New Riders Looking for a First Bike Check Here

Tknoodle · 12-09-2007, 03:54 AM

To everyone looking for a first bike, or information on buying bikes in general, give this thread a good read. There are hundreds of years worth of riding experience in this thread giving advice about what bikes are good for beginners. If you are looking for opinions and information on any particular bikes you can use the "search this thread" function to find posts relating to those bikes.

Hello everyone,

I have been browsing the forum a bit now and find it's extremely helpful so far (I already sign up for enrollment for the MSF course after reading many people suggesting it here!)

Now it's time for choosing the right bike for me, and i really need help since I'm relatively new to this wonderful world. Well first off, my name is Peter and I am 21 years old, 5'11" and 185 lbs, I've just recently move to San Luis Obispo, California to continue my studying at Cal Poly and I've encounter the worse parking problem in my life here with my car, and that's is why I decide to switch a bike instead, a lot of people here also ride bike because of that reason.

Here are the few facts about me i can think up of right now hope it can help decide what bike should i get.

-I'm 5'11" 185 lbs (like mentioned above), medium built.
-My budget is around $3000-4000
-I live in California
-I don't like a cruise bike, and this is just my opinion, whenever i think of a cruise bike i think of tough, scary bikers riding harley's >.<.
-I also don't like a mountain bike just because i think it's not the kind of bike i would ride around town, this in no way mean to offense any of you guys who do ride these bike around town.
-So i guess it come down to the last type of bike is the streetbike or sportbike like i see you guys call it here. And these bikes make me really want to own one! They look awesome and sporty. But after reading many "new rider" threads who have similar vision like me wanting to own a cbr600 or R6 and such, they were met with many objections because these bikes are too powerful or hard to control for new riders.
-I have no preferred brands but i likes the design of kawasaki and honda street bikes.
-I never owned a bike before but have been riding dirt bike a lot during summer time with friends, so although a sport bike is much different than a dirt bike i figured, the small perk i already got is I'm rather familiar with the clutch and break system.

So can anyone help me choose a street bike in the range of that money that won't be too much for me as a new riders? Or simply the question i should ask is what are some of the weaker sport/street bikes i could choose from? I don't need it to be too fast, Just enough to get me around town and on weekends riding on the highway for about 2 hours to visit my family. I know a lot of you will be temping to tell me that i should not get a sport bike as a first ride but please try to help i seriously don't want to ride a cruiser type bike or dirt bike
Any help would be appreciated!

CB750F · 12-09-2007, 05:01 AM

Welcome! You can pick up a real nice Ninja 500 or GS500 for the kind of money you want to spend. They are good bikes to learn on.

BillTheCat · 12-09-2007, 05:22 AM

Hi I am glad to see your doing your research. Everything sounds good so far you are thinking this through pretty well. My suggestion would be to check out the Suzuki SV650 its a v twin sport bike very easy to ride. The torque of the twin is steady not peaky like the 4cyl HI horse power Bikes.
You can still get yourself in to trouble but they are very predictable bikes to ride. If you take your time getting to know the bike they can be great commuters and a very good sport bike to boot. You can find them used for the price range you are talking. I am sure you will get some more great suggestions on here. Good luck and have fun learning whatever you end up with

CaptCrashIdaho · 12-09-2007, 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CB750F

Welcome! You can pick up a real nice Ninja 500 or GS500 for the kind of money you want to spend. They are good bikes to learn on.

+1. And as William the Cat suggests the SV650 is a good bike too. I would also consider the Ninja 650 (twin cylinder) but the used price might not be down enough yet...

Good luck! Let us know what happens.

iamgumby · 12-10-2007, 12:28 AM

Check out the Suzuki 650 V-Strom. (Sometimes called the Wee-Strom as iit has a 1000 cc brother) Yeah, it can go dual sport. Friend of mine had one for almost a year. He really tried to hate it and just couldn't! It's just a good all around bike. Pretty much a "standard" riding style. Good mileage, dependable, rugged, and lots and lots of farkles available. I've seen some on Craigslist and sale papers about 3 years old less than 20k miles in your budget. This would be a machine you could spend alot of years with.

12-12-2007, 10:14 AM

By far and away the most common question on this forum is the new rider looking for advice on a first bike. We're going to set up this thread to keep all the responses in one place to save the new rider a whole lot of searching, and save our forum sages from repeating the same advice.

Personally, I'm a big naked bike fan in the 600cc range, you get comfort, style and a fair amount of power so that you won't get bored with the bike. Yamaha FZ6, Suzuki Bandit 600, SV650 or even the Ninja 650R are all good choices.

Feel free to ask away!

CB750F · 12-12-2007, 10:31 AM

For sport type bikes I'll agree with the ones Uesque mentioned plus the Kawasaki Ninja 500 and the Suzuki GS500. I have a good many years (20) in riding and I'm far from bored with my 500. Smaller stature sportbike folks may want to look into the Kawasaki Ninja 250 or the Honda Nighthawk 250 which is more of a standard.

I would not recomend a 600 super sport (R6, GSX-R 600 and so on) to a young new rider with no experiance. A person who is a little older and or has some riding experiance might be ok. Remember the current crop of 600 supersport bikes put out in excess of 115 horsepower and weigh less than 400 pounds.

For a cruiser bike pretty much anything under and including a 650 could be a good first bike. This includes but not limited to the Honda Shadow 600 and 500, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Savage or M40, Yamaha V-Star 650 or Virago 535. Smaller folks may want to check into a Honda Rebel or a Yamaha Virago 250.

