jerzee, if you come back to check on this thread and haven't bought it yet; without going into all the reasons why pros and most vets strongly dissuade new riders from a 600+ cc bike (PM me if you'd like more detailed reasons) just please keep in mind that while no one said it is impossible, it is much tougher and much longer learning curve as well much less forgiving for NEWBIE mistakes ... but most importantly keep in mind that while some can say they made it and are fine etc.. THOSE THAT DID NOT have the good fortune to make it can not be here to comment their thoughts.

p.s. I will only say this regarding one comment and leave it alone: Regarding the comment "just be aware it can hurt you, but in retrospect so can a 250 ninja" .. that is misleading and a bad analogy because it is like saying go ahead and learn in a forumla F1 race car how to drive instead of a toyota tercel because both can hurt you. One you can learn how to survive and learn the BASICS with on and the other you can learn to push the limits but neither one is good for both.

 

agreed..

 

[COLOR=Navy] agreed..

 

thanks for all the info guys. i havent bought it yet, but im still thinking about buying it and either keeping it until im comfortable or turning around and selling it. I did find a F4i with 9k miles, im gonna go check out this weekend. so hopefully this goes well!

thanks again for all the advice!!!!!

 

others have said it, but its worth repeating.... its not that you will have a problem starting on a 54 (that is assuming your a level headed adult) but it you will have a much steeper learning curve, starting on a smaller cc bike will allow you to become a better rider, faster... but personally if it was a steal, i dont think i could pass it up, the 54 is such a great bike... im saving for one now hah, orrr your friend could sell it to me if its that much of a steal lol

 

I had a ninja 250 a F3 and an F4i before I just moved up to the 54. I don't think it is a good bike to start on. I would just get a beat up F3 or F2 to learn on and keep the 54. You can get one that has been down and learn on it. I know that the 54 is a beast and I can just picture myself on it for a first bike and it's not pretty. You will learn how to ride better on a smaller bike. I always wanted an RC51 and have had to turn 2 down because I wasn't ready yet. I know what you're going through but for everyone saying it will be ok if you have a little self control. Self control means you should know not to start on a 54.

 

I have never ridden a bike and learned on a 54 (first bike), it was in excellent condition, and i couldn't pass up the offer. I like it alot and its very powerful, but im also very mentally mature. It all depends on you do what you think is best but remember its your life your dealing with! at least thats how i think of it!

Best of luck to you in your desicion

 

My 954rr=My first bike

I say go for it as long as you can keep your throttle hand under control while learning. The 954 feels like a 600 until you crank the throttle lol. Also, go find someone that has been riding for many years to ride with. I think thats what saved me.......if I had tried to learn with a group my age I have a feeling it would have ended bad.

I love it and still dont know what I would replace it with if I had the chance.

 

Heres my .00002 cents:
First bike was an F4i. Rode it for 3 days and traded it back in and got the 954. Probably not the smartest thing to do but I dont regret it! I just took it slow and got used to the machine. I have been riding dirt though my whole life. Up to you man, just ride your own ride...

 

Fundamentals! Turning, shifting, throttle control, braking and turning. Did I mention turning? Totalled my cbr900 cause I thought I had all those down pat. Came back to bite me. I road a dual sport for many years after that and realized I was ready to graduate. The learning curve is different for everyone. I wouldn't trade my 954 for anything but I also feel comfortable on it. If you have doubts about your confidence on the bike than that's one strike already. It may make you more cautious though. Ride safe and take it slow if you go the 954 route. Just my experience. I learned the hard way.