Motorcycle advice...
 

Thinking about getting my first bike... looking fairly cheap, not into speed-demon type stuff.



Just some advice about a 1993 Kawasaki Vulcan (left) or a '78 Goldwing (right).

http://images.craigslist.org/3k63m03...bce4aa167e.jpghttp://images.craigslist.org/3k83me3...72baf717ff.jpg

I'd go with the 93. They made a lot of improvements in those 15 years. It also looks a lot lighter.

Edit: unless you're going to have somebody on the back of it a lot. The Goldwing obviously looks much more comfortable for passengers.

The Kawasaki is a 6-speed with 33K miles - is that good for a cycle? Is this a good beginner's bike? I know nothing.

I've owned two Vulcans, and they were/are great bikes. Mine were the 750, shaft-driven V-twins and I put about 50k miles on each. Smooth acceleration (because they are shaft-driven), easy to balance (because they have a low center of gravity) and the stock seat is very comforable for driver and passenger.

It is difficult to tell from that image- what size is the Vulcan in the photo?

The Vulcan is a 500.

33k is not bad, at all. In my experience bikes don't start shaking themselves apart until after 50k miles, which is why I usually sell them when they hit that mark. Well, I say usually- I have only owned 4 motorcycles.

I also found a 1991 Vulcan 500 with just under 20K miles. Water cooled with belt drive and a 6 speed transmission.

Single cylinder? That is probably a bit small, unless you are very light. I suggest you look around for a 750... you will outgrow that 500 pretty quick.

I think the 15 year age difference will be more important for maintenance than the mileage. A lot of people believe Hondas to be more reliable than Kawasakis though.

The Kaw is going to be more agile and easier to manuever. The Honda is 600 pounds and the Kaw is 400. For a first bike, I'd probably go with the Vulcan if it were me.

Gold wing all the way...you'll outgrow that 500...that Gold Wing will glide down the highway...

I'm not real light, but I think I'm done growing. :)

I'm really not looking for a lot of power or speed. I've been toodling around town on a little 49cc scooter and really enjoy it. And my wife's car is toast, so I was thinking about giving her the Explorer and me getting a bike.

But I'm not looking to take this thing on the interstate - we're talking driving to and from work, the occasional 30-mile ride out of town or something. No touring since my wife has no desire whatsoever.

Vespa...:D

Heh... if only! :) No, it's a $400 POS I bought from a guy on Craigslist.

The thing is fun, but it tops out around 30 mph.

The Goldwing is 1000 cc.

....
http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/5999/sportster.jpg

Cheap... as in, $2K or lower for a first bike. I won't spend a lot of money to find out whether or not it's something I want to continue.

I'm not advocating more power for vanity's sake. It is important with motorcycles to have enough power to avoid trouble. When you see trouble coming, you want to be able to get out of the way so you don't end up hurt. When some knucklehead decides he wants in your lane and doesn't bother looking, you want to be able to move quickly.

I just want to chime in real quick and tell you I think either bike you choose is a great choice for your first bike. I also want to thank you for being smart and deciding to make your first choice for a bike a good one. A lot of guys bite off more than they can chew and hurt themselves or others. Will you grow out of it? Sure. Get a new one after you have got all the noob out of your riding, and are a master of that bike. Which will take longer than you think.
As far as the bike, the goldwing is a little bit heavier. If your strong then you cant go wrong either choice. Personally I lean towards the vulcan. Ride safe sir.

Ah, that makes sense. :thumb:

i'm telling you man..you say you aren't going to ride on the highway..never underestimate the power of the two wheels...

I'd love to find a gold wing, drop the ass end down, up sweep pipes and low rise handlebars...that motor is bulletproof.

Both of those bikes are more than capable of avoiding this trouble.

I have rode both, The 500 Vulcan is peppy for a small bike but way too light and gets pushed badly in a side wind. My buddy owns it and likes it but is a small guy and does not ride much. Another buddy of mine rides his dads Goldwing and I road it one time. It looks much like the one in your photo I do not know if it is the same year. It has decent acceleration and rides nice however the width of the pegs was uncomfortable. Given the choice I would buy the Goldwing.

I'm not small - 5'10 and about 230 right now (though trying to lose weight). Wind is an issue around here as the breeze coming off the ocean can be fairly strong at times.

