[GrYmLocke]

Hey, everyone. I’m GrYmlocke, 100% noob in training. I fell in love with bikes since I was 15 (when I was still riding to school on my bicycle). Now I’m twenty-two and finally considering attempting to tame a two-wheeled speed demon. What took me so long, you ask? Well, even if you didn’t ask, I’ll still tell . I just never had a descent chance of getting one. Even though I was working since 17 and living on my own since 20, I just found a car more practical for everyday living. Unfortunately (fortunately?), my car kicked the bucket and left this world and me behind.

Now I’ve decided to take transportation into a different direction and delve into the motorcycle world (sport bikes to be specific). I’ve researched for over two weeks straight and I think I’ve finally located the type of beast I’m willing and capable of taming; A 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250r. . .or 500.

Now all that’s left is to save up, research even more, take the Motorcycle Training Course, keep it a secret from my girlfriend and have fun while doing it.

Wish me luck!!!

Oh and for the record, I’m 5’11, 165 lbs. Perfect for the type of sport bikes I’m aiming for, right?

[Jeff in Kentucky]

The 2008 250R looks more modern, and the older 500cc design would be a little more comfortable for long trips at 75 miles per hour. Both are a good choice for a beginner.

I think you should sign up for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation beginner course- they give you motorcycles to ride during the class, and after you pass it , it is considered the driving test for most states. You will then have a better idea of what bike to buy, and are less likely to drop your own bike later.

[madjak30]

but keeping a secret like that from your girlfriend…well you’re on your own with that one…

Just one tip…buy a used bike first (preferably with a scratch or two). You don’t want to be the first one to scratch up the bike, you’ll be pissed at yourself…save the pretty shiny one for a second or third bike…and remember you are not buying your only bike…you are buying your first bike…sensible first…then shiny and new later, after experience…

Later.

[gitchy42]

I second MadJak’s points. Buying used will save you a lot of headache later, although you may still be able to find a good deal on a new 2008. Window shop a little to get an idea on what you can expect to pay, work out how much you are willing to pay and when you go to buy DO NOT GO ABOVE THAT (unless you completely fall in love with a bike, then fudge it a little).

Also, Jeff has a great suggestion with taking a rider training course. In most states the MSF course is a good choice, some states have their own training course. Most of the time the course will replace the ride test, sometimes the knowledge test too. In every case a rider training will lower insurance rates.

You have chosen a couple of great bikes there, but don’t overlook the older Ninja 250’s, they don’t have quite as good performance as the newer ones, but they are the gold standard for newbie bikes.

Enjoy!!

[Author]

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