Here's why I bought a 250cc motorcycle for my FIRST BIKE. Do I regret it??

There are so many options out there when you are considering which motorcycle to buy, especially if it's your first one AND you've never ridden a bike before. This video details all of the reasons why I chose a 250cc motorcycle and how I'm feeling about that choice after nearly a year of seat time.
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[@larrymickey3419]

I'm 72 years old and have ridden motorcycles most of my life. When I retired in 2003 at age 55 I was riding a 83 Goldwing as transportation to work. Upon retiring I basically stopped riding and pursued my many other hobbies. Last year I decided to start riding again. I've had all types of bikes through the years, retro ,chopper , never a sports bike. When I decided to ride again I thought about what I wanted to do with a bike. Basically run to the grocery store to pick up an item or two , 30 mile round trip where I live in the boonies , get to the library as I read a lot and just explore back roads ride the Blueridge parkway near me. I wanted a light easy handling , easy to maintain economical bike. No more 700+ pound bikes to wrestle around . I purchased a very lightly used 2007 ninja 250. Ha! Can you imagine a 72 year old on a ninja 250. One of the perks of getting on in years is who cares what I look like , not me. Short story long I have enjoyed this bike more than any bike I've ever owned. Pros , cheap to maintain , cheap insurance , great mileage , 70 mpg , easy to flat foot and move around , puts a smile on your face each time you ride. The major con about this bike is others always telling you that you need a bigger, faster bike . One thing I've learned about motorcycles is SPEED KILLS I don't need 100+ horsepower to get from point A to B . Enjoy your 250 cc bike it will keep you from doing something not so smart (STUPID) and teach you more about riding than a faster heavier less manageable bike.

[@GingerDashMoto]

I love your story!! Thanks so much for sharing, Larry! And the older I get, the less I care about other people’s opinions. Keep riding and loving life. 😊

[@brycehongola2425]

More fun the lighter.

[@sunelven]

I must admit I like the kick of speed sometimes but for every day ride I would choose a smaller bike! I think you are cool for doing what you love man! Enjoy life and have good time! Thanks to bikes, they makes us so much happier!

[@DjTreyCash]

Your awesome

[@brianpreval5602]

i'm 68 and still riding!

[@weemt07biker74]

Choose the bike you want, don't listen to anyone, it's what you are happy with, safe riding.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thank you!

[@weemt07biker74]

@@GingerDashMoto 50 year old rider here, well 51 in a couple o weeks.

[@GingerDashMoto]

@@weemt07biker74 I’m turning 51 in a couple of months. Time blurs after a point. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@weemt07biker74]

@@GingerDashMoto it sure does lol.

[@weemt07biker74]

Subscribed to your channel.

[@PrimoStracciatella]

It's more fun to ride a small bike fast than a big bike slow!

[@GingerDashMoto]

Can’t argue with that!

[@tomedwards159]

not really... it depends on what your into, some people just like to cruise, other people like to go fast. I did the fast thing for awhile, then I slowed down and just really enjoyed the scenery and just the joy of riding, it's therapy for me. I currently have the scout bobber, and a road king.

[@mattingray5651]

It takes skills to ride slow bike fast. Also, it won't kill you if you make mistakes in a small bike.

[@stigrides6927]

Depends on your maturity and what you're looking for. I had just as much fun on my Tuono 1100 as I did on my Street Triple but I'm also an old fart so wasn't riding fast anyway 😄

[@IgorKolar]

I respectfully disagree. I have a 600cc naked I'm perfectly happy with riding slow.

[@jamesmoulson9854]

The best bike is the one that makes you smile when you get on it.

[@603mike]

5 years ago when I was 16. I was like a 250/300 is too small, so I started on a 600. Learning on a 600 definitely slowed down my learning progression having to worry about weight and power. But all I wanted to do was go fast because it was “cool”. As I got more experience, met some amazing people, and got the chance to ride some expensive superbikes. I realized that displacement size is just to make people’s ego feel better. Now I always recommend starting small, no shame in that. I wish I did. Ride safe!

[@GingerDashMoto]

I understand that entirely, Robert!

[@Raygilley10]

See admitting your choice was bigger then you should have chose that’s awesome feed back the main reason for comments are for your way of thinking! Be safe and ride it till your done smiling !

[@ThePeacePlant]

Coming from not knowing about a motorcycle or even owning one, I think it's incredibly stupid to start out with a huge bike and other dudes out there will talk you down for getting 250cc. I am looking for something to make my commute funner, I am not looking for a video game speed racer bike . Honestly it sounds like idiots most of them, just parrot what everyone else says. 250cc is definitely for starters

[@mattlawton4715]

@@GingerDashMoto you made the right choice it better than being dead because it was to big/powerfull for you. You get moor power in time when you ready for it. Listen to yourself. Great video 👍

[@TheMaskedheel]

What gets me is i was watching videos for a Cfomoto Clx 700 sport and in the comments people were suggesting it as a good beginner bike depending on how responsible you are. The bike has 73 horse power and in the professional reviews it’s talked about how much of an uneasy pull it has when accelerating.

