In my army days, a guy in my unit bought a dual-purpose on/off-road bike and drove it for several years. Then one day he bought an R1 and crashed it on the way home, taking a bend too fast, wrote the bike off and luckily only broke bones landing in the trees. He could have died. After he recovered he drove a truck. Lesson here, is start small but also move up small. Nothing can replace actual miles on the bike and lessons learned while developing good habits.
I'm not sure if the V-Strom 650 counts as "start small" with it's decent amount of power, but it's definetively a decent bike to start with, as it does not want to wheelie on accident, and it is easy to handle, but the seat height might be a challenge for some people. my next bike might be a 1986 Suzuki GSX 1100 (not the GSX-R) and I'm sure it will be safe for me, at least starting on a bike that doesn't wheelie on accident, does have ABS, and still got good amount of power, just not too much ofc, then riding till experience is good enough, then mostly any bike should be okay, as far as the rider doesn't think the bigger bike works like the smaller one, and understands the danger it comes with I can literally pull full throttle on my V-Strom 650 in any gear, just lean a little forward, and it will not even get close to popping a wheelie. it's a front heavy bike, low center of gravity, still pretty much visually as big as the BMW GS 1200 R Adventure, ignoring the fact that the BMW's engine obviously is bigger
I think it depends on the person. But I agree. When I was in the army I was 21 and had money from Iraq and my first bike was an 05 zx10r. It was stupid and I realized it after riding it for a few days. But I just stayed aware and knew I could really screw up and 13 years later I still own the bike and love it. Dropped it in my garage one day but that is it. I do have a zx6 stunt bike now and I think I would have had more fun sooner if I did start on the 636 back in the day but oh well
Be careful about KTM. Been hearing a ton of horror stories lately about camshaft issues after a few thousand miles and KTM sticking riders with the bill, despite being in warranty, because they changed their own oil. Caveat emptor
Just passed the 1000 mile mark on my Royal Enfield Hunter 350. I am an older beginner (55) Perfect size, weight, not too much power. Safe, reliable, rackin' up the miles. Under $4k brand new from the dealer. Reliable and awesome. Highly recommend
Got 12,800 on the scram 411 I got in January 2023. It was the comfiest bike I sat on while looking, and though it's not remotely fast, it will do about 80 mph so interstate travel is possible, though I mostly avoid it. Around town, however, it is just 💯perfect for me.
with a brand new bike and just 1000 miles on it, you can't really tell if it's reliable. but be sure to not skip any service, as that might kill reliability on any type of engine. brand new bikes should do the first service around 500-700 miles, afaik. I'm a new rider as well, and I'm happy with my awesome 2014 V-Strom 650
Older beginner here as well (49) on a ninja 300 right now. Thinking my next "forever" type of bike will be the ninja 650. I'm learning on the roads of California where the "cagers" are crazy. What state are you in?
2015 Ninja 300 abs, bought it new, it's August 2024 still own it, 41.000 miles on ODO, did some mods - K&N performance filter, 2bros carbon fiber exhaust, actual sports tires, always fresh oil - mostly ride on a mountain twisty roads - I love this bike, gave me a zero issues whatever, replacement parts are available like M&M candy, chain / sprockets, brake pads, takes 2.2 qt oil. Easy to maintain, will keep this bike until wheels fall off... If you found one for sale, go ahead and get before it's gone, highly recommend 👍✌️
@@slayerx681 Yes, it does handle highways, again I do suggest to install K&N performance filter, aftermarket exhaust and actual sports tires, along with this make sure chain is lubbed and have fresh engine oil, I actually drive about 500 miles on i81 every year, 4-5 times, visit Tail of the Dragon riding area on season, and another 500 back to home, yes with this bike 🙂... Sure you cannot race 600cc bikes on highways, as overtake speed is greater than 300cc bikes BUT on mountain twisty roads Yes you can follow 600cc bikes easy, that's what I do... Easy to maintain this bike, example: brake pads front and rear are the same, about 40$, chain about 50$ oil take 2.2 quarts and you can get a gallon of 10w40 about 38$, gas consumption is 55 -60 mpg , that's better than Prius 🙂... Ride Safe ✌️
@@slayerx681 I used to do a lot of road trips on my old ninja 300 - so I went up a tooth in the front to lengthen the gears a bit. RPM's were still ~8k at 75 but the motor loves it and there's near zero vibes. Mine also had K&N as well as a cat delete and M4 can. Never felt underpowered on the freeways, it was perfectly adequate power for a commuter bike. And a very fun level of power for twisty roads because you can wring everything out of it and be going absolutely fast enough; but not too fast.
Just picked up a MT-03 for $4,000 as my beginner bike a couple days ago. Only 436 miles on it and not having to pay dealer fee's on a brand new one was just too good to pass up. As someone who was very, very nervous about riding this bike has been very confidence inspiring in a way that the MSF course bikes didn't give me.
Got myself a 22 CB500F as my first bike and damn that thing is forgiving and easy to ride. Under 3k miles used and it was only 6k after taxes. Dropped it once and only bent the brake pedal, but overall the thing is a straight up tank. Definitely happy with it!
I have a Versys-x 300 and it has been a great beginner motorcycle for me since I started riding in March of last year. It has adequate horsepower, a low seat height (easy to flat foot), simple controls, easy clutch, and is simple to service. It is also easy to ride and maneuver, which I think helps you learn to ride better faster. I contend that it might be the greatest beginner motorcycle in existence. I put a pair of knobby tires on it and it can keep up with most dual sports on gravel and dirt roads. In fact, I've surprised some people with how capable it is off road. It can't hang with my DR-Z 400 in the rough stuff, but it can make it through. It does great on the highway, but the high rpms drive me crazy over 65 mph. The funny thing about it is I get more "nice motorcycle" comments than I did on my Sportster 1200 and my DR-Z 400. I have outgrown the bike pretty quick, however, I could see it being the only motorcycle some people will ever need. I've moved up to a Suzuki DR-Z 400. So, about the only time I ride the Versys-x is when I need to make a quick run to the grocery or hardware store since it has a fake Pelican case mounted on the tail. I'm thinking about selling it or trading it in for a Honda Transalp/Suzuki Vstrom 800 DE. Regardless what happens, I will always appreciate my little Kawasaki.
