Best beginner sportbikes?

Question

I commute 200 miles round trip mostly everyday, sometimes I stay at our work site overnight. I am looking for a little more adventurous commute than my pickup. 100 miles of the commute is on Interstate I-70 between Grand Junction, Co. and Rifle, Co. Looking for advice on either the Ninja 250R or another smaller sporty bike. I have only rode a motorcycle a handful of times, and the price of a 250R intrigues me. All advice will be appreciated.

Answer 1

If you are driving 200 miles a day, you don't want a sports bike, you want a cruiser. It will be more comfortable and stable to ride, especially on the interstate. Get you something like a Honda Rebel 250cc or maybe a little larger. I think you will be pleased. I have a 78 Goldwing GL1000. It weighs a little over 600 lbs. The Rebel only weighs about 300. It has ample power and is heavy enough to ride pretty good. Be carefull out there man. Cars don't look for bikes.

Answer 2

I believe the 250R is not the right bike for a long commute.  Check out the Kawasaki Concours.  The bike has been around for since 1985.  Lots of accessories, good power, shaft drive, fairing, bags, and many owner clubs.  A piece of gear I would invest in is heated clothing.  We have the heated liner (jacket), gloves, and riding pants from Gerbing.  Couldn't be happier.  Has extended my riding season upwards to three months.  The alternator on the Concours will easily handle the extra juice needed for the heated gear.

Used Goldwings are another good choice,  The current 1800 model has been around since 2001.  Good prices to be had on a used one.  Plus the wing has cruise control!!

Good Luck and Safe Riding!!