[@shupshekitty]

You did exactly the right thing. A smaller bike is much easier to gain confidence on, doesn't matter if crouch rocket or enduro. Plus they make fun second bikes when or if you decide to get a bigger bike. I get really angry at idiots that say things like a 600+ lb, 118ci bike makes a good beginners bike. I've seen more big bikes for sale from people that started on them and couldn't gain confidence or skills due to the weight or power of the bike. And I've heard of more than a few serious injuries and some deaths of new riders on big bikes.

[@GingerDashMoto]

I totally agree with all of that! In my case, I wanted the two wheeled experience in the most budget friendly way possible. And I don’t need a Hayabusa or an R1 or something crazy. Or even a 600cc bike. Would I have purchased a larger cc motorcycle if I was willing to part with the funds. Probably. But I think this was the best starter bike for me, so it worked out in the end. And it will stay my bike for some time. Have other things I’m saving for. Priorities. 😊

[@alan15768]

Yes I totally agree for the first six month to a year , but once ones skill level advances and parkway cruising comes into play you are much safer on a larger displacement bike , say the next move up could be a 650-750 I think that is all that the average rider needs .

[@markcard7978]

Might want to look into the Royal Enfield GT 650, I have the sit up style Interceptor but the GT is a modest ergonomic cafe style. Price/weight/value is one of the best deals out there....

[@paulg3336]

A 600+ lb bike doesn't make a good anything except maybe a boat anchor

[@farwalker5289]

The best wealth advisors say to never borrow to pay for life style choices. So you did the right thing by limiting yourself to what you could afford.

[@1Bigduff]

don't ever let anyone shame you about your choice of ride. I catch shit for my harleys from non-riders because they think they are not reliable (and loud). buy what you want to ride/drive and ignore other people's opinions. but yet here I am giving you my opinion :). that's called irony :). You're making smart decisions. Hold fast ginger.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Your opinion is most welcome, Duffy. Over this last year I’ve begun caring less and less about what other people think. While I’ve never been one to worry overmuch about people’s opinions, there’s something freeing about reaching middle age. I’m doing as I like. They can do the same. 😎

[@alan15768]

@@GingerDashMoto My Rebel 250 was beautiful I had customized it with black tinted windscreen , floorboards, heel & toe shifter, custom leather bags , padded sissy bar , and chrome eagle mascot on the front fender, nobody was scrutinizing me but being a man an older one at that I really had wanted to be seen on something bigger and compounded by the poor handling characteristics on the parkways , I mean I kept it for a long time but the difference between that and what I would call a full sized motorcycle is night and day , keeping that bike for so long was actually hindering my riding skill advancement .

[@yasharnafisi3635]

It's not about the size; it's about how you perform..

[@todi5088]

developing your skillets is more important than the motorbike you ride; it's actually a good bike to start. It's not a scooter when there's a manual transmission.

[@TheSwiftMagician]

This video is exactly what I was wondering about. I also started out on a used 250 (and I’m about 195 pounds-so that engine had a hard time with me). And my wife got a scooter-and she loved it even though it was “gutless”. Then I got a 450 cc Honda. We both loved that bike, and would actually take weekend trips on it-“two up”. With both of us on it, it was gutless, but we didn’t care. It was about the experience on two wheels. So don’t let anyone tell you that your bike is inadequate. Go ahead and defy social norms without shame. Live YOUR life, and don’t worry about what other people think.

[@rx8mac]

Who can possibly know what you need more than yourself? Welcome to the moto-family, Ms. Ginger, we're very glad to have you. I look forward to seeing you grow as a rider.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thanks so much!

[@johnpagejr.7628]

I will agree with you completely. A 250cc is an excellent size bike to start on. There are good number of people who ride small motorcycles all over the world.

[@cmbiker8147]

Smaller bikes are great for learning on. You don’t just stop learning when you pass your test. Good for you.

[@64t120r]

Well, that's a straight up honest reason for buying your bike. You're the one putting out the bucks for your ride, who cares what anyone else thinks about it. People that are drinking the hater-aide are "trophy hunters" and they aren't worth listening to.

[@FrankiesWorld]

I always say, get a bike that makes you happy because that's all that really matters. I started on a grom, everyone told me I would get bored real fast on it. Here I am 2 years later, still riding the grom and have had tons of fun on it! Smiles per mile!

[@user-hl5br4bg9t]

Thank you honestly for this comment 🙏🏻.

[@MotoMiles]

I love my 250cc !! It’s a great entry bike.I had zero experienced his summer . These people are annoying it’s great to learn on and forgiving in trouble spots.

[@GingerDashMoto]

It is a great entry level bike. And fun beyond the beginning stages too.

[@grahamball364]

Hi Ginger , I’ve just found your channel, it takes a brave lady at 50yrs to go and jump on a motorcycle ,it’s all paid for and your free to ride anywhere, it’s not the size of what you ride ,it’s how you ride it to get you scene of freedom ,see you next time .

