Too Early?

Message

JDawg117 · #1 Unread post by **JDawg117** » Sun Oct 23, 2005 7:08 am

My birthday is in 6 days. I'll be turning 15. I've known for a little while now that I've wanted a bike. At first I wanted one of those sportbikes, but now I'm leaning towards the laid-back style of a cruiser. I'm not gonna be the guy you see at the stoplight on his bike wearing jeans and a t-shirt, I'm going to be prepared for the worst so I can enjoy the ride. I've got just over $200 saved up so far (hey, I don't have a job), but it's about to be my birthday (cash) and right around the corner is Christmas (more cash). I want to get my bike as soon as I can.

Now to the point: is it too early for me to be thinking about what bike I want to get for starts and what kind of gear I need?

My main concern about getting it all planned out early is that they may come out with some new technology between now and when I get my bike.

All help is appreciated.

Shiv · #2 Unread post by **Shiv** » Sun Oct 23, 2005 10:29 am

Now to the point: is it too early for me to be thinking about what bike I want to get for starts and what kind of gear I need?

Doubt it. Just don't buy anything til you actually have the bike (or well, that's what I'd do).

And I think you have to have a driver's license for a car before you can get one for a bike. Don't quote me on that but on my MSF form it said you have to present a (insert beaurocratical number here) driver's license which I'm guessing is the one for an automobile.

#3 Unread post by **Sev** » Sun Oct 23, 2005 11:27 am

Depends where you live.

Around here you need your gear (helmet, jacket, gloves) before you can take the MSF course. So obviously you should see if you can find out if they provide gear at the course.

Sit on bikes, it cannot hurt to find one that is comfortable before you buy. The longer you take to buy one the more likely you will find one that fits you the best.

And around here there are three different tests. Slow speed parking lot, regular city driving, and written. If you already have your drivers license the DMV will waive the city driving portion as it is just to prove that you know the rules of the road. But you still need to demonstrate slow speed skills and pass the written. At least that's how it worked when I took the training through NAIT.

macktruckturner · Sun Oct 23, 2005 1:56 pm

The techonolgy to learn on isn't likely to change anytime soon, so I wouldn't worry too much about that. Get good gear, as it sounds like you're already planning to do. It isn't too early to start looking, or planning - I foamed at the mouth over getting a motorcycle for 21 years before I got mine! Fighting the parents was the hardest part of the battle (and yes, that includes everything I've done in Iraq!) Take the course, which is probaby mandatory for a minor in TN (it is in TX). I think you'd be well served for a HS bike by a Rebel 250, or maybe even a Ninja 250 - or an older Honda CB, or Suzuki GS. Just my personal opinion (and what I looked at when I wanted one at your age).

Sun Oct 23, 2005 3:25 pm

Consider getting a dual-sport or dirtbike. If you can find a good, but used Yamaha TT-R 225 with a light kit i say get that. You get to take it off road where you don't have to worry about traffic, AND have a blast doing it. And then, when you're done trail riding, you can go straight onto the road and get yourself home. Other bikes to consider:
Honda: XR200R XR250R
Suzuki: DR200SE
Kawasaki: KLX250S
Or pretty much any enduro style dirtbike. For your first dirtbike though, avoid the 2 strokes. Not easy for the beginer. Check the manufacturer's sites and see what they offer, then look for them used. EBay is a good source, as is your local want ads. Also, ask around school, there may be a kid selling one. And if you're in high-school, ask the upper classmen. I got my XR from a classmate and the thing's been bullet proof.

Vit0r · #6 Unread post by **Vit0r** » Tue Oct 25, 2005 3:31 am

Not too early at all. I knew I wanted a bike at about your age and only now am I seeing my dream come to fruition at the age of 18. Do research, read, read, read, so you'll be better prepared when you get the actual bike. Until then, there's not much advice I can give a 15 year old but to stay in school, don't do drugs, and no glove no love.

kabob983 · #7 Unread post by **kabob983** » Tue Oct 25, 2005 4:08 am

I'm in the same shoes, I've wanted a bike since I was 14 or so and now at 22 I'm about to get my first. Take time and make sure you get a good learner bike to start yourself. Also, as a 15 year old anything too "zippy" will cost you insurance through the nose...for me as a 22 year old getting an '05 gixxer 600 would cost me $4500 a year to insure..

jayhawk · #8 Unread post by **jayhawk** » Tue Oct 25, 2005 4:50 am

Back in the dark ages I had a little motorcycle to go to my part time job and ball practice-- it would go about 40 downhill with the wind. But it was good experience off and on the road. As a young guy I didn't know I wasn't bulletproof so took more chances than I should, never took a course,etc. I was just lucky to not have had more scrapes and bruises and skins but it was dumb luck. Sounds like you're being more responsible than I and that's a good thing. Dream on and learn as much as you can about the bikes and safe riding!