What Type And Size Of Motorcycle Should You Buy?

[@hristogavrilov]

I've been riding bikes for as long as I can remember. Went from Brighton to Glasgow in one go on a 125cc (MT-125) couple months ago. I found it very enjoyable. Small doesn't mean boring.

[@MotoEcosse]

Absolutely. 🤜🤛

[@stevethebikinggrandad]

I got back into biking after a 30 year break! When I finally bought a house with a garage one of the first things I did was go out and buy a 1984 Suzuki GP100, almost identical to the bike I had when I was 17. Fast forward a couple of years and I finally passed my test (aged 49) in July this year. I already knew what bike I wanted, but still took one for a test ride, just in case for some reason I didn't like it as much as I thought I would - but fortunately I did. So I'm now the proud owner of a new 2021 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. It's "only" an A2 bike, I could have bought something far more powerful - but it's exactly what I want from a bike and can't see me replacing it any time soon. It's got the classic looks that I love, it's got the power to keep up with the traffic on an A-road (unlike my little GP100 with my weight on it! My old one used to go so much faster - but I was probably two or three stone lighter all those years ago!). I'm not interested in doing silly speeds any more, maybe I would have been if I'd continued to ride through my 20's and 30's - but these days that doesn't interest me at all. I'm a fair weather rider too, not commuting and never really in a hurry whenever I go for a ride - so the the Interceptor suits me perfectly. I've still got the old GP too and have no plans on getting rid of that either, it's only going to go up in value the older it gets :)

[@MotoEcosse]

Hey Steve. I've personally never ridden the GP100 but I do know of them. Great looking wee bikes as well. The Royal Enfield is becoming a really popular bike, and quite rightly so. They do look great fun to ride. I'd also keep a hold of the GP100. If not for value's sake then definitely sentinel. Glad you've decided to get back into riding as well. Ride safe. 🤜🤛

[@stevethebikinggrandad]

@@MotoEcosse Thanks, my only regret is that I didn't get back into riding sooner! The interceptor is a brilliant bike, and I'd actually say it's a pretty good first bike too. Not too powerful that you'll get yourself into trouble due to inexperience, handles great too. That said I only really have the Kawasaki ER6-N to compare it with as that's what I took my test on. Yeah, I'm keeping the GP100 even if I decide in future to replace the Interceptor. There's something about the noise and smell of a 2-stroke, even if it's not very quick!

[@icarus3604]

Passed my MOD 2 three weeks ago and went straight to a Harley Davidson Street Bob (1690cc) It was something I’ve always wanted.

[@just_a_quick_ride]

Fourteen years ago, after a two day course in a shopping mall carpark in Colorado, I bought a Triumph Tiger 955i as my first bike. I'm still alive now of course, so it wasn't a fatal decision, but in retrospect maybe not a brilliant plan. The thing with riding a (potentially) fast bike before you're skilled up is that you need to be non-impulsive and able to exercise restraint, and if you were like that you'd maybe just buy a smaller bike. Nowadays I'm on a CB500X ... physically about the same size as the Tiger, but cheaper, half the HP, and very economical (in fuel and insurance), but I can still get round the Cairngorms in a day without effort. A2-compatible is a nice sweet spot.

[@AM-cz4fd]

Your videos always come just in time! First it was your video giving tips for MOD 2, and 3 weeks later I'm looking into a Honda Rebel S 500. Even though I have a full licence the rebel is more than enough for everyday use and commuting, plus it's one of the most fun bikes EVER! Recommend anyone looking at cruiser type bikes to have a go on one of these beauties.

[@karlhoward2737]

I have my 2023 version of the Honda NC750XDCT on order, coming to Jersey this December….I am returning to riding after 41 years of not riding…nasty crash thanks to drunk driver stopped me quite literally back in 1981….anyway, I am getting my bike to enjoy for fun not for work commute…I have bought all my gear, good quality gear…very good Arai helmet…oh I will take a number of refresher courses and plan to do this every year as a top up to my riding skills….really find all your videos so very good….my go to place, thanks for sharing cheers

[@MotoHikes]

I bought a 2019 Versys 650 GT before even doing my mod 2. Thankfully I passed 2 weeks ago, even doing the mod 1 and 2 on it. It is heavy, but for what I use my bike for (county road commuting and cross country touring), it's perfect.

