First Bike

My brother and I are buying bikes after our safety course in June. He already has his eyes set on a Suzuki GSX 650F, as far as myself, I've narrowed it down to just two bikes. Im a 5'7" newbee so I believe that I should keep it in the 650 - 900 cc range. Not only that but im trying to keep under $9,000 so my wife wont kick my ***. Im on the fence between the 08 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom or the 08 Suzuki Boulevard M50. Both of the bikes were very sweet looking and they felt comfortable when I sat on them, but thats the problem... I just sat on them. The cycle shop wouldnt let anyone test ride any of the bikes (liability issue).Im looking for good honest advise or comments to which one of these bikes to purchase.  

First, have you taken the beginner's riding course? If not, you're getting way ahead of yourself....

Second, make your first bike a used machine. And if you've never actually ridden before, make it something like a 250 cc (what they use in the beginner's course). There is a really high probability that you'll drop the bike at some point (yes, even a small one) - and you don't want to do that with a brand new, expensive machine (or a large, heavy machine). Ride that machine until you can make it do anything you want - at least 5,000 miles (and not just on straight freeway). Determine what you really like and dislike about the bike - comfort, ergonomics, ride, handling, vibration, performance, noise, etc...  Then you will know what to look for when you are ready to move up.

Last, but not least, look at the numerous older reviews on this website - they are extremely valuable, both for a used bike, and for your first new bike.

Then, when you really are ready to buy a new bike, make sure you have proper insurance to cover a test ride, and go visit the dealers who carry the bikes you are interested in. If they won't let you test drive a bike, then go to a different dealer - in a different town if you have to. (Call ahead - it will save you some trouble.) Do NOT spend huge $$$ on something you've merely sat upon - you will find that most reputable dealers can find a way to get you a test drive (although you may need your own helmet, proof of taking a rider's course, and may need to sign some sort of liability release).    GOOD LUCK!  

I just bought a 08 C50 and love it. It's 800cc looks and rides like the 1100/1300's but get low to mid 50's in mpg. My best friend just bought a VTX1300 he loves it but is disappointed it didn't come with the FI like the C50 or the oil sight window and higher mpg. This is a sweet bike. I don't believe you can go wrong with the Boulevards.  

I agree on the "drop it" argument. Bought new, took about 2 years to do it( I was cautious), fortunately it was slow speed.
It was a 800 Vulcan, which was at the upper limit of what I should have been on. I was 6'0 220lb, and working out in the gym a couple of times a week.

If you go small, you will gain confidence and skill, if you go large to start, AND you work it carefully, you may learn a little quicker and more (but, if you make a mistake, it will take time to regain your confidence).