The Free Talk Live BBS
Free Talk Live => General => Topic started by: Trillian on June 14, 2010, 11:33:52 PM
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I've decided I'm getting bike. I've never actually driven one, been on the back of one enough to know that I love them. I've done some research and I think the 250r Ninja is the way to go, and a lot of people seem to think so. It's something that I could probably keep for a while or outgrow and be able to resell relatively quickly. I like the idea of a sportier bike then a cruiser, but really just want to start on something that's not going to kill me.
I also saw a bike I don't know much about nor could find much info on them- Lifan GS... it's Chinese and I found an '08 with 3K miles on it for 1250. It's worth a look at it since it's about 2 grand less than I'd pay for a Ninja of the same year and miles. Lifan info (http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/lifan_lf200_gs_sport_2008.php)
I know my best bet would be to start with a motorcycle safety course, but that aside... I'm going to buy a first bike what should it be?
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The Admiral rides, and I am sure he will se this thread.
In my humble nonriding opinion, the kawasaki ninja is the best looking bike out there.
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I think so too mostly, but the Lifan is also really pretty. But I'm thinking it's probably crappy since they're cheap
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The lifan will be a great learner bike if you were only buying new. But you're not gonna get crap resale out of it. Whereas with a Ninja 250 you can pick one up for 2 grand and ride it for a year till you're ready for a 600 or 650 and sell it for 2 grand assuming you kept it in good condition. To be honest, I kinda want one of those Korean Q-Link 200 cc dual sports. I think they look pretty good, but I don't think I'll be pulling the trigger on a Korean or China bike until I feel like the money I'm throwing down on one is actually expendable. The reliability of the China bikes has yet to be proven.
I'd push you toward a Ninja 250 or Ninja 500 or Suzuki GS500 for a first bike, depending on how much background in two wheeled sports you have and how much you weigh and how tall you are.
Even a Suzuki SV650 or Ninja 650R would be good learner bikes, (stay away from the 600's for first bikes if you have zero experience, trust me) if you can be very respectful of them.
Another avenue that would be worth pursuing for a first bike would be a dual sport. I know they might not have popped up on your radar if you're interested in just street riding, but so long as you don't plan on riding the freeways for more than a few miles at a time the Suzuki DR200S or the Yamaha XT250 (or XT225) or TW200 are PERFECT learner bikes. They are super easy to ride. If you are taller and interested, the Yamaha WR250R or WR250X (has the Motard wheels and street slickers) or the Kawasaki KLX250 are also great learners for the street, and do pretty well offroad as well.
The dual sports are excellent learner bikes because they weigh so little, and have few parts to damage or scratch up if you dump them in a parking lot. I can't even count how many times I've gone down in the dirt on my old XT225, but the bike did not look trashed at all. Compared to my Kawasaki 1000 which I've dumped once on the street.... well yeah plastics are expensive and full fairings get battered easily, even against 5 mph parking lot asphalt.
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Get one of these !!!!
(http://image.motorcyclecruiser.com/f/8689952/Xl+Confederate_F113_Hellcat+Left_Side_View.jpg)
or one of these..........
(http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/photogallerys/Confederate-B120-Wraith.jpg)
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I don't plan on getting anything more than a 250. I'm a big fan of getting on something that was too powerful for me. The Ninja I found on craig's list had 1 owner (female) and was an experienced rider, 4K miles on it for 1900. I feel really good about that bike. It's an EX though I think and not an R. I'm not sure how much difference that makes.
As far as my two wheel driving experience goes, there's not much. I know how to ride a bicycle, and a moped/scooter. I started a motorcycle once, didn't put it in gear or anything. I will probably take a motorcycle course, but I don't really want to right away, I'd rather be taught by someone I know first, then take the course to learn the stuff that experienced drivers forget to teach you.
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Man those are crazy looking, and huge!
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I wouldn't do a 250 unless you can get one for practically nothing.
500cc at least, so you don't get bored after a week.
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Get something you won't care about dropping a few times.
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I don't plan on getting anything more than a 250. I'm a big fan of getting on something that was too powerful for me. The Ninja I found on craig's list had 1 owner (female) and was an experienced rider, 4K miles on it for 1900. I feel really good about that bike. It's an EX though I think and not an R. I'm not sure how much difference that makes.
As far as my two wheel driving experience goes, there's not much. I know how to ride a bicycle, and a moped/scooter. I started a motorcycle once, didn't put it in gear or anything. I will probably take a motorcycle course, but I don't really want to right away, I'd rather be taught by someone I know first, then take the course to learn the stuff that experienced drivers forget to teach you.
The only difference between the newer and later Ninja 250's are looks. They have the same carbs and the same engine and the same suspension pretty much. The newer ones are just prettier and more expensive.
How much do you weigh and how tall are you?
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How much do you weigh and how tall are you?
I'm 5' 7' and like 160.
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If I can chime in. I ride Dirtbikes and haven't done much more than test drive friends street bikes in 20 years. So take what I say with a grain of salt.
You really need to try the different bike types before you buy.
I would buy a duel purpose type, if I were to buy something street legal, but I like to jump off ramps and thrash.
Motorcycle types are vastly differently engineered. Different seat heights and riding positions. A cafe racer is uncomfortable town driving, whereas a cruiser can seem boring on long curvy roads etc.
Engins are also a important factor. Torque, like a V-twin gives, is easier for a novice rider, where as a inline 4 gives a great rush on the highway. Powerbands and torque are incredibly different depending on engine configuration.
A bike is a lot more than just looks, you really should try 500cc (give or take 150cc) of a Cafe racer type, a V-twin cruiser, a duel purpose and just a plain old road bike. Try and not worry too much about the look of the thing. Let your body feel for comfort and ridability because you will look a lot better on a plain bike that feels right than a bike that looks cool and you are scared of.
I mean you wouldn't buy a pair of shoes just from looks would you?
*checks Profil*
Um sorry I see you are a chick....Ya uh just buy the cute bike. :lol:
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Hey, I'll second the "dirt bike" idea. With turn-signals, etc, of course.
Dirt bikes don't care if you drop them a few times, which you WILL do.
My first bike was 50cc, yes, lawnmower size, but it was a full road bike that simply wouldn't do more than 40 mph. I dropped that plenty of times, enough to learn how to bend the foot controls back into shape.
I couldn't stand to drop my FJ12 as many times, nor would the bike survive it.
I know there are people who started riding on Harleys, I just can't imagine anyone with a choice doing so.
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Um sorry I see you are a chick....Ya uh just buy the cute bike. Laughing
I'm going to say you're partially correct. I'm sure the dirt bike is a good idea, and I know I shouldn't care as much as about the look. But the dirt bikes are beyond my ability to not care what they look like realm. I also want to be able to get up and go some, but I don't think I'll ever be someone who wants to jump ramps with a dirt bike, or go 200 mph on a sport.
It's a starter bike, so I know I'm going to drop it (but still I hope I might not), so if there's dings, and scratches on the one I'm looking at it won't kill me. I know the next bike I grow into I'll get more of what I want. That being said, since I'm not a speed seeker and just want something to get me around the city, you never know I may want to keep a 250. But mostly doubtful.. I think the main reason I'd upgrade is so I could carry a passenger regularly around, or stuff which there is no way you can do that on a such a small bike. I've got an 8 year old that will eventually ride with me when I feel 100% comfortable on the bike itself. I think a smaller bike could handle her and me for now, but not forever.
I sat on a Buell Blast 400, and watched the boyfriend ride it, I saw how he jerked back a little when he took off, and it kinda worries me to start off with some that pulls you back like that. And it was only a 400, so you can see why I hesitate to go any bigger than that...besides watching craig's list it seems as long as I take decent care of it, and don't drop it I can resale for about the same as I bought it for even a year later.
I think overall I'm pretty set on the Ninja 250, and there was the cutest black with a little bit of pink for sale, but it was way overpriced. However if something came along cheaper that was around the same size, or even a little bigger I'd get it.
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(http://troutsoup.com/img/Ferrari_V4_Motorcycle_149%5B1%5D.jpg)
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Um sorry I see you are a chick....Ya uh just buy the cute bike. Laughing
I'm going to say you're partially correct. I'm sure the dirt bike is a good idea, and I know I shouldn't care as much as about the look. But the dirt bikes are beyond my ability to not care what they look like realm. I also want to be able to get up and go some, but I don't think I'll ever be someone who wants to jump ramps with a dirt bike, or go 200 mph on a sport.
It's a starter bike, so I know I'm going to drop it (but still I hope I might not), so if there's dings, and scratches on the one I'm looking at it won't kill me. I know the next bike I grow into I'll get more of what I want. That being said, since I'm not a speed seeker and just want something to get me around the city, you never know I may want to keep a 250. But mostly doubtful.. I think the main reason I'd upgrade is so I could carry a passenger regularly around, or stuff which there is no way you can do that on a such a small bike. I've got an 8 year old that will eventually ride with me when I feel 100% comfortable on the bike itself. I think a smaller bike could handle her and me for now, but not forever.
I sat on a Buell Blast 400, and watched the boyfriend ride it, I saw how he jerked back a little when he took off, and it kinda worries me to start off with some that pulls you back like that. And it was only a 400, so you can see why I hesitate to go any bigger than that...besides watching craig's list it seems as long as I take decent care of it, and don't drop it I can resale for about the same as I bought it for even a year later.
I think overall I'm pretty set on the Ninja 250, and there was the cutest black with a little bit of pink for sale, but it was way overpriced. However if something came along cheaper that was around the same size, or even a little bigger I'd get it.
The Buell Blast 400 is actually pretty tame.
I think you should go for the Ninja 250. It's one of the best learner bikes around.
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The Buell Blast 400 is actually pretty tame.
Maybe it just did the leaping back business b/c he'd never driven that one before.
I will tell you that my extreme desire to get a dam bike NOW is becoming overwhelming, I may in fact explode if there's not one in my driveway in the next week... seriously...
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The Buell Blast 400 is actually pretty tame.
Maybe it just did the leaping back business b/c he'd never driven that one before.
I will tell you that my extreme desire to get a dam bike NOW is becoming overwhelming, I may in fact explode if there's not one in my driveway in the next week... seriously...
He probably popped the clutch because he's not familiar with it and the bike jerked forwards. Not good for the clutch, but they are designed to take it.
That ninja 250 you said you found listed for 1900 sounds good. Offer the guy 1500 cash and have another 200 in your back pocket if he turns you down. Then pull out the other 100 or 200 or w/e you're willing to pay and say that's all you have right now for the bike. He should take 1700 cash at the very least even if the bike is in excellent condition with medium miles.
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They sold it, but from watching there's a new one posted every 3 days or so. there's one right now for 6,000 but they aren't even that much new. I know a reasonable one will come around. I'm just impatient and don't want to wait!!
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Um sorry I see you are a chick....Ya uh just buy the cute bike. Laughing
I'm going to say you're partially correct. I'm sure the dirt bike is a good idea, and I know I shouldn't care as much as about the look. But the dirt bikes are beyond my ability to not care what they look like realm. I also want to be able to get up and go some, but I don't think I'll ever be someone who wants to jump ramps with a dirt bike, or go 200 mph on a sport.
