Motorcycles..

[Hoodzy]

Hey is anyone on the forum into bikes!?

I am looking to get a my first bike this coming spring. My buddy is selling his 1973 Honda CB350 and he has asked me to make an offer. I can't find any real prices for this bike. Any ideas what I should offer him? I saw a fairly nice one on ebay in the states for 860.. so I am assuming around 900?

[Kiyomi]

depends on the shape its in. do you want to buy it for showroom purposes or to ride it daily?

[peterm15]

Ask your buddy how much he wants for it an make an offer on that. You may say 900 and he was looking for 600. Depending on how good of a friend he may just take that 9.

73 is pretty old and probably needs an engine rebuild, at least top end. ( although relatively inexpensive on a Honda, old parts = higher cost. )

[p-o-g-i]

For a first bike, don't go with a '73. You don't want to spend money on your first bike, just to end up spending more to fix it.
Hey, I could be wrong.... this thing could be in mint condition.... but check it out first. If it looks like it needs work; walk away. Spend your money on something more reliable.

[Kiyomi]

imo, get a 2005 gsxr 600. best looking bike ever. :D

[Hoodzy]

Yah.. i've grown out of crotch rockets.. lol Don't need something that crazy for my first bike..
Any ideas of a good bike in the 1500 dollar price range? Preferably something 70's style with the flat seat. Triumph bonneville like.
Looking to drive it when the weather is nice.

[peterm15]

Yah.. i've grown out of crotch rockets.. lol Don't need something that crazy for my first bike..
Any ideas of a good bike in the 1500 dollar price range? Preferably something 70's style with the flat seat. Triumph bonneville like.
Looking to drive it when the weather is nice.

I have a Triumph bonneville hardtail Lol.

In the process of rebuilding it.

You could always look into a Honda rebel.

[vinnierap]

I agree with the above, I would not get such an old bike for your first. Its gonna require work and will be expensive to repair especially considering the parts will be hard to find.

Find yourself a newer bike (honda shadow, yamaha virago, suzuki boulevard) something 2000 and newer for a couple G's. You will be happier with the bike and it will at least last you longer.

[Pokaroo Kris]

This spring/summer I'm going for my M1 and M2. I thought about starting out with either a Honda CBR250R or a Ninja 205R.

Anyone else have or planning to get a motorcycle?

[stevenma188]

Have you looked into insurance? That's what's holding me back from getting a bike.

[Pokaroo Kris]

Not as yet, but I've heard it's usually cheaper than car insurance (correct me if i'm wrong)

[Booter22]

my gf (sharkbait) got her m2 last year. she also got a 2010 kawi 250R with 10,000 km i believe, with a 2 year warranty and in brand new condition. her insurance isnt much per month. i will be going for my m1 / m2 this year and looking for a newer good shape most likely honda 600RR ( just love it) was quoted last year for ins at a decent price.

[stevenma188]

Depending on your age, it can be significantly more than car insurance.

[Booter22]

Depending on your age, it can be significantly more than car insurance.

yea if you are under 25 and a male.. :bang it is expensive. but its mostly based on engine cc not so much year of the bike. but for the ladies of course it is cheaper. or after 25 is also cheaper.

[leecheefoto]

Plan to get m1 and get the Harley iron!

[Pokaroo Kris]

The 600RR I've always been a fan of! And I like the style of the 883 too

[The Wolf]

Once my car is paid off I'll be getting a little bike. Probably an old Honda CBR... Something I can make into something resembling a cafe racer

[bbbwood]

I have my M2 and started riding two years ago. It is awesome.

Currently have a 2000 Vulcan 800 and in the process of getting a 2012 GSX-650F. I'm a male approaching 40, so my insurance is excessive. Starting small is an excellent approach. However, the smaller bikes do not depreciate much, so expect to spend only slightly less than a new one if buying used.

I'm learning as I go as well, and there's lots of info out there. Take a look at GTAM, and in particular the newbie section, and I'm sure your questions will get answered.

[Pereira11]

i have a few tickets so my insurance quote came back pretty high. A lot of companies do not insure 600cc + bikes so double check with your company. State Farm seems to have the best rates.

i am looking at the 2013 Ninja 300. Seems to be a good balance in terms of fun factor and insurance premiums (in my case)

[bbbwood]

I have my M2 and started riding two years ago. It is awesome.

Currently have a 2000 Vulcan 800 and in the process of getting a 2012 GSX-650F. I'm a male approaching 40, so my insurance is excessive. Starting small is an excellent approach. However, the smaller bikes do not depreciate much, so expect to spend only slightly less than a new one if buying used.

I'm learning as I go as well, and there's lots of info out there. Take a look at GTAM, and in particular the newbie section, and I'm sure your questions will get answered.

Missed the 'not'...my insurance is not excessive.

[Booter22]

i have a few tickets so my insurance quote came back pretty high. A lot of companies do not insure 600cc + bikes so double check with your company. State Farm seems to have the best rates.

i am looking at the 2013 Ninja 300. Seems to be a good balance in terms of fun factor and insurance premiums (in my case)

andrew i can not believe they gave you tickets for assisting the elderly. fooor shame! :chuckle.. so what your saying is if i get a 600.. my bike will be the fastest? :D less lizz's buddys 1000? :(

[Pokaroo Kris]

andrew i can not believe they gave you tickets for assisting the elderly. fooor shame! :chuckle.. so what your saying is if i get a 600.. my bike will be the fastest? :D less lizz's buddys 1000? :(

LOL

But at my age(32) I'm not too worried that my insurance will be high or not. Plus, I'm registered in Newmarket where my (car) rate is almost rock bottom.

[Tokic_o]

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee319/tokic_o/600rr3.png

theres my current bike, have my M2 should really go get my M before it expires.

i started on a kawi ninja250 and rode that for half a summer and got bored. I'm 22 and I use state farm insurance my rates are kind of pricey but cheaper than the insurance some of you people here pay on your mazda3 per month (from reading through the insurance rate thread)

[ptfire]

Insurance can be extremely expensive for a young/new rider.
Here is my ride, old school now but still lots of fun and fast. i don't want to let you guys know what I pay for insurance so as not to discourage you. LOL. Old age has some benefits.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/100_1018.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/100_1019.jpg

[Aitch]

[threads merged]

[6strings]

Got my M2 in 2010, but certain unexpected issues held me back from getting a bike the year after. Now I'm just a useless license holder.
But for my first bike I was looking to get a Suzuki SV650, or a CBR 600. Two different bikes. I hope to get myself on the road before my license expires. I wouldn't like to do those tests again. Although getting the M2 was fun.

[Pokaroo Kris]

Where did you go for your M2 training?

[MPS]

go with honda


This spring/summer I'm going for my M1 and M2. I thought about starting out with either a Honda CBR250R or a Ninja 205R.

Anyone else have or planning to get a motorcycle?

[MPS]

150cc or 250cc is rly cheap to insure
my 250 is $377 a year
my Ducati 848 is $1150 a year


Have you looked into insurance? That's what's holding me back from getting a bike.

[PEPSIGIXXER]

Not as yet, but I've heard it's usually cheaper than car insurance (correct me if i'm wrong)
insurance for a bike is the same as for a car when it comes to where you live but the price for insurance really depends on the type of bike that you own and how many years you have had your license, I have a 2007 GSXR600 and its costs me approx. $130.00 a month over a year. I have a friend with the same year bike but pays close to 300.00 becuase he has only had his license for a short period of time and he lives in the GTA.

[PEPSIGIXXER]

Where did you go for your M2 training?
Humber has an amazing course. I took it many years ago and did a refresher there as well.

[Tokic_o]

Insurance can be extremely expensive for a young/new rider.
Here is my ride, old school now but still lots of fun and fast. i don't want to let you guys know what I pay for insurance so as not to discourage you. LOL. Old age has some benefits.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/100_1018.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/100_1019.jpg

your bike is really mint for a 1st gen!

are you in markham/richmond hill? I see a bike really similar to yours around east beaver creek plaza a lot (the blue R6 with white wheels)

[PEPSIGIXXER]

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj616/pepsicanca/IMG00020_2_zps6b8d5e6e.jpg
my 2007 GSXR 600. lightly modified
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj616/pepsicanca/IMG00053_2_zpsd44230e8.jpg
my work in progress.

[MPS]

this is my girls bike
http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/IMG_7146.jpg

[PEPSIGIXXER]

thats just pure sex on wheels right there.

[MPS]

not rly
mine is nicer

[MPS]

you can see it here in the back
not put together just yet but its coming along

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/E7AFDF50-F928-48D8-8933-FB46BCFA492A-2801-000000C574B01DF9.jpg

[EastYork3]

I'm also going to get my M1 this spring. Anyone interested in taking the course from RTI?

[ptfire]

your bike is really mint for a 1st gen!

are you in markham/richmond hill? I see a bike really similar to yours around east beaver creek plaza a lot (the blue R6 with white wheels)

No I'm not in that area, not sure if you noticed mine is an R1.

[peterm15]

I'm also going to get my M1 this spring. Anyone interested in taking the course from RTI?

Info on the course?

[PEPSIGIXXER]

I love the Ducati's, Im thinking about looking for a 848 but if I could afford a 1199R I would buy it in a heart beat and then have to listen to the wife bitch that Im spending all my money on stupid sh**..

you can see it here in the back
not put together just yet but its coming along

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/E7AFDF50-F928-48D8-8933-FB46BCFA492A-2801-000000C574B01DF9.jpg

[Pokaroo Kris]

Info on the course?

http://www.ridertraining.ca/courses_basics.html - for all the info

I was thinking RTI because they're cheaper. Just the distance from Weston road to there is the only bug for me. But hey, if you're down to go there, I will too. Maybe we can get a few other guys to go if they're interested

[Booter22]

my gf and her dad went through learning curves. peter i believe is who runs it. met him sunday at the bike show. she got a wicked good price was cheaper then the other courses she called.

[MPS]

I love the Ducati's, Im thinking about looking for a 848 but if I could afford a 1199R I would buy it in a heart beat and then have to listen to the wife bitch that Im spending all my money on stupid sh**..

why would you get 1199R
when you can have this sick ride

http://s1.aecdn.com/images/news/gallery/1080/bmw-hp4-becomes-available-on-december-1st-photo-gallery-1080p-28.jpg

[Pokaroo Kris]

my gf and her dad went through learning curves. peter i believe is who runs it. met him sunday at the bike show. she got a wicked good price was cheaper then the other courses she called.

