When I first started riding, a Honda VT 500 Ascot was the first really nice bike I owned. I had a 350 Scrambler before it, but it was a vibration machine. That little ascot, while no superbike, would do 100 plus MPH, had great acceleration for a 500, was plenty light enough, handled good, was smooth, water cooled, shaft drive, and also a good looking little bike.
Looking around on the net now for used ones, I can't believe people are asking more money for them that they cost new.LOL Hope someday to find another for a decent price, even a fixer upper.