Here's why I bought a 250cc motorcycle for my FIRST BIKE. Do I regret it??
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ม.ค. 2021
- There are so many options out there when you are considering which motorcycle to buy, especially if it's your first one AND you've never ridden a bike before. This video details all of the reasons why I chose a 250cc motorcycle and how I'm feeling about that choice after nearly a year of seat time.
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I'm 72 years old and have ridden motorcycles most of my life. When I retired in 2003 at age 55 I was riding a 83 Goldwing as transportation to work. Upon retiring I basically stopped riding and pursued my many other hobbies. Last year I decided to start riding again. I've had all types of bikes through the years, retro ,chopper , never a sports bike. When I decided to ride again I thought about what I wanted to do with a bike. Basically run to the grocery store to pick up an item or two , 30 mile round trip where I live in the boonies , get to the library as I read a lot and just explore back roads ride the Blueridge parkway near me. I wanted a light easy handling , easy to maintain economical bike. No more 700+ pound bikes to wrestle around . I purchased a very lightly used 2007 ninja 250. Ha! Can you imagine a 72 year old on a ninja 250. One of the perks of getting on in years is who cares what I look like , not me. Short story long I have enjoyed this bike more than any bike I've ever owned. Pros , cheap to maintain , cheap insurance , great mileage , 70 mpg , easy to flat foot and move around , puts a smile on your face each time you ride. The major con about this bike is others always telling you that you need a bigger, faster bike . One thing I've learned about motorcycles is SPEED KILLS I don't need 100+ horsepower to get from point A to B . Enjoy your 250 cc bike it will keep you from doing something not so smart (STUPID) and teach you more about riding than a faster heavier less manageable bike.
I love your story!! Thanks so much for sharing, Larry! And the older I get, the less I care about other people’s opinions. Keep riding and loving life. 😊
More fun the lighter.
I must admit I like the kick of speed sometimes but for every day ride I would choose a smaller bike! I think you are cool for doing what you love man! Enjoy life and have good time! Thanks to bikes, they makes us so much happier!
Your awesome
i'm 68 and still riding!
Choose the bike you want, don't listen to anyone, it's what you are happy with, safe riding.
Thank you!
@@GingerDashMoto 50 year old rider here, well 51 in a couple o weeks.
@@weemt07biker74 I’m turning 51 in a couple of months. Time blurs after a point. 🤷🏻♀️
@@GingerDashMoto it sure does lol.
Subscribed to your channel.
It's more fun to ride a small bike fast than a big bike slow!
Can’t argue with that!
not really... it depends on what your into, some people just like to cruise, other people like to go fast. I did the fast thing for awhile, then I slowed down and just really enjoyed the scenery and just the joy of riding, it's therapy for me. I currently have the scout bobber, and a road king.
It takes skills to ride slow bike fast. Also, it won't kill you if you make mistakes in a small bike.
Depends on your maturity and what you're looking for. I had just as much fun on my Tuono 1100 as I did on my Street Triple but I'm also an old fart so wasn't riding fast anyway 😄
I respectfully disagree. I have a 600cc naked I'm perfectly happy with riding slow.
The best wealth advisors say to never borrow to pay for life style choices. So you did the right thing by limiting yourself to what you could afford.
The best bike is the one that makes you smile when you get on it.
don't ever let anyone shame you about your choice of ride. I catch shit for my harleys from non-riders because they think they are not reliable (and loud). buy what you want to ride/drive and ignore other people's opinions. but yet here I am giving you my opinion :). that's called irony :). You're making smart decisions. Hold fast ginger.
Your opinion is most welcome, Duffy. Over this last year I’ve begun caring less and less about what other people think. While I’ve never been one to worry overmuch about people’s opinions, there’s something freeing about reaching middle age. I’m doing as I like. They can do the same. 😎
@@GingerDashMoto My Rebel 250 was beautiful I had customized it with black tinted windscreen , floorboards, heel & toe shifter, custom leather bags , padded sissy bar , and chrome eagle mascot on the front fender, nobody was scrutinizing me but being a man an older one at that I really had wanted to be seen on something bigger and compounded by the poor handling characteristics on the parkways , I mean I kept it for a long time but the difference between that and what I would call a full sized motorcycle is night and day , keeping that bike for so long was actually hindering my riding skill advancement .
