Sorry this has probably been posted 800,000 times already but here goes.

I am looking at getting my first bike. I have been riding friend's bikes for a while now and I think I am gonna take the plunge. What I want is something that is reasonably forgiving (as far as sportbikes go). I also want something with a low saddle height. I am 5'7" and I need to have both feet flat to be comfortable. It also has to be a full-faring bike and I want to keep it in the 3-4000 range.

My thought was a 1993-1994 CBR-600 but I heard that the Suzuki GSX-R's are pretty small bikes.

What do you guys think?

 

cbr600 f2 or f3

 

You have or know of one for sale?

 

definately look into a F2 or F3.

Check http://www.cycletrader.com they always have a variety of prices. Also they allow you to price shop. Basically they will tell you what the average, highest, and lowest price is that people are asking for any matching bikes on their listing.

J

 

cobra: What kinda bikes have you been riding on? (just outta curiousity)

I think, as everyone has stated so far, the F2s and F3s are great choices, especially in the price range you've mentioned. Luckily, the Japanese designed their bikes with your height in mind, so you'll find that you can fit most bikes with ease, and still touch your feet to the ground. The GSXR is also a great bike, and you won't as "pretzel-ized" as some larger riders (for example, me).

FYI, the CBR F2s were from 91-94 and F3s from 95-98.

On a side note, why does it have to be a bike with full-fairings? I can understand at least a windshield, but some bikes look absolutely fabulous w/out fairings (Suzuki GS550E, SV650, for two).


[Modified by marmaladeboy, 1:54 AM 6/15/2001]

 

nah cobra...I just got my permit and am looking myself...don't post that you find one...cause I'll take it from under you there are actually a lot in our area on cycletrader.com....usually in the 3-5k price range....some less.
The other bike I am considering is a fz600 should also be good for starters.

 

The one I rode most was an 87 Interceptor. I have also logged some miles on a 1996 CBR-600 and some cruisers.

In terms of the full-fairing thing here is why: There are 3 things that draw me to sportbikes. The speed the sound and the look. I agree that there are some bikes that aren't full-fairing that look pretty good but as I said before for me part of it is the look of the sportbike.

 

I do not have full fairings, I can get em though, only 300$ painted Anyways, look at an R6 if you can find one. They have plenty of power, will handle great (elbow drags at 90 mph) and they look sharp. Myself, I hope to be sitting on my new R1 this winter, but till I get the coin, I'll have to settle for the Interceptor. Its all good though.
~C~