I am a newbie. Need advices about what motorcycle to buy.

[ppcuban]

<div>I want to buy my first motorcycle. I have been looking around. I was a cyclist (bicicle) for 12 years and now i want to stop pedaling but still want to be on 2 wheels.</div><div> </div><div>Ok. I like Ducati Monster but I like also Suzuki GSX R1000... I don't know. I am a lil bit confused. People tell me about Aprillia...</div><div>Can anyone give me an idea what's the best sportmotorcycle for me?</div><div> </div><div>I am 28 years old. I like speeding (althought i don't want to die soon), 200 pounds bodyweight, 6'1' tall.</div><div> </div><div>I really need some good advices.</div><div> </div><div>Please</div><div> </div><div>Thanks in advance</div><div> </div><div>Jose</div>

[Monk]

Do not start out with the GSXR.. way way too much too fast.<br><br>Check out the Ninja 650R, put the taller seat on it and go sign up for a riders course.<br><br>Then put 20k miles under your belt this summer.

[ppcuban]

<div></div><div>hmmm</div><div> </div><div>I don't like that Ninja... looks like way too &quot;soft&quot;. Speed is something you can control by pulling more or less the gas right? ;)</div><div> </div><div>What about these other Suzuki?</div><div> </div><p>GSX-R750</p><p>GSX-R600</p><p>SV1000</p><p>SSV650</p><p>SSV650S ABS</p><p>SV650</p><p>Katana750</p><p>Katana600</p><p>GS500 FSV650 ABS</p>

[ppcuban]

<div>That's like a tour bike right? i looked for some pictures in google. I am looking for a sport bike.</div><div> </div><div>The diference among de GSXR -1000/750/600 is the c.c. right?</div><div> </div><div>i want to know what the best motorcycle according my biotype. i don't want to feel to big ro to small in a motorcycle. I like GSRX style.</div>

[Grimace]

You NEED a chromed out turbo `busa with nitrous and then let Darwin take over. Stock GSX-R1000s are just too slow.<br><br>Good luck. And take the MSF course. Twice.

[ppcuban]

<div>haha</div><div>hey guys!!!</div><div>i was trying to be funny. don't give me attitude. relax people!!! bike riders are cooler than that.</div><div>I just wanted know. Obviously R1000 is something TOO much for a newbie...</div><div>anyway, i'll think about it. i am just planning on buy. i havent decided yet.</div><div> </div><div>c'mon... let's hug each other. no need for tension!!!</div><div> </div><div>;)</div>

[Wolf]

<div>Bicycle riding is not a preparation for a motorcycle. There are some basic similarities, and nothing else.</div><div> </div><div>As a newbie, posting in the sportbike section looking for a liter bike is a good way to earn ridicule. Stick with something 650cc or less, that doesn't include the term &quot;sportbike&quot; anywhere in it.</div><div> </div><div>If you decide to get anything bigger, don't bother looking for advice here, because none of the respected members will assist if you can't follow basic logic.</div><div> </div><div>That's not meant as a slam, just honesty.</div>

[grizz0844]

<div></div><div>Take a look at the Six in the City article on the CW archives. I think it is even posted on the home page right now. These would be some choices most people could agree on to start out with. Or even a YZF-600 or one of those Katanas you listed could also work.</div><div>Seriously, you will get about a million opinions on any forum you ask this question. I would look around do some reading and then go out and do some looking and setting on bikes. Some people will insist you go used, I think that is a good idea, the choice is yours. Get enrolled in an MSF course or at least find a rider you trust and has half a brain to get you started. Another thing about the smaller bikes: they will cost less on the old insurance.</div><p>Message Edited by grizz0844 on <span class="date_text">02-26-2007</span><span class="time_text">04:50 PM</span></p>

[NathanaelRR]

My personal recommendation is the YZ6. It does the 1/4 mile in about 11.7 seconds but doesn't have the overwhelming speed of a GSX-R bike. At the same time, it's your money so get what you will be happy with.

[Grimace]

I am sure some people have started out on 1000cc sport bikes and have no problems. But they probably are not as good of a rider as they could be if they'd had started on something less powerful. 160hp is lot for anyone to handle, more so for someone without a clue (no offense, but you don't even know what you don't know). Panicing and then grabbing a big handful is a sure recipe for pain.<br><br>Anyway, if I were you and I wanted a sportbike, I'd be looking for a used (cause you will drop it in the parking lot--just about EVERY newbie does) twin (two-cylinder bike). Think about a Honda Super Hawk. 1000cc V-Twin, about 110hp, you won't out grow it for years, they handle well. And you can probably pick one up for under $6K.