I just looked them up. They're cheaper than RTI. But it looks to be a seasonal price

[6strings]

Where did you go for your M2 training?

Humber offers a good course, and they perform the M2 test the same weekend.

[peterm15]

http://www.ridertraining.ca/courses_basics.html - for all the info

I was thinking RTI because they're cheaper. Just the distance from Weston road to there is the only bug for me. But hey, if you're down to go there, I will too. Maybe we can get a few other guys to go if they're interested

I thought you said you live in Newmarket.
What location you looking at? Where do you live?

[MPS]

Humber is a better course
plus you can write it off

[EastYork3]

How can you write it off?

RTI is closer to me and during the road course you can go to T&T for some cheap dim sum! Yeah!

[MPS]

its a college course
and not some third party driving school

[Pokaroo Kris]

I thought you said you live in Newmarket.
What location you looking at? Where do you live?

PM'd

[Pokaroo Kris]

How can you write it off?

RTI is closer to me and during the road course you can go to T&T for some cheap dim sum! Yeah!

Sweet. Where's T&T?

[Pokaroo Kris]

you can see it here in the back
not put together just yet but its coming along

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/E7AFDF50-F928-48D8-8933-FB46BCFA492A-2801-000000C574B01DF9.jpg

That looks really nice

[Marta]

you can see it here in the back
not put together just yet but its coming along

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/E7AFDF50-F928-48D8-8933-FB46BCFA492A-2801-000000C574B01DF9.jpg

Impressive!

[PEPSIGIXXER]

I am not a huge fan of BMW's there nice but I love the look of the ducati's and the sound they produce.

why would you get 1199R
when you can have this sick ride

http://s1.aecdn.com/images/news/gallery/1080/bmw-hp4-becomes-available-on-december-1st-photo-gallery-1080p-28.jpg

[Pokaroo Kris]

What about one of these bad boys?

http://www.ultimatemotorcycling.com/files/2013-suzuki-hayabusa-gsx-r1300r-abs-preview%205.jpg

[MPS]

^^^ its like dating a rly fat chick

[2012speed3]

my gf and her dad went through learning curves. peter i believe is who runs it. met him sunday at the bike show. she got a wicked good price was cheaper then the other courses she called.

:chuckle Have fun with that! Peter doesn't run Learning curves he likes to act like he does but he doesn't. Him and his wife do a lot of the teaching and to be honest his wife has no business teaching motorcycle safety. I know they are a bit cheaper but it's worth the extra cash to take a course at Sheridan or Humber.

[2012speed3]

What about one of these bad boys?

http://www.ultimatemotorcycling.com/files/2013-suzuki-hayabusa-gsx-r1300r-abs-preview%205.jpg

Big, heavy, slow to turn, a b*tch to stop, IMO an old mans bike.

[2012speed3]

you can see it here in the back
not put together just yet but its coming along

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/E7AFDF50-F928-48D8-8933-FB46BCFA492A-2801-000000C574B01DF9.jpg

That a 848? Forged wheels? Ohlins R/T forks? Looks like a nice piece!

[Booter22]

:chuckle Have fun with that! Peter doesn't run Learning curves he likes to act like he does but he doesn't. Him and his wife do a lot of the teaching and to be honest his wife has no business teaching motorcycle safety. I know they are a bit cheaper but it's worth the extra cash to take a course at Sheridan or Humber.

this may be true. i havent taken any other courses. or any at all yet. but they both got the m2. lizz got her bike and rode it a bit last year was very happy and confident. her dad recently purchased a bike at the show last weekend as well so it should be a good up coming season. i would suspect i will go to learning curves based on the recomendations from the two of them and the price ive been told. just preference. plus i think at sheridan or humber you are limited to dirt bikes where at learning curves they have the 125 ninjas, 250s and a few other bikes as well.

[MPS]

+1


:chuckle Have fun with that! Peter doesn't run Learning curves he likes to act like he does but he doesn't. Him and his wife do a lot of the teaching and to be honest his wife has no business teaching motorcycle safety. I know they are a bit cheaper but it's worth the extra cash to take a course at Sheridan or Humber.

[MPS]

ic u know ur bikes
its full Ohlins FG front TTX rear 30mm triples Ohlin damper
full race termis system
the works =)


That a 848? Forged wheels? Ohlins R/T forks? Looks like a nice piece!

[MPS]

dont expect to have a nice bike for the course
they have all been crashed
and dont rly function well
you will be lucky to have brakes lol



this may be true. i havent taken any other courses. or any at all yet. but they both got the m2. lizz got her bike and rode it a bit last year was very happy and confident. her dad recently purchased a bike at the show last weekend as well so it should be a good up coming season. i would suspect i will go to learning curves based on the recomendations from the two of them and the price ive been told. just preference. plus i think at sheridan or humber you are limited to dirt bikes where at learning curves they have the 125 ninjas, 250s and a few other bikes as well.

[Booter22]

dont expect to have a nice bike for the course
they have all been crashed
and dont rly function well
you will be lucky to have brakes lol

i havent heard anything bad about the bikes. ive seen what they used when my gf went for hers on the first day. they were in decent shape for a training program. but they all functioned well and had brakes. soo... no sure how they could teach you if they didnt function or have brakes. but we will see if / when i go to them in the spring.

[MPS]

try to do it in the spring
summer is a bit to hot for that
you spend the whole day riding in the sun in gear
no brakes well small lunch

[rukus]

i've been involved in setting up fleets for bike courses, and they are almost always in great shape.

mamy years ago there was issues with junk, as the courses had old/used bikes, but nowadays, its different

all the main rider programs keep very close tabs ont he condition of their bikes. they want you to succeed.

and yes, peter just thinks he runs LC

[Pereira11]

i took the Sheridan course (Oakville campus) they had mix of dirt bikes and Honda CBR 125s. I rode the 125 its a great bike for basic learning

[Pokaroo Kris]

So how many of us are considering doing the course this spring/summer?

[Booter22]

So how many of us are considering doing the course this spring/summer?

I've thought about it

[brucewayne]

So how many of us are considering doing the course this spring/summer?

hmmm

[Pokaroo Kris]

I say we do it up. I doubt there will be any group rate at humber, but still.

[peterm15]

If I'm in the province, I'm in.

[Pokaroo Kris]

Cool. Let's work out a date.

[peterm15]

Cool. Let's work out a date.

A little to early for me to commit.

I might be in Alberta by then.

[2012speed3]

It's been a couple years but I still may be able to help you guys arrange a group rate at humber if enough of you are interested. I still have a few contacts from my riding/ racing and teaching days.

[brucewayne]

here's a link to a bunch of course providers. and that site has pretty cheap insurance. a few hundred less than what td online quoted me.

http://www.ridersplus.com/motorcycle_rider_training.php

[Pokaroo Kris]

It's been a couple years but I still may be able to help you guys arrange a group rate at humber if enough of you are interested. I still have a few contacts from my riding/ racing and teaching days.

If you can get some info, that would be great. Then start up a group buy....or group class...

[Pokaroo Kris]

I just checked the humber website. The earliest courses that they offer at the moment are in April at the cost of $525.45

Sheridan's start in April as well, but the cost for them is $499.00

Centennial starts in April, and costs $470 (including tax)

[EastYork3]

RTI downtown starts end of March and costs $420 + tax

[Pokaroo Kris]

RTI downtown starts end of March and costs $420 + tax

About $4 more than Centennial.

I wonder of they will do a group rate though?

[alhope34]

I organized and lead quite a few rides all over the province last summer. Average for a day ride would be around 1000 kms. If anyone wants to ride some fun roads this spring/summer let me know. A few of my routes are pretty basic but some of them can be quite technical and challenging, even for people who think they know what they're doing.

[brucewayne]

About $4 more than Centennial.

I wonder of they will do a group rate though?

rti has a lot of locations... i think they would be more likely to do a group rate of some sort. ill probably end up going with them.

[Pokaroo Kris]

I organized and lead quite a few rides all over the province last summer. Average for a day ride would be around 1000 kms. If anyone wants to ride some fun roads this spring/summer let me know. A few of my routes are pretty basic but some of them can be quite technical and challenging, even for people who think they know what they're doing.

What do you ride?

[2012speed3]

What do you ride?

Something comfy! 1000km can be a bit painful on a SS

[bluntman]

Getting my motorcycle licence is something on my Bucket List.

[MPS]

^^^
you work at the license office
just go and make one lol

[peterm15]

^^^
you work at the license office
just go and make one lol

GB?

[bluntman]

^^^
you work at the license office
just go and make one lol

hehehe, not anymore.

[alhope34]

What do you ride?

2009 Yamaha FZ6R.

Also about supersport being uncomfy, that isn't necessarily true. I've gone on a 1200 km day ride before with two of the guys riding supersports. One was a GSXR600 and the other an R6. Just lay down on the gas tank. I do that and also put my feet back on the passenger pegs so I'm stretched out nice like I'm flying on long stretches of highway. I generally ride either the 401 or 400 for 3 hours or so to get to some fun roads. The worst ride I ever had was about 13.5-14 hours on my buddy's ninja 250. Hardest seat ever, but then I was 265 lbs at the time. Sometimes I ride with a tiny 5 foot tall Chinese girl with a lowered 250 and even a shaved seat. She doesn't have any problems on longer rides though, I'm assuming because she can't be much more than 100 lbs.

[2012speed3]

I've done Deals Gap to Brampton only stopping for water and gas in 14 hours on a 2010 R1, with dual undertail pipes and it was pretty rough!

[alhope34]

Yea, that's a pretty long ride for that bike lol.

[Darkice]

me to let me know if u do
I've thought about it

[brucewayne]

so is anyone in or what??

im on gtamotorcycle.com if anyone is interested.

[Pokaroo Kris]

Unfortunately, I'm out on this one. I'm moving to Edmonton in April :(

[JonsMazda]

How fast is a 124.4cc?

[Tokic_o]

I'm selling my current bike in the upcoming month.

2004 Honda CBR600RR Black with 35K km.

PM me if interested

[Pokaroo Kris]

How fast is a 124.4cc?

That's basically a beginners bike. In terms of comparing it to a car, think of the equivalent to a yaris, mazda2, etc...

[Tokic_o]

That's basically a beginners bike. In terms of comparing it to a car, think of the equivalent to a yaris, mazda2, etc...

the bike is the size of a bicycle and the top speed i believe is 110km/h or less lol....

[JonsMazda]

Ooh, not bad for local riding.

[cSPEED]

Considering picking up a bike for the summer. Know nothing about bikes and have 0 experience riding. All I know is what I hear from my buddy who has a bike.

