bikermaddy

Hello fellow Senior bikers,
While looking around for my first motorcycle, I read at many places that it'll be good to begin with a used one instead of brand new, since it won't feel as bad when I drop it . This bike is going to be my primary vehicle for about 6 months. So, I wanted it to be good on city streets as well as highways.

On craigslist, I found two very good contenders.

2002 Suzuki GSXR600: Small scratches on right lower side next to the engine, but with new rear tires for $4500. http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/m...271196793.html

2000 Honda CBR600F4: Very good condition for $4000. (tires look old). Sunrise yellow, looks very nice (attracted more towards it) http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/m...270694168.html
Any idea how much it might cost to get the tires replaced? And, will it give any problems due to the age?

One of my friends also recommended Ninja 250, which is a very good option, but can't find it used.

It'll be good to have feedback about these from experienced guys in here. BTW, I'm open to any new suggestions, so please feel free to point me in appropriate directions.

Also, I read at many places it'll be great to take the MSF course. What company do you all recommend for insurance?. Me being little under 24, progressive insurance quotes are going off the roof, about $2500/year .

About me: 5' 5". 165lb. Athletic. Enjoy riding motorcycles. Have done some riding on lighter motorcycles. First time looking for heavyweights.

borg

Stay with the cbr as its a way better handler than the gsxr. The gsxr needs a steering damper to stop it wobbling at high speeds and at corners. The cbr does'nt need one at all. The cbr is more user friendly than the gsxr and by the pics it has alot more to offer. It has been well looked after and has many extras but the gsxr only has the newer year and a few scratches on it. Stick with the cbr you would'nt be sorry. Don't get me wrong i don't hate gsxr's as i have a few but they are way more twitchy than the cbr. I vote for the cbr.

Borg.

borg

Do the bike test first and see which bike if any of the two suits you. You might find that you go in a different direction and get a retro or cruiser. The two bikes you has stated you like, well they are still a bit too powerfull for a first bike, its all to do with comfort and the gsxr has low handle bars that will hurt your back after a while in long distance journeys. Take your time theres no rush.

Borg.

bikermaddy

Thanks borg for the thoughtful suggestions. . I Appreciate that.

borg

No problem man.

Borg.

rickmancc

What about a EX 500, my brother will be selling his soon, Its a great bike, 96 i believe with around 6k on it, think he wantes 2000 to 1800, bike is harrisburg pa.

borg

Thats a good first bike to start on. It will give you the experience you need to decide what your second bike would be. Either where you are or the sports. Sports bikes are safe in the right hands but as a first bike, i would'nt do it and i don't recomend it mate.

Borg.

bikermaddy

I checked the insurance quote for EX 500 and it was 80% cheaper than CBRs. So, if I understand you correctly, you recommend the EX 500 instead of CBR, right? Thanks.

borg

Yes. Its way cheaper insurance and you can go after your sports bikes later on when you have more history with your insurance company.

Borg.

bikermaddy

So rickmancc, where can I find further details on your brothers bike? Any pictures or additional details about body condition, running condition etc? Thanks.

rickmancc

Sure I will tell him your interested you can email him spamrot26@yahoo.com

atom10

2000 Honda CBR600F4 is better than the 2002 Suzuki GSXR600.

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Grinster24

^^^ agreed