FabSwingers.com > Forums > The Lounge > Motorbikes

Motorbikes

By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I've been mulling over the idea of buying a motorbike. I have a rather shitty crosstown commute and I'm sick of sitting stationary in the car for extended periods.

Ideally I'd want something with a fairly relaxed seating position that was narrow enough for easy filtering.

I've noticed that there has been a few bikes released from the major manufacturers round the 300cc mark reacently these seem to all have good reviews.

But for the same money I could get something older but bigger.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Yamaha fazer 600cc great bike

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I have ridden a FZS600 Fazer but these are getting a bit long in the tooth now. I've not ridden the FZ6 which replaced it.

I'm a short arse so don't want anything too chunky

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

OP, is it just commuting or weekend fun too? You could combine both with the one I got back into biking on, CBR 600.

Yes it's a sports bike, but found it a great all rounder!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Depends on several unmentioned factors too.

Riding experience so far

When last ridden

License categories

Insurance concerns

The bike itself and how You fit it. Which town/traffic situations?

On the face of it, something like a Diversion 600 should be narrow enough.

Me, I ride a pan European and can still filter with boxes and fairing but get caught by some of the more narrow gaps.

Drop me a line for a private chat if you like

Dave

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Primarily commuting, at least that's the justification for it.

But I'll probably ride for fun too.

I'm not that bothe_ed about going balls out.

I've never ridden a cbr600 I'm not terribly experienced, and have too much at stake to want to end up through a hedge.

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By *cd and scruffCouple over a year ago

Rochester

Kawasaki er5

500cc twin. Good reviews. Good fun. Been around years so will find age/price to suit.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Get a bicycle.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Honda hornet Cbf600

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By *dam_TinaCouple over a year ago

Hampshire

Wait until Barney's gone

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Get a bicycle.

I've got three of those already but I'm old and fat and can't be arsed peddling

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By *ust RachelTV/TS over a year ago

Horsham

Try one of the many 400cc grey imports, they are quite nimble. I had a VFR400 NC29, very quick bike but a good handling bike as well.

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By *ust RachelTV/TS over a year ago

Horsham

"Get a bicycle.

I've got three of those already but I'm old and fat and can't be arsed peddling "

Get an electric bike them lol

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I've been mulling over the idea of buying a motorbike. I have a rather shitty crosstown commute and I'm sick of sitting stationary in the car for extended periods.

Ideally I'd want something with a fairly relaxed seating position that was narrow enough for easy filtering.

I've noticed that there has been a few bikes released from the major manufacturers round the 300cc mark reacently these seem to all have good reviews.

But for the same money I could get something older but bigger. "

Sv650 v twin very narrow can still have a little fun on it.

Ideal for cramped commutes

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Get a fai_ed one though

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I've been mulling over the idea of buying a motorbike. I have a rather shitty crosstown commute and I'm sick of sitting stationary in the car for extended periods.

Ideally I'd want something with a fairly relaxed seating position that was narrow enough for easy filtering.

I've noticed that there has been a few bikes released from the major manufacturers round the 300cc mark reacently these seem to all have good reviews.

But for the same money I could get something older but bigger.

Sv650 v twin very narrow can still have a little fun on it.

Ideal for cramped commutes "

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By *riskynriskyCouple over a year ago

Essex.

I'm a short arse so don't want anything too chunky "

Monkey bike...

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I've got a Honda NC750x and use it to commute, heavy traffic and a bit of motorway and its the best bike I've owned in 20 years of riding. In the past I've had big beemers but as a commuter, its cheap to run, gives great MPG and has good road presence and weather protection if you go for the taller screen.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Triumph tiger, excellent position for traffic, good low speed handling and rapid acceleration to speeds which won't send you immediately to jail without passing go ....

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Triumph tiger, excellent position for traffic, good low speed handling and rapid acceleration to speeds which won't send you immediately to jail without passing go ...."

Is need stilts or possibly stabilisers to ride one. Actually riding it's not the problem it's when I have to stop an put my feet down

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By *errysMan over a year ago

milton keynes and kent

"I've been mulling over the idea of buying a motorbike. I have a rather shitty crosstown commute and I'm sick of sitting stationary in the car for extended periods.

Ideally I'd want something with a fairly relaxed seating position that was narrow enough for easy filtering.

I've noticed that there has been a few bikes released from the major manufacturers round the 300cc mark reacently these seem to all have good reviews.

But for the same money I could get something older but bigger. "

I have a kawasaki er6f to commute simple to ride looks ok not to powerful comfortable riding position.

But nobody can answer your question except for you (personal choice)

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Triumph tiger, excellent position for traffic, good low speed handling and rapid acceleration to speeds which won't send you immediately to jail without passing go ....

Is need stilts or possibly stabilisers to ride one. Actually riding it's not the problem it's when I have to stop an put my feet down"

Some sort of scooter then I'm afraid...

