Kawasaki Ninja ZX 10 R

How does a new rider decide which motorcycle to buy as a starter ride? I was asked this question recently and I figured my reply might be of interest to others considering their first bike. I'll insert my responses between the questions.

I’m 23, I commute to work by metro because there is no parking downtown. My ’93 Civic hatchback is just about at the end of its (very long and productive) life and I need to get a new ride for those unexpected circumstances when I might need one – not for everyday use.

I don’t want to buy a car because I rarely drive anyway and the cost of maintaining a car and parking just doesn’t seem worth it…and none of the cars I can afford appeal to me anyway. So that, in a nutshell, is how I decided to buy a bike.

I have about $3,000 that I could use toward a down payment (or preferably, to cover the cost of the bike) and would absolutely not want to spend more than $5,000. So my big questions are: new or used? And if used, does it matter if I get it from a certified dealer or can I get it from someone on Craigslist?

I would absolutely go with a used bike. They can be had for great prices and in great shape. Your price range should be no problem. Buying from a dealer has the advantage that state law probably requires that all the safety equipment be in working order. But if you buy from an individual you should be able to have someone check it out before you buy it. That's really the key. You can usually take a bike you're looking to buy to a dealer and have them do a good overall check. It costs, but not a lot and it would be worth it if it helps you avoid buying something with hidden issues. The other option would be to have someone you know who is familiar with motorcycles check it out for you.

Also, I want it to last a long time without needing repairs, so how old is too old? Is it worth getting a manufacturer’s extended warranty?

The issue with age is different than you might expect. Percentagewise, there are a lot more old bikes than old cars on the road. The issue, however, is that after a bike is about 10 years old the dealers no longer want to work on them. You then need to find an independent mechanic who works on older bikes. They are out there, you just need to ask around and find a good one. That said, for the money you're thinking, you should have no problem finding a bike five years old or so in excellent condition.

Also, I don’t need a very powerful bike since I don’t plan on getting speeding tickets anyway ;-) but I’m not sure what size to get…is 250 OK for what I would use it for?

Many new riders just starting out think they should buy a small bike to start with. Most who do very quickly outgrow that small bike. Rather than start with a 250 you might look in the 400-600 cc range. Do not go to the really big bikes, no matter what anybody tries to tell you. Not as a beginner.

That said, if you really do just need occasional transportation, a 250cc bike might be just fine. Or you might even consider a scooter. And at this size you can even look at a few new ones, rather than going used. As for extended warranties, I seldom consider them worthwhile regardless of the product, but people have different ideas about that.

Last question – I love the way a Ninja looks, but since I haven’t ridden a motorcycle before I don’t want to buy it just for the looks. What makes/models would you recommend that are fun and easy for day-to-day driving? I don’t know if this factors in to your thinking, but my car is a manual – always has been, always will be – I hate automatic cars!

As for the Ninja, you need to think about what type of riding you plan to do. Sportbikes frequently don't have the capacity to carry a lot of luggage; you don't see Ninjas with trunks on the back. Do you need to carry stuff? Finding a used bike that comes with luggage would be a good thing, and many sportbikes do have luggage. Most scooters also have storage space built in, although most scooters have automatic shift so that may rule them out in your case.

Sportbikes also tend to have you leaning forward, putting weight and pressure on your wrists and back. Will you be comfortable riding like that? I prefer something with a more upright riding position myself.

Different bikes are also tuned differently. You will want something that has a wide range in each gear so that you're not constantly shifting as you move through traffic. Stop and go can be murder on your left hand and wrist as it is, without the addition of constant gear changes.

If/when I do get a bike, I’d like to learn how to work on it myself. Is this possible with the newer models and do you know where I could learn? I don’t know anyone who has a bike or works on one, so I can’t just ask a friend to teach me.

The most basic maintenance tasks are something just about anyone can perform on just about any bike. That would include changing the oil, adjusting brakes and replacing brake pads, lubing and oiling the chain if you have one . . . that sort of thing. As for where to learn, some riding schools also offer tech courses but probably your best bet would be to find a club focused on whatever bike you end up with and use that club to find new friends and mentors. Motorcycling is a very social activity and it's good to have riding buddies.

The bottom line on what bike to buy is really to find one that suits you and your style of riding. With used bikes you generally get a chance to take them for a test ride, whereas with new bikes that's often not allowed. Of course, before you take any bike for a ride you need to be licensed. If you haven't already done so, take a Beginning Rider Course. Then get your license and go test ride a whole bunch of different bikes until you find out what you like.

So that's my take on the questions. I know other people have different responses to these questions so if that means you, please jump in and leave a comment stating your opinion. Thanks.

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