It's a starter bike, so I know I'm going to drop it (but still I hope I might not), so if there's dings, and scratches on the one I'm looking at it won't kill me. I know the next bike I grow into I'll get more of what I want. That being said, since I'm not a speed seeker and just want something to get me around the city, you never know I may want to keep a 250. But mostly doubtful.. I think the main reason I'd upgrade is so I could carry a passenger regularly around, or stuff which there is no way you can do that on a such a small bike. I've got an 8 year old that will eventually ride with me when I feel 100% comfortable on the bike itself. I think a smaller bike could handle her and me for now, but not forever.
I sat on a Buell Blast 400, and watched the boyfriend ride it, I saw how he jerked back a little when he took off, and it kinda worries me to start off with some that pulls you back like that. And it was only a 400, so you can see why I hesitate to go any bigger than that...besides watching craig's list it seems as long as I take decent care of it, and don't drop it I can resale for about the same as I bought it for even a year later.
I think overall I'm pretty set on the Ninja 250, and there was the cutest black with a little bit of pink for sale, but it was way overpriced. However if something came along cheaper that was around the same size, or even a little bigger I'd get it.
Hey I'm on my second wife. I know giving practical advice to woman is a waste of time. For example my wife is limping around because of the incredibly uncomfortable shoes she is using at work, and she looks at me like a idiot when I ask her why she doesn't buy shoes that fit.
In the 80's we called the Kawa Ninjas "crotch rockets". Hope it works out. I don't know if you know about this thread so here's a hyperlink anyway.
http://bbs.freetalklive.com/index.php?topic=33124.0 (http://bbs.freetalklive.com/index.php?topic=33124.0)
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The Ninja 250's actually have a pretty decent riding position. Not nearly as aggressive as say a 600.
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For the record, I submit the good Admiral knows a hell of a lot more about street bike ridability then I do.
I just really enjoy making fun of the different genders. :D
Looking at a photo record of trillian's progress with motorbikes would be enjoyable, I hope she loves it and gets her SO to snap a riding action shot or two and put em up on the BBS.
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Of course there will be pics! I just bought a helmet today.... I thought it would subside my obsession for a little bit, but it has only made it about 10x worse and I'll look a little strange walking around with a helmet on my head driving my CRV...so it'll be soon.. just have to wait until I have a bit more money, and the right one comes up.
There was a posting for an old crusier-ish bike that wasn't too heavy or powerful today for 1000 I'm pretty sure he'd sell it to me for 800.. that's pretty darn hard to not pass up. I called the guy, someone is looking at it tonight, but he said he'd let me be next in line.
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(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/photo.jpg)
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Hey I'm on my second wife. I know giving practical advice to woman is a waste of time.
I can see why the first wife didn't stick around.
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Hey I'm on my second wife. I know giving practical advice to woman is a waste of time.
I can see why the first wife didn't stick around.
I see your point, but ouch, that burns.
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Hey I'm on my second wife. I know giving practical advice to woman is a waste of time.
I can see why the first wife didn't stick around.
I see your point, but ouch, that burns.
Yeah, it was kind of mean. But somehow I can't seem to feel sorry.
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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
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/100_1817-1-1.jpg)
yay me!
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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
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/100_1817-1-1.jpg)
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.
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PS: More pics as you get your gear are required! 8) :D
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Don't forget to check the weather report regularly. You don't want your first experience riding in wet conditions to be sooner than when you feel ready.
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I am sincerely thankful for all the info on the gear, and can tell you I already can feel the reason for gloves and boots. The others make total sense too. I will get them and soon. And will show them off because no doubt they will scream of girl awesomeness.
My progress tonight was driving around the neighborhood a bit, I did one turn around without trying to put my feet on the ground and bring it to an almost complete stop.
I'm going to look for a safety course shortly, because I know I'm not going to feel comfortable going on the main roads or highway probably until I do.
Now next question- maintenance right now
I know it needs:
New Rear tire
The new front tire put on and balanced
Oil change
New break pads for the back (at least)
Chain adjusted
Fluids check
Anything else you can think of?
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Hey I'm on my second wife. I know giving practical advice to woman is a waste of time.
I can see why the first wife didn't stick around.
Yah..... I can be difficult to live with. I'm overly practical, and I make fun of silliness, but I should be a bit more understanding of women and their want and needs. They are wonderful, nurturing, loving creatures, woman and I truly adore them. My wives really put up with a lot of things and I really should have understood that the occasional chick flick wouldn't kill me to sit through. I could have bought dinner out more often. I really need to see that woman are more in touch with there emotions and need small, expensive dinners in restaurants so they can feel appreciated. Maybe I should have excepted that no sacrifice is too great for the unwavering love of a good woman. But the first wife and I had to part ways because of insurmountable reasons I am sure you would understand. She refused to take it in the ass.
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Good stuff.
My suggestion for the rear brake pad is to put on a soft squishy cheapo "organic" pad. These are harder to lock up accidentally, and the rear brake is super easy to lock up on bikes, so you don't need to go throw a high dollar HH sintered metal pad on there, they will lock up too easily and scare the bejesus out of you.
Can't wait for more photos!
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Nice pick for a first bike! When I started the thread I was going to chime in and say a 250cc is too small! You should get several years out of that bike.
I started on an old KZ-440. It quickly became too small. At highway speed I often felt like the wind was pushing me around too much. I have a Kawasaki Nomad 1500 now. The safety course is the best decision you could make.
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Nice pick for a first bike! When I started the thread I was going to chime in and say a 250cc is too small! You should get several years out of that bike.
I started on an old KZ-440. It quickly became too small. At highway speed I often felt like the wind was pushing me around too much. I have a Kawasaki Nomad 1500 now. The safety course is the best decision you could make.
The difference is that the Ninja 250 is actually comfortable at highway speeds for long distances at a time. You can ride them from LA to San Diego and back every day and not hate life. Now my KTM 400 on the other hand... lol.
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So officially today, I've decided without a shadow of a doubt, a safety course is in my very immediate future, not in a couple months after I have a good feel for it..
I'm a little overwhelmed by all of it, and I freaked out a tad riding in the neighborhood when there started to be cars moving around. I went to the gas station that is off a main road, but I can get there without actually getting on one, and I panicked more than I'd expected to. There were several cars turning off the main road driving quickly, and cars coming out of the gas station. I sat there for awhile waiting turn and then as I turned in made it sharper than I meant to. I got parked and felt a little better, but had trouble getting the key out, then couldn't get my helmet off quickly. When I got done, I couldn't get the bike to start (you have to take the kick stand off :) ) I got it started, got going ok, was feeling decent.
But then I had an issue turning a corner cuz I got bravish and there was a car turning out, so I over did my turn and almost hopped the curb. I was still recovering from that when I pulled back into the house, I dumped it while I was trying to park it, broke the mirror, which really is ok cuz they were stupid and small and going to be replaced
I know everyone says it would happen, but it's effected me quite a bit. I'm not swearing off the bike or anything but it's enough to make me wonder if I shoulda gotten a smaller one just to learn on. Because had I not been lucky as the bike was starting to topple over, and I hit the dam gas (why I dunno but I did and I realize it was the stupidest thing I coulda done) I coulda really screwed some stuff up from almost a dead stop.
The way I look at it, I have several different options even if I do swear off this bike I can:
1) put it back on sale and get my money back in a matter of a couple days and wait for a 250 to show up on craig's list
2) let the boyfriend buy it from me then use his money for the 250. (our goal regardless is to have 2 decent bikes)
and if I get bored with it quickly, I can sell it and get me a bigger one again
I like the idea that there's tons of options if this particular bike doesn't work out for me. I still think it might, but will feel better once I get some professional instruction.
This is day 2 of my experience on a motorcycle driving. It's still all very exciting, and I can't wait to really get going I'm just a little more cautious then I was before I got on today.
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Did you have a hard time picking it back up when you dumped it?
If you didn't, I'd say keep it.
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I was panicked a bit, so I didn't even try... I let him do it
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Find somebody to help you get started please. I have a ex- girlfriend that decided to start riding quads while we were together. It took two days of teaching, coaxing, and rescuing by me before she could ride the thing safely.
It looks like a pretty good starter bike to me. congrats. :)
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Another thing to remember is to never hit the brakes in a turn. Get your braking done before the turn starts! And also remember that the bike can lean over WAY further than you can. If you ever feel like you've entered a turn too hot, DON'T grab a fist full of front brake and smash your rear! YOU WILL CRASH. Just get farther forward and lean it over more. Trust me, the bike can lean over real far compared to what even a fast rider is brave enough to do.
I think you should stick with this bike, it really is a great learner bike and will last you a long time. But make sure to get all of your gear together before you go riding again. Keep practicing. Nothing is a substitute to seat time, except good seat time. Don't ride in short sleeves, even if it is really hot. Get yourself a good jacket ASAP. You will love it once you finally get comfortable on your bike. And if you ride it around often, that will be soon.
Alaric's suggestion to find someone to help you get started is a great idea. An old fogey who wears full gear will probably be a great help.
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When I was investigating motorcycle safety courses, I discovered a program that will loan you a 250 (and helmet, and gloves) for the course. If you can find one like that in your area, please take it before driving your bike out in traffic again.
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When I was investigating motorcycle safety courses, I discovered a program that will loan you a 250 (and helmet, and gloves) for the course. If you can find one like that in your area, please take it before driving your bike out in traffic again.
Yup, most of them do.
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Around here all the beginner courses require you wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, boots, and a helmet to take the course, they provide the bike and it's 2 days which 10 hours of the 16 is classroom which is ok. They cost 150.00 but with that, you skip your driving test at the dmv to get your M endorsement, and just have to take the written portion.
I've been looking online for gear all day, and it looks like I'm going to have to go piece by piece since I spent all my spare money on the bike :)
I promise to not go into even neighborhood traffic until I get the course, I will however spend some more time in parking lots, and possibly the tame motorcycle trails until then.
Classes for all the schools that have websites are booked until like August, but I'm sure if I keep looking I can find a smaller one that has openings.
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My first motorcycle was a 1982 GS550.
One Harley guy told me "you can ride with us, but you have to ride in the back."
(http://www.suzukicycles.org/photos/GS/GS550L/1982_GS550L_blk_450.jpg)
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Walking my dog in 2007.
(http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/5486/shfs2.jpg)
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Haha sweet. My girlfriend's dog will walk right in front of the bike or bicycle over and over so this method of walking her dog doesn't work :shock:
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love the pic!
So I'm ordering my gear tonight...got a nice fat payday, and signing up for a class on Monday...I'll be taking one the first weekend in July.
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(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/My%20motorcycle/61d7c7a2-1.jpg)
Jacket has armor stuff in all the places it should, removable liner, vents and a few pockets. Pants are made of some material that's supposed to be tough, have hip protectors and they have several pockets, and vents. Both are a little big, but I figure I can bundle up underneath if the need is there. I need gloves, couldn't find any I liked (will look again tomorrow). I also need boots soon, but riding gear is expensive and I'm at budget when I get the gloves.
I'm very happy with the quality of the stuff I got, and was glad to see there was a decent selection of non Harley-like ladies stuff to chose at the store.
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Hey looks pretty good! Definitely get some gloves though. I use utility gloves you can find at Home Depot, but I've had several pairs of riding gloves both dirt and street also. I really liked my old $50 Alpinestar leather street gloves. I lost two pairs of them :-\. Right now I'm using a set of Mechanix gloves and a set of "Firm Grip" Home Depot gloves that I actually like very much.
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(http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/268/shfs4.jpg)
If threads I care about drop to far I'll add any crap that's sorta pertinent.
