UK Folks.. Bike Hunting Grounds?!

[Henriettaah]

So I'm searching around for a potential first bike.. keeping an eye out on eBay, Bikertrader, Freeads. Asked a biker couple I know if they'd keep their ears open for anything suitable.

I've not seen anything suitable yet...

Although I'm not yet decided on whether to take the restricted test or just the direct access one, so the final bike size isn't definate yet - presumably its going to be around 33bhp anyway - where else can I look for a first bike?

Obviously I need something roadworthy, and am thinking I'd have to pass my test before buying, so I'd be able to collect it and ride it home myself... Where are the best places to find a decent steed..? Surely they aren't really this thin on the ground!

[Kal]

I suggest that you pick two or three models that you really like and get to know everything you can about them, that will really pare down the field and get you something you are more likely to enjoy owning.

List of Available UK bikes that meet the 33bhp restriction:
http://home.clara.net/survivalskills/25kwmcs.htm

Then depending on your budget!

Local papers, usually behind the car section,
Back Street Heroes http://www.backstreetheroes.com/default ... b506d1fb9c,
Autotrader http://atsearch.autotrader.co.uk/www/de ... s&pageid=1,
Local Bike dealerships - almost always in the yellow pages
Independant Bike repair shops usually have a selection - as above
Local MAG meetings and the like always has someone chopping in their bike for a new one.

Dont be afraid to go into Dealerships and window shop - tell the sames people you are looking for a first bike that you feel comfortable on, and if they arent being pushy pick their brains about specific models in the range.

4 of the 6 Bikes here came off of eBay, the other two from friends.