Newbie Newbie Newbie

jcayo11 · 09-01-2005

My friend owns a Ninja 250 and has convinced me to look into getting a bike as well. I have never even been up to a motorcycle. He suggested taking the saftey course before even going to a dealer to LooK at bikes. He also suggested Looking into the 250 if I decide to get one. he Said because it is not too powerful but light. Also Team ore of those inseam challenged I only stand 5'5 . Any advice you can give will be great. thanks

azchick · 09-02-2005

Welcome...
I started on a Kawasaki 650.... awww that was perfect!
Good luck and be safe!

windrider18 · 09-02-2005

Welcome! Your friend gave you some good advice about taking the safety course. Taking the safety course is an excellent first step. It will teach you about bikes in general and teach you the basics of riding. Buying your first bike *after* the course is also a good idea. The course will give you an idea of what you like/dislike about a bike so you can make a better choice.

The Ninja 250R is a great starter bike, but don't limit yourself. You may find you want a cruiser after the class and that's OK

You can do some window shopping before buying, so go sit on as many bikes as you can and make notes on what you liked/disliked. Do some research on the internet and see about how reliable the bikes are and what other owners think of them. Ask questions if you find a specific bike you really like. As a general rule, for cruisers don't go higher than 800cc as a first bike and smaller is better. For sportbikes, the general rule is don't go higher than 500ccs as the bikes start to get extremely powerful. There are a few exceptions, but these are just guidelines.

I started on a Ninja 250 and it was the best choice for me. I learned a lot and it was a very forgiving bike. I put 3900 miles on it before trading it in and I don't regret it all. I would not be able to ride my current bike without having had the miles on my 250. (OK, bike plug over now

)

Keep us posted on how it goes OK?

Tweak · 09-02-2005

I would definitely hold off until you take the safety course. You may find it is just not for you.

Biggest thing, in my opinion, is your comfort level with the bike you choose. New riders especially (save those with no brains) will have a certain nervous/uncomfortable feeling at first. The more you ride the better you should feel. But, it will faster if it is not a bike that scares you. I think starting on a 250 is fine and works for some. Others use a 500. Some...

I just saw a kid who had never ever ridden a bike buy a '05 Ninja 636 a few weeks back. He bought the bike, but could not ride it home - the dealer was going to deliver it. That seemed odd to me since I would expect that most people would have some experience before buying a bike. But, he may be comfortable with that. Personally, I think his girlfriend should have talked him down on it, but each person need to find what feels right to them!

Tweak

ZX7R · 09-02-2005

I think, not ever before riding, your best bet is the 250. After a few months of riding and practice you should know where your comfort level is, and what size of an upgrade bike you should get,(cause your going to want a bigger bike later).. It would be foolish to start with anything bigger than a 250... Plus, the resale Value of these bikes are great. New, there 3300-3500 after taxes.. You can resell it months later for about 2800-2900 easily... I just sold 2 on C.T. for my friends in less than a weeks time each... Take the Course, Practice, and Have Fun Riding ! Stay Safe...

camneely8 · 09-02-2005

MSF first, then maybe a second hand 250 without a lot of miles, ride it till you really feel comfortable and then upgrade if you need to. I got a 500 but thats cause the 250 seemed smaller for me physically. Enjoy and be safe. Its a hoot once you get rolling!

Ninja-Nurse · 01-07-2006

Hi-
I just read your post , it is nice to hear someone else say you have a "nervous / uncomfortable " feeling being NEW at this!!! I'm a new rider, never rode before!
I just bought a 2006 Ninja 500 EX, took the safety course, and now trying to adventure furthur than my neighborhood!! My husband is an experienced rider (Harly Road King) he is my ONLY positive support, Since being an ER nurse, i don't get much of that at work, and only see the BAD outcome of bikers! I'm so glad i found this site, if anyone could please tell me this will get easier ??
I want to ride and have fun, but scared to death! Is this normal???
Thanks- Ninja Nurse

