What's a good bike (cruiser) for a beginner?

morgothaod · 08-22-2010, 12:55 AM

I've been doing some research and this one site recommends that beginners start on a 60 (or less) horsepower bike. Do you all agree with this? One of the motorcycles it recommends is the Harley Davidson Sportster (883cc engine and 52 hp). But when I go on the H-D website, I don't just see a Sportster. They do have a "Iron 883" under Sportster. Is that the right bike? Under Sportster, they also have "Nightster," "Superlow," "1200 Low," XR1200X," and "Forty-Eight." I don't see the horsepower on any of these vehicles so I don't know which would be good for me.

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks

The Tourist · 08-22-2010, 01:15 AM

I'd get a metric bike, somewhere between 350cc and 500cc, something with good brakes, is easy to maintain and cheap to fix.

People who have also done research opine that I should be dead, in prison or a United States Senator. Turn off the computer and turn on the engine.

67fire · 08-22-2010, 01:48 AM

Harley-Davidson has always been ashamed to post a Horsepower figure for their bikes
because they are so severely underpowered compared to other bikes of similar displacement.
They attempt to brag about the Torque specification...
which also falls short of other bikes.

Eric

morgothaod · 08-22-2010, 01:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Tourist

I'd get a metric bike, somewhere between 350cc and 500cc, something with good brakes, is easy to maintain and cheap to fix.

Can someone help me find a bike that meets this criteria?

The lowest cc of the Sportsters was 883.

The Honda Rebel is 234cc does it meet the other requirements?

Dodsfall · 08-22-2010, 02:17 AM

It depends on what type of riding you plan on doing most. Smaller and lighter bikes are easier to learn on and build riding skills quicker.

I'd recommend learning on something fairly light until you get the mechanics of riding down, then moving on to a different bike. The advantage here is that you may find that the type of riding you think you will be doing is not quite what you end up doing long-term.

Jesterrace · 08-22-2010, 02:32 AM

It might also help if you posted your height and build. A 250 Rebel is a great starter bike (not bad looking and it is much cheaper than an 883 sportster) but if you are well over 6 feet and well over 200lbs. then a 250 is not for you. If you are a large individual then a 500-650 Honda Shadow or Yamaha V-Star of the same cc range would be the way to go.

louturks · 08-22-2010, 04:31 AM

Did you take the MSF course?

tomsonsllc · 08-22-2010, 06:16 AM

Personally I would say buy something that is 500-600cc. You will get bored of a 250 really fast, and they are bad, or at least worse for "bigger" people. Other than that power area, go for a style you like.

morgothaod · 08-22-2010, 07:44 AM

5'7" 180lbs (slight gut), I haven't taken the MSF (Is that the same as the "Rider's edge" course?). I need to move out first before I take it because my mom is against me riding. So I'll be taking the class next year.

Dodsfall · 08-22-2010, 08:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by morgothaod

5'7" 180lbs (slight gut), I haven't taken the MSF (Is that the same as the "Rider's edge" course?).

Yes, the Rider's Edge course covers all the MSF material.

Don't be as concerned with "getting bored" as with just learning to ride well. One thing about motorcyclists is your first bike is just that, a first bike and very likely not your last. The first priority will be finding a bike that will be easy to learn to ride on well and that you won't mind dropping to the ground a couple times while learning. (It happens) Once you get the mechanics of riding learned, it's time to look for something more long-term.

TxFLSTC · 08-22-2010, 08:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by morgothaod

5'7" 180lbs (slight gut), I haven't taken the MSF (Is that the same as the "Rider's edge" course?). I need to move out first before I take it because my mom is against me riding. So I'll be taking the class next year.

The 883 Sportster will work fine for your first bike. You can get a used one for 3k on up. You get your feet wet when you take the MSF course. Take it slow and learn the bike (whtever bike you get). Just do not go into the deal with the attitude that you are going to drop the bike or lay it down anyway. The idea is to NEVER do that. A minor crash can really hurt a rider. Take it slow and learn whatever bike you get.

