Art of Manliness - Latest Comments in How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Jackson Andrew Lewis — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 13:21:15 -0000

do not buy more than 750cc for a first bike...... I've seen to many people in hospital from buying 1000cc ninjas as first bikes....

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

jeff — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 19:33:34 -0000

I am a new rider and I am 6'7" 285 lbs... I just bought a 2007 Suzuki c50 boulevard and was wondering if that would be a good size bike for me to learn on? because of my size, a big bike seemed like the only option for me.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Andy — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 03:15:28 -0000

I've been riding over 40 years, worked at a dealership and am often asked by friends who know my passion for motorcycles whether to buy one and what to buy. My response to the first question (especially if it comes from their spouse/SO) is that you either like the idea or image of being a biker or you are a real biker. The first is like a virus or a phase that may pass on where the second is like your DNA where you will eventually answer the call to your passion. I'm fine with both, but wives and girlfriends often assume their guy's interest is irrational, transitory or both - it is not for some.

On which bike to buy I challenge them to answer the following questions:

1. Where do you want to go?
2. How fast do you want to get there?
3. What/who do you want to carry with you?
4. What type of people or tribe do you want to hang out with?

I realize that the first bike question becomes a subset involving other points well covered above, but I've found that answers to these questions fairly effectively narrow down the choices. This comes from helping a number of friends buy their first bikes new and used who are still riding/smiling.

If this post generates further questions among those considering a bike, I'll be happy to elaborate further.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Bill Wilson — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 01:22:46 -0000

Bought my first bike new in 1974 when 19. Got a 1973 BMW R75/5 and was picking it up off a neighbor's lawn 7 hours later after hitting gravel going around the corner. I had ridden smaller stuff previously like Honda 50's and Vespas but they were easier to control when squirrelly.
I still own a ride the bike. Took the MSF course in 2001 after being off it since 1987 and the first ride made me realize how rusty my skills had become.
A newbie would be smart to take the MSF course first to learn the basics before buying a bike. They use 250cc bikes which are easy to handle and maneuver. You can find used ones like those fairly cheap plus those are quite reliable so won't have to worry about repairs while one hones their skills. I'd bang around on one of those for a year in all sorts of weather before moving up to something larger. Then the rider should know what type they want along with any accessories to make it's use more practical and enjoyable.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Dave — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 02:40:43 -0000

Very good comments on here.
The beginner bike issue can't be addressed by a blanket statement like get under 500cc, etc. Yes, certain criteria must be met, but soooo much depends on the rider. I had a 150cc Honda scooter back when I was 18 for about 2 years. I am now 40, took the MSA course (yes, it is well worth it) and went out and bought a Victory High Ball. This bike is heavy and sports a whopping 1730cc motor yet handles like a dream. I have always been a natural athlete and perhaps my balance / coordination plays a part in my ability to maneuver this bike, but I am extremely comfortable on it and have never been in threat of dropping it. Now with that being said, I ride around like an old lady...

To reiterate what others have said and add a few more pointers:
1. Both feet hit the pavement when you stop (that means flat!)
2. Take the MSA or MSF course
3. Brake in a straight line!!!! Most bikes are dumped at slow speed when turning and the front brake is applied.
4. Knuckles up and wrists down.
5. Ride solo until you are comfortable and experienced. We all have a buddy with a bike that will push you beyond your limits.
5. BEST ADVICE ON HERE..... Expect everyone out there is trying to kill you. 6. Always be aware of space margins and speed control

Ride safe and rubber side down

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Steve — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 15:42:14 -0000

"If the bike has a high saddle but is relatively lightweight, you may be okay with a little lean. If it’s a heavy bike and you’re on tippy-toes every time you stop, you’re in for a stressful experience."

Remember that, at many intersections and even in some parking lots, you'll be straddling an oil slick when you come to a stop, which, especially after a rain, will be extremely slippery. You will never gain any traction on your tip-toes in this scenario, and over you will go. Plan accordingly.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Grey — Sat, 14 Sep 2013 00:13:25 -0000

I've been planning to buy a motocycle for a long time now and havent because I dont know which one to get. I'm 5'2 and weigh 82 lbs so it cant be very heavy. Which one do you recommend?