Avoid Chinese motorcyles like the plague. If there isn't a dealer you can look at them and get parts and service do not buy them. Korean bikes only if you have a dealer nearby.

These are just my opinions.

TFee3 · 12-12-2007, 11:38 AM

Don't forget the C50T Suzuki. It's a fully equiped cruiser and small enough to be handled easily. I see lots of women riding them, not meaning, of course, that it's a girl's bike. My dealer told me that they were selling so fast that they couldn't keep them in stock. And, he's a Harley dealer!

HellFireX12 · 12-12-2007, 02:39 PM

I agree with CB750F about the sportbikes, I wouldnt recomend a 600 to a young beginner either, get atleast a year of experience first wether its a dirtbike or a different street bike.

I also agree with the naked bike idea in the 600 range (if your wanting to eventually get into sport bikes, or if you just like the naked bikes in general). You might not like the look of them the most but IMO they offer the best power range for a beginner, plus the standard postition is more comftorable to learn on.

And for the cruisers again I agree with the 650 or a little lower for a begginer, my sisters boyfriend rides cruisers and he started a few years ago on a 650 and now another member of his family is using it to learn on and he said he liked it alot.

Any bike can do the speed limit, and any bike will get you where you want. Besides if you have the powerr you're going to use it, so the best presentation of self controll you can show as a beginner is to buy something thats safe for you.

Other than that wear the right gear, be smart, and Take an MSF course.

bob weeks · 12-12-2007, 09:07 PM

sounds like your on the right track I have av star 1100 for sale but a little over your buget but what a bike all the goodies B W H.D.

stilson · 12-13-2007, 12:05 AM

i started on a suzuki gn 250 - great beginner bike i recomend a 4stroke 250
then moved to a gsxr600 - to quick to quickly. visit a morgue first
now on drz400 supermoto - good comuter if a little underpowered cant ride on <250 licence

Maico Shark · 12-13-2007, 10:52 AM

I see things from a different perspective. Start small. Something for just around the neighborhood, to the store and back, that sort of thing. Stay away from Chinese junk. An automatic scooter in the 150 - 250 range is nice, or a 100cc - 250cc any major brand motorcycle. Most likely you'll want to move up in size before too long but that's to be expected. Buy a good unit in nice shape and you'll be able to resell without a problem. I always try to make a couple bucks on the deal. I'll probably go larger next year and if I sell my Rebel 250 I'll tack a couple hundred over what I paid. But even if I were to lose a hundred it would still have been a good deal and a cheap ride. Other advice would be to NOT go in debt for your first bike. Let your limit be whatever you can scrape up cash, get the cheap insurance, and hope that when you drop it...nothing important breaks.

duncanmoto · 12-14-2007, 09:08 AM

I have to agree and emphasize that the SV650 is a great bike for several reasons. You will have a good resale and just in case you get bitten by the track bug, the SV is one of the best 1st race bikes.

My two cents,
TedD.

buldader · 12-14-2007, 06:44 PM

Just a few thoughts to help you decide on your first bike. I wouldn't recommend going over 800 cc's for any type of bike. When sitting on the bike ask yourself how it feels. Is it easy to touch the pavement? What kind of sitting position does it put me in? Are the controls easy to reach and operate? Does the bike have a fairly low center of gravity? Dirt bikes are tall and handle great but thats what they are made to do however you said you didn't want a dirt bike. There are a lot of great used bikes out there for the money but take your time and be sure you find the bike thats right for you. After all you're the one that's going to be riding it. Hope this helps.

kbeers81 · 12-16-2007, 11:47 AM

I just bought a Kawa Ninja 650r as my first bike. I love it and does not have too much power. This bike comes stock at 75HP???? It is very forgiving and easy to ride. I wouldn't suggest going any lower than a 650 Kawa for a starter...the 250 and 500 will be outgrown in no time...just my two cents.

TFee3 · 12-16-2007, 02:15 PM

Maico, why do you and others continuously lead these new guys astray with "start small"? Sure, if he buys a good used bike, he will be able to sell it, but even so, he will lose money! Buy something big enough that you will be able to ride it for a while and have fun with it. As I keep saying, you can kill yourself on a 50 cc bike as easily as a 1500. It's the attitude of the rider, not the size of the bike. If he's a serious rider, he might be satisfied with a small bike 90 days or so. Why waste the money???

HellFireX12 · 12-16-2007, 03:44 PM

http://www.gixxer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=151947

This is a veryyy good write up IMO, a bit long but very clear, and easily understood. Its a write up of why a "sport bike" 600cc and up is not a good begginer bike, if you are a begginer I suggest you read the whole thing and actually think about what it says. Lists all the arguments people put up and breaks them down. But like I said its about sport bikes as begginer bikes so it dosnt apply to other types of motorcycles, ie standards cruisers. although starting too big on anything IMO is asking for trouble. A bike cant be grown in to, motorcycles are touchy and demand respect. Just read it.

12-17-2007, 01:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TFee3

Maico, why do you and others continuously lead these new guys astray with "start small"? Sure, if he buys a good used bike, he will be able to sell it, but even so, he will lose money! Buy something big enough that you will be able to ride it for a while and have fun with it. As I keep saying, you can kill yourself on a 50 cc bike as easily as a 1500. It's the attitude of the rider, not the size of the bike. If he's a serious rider, he might be satisfied with a small bike 90 days or so. Why waste the money???

