Potential Rider seeking bike... what kind?

[fortunateson]

I have done limited research since I barely know what to look for. I would like to get a cruiser. I don't like to get too flashy, but a rust bucket isn't what I'm looking for either.

Here's the story: I used to live in a Pop. 50K+ city, but I've moved to a smaller town about 15 miles outside of it. I still attend college in this city and I work a part time job there, too... I own a Jeep Comanche and the gas alone is eating me alive. Someone suggested to me getting a motorcycle for the daily commute.

Any help I can get would be excellent.

Also, My price range isn't really a tangible number right now, but let's just say I can afford about $100 a month.

[pharnok]

If you want good gas mileage then a 250 to start off with is a good choice. I have a Suzuki GZ250 which I ride around town and it's pretty fun. It's enough to hit the freeway but it's better for just hitting the surface streets. I new one won't break the bank either.

http://www.suzukicycles.com/Products/GZ ... fault.aspx

There are other 250s that are great as well.

[Lion_Lady]

What riding experience do you have? If NONE, then a motorcycle is not going to be very cost saving...

Your first move would be to sign up for a riding class (the Motocycle Safety Foundation teaches THE basics in most states - contact your motor vehicle dept for info), they even provide learner motorcycles and loaner helmets (YUK). Some states fund the class completely and you pay $25 to cover paperwork I guess, other states aren't funded at all and you may pay $300 or more.

THEN you'll need to invest in safety equipment (read: riding gear). Helmet, gloves, boots, pants and jacket. . . dress for the crash NOT the ride, your hide depends on it. Figure between $500 MINIMUM, to $1200 and up for a basic set up.

And thats all before you even HAVE a motorcycle... cost $___________.

Then there's insurance : greatly depends on your age, driving record and what type of motorcycle you buy... crotch rockets will cost DEARLY and a new ride will set you back in finance payments and insurance costs as well - the finance company will insist on full 'replacement' coverage.

P

[JustJames]

What riding experience do you have? If NONE, then a motorcycle is not going to be very cost saving...

I can't agree more . If you are looking the way to save on commute I think you'd better get a nice, inexpensive used car. First investment for you would be Riding Class ($200 in my area), The Bike (less say $1000), Tax and registration ($200), Insurance (may be $500-1000), Safety gear, helmet, gloves and jacket ($500) etc................. This is a very expensive hobby, indeed

Before I bought my bike, I told myself it's okay since I will save a lot of bucks on gas but then have a ride for pleasure, now I think I spent more than half the value of the bike . I'm thinking of buying the second bike, thou