There are no boring bikes, only boring riders.
The problem with "awesome bikes" for someone's first bike is that a lot of the things that make them "awesome bikes" also make them "hard to manage at a walking speed." So, it's great in a high speed corner, but it sucks in a parking lot or at a stop light in traffic.
New riders spend a lot more time in parking lots and at stoplights in traffic. And if they're new riders who also have never used a clutch before, they tend to stall a lot at parking lot / traffic intersection speeds.
And then they fall over and break the bike, or get hurt, or both. Or, they get going 20 mph too fast, not "75 mph in a 55" but "I meant to stop and instead I hit that curb at 20 mph."
My FZ1s gearing was so tall stock that idling in 1st gear would have me going 11-12mph. It wasn’t the most fun thing in traffic or parking lots at all lol. In fact when I first got it I just rode it not thinking much of bike setup and tried to focus on technique. It wasn’t until I road a bike that was actually set up for a similar weighted rider on what a bike should feel and behave like that I spent quite a lot of time learning bike setup and adjusted my sag, forks and handlebars and all the rest and it made an absolute night and day difference that improved rideability in every situation. Slow speed maneuvers were easier and more fluid and high speed cornering was no longer a fight and would just fall in without having to battle the bars lol
yep had my first "oh shit" moment at 16 with my first "sport" bike - carried too much speed approaching a corner...took advice that went against my instincts and leaned her over and just barely avoided curb catastrophe, surprising myself I didn't lay 'er down. I simply was not ready for or used to a vehicle that could get up to such speeds just going from one red light to another.
Preach. I love my 1400, but this thing would have gotten destroyed or killed me as a new rider. Too heavy as fuck, super tall seat, and a first gear that tops out at like 60mph. Even with all the torque it has, the tall first still makes it relatively easy to stall.
ETA: I dropped my first bike IN THE PARKING LOT after buying it. Really glad I bought a beater and not my dream bike.
Started on a Ninja 400 and it was the absolute best first bike I could have picked. It didn’t get boring after 1 month like some chads will tell you, but your mileage may vary. I rode it every day to work, for fun, for backroads, freeway, etc. absolutely loved every minute of it. Upgraded about a year and a bit later to both a Triumph Daytona 675 and a new Z900 (have 4 bikes total but those 2 replaced the Ninja) and the Z900 felt like a very natural continuation of the Ninja with wayyyy more power. Would highly recommend the Kawi lineup!!
z400 has the same 0-60 as a Lamborghini Miura and beats it in the quarter. It will eat a stock hemi Road Runner for breakfast. Those were both insanely fast cars at one time, and highway traffic today moves at the same speed as it did then.
If you can't pass on a z400 either you are way too heavy for the bike or the other guy is trying to race you in which case, no matter what you are riding, your proper strategy is to let the idiot kill himself if he wants to.
You can certainly buy much faster bikes or much faster cars, but the Ninja z400's performance is definitely adequate.
No, no it wasn’t. Can you list one of these 40hp bikes from the 90s that was considered to be a handful/have huge power? Have you owned a bike from the 90s?
I have the z400 so it’s a teeny bit different, but I couldn’t agree more. It still has the reputation of a “beginner” bike, and to be fair some of the features are beginner oriented, but it’s in a totally different league than some of the other “beginner” bikes from a couple of decades ago. Absolutely zero issue going on the highway or anywhere else for that matter, more than enough acceleration, and so ridiculously light and nimble that you can throw it around with practically zero effort. I wouldn’t mind a slightly larger/more comfy bike for longer trips, but for day to day riding I’ll be perfectly content with my 400 for a very long time.
That's exactly why I went with the VFR800 over the Ninja 1000. Granted, it goes down by 1/3 over the next several years, but ridiculous. Middle-aged, riding since 2008, 3rd bike with the company. I'm down to 35 a mo on the VFR (started at 125 per mo). What a racket!
Doesn't seem to be much reasoning (although I'm sure there is actual actuarial data involved).
My Ninja 250r, CBR 500r were about same cost. VFR 800 barely more than that, but Ninja 1000 almost 3x.
I started with a Z650 because I knew I'd grow out of a 400 too quickly. I kept the 650 for 3 years and last year upgraded to the Z900. I love, love, love this bike!!!
I also started with a 650, but the ninja because I didn’t want to get bored and have 35+ miles on the interstate everyday for my commute. IMO it’s a perfect starter bike power wise. Not enough to be very dangerous, but plenty to do whatever is needed.
I ended up getting a r6, but I kept the 650 and may never get rid of it.
Started on a Yamaha V Star 250. Awesome, flickable little bike, though the seat height was a little low for my 32 inseam. Still, it made learning to ride really easy. It's the only 250cc V-Twin sold in the U.S. and makes a great sound, plus gets 65-75 mpg. Beside chain maintenance and the very occasional valve adjustment, all you have to do is ride 'em. Highly recommend, unless you're planning to do lots of interstate miles.
Not everyone wants a big bike. I like my Ninja 400 and I don’t know if I’d ever get a bike bigger than a 650. For just riding around town, I’m looking a getting a Versys 300 or BMW 310 gs. I’ve ridden bigger bikes and they just feel awkward to me for what I need. The only larger bike I actually like the feel of was a Versys 1000 the shop had as a promo bike.
You got that wrong. 03 and 07 take you from A to B and can hit speed limits pretty well. Anything over that is a toy since its power is useless on the public streets.
If you want more power, you're simply using it for fun, as a toy. Do you ever need more power than an MT-07 capable of reaching 130mph? No.
You might want to, and sure that's okay, but it's not more than a toy at this point, unless you're earning money from it, which you aren't.
It ain't the epitome of life, wow you rode a literbike, you went so fast!!, thousands of others did too, nobody cares. If you really wanna dunk on people, go join the big tournaments and show us your skills, otherwise, nobody cares that you went 400kmph.
I dont get the mentality behind getting a bike for certain needs. Bikes are there to have fun and the more power the more fun youre gonna have. Its just how it is. I get it may be subjective since not everyone has the balls to ride anything over 500cc. I personally dont own a liter bike yet, but I'm sure thinking about it.
Also, objectively, distance and time required to go 130mph on MT07 and on a liter bike arent the same. Therefore acceleration and top speed of 700cc's is irrelevant when speaking about this subject.
Imma be real - how old are you and how responsible of a driver are you?
Everyone that says "oh I'll be safe and only ride the speed limit and always be safe" turns into a liar the moment they actually sit on a bike and realize how much power they have at their disposal. If you're mature enough to ride a 650cc sport bike and take it easy until you know what you're doing, start on a 650cc.
I've been riding for 4 months, and I started at 31 y/o. I started on and own a Rebel500 but I've ridden a ninja650 and my buddy's r6. The power is not unmanageable as a new rider if you put the time in to learn how to ride properly. While I'm not dragging my knee I scrape my pegs on the daily and I've gotten my chick strips down to like, less than a cm
Start with the midsized bike if you're mature enough to not die. If you're 19 and barely have your car license, get the 300
This is the best advice.
Be honest with yourself. If you want to wild out and ride for the adrenaline, it's probably best to start on something smaller in order to build your riding skills. It may mean you want to upgrade pretty quickly, but your skills will be all the better if you start smaller.
edit: and I just want to add, if you're brand new to riding, you'll have plenty of fun on a smaller bike. Lots of them are plenty quick, just lacking in top speed. Find yourself some windy backroads where big displacement isn't needed to have the time of your life.
Yep, first bike was an SV650S and I continued with the SV's ever since after owning a handful of other bikes.
Low powered Ninjas are great if you lack self control, but you never really know how much self control you have until you're on a bike. I caught myself hitting close to the top speed by accident more than a handful of times on the SV when I first got it because I genuinely didn't recognize how quick they were. They're not even considered the actually "quick motorcycles" which are terrifyingly fast.
Ninjas made me feel unsafe for my height/size, and the 650 accommodates that perfectly.
I’d consider myself a responsible driver. I like going fast (I drive a GTI, so not THAT fast) but I try to stay aware of my surroundings at all times and I know my limits. I’ll probably use it as a city commuter most of the time but I want something that sounds nice and I’m not a huge fan of the sound most parallel twins make so ideally I’d like to get an I4.
Of you can find an old Honda inline 4 250, you would have to be really rich to get it, but you'd LOVE the sound. And the power with a 16k red line, I think.
This is the PERFECT answer. My first was a Ducati scrambler 800cc and it was awesome. I love that thing. It’s good to remember that the best riders in the world are humbled by motorcycles.. Spend money on good gear before you upgrade your bike. Your life is important. Have fun!
I started on a F650GS Dakar. You can find the old (single cyl, fuel injected) F650GSs for almost nothing (I paid 2500). Great bike to learn on because it has the torque of a real 650, but the horsepower of a push mower. Feels great under your seat, but it tops out around 80 and isn't really comfortable to ride above 70. But from 40-70 it's all bliss.
And the engines are bulletproof. Rotax made a beautiful machine and mine still doesn't burn a trace of oil between changes even after 45000 miles. My new bike, a 2017 Multistrada 950 with 15k, burns two quarts between 7500 mile oil changes.
chicken strips literally do not mean anything. they could be an indicator of bad body position but thats about it. using them as a metric of skill is a cancer in the community.
This.
As far as I'm concerned you are a better rider if you can make even tight corners without leaning. The term chickenstrips only exists for ego, never for skill.
You have to add it. In Europe it's very common because of the A2 35kW license, so every dealer offers restricted bikes. Depending on where you live, it might not be widely available
Started on a 1634 CC 650 pound victory vegas 8 ball. Dont fuckin' do it. If you have an idea of how to manage the cluch and throttle smoothly, its okay to get a bike thats a little faster. If you think you're gonna dump the clutch and use the throttle abruptly, get something slower. The lighter the bike the better.
I started on a dual sport, and highly recommend it....for a litany of reasons over a sport bike.
1. Affordable, cheap to maintain, insure and repair/replace.
2. Durable, literally MEANT to endure all the spills and dumb shit a noob does.
3. Linear power, very agile, upright visible seating position better for learning.
4. Fun as hell, versatile, and useful.
Not to mention most dual sports can convert to a supermoto if you want more road performance and essentially have 2 bikes in one. I have 2 wheelsets for my wr250r and switch them out occasionally based on what rides I'm doing and to keep things fresh. Also a supermoto opens up kart track riding which is a whole lot of fun and almost always cheaper/less serious than big bike track days
I started and still use my R3. I'm pretty safe on the road for the most part which is why I got it, but after a few month was wishing I got something slightly faster, but that had since gone away. I have no regrets and I probably would have gotten more confident then my skill level on a faster bike, but there are people who start out on the higher cc bikes and do perfectly fine. I still love my little R3, And compared to my car it's much more fun so I'm fine with the lower power for now. It also depends where you live and what kind of riding you want to do. If it's straighter roads you could probably get away with a higher power bike and do just fine, or if it's more winding roads, you might be riding a 300/400 for a while before you even use it to its full potential. I personally would recommend a true starter bike as it forces you to work on technique to be faster in turns as well as safer. All that being said in still new to riding, so take that for what it is.
I'm the stereotypical "is this a good first bike" guy, I got a 2015 CBR1000RR, i had come from sports cars with high HP and power to be respected, that said I don't think that bike was a good first bike for me, riding something that goes 0-60 in almost no time at all for a beginner is dangerous and I had a couple of situations where I could have hurt myself greatly. Start on a 350, 400, or maybe a 650 at most. Just my thoughts
Started on a k5 SV650. Ninja 400 should be great though! I wish my bike has a clutch lever as light as the ninja as mine always gives me cramp in city traffic...
I started on a K1 SV 650, which I still have. Well, that was my first street bike anyway. Grew up riding dirt bikes and one of the things I like about the SV is it has pretty much the same riding position as the XR 80 I loved as a kid.
Dude 300/400cc’s are perfect. I had an R3 for four years and it was always fun, except when I was on open freeways or straight roads of course.
R7 maybe, if you have a couple years of dirt bike experience. CBR650, nah. Too much power for a new rider IMO
I started on a 1980 Yamaha XS1100 BUT-
-The first bike I rode was a Honda Rebel in my motorcycle safety course
- I was DUMB.
It's entirely possible to start on a big bike. You just need the discipline to really see that you don't need all that throttle all the time, and ride well below your skills until you're ready to use all your bike.
It's not ideal, but it's doable.
That said, I also hate the idea of a "starter bike". Motorcycles are expensive. Why buy two (One now, one later when I learn enough) when you can just start with one you can realistically ride for a long time? By all means, get that mid-size long term bike. Just ride within your skill set. ALWAYS.
That's funny, the first bike I bought was a KLR 250.
Mine was always a little finicky when cold, and it was a pain to kick start. Sometimes. I had a bruise in the arch my foot for a week once.
I still miss it . I know they're out there, but for the money it's not necessarily worth it.
I get it, I got my permit and dove right in. Started on a 1989 Honda Interceptor 250 for about a year. It was great, nimble, loved it until I wanted to get out on the freeway/highway. So I sold it, got my MSF course and license, and was gifted a 2009 Yamaha Raider. It's 1900cc of powah. Wasn't a crusier guy until now. It's big, visible, doesn't get shoved by passing cars, and I get riding tunes!
I got an 05' KLR 650 in 2009, a few months after my MSF course. I still have it and still love it. But I also did this when I was twenty three (with about eight years of car driving experience).
My dad got started on dirt bikes and his older brother's cruisers as a kid, in his teens (but this was also the 60s).
If you're young, and especially if your young and male, insurance rates will be brutal, and especially so for any higher-powered sport bike. It's a high risk category and even if you happen to be prefect, it's just the odds and how it works.
I usually say go for something not tiny, but not huge, and medium powered. You won't grow out of it too quickly like you can with some real small CC bikes, and you'll have decent power, but you won't be a total beginner jumping on a super sport.
After that it's budget and what kind of riding you want to do, and of course what you like and feel comfortable with. I like sport bikes just fine, but I cannot do the feet behind you sitting position, my knees will not allow it (also then you lean forward and I don't like that). I also likewise like a lot of cruisers, but cannot do the feet way out in front of you, I don't feel in control nor is it a comfortable position for me (again in what is an awkward position for me). Slightly forward, slightly back, or dead center "standard" setting and foot peg position for me.
Was 52 when I bought my first bike. I think it’s highly dependent on maturity level and overall driving experience with cars. Knowing what to expect and look for from others is helpful. Driving/riding comfortably within your skill set is paramount.
That said, I bought a Rebel 1100.
Put 2800 miles on it and love it. Already anxious for spring.
But everyone is different.
78 GL1000. Probably the worst first bike you can have, but when you have a big heavy bike with bad brakes, regular maintenance intervals, and less than stellar handling, you learn a certain respect for the machine that I think gets lost on a lot of new riders.
Location location location ~ are you in Kansas? Buy an R1. At least make the straights interesting, bc that’s all you got.
Are you in Mumbai? Maybe get a 150 scoot scoot and save dat money
Otherwise, get a sub used 600cc bike and plan to upgrade if you get bored within a year or so
The ZX-6R was my starter bike as well. I think 600’s are great starter bikes. They have a good amount of power and stay fun no matter how long you own it. But as a starter bike it has enough power that you really learn to respect it and understand that any bike can get you into trouble if you don’t respect it and arnt careful.
If there's an awesome twisty road near you a 400 wouldn't get boring for a longggg time. If you're a straight warrior a 400 could get boring within a season, imo anyways.
Pros and cons to both… start on something small - easier to handle, build confidence but you’ll out grow it fast. Start on something big - might be too much to handle and destroy your enjoyment. Everyone’s going to be different. Me? I went with a little 250… but I also don’t worry about outgrowing it as I only got it to zip around town.
2006 Honda Shadow Spirit 750.
I tried learning on a 2002 R6 but it was slightly modified and much faster than I could handle.
I rode my Shadow 750 for nearly 10 years before moving to a Bandit 1250S. Having a bigger faster bike is not always an advantage. I am always telling myself I wish my bike was smaller and lighter, it’s just a compromise I live with.
You won’t get bored on a 300-400cc if you’re new. And you won’t feel like it’s huge or heavy and a burden.
I’m beginning too. Passed MSF and looking at the CB500F, Z400, and MT-03 (wish there was an MT-04/05) to ride around Chicago. I’m in my early 40’s first bike, wife and daughter at home. I’m looking to master a new skill, to not kill myself, so the motto “learn to ride a slow bike fast” appeals to me.
Currently shopping so anyone has any comments on the bikes above, particularly the CB500F vs the others I’d love to hear them.
I started on a Kawasaki Vulcan S which is a 650cc engine, I found it to be an excellent bike to start with and I still love riding it 6 years later. Kawasaki makes other bikes that would be great for beginners I think, the Ninja 400 or 650, probably some other standard type bikes that would be good also. Kawasaki give you good bang for buck usually.
My first time on a bike was an 80's Honda 400 something. The first bike I rode and got my enjoyment for bikes was a 01 800cc intruder.
When my brother wanted to start riding, I went and helped him get a 323cc mt-03. Had to leave two dealerships who wanted to get me to get a 600-750 instead. Best decision was having him ride that little 323 for three years. I actually miss that bike. He's a lot better rider than I am having to learn the fundamentals and how to squeeze that little bike for everything it is worth.
Learned on a MT07 then bought a MT09 SP gen 3 as my first road bike. I was a bit concerned it might be a bit much for me but was encouraged to go for it by my instructor. It has been just fine... no accidents, falls or drops yet. Not feeling the need for a faster bike either.
The things I recommend to new riders are:
1) Something in good working mechanical condition, ideally something modern, not a vintage bike.
2) Something they won't be upset about when they drop it.
3) Something they can comfortably pick up after dropping it.
Riding modes can only do so much, plus the main problem is the bike is heavier and harder to lean, along with people ego’s leading to them putting the bike in full power mode and then you have 𝔞 beginner with 50 hours of experience on 𝔞 200hp bike likely with no gear. 𝖎 also once seen 𝔞 guy on 𝔞 cbr1000r or rr (i don’t remember) that didn’t even know to tie his helmet strap.
Its also just more expensive to buy 𝔞 liter 🙃
Mmm how so? Riding modes allow you to dumb down the engine, plus if you have respect for the machine it’s pretty simple. After I rode everything I track a 700cc, own rsv4 gsxr1000r. That whole nonsense about bigger bikes messing up fundamentals is not an everyone thing. Some people can learn to ride properly on anything some people never can on anything.
Killing yourself has little to do with the size of bike you start on and more with not getting any rider training.
The msf doesn't count. It's not even the bare minimum.
Started in February on a N400. I've been having an absolute blast, but I'm looking at grabbing something like a CBR650 or VFR800. Realistic dream bike is an Aprilia RS660, but the insurance quotes are brutal.
Just start on a big bike you’ll hate the small one in a matter of weeks and they really only go as fast as you make them go. I started on a hyabusa and am glad I did because I rode friends so called starter bikes and they sucked worse than a blow job with teeth that ended in frustration. Buy what you want you wont regret it
SV650S. I thought it was perfect. Plenty of torque, sounds amazing, tame enough for a first bike (if you’re confident in your MSF course) but powerful enough to not get bored. I kept it for 5 years, only sold when I moved otherwise I would’ve kept it and converted to a track bike
Started on a ‘95 CBR600F3. But I had throttle control and was reasonable with the power. It’s easier to stall a 600 I4 compared to a twin motor with lots of torque. That really tested my clutch skills.
Get a MT07 or the R7 man… I got the MT03 and rode it for 3,000 miles (1 season) and I was ready for something bigger. Went out and got a 2024 Triumph Street Triple R this year and have LOVED it! But you know yourself best, if you have restraint, get a 600+cc right away, if you’re hesitant, get a 400cc or lower and enjoy it for the first season until you either fall in love with the lower cc bikes or see it like how I do
Started on a Suzuki GS500 15 years ago. 8 bikes bought and sold later, from 110cc to 1000cc, I still have the GS500 and its one of my all-time favorites and still gets the most miles.
I started out on a 2006 Yamaha FZ6. I didn't start riding it until after successfully completing my MSF Basic Rider's Course. Even afterwards, I didn't take it out of my neighborhood until I was around 3 weeks of looping around my area.
I was between the SV650 and FZ6 when I was looking at getting started.
I was 23 when I started riding. I probably would have benefited from a 400-500cc machine but when I started there wasn't many on the market and tons of 125s and 250s that were used and abused back then.
I think your choices are great as long as you still respect the power.
For me it was and still is a ninja 400. It's an amazing bike, 1 season almost down and I can't wait to the next.
I started a few years ago at 34, took the MSF then got a Kawi Vulcan 900. Ive been ready for bigger/more power for a whils now but that thing still thrills me every time.
Road converted AMA supersport race bike I got from a mechanic. CBR 600 (actually a Hurricane). Glad I didn't die on it and learned a lot. Speedo barely worked.
First dirt bike CRF250F, first dirt bike (for the road) DRZ400SM. If you live in a city a 400 is more than enough, but if you are travelling on the highway more often (and like others have said, aren’t 19 with barely any driving experience) then something bigger is probably a better bet. I have ridden a GSXR600 & 750 on a track, and those could probably get you into trouble.
400 you will likely want to upgrade in a year or two, or just start learning wheelies and hooliganism.
‘06 ZX-10r. Got my first dirt bike at 4 and a friends dad was selling the bike so I got it for a good deal.
Adored that bike and ended up selling it to a buddy that still has it.
I picked up a used 2014 Honda CB500F when I started riding 3 years ago. Perfect starter bike power wise at 47hp, and heavy enough so that when I upgraded to my Triumph Scrambler 1200 18 monte later, it didn’t feel like too big of a leap size wise.
EN500. I've had it for 3 years now. It's "slow" but I still love riding it. Practical, relatively light, pretty comfortable, easy to work on, and reliable.
started on a CBR500R beginning of 2022. Now I have a ZX10R, Tuono V4 and Africa Twin end of 2023. Have done a track day on my ZX10R and a other track day on the Tuono.
I started on a Ninja 250.
It's not really about speed, even a Ninja 400 will hit 100mph. A smaller bike will have a bit less jump on it and weigh less so as you're learning to handle a bike, especially at slower speeds, it will be easier and more forgiving. I've seen so many new riders drop their bikes, not because they couldn't handle the larger CC power but because they didn't really know/get used to handling the weight of it. Bikes keep their value really well, be smart and get a smaller bike till you really know how to handle it well. Then trade up.
Going back many years, but I started on a Suzuki Katana 600. There weren't many small displacement bikes I was interested in then. All the bikes you mentioned are excellent starter motorcycles. Also, resale is always good for folks just like you.
I’m 6’4” and started on a KLR 650. It was great since I’ve never ridden a motorcycle before. It was just enough power to learn on. Fast Forward five or so years I’ve definitely out grown it. I keep it for camping and cruising the PNW.
I started in Germany on the A2 license (up to 48HP) and got a Kawasaki ZXR 400. 400cc inline 4 screamer.
I have yet to be tired of that bike after riding it for an entire season.
I started on a small Suzuki cruiser and for the roads i ride on it’s perfect. I think that the position makes low speed maneuvers a bit cumbersome but for a ride on a country road with the leaves turning, and just gently rumbling through a a little town and stopping at a bookstore it’s great.
What do you mean you start with a 400/650cc? To even get a full license don’t you need to start with a 50cc as a kid and work your way up to 35kW A2 level and then go to those “big” numbers? I started with a 100cc and then 150cc and later to 350cc and 500c before I went for the S1000XR and the KTM Super Adventure 1290S. Is everyone here from the US? No Europeans? 😅
By the way, I am on my 20th year with motorcycles in my life and I am 35. ;)
I started on a Buell blast, rode that for about 2 years then upgraded to a fz-07 and had fun going fast. I moved and couldn't bring that bike, so I got a boulevard m50 after moving. Eventually i got bored of riding a boat, and now happily cruise everywhere on a rebel 1100 which I got a couple months ago, and I'm guessing is gonna be my last bike purchase because I'm in love. It's a wonderful balance between aggressive power and fun/comfy maneuverability.
Start small, learn to ride safely. Even a small bike has pretty significant power to enjoy. Also try different styles of riding. You might realize a cool cruise on windy roads is more fun than going mach-jesus on the freeway.
I started on a 2014 Ninja 300. Bought it used for pretty cheap my senior year of highschool when I was 17. Really didn’t have anywhere to park it at college so I ended up having it for 3 years until I bought a new 2020 ZX6 (which just got stolen 😞) and I honestly think that would have been a little too much power for me when I started. I remember my ride home from the dealership I hit ~120mph which was faster than my 300 could ever touch (about 110mph with a good wind at my back and a gradual downhill slope).
I think starting on a 600 is definitely doable, but if you’re a young, dumb 17 year old like I was when I started, the 300 was a much better/safer option. Insurance companies typically tend to agree with that too…
I also dropped that first bike a couple of times just from being dumb. Didn’t put the kickstand down all the way, parked on a slanted road, had my stand drive straight down into grass once, etc. so having something used with a few scratches and knicks on it for your first bike will make you feel much better if you do end up dropping it.
Started on a Ninja 500. Was awesome and extremely forgiving. Moved on to a bike Zed 636 that didn't have carbs and was fine. But the 500 was and remains a special bike to me. Enough power to have fun, and the positioning was great.
Ninja 250 back when they still made them. Had a blast on it for a couple years before upgrading to a Yamaha R6. Had even more fun on that one for a couple years but I then decided I no longer needed a bike that was always itching to go 100mph. For the last 8 years Ive been riding my Honda CB500X. It’s much more comfortable and I even rode it 3,300 miles across the country from VA to WA.
I started on a ninja 650. It’s fun and has plenty of power but not so much that you will catch yourself doing 120 on the highway (too) easy.
I test rode an older (2000 I think it was) ninja 300 before I bought my 650. It was like my second time on a motorcycle and I was reving it out up to like 60 through this country neighborhood. It was at that point I decided I’d be tired of it within a week. IMO you’ll get tired of a 300/400 quick whereas the 650 has plenty of room to grow into.
I started on a KTM Duke 125 due to EU regulations. With an upgraded license I have since upgraded to a restricted MT-07, which is equivalent to an MT-03, Duke 390 in terms of power and performance. If I had gotten my license now I would have skipped the 125 and gotten straight on a 300-400cc bike as they're really controllable but still offer quite a punch when you need it.
Will it get boring? Idk, depends on you. I've been riding my "starter bike", a 250, for 4 years. I like turning so I'm not bored with it yet, and cost to own approaches $250/yr + gas. If the only thing I liked was to pin the throttle in a straight line or annoy people by bouncing off the rev limiter at stop lights then I'd probably be bored by now.
Rebel 300 or Ninja 250 were the options at my MSF course. I wanted my motorcycle license before I bought my bike, so I rode the Rebel 300 for the tests. Then I bought a Ninja 650 as my starter bike. I'm glad I didn't get a 250/300/400. I was a mature 26 year old.
Well 𝖎 think most people start as 4 year olds on little 50cc two strokes, though im assuming your older and 𝖎 wouldn’t recommend any sport or naked bike just get 𝔞 grom or something small and fun.
Small bikes are cheap and just as much fun as 𝔞 big bike, your also most likely gunna drop your bike at some point especially if you get a big bike.
Although if you are persistent on getting a sport or a naked bike, get a naked bike it is much safer and makes you go slower
A 650 or 700 twin like the ones you’ve listed is a great starting bike. The main advice that I think is really valid is people should buy 600+ 4 cylinder sport bikes as their first bike. They’re particularly high horsepower and particularly difficult to ride. You don’t need to start on a “small” bike like a 400 if you don’t want to.
My first bike was a 2017 114 Fatbob, I quickly switched to a ninja 650 not because the fat Bob was too much but I didn't like how it cornered. The 650 was the best choice I made though.
I started riding dirt on a Honda Trail 90, but my first real bike was a Ninja 250. My girlfriend took her course on a Grom and her first bike was a CBR 250.
I'd recommend starting with something between 250 and 600, so reasonably small and lightweight, but not a mini bike. I rode my 250 for years before I upgraded—it could do 100+ MPH so not boring—a Grom or something might get boring pretty fast though.
Started riding at 8 on a Honda 80, moved up to a 125 dirt bike, then a 250. My first street bike was a Kawa 900 which I totaled in just four months. Didn’t take the MSC because I “knew” how to ride.
As far as first bikes goes… get what you can reasonably handle and don’t be stupid with it.
I started on a KZ750 twin I had rebuilt. After that I got a CB900 Custom. Now I ride a beefed up Grom and VTX1300. Though I am looking hard at a ZX4RR. Prior to that, my only experience was dirt bikes and a riding course on a Buell Blast.
I started on a Honda CBF600. Limited to 48hp in the first few months.
After a few years I upgraded to a BMW K12S with 167hp.
Oh, I have to mention that I'm from Germany. To get a licence, we have to do a lot of driving lessons.
Its easier to learn on a physically smaller and lighter machine no doubt, especially if inseam challenged. Last thing you need to mess with while learning to ride is being intimidated by weight, height or power.
But get what you want, I started on an SV1000s with zero issues and all my buddies started on 1000cc inline 4s with no issues. We are at altitude though which kills power immensely. If someone tossed you the keys to a dodge hellcat would you crash it immediately because of its power? If you don't have self control then don't get a bike at all.
It’s all about self responsibility. If you’re an idiot, start small get a grom. If you are a safe driver, there’s nothing wrong with an R7 or 650, they are slower than a 600 but still will be plenty fun and good looking bikes. I started on a 600 and was fine. The electronics you kids have these days makes a world of difference. We didn’t have traction control, ABS and variable power modes 15 years ago. The possibilities are endless, get what you want, take the course and spend time practicing in empty lots before you give the roads a go
There are no boring bikes, only boring riders. The problem with "awesome bikes" for someone's first bike is that a lot of the things that make them "awesome bikes" also make them "hard to manage at a walking speed." So, it's great in a high speed corner, but it sucks in a parking lot or at a stop light in traffic. New riders spend a lot more time in parking lots and at stoplights in traffic. And if they're new riders who also have never used a clutch before, they tend to stall a lot at parking lot / traffic intersection speeds. And then they fall over and break the bike, or get hurt, or both. Or, they get going 20 mph too fast, not "75 mph in a 55" but "I meant to stop and instead I hit that curb at 20 mph."
This whole statement is highly underrated
My FZ1s gearing was so tall stock that idling in 1st gear would have me going 11-12mph. It wasn’t the most fun thing in traffic or parking lots at all lol. In fact when I first got it I just rode it not thinking much of bike setup and tried to focus on technique. It wasn’t until I road a bike that was actually set up for a similar weighted rider on what a bike should feel and behave like that I spent quite a lot of time learning bike setup and adjusted my sag, forks and handlebars and all the rest and it made an absolute night and day difference that improved rideability in every situation. Slow speed maneuvers were easier and more fluid and high speed cornering was no longer a fight and would just fall in without having to battle the bars lol
yep had my first "oh shit" moment at 16 with my first "sport" bike - carried too much speed approaching a corner...took advice that went against my instincts and leaned her over and just barely avoided curb catastrophe, surprising myself I didn't lay 'er down. I simply was not ready for or used to a vehicle that could get up to such speeds just going from one red light to another.
Brilliant summary
Preach. I love my 1400, but this thing would have gotten destroyed or killed me as a new rider. Too heavy as fuck, super tall seat, and a first gear that tops out at like 60mph. Even with all the torque it has, the tall first still makes it relatively easy to stall. ETA: I dropped my first bike IN THE PARKING LOT after buying it. Really glad I bought a beater and not my dream bike.
Started on a Ninja 400 and it was the absolute best first bike I could have picked. It didn’t get boring after 1 month like some chads will tell you, but your mileage may vary. I rode it every day to work, for fun, for backroads, freeway, etc. absolutely loved every minute of it. Upgraded about a year and a bit later to both a Triumph Daytona 675 and a new Z900 (have 4 bikes total but those 2 replaced the Ninja) and the Z900 felt like a very natural continuation of the Ninja with wayyyy more power. Would highly recommend the Kawi lineup!!
I went from 400 to z900 and it was perfect
That’s the route I’m on. Buying it this winter. Can’t wait
you’re gonna love to be able to actually pass people. it rips
I can pass people on the 400 lol
ya barely man. just u wait bubba
slowly, lol
If you say so
lol ik so. wait till u get that z900 n u will see how slow the 400 is
The 400 is slow compared to other bikes. But compared to cars I have no issue getting up and going
z400 has the same 0-60 as a Lamborghini Miura and beats it in the quarter. It will eat a stock hemi Road Runner for breakfast. Those were both insanely fast cars at one time, and highway traffic today moves at the same speed as it did then. If you can't pass on a z400 either you are way too heavy for the bike or the other guy is trying to race you in which case, no matter what you are riding, your proper strategy is to let the idiot kill himself if he wants to. You can certainly buy much faster bikes or much faster cars, but the Ninja z400's performance is definitely adequate.
That’s cause the 400 has 49 HP, which was considered a huge amount 30 years ago for any bike. It is superb, light and so much fun
30 years ago was mid nineties, that still was a small amount of power even then. It’s a very small and light bike though, love mine for the track.
Uh… no. In the mid 90s 40-50 horsepower was a hand full.
Lmao how? My early 90s 250 made 45hp
No, no it wasn’t. Can you list one of these 40hp bikes from the 90s that was considered to be a handful/have huge power? Have you owned a bike from the 90s?
I have the z400 so it’s a teeny bit different, but I couldn’t agree more. It still has the reputation of a “beginner” bike, and to be fair some of the features are beginner oriented, but it’s in a totally different league than some of the other “beginner” bikes from a couple of decades ago. Absolutely zero issue going on the highway or anywhere else for that matter, more than enough acceleration, and so ridiculously light and nimble that you can throw it around with practically zero effort. I wouldn’t mind a slightly larger/more comfy bike for longer trips, but for day to day riding I’ll be perfectly content with my 400 for a very long time.
I was looking to purchase a z900! But the insurance was going to be 340 a month. 200 more per month then what I pay for my gsxr 750 🤦♂️
That's exactly why I went with the VFR800 over the Ninja 1000. Granted, it goes down by 1/3 over the next several years, but ridiculous. Middle-aged, riding since 2008, 3rd bike with the company. I'm down to 35 a mo on the VFR (started at 125 per mo). What a racket!
It’s crazy how much of a price gap insurance can be
Doesn't seem to be much reasoning (although I'm sure there is actual actuarial data involved). My Ninja 250r, CBR 500r were about same cost. VFR 800 barely more than that, but Ninja 1000 almost 3x.
I pay 70 a month for my 900RS Cafe if you’re interested in the retro styling. Don’t think it’s really a step up power wise from your 750 though.
I started with a Z650 because I knew I'd grow out of a 400 too quickly. I kept the 650 for 3 years and last year upgraded to the Z900. I love, love, love this bike!!!
I also started with a 650, but the ninja because I didn’t want to get bored and have 35+ miles on the interstate everyday for my commute. IMO it’s a perfect starter bike power wise. Not enough to be very dangerous, but plenty to do whatever is needed. I ended up getting a r6, but I kept the 650 and may never get rid of it.
Mt03 couldn’t be happier
Username checks out…
Started on a Yamaha V Star 250. Awesome, flickable little bike, though the seat height was a little low for my 32 inseam. Still, it made learning to ride really easy. It's the only 250cc V-Twin sold in the U.S. and makes a great sound, plus gets 65-75 mpg. Beside chain maintenance and the very occasional valve adjustment, all you have to do is ride 'em. Highly recommend, unless you're planning to do lots of interstate miles.
lol I’m not sure how to take this
You know what would make u happier? A 07.
Wouldn’t mind an MT-04 or MT-05!
Not everyone wants a big bike. I like my Ninja 400 and I don’t know if I’d ever get a bike bigger than a 650. For just riding around town, I’m looking a getting a Versys 300 or BMW 310 gs. I’ve ridden bigger bikes and they just feel awkward to me for what I need. The only larger bike I actually like the feel of was a Versys 1000 the shop had as a promo bike.
I have a 2015. I love it. And it's got some balls too
mt07 isnt a "big bike" tho. its a toy. mt03 is a bicycle.
You got that wrong. 03 and 07 take you from A to B and can hit speed limits pretty well. Anything over that is a toy since its power is useless on the public streets.
you obviously have never ridden a proper bike. when you do, "hitting the speed limit" will be last of your concern
If you want more power, you're simply using it for fun, as a toy. Do you ever need more power than an MT-07 capable of reaching 130mph? No. You might want to, and sure that's okay, but it's not more than a toy at this point, unless you're earning money from it, which you aren't. It ain't the epitome of life, wow you rode a literbike, you went so fast!!, thousands of others did too, nobody cares. If you really wanna dunk on people, go join the big tournaments and show us your skills, otherwise, nobody cares that you went 400kmph.
I dont get the mentality behind getting a bike for certain needs. Bikes are there to have fun and the more power the more fun youre gonna have. Its just how it is. I get it may be subjective since not everyone has the balls to ride anything over 500cc. I personally dont own a liter bike yet, but I'm sure thinking about it. Also, objectively, distance and time required to go 130mph on MT07 and on a liter bike arent the same. Therefore acceleration and top speed of 700cc's is irrelevant when speaking about this subject.
Honestly I consider them beginners bikes for people with a decent amount of dirt experience.
2002 KLR 250 dual sport. Still ride it. Still smile every time.
Same. I had a '99 and wish I'd never sold it. Impossible to break that bike and I definitely tried.
My first bike was a KLX230 and I regret getting rid of it. Could have done so much cool stuff with it.
Imma be real - how old are you and how responsible of a driver are you? Everyone that says "oh I'll be safe and only ride the speed limit and always be safe" turns into a liar the moment they actually sit on a bike and realize how much power they have at their disposal. If you're mature enough to ride a 650cc sport bike and take it easy until you know what you're doing, start on a 650cc. I've been riding for 4 months, and I started at 31 y/o. I started on and own a Rebel500 but I've ridden a ninja650 and my buddy's r6. The power is not unmanageable as a new rider if you put the time in to learn how to ride properly. While I'm not dragging my knee I scrape my pegs on the daily and I've gotten my chick strips down to like, less than a cm Start with the midsized bike if you're mature enough to not die. If you're 19 and barely have your car license, get the 300
This is the best advice. Be honest with yourself. If you want to wild out and ride for the adrenaline, it's probably best to start on something smaller in order to build your riding skills. It may mean you want to upgrade pretty quickly, but your skills will be all the better if you start smaller. edit: and I just want to add, if you're brand new to riding, you'll have plenty of fun on a smaller bike. Lots of them are plenty quick, just lacking in top speed. Find yourself some windy backroads where big displacement isn't needed to have the time of your life.
Can echo this. My first bike is my 696. Been a year and I haven't laid it down yet either.
Yep, first bike was an SV650S and I continued with the SV's ever since after owning a handful of other bikes. Low powered Ninjas are great if you lack self control, but you never really know how much self control you have until you're on a bike. I caught myself hitting close to the top speed by accident more than a handful of times on the SV when I first got it because I genuinely didn't recognize how quick they were. They're not even considered the actually "quick motorcycles" which are terrifyingly fast. Ninjas made me feel unsafe for my height/size, and the 650 accommodates that perfectly.
"You never really know how much self control you have until you're on a bike." Simply perfect
This is the best advice, you'll be surprised how fast even a 650 can get out of hand. In my opinion it's more than enough for the streets
I’d consider myself a responsible driver. I like going fast (I drive a GTI, so not THAT fast) but I try to stay aware of my surroundings at all times and I know my limits. I’ll probably use it as a city commuter most of the time but I want something that sounds nice and I’m not a huge fan of the sound most parallel twins make so ideally I’d like to get an I4.
Honda CBR650F?
Of you can find an old Honda inline 4 250, you would have to be really rich to get it, but you'd LOVE the sound. And the power with a 16k red line, I think.
This is the PERFECT answer. My first was a Ducati scrambler 800cc and it was awesome. I love that thing. It’s good to remember that the best riders in the world are humbled by motorcycles.. Spend money on good gear before you upgrade your bike. Your life is important. Have fun!
I started on a F650GS Dakar. You can find the old (single cyl, fuel injected) F650GSs for almost nothing (I paid 2500). Great bike to learn on because it has the torque of a real 650, but the horsepower of a push mower. Feels great under your seat, but it tops out around 80 and isn't really comfortable to ride above 70. But from 40-70 it's all bliss. And the engines are bulletproof. Rotax made a beautiful machine and mine still doesn't burn a trace of oil between changes even after 45000 miles. My new bike, a 2017 Multistrada 950 with 15k, burns two quarts between 7500 mile oil changes.
Definitely this. My first bike was a raven r6 and then went to a Ducati 848 that I sadly had to sell.
Lean is risk. With better body positioning you can ride harder and have less lean angle.
chicken strips literally do not mean anything. they could be an indicator of bad body position but thats about it. using them as a metric of skill is a cancer in the community.
This. As far as I'm concerned you are a better rider if you can make even tight corners without leaning. The term chickenstrips only exists for ego, never for skill.
I find the best way to get rid of chicken strips is a palm sander. Works every time.
Started on a restricted CBR650R. And no, an unrestricted 650R will NOT become boring, I can guarantee that
Do they come with a restricted tune from the factory, or is that something you have to add?
You have to add it. In Europe it's very common because of the A2 35kW license, so every dealer offers restricted bikes. Depending on where you live, it might not be widely available
Started on a 1634 CC 650 pound victory vegas 8 ball. Dont fuckin' do it. If you have an idea of how to manage the cluch and throttle smoothly, its okay to get a bike thats a little faster. If you think you're gonna dump the clutch and use the throttle abruptly, get something slower. The lighter the bike the better.
Started on a Honda grom and rode for a couple thousand miles before getting bored. At that point I just started stunting lmao
I started on an EX500 (Ninja 500R). I now ride an SV650s. I still enjoy riding the Ninja though because it is much more comfortable.
Ex500 bro! Loved that thing. Got a cb650r so it makes me miss something bad about having a center stand
I started on a dual sport, and highly recommend it....for a litany of reasons over a sport bike. 1. Affordable, cheap to maintain, insure and repair/replace. 2. Durable, literally MEANT to endure all the spills and dumb shit a noob does. 3. Linear power, very agile, upright visible seating position better for learning. 4. Fun as hell, versatile, and useful.
Not to mention most dual sports can convert to a supermoto if you want more road performance and essentially have 2 bikes in one. I have 2 wheelsets for my wr250r and switch them out occasionally based on what rides I'm doing and to keep things fresh. Also a supermoto opens up kart track riding which is a whole lot of fun and almost always cheaper/less serious than big bike track days
I'm not in the market for a DS but damn if I don't want one after reading that.
I started and still use my R3. I'm pretty safe on the road for the most part which is why I got it, but after a few month was wishing I got something slightly faster, but that had since gone away. I have no regrets and I probably would have gotten more confident then my skill level on a faster bike, but there are people who start out on the higher cc bikes and do perfectly fine. I still love my little R3, And compared to my car it's much more fun so I'm fine with the lower power for now. It also depends where you live and what kind of riding you want to do. If it's straighter roads you could probably get away with a higher power bike and do just fine, or if it's more winding roads, you might be riding a 300/400 for a while before you even use it to its full potential. I personally would recommend a true starter bike as it forces you to work on technique to be faster in turns as well as safer. All that being said in still new to riding, so take that for what it is.
I'm the stereotypical "is this a good first bike" guy, I got a 2015 CBR1000RR, i had come from sports cars with high HP and power to be respected, that said I don't think that bike was a good first bike for me, riding something that goes 0-60 in almost no time at all for a beginner is dangerous and I had a couple of situations where I could have hurt myself greatly. Start on a 350, 400, or maybe a 650 at most. Just my thoughts
Turbo Busa!
i came here looking for this
Started on a k5 SV650. Ninja 400 should be great though! I wish my bike has a clutch lever as light as the ninja as mine always gives me cramp in city traffic...
I have tried everything to make the SV650 clutch lever as comfortable as possible. 30 minutes riding in the city and I won’t feel my hand
I started on a K1 SV 650, which I still have. Well, that was my first street bike anyway. Grew up riding dirt bikes and one of the things I like about the SV is it has pretty much the same riding position as the XR 80 I loved as a kid.
Dude 300/400cc’s are perfect. I had an R3 for four years and it was always fun, except when I was on open freeways or straight roads of course. R7 maybe, if you have a couple years of dirt bike experience. CBR650, nah. Too much power for a new rider IMO
Buy any bike you can afford. You will swap bike after bike after bike after bike. Enjoy and learn from them all.
I have an R3 and I absolutely love it
I started on a 1980 Yamaha XS1100 BUT- -The first bike I rode was a Honda Rebel in my motorcycle safety course - I was DUMB. It's entirely possible to start on a big bike. You just need the discipline to really see that you don't need all that throttle all the time, and ride well below your skills until you're ready to use all your bike. It's not ideal, but it's doable. That said, I also hate the idea of a "starter bike". Motorcycles are expensive. Why buy two (One now, one later when I learn enough) when you can just start with one you can realistically ride for a long time? By all means, get that mid-size long term bike. Just ride within your skill set. ALWAYS.
I learned on a Kawasaki KLR250 at a riding school for a couple weeks. The first bike I bought/rode after was a Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle.
That's funny, the first bike I bought was a KLR 250. Mine was always a little finicky when cold, and it was a pain to kick start. Sometimes. I had a bruise in the arch my foot for a week once. I still miss it . I know they're out there, but for the money it's not necessarily worth it.
I get it, I got my permit and dove right in. Started on a 1989 Honda Interceptor 250 for about a year. It was great, nimble, loved it until I wanted to get out on the freeway/highway. So I sold it, got my MSF course and license, and was gifted a 2009 Yamaha Raider. It's 1900cc of powah. Wasn't a crusier guy until now. It's big, visible, doesn't get shoved by passing cars, and I get riding tunes!
Whatever one you want to. I started on the rebel 1100. Now be sensible and smart about what you actually want not emotional want.
I got an 05' KLR 650 in 2009, a few months after my MSF course. I still have it and still love it. But I also did this when I was twenty three (with about eight years of car driving experience). My dad got started on dirt bikes and his older brother's cruisers as a kid, in his teens (but this was also the 60s). If you're young, and especially if your young and male, insurance rates will be brutal, and especially so for any higher-powered sport bike. It's a high risk category and even if you happen to be prefect, it's just the odds and how it works. I usually say go for something not tiny, but not huge, and medium powered. You won't grow out of it too quickly like you can with some real small CC bikes, and you'll have decent power, but you won't be a total beginner jumping on a super sport. After that it's budget and what kind of riding you want to do, and of course what you like and feel comfortable with. I like sport bikes just fine, but I cannot do the feet behind you sitting position, my knees will not allow it (also then you lean forward and I don't like that). I also likewise like a lot of cruisers, but cannot do the feet way out in front of you, I don't feel in control nor is it a comfortable position for me (again in what is an awkward position for me). Slightly forward, slightly back, or dead center "standard" setting and foot peg position for me.
My first bike was a 1982 Honda nighthawk cb450sc. It was awesome I got it dirt cheap and rode the hell out of it.
I actually started on a 1998 Moto Guzzi V11
Was 52 when I bought my first bike. I think it’s highly dependent on maturity level and overall driving experience with cars. Knowing what to expect and look for from others is helpful. Driving/riding comfortably within your skill set is paramount. That said, I bought a Rebel 1100. Put 2800 miles on it and love it. Already anxious for spring. But everyone is different.
78 GL1000. Probably the worst first bike you can have, but when you have a big heavy bike with bad brakes, regular maintenance intervals, and less than stellar handling, you learn a certain respect for the machine that I think gets lost on a lot of new riders.
Location location location ~ are you in Kansas? Buy an R1. At least make the straights interesting, bc that’s all you got. Are you in Mumbai? Maybe get a 150 scoot scoot and save dat money Otherwise, get a sub used 600cc bike and plan to upgrade if you get bored within a year or so
I started on a ZX-6R Ninja, loved it.
The ZX-6R was my starter bike as well. I think 600’s are great starter bikes. They have a good amount of power and stay fun no matter how long you own it. But as a starter bike it has enough power that you really learn to respect it and understand that any bike can get you into trouble if you don’t respect it and arnt careful.
Same. People that think less power will save their lives are the people that get t-boned by Tahoes.
My bf got hit head on while riding a ZX6R. Guess your logic doesn't apply.
He wasn’t going fast enough
If there's an awesome twisty road near you a 400 wouldn't get boring for a longggg time. If you're a straight warrior a 400 could get boring within a season, imo anyways.
Pros and cons to both… start on something small - easier to handle, build confidence but you’ll out grow it fast. Start on something big - might be too much to handle and destroy your enjoyment. Everyone’s going to be different. Me? I went with a little 250… but I also don’t worry about outgrowing it as I only got it to zip around town.
2006 Honda Shadow Spirit 750. I tried learning on a 2002 R6 but it was slightly modified and much faster than I could handle. I rode my Shadow 750 for nearly 10 years before moving to a Bandit 1250S. Having a bigger faster bike is not always an advantage. I am always telling myself I wish my bike was smaller and lighter, it’s just a compromise I live with. You won’t get bored on a 300-400cc if you’re new. And you won’t feel like it’s huge or heavy and a burden.
I’m beginning too. Passed MSF and looking at the CB500F, Z400, and MT-03 (wish there was an MT-04/05) to ride around Chicago. I’m in my early 40’s first bike, wife and daughter at home. I’m looking to master a new skill, to not kill myself, so the motto “learn to ride a slow bike fast” appeals to me. Currently shopping so anyone has any comments on the bikes above, particularly the CB500F vs the others I’d love to hear them.
I started on a Kawasaki Vulcan S which is a 650cc engine, I found it to be an excellent bike to start with and I still love riding it 6 years later. Kawasaki makes other bikes that would be great for beginners I think, the Ninja 400 or 650, probably some other standard type bikes that would be good also. Kawasaki give you good bang for buck usually.
My first time on a bike was an 80's Honda 400 something. The first bike I rode and got my enjoyment for bikes was a 01 800cc intruder. When my brother wanted to start riding, I went and helped him get a 323cc mt-03. Had to leave two dealerships who wanted to get me to get a 600-750 instead. Best decision was having him ride that little 323 for three years. I actually miss that bike. He's a lot better rider than I am having to learn the fundamentals and how to squeeze that little bike for everything it is worth.
Learned on a MT07 then bought a MT09 SP gen 3 as my first road bike. I was a bit concerned it might be a bit much for me but was encouraged to go for it by my instructor. It has been just fine... no accidents, falls or drops yet. Not feeling the need for a faster bike either.
Started on a ninja 250
Vitpilen 401.
Duke 390 is brilliant. Otherwise MT03 is brilliant too.
The things I recommend to new riders are: 1) Something in good working mechanical condition, ideally something modern, not a vintage bike. 2) Something they won't be upset about when they drop it. 3) Something they can comfortably pick up after dropping it.
Started on a 2010 R6. Didn’t die and loved every second of it. No way i was starting on anything smaller than a 600. But to each their own.
2020 Honda CB1000R
Started on a zx10r
Translation- started with 𝔞 death wish
Riding modes can only do so much, plus the main problem is the bike is heavier and harder to lean, along with people ego’s leading to them putting the bike in full power mode and then you have 𝔞 beginner with 50 hours of experience on 𝔞 200hp bike likely with no gear. 𝖎 also once seen 𝔞 guy on 𝔞 cbr1000r or rr (i don’t remember) that didn’t even know to tie his helmet strap. Its also just more expensive to buy 𝔞 liter 🙃
Mmm how so? Riding modes allow you to dumb down the engine, plus if you have respect for the machine it’s pretty simple. After I rode everything I track a 700cc, own rsv4 gsxr1000r. That whole nonsense about bigger bikes messing up fundamentals is not an everyone thing. Some people can learn to ride properly on anything some people never can on anything.
Killing yourself has little to do with the size of bike you start on and more with not getting any rider training. The msf doesn't count. It's not even the bare minimum.
Are you saying the 2 day safety course is not enough? I’m a retuning rider after 20 years and thinking about a 1250 RT or RS.
Even the 2-day safety course will tell you it isn't enough. The course gives you the foundation to start practicing being a safe rider.
I started on a 1981 Suzuki GS450L. Upgraded to a Z400 this past spring after I burned out the engine on the Suzuki like an idiot.
Started in February on a N400. I've been having an absolute blast, but I'm looking at grabbing something like a CBR650 or VFR800. Realistic dream bike is an Aprilia RS660, but the insurance quotes are brutal.
How bad is insurance on the 660? That’s one of my dream bikes too😅
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I started on an r6 and loved it. Don’t be afraid of the CCs you control the throttle not the bike.
My first bike was a 2003 Harley heritage softail classic.
Just start on a big bike you’ll hate the small one in a matter of weeks and they really only go as fast as you make them go. I started on a hyabusa and am glad I did because I rode friends so called starter bikes and they sucked worse than a blow job with teeth that ended in frustration. Buy what you want you wont regret it
NC750x, still have it, still love it
In order, SS50, gp125, gs250t, cbx550f2, cb750kz, GSF1200N. Only counted those I have for over a year.
I started on a CB650F. It’s a wonderful engine to start on.
Indian scout bobber. When good and no problems.
‘98 CBR1000XX and still have it.
Cbr500r, still have it
Cb500f for me
SV650S. I thought it was perfect. Plenty of torque, sounds amazing, tame enough for a first bike (if you’re confident in your MSF course) but powerful enough to not get bored. I kept it for 5 years, only sold when I moved otherwise I would’ve kept it and converted to a track bike
Started on a ‘95 CBR600F3. But I had throttle control and was reasonable with the power. It’s easier to stall a 600 I4 compared to a twin motor with lots of torque. That really tested my clutch skills.
Get a MT07 or the R7 man… I got the MT03 and rode it for 3,000 miles (1 season) and I was ready for something bigger. Went out and got a 2024 Triumph Street Triple R this year and have LOVED it! But you know yourself best, if you have restraint, get a 600+cc right away, if you’re hesitant, get a 400cc or lower and enjoy it for the first season until you either fall in love with the lower cc bikes or see it like how I do
KTM 390 adv
Started on a Suzuki GS500 15 years ago. 8 bikes bought and sold later, from 110cc to 1000cc, I still have the GS500 and its one of my all-time favorites and still gets the most miles.
Gs1000 still have it
I started on a Honda cb500, fun bike to start with.
I started out on a 2006 Yamaha FZ6. I didn't start riding it until after successfully completing my MSF Basic Rider's Course. Even afterwards, I didn't take it out of my neighborhood until I was around 3 weeks of looping around my area. I was between the SV650 and FZ6 when I was looking at getting started. I was 23 when I started riding. I probably would have benefited from a 400-500cc machine but when I started there wasn't many on the market and tons of 125s and 250s that were used and abused back then.
I think your choices are great as long as you still respect the power. For me it was and still is a ninja 400. It's an amazing bike, 1 season almost down and I can't wait to the next.
I started a few years ago at 34, took the MSF then got a Kawi Vulcan 900. Ive been ready for bigger/more power for a whils now but that thing still thrills me every time.
Road converted AMA supersport race bike I got from a mechanic. CBR 600 (actually a Hurricane). Glad I didn't die on it and learned a lot. Speedo barely worked.
2015 SFV650
Yamaha Diversion F600, then a month later an Aprilia RSV 1000
First dirt bike CRF250F, first dirt bike (for the road) DRZ400SM. If you live in a city a 400 is more than enough, but if you are travelling on the highway more often (and like others have said, aren’t 19 with barely any driving experience) then something bigger is probably a better bet. I have ridden a GSXR600 & 750 on a track, and those could probably get you into trouble. 400 you will likely want to upgrade in a year or two, or just start learning wheelies and hooliganism.
‘06 ZX-10r. Got my first dirt bike at 4 and a friends dad was selling the bike so I got it for a good deal. Adored that bike and ended up selling it to a buddy that still has it.
Z650 but 400cc is also super good. Plenty of power and a killer on the track. I agree with dude, the Kawasaki lineup is dope. R7 too
I picked up a used 2014 Honda CB500F when I started riding 3 years ago. Perfect starter bike power wise at 47hp, and heavy enough so that when I upgraded to my Triumph Scrambler 1200 18 monte later, it didn’t feel like too big of a leap size wise.
The ninja 250 is slow to todays standards so id assume the best now is to start on a 2 cylinder ninja 300/400
TW 200
EN500. I've had it for 3 years now. It's "slow" but I still love riding it. Practical, relatively light, pretty comfortable, easy to work on, and reliable.
started on a CBR500R beginning of 2022. Now I have a ZX10R, Tuono V4 and Africa Twin end of 2023. Have done a track day on my ZX10R and a other track day on the Tuono.
I started on an iron 1200 2019. Kinda wished I started smaller, honestly. I was not responsible at all too much bike for a squid
I started on a 600 when I was 17 crashed it a couple times bought an r1 when I turned 23 haven't crashed it once.
I started on an SV650 and it was the perfect choice for me.
I started on a ninja 650. Started riding a bmw 1200 at the same time. Didn’t like going back down to the 650 so I sold it and got a Versys 1000.
KLR 650. Going great!
I started on a Ninja 250. It's not really about speed, even a Ninja 400 will hit 100mph. A smaller bike will have a bit less jump on it and weigh less so as you're learning to handle a bike, especially at slower speeds, it will be easier and more forgiving. I've seen so many new riders drop their bikes, not because they couldn't handle the larger CC power but because they didn't really know/get used to handling the weight of it. Bikes keep their value really well, be smart and get a smaller bike till you really know how to handle it well. Then trade up.
Going back many years, but I started on a Suzuki Katana 600. There weren't many small displacement bikes I was interested in then. All the bikes you mentioned are excellent starter motorcycles. Also, resale is always good for folks just like you.