GW

Motorcycles are funny.......you ride them awhile and they ride you awhile.

definitely..you always have to be on your toes..

FMB, whatever you get..practicng doing figure 8's on both left and right hand turns..it will do wonders for your sense of balance and manueverability.

I do not think you will enjoy the 500 for long. It is a very limited bike. If you are a beginer it is a good starter bike. I also read you do not plan on riding on highways well that is the biggest strike against the 500. I will tell you this you are much safer on the big slab than you will be in town. If stop light to stop light is the only type of riding you are going to do that 500 is all you need. Just be careful and ride like those around you can not see you because often they can not.

The Vulcan is too small IMO. If I were looking, I wouldn't consider a v-twin unless it was at least a 1500. I've ridden 1100-1200 v-twins and just wasn't that impressed with them.

I have a '76 wing. It is a bit bulky for a new rider, but I was able to pass the kansas motorcycle license test on mine the first time after a bit of practice. Though its a 1000cc, it is a 4 cylinder with plenty of go. It's also a lot smoother running than the v-twins. The big drawback to the wing is at it's age is dependability. It seems like there is usually something on my bike I can find to work on if I'm in the mood to tinker.

Friend of mine has a 1600 vulcan. We've swapped bikes a bit for rides. He rode my bike like his vulcan and never really was impressed. Being used to his 1600 twin, he doesn't get too deep into the throttle. One day I told him to quit babying it, wind up and let it go. He was surprised at how it came to life and had quite a bit of fun on it.

I don't agree that you're going to outgrow the 500. Even if you did, it would be a year or two away, and you can flip a bike like that for no less than you paid and upgrade.

Find the MSF course in your area and take it, you'll get an insurance discount, you won't have to take the driving part of the test for your license, and it's a great investment in yourself.

I completely disagree here. I've had a Honda VTR1000 Superhawk, my buddy has a Honda RC51, and my dad just got a ducatti 1198.

Those are 996, 999, and 1198cc v-twins respectively. And they all have plenty of power.

Know your local potholes like the back of your hand.

i have a 700 virago, its a v-twin. it will do 80 down the highway no problem, even with the back loaded with camping gear. don't listen to these fools that say go big for your first bike, its not gonna hurt to ride a smaller bike to get the feel. i started on a 250, and sold it 8 months later for 200 more than what i paid, and took that money and bought my virago, that night.

You are talking about a completely different world of bikes here than a Kawasaki Vulcan is in. You are in the sport bike realm, I was coming from a cruiser bike realm. Two completely different beasts.

I've been on a Virago 1200, a couple of suzuki 1100s, and even a HD 1200. None had the punch or performance my wing has. However, the 1500cc and 1600cc cruisers I've been on have been much better at accelerating without feeling like they are working at it.

The Goldwing's sold.

Know someone looking to get rid of a 2006 Honda Shadow 750 with only 1,400 miles.

Shadows are very nice. This would definitely be the first choice of the three you are mentioning

How did I miss this topic?
Anyway, yea that Kawasaki Vulcan 500 is basically the same motor as the EX 500, now I believe they call it the 500 Ninja. It’s a parallel twin that in the EX is a fairly peppy bike. I don’t know how well that translates to a cruiser but overall I’d say that’s not a bad choice for a first bike.

The Shadow 750 is going to have more low end torque than the Kawasaki you mentioned. In may ways it makes the Shadow an easier to ride bike.
Not a bad choice either.
Generally, I’m not a fan of cruisers for first bikes. They’re ok, but they can teach newb riders bad habits, like not learning to feel the front brake or learning what “counter steer” is and how to manipulate it.
You could do worse though, I have seen newb riders buy 1000cc fuel injected sport bikes as first bikes. They typically don’t ride for long either.

the counter steer came in handy for me saturday...sheesh. the wife wasn't impressed, but it beat the hell out of the other option.
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So what's a good weight for a starter bike? I'm 5'10 and about 240 pounds right now (though I'm losing weight).

If weight is your only criteria get a dirt bike, or an “enduro”, “dual sport” or whatever they’re calling them now, for the street.
They can be a bit tough to learn on for those with a shorter inseam, but they’re light and torquey. Plus you can take one just about anywhere.
Maybe it’s a better question to ask yourself what kind of riding you see yourself doing mostly?