You did exactly the right thing. A smaller bike is much easier to gain confidence on, doesn't matter if crouch rocket or enduro. Plus they make fun second bikes when or if you decide to get a bigger bike. I get really angry at idiots that say things like a 600+ lb, 118ci bike makes a good beginners bike. I've seen more big bikes for sale from people that started on them and couldn't gain confidence or skills due to the weight or power of the bike. And I've heard of more than a few serious injuries and some deaths of new riders on big bikes.
I totally agree with all of that! In my case, I wanted the two wheeled experience in the most budget friendly way possible. And I don’t need a Hayabusa or an R1 or something crazy. Or even a 600cc bike. Would I have purchased a larger cc motorcycle if I was willing to part with the funds. Probably. But I think this was the best starter bike for me, so it worked out in the end. And it will stay my bike for some time. Have other things I’m saving for. Priorities. 😊
Yes I totally agree for the first six month to a year , but once ones skill level advances and parkway cruising comes into play you are much safer on a larger displacement bike , say the next move up could be a 650-750 I think that is all that the average rider needs .
Might want to look into the Royal Enfield GT 650, I have the sit up style Interceptor but the GT is a modest ergonomic cafe style. Price/weight/value is one of the best deals out there....
A 600+ lb bike doesn't make a good anything except maybe a boat anchor
5 years ago when I was 16. I was like a 250/300 is too small, so I started on a 600. Learning on a 600 definitely slowed down my learning progression having to worry about weight and power. But all I wanted to do was go fast because it was “cool”. As I got more experience, met some amazing people, and got the chance to ride some expensive superbikes. I realized that displacement size is just to make people’s ego feel better. Now I always recommend starting small, no shame in that. I wish I did. Ride safe!
I understand that entirely, Robert!
See admitting your choice was bigger then you should have chose that’s awesome feed back the main reason for comments are for your way of thinking! Be safe and ride it till your done smiling !
Coming from not knowing about a motorcycle or even owning one, I think it's incredibly stupid to start out with a huge bike and other dudes out there will talk you down for getting 250cc. I am looking for something to make my commute funner, I am not looking for a video game speed racer bike . Honestly it sounds like idiots most of them, just parrot what everyone else says. 250cc is definitely for starters
@@GingerDashMoto you made the right choice it better than being dead because it was to big/powerfull for you. You get moor power in time when you ready for it. Listen to yourself. Great video 👍
What gets me is i was watching videos for a Cfomoto Clx 700 sport and in the comments people were suggesting it as a good beginner bike depending on how responsible you are. The bike has 73 horse power and in the professional reviews it’s talked about how much of an uneasy pull it has when accelerating.
developing your skillets is more important than the motorbike you ride; it's actually a good bike to start. It's not a scooter when there's a manual transmission.
I will agree with you completely. A 250cc is an excellent size bike to start on. There are good number of people who ride small motorcycles all over the world.
This video is exactly what I was wondering about. I also started out on a used 250 (and I’m about 195 pounds-so that engine had a hard time with me). And my wife got a scooter-and she loved it even though it was “gutless”. Then I got a 450 cc Honda. We both loved that bike, and would actually take weekend trips on it-“two up”. With both of us on it, it was gutless, but we didn’t care. It was about the experience on two wheels. So don’t let anyone tell you that your bike is inadequate. Go ahead and defy social norms without shame. Live YOUR life, and don’t worry about what other people think.
Who can possibly know what you need more than yourself? Welcome to the moto-family, Ms. Ginger, we're very glad to have you. I look forward to seeing you grow as a rider.
Thanks so much!
It's not about the size; it's about how you perform..
Smaller bikes are great for learning on. You don’t just stop learning when you pass your test. Good for you.
I had a good friend who had never ridden a motorcycle. She asked me for a recommendation and lessons. I helped her pick out a RD350 Yamaha - the low seat height, light weight and riding position fit her petite 5' 4" 115 pound frame well. She quickly mastered the basics and realized that she had more motorcycle than she originally thought and as her ability grew she found there was more waiting for her within the bike. 250 - 350cc is good starter bike country and this lady confirmed my original thoughts.