He got a 250 ninja which is slower than my current car (aka do not want). I am thinking of 500cc+.. is this a bad idea? He tells me over and over that it's too hard to learn on, etc. But I don't want to take his route and ride out a couple seasons with a 250 and then get a bigger bike, I'm thinking I'll have the bike for 1 season or 2 MAX. I plan on taking one of those courses where you get your M2 as well so I'll have training from that (2 days riding training). Is it as bad as he says? I mean.. I don't plan on doing anything crazy till I learn to ride it but according to him it'll be way too sensitive and hard to learn on.

Honestly, I really don't think it will be that and hes generally known as the 'safe friend' so I took his opinion with a grain of salt but would like some others opinions.

[rukus]

He got a 250 ninja which is slower than my current car (aka do not want).

apples to oranges, my friend.

[rukus]

He got a 250 ninja which is slower than my current car (aka do not want).

apples to oranges, my friend.

[cSPEED]

He gave me a ride. I was not impressed (and yes I did account for 2 people being on it), although fun I felt like it had absolutely no balls and would want something faster..

All I'm trying to say is, knowing myself, getting a 250 would make me want to get something faster way too quickly and I really don't want to go through the hassle of selling/buying within a couple months.

I'm trying to buy a toy more than anything and to me the 250 is not enough of a toy. I also have no problem with roughness/stiffness/vibration/loudness/uncomfortableness, you get the point.

[Hypothrml]

He gave me a ride. I was not impressed (and yes I did account for 2 people being on it), although fun I felt like it had absolutely no balls and would want something faster..

All I'm trying to say is, knowing myself, getting a 250 would make me want to get something faster way too quickly and I really don't want to go through the hassle of selling/buying within a couple months.

I'm trying to buy a toy more than anything and to me the 250 is not enough of a toy. I also have no problem with roughness/stiffness/vibration/loudness/uncomfortableness, you get the point.

Skip the 250cc, it's boring! I truely believe starting off with 600cc bike perfectly fine! :) I started off with a 600cc Yamaha R6 and now I ride 1200cc HD.

[cSPEED]

How hard was it to learn on? People usually greatly exaggerate these things

[Pokaroo Kris]

It just really depends on the person. My cousin's been riding a ninja 250 for a few years now. To him, it gives him what he needs, and he can still have a bit of fun now and then (tricks and stuff).
On the other hand, my friend from Florida started with a CBR600 :drool and will be selling to get a hiyabusa in a few months.

To each their own. But not matter what, if you take the riders course, they put you on a 250cc

[Skyhigh]

Best advice I got was to start on a low powered motorcycle (max 250cc). Why? Unlike cars, the more cc's on a motorcycle the faster a rider can potential get into trouble. Everyone should remember that they have their whole life to ride a motorcycle, don't cut it short by buying a bike that is too powerful if you're new to riding.

[peterm15]

I couldn't get a 250cc.

I grew up on bikes and 250 just Wouldn't do it for me. Although I would prefer not to buy a crotch rocket. Id kill myself.

[rukus]

i started off on a 600ss.
i learned a lot of bad habits.
i likes going fast, but i had no grace, no flow.
once i hit the track i relaized how bad a rider i was.
i sold the 600, bought a sport tourer 1000cc, and a ex500.
the ex was my "sport" bike. it helped me learn body positioning, braking, control, and most important how to be smooth. that 500 has been my favourite of all the bikes i have owned.

[Kinn]

He gave me a ride. I was not impressed (and yes I did account for 2 people being on it), although fun I felt like it had absolutely no balls and would want something faster..

All I'm trying to say is, knowing myself, getting a 250 would make me want to get something faster way too quickly and I really don't want to go through the hassle of selling/buying within a couple months.

I'm trying to buy a toy more than anything and to me the 250 is not enough of a toy. I also have no problem with roughness/stiffness/vibration/loudness/uncomfortableness, you get the point.

As a first time rider the concern really shouldn't be about how fast the bike is. It needs to be "on what bike can I best learn how to ride." While I agree the bike needs to have that fun factor it's more important that it matches your riding experience and style. While a 250 won't have that exhilarating acceleration it also means more time to correct your errors or think through problems...like the first time you find all that unexpected gravel mid-turn. It's not going to do stoppies but you less likely to lock up the front mid turn when you notice the bright brake lights in front of you.

Once you get into the 600cc bikes, especially the super sports, they create new problems simply because of their performance. You need to be smooth with these guys and that's generally not the forte of new riders.

The other thing to think about is crashing. You're going to. No matter how careful or delicate you are it's going to happen. It doesn't mean a huge 130kmph high-side and weeks in hospital crash. It can be as simple as dropping it because stalled out, or a slow low side when you lost traction on some coolant you didn't see. But you're going to drop it (wait until the first time you go 2up! Talk about a weird feeling!) More expensive 600cc+ bikes are equally more expensive to fix/repair. It's always best to get that first crash out of the system on something that isn't going to make you well up with tears.

Now I actually did start on a 600 but that was a 1986 FZ600 and it didn't have close to the HP you get out of today's 600s. I crashed that thing a ton of times and learnt what not to do. The lessons I learnt on it keep me out of trouble when I moved up to the 750 and the liter bike classes.

Your starter bike is about learning to ride and might only last a year depending how confident you are. But even that one season is an invaluable experience.

If your 6'5" and 260 lbs I wouldn't suggest a 250 but maybe a 500. If you insist on going bigger, I've thought that the Suzuki SV 650 might be a decent starter bike for a while now or something similar. You get decent size and power and need to be more aware of that but it's not in the SS category.

[MPS]

you rly think 250 is slow lol have a look here
and the new ninja 300 is looking rly good


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GX6R3iwKC6E

http://images.motorcycle-usa.com/PhotoGallerys/2013KawasakiNinja300FirstRide5.jpg


Considering picking up a bike for the summer. Know nothing about bikes and have 0 experience riding. All I know is what I hear from my buddy who has a bike.

He got a 250 ninja which is slower than my current car (aka do not want). I am thinking of 500cc+.. is this a bad idea? He tells me over and over that it's too hard to learn on, etc. But I don't want to take his route and ride out a couple seasons with a 250 and then get a bigger bike, I'm thinking I'll have the bike for 1 season or 2 MAX. I plan on taking one of those courses where you get your M2 as well so I'll have training from that (2 days riding training). Is it as bad as he says? I mean.. I don't plan on doing anything crazy till I learn to ride it but according to him it'll be way too sensitive and hard to learn on.

Honestly, I really don't think it will be that and hes generally known as the 'safe friend' so I took his opinion with a grain of salt but would like some others opinions.

[MPS]

my first bike was and still is a Ducati
but i still picked up a 250 just to learn on
they are easy to ride and fun

my Ducati is unpredictable and any twist of the throttle will give you that ohh shit moment rly fast


He gave me a ride. I was not impressed (and yes I did account for 2 people being on it), although fun I felt like it had absolutely no balls and would want something faster..

All I'm trying to say is, knowing myself, getting a 250 would make me want to get something faster way too quickly and I really don't want to go through the hassle of selling/buying within a couple months.

I'm trying to buy a toy more than anything and to me the 250 is not enough of a toy. I also have no problem with roughness/stiffness/vibration/loudness/uncomfortableness, you get the point.

[MPS]

BTW insurance with a super sport is the other issue
only State Farm & TD will take you on
and at some high rates
mine with TD perfect record no claims $3600 state farm $2400 that's for my Ducati
my 250 is a joke $360 a year
and i can get insurance with any company

[Pereira11]

BTW insurance with a super sport is the other issue
only State Farm & TD will take you on
and at some high rates
mine with TD perfect record no claims $3600 state farm $2400 that's for my Ducati
my 250 is a joke $360 a year
and i can get insurance with any company

i was going to say the same. Make sure you look at insurance prices before deciding on a 600cc SS bike. As stated by MPS only certain companies will insure those bikes and depending on your record you may not even get insurance.

[MPS]

here is a good comment from that speed 3 vs 250 video

DANNYHEADSHOT (http://www.youtube.com/user/DANNYHEADSHOT) 8 months ago (http://www.youtube.com/comment?lc=F4AXYYtfNsluFP03RHRmU_nQpNHyKpU192s1BUf nyYQ)
hahaaha you've mastered a 600? in 3 months? once again, ahahahahaahahahaha. If you really want to improve at riding, buy a 250 and take to a track as often as you can. I guarantee you will learn more by doing that than you did by "mastering" your 600. You probably won't listen to me though, so why not just buy the liter bike now and speed up natural selection?

[cSPEED]

I just dont want to do the whole sell and buy another bike thing. I hate dealing with selling vehicles. I dont think i want a bike for longer than a season, 2 max.

Also i raced my buddies 2011 250 ninja multiple times and it was nowhere to that class.. My car isnt stock though.

Fwiw i plan on doing the course first and baby steps on a faster bike but I know what you guys are saying.

[Airman Jack]

My first bike was a cruiser, a 750 Shadow, but I'm also a very big guy and its not a fast bike.
Now I've got an 1150 Adventure, which is a blast and fits me and the wife really well.

In the very limited experience I have, any bike no matter how fast or how big the motor will scare you at some point. Take the courses, and find experienced MATURE riders to follow and learn from. Have fun, don't be a moron, and treat every car out there like its covered in poison tipped spikes driven by an angry pensioner with cataracts.

Also, the 3 makes a lovely motorcycle tow vehicle when paired with a small utility trailer!

[Fuyuzora]

I think it's high time to revive this thread...

Just picked up this fun little thing yesterday:

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f360/bairdga/400R.jpg

:)

[alhope34]

Congrats on the bike, I just hope it's the 650 and not the 400. They are more expensive and just as slow as the 250 and don't look as good as the 2013 250 IMHO.

[Kiyomi]

^^ so Jelly. have wanted to own and ride a bike since i was 10. nice pickup.

[Fuyuzora]

Thanks!

It is indeed the 400 though; got it used with only 1150km for a great price and it had EFI which I wanted. Insurance was also quoted at half that of the 650.

Should serve me well while I get started; will move up to something like an SV650 in a year or two probably. :thumbsup

[alhope34]

Half the cost for insurance? Lol, how high was the 650 quote?? I'm with Jevco and there's only a $200/year difference between a 250 and the Ninja 650 and SV650 and my FZ6R I ended up getting when I was quoting before buying. I was also looking for an SV1000 and it was still only $450/year more than the 250 when quoted with Jevco. The 400 is a good first bike for sure, but with basically no insurance difference on the low to mid cc range regular sport bikes I wanted to go with something intermediate to give me adequate skill to jump to a 1000 ss in a few years. I didn't want to jump right into a supersport like so many noobs that don't know what the hell they are doing on a bike, even though I had been riding for 2 years before buying my own bike.