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

avoid the 250 / 300 cc bikes, very adequate and capable far outstrips the 125 in long life daily commute type work, but, currently a niche market so you may find depreciation phenomenal if you can sell it at all. 500 to 650 is a good area to aim at, and the newish Vulcan S 650 is worth a look as it has 3 positions for foot pegs, and 3 seat height options.

don't go the pushbike route unless you have a traffic free commute it's scary!

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I've done this commute on a push bike but it takes even longer than going in the car, plus I'm knacke_ed sweaty when I get in

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By *edMan over a year ago

cambridgeshire

Depends on a few things..

Going to use it for just this commute?

New or s/h, or the new PCP route?

Your licence and skill level.

Bike show at the NEC soon. Good place to peruse

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By *illwill69uMan over a year ago

moston

If Honda still made it I would have recommended superdream 400. Big enough engine for weekend blasts to the coast, small enough and light enough to return great mpg and easy to handle in any conditions.

Maybe a mint low mileage on classic insurance

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Depends on a few things..

Going to use it for just this commute?

New or s/h, or the new PCP route?

Your licence and skill level.

Bike show at the NEC soon. Good place to peruse"

Mostly commute, and almost certainly s/h it's a first bike so I'm not gonna shell out many thousands or £s

Skill level noob I'm afraid.

Might be worth having a look at the bike show if for nothing more than masturbational purposes

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Kwaka GT550, matt black it, hack saw the handle bars narrow. Go as fast as you can and fuck everyone else!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

the bike show is good advice actually, it's kind of now and will allow you to touch and feel lots of stuff.

Not just the bike, clothing, helmet, locks luggage often cheaper to buy it online, but it's good to touch nd try it for real first.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I've been mulling over the idea of buying a motorbike. I have a rather shitty crosstown commute and I'm sick of sitting stationary in the car for extended periods.

Ideally I'd want something with a fairly relaxed seating position that was narrow enough for easy filtering.

I currently have a virago, really girly but then I'm a girl lol x

I've noticed that there has been a few bikes released from the major manufacturers round the 300cc mark reacently these seem to all have good reviews.

But for the same money I could get something older but bigger. "

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"I've got a Honda NC750x and use it to commute, heavy traffic and a bit of motorway and its the best bike I've owned in 20 years of riding. In the past I've had big beemers but as a commuter, its cheap to run, gives great MPG and has good road presence and weather protection if you go for the taller screen. "

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not

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By *umourCouple over a year ago

Rushden

BMW F600GT. Great bike and Mrs Rumour can almost touch the floor at 5.2". She can get her tiptoes on the floor..

Great bike to ride too, chopped in a 2010 S1000RR as it was way too quick for me! The F600 is a lovely town bike and also a great weekend bike. The S1000 was well behaved, but I found it too much of a temptation...

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By *edMan over a year ago

cambridgeshire

"BMW F600GT. Great bike and Mrs Rumour can almost touch the floor at 5.2". She can get her tiptoes on the floor..

Hello matey, didn't know you two were bikers too.

Very sensible advice too.

Much more sensible than my hooligan collection

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I currently have a virago, really girly but then I'm a girl lol x. "

I do quite like them but you say they are quite feminine

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By *edMan over a year ago

cambridgeshire

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not"

You can get lowe_ed seats and or suspension too, and when s/h might lower the price too.

Heated clothing is good in the winter.. Just remember to unplug before walking away from the bike.

The waterproof gear is important.

Buy good stuff or be miserable

Suzuki 650 vstrom be a good option

But you must get the proper gear for

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not"

I'm only 5ft 8 but do have longish legs. Always worth trying though rather than going by the seat height as if its a slim narrow seat it will be lower than you think.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"BMW F600GT. Great bike and Mrs Rumour can almost touch the floor at 5.2". She can get her tiptoes on the floor..

I'll have a look out for one of those BMW wasn't originally on my list

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By *edMan over a year ago

cambridgeshire

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not

I'm only 5ft 8 but do have longish legs. Always worth trying though rather than going by the seat height as if its a slim narrow seat it will be lower than you think. "

Big old aircooled beemers are luvverly once you're used to them. Reliable and big sticky out cylinders to keep your feet a bit warmer.. Classic insurance but don't go too old. The brakes are very .. ummm.. errrr.. Crap actually nowadays.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not

I'm only 5ft 8 but do have longish legs. Always worth trying though rather than going by the seat height as if its a slim narrow seat it will be lower than you think.

Big flat oscillating engine isn't the best for filtering

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not

I'm only 5ft 8 but do have longish legs. Always worth trying though rather than going by the seat height as if its a slim narrow seat it will be lower than you think.

Big flat oscillating engine isn't the best for filtering"

I had an 1150GS and it was pretty good for filtering, people just got out of my way mostly!

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By *edMan over a year ago

cambridgeshire

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not

I'm only 5ft 8 but do have longish legs. Always worth trying though rather than going by the seat height as if its a slim narrow seat it will be lower than you think.

