Big motorcycles for new riders. What's the problem?

[@ruiassis9752]

Started riding on a 750cc adv and I'm about to change to a larger bike after 4 years of riding. As a doctor I've seen my fair share of fatal motorcycle accidents and it generally comes down to alcohol, drugs, excess speed and bad road strategy/inattention to the world around. It comes down to using our brains to choose the right motorcycle and ride it safely

[@Sega_is_all_i_cd]

That last part!!! 🔥

[@davidking8361]

I did a rotation at the medical examiner and saw some pretty horrible stuff too. The danger part of riding attracts me I suppose. Even cautious riding is dangerous. I am a very safe rider though and get a high every time I roll into the garage in one piece. I think I memorized the MSF manual. I watch those videos of crashes and am amazed how often riders do damage to themselves by aggression and impatience. Not worth it. Riding is a great pastime!

[@alripley5335]

Alcohol- glad I quit. Been in 2 wrecks- drunk both times. Lucky I survived them. I dont drop or wreck them anymore since getting sober. Your 100% correct on every point you mentioned. Speed kills, and situational awareness is critical. Thanks.

[@wingandhog]

Agree! 100%

[@jackandblaze5956]

@@alripley5335 Back in the day, riding a Harley for bar hopping and moderate drinking, didn't usually result in death by accident, but riding a crotch rocket (or some Jap power cruisers like a V65 Magna, or Suz Bandit) while drunk was at least 50/50 death sentence. That was back when Harleys were not that fast. Today's Harleys are NOT suitable for bar hopping anymore - they have become way too fast. Doing that on a modern Harley would be like playing Russian roulette with only one chamber empty. Ngl - it t was kinda fun puttering from bar to bar on slow Harleys back in the day. I think in the future people will just have to use electric scooter boards to go bar hopping with.

[@ronchase474]

I started riding in March of 2020 at the age of 69. I took the MSF class at the dealership over a weekend and that Monday, the governor “closed” the state due to Covid! I had, for all practical purposes, never ridden a motorcycle. I had already purchased a nice used Harley Heritage Classic at ~700 lbs. I didn’t do that well in the MSF class but I passed. I was a proficient bicycle rider and manual transmission user. The Covid closing was a Godsend for me as I pretty much had the roads to myself. I’m now two years into riding with 14,000 miles under my belt. It worked out for me because I’m in good shape for an old guy and am retired so I can ride when I feel like it. I’m now considered a very good rider by others in my club and have been elected as the “Safety Officer”. One of the biggest reasons for my success was studying and then practicing things I learned by following people like MCRider on KZbin. In fact my monthly safety discussions usually come from MCRider or others on KZbin and I give credit where it’s due. Do what’s right for you…but listen to Kevin ‘cause he knows his stuff!

[@dawndamron7391]

Great advice. I just learned to ride at 54 years old. Signed up for the MSF course having never ridden before. I was the only woman in the class and only person who had never ridden before. I struggled with the slow speed maneuvers and while I did pass and got my license, I left feeling less than confident in my skills. When shopping for a starter bike to practice on, I knew I didn't want a Rebel 250 like I rode in the class because it was horribly uncomfortable, but I also knew I didn't want anything large or powerful that was going to try to kill me. I also didn't want to buy new until I gained some experience and decided what style of motorcycle I REALLY want. I decided I would get something about 500-650 cc maximum and cheap enough that I wouldn't cry if I dropped it and dented it. I ultimately ended up buying a 2010 Buell Blast with 1100 miles for about $1000. It's just the right size I think. I am still struggling with the Buell "grabby" clutch and stall it at least 3 times every time I try to take off, but I'm working on it. Right now I just putter around the local high school campus and practice. Not ready for heavy traffic yet. Haha

[@charleetho]

Dawn, you are doing it right. Good for you. Ha, once you master that Blast clutch you can master any clutch!

[@magsteel9891]

My first at 55 was a cbr250r. I liked the sport bike style and it was super easy to ride. Then I upgraded to a ninja 1000 and realized I had picked up some bad throttle and clutch habits on the 250. Now I'm on a thunderbird 1600, I like it a lot.

[@aaronbakerbcg3984]

We have about the same story. I passed the MSF Course 1 week ago and bought my first bike ever 1 day ago. 2018 Honda Shadow Phantom 750cc. She is perfect for me and I’ve only rode around in the neighborhood so far. When I get good in the neighborhood I will venture off on to the highway.

[@donborvio]

@@aaronbakerbcg3984 Same exact bike I bought used recently to start out on. I took the state class and while I learned a lot, they kicked me out on the 2nd day of a 2-day class because they were afraid I might crash into someone. Problem was it was a lot all at once and I was getting fatigued because I am out of shape. I do know how to ride bicycle well and drive stick ok, but just the pace of the class took a toll on me. The MSF would've been more my speed as it seems more spread out. But I'm just going to take it on the side (private roads) here and parking lots until I get comfortable enough to go test. Might take months, but I don't want to be one of the bad riders.

[@maryrowe3981]

Your video on “Board Certification” was handy because I’ve been on two wheels since 1968 - but no formal training. And my beat, favorite, dependable motorcycle was a 1983 BMW R65. Somebody bought it for his wife (another vertically challenged person) who just wouldn’t ride it. It was just the right weight, had enough horsepower, and was dependable. Unfortunately, the Bing carburetor bowls became pitted and etched. I was not aware that the carbs could be rebuilt at the factory, and gave up the bike. Since then, I’ve been through three Dynas and now Heritage Softail Classic, which is slightly heavy but we’re getting accustomed to each other.

[@x101abndevil4]

One thing I would add is that if the new rider is an older adult than the type of bike is as important as the size. I'm 64 years old now been riding for 49 years. I recently traded my 2018 BMW RT1200 (premium model) for a 2022 Challenger (base model with nav) because riding the BMW began to become painful due to the riding position. The jockey like posture on a sport touring bike wasn't wasn't working for me anymore because of arthritis. Rides longer than one hour flat out hurt. The reclining armchair position and ability too move my feet around on those island sized floor boards makes all the difference. Long rides are now no problem again. I gave up sportiness and high tech for comfort and couldn't be happier.

[@ironduke2660]

I just started riding again after 35 yrs, im 60 now, and decided to get a bike for putting around town. I decided to keep it simple and get a bike i was already familiar with, mid sized Honda, i got a 1982 SilverWing GL 500, before any one rolls there eyes, these bikes are perfect for a new rider, thats familiar with riding, but needs to freshen his skills. they weigh in at about 550 lbs, full fixed fairing bikes with saddle bags. but you really cant get into too much trouble out of the gate, they are very tame for new riders. I love the bike, and plan on enjoying it for many years. there is no shortage of parts for the CX 500 engine, and if you buy a good sorted bike, they are rock solid, never touched a thing on the bike and have several thousand miles on it. just a thought, dont discount some of the older bikes from that era.

[@loramaclean476]

In my humble opinion and personal experience...start small and work your way up. You want the bike to be light and easy to handle so you can focus on your riding. Building your confidence is huge. I had a 750 went to 1200 and now I'm on 1868. I had the 1200 for 1 year...got what I paid on trade in.

