The early bikes gave everything else a bad reputation - it was a lack of quality control that was the problem - and later bikes had good bearings, good wheels, good regulators etc. (Does that sound familiar
)
Just like the rubber-band-SS, the bevels need more looking after than jap stuff, but have bags more character.
Its better to buy one thats being ridden than one thats stood for a while, as the big lump of an engine can attract condensation. (But thats true for any bike isnt it
)
If you dont like a stretched out riding position, you wont be comfortable on the SS, cos its got a long tank to go witht hat long wheelbase !
And its heavier than you think, with no sidestand, and a pretty crap centre stand !