Ninja-Nurse · 01-07-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ninja-Nurse

Hi-
I just read your post , it is nice to hear someone else say you have a "nervous / uncomfortable " feeling being NEW at this!!! I'm a new rider, never rode before!
I just bought a 2006 Ninja 500 EX, took the safety course, and now trying to adventure furthur than my neighborhood!! My husband is an experienced rider (Harly Road King) he is my ONLY positive support, Since being an ER nurse, i don't get much of that at work, and only see the BAD outcome of bikers! I'm so glad i found this site, if anyone could please tell me this will get easier ??
I want to ride and have fun, but scared to death! Is this normal???
Thanks- Ninja Nurse

gpzrider · 01-07-2006

Most riders who start later in life are a little scared and nervous to begin with. Those of us that that started young just didn't know enough to be scared. It's normal and guarantees a healthy respect for the bikes and the riders emerging abilities. You'll both get better and more comfortable. Just practice, practice, practice and never forget to pay attention to your surroundings.

Ninja-Nurse · 01-07-2006

Thanks for your advice!!! I am sooo proud of myself!!
Today i rode 82 miles with my husband and did great and felt great !!!
Yipeeeee , your right practice is the secret!! Thank you , Thank you !!!!

*trikebubble* · 01-07-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ninja-Nurse

Hi-
I just read your post , it is nice to hear someone else say you have a "nervous / uncomfortable " feeling being NEW at this!!! I'm a new rider, never rode before!
I just bought a 2006 Ninja 500 EX, took the safety course, and now trying to adventure furthur than my neighborhood!! My husband is an experienced rider (Harly Road King) he is my ONLY positive support, Since being an ER nurse, i don't get much of that at work, and only see the BAD outcome of bikers! I'm so glad i found this site, if anyone could please tell me this will get easier ??
I want to ride and have fun, but scared to death! Is this normal???
Thanks- Ninja Nurse

Congratulations and welcome.
My gal decided last year to get into biking. She too echoed some of your concerns. She took the MSF course and bought a sensible first bike (Honda VLX600 cruiser) During her first couple months of ridinf she definatly expressed the feeling of being scared out there. Since that time earlt last summer she has put over 7000km on her bike, includnig a 2 week 4200km road trip to California, and she is planning on buying a bigger "faster" bike this spring.
So don't lose faith, it will get easier, and you will have more fun soon.

Good luck.

Ninja-Nurse · 01-07-2006

Thanks for your input!
It's nice to hear others stories and experiences!
After riding today, i feel MUCH better. I now have 401 miles on my bike.
I went 82 miles today round trip ! It was fun but cold !

chimera · 01-07-2006

congrats......enjoy riding...the nerves get replaced in time with excitement!

Chuckster · 01-08-2006

Welcome. Definately take the MSF course. Start off with something you feel comfortable with and like. Go at your own speed and don't worry about everyone else. Read alot, practice and be a student of the game.

Thmastr · 01-08-2006

Hey new rider here. too!

I got a 93 ex500 on tuesday. On wed i put about 100 miles on it, rode in the freeway, and at night.. oh yes ran out of gas, and fell! all in the same day!!!!!!.

Ran out of gas while i was on the freeway, I just turned the valve over to reserve and looked for a gas station.

Fell while turning into a parking lot. Cager came right at me on the right side of the driveway (my side) and then swerved away at the last second. I pressed the front brake, stoped, then fell... no damage or injury. I still had both feet on the ground... but the bike wasnt rubber side down....

I took the msc first and then shopped around, though of getting a 600cc untill i test-rode one and decided it was too much power. I recommend this just because it exposed me to different bikes.

I am now quite confortable with my bike (after riding a total of about 140 miles)

But i sat on a zx14 at the motorcycle show, and decided that might be my next bike.

Im 6.2" so the 250s where out of the question they felt very small, and the zx14 felt roomy.