WTF there Admiral, throw a desert shot or two til Trillian gives another update.
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wow another nice pic! Not much to say, I still love my bike, not getting much riding time my summer classes are kicking my butt! I did get some great practice time in today. I did MSF course-ish stuff, the boyfriend would show me then I'd do it. I can do tight slow turns confidently, and stop pretty quickly. I've only been in second gear a few times lol. But I feel much more confident and most of the fear is gone. My MSF course isn't until the end of the month, had to move it back because of my summer classes, I won't be on big roads until then I don't think, but I feel like I'm going to be just fine.
The boyfriend keeps stealing it and going for rides, we may have to do something about that soon... (make him get one) which would probably be better because we double up quite a bit right now since I don't drive on city streets. It'll go, but my every tiniest of movement seems to effect him more than on other bikes, and the back seat sucks ass. I think I'll still like riding on the back even when I'm confident of my skills, but only sometimes, and I'd rather it be comfortable.
He's really not "stealing" as much as we're sharing it but either way that's gotta change quick. I like being the driver way more than the passenger.
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I actually just got back from a desert trip for the weekend. The weather was surprisingly excellent topping out at about 85 degrees around 300 PM. I've got a bunch of photos but I lost the dongle for my camera so I'll have to wait to upload them.
Definitely make your boyfriend get his own bike Trillian! Glad to hear you are making some progress. Definitely keep us updated as you move along.
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As Promised:
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs043.snc4/34524_409870731314_507176314_4974223_6578651_n.jpg)
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs043.snc4/34524_409870736314_507176314_4974224_4378766_n.jpg)
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs142.snc4/36469_409877516314_507176314_4974399_772823_n.jpg)
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs063.snc4/34524_409870716314_507176314_4974220_4941227_n.jpg)
Had a fun time. No injuries or bike problems.
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That looks so freaking fun!! Glad it was an incident free adventure!
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I like the new tank. Man that looks fun.
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I hate the new tank. It's a fat ugly bulbous pig. But it does hold twice the gas as the old tank, so it's staying. At first it was uncomfortable to wrap my knees around the huge thing. Now I've gotten used to it and it's gotten pretty comfortable. I made the KTM logos out of grip tape so it sticks to my thighs real good when I'm moving the bike around with my legs. I'm gonna make some more graphics towards the front of the tank to act as knee grips.
We do have some great riding out here. About 25 miles east of where these photos were taken is wide open desert where you can literally pin it in top gear without worry. But to me that gets old after about 20 minutes. I like this area because it has cool rock obstacles and twisty windy trails with nicely built up berms so I can really fly and toss my bike back and forth almost like a street bike in some sections. But the soil is soft silty sand so it's forgiving once you get used to the way the bike slips and slides and sticks in the stuff. I'm still trying to get my balls together enough to attempt the rock face pictured in the last photo. I KNOW I can do it. I just keep being a pussy and not trying it. I'm afraid of looping out and sliding down 100 ft of solid rock @ 45 degrees and destroying my bike. I kept riding up half way from the side and then riding down it. Next time I promise I'll go for it. None of my friends had the guts to try it either so that makes me feel a little better sorta I guess.
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I dont think Ill ever be a dirt bike thrill seeker, but I like watching other people do it. I still dont have the balls to go out on main streets but did drive around last night, and got up to 45 mph. I know that seems lame, but its the fastest Ive been. My turns are still wider than I want them to be frequently. I didnt handle a hill at a stop sign very well, but I managed not to roll back much, or panic so thats good. I feel like Ill be set for the MSF course and will be ready to go just about wherever by then. Yay motorcycles :)
oh and rain drops hurt your face at that speed..I came home after that started.
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got up to 45 mph. I know that seems lame, but its the fastest Ive been.
oh and rain drops hurt your face at that speed..I came home after that started.
Wait till you discover the joys of hitting large insects. I was tooling along in Yellowstone once (long ago) with no helmet and got smacked in the head by the biggest prehistoric Dragonfly on the planet. It nearly knocked me off my bike and left a nice welt the size of a golfball on my forehead. Another time I hit a huge BumbleBee while going quite fast, and the beast broke into pieces, with the abdomen sliding down my shirt where the stinger got me right in the belly. Don't let that discourage you from riding though, just be aware that these things can and do happen, so wear protective clothing when possible.A larger issue with rain of course is the sliding down the pavement on your ass problem. Again- try to wear thick clothing, and for gods' sake don't go hauling scantily clad women around - it's a real shame to see pretty skin on the pavement all covered with blood. My advice is to choose your protective clothing wisely and get a bike that can brake faster than it can accelerate.
@ Admiral Naismith : Is the Hastings' Law from a Heinlein book? It sounds familiar, but the way I remember it was something like "First Law: Don't throw shit at a man with a shotgun and Second Law: Don't stand next to a man who throws shit at a man with a shotgun".
[/quote]
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Comment 2 on the good Admiral's photo's.
The jersey and riding gear look a lot better than that ghetto look you had going on the other thread.
Love the failed superman on the jump shot. (feet are not on the pegs) Did you ride it out?
On a jump once my feet fell off the pegs. (I always jump standing) My boots slid off, so my ass fell to the seat, so me and the bike landed on my feet. Without my cross boots, I am sure I would have snapped both ankles.
I think mixing the plastics and graphics is a damn cool thing. Off roaders are way too uncompromising on their bikes look. (for dudes who basically destroy their machines doing their thing) I like the mixed way bikes looked back in the 70's. My first off roader was a 74 Yamaha 250 enduro. Painted silver with metal tanks. My EXC is twice as fast and of course technologically better, but that old Yamaha was a lot cooler.
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Hah my ghetto riding gear's not so cool? My old boots had been worn out to death and were pointless to use for protection so I used work boots and jeans instead of my riding pants and boots and I didn't worry about my jersey either. Since then I got some new boots (Thor Quadrants, they are great except the buckles are kinda chintzy, but the rest of the boots are very comfortable and protective, just crappy buckles, I already broke two) and two new jerseys from munnracing.com for 20 bucks shipped and I'm using my old ass riding pants still. Mix and match. The pants are from when I used to ride a cherry red '72 Kawasaki 175 2-stroke (man I miss that bike), but I don't really care about how the stuff looks, just how it works.
What you can't tell in the photo with my foot way off the peg is that I was doing these ridiculous karate kicks off that baby 6' jump but my gf couldn't get a photo of me doing them at full extension. It was pretty hilarious though I thought. Couldn't find any bigger jumps and I felt like screwing around in the air so it had to do. I didn't crash at all that trip, so yes, I did ride it out no problem.
I'm still getting used to the bike although I am now pretty comfortable on it. It's just still a little weird because it feels like the rear end has like 4" more suspension travel than even the new 450's from Japan and the forks are about the same as the Jap bikes. At least that's how it feels to me, it's probably about the same or maybe 2" max in reality. I have yet to bottom out the suspension, but I think I will when I get this beast on an MX track.
Now I'm going to masochistically torture myself as I ride up to LA from SD on this bike because my streetbike has the belt showing on the rear tire and I don't have the money just now to replace it and I can't afford the gas to drive my Suburban up there and back. It's nice that this bike is plated, but It definitely was not designed for the highway. Wish me luck because I think my ass is probably going to fall off of my body somewhere in Orange County this thing vibrates so much.
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And yes the Hastings Law quote is from a Heinlein book but I don't remember which one, I have just about all of them I think.
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You are doing mid-jump tricks? impressive.
If I, at 245lbs can't bottom out mine at a 10 foot drop, I don't think you could bottom yours out if you jumped from a airplane.
Good luck on the road trip, it does sound painful.
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got up to 45 mph. I know that seems lame, but its the fastest Ive been.
oh and rain drops hurt your face at that speed..I came home after that started.
Wait till you discover the joys of hitting large insects. I was tooling along in Yellowstone once (long ago) with no helmet and got smacked in the head by the biggest prehistoric Dragonfly on the planet. It nearly knocked me off my bike and left a nice welt the size of a golfball on my forehead. Another time I hit a huge BumbleBee while going quite fast, and the beast broke into pieces, with the abdomen sliding down my shirt where the stinger got me right in the belly. Don't let that discourage you from riding though, just be aware that these things can and do happen, so wear protective clothing when possible.A larger issue with rain of course is the sliding down the pavement on your ass problem. Again- try to wear thick clothing, and for gods' sake don't go hauling scantily clad women around - it's a real shame to see pretty skin on the pavement all covered with blood. My advice is to choose your protective clothing wisely and get a bike that can brake faster than it can accelerate.
I bet that was awful. And I'm sure it happens more often than you'd think.
But,
I was wearing my gear: jacket, gloves, pants, boots actually and my helmet. I just didn't have my visor down, and it was all rainy on it so if I put it down I couldn't see. I went home because I don't feel ready to ride in the rain since the roads get slick etc. I really don't plan on ever hauling scantily clad women around. I mean I have friends that dress that way, but I don't see me putting them on my bike.
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Don't worry about the bugs while riding. That's the second best place for a girl to get extra protine at no extra cost.
Rimshot
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Don't worry about the bugs while riding. That's the second best place for a girl to get extra protine at no extra cost.
Rimshot
... :roll:
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I survived.
150 miles each way.
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Alright guys and gals, I want some more motorcycle photos please.
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(http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/3811/bilde015.jpg)
Old photo of my daughter learning. She out grew the bike of course. At the photos time she was 9.
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My daughter is 8 and won't hardly go near the bike. I'm hoping that passes. I'll have to show her this one, so she can see other girls her age even ride solo.
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My daughter is 8 and won't hardly go near the bike. I'm hoping that passes. I'll have to show her this one, so she can see other girls her age even ride solo.
My sisters learned to ride dirt bikes around age 6-8. They had a 2-stroke 80 trail bike with a 5 speed manual transmission. Great bike that was set up to ride like a 4-stroke but still had the zap of a 2-stroke when you got on the pipe. My parents still have the bike to this day because it's not exactly the best value to resell and it's great to teach new riders on before bumping them up to the full size bike.
In fact it's the bike I taught my girlfriend to ride on. Since then she's bought her own Honda XR200R.
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs241.snc1/8835_184631710259_576185259_4256653_3609824_n.jpg)
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs445.ash1/24554_418922300259_576185259_5684324_307221_n.jpg)
Was looking through some old photos and found a semi-cool one of me hill climbing on my brother's DRZ400
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs112.snc3/15969_191339821314_507176314_3431828_700763_n.jpg)
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My daughter is 8 and won't hardly go near the bike. I'm hoping that passes. I'll have to show her this one, so she can see other girls her age even ride solo.
http://www.supercross.com/mxgirls (http://www.supercross.com/mxgirls)
This might help.
Please note two things from the photo though.
1. She is fully equipped with helmet, boots, riding pants with padding, and chest protector.
2. I tested the ramp and landing path myself before she tried it.
That bike is a perfect learning minibike. It is a 03 Yamaha ttr90 or a 4 stroke 90 with a 3 speed transmission and a inertia clutch, in 04 they started to build them with a electric start.
These are inexpensive and can take a lot of beating.
I would also like to note there was a lot of yelling, chasing,(by me) and crashing before she got even to this point.
The experience was worth it though. Her self confidence and Independence with machinery is pretty good for a 16 year old girl.
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Be careful.
