What makes a Good Starter-Bike?
May 15th, 2007 by Leo
This question comes up quite a bit, so here’s my personal opinion on the age old question: What’s a good first-bike? The best answer (as far as I can tell) is: “it depends.”
The problem with a lot of (otherwise good) advice on first-motorcycles is that it’s like trying to give directions to someone without knowing where they’re coming from… You can’t tell someone to make a left unless you know which direction they’re coming from…In the same way there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to motorcycles. Something else we must keep in mind is that there is no such thing as a “safe” motorcycle for beginners on the streets of NY. A crash on a 250cc is just as bad as a crash on a supersport. And on congested city streets, a person who lacks the sense to learn safely on a 600 will not be safe on a 250. However there are principles and needs that can be understood and addressed to benefit new riders while increasing chances of safety developing motorcycle skills. So here’s a quick rundown of some basic needs new riders have along with some principles to apply in choosing a first motorcycle…
Weight
Unless you balance refrigerators and washing machines for a living, you probably don’t have innate the skill to balance a motorcycle well. For an experienced rider, weight can add to a bike’s stability but for new riders bike weight (and the added power that usually goes with it) magnifies every mistake making riding more precarious.
A lighter motorcycle can help make steering and braking errors correctable before any of the shiny parts wind up on the ground. A lighter bike can also make simple things like walking and parking (and getting the bike on the center stand) easier. These things aren’t difficult but are often occasions for drops when not paying attention. For the male rider of average build this means finding something around 400lbs or less. Most 600s, 500s and 250s fall into that category. Lighter riders, or those who don’t want the trouble of dealing with unnecessary weight can opt for something like an EX250, with a dry weight around 300lbs. Others commonly do well with the popular 500’s, GS500, EX500 or standard 600’s (SV650, CB 600, or older 600 sportbikes…among others).
Seat Height
New riders also benefit from being able to put both feet fully on the floor while sitting on the motorcycle. An experienced rider only needs to put one toe down on either side to be secure on a dry road – but new riders who are forced to make frequent stops in traffic usually need to be able to put their feet flat on the ground (flat-foot). Fortunately, motorcycles can vary widely in seat height: A Harley softail is under 25″, a Ninja 250 or Ducati Monster around 30″, and the BMW F650 around 34″… A good guess-timate of whether you will be able to flat foot a bike is by comparing your pant inseam to seat height… Most people who wear 30″ inseams will be able to flat-foot Ducati Monsters, whereas those with 26″ inseams will have no problem with many Harley-style standards… For a partial list of motorcycles and seat heights check here…
Power and Throttle Control
Here we come to the most controversial aspect of choosing a motorcycle. Many riders who frequent message boards recommend everyone start on a 250, whereas dealerships will recommend buying the biggest bike you can sit on in the showroom. There is a sensible middle ground. 250s can be great first bikes but not necessarily for everyone. The principle is whether or not the throttle control is manageable for newer riders. Fortunately there is a spectrum of throttle types… Just the way you wouldn’t start a 16 year old automobile driver on a Lamborghini, you wouldn’t start any motorcyclist on a Hayabusa – but there are hundreds of car models that would be suitable. In the same way, although skill and maturity levels vary, there is a spectrum of motorcycles that can be suitable for new riders.
Generally, what I hear recommended are twins (up to 650cc), standards, and older model sportbikes (up to 599cc). “Twins” i.e., two-cylinder motorcycles like Ducati monsters, the SV650, provide plenty of horsepower with manageable power curves (for mature riders). Four cylinder motorcycles, on the other hand, can have peaky power bands that accelerate suddenly at higher RPMs so 4 cylinder 600’s can only be recommended on a model by model basis. There are many sporty standards like older Honda Hornets that can be suitable. “Standards” in general and some older model sportbikes can be suitable also, but it depends on the model. Unfortunately I don’t know of any good resource to compare horsepower and engine types of motorcycles to give you an objective list – and there are just too many to mention (although if you know of one, please post the link in the comments section).
So here are some common suggestions…
For those who aspire to be fast (technically skilled) riders, and are around or under 220 pounds in weight, the best choices involve one of the sport 500’s (GS500 or EX500) or the oddly suitable EX250. The tiny low-tech EX250 (you can find excellent 3 year old models for around $2200 on CL) with its 36 hp manages to hold a few track lap records around the country because (with Dunlop tires and heavier rear shock) it is a super-handling bike. It can teach new riders to control rear slides in corners like a pro in ways that a heavier sportbike riders would not dare… It can cruise at 100mph on the highway and still get 50 mpg. Riders of faster motorcycles spend more time scared of the throttle (unable to roll it on in corners), whereas lower hp motorcycle riders learn to wring every ounce of power out of their bikes – so if you aspire to be fast, start with a lighter bike with fewer horses.
For those who aspire to cruise in style right from the start: the Ducati Monster 620 (can find good 3 year old models for around $5500 on CL – but beware of maintenance costs) provides the super low seat height, a nice amount of power you won’t outgrow, and killer naked Italian looks. For those who want a slightly taller ride, Suzuki’s SV650 (can find excellent 3 year old models for around $4500 on CL) is a great sporty choice. Many people think of the SV as the perfect standard/naked/sport touring bike…with enough power to thrill in a manageable power curve…although not quite as sexy as a Ducati. For those who like the sportier look, the Ninja 650 is a quick (although not quite as quick as the SV) and comfortable starter commonly marketed toward female riders.
