Ucitfx35
Member
- Location
- California
Get urself a gsxr 750!!!! Kick ass bike, u just have to know your limitations whatever u get!!! My boy got a brand new kawi 600 and fell in the canyons doin 100, smh
So I'm getting a bike - Opinions ???
- Thread starter chevis979
- Start date
get the ducati:smile (2):
- Location
- Inland Empire, CA
- Car
- 2003 FX45
New or used? What kind of budget?
I will forever be a Ducati fan! Never been a real big Aprilia fan- too many distractions with Aprilia scooters and 2 strokes. Triumphs in the speed triple family tend to be quality exotics that you don't see every day. Also try Moto Guzzi, or a BMW Boxer. I've owned several Japanese bikes over the years (from all 4 major mfg's) and remain partial to Honda. I think CBR's are the best in the "popular bracket."
I'd say that the most important consideration is the amount and type of use you want the bike for. Fair weather daily driver? Weekends in the canyons?
Another major consideration is the type rider you honestly see yourself as. If you like pushing limits, I suggest a Japanese bike for your first streeter. You know the saying - "There's two kinds of riders. Those who have crashed and those who will crash." If you're a cautious rider- go European! Please don't get a beautiful Ducati and wreck it. I continuously fight every urge to buy a crotch rocket because I know my driving/riding style. It's a way of forcing myself to tone down. Be smart but have fun!
I will forever be a Ducati fan! Never been a real big Aprilia fan- too many distractions with Aprilia scooters and 2 strokes. Triumphs in the speed triple family tend to be quality exotics that you don't see every day. Also try Moto Guzzi, or a BMW Boxer. I've owned several Japanese bikes over the years (from all 4 major mfg's) and remain partial to Honda. I think CBR's are the best in the "popular bracket."
I'd say that the most important consideration is the amount and type of use you want the bike for. Fair weather daily driver? Weekends in the canyons?
Another major consideration is the type rider you honestly see yourself as. If you like pushing limits, I suggest a Japanese bike for your first streeter. You know the saying - "There's two kinds of riders. Those who have crashed and those who will crash." If you're a cautious rider- go European! Please don't get a beautiful Ducati and wreck it. I continuously fight every urge to buy a crotch rocket because I know my driving/riding style. It's a way of forcing myself to tone down. Be smart but have fun!
chevis979
Member
- Location
- Vancouver, BC Canada
Thx for al the advice and comments - keep them coming 
The Ducati 848 to me is the obvious choice cause it looks like its going fast even when parked..lol
I like having something different - kinda like the FX sort of original compared to what else is on the road - also getting a sport might make me feel like driving faster which I'm trying to avoid..
I'm looking used and all the bikes I picked out I have found used - no set budget, but the Ducati 848 being the most expensive I guess this is about my limit - cost is always a consideration though - for the bike and maintenance
Right now I'm leaning towards the Aprilia Shiver or the Buell - I love the Ducati, but like the originality of the other 2
btw - I appreciate the safety advice, but I've logged a couple hundred hours on a dirt bike and taking a safe riding course all to make myself a better rider..I plan to take it easy until I get some experience under my belt - having said that I won't be getting a 250 or a small starter bike as I feel I have ridden enough and am old enough (relaxed) to handle one of the bikes I've suggested...appreciate the safety advice though
keep the opinions coming - thx
The Ducati 848 to me is the obvious choice cause it looks like its going fast even when parked..lol
I like having something different - kinda like the FX sort of original compared to what else is on the road - also getting a sport might make me feel like driving faster which I'm trying to avoid..