[HapCall]

<div>What ever you buy, buy a used bike in good condition. Then you can sell it as you &quot;out grow&quot; it to another new rider.</div><div> </div><div>GS500F</div><div>Ninja 250</div><div>Ninja 500</div><div>Maybe a SV650 or a Ninja 650 but I don't really recommend them for beginners.</div><div> </div><div>I feel the Honda 599, the Katana 600, and the YZF600 are all too much for a beginner.</div><div> </div><div>The really good riders start on small bikes and learn how to actually &quot;Ride A Motorcycle&quot; and not just &quot;Gas and Brake&quot;.</div><div>The Best riders learn on a dirt bike then progress to a small street bike - then they know how to handle any kind of surface.</div><div> </div><div>Hap</div>

[Wolf]

<div>After a year, I still find the 599 throttle and clutch a bit tricky on occasion. Believe me when I say 90hp is more than enough to hurt you quickly if you don't respect it.</div>

[SV_Rider]

<div>SV650, or maybe if you have a little extra to spend the BMW F800 is really nice too.</div>

[ppcuban]

<div>Well. First of all, my respect to you all and to those who got offended by my silliness my appology.</div><div> </div><div>I can understand riding a Trek carbon fiber bicycle is not enough &quot;training&quot; to ride a motorcycle. Yes you get alot of skills when you have to ride among other 100 cyclist with less than an inch away from each other, specially on the final sprint part. Yes i got close to 55mph in my bike (believe me it is scaring on those half inch tires and the whole bike shakes... all you can do is to try to control it a lil bit with your knees holding tight on the frame when you go downhill)... anyway. I am not comparing a 10kg carbon fiber bicycle at 55 mph with a Suzuki 100+kg motorcycle at 100mph. That's stupid. There are facts (physic) that will make you sure is not the same. I have been reading from yesterday and definitely the bike that i wanted is for Experienced bikers... so, it's not a toy.</div><div> </div><div>I am serious about my motorbike. I am not gonna drop it in a parking lot. I want to ride it in a regular basis, at least on Spring, Summer and Auttum. I lived for 6 months in Italy and over there is just crazy about motorcycles and i always wanted buy one but i had no time. Now i decided i want one for real. I want to ride my bike everyday. It's just something that i have been doing for all my life (bicycle) and now i want to power up the Horse Powers :). So, i am really serious about my bike.</div><div> </div><div>I got an offer from an used 2005 Suzuki GSX-R600. I KNOW, I KNOW it's too much with all the respect to you... BUT i will try to be careful. I live in Buford, Georgia, so, traffic is not that problem. I am gonna have time and back roads to learn to handle that &quot;sweetie&quot;. I will keep you updated about my future visits to the Hospital... nah just kidding. (i already got a broken elbow, huge scar on my right eyebrow, broken head and many burnt skin scars all over my legs and butt) from my cyclist days...</div><div> </div><div>I just can't help it. I like this motorcycle.</div><div> </div><div>Thanks for helping me on this... keep on posting</div><div>Jose</div>

[Wolf]

<div></div><div><br></div><blockquote><div><hr><em>ppcuban wrote:</em><br><div>I am serious about my motorbike. I am not gonna drop it in a parking lot.<br><hr></div></div></blockquote><div>Oh yes, you almost certainly <em>will</em>. Almost all of us (myself included) have done it, which is why everyone suggests that you start smaller and used. One of the biggest issues will happen the first time you discover you can't manhandle a 400lb motorcycle the way you can a 25lb bike.</div><div> </div><div>You'll do what you want, and yes, there are people who start on a Hayabusa and do just fine. They're just the minority and it would be foolish for any of us to suggest that they are good first bikes.</div><div> </div><div>Best of luck with it. Post some pics and reviews of whatever bike you choose.<br></div><div></div>

[grizz0844]

<div>Do not take this the wrong way. <strong>You will drop the bike</strong>. It might not be in a parking lot but sooner or later you will drop the thing. It is embarrassing, especially if you are in a group, but it happens. You pick the bike up and move along.</div>

[VStarMan]

<div><strong>I read that the Katana's are comfortable bikes..</strong></div>

[SV_Rider]

<div>There are two types of riders. Those who have crashed, and those who are going to crash.</div><div>I think Evil Kenivil said that, but anyway. Just make sure to wear all the proper gear. And if you</div><div>do crash. Don't feel bad, everyone has done it.</div>

[ButtCrack]

<br><blockquote><hr>ppcuban wrote:<br><br><div>I really need some good advices.</div><div></div><div><b>Please</b></div><div></div><div>Thanks in advance</div><div></div><div>Jose</div><br><hr></blockquote><br><br><br>Well Mr Hoser,<br><br>I have restrained myself, (Sorry guys I am weak after yesterday .......)<br><br>I have given some thought about what bike I would suggest, I have read everyone else's suggestions...<br><br>Given it some more thought, Read your responses to the suggestions.<br><br>In the spirit of the new forum I will tone this down and keep it clean as possible.<br><br>I have concluded you are <b>a Fukking Dead Man</b> your 15 mins of fame is going to come on the Darwin Awards website.<br><br>If you wish to remain alive then stay with the bicycle, maybe add some training wheels...<br><br>Some people should not be allowed you make it bad for all of us.<br><br>Happy Splat ....