Because not everyone learns the same, and some riders might be intimidated by the size of a larger bike, get discouraged and never ride because of it. I have a friend who went from Rebel 250 to Dyna, dumped the Dyna and wasn't comfortable with it, so dropped back to the Rebel to regain his confidence, stepped up to a V45 Magna, conquered that and returned to the Dyna. Last summer he did the four corners on it.

Everyone learns differently, it's good to get all of the opinions out there and folks can apply them to their own preferences and style.

I started at 16 on a 125. I was about 120 lbs soaking wet, any more than that would have been too much for me at that level of experience. Had I started at 30 with more maturity and size, I could have gone larger.

Urban Coyote · 12-17-2007, 04:34 PM

One of the things I don't understand about people asking about getting a first bike is if it will be big enough or comfortable for his body size and height.

Some people can kind of give suggestions, but the only real way of finding out if a particular model of motorcycle will fit you is to go to a dealer and sit on one. Even see if there is a place that rents out what you want to buy or similar.

HellFireX12 · 12-17-2007, 05:15 PM

practicly any bike is going to be big enough though, even a little 250, the ninja 250's weight limit is like what 350lbs? and as for the not fast enough argument it even tops at 100 (faster than any speed limit)

going bigger is not only dangerous for a begginer bc bigger normally equals more power, but bigger also means more weight, a smaller bike is going to be more responsive and easier to correct a mistake than a larger more heavier bike.

but comfort is a big issue, atleast sit on a bike b4 u buy it, even if its used visit the seller and ask for a test ride, u might not always get a test ride on a new bike but you will always at least be able to sit and get an idea of the feel. get an uncomftorable bike bc it looks kool then id say youre getting it for the wrong reasons, ur not getting it bc u want to ride your getting it for an improved social status or some sort of, please notice me, ordeal.

Si · 12-21-2007, 04:38 PM

Used Bandit 600 or even the 1200 if you're feeling frisky. Excellent beginner bike, extremely forgiving, durable, cheap parts, and will get down and wild when you're ready. It does nothing perfect, but **** near everything very, very well. I put more than double the miles on my Bandito 1200 than I do my R6. I have several mods from Holeshot on mine and it has nooo problem running away from liter sport bikes. Yammy R1? See ya! By far my favorite bike so far.

BH121869 · 12-23-2007, 10:38 PM

Another thing that new riders should do, besides go look and set on all the brands, is to take someone that knows what to look for. Don't buy without checking it out first. Ask to at least see and hear it run and let it warm up. Look for any oil leaking from the cases and any bolt heads stripped. Any wiring not standard or tires worn unevenly. Check out everything first and don't rush into that good deal too soon. Ask what the next needed maintance is and the cost of say a valve adjustment & tune up. Some four cylinder bikes can run $750 just for that. Don't be afraid to buy from an individual as the dealers are usually higher priced for the same thing.
In some states you can buy a bike and ride it home without being licensed or having insurance, like in Florida. Get your license and insurance first or have someone that is legal ride it home for you. Don't forget to also get the needed helmet and clothing to ride safe in your area.

sowbelliedhog · 01-05-2008, 05:08 AM

All of the suggestions above are good ones, at least in the opinion of this tough, scary biker riding a Harley! Good luck with your selection.

josephtrainingwheels · 01-05-2008, 05:15 AM

I am a 62 year old male. I am 5'8", 210 pounds. I am not in good physical shape. I have never been on a motorcycle, nor have I driven one. I do not know how. I would like to learn and to purchase a bike. I would like to see the scenery from a bike and I would like to beat the cost of gasoline and auto expenses. I would like any advice on how to learn and what to buy.
Any advice and redirection would be most valuable to me.
Thank you for your time.

Josephtrainingwheels

buellosaurusrex · 01-05-2008, 10:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by josephtrainingwheels

I am a 62 year old male. I am 5'8", 210 pounds. I am not in good physical shape. I have never been on a motorcycle, nor have I driven one. I do not know how. I would like to learn and to purchase a bike. I would like to see the scenery from a bike and I would like to beat the cost of gasoline and auto expenses. I would like any advice on how to learn and what to buy.
Any advice and redirection would be most valuable to me.
Thank you for your time.

Josephtrainingwheels

Before you do anything, find the nearest MSF course offered and take it. No exceptions. This will give you the confidence and basic skills you'll need before you think about bike-shopping. Once you know how to do the basics of operating a motorcycle, then, and only then should you proceed with your search. Google motorcycle safety foundation (your state) for MSF info. Not to say you shouldn't begin window shopping; go to www.bikepix.com and view the many different types and vintage of motorcycles available; see what catches your eye. Spend some hard time in the local bike shops this winter. The guys will probably welcome having someone to chat with. (Just don't fall for the sales pitches!) By the time you complete your MSF course, you should have a basic idea of what trips your trigger. Proceed from there. I'd be happy to answer any of your questions and would bet most of the folks on this forum would as well. Glad to have you with us!
BTW-62 is NOT too late to learn. All that's required is a positive attitude and a willingness to learn!

bsutah · 01-06-2008, 01:39 AM

hey guys new to the forum and i got a question. i have been riding dirt bikes for as long as i can remember and now i am wanting to get a bike for the street. i have went and looked at many. i really like the gsx-r 600 would this still be too much for me even though i have alot of experience on dirt bikes?

duncanmoto · 01-06-2008, 09:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bsutah

hey guys new to the forum and i got a question. i have been riding dirt bikes for as long as i can remember and now i am wanting to get a bike for the street. i have went and looked at many. i really like the gsx-r 600 would this still be too much for me even though i have alot of experience on dirt bikes?

