At the time my son was 15 my daughter 16. My son on rode 750, I rode the 500 from Orlando to the Texas panhandle to take it to my daughter. Little over 1500 miles, 3 days.

@Trajan61 I would prefer the 500 over the 750 for the most part. Otherwise. it was like riding one of those 50cc scooters on steroids. I mean the ride was comfortable, controllable, and smooth. The 750 had a little more thrust off of the start, obviously slightly bigger.
Son on 750, me on 500, son acted like he wanted to race from a red light. With his inexperience, I quickly left him behind. Mind you we are both pushing over 250 pounds in body weight. Twist the throttle and 750 feels like it might try to get away from you. The 500 was like taking an enjoyable sunday drive with enough power to move but not feel like it wants to get away.

I had ridden a Honda 750 from Chicago to Florida, I would not be a big fan of small bikes over long distance. but for around town, I wouldn't trade the small bikes for anything larger.

@Word Seeing as your quite a bit younger than me I can see how you would find the smaller, lighter bikes more acceptable. Myself I will stick to my old geezer Road Glide Special.