Thinking of getting a motorcycle...

[AMCRambler]

Nothing against those types of bikes, they just look way uncomfortable. Thinking about getting a Harley Davidson Sportster 883 for a starter bike. Do you think it is too big? I've already got some experience with motorcycles, we used to have a small Honda MB-85 that I would ride around our backyard when I was a kid. So I've got the basics of the clutch and shifting with your foot and all that. Just never did any road driving.

 

[FoBoT]

sounds good to me. can i get one too?
just take it easy for a while, you don't want to dump it or get smashed by a big Mack truck

http://www.chuckhawks.com/sportster.htm

 

[ValValline]

I would look at something cheaper, more reliable, and lighter. The Harley is a decent bike, but it is heavy, old technology (air cooled pushrod), and overpriced for what you get. With a HD you are paying a LOT for the image. If you aren't set on HD, then consider some of the following...

Suzuki SV650
Honda Shadows
Honda 599
Yamaha FZ6
Triumph Bonneville, Thruxton, or Scrambler
Ducati Monster series

All of the above bikes have better brakes and suspension than the Harley. Most are lighter (or feel much lighter with a lower center of gravity) and in general will run circles around the 883.

Whatever you decide to get I HIGHLY recommend getting a used bike (most of the above have been out for a few years and can be picked up used at very good prices) . Bikes depreciate a lot and most people buy them and sell them within 1-2 years (quiting the sport or trading up). Also you don't need the hassle of worrying about dropping or damaging a new bike that you are still making payments on.

Your first bike won't be your last (unless you quit riding), so don't lock yourself into one make/model.

 

[GrantMeThePower]

What are the best ways to find used bikes?

 

[Hammerhead]

How about a Suzuki M50

 

[ValValline]

Originally posted by: GrantMeThePower
What are the best ways to find used bikes?

Local paper
ebay
craigslist
Cycletrader online

 

[Triumph]

Most of the cruiser-types will be ok for starters, they are slow and not very responsive. Just stay away from the big cubes like 1000+ cc's. They all handle and stop about the same, that is, not very good.

Crotch rockets is where you get into trouble for a beginner. Cruisers are so benign in comparison it isn't even funny. The only problem is the weight, which just means you'll drop it a few times in the parking lot.

 

[AMCRambler]

Thanks for the info. I'm most definitely going with a used bike because of the reason you listed ValValline. I definitely don't need anything above 1000cc's right now so the 883 Sportster or the 750 Shadow both look nice. Big thanks for the link to Cycletrader.com. That site looks great.

 

[CVSiN]

Originally posted by: AMCRambler
Nothing against those types of bikes, they just look way uncomfortable. Thinking about getting a Harley Davidson Sportster 883 for a starter bike. Do you think it is too big? I've already got some experience with motorcycles, we used to have a small Honda MB-85 that I would ride around our backyard when I was a kid. So I've got the basics of the clutch and shifting with your foot and all that. Just never did any road driving.

thats a perfect bike for a beginner.
you can get a left over 2004/5 for about 6 k these days.

Valkryie has one I ride it all the time.
It was her first bike too.