I'm looking used and all the bikes I picked out I have found used - no set budget, but the Ducati 848 being the most expensive I guess this is about my limit - cost is always a consideration though - for the bike and maintenance
Right now I'm leaning towards the Aprilia Shiver or the Buell - I love the Ducati, but like the originality of the other 2
btw - I appreciate the safety advice, but I've logged a couple hundred hours on a dirt bike and taking a safe riding course all to make myself a better rider..I plan to take it easy until I get some experience under my belt - having said that I won't be getting a 250 or a small starter bike as I feel I have ridden enough and am old enough (relaxed) to handle one of the bikes I've suggested...appreciate the safety advice though
keep the opinions coming - thx
Last edited:
- Location
- Stuart, FL
Thx for al the advice and comments - keep them coming
The Ducati 848 to me is the obvious choice cause it looks like its going fast even when parked..lol
I like having something different - kinda like the FX sort of original compared to what else is on the road - also getting a sport might make me feel like driving faster which I'm trying to avoid..
I'm looking used and all the bikes I picked out I have found used - not really a budget, but the Ducati 848 being the most expensive I guess this is about my limit - cost is always a consideration though - for the bike and maintenance
Right now I'm leaning towards the Aprilia Shiver or the Buell - I love the Ducati, but like the originality of the other 2
btw - I appreciate the safety advice, but I've logged a couple hundred hours on a dirt bike and taking a safe riding course all to make myself a better rider..I plan to take it easy until I get some experience under my belt - having said that I won't be getting a 250 or a small starter bike as I feel I have ridden enough and am old enough (relaxed) to handle one of the bikes I've suggested...appreciate the safety advice though
keep the opinions coming - thx
Get the Ducat! Its a true enthusiasts bike that makes everyone stop and stare. Also has the grunt that none of the run of the mill bikes can match
- Location
- Portland, OR
I rode for a few years a while back (year round as my only source of transportation) and in my opinion from the list you provided you have a three way tie for excellence between the Aprilia, Ducati, and R6. Bear in mind though that all of those are seriously track oriented bikes, and riding any of them long distances will not be pleasant. I'd have to ride them to decide for sure... The Triumph Daytona could easily be on your list of test drives as well.
For a more comfortable and kick ass all around bike with excellent performance, you might consider the Honda VFR Interceptor, Ducati Monster, or Ducati SS.
View attachment 210907
For a more comfortable and kick ass all around bike with excellent performance, you might consider the Honda VFR Interceptor, Ducati Monster, or Ducati SS.
View attachment 210907
- Location
- Los Angeles, CA
- Car
- 05 FX35 RWD
I say go big, just take it easy until you get the hang of what it can do. I dont ride that much, but I find my brothers Harley real easy to ride & it's a 1200. You do sit lower in a Sportster, but it still weighs in @ 500lbs, & has some serious torque.
SexualChocolate
Member
- Location
- SE Houston
It really is your call. You are taking the MSF course so at least you're starting off in the right direction. We all have our likes and dislikes, I prefer to stay away from Yamaha, just a personal preference.
I assume you are not going to track the bike (if you were then ZX-6R), so buy what fits your needs best, well if you can call having a bike a need lol. For an affordable sportsbike the 600RR will be a good bet, I would never recommend a liter but the prices on the 1000RR are way, way down since Honda blew out the remaining 08s and 09s a couple months ago.
Seeing as you want to be different, like I said before Aprilia. Or at very least go with a naked bike which would include the Buell and Triumph (both on your list). If you like the Duc, check out their naked bikes.
I assume you are not going to track the bike (if you were then ZX-6R), so buy what fits your needs best, well if you can call having a bike a need lol. For an affordable sportsbike the 600RR will be a good bet, I would never recommend a liter but the prices on the 1000RR are way, way down since Honda blew out the remaining 08s and 09s a couple months ago.
Seeing as you want to be different, like I said before Aprilia. Or at very least go with a naked bike which would include the Buell and Triumph (both on your list). If you like the Duc, check out their naked bikes.
600 cc engine or less. I started on a Honda F4i 599cc.
Larger the engine, heavier it is.
You will 100% drop it, and don't want to do that on a really nice bike. Starting with a larger engine could be a death trap, but I do have friends that start with 750s or higher.
It's your preference and how good of a rider you are.
