Motorcycles....

[PDub80]

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.

[Penn]

The first thing I recommend for someone wanting to learn is look for a class from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation http://www.msf-usa.org/. I know people who have ridden for more than 20 years come away from those classes saying they learned from it and it was worth the time and money (differing amounts depending on availability in your area). The first portion is classroom training then they take you out to the course on small 125 and 250cc "scooters".

Speaking of "scooters", if you want the social aspect get a minimum engine size at or above whatever people consider to be scooters instead of bikes these days (last I knew it was 500). However, if you don't care about that at all, the Honda Rebel is a great machine.

If you rode bikes a lot when you were young, you'd be surprised how fast you pick up on handling a motorcycle. If you have experience with a stick shift car that will also help in learning.

The MSF class I went to one of the instructors said you weren't and experienced rider until you have put up 10,000 miles in his opinion. I know I stayed away from interstates for more than just one exit to the next until I had 2000 miles. I could see doing your first bit of learning just in your neighborhood but you aren't going to get much real experience there after you can do things like handling a corner at 30 or more safely.

Last bit of advice. I have heard 2 ways of saying the same thing. Ride as if you are invisible to drivers in cars. Ride as if everyone is TRYING to kill you. The thing you will find when people know you ride is a lot of people will feel the need to tell you of someone they knew who died on a motorcycle. All of these stories I heard except one had one of 2 things or both in common. Either someone else didn't see them or the rider was doing something stupid. Both of these are in your control by way of safe riding. If you ride like you are invisible YOU see someone who may not see you and can be prepared for them to do the worst thing possible. If you get drunk and go out popping wheelies you're asking for trouble. It sounds like you are the type who will ride smart but this paragraph is worthy of stating.

Oh, and don't be offended if another biker doesn't give you the biker salute (left hand away from the body but down low with the palm toward the passing biker as if you are trying to give a "low five", I haven't ridden for more than 2 years and I still do that out of habit).

[*bfine32*]

Why not just get a scooter?

But if it must be a motorcycle; this sounds like what you are looking for:

http://www.suzukicycles.com/Product%20Lines/Cycles/Products/TU250X/2016/TU250X.aspx

Black and Orange

[Sabretooth]

There are so many non attentive vehicle operators on the road ( not motorcyclists ).
When I was actively riding , the most common problem was vehicles turning left in front of bikers ,which caused a crash.
Every time a bike collides with anything ( disregarding whomever made an error ), the cyclist loses.

[CKwi88]

(04-22-2016, 10:58 AM)Sabretooth Wrote: There are so many non attentive vehicle operators on the road ( not motorcyclists ).
When I was actively riding , the most common problem was vehicles turning left in front of bikers ,which caused a crash.
Every time a bike collides with anything ( disregarding whomever made an error ), the cyclist loses.

I ride considerably less nowadays, and this is my biggest concern. I did most of my riding in Vermont when I was in college. I could ride 100 miles and go 10 or 20 minutes without running into another person. I think I had one close call of someone pulling in front of me. I live in a much more populated area now, but I still get out.

I enjoy riding quite a bit. I'm still on my first bike (750 shadow) and considering getting a new one. But it's a sobering thought because even though I'm not worried about myself screwing up, all it takes is one distracted driver, or one that honestly didn't see you (cause it happens) to mess you up good. Takes a little bit of the peace away.

[fredtoast]

From the list you posted I like the Triumph. It has a classic look and plenty of power for what you want.

I have never owned a motorcycle. I have ridden a few, but I have never ridden enough to get really comfortable and relaxed on one. But all of my friends who own bikes tell me there same thing, you are most likely to have an accident when you are a new rider and just reach that point where you think you can relax.

[*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.

[PDub80]

Really appreciate all of the advice, guys.

100% agree on the safety courses being a must before buying or venturing out on a bike.

- The biggest major factor that gives me pause is that there are more distractions than ever for people driving cars (which are bigger and faster than ever before).

Good points by all. This is a dangerous subject and I absolutely value people's opinions and experience.

[Bengalzona]

I had a Honda 650 for a year or so. I traded a guitar signed by REO Speedwagon for it. Never learned to ride it. But I developed enough maintenance skills to get it running again. I'd start it up and just sit on for a few minutes every other day. Then I'd turn it off and go back in the house and play video games.

Life was better when I used to be single!!


BTW- I made a 300% profit when I sold it. I like motorcycles!