Motorcycles!

[tunicata]

Hey there!
Against the wishes of family and friends...I'm going to study for my permit and eventually take an MSF course somewhere in Jersey.

I'm told when I actually buy a bike it could be a Harley Sportster (sp) 1200 or a suzuki 850?

I don't know what to get, and doubt anyone in their right minds would let a complete newb touch their bikes...(let me know if I'm wrong on that assumption and you want to show me some things ), but I'm told MS courses, while only 2.5 days allows you to get the feel of a variety of bikes.

So, if any folks are interested in helping me on this venture, if I have any questions, am randomly scared, etc just let me know!

It would be cool to get the permit and the course done by the end of the summer at least, if not have a bike available (or at least by next summer, to save up cash for a good used bike, because right now I wouldn't spend more than 2k TOTAL, so next summer or some time in the fall would be best for an actual purchase).

So, recommend bikes, I'm 5 ft 8 inches, 215lbs, generally strongish...maybe..., long arms and legs (relatively considering height), female body, large hands, medium finger lenght, good vision, I like structure and format that makes sense...lol, what else matters in a good ride?

I live in Newark, a city, and would like to ride it up to maine if possible once or twice. Would like to have the option of a passenger but not necessary!

 

[MikeyZO]

Most courses I've seen use crotch rockets to teach you. If you can find someone who has one of those Vesper type scooters, I would use that for my road test for 2 reasons. 1) much lighter and easier to control, 2) you dont have to worry about shifting gears cuz they are automatic. I should add that that will only work if NJ, as is NY, classifies those scooters as motorcycles. In other words, in NY if you qualify on one, you can leagally ride either.

As far as actual bikes go, I personally dont like crotch rockets. I much prefer touring style bikes, and I'm a HD guy. I'd say Harely all the way if you can afford it, and a Sportster 1200 is a good bike to start with. But if you would like a few other touring style options that have gotten excellent reviews, look just as nice as a Harley, but cost a fraction of the price, look into the Kawasaki Vulcan or the Yamaha V-Star. Great looking bikes for a lot less.

Anyone that I know who has driven/owned a HD would never go to any other brand. However those that I know who couldnt afford and went with the Kawasaki or Yamaha have absolutely no complaints. Hope this helps some.

 

[RyanG]

If you are looking into a sportster buy an 883 and before you ever fire it have the dealer install the 1200 big bore kit. Save yourself a grand or so.

 

[Chiefmcfuz]

www.mssnyc.com

I took the class it's great, you can use regular bikes, you get the insurance discount and a road test waiver.

 

[NYreefNoob]

any of these bike's, would be able to get a decent one if you can find and decent price, do a few thing's to it, stretch and rake the bike,chrome and paint for less than you would pay for anything else, plus they ain't slow :shhh: look those up but one's customized
http://www.oldkawman.com/

http://longisland.craigslist.org/mcy/708552833.html

 

[Chris5]

www.mssnyc.com

I took the class it's great, you can use regular bikes, you get the insurance discount and a road test waiver.

I also took the course with Kuyamark and Kaloy on here ... What a great experience. We all took it in the bronx and it was def worth it, every penny! I too never rode before and after the permit test and the MSF course I was ready to go out on my own. Things that I have realized about riding since last year when I first started 1. You have to be very confident while riding and aware, you cannot ride if your mind is not there... 2. The first week you ride you will be exhausted because you mind and body have to get used to the processing of information 50x faster than driving a car its quite interesting 3. It takes awhile to get used to leaning the bike on turns, trust me i am still not 100% yet...4. Never buy a bike in the summer the prices are higher, go for the winter....As for the bike I did things backwards tho in terms of buying a bike and bought a brand new '07 Kawi Ninja the first chance i got.

After a year of use and more experiences I have to say I love my bike but the posture really does get to you after awhile (sport bikes you ride low with an arched back and pressure on your wrists).

If you are serious about the venture I would look into a used or lower end bike and of course the best gear (helmet, jacket, gloves etc.)

Good luck and be safe.

 

[tunicata]

Cool, thanks for the info folks. I've been 'googling' these bikes back and forth for reviews, prices new and used, etc. Must say that it feels horrible to not really know what to make of the specs other than what someone tells me!
The Kawasaki and Vulcan are HOT though. I think I really like the classic look on all the bikes I see on the manufact. pages

Btw...what is raking and stretching a bike?

Cheif, unfortunately, my NYC license expired in Feb! Now I'm getting a NJ license hopefully tomorrow night so I can get my new tags for my car.

Btw, a motorcycle needs to be at least 250cc (not 249?) to drive on Highways

And, R., that oldkaw site, he's just breaking down those bikes right? not selling them?

