Looking for a bike, what years to avoid....

[DAN]

Don't worry too much about the year, but more about the condition. Every thing is relative cost verses year verses condition. Look for a bike under 5000 miles and newer than 06 if you want super clean, although I bought an 02 with 3000 miles that was perfect for $1000 (winter prices) this year, it did need a fuel flush and carb clean from sitting 6 months in a garage. Look at the tires for tread and side wall cracking, check the fuel and vacuum lines for stiffness. Look under the seat and tank for cleanliness and as an indicator of condition. If over 10,000 miles check the chain and sprockets. Look at the old oil for color and do an oil change when you get your bike as this is the most important thing to do for engine longevity. Of course with all bikes you should look for damage as in being dropped or bent. Check function an all systems, brakes, lights, turn signals. Brand new black 09's are available from internet dealers for $2500 assembled plus shipping, so this has a tendency to set a price curve on used GZ's. Newer pristine with accessories (luggage rack/seat back, windshield, saddle bags) seem to be $2500 - $2000, basic newer about $1800, 05, 6 and 7's $1500/1600 plus extra for accessories, 04 and older much depends on condition, but there are some real bargains out there in the older garage queens. Don't forget to pick you favorite color; (besides black) red, dark blue, bright blue, green, teal, silver and maybe others were available over the years. --Dan--