At the end of a rider course the newbie’s often ask “What would the best bike be for me?”
The answer to that question has many different answers depending on the rider asking & their riding skills as observed in a controlled environment. Some people are very good, natural riders, but most are not. They need to continue practice to increase their riding skills before entering the freeways to ride. The big problem for these new riders is advice from friends or love ones who ride and want the newbie to enjoy their level of riding. But these well meaning friends often urge the purchase of a bike that does not fit the person who will ride it. This advice often goes along manufacture preference rather that the learning skills that have to be developed. And new riders get hurt because of it.
The big problem is talking someone into a bike that is too big and too powerful for the limited skill of the new rider. Example: A male or female, short, average to small weight, who has only ridden on a 250cc bike during the training. All other experience has been as the co-rider. No driving experience on a motorcycle and a bike bigger than 800 cc is just too much bike. In fact a smaller bike is easier to learn on.
I suggest to students that they purchase a smaller bike, usually in the 600 cc or less to learn on. The bike will be lighter and have less of a power problem for the rider. Buy a used bike learn on it at least 6 months before you even consider a larger motorcycle. If you have not beaten it to pieces you will get back about the same as amount you paid for it when you sell it. At most you should not lose more than $500.00.
That $500.00 is one of the best investments you will ever make. You get to learn with lower risk to injury or damage. This will make learning better as you will feel confident that you can handle this bike and it will help you decide what your next bike will be.
Remember that what ever bike you have it is the “perfect bike.” When you feel it is no longer “perfect” sell it and buy yourself the “perfect bike”.

Remember Head Up, Eyes on the Horizon & look through the turns.
Charlie Thayer
Rider Coach, Motorcycle Rider Training

Motorcycle Riding Training
623-979-1839
www.azmrt.com