[@billhenley6769]

Back in the 60's started on a Suzuki 80 while on the farm. Then moved to a 250 ,followed by a 500. Then a 750 and finally a 1000. Took me 10 years to transition to go from the smallest to the largest.

[@thomasmikita2358]

Started riding in the 60’s like yourself. 50cc 90cc 305 450cc 600cv 1000+ cc Start small go from there👍

[@maxw576]

A few additional criteria... - where do you live? Is it a lot of stop and go with a lot of traffic or rural? - how mature are you? Can you control the urge to over-drive your skills? - who are your friends/ riding buddies? Will they support your need to learn or push you too much? - did you own dirt bikes? - is the larger bike rowdy or slower reacting? - can you afford to pay for damage to the larger bike?

[@doshonace7669]

Great advice as always. I feel lucky to have grown up in the 60s when there were plenty of very small displacement bikes. My first was a Honda 50 in 1959 (thanks dad) then a Yamaha 80, Yam 100, Yam 250, Honda 450, Triumph 500, Kawa 500, Honda 750, Yam 500 single & presently a Honda 500 & Yam TW 200. All, except for the Honda 750 & Kawa 500 2stroke triple “beginner” bikes from today’s perspective. I have been riding for 63 years & still find the 500cc range my favorite. Light, nimble & with enough power for real world situations. I gravitate toward sport bikes, but never have understood liter bikes except for the track. To me 750 is more than enough. Of course, to each their own. However it is more fun to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow.

[@rubbersideup5530]

As an instructor in Australia, your first two questions are mine. I find that people who can ride a horse is easier to train also, and I think it is because they understand gripping the tank with their knees is a good idea. I don't necessarily agree with physical prowess as a gauge. Riding a motorbike is properly practiced technique and I don't know many people who would be comfortable stopping a large bike from falling. The secret is it not falling in the first place, or having drive to the rear when the bike starts to lean over. Novices often don't do that. As they say, and it is relevant to motorbikes: "Pride comes before the fall". Always be a learner. Practice. Know you are always a learner.

[@oldgeezerproductions]

Hi mate. I want to say that I most sincerely agree that skill at horseback riding is a plus. I have been amazed at the similarity. The horse goes where you are looking and if you are looking at something you think will spook him or will get us into trouble, that's exactly where you two will go. Even jumping over a fence, if you look down at the fence, you will crash, even on an experienced horse. The one big difference is that the horse's instincts and brain will many times save you from what would otherwise be a bad crash on a motorcycle. There have been many times I've been saved and very surprised when the horse figured it out for himself. When I'm on my bike (INT650) or horseback (NZ Thoroughbred), I, like you, consider it a learning/training experience. I agree pride and haughtiness goeth before a fall, but many times timidity and confusion and lack of experience, even more so.

[@daveclarke5766]

I'm 62 years old road dirt bikes a little as a young man, rode snowmobiles in my forties. Have countless miles on a bicycle was main choice for exercise, easier on body being a 6 ft 240 ++ man still ended with knee replacements. Acquired in late fall of 2020 a 2007 Honda 750 Shadow, signed up for the Canadian MSF but covid postponed my May course to end of July, still managed 5000 miles that year. Subscribed to Kevin's channel right from the start. Following year, rode the Honda 7000 additional miles till October, when I purchased a 2016 HD Street Glide Special. That jumped almost four hundred pounds and 900 cc's. Also with Hydraulic clutch, for those who don't know puts the friction zone farther out and not as wide. First thing I added to that bike were bag guards, cause i don't care what anyone says, at some point your gonna drop it. Whether in you driveway stopped or in a parking lot practicing, I done both. I found the Honda a little small for me but a fantastic first bike to learn on, should I have driven the Honda another year, absolutely, which brings me to Kevin's last point, EGO.

[@jonv5316]

2 day safety course at 58 yrs old and I went straight to a Honda VTX1800. These MC Rider videos helped keep me alive, and a few months later I was doing quite well. But would NOT recommend others try this.

[@gregwilson9066]

Same for me at 49…VTX 1800 was my first bike. I did just fine with it.

[@lynnsample4549]

Start small and work your way up. I feel bad for today's riders. When I started, it the early '70s, you could get street bikes in 125, 150, 175, 200, 250, 350, 450, 500, 650, 750. All before you hit the 'big bikes.' With no class, got a license on a Honda 350 and rode it about 18 months. Stepped up to a Moto Guzzi 850 and rode it for about 7 years. All these years later I'm on a Harley Heritage. I still learn, practice and just ride. The riding was far easier to pick up in my 20s than polish in my 70s, but it's all enjoyable. Good video. Ride safely!

[@bobbycole3968]

I'm 79 years old and have been riding since 1967...smaller bikes first by all means...today riding a 670 lb bike...i ride a bicycle almost every day to hone my balance and equilibrium...this surly helps me plus gives me more confidence...great video thank you.

[@axslinger99]

For road bikes, I started on an Indian Scout, which is a powerful bike for it's size. After about 15K miles I gave that to my wife and I got a Springfield. I don't think I could have jumped right to a Springfield. On another note, I'm really surprised at how many, "seasoned" riders drag their feet in slower traffic, etc. Or drag their feet for 10-20 ft. before a stop light. I've adopted the practice of always keeping my right foot on the floorboard/brake. When I take off, my left foot is up and on the floorboard as soon as the bike is moving; literally 2-3 miles per hour. It's a habit I picked up I believe on this channel.

[@mybibleandmybike]

I actually started on a 3 wheeled can am spyder..took the msf course with no problem, I got a Honda Goldwing. I even rode the bike the last day of class...I did a lot of parking lot riding before my first ride to work and havent looked back since. The best thing is to train slow and not only look at these awesome videos but actually put into practice what you are watching..(hence parkinglot practice)...lol...a lot of situational awareness and not being so caught up in the moment...I love my Goldwing and it will probably be my one and only bike and if i upgrade from the 2019 model it would be another bagger just a newer year...keep up the great videos I and others have learned a lot from this..even something as simple as stopping at a light or stop sign..

[@michaelabernathy7013]

Totally agree Kevin. Personally, I think crash bars on a beginner bike is a plus. Or any bike for that matter. Keeps the bike off of the rider and easier to lift upright. Excellent video and subject matter.

[@andivalachi8247]

I fell 3 times with a Honda Shadow 750cc and you would be surprised how well it's designed - the handlebar and pegs keep your legs safe.

[@nikomoto6757]

My first bike is Kawasaki KLX300SM it's skinny and tall, 300lb - easy to maneuver, I have put 1800 miles in 3 months.

[@roadkingrider6532]

I started on a RK. Granted I road dirt bikes growing up. However that’s totally different. I believe if you practice. Take your TIME. PRACTICE. CONTINUE to learn and continue to take it slow you won’t have any issues.

