Soon to be new rider.

[afflo]

Hello everyone.

I posted a similar introduction in the Rebel250.com board, with similar questions.

I'm a soon-to-be first time rider, and am looking at a GZ250, V Star/Virago 250, or possibly Rebel as a first bike. I do have a ton of questions about the bikes though.

Initially, I considered buying a high mileage scooter for the cheap mileage from driving between my home and work (about 10 miles). However, after giving it more thought (and surprising at the suggestion of my very awesome wife), I decided that I'd rather have a real motorcycle.

Being that I'm a married man with kids, I'm a bit less of an adrenaline junky than the typical person my age (mid 20's), which may come with being married for 6 years and having two kids. I'm not buying anything until I complete the MSF course and get my operators endorsement on my license. I'm definitely more interested in a cruiser than a sportbike. I'm on a waitlist for the course, hoping to get in during the next month or two, and having to come to grips with my general lack of patience.

I'm looking at a 250 class for several reasons.

1. My father in law, the stereotypical old biker dude, said he wouldn't recommend anything over 250-300 cc's as a first bike.

2. The price point. If possible, I'd like to purchase something new rather than used, simply so that I'd know how it had been treated and maintained. I'm one of those meticulous car owners that wants to know that a vehicle I'm laying down cash for has not been abused. Also, on the price point, I'm not looking to spend over 4K at the absolute max. I don't want to have to finance a bike (Between my wife and I, we already have two car payments.)

4. Economy. As stated before, I was considering a scooter, and with the local gas a $4.40/gallon, it would make a nice alternative to my Element. I'm not really a go fast person in general, and despite being warned of their underpowered nature, the engines in my 4-cyl S10 and 4-cyl Wrangler never bothered me.

Now, the concerns:

1. I'm 6'1, with a 33" inseam, roughly 190 lbs. Size 12 shoes. I want to make sure that the GZ250/Virago/Rebel will be large enough that I'll enjoy riding it. How does the GZ compare to the others in the comfort for taller riders department? In looking at them side by side in a showroom, the GZ appeared to have more distance between the seat and pegs than a V-Star 250.

2. I've often heard that people "outgrow" their 250's very quickly. That makes me worry that I might sink money into a new Rebel and become disenchanted with it, only to find that I can only trade up by taking a depreciation loss. It does seem like a strange thing to tell people though. I don't think anyone ever suggested that I would be tired of my Civic after 6 months, and want to move up to an Impala or F150.

3. Would it be more worthwhile to look into a used bike, perhaps an S40 or a VLX if I could find one at a good price? Here, the desire for something new comes in again. I'm not very mechanically inclined, and don't want to have a "project" that will soak up my time looking for gremlins. I''m spoiled on Honda cars... I expect things to work if treated with care. I'd rather have a 250 that I ride for a few years and buy something bigger later on. I also want to make sure, as stated before that I stretch my $4.40 gallons of gas.

4. How bad is the power on hills. I grew up in Tallahassee, which is more or less flat. Now, living on the central California coast (Monterey area), I see what actual hills are. Most hills would be in city streets... would I have issues, say, on the final part of my commute, a 400 foot climb over the course of approximately 1 mile, the steepest part of which climbs from 320 to 405 feet in around 1/10 of a mile. This is all at low speeds (speed limit 25), but I want to make sure that I'm not going to end up as a hood ornament on a closely following SUV.

That hill, BTW, is why bicycling to work is not even an option!


Also, just opinions here: What are the advantages and disadvantages of a GZ250 vs. a Honda Rebel, Yamaha Vstar 250, and even the Hyosung Aquila GV250 (also caught my eye, though I'm wary of something that has an almost ethereal dealer network)

[JIBTEXHNKA]

welcome! i'm relatively new to my GZ250 and this board but i'm extremely happy with both. i was in your same situation, trying to decide between the GZ, the Rebel, and the Virago. the rebel is definitely less tall-people-friendly. i'm 6' 185 lbs and i don't feel cramped at all on the GZ.

now obviously, the rebel folks are going to tell you the rebel is best and we're going to tell you the GZ is best so in the end you're going to have to physically sit on each of them and decide which one you feel most comfortable on. i think comfort is most important in this situation because all three bikes are pretty similiar performance-wise (not speaking from personal experience here, just what i've heard and read).