[@RichGrueber]

I ride a 2011 Ninja 250 and it is fast enough for me it will sit on 110 all day and is super reliable and it was cheap. I haven't had anyone dis me for riding it. I started riding when I was 53 and loved every moment.

[@lesjones7617]

You did the rite thing! I started on a Honda 50cc ss. be safe lurn and Grow!

[@oldftrpilot2593]

After years of racing and track days I went from 140 horse track bikes to a Honda CBR 250 R. The Honda was way more fun and you would be amazed how much fun you can have caining the hell out of 22 horsepower. You made a smart choice.

[@matthewmurto3195]

That is a great first choice for a bike, and good for you for stepping out and doing it! You can always move up, and you will be a better rider starting like you did.

[@rjnixon1061]

I’ve ridden everything from a CBR250 to a Harley Bagger, ride what you like! Good for you Gina! 👍🏼

[@GingerDashMoto]

It's been a great little bike. Thanks!

[@kirstenspencer3630]

You done good girl. Safely gets you down the street. Good fuel economy, good brakes. Thrift is not shameful, it's smart. Lightweight. Checks all the boxes. Stay safe

[@xipingpooh5783]

I have been riding motorcycles since I was 5 years old. I have 49 years of riding every conceivable type of motorcycle, both dirt and street. I have raced both road racing and motocross. YOU MADE A GREAT CHOICE AS YOUR FIRST MOTORCYCLE. End of story🇺🇸

[@MrJIZZYCEE]

This bike is great. Forget what everyone says. I have one as well and I love my gsx250r !

[@Dutch650]

I really don't know the hate people give to these bikes. 20ish years ago I started on a Kawasaki ZZR250 as a first bike. It never felt like too small. they are full size, they do all "bigger" bikes do. gave me loads of time to learn all I had to. The one you have looks amazing! I went from a 250 to 750 to 1000.. and actually right now I own a 650 classic.. CC's don't make a difference. They won't make you smile less. And honestly every bike will have something you'd like. Like you said, it might be a little underpowered BUT you're having fun and it's a paid off machine. Great content!

[@EricBanner571]

Smart choice. The right bike at the right price. It's also a Suzuki, so you can expect many trouble free miles ahead. Just be careful out there. Drivers won't see you.

[@garycorde994]

A 250 is a great first bike choice. Over my life I've owned everything from a 50cc dirt bike to 1,100cc sport bikes. They have all put a giant smile on my face. Current bikes are 600's and a 400. Displacement does not equate to joy.

[@OneDownGeneUp]

We started on a new 2020 Honda CB300R, and we loved all the things about it that you mention: cheap, light, and FUN! ...and then we got the motorcycle bug haha 😂

[@GingerDashMoto]

That bug is hard to avoid...I want a "bigger" bike, but I'm trying to be patient. We shall see how long that lasts!

[@jeffthornton6998]

You did the right thing. I’ve seen too many riders (mainly men; of course) buying a first bike too big and too powerful for them to handle. You can always upgrade when you get more experience.

[@sscinamon]

Starting small is the best way to start, then work your way up as you get more experienced. Stay safe

[@MCGMB]

Perfectly reasonable thought process in making your bike choice. I would wait on getting another/ bigger bike until you see a particular one you really really really like. Seems ridiculously obvious I know, but different/faster isn't always better. I'm embarrassed to say it took me multiple experiences to realize this...

[@fishaman1968shadow]

As long as you ride and smile it doesn't matter what bike it is. I'm 6'7 and had to ride a 125 cc lol ,now I have a fat boy . And I still get nervous before a ride. Mark ,,, from London.

[@viciouscycle8890]

Good for you! Always stick with what you are sure you will be comfortable with. A 250cc is a great starter bike, just big enough to be full size and enough to teach you what you need to know. Too many first time riders get talked into a ride too powerful or cumbersome for their skill level. Success comes from working your way up the ladder! That bike will make you a smarter rider.

[@gerrypowell2748]

Always remember the best bike is the one you possess🥰

[@keithwilliams1454]

I love the saying, "It doesn't matter what you ride, it just matters THAT you ride". I can't help wondering if perhaps you ride more miles and have more fun than the people who are criticizing your choice of bike?

[@jcnredpizzawindow2219]

Good way putting it “ somebody else’s problems” lol

[@donaldshannon3764]

I had a good friend who had never ridden a motorcycle. She asked me for a recommendation and lessons. I helped her pick out a RD350 Yamaha - the low seat height, light weight and riding position fit her petite 5' 4" 115 pound frame well. She quickly mastered the basics and realized that she had more motorcycle than she originally thought and as her ability grew she found there was more waiting for her within the bike. 250 - 350cc is good starter bike country and this lady confirmed my original thoughts.