[UncleErnie]

<div>Yep. Same old sheit. Ask for advice and then tell everyone why you're the exception and different and why the advice you asked for is wrong. </div><div>Any fool can go fast in a straight line. Somebody up there said, &quot;You don't even know enough to know what you don't know&quot;. Kee-reck-to. </div><div> </div><div>On the outside chance that you have a visitation from an angel who spanks your butt hard, here are some suggestions;</div><div>read a book by someone like David Hough. He's pretty easy to understand, although it helps to have ridden some to understand what he, or any authors, are talking about.</div><div>Get an older used bike; an older BMW, Yamaha XS 650, used Triumph Bonneville, the SV650 is a good choice.</div><div>I live in the South and belive me- you are NOT any safer riding in or around there. More pick-ups who think they're driving in a NACAR race, turtles, wild turkeys, snakes, dogs asleep in the middle of the road, yayhoos who hate motorcycles, and probably more drunks in the middle of the day. </div><div> </div><div>I keep promising myself I won't read these posts... </div>

[ppcuban]

<div>wow wow ohh... slow down. I am just trying to have an exchange of thoughts. If we don't debate about things... where is the progress??? I am not the exception or different from anyone. All i said was that i had a background about &quot;2-wheels&quot; drives... never said i was going to be the Sugar Daddy of the bikes in the &quot;dirty south&quot;.</div><div> </div><div>if you read carefully my posts, i am always asking about things related to the motorcycle, not about riding skills. You get that on the road!!!. That's what you do when you want to know about things... You ask. I am not a kid in a rush of adrenaline. I don't want to die by the end of this year. Am i gonna crash?? I am sure i will. Valentino Rossi crashs.... why shouldn't i? Am i gonna be extremelly careful? I will. Do i want to get my butt burnt on the pavement? Hellllllll no!!!</div><div>For example, right now i would like to know about a fair price of an used 2005 suzuki GSX-R600. I found a couple on ebay, craigslist.com. Some clothing and helmets. I am not trying here to challenge none experience or disrespect those times you got your butts burnt too. I respect you all. I was trying to be funny and make this post more spicy and &quot;debated&quot;.</div><div> </div><div>Let's keep the good spirit!!!</div><div> </div><div>PS: By the way. what i understood about &quot;drop the bike&quot; was to leave it abbandoned in a garage and not look at it again in months. OK. Now that i know what really DROP IT means... SURE, I WILL. 400lbs isn't a skinny girl!!!</div>

[Wolf]

<div>Kelley Blue Book <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kbb.com">www.kbb.com</a> can give you prices for used motorcycles. Scan your local want ads as well and see what they are advertizing GSXRs for.</div><div> </div><div>If you think controlling 1000cc of motorcycle is as easy as twisting your wrist less, you really have a lot to learn.</div><div> </div><div>When Valentino Rossi crashes, he is surrounded by runoffs and professional riders, rather than guardrails, dropoffs, and SUVs coming the opposite direction piloted by overly tired mothers on their cell phones.</div><div> </div><div>That's my last piece of advice in this thread. Good luck with it.</div>

[HapCall]

<div>Hmmmm, I've been riding 35 years, 29 of 'em on the street. Have probably close to 400,000 miles on the street. I dropped my ZRX1200 in my driveway two weeks ago. Yep. It sucked. I guess some lessons you just have to learn yourself.</div><div> </div><div>Hap</div>

[UncleErnie]

<div></div><div>&quot;if you read carefully my posts, i am always asking about things related to the motorcycle, not about riding skills. You get that on the road!!!. That's what you do when you want to know about things... You ask.&quot;</div><div> </div><div>Well, OK... The thing is, you SHOULD be asking about riding skills. You get riding skills gradually from instruction or trial-and-error (well- both to a degree). If you're not going to get instruction first (like an MSF course- which usually lowers your insurance, too), then trial-and-error is easier and safer on smaller bikes. With less power. That don't have quarter-turn throttles. If you don't have adrenaline rushing through whatever you said it's not rushing through, then you'll take your time and develope your skills. As you get better, then you can get bigger/faster bikes because you'll know YOURSELF and your preferences much better. When you know yourself and your preferences, you won't need to ask what kind of bike you should have. You'll <u>know</u> what bike you should have and you'll get it. </div><div>Then you'll come back here and get aggravated with new people who don't ask the right questions.</div><div> </div><div>BTW- riding a bicycle has nothing to do with riding a motorcycle. Just my opinion, which you didn't ask for.</div><div> </div><div>This is reminding me of the story of the man who died in a flood.</div><p>Message Edited by UncleErnie on <span class="date_text">02-28-2007</span><span class="time_text">09:46 PM</span></p>

[ButtCrack]

You're wrong Ernie He Did ASK FOR your opinion.....<br><br>you are a patient man.....

