New bike recommendation

[NightBaron]

I've done a lot of research on quite a few forums, so it's safe to say I know things like "don't get a supersport for your first bike" and "take an MSF course."

With all the knowledge I've accumulated combined with my preference for sportbike-type styling and more upright riding position, a couple of potential bikes really stand out to me. They are the Kawasaki Ninja 650R, the Yamaha FZ6, the Suzuki GSX 650F and the Suzuki GS 500F. Which of these bikes do you think is the best and why? Go to town. I can determine if I feel right on the saddle, so don't worry about things like that, but from your perspective, which bike is the best for what I'm trying to accomplish based on the above?

On caviat: I'm not really interested in a Suzuki SV anything and not looking to compare the Ninja 250 or Ninja 500 in this discussion.

And this won't be a problem for most of you, but please take a good, close look at the model numbers. I've posted similar questions in other forums where people replied that I shouldn't get a gixxer 600 because it's basically a track bike (when the GSX 650F is really a replacement for the old Katana) or confused the Yamaha FX6 I'm talking about with the YZF-R6 that I'm not talking about.

Sorry to be long winded, but I'm looking forward to the responses.

[Challen]

You've narrowed your list down to some pretty decent starter bikes so why don't you just go sit on all of them and decide which one fits YOU the best?

[matemike]

all are good, but yammie ftw

[RojerLockless]

you could almost any older 600 to the list, F2 or F3 ect. heck if you are as responsible as you sound even an F4i would be good, but out of those i'd go with the Ninja 650R that bike is a sweet starter my GF bought one brand new as her first bike and she LOVES it, it's forgiving yet still pretty damn fast.

or come buy my F4i :)

[Dreamer!!]

you could almost any older 600 to the list, F2 or F3 ect. heck if you are as responsible as you sound even an F4i would be good, but out of those i'd go with the Ninja 650R that bike is a sweet starter my GF bought one brand new as her first bike and she LOVES it, it's forgiving yet still pretty damn fast.

or come buy my F4i :)

or come buy my cbr 900

[C.Hern5972]

Seriously, I would take a day and go sit on each bike. See what feels good to YOU. I was at the Kawi dealer the other day and sat on the new 650r and it was actually a cool bike and looked good too. I liked the upright position of the bike. I have seen some nice ones on here as well. Just go look and sit on each of them, you have to be comfortable. Just my .2

[Hookem2255]

I went with the 650R, I like it alot, there are plenty of aftermarket parts so you can keep workin on it. The upright riding position was the only downside, but I fixed what with a set of aftermarket bars.

[along77082]

i started with the kawi 650r, had it for about 3 months and now im getting the zx6r. i loved it. it was a great starter bike. it is kind of torchey though. and like hookem2255 the thing i didnt like was the sit up position. but i def would recommend it to a beginner ridder. the others i cant say much about since ive never been on them. gl!

[loosenoose]

+1 for the sitting on each bike.
def try before you buy. also, get a used bike for your 1st bike. there is no shame in protecting an investment. you will very probably drop the 1st bike you own, you might be on it or off of it.
different bike engines have different mannerisms. i learned on an sv650, and i got to being decent pretty quickly. i'd like to also get the feel of a parallel twin and an inline 4. and maybe someday a big v twin sportbike.
but really dude. a starter bike is a starter bike. nobody will laugh at you if you dont look like [your choice of bike celebrity] when you ride in on it.

[C.Hern5972]

If you want new, not sure of your age but check into insurance rates as well. Just something to remember. If you buy a used bike it will be allot cheaper for you onthe ins. Check with our sponsor. New you might have to carry FC and that can be a bummer sometimes. If used carry liability with comp/collision/

If you do buy a new bike definately get GAAP INS.

GL

[NightBaron]

If you do buy a new bike definately get GAAP INS.