[@stevek4449]

As a 30 yr long haul trucker what I looked for in my first bike, 2023 KLR 650 S, 1. Able to flat foot both feet with 32” inseam. 2. Able to buy in full at dealer out the door with 5 year unlimited miles warranty under 8 grand. 3. Must be versatile for back roads, gravel roads, freeways, and camping. 3. The versatility is needed in a first bike if one does not know which style of riding they will like or do the most, but want one bike to try nearly all riding activities.

[@josefranciscoelizaldeteyss4458]

TAKE COURSES, AND PRACTICE !!!!

[@kellistevens6370]

From one female rider to another, I commend all the forethought you put into selecting your bike. You need to ride something that you are comfortable with. Nobody has the right to tell what you should ride. If they feel you should be on a bigger bike then they should buy it for you. I, personally, ride a somewhat larger bike, but that's because I have more experience and I am comfortable with what I ride. Never leave your comfort zone to appease someone else. You ride you. BTW...you are doing awesome for a new KZbinr.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thanks so much, Steph!

[@gideonleroux7519]

Well done, no debt no problems just riding a NEW bike !!! You go girl.

[@geraldmerkel7145]

Yo Ginger, Your choice, Your dime, Your Motorsickle. You are so correct not listening to everybody else's opinion you do you you're happy that's all that matters you will know when you want a different Motorsickle. I have been riding for 55 years. I love it when someone makes the correct choice on their 1st Motorsickle. I believe in a light weight easy to handle Motorsickle to hone your skills on. Keep the shiny side up

[@aquahombre]

As a new rider, you need to spend time riding your bike and not working on it, you make great common sense decisions. Ride Safe. Thanks.

[@24james]

I think learning on a 250 is smart. I taught myself on a 400 Ninja & eventually moved up to an R6 & a Kawasaki 900 as a 2nd bike. One of the funnest things about motorcycling is you can ride your own ride and enjoy ANY bike that makes YOU happy. Ride on girl!💯🦾👍🏽🏍

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thank you! Appreciate you stopping by.

[@matthewlizotte8904]

Ty for all your comments because as a Former firefighter myself I have shoveled up way too much flesh and body parts off the roads of inexperienced riders buying a far too powerful cycle. Furthermore I have a Cousin who father in law died one night when his brand new Cycle met up with a White Tail Deer that was crossing the road.

[@alvarojcamposg]

I didn’t wanna get discouraged buying my own 250cc motorcycle. Same reasons and all. Not looking to race, just go a and b, brand new along with reasonable price. Thank you for this video.

[@bucair]

For all the right reasons...good for you. 😊

[@realestatebiker4295]

Gina, you are very wise. I got a free 1985 Honda Rebel 250cc as my first bike. I had to do a bunch of work to it to get it going. I probably looked goofy on it but I rode it anyway. I got back to where I could balance well and keep learning all the slow-speed maneuvers and if I dropped it, it would not hurt it. I rode the fire out of that bike for a few months then bought a Harley Davidson Heritage Softail and put 22,000 miles in the first year. Then I moved up to a large touring bike which fits me and how I ride now. Ride it and practice every day and build skill. You will know what you need as you build your skills. I use mine for work and I need to carry a full laptop and internet and a bunch of stuff with me for my job so I had to get one with all the bags and tour pack. All that matters is that you ride and have fun! Great channel Gina you are doing good!

[@GingerDashMoto]

I’m happy with the bike I chose. If I could own multiple bikes for different riding conditions I would though! Thanks for the great insight and support. Much appreciated!

[@jeromekuczynski2737]

I’m 65 and never rode my retirement gift slash birthday present was a Harley 2019 slim and a 250 cc auto China bike automatic , I’m sorry now that I got the Harley paying on it for 6 years , enough about money but I was talked into the Harley by a slick salesman. I love your videos please keep making them and stay safe .

[@WaltInPA]

That was a smart way of handling it - it’s easy to get in over your head and completely overlook that you have gear to purchase as well.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thanks Walt! That’s the detail oriented, over thinker in me.

[@harukaru84]

Oh my lol ,when people say lower cc, lighter bikes are not real bikes, it's such a them problem and not mine and I will forever stand for lower cc bikes if they are the choice of the rider. I myself, a complete wimp, short, oldie, my first bike was an underbone classified backbone 125cc (basically large thin wheels like mopeds) like myself it was a wimp, and struggled going over 80km/h. It was great to learn on it served me well for commute, and I would have continued to enjoy it, if it was not for my crash, it got obliterated so I'm getting a new bike next week. my new bike is a "full" bike, but still a 125cc, simply because I don't need anything that goes faster. I sat on it and my feet barely make it to the ground, it's 140 kilos, 50kilo more than the backbone, but at least I was able to handle it when I straddled it. people who don't ride bikes tell me "you should get more cc" my answer is always the same "who is going to handle the more kilos?" of course cost wise is also what I can afford which makes it the perfect bike. every rider should make a choice of bike for their body, and their needs. My personal needs are covered with a 125cc, as I don't intent to go fast on public streets or race on a track. not to mention that since my crash I had to replace parts of my gears which is not a cheap thing to do, in this economy.

