Looking for a Used Motorcycle
 

Well, since my car "died", I've been a pedestrian for some time. I'm sick of the bus, and it's time for some wheels. With gas prices at an all time high I figure that a good economical choice would be a motorcycle. Only thing is, I don't know much about shopping for bikes. I know that cc is the size of the engine, but that's about it. My budget is about $1,000. I'm checking out eBay at the moment, and it looks like that will get me a used dirt bike. What are some brands that you guys recomend?

Check out your local Craig's list... there are always listings for motorcycles in Toronto.

It sounds like this is your first bike, so I'd stay under around 650cc or so, even 500cc is more than you "need" for a starter and there are plenty of bikes in that midrange size. I would say that most of the Japanese cycles in that size range are pretty good and reliable, so get what you find in good condition and a decent price deal; Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki.

I agree with BadNick. 500 CCs or less gets you a few advantages. Low weight, which is pretty important when you are learning, and amazing gas milage if you can keep out of the throttle. I have a little problem with that my self. Easier to steer, and pick up when you screw up. Can't hardly go wrong with any of the Japanese bikes. Rugged, dependable, easy to find parts, and information all over the internet on fixes and mods.

Four cycles have more parts, valves and all, and two cycles may or may not need their oil mixed by hand. Two cycles also sometimes irritate folks a little more, the sound can really get high pitched and loud.

Let us know what you come up with.

Check out the Yamaha SV650. It gets frequent accollades for being a bike you can learn but that can still be fun for an experienced rider as well. Used ones are pretty reasonably priced.

I suggest one of the smaller honda bikes for that price and for a bike to learn on. Honda has always made good products and they seem to run forever and lots of people buy them ride htem a few times and park them for a few years then sell them off cheap.

Wow, 500cc. And here I thought I was getting a good deal with 80cc dirt bikes :) I did check out craig's list, and found a few good deals at around $500. Now I just have to get through some red tape that's in the way of getting my bike licence...

Thanks