I have failed to break a CB500 (on my 2nd) and early ones are certainly now within reach if you need to include carnet value. Performance and spec is actually very close to the F650. The usual work (OE tyres, OE chain, shocks if these things bother you..) is required to turn them from weekend play thing to every day ride and protecting the sump is difficult without a full frame. The valve service, an expedition to the centre of the bike via bodywork, tank, electrics tray.... is close to V-strom silliness but at 16000 miles is acceptable.
I likewise failed to break an NC750. These fix many of the CB500's bad points but are lumps to ride.
I regularly broke my Bullet, but thats part of the experience.
I did not get on with Moto Guzzi, a shed-built machine for hobbyists with bad parts availabilty, an unsupported Enfield.
I sold my last MZ in 2014. I'd love one (if would be my 6th) but for some reason parts supply of vitals like crank seals has not kept up. My classic Honda (CL350) scratches that itch.
I would love to try many of the 150-250cc work bikes they don't bring to the UK. The CT125 is coming and rumours about the H-Ness please me.
There are no perfect bikes, only better starting points and knowledge about likely results and potential fixes.
Andy
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