was $700.00 more than the dealerships in my home city were offering. It pays to shop around. There are some good deals out there to be had.....

[fish]

I couldn't see the pic but Im sure it gorgeous, enjoy the bike, Mike

Mike got himself a 'Blondie'!! LOL!
and not just 2 but 3 nice headlights http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[BandC]

Congrats on the nice Nomad!!

[formikec]

Thanks all. I told the wife I had apparently bought a blonde with three headlights. http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/lipsrsealed.gif