[@seniorrider9337]

Road King Rider: You are right as rain! However, too many new riders these days seem to lack the patience you have shown to take their time, practice, or take it slow. Unfortunate as we see so many get hurt or worse. I am a returning rider having retaken the courses required and now have my endorsement for the past 3 years. I rode for 25 years prior to stopping in 1995 due to work. I learned to ride when there were no courses. I brought my first old bike, a 650 Triumph, and rode it in the dirt a lot, learning how to stop, turn, and control rear wheel skids all in the dirt. Only after feeling some confidence did I venture out on the street very much. I rode for 3 years learning how to control the bikes I had. My first MSF course was in 1973 and what I remember most is the instructor telling us to grab out front brakes as hard as we could. I raised my hand and told him that could cause the front wheel to lock. Most bikes back then had drum front brakes and were not that powerful and maybe that is why he felt that way. I had a fairly new XS650 Yamaha with a disc brake and had practiced hard braking with it and knew if grabbed quickly and hard, the front wheel would lock up. If squeezed slowly and progressively harder it would stop the bike pretty fast. He said I was wrong. I showed him and just as the bike came to a stop, after sliding for a foot or two, the front wheel slipped out to the right and the bike leaned over. I caught it and there was no problem. He said I needed to have my front brakes checked! I showed him again by squeezing and progressively applying more pressure that the bike stopped quickly and the wheel did not lock up. The next time I took an MSF course in 1978, they had changed that to exactly what I told the instructor in 1973. I learned it by reading racers accounts of how they brake hard for the track. Every bike I have owned I make sure those front brakes are as good as I can get them and I practice using them hard by doing emergency braking drills every time I ride. I also practice slow speed drills every ride. I would love to have a road king, but old age and that much weight is asking for issues with my damaged back. If it ever fell over, I would not be able to pick it up. My 1100 Yamaha Virago is 250-300 pounds lighter and was way less expensive. Ride safe and ride home.

[@roadkingrider6532]

@@seniorrider9337 I agree. Most people do not have the patience to learn the right way. However with motorcycle riding I don’t understand why you wouldn’t. Im 47, definitely starting late in life. I think that’s why Im probably more patient too. I took my MSF in March. Have ridden everyday except 2 days since I got my endorsement. Spend at least 10 minutes everyday emergency braking then 10 min slow speed drills. I then make sure I get a minimum of 30 miles riding in. Still not crazy about the highway yet. I’ll get there. That’s crazy they were teaching that back then! Haha needed to have your front brake checked. Well I hope I get many more years of safe riding! You do the same. 🤙🏻

[@davidking8361]

After a few decades' hiatus from riding, I got back into the motorcycle world. At 17, I rode a Kawasaki 305 for a year. Now, years later, I'm on a Triumph Bonneville T100. It's about 460 pounds. It seems to work for me. I always try to include a few parking lot maneuvers/exercises every time I ride. I also get on my bicycle and do rather extreme exercises on it. The motor officers are outstanding in their handling of their bikes. I really respect those guys...and am jealous! I would love to get a big Harley that's completely protected from drops, with engine bars and rings, and just ride the heck out of it in the parking lot, with no fear of damaging it when dropped.

[@steveolson69]

You still get damage anytime you drop it and sometimes you hurt yourself start small and work up……

[@davidking8361]

@@steveolson69 … agree.

[@roystenzel80]

Regarding what size motorcycle you should start with. Remember this, you’re eventually going to have to lift it up after you drop it so choose wisely.

[@billgarrett6857]

I agree completely. I started on an old beater KZ 750 back in 91, and today I ride a 920lb. touring bike. Experience counts for a lot in motorcycles imho.

[@scottsspeedtriplechannel]

I think new riders tend to have one area in the learning curve that grows at a slower rate than all the rest... cornering. Most new riders can become competent at accelerating and slowing/ stopping relatively quickly (say within a few months to a year of regular riding) and they can develop a road strategy that suits them ( maybe not an ideal strategy, but at least a decent awareness of the road) within that time frame also. However, I see riders with years of "experience" who are afraid of lean angle all the time. Some of those riders start out on bikes so large, heavy and powerful that they will never feel confident when leaned over. Others that start out on smaller bikes which don't handle well or have limited ground clearance do not progress in the cornering department as well. I know most new riders will pick a bike based on feelings such as looks, brand, friends bike choices, etc. but a fair bit of forethought would go a long way towards getting a first bike that will allow the new rider to progress to the "ultimate- dream bike" they have always wanted. A great handling mid size (400-900 cc) motorcycle can make for the perfect beginner bike as long as the rider has good common sense and the willingness/desire to learn.

[@bigtreecombatacademy2927]

I’m new and have focussed the first few months on cornering Inputs come quickly but cornering and slow speed stuff is critical I’m still mainly focused on cornering along with other skills like quick stopping , swerving etc

[@marksmallman4572]

Generally speaking commen sense is in short supply...

[@loramaclean476]

I see riders struggling with turning their bike around or handling hair pin turns.

[@loramaclean476]

@@bigtreecombatacademy2927 Slow speeds are the toughest. Practice 'slow race' as often as you can.

[@andivalachi8247]

I know what you say about riders with years of "experience" afraid to lean in curves. I have 2 friends, family, who kept on breaking very hard in corners, even with a semi behind them. I kept on telling them that a 12t truck cannot stop on a dime and it is infinitely more dangerous than leaning a little bit more to take the curve at 60 mph.

[@jaywaite5660]

62 now Started at 61. All my vehicles had clutches since childhood. 6’ 3” 250#. Bicycling on every vacation and in good shape. Bought a 2021 Fat Boy new (I know… I know) Presently at 18k miles. I learned thoughtfully with slow speed maneuvers and Kevin’s videos and cones. MSF course was a good start. Thanks MC Rider.

[@wflentge]

I started on a 125cc Twin Yamaha Scrambler when in High School. Senior year I went to a 4 wheeler and did not ride again until after my service time and at about 37 Yrs old. Purchased a used "79 1000cc Honda Goldwing and rode for about 2.5 years to see if I wanted to continue riding. I did and progressed from the '79 to a '97 1500 SE Goldwing, to a "10 1800 GW and now on a '19 GW DCT Tour. After almost 32 yrs and over 380K miles on my bikes, I feel I progressed from a smaller bike to larger more powerful bikes as I gained experience and skills. I still practice parking lot skills and do long and multi day trips. So glad I took the time to get better before moving "up".

[@samchu5335]

great advice kevin! in singapore, we start off with a basic license, motorbikes to

[@jameswhite6911]

I’m a new rider and just completed (possibly excelled 😁) at my Motorcycle Training course back in May of this year. I bought a Honda Shadow Aero 750cc and I love her. I try to ride no less than 50 miles every weekend. My 2 buddies have been riding for years and have strong Harleys…I’m just gonna keep loving my Shadow and I’ll get a bigger bike later

[@AlanZofficial]

I’m 29. My first bike (and current bike) is a 2014 Victory Cross Country Tour. I started with this because I knew what I wanted out of owning a motorcycle before I ever owned one. I wanted to see the country and all it had to offer. I didn’t want to get a small bike and ride it knowing I wanted to get rid of it within a season or two. I bought the Vic with 9,030 miles in late June of 2020, and as of right now (August 2022) I’m about to turn over 26,000. While I agree big bikes can be less advantageous to learn on compared to smaller bikes, it can be done. I think you make a lot of good points in this video. It ultimately comes down to how much practice you’re willing to put in to understand how your bike handles.

