Starter bike?

116ciHemi · March 28, 2011, 08:25:09 AM

So, the dorm fever up here at tech is starting to set in. As the roads are drying I started to think that a bike might be a nice thing to have, and would be more fun to ride than driving my DD Focus. Basically, what is a good bike to look at that will avoid getting myself in the local news? I was looking mostly at something like a ninja 250 since I know a friend who wants to upgrade from his, and I might be able to get that one for not to much.

Seldom Seen Slim · March 28, 2011, 09:05:38 AM

I know of an older (but running) Kawasaki GPZ550 that's for sale down here, Walt. I saw it on display at the boat & RV show last weekend. The guy is asking $950 for it. It's got a pipe and bright yellow spark plug wires - and that's all I noticed as I walked past. If something like that might be of interest to you -- call him. He's in Munising, and his phone number is 906 250 0202.

116ciHemi · March 28, 2011, 11:35:41 AM

Thanks for the heads, but right now I am looking to buy something after the June meet. I was going to drive the Escort up here next fall, but the logistics seem easier with a bike that I could put in the bed of a truck. I just need something other than the soul-sucking daily driver I have now. Right now I am more looking for information. My knowledge of motorcycles is mostly of their mechanical workings.

John Noonan · March 28, 2011, 12:19:06 PM

Turbo-Charged 550+ HP Hayabusa is just what you need...

Seldom Seen Slim · March 28, 2011, 12:29:35 PM

Now that you're a married man - is Michelle putting down her foot and asking you to reduce the fleet? By the way - corngratulations.

116ciHemi · March 28, 2011, 02:36:38 PM

Quote from: John Noonan on March 28, 2011, 12:19:06 PM
Turbo-Charged 550+ HP Hayabusa is just what you need...

I offer a fair price for said machine- All I have. One 1986 Escort with roll cage and an engine that idles well with $497.67 cash. After April ends I will include several lightly used textbooks, a jar of peanut butter, and a well used laptop running window XP. My roommate is gone for the week so I can probably offer you his refrigerator and it's contents if you are willing to make the transaction by Sunday.

John Noonan · March 28, 2011, 07:26:56 PM

Quote from: 116ciHemi on March 28, 2011, 02:36:38 PM
Quote from: John Noonan on March 28, 2011, 12:19:06 PM
Turbo-Charged 550+ HP Hayabusa is just what you need...

I offer a fair price for said machine- All I have. One 1986 Escort with roll cage and an engine that idles well with $497.67 cash. After April ends I will include several lightly used textbooks, a jar of peanut butter, and a well used laptop running window XP. My roommate is gone for the week so I can probably offer you his refrigerator and it's contents if you are willing to make the transaction by Sunday.

What's in the Fridge?

116ciHemi · March 28, 2011, 08:10:23 PM

Sorry, nothing good. He drinks, but he knows that I would throw away anything that was in our room. I won't risk having any around due to ROTC's views on underage drinking.

manta22 · March 28, 2011, 08:12:41 PM

Those bananas look like they are well past their expiration date.....

Regards, Neil Tucson, AZ

sabat · March 28, 2011, 08:47:28 PM

Cheap, late model entry-level bikes include the Ninja 250, Suzuki GS500, and Yamaha Seca 600. I leave out the cruisers, because you seem like a decent guy. -Dean

116ciHemi · March 29, 2011, 04:48:38 AM

The Ninja 250 seems like the predominant thing people have been telling me to look at. How do bikes like that stack up as far as insurance costs go? I assume that bikes follow basically the same insurance rules as cars, and I could just insure it PDLP if I own the bike.

sabat · March 29, 2011, 05:35:48 AM

Not sure about insurance, but I would guess all the entry level bikes are about the same, maybe the small displacement 250 would be a little cheaper. Also slower

Seldom Seen Slim · March 29, 2011, 06:49:31 AM

If you're thinking of maybe a new 250 -- Sport Rider magazine has a comparison of the Ninja 250, Honda 250, and the Korean 250 -- all in the current issue.

As for insurance -- you betcha you'll pay less for insurance with a 250 than with a larger-displacement scooter. You'll eventually note that there's at least one reason most bikes have engines 1 or 2 cc smaller than the nameplate (i.e. most 600s are really 599 cc) because insurance companies charge more for 600 than they do for 500 -- all the way up to 599. They've done it that way for years - don't ask me why. Hey, I even get a bit less cost when insuring the old Gold Wing and stating it's got the 1198 (or whatever) motor.

wobblywalrus · March 29, 2011, 09:30:15 PM

It is hard to go wrong with a Kawasaki twin. The 500cc Ninja is a good bike, too.

NathanStewart · March 29, 2011, 10:32:42 PM

I'm a Buell guy and even though I'd never be caught dead on one, I'd suggest a Blast as a cheap first timer bike. It's an ugly turd of a bike that has a single cylinder version of your standard Harley engine.

I ride my Buell XB9S Lightning 120 miles a day and I can't imagine riding anything else. Probably the most maneuverable comfortable riding bike ever made.

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Starter bike?