First off, let me apologize if this is one of those common "oh no, not again" topics. I searched the archives but didn't find as many existing threads on it as I'd expected. Sorry for any redundancy.

I'll be getting my motorcycle license at the end of this month and am looking for recommendations for a first bike. I've never ridden a motorcycle before except for a very brief informal session with a friend's dirt bike.

I'm not looking to get the fastest thing out there, and I don't need to have the biggest balls on the block. I just want something that's not too expensive to purchase or maintain, and that is easy for a total beginner to learn on yet has enough performance to be fun for a while. In all honesty, I doubt I'll be riding it very much. It'll probably just be an occasional weekend toy.

Would a CBR be a good first bike? What about some of the Suzuki models? Any recommendations are welcome. Assume I know nothing about bikes because you'd be just about right. If anyone wants to give me the basics about bike specs and what to look for, that'd be awesome too. Thanks.

 

Take a look at the Suzuki SV650 os SV650s, great bikes and a lot of fun to ride.

 

Oh no, not again!!

Cyber , here is the thing. When i was looking for my first bike over a year ago, I was scared of all the true 600 sportbikes (CBR RR, R6, Gsx-r). I bought an F4i instead and rode that for about 3-4 months. It was a great starter, but i could have and should have just got my current bike, CBR 600RR in the first place. If you have a good head on your shoulders, you will be fine.

I would recommend the CBR or R6 to you as a first bike. You will probably never ride it to its full capabilites and both are plenty fast. If you go R6, get something 03+ so its FI. You should be able to find some descent deals on these bikes with the new models coming out soon.

Don't forget to get some good gear too!!!! Let me know if u have any more q's.

 

Dude, I still don't know what you're implying... Are those oak leaves?

So what didn't you like about the F4i? Was it not fast enough?

I don't know if I've got a good head on my shoulders, but I do have a lot of fear in my heart. As in fear of new things. I wouldn't consider myself someone who is likely to push it. In fact, I'm probably more likely to be a coward and be afraid to push it. Hopefully that works to my advantage on a bike.

 

[QUOTE=cyber_x,Oct 4 2005, 10:10 AM] Dude, I still don't know what you're implying...

 

Nice chicken strips, Kekoa.

 

my recommendation is always Yamaha R6.

I'm a little scared for you how scared you are. You sure you want to do this? Seriously! Think about it. Try to find someone with a junk bike who will let you ride in a parking lot or somewhere controlled.

That's my advice. As far as money and maintenance. All of the Japanese bikes will be the same.

Also...not to dog this forum but if you want real bike advice and info go to a bike site.

 

Cool, thanks. So both you and Kekoa have mentioned the R6. I'll have a look at that. Any input on how it compares to the Suzuki SV650 suggested by SanDawg?

I'll definitely check out a dedicated bike board once it's closer to purchase time. I'm just trying to get a real rough idea of what types of bikes to look at for now.

And yep, I'm certain I want to do it. I'm not actually all that scared. In fact, I'm pretty excited. I just have a taste for hyperbole so I might make it sound like I'm cowering in the corner. But, I am indeed cautious when it comes to new things, so I'll be taking it easy at first.

 

Kiss my ass ****er. Let see your tires. I don't claim to be a hard core canyon rider or tracker. I just ride cuz i enjoy it. Plus, the RR is a pic the day i picked her up from the previous owner. Why am i explaining myself to you anywayz. oh well. im bored.

 

The sv650s and the R6 are two totally different bikes. I have ZERO interest in the SV. First of all...it's cheap and looks like a girl bike. SV owners can talk shit if they want now if it will make them feel better about their purchase. The R6 is probably the best Japanese bike ever made. The R6 as opposed to the R1 is a great beginner bike. It winds out nicely like the S2K and will rip through a track at amazing times. On the streets it's a very managable size and comfort is reasonable.

Get the R6!!!

I must say though...I hate the '06 pipe. That's something you'll change anyway!!!

my other suggestion:
Suzuki 750=great bike that won't leaving you wanting more than a 600 in 3 months and still very good learning bike.