barymartinIt’s been great reading so many thoughtful comments on this forum and I’m sure there are at least a couple of experienced riders out there who will help with a few basic questions. I’m thinking about buying my first bike and need advice about bike selection and purchase.
First, it might help to know that I passed the rider safety course (over a year ago) and am a serious bicycle rider – mostly road riding – so I have some feel for being on two wheels. Although I’ve got a dedicated bicycle for every need (road, x country, commuting…) I can afford only one motorcycle, so it’s got to be an all-rounder. I plan to use it around Los Angeles, on the freeways and for light touring on the interstates. In addition, I want a practical bike I can use panniers on, and one that is inexpensive to buy and operate.
That’s a lot to ask of any one bike, I know, but maybe you can give me a shortlist of choices. I’ve seen a lot of talk about the Ninjas on this forum and elsewhere – and I like the idea of riding a tame sport bike – but I’m not sure I’ll feel secure on a bike with a 31” seat height (I’m 5’7” with a 30” inseam). What about the Vulcan or Honda Aero? Are cruisers not as good a choice for beginners?
Finally, I know it makes good financial sense to buy used, but I’m not experienced enough to know if a used bike has been properly broken in and treated properly or not. Do you think it might make more sense for a new rider (with no friends who ride) to buy from a reputable dealer?
Many thanks to all of you two-wheelers out there; the world would be a much better place if more people traveled on fewer wheels.
