Bikey Bike

[turbodScooby]

Hey guys, I just read through all your bike post. I'm really excited to get a bike, but Im bike-stupid unfortunately. So could you fellas please anwser some of my "idiot" questions!

What I know so far is that Ill get a medium (600cc) bike, that Im scared as hell to get a real powerful one, and I want one that looks nice.

My info: I'm really light, 125Lbs, and small, 5"7. Want a bike that will handle real nice, cause Im only looking to take it out on nice afternoons, just to cruise, no racing or hauling ass, just cruising on nice open roads.

So heres my questions:
Could you guys give me a "list" of bikes that I should look at?
Do I need to get a liscense, and/or take a riding class? If so what should I expect from that?
What price range am I looking at? (Used)
What should I look for in a used bike?
How many miles?
Any good shops in the metro area?

Thanks a lot guys, look forward to maybe riding with you guys in the summer!

[sjschwartz]

Well to be honest I'll tell you what every real rider knows.

"When riding, it isn't if you'll get into an acident, it's when."

I have been riding for a long time (about 20 years) and I have dumped my bikes a few different times. If you are new to the motorcycle world then "Welcome", but please be smart.

First, start out with a crusier, some old shitty used honda or yamaha, yamaha made a great bike called a Special II, and the Seca, you can usually find these around for about $500. These are great starting bikes. The center of gravity is low so they are more stable and they aren't too powerful. I'd invest in a bike like this first and really learn how to ride. Please keep in mind that most motorcycle acidents are caused by cars not seeing or noticing the biker.

Secondly, take some classes. Learning the rules or the road is nice, but learning the rules of riding a bike is very important. For instance, 80% of the breaking power of a bike comes from the front tire. Only 20% from the rear, but if you grab the front break to stop you can and will go over the fork.

Thirdly, Sport bikes are great! but they are very fast and they make you feel like you want to go fast. Going from 0-60 in a short distance is very easy to do so be very careful if this is the route you go to start.

As far as laws in Colorado. When I moved here I had my NY state motorcycle license transfered to CO, but I just got my license renewed here and they seem to be no longer putting motocycle endorsements on the license. I would call the local DMV to make sure this is the case.

As far as what to look for in a good used bike. When looking at a sport bike, if there is custom exaust work, chances are the rider really pushed the limits. Look under the rear wheel well, if there is any rubber residue chances are the rear wheel was spun a lot and this is bad. Check to see how many stickers are on the bike, bikes that have been droped usually are either re-painted or have stickers covering the areas that might be scratched or damaged.

Well good luck and if you have any more questions please ask.