beginner buying first bike

[Ryethil]

I've ridden a few dirtbikes but very briefly and I would still consider myself a complete beginner, especially for street bikes.

They do offer MSF classes near me, and I was planning on taking one of them before I take my license test. I'm actually not even sure what the order or process of all that is. Do you have to get a permit first or can you go straight to getting a license? I live in California btw, because I'm sure it varies from state to state

My thoughts are that you wait to buy your bike till after you take the MSF course. If you do so, you will have the experience of riding correctly on a motocycle and have a better idea as to what you really want.

just a thought...

[s0crates82]

first bike?

used and cheap - whatever is most comfortable. craigslist is great. keep the displacement below 750cc's.

don't buy until you finish your msf course. when at the course, try to get the instructors to let you ride different types of bike so you can sort out what would fit you. like the feel of the tall dual sports? then an adventure-tourer might be your speed. does the gz250 make you feel awesome? then cruisers are your route, etc.

if you've got lots of disposable income, and don't mind screwing up your shiny brand new bike when you drop it, and you will, i say get the TU250 after you're done with the course. fuel injection rules, they have a great UJM throwback style, and you can't beat the gas mileage with a stick.

well.. i guess if you're walking with the stick, then you don't require gas... but whatever. keep it cheap.