More bike related stuff

[learningtofly]

I like the look of the CMX - it caught my eye in the local dealership (Letchworth ). I was surprised it was only a 500 but that wouldn't put me off.

Interestingly, and moving slightly away from street/naked territory, I've just watched about half a dozen review videos of the Honda CB500X, which is one of their "adventure" bikes. It seems to be the perfect cross between a street bike and a small tourer, and every reviewer absolutely loved it. In fact, having seen the way that it handles in town, as well as its ability on the open road, i'd be nuts not to test it.

It looks bloody lovely too...

[Vanguard]

I'm really interested now to see what you end up buying

[learningtofly]

I'm really interested now to see what you end up buying

Haha - me too

So:

Possibly too big/powerful:

Scrambler Icon
Street Triple R LRH
Street Twin

Then:

CMX500 Rebel
CB500X
MT-07
SV650

My only issue with the CMX500 is that it might be a bit vanilla, and probably requires a bit of customisation to bring it up to a slightly better spec. However, the two Hondas are probably better in terms of power as I fear some of the others may be a bit much as beginners bikes.

[cinnabull]

IMO don't write a bike off because you think they may be too big or powerful. Clearly the throttle is a two way device. As your experience grows you will sometimes need/enjoy a bit of extra poke. Also, the way the power is delivered is a major factor in how much you will enjoy the chosen bike, the Street Triple has a very linear power delivery from quite low revs, with a bit more at the top end, the Scrambler has a lot of low down grunt, but not so much of a top end rush. Again, have a reasonable length test ride on all the bikes mentioned, as you may find a gem, or dodge a bullet. One mans meat an' all that. I would classify myself as an 'experienced' rider at 61, having had bikes since I was 18, and can probably adapt my riding to suit most bikes within reason. However, as a first bike you REALLY need to get it right first time or you could be put off for life, and waste a fair wedge. Test ride as many of your shortlist as poss for as long as poss to find out what suits YOU.

Stuart

[Ticker]

Haha - me too

So:

Possibly too big/powerful:

Scrambler Icon
Street Triple R LRH

Then:

CMX500 Rebel
CB500X
MT-07
SV650

My only issue with the CMX500 is that it might be a bit vanilla, and probably requires a bit of customisation to bring it up to a slightly better spec. However, the two Hondas are probably better in terms of power as I fear some of the others may be a bit much as beginners bikes.

I've ridden bikes since I was 13 years old. Obviously, off road at first, then on the road since 16. Last year, I passed my full test after a lengthy break from riding (21 or so years). I bought a minty CBR600F (2002) that had been loved and cared for by a metropolitan police motorcycle instructor. I got on it at first and sh@ myself because, beleive me, it flies. Like the rest have said, the throttle is a 2-way thing and power/torque delivery should not phase you, or be a game changer in the selection process.

I've since riden the bike around Brittany and put 2,000 miles on it and love it.

[learningtofly]

I've ridden bikes since I was 13 years old. Obviously, off road at first, then on the road since 16. Last year, I passed my full test after a lengthy break from riding (21 or so years). I bought a minty CBR600F (2002) that had been loved and cared for by a metropolitan police motorcycle instructor. I got on it at first and sh@ myself because, beleive me, it flies. Like the rest have said, the throttle is a 2-way thing and power/torque delivery should not phase you.

I've since riden the bike around Brittany and put 2,000 miles on it and love it.

I'm glad you posted that, as it's quite reassuring.

When I was in my late teens/early-mid 20's we all rode bikes. I started on a CG125 and then went to a 250 Dream (both Hondas), but rode the latter without a full licence. I've not ridden a bike in earnest for 30 years, so I'm approaching this exercise as a complete beginner.

With regard to capacity, he one thing at the back of my mind is that engines perform differently at low revs; whilst I accept the point that a very linear power delivery can overcome this I still think that a slightly smaller engine used to it's potential may well be preferable to a bigger engine not. I'm hoping that some test rides will shed more light on that, though.

[Ticker]

I'm glad you posted that, as it's quite reassuring.

When I was in my late teens/early-mid 20's we all rode bikes. I started on a CG125 and then went to a 250 Dream (both Hondas), but rode the latter without a full licence. I've not ridden a bike in earnest for 30 years, so I'm approaching this exercise as a complete beginner.

With regard to capacity, he one thing at the back of my mind is that engines perform differently at low revs; whilst I accept the point that a very linear power delivery can overcome this I still think that a slightly smaller engine used to it's potential may well be preferable to a bigger engine not. I'm hoping that some test rides will shed more light on that, though.

I'm glad it's helped. I'm fully subscribed to the thread and look forward to hearing how you get on.

Be safe, good luck.

Joedy

[Skyman]

Tony, you are on such an exciting journey. Enjoy all the test rides and let us know how you get on. To avoid inappropriate additional recommendations, it might help to know your budget.
BTW, if you thinking of going the adventure bike route, try the new BMW F850GS. I am seriously thinking of chopping my underused RR for one in the Autumn, for a bit of greenlaning.

[MB2]

With regard to capacity, he one thing at the back of my mind is that engines perform differently at low revs; whilst I accept the point that a very linear power delivery can overcome this I still think that a slightly smaller engine used to it's potential may well be preferable to a bigger engine not. I'm hoping that some test rides will shed more light on that, though.

That is the right attitude and try them. Provided you stick to a street / touring style don’t fear the capacity or bhp too greatly. Sports bikes yes as they are “highly strung” So brakes and handling will not be forgiving.

Also tourers can be very tall which you are wise to be wary of. I had an Aprilia Pegaso a great bike but very tall and underbraked so in my opinion not so good for a novice - particularly the height as although it is easy to use the camber or slide over very easy to get caught out without experience.

The best advice is always to get a popular middle of the road bike and in a year’s time you will either know what you want or by looking at the modifications you have done realise what you need as a “keeper”.

Also invest in some decent gear as it will extend your riding season and enjoyment massively.



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[Tifa]

The best advice is always to get a popular middle of the road bike....

This.
Avoid bobbers and coffee shop nobbers like the plague.
Fashionable? Yes.
Stylish? Without a doubt.
But the practicality of a holed bucket.
Initially fun, but once you need to do big miles, or tour, you're pretty much screwed.
Something like the MT07? Perfect.