I've narrowed it down to these two bikes as my first ride in 20 years. Let me 1st say I'm 44, 6'2, and 225 lbs. I'm looking at a 1996 Honda Shadow 1100 spirit with 14k miles and a 2003 Honda Magna 750 with 5k miles. They are seperated by about $750.00. Most of my riding will be country backroads and commuting. Not looking at long cross country trips. Thanks in advance, much appreciated.  

how many bikes have you owned?which was youre last bike?did you test ride both of the bikes?which bike do you feel would be best?do you ever ride with a passenger?id probably go with the newer bike.less miles.7 years newer.  

I've owned one bike 20 years ago. A Honda CB200. Haven't test rode either yet. Hardly ever ride with passenger. Just wondering about fit and riding style from other riders. Thanks. Anybody else have any thoughts that might be helpfull?  

They are both great bikes, but I would lean to the Magna, simply because it is much newer. While a bike from 1996 might be in great shape, over time it gets more difficult to get parts for older bikes, and often shops don't like to work on the older ones, so when they do, they charge a premium.

Based on what you plan to use it for, the 750 would be more than enough bike to have a blast on.  

I have a Shadow 750 it it is a great bike.  This is my first bike and it has been a joy to learn on.  Handle great around town and fun on the twisties.  The only thing I don't like is when I have to run on the freeway for more than a few miles, it pushes it pretty much to the limit.  

I ended up purchasing an '01 Honda Shadow Sabre 1100. Very happy! Thanks for the help.  

Sounds like you made a good choice.  

Im 67 and ride a 2004 spirit, has everything I need as far as power and the ride is very comfortable . Just got back from a 2700 mile trip into the north east. great ride.
 Also use it for commuting. I'm 5-10 214.
Good luck whatever your choice