I've had my versus 300x for six years now never had any issues other then seat. I ride interstates at 80 but it's much happier going 65-70 on highways. I like using all the gears to sing through. Knobby tires too
high RPM at the highway? my 2014 V-Strom 650 runs around 6k RPM (if I remember correctly) at 110 kph (about 68 mph) with redline starting at 10k RPM, but that's just good for the engine anyway, and still, with 6k RPM, it averages about 4,2L/100km (about 56 mpg) at that speed/RPM for (unfair) comparison, my 2011 VW Passat, 1.6 TDi (manual transmission) typically averages 5-6L/100km (about 39-47 mpg) in general, both city driving, highway and mixed, with my driving style, which can vary a lot 😅 also, Norway isn't the most economical country to drive in, as we have lots of mountains everywhere. anyway, the diesel consumption of my car is pretty good for such a big wagon btw, for my bike, I've been thinking about getting knobby tires, but I'm curious about how it would affect the driving experience on highway, as I drive at both highway and twisties, and I want to use my bike for some light off-roading, just for the joy of it. right now, I got the Michelin Anakee Adventure tires
I got a Versys 300 a couple years ago after riding for 50 years. I like the light weight of it, and it is fine as an experienced rider bike. I do have a VFR1200X for the real long runs, but around town and in the dirt, I am really happy with it.
I just picked one up and I'm currently learning to ride with it. I didn't actually go in with the intent of looking at one, but the dealer had a few too many in stock and it was $1500 off MSRP, so I figured I might as well look at it. I'm glad I did, it fits my needs perfectly
Picked up a BMW G310R as my first bike this weekend! Brand new for $5,900. It ain’t the fastest thing out there but as a student who just bought a bike to commute, I love it!
bought my DRZ400 for my first bike, I can say it was so great as a first choice. Its let me develop both my street and commuting skills, as well as getting into offroad riding. Giving myself such a great base of skills that I can transfer to my next bike.
My 2013 Ninja 300se is super fun to ride. Has plenty of get up and go,and can do highway speeds no prob. I ride my 24 Ninja 500 for longer runs, it's a great all-around/highway bike. I would highly recommend them both.
I bought an 06 SV650 with 19k miles on it for $2700 five years ago. I later found out that the first owner put a zx10r rear shock, and gsxr750 front springs on it. It’s now at 50k miles and still happily does everything outside of breaching 120mph. I’d recommend the SV650 to anyone, especially if you put a throttle tamer on it as a beginner.
Got a used gz250 3 weeks ago for 1200 bucks. I already have 1500 miles and love not having any payments, but I was already shopping for something bigger after only 6 days.... It's great for in town errands but not a good option for any distances. I'm probably gonna hang on to it because the smiles to miles ratio is still the best.
in our country you HAVE to start at 125cc. What are the best bikes other than yamaha r125, xsr125, mt125 and other brands. But more like: brands nobodies heard of?
The yams are great though, imo the best 4t 125, the aprilia is the prettiest, the new kawasaki and the Honda cb are most reliable, suzuki and the yamaha are the fastest and the most common in out freetech 125cc endurance class 👍
@@oskarvnz It's mostly an experience thing, you need to have X years experience on the class below or before above a certain age before getting a more powerful bike. It's like this in the UK at least. If you Google Image search "UK motorcycle licence types" there's a few thingys that explains it well enough
Great vid. Let’s not forget that what makes a great beginner bike often makes a terrific general purpose bike for any rider. I own 8 bikes right up to the big Wing, but I find myself riding my Versys 300 the most. It kinda does everything pretty well and is fun to ride. Shod it with the right rubber and make a few small changes and you can pretty much ride it on reasonably rough off road trails, dirt roads and back roads are a snap, around town it’s perfect. Some people complain about freeway revs, I don’t find it an issue, just wear some decent earplugs, it lives to rev! And yes you can tour on a Versys 300. The perfect beginner choice in my opinion…..and a true bargain even here in Australia.
I’ve recently been introduced to the biking community & love watching these vids. I will be doing my course soon & aiming for a sport/ cruise style bike as a beginner. Thanks for sharing Yammie Noob.🏍️🌴
I was actually able to find a brand new 2023 ninja 400 for cheaper than buying used. I got mine for 5k from a dealership when used are going for 6-7k with 1k+ miles
My first bikes a 2000 ducati monster 900 for $2500. I've been loving it. Runs great, and i wrench in it myself. All maintenance has been kept up. Great bike, idc what anyone says.
Just got back into riding after 9 years and got me a 87 shadow for exactly $1800. Unfortunately a hand injury from my youth is causing me a lot of trouble with the clutch, but it's still nice to get back into, and it's such a great bike
Just to put it out there, I got a 2015 Ninja 650 in great condition last year for $4k for my first bike. Super glad I did. My friends 400 is definitely lighter, but my bike is happier at highway speed. No issues with commuting or around town either. 👍 Edit: Super reliable and bullet proof. It does everything I need it to, and not too much power, which helps keep me in my skill level. Purchased off FB Marketplace in Florida btw.
Everyone in Florida was driving like 90+mph on the interstate when I was last there. The 650 is no doubt much happier to cruise at 90. Great price too. Ride safe!
I'd say a Ninja 300 is still the ideal beginner bike for an aspiring squid on a tight budget. I ran one for 3 years before getting a bigger bike and then kept it as a backup bike for 3 more years because it's genuinely fun to rev the nuts off it everywhere. Bought it for $3000 put ~24k miles on it and sold it for $2700 6 years later. Never once gave me trouble. Dirt cheap dead reliable bike. Highly recommend.