1. your father-in-law sounds like a smart man

you skipped number 3, so i'll skip 2

4. i get about 68mpg on my GZ. the gz has a 3.7 gallon tank compared with the rebel's 2.4 (i think?), so that might be something you want to consider.

about some of your concerns:

1. from what i've heard, and from sitting on a rebel, the GZ offers the best riding position for taller riders. but again, don't take my word for it.

2. outgrowing a bike is different than outgrowing a car. if you've never driven a car before and you get inside a (insert really fast car here) and stomp the gas pedal to the floor, you might crap your pants but as long as you've got enough road ahead of you you're going to be fine. on the other hand, if you sit down on a superbike and give it full throttle not knowing what you're doing, things are going to get messy, and fast. smaller bikes are recommended to beginners because they're more forgiving due to the lack of power; after you're more comfortable you might decide you can handle a little extra power and probably have a lot more fun. however, you mentioned you're not really speed-craving adrenaline junkie so you'll probably be perfectly happy with a 250.

4. from my experience hills can be a drag only if you're trying to maintain freeway speeds (65mph+), but other than that they are no problem. a 250 shouldn't have any problem at all maintaining 25mph up a good-sized hill.

i'll admit i've only been riding for a few weeks, so maybe don't put too much stock into what i have to say. just my thoughts on the subject.

[patrick_777]

Welcome!

JIB makes good points all around, so I'll drop in a few cents too(probably all it's worth).

You might consider a used bike with low mileage since you said you're not mechanically-inclined. The idea here is that your engine will already be broken-in which, from most accounts, is somewhat tedious and often involves a lot of fluid-changing, filter-checking and babying around for the first thousand miles or so. However, if you're okay with that sort of thing and you're anything like I was, you will quickly learn to enjoy tinkering around with the bike mechanically.

To address a few of your other questions: You might also want to think about waiting until you get through your MSF class before you purchase. The classes usually have a smattering of Rebels, GZs and other 250cc bikes (although I doubt any Hyosungs), and you can probably get a good feel for each of them there, with a (hopefully) knowledgeable instructor that will answer a lot of your questions. If you're impatient or you found a good deal on a bike you're considering it right now, then you should at least take a day or two, go to a couple of dealerships and sit on some (new or used), and get a feel for the controls, pegs, height and balance. It won't be as good of a test run as your class will be, but it could definitely narrow down your choices.

As far as outgrowing your bike is concerned, that really depends on what you get out of the bike personally. You sound like a pretty frugal sort of guy (not an insult, I'm that way too), and you may actually want to get another bike after a few months/seasons. But, like me and many others around here, you could wind up wanting to keep the 250 around for the mileage and so you can take your time shopping for a 600-800cc bike. You'd still like the 250 because it gives a unique feeling riding a smaller-class, quieter bike that's cheaper to work on than many other larger bore cycles, and frankly, more fun in some cases.

I doubt you'll have a problem with the hill you describe on the GZ at that speed. 25mph is about at the first-to-second gear transition (depending on your oil/sprockets/throttle/blah/blah/blah) and you'll have plenty left after that. Now if the hill was posted 45 or 55, you could be disappointed, but that would be with any 250, not just the GZ.

Try not to compare getting or upgrading a bike to changing cars. It's really not the same. JIB made a good point about the application of power in a car compared to a bike, and it's distinctly different. Power/weight ratios in cars are a lot closer than in motorcycles. The gradual opening of throttle will seem to have a MUCH greater effect on the feel of the bike since there are so many other physical variables in the equation (balance, vibration, wind, etc.). In a car, that all does truly affect it, but it rarely affects you, the driver, which means that those variables can distract that much more and if you're not ready, not expecting it, and most certainly lacking respect for it, it will (as JIB said) "get messy, and fast".

Be careful and keep frugal in your choices. Just because you're spending only around $2000 on a bike, doesn't mean you shouldn't treat it like a $50K car purchase. You've done half the work already by gathering information before you take the leap. You're ahead of most folks already, including some on this very msg board!

Also remember that this, and all advice has been given on a generally anonymous posting on an Internet message forum, take it for that it's worth.

[JIBTEXHNKA]

also... there is a HUGE demand for 250cc motorcycles. look on craigslist and try and find one that's been listed for more than a week; i bet you can't. a lot of people know that 250's are the best starter bike and there are always people looking to get into motorcycling, so it shouldn't be hard at all to sell the bike after a while if you do decide you want something bigger. and if you treat the bike nicely and keep it running well and looking good, you can probably sell it for close to what you paid for it (assuming you bought used in the first place). even if you buy new, you will probably make at least 80% of your money back.