So I gess the more you ride the better you feel. Ninja-Nurse, I know how you feel about everyone telling you how dangerous bikes are.... They are jelaous, and plus if you are safe and alert im sure you will do fine (atleast that what i hope it hapens to me lol)

I understand you very well because my father is a doctor, and my aunt is a nurse so i do hang around with many people who are used to seeing accidents and stuff. DONT LET THEM SCARE YOU OUT OF IT!!!!!.

On the other hand I have first hand knoledge of how dangerous crashing on a bike can be. One of my uncles broke his ankle. Another one lost half of a leg. neither of them ever stoped riding not till this day.

I hope this keeps you going

drifterk · 01-08-2006

just twist the wrist and pop the clutch...

IM JUST KIDDING DONT DO THAT HAHAHA!!!

Ninja-Nurse · 01-08-2006

Hey Thmastr-
Thanks for your input! Sorry about your little incident running out of gas and falling, but hey ,ya kept going !!!! I would have flipped out!
And i'm sorry to hear about your uncles incidents, wow and still riding !
I feel soo much better after riding yesterday, my husband says not get to cocky, if something happens, (fall, etc) i'll feel like an idiot! I wanted to ride my bike to work ,but it's COLD here in Ft. Myers this am 38 plus it's dark now 6am haven't adventured the night time riding, Thanks for all your input , it helps alot !! So nice to have POSITIVE reinforement than all the negative input i get from work !! THANKS!

GPZBob · 01-08-2006

Definately don't want to ride in that cold weather while you're still new. It takes more energy/concentration and slows reaction times when you have the added discomfort of the cold.

Thmastr · 01-08-2006

wow the coldest I have ridden in is 50, I cant imagine in the 30's!!!!! caureful for ice!

enjoy your riding!

Ninja-Nurse · 01-08-2006

Dumb question???
How do ya do the quotes, and things on the side??
This is new to me???

09-01-2005	#1 (permalink)
jcayo11 Newbie Join Date: Sep 2005 Posts: 1	Newbie Newbie Newbie My friend owns a Ninja 250 and has convinced me to look into getting a bike as well. I have never even been up to a motorcycle. He suggested taking the saftey course before even going to a dealer to LooK at bikes. He also suggested Looking into the 250 if I decide to get one. he Said because it is not too powerful but light. Also Team ore of those inseam challenged I only stand 5'5 . Any advice you can give will be great. thanks

09-02-2005	#2 (permalink)
azchick aka: queen of mean Forum Supporter Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: AZ Posts: 2,413	Welcome... I started on a Kawasaki 650.... awww that was perfect! Good luck and be safe! __________________ 2005, 1600 Red Mean Streak

09-02-2005	#3 (permalink)
windrider18 Can't find time to ride BTK Expert Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Northeast PA Posts: 694	Welcome! Your friend gave you some good advice about taking the safety course. Taking the safety course is an excellent first step. It will teach you about bikes in general and teach you the basics of riding. Buying your first bike after the course is also a good idea. The course will give you an idea of what you like/dislike about a bike so you can make a better choice. The Ninja 250R is a great starter bike, but don't limit yourself. You may find you want a cruiser after the class and that's OK You can do some window shopping before buying, so go sit on as many bikes as you can and make notes on what you liked/disliked. Do some research on the internet and see about how reliable the bikes are and what other owners think of them. Ask questions if you find a specific bike you really like. As a general rule, for cruisers don't go higher than 800cc as a first bike and smaller is better. For sportbikes, the general rule is don't go higher than 500ccs as the bikes start to get extremely powerful. There are a few exceptions, but these are just guidelines. I started on a Ninja 250 and it was the best choice for me. I learned a lot and it was a very forgiving bike. I put 3900 miles on it before trading it in and I don't regret it all. I would not be able to ride my current bike without having had the miles on my 250. (OK, bike plug over now ) Keep us posted on how it goes OK? __________________ Angela '02 ZR-7S Metallic Blue Violet "Bluebird" "I am not pretty baggage! I ride my own!"

