When I decided to buy a motorcycle I didn’t do much research before hand on what would be a good “starter” bike which is very unusual for me. I research and over-analyze everything! But not this. I went to the local Honda shop in Stillwater because I had looked at available models online. The one bike that really caught my eye was the Honda VLX Deluxe mainly because of the chrome factor. I, like raccoons, am memorized by shiny things. Well they did have one VLX in stock and the saleslady prompted me to set on the bike. “No, I am just looking” I replied but she insisted and I don’t like to be rude. As I settled into the seat I knew I was in trouble. I am a person of shorter stature at 5’4” but I could flat foot this bike from the start. (It has a 25.6 in seat height) It was very comfortable and didn’t feel heavy. (454.0lbs dry weight) I stared down at it for a few minutes then I extracted myself from it all the time chanting, “I am just looking, I am just looking…” The saleslady just smiled and nodded at me as I left. She knew she had set the hook depth within me and I would be back. I did purchase the bike and they trailered it to my house since I had yet to learn how to ride a motorcycle. After practicing in my pasture and taking the MSF course, I was off on the open road. The VLX has yet to disappoint me. It has a 583cc, liquid-cooled, 52 degree, V-twin engine which provides it with enough get up and go to keep up with bike 2 to 3 times its size. I do wish it were a bit heavier… I think that would help in the Oklahoma wind. She has a 2.9 gal. gas tank (that includes .9 reserve) and I average 60 mi/gal. I have read that the VLX can feel a bit top heavy and I guess I would have to agree but all I have to compare it with is the Honda Rebel that I rode in BRC. While the VLX may not AS nimble as the Rebel I think it does well in u-turns and tight right hand turns. It is a well-balanced bike and very dependable. Over all I love this bike and would not trade it for anything. Some day I might add another bike to the family but I don’t think I would ever give up my Honda VLX!