[jonathan180iq]

also... there is a HUGE demand for 250cc motorcycles. look on craigslist and try and find one that's been listed for more than a week; i bet you can't. a lot of people know that 250's are the best starter bike and there are always people looking to get into motorcycling, so it shouldn't be hard at all to sell the bike after a while if you do decide you want something bigger. and if you treat the bike nicely and keep it running well and looking good, you can probably sell it for close to what you paid for it (assuming you bought used in the first place). even if you buy new, you will probably make at least 80% of your money back.

That last 80% part isn't really true with the GZ. You'll be hard pressed to resell a brand new GZ for more than $2500 and they list for $3400 new.

[Sarris]

I guess I took it in the shorts. I bought my 2005 new for $3295 +++. Oh well. I've been had alot worse, but I DO like new bikes.

Also, Jon, I think he was speaking about used bikes, and all small bikes and scooters are selling like hotcakes on E-bay. It is true that the first purchaser of new bikes or new cars takes the most depreciation when they resell.

I love my GZ!!!

:) :)

[Water Warrior 2]

Welcome Afflo. I have a little experience on the GZ and Yamaha plus comments on the Rebel from test sits etc. First, the GZ is a single cylinder engine while the others are 2 cylinder. The GZ is counter balanced so the vibration factor will be about the same. All are acceptable. The GZ will probably be the easiest to maintain overall. Valve adjusts will be simpler too.
The GZ is the largest bike for comfort and has good ergonomics. The Yammer is not too bad but the Rebel is even smaller and you will probably bump your knees on the handle bars during manuevers. Less leg room also. The GZ is also the largest looking bike with it's larger tank and overall lines.
All 3 are pretty much equal in power and will get you anywhere on your commute with ease. Lynda is the primary rider of the GZ and we are leaving tomorrow on a 5000+ km trip. I do not have any misgivings about the bike's ability to get the job done.
All 3 bikes have been on the market for a long time and continue to be among the best starter bikes and keepers for many riders. Which ever one you pick will work well for you. Keep us updated on your choice.

[bikerbroad60]

Hi.. .just wanted to tell you that if you look around,you will be able to buy a good used GZ250 within your price range. I was interested in a used Rebel, a 1999,with 6000 miles on it,and put an offer on it,which was rejected. Then I found a used GZ,with 200(two hundred) miles on it,for the price I offered on the Honda. The Honda is still sitting in the lot,being sold on commission,as was the bike I bought.I bought the Suzuki,and am glad I did.
It is really nice that you are being careful and want to learn all you can before you buy a bike.The folks here are very nice about helping anyone with a question.
Good luck!!
Annie

[Dupo]

If you are going to take the MSF course before purchasing a bike, you will most likely get to test drive a GZ250 as thats what they use at most facilities.

Personally, it was too small for me. I bought it to learn on and never could get comfortable and im only 5'9". My 750 honda fits oh so much better.

[davidc83]

I am 5'10, 185 lbs. I go to the rallys with the rebel folks. Used to go on my little gz but I purchased a C50 and ride it the long distances now. I rode the little gz 11,000 miles in months last year. and I have put 9500 miles on my c50 since October.

I have sat on the rebel and in turns, the bars hit my knees, and am a little more cruched up on the rebel. The rebels have a little bit more top end, a little more zip on take off. The gz has a bigger tank so can go farther between fill ups. They both get about the same gas mileage. When I keep in under 50mph, I get 90-100 mpg. On the interstate doing 70-75mph, I get about 75mpg. I know I post a little better gas mileage than most people on here, but I have witnesses (members on this forum) and have ridden enough miles to know my mileage.

The seat on the rebels are a little more comfortable but they are little more squirrelly (sp?) with the narrow front tire. I like the look of fat cruisers-that is the main reason I purchased the gz over the rebel. I have ridden the little gz in driving downpours and it is very stable on wet roads and loose gravel.

I get the little gz out once a week and ride about 50 miles just to remind myself how much fun it is to ride. It is a great beginners bike.

[Badbob]

I have witnesses

I'm a witness. I was with him when he got in the 90s.

My average is 65 mpg. My wife averages 85 mpg.

I think you might be a bit long legged for a GZ250 but you would really have to try it to find out. I have a 29 inch inseam and I raised my seat two inches to get comfortable.