The Tourist · 08-22-2010, 09:55 AM

I think the advice you have been given is truly valuable. With your height, weight and experience I think the idea of a bike in the +/-500cc range is a very sound idea.

Get that riders' course. I never did, I just made dumb mistakes. As for the brand and appearance, that's not what's important now.

Learn to ride safely and efficiently.

louturks · 08-22-2010, 10:13 AM

The reason I ask if you took the MSF course is they use 250's. You will have an idea taking that course if you think that is roughly the size you want to start out with or can go with a bigger bike. I started out with a 250, went to a 650, then with the Sportster.

morgothaod · 08-22-2010, 11:36 AM

How long should I ride before getting the VRSC Night Rod Special (1247cc)?

Dodsfall · 08-22-2010, 12:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by morgothaod

How long should I ride before getting the VRSC Night Rod Special (1247cc)?

It's going to vary from person to person. It's going to be your personal comfort factor with riding that will determine the best bike for you at any certain time.

Jesterrace · 08-23-2010, 03:00 AM

Yup, given your height and build though I would recommend starting out on a 250. You really won't need the extra power or heavier bike while you are learning how to ride. The other thing is that an older 250 is going to be less of an investment for you than an 883 sportster. As good as your instincts are you better be prepared to put your bike down at least once while you are learning how to ride the thing (usually it's the awkward stall while you are learning how to stop/shift). I ended up falling victim to that last week and this is from a guy who has about 8 years of experience driving a standard tranny car as a daily driver. Fortunately there was no damage to myself or the bike due to the fact that it was essentially a zero speed drop and I didn't let the bike drop completely from the vertical position. Either way my 250 Nighthawk only ran me $900. I can live with dropping or damaging my bike since it didn't cost me an arm and a leg, something about dropping a $3-$4K "entry line" harley just seems like too much money to risk while learning to ride. Especially since you plan on upgrading ultimately to a Night Rod Special. It makes sense to invest as little as possible while learning to ride and saving up for your dream bike in the process.

tds1195 · 08-23-2010, 04:52 PM

I don't think you should start on a 250. It's a good bike for starters, but it's not really practical unless you just want to do town riding and nothing else. If you want to go 65mph fairly often, just start with a 650 or 750. I practiced on a 250 and then got a Honda Shadow 750cc - my first bike. I like it just fine and I think it handles well. It's a lot of power and I was a bit shakey on it for awhile, but you'll get the hang of it quick. If you get a 250, you'll just want to move up in a couple of months. However, they are the safer way to go and they will help you feel more comfortable. It really just depends on what you wanna do. Hope this helps!

internationalballer · 08-23-2010, 05:37 PM

If you're talking cruisers, being your size, I would say look into something like a suzuki savage/S-40, yamaha V-star 650, Honda shadow rs, the shadow aero, or sportster 883. Nothing wrong with the 250's but being what I would say is an a average size guy, if you're planning on riding highways (who can possibly have fun constantly cruising through town) get something with a little more power to help maintain highway speeds. You shouldn't have to much trouble with a bike that size if your fairly well coordinated.

murphyshuman · 08-24-2010, 04:51 PM

First and foremost, take the course! Then worry about the bike, remember, not everyone should ride. Why spend a couple grand (or more) when you could take the course for a couple hundred and see if you even like it. I know you're going to say, of course I'll like it, but some don't. There were 2 people in my wife's course who literally crashed out, ambulance and all. Needless to say, they didn't need a bike.

Jeff10236 · 08-25-2010, 03:13 PM

I'll echo what a few others have said, you should strongly consider the course. It is hard enough to learn the basics during the MSF or Riders Edge class on a controlled course and with trained instructors and then going out there to learn on the road. I'd hate to have had to learn everything on my own (or with a friend who is not trained as an instructor). Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. The responsible thing is to minimize dangers when doing something dangerous, not maximizing them. Also, as was also pointed out, the MSF course is usually on a 250cc bike (the Riders Edge is on an underpowered 500cc standard) so you can get a feel for your comfort level (both physical comfort on a small bike, and your comfort with riding) and make a more informed decision about what sized bike to start with.