[@raybligh9896]

250 Yamaha, 500 Kawasaki, 750 Honda and 1200 Sportster. That is what I have ridden over the past 50 years. Looks like I made it. Thanks Kevin.

[@katchoo1865]

In 1980 I had a 1975 Can-Am 175 enduro. my Brother had a 1979 Gs1000. I rode both. Your videos and advice are spot on, I was a lucky person, not having the available knowledge to properly respect a larger bike. I don't recall any close calls on my can-am due to my limited experience. I do recall more than one close call on my brothers rather large bike at the time. Not everyone will escape some of the things I was able to avoid. But proper knowledge, practice, and training will serve all riders well.

[@jasonholby8915]

I think you nailed it. A 500-750 is a good starting point for most. Maybe a smaller framed person could use a 250 to get handling techniques and then move up to reduce a chance of injury. Having manual transmission experience is also a huge benefit.

[@andivalachi8247]

250s are too light and on open road, over 55mph, the wind blows one all over the place. Coming from Europe, I used to think the same way - 250-400 is enough - but a friend explained this issue to me, told me to get something with a bit of weight and it was a very good advice (had a Shadow 750 and now I ride a Kawa Vulcan S, 650cc)

[@Apollo949]

My first motorbike was a Honda 50. The largest bike I've owned was a FJR 1300, but guess what, I'm still alive 50 years later so start small and work your way up.

[@bigdaddyjoe2819]

Got my endorsement in 2004 but didn't get my first bike until Jan 2022. I chose to get a 500cc Harley. A great starter bike to reacclimate myself on. Been able to put 1000 miles on it since March. Add to that, watching the videos here have had a massive impact on me. I say start small!!!! Thanks Kevin!!! See ya on the road!!!

[@ksneia]

True. Learn ride bicycle is big advantage. There's only little adjustment and adaptation on motorcycle.

[@jasonhochman3750]

I don't understand why so many people want all kinds of power and speed, just for use on the street. That goes for not only motorcycles but even cars and bicycles, too. So many people say that you get bored of a small motorcycle quickly. I have a Suzuki TU250x and Honda Trail 125. I could see getting something bigger but I am not bored of those bikes. They are great grocery getters, commuters, ride to the library or church--they make daily trips fun. No need to race around town--here in Houston, I see way too many cars whip around corners, not at all concerned that someone might be crossing the street there. The same with bicycles. I commute to work mostly on a bicycle and there is about one mile of the trip when I am on a mixed use trail. These spandex warriors on $6,000 carbon bicycles come whipping around, and get annoyed at pedestrians, dog walkers, slow bicycles, etc. I commute on an older steel frame touring bicycle with a few bags strapped to the rack. I mostly ride in the 15-25 mph range on the way to work, but sometimes it is nice to slow down and enjoy the trip. Plus if I get on the track riding the heavier bicycle probably makes me stronger. I can see the rationale for a large bike like a Harley bagger or a Goldwing for long distance touring. A smaller bike that is revved up high will be less comfortable. But then again, Robert Pirsig rode a Honda CB77 on his trip in the book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. A lot of folks have taken long trips on a 250cc or 350cc. Royal Enfield has a nice looking 350, the Meteor, and a new one has a retail of $4699.

[@ThePNWRiderWA]

I think one of the questions a person needs ask to themselves is can they handle a 900 lb bike? Can they operate the bike and navigate a hard turn from a stop on an ascending grade ? It’s a far bigger issue IMO than the HP and top speed.

[@loramaclean476]

Hard turn from stop...100%!!! I see many riders that have issues with that.

[@Rufus_Golden_Retriever]

I was going to get a large bike as my 1st one. But a biker friend recomended a 750 or smaller. I'm so glad I listened to him, I had a 750 Shadow Phantom for 7 years and recently upgraded to a Road Glide. I could have seen myself drop the roadglide several times if it was my 1st bike If someone gets a large bike as there 1st, I would highly recommend taking very small baby steps and lots of training.

[@philipkorologos9445]

I also learned to ride relatively late, at 53. I bought a 900cc Triumph Bonneville T100 as my first bike and promptly put nearly 10,000 miles on it my first year, with two long rides of 2,500 plus miles each. In April 2021, I bought a Ducati Multistrada V4S and have loved that bike. I have over 23,500 miles on it and a trip planned for this fall that will add another ~7,000 miles. Lots of miles, watching videos about how to be an attentive rider, and the elements in my background you mention have been key---I've driven a stick since I was 16, I have over 10,000 miles of bicycle riding in the last several years, I'm in relatively good shape training for triathlons (2 full and 19 half Ironman races, among others, in last 10 years) and I passed my MSF with flying colors. It's doable, but requires the attention and care you suggest. I've also benefitted from meeting and riding with two now-great friends near my home who have a collective 50 years in the saddle. Thanks for the continued good advice.

[@JA-zh5xi]

I’m not a new rider, but took about 10-12 years off. Started back on a Harley Electraglide Limited. I can’t imagine being brand new and jumping on that 930lb bike. It was tough for me getting back into it again.

[@vladlumine4450]

Kevin, greetings from Croatia! I plan to buy a 125 ccm cruiser, and maybe ride it for the WHOLE life. I don't care what other people at bike nights think about me riding a smaller bike, 'cause I ride it from myself & am not comfortable enough to ride something more gigantic.

[@robertvincent562]

Good tip on riding a bicycle Kevin. I bought a recumbent bike earlier this year that has similar ergonomics to my Honda Shadow 750 Spirit. The 300+ miles that I've put on the Recumbent this year has given me an unexpected benefit. My balance is much better on my motorcycle at slow speeds than it was before.

[@tommeyer6033]

My first purchase was a 1990 TransAlp 600cc. I dropped it in the sellers driveway, and dropped it again at the first stop sign. (I had ridden off road bicycles through crazy terrain, could do static track stands for minutes, aced the MSF course, and learned to drive a manual shift when I was 16). It was just more than I needed. Sold it for $500 more than I paid for it and bought a punched out 2009 KLX250S with a 351cc top end, Mikuni carb and FMF exhaust. I put 10,000 miles on that bike before I sold it for the purchase price 4 years later. Bought a 2009 DR650 for the selling price of the KLX and have put 13,000 miles on it in the last 18 months, much of it on the forest roads of North Georgia’s Cohutta Wilderness. I’m very glad I went this route, and recommend a smallish dual sport as the perfect entry bike. Their seat height makes it a very safe ride in the city, as you can see over most cars, ride right over most curbs and when I stand on the pegs, I’m 7 feet tall and bright yellow on a white bike with a white helmet (the KLX was red). People see me coming. I see them coming. The KLX weighed 300 lbs, the DR is about 380. Even if I had changed to a different style bike, the little dual sport taught me a lot about riding, including how to maintain and upgrade my own motorcycle.

