Just looking for some input
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2nd Gear
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 6
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Just looking for some input
My wife and I are ready to buy our first bikes. She is an unexperienced rider. I am just looking for suggestions for things too look at when considering which bike we should get. We will not be going on long rides very often. Would a Sportster be a good beginner for her. I just don't want to get stuck with something she won't like later. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Tourer
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 382
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From: Long Beach, Ca.
RE: Just looking for some input
ORIGINAL: justsomebike
My wife and I are ready to buy our first bikes. She is an unexperienced rider. I am just looking for suggestions for things too look at when considering which bike we should get. We will not be going on long rides very often. Would a Sportster be a good beginner for her. I just don't want to get stuck with something she won't like later. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
My wife and I are ready to buy our first bikes. She is an unexperienced rider. I am just looking for suggestions for things too look at when considering which bike we should get. We will not be going on long rides very often. Would a Sportster be a good beginner for her. I just don't want to get stuck with something she won't like later. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Cruiser
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 107
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Just looking for some input
original: justsomebike
My wife and I are ready to buy our first bikes. She is an unexperienced rider. I am just looking for suggestions for things too look at when considering which bike we should get. We will not be going on long rides very often. Would a Sportster be a good beginner for her. I just don't want to get stuck with something she won't like later. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
My wife and I are ready to buy our first bikes. She is an unexperienced rider. I am just looking for suggestions for things too look at when considering which bike we should get. We will not be going on long rides very often. Would a Sportster be a good beginner for her. I just don't want to get stuck with something she won't like later. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
SSG Neil Bailey
07 Super Glide
Tourer
Joined: Apr 2007
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RE: Just looking for some input
My first bikes a 03 softail heritage classic, took the msf basic course and an hour after finishing the class im doing 60 on it down a windy mountain road with a fellow biker friend, And the next day was on the highway going to work with him.
Id suggest you both take the class not only to get your bearings on a bike but to get your license.
Ive always felt completely comfortable on a bike, not sure if its from the class or what. But you dont use your own bikes in the class, so take it see how comfortable you feel before spending the cash
Id suggest you both take the class not only to get your bearings on a bike but to get your license.
Ive always felt completely comfortable on a bike, not sure if its from the class or what. But you dont use your own bikes in the class, so take it see how comfortable you feel before spending the cash
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 3,166
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From:
RE: Just looking for some input
I would say take the MSF course for sure. I would get her a lowrider or something. Something a little low to the ground. It does not take long to pick up riding. Just be safe. Don't waste your money on a practice bike. Just get what you want.
Road Master
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,243
Likes: 1
From: Galt, CA
RE: Just looking for some input
Some of the things you need to look at are: How does the bike fit the rider? Can you reach the handles bars without stretching. Do your feet touch the floor properly when sitting on the seat, without being on "tip toes". Are the foot controls easy to reach and use. Is the clutch easy to pull or is it too stiff. Is the bike too heavy for the rider. These are just a few of the things you need to consider before purchasing the new bike. There are more, but that should get you started.
Big Kahuna HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 44,848
Likes: 3
From: South of Utica New York
RE: Just looking for some input
Sportsers are top heavy and not always good starter/female bikes
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,281
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From: Northern NJ
RE: Just looking for some input
How big is your Mrs? I think HD's are really not good as first bikes - they are heavy compared with other makes. Once she gets her confidence up and some experience on the road, then it will be time to get the HD. Also, she'll appreciate it more after riding a non Harley.
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Joe Kucinski
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 2,728
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From: Olympia, Washington
RE: Just looking for some input
Take the MSF class and make sure this is what you both want to do. Then go out and try different bikes. As far as the "starter bike" issue, you'll find people landing on both sides. I land on the side of go try the bike you think you'll be riding. The problem with Sporty as a first bike in case she doesn't like it is, what if she does and she wants to ride something else? You're fubared. Get your class, get the endorsement, go sit on some. Buying "starter" bikes can seem like a good idea, but a bad investment. It's a personal call, however, as I understand the logic that goes into it.
Tourer
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 265
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RE: Just looking for some input
For sure For sure take the MSF Course. Then and only thengo looking for scoots. The course and knowledge you aquire could possibly save your Life. When looking for scoots try them out if available. Look at all of them Metrics and Harleys.Get a feel for what fits you both.....Ride Safe and Often....BearC.Paw.....