Here's a question I've been wanting to post for some time. What would you recommend as a first bike? I mean, even if you intend to get a Harley, if you're a first-time rider, that's a handful to jump on and begin to learn riding skills. I had about 3 years riding experience some 40 years ago so I didn't get my Fatboy with no idea what I was getting into...still it's been a definite learning curve for me. Now my 29 year old son who has no prior experience on a bike has decided to ride also. After taking the MSF course I realized I need much practice myself, both on my Fatboy and also some seat time on a small bike to practice the maneuvers from the course. I set out to find a small bike but lo and behold I came across a bike I couldn't turn down, a 1982 Honda CX500, 9000 miles, always garaged and serviced regularly by only 2 prior owners. It looks fabulous but just doesn't fit the bill for a small bike to practice with. First of all it's too tall, secondly it has "buckhorn" handlebars which are kinda like mini-apes and seem strange after riding the little 250 Suzuki in the MSF course. I'm still in the hunt for a practice bike but wanted to run this by the collective intelligence of HDT. I'm now doubly enthused because I want my kid to have a good experience and be safe on whatever bike he wants in the future. So what little bike would you get? Am I thinking in the right direction or totally off base. What would you all recommend? I value your opinions and thank you in advance for input.
Ishmael
PS Yes, I am going to have him take the course, meanwhile he's riding the Honda and we practice maneuvers in vacant lots, but I certainly don't think it's a good idea for me to instruct too much.
Ishmael
PS Yes, I am going to have him take the course, meanwhile he's riding the Honda and we practice maneuvers in vacant lots, but I certainly don't think it's a good idea for me to instruct too much.