I always say, get a bike that makes you happy because that's all that really matters. I started on a grom, everyone told me I would get bored real fast on it. Here I am 2 years later, still riding the grom and have had tons of fun on it! Smiles per mile!
Thank you honestly for this comment 🙏🏻.
Well, that's a straight up honest reason for buying your bike. You're the one putting out the bucks for your ride, who cares what anyone else thinks about it. People that are drinking the hater-aide are "trophy hunters" and they aren't worth listening to.
I ride a 2011 Ninja 250 and it is fast enough for me it will sit on 110 all day and is super reliable and it was cheap. I haven't had anyone dis me for riding it.
I started riding when I was 53 and loved every moment.
You done good girl. Safely gets you down the street. Good fuel economy, good brakes. Thrift is not shameful, it's smart. Lightweight. Checks all the boxes. Stay safe
I love my 250cc !! It’s a great entry bike.I had zero experienced his summer . These people are annoying it’s great to learn on and forgiving in trouble spots.
It is a great entry level bike. And fun beyond the beginning stages too.
After years of racing and track days I went from 140 horse track bikes to a Honda CBR 250 R. The Honda was way more fun and you would be amazed how much fun you can have caining the hell out of 22 horsepower. You made a smart choice.
Hi Ginger , I’ve just found your channel, it takes a brave lady at 50yrs to go and jump on a motorcycle ,it’s all paid for and your free to ride anywhere, it’s not the size of what you ride ,it’s how you ride it to get you scene of freedom ,see you next time .
That is a great first choice for a bike, and good for you for stepping out and doing it! You can always move up, and you will be a better rider starting like you did.
You did the rite thing! I started on a Honda 50cc ss. be safe lurn and Grow!
I have been riding motorcycles since I was 5 years old. I have 49 years of riding every conceivable type of motorcycle, both dirt and street. I have raced both road racing and motocross. YOU MADE A GREAT CHOICE AS YOUR FIRST MOTORCYCLE.
End of story🇺🇸
Smart choice. The right bike at the right price. It's also a Suzuki, so you can expect many trouble free miles ahead. Just be careful out there. Drivers won't see you.
I’ve ridden everything from a CBR250 to a Harley Bagger, ride what you like! Good for you Gina! 👍🏼
It's been a great little bike. Thanks!
Gina, Your approach to riding was very sensible & rational. I wish you many miles of happy & safe riding. Stay safe! (subbed)
Thank you! I like my skin where it is so...sensible is how I roll. 😊
A 250 is a great first bike choice. Over my life I've owned everything from a 50cc dirt bike to 1,100cc sport bikes. They have all put a giant smile on my face. Current bikes are 600's and a 400. Displacement does not equate to joy.
Perfectly reasonable thought process in making your bike choice.
I would wait on getting another/ bigger bike until you see a particular one you really really really like. Seems ridiculously obvious I know, but different/faster isn't always better. I'm embarrassed to say it took me multiple experiences to realize this...
Totally Agree! It comes down to what you want, i.e.your style of riding, plus your budget!! Keep up the great Video's 👍
Thank you!
Keep doing what you're doing. We all want to ride and you help us manage when we can't ride (staring at the snow right now). Love the m-vlogs. Thanks for taking the time.
Bring on spring! Thanks for stopping by!
As long as you ride and smile it doesn't matter what bike it is.
I'm 6'7 and had to ride a 125 cc lol ,now I have a fat boy .
And I still get nervous before a ride.
Mark ,,, from London.
Good for you! Always stick with what you are sure you will be comfortable with. A 250cc is a great starter bike, just big enough to be full size and enough to teach you what you need to know. Too many first time riders get talked into a ride too powerful or cumbersome for their skill level. Success comes from working your way up the ladder! That bike will make you a smarter rider.
I think that you did the right thing for you and that’s awesome!
I think that is amazing Gina. Great choice
This bike is great. Forget what everyone says. I have one as well and I love my gsx250r !
We started on a new 2020 Honda CB300R, and we loved all the things about it that you mention: cheap, light, and FUN!
