Most of the changes are cosmetic in nature. Example: the S50 lost the sissybar / passenger backrest / tool kit holder as standard, but gained it as optional. The S50 went to a dragbar style instead of buckhorn bars. The S50 has a one piece seat design whereas the VS800 has a two piece seat. S50 lost the chromed covering of the license plate holder, it's black plastic on the S50.