best motorcycle questions?

Question

im looking at buying a dirt/street bike and i want to know what i should be looking for. what is a good engine size in cc's what else should i look at while comparing

if it helps im looking for a bike to learn on

and im a guy (just cant figure out how to change my avatars sex)

okay i figured out how to give my avatar a pp so disregard the last thing i said

Answer 1

If you want a real 'dual purpose' bike- then here's what i've found.

A 250cc is big enough for the dirt but not powerful enough for the street. 350cc is a good compromise, a little tougher in the dirt, but good power on the street. Anything bigger than that and you've got yourself a street bike that you can take on dirt roads, but not one that you can really toss around.

Look at the Honda CRF250 or the Yamaha WR250F, or similar offerings from Suzuki and Kawasaki. These are a class that are pretty suited to the dirt, but you can ride them on the street.

Answer 2

I became a new rider myself in May (street bike). I learned on a 250cc 2 cylinder as part of a RMV certified motorcycle license course. The first and foremost thing I was told was to get a twin or 2-cylinder as opposed to an inline or V 4-cylinder. The power curve (acceleration relative to how much throttle you give it) on the twin is much easier to handle for a new rider than with a 4 cylinder. Obviously being a guy, our male egos want something bigger than 125cc or 250cc. The bulk of new riders get something around 500-550cc. I've been told from a guy who has ridden a 500 and 550 that there is a night and day difference between them. I settled for a twin 650cc (Kawasaki Ninja 650R) myself and have no complaints whatsoever. I wouldn't suggest going over 650cc though because the 750cc have alot of juice, if they even make them as a twin. I would suggest a twin 550-600cc but the price difference and availability between 500cc and 550cc/600cc is quite a bit. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

I purchased a dual sport bike - a Kawasaki KLR650.
It can be taken off-road but will also handle highway speeds without a problem. Engines smaller than the 650cc would tend to struggle to maintain 70mph+ for any length of time.

The only downside is that the bike is very tall and it gets a little uncomfortable on long trips (~3 hours).

Answer 4

Just click your avatar, then click edit my info. You'll see where you can choose either a picture, no picture, or your avatar which will be checked. Next to it click 'edit my avatar'. Instant sex change.

As to your MC question, there is no bike that'll be great for both functions; each one takes away from the other in terms of functionality. They are totally different with respect to suspension, transmission, form and function. I'd either buy 2, or make a decision as to which type of riding you'd rather do for now and buy one suited for that purpose. Later, if you still want it you could get the other one and then each bike would be specialized for its particular purpose.

Answer 5

I dont know how tall you are but some dirt bikes are so high that unless you are 5 9 or more then your feet wont touch the ground.

If you are looking for general use without the freeway then I would look for a 125 scooter, maybe a Honda, as a good starter bike

Answer 6

The best factory dual-sport bike being sold today is the Suzuki DRZ400ES. There are other models, but not as versatile/affordable as the DRZ.

Answer 7

Take a look at the BMW 650 GS. (it has a low seat option as well) Very capable both on and off road. You can also dress it up for commuting/etc.

Answer 8

if u don't know much about what u r buying bring somebody with u that does. it makes a world of difference. also, make sure u can handle the weight of the bike too.