Went and looked at some bikes today. The Star Stratoliner is enormous! I Think the V Star 950 is much more appropriately sized for my needs. It's also $6,000 cheaper. About the only thing I can think of needing is a $500 Mustang saddle for my wife's comfort--something the Stratoliner would probably need too. I think bike manufacturers intentionally short change the pillion on their touring bikes to stimulate the aftermarket...

Star Stratoliner

If I'm ever going to get back on the open road again my wife will be riding behind me, but the only kind of bike she's interested in riding on is a big, comfortable bagger. Right now my first choice would be Yamaha's Star Stratoliner. The windshield, saddlebags and backrest are a bargain compared to going aftermarket on a less expensive Roadliner. Hopefully Star will bring back the the Stratoliner Midnight (not available in the US for 2009). I think it looks like an old, art deco-era steam engine. Another $500 for a more comfortable Mustang seat and we'd be ready to hit the road.