I'm actually looking at a Bajaj Dominar 400 which is basically a Duke 390 on a slightly heavier chassis. Same engine, same suspension, same brakes, same transmission and vary different pricetag. (In Mexico, IDK about the US market). But I'm between that single cilinder in the 400 category, a Benelly 302s with a 2 cilinder engine and a bigger bike like the suzuki sv 650. I like the naked category because the intended purpose is to drive it daily in a 2 million people city with too much traffic, the dominar is a naked bike with a touring orientation which makes it convenient for having stuff on the bike in case it is needed (a rain jacket, a backpack in the case instead of my back, rain boots or regular shoes, some groceries to take home...) the benelli is a more refined machine, slightly more nimble and slightly preetier in my eyes, and finally, the sv650 is the bike to get. That thing will absolutely take me anywhere, a bike to grow into, it will do in traffic as well as it will get on the highway and feel amazing on twisty roads, but much more expensive and intimidating too. SV650 is the most I will ever spend on a bike and the dominar the least (it is around 4500 usd). All of them have ABS, fuel injection, good ergonomics and nice reliability
as someone who gets about 200$ a month after bills and wants to get into riding i love these videos. i still probably can't get one but its closer in my reach
Wow, times sure have changed since a beginner bike was a 2-stroke 50cc Honda MB50, with 7hp at 9000rpm (but we never got below that, rode it at 11500rpm all day long). Mine cost me the equivalent of $100 in 1987, brand new, did 95km/h all day long, ran at 3l/100km, never got serviced, and the motor is probably now running a waterpump on a farm somewhere.
I am doing it. I paid 70 bucks for high end boots with a scrape on the toe on marketplace. Marketplace is a digital hell, but you can get good deals if you're patient and careful.
I have the 300x-had since 2019- no probs and its got 14/43 gearing- its a great commuter and good for moto camping -not single trak tho-Ive owned 100 bikes and this one is in the top 5..
My buddy got a Yamaha Virgo 750 and his wife got a 535 as well for under 5k and they were in excellent condition. Got It from a used motorcycle dealer.
Highly recommend the CB500F. I got one a month ago and its an absolute dream to ride. Im glad I didnt get the 300. The 500 feels way better and can easily do highway speeds. Though Id probably suggest a windscreen since its a naked lol
I bought a 2022 Honda grom from Facebook marketplace. Don’t get me wrong, it is a super fun bike and people always compliment my little bike, even strangers, but my one issue with the grom is that I strongly believe it is TOO forgiving. If you want to learn how to ride a bike and gain experience to eventually upgrade to higher cc’s, get a 300+. The grom is still a good choice and fun, but it still has its downsides, obviously speed.
Going from a 300 to a fast bike in one or two years is still pretty quick, but it depends on how well and how much you ride. I’ve had my first bike (‘18 SV650) for about 4 years, but I’ve only put about 6,500 miles on it. Do I feel like I could handle any liter bike? Hell no. I mean I could physically get it down the road, but I wouldn’t be capable to extract much out that bike. I’d be doing it a disservice.
Quote from a BMW S 1000 R rider last weekend at the cruise "Its like pulling a sled" we had just done a 45 minute cruise around the city and along the river... top posted speed 55 ... & yes the GROM rider had a blast !
Best beginner bike: used gen 1Turbo Busa with a salvage title and extended swingarm. It's cheap, powerful, plenty of issues to learn to wrench on, and great in a straight line so you don't have to learn how to lean or countersteer
Cheap second hand dual sport/road legal dirt bikes are excellent first bikes. They're good bikes for experienced riders too. The cheapskate series sounds good.👍
I was going to come and talk trash, give yam a hard time about CBR500Rs or Rebels.... But he is right, the Shadow is the better beginner bike buy... I do recommend that you beginners consider a NX500
Dear Poppa Yam, I have always wanted to ride since I was knee high to a grasshopper but you have been detrimental in getting me to pull the trigger. I am a Canadian so the system is different from you Freedom lovers. Basically I took a test at ICBC (our equivalent to the DMV) and am currently saving for the MST (it's pretty much the MSF but it removes some stipulations like must ride with supervision or no highway. Anyway as a poor please make the cheapskates dual sport vid. It would help me greatly or/and tips to buying used.
I'd say any 300-ish cc sport up to 450 or maybe even 600cc dual sport/super moto or sub 1k cruiser/bobber could be good. Minus super motos or dual sports the smaller cc bikes can be easier to plant your feet and are lighter with less power which makes them easier to handle and honestly more fun partly because it is less stressful when you can easily handle the $3-6k machine under you, and assuming you actually like to ride and not just go fast in a straight line. On that note anything that goes for over 10k new probably should not be your first bike. This typically includes any 600cc sport and up. You could start on a 600 if you have the right mentality. So if you like going fast in a straight line, want to "move up" to a liter, are generally a risk taker and will do wheelies or lane split at high or even mid speeds and such then you should probably not get a 600 or higher first or ever. 600 is something you can start and end on. You don't need to move up to a liter, you never need a liter unless you plan to go over 160mph which can only be safely done, relatively, in a few places. But yea, as far as sport bikes go, ninja 300-400, R3, CBR300, RC390 are all good bikes can go as fast as you need on the road or on a track even. And dirt bikes/dual sport/super motos are a different kind of fun tho.
Should I give up my Duke 390 for an Africa Twin? I have a VFR and I cant afford 3 bikes with all the mandatory refrigerator taxes.. I use the Duke for commuting 50 weeks of the year.
If cost is an issue, buying a much more expensive motorcycle might not be the best move. You'll have to spend more on basically everything for the Africa Twin.
Serious question. What type of motorcycle should I buy as my first bike that will help me get the most girls? For reasonable amount of money. Thinking about buying Triumph street twin at the moment.
What Sportbike/Superbike would be the best option if it was to be swapped into a small lightweight car (Ideally under 2000lb vehicle weight hopefully closer to 1500lb vehicle weight) Ideally, I would prefer 200HP or higher, which is also 1000cc or smaller (I realize that this is an odd request as higher horsepower ratings probably requires more engine displacement). Does such a Sportbike/Superbike even exist? Thanks for any opinions and insights.
Does the entry for the MT-09 bike include international entries? I'm not sure if the UK could produce the right legal material in conjunction with your own entry rules.