[@motorcycleman6898]

Passed MOD2 in May this year and bought a 2nd hand Suzuki V-Strom 650 within a month. Didn’t want something crazy fast as speed kills (well deceleration really) and I was still a bit nervous. Wanted it for weekend rides, future tours and maybe some short commuting. I think that the drivers for me getting this bike were that it fitted the bill for those requirements but also was similar in style to those that my instructors rode whilst training me (halo effect?) and I perceived it to give a good upright position to see and be seen - safety was my key priority. I did lots of internet searches but probably not enough ‘real world’ searching - I only rode 3 bikes in test rides, one of which I ultimately bought. Despite that, experienced rider buddies say that it suits my style of riding and I’m really enjoying owning it. Having said that a first bike is only a FIRST bike - I’m sure that I and others will move on and enjoy owning other machines.

[@irishzombie22able]

I got a (2018) kawasaki versys 650, i love it, such a smooth engine amd easy to manoeuvre at slow speeds even with a seat height of 840mm amd 215kg weight.

[@janinew233]

Great advice as always. I did have a big issue trying to decide on bikes, but that was more due to my height. I found a lot of bikes too high for me. Even when I had a cbf125 I could barely touch the ground, but after learning on a lowered bike I realised I could get lowering kits which helped me a bit better. I was actually lucky to find a triumph street triple R with a lowering kit and crash bungs already fitted. So that's a bit of advice for someone else who is around 5ft 3. You can also ride bikes so don't let your height put you off.

[@mrwpg]

just did the CBT aiming for full direct access in the next 3 or so months but have been convinced to do some time on a 125 before going for the desired CB650R, the Welsh Snowdonia roads should be just as fun either way...

[@gordonjohnston3845]

Great vid as always and as always great advice. Passed mod 2 few months ago now went for Kawasaki versys 650. All the power I need ( for now) also really comfy riding position. Think they class it as sports tourer so bit of both worlds. Had Mrs J on it after building my confidence just recently and she is smitten so looks like more money getting drained out the clothing account. Your advice is spot on. Take a step back, see what kind of rider you'll be and if you'll be going out with others ( ride your own ride) then take some test drives. You dont get much choice when learning so make the right choice for your hard earned spondoolies. Thanks for another great vid.

[@MotoEcosse]

🤜🤛

[@irishzombie22able]

I got a versys 650 too, absolutely brilliant bike

[@MrMonster981]

9 weeks ago I had never ridden a motorbike, a week and a half ago I bought a Triumph Tiger 800 and I couldn't be happier. Perfect for commuting and having some fun on. Got some tours planned too so a good all rounder. 😄

[@MotoEcosse]

That's great to hear mate. 🤜🤛

[@robertfair8872]

I’m the happiest bloke in Scotland today 😂 Passed my Mod 1 this morning first time with a clean sheet then got popped onto my Mod 2 in the afternoon. I was watching your videos in between when I was waiting..I was so nervous but I passed with 4 minors. I’m looking to get a Husqvarna 701 Supermoto. Thanks again 🙏🏼

[@MotoEcosse]

Congrats, Robert. Great result mate. Glad the videos helped. Enjoy your new ride when you get it. 🤜🤛

[@madarther]

Passed my das 2 yrs ago and still riding my cb 500x and love my smaller cc

[@gurdipaujla7939]

Passed my Mod 2 today... Triumph Trident arrives in 3 weeks 😳💫. Cheers for the useful info contained in your vids.. the Scottish accent is like a lullaby.

[@MotoEcosse]

Congrats mate. 🤜🤛

[@Fake-moon-landing.]

Passed my test thursday, ordered my new triunph tiger 660 sport on friday.

[@oojimmyflip]

good point on tall a small people and confort your height is also an important consideration for centre of gravity tall peole generally dont get on well on trials bikes which makes the C of G a little high, mix that with wet leaves and wet drain covers its not a great mix.