GL

I'm definitely looking used for a first bike. It also sounds like frame sliders would help my fears of dropping my first bike. In reference to age, I'm 24, going on 25 soon, so hopefully my rates will be lower than an 18 year old guy.

And what's GAAP INS?

[NightBaron]

I have actually taken a few Saturdays out to go sit on bikes (at least new ones, since so few places seem to sell used ones). I have to say, that over all, I like the Ninja 650 best. I enjoy the more upright seating position (having never ridden, so I guess you can take that for what it's worth), especially since I imagine taking long rides/cruises on any bike I get given the chance. I don't fancy I'll be trying to set any speed records or drag my knees through the twisties.

I'd probably use it more for sport touring and/or daily commuting if I got a bike and sold my car. If I kept my car, a more aggressive riding position might not be as much of an issue, since I'd probably be using mostly for shorter recreational riding.

I've also looked at the Yamaha FZ6, but I don't think I'm much for the half-faired look. My dream bike is a Buell Lightning, but 900 or 1200 cc's seems like way to much to start with, even if the 900 cc Lightning is a V-twin.

RojerLockless and Dreamer!!, maybe if I can get some money together, we can talk about what you would want for your bikes. Aside from that, thanks to everybody for the comments and keep 'em coming if you've got something to say.

[C.Hern5972]

I know the SV 650 is a good bike as well. Did you sit on that as well? The Ninja 650 is a good bike...

[06fairedfz1]

my first bike was an fz6, and i loved every minute of it. if you like the ergos of the fz6 but want the fairings check out the fz6r, only down fall is that it doesn't come out until jan. 09

[C.Hern5972]

06,
Dont they make a fairing kit for it though?

[NightBaron]

I know the SV 650 is a good bike as well. Did you sit on that as well? The Ninja 650 is a good bike...

I did sit on the sport version of the SV 650, the one with sportbike style lights and fairing (not the version with the round headlight). It's a great looking bike, but the riding position was too aggressive and leaned over for what I'm looking for right now. Otherwise, I've only heard good things about the bike, the seat was comfy enough and it was quite a looker.

[NightBaron]

my first bike was an fz6, and i loved every minute of it. if you like the ergos of the fz6 but want the fairings check out the fz6r, only down fall is that it doesn't come out until jan. 09

If they're coming out with a full-faired version of the FZ6, I'll have to check that out. Or, of course, if anyone's heard of fairing kits for used FZ6's.

[CLETUS]

I am looking harder and harder at the GXS-650F. I notice that you can get a Givi top box for also. I like the style of the bike and the parts that were borrowed for the Gixxa: headlight, controls, instrument cluster, etc.

I drive a '06 Kawi 500 Ninja and it is a good bike. Don't really have any problems with it. The only thing is that I have gixxer also and would like to have a pair of them. One sport and the other capable of two up with the banana seat.

[Rallo]

I'm a little biased since I'm still riding my first bike (Ninja 650). I think it's a pretty great first bike since it is more forgiving than a supersport bike but is capable enough to stay with the pack. I also like the seat because when you sit, it feels like you're sitting in it and not on it (unlike some of the other bikes). You may not win races with supersport bikes but is still a very capable bike. There are also a few mods that you can do to make it a little more responsive as you get more accustomed to it and possibly prepare you for a supersport bike. I've been riding for a year now and am still learning. Just get something you feel good on and enjoy the ride. Good luck with your choice. :thumb:

[K. Oliveira]

To be honest with you man, I had only rode dirtbikes before most I went up to was a 125 and they were only my friends I never had my own. My first bike was and is my 03 600RR been riding for awhile now and I want to step up to a 750. Ive been on I-10 290, 610 loop, forest in magnolia and MY personal opinion is if you get a 250 or 500 or SV you would be bored of it within the first few months. This is my PERSONAL opinion though. Plus i had a buddy that went from a SV to a R6 and just couldnt do it because he was so used to the way the SV was. (ur not as hunched over and not that much weight on the wrists with the SV or GXS as opposed to the R6 GSXR CBR and so on.) But I have a blast none the less. Good luck bro, look forward to riding with ya! :thumb:

