I am completely in love with the Kawasaki ZX-14. I REALLY want this bike. Is it a good choice for a first bike?
2006-11-12 15:35:18 · 19 answers · asked by Lisa W 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
You need to start with something a little bit smaller and easier to learn on... besides dirtbikes, I learned on an older Kawasaki KZ400 and it was about perfect for me size-wise and wasn't too heavy. And remember... just because a bike has fewer cc's than another bike, that doesn't make it slower either. I'd say start with a good little street bike around 350-400 cc, maybe something used or older so you don't have to worry about dropping it so much. Good luck!
2006-11-12 15:46:26 · answer #1 · answered by redrancherogirl 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Sure, go right ahead, especially if you're under 5'3". For the 500 feet that you manage to travel with it, I'll put money on the last 300 feet of that being you and the bike sliding on the asphalt!
Now wipe the sarcasm from your screen and listen up. Not only is a ZX-14 not a good beginner bike, there are a lot of experienced riders that wouldn't saddle up with one. It's like saying, "I just flew with my pilot's permit for the first time, is an F-16 jet a good first airplane? I REALLY like it!"
If your question is serious, please do a LOT more homework about motorcycles before you decide that you REALLY need a particular one. They are not toys, and they require coordination and skill closer to a jet plane than a car. ANYONE can drive a car and be safe, but a crash on a bike can be POOF- game over.
Take the link below to see people that thought they were ready. It's not there to shock you, it's there to educate, so spend some serious time there.
2006-11-13 01:16:48 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Start with a smaller (USED) bike. Something lighter like maybe a 400 no larger than a 600. I hope you already know how to ride. Do you have experience in the dirt or at least a few hundred hours of ride time? The street is a dangerous place to learn. Its more than your riding skill,but the ability to react calmly and quickly to the crazy and unexpected that you will face.You will go down(YOU WILL). That does not mean it will be tragic. That is why I suggest starting with a used bike, damaging a new bike is heartbreaking. Flesh usually heals bikes don't. Not to scare you or try to change your mind, but anyone who rides runs a very real chance of crashing,it's just a matter of when and how bad ,accept this fact and it will make you a better rider. Start with a smaller less expensive bike and when you out grow it move up. you will have a better idea of what you really want after riding a while.
2006-11-12 17:37:13 · answer #3 · answered by Hammer 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I am not familiar with your ZX-14 choice. But my first bike at your age was a Suzuki 500 GT. Very light, faster than my skill level was at the time, but I lived through it. I am over 50 now and had a very fast and pretty Goldwing in my garage, put up for the winter. THe best advice I can offer is to enroll in the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's basic and advanced saftey courses. They are available in most communities, and well worth the small price of the classes. Learnign how to ride safely is the most important aspect, collision advoidance is just as important. Enjoy riding, be safe, and write me back to let me know if you can't find the classes in your area. Good luck al
2006-11-12 15:43:22 · answer #4 · answered by Alan B 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I have the same problem, but instead of the Zx I'm in love with Suzuki's Hayabusa. I'm 18 and have never rode before, so I'm in the same boat. After the frost melts I'm getting something I can actually ride. If you want to see some cool videos go to www.uponone.com. Some of the stuff is crazy, but it's exactly what I would want to do with those bikes (and the experience). Good luck with your search!
P.S. The ZX isn't MY first choice, but I liked it too.
2006-11-13 04:50:57 · answer #5 · answered by chromecranium 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree a ZX-14 is a little much for a beginner. Start with a 600cc bike. If you like the ZX-14 look go with the ZX-6r. It is pretty much the same bike just less power. Trust me you can always step up once you get used to the smaller bikes. Just remember when you stop respecting the power it's time to stop riding....
2006-11-12 15:42:53 · answer #6 · answered by Troy D 2 · 2⤊ 1⤋
NO ! ! ! ! Unless you have a death wish ! The ZX-14 is one of the fastest bikes on the road and having never owned a bike before you need to start on something smaller . This is the voice of experence speaking . I have riden for 30 years .
2006-11-12 17:30:38 · answer #7 · answered by R L Y 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Please tell me you're not serious. HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND?? Perhaps you just have a deathwish.
No, this bike isn't for you. What you need is something with enough horsepower so you won't get bored, but plenty to get you somewhere as fast as you want to go. Go out and get yourself a Suzuki 650, or a Kawasaki ZZR 600. Something comfortable and quick.
Buying a bike that big with zero experience is like just about as stupid an idea as I've ever heard. Get yourself in an MSF Rider course, and don't worry about big liter sportbikes until you have major miles under your belt.
2006-11-12 17:19:22 · answer #8 · answered by vamedic4 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You will likely die on that bike, get a used Buell Blast and take whatever motorcycle course is offered locally.
The Buell isn't fast but it is easy to ride, the parts arent too bad WHEN you fall over, and if you get a used one and decide you want a better bike in a year or two you sell the Blast and buy whatever.
You usually find them fairly cheap too.
2006-11-12 15:47:23 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
hey for your first motorcycle i would go with a 400 or 450 any model of bike you like it will be cheaper on insurance too and then down the road if you want to up grade to a bigger bike then go for it but i'd get some exsperience with a 400 or 450 or even up to a 650 but nothing bigger then that for a starters bike i have friends one has a suzsuki gsxr 1100 with a 1260 bore kit its a fast bike and my other buddy builds custom bikes and choppers he just finished this one bike with a 1800cc harley motor man is it loud but its nice but any ways i hope this info was helpfull to you
2006-11-12 15:41:39 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