Beginner Question

[tcminnesota]

I am 26 and have just decided to buy my first bike. My step-dad drove Harley's as a kid and I'd, eventually, like to do the same. At this point, I do not have the change for a Harley. I like the Honda VXTs, but at this point, I'd just like to get a decent bike to learn on (I've driven before but not enough to call my self experienced). Any suggestions?

[seruzawa]

If you like cruisers it's hard to go wrong with a Honda Shadow 750 or a Kawasaki Vulcan 750. There are loads of used ones. Get a year or two experience on one then sell it for close to what you paid for it. They are mildly tuned bikes that are easy to ride and have enough power to run on the Interstates. Since you are learning you want to stay away from the 700 pound bikes.

You might consider learning on a Dual Purpose bike like Kaw's 250 or the Suzuki DRZ400. They are about the easiest bikes to ride and pick up when you fall over. Dirt experience is invaluable as well. You learn to do the basics while not having to avoid Joe 6pack in his cage.

[The_AirHawk]

26 already?

You are Definitely a candidate for a Supercharged BossHoss 502 with Nawz.

But ONLY if you're man-enough to show that Biotch who's The Boss with a He-Man throttle-hand and complete disregard for yourself and the General Public.

What do you have to lose?

[Zachery]

Great idea A Dual Purpose bike can let tcminnesota learn valuable stuff on the forgiving dirt. A used one shouldn't be too hard to find. Whatever you do tc buy used cause most likely you are going to drop it and or grow out of it. Get some experience than get what you really want. Good advice seruzawa

[acecycleins]

First, remember that the the views you read are solely the opinion of crotchetty old bast@rds and therefore should be taken with a grain of salt. The Dual Purpose bike thing is a great way to start because the bikes are sooooo versatile. But if cruiser is the way- look at early 2000-2004 Suzuki or Kawasaki 800 cc bikes. Most can be had for $3500 or less. Good luck

[pplassm]

+1 on the dual sport. I can choose which bike I ride, and it's the one that gets ridden the most.

On Saturday, I rode it to the local MX track, rode a few laps, then headed for the woods, and rode a few miles.

On the way home, I took the long twisty route on the roads. Nothing like a dual sport!