I would never suggest to a friend to buy a GSXR600 for a 1st street bike.

My 1st bike was a GPZ550 with 56 horsepower. Plenty of power for my 1st 9,000 miles in 1 year. I paid $1,000 for it. Put about $1,200 into it and sold for $2,000 18 months later. An equivelant bike today is the EX500, GS550, etc. A Ninja 650 /R would be a good one to look at.

My second bike was a Nija ZX600R with 99 horsepower. Fast, fast bike. If it had been my first bike, I don't think I would be here today. The skills I learned on my GPZ helped me to be able to handle the 600.

I have riden a GSXR 600. It's fast and a little high strung. It's right around 100 HP. I could see a new street rider getting into trouble pretty quick with it. Then again, it's the rider that goes to fast, not the bike that goes too fast. It all depends on your own personal restraint.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to find a used bike dealer that allows test rides. We have 2 here in the Boston area. It is invaluable to try a bike before you buy it.

sowbelliedhog · 01-06-2008, 10:18 PM

Josephtrainingwheels, try to find yourself an old dualpurpose bike from the 70's to learn to ride. I would offer this advice to anyone just starting out. I'll bet you would look right on a Royal Enfield after learning your way around. Easy, manageable power with retro looks. No good on the highway though.

Bsutah, I'd say the same to you, but you mention dirt bike experience, which I think is one of the best ways to learn to ride. Tha 600 is a powerful machine. It will do what the 1000's did 20 years ago. I just checked one out yesterday at a big show, and can't see logging a lot of miles on one, but I'm old and I get stiff after a few hours in the saddle. I also like longer rides out in the country as opposed to in town riding. (I still love the light-to-light acceleration though)

Maico Shark · 01-07-2008, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TFee3

Maico, why do you and others continuously lead these new guys astray with "start small"? Sure, if he buys a good used bike, he will be able to sell it, but even so, he will lose money! Buy something big enough that you will be able to ride it for a while and have fun with it. As I keep saying, you can kill yourself on a 50 cc bike as easily as a 1500. It's the attitude of the rider, not the size of the bike. If he's a serious rider, he might be satisfied with a small bike 90 days or so. Why waste the money???

Well TFee3 while many riders do gradually buy larger machines as their skill level increases. That's not true for everyone. Some, like myself, prefer the smaller engines. Though not too many in this country ride a 50cc, once you get to a 100cc you can keep up with traffic. 250cc - 350cc can do 80mph and faster...a 750cc will go over a hundred. There's all kinds of riding, you're just as free on a 100cc as a 1500cc why burn the extra gas? Having an engine size just big enough to do the job is economical and environmentally responsible. I have nothing against big bikes...I've owned many myself but right now I ride a 250cc and have a 175cc project. I've had my own dealership, built my own bikes (including Harley choppers), even had my own brand, was a state motorcycle inspection mechanic. I'm a fairly serious biker. I advise all new riders to start with smaller size motorcycles.

killuchen · 01-10-2008, 05:57 PM

Well I'm a freshmen in college and I think it's about time to grow some balls and get a bike. As a little kid, well I'm still a kid but I have always wanted a bike. Ever since my cousin and a few friends got one. It has made me want to get one even more. I'm pretty new to the whole thing but what's a good choice? I was thinking either a Suzuki GSX-R600 or a 750, I'm in love with its design. I was thinking about going black/grey but it would be hot as hell in the summer. Especially loving in Florida lol.

This is my current vehicle is a 06 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT black

I'd post pics but I can't till 15posts lol

lt804 · 01-12-2008, 01:35 PM

Looking for so advice about what makes a good starter bike. I took my MSC last fall (first time on a bike ever). In looking for a starter bike I have asked some friends, and have gotten all kinds of answers as to what I should buy.
I am a big guy 6' 285 lbs. and don't want to go down the road looking like my ass is eating a doughnut. I want a cruiser (I'm 44 yrs old) with enough power for my size but not so much I can't handle it. Not looking to break the bank either. Looking for a bike that I can ride for the next couple of years and then maybe move up. Any comments and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks to all in advance.

Wheelsman56 · 01-13-2008, 10:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by killuchen

Well I'm a freshmen in college and I think it's about time to grow some balls and get a bike. As a little kid, well I'm still a kid but I have always wanted a bike. Ever since my cousin and a few friends got one. It has made me want to get one even more. I'm pretty new to the whole thing but what's a good choice? I was thinking either a Suzuki GSX-R600 or a 750, I'm in love with its design. I was thinking about going black/grey but it would be hot as hell in the summer. Especially loving in Florida lol.

This is my current vehicle is a 06 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT black

I'd post pics but I can't till 15posts lol

There are alot of people here who will advise you against learning on that bike.

kbeers81 · 01-14-2008, 12:13 AM

TO: KILLUCHEN

WOW!!!!! GOOD IDEA!!!!! I wish I could have thought of that when i picked up my SMALLER starter bike...what was I thinking, why did i go small??! Matter of fact, why start sooooo small? Go with a GSXR 1000 as a STARTER bike....matter of fact, add a turbo charger to your GSXR 1000 STARTER bike....dude, you can handle it....trust me...as you say, grow some balls?

Si · 01-14-2008, 12:30 AM

LOL!!!

A little sore on that subject I see!

