Learner bike choice

[poppygene]

How strict are the bike laws in the States?

There are some varying requirements for different localities, but generally speaking you can ride any bike you have the wherewithal to buy. Here in NC, for example, you can go take a written test for a "learner's permit," then buy any bike you want and ride it away from the dealership - no matter how ridiculously fast the thing is, nor how inexperienced you are. You're restricted to daylight though until you pass the riding test and get your "M" endorsement. Big deal, right?
We have liberty, sure enough... just not enough of the responsibility that is supposed to go with it. I'll get off my soapbox now.

[earwig]

I would say to buy the used one, its cheaper and from my experience you are probably going to want something larger soon anyway

[cb360]

Definitely go used - especially for a small bike like that. If you take to cycling you MAY decide in 6 months or a year or two that you want a bigger engine. Some don't decide that.... but many if not most do eventually want a few more horses. If you get the used bike and don't wreck it you can sell it for what you paid and put the sale money into the new bike IF you decide to move up... esssentially getting a free rental on the first bike. If you get a new bike as a starter you'll definitely see a lot of depreciation. Ultimately you should get the bike you want that you can afford and feel safe on, but I do think think there's a definite advantage to buying used in the beginning if you are watching your pennies like most of us. SOMEBODY has to buy the new bikes, but it isn't going to be me!