Big flat oscillating engine isn't the best for filtering"

Never stopped me

Cylinders don't go out past the handlebars.

Seriously , going classic could save you many hund_eds on insurance while you build up NCB

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Wish I had a bike right now I'm currently sat in horrendous traffic

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Wish I had a bike right now I'm currently sat in horrendous traffic

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By *edMan over a year ago

cambridgeshire

" Wish I had a bike right now I'm currently sat in horrendous traffic "

Well stop doing this before you knock some poor biker off! lol

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

" Wish I had a bike right now I'm currently sat in horrendous traffic

Well stop doing this before you knock some poor biker off! lol"

It would be hard to knock anyone off doing 0mph

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Bandit 400... not quite as big as the 600 or 1200 and can be found for under a grand... perfect for leisure too and a good entry bike for noobs

...

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Not that many of then about tho the bandit 400s

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By *opinovMan over a year ago

Point Nemo, Cumbria

Get yourself a Thruxton... the new ones are especially nice.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Get yourself a Thruxton... the new ones are especially nice.

I like them a lot, keen on the street twin particularly. North of 8k a little pricy for a first bike tho

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Not that many of then about tho the bandit 400s"

True but usually pretty bullet proof and spares easy enough to get hold of... or just go 600

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By *artytwoCouple over a year ago

Wolverhampton

Forget all that stuff. If you're going to commute get yourself a Vespa GTS 300.

Beats 99% of vehicles off the lights, stylish, cool, economical, ABS on the later ones.

Fit a screen, winter tires, heated grips, leg cover and you're all weather prepa_ed.

Trust me, I know what I'm talking about as I'm a 'real' biker as well.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Bandit 400... not quite as big as the 600 or 1200 and can be found for under a grand... perfect for leisure too and a good entry bike for noobs

...

xx "

I had a bandit 400! It was perfect for my little legs. I really liked it

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Forget all that stuff. If you're going to commute get yourself a Vespa GTS 300.

Beats 99% of vehicles off the lights, stylish, cool, economical, ABS on the later ones.

Fit a screen, winter tires, heated grips, leg cover and you're all weather prepa_ed.

Trust me, I know what I'm talking about as I'm a 'real' biker as well."

was just gonna put the Vespa tbh...

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I have to do a 10 mile stretch of motorway too, how will a vespa handle that

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

For mostly commuting you can't go too far wrong with a cb500. Will run forever.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"For mostly commuting you can't go too far wrong with a cb500. Will run forever. "

I learned on a cb500 but the older type, I quite like the newer bikes but a little on the dear side maybe

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"For mostly commuting you can't go too far wrong with a cb500. Will run forever.

I learned on a cb500 but the older type, I quite like the newer bikes but a little on the dear side maybe"

Yeah one of the more expensive 500's definitely, but fantastic build quality.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Try one of the many 400cc grey imports, they are quite nimble. I had a VFR400 NC29, very quick bike but a good handling bike as well."

They're bloody expensive now though!!, I used to have an NC35, wish I'd kept it!!.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

As it's a first bike I'm wanting to keep the price down, it'll likely get a few knocks and scrapes as I learn.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I'd probably go for an older R6 or ZX6R if it were me, they're pretty good value, and I like my sportsbikes.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

ER500.

Cheap and decent learner 'big bike'. Slightly smaller than a CB too.

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By *artytwoCouple over a year ago

Wolverhampton

"I have to do a 10 mile stretch of motorway too, how will a vespa handle that"

No problem. I do about 100-150 miles a week and M5/M6 too. If you're not too heavy it will do 80-85.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Do it, you'll never look back.

For the comfortable position but agile, go for a trail bike, like the Honda xl700va,

The Suzuki SFV 650 is also a nice first bike..

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Do it, you'll never look back.

For the comfortable position but agile, go for a trail bike, like the Honda xl700va,

The Suzuki SFV 650 is also a nice first bike.."

I am seriously thinking about a sv650

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Do it, you'll never look back.

For the comfortable position but agile, go for a trail bike, like the Honda xl700va,

The Suzuki SFV 650 is also a nice first bike..

I am seriously thinking about a sv650"

Also really like the sfv650 but it's a little more than I want to spend right now

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Suzy gsx600f

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By *ichaelsmyMan over a year ago

douglas

How to choose a bike

Go round the local bike shops

sit on them all in turn

you will know the one for you

some you will sit on and think no way

some you will sit on. Not sure so get off

600 cc more than enough for a commuter. Depending on how far and on what roads. Round town or motorways

fairing. Saves ti_edness and wind blast.