09-02-2005	#4 (permalink)
Tweak Finally Got Into First Gear BTK Beginner Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Pittsburgh Posts: 54	I would definitely hold off until you take the safety course. You may find it is just not for you. Biggest thing, in my opinion, is your comfort level with the bike you choose. New riders especially (save those with no brains) will have a certain nervous/uncomfortable feeling at first. The more you ride the better you should feel. But, it will faster if it is not a bike that scares you. I think starting on a 250 is fine and works for some. Others use a 500. Some... I just saw a kid who had never ever ridden a bike buy a '05 Ninja 636 a few weeks back. He bought the bike, but could not ride it home - the dealer was going to deliver it. That seemed odd to me since I would expect that most people would have some experience before buying a bike. But, he may be comfortable with that. Personally, I think his girlfriend should have talked him down on it, but each person need to find what feels right to them! Tweak __________________ NEMO ME IMPUNE LACESSIT '06 Ninja 500

09-02-2005	#6 (permalink)
camneely8 Foil Inspector BTK Beginner Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: NW Chicago burbs Posts: 115	MSF first, then maybe a second hand 250 without a lot of miles, ride it till you really feel comfortable and then upgrade if you need to. I got a 500 but thats cause the 250 seemed smaller for me physically. Enjoy and be safe. Its a hoot once you get rolling! __________________ -- I refuse to have a battle of wits with one who is unarmed ! --

09-02-2005	#5 (permalink)
ZX7R Newbie Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 10	I think, not ever before riding, your best bet is the 250. After a few months of riding and practice you should know where your comfort level is, and what size of an upgrade bike you should get,(cause your going to want a bigger bike later).. It would be foolish to start with anything bigger than a 250... Plus, the resale Value of these bikes are great. New, there 3300-3500 after taxes.. You can resell it months later for about 2800-2900 easily... I just sold 2 on C.T. for my friends in less than a weeks time each... Take the Course, Practice, and Have Fun Riding ! Stay Safe...

01-07-2006	#7 (permalink)
Ninja-Nurse Ninja-Nurse Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Ft. Myers Fl. Posts: 10	Hi- I just read your post , it is nice to hear someone else say you have a "nervous / uncomfortable " feeling being NEW at this!!! I'm a new rider, never rode before! I just bought a 2006 Ninja 500 EX, took the safety course, and now trying to adventure furthur than my neighborhood!! My husband is an experienced rider (Harly Road King) he is my ONLY positive support, Since being an ER nurse, i don't get much of that at work, and only see the BAD outcome of bikers! I'm so glad i found this site, if anyone could please tell me this will get easier ?? I want to ride and have fun, but scared to death! Is this normal??? Thanks- Ninja Nurse

01-07-2006	#9 (permalink)
gpzrider Forum Supporter Forum Supporter Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Southern Indiana Posts: 2,142	Most riders who start later in life are a little scared and nervous to begin with. Those of us that that started young just didn't know enough to be scared. It's normal and guarantees a healthy respect for the bikes and the riders emerging abilities. You'll both get better and more comfortable. Just practice, practice, practice and never forget to pay attention to your surroundings.

01-07-2006	#10 (permalink)
Ninja-Nurse Ninja-Nurse Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Ft. Myers Fl. Posts: 10	Thanks for your advice!!! I am sooo proud of myself!! Today i rode 82 miles with my husband and did great and felt great !!! Yipeeeee , your right practice is the secret!! Thank you , Thank you !!!!

01-07-2006	#12 (permalink)
Ninja-Nurse Ninja-Nurse Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Ft. Myers Fl. Posts: 10	Thanks for your input! It's nice to hear others stories and experiences! After riding today, i feel MUCH better. I now have 401 miles on my bike. I went 82 miles today round trip ! It was fun but cold !

01-07-2006	#13 (permalink)
chimera Lookin for my next bike.. Forum Supporter Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Posts: 588	congrats......enjoy riding...the nerves get replaced in time with excitement!

