Total Motorcycle Community Forums

I started with a Honda Nighthawk 250, and it's met my needs, wonderfully. True, I'm not going 2-up, or carrying a lot of stuff, but for commuting and learning, it would be tough to beat.

When I eventually feel that I'm ready for 2-up, or for hauling more stuff, I plan to move up to a 500 (My 250 might be a little weak, for either of those.). Above and beyond that, though, I can't imagine myself ever "outgrowing" this bike. I've had it on the Interstate, even, and had no trouble getting to or maintaining 65 mph.

I'm somewhat of a minimalist, by nature, and I feel that there's a certain elegance to doing a lot, with a little. Honestly, anything larger than a 500 holds no real appeal, for me.

Just kind of a different way of looking at it. Hey, even a Geo Metro is stylish, in it's own way!

mage492 wrote:I started with a Honda Nighthawk 250, and it's met my needs, wonderfully. True, I'm not going 2-up, or carrying a lot of stuff, but for commuting and learning, it would be tough to beat.

When I eventually feel that I'm ready for 2-up, or for hauling more stuff, I plan to move up to a 500 (My 250 might be a little weak, for either of those.). Above and beyond that, though, I can't imagine myself ever "outgrowing" this bike. I've had it on the Interstate, even, and had no trouble getting to or maintaining 65 mph.

I'm somewhat of a minimalist, by nature, and I feel that there's a certain elegance to doing a lot, with a little. Honestly, anything larger than a 500 holds no real appeal, for me.

Just kind of a different way of looking at it. Hey, even a Geo Metro is stylish, in it's own way!

What a refreshing opinion. I often get caught up in wanting a bigger bike, the funny is though, that I never think about that when I'm actually riding my bike because I'm having too much fun!

mage492 wrote: I'm somewhat of a minimalist, by nature, and I feel that there's a certain elegance to doing a lot, with a little. Honestly, anything larger than a 500 holds no real appeal, for me.

I dunno where you are from, but that's a very common opinion over here in Italy and probably most of Europe. An Italian colleague of mine just bought a brand new bike for himself and his wife for 2-up riding - a Piaggio Beverly 500cc. I asked him if he would rather have a big motorcycle with more power, and his response basically was "No, why would I want more when this does everything I need it to?"

And it's true - it's suitable for everything, even highway riding, plus it has built in storage for things which is more than you can say for most bikes.
http://www.piaggiousa.com/pscooters/bv500.cfm

I was discussing bikes w/ another Italian friend who owns an Aprilia Mille (Supersport!!!), and he was describing his friends bike, how fast it is, and how he'd like to get one. His wife (American) said "Oh that's just a scooter - it's not fast" He looked at her like she was crazy and said, "That bike is 250cc - it flies!"

Keep in mind this is Italy, home of Ducati, Aprilia, Benelli, and ... Vespa and 50cc racing. Different attitudes and opinions, but I really like to be somewhere where people don't give a rip what you ride, as long as it's got 2 wheels, and they still have an appreciation for the smaller, simpler things.

TechBMW wrote:I really like to be somewhere where people don't give a rip what you ride, as long as it's got 2 wheels, and they still have an appreciation for the smaller, simpler things.

Hey, as long as you're on two wheels you'll get a wave from me. I know I'm pretty vocal about 250cc bikes but I still keep in mind that different people are different and we all want different things from our motorcycles. I wave to guys on scooters all the time...usually catching them off-guard...'cause I don't think too many cyclists bother. But I'm not so arrogant to think that my bike would suit the majority of the forum members. On the contrary, probably 99% of people here would pass it up to go check out a Ducati. But it fits my needs and riding style like a glove, and that's all that matters. The same goes for any of you kickin' it on a 250, or even a Vespa.

I think it really depends on the beginner.

There is no magic formula or rule. It all boils down to the riders skill level (beginner or not), their ability to learn quickly, and adapt and what they want to do in the end, cruise, tour, sport, etc.

If you've ridden dirt, mopeds, or anything on two wheels the transition to street isn't all that difficult.

Finding the right bike at the right time and being patient is.

I don't know if this helps w/ skill and ability to learn quickly on a bike, but I go mountain bike riding every Sunday w/ a couple friends. I would assume that some of that skill would transfer over to riding a bike.
Well, I'm still saving up a few more pennys before I actually start looking for a bike. I appreciate all the advice. I have to go sit on a few bikes to see what is comfortable. But, I guess right now it is between the Volusia 800 and the VStar 650 w/ the peg extenders in mind.
thanks

sandog wrote:right now it is between the Volusia 800 and the VStar 650

Get the Volusia 800 (C50). Rider Magazine just ripped the V-Star 650 a new one (or was it Motorcyclist...I subscribe to both... ).

I've ridden the C50 (my Dad's) and it's a great motorcycle.

Do you know if either have an online version? I'd like to read what they have to say...

sandog wrote:Do you know if either have an online version? I'd like to read what they have to say...

I just called my sister (I gave that issue to my brother-in-law when I was done with it). It was actually the August 2005 issue of Cycle World (told ya I subscribe to multiple mags! ). The article was entitled "Cheap Seats", and they cover several makes/models for those wanting a new bike for the price of used. The review of the V-Star 650 wasn't very flattering. The issue is still on news-stands so, go get one before they're gone.

cool thanks... I'll look for it