My first bike at 61 is a Ninja KRT 650. I should have went a little bigger considering how much $ I spent on it. If I can get what I paid for it I'll be happy...
Ktm dealers are selling 2023 Duke /RC 390and svartpilen 401 and vitpilen 401 for major discount to make room for 2024 models with new engine. I got a husky a couple months ago for 1000$ below msrp OTD
I love your channel dude. Been saving little by little might have my own bike in a year or 2. As someone whos never owned a car, completely forgot about insurance lol. o7
I wish more people would talk about the triumph adventurer 900 as a good used bike. My dad had one for a long time, and it was pretty awesome. It had a 900cc in-line 3 with bonneville styling, and if you tuned it properly as the engine was detuned from the factory, that thing would haul some serious ass.
Any tall guys here for advice. I am new was looking gear and all it's hard to find and it looks expensive atm for me to invest it all. I am 6ft5 264lbs 14 1/2 foot size (195.5cm 120kg 49eu foot size ). I am learning about motorcycles and I see my limitations in size and costs at the moment. Any experienced advice would be appreciated. Thank you. To add I am from EU in mountain region where roads are mostly curvy and up and down the mountains like Romania, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia . I would 95% on road and maybe 5% of a time on gravel
Got a question tho, my country isn't really have much options for bikes and everything (at least what options i want) starts at 150cc. I've been thinking of r15, cbr150, and gsx150r. I could save up more money to pick the 250cc options but i'm fairly new to bikes so i want the safest options first. Which one should i get?
How fast do you need to go and how much stuff do you need to carry? 250s are better at going over 100kph than 125s are, but I know a guy who's ridden over 110 on a Honda Grom. If you aren't carrying a lot, pick whichever one you're most comfortable on. If you need to carry a lot of weight, the extra power of the 250 is definitely nice.
@@brendanshroyer7696 err not that fast actually. My city is always packed with traffic but i wanna to have a fun ride to the countryside comfortably. I was thinking something that can fit raincoat and some tools for emergency as well
@@Kajiraksa25 A 125cc bike with a good set of luggage sounds like the best fit for your needs. You'll probably need to do a bit of research to find a bike and luggage combination that you like since they generally don't come bundled. I use a top case for my helmet and lock and two side bags for groceries and other small items. Small bikes are great if you never need to go fast.
I’m about to get my first bike . Where I live in Florida every used bike is 2k and up with a ton of miles . At this point I don’t see any reason to get a used bike over a brand new starter bike . People want 4k for bikes over 10,000 miles and title problems 😭
LOL Meanwhile nobody is selling a Ninja 300 for less than 4k.
They 100% are in houston. 400s with 5k miles are going for 4
@@teej1987Must be nice
Crying in socal where people are asking more than msrp for 2021/2022 bikes with 3k-5k miles...
Facebook marketplace is where they are found one near me for 2,500 needs tires and lines bleed
@@samoksnertrue. And the 24's msrp is lower than it was in 2021
In my army days, a guy in my unit bought a dual-purpose on/off-road bike and drove it for several years. Then one day he bought an R1 and crashed it on the way home, taking a bend too fast, wrote the bike off and luckily only broke bones landing in the trees. He could have died. After he recovered he drove a truck. Lesson here, is start small but also move up small. Nothing can replace actual miles on the bike and lessons learned while developing good habits.
I'm not sure if the V-Strom 650 counts as "start small" with it's decent amount of power, but it's definetively a decent bike to start with, as it does not want to wheelie on accident, and it is easy to handle, but the seat height might be a challenge for some people. my next bike might be a 1986 Suzuki GSX 1100 (not the GSX-R) and I'm sure it will be safe for me, at least
starting on a bike that doesn't wheelie on accident, does have ABS, and still got good amount of power, just not too much ofc, then riding till experience is good enough, then mostly any bike should be okay, as far as the rider doesn't think the bigger bike works like the smaller one, and understands the danger it comes with
I can literally pull full throttle on my V-Strom 650 in any gear, just lean a little forward, and it will not even get close to popping a wheelie. it's a front heavy bike, low center of gravity, still pretty much visually as big as the BMW GS 1200 R Adventure, ignoring the fact that the BMW's engine obviously is bigger
I think it depends on the person. But I agree. When I was in the army I was 21 and had money from Iraq and my first bike was an 05 zx10r. It was stupid and I realized it after riding it for a few days. But I just stayed aware and knew I could really screw up and 13 years later I still own the bike and love it. Dropped it in my garage one day but that is it. I do have a zx6 stunt bike now and I think I would have had more fun sooner if I did start on the 636 back in the day but oh well
@@AlanpittsS2a
Money from .. Iraq?
@@jad2290you don’t spend money will being deployed
used market is crazy. might as well buy new for $2-3k more.
Be careful about KTM. Been hearing a ton of horror stories lately about camshaft issues after a few thousand miles and KTM sticking riders with the bill, despite being in warranty, because they changed their own oil. Caveat emptor
Just passed the 1000 mile mark on my Royal Enfield Hunter 350. I am an older beginner (55)
Perfect size, weight, not too much power. Safe, reliable, rackin' up the miles. Under $4k brand new from the dealer.
Reliable and awesome. Highly recommend
Got 12,800 on the scram 411 I got in January 2023. It was the comfiest bike I sat on while looking, and though it's not remotely fast, it will do about 80 mph so interstate travel is possible, though I mostly avoid it. Around town, however, it is just 💯perfect for me.
with a brand new bike and just 1000 miles on it, you can't really tell if it's reliable. but be sure to not skip any service, as that might kill reliability on any type of engine. brand new bikes should do the first service around 500-700 miles, afaik. I'm a new rider as well, and I'm happy with my awesome 2014 V-Strom 650
I have a moped too.
With these bikes how many of them are tall person friendly because I’ve sat on a few bikes and even a ninja 400 feels small for me
Older beginner here as well (49) on a ninja 300 right now. Thinking my next "forever" type of bike will be the ninja 650. I'm learning on the roads of California where the "cagers" are crazy. What state are you in?
