The verdict is in!! I found a GS500, which I know is bigger than I said I wanted, but some of you also said I'd be ok with it. I just have to remember it's a decently powerful bike. But it was 1500 and I had that much money, it didn't clash with my pretty helmet, and the boy liked it.
So there ya go
yay me!
Yup that's a great learner bike! Two major things are missing from your photo though, a riding jacket and gloves! Get those ASAP. I've tested both my skin and my riding jacket against the pavement, and guess which one worked better. Boots are very important too, ask me how I figured that one out.
Gloves: 10~50 dollar riding gloves are great, leather gardening gloves will work fine as a substitute.
Jacket: Definitely try to get one with CE approved high impact plastic armor in it. Mine cost me 140 and was clearanced from 400. I really really like it. And yes I have tested it against my will, net result was a small tear in the pocket of the jacket and a destroyed lower fairing and clutch cover. My body was perfect.
Boots: I just wear heavy duty work boots on the street, but specially designed riding boots are probably better. I always wear my offroad boots when I ride my dirtbike off of the street. Ask me how I know about boots some time.
Pants: Never ride with less than jeans on. I suggest getting some nice street pants with CE approved high impact plastic knee guards. Trust me they are worth the investment. There are also specially designed jeans that are woven with kevlar and stainless steel, I haven't tried them but wouldn't mind owning a few pairs.
ATGATT = All the gear ALL of the time.
To be honest, I typically just ride in my jacket with gloves and a helmet and jeans, but that's because I commute on my bike daily. Whenever I go out for a "Sunday Ride" with the club or some friends I always wear ALL of the gear.
Good luck with the bike! I'm excited for you, I always love picking up a new bike!
Consider finding some old fogeys to take you out on some first rides with them. If they are old dudes that wear full gear they will probably be safe and help you get started properly. Don't be afraid to take a beginners motorcycle class like one offered by the MSF. I took the MSF course when I was 14 and even though I had already been riding dual sports offroad for several years and was a bit of a hot shot, I still learned some great stuff about safe street riding. I definitely suggest it.
Ahhh, I am so jealous! I need another bike so bad... the one in my dreams right now is a plated KTM 380 EXC though.
Suggestion for that bike and you: try to keep the RPMs below 6000 except on the wide open highway until you're more familiar with the power output. Once you get that thing wound out the power comes on like flipping a switch.