Has anyone ever transitioned from Yamaha dirt bikes/4 wheelers to street bikes?

Question

I'm a 20 year old college student. On a bit of impulse I bought a 2000 650cc Yamaha V-star Custom; I was looking for a car b/c my truck is just costing way too much to drive. I grew up on Yamaha foot-shift 4 wheelers and from time to time my cousin would let me ride is Yamaha dirt bike. I sat on this bike with it set as low as it would go and both of my feet sat flat on the ground. I also leaned it from side to side and was able to support the bike with one leg despite it being 750 lbs. It looks like it has the same type gear shift that I was used to on the 4-wheeler. I'm just curious, it's going to be hard enough transitioning from dirt to street. I'm hoping the shifting will be the same. Any advice on street-riding would be appreciated. Thanx.

Answer 1

You should be ok with it. The shift pattern is same as on a dirt bike, just in a different location. But remember, the street can be full of surprises. I would suggest to you to get familiar with bike before you hit the road full steam. Take it to an open, empty parking lot and get used to upshifting and downshifting the motorcyce. Practice turns and braking. This way you will become more comfortable on the machine. Taking a rider safety course would be a fantastic idea. They can teach you techniques ato better handle you motorcycle. I will supply a link below. Have fun on the road!

Answer 2

The shifting part will be very similar, maybe even easier do to the fact that it is much newer