[@paulodea1696]

In Ireland the course is called ibt ,I passed for an A licence.But I've started on a honda cbf125 for learning on ,I'll move up to a 650 cc when I gain some experience

[@Team-Fraser]

Interesting watch this thanks. I have been riding almost 3 1/2 years now on CBT, sat my CBT in 2019 and bought myself a Honda Grom which has been brilliant, wanted to do my test last year but was cancelled twice due to covid then my CBT ran out so had to do it again so decided to stay on the Grom another year but at the point now where I would like a bit more power. Sat my theory test last week and passed so hopefully sitting my Mod 1 & 2 next month. I use my Grom daily all year around, approx. 10mile commute and occasional longer trips, mainly around 20/30miles on B roads. So was thinking something like a Honda CB300R or BMW G310R would suit my needs as I mostly commute within Aberdeen. I did contemplate a CB650R but there is a big step-up in price and not sure it would be worth the extra money for my needs.

[@paulwright651]

I have just bought the gsxr125 and love it doing my cbt in 2 weeks time tour videos are great and great info keep it up thanks

[@strider9583]

Hey motoecosse I passed my mod 2 today and in part it's because of your awesome videos mate thank you very much dude

[@MotoEcosse]

Fantastic news, Wayne. Glad to hear it. Always great to hear that my videos helped. Have fun out there and ride safe. 🤜🤛

[@strider9583]

@@MotoEcosse I genuinely want to say thank you because even though I watched it about 50 times to get it to sink in everything you said was spot on and honestly if we ever meet on our travels I'm buying you a beer lol cheers dude and thank you again

[@MotoEcosse]

@@strider9583 🤜🤛🍺

[@Brandon25043]

I got the yamaha xj6s, it's waiting for me to pass my mod 2, and I can't wait to get out on it, however I'm also keeping in mind not to go crazy or I'll end up injured aswell

[@johnbanks4761]

my first bike was a yamaha rd125lc, my 2nd..my 2nd..is going to be end of this year hopefully...going to be a 125...i think most people should start with that instead of jumping into big but everyones different

[@TheKimgower]

Hi, I very much enjoy your videos. I am now 65 and never owned a motorcycle, I'm going to do the Cbt course soon. I would like to get of the beaten track and do an overnight wild camp, make some road trip memories while I still can. I would very much appreciate suggestions on what best to look for. Many thanks. Kim

[@rossbaker77]

Going for my A but sticking with my XSR 125 for my commute in London. Might get myself a big cruiser for weekends at some point but my XSR is perfect for getting to work on.

[@MotoEcosse]

Absolutely, Ross. That's all you need for your commute. 🤜🤛

[@cwillett600]

Yeh mate spot on I got a 600 fazer wen I passed fast enough and comfortable. good content like the vids 👌

[@cwillett600]

Watching your motorway vid now good advice 👍

[@VStrom2019]

I have a 650 v Strom which suits me perfectly. Love the sv but it is physically on the small size for me proportionally. Commuting, weekend ride outs, perfection for me. Love the upright riding position too.

[@MotoEcosse]

One of the bikes I was looking at upgrading to was the DL 1050 V Strom. Great looking bikes.

[@VStrom2019]

@@MotoEcosse I found them too heavy for me but the 650 although still a bit heavy has just about the same “oomph” and considerably cheaper running costs.

[@craig9143]

Really interesting video with good tips. I’ve just passed my theory test today and now looking forward to doing my Mod 1 in a couple of weeks. I certainly won’t rush into buying just any bike without doing plenty to research.

[@MotoEcosse]

Congrats on passing your theory man. All the best for the mod 1. Currently working on a Mod 1 series. Hoping to have it uploaded in the next week or so. 🤜🤛

[@davestatham8668]

Great video and tips. I'm currently on a CBF125 2009 model which I'm loving and looking to take my MOD 1 and 2 next year but I'm addicted to just going out and riding. Great feeling

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers, Dave. 125s are a lot of fun and a great experience and confidence builder. Glad you've caught the bug, it really is a great feeling. 🤜🤛

[@davestatham8668]

@@MotoEcosse also just sat and watched the video on roundabouts which was really good. Did you do a video about the MOD 1 at all? I'm just practicing that in car parks at the moment

[@MotoEcosse]

@@davestatham8668 I'm doing a small mod 1 series starting in the next few weeks. We'll go over everything from the start of the test to the all the slow and fast maneuvers. 🤜🤛

[@davestatham8668]

@@MotoEcosse I'll keep an eye out for that one! Give me a shout out 😂😂

[@icarus3604]