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Wristy — Mon, 09 Sep 2013 21:56:13 -0000

"If you do mostly short trips, sportsbikes are fun. They’re responsive and handle well. But if you ride relatively long distances, sportsbike or ‘café racer’ style handlebars are going to hurt. These bars are low and often slanted downwards, so your wrists have to support more of your body weight."

This is terrible advice. I've never heard of any sportbike rider or instructor who says to put your weight on your wrists, and several of the best (e.g., Lee Parks, Keith Code) who say exactly the opposite. By putting your weight on your wrists, you're not only hurting your wrists, but hindering your control of the steering and throttle.

It might be true that on long rides your *abs* and *thighs* will hurt, if you're not in shape for it.

Saying that a sportbike will hurt your wrists is like saying that a straight razor will take all the skin off your face. Sure, if your technique is wrong and you try to muscle through it, that could happen. Instead, use those manly muscles and support your body like you're supposed to, so your hands can stay feather-light. You'll have better control, which is the whole point, after all, of a straight razor or a sportbike.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Blake — Wed, 28 Aug 2013 11:43:36 -0000

Ive heard mixed reviews about riding in the winter. I am looking into buying my first bike soon hopefully. Riding a bicycle is getting a little old. Only problem is it is going to be my only ride and I still have to get to work all year round. Any advice for me?

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Jacob — Sat, 24 Aug 2013 07:13:31 -0000

I have been wanting to ride for a while now and someone i know has a 1990 Honda NS50F 50cc for sale in great condition i would just like to know is this is a good first time bike ?

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

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Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Mike — Wed, 01 May 2013 15:16:56 -0000

I agree with everyone on the safety. I have two sport bikes, A little 300 Kawasaki Ninja that I just purchased for gas mileage and I don't need to do a 120 mph anymore. I also have a Hayabusa, very fast. I wear my helmet on either one and any distance I might go, even around the corner to the store. SAFETY SAFETY SAFETY. Yes I agree, ALL first time riders NEED the safety course. I learned a lot and had a great time doing it. Better safe than sorry.

Have Fun Be Safe

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 22:38:52 -0000

I bought my first motorcycle at the age of 13 - almost 30 years ago. (I still don't know how I talked my parents into that.) If you ride enough, you are going to lay it down. My worst (luckily) was due to sand in a parking lot. I was wearing shorts and no shoes - okay so I am not very smart.

It is all about avoiding obstacles (like cars, trees, debris in the road, dogs, etc.) I can practically lay down a 650cc dirt bike and keep going. I can't do a 180 degree sliding stop on a 1200cc Harley (mainly because the engine will hit the ground once you lean over far enough).

Get whatever bike you can ride well enough to dodge a car, jump a curb, and stop prior to getting killed.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

deathproof — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 06:42:32 -0000

Oldschool cb750, no horn, no mirrors, no blinkers, red led flashlight zip-tied on for tail light, dot 3/4 helmet, Levi jacket and doc martins, shades in the day, clear saftey glasses from work at night (after I got sick of burning red eyes), thumb holes cut in hoodie for warmth but I'm rollin...

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Thomas — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 12:04:51 -0000

Hello Everyone, I am in the market for my first bike and I have my eyes on the HD 883 Iron. I am a short guy at about 5'1 but sat on the bike and it felt great (height and weight wise). I am weary of getting that beautiful bike for my first, but here is my plan after reading this thread. Take the MSF class, then buy my Harley, then take the class again using my own bike. Does this sound like a good idea at all?

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Jack — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:45:20 -0000

I have ridden for 45 years, spent 20 years in the motorcycle industry And roadraced for ten years . I do have a bit of fatherly advice for new riders. Be mature enough to not start out with too much bike (power wise). Keep in mind that a little ole 600cc sportbike has a higher power to weight ratio than a NASCAR Sprint Cup car. And a 1000cc sportbike has a higher power to wieght ratio than a Formula 1 car. My full blown privateer AMA 1986 GSX-R750 Superbike would have gotten it's ass kicked by an off the showroom equivalent of today.
Make wise decisions and have fun riding.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

charley — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 21:22:33 -0000

beware "filtering" down here, south of the manson/nixon line; some folks don't like it and are crazy enough to open a door on you...depending on thre situation i generally prefer to wait.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

jim dorey — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:32:23 -0000

as johnvg mentioned waaaay up there, learning to use front brake in an emergency is very important, personally, i learned that on bike. started on the old coaster brake and banana seat things, learned quickly that depending on the rear brake would be silly, so, multispeed biking should be a bit of required practice.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Josh — Tue, 18 May 2010 01:16:45 -0000

