Voted most helpful review
Reviewed on December 6, 2002
There are pros and cons to my review. And I must say that I went into the Blast wanting to Love the Bike (which I do, but which maybe biased?). But for some, the Blast maynot be as good a starter bike as similarly sized Jap bikes (i.e.- 250 Ninja, Gz250 Suzi, etc.). Like most Buells using Harley...
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There are pros and cons to my review. And I must say that I went into the Blast wanting to Love the Bike (which I do, but which maybe biased?). But for some, the Blast maynot be as good a starter bike as similarly sized Jap bikes (i.e.- 250 Ninja, Gz250 Suzi, etc.). Like most Buells using Harley engines, you'll find more than it's share of Vibes and leaks and vibration related problems. So if you buy a Harley or Buell Product you need to pay closer attention to maintenance and checks of bits and pieces. IF that is done, the Blast is quite reliable, and what few problems(defects?) the Blast has, can be quickly and cheaply remedied by the handy owner. BTW- I own two Blasts and one is a race bike. If you want something as carefree as an auto, then maybe bikes aren't for You. Even the Jap & Euro bikes need more maintenance than your used to. But the Blast is fairly carefree with it's beltdrive and self adjusting valves. This Bike DOES have extremely Good Brakes and Handling ! I feel it's a very safe bike to ride although it may steer a bit too quick for experienced riders(?). My 2001 street Blast now has over 6,000 miles on it and has only needed two new rear tires and a gasket for the rocker box oil leak. But I do take pride in and maintain MY bikes very well. If you don't like the Blast, then you probably won't like ANY OTHER Buell or Harley product as what is common in one is common to all H-D/Buell Products. I'd recommend this bike if you want to be serious about learning all their is to bike ownership (like we did in the old days- btw I'm 44 yrs old). If you'd rather not learm much about bikes...buy a Jap bike and pay the dealer for ALL the service and be done with it. But if you want into the world of Harley, this is the bike to get you started. To each his own......
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