My cousin's funeral is on Tuesday. He would have turned 40 in a couple of weeks. Details aren't in, but it's known he was not wearing a helmet and was, as he was always fond of, traveling at a high speed. Either he hit a car or it hit him.
His younger brother is quadriplegic from a motorcycle accident that happened a few years back.
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So I threw a new rear tire on my KTM to replace my crap Korea "Trail Buddy" tire that was chunking out the knobs all over the place. The Korean tire looked great when I bought the bike (they were brand new), they are a straight knockoff of the Kenda dual sport tire tread design, but clearly are made of a far inferior rubber. In the process of throwing a new Dunlop D606 on the rear I destroyed the threads on the axle nut and had to special order a new one for 7 bucks. Fuckin lame. Not even sure if its my fault or if the self locking nut just decided it was time to kill itself. Waiting a few more days for the order to come in. The one good thing about that crappo Korean tire was that it held its bead GOOD. I had to jump on it with a metal 2x4 beam to break the bead. Once I broke the bead it was easy enough to get off.
Anyways, I'm excited to try out this new tire, it should be amazing offroad and half decent on the street.
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The nut is actually made slightly inferior so the axle doesn't get messed up, another "self- sacrificing part". My KTM and snowmobile had a lot of them. I usually machine my own parts these days, if I can, because I disagree with the concept.
Thanks for bumping the thread, BTW. I was thinking about it, but me and the wife have been into pedal biking this summer, so I have squat for new MC pics.
If you ever happen to see one about the right size, a old cable roll makes a excellent workbench for changing bike/ MC tires.
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The nut is actually made slightly inferior so the axle doesn't get messed up, another "self- sacrificing part". My KTM and snowmobile had a lot of them. I usually machine my own parts these days, if I can, because I disagree with the concept.
Thanks for bumping the thread, BTW. I was thinking about it, but me and the wife have been into pedal biking this summer, so I have squat for new MC pics.
If you ever happen to see one about the right size, a old cable roll makes a excellent workbench for changing bike/ MC tires.
I've been using a 5 gallon bucket :lol:
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So officially dumped whilst riding today..practicing slow tight turns near the lake (like 20 mph). I was getting to close to the fence and instead of turning it more, I grabbed a fistful of front brake, and landed on my
back. I know better *sigh* I got a good mark on my knee, but was geared up minus my pants. Bent handle bars, another mirror, dust cover thingy fell off, muffler scratched and possibly messed up exhaust up but still running. My daughter was with watching, now I'll never get her on a motorcycle.
On a side note haven't had much seat time because summer classes took every spare minute of my time, so I'm not as slow of a learner as you may be thinking :)
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My first bike was a Yamaha Special 400 just like this one:
(http://www.bikez.com/pictures/yamaha/1981/17603_0_1_2_xs%20400%20special_Submitted%20by%20anonymous%20user..jpg)
I only ever dumped at very low speed in a driveway, etc., where you have low control. If I remember correctly, I almost ran into a tree once on this back country type road where I didn't slow down enough for a 90-degree bend. I was 17.
I got a Ninja 250 when I got out of the Army (in 1990) for cheap transportation. I didn't keep it long. I am totally over any desire to have a bike now. I feel absolutely no attraction whatsoever.
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I am totally over any desire to have a bike now. I feel absolutely no attraction whatsoever.
:roll: :wink:
Sure man, sure.
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My first bike was a Yamaha Special 400 just like this one:
(http://www.bikez.com/pictures/yamaha/1981/17603_0_1_2_xs%20400%20special_Submitted%20by%20anonymous%20user..jpg)
Im not sure why, but I love 80s style motorcycles. There's something cool about them that seems lost now maybe.
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New Ducati 848 Evo = drool.
This is the first Ducati that's really had me wetting my lips:
(http://www.motorcycleshows.com/motorcycleshows/data/articlestandard/motorcycleshows/302010/679784/Ducati-848EVO4.jpg)
Ducati 848 Evo 140 hp, 369 lbs, $12,995 msrp
http://www.motorcycleshows.com/motorcycleshows/Consumer+News/Ducati-To-Unleash-140hp-848-Evo-Superbike/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/679784?contextCategoryId=37889
Ducati proudly announces today the most powerful middleweight sport bike on the market; the 2011 Ducati 848EVO Superbike.
The new Ducati 848EVO is the pinnacle of sport bike engineering, designed to be the leader in the middleweight class. Weighing only 369 pounds and propelled by 140 horsepower and 72 lb/ft of torque, it is the most powerful motorcycle in its category.
The 848EVO is based upon Ducati’s best ever selling middleweight Superbike- the 848. Along with the “EVO” designation comes a significant amount of upgrades based on AMA Pro Racing feedback and consumer demand.
At the heart of the 848EVO is the Testastretta Evoluzione engine, significantly redesigned for a higher power output. All new cylinder heads, pistons, throttle bodies and camshafts combine for a forceful output of 140hp @ 10,500rpm and 72.3 lb/ft of torque @9,750rpm. All of this significant engine performance is wrapped in new black cylinder cases.
In addition to the more powerful engine, the 848EVO’s chassis and braking systems have been upgraded. A cross-mounted steering damper has been added for greater control of the steering system, and the welcome addition of Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires will ensure maximum grip while delivering every last horsepower to the asphalt.
The 848EVO receives a massive upgrade to the braking system in the form of Brembo Monobloc calipers. These single-piece calipers are machined from solid alloy and achieve a higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking. The resulting increase in hydraulic efficiency not only delivers incredible braking power, but also provides an enhanced and precise 'feel' at the brake lever.
All this combines to form the most potent, powerful and lightweight middle class sport bike available; both for the road or race track usage. For 2011, a special “Dark” version will be available; which unlike “Dark” editions of Ducati’s past will be a truly black bike from front to rear, giving the motorcycle an aggressive look and attitude.
The Ducati 848EVO Superbike will be available in North American Ducati Dealerships at the end of August, 2010. Impressively, MSRP will remain unchanged from the 2010 848 it replaces: $12,995 for the “Dark” edition, and $13,995 for Ducati Red.
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I wouldn't do a 250 unless you can get one for practically nothing.
500cc at least, so you don't get bored after a week.
I second that. 500 and up if you'll ever go on a highway.
The Suzuki GS400-500 is a great suggestion.
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I wouldn't do a 250 unless you can get one for practically nothing.
500cc at least, so you don't get bored after a week.
I second that. 500 and up if you'll ever go on a highway.
The Suzuki GS400-500 is a great suggestion.
Dude the Ninja 250's will cruise at 85 all day long without complaint. But yeah, the 500's clearly much better at highway duty. She ended up getting one too.
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Soooo.... MSF course= done. The dude that ran the class was not all there, a cheap bastard, and a bit of a sexist, but I do feel like I learned a few things. There were 3 girls in a 6 person class which helped as a buffer for the sexist comments.
I've decided that I'm going to sell the bike that's in the driveway to the boy, and get a gs500f. He's perfectly content with it, and wants to do things like new fork, suspension and some other things that he's got all picked out. I've grown fond of the bike itself but it's not pretty enough for me. I know I can handle the 500, still have to work on stopping quickly. I can't see myself going down to a 250 after getting used to this one. I haven't mastered equal pressure of front and back (for like emergency stopping), I either lock up the back tire or as I did the other day grab way too much of the front and fall off.
But tomorrow I'll have my motorcycle endorsement. I will *hopefully* have the funds for the second bike midweek, and have a more assessable riding partner I'll be commuting on mine by the time the semester starts.
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Congrats! That's a great beginner bike too. Basically the new version of what you've got (I don't think they are really much different besides the plastics). So do you feel like the MSF class helped a lot?
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I wouldn't do a 250 unless you can get one for practically nothing.
500cc at least, so you don't get bored after a week.
I second that. 500 and up if you'll ever go on a highway.
The Suzuki GS400-500 is a great suggestion.
Dude the Ninja 250's will cruise at 85 all day long without complaint. But yeah, the 500's clearly much better at highway duty. She ended up getting one too.
I was commuting on a 78 GS400 for about a year. At 6'2" and 235lbs, it was a bit weak on hills. Maybe a newer 250 and a lighter rider would be fine.
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I wouldn't do a 250 unless you can get one for practically nothing.
500cc at least, so you don't get bored after a week.
I second that. 500 and up if you'll ever go on a highway.
The Suzuki GS400-500 is a great suggestion.
Dude the Ninja 250's will cruise at 85 all day long without complaint. But yeah, the 500's clearly much better at highway duty. She ended up getting one too.
I was commuting on a 78 GS400 for about a year. At 6'2" and 235lbs, it was a bit weak on hills. Maybe a newer 250 and a lighter rider would be fine.
Yeah they are definitely different. I have a KTM400 and it's no fun at all to cruise on the highway. But trust me, the 250 is good enough to cruise a 180 lb rider at 85 all day long. Just the way they are comfortable spinning 10k rpm for hours and hours because they are a small stroke parallel twin motor. At 235 lbs it definitely wouldn't be the bike for you though. It's not fast enough for me either and I only weigh 165, but they will still cruise 85 all day with me riding.
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Congrats! That's a great beginner bike too. Basically the new version of what you've got (I don't think they are really much different besides the plastics). So do you feel like the MSF class helped a lot?
The plastics = prettier :) And I've found some websites with fun decals to make it all personalized, but not overly girly. So I want one, and hopefully I won't dump it much more. I found one I can afford after some money I'm waiting on comes in. They don't show up as often, so if the one I want has been sold, I'll have to either wait around awhile, pay more, or get a 250 Ninja. I'm kind of sold on getting a GS500F since I've gotten used to the one we have.
The MSF course helped some. He was a little nutty and think he would have passed just about anyone who paid him money, but think I would have passed it either way. But I did get brave and ventured on some main streets last night, and went a few miles away from the house. Cars didn't freak me out as much which was good.
I wouldn't do a 250 unless you can get one for practically nothing.
500cc at least, so you don't get bored after a week.
I second that. 500 and up if you'll ever go on a highway.
The Suzuki GS400-500 is a great suggestion.
Dude the Ninja 250's will cruise at 85 all day long without complaint. But yeah, the 500's clearly much better at highway duty. She ended up getting one too.
I was commuting on a 78 GS400 for about a year. At 6'2" and 235lbs, it was a bit weak on hills. Maybe a newer 250 and a lighter rider would be fine.
Yeah they are definitely different. I have a KTM400 and it's no fun at all to cruise on the highway. But trust me, the 250 is good enough to cruise a 180 lb rider at 85 all day long. Just the way they are comfortable spinning 10k rpm for hours and hours because they are a small stroke parallel twin motor. At 235 lbs it definitely wouldn't be the bike for you though. It's not fast enough for me either and I only weigh 165, but they will still cruise 85 all day with me riding.
The 250 debate is a constant topic on the interwebs. Half the people say you can take them on the highway half say you can't. I'm gonna go with you can, but you feel like a tiny bug sometimes that will be smushed, but you probably feel that way on any bike. I do know neither are really meant to be driven 2 up, my butt can account for that (on the 500) so I can't imagine why you'd want to on a 250. Well unless you've got 2 tiny people. Ugh...
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Depends on where you are, I guess. In New York, biking on a highway is suicide because the road quality is terrible, and the drivers clueless idiots.
