ken@ihuxq.UUCP (01/20/84)
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I've been riding since '67, so here's some collected wisdom on
getting started:
What's most important is the way the bike performs for you where
you're using it. You want something that fits your size and weight,
that does not demand more maintenance than you want to give it, and
that meets the applications it will be put to. If you're going to
be doing long-distance touring, you'll want a machine that
gives a smooth ride. Back roads demand good handling and quick
response. You can find out about the strong and weak points of
bikes on the market by reading the cycle magazines, especially
comparison articles.
You might want to learn on a small, beat-up machine. Then you'll
be able to shop for what you really want yourself. If you can
find one, I highly recommend the no longer made Honda S-90. They
need little maintenance, handle nicely around town, and just keep
running. And they're easy to service and tune. And you can still
get engine parts because the ATC-90 uses the same top end. Of
course, they'll only do 50 with a tail wind when you're in a full
tuck, and should never be placed in an environment where you'll
get passed by a semi. Note that such a small machine is for learning.
You'll need >= 400cc to go anywhere significant, especially with
a passenger.
I agree with a previous submitter that used is better than new.
First off, breaking in a new bike is very easy to do wrong. And
you will dump it sometime (I think of it as a sort of baptism).
Or if you don't, some asshole car driver will back into it when it's
parked, or you'll put it on the stand in the mud, or... you get
the picture. You simply will not have the knowledge or perception
that first time around to avoid doing something stupid. It's better
not to pay more for that than you have to.
You'll also get more for your money. But if you are not a motorcycle
mechanic, have one check out any used machine!!!
The most important consideration should be "Can I easily
start, stop, sit on, balance, handle, this bike?" If so, you'll
easily master riding it, and the riding will be enjoyable.
Two essentials to ride with:
(1) A helmet--the best protection and best fit you can find.
(2) Paranoia--"But I didn't see him, officer" is the generic
biker's epitaph. They don't see you; they never
see you; it's almost like they're out to get you.
If you can't handle that, don't even start to learn.
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JE MAINTIENDRAI ***** *****
****** ****** 20 Jan 84 [1 Pluviose An CXCII]
ken perlow ***** *****
(312)979-7261 ** ** ** **
..ihnp4!ihuxq!ken *** ***