[@freddieclark]

My first bike was a 250CC BSA bantam that I rescued from a field and rebuilt at the age of 15 (not on public roads of course as this was illegal in the UK at that age). I passed my MC license at the time on a Yamaha RD 250, which at the time in the UK gave me a full license, meaning I could ride any size of bike. Over the next 20 years I spend my working life at Sea on research vessels so I didn't bother buying a bike, I was offshore too much. I moved to Thailand in the late 1980's and bought a Suzuki step thru, then a Kawasaki 125 boss, then a 150cc Yamaha fire (mainly because large bikes in Thailand were disgustingly expensive, ( I am talking 3-4X the price in the UK). Then Kawasaki introduced the er6n into Thailand which was priced so low that all other manufacturers had to do the same. So I got rid of my (illegal and unregistered) Yamaha 750 Virago and eventually bought a Kawasaki Vulcan S, which is perfect for the roads here. But yeah, I would absolutely buy a much bigger bike here if they ever updated their road laws.

[@g4dan1]

After being out of biking over 30 years, I got a new license and bought a small frame HD. Only road it about 2000 miles before upgrading. Wish I had put some more miles on the smaller bike. But, that was 6 years ago and close to 50,000 miles of touring on big touring bikes. Everyone is different but, even at 60+ years of age my eyes were bigger than my ability. Never got hurt or hurt anyone but, another season with the smaller would have helped. We now have a big bagger and a trike in the garage. In fact we just finished our first trip to Sturgis, 2800 miles, 11 days.

[@curtisssmith5204]

I have an R18 that is heavy and great to ride. But, I also have an s1000r that I love to ride because it’s so light weight. Really nice when it comes to moving around under my own power. I don’t use the top end power. I just love it’s responsiveness when it comes to changing direction and cornering. I also like the better bottom end performance which is why I chose it over a 600. In-line fours are great when it comes to bottom end power management.

[@beepbop6697]

Started on a 1979 Honda CB350 I bought used - rode it for years. The next bike was a 500cc (rode for 8 years), then a 650cc (many more years). Now I have two bikes: a fast liter bike and a 1500cc bagger. I feel at this point I can hop on any motorcycle and ride it proficiently - but am always still learning!

[@manuelcamacho-cazares4639]

purchased my 1st motorcycle about 1 month after my 50th b-day. Feb of this year. 2016 fatboy s. I'm 5'6 and am flat footed at the red lights and stop signs. That in of itself is the biggest reason for this bike. 110 screaming eagle is just about a perfect engine for me. I did take and pass the beginners course. I really enjoy riding to work and riding with friends.

[@franmarch]

I started on a small bike KTM 390 Also I took the Motorcycle Safety course before riding. I worked my way up. Now I own a cafe racer 700 and a cruiser 950. I always recommend to start on a small and light motorcycle. I think it is the best way to learn. Ride safe!

[@roadglide1745]

Daughter in law started on a 883 for two years almost. She is a fit 5.4 ish. Graduated to 2022 Street Bob with 114. Flat footing it and having fun. Keep shiny side up

[@karenshoucairmcgray4902]

My first bike was a Yamaha 650 V Star Custom. I now ride a 2010 Street Glide.

[@johnhamilton7029]

Many years ago when I first started riding I bought a Honda 350 and kept it for 1year. Then I had a very long break from riding and bought a Honda Shadow 750 after I completed the MSF class. Got a great deal when I bought this bike and didn’t put any money into it because it was in such good condition. I kept the Shadow for 2 years then moved up to a Honda VTX 1300 which I now ride. Because of the long break between riding I wanted to take the MSF course and not start again on a bigger bike. Worked out well for me and I sold the 750 for $200 more than I paid for it. I’ve never felt self conscious about what kind / size bike I ride. When the time comes I will switch to a trike (that’s a whole another conversation) because I like to ride so much!

[@momule55]

After some years of not riding due to marriage and kids and having a previous number of years of riding , I found that I wanted to get back in the saddle. So, with a hip replacement and a liver transplant behind me and my two kids out of the house, I bought a Suzuki 650 single cylinder and then 6 months later a twin cylinder Suzuki 650 Tourer and then the next year my current Harley Low Rider. I totally believe that the transition from a smaller bike to the larger bike was the right thing for me to do because it allowed me to gain confidence in riding a lighter bike to a heavier bike while figuring out what I really wanted to ride. I never lost money with these transitions and now have the bike I really wanted in the long run. Plus, and this is really important, my skill level and confidence in riding improved tremendously while I upgraded. I would encourage any new rider to buy used and small to begin with and then upgrade as you gain experience. Your life may depend on it.

[@jasonvandergriff]

2019 I decided to get my motorcycle license and purchase my first bike. The weekend I took the class was 4 hours of classroom Friday night, 5 hours parking lot training Saturday morning and 5 hours Sunday morning. I had 0 experience on a motorcycle prior to the class and was put on a Yamaha 250 Dual Sport. Went Saturday afternoon and purchased a 2017 Harley Davidson Electra Glide. Had a friend test ride it, I signed the paperwork and he rode it back to the house for me. Sunday I finished the rider course, passed the test and had my motorcycle license in hand. I took my time on residential streets and progressed to highways and interstates. Now I'm over 30k miles of riding and still consider myself a rookie. I decided to buy the bagger I WANTED and learn to ride on that versus buying a smaller bike I would quickly outgrow and have to purchase another bike. Now on my 2021 Ultra Limited, I enjoy riding my bike as much as possible. This is my opinion and experience and does not apply to anyone else. Ride safe and keep the shiny side up.

[@jonstone2466]

I have seen people leave the course and jump on a big Harley and do jut fine, but that would be the exception. I think that the key to riding any bike I mastering the friction zone. The same principles apply. I have a minor quibble with your observation about using standard shift on cars transitioning to motorcycles. One of the biggest challenges I always had as an instructor was breaking the “don’t ride the clutch” habit that car drivers have. That is the most important skill you need to have for low speed motorcycle riding.

[@steveolson69]

Only when maneuvering

[@GIJOE573]

I used to practice slow speed maneuvers on my bicycle to the point where I could do figure eights inside of a parking space just for fun and it did me a world of good when I got my Vulcan S as my first motorcycle

[@Badmansband]

2014 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec is my first and only so far. Very good bike for me. Got some power, fairly easy to handle. Love it.

[@ittman]

My first and only bike is my 2000 Road King Classic. Took some practice on back streets, and it was challenging.... but I learned, and have become quite a good rider.

[@gelfyd1]

Great sound advice. I totally agree with you!

[@andivalachi8247]

Being a small guy, I have a Kawasaki Vulcan S. It's just 650cc but it has 57HP and using a chain it transfers most of it. I think it checks all the boxes for a newbie: cheap, low, stable, fast enough if one wants a little bit of oumph. I discourage beginners to start with a Rebel 250. It is too light for wide North-American spaces. I said that to a woman, friend of mine, she did not listen and a year later she was telling me how unsafe she feels on the highway, anything over 50mph/80 kmph. I spoke with many people wanting to go to +1L super-bikes based on their experience riding a 125. One of them said "Oh, but it has a power limiter and I will use it". Yeah, for like 3-4 mo, then you will feel like a God of motorcycling and unleash it all 180HP to take him faster to his death.