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So my girlfriend has decided to start shopping for either a 150cc ish scooter or a 200cc ish dual sport. She wants to use it to commute to school and her job close by which will end up saving her a ton of gas, and she'll also have another fun toy to ride. We barely missed out on a purple Yamaha XT 225 dual sport. She's a little bummed but there are other bikes out there. I'll keep updating when we check out bikes.
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So my girlfriend has decided to start shopping for either a 150cc ish scooter or a 200cc ish dual sport. She wants to use it to commute to school and her job close by which will end up saving her a ton of gas, and she'll also have another fun toy to ride. We barely missed out on a purple Yamaha XT 225 dual sport. She's a little bummed but there are other bikes out there. I'll keep updating when we check out bikes.
Cool! Yes please do. Scooters are fun! Part of me likes the idea of a scooter because of the storage, but I don't think scooters even big ones belong on the highway and the commute for me is way too long to not ever take the highway.
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So my girlfriend has decided to start shopping for either a 150cc ish scooter or a 200cc ish dual sport. She wants to use it to commute to school and her job close by which will end up saving her a ton of gas, and she'll also have another fun toy to ride. We barely missed out on a purple Yamaha XT 225 dual sport. She's a little bummed but there are other bikes out there. I'll keep updating when we check out bikes.
Cool! Yes please do. Scooters are fun! Part of me likes the idea of a scooter because of the storage, but I don't think scooters even big ones belong on the highway and the commute for me is way too long to not ever take the highway.
Hell yeah scooters are fun! Even I want one! But no, most are not for the highway. Except this one:
(http://www.suzuki-bikes.com/images/burgman650.jpg)
It has a 650 twin cylinder engine and I once saw one popping a wheelie on the freeway at 70 mph. Shocked the hell out of me.
But she doesn't want it to ride on the freeway, just to take streets and not really exceed 55 mph. Bike needs to have a top speed of at least 75 mph so she can do a short freeway hop if necessary. Hence the 150cc scooter or 200cc ish dual sport.
But I totally want a Yamaha Zuma 50 just to be ridiculous on. Put a surf rack on it for cruising the beaches and a large top case to carry 30 packs of cheap beer.
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So my girlfriend has decided to start shopping for either a 150cc ish scooter or a 200cc ish dual sport. She wants to use it to commute to school and her job close by which will end up saving her a ton of gas, and she'll also have another fun toy to ride. We barely missed out on a purple Yamaha XT 225 dual sport. She's a little bummed but there are other bikes out there. I'll keep updating when we check out bikes.
Cool! Yes please do. Scooters are fun! Part of me likes the idea of a scooter because of the storage, but I don't think scooters even big ones belong on the highway and the commute for me is way too long to not ever take the highway.
Hell yeah scooters are fun! Even I want one! But no, most are not for the highway. Except this one:
(http://www.suzuki-bikes.com/images/burgman650.jpg)
It has a 650 twin cylinder engine and I once saw one popping a wheelie on the freeway at 70 mph. Shocked the hell out of me.
But she doesn't want it to ride on the freeway, just to take streets and not really exceed 55 mph. Bike needs to have a top speed of at least 75 mph so she can do a short freeway hop if necessary. Hence the 150cc scooter or 200cc ish dual sport.
But I totally want a Yamaha Zuma 50 just to be ridiculous on. Put a surf rack on it for cruising the beaches and a large top case to carry 30 packs of cheap beer.
No. you want a moped
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So, I got some money the boy paid me for the first bike. Now I have
:: Drum roll::
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/19548ae8-1.jpg)
Yeah, Yeah going down in size, but I don't think I'm going to get bored. I freaking love this bike 100xs more than the first one. I've improved tons as a motorcyclist just since I got it this weekend. So yay.
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Somewhat related, I just finished "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance". I enjoyed it.
Unfortunately, if you are actually a biker, it may compel you to take a long cross-country bike trip. Apparently it has had that effect on some.
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Good book.
Trillian, how do you like the 250? It's lighter weight and shorter so I'd assume you're more comfortable learning on it. Have you gained a lot of confidence since you first got the 500?
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Good book.
Trillian, how do you like the 250? It's lighter weight and shorter so I'd assume you're more comfortable learning on it. Have you gained a lot of confidence since you first got the 500?
I LOVE my 250, which is a 2007 Ninja EX btw :) . The lighter weight of it, ease of maneuvering and being able to ride around with someone more often has increased my experience 10 fold. I had ridden the 500 to work a couple of times, highway once (scared the shit out of me) and gone a little around town. I was feeling decent about it but still got pretty nervous on it. Since I've gotten the Ninja, I've been around the lake twice, to work every day, to school, done quite a few highway miles and any where I can possibly justify taking it. It took all of one evening for me to fall in absolute love with this bike. It's not just because it's prettier which oh my gosh we know it is. I think my lack of coordination made my learning curve awful, and this helped ease it some. I'm still a newb but with an experience buff.
When I started looking this time around, I didn't think that I'd want to go down to a 250 in size, but I'm incredibly glad I did. Also since I'm not a speed demon, I feel like I'll be happy with this bike for years to come.
Motorcycles rule!
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Update on the pos 93 ktm I got for a grand last year: it threw the cam chain and totalled the motor. Maybe its parlty my fault maybe not. Bottom line is that now I'm saving for a ktn 540 2 stroke motor to replace the outdated vibrator lc4 motor. I'm done with 4 stroke dirt bikes and I'm returning to my roots. My first two bikes were a 75 and a 175cc 2 stroke kawasakis. But since I've already got this excellently suspended rare street legal ktn frame I'm gonna throw a bigass wtf holy shit rocket ship 540cc 2 smoker motor into it. Wish me luck. I hope to god I don't kill myself the first time I start this 72 hp motor up and do a 5th gear wheelie from a stop. Gotta make sure that doesn't happen until AT LEAST the second time I ride the finished bike!
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A quick check in wikipedia, I see you are into obscure science fiction.
There was a reason open class disappeared from the roster in MX but I welcome it back. I hate thumpers.
Good luck. :D
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A quick check in wikipedia, I see you are into obscure science fiction.
There was a reason open class disappeared from the roster in MX but I welcome it back. I hate thumpers.
Good luck. :D
lol wtf did you read my mind? Open class will be back soon with the meanest mfing street legal dual sport mx bike known to man when I drop this 540 into my frame.
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It is back. Europe and South America.
http://www.motorsportsetc.com/champs/fim_mx3.htm (http://www.motorsportsetc.com/champs/fim_mx3.htm)
YEAH BABY!!!!
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It is back. Europe and South America.
http://www.motorsportsetc.com/champs/fim_mx3.htm (http://www.motorsportsetc.com/champs/fim_mx3.htm)
YEAH BABY!!!!
SWEET! Good find! Agh I can't wait till I have 2 grand saved up to pimp out my bike to a 540 and buy ne ebtry into a few local desert races and get me some street tires and a new computer to boot. Don't buy the computer io got, its crap.
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Gonna run an eight mile drag strip tonight. Had to relocate my coolant overflow tank and install some new ebc hh sintered metal brake pads today. Bled the brakes and I'm ready to pull 7s at the track. =-)
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You got the motor?
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You got the motor?
No but I've located one and am in the process of wheedling the guy down in price to what I can afford. Should have it within a month.
I'm racing my commuter bike tonight which should be tons of fun
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You got the motor?
No but I've located one and am in the process of wheedling the guy down in price to what I can afford.
What a
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so my best run was 7.75 at 104 mph last night. Not horrible, but I was having traction issues on the launch pad no matter how far back i'd try to get on the bike. smoked a guy on a gixxer 600 and barely beat a guy on an r6 and got beat by an extremely attractive gal on a gixxer 1000. I ended up catching her on a rematch run later that night. My concours is a heavy mother but she still holds her own and I love her.
My reaction time is shit. My best time was .700 sec but I averaged about .825 sec. If I could drop it to .4 sec I could have been pulling very low 7's, and if I could do that and get a full traction launch I could ideally break into the 6's on my mostly stock bike.
It was definitely fun.
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what year Concourse?
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what year Concourse?
95.
The newer older model.
I'd kill for a new C14 though.
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you and me both dude. Kinda kills my practical great gas mileage argument for daily riding but sometimes I want to carry a passenger and luggage... at a hundred eighty mph.
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We took a trip from OKC to Kansas City last weekend on the motorcycles. I loaded my Lil Ninja up as much as I could.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/My%20motorcycle/100_2203-2.jpg)
His bike carried most of the luggage, I'm too cool for saddlebags, plus only teeny tiny ones'll fit and the teeny tiny one's I'd get cost a small fortune
The ride up was hard for me, I'd worked half a day, we were rushed to get there, and this was by far the longest distance I'd ever traveled in one day. I had to stop way more often than I should have (like every 60ish miles) and I didn't keep up with him like I wanted to. Took us almost twice as long to get there as it should but we made it.
Saturday we did some more recreational riding. We took a drive to some of the areas he knew, and went to the coolest Renaissance Festival I've ever been to. He wrecked in a parking lot trying to push his bike harder than it wanted to be pushed (he was oh so very proud). He only lost a mirror and something I'd knocked off the last time I dumped it.
He did also show me this place, in the middle of suburb. For sure the best part of the whole trip.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/My%20motorcycle/100_2207-1.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/My%20motorcycle/100_2212.jpg)
This is the only pic I took of both the bikes, you can't see all his luggage. He was packed to the max.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/My%20motorcycle/100_2240-1.jpg)
All in all it was good experience for me, I discovered I can't stay on the bike long, and probably need an MP3 Player that I can hear while on the road. I also found out I LOATHE riding in a strange large city at night where I'm going, and in general am not a fan of night riding. I don't get hand signals at ALL. Oh and he needs to get a camera so he can take pics of me! (He has one I'm supposed to be locating a charger for him and have been slacking)
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It was entirely my fault and not the motorcycle's. 1/4 inch of cold rubber is not enough at 44psi. I'm new to bikes (over 5K miles this season) that don't scrape pegs at a 20 degree lean. That parking lot and I are going to have a rematch with warm tires at lower pressure.
Also, fuck hurrying up to get somewhere just so your plans can get cancelled by the demanding person who hurried you and then passed out early. And fuck interstates, next time I take the long way and it takes as long as it takes.
The thing I was proud of was crashing with all my gear on in a place I had scoped out as fun to ride AND safe to crash. A lot better than my only other motorcycle crash with a .2 BAC (I don't know that exactly, they were too busy trying to keep me alive to give me a DUI) in a t-shirt and sunglasses.
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oh and I forgot to mention...
I FOUND WALDO
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa92/LaReinaVerde/My%20motorcycle/100_2234.jpg)
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Just read at cycle news. Paris Hilton starting a 125cc race team. No Americans on team. At least it will be well funded.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CBsQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asphaltandrubber.com%2Fracing%2Fparis-hilton-125gp-team%2F&ei=ZcsITbLUEoW2sAPU0vDpDQ&usg=AFQjCNE9CFtiSglB8mwr9HIP0ygTXaRQGQ&sig2=VCdgAWlYZJeQ0SvowKpEHA
I bet the bikes top out at 69, then they blow a rod.
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http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=58b_1213495332
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Harley Wide Gluide if they still make it..
