Here's how I would start riding motorcycles if I could re-do everything

[@yammienoob]

Gear mentioned in this video: Helmet: bit.ly/Bell-MX9-Helmet Jacket: bit.ly/Cargo-Air-Jacket Gloves: bit.ly/4SR-Monster-Gloves Boots: bit.ly/icon-stormhawk-boots Airbag: bit.ly/tech-air-5-airbag Cardo: cardosystems.rfrl.co/3g1p7 - code "YNCardo" saves you 10% Tank bag: bit.ly/tank-bag-nelson-rigg

[@NorCalDubber]

Problem is the used bike market is crazy over priced.

[@nathanwhitley3358]

Asking prices are generally silly but if you keep looking people will post reasonable prices and those will sell within a week. I’m mostly looking at bikes about 10 years old, newer are not a good buy when they are only a few grand less than brand new.

[@nahx6205]

@@nathanwhitley3358 Some of the asking prices on used bikes in my area are literally the same as a brand new one and its crazy how they think that'll sell

[@unionrdr]

Yeah, like the V Star 250's anywhere in the northern half of Ohio. I paid nearly new price for my '18 V Star 250. But it did have only 5094M on it. And looked like new, save for water-spotted dust on it. And the front primary tube starting to get light rust as a result. But I like it, I like it!

[@NorCalDubber]

@@nathanwhitley3358 exactly, was looking for rebel 500 might as well buy brand new. I'm hoping prices drop durring fall and winter.

[@hi_im_ep1k187]

I’m looking at a second hand r7 and they’re literally all priced like new

[@Supergh0stTV]

I got my first bike 5 weeks ago and I already have 4500 miles on it. Love every second.

[@nickbrenner4241]

Bad ass my man, what did you pick up?

[@Supergh0stTV]

@@nickbrenner4241 it’s a Grom. I got it for the mpg mostly. I’ll never get rid of it but I’m already saving for my next bike I can more reliably go on the highway with. Either Ninja 500 or MT07

[@drakeb6168]

@@Supergh0stTV between those bike, might as well get the mt07 and an aftermarket fairing

[@Supergh0stTV]

@@drakeb6168 yeah, that’s what I’m leaning toward

[@pmoses987]

@@Supergh0stTV Give the adventure bike category a look. I think that their versatility is something that can't be ignored. If you're road-biased, check out the Transalp.

[@ububox2087]

Bought my first bike at 53, about 6 weeks ago. Himalayan 450... absolutely loving it.

[@OhSoddit]

I'm 53 as well. Was "thinking" of my first ever (zero experience) bike being a Honda XR 150L. However, it looks like Australia have just STOPPED allowing registration. Dealer price has crashed from $4,898 to $3,700 AUD. I do believe 2nd had ones that are already registered CAN be re-registered :)

[@matusknives]

Cool! I am 44 - it sounds like it might not be too late for me! I am thinking of RE 350 or 411 Scram.

[@Samoaba]

​@@matusknives I love my scram 411 but it does have some vibration, classic reborn 350 is a delight on the highway with almost no vibration. So it's upto you

[@Mtnhiker-ql7kl]

Bought my first bike, a Ninja 400, at 47, just a few months ago. My son sold it to me when he was ready to move up to something a little more powerful. I LOVE it.

[@r.williamcomm7693]

Congrats to all starting. Remember that you can learn to ride any bike so don't feel like you have to go tiny. "Ride Like a Pro" teaches so much. With over 20 years of riding it still taught me a lot. You can practice your way into handling just about anything so don't be afraid to set up cones in a parking lot or on the road near your home every weekend. Congrats & enjoy.

[@1sttimegunowner]

My first bike which I still have is a duke 390. Im pretty big 280lbs and love this bike. I do wish I had a little more power but honestly so glad I went with that as my bike. 20k miles on it in 3 years and loving every second.

[@dhess34]

10k miles/yr is impressive! Nice job.

[@1sttimegunowner]

@@dhess34 more like 7k the arizona summers get unbelievably hot

[@cwadlow]

Did you replace any of the suspension parts? I’ve got a ‘21 390 Duke and the front suspension loves to dive hard off throttle. I’m only about 220 lbs but something I’m considering doing since I plan on owning the bike for a while

[@1sttimegunowner]

@@cwadlow no my bike is stock. Yea thats just how the bike is super twitchy......

[@obeii1805]

First bike speed triple rs 1050

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

I had it to do over again, I wouldn't have gotten a street bike. As a teenager I loved the duel sport bikes in the magazines. My imagination would take me through dirt roads and the woods for camping. My first bike was a used Honda CB 360. I traded it in on a brand new 1977 Harley sportster. When I turned 64 I bought an XT250 and love it. I load it up and go camping. If I had it to do over again I would get a duel sport. I would have had more fun with that then all the street bikes that I have had in my life time. I'm 70 now and still have my XT250 and ride it often.

[@willstamps5641]

xt250 is in my opinion the best first bike and the best last bike, i had a 2021 for my first bike, sold it in 2022, i miss it so much

[@brettharrington4333]

i have just got one brought a block of land and it's not flat and nice ten mins to the beach having so much fun with it

[@HalaEarthOdyssey]

XT225 bebe 6 speed masta race

[@willstamps5641]

@@HalaEarthOdyssey i have one of those too lol it skipped time and bent the valves

[@seattlegrrlie]

As a city girl, I've ridden a bunch of 125-250 bikes and they're great for whipping around town. Don't feel your ego needs at least a 600. Anything in the 250-400 range is plenty of power and tons of fun

[@jimquinn6684]

rode/raced dirtbikes since i was 3 (local track junior trophie), stopped at 13, picked it back up at 17 with a dr650, got my learners at 18, didnt ride at all, passed my test on my 19th birthday, bought a cbr250r (2011) for dirt cheap and did all my learning on that thing. 8 months later and ive just picked up an sv650s and i would do it all over again in a heartbeat!!

