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Posted: 5/12/2017 2:58:16 PM EDT
[#1]
no suggestion, other than take the MSF course
no matter you skill level you will learn alot |
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Posted: 5/12/2017 2:58:39 PM EDT
[#2]
Check out an SV650/1100..... they look good, but not a fully committed riding position, have enough guts to get a move on without being a rice rocket, and sell cheap if you can tolerate used....
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Posted: 5/12/2017 3:21:50 PM EDT
[#3]
FPNI. Take the MSF course and try a few different style bikes while you are there. In some states it allows you to bypass the practical test for your M endorsement.
if nothing else it will knock the rust off. |
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Posted: 5/12/2017 4:51:10 PM EDT
[#4]
Been riding for a lot of years and ridden and owned bikes of many styles and makes. Highly recommend you just go test ride bikes you think you might like after you have your license. There are great bikes out there that I don't like to ride like the Suzuki DRZ400 (it just doesn't fit me) and little retro bikes that aren't that powerful, but are fun to ride, like the Ducati Scrambler. The only way you'll know how they fit your body and your likes will be to ride them. Fortunately, the quality of bikes has gone up so much in the last 20 years that I wouldn't hesitate at buying and riding almost any brand's modern bikes.
You didn't mention what kind of riding you're going to be doing (mainly in town, day trips, on/off road) so if you provide that, we can give a little more direction. Here are some general thoughts For cruisers, you might test out the STAR bikes and Kawasakis as they have a little more room than some. A good 750 or 900/1100 series bike would make a great starter bike for someone your size. Plenty are available used so you're not risking a lot of depreciation as soon as you buy it. Get a comfortable helmet. For dual sport, KLR if you're riding short distances and bigger like BMW, Honda Africa, etc if you're really using it as a tourer substitute. Tourer Goldwing and BMW 1200/1600 |
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Posted: 5/12/2017 5:50:26 PM EDT
[#5]
Would be riding it in the summer daily to work and back and for pleasure until the temps get to cold or weather is expected to be more than a light rain.
My trip to work is about 30min, speed limit is 55mph the whole way due to driveways dumping into the road, but no one goes that slow, most traffic is 60-65mph lots of tuns and elevation changes, good scenery. Bad thing is there are plenty of deer around here so you got to keep your eyes peeled at at the once it starts to get dark out. I'm doing some reading on Georgias motorcycle safety course right now to find locations and how everything works. There is a 90 day waiver for the practical tests upon completion so you only have to do the written and pay for the new license. ETA: Cool they also supply the helmet and motorcycle. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 12:54:43 AM EDT
[#6]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Would be riding it in the summer daily to work and back and for pleasure until the temps get to cold or weather is expected to be more than a light rain. My trip to work is about 30min, speed limit is 55mph the whole way due to driveways dumping into the road, but no one goes that slow, most traffic is 60-65mph lots of tuns and elevation changes, good scenery. Bad thing is there are plenty of deer around here so you got to keep your eyes peeled at at the once it starts to get dark out. I'm doing some reading on Georgias motorcycle safety course right now to find locations and how everything works. There is a 90 day waiver for the practical tests upon completion so you only have to do the written and pay for the new license. ETA: Cool they also supply the helmet and motorcycle. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 2:22:46 AM EDT
[#7]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Does a motorcycle allow you access to carpool lanes or to share lanes (aka lane splitting) that will reduce your commmute time? |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 3:59:14 AM EDT
[#8]
Might also look at Kawasaki versys, either 650 or 1000, but the 1000 probably out of your price range. I have not ridden one, but have been wanting to give one a try. Good reviews from what i have seen.
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Posted: 5/13/2017 4:40:28 AM EDT
[#9]
Busa busa busa. The answer is always busa.
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Posted: 5/13/2017 4:44:57 AM EDT
[#10]
BMW rotax f650 or g650 single
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Posted: 5/13/2017 7:15:42 AM EDT
[#11]
KLR650.
Standard upright riding position, big enough frame you won't be cramped and huge aftermarket support. I sold my Harley sportster last year to go to a dual sport Honda CRF250L. Better visibility around suvs and to suvs with enough suspension travel for a comfortable ride without the weight of a touring rig. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 8:14:52 AM EDT
[#12]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Check out an SV650/1100..... they look good, but not a fully committed riding position, have enough guts to get a move on without being a rice rocket, and sell cheap if you can tolerate used.... |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 8:19:59 AM EDT
[#13]
Supermoto, most fun you can have on two wheels on the street...
