Total Motorcycle Community Forums

I'm never really sure what to put in these welcome posts ha!

Uh 23/Male currently deployed in Iraq going to be getting a motorcycle (after taking the MSF class and getting protective gear first) after I get back from Iraq. Live in Texas in the real world, narrowed my bike choices down to a handful but of course it depends on what feels best I suppose.

Some what new to motorcycles ridden a few dirt bikes in the past

Mostly looking at the GS500F, SV 650S and MAYBE a ninja 650R (though I have heard it maybe a little bit much for a first bike, and thats fine thats what bike 2 or 3 is for right?)

Of course am going to take the MSF class, and I very much know that I am not invincible, the ground is hard and will win every time.

Ultimately I would love to get something like a truimph speedmaster but thats way way down the road and a Kawai Green Ninja probably 650 as I think that would suffice

Hi & from Blighty

When you are ready to buy a bike, sit on loads & take as many as possible for a test ride. Everyone is a different shape & size, so see what feels comfortable. Anything 600cc or below should be manageable, provided you take training.

Keep safe.

Hello and welcome to the forum.

Welcome Jonathon to the Total Motorcycle Community!!

Sounds you are making some very good decisions in regards to what motorcycles would work best for a 1st bike. Out of the 3, the GS500F would be the best 1st one, but it all depends on how tall you are. I've always said a 600cc+ bike is best for a 2nd or 3rd bike and after your 1st bike you'll know what style of bike you like as well.

The MSF course will really help you advance your skills too. Imagine not going to Basic Training and being sent out to Iraq vs someone who did go to Basic.

Looking forward to reading your posts! Keep safe out there.

Mike

First, please allow me to say "Thank you for your service!"

I took the MSF course and started on a GS500F. Love it. I looked at a Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic and almost bought it, but was intimated by the weight. After two months on the GS500F, we bought a V-Star for my husband. I like it, but I still prefer my little 500.

Best of luck!

Hi and welcome!

Thanks for your service!

Your dream of getting a motorcycle when you return home sounds wonderful. Definitely stay away from the Ninja 650R for the first bike, the others sound good. It will be so much fun to sit on a bunch and pick your favourite!

Thanks for the warm welcome, I cant wait to actually get the MSF course done and start actually feeling out bikes. I've wanted one for years and finally decided it was time to get one

Welcome and as others have said Thank You for your Service. Have fun on whatever bike you get and stay safe.