Yet another beginner bike question

[dm@ss]

Hello -

I've been reading this forum and have picked up some good information so far. I know there are several threads where good beginner bikes have been suggested, but I'll ask yet again...

What are your opinions on a '78 BMW r100/7? I know the displacement is much larger than what is suggested, but I've seen elsewhere that a SV650 was acceptable at the upper range with about 70hp. Depending on where you look the BMW is anywhere between 68 - 72 hp.

I've ridden very little about 25 years ago and I'm taking the MSF course in a couple of weeks. I would normally look for a smaller bike, but a friend is selling his old one, so I know the history of the bike and that it hasn't been beat, etc.

thanks,
Doug

[mgdavis]

Looking at Wikipedia it appears that the R100/7 is a 1000cc touring bike. It will be HEAVY and large. This is more bike than I would feel comfortable recommending to a beginner. The SV650 does indeed make similar power, but is far lighter and easier to handle, and even then is a "gray area" bike for beginners.
*This is my opinion and mine alone. It's your body and life, not mine.

[flw]

Maybe a good bike to buy and sell for a bike better suited for you.

I'm back into bikes after a few decades off. After my safety course, I felt that what I could handle was different than what I wanted. I ended up with a 500cc cruiser. Its just not safe with experience even from years ago, to go straight to a heavy or very powerful bike.

Think about it, are you as strong as you were back in your riding days? How about your overall balance and coordination? Were not 20 anymore. But it doesn't mean we cannot have fun and work up to what we want either, in a safe way.

One last point. Think about what safe meant in your twenties and what it means today, in risks that you take? I still take risks but unlike years ago, I'll put some training and equipment into it first. Taking the risk when I feel ready, not when my buddies say hurry up...

[anarchy]

are you wanting to buy it because it's a bike you want or because a buddy is selling it??

just because a lot of people around here wouldn't "recommend" you getting the bike doesn't mean you shouldn't get it. if it's a bike you want, go for it - understanding that it is a heavier bike which will require more strength and it's got more hp which will require more finesse with the throttle/clutch... you may want to wait until you take the msf course to see how comfortable you are on a bike...

[Lion_Lady]

Hello -
What are your opinions on a '78 BMW r100/7? I know the displacement is much larger than what is suggested, but I've seen elsewhere that a SV650 was acceptable at the upper range with about 70hp. Depending on where you look the BMW is anywhere between 68 - 72 hp...

Doug

That BMW is a HEAVY beast. Sure, it is practically indestructable, but it is heavy and on the tall side, if I'm not mistaken. The power is on the mild side hp wise. And I even know of a couple folks who have started out on that (or similar vintage) BMW . . .

They all have harrowing tales of slow speed/pavement "events."

How will you feel if you drop and damage your friends bike after you buy it? Will your friend feel guilty?

P

[dm@ss]

Thanks to all for your comments.

Weight was one concern I had. Also it is not the kind of bike I have my heart set on - I haven't decided yet what a 'gotta have' would be. I was considering this one because it was a decent deal and I know its history.

I think I'll wait until after I take the course and reevaluate how I feel about the bike and my abilities.

As mgdavis said, it is my life, however I've grown attached to it over the years and highly value it.

[Ian522]

specs:
http://www.bmbikes.co.uk/specpages/R100-7.htm

[Flak Monkey]

It's not overly powerfull or really that heavy. My bike weighs about that with similar power levels. Just be really careful with the front break at low speeds and you should be fine.
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