Get out there and enjoy riding that 125 mate, it’s the best experience there is. Ride like you would on your test and concentrate on safety, safety, safety. Download a theory test app and practice that if you’ve not done your theory yet.. I rode my Yamaha YBR 125 (2008) for 18 months and absolutely loved every minute of it. I passed the everything first time. (MOD 2 passed in September) Good luck bud 👍🏽👍🏽

[@TerryDavis66]

Great video and great advice as always. I did my CBT in April and loved the look of cafe racers so bought a Sinnis Bomber. Never looked back. Kinda hooked on cafe racers now and my first thought was ‘Triumph Thruxton, all the way’. Then I thought, ‘yeah, a 1200 cc bike? I’ll be dead in a week!’ So I’m going for the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. Still that cafe racer but less ‘kill me on the corner’. You’re right though - I took a big gamble on the riding position, fortunately paid off as most of my road time is cruising the South Downs. Anyway - it all rests on my DAS which starts at 7:30 am tomorrow! Mod 1&2 on Monday! Petrified!

[@MotoEcosse]

Royal Enfields are great bikes. Hope all goes well 2moro. I'm sure you'll have a blast. All the best for Monday as well, Terry. 🤜🤛

[@TerryDavis66]

@@MotoEcosse Passed the Mod 1 without a fault. Failed my Mod 2 :-( Approached a mini roundabout where a car from the right wasn't indicating and I failed to stop. Picked up a serious. Ah well, learn from the mistake and try again!

[@stevethebikinggrandad]

@@TerryDavis66 I did similar on my first Mod 2 after flying through the Mod 1 without an issue. Went across an unmarked crossroads on a housing estate and didn't notice the learner driver coming down the road. Fortunately they were turning left and had already started slowing down, but the examiner failed me as it could have been nasty if they were going straight across! Breezed through it on second attempt though. Good luck for the next attempt. Good choice on the RE Continental GT too - I have an Interceptor and absolutely love it!

[@MotoEcosse]

@@TerryDavis66 that's hardlines, Terry. At least you've had experience on mod 2 and now what to expect. I'm sure you'll nail it next time. 🤜🤛

[@antonyj3D]

Saw some new proposed regulations yesterday from the National Motorcyclists Council on the future of the CBT and tests. Under the new proposals, a 21 year old would technically be able to ride a 650cc (that would normally be suitable for the full test) on L plates on a CBT.

[@MotoEcosse]

Interesting. I'll have to give that a read.

[@davesharratt]

Hi there ive just picked up a sv650s identical to your but with clip ons, wanted to say i picked the 650 but my ego said go for the 1000 but in truth the 650 has more than enough power for our roads but the 1000 has more bragging rights ! well im 57 n that part dont bother me anymore ,ive had a fair few bikes over the years mt09 ktm 690 gpz500 etc . my point is as you rightly say use your head before buying a bike not your heart/ego so what if people dont like your choice they aint riding it you are .. stay safe.. Dave and the little blue beast

[@MotoEcosse]

Hey, Dave. I'm so happy I went with the 650. I've been lucky enough to get a go on the 1000 SV and it just wasn't for me. I've ridden plenty of 1000s and a lot are absolutely fine, the SV 1000 though just feels super aggressive, I'm guessing that's down to the torque of the V-twin engine, with the 650 though you can get a lot more out of the engine, especially on our roads, and 650 is more than enough to have loads of fun on. 🤜🤛

[@keithbelford8130]

Very good advice to take on board.

[@tevnny94]

​ @Moto Ecosse Following on from my earlier comment, i'm proud to say i've 'passed' my CBT (can't really fail but the instructor was confident to let me go out on the roads on a bike). I took it last Friday in the rain and i was terrified coming up to it but 5 minutes into the off road riding i was fine and enjoying myself.

[@MotoEcosse]

That's awesome to hear mate. You've officially took your first steps to getting your licence. Welcome to the club. 🤜🤛

[@tevnny94]

@@MotoEcosse thanks. Now I just need to get through the rest of the licence. I'm still unsure if learning in winter weather will be a good or bad experience

[@MotoEcosse]

@@tevnny94 I learned to ride through the winter months, obviously not on icy days, but learning in the colder wet months definitely has it's benefits. Upon passing your test you already have experience of riding in horrible conditions which definitely makes you a more confident rider.