Hey, he thinks he's going to be hot on a black bike. Hello! You're ON IT, not IN IT! LOL I mean, it's not like you're outside or anything!

He's obviously never even touched a bike before, cut him some slack. LOL

Si · 01-14-2008, 12:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by killuchen

Well I'm a freshmen in college and I think it's about time to grow some balls and get a bike. As a little kid, well I'm still a kid but I have always wanted a bike. Ever since my cousin and a few friends got one. It has made me want to get one even more. I'm pretty new to the whole thing but what's a good choice? I was thinking either a Suzuki GSX-R600 or a 750, I'm in love with its design. I was thinking about going black/grey but it would be hot as hell in the summer. Especially loving in Florida lol.

This is my current vehicle is a 06 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT black

I'd post pics but I can't till 15posts lol

If you love life more than the design of the GSXR, I suggest you start with something taimer. If you're still alive after a year or two and a few thousand miles, THEN go trade up for that GSXR you want.

And unless you plan on some how getting INSIDE your motorcycle, the color makes absolutely no difference as to how HOT it gets. Think about it, you're outside. You're in the wind, you're moving in the wind. The color don't matter for heat. The engine between your legs sure does, but even so, that's only when you're stopped.

Black helmets get hot though, but again, that would be because your head is INSIDE it.

Espinw · 01-16-2008, 01:00 PM

Hey.. uhh my name is Will im from bethesda, maryland. im like 15mins away from DC and i want to get my 1st bike. im 6'2 about 200lbs and want to know what kind of bike i should be looking for, im more into the sports bike more than the others and of course you have crawl before you an walk so i know i cant handle something really powerful but i would still like something with umph...any one have any suggestions?

01-16-2008, 01:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Si

If you love life more than the design of the GSXR, I suggest you start with something taimer. If you're still alive after a year or two and a few thousand miles, THEN go trade up for that GSXR you want.

And unless you plan on some how getting INSIDE your motorcycle, the color makes absolutely no difference as to how HOT it gets. Think about it, you're outside. You're in the wind, you're moving in the wind. The color don't matter for heat. The engine between your legs sure does, but even so, that's only when you're stopped.

Black helmets get hot though, but again, that would be because your head is INSIDE it.

Now, in his defense, you do touch the seat, so just look for a bike that doesn't have a black or dark colored seat.

01-16-2008, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lt804

Looking for so advice about what makes a good starter bike. I took my MSC last fall (first time on a bike ever). In looking for a starter bike I have asked some friends, and have gotten all kinds of answers as to what I should buy.
I am a big guy 6' 285 lbs. and don't want to go down the road looking like my ass is eating a doughnut. I want a cruiser (I'm 44 yrs old) with enough power for my size but not so much I can't handle it. Not looking to break the bank either. Looking for a bike that I can ride for the next couple of years and then maybe move up. Any comments and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks to all in advance.

What about a used VTX1300?

Si · 01-16-2008, 03:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uesque

Now, in his defense, you do touch the seat, so just look for a bike that doesn't have a black or dark colored seat.

A bike without a black seat! HA!

A staple gun and a trip to the fabric store will fix that.

Si · 01-16-2008, 03:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uesque

What about a used VTX1300?

I used to have a VTX1800, that was about tops for a cruiser IMHO. Then I got the sport bike itch again. Traded a GSXR 1100 for it, traded IT for an R6. LOL

The wife had a 1300, good bike. The only problems we ever had with them were problems with the bearings in the shaft drive. That happened to both bikes, and twice on the 1800. And the paint chips soooooo easily. You'd think it was candy coated or something! And then there's the headlight which is chromed plastic which the clutch line wears through in about 5 thousand miles.

12-09-2007, 03:54 AM	#1
Tknoodle Registered Join Date: Dec 2007 Posts: 1	New Riders Looking for a First Bike Check Here To everyone looking for a first bike, or information on buying bikes in general, give this thread a good read. There are hundreds of years worth of riding experience in this thread giving advice about what bikes are good for beginners. If you are looking for opinions and information on any particular bikes you can use the "search this thread" function to find posts relating to those bikes. Hello everyone, I have been browsing the forum a bit now and find it's extremely helpful so far (I already sign up for enrollment for the MSF course after reading many people suggesting it here!) Now it's time for choosing the right bike for me, and i really need help since I'm relatively new to this wonderful world. Well first off, my name is Peter and I am 21 years old, 5'11" and 185 lbs, I've just recently move to San Luis Obispo, California to continue my studying at Cal Poly and I've encounter the worse parking problem in my life here with my car, and that's is why I decide to switch a bike instead, a lot of people here also ride bike because of that reason. Here are the few facts about me i can think up of right now hope it can help decide what bike should i get. -I'm 5'11" 185 lbs (like mentioned above), medium built. -My budget is around $3000-4000 -I live in California -I don't like a cruise bike, and this is just my opinion, whenever i think of a cruise bike i think of tough, scary bikers riding harley's >.<. -I also don't like a mountain bike just because i think it's not the kind of bike i would ride around town, this in no way mean to offense any of you guys who do ride these bike around town. -So i guess it come down to the last type of bike is the streetbike or sportbike like i see you guys call it here. And these bikes make me really want to own one! They look awesome and sporty. But after reading many "new rider" threads who have similar vision like me wanting to own a cbr600 or R6 and such, they were met with many objections because these bikes are too powerful or hard to control for new riders. -I have no preferred brands but i likes the design of kawasaki and honda street bikes. -I never owned a bike before but have been riding dirt bike a lot during summer time with friends, so although a sport bike is much different than a dirt bike i figured, the small perk i already got is I'm rather familiar with the clutch and break system. So can anyone help me choose a street bike in the range of that money that won't be too much for me as a new riders? Or simply the question i should ask is what are some of the weaker sport/street bikes i could choose from? I don't need it to be too fast, Just enough to get me around town and on weekends riding on the highway for about 2 hours to visit my family. I know a lot of you will be temping to tell me that i should not get a sport bike as a first ride but please try to help i seriously don't want to ride a cruiser type bike or dirt bike Any help would be appreciated! Last edited by Schneiderman; 04-20-2008 at 09:49 AM.

