Nisolow

No one has mentioned that the Nikon 5xxx cameras have a viewing screen that rotates out and around. The lack of that function on the 7xxx series cameras was a deal breaker for me when I bought my 5300. Although I use it infrequently, it is a fantastic option when shooting from a very low angle (on the ground with my 10-24 zoom) or when holding the camera overhead. Plus the 5xxx series are very light. Call me lazy but I no longer want to lay down on the ground to get a low shot! Also, the articulating screen viewfinder is great when using a Tripod at other than eye level. Most canon cameras have this feature.

Indi Loc: L. I., NY, Palm Beach Cty when it's cold.

Lots of the responses pretty much reflect what I would choose.
I upgraded from the D5100 to the D5300 because it has more features than the D5100.
When looking for a new camera, it was a choice between the D5300 and a D7200. As was pointed out, the articulated screen was the deal breaker. However, I have seen some images on the 7200 which would make me reconsider...if I had the money. I know, it's the photographer, not the equipment.

The D5500 came out not long after I bought my D5300 and I didn't see a lot of difference in features.
If I; again it's the money, had enough $$$ I think I would like a Full Frame camera, although I'd have to buy all new lenses except one.

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

Or as the group I used to ride with in Idaho says, "Ride to eat, eat to ride."

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

After reading ALL the responses to this thread, I have to conclude that there is a near even split between the D5xxx series and the D7200, with a few recommending the D7100. Now, while it's true that I have to do the footwork here, I feel that this is the first step--garnering info from those who have or have had either or both cameras. Unfortunately, there is only one actual camera store in my area, and that one is in Anchorage, so I have to drive 45 miles just to sample the gear, which is why I am relying on all of you to get your impressions and opinions of both cameras.

Of course, there is a price point, and one that I need to consider. The D7200, even though it has features I may never use, could be my primary choice because of the viewfinder quality, lack of a low-pass filter (for sharper images) and in-camera focusing motor, as well as its ability to use nearly every Nikon lens made since the mid-70's. It may just be worth the extra $500.00 in the end, as I suspect that photography may be my replacement hobby for motorcycling. The one drawback could be the weight, but since I won't be lugging it around on the bike, that could be a moot point. The car doesn't care. On the other hand, the lower cost of the D5500 would allow me to pick up a couple lenses for macro and long distance telephoto shots, in addition to the kit lens that comes with it, and still be within a few $$$ of the cost of the 7200 body. I have all winter to contemplate this and make up my mind what I want to do.

Just as an aside, this summer, when my grandson was up here, I gave him my D90, with which he is doing a wonderful job. We would go out a lot, and I discovered that, as good a camera as the A6000 was, he seemed to be able to do more, with better results with his DSLR than I could with the A6000 under the same conditions and circumstances, especially in the area of astral photography. All of which is why I am considering returning to the world of the DSLR.

And yes, there are, no doubt (with the D7200--even with the 5500) some features I may not use, but then again, it's nice knowing that I could, should the need or desire arise. Basically, it goes to the old saying, it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. I am appreciating all the good responses. It gives me a good basis from with to proceed. And for all the Canon folks out there, I have nothing against Canon cameras (I own a Canon G16), I just like Nikon DSLR's. If there was a Canon DSLR that is the equivalent to the D5500 Nikon, for about the same price, I could consider that, too, but my preference is Nikon.

Beemerboy

The hell with the cameras! You will forever regret selling the bike. Every time you see someone with their knees in the breeze, you will look at the Funicanileicapentsony in your hand and say, there but for some computer attached to a sensor, there go I!

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

I hear you, but after riding for 43 years, I think I can handle that. It's been a pretty good ride, at that, and I've done a lot, ridden a lot of places and feel pretty satisfied. There are also some other considerations that spur me on to hanging up my helmet for good. But yes, there will be a period of sadness, I expect. But then, there are places where I can go in my SUV that I couldn't take a bike, so I guess there are some tradeoffs.

Beemerboy

Sounds like a well considered decision. Alaska, beautiful as it may be, is not the ideal motorcycle locale. After all there are but two seasons: winter and construction. In my M/C travels, I have found the Fuji X20 to be ideal in portability and function. For travel in an SUV, a Nikon DSLR is an excellent choice.

jrh1354 Loc: Dayton, Ohio

If you decide on a kit (body with lens), ask them to substitute the 18-140 lens. It's a really good walking around lens that gives you the equivalent of a 27-210mm in full-frame.

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

That's what I've been thinking. Gives a great range, eliminating the need for lugging around several other lenses.

Indi Loc: L. I., NY, Palm Beach Cty when it's cold.

I agree! The Nikon 18-140mm is a cut above a "kit lens."
Actually, this discussion made me think of taking it out of the box and using it in addition to my Sigmas.

Jim Bob

D5300 refurbished from Cameta Camera. Extraordinary camera with same sensor and image quality as D7xxxxx series except D7200 performs better in low light environments and has better buffer for faster shooting, especially when in RAW.

shutterbob Loc: Tucson

I've been riding for 45 years now. Shooting a camera since the Minolta SRT 101 was current. Gave up both at different times but discovered they were both a part of who I am. So now I ride a Gold Wing and shoot 3 Nikons....750, 7100, 5300. Hope you don't discover that motorcycles are necessary for your sanity after selling it. Nothing better for clearing the daily stress than riding in a beautiful location and popping the shutter several times.

MtnMan Loc: ID

You might consider the D5300. You can get a Nikon refurb under $500. I sold my Sony NEX 7 to get it and am much pleased with the choice because I can use my Nikon lenses and don't have to relearn Sonyspeak each time I switch.

The D5300 also includes GPS, but I don't use it because of battery drain.

I'm not of the touchscreen generation. Hate the fingerprints.

If you will only have one camera the a6000 is a good choice. The software is better than Nikon's and it plus lenses is much lighter than even the D5xxxs. The fully articulated screen of the D5xxx is better.

MtnMan Loc: ID

Yes, although the D5300 also takes the same images and is significantly cheaper.

I'm waiting for the Nikon mirrorless version.

MtnMan Loc: ID

I got the Sigma 17-50 f2.8 for my D5300. It works great for most purposes.

I use a Sigma 150-500 for seious telephoto...but don't bother with anything over the 17-50 when not doing wildlife. My Nikon 200-500 is waiting for me to get home next month to replace the 150-500. So I have no opinion on that comparison yet.