[Fuyuzora]

Ninja 650 was past $2500, which is absolutely bonkers.

I think the key difference between us though is:


I had been riding for 2 years before buying my own bike.

I only got my M2 in July last year. Based on what I've seen via online quoters, rates drop by about half once you've been riding for over 12 months.

I'm with Meloche Monnex, by the way. As a novice rider most quotes were pretty similar, but I'll probably shop around for more competitive prices next spring.

[alhope34]

Yea that's true. If you think that's bonkers, be happy you don't live anywhere close to Toronto. I'm paying about $2200 a year for my bike and I've had my license 4 years now and am over 25. My friend paid $3600 for his first year on his '09 250 and after the first year it went down to about $2600 or so. He was only 20 or 21 at the time, though, and got the bike as his first vehicle.

[Fuyuzora]

Holy crap!

Yeah, that makes me thankful to be living in Ottawa. It's just under $1400 for my 400R with full comprehensive, etc. Over 25 too, thank god.

One of my buddies is in a similar situation as yours was - under 25 and less than one year on his license, so he's getting astronomical quotes. Since he's still in school though (tuition...), he's decided to hold off on buying a bike until his birthday in the fall, at which point he'll be both 25 and have had the licence for >1 year.

[alhope34]

he's decided to hold off on buying a bike until his birthday in the fall, at which point he'll be both 25 and have had the licence for >1 year.

Smart move. That's what I did, and just rode my buddy's 250 in the mean time. We live in the same building and park beside each other under ground and at the time he didn't have a car or any other vehicle so I had his second bike key and he had the second key to my MS3 and we had copies of each others' papers so we'd just switch vehicles all the time lol.

[brucewayne]

since this thread started, ive said fack getting a deck, new rims, etc for my 3. instead ive gotten my m1, did rti and got my m2, got most of my gear except gloves and pants, and im getting a cbr 125 this week.

[vinnierap]

When I got my bike I was 21 and got an R6 with an M2. I switched insurance companies to state farm and was paying $130/month for full coverage. I did have to bring my car over with me as well but what I was paying for my bike was dirt cheap compared to other companies.

Unfortunately I sold my bike 2 years ago.

For those that are interested in getting a bike, me personal opinion would be to get a 600cc. Dont get a 125 or 250 or 500 etc. You will be bored of the bike after a couple of months and will want to upgrade.

Get a 600cc NO BIGGER (for sport) as a first bike, take your time and learn to ride properly! I also taught at Humber Motorcycle Training for a summer. It is a great program and you will learn a lot. If you have never taken the M2 or M course I highly reccomend you do. Its expensive but worth the money.

[Soyabean]

blah. I wanted to get a bike a while ago. I got my M2 last year and wanted to get a bike this year but my plans changed because of the wedding lol

So maybe next year i'll look into getting a bike then. I want a 600 but with an at fault accident, 1 minor ticket, and a pending one (could be minor or fought off), Im not sure if i can afford a 600cc bike. May have to get a small 250cc which would look very funny because im not that small. I looked like a giant riding the CBR125 at RTi lol

[vinnierap]

blah. I wanted to get a bike a while ago. I got my M2 last year and wanted to get a bike this year but my plans changed because of the wedding lol

So maybe next year i'll look into getting a bike then. I want a 600 but with an at fault accident, 1 minor ticket, and a pending one (could be minor or fought off), Im not sure if i can afford a 600cc bike. May have to get a small 250cc which would look very funny because im not that small. I looked like a giant riding the CBR125 at RTi lol

Doesnt necessarily have to be a supersport (R6, CBR 600RR, GSXR 600) You could always look at sport touring bikes.

[rajin929]

as much as I've always wanted to learn how to ride a bike and get one....it's hard enough staying alive in a car driving around the streets of Brampton as it is. LOL

[alhope34]

May have to get a small 250cc which would look very funny because im not that small. I looked like a giant riding the CBR125 at RTi lol

Newer two fiddy's are much larger than the ones of days passed. They are maybe 2-3" shorter handle bar hight (and I have raised bars), similar seat hight and just slightly shorter wheelbase than my 600. The Ninjas even gained ~80 lbs from first to second gen. That's a lot of added steel.

[DaveIrwin24]

I purchased a ninja 250 last October after getting my license.
I was a little unsure at first, whether to get a bigger bike or not.
I enjoy riding it more and more every time I get on.
Kinda glad I started with a 250,because I was a little nervous to start off with. Put over 1000kms on the bike so far, put on a Jardine exhaust which makes the hike sound a million times better.
I'll keep the bike till maybe next time this year and look at getting a used streetfighter 600cc max, don't need any more power then that, or a street and trail.. Buddy has one and they are a lot of fun to ride.
To me, who cares what you drive.. A bike is a bike.. He'll I always wave at mopeds, it's a great experience.
Plus if I wanna go fast, I'll drive my car lol

[Airman Jack]

Dave, too true!
The dual sports are a hell of a lot of fun, it's great to not look down a gravel/dirt road and think "what if"... just go on and have a blast. I'm in Kingston now and there are some awesome logging trails between here and Bancroft.

[alhope34]

Reviving the thread. I pick up my brand new lime green 2012 zx6r Thursday the 27th. $161 a month insurance with State Farm. I am excited. My '09 fz6r will have a hair over 41,000 kms on it by the time I trade it in next week. I bought it January last year with just under 21,000 kms on it.

[Lactose]

Reviving the thread. I pick up my brand new lime green 2012 zx6r Thursday the 27th. $161 a month insurance with State Farm. I am excited. My '09 fz6r will have a hair over 41,000 kms on it by the time I trade it in next week. I bought it January last year with just under 21,000 kms on it.

Ugh, i did quotes and I tried doing it saying I had m2 for a yearish and a CBR125, still 4k/year. I want to get my M1 but I'm worried everything will expire before i get any experience on a bike.

[yearoftherat]

Ugh, i did quotes and I tried doing it saying I had m2 for a yearish and a CBR125, still 4k/year. I want to get my M1 but I'm worried everything will expire before i get any experience on a bike.

4K a year?!?!?!.Holy crap..

[Lactose]

4K a year?!?!?!.Holy crap..

Ya I dunno. I also don't live in Brampton, have no record, etc. I was playing with the quotes cuz I was thinking about just having a bike ofr hte summer and give the car to my dad. Not gonna fly tho.

[Lactose]

Insurance can be extremely expensive for a young/new rider.
Here is my ride, old school now but still lots of fun and fast. i don't want to let you guys know what I pay for insurance so as not to discourage you. LOL. Old age has some benefits.


Well my friend is 26 and he pays $50 a month. Can't get more discouraging.

I actually used TD's quote and it came out to about 2600 for a 06 ninja250. Not bad, and I'm seriously considering it. I'd probably just part my car out (with what ever it has) and "sell it" to my dad and just ride during the summer. Just sucks that you pay for a whole year and cant ride.

Edit: Welp was on first page, thought I was in last. I'll let it stand.

[leecheefoto]

http://pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/crop/200901/2009-harley-davidson-spor-6_600x0w.jpg

Aiming for this specifically next year.. and add illegal high ape bars :hawt

[The Wolf]

http://pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/crop/200901/2009-harley-davidson-spor-6_600x0w.jpg

Aiming for this specifically next year.. and add illegal high ape bars :hawt
I like this guy

[brucewayne]

http://pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/crop/200901/2009-harley-davidson-spor-6_600x0w.jpg

Aiming for this specifically next year.. and add illegal high ape bars :hawt

is that a 883?

[leecheefoto]

is that a 883?

Yes!!! It's small but doable for me

[brucewayne]

Well my friend is 26 and he pays $50 a month. Can't get more discouraging.

I actually used TD's quote and it came out to about 2600 for a 06 ninja250. Not bad, and I'm seriously considering it. I'd probably just part my car out (with what ever it has) and "sell it" to my dad and just ride during the summer. Just sucks that you pay for a whole year and cant ride.

Edit: Welp was on first page, thought I was in last. I'll let it stand.

dude try http://www.ridersplus.com/ they only do motorcycle insurance

who did you get a 4k a year quote from for a 125? how old? shop around for quotes and stick to a 125/250 for the first year if your gonna get a sportsbike.

[brucewayne]

Yes!!! It's small but doable for me

heres a link to current thread in case it helps http://www.gtamotorcycle.com/vbforum/showthread.php?173204-Is-a-Harley-883-sportster-a-chick-bike&highlight=girls+bike

[leecheefoto]

Yeah I've been told but I want a bike that fits my height, not what fits people's tastes. And I want to ride with my brother because he has a shadow modded into a bagger and apes and stuff so I wanna lay back and chill lol

[brucewayne]

Yeah I've been told but I want a bike that fits my height, not what fits people's tastes. And I want to ride with my brother because he has a shadow modded into a bagger and apes and stuff so I wanna lay back and chill lol

lay back and chill like this dude?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klteYv1Uv9A

yeah everyone talks crap, do whatever you like. id totally ride that bike all day

[leecheefoto]

lay back and chill like this dude?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klteYv1Uv9A

yeah everyone talks crap, do whatever you like. id totally ride that bike all day


Hahahha that's ballsy. Can't do that here in Toronto. Hopefully ill come back to this thread next year and post what I got ^_^

[Lactose]

dude try http://www.ridersplus.com/ they only do motorcycle insurance

who did you get a 4k a year quote from for a 125? how old? shop around for quotes and stick to a 125/250 for the first year if your gonna get a sportsbike.

Kantix qutoe thing. I used TD's and got about 3k a bit under depending on the bike for a 250 (plan on that one if I do get one). I tried rider's plus but they wont insure under 25 :P (I'm 22). What was odd about TD quote is no matter if I had M1/M2/M it was the same quote.

[brucewayne]

Kantix qutoe thing. I used TD's and got about 3k a bit under depending on the bike for a 250 (plan on that one if I do get one). I tried rider's plus but they wont insure under 25 :P (I'm 22). What was odd about TD quote is no matter if I had M1/M2/M it was the same quote.

yeah some places are like that, they might look at when you first got your m1, m2, m, depends. state farms wants you to have your car license for 5 years and don't even look at m i believe... you might want to call them. on GTAM there is a subforum on insurance that would help you figure things out. im sure you can get lower than those online quotes. heck even dirtbikes are pretty cool imho

[Booter22]

got my new to me bike 2 weeks ago

2005 Kawi ZX6R Ninja
http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/IMG_20131015_120150_resized_zpsbc0e2b49.jpg

[brucewayne]

^
sweet!