[NightBaron]

Holy moly, I just got a look at the new Yamaha FZ6R. Assuming the bike doesn't suck mechanically or suck to sit on, that is the bike I wanna get. For anyone worried about snap buying decisions, consider this an excited utterance. I'll always do my homework first. This bike is just encouraging me to do it all the faster. It even comes in blue...*daydreaming begins*

[NightBaron]

Ive been on I-10 290, 610 loop, forest in magnolia and MY personal opinion is if you get a 250 or 500 or SV you would be bored of it within the first few months. :thumb:

I've heard a lot of folks suggest getting a 250 and flipping it after a few months. But I've also heard more people say I'd get tired of it fast. Since I'd rather get something I can keep a while, I'll have to agree with you on that one. I'm still going to keep 500s in my consideration set for now, and see if they remain after I get a motorcycle license and do some test rides. I imagine the test rides will be some of the most decisive information I get.

That said, I don't see myself jumping on a serious sportbike like a Kawasaki ZX-6R, but more user-friendly 600s and 650s like the Ninja 650R seem to be more my style for now.

[logan5]

I would still recomend getting the 250 ... but if you insist getting something bigger, I would then suggest the SV650 or the Ninja 650r ... However ... in all seriousness, keeping your first bike for just a year is not uncommon.

[Hooligan]

The bikes you have listed are all great chooses. Out of all of them I have only rode the Kawi 650, and it was really comfy and smooth but still had some balls. Talk to Warpbener about the yamaha, he loves his

[The Black Sheepdog]

Holy moly, I just got a look at the new Yamaha FZ6R. Assuming the bike doesn't suck mechanically or suck to sit on, that is the bike I wanna get. For anyone worried about snap buying decisions, consider this an excited utterance. I'll always do my homework first. This bike is just encouraging me to do it all the faster. It even comes in blue...*daydreaming begins*

Wow. Great looking bike. Talk to 06fairedFZ1 about his experiences with his bike as he has one very similar to the FZ6R.

[Jetkillr]

my first bike was and still is my R6 and it was a track only bike. snappy throttle and rode pretty tall since it was set up for someone 6lbs heavier than me. but i learned and took baby steps on it and was ok. i crashed my first trackday halfway through the day so i would say that no matter what you get i would buy used and just take your time to learn your ride and you should be ok. personally i havnt hearn any thing about any of the bikes except the SV650 but then again ive been around the race track quite a bit.

[kenup283]

Lots of cool bikes on the list. I too like the standard style since I ride to work mostly that is until I got bit my the track bug. Thanks Buck.

Defiently check out the motocycle show at reliant next weekend 11/22-23. I think you can even test ride with a M licence. But your be able to sit on them all and see what your arse tells you.

After looking at all the bikes mentioned myself just 1 yr ago, I ended up with a Bandit 1200 used because I got a good deal on it (pics in my garage link). Keep the right wrist in check for the first 6 months and then let'er ripe. I don't think your get tired of this one for what your interested in. Not trying to add to your list but I've been happy with it as a hefty all purpose and cheap bike. If you take naturally to riding at the MSF course and the operation of the gears and throttle come smooth and natural I think it could be managed as a first bike with some decipline.

Here are some pics of others that I would consider if buying new. Kawis new ER-6N and Versys (varients of the before mentioned 650R) and Suz new Gladius (an SV650 powered ducati look alike).