Also, be sure you are FLAT footed while sitting. I never understood those who buy a bike that is too big or don't buy a lower kit or lower control arm to get flat footed unless it's impossible to do. So dangerous as you're coming to a stop and unless it's a perfect stop, trying squatting 500+lbs on your tippy toes.
Buy a used, small, cheap bike to get used to, then upgrade. My two cents. Now? I won't touch a bike since car drivers are so bad in Chicago.
Larger the engine, heavier it is.
You will 100% drop it, and don't want to do that on a really nice bike. Starting with a larger engine could be a death trap, but I do have friends that start with 750s or higher.
It's your preference and how good of a rider you are.
Also, be sure you are FLAT footed while sitting. I never understood those who buy a bike that is too big or don't buy a lower kit or lower control arm to get flat footed unless it's impossible to do. So dangerous as you're coming to a stop and unless it's a perfect stop, trying squatting 500+lbs on your tippy toes.
Buy a used, small, cheap bike to get used to, then upgrade. My two cents. Now? I won't touch a bike since car drivers are so bad in Chicago.
I'd get a starter bike first. No matter how much time you logged learning in an open parking lot with orange cones, it will not take the place of real world situations.
Be safe and good luck.
---------- Post added at 09:40 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:27 AM ----------
You guys are posting some nice rockets, I gotta put mine up.
Be safe and good luck.
---------- Post added at 09:40 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:27 AM ----------
You guys are posting some nice rockets, I gotta put mine up.
- Location
- Portland, OR
I'm all for safety but I have to disagree with the "starter bike" recommendation for two reasons. First, the basics of biking are covered through dirt riding (balance, shifting, steering the "wrong way", looking where you want to go, emergency maneuvers, rear vs front braking, etc). Second, the basics of driving are covered through a few years of driving a car (road rules, speed limits, traffic, other drivers, etc). Starter bikes are for 18-21 year old kids who have never ridden a motorcycle before. With the skills (I assume) you already have from your experience, you'll graduate on to "normal bike" level way in less than one season. Unless you want to buy two bikes in the first year just get the bike you want and be careful. The main differences between street and dirt bikes (power and weight) are exceedingly apparent within 1min of pulling out of your driveway.
Also; Test drive test drive test drive.
Good luck!
Ps, The best piece of street riding advice I ever received came from an old man who had spent his life on harleys. It is in regard to other drivers and it is to "pretend you are invisible. Don't ever assume anyone can see you on the road because they probably can't."
Posted from my BlackBerry using BerryBlab
Also; Test drive test drive test drive.
Good luck!
Ps, The best piece of street riding advice I ever received came from an old man who had spent his life on harleys. It is in regard to other drivers and it is to "pretend you are invisible. Don't ever assume anyone can see you on the road because they probably can't."
Posted from my BlackBerry using BerryBlab
amen
- Location
- Dallas, TX
- Car
- 2007 FX35 RWD
The one good thing about getting a starter bike is you can get them cheap, learn well, drop 'em a few times, and flip for near what you bought it for. Then go buy a nice, newer, bigger bike, and hopefully it stays that way.
Of course, some people start on the big boys, and live to tell about it. I know most riders will say riding dirt is not good enough to say you are ready.
Of course, some people start on the big boys, and live to tell about it. I know most riders will say riding dirt is not good enough to say you are ready.
when i first saw this vid i was sold to KTM 950 Supermoto
KTM 950 Supermoto#
i then realized i couldnt afford the bike and the insurance... which was good, since i only started riding 2 years ago... this bike compared to the one i have now is a beast... i ended up with a dual-sport bike, 230cc, it keeps me modest and i know if i have something more powerful ill use it... safety should be your first concern here... i treat every ride like its my first... good luck
i do like the ducati and triumph :smile (2):
KTM 950 Supermoto#
i then realized i couldnt afford the bike and the insurance... which was good, since i only started riding 2 years ago... this bike compared to the one i have now is a beast... i ended up with a dual-sport bike, 230cc, it keeps me modest and i know if i have something more powerful ill use it... safety should be your first concern here... i treat every ride like its my first... good luck
i do like the ducati and triumph :smile (2):
Bingo!!! A mojority of anyone who rides has taken a spill once in their riding days. Those usually occur within the 1st year or first 3k miles of riding. I broke my collarbone the 1st time I hopped on a bike 15yrs ago. Never crashed since (knock knock)....