[jeffjones]

Best looking Ninja out there, Love the undertail exhausts

[alhope34]

My best friend dropped his bike 3.5 weeks ago on the 401 in the morning and got his leg run over by a car. Now has a steel rod through his shin bone and will be off work for a year or more. Everyone be careful out there with the cold pavement.

[Booter22]

wow that sucks. but from what i have heard you ened to be very mindfull of the temp as it gets colder. anything under 10 degrees can really make a big difference, that with moisture and tire tread and so on, but a big learning curve to pick up. but tons of fun all the same. sucks about your friend alhope34 hopefully he heals up well and quick

[RTEnthusiast]

Booter's Ninja is awesome.


I ride test bikes to review for my online magazine as well. Here's what I've ridden this year:

http://doubleclutch.ca/category/00-reviews/04-motorcycles/

All but one are by me. More stuff (Street Triple, Duc Panigale, Duc Monster, etc.) to come in the spring!


I absolutely love the Gixxers.

[DaveIrwin24]

Found this bike on Kijiji for a sweet deal so I couldn't pass it up, was planning on buying another bike in the spring. Gonna give the ninja 250 to the wife http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/01/zuny3uqy.jpg

[Booter22]

Found this bike on Kijiji for a sweet deal so I couldn't pass it up, was planning on buying another bike in the spring. Gonna give the ninja 250 to the wife http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/01/zuny3uqy.jpg

nice buy! what year? and does it have an exhaust?

[DaveIrwin24]

Thanks bud, your bike is looking good also
It's a 2005,it does have an aftermarket exhaust, not exactly sure on the brand. The bike was actually green, owner before me had it repainted

[Booter22]

Thanks bud, your bike is looking good also
It's a 2005,it does have an aftermarket exhaust, not exactly sure on the brand. The bike was actually green, owner before me had it repainted

Put up some pictures of the exhaust.

[DaveIrwin24]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/06/etene3ad.jpg

Not sure if it's the stock exhaust just molded or a slip on, but it sounds good to me so I don't really care

[Booter22]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/06/etene3ad.jpg

Not sure if it's the stock exhaust just molded or a slip on, but it sounds good to me so I don't really care

looks like the back of a yoshi any side shots or stamps on it? as long as it sounds good. if it is a yoshi they sound awesome. the gfs cbr 600rr has a full system.

[EastYork3]

Got this a couple weeks ago. Can't wait till spring! lol.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w83/Moshi_photo/821E651D-9FD9-4BB3-A56E-50394A4B9716-3717-0000019D55693941_zpsc502d927.jpg

[Booter22]

Got this a couple weeks ago. Can't wait till spring! lol.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w83/Moshi_photo/821E651D-9FD9-4BB3-A56E-50394A4B9716-3717-0000019D55693941_zpsc502d927.jpg

nice! and congrats!!

now a bunch of us can go for rides and what not. EastYork3 try not to spend too much money on it, mods and what not just ride it for the season cuz if you are anything like my gf she was ready for something bigger near fall and moved up to the 600.

[MPS]

here is my new bike

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/null_zpsa3bed436.jpg (http://s37.photobucket.com/user/axela1/media/null_zpsa3bed436.jpg.html)

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/null_zps65698662.jpg (http://s37.photobucket.com/user/axela1/media/null_zps65698662.jpg.html)

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/null_zpsb909e56a.jpg (http://s37.photobucket.com/user/axela1/media/null_zpsb909e56a.jpg.html)

[MPS]

and just picked this one up few weeks ago

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/null_zpsb61ecc73.jpg (http://s37.photobucket.com/user/axela1/media/null_zpsb61ecc73.jpg.html)

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/null_zps7fdd7023.jpg (http://s37.photobucket.com/user/axela1/media/null_zps7fdd7023.jpg.html)

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e88/axela1/null_zpsb6f98051.jpg (http://s37.photobucket.com/user/axela1/media/null_zpsb6f98051.jpg.html)

[jeffjones]

Nice bikes moneybags :D

[EastYork3]

Booter22 I hear you on that. Just planning on small stuff, windscreen and the like. More money will likely be spent on gear than on the bike, lol.

[ptfire]

Purchased this in December picking it up in the spring, going to be different from my R1 but looking forward to something different.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/13-suzuki-gsxr600-10_zps9acab658.jpg (http://s75.photobucket.com/user/ptfire/media/13-suzuki-gsxr600-10_zps9acab658.jpg.html)

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/GSXR600_zps069684f6.jpg (http://s75.photobucket.com/user/ptfire/media/GSXR600_zps069684f6.jpg.html)

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/13-suzuki-gsxr600-2_zps02ac7bd9.jpg (http://s75.photobucket.com/user/ptfire/media/13-suzuki-gsxr600-2_zps02ac7bd9.jpg.html)

[Stathakos]

Purchased this in December picking it up in the spring, going to be different from my R1 but looking forward to something different.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/13-suzuki-gsxr600-10_zps9acab658.jpg (http://s75.photobucket.com/user/ptfire/media/13-suzuki-gsxr600-10_zps9acab658.jpg.html)

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/GSXR600_zps069684f6.jpg (http://s75.photobucket.com/user/ptfire/media/GSXR600_zps069684f6.jpg.html)

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/ptfire/13-suzuki-gsxr600-2_zps02ac7bd9.jpg (http://s75.photobucket.com/user/ptfire/media/13-suzuki-gsxr600-2_zps02ac7bd9.jpg.html)



Sweet, I'm looking into getting a bike, any ideas on what a good starter might be? I know it definitely won't be a litre bike, I was thinking perhaps an r6 or kawi 300/zx6r.

[jeffjones]

Sweet, I'm looking into getting a bike, any ideas on what a good starter might be? I know it definitely won't be a litre bike, I was thinking perhaps an r6 or kawi 300/zx6r.

A 600 Supersport bike isn't much more forgiving than a litre bike in the hands of a beginner.
That being said I started on a 600 and was fine as i respected the bike and didn't buy for reasons off showing off.
300's are great beginner bikes, very forgiving, light, agile and enough power to keep a smile on your face.
It all depends on you, IMO I have found most people to be better riders when they start small as it takes skill to keep up with everyone else, its not hard to go straight in a fast line, its the corners that take the skills.

[Stathakos]

A 600 Supersport bike isn't much more forgiving than a litre bike in the hands of a beginner.
That being said I started on a 600 and was fine as i respected the bike and didn't buy for reasons off showing off.
300's are great beginner bikes, very forgiving, light, agile and enough power to keep a smile on your face.
It all depends on you, IMO I have found most people to be better riders when they start small as it takes skill to keep up with everyone else, its not hard to go straight in a fast line, its the corners that take the skills.

If I do get a 600 id definitely respect it, I'm not in the business of showing off lmao. What make was your first bike?

[jeffjones]

If I do get a 600 id definitely respect it, I'm not in the business of showing off lmao. What make was your first bike?

01 CBR F4i.
Bought it at 15K and sold it 3 years later with 77K.

[Booter22]

Sweet, I'm looking into getting a bike, any ideas on what a good starter might be? I know it definitely won't be a litre bike, I was thinking perhaps an r6 or kawi 300/zx6r.

it all depends how mature you are i think. i started on my zx6r as my first bike, but did ride a 250 at the course and as a starter bike it would have been too small for me.. that and my gf had and sold one already. but also depends on your size. im about 6 feet 190lbs so to move and control the 600 with its power combo is perfect for me. i still find it crazy how on my zx6r forum the guys want to make them faster and complain at times its slow :loco but best thing is to go to the store and take some different models on a test ride. a buddy of mine works at honda power sports in brampton in sales if you were looking to buy from a dealer and we have friends who work at GP in whitby where my gfs dad got his bike from, as a first bike he got a 1600cc cruiser, and i think that its wayy to big for a first bike and stupid heavy.. but hes actually a very good rider and handles it well. but take them for a ride see what you are comfortable on.

but there is the honda CBR 250 / 500, kawi 300, yamaha r6, theres sports, sport touring, crusier. really depends what you are looking to get. but find out the cost of your insurance before you buy as well.


Booter22 I hear you on that. Just planning on small stuff, windscreen and the like. More money will likely be spent on gear than on the bike, lol.

yea i just got most of my gear, now just need to look for some pants or kevlar jeans

[Stathakos]

it all depends how mature you are i think. i started on my zx6r as my first bike, but did ride a 250 at the course and as a starter bike it would have been too small for me.. that and my gf had and sold one already. but also depends on your size. im about 6 feet 190lbs so to move and control the 600 with its power combo is perfect for me. i still find it crazy how on my zx6r forum the guys want to make them faster and complain at times its slow :loco but best thing is to go to the store and take some different models on a test ride. a buddy of mine works at honda power sports in brampton in sales if you were looking to buy from a dealer and we have friends who work at GP in whitby where my gfs dad got his bike from, as a first bike he got a 1600cc cruiser, and i think that its wayy to big for a first bike and stupid heavy.. but hes actually a very good rider and handles it well. but take them for a ride see what you are comfortable on.

but there is the honda CBR 250 / 500, kawi 300, yamaha r6, theres sports, sport touring, crusier. really depends what you are looking to get. but find out the cost of your insurance before you buy as well.



yea i just got most of my gear, now just need to look for some pants or kevlar jeans


Sweet yeah I'm 6'1 ish 200 lbs and I always drive by the gp along the highway. Hmm yeah is insurance that bad?

[jeffjones]

but find out the cost of your insurance before you buy as well.



Best advice for anyone buying a supersport, If you under 25 make sure you have Vaseline ready lol

[Stathakos]

Best advice for anyone buying a supersport, If you under 25 make sure you have Vaseline ready lol

LOL Im 20... I heard they go by car licensing.. So I have a G for 2 years with 1 cellphone conviction already YIKES. LMAO. Am I what they consider, the uninsurable?

[jeffjones]

LOL Im 20... I heard they go by car licensing.. So I have a G for 2 years with 1 cellphone conviction already YIKES. LMAO. Am I what they consider, the uninsurable?