12-09-2007, 05:01 AM	#2
CB750F Shantytown Mayor Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Huntingdon Co, PA Posts: 4,765	Welcome! You can pick up a real nice Ninja 500 or GS500 for the kind of money you want to spend. They are good bikes to learn on. __________________ 07 Ninja 500 98 ZX6E

12-12-2007, 10:14 AM	#6
Uesque Guest Posts: n/a	New Riders Looking for a First Bike Check Here By far and away the most common question on this forum is the new rider looking for advice on a first bike. We're going to set up this thread to keep all the responses in one place to save the new rider a whole lot of searching, and save our forum sages from repeating the same advice. Personally, I'm a big naked bike fan in the 600cc range, you get comfort, style and a fair amount of power so that you won't get bored with the bike. Yamaha FZ6, Suzuki Bandit 600, SV650 or even the Ninja 650R are all good choices. Feel free to ask away! Last edited by Uesque; 12-12-2007 at 10:17 AM.

12-12-2007, 10:31 AM	#7
CB750F Shantytown Mayor Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Huntingdon Co, PA Posts: 4,765	For sport type bikes I'll agree with the ones Uesque mentioned plus the Kawasaki Ninja 500 and the Suzuki GS500. I have a good many years (20) in riding and I'm far from bored with my 500. Smaller stature sportbike folks may want to look into the Kawasaki Ninja 250 or the Honda Nighthawk 250 which is more of a standard. I would not recomend a 600 super sport (R6, GSX-R 600 and so on) to a young new rider with no experiance. A person who is a little older and or has some riding experiance might be ok. Remember the current crop of 600 supersport bikes put out in excess of 115 horsepower and weigh less than 400 pounds. For a cruiser bike pretty much anything under and including a 650 could be a good first bike. This includes but not limited to the Honda Shadow 600 and 500, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Savage or M40, Yamaha V-Star 650 or Virago 535. Smaller folks may want to check into a Honda Rebel or a Yamaha Virago 250. Avoid Chinese motorcyles like the plague. If there isn't a dealer you can look at them and get parts and service do not buy them. Korean bikes only if you have a dealer nearby. These are just my opinions. __________________ 07 Ninja 500 98 ZX6E

12-12-2007, 09:07 PM	#10
bob weeks Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Bedford, TX Posts: 313	welcome to the club sounds like your on the right track I have av star 1100 for sale but a little over your buget but what a bike all the goodies B W H.D.

12-09-2007, 05:22 AM	#3
BillTheCat Bad Kitty Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: KC Mo. Posts: 624	Hi I am glad to see your doing your research. Everything sounds good so far you are thinking this through pretty well. My suggestion would be to check out the Suzuki SV650 its a v twin sport bike very easy to ride. The torque of the twin is steady not peaky like the 4cyl HI horse power Bikes. You can still get yourself in to trouble but they are very predictable bikes to ride. If you take your time getting to know the bike they can be great commuters and a very good sport bike to boot. You can find them used for the price range you are talking. I am sure you will get some more great suggestions on here. Good luck and have fun learning whatever you end up with

12-10-2007, 12:28 AM	#5
iamgumby Super Moderator Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: West Texas Posts: 4,012	Check out the Suzuki 650 V-Strom. (Sometimes called the Wee-Strom as iit has a 1000 cc brother) Yeah, it can go dual sport. Friend of mine had one for almost a year. He really tried to hate it and just couldn't! It's just a good all around bike. Pretty much a "standard" riding style. Good mileage, dependable, rugged, and lots and lots of farkles available. I've seen some on Craigslist and sale papers about 3 years old less than 20k miles in your budget. This would be a machine you could spend alot of years with.

12-12-2007, 11:38 AM	#8
TFee3 Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Gravois Mills MO Posts: 1,892	Don't forget the C50T Suzuki. It's a fully equiped cruiser and small enough to be handled easily. I see lots of women riding them, not meaning, of course, that it's a girl's bike. My dealer told me that they were selling so fast that they couldn't keep them in stock. And, he's a Harley dealer!

12-12-2007, 02:39 PM	#9
HellFireX12 Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Lakeland, Florida Posts: 313	I agree with CB750F about the sportbikes, I wouldnt recomend a 600 to a young beginner either, get atleast a year of experience first wether its a dirtbike or a different street bike. I also agree with the naked bike idea in the 600 range (if your wanting to eventually get into sport bikes, or if you just like the naked bikes in general). You might not like the look of them the most but IMO they offer the best power range for a beginner, plus the standard postition is more comftorable to learn on. And for the cruisers again I agree with the 650 or a little lower for a begginer, my sisters boyfriend rides cruisers and he started a few years ago on a 650 and now another member of his family is using it to learn on and he said he liked it alot. Any bike can do the speed limit, and any bike will get you where you want. Besides if you have the powerr you're going to use it, so the best presentation of self controll you can show as a beginner is to buy something thats safe for you. Other than that wear the right gear, be smart, and Take an MSF course.

