ash9i2

Ok first of all I'm a rookie (to both motorcycles and the TFP). Here's what I'm thinking for a 1st bike.

I don't want to spend more than $1500. I'd like to spend less than $1000. Basicly what I would end up paying in interest if I financed a nice bike.

I'm partial to hondas for the durability, but I'm flexable.

Also where's a good place to find a used bike if the Atlanta classifieds and ebay aren't working. Thanks for the advice.

Spyder_Venom

Dirt bike or street? I assume your talking street... Old Ninja works great for a starter bike, if you want to go down that road.. as for the crusers I have no idea..


Dirt, YZ125

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IronDawgsMC

If you're talking about a street bike, there's really only one choice that comes to mind for the amount you want to spend. Look for the tried-and-true Honda 350. A '70s model 350 is easy to ride, cheap to buy (and insure!), easy to work on should the need/desire arise, and decent looking. I started out on one; it was super easy to pass the riding portion of the motorcycle test due to its size. They're also surprisingly quick for a little 350. You can get up to speed nicely, they sound good (that vintage twin sound never goes out of style), and they get sweet gas mileage. Best part is, once your abilities as a rider surpass the abilities of the bike, you can sell it to the next beginning rider for about as much as you bought it for. It kills me to see new riders buying rice rockets or high-end cruisers, just to lay them down because they can't handle the power/size of their new bike. Forget style and image, become a good rider first on a comfortable bike that will allow you to stay in control at all times. Once you feel comfortable, graduate to a bigger bike. That's my thoughts anyway. Anybody disagree?

IronDawgsMC

By the way, Spyder's right about a 250 Ninja being a great starter bike, but a lot of insurance companies will get dollar signs in their eyes at the first mention of "Ninja." If you can afford the insurance, the 250 Ninja is definitely a sleeker cycle than a 350 Honda, but if you're on a tight budget, you may want to double check with your insurance agent before buying a sport bike, no matter what size it is.

tfin

I second, third and fourth IronDawg's comments. I would also sugest a ninja 250. They are small ,light, and cheap. The only poblem with one of those is that they have lots of plastic to break.

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BooRadley

ash9i2

Yea, I'm looking for a cruser. I tend not to gravitate to sport bikes because of insurance, and I see alot of riders being unsafe and takeing unneccessary risks on those things. As for looks. . . if vanity were an issue I'd be spending more.

And yea I'm totaly looking for a learner bike now so that I can get experience (and save some money) for a nice cruser later.

tfin

Then if you want a cruiser look for:
250 Honda rebel
250 Yahaha verago
older honda 350

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Snakeyes

hell no

if you're new to bikes do not get a 2 stroke unless you're prepared for an assload of wrench time.. and general annoyance.

limebo

Suzuki GS500, or a Kawasaki EX500. both very cheap, reliable as a hammer and easy to ride. no plastic parts to break when you drop it. (and you will) and they've not changed in years, so prices are low. aftermarket parts are plenty available (if you like to tinker)

IMHO, a 250 is fine for around town, but you'll be hard pressed if you've got any highway riding to do.

Charlatan

Get yourself a Vespa!

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Catlord666

Trya Honda Magna 500 made in 1984 - 1985 great cruiser, wicked looks, very reliable I picked up a mint! one with 19k and it rides like new, also low insurance and only 63hp, fast but not to dangerous and flies on the freeway. Bought mine for a $1ooo even