Need a little more torque
 

While I am still impressed with the GZ250 and how handy it is for running to town, in these hills I need a bit more pulling power. I wish they made the GZ in a 350! I am considering buying an S40, but concerned if there is much more vibration. Part of the reason for selling my last Sportster (1997 solid mount) was the vibration was too much for my arthritic hands. GZ250 does not do that, and I am wondering how the S40 would be. I don't know anyone around here with an S40 that I can try out. Anyone here with experience with the S40?

Re: Need a little more torque
 

Hit the dealer up for a test ride.

Re: Need a little more torque
 

Yup, hit up a dealer for a test ride. A used one a couple years old would give you a good feel for vibes. The S-40 is a bigger thumper so there will be a different vibe to the entire bike. Depending on the year some S-40 models had drag bar style bars or more traditional bars. Vibes can be reduced quite a bit with grip puppies over the stock grips.
I think the S-40 is a nice upgrade without going real big and heavy. More than 2.5 times the engine and only 60 lbs more bike to pick up when you drop it. The GZ on steroids.

Re: Need a little more torque
 

I used to lust over a friends BSA 440 back in the early 60s. The way I remember it was it shook all over like a dog doing a plastic bag. But I wanted one anyway, I like thumpers!. 2 1/2 hours to the dealer in Roanoke VA...I can't deal with the one in Beckley, WV...lots of difference in the prices and attitudes!!!

Re: Need a little more torque
 

If the dealer has a used Shadow 750, consider taking it for a test ride. It certainly has the extra torque, and mine is surprisingly smooth. The handlebar is rubber mounted to make vibration nearly nonexistant.

Re: Need a little more torque
 

"Need a little more torque"...... I've read the road test for the S40 - and "little" seems to be the operative word. :)

Re: Need a little more torque
 

You may want to locate a S-50 for a test sit etc. A 800 V-twin with lots of get up and go. Basically the same engine as the M-50 but a somewhat lighter bike. Water cooled, drive shaft and carbs instead of FI.

Re: Need a little more torque
 

I have one of those (S50) and it's a great bike. That's what I moved up to from the GZ.

Re: Need a little more torque
 

mod the carb

Re: Need a little more torque
 

Did you have any other bikes on your short list before buying the S-50? Pros and cons for the short list may help future upgraders.