Lol, state farm is the only company to go by car insurance and you need 5 years G experience to qualify for their "B" plan.
For a 600 you are probably looking between 4-10K/ year for just liability. (Its pro-rated as well so cancelling in the winter won't save any money if you planned on that)

Best bet is sit on you license for a year and it should go down to maybe 2.5-4K.

[ptfire]

Good first time rider bikes for bigger guys are: Honda CBR500, Yamaha FZ6R, Kawasaki 650 Ninja, Suzuki GSX650F. These are sporty, comfortable bikes that you will not out grow anytime soon or ever. They would be much cheaper to insure than a true Supersport. Call around and get some insurance quotes, good luck in your search and don't let ego get in the way of your decision.

[Booter22]

Good first time rider bikes for bigger guys are: Honda CBR500, Yamaha FZ6R, Kawasaki 650 Ninja, Suzuki GSX650F. These are sporty, comfortable bikes that you will not out grow anytime soon or ever. They would be much cheaper to insure than a true Supersport. Call around and get some insurance quotes, good luck in your search and don't let ego get in the way of your decision.

they are classes as sport touring, at least i know the 650 ninja and GSX650F are. but yea. Stathakos you would be paying through the nose. im 26 and on my 05 zx6r its $160 a month for the first year. state farm told me it will go down the 2nd year as most riders sadly will either rack up a bunch of tickets or kill themselves. ive been told by my agent anything under 25 is expensive and i could only wonder what under 21 costs.

[Stathakos]

they are classes as sport touring, at least i know the 650 ninja and GSX650F are. but yea. Stathakos you would be paying through the nose. im 26 and on my 05 zx6r its $160 a month for the first year. state farm told me it will go down the 2nd year as most riders sadly will either rack up a bunch of tickets or kill themselves. ive been told by my agent anything under 25 is expensive and i could only wonder what under 21 costs.

Hm, yeah looks like I'll have to sit on my dream for a bit. Haha happy riding booter!

[Kiyomi]

Hm, yeah looks like I'll have to sit on my dream for a bit. Haha happy riding booter!

thats what im doing. prob gonna get my m1/m2 license this year or next year, sit on it for a year and then go buy a 600.

[brucewayne]

don't sit and wait on anything... you guys arent hens. go get 125s or something lost cost, low insurance asap. any bike is better than no bike

[rukus]

the whole "i respect a ss, so i wont crash" is BS.
they are twitchy little buggers designed to respond to every and any input, regardless of intent.

people who start on a SS generally learn more bad habits than someone on a smaller/more forgiving bike. learn to trust the brakes to stop you, learn to lean through a corner, learn to hold/control your speed.

many people start on 600 SS's and have no problems, but that doesn't people should

[Booter22]

the whole "i respect a ss, so i wont crash" is BS.
they are twitchy little buggers designed to respond to every and any input, regardless of intent.

people who start on a SS generally learn more bad habits than someone on a smaller/more forgiving bike. learn to trust the brakes to stop you, learn to lean through a corner, learn to hold/control your speed.

many people start on 600 SS's and have no problems, but that doesn't people should

i think it all depends on the person though. but your right, my buddy said he wont get one even though he wants one because he would be lane splitting like crazy, where for me its more about the ride and the enjoyment of the bike. but some people are out to kill themselves. but again that happens in a car too.


don't sit and wait on anything... you guys arent hens. go get 125s or something lost cost, low insurance asap. any bike is better than no bike

have you every been on a 125? its like a mountain bike with a motor, ok for in town, but i wouldnt think on a country road or hwy it would.. well do much but get in the way.

[Stathakos]

don't sit and wait on anything... you guys arent hens. go get 125s or something lost cost, low insurance asap. any bike is better than no bike

http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Tom-Hanks-orly.gif.pagespeed.ce.SlMCwNI-Vk.gif

Does Alfred have a 125?

[Kiyomi]

^^ ROFL

[PEPSIGIXXER]

If I hopped on a 125cc bike I would look like a Sasquatch or a giant from jack and the beanstalk. Im 6'2" 200lbs, I used to ride a GSXR600 and just fit on but on the 1000 fit great on. You have to find a bike that fits you and the little 125'c are fun yes but not always practical for larger people.


http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Tom-Hanks-orly.gif.pagespeed.ce.SlMCwNI-Vk.gif

Does Alfred have a 125?

[Stathakos]

If I hopped on a 125cc bike I would look like a Sasquatch or a giant from jack and the beanstalk. Im 6'2" 200lbs, I used to ride a GSXR600 and just fit on but on the 1000 fit great on. You have to find a bike that fits you and the little 125'c are fun yes but not always practical for larger people.

See that's me, lmao 6'1 and 200 ish pounds. I just hope it works out soon. I hate being a cager in the summer.

[jeffjones]

See that's me, lmao 6'1 and 200 ish pounds. I just hope it works out soon. I hate being a cager in the summer.

Look at the 250's (Minus the Hyosung), they will still beat most cars on the road and top out around 170km/hr.

Don't think they can hang with 600's, watch what happens when a good rider is on it.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kz03sQeX02c

[EastYork3]

^ Love that video.

Stathakos Have you taken a course yet? If not, you should and most courses have a range of bikes to ride. You could try out a few and see what you like. Insurance wise you're going to pay a lot. High cc's, under 25 and living in Scarborough. Yikes.

Booter22 picked up some new leather at the bike show a couple weeks ago. Is it spring yet? LOL.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w83/Moshi_photo/aa613d587b0d11e3b41412ec46fbb493_8_zps0518e214.jpg

[Stathakos]

^ Love that video.

Stathakos Have you taken a course yet? If not, you should and most courses have a range of bikes to ride. You could try out a few and see what you like. Insurance wise you're going to pay a lot. High cc's, under 25 and living in Scarborough. Yikes.

Booter22 picked up some new leather at the bike show a couple weeks ago. Is it spring yet? LOL.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w83/Moshi_photo/aa613d587b0d11e3b41412ec46fbb493_8_zps0518e214.jpg


Wow yes, skill over CC. I was looking at a msf course at centennial, I just want something that's gonna have the acceleration to keep up with traffic.

[PEPSIGIXXER]

I would love to run this track on my old Suzuki GSXR 600.


Look at the 250's (Minus the Hyosung), they will still beat most cars on the road and top out around 170km/hr.

Don't think they can hang with 600's, watch what happens when a good rider is on it.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kz03sQeX02c

[m3gad37h]

[QUOTE=jeffjones;1152015]Look at the 250's (Minus the Hyosung), they will still beat most cars on the road and top out around 170km/hr.

Don't think they can hang with 600's, watch what happens when a good rider is on it.

Never tried a sports bike but can't see a 250 smoking anything out on the highway, still must be fun in town & scooting around.


Any dirt/dual sports riders on here? Picked up my first bike last year and its just made winters unbearable. Being a 250 the thing handles like a dream in the trails and in town but cruising on the highway is just a pain.


http://i537.photobucket.com/albums/ff331/m3gad37h/11-02044.jpg

[The Wolf]

^my buddy has a Kawasaki KLR 650. Kinda cool even though the thing has never seen dirt/mud/gravel :/

[jeffjones]

Never tried a sports bike but can't see a 250 smoking anything out on the highway, still must be fun in town & scooting around town

Never said you would destroy cars on the highway, I said it tops out at 170km/hr. Highway driving is just top speed.
but back roads with twisty corners, it could beat a lot of cars. Remember the thing only has like 25HP.

I am assuming you didn't watch the video of the guy on the 250cc passing 600 and 1000cc.

[m3gad37h]

Never said you would destroy cars on the highway, I said it tops out at 170km/hr. Highway driving is just top speed.
but back roads with twisty corners, it could beat a lot of cars. Remember the thing only has like 25HP.

I am assuming you didn't watch the video of the guy on the 250cc passing 600 and 1000cc.

I actually wasn't disagreeing with you. Due to the size these 250's have pretty good spunk with the 6 speed tranny. Hell I'm surprised how well my KLX250S picked up speed but like I said there gutless on at speed, just got to keep the momentum going (not happening with knobbies lol).

I did in fact watch the video, very impressive!

[Booter22]

my gf had a 250 ninja. she said it was fun and the one i road at the course was also ok in the parking lot. but her issue was it had no guts when trying to pass and if it was on the highway it would need to be downshifted to get to a screaming rpm before it would have the guts to go. i could only imagine a 125. think it would be a bit scary to be on the hwy with one. around town sure.

i dont think a 250 on the road would pass anything bigger. i think the reason they are passing on the track is the rider has more guts then the others they are passing. but who knows. i would think the mrs would tell you her 599cc cbr is 100 times faster and has more get up and go then her 250 ninja

[jeffjones]

my gf had a 250 ninja. she said it was fun and the one i road at the course was also ok in the parking lot. but her issue was it had no guts when trying to pass and if it was on the highway it would need to be downshifted to get to a screaming rpm before it would have the guts to go. i could only imagine a 125. think it would be a bit scary to be on the hwy with one. around town sure.

i dont think a 250 on the road would pass anything bigger. i think the reason they are passing on the track is the rider has more guts then the others they are passing. but who knows. i would think the mrs would tell you her 599cc cbr is 100 times faster and has more get up and go then her 250 ninja

Just going off stats I have found but if a 250cc is gutless than what is a Mazda 3 lol.

08 Ninja 250R - 0-60mph = 7.72s, 1/4mile = 15.58s
My car, 06 Mazda 3 GT - 0-60mph = 9.1s, 1/4mile = 17.2s

600SS My bike (01 F4i) - 0-60mph = 2.89s, 1/4mile = 10.59s

Yes, compared to a SS bike it is slow, But compare a Mazda 3 to a Lamborghini and it is slow too.

http://www.autorooster.com/0-60-times/mazda/mazda-3/
http://www.mcnews.com/mcn/articles/2010JanIndex.pdf

[Booter22]

Just going off stats I have found but if a 250cc is gutless than what is a Mazda 3 lol.

08 Ninja 250R - 0-60mph = 7.72s, 1/4mile = 15.58s
My car, 06 Mazda 3 GT - 0-60mph = 9.1s, 1/4mile = 17.2s

600SS My bike (01 F4i) - 0-60mph = 2.89s, 1/4mile = 10.59s

Yes, compared to a SS bike it is slow, But compare a Mazda 3 to a Lamborghini and it is slow too.

http://www.autorooster.com/0-60-times/mazda/mazda-3/
http://www.mcnews.com/mcn/articles/2010JanIndex.pdf

but come on.. who takes a mazda 3 to the track.. :bang speed3 sure..;)

[Kiyomi]

but come on.. who takes a mazda 3 to the track.. :bang speed3 sure..;)

heyyy, speak for youself. :D
roadcourse ftw.