I have not been able to ride a Sportster so this is based on the numbers and what I've learned online from others. The 883cc Sportsters are not too powerful for beginners, the 1200cc Sportsters may or may not be (depends upon your comfort level). Weight is another important criteria for beginners that is often ignored- you don't want to go too heavy or it will be hard to control in slow speed maneuvers and you will be more likely to drop it. The Sportsters are probably right on the edge on the weight criteria. Also, from much of what I've read, the Sportsters are a bit top heavy and thus they are OK but not ideal beginners bikes.

As for the model designations, a Sportster 883 is a Sportster with an 883cc engine, a 1200 has a 1200cc engine. The Iron, Nightster, 48, Low, Custom, etc. are model designations. Some (the Low) can be had with either engine size, some (the Custom) used to be made in both but new models are only made with the 1200, and some are one or the other (the Nightster and 48 are 1200s, the Iron is an 883). The XR1200X is a specialty model, as a new rider I'd avoid it.

Depending upon your size, skill level and comfort level anything from a 250cc to 900cc cruiser can be suitable for a beginner.

If you refuse to take a class, I highly suggest going with a 250, and no bigger than a 500 (a 650cc Suzuki S40 may be acceptable). If you take the class and are confident any of the Japanese manufacturers' bikes up to a 950cc bike or an 883cc HD Sportster should be acceptable to learn on (though the 750cc-950cc bikes are on the upper envelope for weight). If you want to do a lot of highway riding pretty early the 250cc bikes won't be very pleasant. Most people starting on a cruiser are probably best served with a 500-650cc. The Kawasaki Vulcan 500 is a terrific starter cruiser that everyone in that market would be well served to at least consider.

Whatever you do, you should start with a used bike. This won't be your last bike. You may drop it and won't be happy if you scratch it up if it is new. You will refine what you want, like and expect out of a bike and may change what you want long-term. Buying used will be cheaper, and if you stay with typical starter bikes (250cc, 500cc, 650cc) you may be able to sell it in the next 6 months or so for around the same amount you paid to buy it. You won't need a loan and it won't depreciate as much as new (if at all) so it will be easier to buy what you really want when you are ready for it in a few months to a year or two.

tds1195 · 08-25-2010, 03:37 PM

+1 Jeff - very good advice for ANY new rider.

bdavison · 08-25-2010, 05:08 PM

According to HD, the 883 puts out 57HP, and the 1200 puts out 66HP. If you upgrade to the screaming eagle version, you get an additional 7 HP. The screaming eagle consists of air cleaner, exhaust, and a re-jetted carb.

Thats according to HD....now in reality.....

Its more like 883 = 47HP, and 1200 = 60HP as many dyno charts, and magazine reviews have shown, and that's why HD wont publish the HP ratings. They cant guarentee them.

In the end, if you have set your mind on beginning on a cruiser, and want a HD, Id recommend the 1200cc version of the sportster.

Ill be nice and not get into the "sportbike vs cruiser" argument, because you specifically asked for information regarding cruisers.

But, there are metric cruisers, and you should consider those options as well.
The Honda Shadow RS for example is nearly identical in appearance to the sportster. Its a 750cc engine, which is smaller in displacement, but its firing off 60 horses, and is fuel injected....a BIG plus.

RidingFree · 08-25-2010, 05:13 PM

Thanks for the great info here. I am 6' 4" and thinking about taking the MSF course soon. I just began checking out bikes online, and this was a great summary of info. I'm taking a look at the Vulcan 500 now, and the reviews are all pretty good.

internationalballer · 08-25-2010, 05:16 PM

The new HD sporty's are fuel injected just like the shadows, but heaven forbid you have anything decent about an HD.

Dodsfall · 08-25-2010, 08:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by internationalballer

The new HD sporty's are fuel injected just like the shadows, but heaven forbid you have anything decent about an HD.

2007+ Sportsters are fuel-injected. 2004+ have rubber-isolated engines.

