Motorcycle riders- opinions

[showtime]

I just got back from checking out/riding a Buell Lightning. I absolutly love it. You aren't crouched over like an import bike so it's very comfortable. I was wondering if there's any bikers here that have any opinions on them? This is my first bike and I haven't rode at all on the road. I've rode quite a few bikes in parking lots and feel most comfortable on a sport bike. I looked at a Blast, but I'm 220lbs so it's a bit small. I'm just wondering if this is too much bike for a beginner. I gave it some gas and I never felt out of control. I'm sure it's like anything with power, it's all in how you use it. The 60+mpg it gets will help out as well.

[Carrera]

The best bike is the bike you like the most. Before purchasing a bike I suggest you try several bikes. Very important, buy quality riding gear, take a MSF riding course. Do you want a commuter, touring, etc. bike?

[the other pc]

I would definitely second all Carrera's advice, especially the suggestion to take a MSF riding class.

You can take the basic course before you get your own bike. Besides learning safe riding technique you'll get a better idea of what you want in a bike.


PC.

[Mike Phillips]

That looks like a lot of bike, as in it looks very powerful...

I've had three 750cc Yamaha Seca 750's in my life and really like big powerful bikes for fun and commuting, in fact I'd like to get another one. You really have to adopt the mindset of 100% Full-on defensive driving when you start riding bikes as people just don't see you...

Take the course first, then shop around, try to find a bike you like and fits what you intend to do with it...

[black240sx]

Buell doesn't have the best reputation when it comes to build quality. If you plan on riding a lot and/or commuting on it, you might be better off with a Japanese bike.

[atticdog]

A good reliable bike to learn on it a suzuki SV 650
learn more about it here
svrider.com

[Teak]

I would not recommend a Buell Firebolt as a first bike. The bike is set for sport or performance which requires a higher level of rider skill. I would recommend a Suzuki SV as the SV handles and brakes wells, has plently of power and good riding position. Look for a standard or cruiser style motorcycle with a smaller displacement engine.

I would check out the Learn 2 ride website for info on MSF Basic rider course in Rochester, NY. I have taken taken the BRC and would recommend the class to anyone who has not riden or is starting ride again after lapse of time.

Safe riding requires more than a taking the BRC, but proper riding equipment and maintained bike. Full riding gear will includes a DOT and Snell approved Full face helmet, motorcyle jacket (with armour), Gloves, Riding pants (with or with out armour)or jeans, and riding boots or shoes which cover your ankle, have a flat sole and good traction on slippery surfaces. This equipment will help prevent some injuries and road rash. I can tell you for a fact it does help.


Eric

[Teak]

Originally posted by atticdog
A good reliable bike to learn on it a suzuki SV 650
learn more about it here
svrider.com

I was typing about the SV and you were posting about the SV.


Shotime have you considered a used motorcycle?

Eric

[showtime]

I wouldn't even consider anything other than a Buell because I know the owner of the dealership, he does business with me, and it's only 7 miles from my house. My town is in the middle of nowhere. Everything needs repairs, I don't care what it is. The only other motorcycle dealer is 20miles away. I'm getting rid of my truck next week so the last thing I want to be stuck with is a broke down bike I can't take to get fixed. The owner can swing by my house and take it to work if he has to. I'm also getting $3000 knocked off the price because it was a demo. (3k mi)

I found a guy with a 98 Buell that he's selling for $4000 that I might go take a look at. He's 43 yrs old so it wasn't owned by some kid.

I'm definatly going to be taking a safety course, they also give you your road test there.

I like Carrera's advise the best-
"The best bike is the bike you like the most."
Just like "Find a product you like and use it"

[atticdog]

Buell = repairs every month
suzuki= change the oil, adjust the chain

[MotorcycleDetailing]

When I first started out legaly riding motorcycles I started out with something that I knew....a ninja 7R it was sweet but all my friends owned hybusas, fireblades and the like and could ride really well (they used to ride on the race tracks) and me being me decieded to try and keep up with them.....hmmm not a good idea.

After 2 close calls I deceided to go with something more confortable. I was told from the guys in my local motorcycle clubs to pick something that I felt was me.....so after taking my styles and brands for test ride I brought a VN800 classic (onto my second classic).

The moral is, If you are comfortable and it feels good then take it for a longer test ride if it is available as it might feel good in the 30 min test ride u did but if you are sitting for an hour it minghtn't be as good as u thought.

Just my 2 cents.

Trev

[TH0001]

First things first, there are two types of riders in this world. Those who have gone down and those who are going down. Remember this, especially if you are new to riding and are willing to fork out the money for a new bike.

You will likely drop it, and soon after you buy it. Its just the laws of averages. You might wanna consider a used bike at first.

Second, a bike is only is as fast as the person twisting the throttle. There is some debate on this, as is alot of people don't recommend getting a fast bike for the first one, and some people say get something your happy on. You know your level of maturity, so judge accordingly. Remember this is your life. Go to motorcycle forums and read there Crashed sections for some pictures and stories that will keep you in reality. Always where gloves, jacket, and helmet, as well as some ankle high boots.

About the Buell, somethings to consider. Powerwise, you will likely outgrow it. The Buell is really down on power, even when compared to bikes half its size. I don't know if your looking at the 900 or 1200, but even the 1200 can't even come close to keeping up with any of the Japanese 600's. If your of the opinion that power doesn't matter and you just gonna be enjoying "the ride", then get a used bike since it doesn't matter and you don't have to worry as much about dropping it.

Realiablity, good luck!!! I have several friends who on Buells currently, and I used to own a Lighting... They will shake, rattle, and vibrate all there parts loose. You will spend more time trying to fix the problems, and you will be amazed that this is a new bike. After several thousand miles, it will feel used and beat up. I know this from experinece, and I have friends who will agree with me. A friend has had his for less then a year, and has it has spent probably 3-4 weeks total in the shop from repairs. This is not uncommon.

Now, if a Buell is what you want (and you have alternative transportation) then go for it. Just know what your getting. I understand the dealer is a friend and gonna help you out, but even if my best friend sold NuFinish, I'm still gonna buy Meguiars'. The Buell is a substandard product, so plan accordingly and always have back up transportation.

That said, on a curvy road, they are pretty fun. The short wheelbase, crazy rake, and wide handlebars make for an intresting ride as the bike really wants to be manuverable, but the huge engine limits its transition speed. So your left with a slow turning, unstabble ride, IMO. Fun, yes! In that scary kinda way.

Good luck!!!