[jeffjones]

but come on.. who takes a mazda 3 to the track.. :bang speed3 sure..;)

On the other hand, I bet the same percentage take a 250cc to the track lol. 600 sure. ;)

[m3gad37h]

IMO it doesn't matter what you have as long as you can hoon it & have some fun. Right?

[Booter22]

IMO it doesn't matter what you have as long as you can hoon it & have some fun. Right?

:agree

mind you ive heard the smaller bikes run much better in the bends vs the larger bikes



heyyy, speak for youself. :D
roadcourse ftw.

my bad!! forgot

[Stathakos]

You guys need to watch "twist of the wrist 2" I watched it and its incredibly helpful
also I found this for questions about insurance

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae301/vifferfun/SportDecisionTreev5.jpg

Ps how does this look?
http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-motorcycles-sport-bikes-2009-KAWASAKI-NINJA-250R-RED-Low-KMs-W0QQAdIdZ558996018

[zzz3]

Any dirt/dual sports riders on here? Picked up my first bike last year and its just made winters unbearable. Being a 250 the thing handles like a dream in the trails and in town but cruising on the highway is just a pain.


http://i537.photobucket.com/albums/ff331/m3gad37h/11-02044.jpg

Did you buy new or used? I gave up on getting a wr250r since it's too expensive. I've settled on getting a crf250l instead as my first bike.

[m3gad37h]

Did you buy new or used? I gave up on getting a wr250r since it's too expensive. I've settled on getting a crf250l instead as my first bike.

Picked it up at a dealer used. Was looking at the CRF250L but when I called the dealer they didn't have any in stock but mentioned the KLX, went to see it and picked it up on the spot. Plastic was in ruff shape but for $2800 with under 3K on the ODO it was a steal (bone stock). After putting on another 3000 km during the summer I sprayed the plastics with some plasti dip, not a bad job and gave me some practice for the 3's new shoes. I can't complain about it much but do wish that it would have some more pep, just need to install my jet kit this spring... Maybe 350 big bore if my buddy gets a XR650 ;).


How are you finding the CRF? I love the look of them and fuel injection must be nice during the colder days (carb sucks on cold start ups).

[DaveIrwin24]

I started on a kawasaki ninja 250 when I got my license last year, I made the mistake of buying new.. So when the fall came I was already bored with the 250,well not so much of bored, just got tired of not feeling comfortable on the highway.. Slightest gust of wind would push the bike around because it's so light!
Found a used 636 at the end of the year and ended up getting it. The wife is gonna use the 250..

Anyways, I feel alot more confident and at ease on the 250 in general, only got out in the 600 a cpl times last fall and it's a whole different experience. I'm glad I learned a 250,makes me appreciate riding alot more.

[Booter22]

summer needs to show up sooner then later. i keep buying stuff

[alhope34]

Lol, same. Got my tinted integrated LED tail light and fender eliminator installed last weekend while I was at my parents' place. I also have heated grips and barrier bars to put on, but I'll probably let Kahuna do that when I take it in for the spring check up.

I also got a tinted Puig double buble wind screen, but I'm not sure I'll like it. I kind of like how the wind pressure on the highway takes some weight off my arms for long trips, and I do a lot of long trips. I'm hoping to get 25k kms or so this year.

[Booter22]

Lol, same. Got my tinted integrated LED tail light and fender eliminator installed last weekend while I was at my parents' place. I also have heated grips and barrier bars to put on, but I'll probably let Kahuna do that when I take it in for the spring check up.

I also got a tinted Puig double buble wind screen, but I'm not sure I'll like it. I kind of like how the wind pressure on the highway takes some weight off my arms for long trips, and I do a lot of long trips. I'm hoping to get 25k kms or so this year.

nice, so far i just ordered some small stuff. chrome tinted visor. looking at the alpinestar tech aero bag. saw it on revzilla for 150+ tax, fround it on aliexpress for 55 shipped. so think i might order that up. been looking at a few kawasaki jackets and pants / alpinestar pants on there as well.. just cant pull the trigger yet but im thinking it will be the matching kawi jacket and pants.

question, does anyone have a suit or ride with kevlar pants or something other then regular jeans?

also anyone with experience riding with a backpack or even like a hip / leg bag?

[jeffjones]

nice, so far i just ordered some small stuff. chrome tinted visor. looking at the alpinestar tech aero bag. saw it on revzilla for 150+ tax, fround it on aliexpress for 55 shipped. so think i might order that up. been looking at a few kawasaki jackets and pants / alpinestar pants on there as well.. just cant pull the trigger yet but im thinking it will be the matching kawi jacket and pants.

question, does anyone have a suit or ride with kevlar pants or something other then regular jeans?

also anyone with experience riding with a backpack or even like a hip / leg bag?

Backpacks are great for in town commutes or short highway rides, but with a strong head wind they can act like a parachute and it gets tough on the back after awhile.
Tank bags are the way to go if you can fit everything in it, My old one would hold a 12 pack perfect or my rain gear and a lunch for work.

Also, if you can wait definitely check out Royal Distributings tent sale when its on, Lots of good deals as they are clearing out all the old stock.

[The Wolf]

anyone here into older bikes?
I'm hoping to pick up a vintage BMW or Honda CB in the next year or so to eventually build into a cafe/scrambler

http://www.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bmw-r100rt.jpg
http://www.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/honda-cb350-custom.jpg

[alhope34]

also anyone with experience riding with a backpack or even like a hip / leg bag?

I don't go on a long ride without a backpack. Never had a problem with wind ever but since going to an SS bike I can't sit my gigantic bag on the back seat to take the weight and my hands go numb within a half hour if I have more than say 10 lbs in the bag. I have circulation problems though due to low blood pressure so my hands and feet get numb and/or cold quickly. Anything less than 15c outside and I need insulated winter gloves lol.

[Booter22]

anyone here into older bikes?
I'm hoping to pick up a vintage BMW or Honda CB in the next year or so to eventually build into a cafe/scrambler

http://www.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bmw-r100rt.jpg
http://www.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/honda-cb350-custom.jpg

those are awesome!

i dont know if its vintage.. but its old. lol my dad has these
1974 honda 750Four CBX
http://p1.bikepics.com/2011%5C04%5C24%5Cbikepics-2195096-full.jpg

and this 1980 1000 honda CBX - sadly this is in the rebuild phase.. for the last 14 years. but it is not an easy bike to find parts for. out of all the bike shows we have been too. we have only ever seen 1 fully rebuilt and 1 guy with a picture of another one he did
http://me4portjeff.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/CBX-full-RS.jpg

so it sounds like i will be buying this bag then -

http://www.extremesupply.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/600x600/alpinestars/alpinestars_luggage/alpinestars_techaero_tankbag.jpg

still not sure about the magnetic tank bag. just get the feeling.. it could go flying.. same with the rear seat bags. but i think between the back pack and a tank bag i shouldnt need anything more then that for a day out. even for just a day the back pack might be too much but i think for the eventual rain gear. work stuff. lunch, water. dont think the tank bag alone would be enough and im thinking tank bag over the xmount for the phone / gps as well.. so many choices!

is there one tank bag over another you like?

[RTEnthusiast]

To be honest, I don't really like carrying bags of any kind. I keep my phone/wallet in my front pockets, and anything else I can live without.

As such, I know nothing about them... that bag you're looking to buy looks pretty neat though.

[jeffjones]

Anything less than 15c outside and I need insulated winter gloves lol.

Lol, I commuted on mine for the last 3 years into December and put it away over Xmas break.
Some days would be a half hour run down the highway at below zero temperatures. Lol
I had a wind proof suit which helped but wind would still find ways to sneak in lol

[Booter22]

To be honest, I don't really like carrying bags of any kind. I keep my phone/wallet in my front pockets, and anything else I can live without.

As such, I know nothing about them... that bag you're looking to buy looks pretty neat though.

problem for me is.. even under the rear "seat" there is spots the tail is open to water or i would put stuff in there.. unlike the mrs. cbr which is completly covered. the joe rocket jacket i have has some decent pockets. but with the note 2 phone.. it will be hard to put that in my pants pocket and ride.. heck i cant even drive with it in my pocket now. but im thinking more the ride to work or even just if i want to go out for a few hours. i dont want to stop or need to find a shop when ever i get thirsty if i can bring a bottle or two + with me and a snack or two kinda thing. if its just for an a few hours local sure i think the bag would be overkill and i can put what i need in the jacket pockets. but between back packs. tank bags, hip bags and rear seat bags. just good to see what everyone thinks about each. im thinking im going to grab that bag as for 56 bucks its worth it, and maybe find a little tank bag for $25-40 and see what works best.

[Booter22]

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green Moster/Screenshot_2014-01-30-13-09-42_zpsz7hd0qg1.png

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green Moster/Screenshot_2014-01-27-10-14-22_zpsvhgiap0j.png

couldnt say no. backpack was $56, tank bag was $25. suspect they are fakes. but who cares. they have amazing quality from the comments so for the price. why not

[Nikhil Pali]

anyone here into older bikes?
I'm hoping to pick up a vintage BMW or Honda CB in the next year or so to eventually build into a cafe/scrambler

http://www.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bmw-r100rt.jpg
http://www.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/honda-cb350-custom.jpg

I'm also into older bike, mostly cafe racers, specially 2strokers. Got a Royal Enfield 500 (like one on pic below) and 2stroke Yamaha RD350 and Suzuki 125 back home.
http://2.imimg.com/data2/XR/QG/MY-2478532/10-500x500.jpg

Currently collecting Suzuki GT550 parts to get a 2stroker cafe project started. Wants something like pic below once finished.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gc2XfUE73OA/URGFm_B86cI/AAAAAAAACqk/a3mFrfoG8po/s1600/SUZUKI%2BGT%2B550%2BCAFE%2BRACER.jpg

[The Wolf]

Cool man! Gt550 is a four stroke , no? Planning on a motor swap?

[Nikhil Pali]

Cool man! Gt550 is a four stroke , no? Planning on a motor swap?
nope, its a inline 3cylinder 2stroke. Suzuki's last air cooled 2 stoke 500cc+ engines before they went liquid cooled for rg series.

[Zotaga]

:bang

[The Wolf]

nope, its a inline 3cylinder 2stroke. Suzuki's last air cooled 2 stoke 500cc+ engines before they went liquid cooled for rg series.

