BakedPigeon
Banned
Thanks for the insight guys. Like I said, I'm just a guy that has always wanted to ride and I'm working from ground zero here. I'm going to research all these and see whats in my area.
Kawasaki EX500 / Ninja 500R
Suzuki GS500F
I love my '11 Ninja 250R, but it really could use a bit more power. Either one of the above bikes will be just as forgiving and just as cheap, but will be a lot more enjoyable due to a more capable engine.
'08+ 250R's look freaking sexy though.
Enjoyable is also dependent on your frame. 250 for me was more than enough because of my size.
There's also the Honda 250 CBR. Don't be afraid to buy used for your first bike as you're likely to ding it up a few times.
I'm definitely buying used.
Ninja 250r
Thanks for the insight guys. Like I said, I'm just a guy that has always wanted to ride and I'm working from ground zero here. I'm going to research all these and see whats in my area.
My first bike was a 250 and it was perfect for learning. Do yourself a favor, though, and remove the fairings before you start riding it. At some point you're probably going to drop it so you may as well save the cost of new fairings.
Plus, you can just go for the streetfighter look, which I think is awesome.
Other alternatives: Honda Hornet 600, Kawasaki ER6N (might be a little over budget), Suzuki SV650, Kawasaki ZXR400, Yamaha FZR400.
Some good suggestions, but be aware that some bikes are region specific (ER-6n in North America is Canada only, Hornet doesn't exist in NA..etc).
ER-6n made it here for one production year. I actually did a demo day on one. Their 650 parallel twin is a fun engine and is capable, but I'd say a beginner who has done MSF could adjust to one. 250s and 500s are preferable, though. If anything just to learn faster on a smaller bike.
edit: The ER-6f (for faired vs 'n' for naked) is the Ninja 650R here. The Versys also uses this same engine.
If you're going new, nothing beats the Ninja.
Arguably a CBR 250R does.
Personally, I'd always go for a 600 model. Brakes, suspension, tires, everything will be of considerably higher quality than what you'll find on 250 bikes. That adds to the safety more than the added power will detract from it.
Personally, I'd always go for a 600 model. Brakes, suspension, tires, everything will be of considerably higher quality than what you'll find on 250 bikes. That adds to the safety more than the added power will detract from it.
Except that learning on an inline 4 600 is....ill advised at best. That's how you get dead right there. The 650 Ninja is one of the best learner bikes IMHO.
Yes, should have mentioned that I meant two cylinder bikes. Monster 600/620, SV650, 650r, etcetera.
Though I can't imagine a Honda Hornet posing too much of a problem. It's when you venture into '06 R6 territory that things can get hairy if you're irresponsible.
So 2-Wheel GAF, I'm going to attempt to change the brake pads on my Bonneville next weekend (to avoid paying double to get someone else to do it). Any tips from anyone? It's the first time I've tried doing this so any help would be appreciated. (Yes, I already have the Haynes manual, as the owners manual Triumph provide just states "go to your dealer").
For all you guys looking to get into riding. I highly recommend you do go through motorcycle safety riding course. It will be a life saver.
I don't think you should waste your money on 250 unless that's what you want. If you buy the 600 you want you'll be a lot more careful and safer of not wanting to mess it up. Buy frame sliders. Best inexpensive mod you could buy for your bike.
Check out a Bonneville forum and maintenance section. I bet someone has done it and may even have pictures.
If it's anything like mine...
Unbolt the caliper(s), preferably do not leave them hanging by the line. My pads are held in by these clips/pins that I had to remove. Once you have the pads out, be sure to push the pistons back in to the caliper otherwise you will not be able to get the new pads in.
Here is my 2006 Honda CBR 600RR I picked up this summer - Can't wait for weather to get nice again
For all you guys looking to get into riding. I highly recommend you do go through motorcycle safety riding course. It will be a life saver.
I don't think you should waste your money on 250 unless that's what you want. If you buy the 600 you want you'll be a lot more careful and safer of not wanting to mess it up. Buy frame sliders. Best inexpensive mod you could buy for your bike.
What? Who doesn't ride a motorcycle carefully? Everyone should start on a 250 or at most a 500. A Ninja 250 will outrun most vehicles on the road as is. The only reason to start with an I4 600 is ego. Stay below 70hp for your first couple years and actually learn to ride instead of being afraid to rip the throttle.
It must be the area you live in. I see knucklehead whipping in/out between cars all the time. Lots of people here don't wear helmets either. I started on a Ninja 500. It had nothing to do with ego. More of wanting the bike that I could afford new.
It just seems like a waste buying a 250 for a season or two of riding from where I'm coming from. Maybe if you could ride it year long. In my area 250s are really hard to sell. 600s and up sell fast and usually keep their value better. There is no shortage of quality after market parts for the 600s.
You proved his point.
Is that the new Street Triple? then yes, that's my dream bike too!Sweet! A bike thread.
My dream bike:
It shall be mine...
Sweet! A bike thread.
My dream bike:
It shall be mine...
Sweet! A bike thread.
My dream bike:
It shall be mine...
Oh yea, I just prefer the older headlights a bit more.