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Harley Wide Gluide if they still make it..
why?
reliablity?...no
Fuel economy?... not too bad actually but not quite as good as the other candidates
Features for the money?.... no
Build quality?.... no
handling?.... no
low maintence?.... no
braking?.... no
Cheap to repair?... no
Low speed manueverabilty (for ease of popping down to the corner for some smokes and cramped campus traffic)... no
All day comfort?.... no (you can't change positions on a cruiser, no matter how comfortable it is for 30 minutes NO single sitting position is comfortable long term and large V-twins shake the shit out of you, cruisers are comfortable for riding all day is a myth, they're comfortable to the bar and back)
Bike night to show off how you can spend enough money to feed a starving family for years on something that is completely useless for practical transportation?... Bingo
You must have been answering the question: What kind of motorcycle should YOU get?
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You got me! I test rode one years ago and had a fun time!
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:D
All motorcycles are fun to ride
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They are. My first one at age 14 was a Bridgestone 50. My uncle had a Bridgestone 90 that I thought was so big. Then in my late 20's I had a Honda 750. That's what I had when I test rode that wide glide. I'd still like one!
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(http://www.mototype.com/pics/4651/full/hd_fxwg_wide_glide80.jpg)
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http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/02/23/kansas-house-approves-allowing-bikers-run-red-lights/?test=latestnews#
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgwNvNjdYu4&feature=related[/youtube]
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bump
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It's amazing what new tires did for my bike. I got new Avon Road Riders (I think). My tires were well worn, and now it's like a whole new bike. I don't lose traction by going over a wee bit of gravel, my tires no longer try to follow lines the road like that did. So very happy about it.
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It's amazing what new tires did for my bike. I got new Avon Road Riders (I think). My tires were well worn, and now it's like a whole new bike. I don't lose traction by going over a wee bit of gravel, my tires no longer try to follow lines the road like that did. So very happy about it.
Nice. I recently got new tires too. I love the Avon Storm 2 Ultra. In my experience with street tires, Avons have always been the stickiest, although they seem to have only a medium lifespan. Haven't tried the road riders, but if they are anything like the Azaro or the Storm they should be very nice.
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Speaking of defensive driving. Trillian goes out and practices emergency stop at an interval that appears often enough. 1 yr and 8,000 miles later and we're getting off the interstate onto a 2 lane rd w/ 2-way traffic and stop signs for them but not us. This is very common in our area, that and other things about the style of offramp that's I've found not common elsewhere.
It's an 80mph merge across oncoming traffic for the fearless motherfucker and and 25 for grandma, a partial left (the assholes who come to a stop here from the offramp risk being rear-ended and pissing everyone off). 1 car pulls up at each stop sign, it's a 3-way intersection.
We both observe that everyone is stopped and were probably going 45-50 when the car on the left pulls into the intersection.
She locks up the rear immediately which is bad but her bike is prone to and she's learned to deal with even while trying to avoid it. Then at about 25 mph she locks up the front which is hardcore shit. At this point the rear is producing smoke already but she's still standing and still braking. I'm not scared I see she's got plenty of room cuz she's handling it but I'm pretty sure she's gonna high side on the right either after coming to a stop or just before and maybe into the car and maybe not. She was fully geared, I knew this wasn't gonna be that bad.
She came to a full and complete stop 10ft before impact and put both feet on the ground like a motherfucking proffessional. That happened two weeks ago.
Chalk one up for covering the brake even when it's on your throttle hand and regularly practicing emergency techniques especially the #1 save your life maneuver which is to REDUCE YOUR MOMENTUM!
I'm really proud of her. I don't know whether to pleased with myself or apologetic about the way I relentlessly coach at her.
Modified cuz I tend to do that: You might have a point that 45-50 might be a little quick for that turn considering there's is a car there that just might pull out in front of you at any time I say.... Touche AND apparently she's good for about 62 :mrgreen:
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Sweet. At 14 you can drive up to a 250 w/ limited privileges in OK. No interstate, no nighttime.
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How about this size?
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAmAYOyYhic[/youtube]
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I don't think she get it.
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http://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/mcy/2432273484.html
(http://images.craigslist.org/3kc3m33p45T05W65U0b6a11959b3e54181ef4.jpg)
Is this engine reliable for 50-100k miles of sport commuting?
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For what it's worth, my KTM 250 enduro is very reliable, but it is a two stroke. You do have to check the body bolts tightness often though. Truth is I wouldn't recommend it for long road trips.
Full dirtbike 4-stroke engines require a lot of maintenance on the valve lash (often small shims between the rocker arm and lifter that have to be thinner and thinner compensating for seat and valve wear) but Admiral Gunn has told me he didn't have this issue on his own KTM dual purpose.
*shrug.
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For what it's worth, my KTM 250 enduro is very reliable, but it is a two stroke. You do have to check the body bolts tightness often though. Truth is I wouldn't recommend it for long road trips.
Full dirtbike 4-stroke engines require a lot of maintenance on the valve lash (often small shims between the rocker arm and lifter that have to be thinner and thinner compensating for seat and valve wear) but Admiral Gunn has told me he didn't have this issue on his own KTM dual purpose.
*shrug.
My KTM 400 threw the cam chain and bombed the entire top end. Greater than a grand in parts so I said fuck it I'm going back to my roots with a massive 500 two stroke. Now I can replace the entire to p end for a few hundred bucks and the bike makes so much power I don't have to ever rev it out so hopefully it should last longer . I would recommend a two stroke to anybodyover a four stroke. They weigh less, make more power per cc are simpler and cheaper to rebuild. The problem is my amazing state of california hates them.
PS: to answer the original question, that bike is an awesome bike. I would love to own a KTM 450 EXC, especially one that comes with SM rims. But the truth is these bikes are full on RACE bikes. There's a reason they are marketed as "Race Ready" and they have race bike maintenance. That bike makes more than 100 hp/L and has small oil capacity. The result is that you need to change your oil often, like every 10~15 hours often. And I don't think the motor will last more than 20k miles before it needs a new top end. If you're changing the piston out every 100~150 hours and checking/adjusting the valve lash every 50 hours it will last longer.
The 450 is gonna suck on the highway for any extended period of operation. It will go long distances, but that's gonna be harder on the motor and hard on your ass. That bike IS capable of running 100 mph if geared properly, but that's gonna be pretty much its limit. It's designed to be a 90% offroad bike that is just barely 10% street legal. It's really perfect for hauling ass through trails and then connecting long 30+ mph trail sections with short sections of highway. The SM tires are gonna make it really fun on the street, but it's never gonna be awesome for 60+ mph riding just because the bike is designed for 30+ mph riding through rough offroad sections. But since it's gonna be equipped with the SM tires it will be tons of fun in the tight twisty canyons. You really can rock through those tight twisties faster on an SM bike than on a full on 600cc or liter sport bike just because they are so damned nimble.
I'm working on setting up my 500 smoker with some SM tires and getting her plated but that's gonna cost me some money that I don't have at the moment.
Personally, I think you should jump on it if its the real deal and in good condition. Play with it around town and then throw some trail Dunlop D606 offroad street legal tires on it and go trail riding. Maybe take it to an MX track once you get comfortable handling it on the trails. Dual sports are my favorite kind of motorcycle. But if you have the opportunity and your state is more two stroke friendly than mine, I think you should keep your eyes open for a KTM 300 EXC/MXC or a 380 EXC/MXC that's plated instead, just because when you do need to rebuild the top end it will be a lot cheaper, and those 300 and 380 two stroke motors are a lot more versatile and a bit more powerful. Something like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/KTM-380-EXC-1998-Street-legal-Like-New-Lots-extras-/140575737048?pt=US_motorcycles&hash=item20baf784d8&clk_rvr_id=248429867884 would be my own choice. Throw some SM tires on it and there's my dream bike.
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(http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/5859/150620115.jpg)
My boy is starting to ride.
Awesome. I started around age 10 on an old mini bike then graduated to a 175 2-stroke at age 12. I just wish I got started a little earlier! Glad to see you got him started. Is that a TTR125?
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He's got the thighs of a woman.
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My son is 10. The bike is the same bike my daughter learned on, a 2003 TTR-90 I bought new. Glad I did, it was the last model with kickstart. Note it still looks brand new despite being crashed many times. Part of the point of buying a child a vehicle is that they learn the importance of maintenance and upkeep.
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But the truth is these bikes are full on RACE bikes. There's a reason they are marketed as "Race Ready" and they have race bike maintenance.
That's no good to me :( I really wanted it to be practical AND awesome. Maybe the right DRZ will come around.
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But the truth is these bikes are full on RACE bikes. There's a reason they are marketed as "Race Ready" and they have race bike maintenance.
That's no good to me :( I really wanted it to be practical AND awesome. Maybe the right DRZ will come around.
sounds like a drz or an xr are more up your alley then, although the ktm RFS motor is likely the most reliable "RACE" motor when compared to the rest of the japanese 450s... News is that while the drz will last longer than the ktm you won't be able to put a hundred thousand onone either...nit anywhere close. For the most reliable dual sport youre gonna want am xr 650 or a dr 650, and those are heavy bikes compared to the ktm.
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BMW dual purpose bikes are very comfortable (relatively) on the road.
(http://www.visit-transylvania.eu/motorcycle-tour-europe/BMW-F650-GS-2000.JPG)
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Even the gs650 is a little heavy. I don't want a dual sport so much as a quick light commuter that sits tall, gets over 50 mpg can cruise 80 for twenty minutes and wheelies through more gears than not. If I can switch the tires out and go play in the dirt that's a nice bonus but I really want to stay under 500cc for that.
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Even the gs650 is a little heavy. I don't want a dual sport so much as a quick light commuter that sits tall, gets over 50 mpg can cruise 80 for twenty minutes and wheelies through more gears than not. If I can switch the tires out and go play in the dirt that's a nice bonus but I really want to stay under 500cc for that.
unfortunately there's not much options then, pretty much just the xr 650, which is an excellent bike.
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Maybe you should kick it old school. They had fun reliable enduros figured out just fine in the late 70's early 80's.
(http://www.collectorsweekly.com/assets/stories/1BdKDtW05CA2KIoib31l9Q.jpg)
While I was looking for that photo, damned if I didn't find the same model bike my parents gave me for Christmas in 1979 for sale. Mine didn't have lights and gauges though.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQclk_rvr_idZ249021589389QQitemZ220816624503#v4-40 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQclk_rvr_idZ249021589389QQitemZ220816624503#v4-40)
Here is a kick ass old bike websight.
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/motorcycles/overview (http://www.collectorsweekly.com/motorcycles/overview)
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eq-Xv6FXEmg[/youtube]
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First. I had a cruiser for a couple seasons a decade ago. I just got on and rode, had no clue how to ride a motorcycle. Have a little time on dirt bikes too. Took Trillian for a ride on a borrowed Vulcan (after it had been rebuilt after I totaled it while incredibly drunk, yep, he put me right back on it soon as his wife wasn't looking.) and next thing I knew She bought the GS500 and Joel told her to get some gear and buy a book, changed my life, thanks Joel.
So, have I reached the mechanical limits of this GS500 or am I a squid noob who's doing it all wrong?
I can put a knee down on the ninja now. By that I mean in a tight circle in a parking lot both left and right side, smoothly, competently and at will. Haven't had the facilities to do it safely any other way.
I can come nowhere friggin close on the GS. I lose traction first. With my 140 rear tire the front slides out on me before I lose the rear. With my new 130 rear which is the OEM size (both Pirelli Sport Demons) I run out of rear tire so they tend to let loose together, front and back unless I'm on the throttle enough to slide the back out intentionally, thus turning the front away from the turn and keeping it on good rubber. In a 'properly executed corner' I run out of traction on both tires before I run out of balls.