[andoulli]

<div></div><div>A 2005 GSXR 600 is a totally absurd first bike choice. Who cares what they go for. While you are checking on prices, find out what the going rate is at your nearest emergency room.</div><div> </div><div>Tim</div><p>Message Edited by andoulli on <span class="date_text">03-01-2007</span><span class="time_text">09:12 AM</span></p>

[grizz0844]

<div>cuban, if you just have to have a in-line 4 look at the Yamaha FZ-6 or the Honda 599 or possibly the Katana 600 if you can find one. There have been people who started out on the race replicas and lived but the learning curve is quite steep. You have got the rest of your life to move up in bike size and power there is no big rush. Read up get trained spend some time thinking about your purchase.</div><div> </div><div>With a few exceptions everyone who answered you is just trying to help. Take it for what its worth.</div><div>Oh and Good Luck. </div>

[ppcuban]

<div></div><div>well. i am very close to give up about this. You are scaring the sh** out of me!!! I guess my perception of motorbikes is TOTALLY WRONG.</div><div>I know this is going to make you laugh... last night i had a dream (or nightmare) about this dam* suzuki!!! it was funny. i was with a bunch of guys i didn't know (probably you all) and i was falling all the time from my bike in every left and right turn. All i said was &quot;it's too heavy&quot;. And i tried again and again. Fortunatly everytime i felt was like i was falling on a cloud... (i guess pavement is not that soft).</div><div>anyway. something that i wanted shared. i woke up this morning laughing.</div><div> </div><div>Ok. let me see if i have understood so far. Ok, let's obvious the cost of the bike, insurance. We are talking about MY LIFE and THIS BIKE. What i can see here is that i won't be able to handle this bike because of my lack of experience on bikes (zero). Weight? Well, isn't all the bikes MORE OR LESS the same weight? Well, maybe the combination of speed and weight can be dangerous. My second point here is that... i guess this bike &quot;reacts&quot; way to fast as soon as i pull the gas, right? therefore wouldn't allow me to react as an expert in case of a possible accident (wich is very common when you are in 2 wheels). You see? after SO many posts, i am getting an idea of how dangerous can be for me this motorbike. I am disappointed of myself :( I thought i could be able to handle one of those baby girls :(</div><div> </div><div>Translating to the worlds of cars.... can someone compare to me The different bikes? I have a 2007 Ford Mustang GT Deluxe.... that sh** runs fast! Ok, is it like that in the world of bikes my beloved Suzuki?</div><div> </div><div>Jose</div><div> </div><div>PS: I went to a dealership yesterday. I got this offer. Of course now i don't know anymore if i am going to buy it. :(</div>

[SV_Rider]

<div></div><div>This is my final offer.</div><div> </div><div><a target="_blank" href="http://www.truck-web.us/albums/dslr/SV650S.sized.jpg">http://www.truck-web.us/albums/dslr/SV650S.sized.jpg</a></div><div> </div><div>Its affordable, more forgiving to beginers, has a unique V-Twin. And it is fun at any age no matter how good you are.</div>

[Joemama]

<div></div><div></div><div>If you like the monster and fit on it(so go sit on one if you havent, they arent large bikes), its relatively safe (stay away from the S4R, youd be better off with an older 900 or the new 6XX's) and extremely fun (really light) you'd be fine there although dropping them can get expensive. Also if you like attention, they are good for that too especially around the general public(park next to an R1 and you win everytime, at least with the general public). </div><div> </div><div>The up side for a new rider on them is they are light and the models mentioned are not ovlerly powerful, they have fantastic brakes and stop quickly due to light weight. Also with aftermarket exhaust the 900 sounds like god is comming :) Also they get you into the hospitality tents at various events. The downside is cost(its a ducati, you pay extra for that) but a used say 97 vintage 900 can be had cheaply and as long as you dont wad it up they arent that bad. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>You'd be WAY better off starting on a monster than the 1000 I-4's you are considering. </div><p><span class="time_text"></span> </p><p>Message Edited by Joemama on <span class="date_text">03-01-2007</span><span class="time_text">02:38 PM</span></p>

[Joemama]

<div>Compared to a car well let me put it this way...I ride a 'busa (and a few others). Stock(which mine isnt) youd need about 800hp (Wheel HP) in a car to keep up. </div><div> </div><div>The 1000+ I-4's run in the high 9's in the 1/4 mile. (think about that for a minute)<br></div><div> </div><div>Now, go race a 600 with your car from a light, when he's done laughing at you(they run mid-high 10's), come tell us how fast that S*ht runs :)</div><div> </div><div>Even the TURDS to of the bike world are capable of 14's</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Bikes dont &quot;feel&quot; as fast as a car (an 11 sec run in a car is a pretty violent experience) but every bike guy laughs at cars when they try to race.</div>

[UncleErnie]