12-13-2007, 12:05 AM	#11
stilson Newbie Join Date: Dec 2007 Posts: 4	i started on a suzuki gn 250 - great beginner bike i recomend a 4stroke 250 then moved to a gsxr600 - to quick to quickly. visit a morgue first now on drz400 supermoto - good comuter if a little underpowered cant ride on <250 licence

12-13-2007, 10:52 AM	#12
Maico Shark Motorcyclist Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Central Pa. Posts: 2,827	I see things from a different perspective. Start small. Something for just around the neighborhood, to the store and back, that sort of thing. Stay away from Chinese junk. An automatic scooter in the 150 - 250 range is nice, or a 100cc - 250cc any major brand motorcycle. Most likely you'll want to move up in size before too long but that's to be expected. Buy a good unit in nice shape and you'll be able to resell without a problem. I always try to make a couple bucks on the deal. I'll probably go larger next year and if I sell my Rebel 250 I'll tack a couple hundred over what I paid. But even if I were to lose a hundred it would still have been a good deal and a cheap ride. Other advice would be to NOT go in debt for your first bike. Let your limit be whatever you can scrape up cash, get the cheap insurance, and hope that when you drop it...nothing important breaks.

12-14-2007, 09:08 AM	#13
duncanmoto Verified Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Boston, MA, USA Posts: 32	I have to agree and emphasize that the SV650 is a great bike for several reasons. You will have a good resale and just in case you get bitten by the track bug, the SV is one of the best 1st race bikes. My two cents, TedD.

12-14-2007, 06:44 PM	#14
buldader Verified Join Date: Dec 2007 Posts: 23	First bike Just a few thoughts to help you decide on your first bike. I wouldn't recommend going over 800 cc's for any type of bike. When sitting on the bike ask yourself how it feels. Is it easy to touch the pavement? What kind of sitting position does it put me in? Are the controls easy to reach and operate? Does the bike have a fairly low center of gravity? Dirt bikes are tall and handle great but thats what they are made to do however you said you didn't want a dirt bike. There are a lot of great used bikes out there for the money but take your time and be sure you find the bike thats right for you. After all you're the one that's going to be riding it. Hope this helps.

12-16-2007, 11:47 AM	#15
kbeers81 Verified Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 58	I just bought a Kawa Ninja 650r as my first bike. I love it and does not have too much power. This bike comes stock at 75HP???? It is very forgiving and easy to ride. I wouldn't suggest going any lower than a 650 Kawa for a starter...the 250 and 500 will be outgrown in no time...just my two cents.

12-16-2007, 02:15 PM	#16
TFee3 Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Gravois Mills MO Posts: 1,892	Maico, why do you and others continuously lead these new guys astray with "start small"? Sure, if he buys a good used bike, he will be able to sell it, but even so, he will lose money! Buy something big enough that you will be able to ride it for a while and have fun with it. As I keep saying, you can kill yourself on a 50 cc bike as easily as a 1500. It's the attitude of the rider, not the size of the bike. If he's a serious rider, he might be satisfied with a small bike 90 days or so. Why waste the money???

12-16-2007, 03:44 PM	#17
HellFireX12 Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Lakeland, Florida Posts: 313	http://www.gixxer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=151947 This is a veryyy good write up IMO, a bit long but very clear, and easily understood. Its a write up of why a "sport bike" 600cc and up is not a good begginer bike, if you are a begginer I suggest you read the whole thing and actually think about what it says. Lists all the arguments people put up and breaks them down. But like I said its about sport bikes as begginer bikes so it dosnt apply to other types of motorcycles, ie standards cruisers. although starting too big on anything IMO is asking for trouble. A bike cant be grown in to, motorcycles are touchy and demand respect. Just read it.

12-17-2007, 04:34 PM	#19
Urban Coyote COUNCIL MEMBER Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 285	One of the things I don't understand about people asking about getting a first bike is if it will be big enough or comfortable for his body size and height. Some people can kind of give suggestions, but the only real way of finding out if a particular model of motorcycle will fit you is to go to a dealer and sit on one. Even see if there is a place that rents out what you want to buy or similar.

12-17-2007, 05:15 PM	#20
HellFireX12 Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Lakeland, Florida Posts: 313	practicly any bike is going to be big enough though, even a little 250, the ninja 250's weight limit is like what 350lbs? and as for the not fast enough argument it even tops at 100 (faster than any speed limit) going bigger is not only dangerous for a begginer bc bigger normally equals more power, but bigger also means more weight, a smaller bike is going to be more responsive and easier to correct a mistake than a larger more heavier bike. but comfort is a big issue, atleast sit on a bike b4 u buy it, even if its used visit the seller and ask for a test ride, u might not always get a test ride on a new bike but you will always at least be able to sit and get an idea of the feel. get an uncomftorable bike bc it looks kool then id say youre getting it for the wrong reasons, ur not getting it bc u want to ride your getting it for an improved social status or some sort of, please notice me, ordeal.

12-21-2007, 04:38 PM	#21
Si Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Bentonville, AR Posts: 914	Used Bandit 600 or even the 1200 if you're feeling frisky. Excellent beginner bike, extremely forgiving, durable, cheap parts, and will get down and wild when you're ready. It does nothing perfect, but **** near everything very, very well. I put more than double the miles on my Bandito 1200 than I do my R6. I have several mods from Holeshot on mine and it has nooo problem running away from liter sport bikes. Yammy R1? See ya! By far my favorite bike so far.