2015 Ninja 300 abs, bought it new, it's August 2024 still own it, 41.000 miles on ODO, did some mods - K&N performance filter, 2bros carbon fiber exhaust, actual sports tires, always fresh oil - mostly ride on a mountain twisty roads - I love this bike, gave me a zero issues whatever, replacement parts are available like M&M candy, chain / sprockets, brake pads, takes 2.2 qt oil. Easy to maintain, will keep this bike until wheels fall off... If you found one for sale, go ahead and get before it's gone, highly recommend 👍✌️
How would you say it does on the interstate? If I were to use it to go to and from work at 70ish mph?
@@slayerx681 Yes, it does handle highways, again I do suggest to install K&N performance filter, aftermarket exhaust and actual sports tires, along with this make sure chain is lubbed and have fresh engine oil, I actually drive about 500 miles on i81 every year, 4-5 times, visit Tail of the Dragon riding area on season, and another 500 back to home, yes with this bike 🙂... Sure you cannot race 600cc bikes on highways, as overtake speed is greater than 300cc bikes BUT on mountain twisty roads Yes you can follow 600cc bikes easy, that's what I do... Easy to maintain this bike, example: brake pads front and rear are the same, about 40$, chain about 50$ oil take 2.2 quarts and you can get a gallon of 10w40 about 38$, gas consumption is 55 -60 mpg , that's better than Prius 🙂... Ride Safe ✌️
@@slayerx681 I used to do a lot of road trips on my old ninja 300 - so I went up a tooth in the front to lengthen the gears a bit. RPM's were still ~8k at 75 but the motor loves it and there's near zero vibes. Mine also had K&N as well as a cat delete and M4 can. Never felt underpowered on the freeways, it was perfectly adequate power for a commuter bike. And a very fun level of power for twisty roads because you can wring everything out of it and be going absolutely fast enough; but not too fast.
Just picked up a MT-03 for $4,000 as my beginner bike a couple days ago. Only 436 miles on it and not having to pay dealer fee's on a brand new one was just too good to pass up. As someone who was very, very nervous about riding this bike has been very confidence inspiring in a way that the MSF course bikes didn't give me.
This is a fun bike. I took my MSF course on a MT-03. If I didn’t have 3 bikes already this would definitely be a contender
Wow!! That's a deal. Good hunting!
Got myself a 22 CB500F as my first bike and damn that thing is forgiving and easy to ride. Under 3k miles used and it was only 6k after taxes. Dropped it once and only bent the brake pedal, but overall the thing is a straight up tank. Definitely happy with it!
My first bike was a KLR 650. Probably not the best choice. But, I still have it more then 18 years later.
It was a brilliant choice.
I have a Versys-x 300 and it has been a great beginner motorcycle for me since I started riding in March of last year. It has adequate horsepower, a low seat height (easy to flat foot), simple controls, easy clutch, and is simple to service. It is also easy to ride and maneuver, which I think helps you learn to ride better faster. I contend that it might be the greatest beginner motorcycle in existence. I put a pair of knobby tires on it and it can keep up with most dual sports on gravel and dirt roads. In fact, I've surprised some people with how capable it is off road. It can't hang with my DR-Z 400 in the rough stuff, but it can make it through. It does great on the highway, but the high rpms drive me crazy over 65 mph.
The funny thing about it is I get more "nice motorcycle" comments than I did on my Sportster 1200 and my DR-Z 400. I have outgrown the bike pretty quick, however, I could see it being the only motorcycle some people will ever need. I've moved up to a Suzuki DR-Z 400. So, about the only time I ride the Versys-x is when I need to make a quick run to the grocery or hardware store since it has a fake Pelican case mounted on the tail. I'm thinking about selling it or trading it in for a Honda Transalp/Suzuki Vstrom 800 DE. Regardless what happens, I will always appreciate my little Kawasaki.
I've had my versus 300x for six years now never had any issues other then seat. I ride interstates at 80 but it's much happier going 65-70 on highways. I like using all the gears to sing through. Knobby tires too
high RPM at the highway? my 2014 V-Strom 650 runs around 6k RPM (if I remember correctly) at 110 kph (about 68 mph) with redline starting at 10k RPM, but that's just good for the engine anyway, and still, with 6k RPM, it averages about 4,2L/100km (about 56 mpg) at that speed/RPM
for (unfair) comparison, my 2011 VW Passat, 1.6 TDi (manual transmission) typically averages 5-6L/100km (about 39-47 mpg) in general, both city driving, highway and mixed, with my driving style, which can vary a lot 😅 also, Norway isn't the most economical country to drive in, as we have lots of mountains everywhere. anyway, the diesel consumption of my car is pretty good for such a big wagon
btw, for my bike, I've been thinking about getting knobby tires, but I'm curious about how it would affect the driving experience on highway, as I drive at both highway and twisties, and I want to use my bike for some light off-roading, just for the joy of it. right now, I got the Michelin Anakee Adventure tires
I got a Versys 300 a couple years ago after riding for 50 years. I like the light weight of it, and it is fine as an experienced rider bike. I do have a VFR1200X for the real long runs, but around town and in the dirt, I am really happy with it.
I just picked one up and I'm currently learning to ride with it. I didn't actually go in with the intent of looking at one, but the dealer had a few too many in stock and it was $1500 off MSRP, so I figured I might as well look at it. I'm glad I did, it fits my needs perfectly
Picked up a BMW G310R as my first bike this weekend! Brand new for $5,900. It ain’t the fastest thing out there but as a student who just bought a bike to commute, I love it!
Even though i have a gixxer 600 now, I still have my ninja 300! Love that bike!
3 weeks ago, I bought my 2023 duke 390 new from a dealership for $4200. Couldn't be happier
bought my DRZ400 for my first bike, I can say it was so great as a first choice. Its let me develop both my street and commuting skills, as well as getting into offroad riding. Giving myself such a great base of skills that I can transfer to my next bike.