Biker Dash · 08-25-2010, 11:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bdavison

The Honda Shadow RS for example is nearly identical in appearance to the sportster. Its a 750cc engine, which is smaller in displacement, but its firing off 60 horses, and is fuel injected....a BIG plus.

Actually, The RS is putting out just shy of 50, from the research that I have done on that bike. (heck, I REALLY want one)

Ok, I would recommend a nice used shadow myself in the 500 to 750cc range. If you can find something from the late 90's in decient shape )should be easy enough I imagine) you should have a bike that will be well suited to a beginner, and yet will remain plenty powerful enough for you after you have a few years experience. Mind you, this is just my own opinion on this. Most 500 - 750 size cruisers out there would be excellent choices for a beginner, and not just the shadows.

Ok, more importantly. As it has been stated here in this thread many times (as well as eleventy billion times elsewhere in this forum) TAKE THE MSF COURSE! Please.

08-22-2010, 12:55 AM	#1
morgothaod Verified Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 17	What's a good bike (cruiser) for a beginner? I've been doing some research and this one site recommends that beginners start on a 60 (or less) horsepower bike. Do you all agree with this? One of the motorcycles it recommends is the Harley Davidson Sportster (883cc engine and 52 hp). But when I go on the H-D website, I don't just see a Sportster. They do have a "Iron 883" under Sportster. Is that the right bike? Under Sportster, they also have "Nightster," "Superlow," "1200 Low," XR1200X," and "Forty-Eight." I don't see the horsepower on any of these vehicles so I don't know which would be good for me. Any help is appreciated. Thanks

08-22-2010, 02:17 AM	#5
Dodsfall Administrator Join Date: May 2008 Location: Illinois, USA Posts: 15,955	It depends on what type of riding you plan on doing most. Smaller and lighter bikes are easier to learn on and build riding skills quicker. I'd recommend learning on something fairly light until you get the mechanics of riding down, then moving on to a different bike. The advantage here is that you may find that the type of riding you think you will be doing is not quite what you end up doing long-term. __________________ 2008 XL1200R To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

08-22-2010, 02:32 AM	#6
Jesterrace Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Posts: 988	It might also help if you posted your height and build. A 250 Rebel is a great starter bike (not bad looking and it is much cheaper than an 883 sportster) but if you are well over 6 feet and well over 200lbs. then a 250 is not for you. If you are a large individual then a 500-650 Honda Shadow or Yamaha V-Star of the same cc range would be the way to go. __________________ Without a bike again. Thanks to Harley/Buell.

08-23-2010, 03:00 AM	#16
Jesterrace Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Posts: 988	Yup, given your height and build though I would recommend starting out on a 250. You really won't need the extra power or heavier bike while you are learning how to ride. The other thing is that an older 250 is going to be less of an investment for you than an 883 sportster. As good as your instincts are you better be prepared to put your bike down at least once while you are learning how to ride the thing (usually it's the awkward stall while you are learning how to stop/shift). I ended up falling victim to that last week and this is from a guy who has about 8 years of experience driving a standard tranny car as a daily driver. Fortunately there was no damage to myself or the bike due to the fact that it was essentially a zero speed drop and I didn't let the bike drop completely from the vertical position. Either way my 250 Nighthawk only ran me $900. I can live with dropping or damaging my bike since it didn't cost me an arm and a leg, something about dropping a $3-$4K "entry line" harley just seems like too much money to risk while learning to ride. Especially since you plan on upgrading ultimately to a Night Rod Special. It makes sense to invest as little as possible while learning to ride and saving up for your dream bike in the process. __________________ Without a bike again. Thanks to Harley/Buell.

08-23-2010, 05:37 PM	#18
internationalballer Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: North Carolina Posts: 2,848	If you're talking cruisers, being your size, I would say look into something like a suzuki savage/S-40, yamaha V-star 650, Honda shadow rs, the shadow aero, or sportster 883. Nothing wrong with the 250's but being what I would say is an a average size guy, if you're planning on riding highways (who can possibly have fun constantly cruising through town) get something with a little more power to help maintain highway speeds. You shouldn't have to much trouble with a bike that size if your fairly well coordinated. Last edited by internationalballer; 08-23-2010 at 05:39 PM..