...and then we got the motorcycle bug haha 😂
That bug is hard to avoid...I want a "bigger" bike, but I'm trying to be patient. We shall see how long that lasts!
I do believe,, You and your channel are going to do very well. You seem to have an awesome personality, honest and real!!
Ride safe and keep the giggles coming!!
Thank you!
Hi Geena .l like your attitude and honesty,enjoy your bike because you are happy with it for the moment and it’s paid for.👍💐
Always remember the best bike is the one you possess🥰
I love the saying, "It doesn't matter what you ride, it just matters THAT you ride". I can't help wondering if perhaps you ride more miles and have more fun than the people who are criticizing your choice of bike?
Starting small is the best way to start, then work your way up as you get more experienced. Stay safe
This is great. I am 53 and just started last season...I'm really glad I pulled the trigger..glad for you that you did too !
That’s great, Mike! Congratulations!
Good way putting it “ somebody else’s problems” lol
TAKE COURSES, AND PRACTICE !!!!
That was a smart way of handling it - it’s easy to get in over your head and completely overlook that you have gear to purchase as well.
Thanks Walt! That’s the detail oriented, over thinker in me.
Hi, loving your videos, new subscriber here from the UK (Wales). You were exactly right in going for a 250, it should last you years, or until you want to upgrade. My first bike was a 125 which I had for years - could ride it on a learner license indefinitely at the time, with no need to pass the full bike test unless you wanted to user the motorways (interstates/freeways?) or carry a pillion, but I had no need to do either. Had many different and varied bikes since then (in my 50s now as well). As others have said, don't let anyone tell you what you 'should' ride, you do you! Keep up your great videos, love that you're out of you comfort zone, I wouldn't be as brave! Looking forward to following your adventures!
Thanks so much for sharing your motorcycle history too. I enjoy hearing how everyone started their own motorcycle journey.
As a new rider, you need to spend time riding your bike and not working on it, you make great common sense decisions. Ride Safe. Thanks.
From one female rider to another, I commend all the forethought you put into selecting your bike. You need to ride something that you are comfortable with. Nobody has the right to tell what you should ride. If they feel you should be on a bigger bike then they should buy it for you. I, personally, ride a somewhat larger bike, but that's because I have more experience and I am comfortable with what I ride. Never leave your comfort zone to appease someone else. You ride you. BTW...you are doing awesome for a new TH-camr.
Thanks so much, Steph!
Awesome Job on you vids. I also am a new rider waiting till 50's to buy my first bike CTX700dct I love the bike and the freedom of the open road it provides and like you bought it a month before my MSF class and endorsement. I am always getting flack for buying a dct but it was the right decision for me. Never let someone shame you into thinking you should have bought something else. The day someone starts listening to others tell them what they should be riding is the day they should walk away from motorcycles. There is no place in street riding for ego. Keep up the good work and stay safe. I look forward to your vlogs
Thank you, Michael! Good to know I’m not the only “crazy” one out there. 😁
I didn’t wanna get discouraged buying my own 250cc motorcycle. Same reasons and all. Not looking to race, just go a and b, brand new along with reasonable price. Thank you for this video.
Nice road! You're fortunate to have great riding weather and lush green scenery this time of year. That bike is a great 1st bike for learning the ropes of riding. Enjoy it. The dynamics of riding are essentially the same in the cc range you reference. Now that you've mastered the basics of riding, managing a heavier bike will come easy when you decide to pull the trigger. Take care and ride safe!
Thanks for stopping by and commenting as well. I’m definitely hanging onto this bike until I check a few more things off my list, but I would love to upgrade in the not too distant future. You take care and ride safe as well!
Your very level headed intelligent and frugal 🙏🏽. What you said Somewhere I think at like 5:23 was awesome and so true. I've been riding for over 30 years and I ride a 2009 ZX14 I started out on a 250 and then to a 600 and then to the 1400 so I know exactly what you meant when you made that statement which was a very respectful statement in the Biking community. One thing I would add is that you can buy used and get it good price on a good use bike if you buy it from a dealer who sells used motorcycles that have been meticulously inspected. just one thing to consider when you get ready to upgrade to your next bike. salute much respect 💪🙏🏽💯
Well done, no debt no problems just riding a NEW bike !!! You go girl.
