Buell,
the sporty wing of Harley-Davidson, hit upon an inspired idea
when they decided to produce the 492cc Blast. Beginning riders
have long been hungry for a new bike made in North America with
their needs in mind. The Blast is light (360 lbs.), low, confidence-inspiring,
with a unique sporty look. Like Harley's
Sportster 883, the Blast features belt drive and
self-adjusting valves for a nearly maintenance-free ride. Seat
height 25.5 inches.
Great
bike for many reasons - designed with new rider in mind
(automatic choke, ABS plastic panels that don't break, etc.).
However, the clutch is grabby and small friction zone along
with torque heavy thumper made it difficult to modulate
at low speeds.
Harley's
subsidiary Buell offers the only American bike worthy
of a beginner A rating. With two seat heights to choose
from the bike can be tailored to fit most riders, and
the scratch and dent resistant resin bodywork along with
the flexible turn signals is always a plus, making this
a bike that can feasibly still look great even after a
fall. But if it's a cruiser styling that is desired, once
again one must look to Japan's offerings.
It
was built as a beginner bike. I''ve heard mixed reviews
about it. Not my style of bike but the only purpose built
bike for new riders in the 500cc class.
Recommendations
made by Beginner Bikes Magazine, it's staff, team members
or riding club officers, are based on the skills of a novice
rider, of average stature and do not necessarily represent
the ideal for every rider. While Beginner Bikes encourages
safe, smart riding, we do not assume responsibility for
each individual. Please ride with care at your own risk.
Beginner
Bikes Buyer's Guide
