what do you think? I am getting tired of three projects that I dont make enough time for..

Ive been wanting a motorcycle for a while now and I'm thinking about getting rid of my whole pile of ford projects in favor of one running older motorcycle of some sorts... nothing over powered just a old smaller twin or big one lunger.

what are your thoughts on bikes and a good starter for a novice?
it has to have a low seat as I am kinda short in the leg department. I had a yamaha 400 spec II but it was too high for me and I didnt like it. any thoughts on what I might look for ?

 

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sorry Dennis, it was not my intention...

I was more interested in what people thought of the idea, and what type of bike they would recomend for me. the fact that I was thinking of tradeing my fords for one is not the big issue other than thats what I am thinking of doing IF I decide to. thanks for the heads up though. I will just post an ad for my stuff I geuss, thanx.

 

I edited it to make it allowed.

 

Suzuki LS650 Savage? One cylinder, sounds nice, looks better than most Japanese cruisers.

 

There was a thread just a few weeks ago about the same thing. Had a lot of good suggestions for starter bikes. Do a search and take a look. I would stick with a Honda, for dependability, and ease of getting parts. Around a 750 or so, but not too big. Small bikes are dangerous on highways especially with a passenger. If you haven't been riding for a while, go to one of the courses usually at the colleges or at some dealers for a refresher. Be careful and wear a helmet.

 

I rode for five years in my twenties. I think if I got another bike, I'd limit it to weekend cruising in the country. People in cars get rear-ended at stop signs, side-swiped, quarter panels mashed, etc. all the time through absolutely no fault of their own. The problem on a bike is that you are even less visible than a car, and you personally get a lot more damaged by what would be a simple fender bender in a car. In the five years I rode, several friends who also rode ended up seriously hospitalized for doing nothing more than being correctly stopped at a stop light. I myself came within inches of death on more than one occasion in city traffic. I recall one time, stopped in a four-lane road, I decided to pull into the next lane to pull ahead a car length - my rear wheel hadn't yet crossed the lane markers when a tractor trailer rear-ended the truck that I was just a half second ago stopped behind. Makes you believe in angels.

 

I have been riding for over 30 years. don_79 is right, it is getting bad out there. People just don't pay attention. They are pre occupied with cell phones, food, radios, the sale they are going to, the hot babe next to them or what ever, but they just don't care about the next person enough to drive carefully. Granted there are some real dumb bike riders that cause accidents, but they aren't killing anyone but themselves usually. but the cars and trucks are wiping out even good riders. You can't be too careful.

 

I have an '04 Suzuki Intruder 800, and I'd recommend that as a good starter bike. It has loads of power, but is still a very controllable bike, and it looks great! Keep in mind that many drivers on the road aren't looking for you, and that sometimes it's YOUR job to keep from being run over by some idiot not paying attention. I always ride like everyone's trying to hit me, and I haven't gotten into trouble yet.

 

You might want to look in to a Triumph 650, 1970 and down, they are pretty cool and a lot of parts are still available, check out ebay..

Mark

 

As mentioned in the other thread, take a MSF course if you can. If you do get a bike try practicing in an empty parking lot to get a feel for it. Also when considering a bike keep in mind that you will need gear, plan on at least $300 but its easy spend more. Helmet,gloves and a jacket should be the bare minimum with pants and good boots to follow. The most important thing with gear is buy good stuff. Alot of people use leather and its great for protection. Also alot of companies make "textile" stuff that is also good and will protect you. Stay away from mesh jackets they really suck. Now that I think about it the most important thing with gear is to always wear it. Sure the store or gas station is just down the block and around the corner,but it only take a second to get suited up. You can also do alot of reading on "defensive riding"
When pulling up to a stop light always leave yourself an out,watch the mirrors,bike in gear,clutch pulled in. If you are into cruiser type bikes the ones mentioned above are great starter bikes. If you like sportbike style bikes you can get a late 80's or early 90's 600 for around 1500-1800. Be carefull at all times,respect the bike and its power and ride like every one is trying to kill you