08-22-2010, 01:15 AM	#2
The Tourist Banned Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 901	I'd get a metric bike, somewhere between 350cc and 500cc, something with good brakes, is easy to maintain and cheap to fix. People who have also done research opine that I should be dead, in prison or a United States Senator. Turn off the computer and turn on the engine.

08-22-2010, 01:48 AM	#3
67fire Banned Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Reno, Nevada Posts: 4,417	Harley-Davidson has always been ashamed to post a Horsepower figure for their bikes because they are so severely underpowered compared to other bikes of similar displacement. They attempt to brag about the Torque specification... which also falls short of other bikes. Eric

08-22-2010, 04:31 AM	#7
louturks Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: VA Posts: 1,367	Did you take the MSF course?

08-22-2010, 06:16 AM	#8
tomsonsllc Verified Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 45	Personally I would say buy something that is 500-600cc. You will get bored of a 250 really fast, and they are bad, or at least worse for "bigger" people. Other than that power area, go for a style you like.

08-22-2010, 07:44 AM	#9
morgothaod Verified Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 17	5'7" 180lbs (slight gut), I haven't taken the MSF (Is that the same as the "Rider's edge" course?). I need to move out first before I take it because my mom is against me riding. So I'll be taking the class next year.

08-22-2010, 09:55 AM	#12
The Tourist Banned Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 901	I think the advice you have been given is truly valuable. With your height, weight and experience I think the idea of a bike in the +/-500cc range is a very sound idea. Get that riders' course. I never did, I just made dumb mistakes. As for the brand and appearance, that's not what's important now. Learn to ride safely and efficiently.

08-22-2010, 10:13 AM	#13
louturks Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: VA Posts: 1,367	The reason I ask if you took the MSF course is they use 250's. You will have an idea taking that course if you think that is roughly the size you want to start out with or can go with a bigger bike. I started out with a 250, went to a 650, then with the Sportster.

08-22-2010, 11:36 AM	#14
morgothaod Verified Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 17	How long should I ride before getting the VRSC Night Rod Special (1247cc)?

08-23-2010, 04:52 PM	#17
tds1195 Semper Fi! Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Southern IN Posts: 125	I don't think you should start on a 250. It's a good bike for starters, but it's not really practical unless you just want to do town riding and nothing else. If you want to go 65mph fairly often, just start with a 650 or 750. I practiced on a 250 and then got a Honda Shadow 750cc - my first bike. I like it just fine and I think it handles well. It's a lot of power and I was a bit shakey on it for awhile, but you'll get the hang of it quick. If you get a 250, you'll just want to move up in a couple of months. However, they are the safer way to go and they will help you feel more comfortable. It really just depends on what you wanna do. Hope this helps!

08-24-2010, 04:51 PM	#19
murphyshuman Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Asheville NC Posts: 1,788	First and foremost, take the course! Then worry about the bike, remember, not everyone should ride. Why spend a couple grand (or more) when you could take the course for a couple hundred and see if you even like it. I know you're going to say, of course I'll like it, but some don't. There were 2 people in my wife's course who literally crashed out, ambulance and all. Needless to say, they didn't need a bike.

