Another new guy with some questions.

[ixolas]

Hello everyone, I have never ridden before in my life (not even as a passenger) but I've always wanted to. So I took the msf course and passed it with 100% (not trying to brag but I was the only one in the class that scored perfectly). I use to race cars, on tracks and rally type events. I am mechanically inclined, built up a few motors and do all my own work. I was dead set on just getting a ninja 250 to learn on until I took the msf course. I was told by one of the instructors as well as one of my friends and one of the bystanders (one of the husbands of the women I took the course with) that I would not be happy with a 250 and I should get a 500 or 600. So I have decided to get a used gs500f instead. But I have a few questions:

1. What should I look for when buying a used bike? I have read some of the long lists but I would like key components to evaluate. Small stuff is easily fixable, but what can't be fixed or is really expensive to fix. What are common flaws with the gs500f?

2. What is the top speed on a 250? I was told that driving on the highways it was fast enough but it wouldn't have the power to give, if it was needed. That is why I would want something bigger.

3. Someone told me not to buy a Katana or any other bike with one long seat instead of two seperate seats, because people make fun of those bikes. When I ride I don't really care what I ride so I couldn't care less about those ppl, but why not a katana or what was called a "banana seat bike"?



Sorry for the lengthy post but I appreciate all your help and input. Or anyother ideas/suggestions that you could give me.

[VermilionX]

2. What is the top speed on a 250? I was told that driving on the highways it was fast enough but it wouldn't have the power to give, if it was needed. That is why I would want something bigger.

3. Someone told me not to buy a Katana or any other bike with one long seat instead of two seperate seats, because people make fun of those bikes. When I ride I don't really care what I ride so I couldn't care less about those ppl, but why not a katana or what was called a "banana seat bike"?

2... the ninja 250's rated top speed in 105mph. but yeah, it takes a while for it to get to highway speeds. the ninja 250 is a decent 250cc bike. other 250cc bikes(at least here in the US) have much lower top speeds.

3... eventhough im not a big fan of single long seats, i don't make fun of them. so if you like the katana 600... then go for it. who cares what other people think.

[cherokeepati]

First of all, congrats on finishing your course top of the class!! I wish I were able to help with the bike questions (I ride a cruiser) but, I do know a little about first bike choices. I learned alot from fellow posters on what was and was not considered a good first bike. My first bike was a Honda VLX 600 purchased new. Because I commute on the bike every day it was not the best choice for highway transportation, so I ended up buying another new bike that was more suitable. (Three months later!) So... what I'm saying is , don't be in a big hurry, and sit on more than a few dealers bikes. Know what type of riding you'll be doing (highways, for pleasure only on weekends, daily commute, etc) You can always move up to more cc's. Too much bike in the beginning can keep you from riding (stealing your confidence) or can be fatal. Too many people start riding with great intentions. (Not saying it is your case!) Sometimes buying their dream bike as a beginner bike, they end up selling it because they bit off more than they could chew. Best of luck to you! Be safe!!

[Baltimore Newbie]

Well, first of all congrats on the MSF. As far as the ninja 250, I started on one and I am a big guy. I am 5'10" and 230 lbs. The ninja carried me around just fine even on the highways. I never got the bike over about 95 miles an hour, but I did'nt have an easy time tucking my mass behind that little windscreen either. I never once had a problem with it on the highway other than getting used to being blown around on such a light bike by the wind. I bought it used with about 900 miles on it. And the previous owner had let it sit for a whole year. So I had to run some carb cleaner through it. So when buying a used bike, I would suggest if it's carbed to make sure they have been maintained properly. Also if the bike has high miles, check to see if the valve clearance has been done or will you have to have it done. I have never had one done, but heard they could be kinda expensive. That's about all I can think of other than the normal stuff like tires, fluids, and cracks in the fairings. Hope this helps.

[ninja79]

1. What should I look for when buying a used bike? I have read some of the long lists but I would like key components to evaluate. Small stuff is easily fixable, but what can't be fixed or is really expensive to fix. What are common flaws with the gs500f?

I'm not a mechanic, so the only way to be sure is take it to a shop and have them do an evaluation. Should cost you $60 - $100 but well worth it for the peace of mind.

2. What is the top speed on a 250? I was told that driving on the highways it was fast enough but it wouldn't have the power to give, if it was needed. That is why I would want something bigger.

It will top out at 100mph. It will not accelerate very well at highway speeds, but its power/weight ratio is still greater than most cars.

3. Someone told me not to buy a Katana or any other bike with one long seat instead of two seperate seats, because people make fun of those bikes. When I ride I don't really care what I ride so I couldn't care less about those ppl, but why not a katana or what was called a "banana seat bike"?

This is the stupidest thing I've ever heard. Katana is not a good bike, but the seat is the last thing you should worry about. Read the stickies about what is what isn't a good first bike. Your choice of ninja 250 is good. GS500 is good. Katana is not.