For the past two and a half yearsand saving my hard earned cash I've looked at hondas, suzukies, kawasakis,triumphs (which i have had in late 60s) yamahas, and harleys. And I am finally at peace with myself because its going to be a sportster, it just jumps out at me as being such a great looking motorcycle. The 1200 is big enough for me and that bike will go any where any other bike will go. I have read quite a few posts on other forums that it is a girlie bike , wellthese people are just wrong in my opinion. Its reallycrazy what people believe about different cycle companys.