But what about the FZR-GSXR-YZF-CBR?
Most newer sport and supersport bikes are not beginner bikes. That doesn’t mean a beginner can’t ride them, many do… They’re just not really suited to helping new riders develop motorcycling skills. Most new riders that start off with 600RRs or CBR 600 f4s (popular sport bike choices) are scared of their bikes. The stories they will tell you about their “incredible bikes” hint that they aren’t entirely in control. That’s fine if you want a thrill and don’t live in a city of twenty millions people, but these folks don’t ride for long in urban environments. For people who love motorcycles and want to master basic skills while having the freedom to get around on two wheels, the smart thing to do is to look at the most often recommended bikes, and then consider them along with all the other bikes that are commonly compared to them. So that’s it, my $0.02. Motorcycling is a thinking person’s means of transportation (thoughtless people just wind up as examples of natural selection), so it’s smart of you to start making thoughtful independent choices now with your first bike. Cheers!
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Thanks a lot for the post. I found it very useful
hey!
I am considering of getting a bike for the first time but was not even considering getting something less that a 600. This article made me rethink my attitude towards my first bike. I am mature enough to be cautious when riding on the street and was just dreaming of getting 60 mph in 3 sec. I now realize that even if I don’t get into a crash on a 600, I will still not be able to control the bike and it will take too long (if ever) to really learn how to ride. Thanks!
Zee, NYC
One of the best articles I have read about beginners bikes and I have read them all. The only one to not immediately assume that everyone should begin small.
A+!
hey. thanks for the post. i’ve been thinking of buying a bike here in the US , particularly for my size and height (not 6ft and less than 200lb). I’m not quite a beginner…have ridden on the likes of cb500 , kawasaki eliminators 125s etc…but new to buying a bike here
im wondering if can get a mz 251 etz here in Canada its an old bike but it still packs a punch and as for the article it was great and i hope you do one for advanced rider cause im gonna need one soon and many other people will also
thanks! that was a huge help as I’m looking to buy my first bike
i am 16 and i ride a yamaha r6 i am not scared of it because i have been riding a 450 dirtbike since i was 14 so i think that gets rid of the scared part, but it is my first bike and i lovve crusing around on it
Great blog…very helpful since I’m about to buy my first bike. Speaking of which…I have two comments / questions:
* I’m thinking of buying a classic Honda CB (450/550/750)…you didn’t mention any older bikes in your suggestions for first bikes, any particular reason why?
* Any suggestions as far as how to find a good moto-mechanic? I’m in Carroll Gardens (brooklyn)…
Thanks!
Hey Pete,
Those Honda CB’s are great! They’re probably the most reliable 20-30 year old bikes on the road – but having said that they will probably require a little more maintenance than newer Hondas. Factor that into the $2-3k purchase price for a model in good condition and it’s much costlier than a four year old Ex500 or Bandit.
The reason I didn’t mention older bikes is because worrying about maintenance is usually a chore for people who are just starting to ride – most people fair better with something more worry free for the first few years (learning to ride is hard enough). But if you’re mechanically inclined, and have the time to take care of an older machine – these Hondas are classics…
I don’t know the shops in Brooklyn, but I’ve heard people recommend Motorcycle Works… so I’ll just pass that on: 316 Carroll St, 718-802-1705
Cheers!
Speaking of maintenance…any chance of a post on basic bike maintenance (chain lubing, etc.)? Or do you know where I could get some tips?
That’s a good idea: how to’s on chain lube, adjusting the chain, clutch and brake cables…
In the mean time, anyone else know a good online source?
http://www.uponone.com/howtos.php
How about a Honda Shadow Aero for a first time bike?
David,
Texas
Hey David – I think the Shadow fits the bill for low seat height, it’s not too heavy (for this style of bike), and has a manageable amount of power (around 45 hp)… So not a bad choice for a first bike or a daily cruiser.
Some people think of Shadows as starter-Harleys, but Hondas are really are in a class of their own. If you changed the badges, I think a lot of Harley riders would be really happy with it.
I haven’t ridden in 20 years and want to get back into it at the age of 40. A friend has a 1993 Honda VFR 750 with 18k on it in excellent shape and will sell it to me for $2k. Is that bike too big for me to start out with again? Again…, I haven’t ridden in a long time and can’t say that I am the most coordinated of sorts.
Hey Eric,
There’s a lot of power in those old v-fours. It’s pretty much the same as a modern 600 only with more torque and a little more weight (which makes low speed tip-overs more likely). I wouldn’t say it “can’t” be done, but I think you’d have more fun developing your skills on something like a 650 twin (like an SV650 if you like sporty or a cruiser style 650 twin).
But if you just can’t pass up the deal, you can buy a Ninja 250 for less than 2k, ride it around all summer and sell it for around what you paid – then buy the VFR.. Smaller bikes are easier to ride, easier to build technique, and easier to sell! While a VFR, even when it’s a good deal like the one your friend is offering can take a while to unload.
