[bookermorgan]

Hello,
I am from Calgary AB. I have been reading this site for the past couple of days and have learned so much!
I wanted to know if the Ninja 250, being a super awesome beginner bike, would be able to handle the hills in and around Calgary. Also, I am 6′ and 300lbs and my girlfriend is 5’6″ and 150lbs. Would it be possible for both of us to be on this bike, or should I look into the Ninja 500? Just taking a quick look there only seems to be around a $500 difference.

[Jon D.]

I know that you have perused these forums so here is my opinion/feedback on your question. First and foremost welcome to the site, you will find great info here. There are quite a few threads that suggest the ninja 500 is an ok beginner bike, not as popular as the 250, however I haven’t viewed too many negatives about it. Take an MSF or equivalent course prior to purchasing the 500. If you do well and are comfortable with the smaller bikes than I would say that the larger ninja should be okay. You will also need to get in some seat time ( 2-3000 miles experience) prior to adding a passenger. It actually wouldn’t be a bad idea ,if you can talk her into it, to take the riding course with you. It will give her a better idea of how a bike operates and reacts to inputs. Mainly balance inputs. This would help both of you in the long run. All in all, it seems to me that you are trying to get everything right the first time, so be honest with yourself and I would say your choice will fit your needs. Ride safe and God bless. Jon D.

[SantaCruzRider]

If you’re planning to eventually ride with your passenger, neither of the Ninjas has the load capacity you need. The capacities vary a bit by year, but I think they are about 375lbs for the Ninja 250 and 419lbs for the 500 — that’s well below your combined weight of 450 lbs (which I assume does not include all your riding gear).
In light of that, I think you have two choices:
1. Go for the 500 and tell your girlfriend she can’t ride with you until she loses 31+ pounds, or
2. Start with either the 250 or 500, ride solo for a year or so to build skill and confidence, then start looking for a middle-weight sport tourer designed for your combined weights.

[bookermorgan]

Thank you for the advice. Went to the auto show last night and sat on the Honda CBR125 and CBR600. Man is that 125 little! But would be light enough to learn of for sure. Also I had a typo putting my weight as 300lbs when it should have been 200lbs.

[Jon D.]

Looks like the ninja 250 would be the bike for you after all. I would still stick with my original feedback on saddle time prior to adding a passenger. I am not sure what or how much riding time you will get this season, so 2010 may be the year for 2-up riding. I am sure I had multiple years riding before going with a passenger (ugly duckling syndrome). The ugly is still there and I improve on it as time passes, but the wife doesn’t seem to mind. Anyway, be honest with yourself and you will make the better choices because of it. Ride safe and God bless. Jon D.

[bookermorgan]

I totally agree. I doubt i would be comfortable with a passenger for a bit!!
Sat on the 2009 Ninja 250 and was plesently suprised how much it felt like a bigger bike. well much bigger than the CBR125!

Gotta find some courses now as the weather is getting nicer!

Thanks again everyone!

[bigguybbr]

I can’t wait for my course to start in 2 weeks here in CT. Whatever you get just be responsible and practice practice practice!

[Clay Dowling]

See, you and your girlfriend should both buy bikes. Way cooler than having her ride pillion. Way more expensive too, but it would be cool. Right now we’re still paying for my bike, but as soon as it is paid, I want her to take the BRC and get a bike, even if it’s just a little 250 for local commuting.

[Author]

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