[rayzuki]

I am 5'11 and feel comfortable on the GZ but its really the only bike I have been on so I have nothing to compare against. I bought my GZ as a started to learn and get experience before moving to a bigger bike. I really enjoy the GZ and as of right now I don't plan of getting rid of it.

[patrick_777]

I am 5'11 and feel comfortable on the GZ but its really the only bike I have been on so I have nothing to compare against. I bought my GZ as a started to learn and get experience before moving to a bigger bike. I really enjoy the GZ and as of right now I don't plan of getting rid of it.


Ditto on everything ray said.

[afflo]

Alright, so, after a father's day browse through the bike shop (still waiting for my MSF course before I make a purchase), I don't think a GZ250 will work.

I tried sitting on the GZ, an Alphasports (Hyosung) Aquila 250, a Boulevard S40, and all were entirely too cramped for me. I felt like a circus bear on a tricycle. The salesman (another long-legged fellow) suggested I try the Shadow 600... barely acceptible, but not something I'd be happy with.

He then suggested trying a Ninja 250. I have had no interest in sportbikes or dual-sports, but sitting on the GZ250 was a completely different experience than I'd expected. I found myself able to comfortably fold my legs, and the position is far less hunched-over than I'd expected. In fact, it just felt 'right'.

I was also surprised at the standard equipment for the price level: a higher compression engine, 6 spd transmission (reportedly able to run well over interstate speeds), a small windscreen built into the fairing, fuel gauge, front and rear discs... overall, it seems like a better fit for me. All this, and the price is still under $4K. I refuse to take out a loan just to buy a motorcycle, so I'm keeping it within my cash splurging budget ($5500, but ideally under $4k for the bike, leaving breathing room for the gear). At the same time, after bad experiences with cars that have been abused, I don't really want to buy a bike that has such strong appeal to the adrenaline junkie set... I see lots of abuse potential.

I still would like to buy a cruiser in the long run, but I think the Ninja will be better for me starting out, until I have the experience and confidence needed for a cruiser that is large enough for my frame. Or, I may decide that I like the sportbike after a few years on the Ninja.

[jonathan180iq]

I think the Ninja 250 is the best small displacement bike offered in the US. Hands down.

$5500 sounds like you are getting hosed, unless you are from Canada.

I used to have one and it has no problem handling 70-75mph+ forever.

Also, they have a prety big aftermarket following, if that's important to you.

Yeah, the best thing about the bike is that it isn't small. It's a natural fit and you don't end up hunching over like with other spoorbikes.
The new styling makes it look nice but the older model is more trusted.
The new gas gauge is crappy, like most motorcycle gas gauges and you no longer get a temp gauge, like with the older bikes.

-Jonathan

[afflo]

I think the Ninja 250 is the best small displacement bike offered in the US. Hands down.

$5500 sounds like you are getting hosed, unless you are from Canada.

I used to have one and it has no problem handling 70-75mph+ forever.

Also, they have a prety big aftermarket following, if that's important to you.

Yeah, the best thing about the bike is that it isn't small. It's a natural fit and you don't end up hunching over like with other spoorbikes.
The new styling makes it look nice but the older model is more trusted.
The new gas gauge is crappy, like most motorcycle gas gauges and you no longer get a temp gauge, like with the older bikes.

-Jonathan

$5500 is not a quote I was given! :cool:

It's the cash sitting in my bank account that I have earmarked for "bike and bike stuff." Ideally, I'll stay far below that, even after buying safety gear... maybe keep some on hand in case I have to replace a fairing or mirror later!

I already have a car payment, as well as my wife. I'm not about to get another loan just for what is essentially a toy; Maybe I'll spend big enough after the car is paid off and buy something really nice, but for now, it's going to be a straight Mastercard Debit purchase.

[turbo chicken]

Hiya...



forgive me for being laszy but it's been a few day's since my last log in... stick around good peoples here.

I love my GZ

[jonathan180iq]

Sounds like you have a plan. If you decide to go with the Ninja you may want to check out

www.ninja250.net (http://www.ninja250.net)

This place is a great resource but the constant bickering and the continuous repetitive questions gets a little old.

[Easy Rider]

Alright, so, after a father's day browse through the bike shop (still waiting for my MSF course before I make a purchase), I don't think a GZ250 will work.


