Hi Scotty, I just started a new job but I have a 70 mile highway commute. I haven't ridden in a long time but I was thinking about buying a used motorcycle to get back and forth and save some money on fuel. Do you have any recommendations for a less expensive, reliable highway bike? Thank you.
Here's a basic overview of things to check https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/dont-get-burned-used-bike-buying-tips
You can check Youtube for reviews of just about any bike built in the last 10 years.
If it was me, I'd look for something more on the comfort/touring end of things, definitely with some wind/weather protection (esp if you ride in chilly weather), and 500cc or more.
I think what I ride, a Suzuki Vstrom 650 would be a good candidate - you can find decent ones for $3k-$4k, they have decent wind protection, pretty comfortable and I get 55 mpg or so. Honda makes some good 500-750cc bikes that are also excellent choices.
Here's a article on this topic
https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/news/top-5-commuter-motorcycles/