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Posted: 5/13/2017 8:55:56 AM EDT
[#14]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Does a motorcycle allow you access to carpool lanes? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Would be riding it in the summer daily to work and back and for pleasure until the temps get to cold or weather is expected to be more than a light rain. My trip to work is about 30min, speed limit is 55mph the whole way due to driveways dumping into the road, but no one goes that slow, most traffic is 60-65mph lots of tuns and elevation changes, good scenery. Bad thing is there are plenty of deer around here so you got to keep your eyes peeled at at the once it starts to get dark out. I'm doing some reading on Georgias motorcycle safety course right now to find locations and how everything works. There is a 90 day waiver for the practical tests upon completion so you only have to do the written and pay for the new license. ETA: Cool they also supply the helmet and motorcycle. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 9:15:27 AM EDT
[#15]
If youre OK buying used I would look at a Honda Interceptor. Butter smooth motor, comfortable seat and bars position and sporty enough to keep a smile on your face. If buying new only that will severely limit your options.
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Posted: 5/13/2017 9:57:11 AM EDT
[#16]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
If youre OK buying used I would look at a Honda Interceptor. Butter smooth motor, comfortable seat and bars position and sporty enough to keep a smile on your face. If buying new only that will severely limit your options. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 10:25:31 AM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Would be riding it in the summer daily to work and back and for pleasure until the temps get to cold or weather is expected to be more than a light rain. My trip to work is about 30min, speed limit is 55mph the whole way due to driveways dumping into the road, but no one goes that slow, most traffic is 60-65mph lots of tuns and elevation changes, good scenery. Bad thing is there are plenty of deer around here so you got to keep your eyes peeled at at the once it starts to get dark out. I'm doing some reading on Georgias motorcycle safety course right now to find locations and how everything works. There is a 90 day waiver for the practical tests upon completion so you only have to do the written and pay for the new license. ETA: Cool they also supply the helmet and motorcycle. Also, figure on taking both of them. The advanced course (once you have a season of riding in under your belt) is a really good one, and if you take it every 5 years, you're insurance will likely be significantly cheaper. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 10:57:57 AM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
If the man's budget is >$4000 then the options are wide open. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 11:05:05 AM EDT
[#19]
I've ridden a lot in the past and wouldn't even consider commuting on a 55 mph, non access-limited road where everyone zips along at ten over and there are lots of deer. Know what those blind driveway owners are looking for when they back out? Cars, and just barely that...
Weekend rides in good weather? Still dangerous as hell but you'd have a chance... |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 11:49:01 AM EDT
[#20]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Ewwww.... If you are sure you are going to buy a motorcycle, just go ahead and find the right helmet now. MSF courses are a hot, sweaty affair and I sure as hell wouldn't want to put on a "common" helmet others have been leaking in. Also, figure on taking both of them. The advanced course (once you have a season of riding in under your belt) is a really good one, and if you take it every 5 years, you're insurance will likely be significantly cheaper. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 1:58:14 PM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I've ridden a lot in the past and wouldn't even consider commuting on a 55 mph, non access-limited road where everyone zips along at ten over and there are lots of deer. Know what those blind driveway owners are looking for when they back out? Cars, and just barely that... Weekend rides in good weather? Still dangerous as hell but you'd have a chance... |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 2:08:53 PM EDT
[#22]
MSF BRC, then decide if you really want to ride on the street, then decide what direction you want to go (sport/dual/cruiser), then figure out what bike. All in that order. Anything else is foolish.
Quote HistoryQuoted:
A guy at work that used to work on bike swears by BMW's... but I just... I hate them for some reason that I can't quantify. I would love to test ride a R1200RS, but nobody ever seems to have that model available for demo. It very well could get me to sell the Ducs, but without riding one, I won't know. |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 2:15:50 PM EDT
[#23]
My first (street) bike was a Suzuki S50/VS800. You can probably find a few in great condition for your price range, or similar bikes. They look like cruisers but ride more like a standard bike. Very comfortable upright position, not too heavy, and easy to throw around on the road like a dirtbike.