There ARE some situations where a "little" bike isn't the best choice for a first ride. It would appear that this is one of those cases.

DO NOT rush into anything.

Expand your search into the mid-range standards and cruisers......5-800 cc's.....or even the Zuki S/M 50's (800 cc).
For once, the sales-dude might have given you good advice! :)

[LilNinja77]

Howdy from an 07 Ninja 250 owner who enjoys this board. As jonathan mentioned, if you're interested you should definitely check out ninja250.com. It is the best resource for motorcycle information I've found, and if you're like me and enjoy doing your own maintenance/work, pretty much everything you need is right there. On the negative though, the board is VERY cynical and sarcastic, almost excessively so. The admins/mods do not usually take kindly to people who think outside of their spectrum, but they are very experienced and full of knowledge. Honestly unless you just enjoy posting on forums I would just use the site as an information resource and skip the forum........just too much drama, it's like high-school all over again. With the influx of newbies who are attracted by the 08 models' new looks, there are a lot of people posting who have no clue. Expect to see the same newbie questions over and over and over and over.

The Ninja 250 and the GZ250 are both great bikes, but they are different for sure. You mentioned hearing that the Ninja could do interstate speeds.....yes, it does them just fine. With stock gearing I can cruise extended at highway (55-70) with no issues at anywhere from 7.5 to 10k rpm. Hit the huge super-slab and just twist the throttle more, cruise at 70-80 with higher rpms......depending on many factors the bike tops out somewhere between 100-115 depending on who you ask. Fastest I've taken mine was up to 90 and then I stopped, bike still felt like it had more to give. She runs smooth from 1.5 all the way up to 13k, shifting is smooth and precise, and I like the Kawaski postive neutral finder.

The MPG is worse on the Ninja though, don't believe those 70 mpg numbers you see. Personally I average anywhere between 50-60, depending on several factors (weather conditions, luggage, road conditions); meaning I usually go about 230-250 miles before switching to reserve. I imagine if I rode it very conservatively (say, like a cruiser) I could get the claimed 70 mpg, but I just don't see the point. The new generation Ninja 250 reportedly gets worse gas mileage than the previous (classic) generation.

The stock suspension on the classic model leaves a bit to be desired, it's quite soft. The front and rear disks are nice, though you don't want to slam on the rear too hard. The classic model is very utilitarian, luggage options are pretty much only limited by your imagination. The liquid cooling is very nice, I've sat in line with BMW's and Ducati's and watched them start to steam and smoke while my little Ninja was just chilling. The suspension and brakes on the updated 08 model are reportedly better, especially the suspension. Seating position (like you commented) is very natural and upright. You can tuck over the tank if you want, but you don't have to. Corbin offers aftermarket options.

I much prefer the classic ninja over the 08, for a number of reasons, but they are both good bikes. The GZ likewise, is also a very nice bike :tup:. Obiously you're already at the right place to find info. on it. When I was looking for a bike, I had no real interest in sportbikes either, and was more than likely going to get a GZ. But once I sat on the Ninja I never looked back. Now, after more experience and knowledge, I much prefer sportbikes (the bikes, not the riders) over cruisers. Not for their speed, but for their precision. I still want a GZ though, just cause I like them. Ninja or GZ, either way you'll end up on a great bike. Take the MSF course and try out a GZ, it's what made me start loving them. The Ninja is a little harder to find at MSF locations, a complete newbie is much more likely to drop the Ninja as it is a little less forgiving.

Sorry for the very long post, I just like talking about motorcycles :tup: If you have any questions about the Ninja I'll try my best to answer them, GZ specific questions I'm not as good at :blush:
Ride safe

[jonathan180iq]

Lilninja is right about only using the Ninja forum as an information tool. One visit and you will see that simple questions are immediately shot down by know-it-all's and people who want to be in the know-it-all club.

The FAQ on that site is very detailed and has lots of the information and how-to's. The articles carry over to all motorcycles. It's not just realted to the Ninja.

[LilNinja77]

Don't get me wrong, I love the ninja250.com site and forum, it's just a different kind of forum that takes a little getting used to. Many people get driven off by the sarcasm and joking around, because they just don't understand where it's coming from. I've been a member for a little less than a year, so I consider myself a regular, but by no means a old-timer. The problem is the massive amount of people who post questions and expect to be spoon fed answers, when all they had to do was use the search bar or the FAQ and 90% of the time the answer is right there....no fuss, no muss. Long time users of the board get tired of it and start to get ugly sometimes. The poster then takes offense and it's just a yelling match. That or they get branded as a troll and get made fun of.

