2008 Kawasaki Mean Streak or something else?

[The Wickerman]

I've only been riding for 2 months, started on a 93 GSX600F Katana thats been tuned to about 100 hp (awesome first bike). Due to the riding I do, which is mostly highway (usually a 6 hr ride every few weeks from western KY to Cincinnati), the ergonomics of a sportbike are too uncomfortable for that type or riding. Also, I am truly uninterested in dragging my knees through turns, as the roads of KY are horribly maintained, and being in the country, there is plenty of gravel washed into the roads, as well as free roaming dogs. Finally, to my question: I have decided to get my hands on a cruiser. I want something around or above 1000cc's, as I am used to "serious" power, but not looking for something ungodly heavy (under 700 lbs). Handling is a must, as well, as we all know we need to avoid things a little quicker than we'd hope. I'm looking between the Honda VTX1300C or the Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak. I rarely ride around town, usually the bike is just used for long distance trips to save on fuel compared to my truck. If anyone has any other recommendations, I am partial to bikes with the short "custom" style fenders, and no "duck tail" on the rear fender. Detailed explanations are appreciated.

 

[billcarr]

I think the Honda 1300 twin is a great bike. However it is no preformance champion at about 58 HP. The Vulcan Mean Streak is a great looking bike all ready customized and somewhat better preformance. You might look at a Yamaha Warrior as well. Enjoy the ride.

 

[rockbase]

I wouldn't pick either, but that's me. I would suggest for a rider of your experience a 1100 vstar classic or 1100 vstar custom, a honda 1300 since i don't like the honda shadow versions, or the like. Most come in at least 3 versions.
Example yamaha}s vstar custom has that bobbed tail, while the same engine in classic has the all steel fenders full wrap, the siverado same engine again had windshiels, back rests ect.

best for you to visit these sites or even better , the dealers. While i know you think your ready (I lived in BG until 2 years ago and had a mc chapter there) you will remember the accidents that killed the girl near harley, killed the new harley dealer owner as well as the car dealership owner, the husband and child on cemetery road and the list goes on, all in that area, some were experienced, but alot of these guys started out on bikes to big for them and could respond fast enough.
But hey , after 30 years of riding (Grew up in ny) all over the USA, what do I know..... feel free to visit mikes and the harley dealer and sit on a few.