Cruiser vs. Sportbike for noob

[Kal]

I've looked into the UJMs a bit. Seems like most of the revered ones are pretty old. I'm far from a mechanic and really do not want a 20 year old bike. As far as relatively recent "standard" type bikes, what is there?

Suzuki SV650, Ducati Monster 620, and some Triumphs. That's what I've found so far. I love the Monster, but I'm not shelling out that kind of dough for a first bike.

These are sweet bikes, kind of retro looking which I like. Seem to be light, maneuverable, and relatively powerful which is right up my alley too. Any other suggestions? I'm really leaning this way.

I dont know if it will help but I had a quick flick through the new bike guide and came up with a few of the '05 models released over here - no guarrantee that they will be on release in the States.

These are all in a 'standard'/UJM configaration, more than 125cc's and cost less than the £4,800 stirling price tag of the 620 Monster Dark

Honda CBF250 (20bhp - 80mph top end) £3,349
Honda CBF500 (58bhp - 134mph top end) £3,749
Honda CBF600 (77bhp - 150mph top end) £4,599 (ABS option £300 extra)
Kawasaki ER-5 (49bhp - 125mph top end) £3,345
Royal Enfield Bullet 500 Classic (22bhp - 70mph) £2,768
Sachs Roadster 650 (50bhp - 100mph) £3,499
Suzuki Bandit 650 (79bhp - 131mph) £4,299 (ABS option £300 extra)
Suzuki SV650 (69bhp - 132mph) £4,399
Yamaha FZ6 (98bhp - 136mph) £4,699

[TechTMW]

I'm torn. I actually have a UJM (xj650), a German standard (1991 BMW R80) and a ... whatever the heck it is, a Suzuki VX800 ... a mix between a cruiser and a standard (But with standard seating).

I've ridden PLENTY of different bikes, but I keep coming back to the standard riding position. A sportbike, while seemingly maneuverable and easy, can actually be a real bear for a beginner - it is difficult to handle in low-speed situations. at the same time, a cruiser, with its laid back position, lends itself more to a rider who has absolute faith in the bike, especially when the feet are so far forward (Forward pegs)

Bikes like the GS500 or the Ninja 500 both have standard seating positions, have engines that have been aroung for quite a long time, and are still being produced today. Even though they 'look' sporty, they retain many characteristics of the UJM and have many of the same versatile qualities. I think one of these bike would probably be the best way to go for you.

Since you mentioned that you like retro looks, I will make another recommendation - the Kawasaki W650 - a very retro bike, but was only imported to the states for a short period of time because it was overshadowed by Triumph's reentry into the retro world. They are relatively cheap, have a good seating position, and plenty of power for a beginner. Add to that the fact that the w650 (with its thinner tires) handles like a bicycle, and that it's got the ultra-cool (from a tech standpoint) pivot-drive valvetrain, and you got yourself a winner....

(I love spending other people's money)

[MSO4gtt]

Great advice, guys. I've never ridden, but it sure seems like the upright "standard" position would be most intuitive to a guy whose ridden bicycles his whole life.

Too bad there aren't more of them! But I guess that makes them a little more unique which is cool. I'd like to learn on something like a Ninja 500 and then buy either a Monster 620 or one of the bigger Monsters in a couple of years. Just something about those Ducatis....

[Kal]

I love this. Only available in Aus and NZ although Mashby assures me I can get a new one imported for £3,780

Monster styling with Honda engineering - cant lose!

[MSO4gtt]

Kal, that Honda is sweet! Like a smaller 599. I'd buy it in a second if they had it over here.

[Aggroton]

i have a 23 year old ujm and i love it...


but i totally second the royal enfield 500

here is enfield's us distribtion link...mmmm so sexy...

http://www.enfieldmotorcycles.com/

i like the military styled one presonally...