Too new to be a Newbie

[TooNu]

Hi there -- just finished my course at St. Lawrence a few weeks ago -- was the most fun I've had in a very long time. Still can't wipe the smile off my face. Have always wanted to ride, secretly, but never brave enough to try. I can't believe that after just two days they're going to let this powder puff loose on the streets.    so, too new to even be a newbie.

Have purchased all my gear, but haven't purchased the bike yet. Am almost there, am seriously considering a 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 Ltd. (push-steering exercises  through the pylons in the parking lot made me think that a sport bike might be fun too) but most people are telling me to buy a second hand bike for my first one.

Makes sense, except I don't have a resident mechanic to help when things go awry -- so thinking that with a new bike, and a protection plan, I'm good to go.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[Shaman]

I would recommend a "naked" SV650.  That's a Suzuki, FYI.

A very good bike, newbie friendly and there are lots of aftermarket things available if you want to change something (such as a more vocal pipe).  They're relatively inexpensive, too. 

Parts are cheap as chips... and getting a non-faired bike means no expensive plastics to replace if you tip it over or something... get some frame protectors for it, and voila, it will be perfect.

You should be able to pick up a late carbeurated version for chips.   You don't say how tall or heavy you are, but if you are over 200lbs you may need some different springs and fork oil, otherwise the SV should be good.

And welcome to the forum.

[flash]

Also consider a GS500. Suzuki as well. They've been around for years and should be easy to find a good deal on a used one. The SV is a superior bike though. You might get bored of the GS quickly.

[TooNu]

OK, checked out the SV650, very nice looking bike but a little sporty for me. I'm looking for a cruiser; something for nice, leisurely, long highway rides and some camping along the way. and i'm a chick, so i want to know how much i can pack on the bike.
i'm 5'3' in a strong wind, about 140 lbs.
thanks for the welcome btw

[Shaman]

Well, the naked SV650 and GS500 are both standard bikes - great for cruising, with upright seating and good ergonomics.

Honestly, I'd recommend them over a regular cruiser, they are easier to ride, have better brakes, better handling and better acceleration.  They'll cruise, sport or tour just fine.

[flash]

The Vulcan will be ok, but get some time under your belt with an older used bike before investing in a brand new one. Other suggestions would be the Yamaha Virago(535), Suzuki Intruder(650 I think), Honda Shadow(might be a 500,650 I'm not sure there either). I wouldn't go back more that 5 years though.

[rollingstone]

Hi there toonu,I think because of you height you are far better off with a shorter bike.The cruisers are your best bet.Just about all manufactures are good but don't get anything under 500 cc.Shamans right an sv is a great bike for beginners,but sit on all the bikes first then make a choice.Just my 2cents.

[TooNu]

thanks everyone, looks like i have alot more home work to do. i don't know the difference between a cruiser and a touring bike. i thought i had it figured out, but  but i guess not.

[pailface]

I have a cousin,  5'3"  130 lbs,  a rider for about 5 yrs,  and she rides a Marauder 250.  Her husband has the same in the 800cc size.   It's hard to tell the difference from a distance that they aren't the same bike.  Wide handlebars,  cruiser style for sure.    A 250 geared correctly (like this Marauder),  isn't as slow or overworked as it might appear.   And there are some used early 2000 models available..  Check it out..     

http://www.canadianrider.com/buyers_guide/suzuki/2005_Suzuki_Marauder_250.htm

[Shaman]

Just for the record, I'm not in favour of 250cc bikes for the road, which I suspect was going to be rollingstone's point too.  The reason is that any bike could get you into trouble, but if you are low on accelerative power, chances are you won't be able to get out of a tough spot that requires more.

[rollingstone]

Exactly what shaman said,that was the point we are making.250 's are great for the dirt but they aer lacking in power for the street.

[Giv'Er]

The EX500 is the bike for you. Not too sporty, very cruisy, perfect ladies bike.  I have seen what an EX can carry for travelling.  Lots of space out back to mount luggage. 

[rollingstone]

Welcome back grover thats a perfect bike for the beginner.where have you been hiding?

[pailface]

>The reason is that any bike could get you into trouble, but if you are low on accelerative power, chances are you won't be able to get out of a tough spot that requires more..   

Shaman, I appreciate and respect  the knowledge of an experienced rider - could you describe a situation/tough spot where having more power would be better ?  (keeping in mind the experience and physical characteristics  of the rider..       

[Shaman]

Shaman, I appreciate and respect  the knowledge of an experienced rider - could you describe a situation/tough spot where having more power would be better ?  (keeping in mind the experience and physical characteristics  of the rider..

Sure, you're crossing an intersection and you're right in the path of a vehicle that hasn't stopped for the red light.  If you brake, the vehicle hits you for sure.  If you accelerate fast, you can get past the vehicle.  If you're not so lucky or can't accelerate quickly, it'll maybe hit the rear tire and subframe at worst, instead of your body.

This is also the reason that we shouldn't loaf around in a high gear in town.  Acceleration is just as important for safety as braking or turning are when you are in traffic.