[@ZacharyGregory-zk6ur]

Saw a beautiful red sv650s while I was out on my 23 sv650 yesterday. Nice bike

[@royb.1441]

Raced MX from 13 to 17 and stopped. Then at age 21 I bought a dr650 for on road and LOVED IT. At age 22 I traded it for an 08 sv650. What a fun fun bike. Then at 24yo, I picked off road back up and raced enduro for a couple years.....at 29 I bought an 81 GL1100 gold wing, stripped all the crap off and that bike.....was my absolute favorite on road MC ever owned. Such a unique feel, sound, character, ect. I have ridden a ton, but my two fav on road bikes are either the sv650 or a stripped down GL1000 or GL1100

[@brettharrington4333]

im on my third sv 650s came up with same background as you first road resisted bike was cbr 250 still have it have loads of fun on it in the hills and back roads the sv 650 has to be the best value for money bikes you can get i have one set up as a sports bike and one set up for touring and yes, they a the same color that way i can change the plate only have to register one

[@brendonsmith2625]

Got a Vstrom too, 2011 fully kitted for 3.7k it only had 20k kms. Absolute beast if a bike already doubled the kms and have a thousand odd on trails now

[@brettharrington4333]

@@brendonsmith2625 great bike on my thireed gave the other 2 to my boys

[@n819-r3g]

Just got my first bike, a 2018 DRZ400sm with 2.6k km. Thankyou Yammie God for enlightening me.

[@lexico69]

I bought the triumph 400x as my first bike at the age of 53. I love it. I have been riding all over Scotland through the summer. Great for tall riders, great on fuel, it can do motorway riding as it will sit at 70 easily. I have taken it off road but just on the forest tracks. I have the British racing green.

[@wilsontang3441]

I'm 23. I started learning to ride in late August and bought my dream bike, too. I hope I can still love this hobby like Yammie did for 10 years.

[@Throttle_Wrist_Adventures]

what engines capacity did you start with if i may ask?

[@Curious-Mr.-Lee]

You will never stop loving it.

[@Ashes228]

i started riding this year and grabbed a MT-03 for my first bike. Light weight, peppy, forgiving, and cheap. Having a blast so far, maybe next year i look at upgrading to an 07 or something similar but for just learning and going around town and the mountain passes this has been so good.

[@BUGBYTE_]

In 1992 I Started on a 86 Honda Helix (scooter) at 12.Then Got a 86 V65 magna when I was 16. Then at 19 a 1994 Katana 750. When I hit 22 I got a 01 Hayabusa. I always had a helmet and gloves. I didn't get any gear until I got the Hayabusa. Somehow I'm still alive.

[@1sttimegunowner]

@@BUGBYTE_ magna gang!!!!

[@eddiebanks6704]

You can’t even get a license at 12???

[@1sttimegunowner]

@@eddiebanks6704 lol the internet is full of kids riding motorcycles. Its a lifestyle

[@BUGBYTE_]

@@eddiebanks6704 I rode it to middle school nobody said anything. I have a nephew that rides a crf80 he's 9.

[@BUGBYTE_]

@@1sttimegunowner this

[@jimmytorello7041]

I rode dirt bikes as a teen, bought a used Gixxer 750 at 20 when I was in the USN and wore no gear whatsoever. Long 20 year hiatus and I had this exact question to answer. I wanted a naked upright riding position and wanted insurance and gas prices to be reasonable. I wear full gear all the time now. I went with a 2019 390 Duke and love it.

[@christians131]

The navy didn’t make sailors wear gear? Surely a helmet though right?

[@markdawson5215]

Thanks for all of the gear tips! It's tough weeding through all of the info without having real life experience.

[@NightRunner23]

I bought my first motorcycle this year finally after postponing it since I was 16 lol. On July 28 I bought a brand spanking new Yamaha R3 with zero miles. Before I bought the bike I got my permit and once I got my bike I tried to learn by myself and my friend. My first time on a motorcycle I stayed in the friction zone for five seconds then finally started to ease it out and got my feet on the pegs first try gave it a little rip got into second no problem and I was so happy and excited. Same day I met up with my friend and went to a parking lot practiced weaving through cones emergency braking and driving on public roads with my friend and he said I was a born natural. Haven’t dropped my bike yet either too. My first month with a permit I went to a parking lot and the dmv layout and practiced a lot on my braking slow speed maneuvers downshifting cornering and so on. I wasn’t really nervous on public roads my first time I just had my eyes extra peeled and focused on cars lol. Then I took the CMSP just after a month of learning by myself and passed with a perfect score and taking that class made riding feel much more enjoyable. Since july 28 to now I’ve put 2,100+ miles on my bike and ride it almost every day

[@Wrexhavik]

Proof that taste changes with time. 56yrs old as of 2024. started riding when I was about 12 on a Yamaha YZ80, then Honda 250r, then Honda Interceptor 250. Joined the Army and couldn't tote around a motorcycle. 24yrs later retired from Army, settled down and want to ride but now in my 40's want a cruiser. Not a fan of HD and wanted to be a little more exclusive, so got an Indian Chieftain and wife got Indian Scout. Now in my mid 50's I'm into ADV riding and have a KTM 1290. So, change happens. do what you're in the mood for but dont break the bank as time will tell and taste will change. Now I have 6 bikes in my garage so every day i can choose what i'm in the mood for. That Triumph Scrambler looks sic, would love to have one of those in my garage for scooting around! Very nice info in this video, i've shared it with a friend who is just now wanting to get into motorcycles in his 50's, so this is a good place to start. Thanks for a great video friend!