08-25-2010, 03:13 PM	#20
Jeff10236 Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Odenton, Maryland Posts: 736	I'll echo what a few others have said, you should strongly consider the course. It is hard enough to learn the basics during the MSF or Riders Edge class on a controlled course and with trained instructors and then going out there to learn on the road. I'd hate to have had to learn everything on my own (or with a friend who is not trained as an instructor). Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. The responsible thing is to minimize dangers when doing something dangerous, not maximizing them. Also, as was also pointed out, the MSF course is usually on a 250cc bike (the Riders Edge is on an underpowered 500cc standard) so you can get a feel for your comfort level (both physical comfort on a small bike, and your comfort with riding) and make a more informed decision about what sized bike to start with. I have not been able to ride a Sportster so this is based on the numbers and what I've learned online from others. The 883cc Sportsters are not too powerful for beginners, the 1200cc Sportsters may or may not be (depends upon your comfort level). Weight is another important criteria for beginners that is often ignored- you don't want to go too heavy or it will be hard to control in slow speed maneuvers and you will be more likely to drop it. The Sportsters are probably right on the edge on the weight criteria. Also, from much of what I've read, the Sportsters are a bit top heavy and thus they are OK but not ideal beginners bikes. As for the model designations, a Sportster 883 is a Sportster with an 883cc engine, a 1200 has a 1200cc engine. The Iron, Nightster, 48, Low, Custom, etc. are model designations. Some (the Low) can be had with either engine size, some (the Custom) used to be made in both but new models are only made with the 1200, and some are one or the other (the Nightster and 48 are 1200s, the Iron is an 883). The XR1200X is a specialty model, as a new rider I'd avoid it. Depending upon your size, skill level and comfort level anything from a 250cc to 900cc cruiser can be suitable for a beginner. If you refuse to take a class, I highly suggest going with a 250, and no bigger than a 500 (a 650cc Suzuki S40 may be acceptable). If you take the class and are confident any of the Japanese manufacturers' bikes up to a 950cc bike or an 883cc HD Sportster should be acceptable to learn on (though the 750cc-950cc bikes are on the upper envelope for weight). If you want to do a lot of highway riding pretty early the 250cc bikes won't be very pleasant. Most people starting on a cruiser are probably best served with a 500-650cc. The Kawasaki Vulcan 500 is a terrific starter cruiser that everyone in that market would be well served to at least consider. Whatever you do, you should start with a used bike. This won't be your last bike. You may drop it and won't be happy if you scratch it up if it is new. You will refine what you want, like and expect out of a bike and may change what you want long-term. Buying used will be cheaper, and if you stay with typical starter bikes (250cc, 500cc, 650cc) you may be able to sell it in the next 6 months or so for around the same amount you paid to buy it. You won't need a loan and it won't depreciate as much as new (if at all) so it will be easier to buy what you really want when you are ready for it in a few months to a year or two. Last edited by Jeff10236; 08-25-2010 at 03:21 PM..

08-25-2010, 03:37 PM	#21
tds1195 Semper Fi! Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Southern IN Posts: 125	+1 Jeff - very good advice for ANY new rider.

08-25-2010, 05:08 PM	#22
bdavison Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Warner Robins, GA Posts: 1,349	According to HD, the 883 puts out 57HP, and the 1200 puts out 66HP. If you upgrade to the screaming eagle version, you get an additional 7 HP. The screaming eagle consists of air cleaner, exhaust, and a re-jetted carb. Thats according to HD....now in reality..... Its more like 883 = 47HP, and 1200 = 60HP as many dyno charts, and magazine reviews have shown, and that's why HD wont publish the HP ratings. They cant guarentee them. In the end, if you have set your mind on beginning on a cruiser, and want a HD, Id recommend the 1200cc version of the sportster. Ill be nice and not get into the "sportbike vs cruiser" argument, because you specifically asked for information regarding cruisers. But, there are metric cruisers, and you should consider those options as well. The Honda Shadow RS for example is nearly identical in appearance to the sportster. Its a 750cc engine, which is smaller in displacement, but its firing off 60 horses, and is fuel injected....a BIG plus. __________________ Her profile said 5 11.....yeah lbs.

08-25-2010, 05:13 PM	#23
RidingFree Newbie Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Iowa Posts: 3	Thanks for the great info here. I am 6' 4" and thinking about taking the MSF course soon. I just began checking out bikes online, and this was a great summary of info. I'm taking a look at the Vulcan 500 now, and the reviews are all pretty good.

08-25-2010, 05:16 PM	#24
internationalballer Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: North Carolina Posts: 2,848	The new HD sporty's are fuel injected just like the shadows, but heaven forbid you have anything decent about an HD.

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