- This topic has 3 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 16 years ago by AaronMerlot.
Hey there, I’m from Los Angeles
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April 8, 2008 at 8:41 am #1267dfischerParticipant
Hey Guys,
So I’ve always wanted to ride a bike, and I finally came to the conclusion to get things started when I had a dream of riding last night. The dream did have some scary moments like skidding on the road into the other lane right in front of a truck… but I survived Most of the dream included the breeze of the wind going by my hair, the enjoyable hum of a bike buzzing, and just the versatility and fun that a bike brings.
Coming back to reality, I’ve never been in a motor-bike before, the only bike I’ve ridden is your normal bicycle.
I live in Los Angeles, I’m 18, 6’4, 180lbs and I’d consider myself very mature for my age.
I’ve been driving a Cadillac Catera 1999 Sports Edition since I was 16 and love it. I think this dream leads me to another point though:
I’m looking to invest into a bike, but I have a couple concerns and or questions:
1) Is Los Angeles way to dangerous to ride a bike? Or is it pretty “okay” to ride in L.A once you get accustomed to the traffic patterns etc? (This is how I felt after driving a car for 6 months, and the experience may carry over to motorcycles, I have no idea).
2) How do I get a motorcycle? Do I need a license before I get one? If so, how do I get a license? I heard that you could get a license easily after taking some qualified lessons and completing a written test?
3) This leads me to another thing, what type of bike should I get? I mentioned I’m a rather large guy, but slim is one thing to note. I feel like a heavy bike is safer, but at the same time I want a sexy looking bike. I always wanted a Ninja when I was growing up just because it sounds badass, and now it actually looks pretty badass in the 2008 model. Is this a big enough bike for my size? Is it good for a beginner? (I did read the article on this site and it looks like a fair beginner investments, cheap too.)
4) What type of gear should I invest in? How much will it cost?
Thanks, and I hope to be an official rider soon!
April 8, 2008 at 10:08 am #5520swedeParticipant1) No idea, just be aware that when you’re on a motorbike you are very exposed and vulnerable to other drivers, no matter how good driver you are, others errors is in this case more of your problem than theirs.
4) Invest in gear that feels good, go to a store and try out some different brands/models. Buy what feels like it could stand a crash and make sure you get the right sizes, the protectors shall stay in place. If you go with leather, know that it stretches with use and that most leather wear is usually uncomfortable at start (good thing if you can try it on sitting on a bike)
I belive that Ben (the site admin) payed about $800 for his gear.
I myself payed about 1000$ for helmet, pants, boots, gloves, balaclava and back-protector. But with the dollar being so low, and me living in Europe I guess what Ben payed for his gives a better picture.Welcome to the forums and good luck!
smörgåsbord
JonathanApril 9, 2008 at 12:25 am #5532dfischerParticipantCan anyone help out with the unanswered questions?
April 9, 2008 at 7:30 am #5540AaronMerlotParticipant2. It all depends on where you live. I live in Michigan so here you have a couple of options. The best option is first take the MSF course, its $25 and all you need is a helmut and gloves(they give you a bike to ride during the 4 day class). Once you pass that you go to the Secretary of State (aka. MDV) take a 20 question test, pass that, give them $17 and you are good to go get a bike. Now I did it a little different way (I think this should be called the wrong way) #1 bought the bike ( in MI you don’t need a motorcycle license to buy a bike and ride it off the lot, but you are breaking the law once you hit the street) by the way my dealer was not even a bit worried that I did not have a license. #2 go the DMV take the test give them the money and you get a “permit” . That means you can ride with! a licensed rider only during daylight hours and no passengers on your bike. #3 you go to an approved instructor give them $25-$350, they watch you go around some cones for 5 minutes and then give to a short test. When you pass you can get your license. So check with your state DVM!! And take the MSF course, you mite have a better idea of biking when you are done.
3. I am sure if you have been reading the forums on this site you will know the “What bike should I get” is the hot question. To tell you the truth I have no clue! Just read all the info you can get your hands on, and talk to every one.
All I can do is tell you, I am just over 6 feet tall and 178 lbs and my 2007 GS500f is a great, fun bike with plenty of horse power. Take the MSF course and talk to the people there, I bet you will have a good idea of what will work for you when you are done with the class. -
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