Best Dual Sport out there, great choice
My 2013 Ninja 300se is super fun to ride. Has plenty of get up and go,and can do highway speeds no prob. I ride my 24 Ninja 500 for longer runs, it's a great all-around/highway bike. I would highly recommend them both.
I bought an 06 SV650 with 19k miles on it for $2700 five years ago. I later found out that the first owner put a zx10r rear shock, and gsxr750 front springs on it. It’s now at 50k miles and still happily does everything outside of breaching 120mph. I’d recommend the SV650 to anyone, especially if you put a throttle tamer on it as a beginner.
Got a used gz250 3 weeks ago for 1200 bucks. I already have 1500 miles and love not having any payments, but I was already shopping for something bigger after only 6 days.... It's great for in town errands but not a good option for any distances.
I'm probably gonna hang on to it because the smiles to miles ratio is still the best.
I get to pick my first bike up Monday!! I got a KLR 650s ABS, I’m so excited to pick her up and ride!
in our country you HAVE to start at 125cc. What are the best bikes other than yamaha r125, xsr125, mt125 and other brands. But more like: brands nobodies heard of?
KTM Duke 125 is a sweet bike.
The yams are great though, imo the best 4t 125, the aprilia is the prettiest, the new kawasaki and the Honda cb are most reliable, suzuki and the yamaha are the fastest and the most common in out freetech 125cc endurance class 👍
Why do you have to start at 125cc in your country. Also what country ?
In my opinion you should start on something cheap because you only have the a1 for 2 years so a second hand bike like dt125 or cbf125 ect
@@oskarvnz
It's mostly an experience thing, you need to have X years experience on the class below or before above a certain age before getting a more powerful bike.
It's like this in the UK at least.
If you Google Image search "UK motorcycle licence types" there's a few thingys that explains it well enough
Great vid. Let’s not forget that what makes a great beginner bike often makes a terrific general purpose bike for any rider.
I own 8 bikes right up to the big Wing, but I find myself riding my Versys 300 the most. It kinda does everything pretty well and is fun to ride.
Shod it with the right rubber and make a few small changes and you can pretty much ride it on reasonably rough off road trails, dirt roads and back roads are a snap, around town it’s perfect. Some people complain about freeway revs, I don’t find it an issue, just wear some decent earplugs, it lives to rev!
And yes you can tour on a Versys 300.
The perfect beginner choice in my opinion…..and a true bargain even here in Australia.
I’ve recently been introduced to the biking community & love watching these vids. I will be doing my course soon & aiming for a sport/ cruise style bike as a beginner. Thanks for sharing Yammie Noob.🏍️🌴
I was actually able to find a brand new 2023 ninja 400 for cheaper than buying used. I got mine for 5k from a dealership when used are going for 6-7k with 1k+ miles
My first bikes a 2000 ducati monster 900 for $2500. I've been loving it. Runs great, and i wrench in it myself. All maintenance has been kept up. Great bike, idc what anyone says.
Just got back into riding after 9 years and got me a 87 shadow for exactly $1800. Unfortunately a hand injury from my youth is causing me a lot of trouble with the clutch, but it's still nice to get back into, and it's such a great bike
Just snagged a 2021 Svartpilen 401 with 1600 miles for $4000. Love it after just one day!
Congrats brother ride safe
still making bangers to this day
Listicles are formulaic and therefore reproducible money-makers, but hey, I'm still subscribed and watching them 🤷♂
I've racked up about 1500 miles on my ER-6F now, I love it ! Can't wait to get my full A license to get the clamp off ! Ride safe guys :)
Just to put it out there, I got a 2015 Ninja 650 in great condition last year for $4k for my first bike. Super glad I did. My friends 400 is definitely lighter, but my bike is happier at highway speed. No issues with commuting or around town either. 👍
Edit: Super reliable and bullet proof. It does everything I need it to, and not too much power, which helps keep me in my skill level. Purchased off FB Marketplace in Florida btw.
Everyone in Florida was driving like 90+mph on the interstate when I was last there. The 650 is no doubt much happier to cruise at 90. Great price too. Ride safe!
I love my cbr300r and I have made so many memories with it, made so many good friends, I can never part ways with it now to be honest.
Impeccable timing for this video as I'm just looking into getting a motorcycle
So didja do it? 😁
One of the few things I kinda envy the US for...
Where I live you gotta pay at least like 3k just for the bike license...
I bought a TT-R250. Great beginner bike, great on the trails and is road legal too. Still has a good amount of power for a 250 dual sport.
I'd say a Ninja 300 is still the ideal beginner bike for an aspiring squid on a tight budget. I ran one for 3 years before getting a bigger bike and then kept it as a backup bike for 3 more years because it's genuinely fun to rev the nuts off it everywhere. Bought it for $3000 put ~24k miles on it and sold it for $2700 6 years later. Never once gave me trouble. Dirt cheap dead reliable bike. Highly recommend.
I genuinely love my VersysX. Ive put 11k miles on it and have had a ton of fun (with the exception of breaking my wrist when i laid it down off road).
I got the BMW G310R. Very affordable second hand and a great underrated beginner bike!
Just got one this weekend as my first bike! Love this thing
@@camdenpotter congrats! Ride safe have fun 😄
One of the best things about the Honda Shadow is the shaft final drive.
