[Doc Samson]

First, welcome!

Buying a bike gives you three options regarding mechanical issues:

1. You have enough money to not worry about learning how to fix/repair anything because you can afford to have someone else take care of it.
2. You do not have much money and are willing to research/ask questions about how to fix things or do basic maintenance on your own.
3. You do not have much money and don't care to learn and will stop riding when your bike stops running.

Not being good with mechanical things is something I have to overcome every time I pick up a tool! :smile_big: It can be overcome with practice, a willingness to learn, and patience. YT is a great resource for learning everything from basic maintenance to very involved jobs.

As for which size bike, I'd lean towards a 250/300 (Ninja/R3/CBR group) just for the flexibility of being able to ride on faster roads as you gain experience. Used prices are not much, if any, more than what folks are asking for a Grom... at least in my area.

 

[Doc Samson]

Thanks! I am definitely willing to learn. Im just a little bit nervous about possibly getting stuck with a piece of junk 250/300 at my price point. I had a similar incident happen with a craigslist car so im trying to be super careful now lol.

I get it! Nice thing about bikes is that it is much easier than a car to see if anything is jacked up on it. Again, YT has some great instructional vids on how to check out a bike before buying. At your price point, I'd say there should be plenty out there in very nice shape. Take your time and do your research and you should be fine!

I've gone to many CL showings only to be shocked at how much worse the item looks live. My polite out is "Thanks for letting me take a look. I've got a few more I'm looking at but I'll be in touch if I decide to buy your "whatever"...