I am really thinking about getting a small 600cc bike this summer for a toy and something to keep me busy if things go as planned with work, raise, and bonus.
I checked the learn2ride courses and they were all booked this spring. What are other alternatives to learn to ride the right way?
talk to willy… and lol @ a small 600… lol… msf is the SMART way to go…
Small 600? Unless you get one that’s 10 years old, there’s nothing small about it. Todays 600’s are quicker than yesterdays litre bikes.
Bikes are turning into the new Honda Hatches on NYSpeed. I like.
like already stated, a 600 will be more than enough to keep you happy. Don’t under estimate them.
If you have friends that ride, learning with them is a good bet, if they are patient and actually have proper riding technique.
Hey Paullo, want to teach me to ride this summer? I will also need someone to take me to get my road test.
Yea like I am thinking of a mid 90s 500cc bike but no more than a 600cc bike if all goes well with my bonus, finding a new apartment and raise. I really wanted to take the learn to ride class but since they are all full, I want to check out other ways to learn the right way to ride.
msf is the way to go. Even with a 600 if you take your time you grow into riding. All i can say is every year you get better and better riding from experience
Books like Total control, twist of the wrist 1, twist of the wrist 2, etc etc… they also are a huge help in learning proper technique, but once you develop the basics… there really is no better learning tool than seat time…
theres a cute ninja 250 for sale on here…
There’s really no substitute. Get yourself signed up for the soonest class you can. In the mean time read a book, stay off of busy roads, ask questions of more experienced riders, and don’t be stupid.
^^ what he said. There are also plenty of people on here that ride, and I know I for one would be willing to let you tag along for some rides to get you goin.
Just curious, do you know when they are booked until?
MSF>*
Harlley also offers a “riders edge” course which is the same thing, but will cost more and is usually more open.
Crossposted… basic… but works
I. Need a motorcycle license? Check out your local DMV to find out more information. Also, call up 1-800-CC-RIDER or check out http://www.msf-usa.org/.
II. You are most likely NOT too tall/short/fat/skinny/ugly/good-looking/etc to ride a bike.
A. If you’re unsure if a bike will fit you, then go sit on one. That’s the easiest way to find out whether or not you should be riding it.
B. If you’ve still got your heart set on a bike, even though it’s too short, then there are always ways to shorten the ride height.
III. There are no bad beginner bikes. It all depends on how much respect you have for the bike and how much control you have over your ego. You will find that bikes with smaller engines and/or twins have throttles that are MUCH easier to modulate. Grabbing a handful of throttle won’t get you into trouble as quickly as a big 1000cc bike. That being said, look into getting an older ('80s and '90s) bike, mostly because insurance premiums are lower and there is more aftermarket support available.
IV. Buying a bike - you’re not just spending money on a motorcycle. You also have to buy insurance, PROPER gear that fits (if you’re unsure, go try on some gear!), and have a little money on the side for incidentals (new tires, battery, whatever), just in case.
A. Financing - No, you’re not going to get as good of a financing deal through a motorcycle dealership than an automobile dealership. There is less overhead for dealerships, and more people are likely to default on a motorcycle loan.
B. Try a credit union if you have access. They can usually get you lower rates.
C. If you absolutely must use a credit card, then be prepared to pay it off quickly. CC’s usually have very high interest rates.
V. You WILL drop the bike. It may be at a standstill or while moving, even at 5mph. Be prepared! A cheaper bike will be less costly to repair and proper gear will help to prevent you from getting injuries. Plenty of people on this board have the battle scars to prove it.
(added on 11/3/03)
VI. Insurance - You have basically two choices: liability or full coverage. No matter what you ask or we reply, you should ask your insurance agent for a quote. Just because I’m paying $xxx for insurance does not mean you’ll get the same rate. It depends on what bike you ride, where you live, your age, and various other factors. If you’re financing, you NEED to have full coverage! Just ask around on this board…a few members’ bikes were stolen, but they still have to make payments.
Does this answer all your questions? If not, then maybe you shouldn’t be asking it! But seriously, this should answer most of your questions. If not, please ask, but at least make an attempt at the “Search” feature.
(added on 12/27/04)
http://www.clarity.net/adam/buying-bike.html
Most 500s are 2cyl…most 600s are 4cyl…big jump totally different animal
You treat any bike like a toy, you will break like a toy.