<div></div><div>I'm guessing your Mustang is an automatic? Still no comparison...</div><div> </div><div>Perhaps a comparison to cooking; When you live at home, you might toss something in the microwave. When you first leave home, cooking consists of heating spaghetti sauce and boiling noodles. If a girl is coming over, you might chop some iceberg lettuce and pour some Thousand Island dressing on it. Gormet means using Ranch Dressing and sliced tomatoes.</div><div>Now, let's jump to a dinner party with 4 or 6 people coming. <u>Timing</u> (and experience) is very important; What do you prepare ahead of time? What begins cooking first? How much time do you have to chop something so that it's ready to go in the sauce before wilting - there is a difference between cooked and just &quot;soft&quot; you know. When do ingredients go in so that you achieve the tecture you want? If you put your chopped squash in too soon, it will be mush. Do you put onions in first, or do you want them with more of a texture- firm perhaps. Might it be better to saute them in butter until carmelized for taste and appearance? Brown rice, white rice, and what the heck is resoto? While dicing is the knife sharp? Are you able to maximize time and energy without cutting yourself? Do you clean as you go along or just keep piling up pots and pans until you have no more to cook something in? How long does it take to bake a potato and at what temperature? In YOUR oven (ovens differ). Does it need to be turned in your oven, or can it sit there until done? Do you undertand that some things will take 4 or 5 times as long to cook if you put salt in it too soon? Do you have the skill to flip something that's been cooking in a cast iron skillet without sending parts all over the stove top and walls (presentation is important), or do you fear it and stand there convincing yourself you can do it- and then blow it while part of it gets folded under and you end up with a burned edge.</div><div> </div><div>This is the difference is types of motorcycles and skill levels. The motorcycle you want is for riders with the skill and experience to react without thinking too much. What happens in a turn if you give the bike a little gas. What happens if you give it more gas? With a quarter turn throttle, it's much harder to modulate the gas. So lets say you're accelerating through a turn and you hit the power band and the bike all of a sudden shoots off like a rocket (literally). If you're leaned over enough, it may break out the rear wheel and you go into a slide. If you're upright more, it may stand the bike up and shoot you into the woods. If you just turn the gas down all of a sudden, that's like jamming on the rear brake which again may send you into a slide or stand the bike up and into what's called a &quot;highside&quot;. What do you do if you're in the power band already and apply the gas but the front wheel gets light or even comes up off the ground? So you're heading into a turn and it looks like you might be going too fast; do you stiff arm and wait to crash? Do you apply the brakes? Which brake or both? Could you lean more? Do you know the limits of your particular tires and traction available? As you're tumbling down the road with gravel embedding into your knee and the bike is slowly doing a piroutte 20 feet in front of you, would you be thinking maybe someone with more experience might not have gone into that particular turn too fast in the first place?</div><div>The answer to that last one is &quot;no&quot;. As your leg is pointing in the wrong direction, your first thought will be, &quot;How's the bike?!&quot; Your next thought will be, &quot;I really blew it that time.&quot; You won't think about your skill level and speed untill you're in the ambulance.</div><div> </div><div> </div>

[UncleErnie]

<div><div>You want to know how I know this? Because I've been riding a few years and I learned everything the hard way. There weren't riding classes back then. But- bikes back then didn't have the power they do now, either. Motorcycles were much more forgiving- and so were medical bills.</div><div> </div><div>Nobody is saying not to open a restaurant, we're just trying to say you need to learn the difference between shirred and scrambled before going gourmet. </div></div>

[Slopoke]

<div>Flame Bait</div><div> </div>

[S3bird]

<div>Think about a GS500 or an SV650. Both are twins that have been made for years and will also have a little more bottom end like your Mustang. Ride one for a season to learn on. You should be able to sell it off to another newbie when your done and off to better things. The SV might be something you'll want to keep for a while, I've heard nothing but good about them.</div><div> </div><div>If your stuck on having a Duck, just remember that <strong>everything</strong> costs way more than it should for motorcycles, double that for your Monster.</div><div> </div><div>Plastic is expensive to replace wich is why I always recomend a naked bike for first. Also, just another PIA but, usually half of it has to come off for an oil change.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div>

[ppcuban]

<div>UncleErnie... you are a deep man. You are so dam* right. If i was a girl i would fall for you right now and I am serious. You are cultured. Thank you so much. You talked to me like if i was 5 years old and I really appreciate it 'cause you make things clear to me now. Until now i was only thinking about other stuffs. I know what you mean by having in mind those details. In my bicycle... i was so perfectly trained to response to all those situations. I knew how to ride it almost perfectly because i spent 6 hours a day riding it with 20 others guy 6 days a week. Althought i fell a couple of times, i learned how to drive very well. I was in the Cuban National Team in that time. But... with your description, i understand your point. My biggest fear is not to be able to handle 400lbs. It seems easy to watch Rossi from my couch eating some popcorns.</div><div>I think that, anyway, i need to start by riding something. I want it to be sport style bike. So i get used to the riding position. In Time i guess i will get the &quot;experience&quot; to know wich brake. Is there any &quot;reading&quot; that i can find about riding bikes (about these facts) like wich brake, front or rear, speed limits before turns, tires, you know, all those facts you just mentioned now. By the way, i just moved out from my chic house by myself after breaking up and it's going to be MORE IMPORTANT all those things about cooking... 'cause i don't know how to cook :)</div><div> </div><div>YOU ARE RIGHT. Until i don't put my a** on that thing i am not gonna know a holly sh** about riding those monsters... if i don't cook sweet potato... i am gonna be starving too.</div><div> </div><div>i got my heart broken in pieces!!! I wanted be riding for the next week!!! :(( ohhh, by the way, i wasn't talking about who's faster if a car or bike. I know bikes moves faster (in italy was madness to see those guys 250km/h on the higways. Luckly you could see the color of the bike... and i was speeding like 180km/h. I just wanted an comparison like... R-1000 is a Ferrari... r-600 a Mustang.... ohhh my mustang is Manual... who wants an automatic GT??? C'mon guys!!! This Cuban here is serious!!!</div><div> </div><div>Let's keep chatting...</div><div>Jose</div>

[andoulli]

