What horsepower of motorcycle do you want to start out with, if you are a first timer?

Question

What horsepower of motorcycle do you want to start out with, if you are a first timer?

Answer 1

600 cc

Answer 2

Honda and Yamaha both have street bikes that are about 250CC. They're considered starter/learner bikes. I think Suzuki has one too.

Answer 3

Add some more details please, regarding what type of riding you want to do. Road / off road / location / age..... etc.

Many thanks.

Also, this is the racing section, you will get more answers if you post this in the normal bike threads.

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"Nick" has hit it on the head for the UK at least.

Vote as best.

Answer 4

Try a 650 or 700 I wouldn't go any bigger at first.

Answer 5

30-50 horsepower in a street bike.

Many people recommend a smaller bike to start with but you want to be able to take it on the highway, etc...

I don't think you have to go with a 600cc.  Many people like the Ninja 250 for example.  That's a great little bike.  40 horses can be quite fun with a light bike that revs to 11k.

Answer 6

for motocross if your young a 125 or 150 if your older maybe a 200 or 230 yammah

Answer 7

Depends where you are.

In UK, you don't have much choice since you are restricted to a 125cc ( maybe 14hp) until you pass your test then 33hp for two years.

In Uk, you can have the option ( depending on age) to take a Direct Access to Big Bikes training course. You will train on a 125 then a 500. If you then pass your test (on the 500), you have unlimited choice.( My first big bike was a Fazer 600)

Remember, horsepower isn't everything.

My 800cc BMW is only 55HP and will pull a train.

My Yamaha 600 is almost 100hp and pulls wheelies.

It depends on where you want the power, low down for torque and pulling power or do you want it to kick in at between 9,000 and 13,000 rpm and leave rubber on the road and skid marks on your undies!

You would be advised to learn on a smaller capacity, lighter machine, maybe up to 350/400 with enough horse power to let you cruise at highway speed ( 70mph). Anything slower than that is a real pain on the highway.

You will also be more comfortable with a lighter bike at first.

Whatever you go for.  Enjoy and be safe!