12-23-2007, 10:38 PM	#22
BH121869 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Central Florida Posts: 1,227	New Riders Looking for a First Bike Another thing that new riders should do, besides go look and set on all the brands, is to take someone that knows what to look for. Don't buy without checking it out first. Ask to at least see and hear it run and let it warm up. Look for any oil leaking from the cases and any bolt heads stripped. Any wiring not standard or tires worn unevenly. Check out everything first and don't rush into that good deal too soon. Ask what the next needed maintance is and the cost of say a valve adjustment & tune up. Some four cylinder bikes can run $750 just for that. Don't be afraid to buy from an individual as the dealers are usually higher priced for the same thing. In some states you can buy a bike and ride it home without being licensed or having insurance, like in Florida. Get your license and insurance first or have someone that is legal ride it home for you. Don't forget to also get the needed helmet and clothing to ride safe in your area.

01-05-2008, 05:08 AM	#23
sowbelliedhog Verified Join Date: Nov 2007 Posts: 40	All of the suggestions above are good ones, at least in the opinion of this tough, scary biker riding a Harley! Good luck with your selection.

01-05-2008, 05:15 AM	#24
josephtrainingwheels Registered Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 1	greetings I am a 62 year old male. I am 5'8", 210 pounds. I am not in good physical shape. I have never been on a motorcycle, nor have I driven one. I do not know how. I would like to learn and to purchase a bike. I would like to see the scenery from a bike and I would like to beat the cost of gasoline and auto expenses. I would like any advice on how to learn and what to buy. Any advice and redirection would be most valuable to me. Thank you for your time. Josephtrainingwheels

01-06-2008, 01:39 AM	#26
bsutah Registered Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 1	hey guys new to the forum and i got a question. i have been riding dirt bikes for as long as i can remember and now i am wanting to get a bike for the street. i have went and looked at many. i really like the gsx-r 600 would this still be too much for me even though i have alot of experience on dirt bikes?

01-06-2008, 10:18 PM	#28
sowbelliedhog Verified Join Date: Nov 2007 Posts: 40	Josephtrainingwheels, try to find yourself an old dualpurpose bike from the 70's to learn to ride. I would offer this advice to anyone just starting out. I'll bet you would look right on a Royal Enfield after learning your way around. Easy, manageable power with retro looks. No good on the highway though. Bsutah, I'd say the same to you, but you mention dirt bike experience, which I think is one of the best ways to learn to ride. Tha 600 is a powerful machine. It will do what the 1000's did 20 years ago. I just checked one out yesterday at a big show, and can't see logging a lot of miles on one, but I'm old and I get stiff after a few hours in the saddle. I also like longer rides out in the country as opposed to in town riding. (I still love the light-to-light acceleration though)

01-10-2008, 05:57 PM	#30
killuchen Registered Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 1	Hello everyone Well I'm a freshmen in college and I think it's about time to grow some balls and get a bike. As a little kid, well I'm still a kid but I have always wanted a bike. Ever since my cousin and a few friends got one. It has made me want to get one even more. I'm pretty new to the whole thing but what's a good choice? I was thinking either a Suzuki GSX-R600 or a 750, I'm in love with its design. I was thinking about going black/grey but it would be hot as hell in the summer. Especially loving in Florida lol. This is my current vehicle is a 06 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT black I'd post pics but I can't till 15posts lol

01-12-2008, 01:35 PM	#31
lt804 Registered Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 1	Looking to pick some brains! Looking for so advice about what makes a good starter bike. I took my MSC last fall (first time on a bike ever). In looking for a starter bike I have asked some friends, and have gotten all kinds of answers as to what I should buy. I am a big guy 6' 285 lbs. and don't want to go down the road looking like my ass is eating a doughnut. I want a cruiser (I'm 44 yrs old) with enough power for my size but not so much I can't handle it. Not looking to break the bank either. Looking for a bike that I can ride for the next couple of years and then maybe move up. Any comments and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks to all in advance.

01-14-2008, 12:13 AM	#33
kbeers81 Verified Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 58	TO: KILLUCHEN WOW!!!!! GOOD IDEA!!!!! I wish I could have thought of that when i picked up my SMALLER starter bike...what was I thinking, why did i go small??! Matter of fact, why start sooooo small? Go with a GSXR 1000 as a STARTER bike....matter of fact, add a turbo charger to your GSXR 1000 STARTER bike....dude, you can handle it....trust me...as you say, grow some balls? Last edited by kbeers81; 01-14-2008 at 12:19 AM.

01-14-2008, 12:30 AM	#34
Si Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Bentonville, AR Posts: 914	LOL!!! A little sore on that subject I see! Hey, he thinks he's going to be hot on a black bike. Hello! You're ON IT, not IN IT! LOL I mean, it's not like you're outside or anything! He's obviously never even touched a bike before, cut him some slack. LOL

01-16-2008, 01:00 PM	#36
Espinw Registered Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Bethesda, Maryland Posts: 2	hey! im a newb Hey.. uhh my name is Will im from bethesda, maryland. im like 15mins away from DC and i want to get my 1st bike. im 6'2 about 200lbs and want to know what kind of bike i should be looking for, im more into the sports bike more than the others and of course you have crawl before you an walk so i know i cant handle something really powerful but i would still like something with umph...any one have any suggestions?