A good screen to deflect the wind. At least a dubble bubble screen

good riding gear for summer and winter

decent earplugs

decent helmet that fits properly

refresher training never does any harm. Even if an hour with an instructor for an assessment or the local police bike safe scheme

highway code. Be surprised what youhave fforgotten

Depending on the roads. Don't discount a smaller bike or a scooter for just around town. Petrol mileage makes them cheap to run

Finally and most importantly

Ignore everyone else and buy the bbike that's right for you

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Go and test ride a triumph street triple, nice and comfy, great fun and they look great aswell, if you can stretch yoir budget try a street triple r.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"How to choose a bike

Go round the local bike shops

sit on them all in turn

you will know the one for you

some you will sit on and think no way

some you will sit on. Not sure so get off

600 cc more than enough for a commuter. Depending on how far and on what roads. Round town or motorways

fairing. Saves ti_edness and wind blast.

A good screen to deflect the wind. At least a dubble bubble screen

good riding gear for summer and winter

decent earplugs

decent helmet that fits properly

refresher training never does any harm. Even if an hour with an instructor for an assessment or the local police bike safe scheme

highway code. Be surprised what youhave fforgotten

Depending on the roads. Don't discount a smaller bike or a scooter for just around town. Petrol mileage makes them cheap to run

Finally and most importantly

Ignore everyone else and buy the bbike that's right for you

All excellent advice

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Go and test ride a triumph street triple, nice and comfy, great fun and they look great aswell, if you can stretch yoir budget try a street triple r."

I'd love one but a bit out of the budget I set myself

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By *rai69Man over a year ago

Braintree

Go for a Honda hornet or a Suzuki 600 Bandit.

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By *ichaelsmyMan over a year ago

douglas

If you find the bike you really like in a shop. Go the second hand route to stretch your budget

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Do it, you'll never look back.

For the comfortable position but agile, go for a trail bike, like the Honda xl700va,

The Suzuki SFV 650 is also a nice first bike..

I am seriously thinking about a sv650

Also really like the sfv650 but it's a little more than I want to spend right now"

Both lovely bikes! I previously have owned Honda, BMW and Suzuki

The SV650 was a little beauty!

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By *ary_JosephCouple over a year ago

South Shields

A Royal Enfield 400cc diesel bike.

£4500 brand new, cheap as chips to insure and does a million miles per gallon. You'll get loads of interested looks and people asking if the bike is diesel.....

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Sv650 bullet proof engine! Great to ride and make an lovely noise!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Actually the larger engined scooters are defiantly worth a look, I know a guy who does a 50 mile cummute into London each day on a suzi 400 scooter, he works in an office so wears a suit under his waterproofs... which reminds me! when buying your bike gear remember to oversize it to fit over work clothes...

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Also have a look at the triumph speed four, great handling great brakes and itll shift, not alot of money either.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Also have a look at the triumph speed four, great handling great brakes and itll shift, not alot of money either. "

Or its fai_ed brother the tt600. Bit focussed for a nube though.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"A Royal Enfield 400cc diesel bike.

£4500 brand new, cheap as chips to insure and does a million miles per gallon. You'll get loads of interested looks and people asking if the bike is diesel.....

I thought they were an urban myth!!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Try one of the many 400cc grey imports, they are quite nimble. I had a VFR400 NC29, very quick bike but a good handling bike as well."

yep & dont forget the ZXR400. I had one of these many moons ago, it was my first "big" bike & I loved it! Light, deceptively fast with excellent handling. Insurance was quite reasonable too.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Tt600 are great bikes i had one of those and aslong as its got the latest map on it theyre great fun and really easy to ride

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Tt600 are great bikes i had one of those and aslong as its got the latest map on it theyre great fun and really easy to ride

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By *ust RachelTV/TS over a year ago

Horsham

Go out to lots of bikes shops, not just the new bikes. See what you like and your budget likes. You can sit on them to check out the fit.

When you find some you like, then ask us for our opinions. Just read in between the lines as everyone likes something different.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"A Royal Enfield 400cc diesel bike.

£4500 brand new, cheap as chips to insure and does a million miles per gallon. You'll get loads of interested looks and people asking if the bike is diesel.....

I had to google that as I was interested, I love the mpg my car gets.. But as usual I found something more interesting and got stuck looking at your pictures

Very nice!

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"A Royal Enfield 400cc diesel bike.

£4500 brand new, cheap as chips to insure and does a million miles per gallon. You'll get loads of interested looks and people asking if the bike is diesel.....

I actually thought you were joking, they actually do make one

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Tt600 are great bikes i had one of those and aslong as its got the latest map on it theyre great fun and really easy to ride"

Just check the down pipes have interconnecting balance pipes.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Ducati scrambler!!!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Ducati scrambler!!!"

Or triumph scrambler! Or thruxton!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

old school big jap bike..gsx1100

Dream to ride..and from a standing start will hold their own with sports bikes.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

" old school big jap bike..gsx1100

Dream to ride..and from a standing start will hold their own with sports bikes."

Nice 1100 kat?! Or 750 with pop up headlight?!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

" old school big jap bike..gsx1100

Dream to ride..and from a standing start will hold their own with sports bikes.