[@jauken83]

Regarding white helmets, studies have also shown that white helmets are far more visible to cagers than darker colors. They brought this up during my MSF course.

YES! I have almost no close calls in my white helmet on my white bike with white barkbusters. (None since I bought a yellow airbag vest. People think I'm police, hee hee.)

[@drawnbody51]

I got a 2004 Harley sportster 1200 mint codish with thousands of pounds of extras for £3200 which is an insane price for that bike in the UK the guy selling was clearly loaded and just wanted more garage space so was really loose on the price. I know people slag off Harleys but even getting a decent used bike of any shape or form for that price was proving difficult

[@Dabodizafa]

Started on a Kawasaki KZ 400 that I had to work on with my Dad to get running. Then I moved to a Yamaha Virago. I've had many others but now I zip around town on a Suzuki Bergman 650. It's great for riding in traffic.

[@LiTLflor]

Short canvas/cotton shorts, Nike vapor max, tactical tank top, Versace Sun glasses, beetle jockey helmet, Milwaukee cut 1 red gloves. Handle bar cup holder with a tall boy Pacifico.

[@terramidia3d]

Two weeks with the Scrambler 400x, can't recommend enought. Wonderful bike, for the price it's hard to find a better one. And it turns heads wherever it goes.

[@Kryzael-]

Perfect timing for me! Just passed my Motorcycle Riding Safety Course recently and I'm getting ready to test bikes, equip gear, and purchase my first ride. 😄I've been watching your content recently to learn & get tips for getting into riding. Appreciate you, your knowledge, & community. Can't wait to join in!

[@superpete1961]

I feel that for beginners, low seat height is important as well. I haven't ridden in a couple decades but if I get back into it, I would really like something like that triumph. My first bike was a a 1973 ish Honda CB360 and honestly it was the most fun I ever had on a motorcycle.

[@giovanhagar]

DRZ400S or DR650S test them and pick one. I got the 650, not water cooled and easily adjustable valves.

[@davidseeley558]

Love the videos! Taking a measured approach is always a good idea. Build up over time and hone the craft until you become a skilled rider :D

[@RanjithCoplay]

I bought the Speed 400 three months ago and although it’s a decent bike, it’s too slow for the Texas freeways. Everyone is faster than me and I kept getting pushed off the roads. Sold it last week

[@Thatonedutchguy99]

Got my motorcycle license just when i was about to turn 24 wich granted me the ability to ride full power motorcycles, so after thinking for a bit i went for my dream bike and bought a 2017 Kawasaki Z900, it's amazingly fun to ride and i have done a couple of trackdays and circuit training days within the time i owned it to become more familiar with my own limits. I've had it for about 2 years now and really don't see myself selling in the foreseeable future

[@LakeCountryKyle]

My first bike in 2020 was a 1982 Kawasaki KZ550 for 600 bucks. I learned a lot about how carburetors and air fuel mixtures worked by fixing that thing with my grandpa. Since then, I've bought a used Ducati Scramber and I love it! Still wear all the gear because of other drivers and deer love to play crash test dummy in my area.

[@Gitridocfhskaoajabshdud]

Holy shit, got an Mx-9 adventure and am waiting for a crf300l to ship in, great to hear I made a solid choice

[@MagicSac]

meant to be

[@SJ-lu5hp]

That's what I started with last year. No ragrets

[@z4520ft]

I live in Malaysia, where Honda Cub (C70, EX5 and other variants in kapchai category) is the 'starter-pack' for almost all riders here. It's cheap, and parts are plenty. I think for beginner riders, it's always better to start with a proper bike (basically not at Grom or fun bike) that you can afford to repair it if something happen, and also reliable enough that your concern mostly on the periodic maintenance. The next step up would be small displacement 150cc/250cc bike whichever we can afford to buy and maintain. Our roads here are relatively short with plenty of corners and junctions. The riders need to learn to steer and brake properly. I've been riding for more than 20 years, and 250cc KTM Duke is still the largest engine capacity bike I ever own because I live near backroads where I have fun ride every weekend and I still haven't be able to push the bike to it's maximum handling potential.

[@Cheezeball99999]

My first bike was a $200 1980 XS650, and I wouldn't change that for the world. Knowing what I know now, having the time and money and knowledge but potentially without the experience, I maintain that it's the perfect motorcycle. Kick and electric start, carbureted, very simple to work on. 55HP was enough to instill a healthy fear of accidental wheelies, but little enough for it still to be extremely rideable for a beginner. I put a 750 big bore kit on it when the head gasket blew, and I've never wanted more power. It's an attractive bike, the aftermarket is excellent, the fuel economy is better than many many modern middleweight motorcycles, and I just plain *like* it. The exhaust note is pleasant, the power delivery is very smooth, and it's the most comfortable bike I've ever owned, or ridden for that matter. I have a '94 FZR600, an '06 SV650, my wife has a 2022 Ninja 400 I ride a lot, and I commonly ride my buddy's 2022 Sportster and 2016 Softail Slim. Out of all of those, the singular one I can stay in the saddle of for more than 45 minutes comfortably, is the XS. It's simply the best. It's not the most powerful, it's not been without issue, but it's my favorite.

