If you have a midsize bike, that’s something in the neighborhood of 500 to 900 cc. These are bikes to run around on and have fun. There are those that will jump on and travel across the country on a midsize, but predominantly they are used to travel your city streets.
When you picture an old midsize bike, you might be thinking you’ll get left behind by most scooters and kids on roller skates. The truth is, the spec sheets of a midsize bike don’t differ much from one generation to another and maybe not enough to leave you 3 stoplights back when out cruising with friends.
Lets compare the current orange flavored cruiser (1980 Suzuki GS 550) and a popular metro run around made popular by some creative marketing from Harley Davidson, the Street 500 and 750.
If You have busted out the vintage bike and went on a ride looking for fun, you might be wondering if you’re going to get lost or left behind. Here is comparison of some specs
Need for Speed
- Power: The 4 Cylinder UJM with a carb for every member of your family will , in this case, punch out 49 hp while the Street 500 will push a little over 50hp. What sets the 2 bikes apart is you’ll have to be comfortable winding the Suzuki up to about 9000 rpm to get to that power. (Like a storm of F-U roaring down the road). The Harley’s advantage will show up at less than half that. Power down low is what gets you away from the stop lights. Advantage Street.
- Weight: The Street 500 clocks in at a curb weight of Over 500 pounds. The GS550 will lug down 470 pounds wet. Advantage, GS550.
- 0 to 60: According to website 0to60 times, the Harley Street 750 will get you to 60 in 4.6 seconds. The GS550 will take you just a tad longer, 5.7 seconds. So, if you goal is a fast 0-60, the Harley 750 will get you there just a bit faster (.9 sec).
One question that will be answered on your metro , stop light to stop light adventures is this: “Is is more fun to ride a slow bike fast or ride a fast bike slow?” Ask the guys on a GSX-R 1000R if they get to run wide open between lights very often. (Without risking life and limb that is)..
If you remember the ultimate goal is to get out , have fun, and be free, then you’re winning with either one. The Harley and the Suzuki will offer you 1 thing. A good time. And since the exhaust on the GS550 is 40 years old, you’ll be louder than the members of your group sporting a V-Twin.
Ride safe .