[@markstewart3648]

Very informative pal,I'm doing my DAS on an MT 07 I find it comfortable enough,but I do like the street triple,though never sat on one,would the ride position/height be comparable as I'm not exactly the tallest

[@MotoEcosse]

Hey, Mark. I would think so mate. I'm 5'9 and most bikes I've ridden with a similar riding position are absolutely fine. 🤜🤛

[@garymcqueen6350]

Coming back to biking after 20 year went for a cb500f it's the smallest bike since I past my test but conscious of been older now cost of fuel and relearning the skills I used to have.

[@MotoEcosse]

I also like the cb500f. Never ridden one but they like they'd be great fun. 🤜🤛

[@garymcqueen6350]

@@MotoEcosse I'm 6 foot 3 and find it comftable up to 3 hours .I was over the lake district yesterday and it was great on the twisty roads .not a fast bike but has usable power and enough for safe overtaking .done just over a thousand miles my bike skills are coming back but still have a bit to learn to class myself as a competent rider agen .you can always get a faster bike when your skill level improves but not much protection on a bike and you cannot change your mind when your dead.

[@duncanworman6587]

Great advice as ever 👍

[@Fawkes2099]

I'm doing my lessons on a ducati scrambler 800. Can't see me going any lower once I pass.

[@Ap9589]

I'm going to do my cbt and stay with a 125cc I don't trust myself with a bigger engine. Btw love your videos thank you

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers bud 🤜🤛

[@dinglemcdongle5513]

What do you think of the triumph tiger sport 660 as a first bike?

[@garethstroud5586]

I've just passed my theory, not even done the CBT yet and I'm looking for bikes all the time trying to decide what I like

[@MotoEcosse]

Congratulations on the theory pass. What bikes have you been looking at?

[@garethstroud5586]

@Moto Ecosse Thank you, i look forward to using your advice during my learning process. The main bike on my radar is a deauville, either 650 or 700, but I've no specific type in mind, so I have considered a XVS650 dragstar and, of course a SV650S. I'm hoping that whatever bike I end up learning on could sway my decision

[@MotoEcosse]

@@garethstroud5586 well I can personally recommend the sv650s. Great first bike. It doesn't have a huge amount of power but enough to have loads of fun on. Whatever you go for I'm sure you'll have a blast. Ride safe when the time comes. 🤜🤛

[@garethstroud5586]

@@MotoEcosse With your tips, of course I'll be riding safe. Keep up the great content, I look forward to watching more

[@malcolmphillips1265]

Can I just say keep up the good work vids I r great 👍🏻

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers, Malcolm. Appreciate it mate. 🤜🤛

[@dengue509]

nice video loved it

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers, Dengue. 🤜🤛

[@MrBricey25]

Past last week and have a 600 hornet with 2.5k on it lol next few years I’ll be off to Harley…road king ftw

[@MotoEcosse]

👌🤜🤛

[@racheltaylor6578]

I bought a 2016 Triumph Street Twin.Its big enough for me.I'm not into sports bikes.

[@MotoEcosse]

Lovely bikes, Rachel. 👌

[@tevnny94]

I'm about to take a CBT (a week from writing this) and i've honestly spent more time researching gear than i have bikes

[@MotoEcosse]

That's also a must do. Have fun on your CBT. 🤜🤛

[@dengue509]

i am going for my cbt on the 9th of nov so i get you....

[@icarus3604]

Good luck bud 👍🏽👍🏽

[@icarus3604]

@@dengue509 good luck to you too bud 👍🏽

[@nosh121081]

Got a 2017 cbr1000rr .not even passed my test yet.🤣

[@Cam_Wight]

Hows it gone mate? Hopefully you're still alive lol

[@nosh121081]

@Cam_Wight yeah mate ..I'm loving it..had it out over the last 2 days...when it parked up I just stare at it and have to pinch my self that I have such a mean machine..

[@Cam_Wight]

@@nosh121081 was a 1L not too much to start on? I really fancy the RS660 but I know I should probably start lower

[@paulhope3401]

3 months on... are you still with us? 😂 You obviously knew it would be rapid... but after you found out just how fast it is have you had any feelings of... wtf have I done? 😂

[@nosh121081]

@Cam_Wight still have the bike..Still Alive and still love the beast...no issues or falls as of yet..touch wood

[@duncanworman6587]

Typical Scottish weather eh 😄

[@MotoEcosse]

😂🤣