One thing to keep in mind with the Ducati Monsters – the seat is very low, which is good, but for many people the reach to the handlebars is a long one. So it’s a good idea to throw a leg over one and see how comfortable it is for you (which is really advice that applies to all bikes you might be considering.)
So you have recommendations for average size guys and lighter fellas. How about a starter bike recommendation for a big dude (assuming over 6 feet tall etc).
Hey NP,
Big guys can ride smaller bikes too. Smaller bikes don’t necessarily mean a smaller riding position. So a Ninja 250 or SV650 is just as roomy with your feet on the pegs as pretty much any standard motorcycle…
But…having said that – I think taller riders have a broader range selection to start off with…so if you want to stretch your legs… Dual sport bikes like the KLR650 are pretty good bikes to learn on if you can flat foot them, and worth keeping for the long run…
The Versys (another 650) is also not a bad way to go…and really practical for the city.
Lots of people learn to ride on 800cc (like the 880 Sportster) Harley’s – they’ll probably give you the most leg room…
And I’m sure there are some other’s I can’t think of at the moment…
They’re not the sexiest bikes out there – but lots of bikers think these are some of the best and most practical… So if you’re big enough to flat-foot them, and comfortable enough with the weight…I’ve known guys in the city who managed to learn to ride on them.
Hope that helps, cheers!
Thanks so much!
I’m 6′ 11″, and my first bike was a Ninja EX650R. The KLR is even MORE comfy. (KLR is really exceptional in the comfort department for tall folks.) The Versys was OK, but the ‘07 seat was pretty craptastic. (I dunno if they fixed it.)
I live in Brooklyn. I’m (hopefully) getting my license next week after taking an MSF course and I’ve been doing a lot of research about what makes a great first bike. I’m a young 36 years old, but cruisers appeal to me more than sport bikes. I was originally looking at getting a Yamaha V-Star 650 but after finding that an overwhelming number of veteran riders/bloggers recommend starting small (one recommended 125cc) and then increasing CCs after a year or 2 of building confidence and experience, I think I’ve changed my focus to a Yamaha Virago or V-Star 250.
The one piece of conflicting information I keep coming across is this: With great power comes great responsibility and a beginner can easily get into trouble with power he or she doesn’t have the experience to harness -vs- There are instances where you need power to get out of sticky situations. Since this site is geared towards the city biker, what’s your take on this, knowing NYC traffic?
I’m an athletic 5′6, 145lbs and plan to mostly ride around BK and Manhattan and occasionally into Queens and LI (when I drive, I take the Jackie Robinson) and hope to ride into the Poconos region in PA a few times per summer.
thanks in advance.
Dope site, btw.
Hey Maxx,
The cruiser 250’s and 125’s (like they use for the MSFs) are loads of fun and great to learn on…BUT they don’t work so well on highways (top speed somewhere in the 50-60 mph range). So it’s not fast enough for Jackie Robinson or Grand Central…except during rush hour. The only 250 I recommend is the EX250 – you can find older ones for around 1k, and they hit 100mph, so they have enough power for the highways, and have a “standard” (not leaned over or leaned back) riding position… They’re really unfortunate-looking though (ie ugly).
On the other hand, plenty of people learn to ride on 650 twins. There’s more power…but air cooled twins are still manageable for novices after an MSF (in my experience). The main problem is the weight…it weighs over 500lbs. The kind of problems you’ll have in the first few months have to do with things like coming to a full stop and forgetting to straighten out the wheel… On a 250 you’ll put your foot down hard and catch it…on a 500+ lbs machine you’ll probably drop it. It’s not life-threatening, but painful (if your leg is under it) and embarrassing if there are people around. But if you’re willing to live with that – all the other dangers are pretty much equal…
So after you take the MSF, if you feel like “I want to really develop my riding skills and master this stuff as fast as I can” then get a 250…you’ll learn faster on a smaller bike (and you can probably sell it in August for the same price you bought it in the Spring). But if you feel like “I like this, and I can do it, and I don’t mind taking it slow…” then go straight for the v-star and enjoy the riding season…
Either way good luck!
Leo,
Thanks for the great advice. I think I’m still leaning towards learning faster on a smaller, cheaper bike and selling at the end of the season. I read that the Virago 250 can hit 70mph but will beg for mercy after a while (I can live with that for now) and may let you down if you’re going 55 and you’re trying to pass a car going the same speed (that’s my only concern at this point). I did pay attention to my car driving habits on the BQE, GCP and JR and can rarely maintain speeds above 65.. even on a relatively clear Sunday morning, so I think the 250 is the better short-term fit. But who knows, I could very well change my mind after the MSF. I’ll keep you updated..
thanks again!
So I took the MSF and changed my mind. I ended up buying a 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 instead of the Virago 250 or Vstar 650. I figured it was a good middle ground. I read that the Vulcan is nimble and has a forgiving throttle but has plenty of power to out-muscle some 650’s. I bring her home on Saturday! Thanks Leo!
you talked about a lot of sport bikes, was just wondering what would be a good harley to start on?