 

[dmr2000]

this is raking and streching the bike the rake is the angle of the neck of your bike and streching is in your down tubes and backbone of the bike

 

[inkblue]

Free subscription to Motorcyclist magazine

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[JHOV2324]

When you finally get the bike, the best way to get good is use it everyday. Clear your mind and remain confident yet cautious when riding and always...always respect the machine. The hardest part is getting on and going past first gear..once you do that your free as a bird ....oh and most important Keep your helmet on

 

[ClosetFishGeek]

I have been riding motorcylces for over 20 years and love them. I love all motorcycles for what each one is made to do. With over 500,000 miles put on various motorcycles including on and off road I can tell you it is an amazing thing to do. Trama is a motorcycle school that will teach you all the basics and take you for your motorcycle test as well and they teach you on 250cc cruiser style bikes. Dont get caught up on the cc's to much....being comfortable with your riding position as well as your arms reach to the handle bars is way more critical. To recomend a bike is way to personal. go to various dealers and start sitting on them and getting a feel for what is comfortable for you. Also what is your intended use ? Cruise, bar hop, speed, tourer ? there are so many wonderful options...With regards to buying a bike...now is the time to get good deals......pm-with any questions you may have....I even organize drag racing schools and road racing(closed) schools. Good luck

Thane

 

[Chapz]

Hey there!
Against the wishes of family and friends...I'm going to study for my permit and eventually take an MSF course somewhere in Jersey.

I'm told when I actually buy a bike it could be a Harley Sportster (sp) 1200 or a suzuki 850?

I don't know what to get, and doubt anyone in their right minds would let a complete newb touch their bikes...(let me know if I'm wrong on that assumption and you want to show me some things ), but I'm told MS courses, while only 2.5 days allows you to get the feel of a variety of bikes.

So, if any folks are interested in helping me on this venture, if I have any questions, am randomly scared, etc just let me know!

It would be cool to get the permit and the course done by the end of the summer at least, if not have a bike available (or at least by next summer, to save up cash for a good used bike, because right now I wouldn't spend more than 2k TOTAL, so next summer or some time in the fall would be best for an actual purchase).

So, recommend bikes, I'm 5 ft 8 inches, 215lbs, generally strongish...maybe..., long arms and legs (relatively considering height), female body, large hands, medium finger lenght, good vision, I like structure and format that makes sense...lol, what else matters in a good ride?

I live in Newark, a city, and would like to ride it up to maine if possible once or twice. Would like to have the option of a passenger but not necessary!

Already thinking of riding up to maine and you didnt even pass the test yet. First think of passing the test. Then purchase an inexpensive bike and learn the motins and weight of that vehicle. Once you get that settled out, then u can think of trying to ride with a passenger. Dont get ahead of yourself. Good luck.

 

[Salty Dog]

this is raking and streching the bike the rake is the angle of the neck of your bike and streching is in your down tubes and backbone of the bike View attachment 42561

Honestly I cant find one thing that I would like about this bike, lets see harleys= slow, noisey, public disturbance, heavy, sloppy, and there break down rate is ridiculous.

 

[Keith P]

Honestly I cant find one thing that I would like about this bike

I have one, supporting America :usa1:

I just can't afford a Harley. I love vintage Japanese bikes. The looks of an old euro racer, but with Japanese reliability.

My commuter is a new GSXR.

I would recommend you get a cheap bike as your first. Under $2K.
The odds are you will get yourself into a "situation" within the first year or two and damage it. Also, look for a smaller CC to start with the plan of upgrading when you get a better idea of the type of riding you do and what your needs are.

Also, let's pass on a passenger until your get your skills and muscle memory up to par.

The MSF is great. I took it upstate. The waiting list in the metro area was ridiculous.

 

[Salty Dog]

I started with a Nija 600R,and whent up to a CBR 900R then the Yamaha R1 which was a total beast that took no prisoners...

 

[Timbo]

My first bike was a Yamaha R6. If you are more interested in having fun in the turns then get the street bike. Being that you live in the city it might not be such a good idea. Street bikes are made to go fast and power through turns. The cruiser is probably a better idea for city travel. Also, I have to agree with the fact that your back will get sore when riding a street bike for a long period of time. A trip to Maine on a street bike would be nice, but you will start to get uncomfortable after a while on a street bike. I miss my bike.

 

[Salty Dog]

ever hear the joke about Harleys ?

What do Vacumes and Harleys have in common?















































they both SUCK!

 

[Keith P]

I would recommend a standard bike as a first. Sport bikes are fairly uncomfortable and twitchy. Cruisers don't always have the best ergonomics for learning.
This was my second bike. $500 off of craigs list. I still own and love her (minus the ugly seat):

 

[seascape]

sooner or later youll do this.another expensive hobby LOL

 

[ClosetFishGeek]

Honestly I cant find one thing that I would like about this bike, lets see harleys= slow, noisey, public disturbance, heavy, sloppy, and there break down rate is ridiculous.

This is partially true. Older Harleys had many "issues" oil leaks, chattering, vibration, carberator issues, poor warrenty and lack of some power. I dont recomend an older harley for these reasons,(unless you are handy) however I do recomend a newer one...1996 and on. At this point efi was introduced(fuel injection), most had rubermounted engines(or an option) or counterbalanced motors, the gaskets and build quality was much, much better, and the power went up roughly 15%. In addition, there warranty plans were finnally up to par. The loudness factor i can say that it is an issue with all bikes. Most harley riders have loud bikes but this is a personel choice. If a rider wants to take the baffles out of his pipes and risk getting a ticket and setting every car alarm off its unfortunate but his choice. There is one pro to a loud bike....it can be heard and this is and can be life saving !!! In terms of harleys being slow...well the average harley with a 1340cc and up motor...which is the majority of the line will run 0-60 times in under 4.5seconds and 1/4 mile times in under 12.5 I dont know about you but this is pretty dam fast.....Yes "race bikes" are generally faster...and mine is way faster than my harley.....but remember all bikes are fast. Just my 2 cents...:splitspin