[hogcowboy]

Take extra care when learning to ride a second motorcycle. Statistics show that is the most common time for a rider to become involved in a crash, even more than when first starting to ride. The comfort and confidence level is high, and an unfamiliar and probably more powerful motorcycle is involved. Don't let your risk level overtake your skill level.

Sounds like the common theme here is a new learning curve. Probably feels familiar but also alien, and easy to be overwhelmed if you're not careful.

How long did it take you to get comfortable when moving up?

Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

What Dods says goes for anyone moving to a different bike. So a new rider stepping up it's a double whammy. But even the most experienced needs to take it very easy those first 1 -2k miles. For some that could be a whole riding season. All depends on how often and how long you ride. But remember, it takes very little skill to ride at 70mph in a straight line like on the freeway. It is slow moving traffic and parking lots, slow maneuvering skills, and cornering that get people into trouble. Take it easy and practice the slow stuff, how fast you come into corners and you'll be fine. Learning your new balance points the key. Other than that the only other thing you'll notice is the smile is just a little wider and stays just a little longer.:wink2:

 

[hogcowboy]

@1Adam12 since you like BMW, give the R9T a try. It weighs 100 pounds less than the R1200GS.

It is a lot of fun without all the bulk of the GS.

Edit: You asked, "What changes when you move up to a bigger bike?" You've got to work harder to resist temptation.

When I moved from my Harley to my Beemer I gained 100 horsepower and lost 300 pounds.

A few weeks after the switch some guy in a big block Chevelle was revving up and gave me "the nod". Haha! He quickly disappeared in my mirrors.

That is one very true statement. Even at my age that twist of the throttle is oh so tempting. Even 85mph speed limits just aren't enough sometimes. So be very cautious when you do get the power. Staying with your learner bike is a wise move. Far too many step up well before they should. These smaller bikes teach you a lot when you get the max out of them.:thumbsup: