FIRST BIKE HELP

Jason-1999-XX · 05-28-2007, 11:57 PM

My fiancee just got her motorcycle endoresment. We are shopping for her first bike. She is 5'3", 125 lbs. My first streetbike was a '94 Suzuki GS500E. I outgrew it in a matter of weeks, and I'd hate to see her go through the same thing. She wants something comfortable, reliable, and fun. Shes been eyeing the SV650. Preferably 500-600cc. Mabey 750. She'll be reading through this thread, so any help you veterans could give we'd both appreciate.

Taetor · 05-29-2007, 12:06 AM

I've too have heard the SV650 makes a terrific first bike. A friend of mine used one as his first bike and although he was ready to move on to a bigger bike eventually, he liked the SV enough to keep it around a while as a 2nd bike.

if the sportiness doesn't matter to you, the nightwawk 750 is always a good bet... those things are bulletproof and that 750cc motor is a runner! Not sure how well she'd fit one though. They can also be found very easily used for not a lot of dough.

XXRider · 05-29-2007, 12:22 AM

Most Vtwins are easier to learn on than Inline 4's... They tend to have more torque at the bottom so it's easier to learn the clutch. Most new riders seem to find it the hardest part.. Not sure why...

I've heard nothing but good things about the SV650. At her weight/size she shouldn't out grow it for quite a while. Us fatboys need more HP to get the same performance...lol

PJNXX · 05-29-2007, 8:45 AM

Check out the Honda 599. Upright riding position with wider-spaced bars help build steering confidence. Motor is derived from CBR600, detuned for more low-end and midrange torque. One that would stay awhile. Also, it's a Honda!

sv61 · 05-29-2007, 10:35 AM

I am a Honda guy as well, but it is hard to fault the SV650.

Cheap, light, compact. Easy to grow with. You won't be bored with this one in a couple of weeks, unless your last name is Hayden.

OSIRIS · 05-29-2007, 10:50 AM

My wife took the MSF course and then we found her a 1981 Honda Twinstar. 200cc's of raw power. It only cost a couple hundred bucks, and she rode it around for a couple months to get used to riding on the street. After that, we got her a 600RR and she's as happy as can be

Before we found the RR though, we were looking for a SV...I don't think you can go wrong with that bike for a beginner.

Jason-1999-XX · 05-29-2007, 2:11 PM

Thanks for ideas! Much appreciated.

Madcow · 05-29-2007, 3:16 PM

SV650's are good bikes, you also might want to look at the Kawi 650 Ninja.

Jason-1999-XX · 06-02-2007, 6:11 PM

Update: Here is what she chose. We gave $4000 for an '04 model yesterday, plus $750 for good riding gear. We just did a whopping 30 miles, and she is in heaven. I've NEVER been more nervous in my life.

Madcow · 06-03-2007, 12:27 AM

I like the 599 I was almost thinking about selling my XX & buying a 599, but I talked myself out of it.

onefootdown · 06-03-2007, 12:38 AM

Very nice ride! They were given top marks in a naked 600 shootout in a British bike mag I have.
That's so cool that your girl rides with you, and cooler still that she's on a great looking bike. Not that that's the most important thing, but it can't hurt.

Don't dare tell us she's gorgeous 'cause we may officially be jealous. LOL

Take care.
Glen.