Or, if you suggest doing something that isn't part of the forums' group mentality, you normally take a fair amount of ribbing. If you're in to lots of aesthetic modifications that add nothing to the actual riding of the bike, you'll likely be joked on a little. If you ride without proper gear, expect a LOT of negative feedback. If you're in to riding unsafely on the street, say hello to the flames. The admins/mods seem to go through cycles of being very lenient and then being very harsh, but by and large they seem to do an excellent job IMO. It's worth noting that the forum over there is WAAAAAY more active than this one, so I'm sure being one of the power-figures is a much more difficult job.

It's one of those places that will let you know if you've "stepped over the line", so take it for what it's worth. It's got negatives and positives, just like anything else in life. I get a big kick out of the whole experience, but it's not for everyone.....takes a tough skin sometimes.

Keep us posted about your bike-choice Afflo!
Ride safe

[afflo]

Don't get me wrong, I love the ninja250.com site and forum, it's just a different kind of forum that takes a little getting used to. Many people get driven off by the sarcasm and joking around, because they just don't understand where it's coming from. I've been a member for a little less than a year, so I consider myself a regular, but by no means a old-timer. The problem is the massive amount of people who post questions and expect to be spoon fed answers, when all they had to do was use the search bar or the FAQ and 90% of the time the answer is right there....no fuss, no muss. Long time users of the board get tired of it and start to get ugly sometimes. The poster then takes offense and it's just a yelling match. That or they get branded as a troll and get made fun of.

Or, if you suggest doing something that isn't part of the forums' group mentality, you normally take a fair amount of ribbing. If you're in to lots of aesthetic modifications that add nothing to the actual riding of the bike, you'll likely be joked on a little. If you ride without proper gear, expect a LOT of negative feedback. If you're in to riding unsafely on the street, say hello to the flames. The admins/mods seem to go through cycles of being very lenient and then being very harsh, but by and large they seem to do an excellent job IMO. It's worth noting that the forum over there is WAAAAAY more active than this one, so I'm sure being one of the power-figures is a much more difficult job.

It's one of those places that will let you know if you've "stepped over the line", so take it for what it's worth. It's got negatives and positives, just like anything else in life. I get a big kick out of the whole experience, but it's not for everyone.....takes a tough skin sometimes.

Keep us posted about your bike-choice Afflo!
Ride safe

Thanks! The FAQ there is phenomenal!!!

By the way, I had to LOL at your sig.

Substitute "large," and you could be talking about any number of things!!!

[LilNinja77]

Substitute "large," and you could be talking about any number of things!!!

Pardon? I think I missed something.
Ride safe

[afflo]

Substitute "large," and you could be talking about any number of things!!!

Pardon? I think I missed something.
Ride safe

if its cheap and reliable, its not fast
if its cheap and fast, its not reliable
if its fast and reliable, its not cheap

Bikes, cars, etc.

Now consider TV's, computer monitors, microwaves, etc.

if its cheap and reliable, its not large
if its cheap and large, its not reliable
if its large and reliable, its not cheap

[LilNinja77]

Ahh, the American dream of living large and "in charge" :roll: .....doubt I'll ever understand that one.
Ride safe

[afflo]

So, a brief update on what's been up with me:

I did my MSF course last weekend, and am waiting on my new license to be mailed to me.

The only part of it that gave me any trouble was the U-turn box. As I made the left U-ee, I unintentionally rolled on the throttle. Instead of easing on the clutch, I yanked the handbrake. Crunch! It was a great lesson on why not to use the front brake while turning! I landed on my left knee, with the bike on top of my left foot. I slightly skinned knee, but not enough to slow me down. I later realized that the cheap Target-brand boots I'd purchased didn't hold up well after a parking-lot splat. My RiderCoach helped me up, I got back on the bike, and he directed me back into the box. I'm glad it happened on their bike!

In the end, I was only marked off on four points out of twenty: 3 for putting a foot down momentarily in the U-turn, and another for being slightly slow in the cornering. We could miss up to 20, and I did better than some folks who'd ridden for years, perhaps because I didn't have any bad habits to distract me.