Nice 1100 kat?! Or 750 with pop up headlight?!

What about a gpz750 turbo? Super rare & uber-cool! There was one on ebay about a month ago. Sooooo wanted it but, wife would kill me if the bike didn't! Lol

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I love all these bikes

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I just did my CBT this year, Don't all laugh but I have a Kymco Pulsar which I do enjoy. I guess we all have to start somewhere.

Jasmine

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"I just did my CBT this year, Don't all laugh but I have a Kymco Pulsar which I do enjoy. I guess we all have to start somewhere.

Jasmine

It's better than the bike I've got

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Kawasaki er5

500cc twin. Good reviews. Good fun. Been around years so will find age/price to suit.

Or look for a GPz550 a very underrated bike and ideal for the shorter in stature

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Personally i would get a well looked after bike regardless of its age and model, just get out use it and enjoy

like alot of people have said get good waterproofs, ive spent 10 years commuting and the best thing ive every fitted to my bike is heated grips well worth the money

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By *oketdogMan over a year ago

CROOK

You won't go wrong with an sv650, personally I ride an rgv250 and it's awesome!!!

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"You won't go wrong with an sv650, personally I ride an rgv250 and it's awesome!!!"

I was considering a littler bike

whats this like as a commuter tho

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Kawasaki er5

500cc twin. Good reviews. Good fun. Been around years so will find age/price to suit.

Or look for a GPz550 a very underrated bike and ideal for the shorter in stature"

GPX550's are quite cool now

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By *ophieslutTV/TS over a year ago

Central

Moped?

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By *lutandhubbyCouple over a year ago

west midlands

can,t go wrong with a bandit. xxx

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

600 Bandit, ER500, ER6, SV650, Hornet, any of those good, plenty around so you should be able to find something

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By *oketdogMan over a year ago

CROOK

It wouldn't work as a commuter bike. The rgv is a 2 stroke and needs to be ridden hard to get the best from it.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I need something benign but nippy through traffic. But that can stretch its legs a little when I come to the motorway segment of my commute

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I saw, and passed a couple of scooters this morning. I don't think a scooter is going to cut the mustard on my commute

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I just did my CBT this year, Don't all laugh but I have a Kymco Pulsar which I do enjoy. I guess we all have to start somewhere.

Jasmine

It's better than the bike I've got"

To be honest I don't know much about bikes, I just like riding them

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"I just did my CBT this year, Don't all laugh but I have a Kymco Pulsar which I do enjoy. I guess we all have to start somewhere.

Jasmine

It's better than the bike I've got

To be honest I don't know much about bikes, I just like riding them

I've decided that I'm going to ride a few different bikes. Then buy the one I like riding most that I can afford

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By *dventureslayerMan over a year ago

London

I've owned there motorcycles and a dirtbike in the past. They ranged from big cruisers to sport bikes. Each had their own merit some were more comfortable then others. I've also ridden scooters and I have to say they may be convenient but they can be dangerous due to their lack of power and their susceptibility of being affected by the wind and by the wind affect of a large vehicle. In addition I think it's harder to be seen on a scooter then on a regular sized motorcycle. On a sidenote I have crashed a motorcycle before but the lesson learned was don't try and pull wheelies for good looking girls when there's gravel on the road.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"I've owned there motorcycles and a dirtbike in the past. They ranged from big cruisers to sport bikes. Each had their own merit some were more comfortable then others. I've also ridden scooters and I have to say they may be convenient but they can be dangerous due to their lack of power and their susceptibility of being affected by the wind and by the wind affect of a large vehicle. In addition I think it's harder to be seen on a scooter then on a regular sized motorcycle. On a sidenote I have crashed a motorcycle before but the lesson learned was don't try and pull wheelies for good looking girls when there's gravel on the road. "

No wheelies on gravel in front of girls Ill remember that

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By *od ThrusterMan over a year ago

Newport Pagnell

Not sure they'll be many on the s/h market so it might be a bit out of your price range

but you could take a look at the Yamaha MT-07 (or even maybe MT-09). No harm in trying one out.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Not sure they'll be many on the s/h market so it might be a bit out of your price range

but you could take a look at the Yamaha MT-07 (or even maybe MT-09). No harm in trying one out."

I really like the look of both of these but they are a bit dear

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Here's some advice...put your hand between your legs... Found your balls?...now go buy a V-Max...

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By *awtymarkyMan over a year ago

chester

Read all this post and not one mention of triumph

You can get some great 2nd hand models go for speed triple great solid engines and nice ride position. Stay well clear of Suzuki gsxr / bandits their engines blow up (I should know as have blown mine 3 times main reason oil starvation to shell bearings oil pump is off centre )

Cbr 600 nice bike but will cripple you around town due to riding position same with Zxr or ninja s

Yamaha fazer so boring you'll bin it

Just my views but I prefer getting my knee down so go for speed and fun lol

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Here's some advice...put your hand between your legs... Found your balls?...now go buy a V-Max...

