Thinking of Getting a Motorcycle... Advice/Recommendations? Please Read
 

I'm thinking about getting a bike, something along the lines of a ninja or gsx. I'll post what I need in the bike and please offer yr/model that would best fit

1) Commuting about 150-200miles/week
2) Something that can pass quickly but not to the point where I'll fall off..
3) I'm a new rider, but do not want a bike I will grow tired of (quickly)
4) Price range <$6,000-$7,000 (Less would be even better!)
5) Relatively low insurance rate
6) MPG MPG MPG

To sum it up in a nut shell, I would want a bike that can efficiently get me from point A to point B, but also be able to haul ass when needed.

Thanks in advance guys!

If you're a new rider i recommend getting as much training as possible...especially considering you're in NYC, motorists just aren't cognizant of how to share the roads with bike's, especially taxi's. I suggest starting with a Kawasaki Ninja 500R (~$5K - 50+MPG)...more power than a beginner 250 and enough power delivery to keep you satisfied.

Lot's of good deals to be had as dealers need to make room for new models. I was recently offered $6K for a new 2008 supersport Ninja ZX 6R $4K below MSRP. Happy hunting...

I was looking at the 500R, whats your opinion on Used or New? In respect to price, maintenance, and insurance price?

A few questions...
-are you planning on using your new scoot for commuting daily, in NYC area traffic?
-you have never ridden, or seldom? Do you have an MC endorsement on your license?
-a m'cycle for commuting is for mpg/parking ease/mental health/it looks like fun?
-what is your "size"? 6'2", 5'7", etc. Helps in steering you towards a group of bikes
that "fit".

Many of your general questions can be better addressed, opin-wise, with more info
from you.

No xpert, but as I've been riding since 1963, over a lot of miles, I have some opins
for new/novice riders.
GL,mD

Thanks!

Tleong,
Confused on a couple items:
"I have ridden, but certainly not a lot. My riding has been the 12 lessons that I took for my license. I do not have an MC endorsement (not even sure what that is http://www.xoutpost.com/images/smilies/dunno.gif)"

Does that mean you took 12 motorcycle riding lessons? An "MC endorsement" is what
NY and, most states require for legal op of a sled...it will be a little "M" or "MC" on
your driver's license. Most legit dlrs won't sell you a bike w/out that endorsement.

Are your intended commutes during rush hour or various times of the workday?

Based on your height, I would go sit on/ride several mid size bikes to be certain
you can flat foot or "toe" both feet easily/comfortably, and that controls are
comfortable for you.

Any motorcycle on the planet will/can accelerate past 99% of the cars you will
encounter in NYC area, for "passing"...

Still confused on your riding experience; it is serious biz riding out there in the
Streets or, anywhere for that matter. Not trying to sound like a wet blanket or,
dissuade my kid from getting a sled; I just want you to realize that riding is a
survival sport that requires some serious learned skill sets, via experience.
GL,mD

Agree with MD...didn't realize your riding experience stems from lessons. If that's the case you may consider starting with a 250R. Some have stated after gaining enough experience, that the 250 became boring so they stepped up to more power...but it's a good starter.

You may also want to consider a Vespa...for starters.

I certainly understand that riding requires experience, but I feel that to get the experience, I would need to ride first. I was thinking of the 250R and have read great reviews about it - how it is an excellent bike for starters. But, I do not want to buy a bike and grow tired of it quickly... from a cost stand point, it doesn't seem to be the best.

However, perhaps a used 250R (relatively inexpensive) can serve to be a starter, then buy a new bike when I have gained enough experience?

What do you guys think?

Great idea...but keep in mind that if you're just using it for commuting purposes and just from a 2 b then it may suffice for the forseeable future. Those i know of that decided to upgrade, either had riding experience from dirt bikes or just became true die hard enthusiasts.

If you are under 35 years old then a "crotch rocket" is tolerable (spine, wrists, shoulders) if not fun. Consider the 2009 and newer Yamaha FZ6-R. The R is a new model for beginners and Yamaha is tied with Honda for best quality.

If you are over 35 consider a "standard" bike or a cruiser like a Harley Sportster, Triumph, BMW or Suzuki cruiser...