That's awesome. 550 2-stroke must boogie

[Nikhil Pali]

That's awesome. 550 2-stroke must boogie

It sure is. I'm a big fan of 2 stroke..the sound and power curve....just love it. Drove my dad's 1986 125cc 2stoke Suzuki everyday to high school. That bike is older than me (im '88 born) and still runs great and is a hoot to ride.

This is the video that got me going for gt550.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_hxtWG3-8E

[r4BBiT]

I've inherited really old (from like 60-70 IIRC) from my dad, called MZ ES 250/2 Trophy, when I was 16. Most of Germans should know this brand as it was quite popular back then.

I spent about a year trying to restore it to original as my dad modified when he was young :D He didn't like the front suspension (I think it's called Earles fork) among many other things and he modified it to use the "modern" telescopic fork. Anyway this is how the bike looks like original except those front covers (I do have picture of mine somewhere, non-digital copy):

http://www.motorstown.com/images/mz-es-250-02.jpg

[rukus]

That's awesome. 550 2-stroke must boogie

nope. they're slugs

i've got a 76 GT750, it was nicknamed the Water Buffalo for a reason.

fun to ride, but sketchy.

[Gareth232]

something cooking for spring

http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb334/Gareth232/unnamed_zps4fad7d43.jpg (http://s1200.photobucket.com/user/Gareth232/media/unnamed_zps4fad7d43.jpg.html)

[DaveIrwin24]

My buddy sold me his 2005 ninja kawasaki zx6r, he had it repainted black and had the rims powder coated, I couldn't pass it up. The 05 kawasaki zx6r I bought last fall in gonna sell because it needed work done, anyways here's a pic

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/21/enanydy5.jpg

[alhope34]

Lookin good. Hey im riding to sydney for three weeks of camping on my bike this june and in the middle spending two nights in pei then going back to camp on the cabot. Would you want to get in on any of that seeing as your from halifax?

[Booter22]

love the black and green thats wicked!

[goodcase]

It looks like there aren't a lot of Harley owners here so I thought I'd post these. I'm hoping to get my M1 this summer. If that pans out this will be one of the bikes that I get to ride:

http://i.imgur.com/zTUOiqn.jpg

Its my dads 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide with a bunch of mods which he only rides locally.

He also has a 2012 Ultra Classic Limited (103 cubic inch engine) which is his road trip bike:
http://i.imgur.com/aJxnuhC.jpg

[peterm15]

It looks like there aren't a lot of Harley owners here so I thought I'd post these. I'm hoping to get my M1 this summer. If that pans out this will be one of the bikes that I get to ride:

http://i.imgur.com/zTUOiqn.jpg

Its my dads 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide with a bunch of mods which he only rides locally.

He also has a 2012 Ultra Classic Limited (103 cubic inch engine) which is his road trip bike:
http://i.imgur.com/aJxnuhC.jpg

Nice.

I just got my M1 last week and am currently in the market for a cruiser. I'm not a fan of crotch rockets.

Cost of insurance is keeping me away from Harley for now although ultimately my dream bike.

Hoping to pick up a 800cc or under in the next few weeks.

My suggestion though is to get your m1 asap as its 60 days before you are able to get your m2 and ride highways.

[RTEnthusiast]

I have a pure hard-on for the Kawasaki Z1000 today.

http://autos.vocedeolhoemtudo.com.br/wp-content/gallery/kawasaki-z1000/kawasaki-z1000-1.jpg

[alhope34]

I have a pure hard-on for the Kawasaki Z1000 today.


This might be one of my next bikes in 5 years, or when my ZX6r gets worn from too many kms. As of now it will be between one of those (I hope in orange), the 1199 Panigale, ZX10r or RSV4. Would be the best of the four for touring for sure, and I do a lot of kms, but I just love me a superbike.

[peterm15]

Rather then start a new thread. Anyone got any tips on buying a used bike?

Also what insurance companies gave you the best "deal"

[alhope34]

Rather then start a new thread. Anyone got any tips on buying a used bike?

Also what insurance companies gave you the best "deal"

Go with state farm if you've had your license for 5 years or more (g/g2/g1 still counts) and plan to get a supersport. If you're getting a regular sport-touring or other standard type of bike (or had you license less than 5 years) then try Intact.

I pay $20 a month less on my 600cc race bike with State Farm than I did on my 600cc sport-tourer with Jevco back before Intact bought them.

[CloudPump]

Go with state farm if you've had your license for 5 years or more (g/g2/g1 still counts) and plan to get a supersport. If you're getting a regular sport-touring or other standard type of bike (or had you license less than 5 years) then try Intact.

I pay $20 a month less on my 600cc race bike with State Farm than I did on my 600cc sport-tourer with Jevco back before Intact bought them.

Car licensing dates do not count towards motorcycle licensing dates.

That said... we have no way of knowing when you got your M1/M2/M, they don't list separate dates for different classes of licenses on the reports we see.

Also, car accidents don't count against motorcycle insurance (and the same applies the other way around).

-Geoff

[jeffjones]

This might be one of my next bikes in 5 years, or when my ZX6r gets worn from too many kms. As of now it will be between one of those (I hope in orange), the 1199 Panigale, ZX10r or RSV4. Would be the best of the four for touring for sure, and I do a lot of kms, but I just love me a superbike.

Those bikes have some of the worse ergos of almost any sportsbike lol.
Good luck touring on those. (The zx10 is probably the only semi touring compatible ones.
If you want a fast bike that is good for touring loom at the zx14.



Rather then start a new thread. Anyone got any tips on buying a used bike?

Also what insurance companies gave you the best "deal"

Check out gtamotorcycle for any motorcycle related questions.
SF may give you a decent quote if you get smaller displacement, but they go by engine size only so a 650cc scooter with cost more than a 600cc CBR or supersport bike.

[alhope34]

Those bikes have some of the worse ergos of almost any sportsbike lol.
Good luck touring on those. (The zx10 is probably the only semi touring compatible ones.
If you want a fast bike that is good for touring loom at the zx14.


I know the rsv4 and panigale arent too good for that, but I would have to sit on them first and see. ZX10 is supposed to be good for a superbike, aside from the cbr but I'd never buy a honda. My zx6r is amazing for touring actually, I find myself more comfortable on it than I did on my fz6r surprisingly. Only difference is my hands go numb and tingly faster, but then I have very poor blood circulation due to low blood pressure issues. I usually just lie down on the gas tank for a little while from time to time, which again is more comfortable than on the fz.

[alhope34]

Check out gtamotorcycle

BTW, I thought I recognized your user name from somewhere when I first started seeing your posts here. Once upon a time I owned an MS3 for 5 years lol.

[jeffjones]

I know the rsv4 and panigale arent too good for that, but I would have to sit on them first and see. ZX10 is supposed to be good for a superbike, aside from the cbr but I'd never buy a honda. My zx6r is amazing for touring actually, I find myself more comfortable on it than I did on my fz6r surprisingly. Only difference is my hands go numb and tingly faster, but then I have very poor blood circulation due to low blood pressure issues. I usually just lie down on the gas tank for a little while from time to time, which again is more comfortable than on the fz.

If you hands go numb and your touring (non spirited ride) look into a throttle rocker, they are like $10 and work wonders. I put 1100kms on my cbr in 1 day lol.

[peterm15]

Wow ok. Ill need to reread all that.

But for those interested im looking into

Yamaha vmax 650
Honda shadow ace 750
Suzuk (?)i 500 or 800.

I'm not into crotch rockets. If I could afford insurance id be riding a Harley.


CloudPump

Do you deal with motorcycle insurance and willing to shoot me a quote?

[alhope34]

If you hands go numb and your touring (non spirited ride) look into a throttle rocker, they are like $10 and work wonders. I put 1100kms on my cbr in 1 day lol.

That wouldn't help me. Stretching my fingers out and moving my left hand around on the grip which that thing would allow me to do to my right, doesn't do a thing. I have to take my hand completely off and shake it around a bit to get blood flowing again, or lay on the tank so my joints are at different angles and my jacket doesn't constrain anything weirdly. All the way up to my elbows have gone numb before, and I can forget wearing a backpack with any kind of weight for more than 30 minutes.

[Booter22]

Wow ok. Ill need to reread all that.

But for those interested im looking into

Yamaha vmax 650
Honda shadow ace 750
Suzuk (?)i 500 or 800.

I'm not into crotch rockets. If I could afford insurance id be riding a Harley.


CloudPump

Do you deal with motorcycle insurance and willing to shoot me a quote?

call angela, shes wicked, set up the mrs with her bike insurance. will set me up to in a few weeks, works for statefarm in bolton. 416 464 9519 - let her know i referenced you, John Boot / Elizabeth Wilson. if anything she can give you a few quote on those bikes pretty quickly. i am going to be riding for my first year this year got my M2 in the fall. and my insurance a month will be about $160 on my 05 ZX6R, ( im 26 ) and the mrs pays less on her 04 cbr 600RR and shes only going to be 24 this year.

but worth the call, and if you want to take a good course if you havent call learning curves.

[peterm15]

Oh wow. Bolton is nice and colse to. Will do. Thanks boot.

[Booter22]

so i got these tank grips.. yea not for my year but for $10 bucks. i said forget it, why send it back. so i put them on the other day.. just not sure how i feel about them or if i should go get the right ones. seem to line up alright with the legs.

thoughts?

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green%20Moster/20140308_114446_zps7vwstxez.jpg

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green%20Moster/20140308_114437_zpsbieyzmwy.jpg

anndd.. one for the ladies...

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green%20Moster/20140308_113738_zpsgbohkli7.jpg

spring needs to hurry up.

[DaveIrwin24]

so i got these tank grips.. yea not for my year but for $10 bucks. i said forget it, why send it back. so i put them on the other day.. just not sure how i feel about them or if i should go get the right ones. seem to line up alright with the legs.

thoughts?

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green%20Moster/20140308_114446_zps7vwstxez.jpg

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green%20Moster/20140308_114437_zpsbieyzmwy.jpg

anndd.. one for the ladies...

http://i1124.photobucket.com/albums/l576/JBoot22/Green%20Moster/20140308_113738_zpsgbohkli7.jpg

spring needs to hurry up.

Where did you buy the tank grips from? I'm interested in getting some?

Finally sold my 636 today and got the other one, got out for a ride today, now it's a blizzard Lol Canadian springtime for sure!
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/23/evupuvyr.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/23/ehumura2.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/23/4y4aryqy.jpg

[Booter22]

I think it was ali express. But ebay has the same ones too.