Gina, thanks again for another great video. I agree, it doesn't matter what size of motorcycle your are riding, not matter what others may say, as long as you are on two wheels...nothing else matters. Get out and enjoy the Freedom of two wheels every chance you can.
I really don't know the hate people give to these bikes. 20ish years ago I started on a Kawasaki ZZR250 as a first bike. It never felt like too small. they are full size, they do all "bigger" bikes do. gave me loads of time to learn all I had to. The one you have looks amazing! I went from a 250 to 750 to 1000.. and actually right now I own a 650 classic.. CC's don't make a difference. They won't make you smile less. And honestly every bike will have something you'd like. Like you said, it might be a little underpowered BUT you're having fun and it's a paid off machine. Great content!
Sounds like a good choice. We need more riders to keep the industry alive.
I’m 65 and never rode my retirement gift slash birthday present was a Harley 2019 slim and a 250 cc auto China bike automatic , I’m sorry now that I got the Harley paying on it for 6 years , enough about money but I was talked into the Harley by a slick salesman.
I love your videos please keep making them and stay safe .
I love the fact that you wont let others tell you what to do ,I love it !!!! I wish you the best .Enjoy , you deserve it ♥♥♥♥
Thank you!
Congratulations! Totally agree with your way of thinking. I started with a 150cc scooter. Rode the heck out if it, including long trips. Then went on to a 260cc scooter. Joined a motorcycle group, yes, motorcycle, and rode all over with them. Lets face it, in a group, we rarely went over 60-65mph, and the little guy held its own. Never lagged behind etc. Now I have a 500cc, and honestly, I am very happy at this point. 55, 60, 70mph or more if need be just like the 1100 or 1300cc bikes. Much lighter and maneuverable, cheaper to purchase and maintain, and cheaper on gas. So bottom line is, that you have the right frame of mind going here, and the hell with what anyone thinks. Ride the bike you want! Safe riding!!
Very good choice. Good reasons. That bike handles well for anyone and fun too. You can always upgrade.
That’s my thinking as well.
Just found your channel and subscribed. I am really enjoying your content. Thank you.
As a 30 yr long haul trucker what I looked for in my first bike, 2023 KLR 650 S, 1. Able to flat foot both feet with 32” inseam. 2. Able to buy in full at dealer out the door with 5 year unlimited miles warranty under 8 grand. 3. Must be versatile for back roads, gravel roads, freeways, and camping. 3. The versatility is needed in a first bike if one does not know which style of riding they will like or do the most, but want one bike to try nearly all riding activities.
I love it you picked great bike for YOU!
You speak wisdom from experience. Good for you! I have had three bikes. My last one was over 25 years ago and I am wanting another one. Money is a show stopper right now. I’m glad you are doing it the right way.
I understand completely, Carl. Money has always been the issue for me for anything that I’d consider a luxury purchase. Always other necessary things to worry about first.
You're great! Love your thought process totally agree with it the videos great really enjoyed it it was fun and helpful You're No Nonsense fun personality brightened up my morning I'm thinking about getting my first bike maybe a year or so we'll see how it goes wish you the best so much! I'm definitely liking this video and subscribing hope you're doing fantastic out there wish you super happy holidays and all the best from Washington State🤟😎🔥
Hi Gina, a good topic on a decision which effects everyone at some stage, you've given some good advice which people can throw into the mix. The weight being another important factor, especially if you're a girl without upper strength.
Very true, John!
Just got my motorcycle license, so I'm starting to shop more seriously now. This is all very great and lines up nicely with my existing mentality about how to get a starter bike. I, too, don't want to overdo it, and I want something new.
I was originally looking at the Kymco Spade 150, but now that I've taken the safety course, I'm open to slightly higher displacements like this, and I just need to see what I can afford. Thank you for all the reassurance on how to buy a first bike!
Update: I did get the 2020 Spade, and it is an absolutely fine first bike. And so far, it is serving its intended purposes.
Yo gina the little suzuki is a great bike to start on we,ve all got to start somewhere,ride it as much as you can,even to the shops,the more miles you ride,the better the rider you become.stay safe👍👍
Absolutely, Noel. The more I ride, the more I learn.
Yo Ginger, Your choice, Your dime, Your Motorsickle. You are so correct not listening to everybody else's opinion you do you you're happy that's all that matters you will know when you want a different Motorsickle. I have been riding for 55 years. I love it when someone makes the correct choice on their 1st Motorsickle. I believe in a light weight easy to handle Motorsickle to hone your skills on. Keep the shiny side up
You did the right thing. I’ve seen too many riders (mainly men; of course) buying a first bike too big and too powerful for them to handle.
You can always upgrade when you get more experience.
Greetings from Cornwall, UK! At one time here there were 10s of thousands of 250s on the road as that was the size limit for learners.
As regards a possible next bike for you I cannot recommend enough the SV650. Great balance between power, weight and rideability. The noise was what sold it to me especially with an aftermarket silencer. Excessive noise isn't a problem these days due to the presence of catalysts which are also a silencer in themselves.
Enjoying the channel so far, don't worry too much about content- you're doing a great job.
Hey, Andy! Thanks for visiting and for the suggestion. Stay warm over there in the UK.
Gina, love your videos, I actually bought a scooter because I have no riding skills. I really am going to stay in my comfort level. I respect and love your channel, I have been documenting each day of my journey on my channel.
Thank you for coming by! I’ll definitely visit your channel as well. And there’s nothing wrong with owning a scooter! Good for you.
Budget is a key consideration, as is your skill level when purchasing your first bike. I began riding at 67. I promised myself that my first bike would cost less than my monthly social security check. haha. My first bike was a 2003 Ninja 500. As I begin my fourth season of riding, I still have it, in addition to a Triumph Thruxton and a BMW. Keep up the good work, I enjoy your channel.
I also started on a 250, great bike to learn on and develop your skills.
Hey Ginger! I agree with you on getting the bike that you like regardless of engine size. I recently purchased a Dongfang 250rts and I looooooove the bike. I am not in a rush to get a bigger size just yet but when I do I am thinking about moving up to the 400cc-600cc. Enjoy your bike
That's the CC range I can see myself ending up with too!
Hey Gina, great job on sharing why you decided to buy a 250cc as your first motorcycle. First and foremost let me tell you that you did the right thing ! I am riding a bigger bike now but when I started, more then 40 years ago ( and yes I am older than Moses) I had a moped as my first “motorcycle”. Then after a couple of years I went for a 250cc and was happier than pig in shit ! Lol. After a long hiatus, when life, time and money became more manageable I got into a motorcycle course (I was self thought) and got my butt back on the saddle.
Note: The course showed me several bad habits that I had to correct prior moving up the cc ladder.
Then, I was in a phase of my life that I prefer to call as “seasoned” (as “older” pisses me off) so bought a bigger cruiser and most recently a 1200 sport tourer.
I wish I was in Florida now as I need to wait until mid March to start riding again here in Western Canada. I love your story, uplifting spirit and videos so ...... keep them coming. (Oh and I did watched the whole video ;) )
Thank you for the support and sharing your own experience with motorcycles. I’ve not been part of the moto community very long, but it’s been great virtually meeting so many other people and hearing all of the unique “origin” stories. It is certainly warmer her in Florida than where you are, but I’m a wimp, don’t have heated gear, and only ride when I’m fingers won’t feel frozen by the time I get home. 😄
Well thx for this great video I've learned something also im doing research so i can be prepared for my first beginners bike
I like your content just subscribed looking forward to it
Ride safe and have a wonderful day😎
Happy to help! Best of luck to you!!
Great Choice of bike. Your choice! I grew up in central Florida and so I recognized the area before you even mentioned it in your first video (Spanish moss and palm trees in the middle of a pasture !). Anyways, one of the Best reasons for buying a 250 cc in Florida is the HEAT! 250's produce much less heat than 600 or 1000's and you will definitely notice it during the summer. Your other concern is cost of ownership which is also much lower. Plus they are great on fuel efficiency.
Lastly, thanks for great stories and being yourself! I think everyone here will enjoy your Moto "Dj" talk channel! Looking forward to watching your journey!
That’s so true! I’m already dreading summertime here. There’s no cooling off on a bike with this heat and high humidity. Sweat is the default mode. And greeting to a former Floridian!
