Like the Suzuki, the Custom has an equally low seat height and is just as emboldening for novices, though it does weigh 142 pounds more. The effect of that weight is limited to parking-lot maneuvers, where steering is heavy. The seat is comfortable enough to run through a tank or two of gas, but the pillion pad is hard and not well shaped. The riding position is comfortable, but it'll feel somewhat cramped to those over 5 feet 8 inches. Handling is light and stable at speed and the mill doesn't feel taxed on the highway, making the V Star capable of both urban and touring duty, though it does get bouncy over rough roads.
Yet again, the Hyosung is in a class by itself. The seat is taller at 31.3 inches, but a narrow front section allows even the inseam-challenged to get their feet down at a stop. One feature unique to the Avitar is that the rider's footpegs can be moved 2 inches back from the standard position, allowing for short and tall (6-foot-plus) riders to get comfortable on the bike. In either position the pegs are the most forward-set of the group but also afford the greatest cornering clearance. Most testers felt the rider's seat was comfortable but that the passenger pad was hard. Handling feels neutral, and once suspension is adjusted it provides the most comfortable ride. Where the GV650 really rocks is the engine: The little twin spins to the moon (located at 11,000 rpm), providing good power and working the least to keep up with freeway traffic.
All of these motorcycles will run on 87-octane gasoline. Our mileage figures were on the low side due to excessive full-throttle runs; more real-world riding will likely yield higher averages for all these bikes. That said, with mid-40s mileage and the savings of running low-octane fuel, these bikes become just that much more economical to own over time.
So where does that leave us? The Boulevard is the real budget beater, undercutting the V Star by $1700 and the Avitar by $1900. But with its equally low-budget suspension and compromised riding position, it's best left in the city, so we'll call it The Commuter. The Star looks and feels much larger than the S40. However, it's shortchanged by its suspension and brakes, and the workmanlike engine isn't particularly enthralling. Still, it's decent at everything and earns the title of All-Rounder. That leaves the GV650. It costs only $200 more than the V Star. In return you get the most sophisticated and powerful engine, adjustable suspension, triple disc brakes and a better gauge than on most cruisers of any size. And so we have the high-spec Hot Rod.
Each of these bikes makes an excellent first motorcycle or step-up for those in the 250cc class. With great fuel economy, a low cost of admission and a variety of styles, there's something for everyone among The Heavy Lightweights.