What is a good starter motorcycle for very new rider?

Question

I took a motorcylce class over the summer. We practiced on dual purpose and honda rebels. I am tall and thin any suggestions?

Answer 1

Ride a few, and see what you think. I ride a 500 single Yamaha that's fun, but I have a Honda 4 cyl. drive-shaft bike for when I'm going somewhere.

Answer 2

Often, the dual purpose bikes are pretty good for tall riders. A Kawasaki KLR650 is one good choice if you need enough power for the highway.

I'm 6'2" and do not like the riding position on most cruisers. So I now ride a Suzuki GS500F, which fits me pretty well. There's a couple other 500 cc and under sport bikes worth checking out if you like that style.

I wouldn't recommend more than 50 hp for a beginning rider - my first bike was about there, and I still remember that it was kind of scary to ride for the first few weeks out of the motorcycle class. A typical 600 cc sport bike has around 100 hp - I wouldn't have wanted to deal with that kind of power while I was still getting the hang of shifting and cornering.

My advice is to go visit a couple motorcycle dealers, sit on a few bikes (keeping that 50 hp max rule in mind; too many dealers will simply try to sell you what they can get the most commission for), and see which ones you find the most comfortable. Only you can decide what fits you.

Answer 3

Hello there,

You didn't mention your age or what type of riding you are wanting to do. I see that you practiced on dual purpose bikes suggesting to me that you are interested in dirt and or trail riding.

To start out as a new rider, I would suggest a four cycle engine in a dual purpose or dirt bike of your choice. My preference over the years has been Honda. Honda and other manufacturers now have four cycle racing motorcycles. I would shy away from these highly tuned bikes for a while as they can be difficult to start when hot and also require frequent valve adjustment. This valve adjustment should be performed by a dealer unless you are experienced or have a buddy who understands this process.

A four cycle engine needs minimal maintenance, starts easily (usually), and with proper care, will run satisfactorily for a long time.

Enjoyh your self

Answer 4

as one answer said fit of the bike to your build is very important. can you touch the ground easily with your feet flat on the ground while holding the bike up? some short leg people find a lot of bikes that are to wide across the tank to be able to do this.
are the handlebars too close or too far away? there is some adjustment here but a bike with a short "reach" to the bars can be hard to lenghthen and may be a bit more difficult to control.
the easiest bike to ride for a beginning rider are usually four stroke twocylinder street bikes between 250 and 500 cc. the honda rebel seiries is a good example of these but may be abit small for riders of larger stature. check your local dealers or ask your freinds if you can sit on their bikes. be sure to ask first as some riders get very upset if you just climb on without permission.
if you havent take one, take a beginners motorcycle riders course. they have bikes to use and will help you select the fit.

Answer 5

I recommend u get a used dual sport jap bike to learn on. After you have done all the stupid things all new riders do when learning you want be out much money. After some quality time on that bike you will be more qualified to make a decision on what type street bike you might want but still keep that first street bike under 600cc IMHO

Answer 6

My first bike was a Yamaha Virago 750. Hands down the best bike I have ever owned. However, after I short while I found myself wanting a larger motorcycle (I am 6'2").

Answer 7

I was a new rider, got what I wanted. learned on it. Never had to worry about wanting larger or better etc. I LOVE my bike. 1100 yamaha. I am a short, chunky old grandma. Every bike has its own feeling, have to learn on each one anyway, just get what you want and go for it sonny.

Answer 8

Suzuki SV650 or Ducati Monster 620.

Answer 9

Honda.

Answer 10

Honda VT600-C Shadow VLX.