New rider, new member

[storysunfolding]

Edit: Just out of curiousity, how does the 636 Ninja measure up to the 500? Obviously it's more powerful, but how does it work for a beginner? What kind of power does it have?

Edit2: What kind of power does the 500r have? Is it quick?

636- Not really a beginners bike. Responds too fast with lots of power. It can be done but the probability of you hurting yourself or the bike severly is high.

500r- She's more tame with a more linear powerband. She's still going to have more power than a beginner will be able to master in anything other than a straight line. Some decent growing room. It's probablity of you hurting yourself is much lower than the 636 and still crazy fun

[Ryannn]

Now I'm liking the 650r. Hah. I guess I really have no idea what I'll end up with until I finally check them out. Y'all sure the 650r won't rip me up? I definately need to brush up on my skills, but I assume it's fairly decent beginner bike?

[Nalian]

Now I'm liking the 650r. Hah. I guess I really have no idea what I'll end up with until I finally check them out. Y'all sure the 650r won't rip me up? I definately need to brush up on my skills, but I assume it's fairly decent beginner bike?

The 500 is a good beginner bike. The 650r is more of a grey area bike - it can be ok but it's not the "best" choice. However you'll likely have it longer.

It's also a pretty new model, so I doubt you'll find nearly as many used as you would the 500r.

[Ryannn]

Now I'm liking the 650r. Hah. I guess I really have no idea what I'll end up with until I finally check them out. Y'all sure the 650r won't rip me up? I definately need to brush up on my skills, but I assume it's fairly decent beginner bike?

The 500 is a good beginner bike. The 650r is more of a grey area bike - it can be ok but it's not the "best" choice. However you'll likely have it longer.

It's also a pretty new model, so I doubt you'll find nearly as many used as you would the 500r.

I'm ok with it not being the best choice.. long as it isn't the worst choice, I think I'll be alright. Hah.

Other then that, what gear do y'all suggest (besides helment, of course)? Is there anything you'd say is a must other then the helment? I'd imagine gloves.. I always wore gloves when trailing, so I don't see why it'd be different on a motorcycle.

[jstark47]

Other then that, what gear do y'all suggest (besides helment, of course)? Is there anything you'd say is a must other then the helment? I'd imagine gloves.. I always wore gloves when trailing, so I don't see why it'd be different on a motorcycle.

Here ya go, right here on the non-forum side of TMW: http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/school-SectionFour.htm

Plenty of basic gear info for beginners. (You might want to read the whole beginners' guide, lot's of good stuff there.)

[qwerty]

Forget the FZ6, it is nearly as quick as the 600cc sport bikes. It is a darn sight more comfortable, though.

Full time job doesn't mean squat. Almost everyone I know has a side job. I work a full-time job and operate a business on the side. A second job can pay for a better bike. It is a viable option. Straight up, you'll need a down payment. It won't take long for a second job to move you from 250 territory to 650 territory. I'd just hate to see you get in over your head and lose the bike you've dreamed so long about. I'd also hate to see you settle for a 250, then take a financial hit on it if it didn't make you happy. Look at Ninja MSRP prices:

250 $2999
500 $5049
650 $6399

All three are good bikes, though the 250 will better retain its value. You are exactly the rider for whom Kawasaki built the 650. If it was me in your shoes, I'd work a second job long enough to get the 650. I would save a substantial down payment, and see about including gear and helmet in the loan. Then, I would make sure insurance included gap coverage, just in case.

Here is an aritcle cpomparing the 650R to the SV650: http://www.biketestusa.com/Article_Page ... cleID=3250

[Koss]

Buy everything you can get your hands on, leave no exposed flesh what so ever. You just don't fall on your head or hands when you are being grounded down by a grinder known as asphault. You need a helmet, jacket with armor, gloves, pants with armor, and boots that cover the ankle and provide really good support for it.

First try on some things at all your local motorcycle shops, try on pants, gloves, jackets, helmets... but don't buy from them yet. Take note on which sizes that fit you better on average. Then shop online for whatever you decide on. If you see other stuff online that you like more, print out the websites measurment directions, measure yourself properly, and order the best fit for you.

Some websites Ive gotten awesome deals have been newenough.com, bing.com, and motorcycle-superstore.com. There are many others that are just as good. Check out their clearance and sales pages for the best deals. Recently I got a 300 dollar jacket for 80 bucks for example.

Edit: Sometimes local stores can have some really great deals, just buy the best stuff for your budget.

[Ryannn]

As much as I'd love to have a second job, I just don't have the time for it. I work 40 hours, and my second job is my girlfriend and my music.

Good point, Koss. I'll be looking into that stuff very soon.

[qwerty]

As much as I'd love to have a second job, I just don't have the time for it. I work 40 hours, and my second job is my girlfriend and my music.

It's all about choices, my young friend. You'll have to make yours.

[Ryannn]

You're absolutely right, which is why I'll have my bike within the next month or two =).