S50:  Attached File |
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Posted: 5/13/2017 2:18:20 PM EDT
[#24]
After the MSF course, I would look at something like the naked bikes that have come out in the last few years. A slightly used Yamaha FX07 or similar from other metric mfg should be within your price range. Another suggestion would be a Yamaha FZ6R (again or something similar from other metric mfg). These bikes have more than enough power for beginner bikes, have comfortable upright riding positions, but are sporty enough to have some fun in the twisties. Go sit on them at a dealer and figure out which ones fit you and watch for demo days.
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Posted: 5/13/2017 10:38:29 PM EDT
[#25]
98 VFR
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Posted: 5/13/2017 11:47:14 PM EDT
[#26]
SV650 is a fantastic starter bike.
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Posted: 5/14/2017 2:39:36 AM EDT
[#27]
Ride what you want, the bike is for you. There are not too many bad bikes. The more exotic, one could say a bit less robust, but other than that, get what makes your heart pitter patter.
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Posted: 5/14/2017 3:25:08 AM EDT
[#28]
If you want a comfortable bike, check out a 2012+ Suzuki DL650. They have plenty of power and they are pretty nimble.
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Posted: 5/14/2017 10:05:05 AM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Supermoto, most fun you can have on two wheels on the street... |
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Posted: 5/14/2017 12:24:23 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Agreed Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Supermoto, most fun you can have on two wheels on the street... I've ridden plated dirt bikes on highways at those speeds for that amount of time and frankly it sucked. |
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Posted: 5/14/2017 1:28:51 PM EDT
[#31]
Kawi KLR650 or BMW G650GS for first bike.
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Posted: 5/14/2017 1:37:33 PM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Might also look at Kawasaki versys, either 650 or 1000, but the 1000 probably out of your price range. I have not ridden one, but have been wanting to give one a try. Good reviews from what i have seen. |
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Posted: 5/14/2017 1:38:16 PM EDT
[#33]
Im now confused - is your budget $4000 max? or over $4000?
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Posted: 5/14/2017 3:31:13 PM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Im now confused - is your budget $4000 max? or over $4000? |
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Posted: 5/14/2017 3:44:53 PM EDT
[#35]
I had a 2005 FZ6 as my first bike, it has an (almost) R6 engine so it sounds and runs great, but the seating position is more upright and comfortable. It's kinda like an SV650 but without the dumb 4 wheeler sound and faster.
I always tell people to buy a good "first bike" not a "beginner bike". Buy something you are afraid to drop, and that will last you a few years at least. |
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Posted: 5/14/2017 5:44:16 PM EDT
[#36]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
4k max 
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Posted: 5/15/2017 6:31:29 PM EDT
[#37]
SV650 seems to be what I'm hearing the most. I'll go check one out and see how it suits me.
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Posted: 5/15/2017 6:56:32 PM EDT
[#38]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
SV650 seems to be what I'm hearing the most. I'll go check one out and see how it suits me.  You'll want to ride it home. Remember the S model has some fairings for wind protection. That little bit of fairing and windscreen is a god send on the highway.
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Posted: 5/15/2017 10:29:16 PM EDT
[#39]
After you take the Rider Class.....
Commuting you want something comfortable with wind protection. Look at Suzuki DL650 WeeStrom, Honda NC700, Versys 650. Example: https://atlanta.craigslist.org/sat/mcy/6129069131.html https://atlanta.craigslist.org/eat/mcy/6133474075.html and I recommend ABS for your bike. TYCOM |
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Posted: 5/16/2017 10:41:05 AM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
After you take the Rider Class..... Commuting you want something comfortable with wind protection. Look at Suzuki DL650 WeeStrom, Honda NC700, Versys 650. Example: https://atlanta.craigslist.org/sat/mcy/6129069131.html https://atlanta.craigslist.org/eat/mcy/6133474075.html and I recommend ABS for your bike. TYCOM |
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Posted: 5/16/2017 11:44:01 AM EDT
[#41]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Busa busa busa. The answer is always busa. It was considered a sport tourer. Had the bike for 7years then sold it and went to harleys.] 
