David in FL

Hello,

I will soon make my first motorcycle purchase. Most of my friends are encouraging me to first buy a used bike. Their reasons are that I can learn on it (and not worry so much about damaging it) as well as obtain a better idea of the type of bike I'd like to have "permanently" before paying many thousands of dollars more for a new bike. Thoughts on this?

Also, I came across a CMC Widerider for sale. Year 1997, 11250 miles, looks great, rear sissy bar, seat looks immaculate. The seller wants $8,900 for all.

Do you think the Widewider would be a good "first bike?" Any thoughts on this bike? What are some things I should watch out for when examining a used bike for sale? Any thoughts, suggestions, etc., would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
David in FL

pushrod

David,

If the bike you are lookinig at is this one (http://tampa.craigslist.org/hil/mcy/1221820153.html), $8900 is a great price.

However, I would think it is a really, really bad choice for a 'First Bike'. You will probably drop it, maybe more than once.

Also, it will handle poorly, and doesn't stop worth beans. In fact, the 21" front tire will tend to skid early and often.

So, if the WideRider is the style you like, and you have the money, get it, and then go spend another $2K on a 250 Rebel or some other 'disposable' bike.

HTH!

pr

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