Hello from Hogtown!

[short stop]

Just wanted to do the big introduction-thing...I've been lurking on these boards for a bit now.

I'm Linda, from Toronto. For years I've been wanting to finally learn how to ride and get my own bike, ever since I bought a moped in college. I realize that a 49cc moped is a far cry from a motorcycle, but it really gave me the itch to ride.

Alas, the moped has been sold and is long gone. This year I've decided to stop procrastinating, and I just received my M1 learner's permit. My next step is to sign up for the safety course (hopefully next month). And then....get a bike.

As a 5'2", 115 lb female, I know that a 250cc is the place for me to start. I've been browsing around for Honda Rebels and Suzuki Marauders. If anyone else has any other cruiser suggestions, let me know! As a pretty light rider, I'm not anticipating 'outgrowing' the bike too soon.

I can't wait to start riding! That is all!

[dr_bar]

to TMW...


Looks like you've done your homework on this one. Those are a couple of great starter bikes. You may want to look at the Yamaha 250 Virago, or the Ninja 250 as well. I know the ninja is a more sport oriented bike , but try it on for size, you never know what may feel right to you. I would also try putting off the purchase until after your course, you will probably ride a couple of different bikes and may get a few other ideas there.

Good luck with your course and riding...


Doug

[RTR]

Hey Linda, welcome to the board. I am an instructor at Centennial College at the Ashtonbee Campus. We have both the 250 Rebels and Mauraders in the fleet for training. Cost for the program is $400. If it is too far for you. You can ckeck out the complete list of training sites (under the authority of the CSC) in Ontario check out this link Training Sites

Good luck.

[High_Side]

Linda,

Check out the Kymco Venox 250 tested here:
http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/reviews/ ... ruiser.htm

Yes, it's not Japanese but it's a far better bike than either the Honda or the Suzuki IMO. It looks and sounds much bigger than it is. My wife is 5'3" and she had no issues handling it. The website is www.kymco.ca
Good luck.

[zed]

short stop
I'd suggest that you look into the courses ASAP. They tend to fill up quickly!

[whisper15]

short stop to TMW from TEXAS. Enjoy the forums.

[esinedc]

Hi Linda,

Definitely take zed's suggestion ... the courses do fill fast! You might want to book something you think you'll be able to do now, and change it if you have to.

I finished the program at Riders Training Institute (RTI) down by the Docks last week. It was a great course and I did really well, unfortunately I froze during the test and had to go back and do it again yesterday. I've never been so happy to get a zero on a test!

I'm looking for my first bike too ... was going for a Ninja 250 but think I will out grow it so I'm setting my sites on the 500R.

Good luck with the course and getting your bike!

Denise