I am looking at getting the 2008 500r.....What is the gas mileage people are getting with the newer models...???? And do you think that it is a good decision?

 

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Nice.
The forum will let me reply with dots, but not with helpful information.
It won't even let me edit my .. post. FUBAR.

 

Personally, I get approx 55mpg and I fill up at about 170miles. I commute on the freeway a lot so my avg speed is typically between 65 and 80mph depending on traffic. Although when I'm splitting lanes my speed is down around 25-30mph.

Is the 500 a good idea for you? that really depends on what you want to do with your bike and what you think you need to accomplish those ends.As I mentioned I commute with my bike every day, and lately even during the one or two rainy days in San Diego. A small tank bag, a soft set of Cortech saddle bags, and a Tom Tom GPS and I have a bike that takes care of my everyday needs. I find it to be economical to purchase, run, and maintain.

Even if you aspire to dofew track days there are a number of people who have made the 500 in to a capable race bike with a few modifications.

All that being said, if you want bleeding edge technology, more than 50bhp, and care deeply about what squids think of your ride, the 500 may not be for you. No one can tell you what you want, but we are definitely able to share our experiences and hopefully that will be enough for you to make an informed decision.