What is a good starter bike for me?

Question

Next month, I will be taking riding classes given by the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles. After that, I plan on buying a bike.

I have seen that people should start small (125 - 500cc).

Her is my concern. I am a big guy (6'2", 275 lbs.) I don't want to look like I am swallowing the bike. Plus I don't want the bike working too hard because it is too small for my weight.

Will a 250 - 500cc work for me or should I go with a 600cc and just try to deal with the extra handling/ power concerns?

Answer 1

This will probably get me into trouble with the bikers, BUT, why not at least look at a maxi scooter (400cc and up)?  Hondo, Suzuki, Yamaha all have large, comfy, Interstate capable scoots that will take your weight and size easily, give a good ride and are very reliable.  You will have no trouble keeping up with, and out running cars from any red light, if you want that.  There is also the matter of built-in, secure  storage in the form of underseat and body storage that comes with the scoot for your rain suit, helmet, tools, groceries etc.

I personally ride a Q-Link Commuter which is a 2007 Chinese clone of the 1985 Honda Helix.  Will easily keep up with I-95 traffic and get 70-75 mpg.  Lots of people think "junk" when you mention "chinese", however if you buy from a "brick and mortar" store, and do your research on the machine of choice, you will be ok.  For more 'scooter info and forums try this link.

http://www.scootdawg.com

Answer 2

i am assuming your going for a supersport

ie the HONDA cbr 600, or kawasaki 635 you can get honda 500, kawasaki 250 (brand new model) or a honda CBR 125 - Yamaha 125

let me give you a simple break down.

125 if you get a good one your looking at 70mph max (more if you add after market)

250+ you are looking at a 33BHP + on most bikes these will get you up to 120 mph max,

600+ you are looking at 66BHP (which is the same output as a small car 1.2 letre) max speed as it makes no difference 160+ mph

My advice would be to get the 125 its a great learner bike + if you find out the biking is not for you its not too great an investment

But if you want to ride with the big boys, then go for what you want but make sure you buy a new set of leathers (full) and a 150+ pound (300 dollar) helmet, i can't say enough the problem with the big bikes is keeping that front tiring on the road, its not quite as simple as opening the throttle they are heavy and get up to speeds quick.

nearly 90 percent of all bikes come off in the first 6 months, the choice is yours weathers you want to learn it on a big bike or a small bike

p.s you can get the big bikes restricted down m something like 33BHP would be a good idea so that when you are more confident with you bike you can take it off.

Answer 3

This is a question that I answer all the time for people.

If you get anything under a 600 you will regret it. You will have to learn throttle control anyways. If you do get anything smaller then a 600 you will have issues with resale value.

Did you want a sportbike? Cruiser? Sport Touring?

Let me know what direction in which you want to go and I would be more then happy to let you know what direction. Actually I will do this

Sportbike - Suzuki GSX-R 600 or 750, Yahama R6 or Honda CBR 600RR

Cruiser - Suzuki Boulevard or Victory

Sport Touring - SV 650 or V-Strom 650

I hope this helps!

-Buzzy

Answer 4

OK you're big and you know it  so bike weight is not the problem.

If you get thru the learners class without dropping the bike get whichever bike you like, bikes speak to you pick the one you like, just because a bike CAN go 150mph doesntt mean it has  to. Look at your mini van in will go 100 but has never seen 80. Good luck and happy riding.

Answer 5

How about a cruiser? If yes, consider Hondas 750 Aero Shadow (shaft drive).

Answer 6

my first bike is a 2008 night rod special 1250....

never ridden any kind of motorbike nor did i have knowledge of riding standard but i am a fast learner so i have around 500 miles on it now and i use it to commute to work and gym or any place i need to get to

Answer 7

I'm going to say this again.

Go out and look at/sit on bikes. Determine your budget, what you want and then decide for yourself. There are plenty of used bikes with low mileage out there so you can pick up a decent sized bike without breaking the bank.

The only way you'll be happy is deciding for yourself.