Total Motorcycle Community Forums

I nabbed what could be a runner and a parts bike for free, so I figured I might as well get my feet wet after I get it in running condition. I also have a question about countersteering. Am I correct in assuming it's the same as on a bicycle, w/ the difference being nearly the opposite distribution of mass top to bottom? I figure that on a motorcycle, the rider needs more countersteer force to initiate a lean than a cyclist does due to the rider having less impact on the total system when leaning compared to a cyclist. Is this correct?

Yes, that should be an OK starter bike. It's low-centered and easy to ride. In my earlier years, I had a 1982 CB650SC Nighthawk. I only rode a few times a year back then and always felt comftable riding that bike so I doubt you'll have trouble with it. Plus, it's got enough horsepower to be fun without being too much for a newbie. IT cna also handle freeway speeds easily.

Countersteering is just like a bike. If you understand it on a bike, it will come very easy on a motorcycle.

Very different bikes, the 82 CB650SC had the older heavier single cam engine and the 83-85 CB650SC had the new lightweight narrow twin cam engine later used in the CB700SC and finally the Nighthawk 750 that lasted till just a few years ago.

I put 50k miles on a 85 CB650SC and it was a nice bike, good performance with minimum maintenance. It had hydraulic valves and shaft drive. Would be a suitable first bike.

sounds like a perfect bike. Make sure mechanically sound (got nervous when you mentioned it could be a parts bike).

Ah naw, it seems to be in pretty good shape aside from the cracked plastic pieces and whatnot. I've already disassembled the parts bike to get an idea on working w/ the good bike. The only thing left is to split the parts bike's case which I gotta nab a clutch holder thingy for. Thanks for the input everyone!