It did make me reconsider the size I want. I did the whole thing on a Yamaha Virago 250. Surprisingly, given my height, I didn't feel cramped at all. Different ergonomics for every individual I guess. I'm glad too, because I really liked the way this small cruiser sat one I got on it. I guess in my mind, I see myself on a cruiser far more clearly than on a plastic covered sport-bike. It also felt far different actually riding it than it did sitting in a showroom. I'm going to give the GZ250 and S40 another good sitting at well, to see how I would like them with a my new perspective. There's a bike shop less than 5 calm residential miles away... a month ago, they had a new GZ250 and a new V-Star (Virago) 250 sitting side by side. The day I have license in hand, I'll be back in there checking them out.

One thing that certainly changed is my mental video of my first day once I get it. Instead of the backroads, all afternoon ride, I see myself at an empty parking lot, practicing emergency stops, swerves, quick starts after stops, etc., until the muscle memory makes it second nature.

I'm also going to make sure I have good gear! Jeans proved less than protective (still a big bruise on my knee a week later!), and the boots all out sucked! I'll also invest in comfortable gloves, as mine gave me a few blisters on my left hand from modulating the clutch.

My friends keep warning me "DON"T GET A 250!" but I'm not TOO concerned about it. Especially the one who is somewhere around 400 lbs (I think it might move for me more easily than him!). I'm looking primarily for something to ride for the next 1.5 - 2 years, until I move cross country, at which point I can buy a bigger bike if I want, with lots of skill under my belt...

or, if gas prices go absolutely bonkers, I'll have a dependable alternative to my 20 mpg SUV.

(BTW, Also been hanging around on BeginnerBikers.org, under the same username)

[Moedad]

afflo, it sounds like you're only a month behind me on the road to bikerhood. Practice is good, 250s are good, GZs are good. :tup:

[LilNinja77]

Afflo, good to hear back from you on your situation. Definitely get whatever type of bike you will feel the most comfortable on, no point in buying a motorcycle if it doesn't fit you well. As you seem to have found out, yes, riding gear is a very important aspect of riding. It can make all the difference in both comfort and protection. Take your time in choosing gear, because just like choosing the motorcycle, there isn't a point in wearing it if it doesn't fit properly. Don't be cheap either, it's far better to spend your money on riding gear than hospital bills if you happen to take a fall. Buy the best and highest quality you can afford..........my favorite way of explaining it to my friends (who make fun of me for always riding ATGATT) is this:

Imagine a 350 lb. man walks up to you and holds you down on the ground, while taking a belt sander to your body..........where is that belt sander going to hurt? Everywhere that beltsander might hurt, well that's somewhere that you need good quality riding gear. I dunno about you but I'd much rather be covered in leather than roadrash, better to sweat than to bleed.

If you want to buy your gear online (which can be both a good and a bad thing), check out Newenough.com....they have good prices, great customer service, and often have really great closeout deals on quality riding gear. Be safe and keep having fun!
Ride safe

[Badbob]

Road rash sucks. Especially the part where they scrub out the dirt with a brush. Been there.

ATGATT thats the name of my game. Although I will admit I didn't start out that way.

[afflo]

Guys, thanks for all the help. Turns out I won't be a GZ250 rider after all. I decided to give a local used bike shop a good look, and what did I find calling my name?

Well, as of this morning, I'm the proud owner of a 2006 Ninja EX250, in blue. The thing looks like it musta been one of those "Honey, I'll buy you a bike and you can ride too" sorta deals that just never really worked out. It's got all of 1300 miles on it. The "break-in" instructions are still on the clear sticker over the speedo. Even better, it came in WELL below my budgeted bike-shopping fund!

I got it from a shop that was recommended by my MSF Ridercoach (apparently, he's one of their VERY regular customers). I spent the afternoon out on sparsely traveled roads in a decommissioned military base, getting lots of experience with practice emergency stops, u-turns, etc. All in all, I'm super excited! I wanna build up some experience with the basics, but I'm dreaming of the day I hop on CA-1 South and ride Big Sur (I live about 25 miles north of it!)

I do, however, think I'll be checking out the Boulevards, Shadows, Vulcans, and V-Stars in a few years when I'm ready to move up. I'm hoping that the Ninjette will have enough high end power that I'll be satisfied for the next year or two, and despite falling for this bright blue temptress, I still see myself long term as a Cruiser rider rather than a Sport-bike rider.

[patrick_777]

Congrats on your purchase. There are a few Ninja 250 riders here and they still hang around.