My first street bike...?

Question

I am looking into getting a '97 CBR 600 F3. According to these forums a 600 is wayyyy to much for a beginer. However, this bike is cheap, it looks great, and when I do become more comfortable I will have enough power to be happy with. On top of that I have been riding dirtbikes since i was a little kid (4-5yrs old) and I'm a bigger guy (250lbs). However a street bike is a lot different and I don't want to get in over my head. I needsome advice...

Answer 1

Since you already know how to ride, the only thing you should be concerned about, is whether the bike is to big for you.
At 250 pounds, you should have the strength to control a light weight CBR600.
Sure it's got the speed of an F-14 fighter jet. But you don't have to use all of it's power the first time you get on it. When you graduated from a bicycle to your first mini bike, did you ride it as fast as it would go, the first time you got on it?
Moving from the dirt to the street isn't that big of a transition.
1) You know how to ride a motorcycle.
2) If you have a drivers license, you know the rules of the road and understand that you have to be aware of your surroundings.
http://www.amadirectlink.com/roadride/NewRider/index.asp
Surf the AMA web site. There's a lot of tips and articles about safe riding techniques.
The CBR600 has enough power, that when you get comfortable riding in the street, you won't feel the need for more speed.

Answer 2

If you understand that street riding is very different than dirt riding, the ability to keep a bike under control if it starts sliding will do you well. But a streetbike, even a '97 CBR, will get you going faster in 2nd gear than a dirtbike can achieve on top.

Don't listen to the squid that says you need a Gixxer 1000, and take the other CBR comments with a grain of salt. Hondas have a reputation for being great all-around bikes, and a 10-year old model will be good for you.

Just remember to wear all your gear, that the brakes will be FAR better than a dirtbike, and the throttle will rocket you forward FAR quicker than a dirtbike. Don't get in over your head. If you have any doubts, take an MSF course first.

Answer 3

Take a Motorcycle safety foundation endorsed rider's class. Whether it is at a vocational school or private run class. Dirt & asphalt are two totally different surfaces. They will teach you the proper way to handle eveyday situations and emergencies on a bike. All ya need is a MC temp license (written exam ) and they give ya a waiver to taking the State riding exam (one foot down and ya flunk) I took one back in Oct,and they taught this ol' dog a few new tricks. Then ya can figure out what bike is best for you. Good Luck & hopeto see ya on the road

Answer 4

You didn't mention how old you are now. The dirt is where you start and work your way up.If you made it past the 250cc range on the dirt you are probably allright with the 600 cc . Just ride the streets like no one sees you and ride with friends that have more experience until you build your confidence level. Hopefully you have riden 350 to 500 cc range to see where your at . I would do this first before you jump on a 600 cc or above .

Answer 5

Stay away from 2 cycle engines for the road. They can be a pain in the +++! The Honda is great! You will enjoy it.

I rode a home made Cushman. The frame was Cushman, and the motor was Briggs and Stratton! Then I graduated to a converted bicycle with a lawn mower motor. Next was a full dress Harley hog. (many in between) Then my last one was a Harley XLCH Sportster punched out, full grind cam, twin carbs. Hard to keep on the ground!

Answer 6

Suzuki gsx 600

Answer 7

If your weight is more than 180, the 600cc bike will be to small.
I suggest the 750cc or 1000cc, these you will not out grow, the 600 will become to small after 2 weeks of riding.

I suggest a Suzuki 750 or 1000 GSXR this is the best Sport bike for the money.

Answer 8

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