I do quite like those but it looks like it's got a 14 L engine and is the size of a train perhaps not the best choice for a new rider that needs to commute across Manchester

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Here's some advice...put your hand between your legs... Found your balls?...now go buy a V-Max...

I do quite like those but it looks like it's got a 14 L engine and is the size of a train perhaps not the best choice for a new rider that needs to commute across Manchester"

You only live once! And make sure it's not the restricted version....

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By *awtymarkyMan over a year ago

chester

"Here's some advice...put your hand between your legs... Found your balls?...now go buy a V-Max...

So clumbsy tanks those and if you drop it need a crane to pick it up LOL

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Here's some advice...put your hand between your legs... Found your balls?...now go buy a V-Max...

So clumbsy tanks those and if you drop it need a crane to pick it up LOL

Latest version is 1.6L and 170bhp an weighs nearly half a ton

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Read all this post and not one mention of triumph

Cbr 600 nice bike but will cripple you around town due to riding position same with Zxr or ninja

Yamaha fazer so boring you'll bin it

Just my views but I prefer getting my knee down so go for speed and fun lol"

Not one mention of Triumph? Are you sure? Maybe read all of the thread again.

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By *dventureslayerMan over a year ago

London

Ninja is one of the bikes I had, also had a 1200 FJ.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Read all this post and not one mention of triumph

Cbr 600 nice bike but will cripple you around town due to riding position same with Zxr or ninja s

Yamaha fazer so boring you'll bin it

Just my views but I prefer getting my knee down so go for speed and fun lol"

The pee 2005 cbr 600f have a great post ion for round town sporting but you can a couch to the tank a bit and be dam near up right.

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By *icked weaselCouple over a year ago

Near Edinburgh..

get an old zx10..

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

If you want reliability buy Japanese, style buy Italian, a big pool of oil on your drive buy triumph

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I have had several bikes from old 259's to modern 600's, each bike had its merits and issues. there is so much out there you really need to go out and see what suits you and your budget.

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By *riskygazMan over a year ago

birmingham

Well you cant go far wrong with the good old Suzuki bandit

I am on my second bandit, now got an 07 plate 650 recently had a week whizzing around France on it, they are a good all round bike, good commuter and good touring bike, and got more than enough power to put a smile on your face when you twist the throttle.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

My bike history.....just pick one that suits

Ss50

H100

tzr125

Rgv250 (got stolen)

Z550

Gpz750

Gsx750f

Zzr1100

Cbr600

Tiger 900 (fell off walking pace broke leg)

Tt600- ducati gts860

Had kids. The end.

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By *ushandkittyCouple over a year ago

Gloucester

I'm loving my first big bike since passing my test GSX750f

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"If you want reliability buy Japanese, style buy Italian, a big pool of oil on your drive buy triumph"

Ive had three triumphs, tt600, street triple and a daytona 675, all were excellent never any oil leaks. Easily the best bike ive owned. Japanese bikes are soulless, ive had a gsxr 750 and a r6 and much prefe_ed any one of my triumphs.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I'm loving my first big bike since passing my test GSX750f

Good bike, i enjoyed mine! Feels like a "real bike".

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

" old school big jap bike..gsx1100

Dream to ride..and from a standing start will hold their own with sports bikes.

Nice 1100 kat?! Or 750 with pop up headlight?!

1100 kat is my all time fav bike,like shit off a shovel from a standing start.straight through 4 into one pipe on...in my opinion only one thing sounds better and that's a merlin engine

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I like the look of these but they look quite tall which might be a problem as I'm not

I'm only 5ft 8 but do have longish legs. Always worth trying though rather than going by the seat height as if its a slim narrow seat it will be lower than you think.

Big flat oscillating engine isn't the best for filtering"

Honda step through they run for ever and are cheap to run

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By *raceytvcdTV/TS over a year ago

mansfield

"Here's some advice...put your hand between your legs... Found your balls?...now go buy a V-Max...

So clumbsy tanks those and if you drop it need a crane to pick it up LOL

"
and handles like a tractor

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By *artytwoCouple over a year ago

Wolverhampton

This poor chap wants to commute, not lurch around on some death-wish crotch rocket, great slab of unwieldy metal from the dark ages or a chicken-chaser.

Lets suggest sensible:

Superscooter eg big cube Vespa, Honda, Yamaha etc.

CBR600F, ER6, Diversion

Modern Trailie/adventure eg DRZ 400, KTM, Beemer (a bit pricey)

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By *sh6866Man over a year ago

halifax

GPZ500? bit old, same engine as the ER5 though.... main thing, as this week has taught me- get the biggest feck off lock you can and have armed guards watching it!!! (do i sound angry cos my CBR600F1 just got nicked???)

