Ah the Yamaha Virago 535, known by some as the Vovlo Estate of the motorcycle world. While it is no flying machine it's perfect for short commutes around town. This is thanks in part to it's low gearing, making it quite torquey for a 500 but mainly down its low centre of gravity, making balancing in heavy traffic a breeze.

You can only pick up a second hand model now and they are holding their value well. Expect to pay between £1500-£2000 for well looked after '96 model with 40k miles on the clock, later models with less mileage on the clock can fetch even more. Even if they have been trashed the engine is near bullet proof and the shaft drive means no hassels adjusting chains or belts.

The build quality can be hit and miss, I've seen some mint examples that are pristine but also some very shabby ones. Remember they were a favourite of dispatch riders so some have been used and abused.

My model runs fine and is an excellent entry to the world of bigger bikes, well mannered and not enough power to scare the brown stuff out your pants!