I was wondering what a good starter bike would be, I don't ride, but I really want to get into it. I really would like to get a CBR but I know I would be roadkill before you could reply to this message.

What are some good sizes for a balance of speed and ease of learning, and what kind of bike should I look at??

 

Motorcyclist magazine voted the Kawasaki Ninja 500R as the best beginner's bike. You could also look at a Suzuki GS500E. I own a Suzuki SV650S and it would be ok to start on but is more of a handful than the other 2 bikes. The SV is more forgiving than a 600 supersport such as the R6 or CBR you mentioned. Try taking the MSF course first and then go sit on a bunch of bikes.

 

SV's rule no matter what the skill level.. kick *** bike.

 

get something with an engine on the smaller side and NO PLASTIC. plastic body parts are very expensive!

 

I think the Yamaha 600R is a awesome starter bike. I have enjoyed mine. But after riding a 929 and a R1 all summer it is time for me to move on.

 

I'm gonna put my vote in for the kawi ex/ninja 500. Course, i have one right now I'm not a beginner, but its still fun for the price you can find them at. Parts are also very plentiful for the ninja twins, because the motor has remained unchanged since 88. You can find entire engines on ebay for around $2-400.

 

What are older (99ish) SV650S's running now? I was thinking about getting a yellow Canadian version but dont think i have the funds. Thanks!
-Nick-

 

How well do sliders work in case you dump it?

 

They do work. My friend laid his bike down last year and the lower plastic was still quite usable. For the $50 they cost, it is worth it.

 

100000000000% worth it. Even if your bike gets knocked over in a parking lot or something, those things are a lifesaver.

 

yea, my first bike i rode was a 90 GSX-R 750, and that thing hauls
i was debating on buying my buddys GSX-R or getting a 99-02 R6
if i buy the gsx-r i want to put new plastics on it, but i heard thay are a grip
for new plastics

 

Frame sliders are the best and cheapest insurance money can buy. I have white ones on my blue 600R and they are nice. The only problem I have had out of my sliders is the bolt that holds them on gets rust on it.

 

While I'm a big fan of the SV, if you want something cheaper, try looking at a Kaw EX-500. They're pretty bullet proof, and you can find them for cheap.