Beginner looking for Bike...250/500 at 7000ft elevation?

[Ski_Bum]

I am new to biking, I've been lurking in the forums for a while, reading the FAQs.

I think I want either a Ninja 250 or 500. But, since I live in Flagstaff (or will shortly) at 7000' will I be really hurting for power? Do I need fuel injection?

Brief background - I spent a little time on the dirt, I kinda learned to ride(5-6 times) on a Ninja 600(?) 6 years ago, but I am definietly a noob. The 250/500 sound like a good bike to learn on.

[deedee1]

I have a ninja 250 and its a great bike. Easy to handle for a noob like me.
And still fun enough that my hubby likes to ride her.

Welcome

have a great one and ride safe
Deedee

[Wrider]

Hey, I live in Colorado Springs, elevation of 6100 feet, and most people here start off with the 500, but I have seen plenty of 250s around and they'll still get up and around!
Wrider
PS I have an 800cc carbeurated cruiser, and the only problem I've run into so far is cold starts (my bike is notorious for it).

[flynrider]

I am new to biking, I've been lurking in the forums for a while, reading the FAQs.

I think I want either a Ninja 250 or 500. But, since I live in Flagstaff (or will shortly) at 7000' will I be really hurting for power? Do I need fuel injection?

Brief background - I spent a little time on the dirt, I kinda learned to ride(5-6 times) on a Ninja 600(?) 6 years ago, but I am definietly a noob. The 250/500 sound like a good bike to learn on.

In Flagstaff, I'd recommend going with the 500. At that altitude, your power output is going to be in the neighborhood of 25% lower due to the reduced air density. A 250 is doable, but it's going to be straining if you want to keep up with the 75 mph traffic on I-17, or if you need to climb a hill. The 500 will not need to ride so close to its limits.

I used to ride my old KZ400 up to Flagstaff on occasion. It still had enough power for the freeway and hills, but nothing in reserve.

[Ski_Bum]

Thanks for the responses! I'll start looking for a 500; there seems to be plenty of used ones around.

[hot_shoe_cv]

In either bike if it is carbureted you're going to have to rejet the main jet (S) at Flag. elev unless the bike you end up with is from the area and already rejetted. I'd suggest that you check the main jets for size on the new ride to see if they are OEM. Hopefully you'll get an owner's manual to get that info. I'd guess that OEM main jets are about two sizes fat for 7000'.
You have a good mechanic in Flag at Northland Motors. His name is Owen and is the chief wrench there. In case you don't know, Northland Motors is in the Flagstaff Mall in the former Toys R Us bldg.