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Posted: 5/16/2017 12:07:10 PM EDT
[#42]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
But...I hate ABS, on my cars. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
After you take the Rider Class..... Commuting you want something comfortable with wind protection. Look at Suzuki DL650 WeeStrom, Honda NC700, Versys 650. Example: https://atlanta.craigslist.org/sat/mcy/6129069131.html https://atlanta.craigslist.org/eat/mcy/6133474075.html and I recommend ABS for your bike. TYCOM With data to back your claims. 
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Posted: 5/16/2017 2:18:23 PM EDT
[#43]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Explain logically why you hate ABS... With data to back your claims. Now in my daily it's fine and I'm not against it. But on my project car / toy...no. And the motorcycle while I'll daily it in the summer I'm betting, it's kinda a toy. Since I have a sedan for daily and my wife a fairly new suv for her and the kids. Which wheels get the ABS break? Rear? Front? Both? |
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Posted: 5/16/2017 6:47:04 PM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Takes up room under the hood (looks ugly as hell too), adds weight, and on dry clean pavement I can outperform it...most of the time. And by not having it I don't have to worry about it breaking and having an annoying dash light on. Now in my daily it's fine and I'm not against it. But on my project car / toy...no. And the motorcycle while I'll daily it in the summer I'm betting, it's kinda a toy. Since I have a sedan for daily and my wife a fairly new suv for her and the kids. Which wheels get the ABS break? Rear? Front? Both? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Explain logically why you hate ABS... With data to back your claims. Now in my daily it's fine and I'm not against it. But on my project car / toy...no. And the motorcycle while I'll daily it in the summer I'm betting, it's kinda a toy. Since I have a sedan for daily and my wife a fairly new suv for her and the kids. Which wheels get the ABS break? Rear? Front? Both? |
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Posted: 5/16/2017 11:52:22 PM EDT
[#45]
We are defending CA's intelligence in this thread. Dear lord.
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Posted: 5/17/2017 2:52:44 AM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
We are defending CA's intelligence in this thread. Dear lord. Even blind squirrel finds a nut
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Posted: 5/17/2017 9:48:40 AM EDT
[#47]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Takes up room under the hood (looks ugly as hell too), adds weight, and on dry clean pavement I can outperform it...most of the time. And by not having it I don't have to worry about it breaking and having an annoying dash light on. Now in my daily it's fine and I'm not against it. But on my project car / toy...no. And the motorcycle while I'll daily it in the summer I'm betting, it's kinda a toy. Since I have a sedan for daily and my wife a fairly new suv for her and the kids. Which wheels get the ABS break? Rear? Front? Both? However, you will find a raging debate on this everywhere you look and it will come down to two sides those who have facts and logic and those who like to swing their dicks. As you peruse this topic on the various forums you will notice the majority of high mileage daily riders like ABS because again, you wont even know you have it. For the record we have 4 bikes without it and one with it. If it is an option I get it. Also ABS is on both wheels. |
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Posted: 5/17/2017 10:22:35 AM EDT
[#48]
Well, it was said sort of tongue in cheek.... my reasons for disliking it have minimal impact on performance, beyond that it's only potentially a aesthetic issue. And yeah the real world obviously isn't a well maintained track.
I was going to WOW motorcycles but won't have time before vacation so I'll have something to do when I get back I suppose. They have a huge assortment of bikes to try and find out if the SV650 or something else feels best. Most likely from my research will be a "standard" style bike though. I can't see myself on a sports bike, especially with my damaged right wrist and lower back issues. |
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Posted: 5/17/2017 10:31:05 AM EDT
[#49]
Sorry my meter is off today.
Do give the Versys a look as well. It is an excellent bike that can do a whole lot. |
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Posted: 5/17/2017 11:05:31 AM EDT
[#50]
SV650S 2003+ are my preferred models...
I put 40k miles on one and really wish I still had it. They're cheap...engines are bullet proof, tires are cheaper than super sports, have plenty of torque at normal operating RPM's to get going...brakes are solid...although some line and a new master are a welcome addition. Definitely take the MSF course...it's well worth the time/energy. IMO, skip the cruisers all together...I've ridden quite a few of them and they're not fun at all. They're extremely heavy....the vast majority are woefully under powered for their weight and they turn like a dump truck. I'm not sure there is a less fun vehicle on the market right now. I've been in Mini-van's that are faster than most of the cruisers I rode...lol BMW K-1200's are a ton of fun too and a more upright riding position with lots of rider comforts. I still think the SV is a better beginner bike though... |
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