Picking a Motorcycle

Picking a Motorcycle

by Wanda Hudson
(Harvest, AL)

How do I pick a motorcycle appropriate for me to ride?

Wanda

Comments for
Picking a Motorcycle

May 05, 2010

Don't Settle
by: Toolie

Although the BMW is not my first bike, I have ridden less than 1000 miles total in the 3 years I've had my motorcycle license. I am 5'3" with approx 30.5" inseam (w/boots on) and happened to have found a lowered F650GS with a low seat. I cannot flat foot, but the balls of my feet are solidly on the ground and I can flat foot one foot at stops - VERY IMPORTANT! Otherwise, I would not have bought it. And yes, it was expensive, but only you can be the judge of what feels good (and safe) as well as what you can afford.

There is a lot of great information about bikes for first time riders on this website which I would suggest you look through. But remember reading about a certain bike is not the same as riding it. So sit on as many bikes as you can and you might be surprised at which bike actually feels the best. I was surprised by the BMW - never thought I would enjoy a dual sport - always thought a cruiser was the right bike for me.

Take your time and don't let anyone pressure you into buying something you are not absolutely comfortable on.

May 05, 2010

Right Bike
by: kp

Wanda, although a F650GS is a great bike, it's not a cheap bike. If you need to have a lowering kit out on it, plan on spending an additional $400. If you haven't ridden solo on a bike, you might want to think a bit less expensive. I've seen too many girlfriends of mine buy a first bike and then dump it. If you're looking for an adventure bike, try a Yamaha or Honda dual sport. They're way less money than a BMW, ride it a season, then sell it and buy yourself a BMW. Are you wanting a twin or single? If you're stuck on the BMW, 2007 and older are singles, and 2008 and newer are twins. You really should take the course first, get your endorsement, and then shop around.

May 04, 2010

Thanks!
by: Wanda

Thanks for the advice! I am a beginner and have never driven a bike. I rode briefly on the back of one, a friend's Honda. I am looking into taking the MSF course at my local Harley dealership. I am partial to the high quality of BMW bikes, but would consider others if the fit is right. When I sit on the bike, I want to feel engaged, like the bike is an extension of my body. Yes, I would like to be able to flat foot the bike and back it up without too much difficulty. Interesting about the F650GS. That might be a strong contender for me. I'll have to check it out. Is there a 450 as well, more of a dirt bike? My main concern is up-shifting and downshifting. Is it difficult to learn to do? My car has an automatic transmission.

Thanks,

Wanda

May 03, 2010

Agree with KP
by: Toolie

I completely agree with what KP stated. I made the mistake of buying a bike because my friends, who have the same make, took me out shopping and I impulsively bought a new bike, but never felt completely comfortable on it. Last month I went bike shopping by myself and absolutely fell in love with a BMW F650GS Twin. I only wish I had someone like KP to guide me thru sitting on many bikes and perhaps getting an enduro or dirt bike to begin with.

May 03, 2010

Info is Here
by: Anita

Take a look at the link in the left margin on this page called "Best Bikes". There is some great info on bikes for first time riders, short riders, etc.

The only true way to tell if a bike is appropriate for you is to make a list of the must haves such as, must be able to flat foot, must be able to back the bike up, etc. Think safety first, then continue the list with the nice to haves. This will help you narrow down the types of bikes that fit your needs as well as safety.

Good Luck and post a pic when you find a bike.

May 03, 2010

Best Bike
by: kp

That's a hard one to answer. What experience do you have? how many miles and how many hours in the saddle? have you taken a course? How many bikes have you sat on? It's totally a personal preference, but most importantly, sit on as many bikes as you can. Find one that FITS. If you're new to riding, I always suggest your first season should be spent on a dual sport. A street legal dirt bike. it can be a 225 or 250. Take it on every surface you can find. Asphalt, dirt, gravel, single track, and sand. It will make you a better rider once you get a street bike. If you drop a dualie in the dirt or on afield, you won't get hurt and neither will the bike.

And most importantly, don;t get talked into buying a bike because someone else (bf, husband) thinks you should have that.

Just my .02

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