Front is an OEM BT45. I got a larger one with the bike but the guy at the dealership refused to mount it, said it would rub on the fender, the previous owner said he knew what he was doing when he ordered the tire. But when I got the bike I put a 140/80 rear on and a stock front. Recently I replaced the rear with the 130/70 (oem size) rear and now I powerslide more easily with less lean angle.
They say oversized tires mess up the handling but I don't see getting more lean angle w/o more rubber front AND back. Especially front. I don't think I'm leaning it over that far. Nowhere close to what I do easily on the Ninja. The ninja has a huge (for it) 150/70 on the rear cuz it was in stock and she likes a fat tire anyway for looks. Even with my knee down it has big chicken strips, it looks cartoonish the way it bulges out of that narrow rim. Haven't noticed any loss in flickability but you could put Goodyears on that thing and I think it would pirouette like a ballerina.
I'm due to mount that front that came with the bike and see for myself if it fits (happy to notch the fender if I have to. Leaving me with a big fat front and an oem rear which I think will do me no good whatsoever till I burn up the rear and put another bigger on the back (they're not selling the sport demon in 140 now) :( Problem is I feel tons better sliding on the 140 than the 130. It's amazing what 10mm will do.
Eventually... I'll end up with an oversize front AND an oversize rear(wish I hadn't just got that 130 rear, I believed them about better handling on a stock tire size) and that should buy me more lean angle no? If I do that am I exceeding the mechanical limits of the bike and asking for trouble? Should I just get a more capable bike? I feel good about my natural abilities but I haven't gone out and practiced all that much apart from regular travel but it's hard for me to accept that I can outride that bike already. I really like it's low maintenance, dependability, fuel economy etc. I don't necessarily want to replace it unless I've truly outgrown it.
I also put progressive fork springs in it. Rear shock is stock. I know you can put a GSXR front end and Works shock on it and that's what people who race them do (not a bad idea for sport commuting as insurance is CHEAP on this thing). Am I already there or did I miss something? I've dissected the Twist of the Wrist II and Ride like a Pro DVDs and Proficient Motorcycling. Ordered Total Control and Twist of the Wrist II paperbacks from Amazon.Freetalklive.com this morning.
All the experts say don't put fatter tires on. None of those resources address my problem.
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I say....Go for the fat tires! You'll get better handling - maybe you can even try your parking lot leans at 65 on the freeway -
Plus, Trillian is right - they look damn good!
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I hit 65 while standing it back up coming out of a cloverleaf.
Yeah, I need the fat tires but I'm wondering if they should be on another bike. The GS500 has limits, it is not a supersport. It IS capable of more than most riders ever do... that's what they say. The 140 is really pushing the limits of chain rubbing (it doesn't).
Never will it achieve extreme lean angles at freeway speeds. Doesn't have the front-end for it. That's why the GSXR front ends they put on them.
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Thanks Eco....Did you ever ride a Harley?
I didn't have any idea how to ride my cruiser but I cursed it every single day for it's lack of lean angle.
I like to borrow the 900 Vulcan. It is super stable all the way to it's maximum lean angle at any speed. Surprisingly flickable. It's sufficient for spirited commuting. I've sat on a Nightster and started it. Immediately knew what I needed to know. Trillian won't ride it and her daughter won't go w/in 20 ft of it.
Also, no way I can get a Harley with 7800 miles on it for 1500 bucks nor will it get 54 mpg and insure for 100 bucks a year.
When I can have 3 bikes one of them might be a Nightrod.
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No, have you ever gone to a dealer and test rode something like a Wide Glide?
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No.
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First. I had a cruiser for a couple seasons a decade ago. I just got on and rode, had no clue how to ride a motorcycle. Have a little time on dirt bikes too. Took Trillian for a ride on a borrowed Vulcan (after it had been rebuilt after I totaled it while incredibly drunk, yep, he put me right back on it soon as his wife wasn't looking.) and next thing I knew She bought the GS500 and Joel told her to get some gear and buy a book, changed my life, thanks Joel.
So, have I reached the mechanical limits of this GS500 or am I a squid noob who's doing it all wrong?
I can put a knee down on the ninja now. By that I mean in a tight circle in a parking lot both left and right side, smoothly, competently and at will. Haven't had the facilities to do it safely any other way.
I can come nowhere friggin close on the GS. I lose traction first. With my 140 rear tire the front slides out on me before I lose the rear. With my new 130 rear which is the OEM size (both Pirelli Sport Demons) I run out of rear tire so they tend to let loose together, front and back unless I'm on the throttle enough to slide the back out intentionally, thus turning the front away from the turn and keeping it on good rubber. In a 'properly executed corner' I run out of traction on both tires before I run out of balls.
Front is an OEM BT45. I got a larger one with the bike but the guy at the dealership refused to mount it, said it would rub on the fender, the previous owner said he knew what he was doing when he ordered the tire. But when I got the bike I put a 140/80 rear on and a stock front. Recently I replaced the rear with the 130/70 (oem size) rear and now I powerslide more easily with less lean angle.
They say oversized tires mess up the handling but I don't see getting more lean angle w/o more rubber front AND back. Especially front. I don't think I'm leaning it over that far. Nowhere close to what I do easily on the Ninja. The ninja has a huge (for it) 150/70 on the rear cuz it was in stock and she likes a fat tire anyway for looks. Even with my knee down it has big chicken strips, it looks cartoonish the way it bulges out of that narrow rim. Haven't noticed any loss in flickability but you could put Goodyears on that thing and I think it would pirouette like a ballerina.
I'm due to mount that front that came with the bike and see for myself if it fits (happy to notch the fender if I have to. Leaving me with a big fat front and an oem rear which I think will do me no good whatsoever till I burn up the rear and put another bigger on the back (they're not selling the sport demon in 140 now) :( Problem is I feel tons better sliding on the 140 than the 130. It's amazing what 10mm will do.
Eventually... I'll end up with an oversize front AND an oversize rear(wish I hadn't just got that 130 rear, I believed them about better handling on a stock tire size) and that should buy me more lean angle no? If I do that am I exceeding the mechanical limits of the bike and asking for trouble? Should I just get a more capable bike? I feel good about my natural abilities but I haven't gone out and practiced all that much apart from regular travel but it's hard for me to accept that I can outride that bike already. I really like it's low maintenance, dependability, fuel economy etc. I don't necessarily want to replace it unless I've truly outgrown it.
I also put progressive fork springs in it. Rear shock is stock. I know you can put a GSXR front end and Works shock on it and that's what people who race them do (not a bad idea for sport commuting as insurance is CHEAP on this thing). Am I already there or did I miss something? I've dissected the Twist of the Wrist II and Ride like a Pro DVDs and Proficient Motorcycling. Ordered Total Control and Twist of the Wrist II paperbacks from Amazon.Freetalklive.com this morning.
All the experts say don't put fatter tires on. None of those resources address my problem.
No offense, but I highly doubt you're skills are past the limits of the GS500. I really highly doubt it. If you're front end is washing on asphalt it's likely due to rider error first, crappy tires second, and bad suspension third.
1st is rider error, you need to get farther forward over the front of the bike. The more weight you put on the front end, the more traction you will get on the front tire. You should not be touching the brakes as you go through a turn, unless you are at a very high level. Trail braking is a very advanced skill on street bikes.
The Bt45 is a crappy bias ply tire. I've tried it on my bike before and hated it. It only washed on me once though. You want to put sticky radial tires on the bike for more traction and quicker turn in response. The heavy bt45 has bad turn in, moderate stickiness and lacks the pliability of a radial tire. I am much happier with my Avon Storm 2 ST Ultra tri-compound radial tire. The center is super hard for long lasting slab riding, and the sides are super sticky for the twisties when you get down in the corners. It is a radial tire and has great turn in response. There are even sportier tires out there that will give you better traction or even better turn in, but I'm happy with this one as it gives me the best combination of features and fits on the rims I have right now.
First with regards to suspension, you should make sure that the shock and forks are setup correctly for your weight. Make sure that the sag is correct both on the forks and the rear shock, but especially on the rear shock. Fork sag, while important is less crucial than sag on the rear shock. If there are any adjustments available on your forks or shocks make sure you make them optimal for you and your riding style. But first set the sag correctly. The Progressive springs in the correct weight are not a bad idea, but I prefer straight springs on street bikes as they will resist pogo-ing and brake dive more. The problem with the progressives are that the light weight in the beginning, while giving a smoother ride for straight line riding, will dive faster under braking. A straight spring that is one step heavier than the calculator indicates for your bike + weight will offer much better resistance towards brake dive and wallowing and pogoing. Adding a few extra cc's of heavier weight oil to your forks will further improve this type of performance, but will make your ride a bit more jittery and the bumps a bit more pronounced. The best solution is to throw on some modern upside down cartridge forks. If you want to increase your turn in response, get triple clamps for the forks you want that have less rake. The drawback is less stability however. Upside down cartridge forks will be a huge improvement for any bike that has traditional open chamber forks. If you do eventually decide to throw on cartridge forks, you're going to find out real fast that your rear end now sucks. Swap your forks before you decide to swap your rear shock though because you need to feel the difference personally and updating your forks will yield far more improvement than updating your rear shock.
What you should work on is making sure that you are in fact riding with good form and getting over the front end before spending a bunch of money on parts that will not make you any faster. Riding is 90% rider 10% machine. To be brutally honest I really doubt that you are already past the limits of your bike. It took me at least a couple years of constant riding every day + weekend high speed riding to feel like I was near the limits of my own street machine. It is an older bike with old technology and I currently ride with the fastest riders in my sport bike club every time. I'm faster than the vast majority of guys on much higher tech, newer, lighter bikes in my club, and I know that even I can increase my speed with more practice without changing my bike or getting a new one. And my bike is heavier and lower tech than your GS500.
And BTW, I think you should stop being an asshole to everybody, the only reason I'm responding is because I love motorcycles so much and hope to inspire others into riding and hope to spread what knowledge I have of the sport.
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No offense, but I highly doubt you're skills are past the limits of the GS500. I really highly doubt it.
None taken. Exactly what I wanted to hear, cheaper that way. Imma read the rest of the post now.
The heavy bt45 has bad turn in,
I feel as if my turn in is very poor, at least partially due to balls. Always doing more accelerating through the turn cuz I turned it too slow. I trail brake. With both brakes. Not every time. I feel like trail braking is an invaluable tool in real world traffic situations. I can come off the brakes and onto the gas just short of the apex in a manner I think is very rewarding and makes me feel all yummy inside. I'm pleased with my Sport Demon rear. Next imma put on this tire in my shed on the front I expect. Then I'll be ready for a full set when it's had it. My bt45 has extremely even treadwear across tire.
First with regards to suspension
Kieth Code taught me to adjust Sag (on the interwebs). Now I just need him to send over his 2 friends to hold the bike and measure. Have to change the size of the spacer on the forks :( I was just in there.
Not so sure I wanna spend new Cartridge money on this bike. I know what I need is suspension and grip not power.
the rest
cool
By the way: I think it is absolutely indefensible what John Shaw did and How Drifter handled it. I am truely disappointed in my fellow BBS members that they don't care. People used to care. A lot of great things that have come from this BBS never would have happened under Shaw/Drifter rule.