01-08-2006	#14 (permalink)
Chuckster Wants better weather! BTK Expert Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Atlanta, Georgia Posts: 939	Welcome. Definately take the MSF course. Start off with something you feel comfortable with and like. Go at your own speed and don't worry about everyone else. Read alot, practice and be a student of the game. __________________ 2003 Vulcan 1600 Classic - *"Black Betty"*

01-08-2006	#15 (permalink)
Thmastr rain is here BTK Expert Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: San Jose, Ca Posts: 2,773	Hey new rider here. too! I got a 93 ex500 on tuesday. On wed i put about 100 miles on it, rode in the freeway, and at night.. oh yes ran out of gas, and fell! all in the same day!!!!!!. Ran out of gas while i was on the freeway, I just turned the valve over to reserve and looked for a gas station. Fell while turning into a parking lot. Cager came right at me on the right side of the driveway (my side) and then swerved away at the last second. I pressed the front brake, stoped, then fell... no damage or injury. I still had both feet on the ground... but the bike wasnt rubber side down.... I took the msc first and then shopped around, though of getting a 600cc untill i test-rode one and decided it was too much power. I recommend this just because it exposed me to different bikes. I am now quite confortable with my bike (after riding a total of about 140 miles) But i sat on a zx14 at the motorcycle show, and decided that might be my next bike. Im 6.2" so the 250s where out of the question they felt very small, and the zx14 felt roomy. So I gess the more you ride the better you feel. Ninja-Nurse, I know how you feel about everyone telling you how dangerous bikes are.... They are jelaous, and plus if you are safe and alert im sure you will do fine (atleast that what i hope it hapens to me lol) I understand you very well because my father is a doctor, and my aunt is a nurse so i do hang around with many people who are used to seeing accidents and stuff. DONT LET THEM SCARE YOU OUT OF IT!!!!!. On the other hand I have first hand knoledge of how dangerous crashing on a bike can be. One of my uncles broke his ankle. Another one lost half of a leg. neither of them ever stoped riding not till this day. I hope this keeps you going __________________ Proud owner of an 06 Ninja 250. Yes I am 6'4 and yes I weight 160 lbs

01-08-2006	#16 (permalink)
drifterk out ridin...are you? BTK Beginner Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: the best rock in the usa...hawaii!!! Posts: 94	just twist the wrist and pop the clutch... IM JUST KIDDING DONT DO THAT HAHAHA!!! __________________ 88 ex500 gixxer front end (i bet id keep up with your "big boy" toy)

01-08-2006	#17 (permalink)
Ninja-Nurse Ninja-Nurse Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Ft. Myers Fl. Posts: 10	Hey Thmastr- Thanks for your input! Sorry about your little incident running out of gas and falling, but hey ,ya kept going !!!! I would have flipped out! And i'm sorry to hear about your uncles incidents, wow and still riding ! I feel soo much better after riding yesterday, my husband says not get to cocky, if something happens, (fall, etc) i'll feel like an idiot! I wanted to ride my bike to work ,but it's COLD here in Ft. Myers this am 38 plus it's dark now 6am haven't adventured the night time riding, Thanks for all your input , it helps alot !! So nice to have POSITIVE reinforement than all the negative input i get from work !! THANKS!

01-08-2006	#18 (permalink)
GPZBob Made It To Second Gear BTK Beginner Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Memphis,Tn US Posts: 95	Definately don't want to ride in that cold weather while you're still new. It takes more energy/concentration and slows reaction times when you have the added discomfort of the cold.

01-08-2006	#19 (permalink)
Thmastr rain is here BTK Expert Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: San Jose, Ca Posts: 2,773	wow the coldest I have ridden in is 50, I cant imagine in the 30's!!!!! caureful for ice! enjoy your riding! __________________ Proud owner of an 06 Ninja 250. Yes I am 6'4 and yes I weight 160 lbs

01-08-2006	#20 (permalink)
Ninja-Nurse Ninja-Nurse Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Ft. Myers Fl. Posts: 10	Dumb question??? How do ya do the quotes, and things on the side?? This is new to me???

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