Hit Before Even Riding, Heads Up to Newbies

I have successlly passed the MSF Basic Rider's Course and now I wait patiently for the certificate to be sent so that I may then take the license exam at the DMV and become an official motorcyclist.

So now should come the fun part right? Buying my first bike, right? Well so I thought.

I found a 1991 CBR600 F2 that had my heart racing, especially since it would only set me back $1500.

I had my checkbook ready and was about to call the brother who had the bike listed, but I decided I should check the insurance rates first. What I found out, was like being hit head on by an SUV. To properly insure the bike would cost me around $4000 per year!!! SWEET MOTHER OF... Okay, so I don't have the cleanest record, but I do believe I am a responsible 25 year old quite capable of riding a motorcycle safely. $4000? I guess they really don't want us out on the road, do they?

Talk about disheartening. I'm practically ready to give up on motorcycling before I can even hit the road. How the hell can they do this? I guess my only option really, (outside of selling a kidney) is to go with a "lesser" bike. A Ninja250 or something to that extent. Now of course, I actually like the Ninja250, but I'm about 5'10" and 230 pounds and it's a tad uncomfortable on the legs. Maybe it will be the better choice in the long run as far as newbie mounts go, but sheesh, after having my heart set on the F2, I can't help but feel a little crushed. I even thought, maybe I can get another job or something (in this economy, yeah right), but man, it really shouldn't have to be like this.

I just can't give up the motorcycle dream just yet. I've so thoroughly enjoyed what little bit of riding I've done so far, and I've bought my first helmet and gloves, I guess it just may be worth it to in the long run to just find myself a used, little Ninja250.

So my motorcycle brethren, I ask, if you see me on the road, please don't laugh or call me a weenie. And for you women motorcyclists, take special care not to diss, it always hurts more coming from the gals. It really is an economic decision (preserve capital folks, our economy really is that bad).

If there are any of you in the Los Angeles area with an old Ninja250 (or even 500, I think the rates may be similar) and are willing to part with it cheap, show a fellow motorcylist some love.