She’d have been less impressed with road rash, assuming that's the worst of the "other option". ;)

Not the only criteria by any means... just curious what you all would suggest. The Spirit I'm looking at is about 500 pounds.

That’s a pretty average bike weight. Sport bikes and dirt bikes will be lighter but most standards and small cruisers are right there.

I just joined the 2 wheel club last month. Here was my thread:
http://www.chiefsplanet.com/BB/showt...42#post5672042
Just became officially legal last week, btw. ;) I ended up buying a 2005 Honda Shadow Aero. I really liked the Spirit and found a couple but they were a little higher priced and didn't have accessories that I wanted. My Aero came with a windshield, sissy bar, and saddle bags. I ride it every day that I can to work and just cruise around town on short little trips. Those saddle bags come in handy. BTW, those run around $300. So, keep that in mind if you ever think you may need them. If you find a bike that already has them, it is a plus.

I don't have a pic of mine but here is one that looks like it. This is an 07 Shadow Aero (mine is 05) and mine is white and silver.

http://ksu.craigslist.org/mcy/1188226942.html

Check out the Suzuki SV650. Old school simplicity and looks (if you go with the naked version) and new-age performance, weight, and reliability.

I buddy of mine has one, and it is a blast to ride:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/2/20/Sv650.jpg

About 70 hp, nice low seating position, real slim through the mid-section, and best of all under 400 pounds dry.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzuki_SV650S

DT

Still looking for a cycle. Took a motorcycle safety course over the weekend and had an absolute blast.

Still considering the 2006 Shadow 750. Now looking at a '97 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic. The Vulcan has 22K miles, and I think it's overpriced a bit at $3,200.

are you able to ride year round in sc?
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Yes. At its coldest in the winter, it's about 30-40 degrees in the early morning. By mid-morning/afternoon, typically into the 50s.

I got a 1997 750 Honda Magna last summer and I love it. Plenty of power, looks great, comfortable for my size (5-10 190). Only downside is the range, only get about 90 miles per tank, not really an issue for me cause I generally ride less than 2 hours at a time. I would get another Honda in a second (actually would like to get a dual sport)!

i was just going to say that bike prices should start dropping in a couple months around here. that's the weather though.
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I'm wondering if it might be wise for me to spend less money on a smaller bike with plans to upgrade when I outgrow it. Spend less money knowing that at some point there's a decent chance I'll drop it or something. Seen some Honda Rebels (2008/2009 models, 250cc) for pretty damn cheap.

How much do they want for the 06 Shadow 750? What does it have on it? Saddlebags, windshield, highway pegs, etc.?

I bought my 2005 Shadow with 8800 (if memory serves) miles for $4300. Vulcans are around the same price range. Seems to me that $3200 for a 12 year old bike with 22k on it is a little high. You should offer them less. Say "I'll give you $2500 today". They can either take it or leave it.

Yeah, those are 4k brand new. But they are small and not much power. How big are you? Does your wife plan to ride on it with you? Most people on here told me a Yamaha VStar 650 or something around that is a great size with which to start. Now that I have ridden mine for a few months, I agree with that.

Please not that I know dixk about motorcycles, but I've heard insurance on starter bikes is high because everybody wrecks them. Since you aren't going the crotch rocket route, you should be OK, but I'd still check.
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i dont know if i would go with a rebel. i advocate starting small because there's no way you can lose, but i saw one at my honda dealer the other day and it looked closer to a bicycle. taller riders i bet would hit the bars with their legs. my guess is that it can go 70 but it might be near its limits. i would put you on a vulcan 500 if I could. more highway capability and perfect for a learner.

insurance on all bikes other than the very expensive ones and sportbikes is cheap. insurance on a new honda rebel would be nothing.

Just thought I would post this if anyone in the area is interested. 2007 VStar 650 for $4750. Sounds like a really good deal to me.
http://topeka.craigslist.org/mcy/1265916906.html

Makes sense. The guy I talked to was probably referring to sport bikes.
Posted via Mobile Device

FMB,
http://myrtlebeach.craigslist.org/mcy/1267259951.html

I figured on CL, I'd offer them $2K if I decided to go that route. I really like what I'm reading about it, and it's a beautiful looking bike. The Shadow has 1,400 miles, no windshield but does have saddlebags. Also helps that I know the owner.