Another great post. You are appreciated.
Thank you! Just bow back from a ride. Hope you had a good one today too.
Great insight into your bike choice and will be invaluable for other future newbies on 2 wheels. Plenty of time to develop skills and then progress to powerful sports bikes. The best bit is trying different bikes as you get more confident . Your bike is cool 😎 anyone on two wheels is in the same gang !!
Couldn't agree more!
You go girl! A 250 is so much fun, enjoy your journey. 😎
Thanks, Peter!
For all the right reasons...good for you. 😊
I think you have exactly the right approach when choosing a bike. For your next one, you might like to have a look at the Kawasaki W800. It looks like a classic British bike from the 60s, It makes an excellent lightweight touring bike (214Kg) and has enough power for anything other than showing off (50hp)
Yeah just motorcycle now Gina I get the proper motorcycle gear and rain weather gear can't wait bit nervous but ok I keep you up to date with it when lockdown ends keep well safe thanks you great Gina👍
Oh my lol ,when people say lower cc, lighter bikes are not real bikes, it's such a them problem and not mine and I will forever stand for lower cc bikes if they are the choice of the rider.
I myself, a complete wimp, short, oldie, my first bike was an underbone classified backbone 125cc (basically large thin wheels like mopeds) like myself it was a wimp, and struggled going over 80km/h. It was great to learn on it served me well for commute, and I would have continued to enjoy it, if it was not for my crash, it got obliterated so I'm getting a new bike next week.
my new bike is a "full" bike, but still a 125cc, simply because I don't need anything that goes faster. I sat on it and my feet barely make it to the ground, it's 140 kilos, 50kilo more than the backbone, but at least I was able to handle it when I straddled it. people who don't ride bikes tell me "you should get more cc" my answer is always the same "who is going to handle the more kilos?"
of course cost wise is also what I can afford which makes it the perfect bike.
every rider should make a choice of bike for their body, and their needs. My personal needs are covered with a 125cc, as I don't intent to go fast on public streets or race on a track.
not to mention that since my crash I had to replace parts of my gears which is not a cheap thing to do, in this economy.
Like your thought process very practical and that is a good thing. Don't care what others think. Many will buy a certain bike because of peer pressure. I have seen many riders on bikes they can't ride and should have have bought that model. Not to mention big touring bikes that "experienced men" think they can ride.
I like your 3 points on purchasing that bike for You. "Philosophy of Use," I learned from a Gun Channel and applied it to my bike purchase as well. I bought(used) a Suzuki DRZ400 3yrs ago, my first bike. I'm 51yy. So, great points, smooth and short videos. Thank you, I enjoy your experience(s).
Thanks, Mike. I do think I made the right bike purchase for me, and I’m happy to have it. Appreciate you stopping by!
You are absolutely delightful and intelligent. Happy you have a positive/realistic attitude. Got a lot out of this video.
Thank you!
I've had a Harley Sportster for about 12 yrs or so but for many different reasons I only started learning to ride it about 2 years ago. I finally decided to buy a Honda Rebel 250 because I was so intimidated by the Harley as I'm quite petite. I'm so thankful that I did, this Rebel has been a game changer! I've learned alot in the 8 months since I bought it. I still only ride my sportster when my hubby can go along with me. It's so nice to be able to climb on my Rebel and go riding whenever I can and want to. At 46 I could care less what anyone thinks about either of my bikes. They are both paid for and I enjoy each of them. We're getting ready to do some upgrades on my sportster, I'm so thankful to have my Rebel to ride while my Sporty is down.
Hey, Dixie! Thanks for sharing your riding story.
Thank you for this important message. When I took the MSF course, I had never driven a motorcycle. I was married. My (now ex) husband was not pressuring me to get licensed. I decided to do this on my own. However, he and another person got all up in my bike selection business. I commented before that I was clueless. I knew nothing about CCs and weight etc. I just knew that the 250cc bikes in the MSF course were awesome and I had no fear of dropping or tip-toeing, etc. Because I trusted them both, I listened. Although I loved my first bike (that they pushed on me with very solid supporting reasons) - a very well maintained ‘95 Honda Pacific Coast - it was too wide for me, and heavy too. I almost quit riding after the first season, but I’m glad I kept going. He got it in the divorce. Whew.
