There were a couple of aspects of it that lost points, though. It blew a fork seal at about 1200 miles (which is why you see two different colored Bonnies in the photos), but even before that, the front end felt slightly mushy. Other criticisms were extremely minor: the foot pegs rub against your calf when you put your foot on the ground, and you need an act of Congress to adjust the mirrors.
That's a Wrap
If you're looking for a balance between cool and inexpensive, it's out there, so why compromise? These motorcycles cover pretty wide ground in the looks department: bare bones bobber, pro street cruiser, or modern race replica.
Two of the bikes stood out as machines we'd have no qualms suggesting to any rider. Our test crew was nearly unanimous in loving the Triumph. Its light weight, great power, and vintage styling turn riders into kids on Christmas. The package gets even better when you look at the price tag; it's the most affordable of the four. If you're looking for a Cadillac on two wheels (minus the cost), the V-Star is probably for you. It feels plush and handles well, despite the low-slung floorboards. With its forward-looking custom styling and full-size layout you get instant respect from riders on larger machines.
While the Harley-Davidson and Moto Guzzi might not be as functionally exceptional as the other two, they're also the ones that got the most looks and started the most conversations at bike hangouts. The Iron plays the angry chopper role pretty well, and while most of us would change the suspension ASAP, all of us liked the look. It's also almost twenty pounds lighter than other Sportsters which gives it more pep than you'd expect from an 883 motor. The V7 wasn't perfect, but hopefully Moto Guzzi will refine the package in the coming years. It certainly got a lot of attention wherever it went, especially from seasoned riding vets who remembered its origins. Unfortunately, it was also the most expensive pony in this stable.
All of these scoots prove you can have high style new metal for low bucks. Given the current economic maelstrom, there's never been a better reason to ride.