[@kennygo8300]

My first bike was a 1979 Yamaha 650 Special, with a universal windscreen mounted on it. I wish I still had it. It wouldn't win any races, but it always got me there.

[@EricBurns1970]

Love the spot on 360 at 4:45, there is a MTB trail literally a couple of feet to your right and loads all around you. 360 is great place to ride, miss my ole 92 KLR 650, and 87 XL250R despite those finicky dual carbs.

[@SteveSteeleSoundSymphony]

Enduros, scramblers, dual sports or supermotos are the way to start. They’re comfortable, easy to ride, easy to keep upright, and because you can ride on or off road, you’ll really learn how to ride.

[@jpa9058]

My first bike is an 82 Kawasaki kz250 d2 csr belt drive. My brother bought it for $400 used and sold it to me for $1 several years later. After 2 decades, it’s my main 3-season daily driver, virtually issue free and running strong. Super light and low maintenance.

[@user-ze9ml7zd7h]

I’m 46 and have never been on a motorcycle… I’ve done a lot of mountain biking, but nothing with a motor. I’m just now looking into getting my first bike and have narrowed it down to the Triumph Speed 400, the Triumph Scrambler 400 X and the Ninja 400 or 500. I don’t need anything too over the top. At 46, married with 3 kids, it’s just about getting out and cruising around and going back and forth to work. That being said, which in your opinion, is the best option? My first choice at the moment, is the Speed 400.

[@rottweilerfun9520]

Good choice.

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

Get one of the Triumphs

[@han-pq3qp]

the Triumph Scrambler 400 X is absolutely stunning and great for cruising

[@erich.4305]

I would suggest every beginner get a bike with ABS.

[@hellize4212]

Agree! Saved my butt at least 3 times

[@andreibarbulescu3276]

abs is a life saver but you don't want it to kick in. what i suggest every new rider is ride a lot in a safe space (after i got both my car and motorcycle licence i did 100 km a day on paved roads that nobody takes usually, forsts and such). also on that safe road learn your limits, how hard can you brake and accelerate (not the vehicle but how much can you take), and i don't mean do it once or twice too see how long your brake distance is. do it constantly so you get used to it for when you really need it.

[@rottweilerfun9520]

I would suggest that every beginner learn how to brake hard properly and practice until it becomes muscle memory.

[@maximumpotential3796]

@@andreibarbulescu3276 great tip

[@maximumpotential3796]

@@rottweilerfun9520 appreciate the tip.

[@devohnhebert2071]

I just bought a 17 Yamaha fz6r earlier this year as my first bike in years and I absolutely love it. It feels great super comfortable and handles the road very well.

[@0HARE]

I started on a Honda CB350 back in the 80’s, then a 2004 Yamaha TW200. The Yamaha was the perfect newbie bike. From the Yamaha I moved up to an ‘06 KLR650, a major step up. Seventeen years and 80,000 miles later the Kawasaki is still my favorite bike to ride. In ‘21 I bought a brand new Honda CRF300 Rally, a super sweet bike that’s still in my stable. I recently bought a brand new ‘24 Triumph Scrambler 1200xe, another major step up. I’d like to know more about that Ducati Scrambler you have. It looks a lot lighter and more nimble than my heave, hot Triumph. Happy Trails!

[@motoyki]

Here in Asia, Low displacement scooters are king. The great starting point would be a 125, and the endgame would be a X-ADV 750 or TMAX 560

[@charlescarmichael1124]

I once visited Cambodia. Scooters by the millions. I once saw one with 5 grown people on it!

[@Ozgur72]

Endgame is an unfotunate wording. It is not a competition and you can have smaller bike all your life.

[@MrBiggles53]

After a 50cc Honda moped in Italy, my first bike in Las Vegas back in ‘88 was a stock ‘84 Honda CM450 that I bought for $300 cash, put another $300 in for new tires, chain, sprockets, registration and insurance, then put 10,000 miles a year on it for the next 3 years riding between San Diego, camping in SW Utah, cruising out to Death Valley - in March when it’s only 70 degrees - around the Nevada Sierras and western AZ. Took it to Tom’s Bikes for servicing & oil changes every 1500-2000 miles. Good times!

[@ibewscott69]

I know Yammie Noob is is not a fan of the Chinese bikes, but i keep seeing good reviews on Lifan starter bikes like the KPM200 Lifan EFI | KP-Master 200 | Manual 6-Speed Motorcycle. It is priced at 2800. The reports that i am seeing is Lifan is contracted to make the Honda motors. So basically you are getting a Honda motor. Of course i would not want to keep this forever, but as a starter bike i should be able to learn all i need to advance on to a Indian scout 101.

[@thelittledude86]

I love this transition for yam. Totally my speed. Grew up on a 100 dirt bike. Got a wr250f. Modded it, eventually made it street legal. Now I’ve got a ktm 500 XCW that I’ve made street legal. If I lay on it the front wheel won’t touch down until 65, it’s awesome. Only thing I’d add is, if you enjoy off-road, get a different set of wheels and tires for single track, and more street dedicated wheel and tire setup for the road and scrambling. If you’re fancy, get a bigger sprocket for the off-road set.

[@sopiagotim]

I’ve had my Hypermotard since it came out, and I feel so strongly about it, like you do YOUR Ducati! Best handling bike ever in 50 riding years.

[@Tacmans]

Hey!! I’m 21 just got me a KLX230 Supermoto. I got it for exploring downtown as well as trails and anything else I find. It also does good on the highway with that 6th gear! It’s air cooled which is crazy to me. So far changed the oil and have been riding it! Taking my motorcycle endorsement this weekend. I’m excited to progress with this bike. Get into stunting maybe in the future and fun trails with the homies. I also got this bike brand new off a 80yr old man for a steal! (His price not me gouging him) safe to say I’m looking forward to riding!

