Goblin on 15/2/2006 at 09:40
I'm going to buy a motorbike, and soon. With fuel prices these days, and the cost of decent cars, a bike seems a viable option. Plus I can look tuff. In two weeks I'm taking a two-day rider course that will - G-d willing - grant me a Learner's Permit, enabling me to buy a bike within a restricted engine displacement limit, and ride to work every day.
Now, getting a few thousand dollars in a personal loan from a bank will be easy, my credit rating has pulled up out of the mud to a respectable level. So I'm looking for some advice on a first bike.
Until full licensehood (after 3-4 years of learner's permit and probation license) I'll be restricted to a maximum 260cc engine. I want my first pair of wheels to sit close to that limit. Speed doesn't interest me, but acceleration is vital. Aesthetically, I lean toward a chunky cruiser. Must look kickass and have saddle-bag room on the sides.
The <a href="http://www.wima.fi/kuvat/myyntijblom.jpg"> Yamaha Virago 250</a> seems to suit my needs admirably.
But not knowing much more than fuck-all about motorbikes, I am open to suggestion.
After full license, I'm looking at a <a href="http://www.mcnews.com.au/Wallpaper/Triumph/Speedmaster/2004/Speedmaster_Blue_1024.jpg"> Speedmaster</a>.
So, any of you with some riding experience, share some tips and tales on what to buy and what to do with it.
PigLick on 15/2/2006 at 09:55
I know a couple of people who (once) rode bikes. After a few hairy incidents they gave it up and went back to cars.
TBE on 15/2/2006 at 10:10
Are you able to get a 2 stroke street bike up to 260cc? Aprilla and Yamaha had some 2 strokers that were pretty nice. Are you looking new or used? I've ridden a Kawasaki Ninja 250 and it seemed like an over powered moped. The 2 stroke 250 motorcycles have about the same horsepower as a 500cc 4 stroke motorcycle, with less weight. On a lessor note, Honda makes the best Japanese small size engines, I think. I've owned Honda motorcycles, and Suzuki motorcycles. Honda always was smoother and more reliable.
The Yamaha Virago series are nice bikes, I don't think you could go wrong with buying one since you're limited to engine displacement. After your small size license is over, you should get one of these (
http://www.bosshoss.com/view_bike.asp?x=BHC3502&CID=849217037.956051) motorcycles.
st.patrick on 15/2/2006 at 14:22
I'd go for H-D Sportster, but the engine's about 3.5 times bigger than you'd be allowed (883 cc). So, no help there (unless you want a full licence).
Komag on 15/2/2006 at 17:25
I just want to say motorcycles are great. That's it, just that they're great. Get one. :thumb:
Ghostly Apparition on 15/2/2006 at 17:29
A motorcylist was killed on the highway this morning on his way to work.
He won't be paying high prices for gasoline anymore though.
Scots Taffer on 15/2/2006 at 22:56
Fact: Many insurance agencies will offer cover to a driver with vehicular felonies to his name on any type of high-powered four-wheeled vehicle.
Fact: Many insurance companies won't touch motorbikes with a fucking bargepole.
Think about it.
harley on 16/2/2006 at 01:35
My advice! Buy a Harley. Get loud pipes, drive like everyone is trying to run you over. They really are. Seriously. they are trying to hit you. Pretend everyone is going to to pull out in front of you or cut you off. They won't be able to see you either. It sucks but riding a bike is awesome. You'll love it. I know this doesn't help your question about what to buy but it is some advice you do need. Also, don't buy a scooter. Peroid. I mean the little ones like less than 50 cc or less than 150 cc. They are real pieces of junk.
I think you would like the Virago. I'm not a big Yamaha fan but i do like the Virago's. Enjoy.
