hey guys,

so I'm thinking of getting a used bike...to have, run around on, get familiar with having a bike, etc.

was just curious if anyone knows of a good outlet for motorcycle lessons (beyond the overly packed NOVA one) or anyone that's experienced enough to offer some tips/suggestions/etc.

just want to start down this path, so any local advice would be cool

 

Look for Motorcycle Safety foundation rider courses. They have classes with in class room training and then road course training. You can take you tests there and they supply the bikes. I know the courses are very popular so you may not be able to get into one by the end of the summer.
http://nm.msf-usa.org/msf/ridercourses.aspx?state=VA

 

hey man how much are you looking to spend? I have a GSX-R 600/750 that only has 4000 miles on it if you want to take a look. I have another so we can ride and overall just don't hop on and think you're Rozzi or worthy of track time. Oh and very important ALWAYS wear your GLOVES and LEATHER JACKET. Remember it's not IF it's WHEN you drop the bike-it happens to everyone who rides only a matter of time.

 

When you get your new bike, give it to me and I'll show you how to ride it. Then you can buy another bike and ride it correctly.

 

Most defenitely take a MSF class. It was the best thing i did. I never had a bike or rode one until about 2 years ago. To tell the truth i was very nervous about learning But the class is great...it teaches you ALL of the basics that every rider should know. And in Florida upon taking and passing the class, you don't need to take the written or riding tests from the state.

I think every rider should take it.

 

ah, cool info. will definitely check those folks out.

comebackZ -- prolly looking to spend just a few $k....below $4k, hopefully. looking at a used Ducati Monster or the Buell line. but something conservative overall

 

I am thinking about getting a Ducati too. I am scheduled to take the class at NOVA in June. Kind of nervous about it since I have never ridden one before, but I have always wanted one. NOVA was the only place that I saw that offered any kind of training around here.

 

yeh, it sucks. those d*mn classes are booked up for like 3 months. called today and the earliest they had was August. wtf!

 

It's a very good idea to take the MSF course both financially and for safety reasons. Financially because most insurance companies will give you a discount on the premium and safety for obvious reasons. I rode for a year (been riding for >10years) before taking the course and learned things which can mean life and death on the streets. Speaking of insurance, get a quote before getting into the sport. You would be surprised at how expensive it is to insure a bike.

I know there is a long wait list but if you call their office every wednesday afternoon they may have cancellations where they can squeeze you in. Also, I believe if you purchase a bike through one of the local dealers (Coleman Powersports) they can schedule you into the MSF course as they sometimes reserve blocks for their customers. Good way to "sneak" into a class.

As for choice of bikes, I can almost guarantee you will drop it at least once so don't get a nice new Ducati. It's also advisable that you do not start with a sport bike (r6, cbr rr etc) as it would most likely hinder your learning experience; you would be too busy trying to hang on instead learning to ride properly.

Most beginners with very little to no riding experience initially start off with a 250 or 500cc; popular model is the Suzuki SV 650 or Kawasaki ex500. These are very good starter bikes and if you buy used, you lose very little money on resale as they hold their values.

Finally, bikes are fun but dangerous, you always need to have 110% attention on the road and your surroundings. You should always have the mentality that cars (cages) are out there to kill you. Other than that have fun

 

I realize this isn't exactly what you were asking for, but my advice to you is to make sure you have someplace VERY secure to keep it.

Too many god damn thieves in our area.

 

Yes, garage is definetly a big plus. Theft is all too common in the DC metro area.

 

hhmm....that garage comment is a bit more enlightening. I have garage parking downtown for my car...wonder if could squeeze the bike in the same spot

and yeh, looking for a bike below the 750cc mark. have no illusions about the learning curve

 

Yes always keep your bike in a garage. My 04' Gsx-R 750 almost got stolen =/ Lucky i came out before they got it =) I wasn't even in for that long either.

 

I got my motorcycle license and safety lessons ($135) last August at Glen Burnie MVA. I havent gotten around to buy a bike yet. But eventually I will have one. Good luck

 

Buy a used bike like a ninja 500 ride it for 2-3 months then sell it off and buy the bike you want.

you can get a 2000+ used ninja 500 for around 2000-2500 and after putting 2-3K miles on it turn around and sell it for the same price.

its super light and easy to ride. IMO a great starter bike.

 

selling for about $3500 to $4000

 

What year?

 

If you want to get lesssons. Find out what date the class at the MVA starts and show up just in case someone that has signed up doesn't show up and if you have cash to pay for the class they will put you in. There are some instructors that will teach on the side. The down side is that you will not be able to get a MSF card or license for the class but they will get you and riding.....

 

03 600 w/ an 03 750. You can register it as a 600(save $ on insurance)

 

Oh that bike.... that's why it's that cheap.