Is a 83 CB650SC a decent beginner bike?

[yesplease]

I nabbed what could be a runner and a parts bike for free, so I figured I might as well get my feet wet after I get it in running condition. I also have a question about countersteering. Am I correct in assuming it's the same as on a bicycle, w/ the difference being nearly the opposite distribution of mass top to bottom? I figure that on a motorcycle, the rider needs more countersteer force to initiate a lean than a cyclist does due to the rider having less impact on the total system when leaning compared to a cyclist. Is this correct?

[Flting Duck]

Yes, that should be an OK starter bike. It's low-centered and easy to ride. In my earlier years, I had a 1982 CB650SC Nighthawk. I only rode a few times a year back then and always felt comftable riding that bike so I doubt you'll have trouble with it. Plus, it's got enough horsepower to be fun without being too much for a newbie. IT cna also handle freeway speeds easily.

Countersteering is just like a bike. If you understand it on a bike, it will come very easy on a motorcycle.

[gsJack]

Very different bikes, the 82 CB650SC had the older heavier single cam engine and the 83-85 CB650SC had the new lightweight narrow twin cam engine later used in the CB700SC and finally the Nighthawk 750 that lasted till just a few years ago.

I put 50k miles on a 85 CB650SC and it was a nice bike, good performance with minimum maintenance. It had hydraulic valves and shaft drive. Would be a suitable first bike.

[badinfluence63]

sounds like a perfect bike. Make sure mechanically sound (got nervous when you mentioned it could be a parts bike).

[yesplease]

Ah naw, it seems to be in pretty good shape aside from the cracked plastic pieces and whatnot. I've already disassembled the parts bike to get an idea on working w/ the good bike. The only thing left is to split the parts bike's case which I gotta nab a clutch holder thingy for. Thanks for the input everyone!