I have some Ideas as to the type of bike I'm looking for, something that is sportier looking, ie: not a cruiser type bike. Also as far as engine size goes I'm thinking something between 250-600cc's I figure thats a good place to start. I will admit I am a little afraid of the bigger bikes, I have had MANY friend wipe out on their first bike largely due to buying a pony with too much gallop. Thanks for your input.
Note: Spammers WILL be reported An EX250 is a great beginner bike. If you think you'll get bored with that quickly, then a Ninja 500 or GS500 is a good alternative (the kawasaki is liquid cooled, which makes it better IMO).
If you still think you'll get bored, the absolute largest bike I would learn on is a Ninja 650 or an SV650s, but i'd really say a 500 is a better 'starter' bike.
a 600 is much more powerful than a 650 (i know, smaller number, more power. it confused new riders sometimes.) Please DO NOT buy a 600 as your first bike. a modern 600cc 4-cylinder bike can have as much as 120hp. A 650cc twin will have more like 70, and it'll have more torque, which makes it easier to learn on.
Buy a twin. you said "not a cruiser type."
EX250, Ninja 500, GS500, Ninja 650 or SV650/SV650s
and buy used!!!! you'll save a ton and thank me later. In a bigger bike it's not the just power that's dangerous for a beginner, it's the weight. It takes a while to get your balance, to learn to handle the bike, especially in parking lots, etc. I think 250-600ccs is a good range for a beginner.
I would say don't go out and buy a brand new bike. You're going to be hard on your first bike. You're going to abuse the clutch. You might drop it once or twice before you get the hang of it. Get something 5-10 years old to learn on, and after a year you will have a better idea of what you really want and then you can sell the old bike for about what you paid for it.
I would say anything Japanese in your size range is a good choice. There is a wide variety of bikes in that range for different looks, different riding styles, etc.
You can tell a lot about a bike just by sitting on it! Can you put both feet flat on the ground? Do you like the relationship between seat, handlebars and footpegs? Those are the kinds of things you should think of.
Remember also that over 1/2 of motorcycle accidents happen in the first year! (Sounds like you've already figured that out. 8^) )
Congratulations! And good luck! I think an EX250 is a good choice for the beginner. If u don't like this one, u can get on a site called bikerkiss to get more info about whick one u should have. There are many motorcyclists there. i think they will give u some good advices. Don't overlook scooters. How about a Kymco S250? Suzuki Burgman 400, automatic transmission (lots cheaper than a Ridley) will do 80 MPH on the interstate (police led ride), can keep up with Harley's, Cruisers, Goldwing and RESPONSIBLE Sports Bike Riders. Weighs under 500 pounds. Works for person under 5'2". 80 MPG, Storage under seat for 2 full face helmets.
They do make a 650 Burgman. Larger size overall, decreased gas mileage.Of course they make some larger Sports bikes. but I'm not familiar with them.
Note:Beginners Riders Class teaches on 250 Rebels and 125 Kawasaki's
A 250 Rebel or some of the other 250 cc regular bikes strains on Interstate speeds of 70 plus, and has difficulties keeping up --especially in the mountains.
Go to some bike nights at local restaurants in your area...look Don't Touch...but feel free to admire and ask questions about the awesome ride that you're admiring! An MSF loaner while taking their training course. |
