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