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"GPZ500? bit old, same engine as the ER5 though.... main thing, as this week has taught me- get the biggest feck off lock you can and have armed guards watching it!!! (do i sound angry cos my CBR600F1 just got nicked???)

Sorry to hear that, I guess bikes are still

prone to being stolen.

I used to cars being unknickable these days. Need to think on an make sure it's secu_ed

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By *sh6866Man over a year ago

halifax

when you think its secure enough- add another lock! had 2 chains on mine, both cut through with bolt cutters . steering lock must have been smashed off too. Wouldn't mind. the bike wasn't even running, had parts missing so couldn't run. Probably stripped for bits now

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Here's some advice...put your hand between your legs... Found your balls?...now go buy a V-Max...

So clumbsy tanks those and if you drop it need a crane to pick it up LOL

and handles like a tractor "

100% agree.. ok in a straight line

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I bought a Yamaha SR125 for a comute to work, not too far. Great little run around! You'll love having a bike. Definitely recommend getting a bike.

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By *he Ring WraithMan over a year ago

Bradford

My commuter is a 1996 Yamaha XV535 Virago, cheap to buy, cheap to run, shaft drive so no oily chain. Light weight, narrow and a nice riding position.

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By *andRCouple over a year ago

Telford

When you have little legs there are some "cheats" you can pull off with a bigger bike:

Get the bike lowe_ed

Set bike on softer suspension setting

Get the seat lowe_ed and sculpted out

Buy some boots with hidden insoles (Daytona)

Works for me with my zx6r as I'm 5'2".

B rides a blackbird with dropped foot pegs and raised bars to fit him as he is 6'4"

Makes mine look like a minimoto

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"My commuter is a 1996 Yamaha XV535 Virago, cheap to buy, cheap to run, shaft drive so no oily chain. Light weight, narrow and a nice riding position.

Very true. My Nan said the same thing.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"when you think its secure enough- add another lock! had 2 chains on mine, both cut through with bolt cutters . steering lock must have been smashed off too. Wouldn't mind. the bike wasn't even running, had parts missing so couldn't run. Probably stripped for bits now "

There is not much worse in life than looking at the space where your pride and joy should be

Bring back my RGV you mutha fuckers!!

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By *renchbambi xWoman over a year ago

Need to know basis

Yamaha Viragos are great cruisers..filtering is easy and power not a problem. Plus you can find them at a reasonable price on the net.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

If you want a real bike with soul,brough SS80, so much nicer than its big brother and without doubt the nicest bike I have ever ridden

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Absolute bastards, was it at home

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

So anyway I've got myself a helmet so I can do some test rides and booked in a couple of refresher lessons at a local bike school.

I had a really nice time even though it rained constantly and I got soaked.

This bodes well for when the summer comes and I have my own nice bike.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

" So anyway I've got myself a helmet so I can do some test rides and booked in a couple of refresher lessons at a local bike school.

I had a really nice time even though it rained constantly and I got soaked.

This bodes well for when the summer comes and I have my own nice bike."

Becareful its scary out there

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

" So anyway I've got myself a helmet so I can do some test rides and booked in a couple of refresher lessons at a local bike school.

I had a really nice time even though it rained constantly and I got soaked.

This bodes well for when the summer comes and I have my own nice bike.

Becareful its scary out there"

Yes there were a lot of bellends on the road on Saturday

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By *sh6866Man over a year ago

halifax

yes it was under our bedroom window. Heard nothing due to wifes snoring....

Anyway....... we found it! we got it back... prob about £200 damage though. Even though its not really worth much, i'm bugge_ed if i'm letting them take it. We're not on great wages, we have an old car and an old bike thats a project- why should some toe rag think its just ok to take it.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"yes it was under our bedroom window. Heard nothing due to wifes snoring....

It's yours you worked hard for it, an some little bastard comes along and takes it. Did they catch them?

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By *sh6866Man over a year ago

halifax

nah. tbh police really didn't give a toss. we got a call a week later. all they seem to do now is just give a crime number for insurance..... well it wasnt insu_ed as its a non runner. I don't blame them so much as i have friends in the force, even they say its not a priority

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"ER500.

Cheap and decent learner 'big bike'. Slightly smaller than a CB too."

I'm a short arse but found my er5 great. Got it for good money too.

The other bikes I had And found great... This is ms not Mr. Was my zzr600 and sv but had the fai_ed version. But out of the 3 the er5 was the most comfy and easy to ride. Most fun was my gsxr 400 but quite rare now x

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By *sh6866Man over a year ago

halifax

did my test on an ER5 really liked it

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I did my test on a cb500 I wasn't really a fan

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By *sh6866Man over a year ago

halifax

only one way to find out........

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By *lay1098sMan over a year ago

LEICESTER

ffs making me feel old, done test on an old 250 back in the day, lol

dukes ever since

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By *ichaelsmyMan over a year ago

douglas

how did you forget no the bike show. apart from busy and hot.

