I want to ride my motorcycle...

[adder70]

but i figured i'd needed
a rock bottom 250 in case i needed to move away from trouble
in a hurry.

I would say get a rock bottom 400, or maybe a 500 twin (the Kawi EX500, maybe?) to0 get away from trouble in a hurry. The same YSR50 with a top speed of about 60 will get you away from trouble real quick up to about 20 mph, but obviously at 50 you have almost no acceleration. Similarly, a bargain 250 will have little power at normal travelling speeds (thye YSR50 is a teeny tiny 2 stroke), which could compromise your safety.

Better to rely on the governor between your ears than using an anemic engine to limit your speed. Then you have the power when needed.

I would also highly recommend the MSF course.

 

[H2Andy]

again, thanks everyone! i am signed up for the safety course for June 11, 12, and 13.

as for going over 250cc, i am afraid that part is just non-negotiable, all good points
to the contrary non-withstanding.

 

[cobaltbabe]

Very cool. Please keep us informed of how it goes.

 

[Natasha]

I love it when men listen to their wives.

 

[H2Andy]

my wife has lost three good friends to bike accidents, and irrational as her fear
may be, if it makes her feel better that i drive a 250cc for a while, so be it

also, i think it will give us both a "break-in" period so that my next purchase can
be my real bike.

 

[Natasha]

I don't think her fear is irrational. You won't find me on the back of any size motorcycle..ever.

 

[Druid]

When I started riding 25 years ago, learner riders were limited to 250cc bikes in the UK but it's got worse since then. A 250 is plenty for a novice, imo. They will still do around 80-90mph, and accelerate faster than most cars.

I notice that all the bikes you have listed are "cruiser" style, so I guess ultimate performance is not a priority. Twins will produce a bit more power than a single, and will vibrate less. If you're buying new, see if you can arrange a test ride to help you decide.

The MSF course sounds like a good idea. Buy a decent helmet, leather jacket and gloves.

Welcome to the wonderful world of two wheeled transport. It's as expensive as diving, and produces much more of an adrenaline rush.

Druid
VTR 1000
CBR600F

 

[H2Andy]

I notice that all the bikes you have listed are "cruiser" style, so I guess ultimate performance is not a priority.

well, to tell the truth, i would buy a Harley if i could afford
one, and i picked bikes that reminded me of the Harley look.

that's why i love the Yamaha 250... the v-twin looks
so darn sweet...

 

[Druid]

The 250 Yam is probably as quick as an 883 Harley too. And ten times as reliable


<Druid runs away and dons flame proof suit...>

 

[JacobsonC2]

I don't think her fear is irrational. You won't find me on the back of any size motorcycle..ever.

i have seen my fair share of motorcyle accidents ect...here in milwaukee were i work on a ambulance.fear definatly is'nt irrational. fear is a good thing, keeps you out of trouble. i do however ride a bike, a 2002 buell M2 ( a 1200 sportster on steriods). i was a little afraid when i first started, but thats what keeps you riding carfully and awear of other cars.