@ Mac

A lot of it is mental. Most think the smaller the bike, the more in control you can be and more maneuverability you can have. This gives one a greater sense of confidence and makes one more relaxed. I myself feel this. I started off on an EX500 about 15 years ago. I recently started riding a 900. I was probably in control of the 900 just as much as I was the 500 but it didnt feel like it for awhile. All is well now. But its like anything, you have to crawl before you walk. Smaller bikes can help build confidence and experience.

Btw, I have dropped my bike a time or 2. And it was the small one both times. Which probably adds more credence to what you're saying.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Mac — Mon, 17 May 2010 17:15:32 -0000

I don't agree with any of these postings stating you should start off on a smaller bike. As long as you attend the course and you can put both feet flat on the ground you will be fine. Also, you must not panic on the bike. If a large bike causes you concern then get a smaller one. I started off on a HD Super Glide that weighed 650 pounds. Never dropped any bike. Have fun!!!

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Matt Welsh — Fri, 07 May 2010 20:09:06 -0000

To the person who asked about thinking that everyone is trying to kill you and whether it stresses you out - for me, not so much, but you do have to pay constant attention unlike a car. I've been riding for exactly 30 years this year on street bikes, and what I always tell new riders is that having a motorcycle is like having a pet tiger: Sure, they can bring you lots of joy, happiness and adventure, but you should never, ever forget what it is, and what can happen if you stop paying attention for a second.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Bernt — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 20:49:37 -0000

When I bought my first motorcycle, I talked to a family friend who's been riding for about 25 years. He helped me through the process and actually ultimately sold me his old bike which has served me very well since. So if you know someone who knows bikes, talk to them! Worst case scenario is you get some great advice...

Also a couple other posters said this too, but I think it worth saying again. TAKE THE MSF CLASS! It will save you tons of headaches and the instructors will be able to tell you things that you need to know or do that would probably never even think of on your own. Just take the class.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Toby Crow — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 22:44:45 -0000

My two cents on motorcycles directed to the curious "pre owners".
1.) Buy a used motorcycle first. The size according to your bodies frame. I'm a bigger guy so I chose a 650cc Suzuki Boulevard S-40. Earlier in the comments it was mentioned about a Suzuki Savage 650cc which are the earlier S-40s. Anyways, check out the motorcycles online community like, for example, suzukisavage.com and see what the riders are saying. Did you know they now make a 650cc scooter. Check out burgmanusa.com. ---I'd like to test drive one. I went from 650cc to 900 cc and now 1520 cc Honda Valkyrie.
2.) Don't skimp on protective gear. DOT or Snell approved helmets always. Dress for the crash. The other pieces of gear are worthy investments too.
3.) As you look around you'll see motorsize bantered about as cubic inch or cc's interchanged. A general rule of thumb is 1 cubic inch is 16.5 ccs.
4.) Take a MSF approved safety course! It will save your butt some grief and pain.
5.) Motorcycle riding is an awesome way to clear your mind...maybe due to concentrating on the ride itself.
6.) Shiny side up and rubber side down.

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

john — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 23:55:51 -0000

three considerations to buying a bike 1) sit on a lot of different machines, comfort is king, 2) safety, if both feet don"t touch flat on the ground you will drop it at an intersection sooner or later, 3) price, consider the insurance cost and maintenance cost as well as the payment. the tires alone for my triumph rocket III are $600 a set and that doesn"t include mounting and balancing, but what a ride!!!

Re: How to Buy Your First Motorcycle

Good First Motorcycle — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:03:33 -0000

I'm Looking forward to what technology brings to motorcycles. There is already motorcycles that have functions that change the driving style of the bike, like sport and commuting. Sure motorcycles have gotten faster, but not as many advances as their 4 wheel counterparts.