<div>Looks like Slopoke has nailed this one.</div><div> </div><div>Tim</div>

[TBSstunta]

Seriously, forget the Gixxer and get the SV650. Also take the MSF class.<br><br>http://www.msf-usa.org/

[UncleErnie]

<div>I got to thinking he's not a troll, he's just clueless. A lot of folks who have Latin as the base of their language get exuberant easily. Anyhoo- I have a great time writing the occasional rant, and hopefully that one was a little more constructive.</div><div> </div><div>SV650 seems like a good all 'round bike. Several people around here use them as track bikes. It's my understanding that the first 2 years are the best, but I don't remember why.</div><div>The MSF course seems to be the way to go these days. I've heard pro's and con's, but they usually provide their own bikes and the advanteges out-weigh the disadvantages.</div><div>I like a lot of what David Hough writes. He's not as &quot;technical&quot; as some other writers, so I think he's easier to understand. Something like &quot;A Twist of the Wrist&quot; may helpful later.</div>

[Monkeyshines]

<div>I'm not supposed to furrow my brow and get all antsy-pantsy at your occasional rant am I, cause it usually makes me smile instead, but I could wipe that off posthaste if you took that <strike>feather</strike> switch to my behind again.</div><div> </div><div>I'm going with the flow here, no four-banger sportbikes for the wise newbster. Although nobody makes them anymore(o.k. a few do) Dual purpose bikes are the best to learn on, they're much more forgiving of your dropping them and such, you can take them to the best training facility in the world - the trails, tons of fun while doing so, and you can get a couple dirt filled scuffs on your hide instead of asphalt and bumper chrome. I personally think a SV 650 could also be a bit much for some to learn on.</div>

[Devlin_Tripp]

<div>Most Mustangs sold (GTs included) are automatics. I guess most people don't like to row their own anymore.</div><div> </div><div>Others have said this and I agree, there are virtually no skills that transfer from riding a road bicycle to a motorcycle.</div><div> </div><div>Most people I've talked too who have successfully started out on a liter bike or even a 600R or RR (and by successfully I mean that they have survived) are people who had several years of dirt experience first.</div><div> </div><div>Sport bike weights are relatively close these days, the biggest thing I've noticed is how they handle that weight. Some tubby 500 lb bikes hide their weight well with good suspension and handling, while other bikes that way a nats ass hair over 400 feel like they weigh 600.</div><div> </div><div>I've never heard of anyone who got an SV650 say they regreted it, only that a few of them regret selling them when they felt they were ready to move up. Get a used SV, ride it for a year or two, drop it, learn on it, get fast on it... then move into a sportier model.</div><div> </div><div>Seeing as it sounds like your a bit of a car guy as well, maybe you'll appreciate this analogy. Growing up, most of my friends had tricked out Eagle Talon TSI AWDs and they would race eachother when the place, time and law allowed (most of these would put your stock GT to shame). For most of my friends, these were their first cars that mommy and daddy bought for them and they then proceeded to spend small fortunes working the engines over (a friend actually had another engine shipped in from Japan after he blew his first). The kid who was the fastest in these Talons was not one of the kids who learned how to drive in them, but instead learned how to drive (and drive fast) and his fathers Porsche 914 that he had as a test mule for his race prepped 914. The 914 ran at a snails pace by comparison, but he learned the mechanics and skills that are needed to hussle an underpowered Porsche around a track, which translated very well to the AWD rigs our friends were driving.</div><div> </div><div>Spend two years learning to ride fast on an SV and I can almost guaratee that you will be faster than someone who spent the last two years learning how to ride on their 600RR. A bike is only as fast as its' rider.</div><div> </div><div>Lastly (sorry for the long post), listen to the others on this forum. The very fact that they've been riding as long as they have and they're still here should tell you something. I'm sure most of them have lost either friends or acquaintences to motorcycle accidents over the years (its hard not too with a past time such as this) so their advice is based upon some very real, and possibly painful, experience.</div>

[Captain-Kirk]

<div>I used to own a late 90's Katana and it was a great bike. Alot of performance and great handling for the buck without going all out like the Gixxer's. I think you would be very pleased with it. They are very comfortable also.</div>

[Dirtymopossie08]

<div> </div><div> I think if you have never been on a Dirt Bike then I say get one. I think a 125cc two stroke and take it to the track on practice days. Riding a 125cc two stroke mx bike will teach you control and how to predict the bikes actions. Because if you can't control a 125cc mx bike then what are you going to do when one of those big Rocket Ships get's away from you.</div>

[nfldbiker]

<div>I am a nurse, and I've seen the results of motorcycle accident. Don't start out on a big rocketship bike. If you do, write a will and fill out an organ donor card. Be smart, start small. What good is a wrecked Gixxer and a dead or paralized you?</div>

[UncleErnie]

<div>Somebody did ME the favour of filling out a donor card. An exact match.</div><div>Everyone has their place in the food chain.</div>

[nfldbiker]

<div>Everybody should have one so that good can come from a terrible situation. </div>

[WolfMan68]