[@FruitlessGaming]

I'm a 125lb guy myself and 250cc was just fine for my first bike. Everyone said to get a 600cc, "you'll regret not getting a bigger one". Had my 250 near 100mph and never needed to go faster than that. The major downside to the 600cc was the weight. I could barely put my 250 on the mechanic's stand or get it up onto my porch with 2 stairs, lmao. Then again the bike is over 350lbs. Main point is, just pick the right size bike for you. If you're heavier, taller, carry passengers then you may want to jump up to the 500cc-700cc range. If you're as small as I am and don't need to do over 100mph, a 250cc is just fine. :)

[@GingerDashMoto]

Good advice! I have enjoyed the 250, but I definitely would like something with more get up and go. Not because I want to drive insane speeds, but I have appreciated the throttle response on the bigger bikes I've ridden so far. We shall see...

[@mattatkins6723]

You go girl! Enjoy your ride! I bought a 250cc, and enjoy it every day. Guys joke on me all the time, call me sissy etc, but, they are the same ones sitting on the side of the road with broken down, 883 Harleys, 1000cc Heritage Softails, wrecked and scraped up superbikes. I enjoy my rides, and it's all for me. Let the haters hate.

[@hardtop8086]

Hi Ginger dash, love your vids. I am 54 and I started out at 15 riding a honda 50cc motorcycle in my small town. Then bought a suzuki gs300. Loved that little bike. Ride it for about two years. Then didn't have another bike 30 yrs. Got back on a Harley sporter 883. Then fatboy 88 twin cam. Now last year moved up to 2020 road king speacial 114 engine or1870cc. The progression to larger bikes is always the right thing to do, no matter how old you are.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Seems like an entirely natural progression, Bob. Enjoy those wheels of yours. Ride safe.

[@jerryandjamie2up]

My wife and I have found your channel. My wife is signed up to take the MSF course in July. We are looking at bikes at this time. Probably going to get the Ninja 400. My wife and I have been riding for 15 years and she has logged well over 100,000 miles as a pillion. Now she wants her own and we are so excited. Keep up the great work, we love your content.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Hey Jerry! I have a set of friends, a married couple around my age, who both bought Ninja 400’s last year. They love them! I hope your wife has a blast on her own set of two wheel!!

[@congaronbo]

Im 64. After 4 years of cancer treatments, i needed a lighter bike than my zrx1100. My son bought me a vintage vtr250 interceptor. Perfect. Good video. You chose well. Enjoy!

[@GingerDashMoto]

There is no perfect bike, it's whatever works for each of us on an individual basis. All the best to you!

[@snakepliskin1185]

It's not the size of the boat, it's the motion of the ocean. If you think it's slow, gear it down 1 tooth at the countershaft or 3 teeth in rear. You'll then shift more and get more in tune with the engine. If you can cruise at 80mph you'll be good. Light bikes are better and help you survive that first 500mi on the street.

[@GambiRed5]

Slow and steady wins the race. I’m following the same dream journey and passed my test last year, before my 50th having never ridden a motorbike before. It’s not all about power and speed but having fun and riding a bike that matches your riding ability on a comfortable budget.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Congratulations on starting you own two-wheeled adventure!

[@dixiedoo5876]

I've had a Harley Sportster for about 12 yrs or so but for many different reasons I only started learning to ride it about 2 years ago. I finally decided to buy a Honda Rebel 250 because I was so intimidated by the Harley as I'm quite petite. I'm so thankful that I did, this Rebel has been a game changer! I've learned alot in the 8 months since I bought it. I still only ride my sportster when my hubby can go along with me. It's so nice to be able to climb on my Rebel and go riding whenever I can and want to. At 46 I could care less what anyone thinks about either of my bikes. They are both paid for and I enjoy each of them. We're getting ready to do some upgrades on my sportster, I'm so thankful to have my Rebel to ride while my Sporty is down.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Hey, Dixie! Thanks for sharing your riding story.

[@piggintouring]

You are so right in choosing a bike that suits you. This planet is filled with people thinking that because they have one or have done it they are experts. We all think differently ,act differently and want to do different things, your teaching others that its perfectly safe to research something and then try it. keep up the good work.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thank you, Darren. I’m a research it till it’s been researched to death kinda gal. 😁

[@Edwardcolton]

You seem like a really sweet person, everyone has an opinion, don’t let them bother you. It is much more important that you are comfortable riding what you chose than what someone else thinks you should get and will never ride. You do you! When you are ready and more comfortable, take the next step.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thanks! Spot on advice.

[@jboy2621]

Sounds like a good choice. We need more riders to keep the industry alive.

[@carlnewstrand9408]

You speak wisdom from experience. Good for you! I have had three bikes. My last one was over 25 years ago and I am wanting another one. Money is a show stopper right now. I’m glad you are doing it the right way.

[@GingerDashMoto]

I understand completely, Carl. Money has always been the issue for me for anything that I’d consider a luxury purchase. Always other necessary things to worry about first.