[@carbonemtree]

I started on a heavy power cruiser so im forced to perfect low speed maneuvers & more utilize more body movement when in the corners . High Torque so you learn how to manage Throttle input but not enough hp & arrow dynamics to split lanes on the highway. Id say these are perfect to polish your skills if you are motorsport minded since you are playing on hard mode☝🏾

[@howtspendip4853]

thnks man for the videos. i was about to quit getting my license couse im a bit afraid but i think taking it slow, like you said, doing drills will give me more confidence.

[@ElMayo31]

The icon stprmhawk boots are nice. Had the 300l fall and pin my ankles a couple times, no pain. Waterproof, and that lacing system makes it easy to get out of in the hot ass garage

[@frankpoole1]

I started 2 months ago on Yamaha XSR125 (15 hp). Great for the city and scrambling, great for my height (191 cm or 6'3) looks like some 400, great for learning slow and fast monouvers. I will do my A license and switch probably next year to XSR700 or something 400cc like Triumph scrambler 400.

[@UrsusHorribilis]

Just grabbed my first bike last month. Kawasaki z500. I love that i can sit upright, good mpg, and enough power to handle the freeway. I was gonna do a dual sport but the seat height was a little intimidating tbh

[@edwardcote2440]

I don't know anything about motorcycles, but that Scrambler is gorgeous.

[@aduckonquak2139]

6:38 On top blocking sun bc dust and glare get too mush, the peak is also for if your in a group ride or with a buddy, off road, you can look down to avoid roosts to the face/mud on your visor as well as say branches that might not go well with your visor.

[@bamabluesman]

I went with a Savage 650 for about 6 months to get back into it after over 20 years off riding a CB125. Being a large guy, it looked funny but was fun. I then got a ZG1000 concours after riding several other bikes. I put about 40,000 miles on that then totaled it. I've been off a while and might want to get back into it for the 3rd time. I like your channel and the info you pass along. Always had helmet and gear,, well,, after slid my bike with a t-shirt going about 40. :)

[@josephdavis823]

Got my first bike a month ago, and it was actually the crf300l rally, and I love it. It's actually pretty comfortable doing 70 mph highway miles too

[@Derek1TV]

Started riding “motorcycles” 3 years ago with a little Honda ruckus to get around my college campus and save on gas and parking. Graduated and literally just picked up a Honda crf250l 2 days ago to learn on and get my street license. Glad to see I made a good choice going for a small enduro. Yammie is right I’ve found every excuse to ride that I could these past two days

[@douggantenbein5382]

Finally, … knew you had it in you! A topic that appeals to the young rider, or “potential” new rider. We need these young people to be safe, informed, and enjoying their ride. There is strength in numbers, and we need these folks joining the hobby or lifestyle to keep the builders, dealers,insurers, and even politicians honest. Wish I could return to this group, but my first bike purchase was 1971.😮 Anyway, important advice and well done. 😊

[@DasDutchman56]

My 1st bike was a 1976 Kawasaki 400 bought from a neighbor for $200.00 in 1985. I loved that bike !

[@jasonking9401]

I bought a GN125 on my birthday and it was SO fun!! A 2nd hand leather jacket, a cheap helmet, cheap gloves, and some steel-toe work boots... including the bike, i spent less than $2000 (NZD) After a few months I also got riding jeans, better gloves, and a bigger bike (Tracer 700)...

[@papatorr3669]

XT225 vs CRF300F Rally: 265lb vs 337lb = CRF 72lb heavier! 20hp vs 27hp = CRF 7Hp more. 14 ft/lb vs 19 ft/lb = CRF 5 ft/lb more. Seat height 32" vs 35" = CRF 3" Taller! $2,500 w/776 miles vs $6,200 = CRF $3,700 more! Each has requisite 6 speed. Each has 21" front and 18" rear wheels/tires. There are used bikes that rival the new ones for a new rider in each category. I purchased an XT225 with 778 miles for $2,500 and another with 12k miles for $2k. I still have $2,200 left over, making the CRF300 three times more expensive!

[@petersluik7192]

My first bike (mid 80's) was a Honda CB450S and the next one (about 2 years later) was a Honda CBX750. It seemed like a natural progression and I have owned bigger and faster bikes after that. That said, for pure riding fun I have always preferred smaller, lighter bikes as it's (in my opinion) more fun to ride a slow(ish) bike fast than a fast bike slow on public roads. I also live in an area where there are not a lot of roads that lend themselves to driving very fast safely.

[@vernonvaught872]

My first on-road bike was a 2000 Yamaha V-Star 650 that I bought off the showroom floor. Yeah, I'm old. That first year (or 18 months), it was my only mode of transportation. It was a stable and comfortable ride, but was not meant for the highway. At least, not sustained travel on the interstate. 36k in less than 2 years and she just gave up. That bike taught me a lot, but most importantly, it taught me that a bike should never be your only form of transport when you live anywhere that has inclement weather.

[@tomridesbikesPNW]

Just started riding two months ago, got my permit 1 month ago. Purchased a 2023 KTM 390 Duke for a reduced price and couldn't be happier with the bike after riding it for 700 miles. Something to note if you purchase a naked bike for your first, don't be surprised by the wind, you are exposed from the belt like up and it is noticeable. Something to note, the tank of the 390 Duke is a bit slippery, a GREAT buy for confidence and safety are a good set of tank grips. Put the miles in, and enjoy the ride!

