hi! I don't even know where to begin. I'm seriously considering purchasing a CBR. I'd like to spend around $4k (used?) on one as it is my first one, and I don't really want to go over 600cc's. I'm 26 and getting married in July. I know about bikes enough to know the differences and such, however, i'm not sure really what to look for. In fact, i'm a little concerned overall about getting a bike in the first place. I really like the Honda CBR's, especially the 900's. However, i think that is way to much power for me right now. I don't want end up with my head in a tree. I would appreciate some intelligent feedback, for a first time (maybe) buyer/user.

 

No bike is too big if you have half a brain. I started on an R1 and it was fine. As long as you respect the kind of power a bike like that has you'll be good to go.
By the way, IMO I love a big bike more, if for no other reason than when you have to pass someone you can do it quickly. I don't like oncoming traffic that much lol

 

Hello and welcome to the site

For the amount you willing to pay I would suggest a Ninja 250 msrp $3999 (brand new) or for about $2500 for a used one. Great first bike to learn on if you are not sure about riding a motorcycle. Also it's a must for anyone who are starting out riding to take a MSF class they will teach you alot on safty stuff and how to ride a motorcycle.

 

Hey Itomek- I was in your shoes about two weeks ago. I debated for about 3 months on wether or not to get a sport bike and finally did it. I had never even sat on a sport bike before walking into the dealership and two weeks later, it's the greatest purchase of my life. I do ride dirt bikes so I have experience on motorcycles, but nothing on the streets. The 600RR to me is an excellent bike and while it has a lot of power, if you respect it, you'll be fine. Good luck in your search and let us know what you go with.

 

Hello and welcome. If you're not really sure about riding, I recommend you start by taking the Motorcycle Safety Foundation class. This is a good place to start anyway, and you use their bikes. After the two day course, you'll have a better idea if this is something you want to do, plus you'll have a good foundation for being a safe rider.

Then, assuming your total budget is $4,000, factor in what you'll have to spend on gear - helmet, gloves, jacket, boots, pants, plus your first year's insurance. What's left over is what you can spend on a bike, although sometimes when you buy a used bike, the seller will throw in some gear.

 

hmm... thanks for the great feedback, very interesting. I did check out that Ninja 250R, it looks pretty neat. I didn't think about the insurance aspect. Is the insurance much higher than for a car? i guess I would imagine so...

 

Actually, liability insurance is a lot less than for a car since you can't do as much damage to anyone but yourself.

But don't even think about riding without good health insurance (and life insurance, if you have a wife, kids, or anyone else who depends on you financially).

 

Definitely take the MSF course. They will teach you a lot of things which come in handy. Also, no matter what you get, don't ride outside your ability. Good luck.

 

i'm still fairly new to bikes, i have one summer under my belt on a 99 600 F4. just picked up a 2003 F4I and will have it road ready soon.

just my opinion but i think the 600 is a perfect all around bike for myself. after my first summer on a 600 i felt i wanted a bigger bike with more power. that was 2 years ago and now i think a 600 is all the bike i need. maybe because i'm 40 years old i don't crave the stunts/wheelies or ***** to the wall power of a 1000cc bike. but then again i've never been on one. all i can say is i think the 600 is the perfect first bike, all the bike i want or need.

you'll decide for yourself i'm sure, but i don't think you could go wrong with a 600.

 

Hello & Welcome!!