Hello all, like the subject says, I’m in Wichita, KS. I’m 23, male, and work as an engineer. I have been riding for six months. I took a weekend riding course back in September, and purchased my first bike in early October – a 1986 Honda Magna v45 (700cc). My plan had been to save up for a newer bike, but after taking the course I realized I could NOT wait that long.
The course was my first experience on a motorcycle of any kind, and my first experience with a manual transmission as well. I think learning would have been a much slower process without the course. So far I’ve logged about 2k miles, and expect to put lots more on this year. I’ve happily passed the 5 month statistical danger zone- haven’t had any crashes, and haven’t laid the bike down… but from what I understand, I should add a “yet” to both of those statements.
My goal is to work my way up to a Hayabusa, but I realize that will be several years, many thousands of miles, and a couple downgrades of my insurance cost from now. I’ve done some research and it looks like the Honda Interceptor will be my next bike in a year or two.
The Magna that I’ve got is obviously older, being an ’86, but was in good condition when I bought it with 25k miles. However, the previous owner must have been a bit stingy with nonessential repairs. I’ve replaced the fork brace, both rear turn signal stems (the rubber had broken causing them to sag, which he had fixed with electrical tape!!), the license plate mount & light assembly, changed the brakes, changed out the brake and clutch fluid, and put on a new rear tire. I’ve learned a lot from working on the bike myself, and have saved on expensive labor costs as well.
Anyway, I’m looking forward to discussing everything motorcyclish with you all.
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