Does a 150cc moped qualify as a "first bike"?

[icearrowx]

I'm new here; i've read all of the info on the main web page for beginners and i've noticed that little/nothing is said about mopeds. I bought it with the intention of using it as a graduated learning bike. I've been riding it for about a year and i'm wondering if i should step up to a 250cc-450cc bike or am i qualified enough to go to the top? I am intending to take the MSF and read Hough's BEFORE making a decision. Thanks

-Zach-

edit: i just want to add that my moped has NO shifting and with the wind at my back it gets up to about 60-65 mph

[anarchy]

only you can really answer that question... based on the the fact that you are even asking suggests that maybe you aren't...

take the class - that'll help you determine what you're comfortable with next...

[icearrowx]

good idea, i guess i'll know if the "natural" feeling of my moped transfers over to a real bike.

[Pongo]

150cc Moped?? What is it?

[Lion_Lady]

Will that moped keep up with traffic on a regular roadway, or do you keep to the far side of the lane and hope you don't get run over?

If it won't keep up with (or get easily out of the way of) traffic, then NO, I don't think it will qualify as your starter motorcycle. I'd say it was closer to an "01" level - pre-starter.

Certainly useful to give you a feel for riding, but not quite there.

P

[lunchmeat]

If you've never driven a manual-transmission machine before, shifting might take a lot of getting used to. Or, you may be a natural. But it will definitely feel different.

[Fast Eddy B]

Ride it down some steep hills, then jump it over speed-bumps as far as you can. You'll be ready for anything after that!



(uh, actually, don't do the above, not good, just take that damn fine MSF)

[storysunfolding]

Moped is just lazy bike riding.

It gives you an idea for balance, maybe a better idea of counter steering but it's quite a bit different than the real thing.

[icearrowx]

Alright, that answers my question; thanks a bunch

[Ninja Geoff]

It's not going to prepare you for a 600cc super sport, but i wouldnt be afraid of the 650cc sport twins (Ninja 650R, SV650/S).

See how the MSF goes, if it comes naturally, the 650's won't be a problem at all and will keep you happy for quite some time. The only complaint i have on my 650R (i started on a 200cc dirtbike) is the straight line acceleration. But that's just the speed demon/moron in me. The bike can hang with the big bikes fine on the twisties. Except for when the big bikes are ridden by people who know how to put the power and handling of them to good use...