[@rottweilerfun9520]

You'd be surprised by how much even a tiny windscreen will help.

[@scaramouchew]

You know what the thing is yam, as much as making the “right” decision seems like the right thing to do, buying the bike which looks the coolest to you and feels like a dream bike without thinking to much is still gonna be fine. I started on a sv650 because it was “the right thing to do”. Went up to a street triple because it “was the right thing to do” but my dream was always a Gixxer 750 so i went and buy one a while ago. Never been happier , even went to the track and had a blast. My point being is buy the bike that makes your heart beat faster

[@edwardkeeter762]

Any name brand motorcycle made since 2000 is damn near immortal if properly maintained. You can get an older (pre-2010) bike in amazing shape that's super fun effortlessly for under $4,000, easily for under $3,000, and with little patience and effort for under $2,500. My first 3 bikes were (1) 2006 Kawasaki Ninja 250: $1,750. I rode the HELL out of that bike for 3 years and it never let me down.(2) 2008 Suzuki SV650S: $3,700. Good luck finding something more fun than a SV650. (3) 2004 Honda Shadow Aero 750: $2,750 in AMAZING shape, complete with a gorgeous custom seat and V&H exhaust. I would not hesitate to ride the SV or Shadow from PA to Alaska. They are beyond reliable. And the $1,750 Ninja? Dropped it at least 3 times and low-sided it once, but for $1,750, that didn't sting nearly as much as it would have had I been on, say, a (nearly) new Ninja 400 that I spent $4,000+ on .

[@ColdWarVeteran-r2j]

Japanese motorcycles only...

[@mikeh2520]

I really loved my Honda XL250 that I bought used in the mid '80's. I really wanted a used XL500 but I got tired of waiting for one to show up in the classifieds. The only shortcoming of the XL250 was the top speed on the highway which was 55 mph but back then that was what the national speed limit was. It could go 55 all day but you had to lower your head if there was a head wind to keep up that speed. It was nimble off road and had good torque in first gear to get it flying into the air over small bumps on the trail. I had lots of fun with it and commuted to work on it regularly.

[@greatbigeye2506]

2003, got a used Suzuki Savage 650 which was a good first bike. Should have taken the MFS class first though. Second bike that fall was an ‘04 1200R Harley Sportster which was a good choice.

[@jauken83]

As someone who bought an RE Scram 411.... get the Triumph.

[@KevinSmith-qi5yn]

But the Royal Enfield has so much "character". They are both designed in England and manufactured in India.

[@jauken83]

@@KevinSmith-qi5yn don't get me wrong its a ton of fun, but 15 more horsepower would really hit the spot. There's also the RE Guerilla 450 that is about that range.

[@brianjackson9801]

in 2005 started with a Honda Shadow 1100 since I couldn't afford a Harley, and I really liked the aesthetics of cruisers, still do. Three years later I tried a CBF1000 and it blew me away, the comfort, the power, handling, braking... all of it. So I got a Tiger 1050, and a year later traded in for a Speed Triple 1050, which led to more Speed Triples, SMT990, Superduke1290, Tuono 1100R... took a few years off now back with a Z900RS and looking to get a MT10.

[@lucasmcq01]

Just bought a 300 rally as my return to motorcycles after 10 years, I'm loving it way more then my previous 600cc bike.

[@Antody]

Great vid! I'd go with 500CC's though as per your other video's advice to get 2 cylinder and smooth throttle response.

[@TheCdubbleyoo]

While we can still talk about keeping distractions low for beginners, I think it is useful to point out that Cardo offers the Spirit for those who just want to be able to hear directions from their phone while riding (one could also argue access to phone for EMS/LEO assitance while riding). It still has some connectivity with other units...but it's mostly just a BT headset. Sena has something similar. Meet up to practice while a noob...but I suggest avoiding "group rides" while still a noob. Keep it under 5 bikes if you want to go out as a group. Go with people who know how to ride as a pack in traffic. Learn the skill Learn the skill Learnt he skill Learn the skill. Learn. The. Skill.

[@CurrentlyBlazed]

My first bike was the 2021 KLX 300 SM! Such a blast of a bike! I think my next bike will be the 400RR

[@Leoneidas]

I started riding in June this year. Being over 50 (not 18) and familiar with fast vehicles and manual transmissions, I decided I could get a "hotter" first bike. I took a 16 hour riding class, got my license and bought an Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory. After first thinking it was a little too hot, I have settled in and think it was a great choice in my case. In "commute" mode it is indeed a kitten as some told me it would be. Go to the other modes and it can get more crazy than I need- especially for the streets and occasional track weekend.

[@seanlau3650]

Yet to start but have been heavily researched. Been thinking of moving from Singapore to Bangkok in near future. I was looking for a bike that suits Urban city + mini touring during weekends. Oh boy! I started becoming super interested w sports bike then got thoroughly convinced for svartpilen 401 but honestly I think something that has low rev and currently aiming for Triumph 400X.

[@kentalanlee]

This is a solid list. Listen to the Yammie.