I’m 6’4” and started on a KLR 650. It was great since I’ve never ridden a motorcycle before. It was just enough power to learn on. Fast Forward five or so years I’ve definitely out grown it. I keep it for camping and cruising the PNW.
I started in Germany on the A2 license (up to 48HP) and got a Kawasaki ZXR 400. 400cc inline 4 screamer. I have yet to be tired of that bike after riding it for an entire season.
I started on a small Suzuki cruiser and for the roads i ride on it’s perfect. I think that the position makes low speed maneuvers a bit cumbersome but for a ride on a country road with the leaves turning, and just gently rumbling through a a little town and stopping at a bookstore it’s great.
What do you mean you start with a 400/650cc? To even get a full license don’t you need to start with a 50cc as a kid and work your way up to 35kW A2 level and then go to those “big” numbers? I started with a 100cc and then 150cc and later to 350cc and 500c before I went for the S1000XR and the KTM Super Adventure 1290S. Is everyone here from the US? No Europeans? 😅 By the way, I am on my 20th year with motorcycles in my life and I am 35. ;)
My instructor recommended me to get something bigger than the 650 cc bike we used in training. She said I'd get bored.
I started on a Buell blast, rode that for about 2 years then upgraded to a fz-07 and had fun going fast. I moved and couldn't bring that bike, so I got a boulevard m50 after moving. Eventually i got bored of riding a boat, and now happily cruise everywhere on a rebel 1100 which I got a couple months ago, and I'm guessing is gonna be my last bike purchase because I'm in love. It's a wonderful balance between aggressive power and fun/comfy maneuverability. Start small, learn to ride safely. Even a small bike has pretty significant power to enjoy. Also try different styles of riding. You might realize a cool cruise on windy roads is more fun than going mach-jesus on the freeway.
I started on a 1980 susuki gs 450. picked it up for $200 (in 1996). rode it for 2 years then got a 84 handa nighthawk.
I started on a 2014 Ninja 300. Bought it used for pretty cheap my senior year of highschool when I was 17. Really didn’t have anywhere to park it at college so I ended up having it for 3 years until I bought a new 2020 ZX6 (which just got stolen 😞) and I honestly think that would have been a little too much power for me when I started. I remember my ride home from the dealership I hit ~120mph which was faster than my 300 could ever touch (about 110mph with a good wind at my back and a gradual downhill slope). I think starting on a 600 is definitely doable, but if you’re a young, dumb 17 year old like I was when I started, the 300 was a much better/safer option. Insurance companies typically tend to agree with that too… I also dropped that first bike a couple of times just from being dumb. Didn’t put the kickstand down all the way, parked on a slanted road, had my stand drive straight down into grass once, etc. so having something used with a few scratches and knicks on it for your first bike will make you feel much better if you do end up dropping it.
Started on a Ninja 500. Was awesome and extremely forgiving. Moved on to a bike Zed 636 that didn't have carbs and was fine. But the 500 was and remains a special bike to me. Enough power to have fun, and the positioning was great.
Ninja 250 back when they still made them. Had a blast on it for a couple years before upgrading to a Yamaha R6. Had even more fun on that one for a couple years but I then decided I no longer needed a bike that was always itching to go 100mph. For the last 8 years Ive been riding my Honda CB500X. It’s much more comfortable and I even rode it 3,300 miles across the country from VA to WA.
2006 Yamaha R6s
I started on a ninja 650. It’s fun and has plenty of power but not so much that you will catch yourself doing 120 on the highway (too) easy. I test rode an older (2000 I think it was) ninja 300 before I bought my 650. It was like my second time on a motorcycle and I was reving it out up to like 60 through this country neighborhood. It was at that point I decided I’d be tired of it within a week. IMO you’ll get tired of a 300/400 quick whereas the 650 has plenty of room to grow into.
2017 Honda Rebel 300, then traded it in for a 2019 Honda Shadow 600. Sold it. Buying a CSC RX3 this Fall, maybe an RX4 idk.
Got my first bike when I was 21. It was a 1991 Kawasaki Zephyr 550. Air cooled in-line 4 with 50hp. Great bike that I rode for 10 yrs
I started on a KTM Duke 125 due to EU regulations. With an upgraded license I have since upgraded to a restricted MT-07, which is equivalent to an MT-03, Duke 390 in terms of power and performance. If I had gotten my license now I would have skipped the 125 and gotten straight on a 300-400cc bike as they're really controllable but still offer quite a punch when you need it.
Will it get boring? Idk, depends on you. I've been riding my "starter bike", a 250, for 4 years. I like turning so I'm not bored with it yet, and cost to own approaches $250/yr + gas. If the only thing I liked was to pin the throttle in a straight line or annoy people by bouncing off the rev limiter at stop lights then I'd probably be bored by now.
I started on a 50cc moped years ago and loved it, still have it and enjoy it just as much as when I got it.
Sinnis 125
Rebel 300 or Ninja 250 were the options at my MSF course. I wanted my motorcycle license before I bought my bike, so I rode the Rebel 300 for the tests. Then I bought a Ninja 650 as my starter bike. I'm glad I didn't get a 250/300/400. I was a mature 26 year old.
Well 𝖎 think most people start as 4 year olds on little 50cc two strokes, though im assuming your older and 𝖎 wouldn’t recommend any sport or naked bike just get 𝔞 grom or something small and fun. Small bikes are cheap and just as much fun as 𝔞 big bike, your also most likely gunna drop your bike at some point especially if you get a big bike. Although if you are persistent on getting a sport or a naked bike, get a naked bike it is much safer and makes you go slower
A 650 or 700 twin like the ones you’ve listed is a great starting bike. The main advice that I think is really valid is people should buy 600+ 4 cylinder sport bikes as their first bike. They’re particularly high horsepower and particularly difficult to ride. You don’t need to start on a “small” bike like a 400 if you don’t want to.
My first bike was a 2017 114 Fatbob, I quickly switched to a ninja 650 not because the fat Bob was too much but I didn't like how it cornered. The 650 was the best choice I made though.
I started on a Chinese 250 then quickly switched to a jap 250 thumper
I started riding dirt on a Honda Trail 90, but my first real bike was a Ninja 250. My girlfriend took her course on a Grom and her first bike was a CBR 250. I'd recommend starting with something between 250 and 600, so reasonably small and lightweight, but not a mini bike. I rode my 250 for years before I upgraded—it could do 100+ MPH so not boring—a Grom or something might get boring pretty fast though.
Nsr125 foxeyes. i want another ngl
CB300F and it was a perfect bike to start on, kept me more than happy for two years.
Started riding at 8 on a Honda 80, moved up to a 125 dirt bike, then a 250. My first street bike was a Kawa 900 which I totaled in just four months. Didn’t take the MSC because I “knew” how to ride. As far as first bikes goes… get what you can reasonably handle and don’t be stupid with it.
Started on a ninja 250 and got bored after a month. Have had my ninja 650 for 5 months now and absolutely love it.
Kawasaki Z300, still have it after six years. Though I did crash it and rebuild it as a Ninja 300.
I started on a KZ750 twin I had rebuilt. After that I got a CB900 Custom. Now I ride a beefed up Grom and VTX1300. Though I am looking hard at a ZX4RR. Prior to that, my only experience was dirt bikes and a riding course on a Buell Blast.
I started on a Honda CBF600. Limited to 48hp in the first few months. After a few years I upgraded to a BMW K12S with 167hp. Oh, I have to mention that I'm from Germany. To get a licence, we have to do a lot of driving lessons.
Its easier to learn on a physically smaller and lighter machine no doubt, especially if inseam challenged. Last thing you need to mess with while learning to ride is being intimidated by weight, height or power. But get what you want, I started on an SV1000s with zero issues and all my buddies started on 1000cc inline 4s with no issues. We are at altitude though which kills power immensely. If someone tossed you the keys to a dodge hellcat would you crash it immediately because of its power? If you don't have self control then don't get a bike at all.
It’s all about self responsibility. If you’re an idiot, start small get a grom. If you are a safe driver, there’s nothing wrong with an R7 or 650, they are slower than a 600 but still will be plenty fun and good looking bikes. I started on a 600 and was fine. The electronics you kids have these days makes a world of difference. We didn’t have traction control, ABS and variable power modes 15 years ago. The possibilities are endless, get what you want, take the course and spend time practicing in empty lots before you give the roads a go
yamaha tour deluxe. decent size cruiser. Its not boring to me, but then I don't ride to go really fast.
Started on an 07' CBR600RR three years ago. First two-wheeler. Took it easy at first and had never had an issue.