I paid $1,500 for a 2000 k5 last year. The motor was solid with a good top end and good seals. I put over $1,000 into it. O ring chain, sprockets, tires, throttle cable, air filter, desert tank (the original one was leaking), petcock, handle bars, hand guards, grips, brake pads, brake lines, and a few other little things. The bike is very reliable now and I feel pretty good about the $2,500 I have in it total. I looked at a couple of $900 bikes and they were basket cases that were ready for the scrap yard. I would spend around $2,000 or so and get a decent bike to start with. I agree with Polar-Bus that a reliable bike is very important. I want a perfect bike, but I am sure perfect just isn't possible, but I do my best to keep it well maintained so I can enjoy my Sunday rides. just my opinion