I bought my friend’s 2004 Suzuki Savage LS650 that she had purchased new. She had been sitting in her storeroom for 6 years. She’s perfect for me at this time. I’ve done quite a bit to her, some of it myself which gives me a whole other sense of satisfaction. She’s paid for, too! I invested in great quality gear. Then lost weight and had to get new. Then did that again. So I’m re-curating gear again. I had an accident in March 2020. We both recovered and I’ve gotten past that anxiety with lots of skill building. I’m in the market for a another bike, but I’ll keep her forever.
Thank you for what you’re doing in this space. I’m grateful for women riders.
Thanks for sharing your story, Gwen. I think the people we are closest to in our lives often feel that they know what’s best - and don’t realize they’re simply unaware of our actual needs. I’m so glad you stuck with it through a less than perfect bike-match. I’m glad you’ve battled back after your accident and haven’t allowed that negative experience to keep you from doing something you love.
Gina, you are so lucky. You have the next 50 years to experience all the trials and tribulations of riding. How I envy you get to experience all that. I’d relive my last 40 years of riding in an instance if I could. Love from Canada. 🏍🇨🇦
Hey, Marc! Maybe not 50 years...but I know what you mean. Greetings to you up there in the cold north!
I like how you weave a little philosophy into your videos. Another factor to consider is insurance cost when buying a motorcycle. Curious about that one big mistake.
Never been called a philosopher before. But I’ll take it. 😊
I'm new to the channel but will be watching the others in short order. I've had a licence to ride a motorcycle since 1983. I can say from my experience, your motorcycle is EXACTLY the correct motorcycle for you to have learned to ride on. Well done, you made an excellent choice!
Thank you! It has served me well these last two years. I’m exploring my options for a new bike these days, but will be riding as many as I can before I choose the next one.
I started on a 250cc motorcycle. Pretty much for the same reason.. it was cheap & I figured that I would probably drop it at some stage. It was a 1980 Suzuki DR250 (trail bike) & I dropped it on 5 seperate occasions & each time the cost of repairs was low. I then proceeded to go through a variety of 500-600cc bikes for the next few years & got my first 750cc bike in 1986. No regrets!! :D I now ride a 2013 Aprilia Tuono 1000cc V4 & have owned a total of 20 motorcycles. So I guess what I am saying is.. there is plenty of time to fully master your current bike & then have the pleasure of owning a different bike when you are ready for it. Enjoy the experience!
Hi Ginger dash, love your vids. I am 54 and I started out at 15 riding a honda 50cc motorcycle in my small town. Then bought a suzuki gs300. Loved that little bike. Ride it for about two years. Then didn't have another bike 30 yrs. Got back on a Harley sporter 883. Then fatboy 88 twin cam. Now last year moved up to 2020 road king speacial 114 engine or1870cc. The progression to larger bikes is always the right thing to do, no matter how old you are.
Seems like an entirely natural progression, Bob. Enjoy those wheels of yours. Ride safe.
Glad to hear you enjoy riding and sounds like you really have the right approach. Regret having a smaller bike to start out with? Hell no, that's the smartest thing anyone can do. After watching a couple first time riders ride off the road or into a vehicle having started off with a bigger heavier bike it's no JOY watching that happen in front of you...
Get comfortable on that 250, handling the bike speed and brake wise, as well as getting used to the idiot traffic around you, and develop the skills that'll help you on a more powerful and heavier bike - at which point you're just learning how to handle the bike's differences to the smaller one, and not everything else on top of that.
Been riding for 40+ years, from mini-bikes to dirt bikes, to smaller and then larger street bikes and then my big 1500cc bikes for last 20 years... I'd recommend a progression in sizes any day over picking up a big / fast bike and "thinking" you can ride.. The outcome is kinda important...
As a 47M wt zero experience I went the same route 3 months ago. My little CB300r is exactly the size I needed to learn and get confident...and easily pay for it. Kudos girl. Your my kind of rider. Subscribed.
That’s great!
It’s your bike your choice and the joy it brings you is all yours as well .
Stay safe