Getting My First Motorcycle

Getting My First Motorcycle

by Fernando McCrea
(Kingstree, SC)

I will be taking classes in a month to learn how to ride a motorcycle and afterwards I plan to purchase one of my own. The bike that I want to be my first and ever motorcycle is a Suzuki 1000. I want to know is that a great bike for a beginner or it really doesn't matter what size bike I purchase?

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Getting My First Motorcycle

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Sep 12, 2010

Depends on your confidence & skills.
by: Sandra

I have a C50C Suzuki Boulevard (800cc) that I purchased before I learned to ride...took the course on the 250cc bike and I've been riding my Boulley ever since and loving it.

But she's relatively light - 600 pounds to hubby's DH Heritage at close to 1000#. I am glad I don't have a bike less than 500cc, but I have good confidence w/this bike...I would not be so sure of myself on hubby's bike because it's too big...

Go shopping "Goldilocks" - get the one that's JUST RIGHT!

Ride safe; ride often!

Sep 01, 2010

First Bike
by: Nancy D

I considered myself very capable until I actually rode a bike at the safety course. I've been riding since July - I feel pretty confident but I have my moments. I was told my first bike should be small and fun (Virago 250cc) so as not to be intimidated then I probably wouldn't ride as much. They were absolutely right - I'm glad I listened - sometimes my 250 can be intimidating. I constantly challenge myself and push my limits to learn and hope when something happens my instincts will take over. I know this bike is light for the highways but right now the back roads are the way to go anyway. So I'm happy learning everything with my baby virago whether it be riding or mechanical. I don't have that much $$ invested so I can sleep nights.

Aug 22, 2010

You can learn from my mistake!
by: Carolyn!

I bought a HD Sportster 883 couple weeks before I took Motorcycle Training Course even though I read in many forums that it's best to start small. I figured since I rode long times ago, it couldn't be that difficult to start again. Wrong. I had to buy Yamaha V Star 250 to practice since I had problems with throttle and etc. And of course Sportster is too heavy and too high for me. (The previous owner put the suspension at the highest setting).

It has been 2 months since I got my license and I am still not comfortable riding the Sportster yet. I like riding Yamaha V Star 250. It is low, so perfect for 4 ft 9" height. It isn't too heavy, either. But one day, I dream I can ride my HD or any other bigger bike. I am lucky that my hubby is willing to ride the HD for now.

Fernando, only you can make the decision for you. But as other people say riding a light motorcycle gives more ability to fine tune your skills, since you can handle it better. Plus as Wanda wrote, a 1000cc sport bike is a lot of power for a first bike.

Good luck!

Aug 22, 2010

uuummmmmm......?
by: veronica

I agree with the other post regarding possibly the 1000 being a tad too mighty for a beginner. Of course it is your ultimate decision but please consider something a bit less 'powerful' until you fine tune your skills such as stopping in a flash; being able to pick up your bike; turning; throttle control (a hard one to master); sharp turns; and just being able to handle your bike.

I am pretty tall and solid but I have a 250 Rebel. I purchased my new used bike last year and I have really come a long way in terms of my skills. Because she is small, I am able to 'practice' my skills with relative comfort knowing that I can 'handle' her in case of emergency. (I have had three of these 'emergencies'.) now I am ready to trade up due to the fact that 'Betty' allowed me to become 'one with the road' without much trepidation. Even next year when I trade up (our season is almost over), I will not go more than 650cc's. Just get what is comfortable; safe; and CONTROLLABLE....for you! good luck girl!!!!!!!!!!!

Veronica

Aug 22, 2010

1000
by: Sandra

If it's what you have your heart set on, and after class, you still feel it's what you want, who am I to say no to you!

Deciding how, when and with whom you plan to ride are all fair questions when picking out your bike for sure. As for the size and power? It should feel right when you are sitting on it - if you feel at all uncomfortable just sitting there, slide off and throw your leg over another model.

Enjoy the exploration!

Aug 21, 2010

I would not, if it were me.
by: Wanda

Congratulations on deciding to enter the exciting world of motorcycling. I assume you mean the Suzuki GSX-R1000? The enjoyment in riding a sport bike comes mainly from its ability to perform on all types of paved highway ? its cornering ability, its handling, its thrilling acceleration, braking power, and speed. You give up comfort and fuel economy. In my opinion a sport bike is a lot for a beginner to handle, and a 999 cc one is quite powerful for a first bike. Having said that, my first motorcycle was/is a BMW G650GS, but it is a dual sport (on or off road with an upright riding position, easy to control, and easy on gas). Many people will tell you to get a 250 cc standard motorcycle or street legal dirtbike to begin with, and I do not disagree, but if you do get one that small, you are probably going to want something with more power in a short time which is why I started off with a 650 cc. The sport bikes are popular with the younger crowd these days. I guess it depends on the type of riding you want to do. Do you want raw acceleration and to take corners at the fastest speed possible, or had you rather putt along at a moderate pace? Riding position is important. Do you want to ride leaning forward like what is required for a sport bike? You will not be comfortable for more than an hour in that position, so consider whether you want to ride long distances or not. If you have your heart set on a sport bike, I would suggest getting a smaller dispacement bike (250 cc - 500 cc) as a first bike. The MSF course will be a good introduction for you, and you can finalize your bike selection afterwards. Good luck and ride safe!

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Getting My First Motorcycle

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Getting My First Motorcycle