Usually, the best way to go about this is to try on motorcycles like clothes. Dealers won't mind if you come in and sit on the bikes if you ask permission first.
I have four rules for a good first bike.
1. Don't get a bike that is so heavy you can't pick it up if it falls over.
2. Don't get a bike that is so tall that your feet can't sit flat on the ground when you're sitting on its seat. A more experienced rider will have an easier time when they can't do this, but for a beginner this will give you a lot more control.
3. Don't get one with more power than you can control. A 100 hp 600 cc supersport bike is usually a bit much unless you've had a lot of practice with motorcycles.
4. Get a bike that fits you.
Different bikes require very different riding postures and have different amounts of comfort for different riders. You'll want one that fits both your body and your personality. But with a lot of bikes to chose from, you're more likely to have a problem of having too many good choices than not enough.
2006-11-19 09:12:03
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answer #1
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answered by Mad Scientist Matt 5
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This is a simple question with a myriad of different answers.
You really need to sit down and ask yourself some questions regarding the following :
Needs - what do you need the bike for ? is it a practical purpose like daily communting, will it be your principle mode of transport, is it just going to be used for a toy and bought out only on weekends?what accessories ( like panniers) do I need.
Limited capacity - if you are a learner many countries have limitations on the capacity learner bikes can go to. This is usually aroung 250cc
Cost - this is not just the purchase price but the ongoings like tyres, insurance, maintainance and fuel. It is all well and good to get a high speed motorcycle but these usually cost more to maintain as they need to be kept in tip top shape for maximum performance. if the bike is a daily commuter then you probably dont want a big *** tourer that guzzles fuel.
What have you seen - check out your local bike shops and see what is on offer, also get bike magazines from your newsagent and read up on some of the roadtests. What bikes have you ridden or been a pilion on.
One size fits all? - this is untue and not everybody can ride anybike, tall people can have trouble with low wheel base bikes as can short people on trail bikes. Good rule of thumb is that you can put your left foot flat on the ground while your right is on the rear brake pedal and you are holding the hand grips. In this position you are neither stretching or crouching.
Finally - brand - this is significant to some and not others, I know many riders who will only by BMWs because their history of BM ownership has been positive, likewise there are also Honda owners who say the same thing.
A good place to go is some of the riders clubs around usually marques will have a local marque chapter like Honda riders Club, Suzuki riders club , there are also associations where riders meet and that is a good place to talk bikes and experiences.
It is worthwhile to take your time and think carefully about YOUR needs and what suits YOU as regard to a bike.
Remember that the decision you make is one you will have to live with for some time so dont rush ahead.
best of luck and good riding.
2006-11-17 20:14:09
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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The key is to be comfortable. Buy whatever you like.
If you are uncomfortable on the bike, you will not be able to control it fully. If you are at ease, you can concentrate without distraction. I started with a 360cc twin, moved up and down through different sizes, brands and styles and now ride a 1450cc HD. And I'm still the same size and weight as when I first got on a bike. Size really doesn't matter.
2006-11-17 20:04:10
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answer #3
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answered by Firecracker . 7
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It depends on what sings to you. Standards are the new "street fighter" bike, and I would love to have an Aprilia Tuono in my garage right now. Choppers are beautiful, and I admire the work and creativity that goes into them greatly.
But for my dollar it has to be a sportbike (or "crotch rocket" if you will). I want a bike that goes fast, corners fast, and handles at the speed of thought. I want to ride a bike that will act as an extension of my body and "disappear" beneath me when I ride it.
No matter what cruiser people say, there is NO substitute for the speed and agility of a sportbike.
So make a choice based on your personal tastes, riding style, and wallet.
2006-11-18 11:35:44
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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Almost any size person can ride any size bike. What are you looking for--a touring bike, cruiser, croth-rocket, or something else? I currently ride a Gold Wing, but my first bike was a 650.
2006-11-17 19:40:42
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answer #5
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answered by Nelson_DeVon 7
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i dont know about you but i dont care for those crotch rockets. so when i get one (once i have saved enough money) im going to get a chopper.
2006-11-17 19:39:42
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answer #6
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answered by Anonymous
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