[turbo6bar]

Whoa. Thanks the replies. I've been plugging model names into google and craigslist to get up to speed.

When I was younger and in school or driving a desk in the office, I relished time in the garage turning a wrench. Now, I do home remodeling work and property management, and the grease and concrete floor aren't so enticing. I favor a bike that's reliable, starts all the time (or at least almost every time), and doesn't need much fiddling. I see the R75 and think, "drum brakes--sure about that?"

Of the bikes mentioned, I think the dual sport is a good fit, because they're cheap, have a friendly powerband, and will tolerate being dropped. I could be totally wrong. The bandit, SV650, nighthawk, and KLR are on the watchlist.

CB450? Me likey a LOT, but I'd never ride it. I'd be afraid to drop it. I need a disposable bike that won't depreciate. I need something cheap, so I can afford to buy gear. I've been down on my roadbike enough times to know it sucks. I can't imagine riding a motorcycle with a t-shirt. I get goosebumps every time I see a couple wearing jeans and a tank top.