[ilnam]

I’m changing direction and heading over to megaspaz’ side. Good points Matt and megaspaz!

[ilnam]

According to Proficient Motorcycling:
The purpose of ABS is not to produce a shorter stop, but to give the rider confidence to apply the brakes fully without risking a slideout. The ABS system prevents a skid (and a potential crash) if the rider brakes too hard for available traction, but ABS activation also lengthens the stop slightly. Compare the stopping distances of two similar machines, one with standard brakes, and one with ABS:
The tested stopping distance of a 1998 Honda VFR800FI (non-ABS) from 60 mph to 0 is 107.9 ft.
The tested stopping distance of a 2002 VFR800FI (with ABS) from 60 mph to 0 is 119.5 ft.

You may have already seen that, since you seem to be looking into ABS thoroughly. I’ve seen contradicting reports as well. Proficient Motorcycling concludes the braking section very well, so I’ll just quote it:
“Whatever the brake system on your motorcycle, rider skill is still the most important part of controlling speed. It’s important to know when to brake and how to brake. And it’s even more important to develop good braking habits, because even the most advanced system can’t prevent a slideout caused by poor techniques (such as snapping the throttle closed in the middle of a tight turn). When you are suddenly faced with a hazardous situation, good habits will help you pull off a successful stop without having to think about it. “

Anyway, I’d agree with Budd. Beginner rider and first bike, right? Forgo the ABS, save a little money that way, and learn/practice solid fundamental breaking.

[ilnam]

I just got my motorcycle yesterday, so I hope to get plates and insurance today. Then, eventually I’ll be riding around like you. Let me know when you get that Ninja on the interstate or at speeds like 70-80 or more I almost bought an 08 ninja and i’m curious how it rides for you at like 80+ mph.

[ilnam]

I was a huge newbie myself. I didn’t know shifting and I hadn’t even sat on a bike. Fortunately (or unfortunately) we only got up to second gear so shifting never got complicated. I was really eager to learn though, so I read a lot and watched lots of motorcycle videos online, which, in my opinion, helps to some degree. A big part is to relax. Some people pick it up quicker than others, and being a total newb may put you behind others who have ridden before, but as mentioned before, the class is geared to total beginners. I think balancing and throttle control is actually more of struggle than shifting, but regardless, you’ll get the hang of it. Have fun!

[ilnam]

I hate real snug though. I measured my head and I think it was about 56 centimeters, which is a small according to the couple manufacturers I checked. However, the mediums were really tight and the larges felt much more comfortable. If they break in a lot, then perhaps I’ll consider the mediums. Does anyone else find their head size/shape to run a few sizes larger than the general recommendation? Also, I tried to get into a few Scorpions, but my head wouldn’t even get into their XL!

[ilnam]

oops. 08 Ninja 250

[ilnam]

use tax? I don’t know what that is…yet. I hope to get a bike soon. Are you in the Chicagoland area? So what was the total cost for registration/plate/tax? I’m looking at an 08 ninja or an 07 GS500F. I don’t want to drop the bike on these fairings though!

[ilnam]

I don’t know much, but I was taught to either use counterweight for tight turns or full rear brake and steady throttle. I sucked at the latter, but perhaps that’s because that wasn’t the best advice. I’ll have to try the constant throttle and clutch combo (with some rear break).

[ilnam]

interesting site. I’ll have to take a closer look when I have more time…like at work!

[ilnam]

Yeah, I know what you mean. Maybe something will be available this fall/winter. I’m looking at this bike which turns out to be a GS500F. Supposedly it gets 58MPG, but I’m wondering how much this can vary depending on use. And with a bike that has fairings – can they easily be removed to ride naked? I don’t know how that or sliders work

[ilnam]

Thanks. I thought the gsx500 might be a typo. I’ll go check it out and see what it really is.

[ilnam]

Yeah, I think I see about 5% of the riders near me (Chicago and suburbs) wearing helmets. It’s strange to me how it’s optional to wear one, but no one seems to make the wise choice.

[ilnam]

If there’s a waiting list for 08′ Ninjas do those people get transferred in line for an 09′? I will be interested in buying a new 08 Ninja 250 in the next few months, but how likely is that if the ’09s are out. The $500 increase sucks!

[Author]

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