[@andrewh1600]

Smaller bikes can be dangerous for larger people if we only consider the max tire load rating. My 03 Valkyrie was purchased used with a standard rear motorcycle tire rated for less weight than the sum of the valk and my weight. Corners where uncomfortably loose as the rear always felt like it was sliding through. Upgrading the rear tire made all the difference. I had never ridden "big" cruiser when I got the valk but it didn't stop me from learning by staying on the back roads and parking lots till I was able to master slow speed U-turns and turning take offs. Thanks for all the great vids I used them to improve my skills prior to taking the Valk into traffic.

[@waltersobchak8080]

Started on a 2009 Bonneville SE. It was affordable, fuel injected, and had a beginner-friendly torque curve while having enough power for highway cruising. That was crucial since I am surrounded by highways with very few road-alternative routes.

[@LawrenceBroussard]

I had not ridden in years. I went to the MSF class but stayed on back road with no to little traffic and practices a lot until I got comfortable again. Then I go to roads with more traffic but reasonable speed limits. Once I got comfortable in that environment I just kept moving up in challenging situation. The size of the bike is not the important thing in my opinion but your ability to not ride pass your present ability. In other words if your ability is 25 mph don't go 40 mph because your taking undue risk!

[@vladislavkalina2039]

Even though I answered all your questions “yes”, I bought 500ccm as my first bike. There is one more reason to start with something cheap: to get more time for decision what I want. I could not decide between a cruiser, a sport bike or an enduro. I liked all of them but have never ridden any. And I wasn’t experienced enough to rent&try them. So I bough a small cheap “something in between” to really learn riding and to find out what I actually want. And you know what? I ended up loving my bike and stopped thinking what to buy next.

[@wam44]

I started on mini bikes. The first motorcycle I rode was a Sears 125 in the '70s. I rode a few smaller bikes like 350's & 500's etc. that I didn't own and just rode around the neighborhood. The first bike I owned was gifted to me - a Yamaha 650 Special 2 cylinder (wish I still had it). I rode that for a few years and took some longer intrastate trips on it. I ended up giving it to someone (it was given to me) & didn't ride for almost 20 years. A friend had a big Yamaha cruiser and offered to let me take it for a spin. I was intimidated and said no. He asked me again in the summer of 2018 and I said yes. I took it out and after getting used to the weight, asked him to let me take a day trip. He agreed and I was hooked again! I started looking around for a bike and ended up buying a 2018 HD Road King. Looking back on it, and after being educated on this channel, I probably should have started with a smaller used bike. I have dropped it a few times when stopped. Once the kickstand wasn't down when I thought it was. The other time I was on a hump in the rode and went to put my foot down and there was no ground underneath me...I still need to take the safety class. I can lean the RK over when cornering and have scraped floor boards a few times doing that. Pretty startling when that happens...I will keep watching and learning....Kevin: Thanks for the video and all you do to promote safe riding :-)

[@thebobs9343]

Oh you got the "BIG" Sears bike. I had the106 in high school. Rode it all over the place and even did some hill climbing up the side of a hill the earth movers left after they had to make a hole. Who cared if you dropped it.

[@wam44]

@@thebobs9343 LOL yup. I used to ride it around the neighborhood and there was a dirt trail near the Chicago River where we would take turns riding it. I had some little kid on the back of it once and almost dunked us both in the river-Ha! I think it was a 125-I am not sure it could of been the 90...We took it out of someone's basement storage space in an apartment building in the neighborhood and got it running. Rode it around with no plates etc....I was quite the juvenile delinquent...

[@attentinightshift337]

I did this backwards. Started learning how to ride in 2009 on a 2000 Katana 750. I rode that for a year. Went and got a 2010 Ninja 250, then took the MSF course and passed it. I came out of the MSF course learning a couple things that I didn't figure out while street riding. After riding the ninja 250 for about a year, I bought a 93 zx7 ninja. Rode that for about 7 months. Then, disaster strikes. My 1st motorcycle accident. Truck makes a LH turn in front me, in heavy traffic, from a taco bell. Driver of the truck tried to make it into the center turn lane, but failed to get all of his truck in the center turn lane. Left the bed of the truck in my lane. Only thing that helped me out was having a LEO driving behind me witness the accident. That accident happened in Dec. 2012. I broke my left femur via spiral closed facture. After getting some titanium hardware to repair my leg, it took me about 3 mos. before I started riding again. I look forward to every Dec. that I make it to. Another year of no accidents.

[@stewartnorton6386]

I'm from the UK and belong to a large Facebook group for new riders and 90 percent of the members are from the US. Its absolutely blows my mind when I see people posting pictures of thier first bike and it's a gigantic harley ! And when its accompanied by comments like " First time on a bike can't wait to learn" and " dropped her a few times but that part of learning." 🤯🤯

[@Fastfreddie79]

I’m 43 I just took the ny msf about 9 months ago I went out and bought a 250cc I love it I should’ve got my motorcycle license when I was 18 only thing that sucks is not being able to ride through the winter👍👍

[@radricster]

I think the question comes down to the individual, and generalities is where the conflicts come from. I started on mini-bikes and moved to street bikes in my twenties. I'm 5'10" and a big guy at 200 to 250 lbs, depending on how well I'm doing avoiding fast food. My first street bike back in the day was a Kawaisaki 454 LTD (Vulcan 500's grand-daddy), and I found it an excellent first bike, allowing me to build my confidence on the street without breaking the bank, or being terrified of dropping a new, expensive and heavy machine. Lighter bikes allow an inexperienced rider to avoid those low speed practice drops, by simply hoisting the bike back up, but that dream bagger won't be so forgiving. That being said, my son is seventeen, and this past year wanted to start street riding as well. The difference between him and myself is, he's been playing football since he was eight, and now at 6'4" and 300+lbs. there was no way he could comfortably fit on one of those small bikes like I started on. So we got him a V-Star 950, just because it allows him to not feel like he's on a tricycle. He's had a few drops, but in the end, it's been a great bike FOR HIM to learn on, with a low center of gravity and easily replaceable crash guards that have kept him safe and the bike mostly undamaged from his youthful exuberance. So, there is no right answer to "is (insert bike here) a good starter bike". Each rider needs to find the bike that suits them well, and more importantly, practice until they can ride it efficiently.

[@jnlbaccaify]

I started on a Honda Shadow 750 5 years ago about the same time I started watching you. Great starter bike. It lasted me 2 months lol

[@markwhatley9955]

I returned to riding after a 30-year break to raise kids. I always wanted a Harley and had my heart set on an Electra Glide Classic. I questioned whether I should go large as a beginner, which is what I was after not riding for 3 decades. I got advice from a good friend and others on the MCrider forums, all of whom suggested I start smaller, but not necessarily small. I even prayed about it. Long story short, I bought a 2019 Heritage Classic 114, which is an 1800 cc motorcycle and weighs in at around 727 pounds. It was a great choice for me and I have made great strides in slow speed operation on parking lots. I’m totally confident riding it and I’m very proud of it. I’m no Harley snob and I love everyone who rides. Will I buy that Electra Glide or Road King some day? I dunno. I don’t ride two up and really can’t feature going bigger just to go bigger. The Heritage is great around town, very nimble, and a true highway cruiser. Safe riding, everyone.

