The SD ergonomics were still in the standard bracket, with a riding position slightly leaning forward, though not as far as on a true sport bike. Personally, I prefer the flat bars on the SD (And the XR) to the lower clip-ons on a sport bike, which move too much weight forward and load up my arms too much for my taste. Having said that, you must load up the front to go quickly on the track, so you pick your devil and live with it, good and bad.

I prefer the flat bars on the SD to the lower clip-ons on a sport bike.

I am planning a track day in May to check out the SD's track behaviour, something I was reluctant to tackle on the cop covered streets of Daytona during Bike Week. See you then!


Power and torque
Distinctive looks and sound
Quality of components and finish



Small fuel tank
Some vibrations above 6000 rpm



Expensive to buy and maintain


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux