So, after about 20 years of not shitting and not getting off the pot, I am finally planning to go for a motorcycle safety course this spring, get my class 6 and buy a motorcycle of sorts this spring/summer. Now I know asking "whats the best bike for a beginner" is like asking what the best beer is, so I won't be doing that. However, I have been looking around, watching some videos and the Suzuki Vstrom 650 seems to fit the bill for my wants/needs. Slap some more dual purpose tires on there and I can even do a bit of a dirt road every now and then. Thoughts, opinions?? Thank you
Woot, welcome to the club!
Ron is a great source of info on bikes as he is very experienced, but he also has what we call in work, 'strong opinions, strongly held'.
So don't be afraid to make your own mind up.
A dual sport is good if you want to do a little off roading, if not, I'd stick to something in the 300cc-650cc range like others have suggested. Personally I like more modern bikes with fuel injection, especially Japanese as they are just more reliable. And don't get anything too heavy, you'll be picking it up if you go off road.
KLRs are good but slightly heavy, the Honda CRF250L is good if you are doing lots of off road, and very reliable and light, just not great over 80kph. Get the newest you can, the technology and quality has gotten better over the years, and it will have less abuse. If you buy new, do it now and you might get a killer deal on a 2019 with no PDI fees.
If you are going longer distances, more than one cylinder reduces vibration. Singles can get a bit buzzy.
P.S. The SV650 is a great starter bike.
P.P.S. Don't get a cruiser or a scooter, both are terrible.
P.P.P.S. Have a look at lightly used Yamaha MT-07's.
