People keep saying the VLX/VT600 is weak, and not good for highway use. What's an alternative, or step up?

Question

I want to stay in the same price range, used VLX, so either is there a way to add aftermarket parts for more power, or is there another model close to it, size and price that will give me a little more power for highway cruising?

Answer 1

I had a '99 vlx and I weigh 230, and I have had a passenger that weighed 200 and we drove 400 miles on it. it was great up to about 75 mph and it got 65 miles to the gallon. I had no problem with power when i rode by myself. If you want more power, get an aftermarket pipe, jet kit or power commander, and then think about changing the chain sprokets... bigger in the back will give you more low end power but you lose a little at the top... not much.

anyhting around the same size is going to be roughly the same. unless you change styles, sat go to a sv 650. different power delivery.....

Answer 2

I have a 2005 VLX, and it has plenty of power for highway use (as long as you do not weigh too much over 200 pounds or carry a passenger).  I have enough power to pass vehicles when necessary.  I have gone 80+ mph on occasion.  If you feel the need to go faster than that, then you may want to consider a different/larger bike.  I went on a ride from PA to TN and back last year with two 1000+ cc bikes, and I had no trouble keeping up at normal highway speeds.

The only complaints I have regarding the bike are that it sometimes feels like it could use an extra gear, and the seat could be a bit more comfortable for longer distances.

Answer 3

A step up would be any of the VT750s

Answer 4

That's nonsense.  My wife rode mine all over Texas.