<div><font face="Garamond" size="4">Its rare to see someone actually ask for help.. So, I thought that I would try and help you out and share some of my knowledge with you and maybe that will help you decide. First off stay under 1000cc, You hear alot people say that but honestly the big bikes are great if you have experience and understand lean angle, cold tires, and how much throttle you can give her until she turns on you for being stupid this is where a lesser engine will forgive you. Second, choose good tires. I use Michelin Pilot Powers and absolutely love them, myself and others have had bad experiences with Dunlop 207-208s.. Hard compounds and cheap tires will get you in trouble so plan on spending some money.. As far as bikes I personally like the CBR F4i, GXSR 750, and Ninja 636.. All great bikes..</font></div><div><font face="Garamond" size="4"></font> </div><div><font face="Garamond" size="4">Things you probably haven't thought about: Learning to brake with just two or one finger.. It will drive the MSF experience rider coach crazy but will keep the new bike up right when that idot pulls out in front of you. Modern sportbike brakes are that good! Throttle blip (Learn it even with slipper clutch) you'll need it.. Ride with someone who has experience.. </font></div>

[nfldbiker]

<div>Mostly good advice, but the rides you suggest are hard core repli-racers. Not the kind of thing to learn on. I would bet a GSX-R 750 has more horse power than a Honda 1300 VTX, so talking in terms of cubic centimeters is not an accurate measure of power. Buy the way...Welcome to the forum.</div>

[bichomalo]

<div>Here you go!!! number onehttp://www.triumphrat.net/albums/album1584/aan.sized.jpg</div>

[Harri]

<div></div><div>I say go for a middle weight sports bike and take a riding course. Maybe a Kawasaki ZX-6R Ninja 636. Plenty of torque and not too pipey, so you don't have to keep it revved too high too stay on the powerband. It will handle your size. I'm 5'11&quot; 190#s. I ride mine back and forth to work (6 miles one way) and for pleasure cruises up to 100 miles so far. It's my first street bike in 30 years. I used to be a Motocross racer in the late 70's and early 80's. Quite riding completely in 81. Then in 2006 bought me the Ninja. I love It! It is as Fast as I Am willing to go at 59.</div>

[Realmanken]

<div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><div><div>OMG, ALL these posts. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if by now our dear Cuban friend Jose has given up on motorcycles all together and decided to go back to peddling his bicycle. Wait, there is nothing wrong with that is there? Oh yea, you cant throw a tall, beautiful, Latin Mami on the back of a Trek. Or can you?</div><div>Well while the rest of you try to figure that one out I'm going to give our friend Jose here the best advice anyone on this forum has given him yet.</div><div>Ok Jose, here is my advice to you.</div><div> </div><div>#1. Take a Motorcycle Rider Safety Course. The lessons learned there could very well save your life and also its a convenient way to learn how to ride a motorcycle safely and get your motorcycle license all in one inclusive package. Its a bargain if you consider it could save your life.</div><div> </div><div>#2. Don't buy a new bike. Buy a used bike first. Find a good source for used bikes (preferably at a reputable dealer) so that you know you're getting a good bike. The first part of motorcycle safety is the rider, the second part is your equipment and bad equipment can get you hurt just as quickly as a bad judgement call while on your ride so make sure the used bike you're getting has been properly inspected and serviced by a reputable dealer.</div><div> </div><div>#3. I would not start off by getting a 1000 cc Sportbike as your first motorcycle. That is a bad idea.</div><div> </div><div>Now here is the cool part. You are a big guy. 200 lbs. is not a light load for a motorcycle so I would not get a 600 either. Plus once you get confident enough as a rider you may want to take your Mami Chula out for a ride and if you're on a 600 and you add 200 lbs + 130 lbs that's almost 350 lbs (girls always lie about their weight. LOL!) and that 600 will feel underpowered and you'll work the motor too hard. So that narrows your choice down to one size Sportbike and that would be...Drum Roll Please...</div><div>...a 750. I suggest that you look for a nice clean used Suzuki GSX-R750 model year 2001 and up. There you go. Be safe Amigo and happy riding.</div><div>-Eric</div><div>PS. If after you are a good rider and feel confident enough, then down the road you can always sell your GSX-R750 without losing much on it if anything (cuz you bought it used) and go and buy yourself a brand new HONDA CBR1000RR. That's the best 1000 cc Sportbike for the street IMHO. But wait till you're really good with the Gixxer 750 first. Maybe 2 years down the road. Oh, and I believe in the power of dreams as well and I think that your dream has a meaning behind it so take my advice to heart Amigo. There is nothing wrong with riding a motorcycle (I own 3) but you have to do it the right way to be safe and above all else don't listen to pallasos que no saben lo que estan diciendo. Peace! And safe Riding!!! Oh hey, do you like Ruben Gonzalez? He is my favorite Cuban Musician BTW.</div><div>...PA PA PA... Y, en el piano, Don Ruben Gonzalez...Cumbachero PA PA PA PA PA, Congocero PA PA PA PA PA, Cumbachero....LOL!:D</div></div></div><br><br><br>Message Edited by Realmanken on <span class="date_text">04-24-2007</span> <span class="time_text">07:57 PM</span>

[RedLine]

