Some Bike Advice - New to the forum

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Cleosith · #1 Unread post by **Cleosith** » Wed Oct 15, 2008 11:57 am

Hi everyone,

I just stumbled across this forum while researching bikes.

I just finished my beginner's rider course and got my learner's permit down here in New Zealand. I think I have found the bike I want but wouldnt mind getting some advice. It's a 2008 kawasaki 250R. The reviews I have read were extremely positive and reccomended the bike for beginners. I have sat on it in the shop and it didnt seem to heavy for me (I'm 5'8, 170 lbs). I was worried about starting with a bike that is too heavy. I tried a cruiser type bike from a friend at work, and I find them extremely difficult to control on the slows. I am assuming that with the 250R controlling the front of the bike while going slow will be much easier given how forward you are on the bike compared to a relaxed cruiser posture.

Anyways, can anyone offer advice on the 250R? Am I going in the right direction with it? God I'm terrified about getting into this but totally exhilerated at the same time.

Thanks!

Thumper · #2 Unread post by **Thumper** » Wed Oct 15, 2008 1:04 pm

It's pretty much an ideal beginner's bike, very forgiving and tons of fun. I don't think it's any easier than a small cruiser, but if it feels better to you, that's what matters. I really doubt you'd have any regrets about it, even if a couple years from now you move up to a bigger bike.

And if you get it and find the position is too forward, you can always slap some handlebar risers on to get you a little more upright. I did that with a Suzuki SV650 standard, and it made all the difference in the world.

Wed Oct 15, 2008 1:39 pm

to TMW.

It sounds like you have made a great choice for a first bike.

Cleosith · #4 Unread post by **Cleosith** » Wed Oct 15, 2008 3:43 pm

Thanks for the feedback. I would love to hear from anyone else who has ridden this bike.

My only worry is the New Zealand wind. If anyone has been down here they can tell you the wind power is completely insane. being only a 333 lb bike, I am a little worried I'm gonna get knocked right off.

Thumper · #5 Unread post by **Thumper** » Wed Oct 15, 2008 4:08 pm

I've ridden a couple of bikes that light, or close to it. You learn to deal with the wind, and after a while it's not especially bothersome. I live in a fairly windy area, and didn't have many wind issues with my 300 pound Rebel, once I learned to not fight it so much.