[@TheWanko11]

You r the captain of your soul and in charge of your destiny. Congrats on your purchase and welcome to two wheeling.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thank you!

[@gadgetman_nz4092]

Many years ago I started on a 250 (biggest allowed to learn on at the time here way down under) but soon changed to a 200. Looking at getting onto another bike and will likely be in the same region 150-200. They all go faster than you're allowed to ride. They teach you to ride.

[@BigTone713]

I love my Falcon, I could care less what anyone says. Motorcycle riding is a seasonal thing up north, 6 months tops and on weekends. I agree with everything you mentioned. I'm 53 years old with multiple body injuries and I love riding. Continue to Enjoy your Bike!!!

[@GingerDashMoto]

I skip riding here during the worst of the summer...the heat is just too brutal. Although I didn't ride much (and posted not at all after January) in 2023.

[@timothyputzke1250]

You made a very good choice for a first bike. A friend bought his wife a 1000 Sportster for her first bike. Not a good choice, fortunately no injuries, but her total mileage was in feet rather then miles. Am dating myself a little here as my first ride was a 1965 Honda CB160. I rode the shit out of it and just plain had fun, all the while honing my riding skills. I purchased a new 1000 Sportster in 1979 and now own a shovel that I've had for 35 years and a Ultra Glide Classic that I purchased last fall. Go with your heart on what you want to ride. You'll know when your ready to step up to something larger. Ride Safe and keep the rubber side down.

[@GingerDashMoto]

"mileage was in feet rather than miles" - That gave me a good laugh! I sat on an R1 yesterday. Not because I wanted to buy it, but because it was there. I'd not own one, but they're beautiful machines. Just not for me. You ride safe as well, Timothy!

[@go4aride854]

Ride the bike that brings you happiness. I started riding at 42 and had a Ninja 250 for the first 5 years before buying a V-Strom 650. Now I am 55 and on my second V-Strom 650 and enjoy it every time I ride. Your videos are very good for a new KZbinr. Thanks for sharing.

[@GingerDashMoto]

I love hearing from people with similar experiences to mine. I’ll upgrade eventually. But I’m not there yet. Thanks for stopping by!

[@user-ei5dl4bj8m]

Don't listen to the naysayers I've been riding since I was a kid I'm 65 years old I have two Harleys right now I started out on a 360 and don't be afraid to buy a used bike so many people go out and buy a big bike and get scared of it and then don't ride you will be a future rider for life I'm proud of you I don't never let nobody diss your bike they're just haters😊 keep on writing and be safe

[@jonnyjean803]

I love the fact that you wont let others tell you what to do ,I love it !!!! I wish you the best .Enjoy , you deserve it ♥♥♥♥

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thank you!

[@dem0n1k]

I started on a 250cc motorcycle. Pretty much for the same reason.. it was cheap & I figured that I would probably drop it at some stage. It was a 1980 Suzuki DR250 (trail bike) & I dropped it on 5 seperate occasions & each time the cost of repairs was low. I then proceeded to go through a variety of 500-600cc bikes for the next few years & got my first 750cc bike in 1986. No regrets!! :D I now ride a 2013 Aprilia Tuono 1000cc V4 & have owned a total of 20 motorcycles. So I guess what I am saying is.. there is plenty of time to fully master your current bike & then have the pleasure of owning a different bike when you are ready for it. Enjoy the experience!

[@bertbirge7864]

I have and recommend a Honda cb500r.. Very nice motorcycle and will cruise at 80 if you want.. not a racer but is all I need. I'm 68 years young and going strong! Great mileage and Honda reliable. And we love your videos. Thank you so much!

[@BDPlock]

Had big sport bikes ,had a Harley but got bit by the adventure bug and went with a Crf250L and have had MORE fun getting back to my roots of riding ....so do what you want. And women have a different perspective that i find refreshing on riding bikes, stay safe.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thanks for coming by and sharing something of your own motorcycle history.

[@jimpayneadv]

Gina the smartest point of all for a solo rider is the bike you can pick up. Not many people understand that. It is good insurance when you are alone and the bike falls over. I ride the Yamaha wr250r on my solo long rides normally on the back trail adventures just for that reason. Pick up the bike. I also have a Klr 650 for my touring rides. Neither bike had to be financed. KZbin is a good momentum builder. Nice channel. Jim from North West Colorado.

