[Heinzftw]

So, with the price of gas lately. I have persuaded my parents to pay for half of a used motorcycle. I have only really rode dirtbikes in my life. So what, would be a good bike that gets somewhat good gas mileage and costs 5k or under. I have found a few Ducati's, Yamaha's, and even my grandfathers 2003 1200cc Bmw. I know a few members of this forums ride motorbikes so help me out please! THANKS! :thumbup:

[spicv0712]

I like Suzuki alot. My dad recently purchased an SV 650. New I think the bike is $7K, so I am assuming used you can def get it under $5k. The bike is very comfortable and pretty quick. I would also look into GSXR 600. Any bike would give you great MPG

[AchtungF80]

2008 Kawi Ninja 250R

[WhiteOne]

Used Suzuki 650. Great all around bike.

[dclee1]

What type of ride are you looking for? For a good mix of sporty/livable, I definitely second the sv650 nods. You could look into a Kawasaki ninja 500R if you want the sportbike look with full fairings.

If you don't mind a little maintenance and want something sportier, you can get an older 600cc sport.

[MVF4Rrider]

If looking for a Ducati, stay away from the 748, 916, 996. Great bikes, but the motor in the 998/999/749 is world's updated, especially the upper end. Early models have rocker arm issues and less than reliable electronics. I know! 998s and 749s can be had for cheap these days. Another great buy is the Aprilia RSV 1000 R. When I get back to the States next year I'm going to source a 749 for the wife, in yellow. Excellent riding position. Great sound. Adequate power with fantastic power delivery as per Ducati normal. All will get you decent fuel economy depending on your throttle control.

[Heinzftw]

Well, I think it's time I ride a real motorcycle. For about 3 years I raced Go-peds when I was young and stupid. Needless to say, road rash, dislocated fingers/arm, broken finger, among other things has forced me to quit racing those stand up scooters.

By the way Balls,
I have heard many upon many good reviews of the 2008 R6. Would it be worth saving up a bit more and buying a new bike such as the R6?

[jrc]

+3 on the SV650. You will get one almost new (possibly within warranty) for about $5K. It's reliable, gets good mileage and makes a great commuter. It's sometimes referred to as a good "beginner" bike--but don't let that put you off. It's not slow and handles well too. Don't get a Ducati unless you're willing to pay Ferrari-esque prices for parts and service (having personally owned several Ducatis).

[Stew]

Originally Posted by AchtungE30

2008 Kawi Ninja 250R

+1. I have been thinking of getting a bike, and having never ridden one, this is what I would like to get as a beginners bike. Plus, its $3500 BRAND NEW. Can't beat that. It is also redesigned with new looks and components...I read that 67% of Ninja 250 buyers are first time riders, and that this is the only bike to have contineous positive sales numbers...check out some reviews

[rocketpop]

I was think about getting one for my first bike as well, I mean $3500, 60+ mpg.

[Stew]

Yup...I just think it would be good in terms of a hobby vechicle...I would start with a class to see how I get along on a bike

[runNgun]

The kawa has my vote. Back in my time, I got the 500 as my beginner's bike and its main competition was the Suzuki for first timers. Don't worry about the racer look, the ninja's ergonomics actually allow a decent upright riding position (at least back then).

[2snail]

If you are starting out then the 250r is a great bike.. I was in your position last summer and I took the msf course to gauge whether I really wanted to ride or if it was just a fad. Well after taking the course I took the plunge and purchased a 2006 gsxr 600. I have heard that super sport bikes are bad news for beginners, but it all comes down to restraint and respect for the bike and what it can do. I enjoyed every mile on my gsxr. I ended up selling it about a month ago because I was only using it on the weekends. The 135i is my replacement lol. And with the super sport bikes, the riding position is not comfortable for long periods of time althought I didnt care as the fun overcame the discomfort. Just make sure you wear full gear EVERY TIME i see so many squids wearing tshirts and shorts asking for a skin graft.

[Stew]

In the reviews I read, they mentioned the seating on the 250 being between a standard and sport bike...

[Heinzftw]

Would the Ninja fit me? I am feeling it might be too small for me. Right now 5'11 220ish (getting lower)

[Ragenikon]

So i'm going to be the oddball here , how about a Triumph? Maybe a Speedmaster? I've always loved sport bikes but something about them scare the crap out of me...maybe because it's like straddling a rocket between your legs haha. Love the sound, love the look but i wanna remain in 1 peice and unscathed :smile:

*just make sure you don't put a shield or saddle bags on it please

[WhiteOne]

You will tire of laying down on a sport bike. Sitting upright will be more comfortable when commuting. I know a fellow that sold his Sport Touring bike to get the 650 Suzuki. He added the parts he needed and goes cross country on it. Be careful or you will get sucked into the racer look. Very uncomfortable.

[Stew]

I really like that Triumph...I was interested in the Ninja 250 since its small, and inexpensive, looks cool, but isn't too much of a sport bike at the same time. I think the bike from The Great Escape is my favorite =P

[dclee1]

Originally Posted by WhiteOne

You will tire of laying down on a sport bike. Sitting upright will be more comfortable when commuting. I know a fellow that sold his Sport Touring bike to get the 650 Suzuki. He added the parts he needed and goes cross country on it. Be careful or you will get sucked into the racer look. Very uncomfortable.

Depends on what you want the bike for. I've had my r6 for 4 years and I'm not tired of it, but it's because I take it out for blasts around the twisties or to get around the city. That being said, I've ridden the thing between Chicago burbs and Champaign (about a 2.5 hour ride on straight highways) and I can't feel my thighs afterwards. If you're going to go for more of a touring bike however, then I agree - don't get a supersport.
Oh, and +1 for definitely not doing it for the look, either. Those are the kind of squids that end up killing themselves on these things.

[Heinzftw]

I plan on wearing the suit for any trip except one. (A 6 Mile commute to college where the parking sucks)

[WhiteOne]

5'11" and 220lb? Don't get anything to small or you will crush it...

[azn13oi169]

i'd say like everyone else, get the kawasaki 250R. all bikes get decent gas mileage anyway, so just pick one that you really like.