Motorcycles....

[*Wyche'sWarrior*]

(04-21-2016, 07:23 PM)PDub80 Wrote: I think they are incredibly cool and appreciate all of the different types and kinds of bikes. Sport bikes, cruisers, cafe racers, etc. all have their own personalities. I would love to learn to ride one as a fun means of about town, casual transportation, and just a general life skill.

Not for long trips and I would NEVER take it on the high way... I have no interest in high speed or ultimate performance but more or less just enjoying the open, scenic way to get around on nicer days/nights. The places I would be going on this thing there is no way I would ever get above 50. Just... not... interested in that (I have sports cars for that - and they are safer!!!). While I cannot control anyone else on the road, I'm a super safe person when it comes to traffic safety, paying attention, and respecting others.

Given what I'm looking to use it for, any advice on bikes to learn on? Favorite brands? Etc? I see used 300s that seem like they would do the trick, but most of those are sport bikes and that wouldn't be my first choice. I am not sure if there's a bike that would be a strong long term learner? I'm not afraid of buying new, either. I have a neighborhood that is perfect to learn in. I would be happy taking the summer just practicing around the house where it's just 25mph.

Here's kind of my short list of possibilities...

My favorites are the old school looking naked bikes. They seem pretty laid back but capable and fairly drama free. Plus, they come with ABS, which I think is a strong safety feature.

Moto Guzzi V7 Stone http://www.motoguzzi-us.com/motorcycles/v7-ii-stone.html

Triumph Scrambler http://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/bikes/scrambler/2015/scrambler

Kawasaki Vulcan S (This comes in orange & black - WHODEY) https://www.kawasaki.com/products/2015-VULCAN-S-ABS

Honda CB500 F http://powersports.honda.com/2015/cb500f.aspx?&cid=main_reprise/google/LG_Motorcycle_Street_CB500F/LG_CB500F/honda%20cb500f&mkwid=sRekdWlff|dc_pcrid_51392384242_pkw_honda%20cb500f_pmt_p

BMW G 310 R http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/us/en/index.html


All of the above would suit my needs well. I really like the first 2 & the BMW best. The BMW is a 310 but, honestly, I think that could suit me just fine. So could the Honda. I have been watching a lot of motorcycle safety videos, riding tips, etc. just to continue to refresh good habits in my mind.

Anyway, I really respect motorcyclists opinions as they almost all seem so passionate about them. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated.

My brother in law has the Triumph Scrambler, and he loves it.  I've ridden it once, it's a great handling bike....fwiw.  I don't own one, but I had dirtbikes growing up, and have ridden several Harleys and a nice Yamaha cruiser.  I also echo the post about the safety course.  I took it as a free elective in college, there's no substitute for experience, but this helps.  I hadn't ridden street bikes before this, and I rode a Honda Shadow during the course.  The principle is the same, but it's a much different feel from that of an ultra light dirt racer.