[@GwenMotoGirl]

Thank you for this important message. When I took the MSF course, I had never driven a motorcycle. I was married. My (now ex) husband was not pressuring me to get licensed. I decided to do this on my own. However, he and another person got all up in my bike selection business. I commented before that I was clueless. I knew nothing about CCs and weight etc. I just knew that the 250cc bikes in the MSF course were awesome and I had no fear of dropping or tip-toeing, etc. Because I trusted them both, I listened. Although I loved my first bike (that they pushed on me with very solid supporting reasons) - a very well maintained ‘95 Honda Pacific Coast - it was too wide for me, and heavy too. I almost quit riding after the first season, but I’m glad I kept going. He got it in the divorce. Whew. I bought my friend’s 2004 Suzuki Savage LS650 that she had purchased new. She had been sitting in her storeroom for 6 years. She’s perfect for me at this time. I’ve done quite a bit to her, some of it myself which gives me a whole other sense of satisfaction. She’s paid for, too! I invested in great quality gear. Then lost weight and had to get new. Then did that again. So I’m re-curating gear again. I had an accident in March 2020. We both recovered and I’ve gotten past that anxiety with lots of skill building. I’m in the market for a another bike, but I’ll keep her forever. Thank you for what you’re doing in this space. I’m grateful for women riders.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thanks for sharing your story, Gwen. I think the people we are closest to in our lives often feel that they know what’s best - and don’t realize they’re simply unaware of our actual needs. I’m so glad you stuck with it through a less than perfect bike-match. I’m glad you’ve battled back after your accident and haven’t allowed that negative experience to keep you from doing something you love.

[@torstenpersson5629]

I have a bunch of motorcycles ranging from 100cc to 1000cc, and I enjoy riding them all. I have been riding for 45+ years and I have seen too often guys that start out with way too big motorcycles and never learn to ride properly. When I was racing I liked the 125cc class the most because you have to be on your toes all the time. A badly timed gear change could make you lose seconds on a lap.

[@simonthomas5367]

Hey Gina! Some 2nd hand bikes are fine. Hondas especially. They're built supremely well and their owners generally look after them to a high standard. A Honda CBR650R may be a good second bike? In Europe we have to pass our A2 which is quite challenging. After that we're limited to 48hp for 2 years. Then another training day and we're good to go for more powerful bikes. But honestly, anything more than 100hp on the road and you're going to lose your license!

[@Crittermoto]

You made the right call. 👍🏻 A motorcycle rides so much better, no matter the size, once it’s paid for. Cheers Gina✌🏼

[@GingerDashMoto]

Absolutely!

[@lifeenvironments]

Very well said! While a 250 is likely to get pushed around quite a bit on and at freeway speeds, it’s a perfect first bike to gain experience and confidence with. While your thoughts are important for any rider, I find them especially appropriate for new women riders. Unfortunately, most women can’t ride my BMW R1250GS or Goldwing. This isn’t because of skill level or deep pockets, but because most bikes today simply aren’t built for most women’s shorter inseams. With more women starting to ride (come on out girls!), many are being relegated to smaller bike choices because bikes have been designed primarily for male riders. (The BMW 310 can be lowered and is extremely popular among women riders.) Hopefully, bike manufacturers will start recognizing this and start building bikes more suited to women and their unique physiology. Well done. Great clarity! 😋

[@maikeli7]

This is where you will definitely get used to hearing people say something like, “ride your own ride.” This not only applies to the way a person rides but also what they choose to ride and even what they choose to wear when they ride. You make very solid, cogent points!

[@GingerDashMoto]

The older I get, the less I care about other people's opinions - so agreed! I'll ride mine and everyone else can ride theirs. :)

[@mw1606]

The people ragging on you for buying a 250 as a first bike are the people you see on other youtube videos crashing into each other, lowsiding, and causing accidents on bikes. These are not people you want to pay attention to. Learning to ride a slow bike fast makes you a better rider in less time. No one really into motorcycles stops at one bike or a first bike anyway. First time to watch, enjoyed it, good luck to you. Ride long and prosper.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Good points!

[@rlyman111]

Wore out 3 Yamahas in college and grad school. 100, 125 and 200 Cc twins. Economical, affordable and moved through traffic easily and not real fast. Moved to Honda 750 quad and road it a lot. Have a 98 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 which I love. Each were what I needed at the time.

[@Crazy-Chicken-Media]

I'm 6'4" My first bike was a 2017 Z650 with 2 miles on it. Loved it put over 15k miles on it in less than 2 years, had to put it out to pasture after I low sided across a Wyoming freeway during a road trip. Now I have my 2018 tiger 1200, and despite how awesome the bike is I wish I got a 900.

[@albion6606]

Congratulations. I bought my first Yamaha MT 07 motorcycle at 54 years old. Just like it. Greetings from CZ.

[@GingerDashMoto]

That’s great! I’ve heard that’s a really nice bike.

[@craigwhite7428]

I have been riding motorcycles all my life. Lately I am loving the scooter life. I have a Honda PCX 150. Top speed 65mph. Easy riding position. Zippier than car traffic. Storage space. Wind protection. 102mpg. Easy breezy.

[@gregropp1003]

You did the right thing. Start small, gain confidence, learn skills and good habits. Then when you feel ready buy the bigger bike.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Exactly right, Greg!

[@trucker2b]

If power is a chase... Then stage 2 cam and sprocket change...boom 💥 power

[@johnd9031]

I like how you weave a little philosophy into your videos. Another factor to consider is insurance cost when buying a motorcycle. Curious about that one big mistake.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Never been called a philosopher before. But I’ll take it. 😊

[@lylemacdonald6672]

There is a critic in every crowd. Many years back I was gassing up my BMW R100RT and when I started it up the 16 year old pump jockey remarked " sounds like a Moped"... I always thought it sounded like a Singer sewing machine! But it will cruise at 80mph all day and it just purrs doing so. Enjoy your bike!