[@peteb6072]

Bought my wife a R3 for her first bike.. it’s been great for her

[@alexgolovchenko3791]

I personally wouldn't change a thing about my progression. Glad I survived to race another day. Bring it on, Brother, I'm game. Picking up my R1 this spring. Don't ride in groups, don't care. I just need to ride.😢

[@RichardSnyderJr]

I wanted a1971 Kawasaki 500 Mach III but fortunately for me the sales guy said that would be crazy. I ended up getting the Kawasaki 125 E. I was 15 at the time. From there a 72 Suzuki TS 250 that I started racing Motocross on. Then a 1973 CZ250 which I'm really sorry I let go. I had a Suzuki TS 400 I used for commuting because I could't afford my car insurance. Finally came my first real street bike, 1977 Suzuki GS750 followed by a 1983 Honda VF 750 Intercepter. So after my second daughter was born in 1992 I got off the bikes. However last year the itch returned and I got a 2014 Kawasaki 650 Verseys which is quite fun to ride.Just turned 69 years old and I'm sorry I lost so many good riding years. I'm hoping I might get my first Yamaha in a couple weeks. You make some great videos. Thanks for what you do.

[@matusknives]

That bike of yours is a pure dream! Thanks for a very cool video!

[@AAKEngine]

Even though I live in India where no highway is permitted more than 180kmph (around 111Mph) and 400cc is all you need. I went with Triumph's trident 660. I am having a blast, even though Triumph 400's costs even cheaper around 3.2k usd as they are manufactured here but choosing the trident was a perfect decision (for someone who isn't gonna be idiot with the throttle) But I would still say no one should go over 100bhp as their first bike, it's easy to end yourself if all it takes is 3 second to reach 60mph. And best advice will be "get what YOU thing looks or sound the most fun to you." The regret of choosing something what someone else recommended you is painful. Just clocked around 750 miles and loving every bit of it. Started watching these biggener bike recommendations of yours 2 years ago and always thought, oh maybe this, maybe that and later only chose what I like personally. Yam definitely has a bit of influence why I started riding.

[@johnhowell8779]

This year marks my 6th year riding. Took my bike test because after 35+ years of driving cars I began to desire to ride a motorcycle for fun and leisure purposes. My brother has his bike license and I thought it would also be a good opportunity to spend some more time with him, other than the couple of fishing days we do each year. Also I turned 50 years old in 2019, my mother had passed away a year earlier and left me a little money in her will, so I had some spare cash to treat myself with in her memory (though she would have worried that I had started riding a motorcycle!). I had a brand new 2019 Yamaha MT-125 for a couple of months then moved up to a 2009 Yamaha FZ6S S2 (Fazer), which I still own and love. I've only done about 9k miles on it (but overall it has covered 34.5k miles). A great starter big bike, it's a good looking bike in my eyes, very easy to ride, fast with the retuned R6 engine in it (98hp) but very manageable and foregiving, comfortable, and a nice smooth in-line 4 cylinder 600cc, to boot. I do not want to sell it, but I only have storage room for one motorbike and I would like now to move up to something slightly larger, engine wise, but not go as far as getting a 1000cc motorcycle which, although I've test ridden a few, I now realise I would never make the most of. Have been test riding lots of bikes over the last couple of years: Ninja 1000SX, Suzuki GSX-S1000GT, Africa Twin, NT1100 (if space and money were no object, this is what I would have), Tracer 9GT, Tenere 700, and most recently the Transalp 750 - the Transalp currently being the bike ticking the most boxes and I think would give me the upgrade I am currently looking for. I do need to test ride the Suzuki GSX-8R, too, which is next on the list to have a go on. I am having a struggle with the idea of owning a parallel twin though, as I love the smoothness of my in-line 4 and ideally would have another 4 cylinder bike, but without making that jump to the 1000cc category they're a little difficult to come by in new bikes these days. Loving your work, YN.

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

Yes good advice. Especially starting in the dirt it teaches control skills. 😊

[@2wheels.are.better.than4]

Awesome video. I would go with the CRF300L (standard, non-Rally).

[@Mathei91]

Started on a yamaha xj600 diversion for 2 years and had a few years without riding after that. Bought a Honda shadow 750 aero and rode it for 2 years. Now I'm on a Ninja 1000sx. So far its the perfect bike for my taste

[@mattmairone8728]

surprised the 2024 svart wasn't on your list just got mine and its so nice

[@Yarblocosifilitico]

I was thinking buying a much cheaper one, but I'll consider one of these (the Scrambler specifically, because I love the retro look)

[@Orionleo]

Hey yam I'm a big Sa1nt fan. I wear the exact jean you are showing and right now they're on sale. For some reason, Sa1nt suspiciously puts their stuff on sale a lot. The pants you are showing are their basic model and I dont think everything is AA, it's only AA with the armors included. That being said they're very comfortable and very normal looking. They're australian, I believe. The rise is quite low, so if you are a guy with a longer inseam you should avoid them (I love my pants but they strangle the boys if I dont sit right). The armor is CE2 and very comfortable. They're great pants, at least I think.

[@wrenchmonkey3920]

had an idea id get into it 4 years ago. My motorcycling uncle with 5 decades of riding bultaco to beemers pointed me straight to the 300l rally. Finally found one last year as my 1st ride.