[loosenoose]

you really dont need to bother with anything less than a turbo'd busa.


tl;dr
really though, eliminating the sv and ninja 250 kills 2 great starter bikes. the gsx-f is a lame bike. dude, my ratty sv is cooler than a new gsx-f.


if i were getting my first bike (and i had some knowledge of motorcycles, unlike what did happen with my first bike) i'd go for a beaten ninja 250. get something that isnt going to immediately land you a fly ass honey on the back pillion. get something that will require you to get your hands dirty and possibly bloody a few knuckles. you want your first bike to be cheap.
it doesnt get much cheaper than a 250. best part is that when you feel confident in your abilities and want to move up, sell the 250 for what you paid for it.


tl;dr again, ninja 250, sv 650, turbo busa. those are your options.

[dc5-r]

You should definately buy a 2008 ninja 250r oh wait i have one for sale...:thumb:

http://www.motohouston.com/forums/showthread.php?t=66933

[JBIRD5363]

no shame in a two fiddy the new one is sharp you are going to drop your first bike buy a beater ride for six monthes to a year and then get what you want I started on a ninja 500 it was ugly but did the trick I just got a kawi zzr-600 might want to check one out on your list the gsx-500f wouldn't be to bad ask squady body about hers pester just sold his they might be able to give you some insight

[ThomasNinja650]

Kawasaki Ninja 650R

I own one and I have to say that I'm very impressed with the bike so far. It is very forgiving. The bike is very comfortable to ride and does have power to it. I use it as much as I can for driving back and forth to work. (weather permitting).

I have the stock bars on it right now but I also plan on getting a set of aftermarket sports bars. There are tons of aftermarket for the bike. My opinion is to not buy the 250 if you're planning on keeping the bike for a while.

Hope this helps some. :hello:

[tustah]

How is a 2005 Ninja ZZR 600 Ninja as a starter bike?

http://houston.craigslist.org/mcy/943092622.html

[RACER X]

not good.

look into a 500

[ekfraz]

I have a good starter bike for sale. http://houston.craigslist.org/mcy/939247607.html

[GQ*]

I didn't see anyone answer this for you GAP insurance is a cheap insurance that will cover the difference b/t what you owe and what you get from the insurance in the event of a total loss (stolen, wrecked, dropped, whatever) If you are getting a new bike you should look into it unless you plan to payoff the bike soon. Once you aren't "upside down" on the bike anymore the GAP ins is useless but it was good while it lasted had you needed it :thumb:

On to the bike. Get what you will be happy with. If you likes the 650r the best then get it and be happy riding. Of you choices above they are all similar in seating (from what I recall when I was doing my seat tests @ the dealers) so it's all about what you like the best and what the insurance company will bend you over the least on :thumb: The FZ6 will prolly be the least torquey of the bunch but they are all pretty similar in the grand scheme of things :D

[Helios]

I've done a lot of research on quite a few forums, so it's safe to say I know things like "don't get a supersport for your first bike" and "take an MSF course."

With all the knowledge I've accumulated combined with my preference for sportbike-type styling and more upright riding position, a couple of potential bikes really stand out to me. They are the Kawasaki Ninja 650R, the Yamaha FZ6, the Suzuki GSX 650F and the Suzuki GS 500F. Which of these bikes do you think is the best and why? Go to town. I can determine if I feel right on the saddle, so don't worry about things like that, but from your perspective, which bike is the best for what I'm trying to accomplish based on the above?

On caviat: I'm not really interested in a Suzuki SV anything and not looking to compare the Ninja 250 or Ninja 500 in this discussion.

And this won't be a problem for most of you, but please take a good, close look at the model numbers. I've posted similar questions in other forums where people replied that I shouldn't get a gixxer 600 because it's basically a track bike (when the GSX 650F is really a replacement for the old Katana) or confused the Yamaha FX6 I'm talking about with the YZF-R6 that I'm not talking about.

Sorry to be long winded, but I'm looking forward to the responses.

I haven't even read the rest of the responses but I'm willing to bet you got several, "Take MSF", " Don't get a supersport bike", "why not try an SV650", or "the Ninja 250 and 500 are great starter bikes". Am I right?

Or wait, how about, "Just go sit on them and see which one you like best".