[@davidwallace6224]

agree, I live in france there is a permit for a 125 cc here i road on that 3 years, this year I went back to the states did the msf in Florida got my new permit and bought a yamaha ténéré 700 i just got back from a long adventure in the south west of france with all sorts of difficult roads, twisties, tight, rough, etc.. I would not have had fun 3 years ago if i had done this without getting used to stopping on a hill, u turns, curved roads on the small bike first.

[@RonHoague]

I fit all of the criteria that Kevin outlined when I was 25… and my first bike was a 95 Honda Magna 750… what a rocket, but it fit and served me well.

[@lifeliners1]

Totally agree. I started on a yamaha Seca then went up to virago 750 then to intruder 1500 now I ride a victory cross country tour

[@jojoedzle5630]

3 months ago I purchased a 06 Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad 1600cc as a Beginners bike! Never rides a motorcycle in my life. I weight 175. My first three months was a pain in the butt I did dropped it three times on a stop sign managed to pick it back up. 7 months today and I’ve dominated my motorcycle bar far taking curves , coming to a complete stop ,solo riding or with passenger .. Love it and don’t want to go and lighter than 768lbs , yes will go heavier at least 900lbs

[@beepbop6697]

That's a pretty big bike to start on. Dropping it many times should be the clue that you aren't (weren't) ready for it.

[@andyvonbusse3503]

At 71, I'm a "new again" rider. In the past I had anything from a street legal Honda 400, Silverwing, and Aspencade. However, I had not ridden in a few decades, and my son-in-law came up with the brilliant idea of riding the Dempster (road in Canada to the Arctic ocean). Man, bikes are different and so much better than they used to be, but the rider is not. Bought a 650 Vstrom, even though my SIL thought a 1000 would be better because of my height (6'4") and weight (260). In short, the 650 does all I want it to do, drives like a dream on the highway with lots of reserve, but I am still sharpening my slow driving skills. Gravel is a challenge, but I haven't dumped it yet. Dirt roads are actually much easier than the gravel ones. Am I a beginner? No, but I certainly don't feel I have mastered the bike at all. I have a lot of practice to do before myself, my SIL and my son do the trip next year. Put on about 800 miles in the last week though.... that helps. :)

[@charleetho]

Real case study I happened to watch happen. Two of my female coworkers took the MSF class at the same time. Both passed. Elain purchased a used Vulcan 500 as her first bike. Carol had a lot of pressure from her peers, including her husband, to get a Harley. She bought a new Sportster Custom. Ove the next months Elaine progressed in her skills quite rapidly. Carol struggled, dropped her bike many times, dented the tank, and it was scary to watch as she struggled to control her Harley even in our parking lot. After a year, Elaine bought a new Dyna FXDX. She loved it and rode it very well. We talked Carol into trying out the Vulcan. She rode it around our office complex and came back with a big smile. "This is so easy to ride!". Elaine offered to sell the Vulcan to Carol, but she declined. She could only be seen on a Harley. A year later, Carol quit riding and Elaine, last I knew, was loving her Harley. This was 16 years ago. HD did come out with the Street 500/750 but it was a sales flop. The Sportster was the starter bike to many.

[@cowgirlonchrome7416]

My husband bought me a sportster several years ago but I was too intimidated and scared to ride it. So, I asked him for a Honda rebel 250 so I could finally learn to ride. I had a blast learning on it and when I finally felt I was ready, I moved up to my Sportster. I think Sportster's are way too big and heavy for small women to learn on. I'm 5'2" 90lbs and I'll probably continue to ride a sportster forever because I just don't want to deal with the weight of a big twin.

[@Old-n-slo-locked-n-leaned]

The street 500 and 750 are very good first bikes. The riding position can be cramped for anyone taller than 5’ 6”. My wife is 5’5” and it the perfect size for her. Every time she gets around other riders they ask when she is getting a sportster or a soft tail. Luckily she tells them she likes what she has.

[@beepbop6697]

It's sad that the Harley fanbois have so much hate for any other motorcycle brand. Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki (ie: Japanese manufacturers), and EU manufacturers all make excellent bikes that are more reliable than Harley and sell for a fraction of the price.

[@michaelmullen2991]

Actually the first motor vehicle I bought was a motorcycle, it was a 1968 Kawasaki Avenger 350 SS, then a 1969 HD Sportster, then 1979 KZ750, Then 1982 KZ1100, then a Kawasaki Voyager XII, then a Kawasaki Concours, another liter class. I've had two Concourses, two KZ1100's and two Gold Wings, I now have an old 1982 KZ1100 ans a 2008 GL1800. They were all fun but I would agree start small and have fun learning to ride. I took the KZ1100's and the Concourses on 2 week vacations covering 4 - 5k miles and they were fast when I wanted them to be.

[@defenestrationfan]

Took the MSF bought a 2010 Honda Sabre w/ 2K miles on it. Dumped it once - second day negotiating a left turn at a busy intersection. It was also a declining radius left so i believe that is what really sunk me. Luckily the bike (1315 cc and 675 pounds) landed on my right knee so I only had a limp for a few months, no damage to the bike and never had a problem since. Take your time and learn on the bike you will ride.

[@patrickmba7638]

Hold up. Did you say it was lucky a bike that weighed 675 pounds landed on ur knee?

[@saroke1249]

I recently received my endorsement at 55. I am on that larger side; 6ft / 300lbs so a small bike just wouldn't work. The bikes in the MSF course were so uncomfortably small. I picked up a 2022 BMW 1250 GSA. The adventure version since I knew I would be dropping it as a new rider and I have not disappointed it as I practice. Regardless of cost I think a new rider needs a bike they are comfortable with dropping and not something they need to baby since it makes it harder to practice some things. I can flat foot the BMW and I have it in rain mode until I can handle the important techniques. .

[@eugeniustheodidactus8890]

Upon finishing my MSF training, and for my retirement gift, I bought a Harley Road King which I proceeded to take to the parking lot and practice for weeks. I bought a set of orange cones and "motorcycle drop guards" before taking delivery of the bike! If you take your training seriously, you will be OK. You will drop a big bike as a newbie while practicing 18 foot uTurns.... it goes with the territory;) Buy a bike that you can outfit with drop protection.

[@sethsanders2875]

GOOD INFORMATION SIR...

[@HiroNguy]

It is only because I rode smaller bikes that I'm now confident and skilled on big/powerful bikes. I worked at a dealership that sold bikes that had no small bikes in the manufacturer's lineup. The management demanded that we push these larger, powerful bikes on noobs. It was one of the things that really took the fun out of working at a bike dealership.

[@andrewvickers4487]

A lot of sensible points.

[@oldgeezerproductions]

Be sure to consider a bike that you can pick up by yourself and one you can be flat-footed when stopped. I love my bike, but it is tall and very top heavy and almost impossible for me to pick up by myself (despite all the videos I've watched). When I bought the bike earlier this year, I immediately installed the largest drop bars I could find and I am so glad I did because any 'new-to-you' bike WILL get dropped --- more than once -- especially if you are short like I am. As mentioned I love the bike and have put 6,000 miles on it starting in mid March.