I would agree with the overall opinion and get the SV, my first bike was a ZX6R (2000), and it was amazing (once i learned to handle it). At the time I was younger and being a peed freak in general we all can guess how this bike handled on a long east coast beach road in Charleston. But once I moved to Florida and encountered these things called hills and turns (especially ones that tighten after the apex) the skill i thought i had was lost and the reality that roads are more that long flat lines set in. Fast forwarding in time to my R6S, I learned technique over just speed and power, but that took time and now I am ready to upgrade. With bikes (like cars) my personal experience is that one needs to stair step. I would go with the SV, like everyone has sad or agreed to &quot;there is not one person I know who is not satisfied&quot;. Also get a bike that is easy to manage, and can be adjusted to you. I'm 6'3 and that alone puts my reference to comfort flickability and overall perception of a bike in a different place from a person that is 5'8. As far as general maintainace, the Yamaha was cheaper than the ZX6R (just my experience). Be glad that people (who are experienced) are willing to help you even if they don't know you. I've heard dealership talk first time riders into getting a Repsol or MV F4-1000. I'm not super experienced but reading the post and from personal experience, your not being steered wrong, and I would vote for the SV. It looks good, handles well, is adjustable to fit the body of a 6+ foot person and is good to take to any beginner riding class (which I would suggest, If your going to ride...why not learn from a pro.) But you may find it alittle slim and if you add the suspension is going to drop if you add on some pounds or a person.<br><br>Don't Give up there is a perfect bike out there for you (even if it's not your first)<br><br>Also I would like to reinerate the post above ^^^^^^^ take a course AND invest in good gear. I would also get to know other riders in your area because chances are they'll know good dealers, tune/maintainace shops/parts places, ect.<br><br>As for the 750 advice like I said 1st bike ZX6R. As your aware and safe you'll be fine. And who ever told you the Aprilia RSV was a good first bike is not your friend or at least unaware.<br><br>Message Edited by RedLine on <span class="date_text">05-14-2007</span> <span class="time_text">08:35 PM</span><br><br>Message Edited by RedLine on <span class="date_text">05-14-2007</span> <span class="time_text">08:48 PM</span>

[NYCducatista]

<div>I don't think a 600cc supersport bike is a &quot;totally wrong&quot; decision. A lot of squids start that way, and wind up find. Thing is you can become a &quot;better&quot; rider by starting off with a smaller bike, and then after learning to ride THAT smaller bike fast, you can move up in displacement (cc's) as your skills increase. I opted for a SV 650 for my first bike, but sold it after 2 years for my 749, which I sold for my Daytona 675. My friend started on a GSX-R 750 saying he didn't want to sell it in a year for a bigger bike, and lose out on that money. He's a good rider, but it takes a lot of self control to start off on a bigger bore bike. Just my $.02</div><div>Plus why be a slow rider on a fast bike, I'd rather be a fast rider on a slower bike.</div>

[Big_Guy]

<div>Ok I am here to listen. I am not the exception to the rule I am sure I will have the bike on the ground at one time or another. My main question is I have been riding a Kawasaki Z750S for a month now trying to go out and practice on a daily basis ( I mean every chance I get even if it is zig zags in a parking lot and acceleration and braking drills) until I get into my riding course. My question is my bike feels too small for me. I am 6'6&quot; and weight about 280. I look like I am riding a kids bike on that thing. I have had no problems thus far riding it. I have been considering going with a GSXR-1000, CBR1000. I had even considered going with a Busa which feels the most comfortable to be on but my friends that ride say that the busa or the ZX1400 is just too much no matter how good it feels I will end up a greasy spot if I get one.</div><div> </div><div>So I was thinking I could get the GSXR-1000 since it has the adjustable performance settings that would allow for me to ride with less tourque going to the rear wheel until I have several more miles under my belt.</div><div> </div><div>Please do not be harsh and critisize I am just asking the question. I have it in my head that the ZX-1400 and the Busa are to much no matter how nice they feel but how do you feel about any of the other bikes? </div>

[Wolf]

<div>It's not the engine size that is the problem, but the physical size of the bike that is limiting you.</div><div> </div><div>At 5'-11 I was mighty uncomfortable riding on the Volusia 250 in the MSF class, and my Honda 599 feels a bit cramped from time to time, although it'll rocket me to 60mph in about 4 seconds. :cool:</div><div> </div><div>Perhaps you should be looking at mid-sized engines packaged into a larger framed motorcycle. BMW specifically comes to mind, if you want sportbike looks and handling; otherwise dual sports are also often suggested.</div>

[cnlster]

Are you open to a v-strom? Big bikes, semi sporting look. 650 or MAYBE even a 1000. Have not ridden one though, only sat on one, and at 6'1&quot;, it was about at my limit.<br><div></div>

[ajgsxr]

<div></div><div>Frick,this post got a lot of responses! Just goes to show how varied we all feel about the subject.</div><div>I started out on a gsxr600. I would suggest a ninja250,500,or 650r. It's true, its easier to learn to go fast on a slow bike then a fast one! Make sure you don't overlook gear, get a good helmet,leathers,boots,and gloves.</div><br><br>Message Edited by ajgsxr on <span class="date_text">06-01-2007</span> <span class="time_text">05:17 AM</span>