[@GingerDashMoto]

🤣

[@rjcUrMaUrPa]

At 9:10 ish “It allows me to get out and experience the freedom of two wheels”. Sport bike v cruiser. 250 cc v 600 or 700cc. City riding vs over night. Harley vs. Suzuki. Yada v Yada. Stock v. Modded out monster. You said right there at 9:10!!! That’s all that matters!!! I will likely be told I have a girls bike(its a Harley 883 Sporty). I can’t wait to look at them. Smile. And thank them and ride off. All that really matters is getting out and feeling alive and the FREEDOM to ride on those two wheels. Great Job Gina!! Ride safely!!!!

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thank you! You enjoy that ride of yours as well. 😊

[@kannermw]

I started out on dual sports riding off-road at a young age working my way up to 250 cc Honda on which I passed my certification. Then after 25+ year hiatus started riding again in my mid-40s and have been riding for the past 10 years.. As an example, the ability to ride high speed confidently off-road on a loose gravel road teaches one about the nuances of riding a motorcycle under less than ideal traction conditions. Translating that to the street makes you appreciate the unknowns like sand or loose gravel in a corner. More importantly the older you start riding the more difficult it can become to build the muscle memory, intuitive, riding skills. I recommend for older riders an advanced motorcycle riding course is an absolute necessity to build those essential skills I still have that original 250 cc Honda and quickly realized 10 years ago it was too underpowered for roadways where I live. I do not like impatient drivers crowding my tail lights and stepped up to DR650, Vstrom 650 and now VStrom 1000. My personal experiences tells me the average 500 cc - 650 cc motorcycle is the ideal for American roadways. Anything less and you are taking on additional often underestimated risks including being more invisible to inconsiderate motorists. These larger cc bikes offer more than adequate but not crazy dangerous power but also include better brakes, suspension, and associated handling if you ride responsibly. Secondarily, I do not accept the argument that small cc bike are inherently more fun to ride. They are and they aren't and this is more a statement of what you are willing to spend or can afford. These smaller bikes are both more mentally and physcically demanding particularly on long rides or at high speed. Sure they are fine for short trips around town and occasional riders. Smaller bikes typically lack what I consider are the bare minimum in technologies that provides increased safety margin. I accept that motorcycling is a hazardous activity but increasing the margin for error from the unexpected is possible with a minimum level of technology at a reasonable cost. Unfortunately, most of that technology does not come on most bikes as standard on bikes except those 650 cc and above and those produced in the last 5 years. Older, inexperienced riders should be at a minimum seeking bikes with ABS (preferably lean angle ABS) and traction control. Before you naysayers cry foul have you ever had the back end of your bike slide out on wet intersection striping or front or rear wheel lockup from driver or critter suddenly jumping in front of you? I have been fortunate to never hit the pavement for any of those examples but even the most skilled riders can benefit from these electronic wizards. Who can honestly state they are 100% mentally focused when riding all of the time? Bottom line if you purchased a beginner bike to gauge your interest in motorcycling and learn that is fine. But if you enjoy it enough to continue then think about whether an extra $3K -$5K is worth spending to decrease your risk of serious injury or death by 50% or more. The costs of hospital stay, lost income, permanent disability, or pain and suffering is astronomical by comparison.

[@lowellgeddes8996]

I am 71 years old have had over 15 bikes and I could not agree more then your choice for a first bike...a great starter size..

[@jameslovelace8958]

Gina it’s not what you ride, but that you ride!

[@seanpalmer2050]

? Nice bike. Not sure what the problem is. Excellent first bike and just a nice motorcycle all around. Congrats.

[@Vasquez19781]

I love this!! I never rode a motorcycle also and I just bought a 250cc and people are giving me grief about it. But it’s new, perfectly priced for me and gets me where I want to go. Not to mention, I already have cars so it’s just for leisure so why spend tons of money on something where you can have the same experience, which is riding a bike. I also don’t want to be a speed demon and get hurt. Thanks for posting this! ❤❤

[@GingerDashMoto]

I sold my 250 for an MT07, not just for more power, but for more...something. And although it's not related to the power (which is fine), I regret selling the 250. If I had endless funds and garage space, I'd have kept it and added to the "stable".

[@TARRN47]

Does it put a smile on your face when you get on it or even when you walk past it in your garage? If it does, then it’s the right bike for you.

[@peterv1806]

Just found your channel and subscribed. I am really enjoying your content. Thank you.

[@franksrnsn]

It is great that you have chosen a motorcycle that suits you and your needs. My son has a 250 cc Kawasaki that I have borrowed several times and it is really fun. So enjoy it.

[@GingerDashMoto]

Thanks, Frank. I’m loving the experience.