I'm actually looking at a Bajaj Dominar 400 which is basically a Duke 390 on a slightly heavier chassis. Same engine, same suspension, same brakes, same transmission and vary different pricetag. (In Mexico, IDK about the US market). But I'm between that single cilinder in the 400 category, a Benelly 302s with a 2 cilinder engine and a bigger bike like the suzuki sv 650. I like the naked category because the intended purpose is to drive it daily in a 2 million people city with too much traffic, the dominar is a naked bike with a touring orientation which makes it convenient for having stuff on the bike in case it is needed (a rain jacket, a backpack in the case instead of my back, rain boots or regular shoes, some groceries to take home...) the benelli is a more refined machine, slightly more nimble and slightly preetier in my eyes, and finally, the sv650 is the bike to get. That thing will absolutely take me anywhere, a bike to grow into, it will do in traffic as well as it will get on the highway and feel amazing on twisty roads, but much more expensive and intimidating too. SV650 is the most I will ever spend on a bike and the dominar the least (it is around 4500 usd). All of them have ABS, fuel injection, good ergonomics and nice reliability
My beginer bike is a 09 klx 250s with a rejeted carb. Tops at 80 but comfortable going 60 all day.
got a used '19 Yamaha R3 for 4200 as a complete beginner. I wouldn't get a smaller bike, this power is easily manageable.
as someone who gets about 200$ a month after bills and wants to get into riding i love these videos. i still probably can't get one but its closer in my reach
Wow, times sure have changed since a beginner bike was a 2-stroke 50cc Honda MB50, with 7hp at 9000rpm (but we never got below that, rode it at 11500rpm all day long). Mine cost me the equivalent of $100 in 1987, brand new, did 95km/h all day long, ran at 3l/100km, never got serviced, and the motor is probably now running a waterpump on a farm somewhere.
there’s a brand new (0 miles) 2023 Husqy Svartpilen 401 at my local KTM dealership for just 4.150€
should I cop?
You should, I got the 390 Duke which has the same engine and it's a blast!
Mine was a BMW F650GS. Really hard to beat that bike. Now I have an R1200GS and will put it up against anything.
Yes, do the cheap skate challenge
as far as it doesn't include the chinese Boom bike or similar bikes 🤣 if it does, the whole video is a joke
I am doing it. I paid 70 bucks for high end boots with a scrape on the toe on marketplace. Marketplace is a digital hell, but you can get good deals if you're patient and careful.
I have the 300x-had since 2019- no probs and its got 14/43 gearing- its a great commuter and good for moto camping -not single trak tho-Ive owned 100 bikes and this one is in the top 5..
My buddy got a Yamaha Virgo 750 and his wife got a 535 as well for under 5k and they were in excellent condition. Got It from a used motorcycle dealer.
I also got AA used Honda Saber700 in very good condition for1600. That was my purpose p for not riding into n 20 years.
It's my eighth bike but I highly recommend the Honda CB500 for beginners. Fantastic, cheap, reliable commuter to accumulate seat time.
I have the 300, might some day go up to the 500
Highly recommend the CB500F. I got one a month ago and its an absolute dream to ride. Im glad I didnt get the 300. The 500 feels way better and can easily do highway speeds. Though Id probably suggest a windscreen since its a naked lol
@@LetoPartizan ill look into it.
I bought a 2022 Honda grom from Facebook marketplace. Don’t get me wrong, it is a super fun bike and people always compliment my little bike, even strangers, but my one issue with the grom is that I strongly believe it is TOO forgiving. If you want to learn how to ride a bike and gain experience to eventually upgrade to higher cc’s, get a 300+. The grom is still a good choice and fun, but it still has its downsides, obviously speed.
I started on a Rebel 450. I teach everyone i can on it since ive upgraded to a cbr600rr.
got my first bike its a 2012 ninja 250r and i love it and i think its the perfect starter bike if you have no experience
Watching this for my son. At 6 foot 3 most starter bikes are too small. So ideas for him are great
Versys 300 is like the adventure version of the ninja 300. Much roomier.
Going from a 300 to a fast bike in one or two years is still pretty quick, but it depends on how well and how much you ride. I’ve had my first bike (‘18 SV650) for about 4 years, but I’ve only put about 6,500 miles on it. Do I feel like I could handle any liter bike? Hell no. I mean I could physically get it down the road, but I wouldn’t be capable to extract much out that bike. I’d be doing it a disservice.
Quote from a BMW S 1000 R rider last weekend at the cruise "Its like pulling a sled" we had just done a 45 minute cruise around the city and along the river... top posted speed 55 ... & yes the GROM rider had a blast !
Best beginner bike: used gen 1Turbo Busa with a salvage title and extended swingarm. It's cheap, powerful, plenty of issues to learn to wrench on, and great in a straight line so you don't have to learn how to lean or countersteer
Where to buy
Please do-planning on picking up the Dual sport Honda this Christmas fer my grandson
Whatever your first bike is you'll never forget it and even if it's pokey it'll make you feel like a kid again.
Cheap second hand dual sport/road legal dirt bikes are excellent first bikes. They're good bikes for experienced riders too. The cheapskate series sounds good.👍
I was going to come and talk trash, give yam a hard time about CBR500Rs or Rebels.... But he is right, the Shadow is the better beginner bike buy... I do recommend that you beginners consider a NX500
Yammie bro what happened to all your old vlogs ok the r3? Loved those videos bring em back big dog!
I just started riding and I love my shadow phantom but I'm looking for a sport to cruse the highways.
Dear Poppa Yam, I have always wanted to ride since I was knee high to a grasshopper but you have been detrimental in getting me to pull the trigger. I am a Canadian so the system is different from you Freedom lovers. Basically I took a test at ICBC (our equivalent to the DMV) and am currently saving for the MST (it's pretty much the MSF but it removes some stipulations like must ride with supervision or no highway. Anyway as a poor please make the cheapskates dual sport vid. It would help me greatly or/and tips to buying used.
I'd say any 300-ish cc sport up to 450 or maybe even 600cc dual sport/super moto or sub 1k cruiser/bobber could be good. Minus super motos or dual sports the smaller cc bikes can be easier to plant your feet and are lighter with less power which makes them easier to handle and honestly more fun partly because it is less stressful when you can easily handle the $3-6k machine under you, and assuming you actually like to ride and not just go fast in a straight line. On that note anything that goes for over 10k new probably should not be your first bike. This typically includes any 600cc sport and up. You could start on a 600 if you have the right mentality. So if you like going fast in a straight line, want to "move up" to a liter, are generally a risk taker and will do wheelies or lane split at high or even mid speeds and such then you should probably not get a 600 or higher first or ever. 600 is something you can start and end on. You don't need to move up to a liter, you never need a liter unless you plan to go over 160mph which can only be safely done, relatively, in a few places. But yea, as far as sport bikes go, ninja 300-400, R3, CBR300, RC390 are all good bikes can go as fast as you need on the road or on a track even. And dirt bikes/dual sport/super motos are a different kind of fun tho.
