Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Howdy - couple questions:

Im a first time driver, which means I dont even possess a regular Class C lisence. I am wondering if when I take the written test, it will be the regular Class C test as well as the M1/M2 motorcycle test, or just the M2 test.

I have an idea about the "types" of bicycles, but most dont give an idea on their cross-countryability. I understand the tourers are specefically designed for long time road travel, but of the three other types: standard, cruiser and sport - does one have a better long trek over the other though (i really cant get a tourer, since im looking at this as a commuter bike as well - and those suckers look huge [physically and price-wise] - although very very cool).

Ego-wise, I like the look of some of the sports (the majority of them look too "Tokyo Drift" for my tastes), but there are cruisers/standards that look like half-sports (they look like they just have the enginge [?] exposed, with only fairings on the top half) that really call out to me. Honestly - ideally I would want to find someone selling an old-skool interceptor. . .but I havent seen any lately (I wanted to get a bike a year ago, but alot of crap happened). . .Ive resigned myself to the fact that (at least locally) I'll be spending at least 2G's on a used bike. Ok theres no question in this paragraph - this is the question. . .of the major manufacturers - Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, etc. - what models fit the beginner bike model. Its probably going to have to be a used model, as my credit isnt nonexistant, but its TERRIBLE so Im sure a dealership is out.

FYI - I live in California.

Thanks in advance.

Warning ahead….


First of all.....


Second, Have you checked out the Beginner's Guide? There are also stickies and the Learn To Ride A Motorcycle page which is now downloadable in PDF format (Created and maintained by Dragonhawk).


Third, I also recommend an MSF or other reputable safety course and reviewing your state’s (province’s/territory’s) DMV or DOT website for licensing information, guidelines and FAQ.


Fourth, Go to a variety of dealers and sit on all kinds of different motorcycles. Even if you don’t think you’d like the ride when you look at it. I was dead set on one riding style when I started and ended up buying a different type. You may surprise yourself as well.


Fifth, Good Luck, Have Fun and Stay Safe Out There! I hope you enjoy this site!

Yea, I did 1 to 3. Dealerships I think im having a difficult time in finding - plus I always feel bad about "trying" out stuff I have no intention of buying (I even feel guilty testing out HDTV's at Best Buy) - but that is one option.

I guess my major problem is one of aesthetics more than "is this the right bike for me".

Plus - it seems some of the GREAT deals on that old school VF that I want. . .theyre all for like 700's. . . I think someone is mocking me.

For example: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/mcy/294472251.html

In regards to the above bike - what class would this be considered. Seems the feet are placed below the rider - but it looks sporty to me.

Not sure what you mean by "old school VF". The first generation VF was a 750 only in its first year ('83), then had to be dropped to 700 because of the Harley tarriff.

The VF700/750 was considered by many to be the first modern factory sport bike. Although it has factory plastic, the riding position is what most would call "standard". Back in those days, there weren't really cruiser and sportbike styles. Just about every factory bike had a standard riding position. Instead of a radical riding position, the VF was considered radical because of its monoshock rear suspension, plastic bodywork and liquid cooled V-4 engine. All features that were unheard of in streetbikes of the day.

I rode one of the 750s when they came out. The riding position is slightly forward, compared to other standards of the day, but very comfortable. Compared with the riding position of current sportbikes, it's downright luxurious. All in all, it's a great bike, if you can find one that's in good shape.