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By *innamon!Woman over a year ago

no matter

I want a trike ... some sooper dooper ones on Ebay.. one of these days.. I shall bomb around on a goldwing trike ...

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Get a bicycle.

I've got three of those already but I'm old and fat and can't be arsed peddling "

e-bike

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Nah if I'm going to have a powe_ed bike I may as well have a motorbike

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"You won't go wrong with an sv650, personally I ride an rgv250 and it's awesome!!!

I was considering a littler bike

whats this like as a commuter tho"

Sv is a fantastic little bike although it's a 650 the way they are tuned make them perfect for commuters decent power at low revs, not much top end and so easy to ride. If you want a cheaper version of it the hyosung gt650r (same suzuki switch gear but without the price of having suzuki badge) I taught my daughter to ride on one when she was 17, they feel and ride more like a 250. Brilliant bike, upright position and I'm only 5,8" and had no problem at all ( daughter is 5,2" and had no problems either)

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"You won't go wrong with an sv650, personally I ride an rgv250 and it's awesome!!!

I was considering a littler bike

whats this like as a commuter tho

Hyosung that's interesting I'll check them out.

I'm going to ride a 650 bandit at the week end, but it's a bit dear for what it is.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

So I took out a bandit 650 at the week end.

And I have also been out on a Kawasaki er6

The kawa was newer but I liked the Suzukis engine more.

Have a few more bikes to look at this week.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I started with a SV650S nice enough but wasn't for me. Now on my 2nd Z1000. love it

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I've an sv650. Love the vtwin hum xx

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"I've an sv650. Love the vtwin hum xx"

I looked at a Honda hornet an a couple of sv650s

The sv650s both had aftermarket exhausts and sounded amazing.

I've not ridden them yet but the hornet felt the most comfortable

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I've an sv650. Love the vtwin hum xx

I looked at a Honda hornet an a couple of sv650s

The sv650s both had aftermarket exhausts and sounded amazing.

I've not ridden them yet but the hornet felt the most comfortable "

Check out an older f4i cbr600f.

(Around 01) cheap comfy load a of power comfy,handles great and good for commuting and fun.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I started with a SV650S nice enough but wasn't for me. Now on my 2nd Z1000. love it"

I had a test ride on the z1000sx my god that engine was nice.

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By *hugwelMan over a year ago

Jersey

KTM single easy to ride light easy in traffic great brakes pop em on one wheel when you want super handling or they do offer tame 300

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Well I have riden an er6 a 600 bandit a 600 hornet and a crb600f

I like the reviness of the in line 4 engines.

Tempted by the cbr600 but insurance was a little too much (twice the other bikes) and I can't justify it.

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By *ire_bladeMan over a year ago

Manchester

"Well I have riden an er6 a 600 bandit a 600 hornet and a crb600f

I like the reviness of the in line 4 engines.

Tempted by the cbr600 but insurance was a little too much (twice the other bikes) and I can't justify it.

Quality costs mate

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Well I have riden an er6 a 600 bandit a 600 hornet and a crb600f

I like the reviness of the in line 4 engines.

Tempted by the cbr600 but insurance was a little too much (twice the other bikes) and I can't justify it.

Gsx600f ?

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Well I have riden an er6 a 600 bandit a 600 hornet and a crb600f

I like the reviness of the in line 4 engines.

Tempted by the cbr600 but insurance was a little too much (twice the other bikes) and I can't justify it.

Which cbr6?

Post 07 the cbr600f is a hornet with a fairing and nothing like the old ones (the rr took over the role fully rather than being the sportier model)

A cbr600 f4i (01 and fs if you can find one rather than the plain s) ahouldnt cost much mine was 600 quid ish for my first year of riding only having held a license for 2 months

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Plain f not s sorry fs had aplit seat and some nice internals

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Well I have riden an er6 a 600 bandit a 600 hornet and a crb600f

I like the reviness of the in line 4 engines.

Tempted by the cbr600 but insurance was a little too much (twice the other bikes) and I can't justify it.

Quality costs mate

What this man said. Hondas have great finish and a second hand cbr will be in far better shape any any other make of similar age/mileage.

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By *ire_bladeMan over a year ago

Manchester

"Well I have riden an er6 a 600 bandit a 600 hornet and a crb600f

I like the reviness of the in line 4 engines.

Tempted by the cbr600 but insurance was a little too much (twice the other bikes) and I can't justify it.

Quality costs mate

What this man said. Hondas have great finish and a second hand cbr will be in far better shape any any other make of similar age/mileage.

Wona buy a blade

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Well I have riden an er6 a 600 bandit a 600 hornet and a crb600f

I like the reviness of the in line 4 engines.

Tempted by the cbr600 but insurance was a little too much (twice the other bikes) and I can't justify it.

Quality costs mate

What this man said. Hondas have great finish and a second hand cbr will be in far better shape any any other make of similar age/mileage.

And a lot more boring.....

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