Newb Question
 

Whats up everyone. My name is Mark, I live in NC and I am want to purchase me a bike. I am a pretty big dude 6'2" 280, and would like to purchase a bike that suites me. I have never rode a bike before so I am looking into purchasing a used bike therefore I would feel bad if a dropped a brand new bike. Besides finding a bike that suites me, also need some pointers so when I look to purchase a used bike. What are the key points to look for when doing so. ALso does anyone know of any safety courses in my area were I can learn to be a safe rider. ANy information is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Mark

Welcome
 

Mark, welcome to the forums.

A great source for rider instruction is the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, they have been training riders for years. Here's a link to their website... www.msf-usa.org

Some dealers also offer riders courses, the local Honda dealer here where I live does.
You are wise to realize your inexperience, and to seek help. And it's also best as a new rider to learn the right & safe way to ride in the beginning. Good luck, and let us know how it goes.

FBR :cool:

Definitely check out the MSF course. They supply the bike and helmet and in most cases if you bring some eye protection and gloves...you are set to go. A bunch of people around here have taken the course, me included...and I can't say enough good things about it.

In the course, you'll have the full spectrum of riders, from experienced to total newbie. They teach like you are a total newbie.

Thanks for the welcome and information. I was planning to visit my local dealer and talk to them but unfortunatly they were closed on sunday :( I noticed in my local paper someone was selling a 2002 GSXR 750 (2k mi)for about $6500 neg, and I also see a 1992 gsxr 750 for $33000. Do those prices seem right. Like I said, I really dont see the need for me purchasing a new bike since I am just starting out. And I also come to the conclusion that sooner or later it will get dropped with me on it. But as long as I dont act a fool everything should be kosher. If anything I will be purchasing a bike within 2-3 months so who knows what might pop up. Plus I have some vacation time comming up that would be the perfect time for me to take the riders course.

Thanks,
Mark

Buying a bike
 

Mark, unless you know for sure what type of bike you want, it might be best to wait. If you take the MSF course, the certificate they give you will exempt you from taking the driving test for your motorcycle license, so all you will need to do then is take the written exam. Then most dealers (if you have your license), will either let you test drive their bikes, or rent them for a day. And in the mean time visit lots of different dealers to get an idea of whats out there. There are so many different makes, and models of bikes, and you need to think about what kind of riding you intend to do. That will help you determine what bike will fit your needs. Good luck......and by all means, do NOT buy a bike and then try to learn to ride....take the course, I have, and it's well worth it, no matter if your a newbie, or a seasoned vet.

FBR :cool:

A friend of mine, 6-5", pushing 300 lbs just bought a Suzuki DR-650 and loves it. Good starter bike for someone that size if you ask me.

Hey...hey...what am I??? Chopped meat? OOooopps, sorry

WELCOME MARK

Just so happens, I have a bike for sale! A Harley-Davidson to boot! Price is right...is older but you will fit on it and it is a Harley! Price is $8,500.00 Take a look at the attachment and tell me what ya think...

damn I love that bike! I'm so gunna paint my Road King like that. Flames rule.

First off, welcome to the boards.

As far as the prices you mention on the GSXR's, I think they would be in line with the market value. Of course, that's factoring in that there is actiually one less 0 on that 92, cause $33k is a pretty penny for an oil cooled gixxer.

Like FBR said, you need to figure out what you want to ride first off. Most people I know start out on a 600 or less. MSF courses will loan you a bike and all that, so don't rush into anything. If you want a sportbike, I am a huge fan of Suzuki. That's me though. If you want an HD, maybe look into a Sporty or something like that. You can always trade up. Just my .02.

Enjoy!

mmmmm, Gixxers...

TOTALLY STOKED
 

Well I went to the MSF website to find where in NC they are offering the course. The website came up with Lenior county.........Nice little week off would do it. But as I talked to one of my co-workers she told me that local Comunity College has the course also. With info in hand I called the school and talked to the instructor and its the samething (MSF) GREAT!!! Now I wont have to drive out of town to the class for the 3-days. My next question to him, are there any opennings yep............september:eek: Well, thats cool better late than never, plus it ties in with my vacation/birthday. My treat to myself.
Now as for bikes, I will stick with the words of wisdom of FBR. I had no idea that you could test ride bikes (well DUH, I know I wouldn't buy a new vehicle without trying out first.)
Soberbiker, that is one sweet HD you have there. Unfortunately, its not what I am looking for, BUT you never know I might not like a crotch rocket. Also, I have another co-worker looking to get herself a HD. I will email her your picture tonite.
Once again Thankyou for the welcome.

Thanks,
Mark

Well thank you WooHoo, copying is the ultimate form of compliment in my book!

Hope ya like the sport bike scene...it's a fast lane...
;) Thanks for the kudos...I actually would love to keep it as an occasional bike, but I now am a proud owner of a new BMW K1200LTC and have to make room.

Let her know that the bike has been lowered 1 1/2" front and back and is ready to rock and roll anywhere ya want to ride it!

I'm curious, how did you lower the front end on that bitch kitty? It's air suspension forks right? I'd like to lower the front of my Road King (I lowered the back 1-1/2").

No biggie...on mine, it is air as well...I just choose to not add air. I used the White Brothers lowering kit for the year. The springs used in the kit are from Progressive and the springs give it quite enough support all by themselves...still have the connect incase I change my mind...(Like I have one) :D

OH YEAH!
 

Now I can see myself cruising around on this righ here.

http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/sd_express/bike1.jpg

Re: OH YEAH!
 

that's a bad ass billet barge for sure.