I'm 5-10 and about 230. Kinda figured the rebel would probably be a bit small. I know the power on it will be light, but primary use will be going to and from work, which tops out at 55 mph if I get on the bypass. Otherwise, tops out at 45.

What are they wanting for the Shadow?

Yeah, I would say that Rebel is definitely too small for you.

Lol, I just noticed this at the top of this thread.

Clearly, I do have too much time on my hands. :D

She's wanting $4,500 for the Shadow. Might be able to get her down to $4K, but she's offering to work with me on getting it off her hands since she's a coworker, and someone did the same thing for her on her first bike. Difference is on a $2K bike I'd be able to pay outright. On something more expensive, I'd have to wait or work something out financially.

Was wondering about the 250cc. That's what I rode this weekend on the training range, and it felt pretty good, but we spent most of the weekend in 2nd gear, touched a little into 3rd, but never opened it up at all.

250cc is more than enough to carry an adult of any size 55mph.

I have had a 250cc bike up to 116.

That said, I would never have one as my primary bike ever again. there simply is not enough power in that engine to get you out of a bad situation if needed.

there may have been situations in history where an engine's power saved someone and whacking the throttle was the best option to avoid that, but it's a one in a million situation. it's out of the same school where "i had to lay it down" comes from. it is something a person says to make them feel better about their performance in a situation but it's not true.

This happened to me on Saturday night about 11pm on 435.
Dude just ‘came on over’ into my lane;
I usually ride with the bike in the power band for this reason; a simple twist of the throttle and I was by him in no time. He didn’t even see me until iwas past him.

This is also why I ride a bit more spirited in traffic – maybe 5-10 MPH faster than traffic (not rush hour mind you) so I don’t end up in some jacka** blindspot.

That's a good price for a 2006 Shadow with only 1400 miles. BTW, saddlebags tend to add about $300 to the value.

The reason I say the Rebel is too small is A) the size is small (especially for a 230lb guy) and B) the get up and go won't be that great. If you plan to ride in traffic, that could be an issue.

see below

I have more than a few stories that sound the exact same.

That’s actually a decent plan and Rebels are good looking bikes.
One would be great for around town with a little bit of highway time sprinkled in here and there but don’t get one for traveling interstates. Maintaining the speeds necessary to keep up with traffic would be stressing that little 250cc motor.
Another one to consider, a Yamaha Virago 535, had a friend with one when I was stationed in Germany. Good little cruiser style bike that actually handled pretty well.

common sense tells us that braking puts distance between you and a car going the same direction faster than accelerating does.

Agreed. On a motorcycle your advantage is you have speed and agility over everything else around you. The best way to make use of that is to get out in front of people and be seen. Dicking around in someone’s blind spot is a good way to wind up eating curb.

Here is what I am riding during the summer. Definitely not what you are looking for, but it is a blast.

It is drz400 and run in the low to mid 90s, plenty of power, and a blast to take off road.

The one shown has more street tires, I have 80/20 dual purpose tires for street/trail.

http://www.travelizmo.com/archives/s...-bike-2009.jpg

A car can break faster than a car can and be WAY more stable. They cannot, generally speaking, keep up with the acceleration of a bike.

When in trouble on the road, it is preferable to wick the throttle to get past any danger as opposed to stomp on the break in a panic and run the risk of braking too hard with your back break and having the rear tire come around on you or having the car break with you and still come in your lane.

:spock:

I am also in the market for a starter bike. My rides would be mostly to work to save gas, about 9 miles each way. Mostly two lane @ 45MPH, a little bit of city traffic the last two miles. I'm 5'7" and 150lbs. I was also considering a Honda Rebel 250 ... you can find them pretty cheap and they haven't changed much in decades. Think that would keep me happy for a year or two?

Sure, that sounds like what a Rebel would be good for.

You see... a car is held off the ground by 4 wheels which makes braking a MUCH easier thing to do than it is on 2 wheels.

The 4 wheels won't come out from under you unlike 2 wheels tend to do when you jam on the brakes.

Yea, Mr. Pr_Capone did kind of butcher that one.
What he means is that the average car can brake, not break, down to a stop from any given speed in a shorter distance than the average motorcycle. And he is correct, because they have more contact patches, tires, to transmit the braking forces to the ground.