[mr.nick]

im also about on the same page as you as far as beginner status. ive been on a 50cc scooter since june but, have been doing some digging.

i went to the international motorcycle show when it was here in seattle and aside from the ninja 250 (since you’d rather not go after a sport bike) i really liked the feel of the V Star 250. it felt really comfortable and manageable. you could try finding a dealer in your area and see how you like it. i wouldnt think your size would be a problem…

at the show, i tried sitting on practically everything, from dirt bikes made for kids to massive harleys that were so heavy, i couldnt even lean it off the kickstand. i was surprised to find that even some of the 500-700cc cruisers felt totally manageable… well, sitting still anyhow. some of it seemed to be how the weight of the bike was distributed and seat height.

and like everyone says here, take the MSF class (which i still have to do). i guess youre planning on it.

i dont have much knowledge in the area of great older bikes to look at, so maybe someone else here has an idea of what you might consider if you dont want to buy new.

[mr.nick]

yea man, thats too bad about your spill. Like Eon, i also live in Seattle and have been riding in the rain (im on a 50cc scooter) and it can play tricks on you. a few weeks ago i was turning onto my street in the rain and my front tire slipped out a bit while making the turn. it happened so quick i didnt even have time to react, but the good new was i didnt go down… i think i hit a patch of wet leaves. im almost certain i would have spilled if i had been going any faster/leaning harder. so, its good be really conservative with your riding in wet conditions.

also, i agree with Munch. it could have been for any or many reasons. i do find it pretty amazing that where you point your head or look, the bike will follow… maybe looking down in turns like that really is telling your bike “im going down.”

[mr.nick]

no problem!

[mr.nick]

yes.

having grown up in the northwest, i feel comfortable in wet conditions. i do ride a lot more cautious, knowing that the grip and braking changes, not to mention visibility and other drivers with their head up their butts. i really do my best to assume no one can see me, so i dont get taken out at an intersection.

in a car, ive never been in a wreck. not even close. on 2 wheels, just that instance with the curb. not to say it wont happen. but i do my best to avoid sketchy situations always.

yea. ninja 250. i would love to have that bike. but i really need to make it to Lake City so i can sit on one. probably others as well, so i know for sure what feels right.

i did learn to drive on a manual transmission. i prefer it greatly over automatics. i know what you mean when you refer to “muscle memory”. it takes time and practice. but i am a very patient person, rest assured i wont be stretching myself beyond my experience.

and look at the time! my work day is nearly over!

[mr.nick]

Yep, 50cc’s is a bit limiting for riding. but still fun.

I got married last month and my wife and I did horrible things to our bank accounts while on our honeymoon! haha. So, im playing a bit of catch up before i take the MSF training… then, it will be all gravy.

One ride that was fun, my wife and I went to the southern end of Vashon Island on the little beast. From capitol hill, down 1st ave. till Spokane st., Spoakne st. bridge to West Seattle, across West Seattle to the ferry terminal, 20min ferry ride (which peds and motorcycles get first on, first off), then a nice ride through Vashon Island. There were a few times I wished for more power, but for the most part it was smooth travels. It took roughly 2 hours each way, by far my longest journey so far.

Lake Washington Blvd. is another place Ive found to be fun, in-city riding. Along the lake on a sunny day!? are you kidding me!? awesome.

I was also curious what you guys use for rain gear and where you think is a good spot to get it from? So far, the rain isnt too crazy yet, so I get by… but not for long!

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