First bike????

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Jun 1, 2007 | 02:31 AM

brrobin

Thread Starter

Intermediate

Joined: May 2007

Posts: 41

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First bike????

I just graduated from college and have a job to teach High School Math in the fall. I am looking to buy a new graduation present for myself. I have always wanted a harley, and now I just have to figure out which one I want. My main question is will a SG be to much for a first bike???? I am a pretty big guy 6' 3" 250. I have ridden my dad's valkarie interstate (i know he is cheap)and it was a beast. I am hoping the SG will ride a little better. I read all these posts about people buying the smaller bike first and then have to pop for the nicer more comfortable bike down the road. I want to eliminate that step and cruise with one of the best looking bikes I have seen. Any suggestions would be great!

Jun 1, 2007 | 02:35 AM

ssls6

Road Captain

Joined: May 2006

Posts: 582

Likes: 50

From: South Park, CO

RE: First bike????

Buy a used bike so you're covered if you don't bond with the model. Keep in mind that heavy bikes are unforgiving at slow speeds.

Jun 1, 2007 | 02:38 AM

Greybeardrider

Road Warrior

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 1,318

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From:

RE: First bike????

The best advice I could give would be to rent one if you can. Try a couple of bikes , see what feels best for you. I always thought I'd like a streetglide, but after renting one last week in Phoenix, I'll keep my electraglide. It just suits me better for the riding I do.
I'm of the same mind as you,why buy twice? As long as you can handle a heavy bike as your 1st, and take a safety riding class.
Good luck....

Jun 1, 2007 | 02:44 AM

SoCal_Pappy

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2006

Posts: 4,602

Likes: 5

From: Southern California - Palm Springs Area

RE: First bike????

First I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND taking a Riders Safety Course before anything else... Everyone should take the course no matter how long they have been riding

A Valkarie Interstate normally will ride a bit smoother with the 6 cylinder and shaft drive - But then it's not a HARLEY (it's in a class of it's own)...

Weight is about the same on the handlebars as the Interstate has a fork mounted fairing... Over-all weight the Valk is a bit heavier & Higher...

Ya got to get the bike YOU WANT if you don't you'll just wish you did in a very short time!!!

Oh by the way have had 4 Wings & 2 Valk's in the past - But have ALWAYS had a HD in my garage also!

Jun 1, 2007 | 02:47 AM

brrobin

Thread Starter

Intermediate

Joined: May 2007

Posts: 41

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RE: First bike????

thanks for some quick advice. I have already completed the MSF course. The guys that teach it at Illinois State University are awesome. I would recomend it also to any new rider.

Jun 1, 2007 | 03:10 AM

tanq

Cruiser

Joined: Sep 2006

Posts: 163

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From:

RE: First bike????

I can jump in here- I had a Valk Interstate and that was the absolute worst riding motorcycle at slow speeds that I have ever owned. Cruising down the road was nice, but not the slow speeds. I'm also one of those who started small and kept jumping to larger bikes until I finally ended up with my UC first, and now my Glide. The Road Glide is in a class of it's own when it comes to handling, but it doesn't offer nearly as much wind protection as my Ultra. Congrats on graduating!

Jun 1, 2007 | 03:55 AM

The Pawnbroker

Road Captain

Joined: Apr 2007

Posts: 635

Likes: 14

From: Annapolis, MD

RE: First bike????

Go ahead and get a "big" bike right away. You will just want to move up very soon anyway. Basically, as soon as you are at all comfortable riding, you will want a big bike. If you can already ride your dad's bike, just get the Harley now. I would highly recommend the Ride Like a Pro IV video. Watch it and practice the techniques. I really learned a lot from that video and use the info everyday. After all the work it takes to graduate college, you deserve a brand new Harley. Also, you will definitely earn the respect of the kids you will be teaching. What could be cooler than a math teacher that rides a Harley?