[@sakygen]

As someone who bought a honda rebel 500 and traded it in two weeks because it was underpowered and couldn’t keep up in the freeway- go for a honda rebel 1100 and start on rain mode. Or buy a really used honda rebel 500. It will save you a lot of money😁

[@NoFrictionZone]

LoL I show up everywhere on my Vespa.😎

[@seriouslyflawed]

I started with a 500cc, then 750cc and then a 1300cc. I can see me moving down the scale as I get older.

[@beepbop6697]

Yes. I purchased my heavy 1500cc from an older gentleman working his way back down the other side. Heavy bikes are no fun if you don't have plenty of extra strength to hold them upright when stopped (on a grade, on a windy day).

[@rogermurph101]

All good points. Not at all what I did though. This past March, I purchased my very first motorcycle, having no license and never ridden before. I bought a 2022 Fat Boy, which came with the MSF course, which I took. After passing the final, during the one on one, the instructor told me I was the most proficient student in the class, and that my weakness and what I needed to work on was my low speed maneuvering. All this at the age of 52. I have no interest in going fast, just fulfilling a 30 year old dream. My decision to start with the bike I wanted and not a smaller one came down to finances. It was my belief at the time that I should buy while interest rates were low instead of waiting a year. I got my loan at 1.8%, which I couldn’t get close to now, much less in another six months. I have close to 5000 miles on the bike now and haven’t had any problems, and my confidence and proficiency have improved markedly since when I first started out. My only regret is that I didn’t go with a Road King instead of the Fat Boy. Turns out I like going on long rides on the weekends!

[@motonorge1172]

I think the question is how easy is it to manouver, that's the question.

[@SMKreitzer1968]

Thanks Kevin, great topic this week! I've been riding since I was 10, started on a trail 70! The biggest bike I had was a Virago 1100, I now ride a VStar 950 Touring bike. Plenty of power, although I sure miss my TW200 for just having fun!

[@guins99]

I’m on a street glide special these days. When I started riding I was inexperienced so started out on smallest bike I could find, went with a unicycle. Showing up a bike nights sure some other riders probably looked down their noses at me, but I needed time to develop my skills so I didn’t let it bother me. Eventually I traded that unicycle in, actually did make money in the deal cause I knew not to waste dollars adding accessories like ape hangers, aftermarket lights, stretched tank etc.

[@joshdeaktor5827]

I think a size appropriate bike is very important as you mentioned. I started on a Kawasaki Vulcan and could never get comfortable with it. I eventually bought a Harley Softail and loved riding it, aside from the underpowered brakes. I was essentially a beginner when I bought the Softail but for whatever reason I gained more confidence riding that bike over the Vulcan. So while not buying a giant tourer or liter bike is probably advisable for first time riders I would say from experience that getting something you feel comfortable on is the most important.

[@beepbop6697]

Curious, which Vulcan are you referring to? There are three different categories in the Vulcan lineup. I'm a huge fan of Kawasaki. They build excellent and highly reliable motorcycles.

[@joshdeaktor5827]

@@beepbop6697 it was the Vulcan S. None are bad bikes, but as a beginner I was talked into getting a bike strictly for ergos, but the ride itself was confusing. I have ridden one since, but I know now that for it to not feel slow you have to rev it a bit.

[@beepbop6697]

@@joshdeaktor5827 yeah, the Vulcan-S comes to life above 6,500 RPMs. Turns into a completely different bike made for the twisties. 🏍️

[@jimmin9802]

Riding a larger motorcycle has made me a much better smaller motorcycle rider. 1 yr on a softail standard and i have had my ultra for 6 months.

[@bissellsmith8690]

Good video. Agree w/the bicycling, sports (being in good shape - which also means balance), etc.... I'd be a tad more overt than you. If you've not ridden in 10yrs...start "smaller". Yes you are free to answer it yourself, but you should be more pragmatic which means proving to yourself that you can move up to larger or heavier or more powerful. It had been about 20yrs for me - gave it up after a tough crash off of gravel spilled on the road...gave it up for my family. During that time I took up cycling/racing, and running, and mountain climbing across several continents. When I got back on the bike (after my wife said..."you should buy another motorcycle")- I got a Piaggio MP3 500...so 500cc (partly to test it for a purchase in Spain, but also because I wanted to start gradually). After a year...I moved up to an Indian Scout...then added a BMW '05 RS1200 GS, and then bough a '21 BMW R1250 GSA. during the Scout times I road the Scout everyday for work for 2yrs and on W/E in the mountains (while on a work tour of duty in Reno). So I've ridden many many years, but I had a 20yr lapse. The progression was well appreciated.

[@monkey5878]

I started on a Suzuki bandit 1200 in the U.K. , I honestly think it slowed my learning of slow turns /u turns etc , but other than that , it’s been fine I wouldn’t change a thing .

[@sephi7ac]

For me, it was more cost and size (I'm 5'11", 250lbs). Bought a 2014 Vulcan 900 as my 1st bike. Was cheaper than the shadows and sportsters I was looking at (felt cramped on the rebel), and fits me comfortably, though a bit heavier than I'd like as a 1st bike, but overall I'm happy with it.

[@gfunk63901]

The power isn’t the issue, I believe. You can just go easy on the throttle. The weight is the issue. I’m glad I started back 4 years ago on a 500cc and then got comfortable and then rented touring Harley’s and they are a lot more to handle than a 500 pound bike. Even now, if I feel like the bike is about to go down, I can throw a leg down and get the bike back to balanced upright. On a bigger bike, once that bike gets too leaned over at too slow a speed, all you can do is get out of the way and hope it’s on dry, level payment in order to lift it back up

[@ronaldjohnson7905]

I know it’s a little outside of the scope of the video, but you should also consider what kind of riding you want to do. I do a lot of riding on gravel roads, so my first bike was an enduro. I graduated to an ADV. Another consideration was top speed. Out west, the interstate speed limit is 80 mph. For safety, if I ride on the interstate, I want to be able to do a little better than that. Just a couple of considerations. I like the ADV, even on the interstate because I like the riding position. That might be another consideration. If you’re young, and don’t mind riding in a forward leaning position, a sport bike is fine. If you’re old, like me, your back will tell you a sport bike is a bad idea.

[@karlbishop7481]

I was a poor starving college student in the mid 60's when I bought my first motorcycle. All I could afford was a Yamaha 80. I put 17,000 miles on that little guy. I worked my way up to bigger bikes as the years went on. The biggest bike owned was a 1400 Guzzi. I loved the bike but it was getting awkward for me to ride at slow speeds due to raked out headstock angle, long wheelbase, and weight. I traded it for a Bonneville last fall. I also have a 750 V7 Guzzi for running around town. So I guess as I age I am working my way back down. I know a few other guys who are doing the same thing. I agree that the bike needs to fit you and your skills, not the other way around.

[@murraehaynes3182]

Good stuff… back in the day the Sportster was the hot rod and the FLs were for old guys… just saying….