I think bad actions are immeasurably worse than bad words. I think anyone who could say this:
I know where you go, what you review. If you typically review your posts to page three, I'll start fucking with your posts on page four. And you will be ultimately be dragging a wagon-load of the most damaging shit you've ever imagined.
Without feeling absolutely horrid inside is a terrifying person to have moderating.
So uh.... what about tire size?
I don't think I realized how soft that first bit of the proggressive springs are on turn in. I'm a little guy and the mechanic never asked what I weighed. (I failed to reassemble them and took them w/ springs to a guy). I expect I will counter it with some front brake to load'em up for now. I should gone ridin before I made a screwdriver :(
more editing:
I do not trail brake with anything like racetrack force. I practice emergency braking and all but when I'm out riding recreationally braking isn't something I experiment w/ the limits of for a lot of reasons.
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I saw the perfect bike the other day, I donno what kind it was. It was a "classic" shape, basically like a Harley Sportster.
Might've been a Star or one of those that I'm not familiar with.
What I liked about it was the posture. The grips were exactly perfect. You weren't doing a push-up riding it. You sat on your ass. It looked like it practically drove itself, and you were just holding the go-handle.
Nice bike. Had a pretty good burble to it.
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Donno if y'all noticed but Easyriders magizine turned 40 a couple months ago. I got the anniversary edition and absolutely loved it. A lot of old articles and pictorials of events and the suicide bikes they "built" in the 70's. (plus hippie chicks lotsa hippie chicks...)
http://www.easyriders.com/ (http://www.easyriders.com/)
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Donno if y'all noticed but Easyriders magizine turned 40 a couple months ago. I got the anniversary edition and absolutely loved it. A lot of old articles and pictorials of events and the suicide bikes they "built" in the 70's. (plus hippie chicks lotsa hippie chicks...)
http://www.easyriders.com/ (http://www.easyriders.com/)
David Mann is the man, man.
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His work too. Mostly the self portraits with the double pistel grip stretches. God, those bikes must have been awful to ride.
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I'm absolutely in love with this motorcycle. It's for sale nearby, I don't have the funds--nor want a GXSR but it sure is pretty.
(http://images.craigslist.org/3o53p63lb5X45S45R4b86367fa2dd48d716b8.jpg)
(http://images.craigslist.org/3mf3p03l25V45Y25Q3b86480225fcdb7d1932.jpg)
(http://images.craigslist.org/3n93mc3ld5Y25T45W4b8648cc69e48cae1484.jpg)
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Anybody else see the Pala AMA National Motocross season finale? Amazing race.
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Im seriously giving some thought to buying one of these pretty soon. Havent owned a bike since I was 19 and am still thinking about it.
If I decide to get one, this is it. I dont even like Harleys...... not my style, but this one is pretty cool looking I think.
(http://www.kollewin.com/EX/09-15-09/lg%2Bharley_davidson_xr1200_sportster_prototype%2Bright_rear.jpg)
or maybe an old BSA..... I dont know. Too much upkeep I'd think.
(http://motorcycles.ppblogs.com/files/2011/08/bsa-011.jpg)
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so, you won't let me log in from my droid?
Seriously, Mike - Harleys are fun as hell. Don't listen to the hype from jap riders../.
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I love 60s and 70s bikes. I think sourcing parts for those old BSAs is the harder then working on them. Make sure you check out that old bike club I linked to a few pages back.
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so, you won't let me log in from my droid?
Seriously, Mike - Harleys are fun as hell. Don't listen to the hype from jap riders../.
Ya, thats the thing. I'm not really into crotch-rockety bikes, so the jap bikes are out of the question. I dont like being all hunched over on a long trip, and I dont really like the typical Harley look either. Im a weird cat when it comes to bikes, but that Harley pictured above is a pretty nice looking bike and sits upright as well......... its different . Perfect balance for me I think.
I do like the look of those old BSA's, but im not really into monkey-wrenching and scouring the web for needed hard to find parts unless its out of necessity, so the Harley is probably the one to go with for me.
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750
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so, you won't let me log in from my droid?
Seriously, Mike - Harleys are fun as hell. Don't listen to the hype from jap riders../.
Ya, thats the thing. I'm not really into crotch-rockety bikes, so the jap bikes are out of the question. I dont like being all hunched over on a long trip, and I dont really like the typical Harley look either. Im a weird cat when it comes to bikes, but that Harley pictured above is a pretty nice looking bike and sits upright as well......... its different . Perfect balance for me I think.
I do like the look of those old BSA's, but im not really into monkey-wrenching and scouring the web for needed hard to find parts unless its out of necessity, so the Harley is probably the one to go with for me.
That's what Sport Tourers and Adventure bikes are for. Check out the KTM 990 SM-T or the Suzuki V-Strom or the Kawasaki Versys.
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That KMT and the Kawasaki are pretty cool looking I gotta say. Didn't really care for the Suzuki though.
Im pretty much a dummy when it comes to bikes...... never even heard of KMT before..... cook bikes, so maybe I should look around more before jumping into something like an idiot.
I'm trying to buy one before spring so im more likely to get a better deal on something, so I cant wait too long if im gonna do it. Dont want to spend a shitload of cash, so im most likely gonna go used. Guess I'll scour craigslist and Ebay Motors for some deals just to get an idea what shit goes for. Thanks for the suggestions dude.
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That KMT and the Kawasaki are pretty cool looking I gotta say. Didn't really care for the Suzuki though.
Im pretty much a dummy when it comes to bikes...... never even heard of KMT before..... cook bikes, so maybe I should look around more before jumping into something like an idiot.
I'm trying to buy one before spring so im more likely to get a better deal on something, so I cant wait too long if im gonna do it. Dont want to spend a shitload of cash, so im most likely gonna go used. Guess I'll scour craigslist and Ebay Motors for some deals just to get an idea what shit goes for. Thanks for the suggestions dude.
Me and Al both ride KTM's. They are very good Austrian bikes, and a few years ago they built a factory here in the USA so parts are easy enough to find. Price wise they are very competitive with the Japanese manufacturers on everything, but they come shipped with extra bells and whistles that tons of people will add onto their bikes anyways. They are very high quality machines. There's a reason they changed from calling the top manufacturers the "Big 4" to the "Big 5", because KTM has grown so much in the last couple decades that they actually are the number 1 selling offroad bike manufacturer on the market. They've been working on growing their street bike inventory over the last decade and these bikes just seem amazing. All of the reviews for the 990's I've read were full of praise, and at the price point they really offer a lot. From my perspective they offer the BMW appeal with the Japanese reliability and price.
Also that Harley you chose is probably the only Harley I would consider buying for myself. Cool bike, but for price there are way better options, and heavy for a first bike.
To be honest I think something in the 400-700 cc range is more suitable for a first bike. Something like a Ninja 500 or 650, or a Versys, or a Suzuki SV650, or V-Strom 650, or a KTM 690 SM. Maybe even a Suzuki DRZ400SM would be good if you don't do a lot of highway riding. Those bikes rock, but they are a little short on legs for cruising at 70+ all day. All these bikes I listed have upright seating and low weight, perfect for a beginner, but have room to grow into, and could perform well enough that you never would want to sell them.
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All good info.
Mainly, I see myself doing the majority of my riding on trips of over 3 hours, so thats kinda why I was looking at that 1200 Harley. Might be right though about getting a bit of a smaller bike, since I haven't had one in a long time. I'm definitely liking the KTM's alot.
I'll keep you guys updated if I get something soon, or have any other questions. I need to look at some bike forums when I get a chance.
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I say, for 300 mile trips - don't go lower than a 750, and really a 1000 or bigger would make you happier. Doesn't matter how heavy it is - you learn to ride the bike and you're good!
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Been on a V-star 1100 for a few months. Too wide for splitting lanes. A bitch to work on. Small gas tank. Awkward foot controls for big feet. The power is adequate but the clutch slips if I get on the throttle. I've read it needs stiffer clutch springs.
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All good info.
Mainly, I see myself doing the majority of my riding on trips of over 3 hours, so thats kinda why I was looking at that 1200 Harley. Might be right though about getting a bit of a smaller bike, since I haven't had one in a long time. I'm definitely liking the KTM's alot.
I'll keep you guys updated if I get something soon, or have any other questions. I need to look at some bike forums when I get a chance.
I'd do bad things for a ktm 990 sm-t....
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Been on a V-star 1100 for a few months. Too wide for splitting lanes. A bitch to work on. Small gas tank. Awkward foot controls for big feet. The power is adequate but the clutch slips if I get on the throttle. I've read it needs stiffer clutch springs.
(I'm experienced and I have the right tools.)
Changed the rear tire today.
Took 3 hours for me to get the wheel off. 30 mins for the shop to mount+balance. About 2 hours to put it all back together. By comparison, my old Suzuki GS took about an hour for the same work.
Yamaha V-star 1100. Not user friendly.
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Been on a V-star 1100 for a few months. Too wide for splitting lanes. A bitch to work on. Small gas tank. Awkward foot controls for big feet. The power is adequate but the clutch slips if I get on the throttle. I've read it needs stiffer clutch springs.
(I'm experienced and I have the right tools.)
Changed the rear tire today.
Took 3 hours for me to get the wheel off. 30 mins for the shop to mount+balance. About 2 hours to put it all back together. By comparison, my old Suzuki GS took about an hour for the same work.
Yamaha V-star 1100. Not user friendly.
My Kawasaki rear tire change:
Heft bike up on center stand (sometimes a lot harder than it looks, ouch my back).
Remove right side muffler (2 bolts, a couple minutes max)
Remove rear axle bolt (about a minute)
Pop rear wheel from rear drive shaft
Pay 10 bucks for the shop to change the tire (I'm not changing tubeless street tires myself thanks very much!)
Reverse. Easy peasy.
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Been on a V-star 1100 for a few months. Too wide for splitting lanes. A bitch to work on. Small gas tank. Awkward foot controls for big feet. The power is adequate but the clutch slips if I get on the throttle. I've read it needs stiffer clutch springs.
(I'm experienced and I have the right tools.)
Changed the rear tire today.
Took 3 hours for me to get the wheel off. 30 mins for the shop to mount+balance. About 2 hours to put it all back together. By comparison, my old Suzuki GS took about an hour for the same work.
Yamaha V-star 1100. Not user friendly.
My Kawasaki rear tire change:
Heft bike up on center stand (sometimes a lot harder than it looks, ouch my back).
Remove right side muffler (2 bolts, a couple minutes max)
Remove rear axle bolt (about a minute)
Pop rear wheel from rear drive shaft
Pay 10 bucks for the shop to change the tire (I'm not changing tubeless street tires myself thanks very much!)
Reverse. Easy peasy.
Yup I feel pretty burned by Yamaha. (V-star)
Lift bike really high so you can clear the fender, remove covers, bags, left bag frame, mufflers, remove bolts from half the luggage rack, rear brake caliper, caliper bracket, brake hose mount, drain rear gear oil, remove axle clamp, axle nut, pull wheel and rear drive with shaft, remove axle, remove rear drive from wheel. Get tire swapped, $35 (CA). Reverse, adding grease to drive parts and then refill gear oil before putting the rest back together.
I hear the FJR is better
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Sold my bike... needed money... :(
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Sold my bike... needed money... :(
A very sad day indeed. Do you still have your gear?
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I've already given my answer to this one, but this is a cool vid imho.
Restricted Area - Drifting Motorcycles Crossing - Switch Riders Gymkhana (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PonKeBVyABI#ws)