Should I give up my Duke 390 for an Africa Twin?
I have a VFR and I cant afford 3 bikes with all the mandatory refrigerator taxes..
I use the Duke for commuting 50 weeks of the year.
If cost is an issue, buying a much more expensive motorcycle might not be the best move. You'll have to spend more on basically everything for the Africa Twin.
@@brendanshroyer7696 ty, makes sense. The 390 is also the better commuter.
Serious question. What type of motorcycle should I buy as my first bike that will help me get the most girls? For reasonable amount of money. Thinking about buying Triumph street twin at the moment.
10:52 did he really offer his *beloved* CBR500R as an alternative ?
Yam, yes please on the cheap dual sport start series
What Sportbike/Superbike would be the best option if it was to be swapped into a small lightweight car (Ideally under 2000lb vehicle weight hopefully closer to 1500lb vehicle weight) Ideally, I would prefer 200HP or higher, which is also 1000cc or smaller (I realize that this is an odd request as higher horsepower ratings probably requires more engine displacement). Does such a Sportbike/Superbike even exist? Thanks for any opinions and insights.
Does the entry for the MT-09 bike include international entries? I'm not sure if the UK could produce the right legal material in conjunction with your own entry rules.
Hey yammie I am here in the UK and just bought myself a 2024 Kawasaki z 900 for when I pass my full A licence.
where is the best place to find a used rebel 500? i'm new to the motorcycle scene and looking for my first bike, thanks so much for your help
in my local market each of this bikes is +2k minimum. Except maybe honda shadow, you can find it for 3k, but it's not newer than 1997
My first bike at 61 is a Ninja KRT 650. I should have went a little bigger considering how much $ I spent on it.
If I can get what I paid for it I'll be happy...
Bigger than a 650 for your first bike? Why?
I just bought a dual sport bike and would love to see a dual sport video series.
Ktm dealers are selling 2023 Duke /RC 390and svartpilen 401 and vitpilen 401 for major discount to make room for 2024 models with new engine. I got a husky a couple months ago for 1000$ below msrp OTD
Alright Yam. Here’s another vote for that cheapskate challenge. I’d love to see what you come up with!
Buy sinnis
yes to dual sport adv videos please im a future new rider still researching
The only Triumph I did own was a Tr7 pretty impressive
I love your channel dude. Been saving little by little might have my own bike in a year or 2. As someone whos never owned a car, completely forgot about insurance lol. o7
Everything you said about the Bonneville I think of Yamaha’s CP2 lineup
I wish more people would talk about the triumph adventurer 900 as a good used bike. My dad had one for a long time, and it was pretty awesome. It had a 900cc in-line 3 with bonneville styling, and if you tuned it properly as the engine was detuned from the factory, that thing would haul some serious ass.
Definitely go with the cheap bike challenge! Would be great content for the average Joe
Picked up a 2023 cbr500r with 300 miles for 6k out the door, no regrets.
Bargain!
Well, just pick the best under 3k or 4k at ur place. The CRF250L is like 10k at mine, for newbie but not affordable lol
Do a top bikes for small riders (all categories not just crusiers)
Just bought a 2017 CBR 500R for 3k with 16k miles for my first bike. Getting affordable bikes in cali is hard but not imposible.
New Verys for 5.1k a good buy?
New here. How many miles are considered high mileage for a motorcycle?
What’s outgrow mean? I’ve been on a ninja 250 for nine years
I track the binja 300 at blackhawk race park Illinois… fun bike but too slow on the straight.
can you do a review on a triumph speed 400
How do you feel about the bmw g310r??
Definitely DO THE CHEAPSKATE BEGINNER BIKE CHALLENGE!!!
Alright girls too! Thank you!
What motorcycle dealerships would you recommend in the Austin/Round Rock area?
Any tall guys here for advice. I am new was looking gear and all it's hard to find and it looks expensive atm for me to invest it all. I am 6ft5 264lbs 14 1/2 foot size (195.5cm 120kg 49eu foot size ). I am learning about motorcycles and I see my limitations in size and costs at the moment. Any experienced advice would be appreciated. Thank you. To add I am from EU in mountain region where roads are mostly curvy and up and down the mountains like Romania, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia . I would 95% on road and maybe 5% of a time on gravel
Thoughts on the Triumph Scrambler 400?
My local dealer can't keep them in stock, if you're looking for a new entry level bike, and want a Triumph, seems to be the way to go.
Got a question tho, my country isn't really have much options for bikes and everything (at least what options i want) starts at 150cc. I've been thinking of r15, cbr150, and gsx150r. I could save up more money to pick the 250cc options but i'm fairly new to bikes so i want the safest options first. Which one should i get?
How fast do you need to go and how much stuff do you need to carry? 250s are better at going over 100kph than 125s are, but I know a guy who's ridden over 110 on a Honda Grom. If you aren't carrying a lot, pick whichever one you're most comfortable on. If you need to carry a lot of weight, the extra power of the 250 is definitely nice.
@@brendanshroyer7696 err not that fast actually. My city is always packed with traffic but i wanna to have a fun ride to the countryside comfortably. I was thinking something that can fit raincoat and some tools for emergency as well
@@Kajiraksa25 A 125cc bike with a good set of luggage sounds like the best fit for your needs. You'll probably need to do a bit of research to find a bike and luggage combination that you like since they generally don't come bundled. I use a top case for my helmet and lock and two side bags for groceries and other small items. Small bikes are great if you never need to go fast.
Please make the cheapskate video series!!! I have yet to get a bike, but will so in the nearish future
I'm glad the biker community doesn't humiliate new riders and enthusiasts like the car community. At least from what I've seen...
Lol bikers just make a bunch of turbo busa jokes at beginners
Please do cheapskate series
I’m about to get my first bike . Where I live in Florida every used bike is 2k and up with a ton of miles . At this point I don’t see any reason to get a used bike over a brand new starter bike . People want 4k for bikes over 10,000 miles and title problems 😭