[@SJR7600]

Started on a Z400, upgraded to a Street Triple 765R. Was gonna go back down to a CFMOTO 450MT since you just cant use the Striple's power in my country given how over policed the roads are

[@tjey379]

That Desert sled is fly. It makes me hope for the day I can get some extra money and get the Simba Scrambler. For my start ( being in Kampala) there weren't that many options as there are today ( am kind of glad ) I got the TVS RTR 160. Great bike that forgave me and taught me a lot. But mostly I learned that I didn't know how to ride on the TVS then the Simba 200 and now the Simba Boss +

[@erwinlommer197]

I think I did it all correct. I'm on my 3rd month of being motorbike licensed. My first bike was ninja 650 (er-6n here). Lovely torquey engine, enough power to be a challenge but not enough to get into trouble. Good ergos, extremely reliable and heavy enough to teach the basics. Also bought one with low miles and flawless service record. Did over 3k kilometers (over 2k miles) in first month. It gave me a solid base to buy a first gen 990 superduke next lmao. Brutal machine. Loved it. I think the biggest skill in riding bikes is not your actual ability to ride a bike but the self restraint and resistance to make silly mistakes. I ride within my limits and I actively train and do exercises to make my limits higher. Not just low speed stuff but things like countersteering and positioning on the bike too. I even ride in the rain just to learn how to do it. Imho one doesn't learn to be a good rider just by doing the miles. It takes active learning and challenging yourself to learn your weak areas and putting in the effort to improve on those areas. I actively search for new things to learn. I also made the right calls with equipment. I have full ce c2 level gear. I bought all my gear during the winter with massive discounts. I got a 400$ helmet for 150$. I got a nice pair of 200$ c2 certified boots for 50$. Brand new! My gloves were second hand 150$ ones and I paid 70 for those. Almost unused. I even got a back armor for nice discount. My jacket and pants were also new and I got modest discounts for those. Paid 100$ for each, would have been 150$ with no discounts each. I think I could have not done any better there. Only thing I missed was not buying thicker gloves which I now needed to buy for almost full price. I did three mistakes as far as I can tell. Firstly I waited a month too long in the summer before getting my license. I lost about 1 month of riding. Second mistake was buying a tad too big helmet. I should have been tight early on and then let it shape around my head for snug fit. Now it is a bit too big and moves around a little in the harsh winds. And my third mistake was not starting on a turbo busa.

[@udmbfckx2916]

After many years of riding (1st bike was a Kawi Vulcan 750 twin 4 valve per cylinder/shaft driven decades ago, 2nd was a Suzie SV650 naked FI) and a 4 year hiatus...I came back to motocycling at age 58 with the Triumh Scrambler 400X. It is the cheapest new way, this side of a cruiser, to buy a full-sized bike where I can take the Lady on the Highway at slightly above legal speeds (75-80). Only mod was changing the front sprocket in order to lower the engine rpm at the same highway speed by 500 rpm....oh yes, and a fairing....and a bracket for rear luggage, and a pair of cheap side soft bags....and a Rubbermaid Action Packer as the rear case...and a ....well, you get the point.

[@RadioActiV_]

My beginner picks(US market): Sport: - R3, Ninja 400, CFmoto 450ss, Ninja 650 Naked: - Mt-03, sv-650 Cruiser: honda rebel 300 Scrambler: Triumph Scrambler 400x Touring: Verseys 650(my first bike, not great for short riders) Track: Zx-4rr, r3 If you have more experience: R7, gsx-8r, mt-07, ktm 890 smt, mt-09, maybe 1000s sport touring bikes like the gsx-r 1000gt I'm not very familiar with low displacement dual sport/adventures, only 890 adventure or the beamer GS so others will be better for that

[@angeloreis7139]

I love Triumphs, Royal Enfields seem great as well. Can't wait to buy my first bike soon

[@MeloCT]

I just upgraded to my second bike (Yamaha Bolt) from my first bike 16 KTM 390 Duke) after just over a year. Tendency to leak aside that was a damn good bike and I’ll miss its willingness to ride aggressively while also being easy to ride but I’ve already determined the Bolt is not being sold in the future. That thing still gets down even if it’s a lot more weight to get used to. Extra power is nice, especially on the highway. Personally I’d recommend the Duke but a newer model one (post 17-18 when all the bugs got sorted out)

[@karimchleh3349]

So a 2020-2021 model with>20k km would be perfect for a new rider? I'm so tempted to get a duke

[@MeloCT]

@@karimchleh3349 I’d say so. If you go and check it out and no signs of leaks and they can confirm it’s regular maintenance done I’d say go for it. They really are fun machines to ride both slow and fast. Honestly easier to learn to ride on than the bikes they provided me in my learner courses

[@RoughRyderr]

You forgot earplugs in your gear list! Any good reusable ones? Alpine has a wide range for motorsport enthusiasts I ordered and plan on trying out. Love to hear your opinion.

[@docholliday205]

I tried just about every type of earplug available over the years and have never had one any better than Alpine Moto which I have been using for the last 6 years. Highly recommend.

[@RoughRyderr]

@@docholliday205 fantastic! I picked up the moto pro kit just to try both sets out. The m4 exhaust on my new gsxr 1000 is a lot louder than my z650. Who'd have thought?

Start with cheap "disposable" foam earplugs with decent damping ratings.

[@RoughRyderr]

Yeah, I've been riding again for a few years now (quit while I was in the military) and I'm ready to move on from those earplugs that you describe, which I often refer to as "foamies". Was just curious if the alpines or other brands are worth the money. $50 for 200 or $30 for some I can use 100ish times according the manual, it comes down to if I want no sound coming through with the foamies or the alpines to let some sound and music through. I've got tinnitus because my dumbass didn't always wear earplugs while working around jets in the military so too much wind noise or other noise can cause my tinnitus to annoy the piss out of me. Hoping these alpines are what I need. Not completely quiet so I can hear music to help with my tinnitus but good enough to save me from the noise. We'll see whenever I get my bike back from the shop!

[@christianmouraux7269]

My first bike was an Italjet... I was 6 years old.... 50 years ago, since then I have had so many bikes, always bigger, stronger, more expensive... and now I really look to this 400X 😉

[@andysmith4050]

Best upgrade to my biking was a intercom system. Being able to talk to my friends while riding is something i cant go without now

[@nicholaskalogris9985]

Great information as always Yammie!