If you like rare
If you like rarely seen bikes Norton is building bikes again the 961 SS----
http://www.nortonmotorcycles.com/bikes/Norton%20Commando%20961SE/index.php?p=1
Frame
- Frame: Steel tubular with integral oil tank
- Swing arm: Twin-sided steel construction
- Wheelbase: 1420mm (55.9 in)
- Rake: 24.5 degrees
- Trail: 99mm (3.9 in)
- Front suspension: 43mm Ohlins RWU
- Rear suspension: Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks
- Front wheel: 3.50 x 17” BST Carbon Fibre
- Rear wheel: 5.0 x 17” BST Carbon Fibre
- Front tyre: 120/70 x 17”
- Rear tyre: 180/55 x 17”
- Front wheel travel: 115mm (4.53 in)
- Rear wheel travel: 100mm (3.94 in)
Brakes & Hydraulics
- Front brakes: Full Brembo system, twin Brembo 320mm semi-floating hi
carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
- Rear brakes: Full Brembo system, single Brembo 220mm disc, Brembo 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper
- Brembo “Gold Line” front brake master cylinder
- Brembo “Gold Line” hydraulic clutch master cylinder
- Brembo rear brake master cylinder
- Brembo hydraulic clutch actuation slave cylinder
Transmission
- Gear box: constant mesh 5 speed
- Final drive: 525 “O” ring chain
- Clutch: Wet multi-plate hydraulic lifter
- Electric startPower Assembly
- Engine type: New engine developed by Norton and F1 engine builders, MCT of Oxfordshire, England. Parallel twin with push-rod valve actuation, dry sump, 3 bearing crank and balancer shaft.
- Displacement: 961cc
- Cooling system: Air
- Valve actuation: Push rod, 2 valves per cylinder
- Bore x stroke: 88mm x 79mm
- Compression ratio: 10.1:1
- Power: 80PS @ 6500RPM
- Torque: 90Nm @ 5200RPM
- Ignition: Crank fired electronic
- Euro 3 compliant with electronic fuel injection and multiple 3 way catalytic converter
Electronics & Controls
- Charging system: 300 watt hi-output charging system
- Instrumentation: Norton electronic analogue speedo & tachometer
Miscellaneous
- Fuel tank capacity: 17 litres (4.5 US gallon)
- Dry weight: 188kg (414.5 lbs)
- Seat height: 813mm (32 in)
- Steering: Fully machined billet yokes, triple clamp lower yokes
- Handlebars: Tubular steel in chrome
Carbon Pack
- Front mud guard
- Chain guard
- Rear wheel hugger
- Rear number plate hugger
- Headlight mounting
- Front wheel
- Rear wheel
Colour Options
- Black & Gold
Price: £15,995
Price shown includes the 'On the Road' costs and VAT for the UK.
If you like rarely seen bikes Norton is building bikes again the 961 SS----
http://www.nortonmotorcycles.com/bikes/Norton%20Commando%20961SE/index.php?p=1
Frame
- Frame: Steel tubular with integral oil tank
- Swing arm: Twin-sided steel construction
- Wheelbase: 1420mm (55.9 in)
- Rake: 24.5 degrees
- Trail: 99mm (3.9 in)
- Front suspension: 43mm Ohlins RWU
- Rear suspension: Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks
- Front wheel: 3.50 x 17” BST Carbon Fibre
- Rear wheel: 5.0 x 17” BST Carbon Fibre
- Front tyre: 120/70 x 17”
- Rear tyre: 180/55 x 17”
- Front wheel travel: 115mm (4.53 in)
- Rear wheel travel: 100mm (3.94 in)
Brakes & Hydraulics
- Front brakes: Full Brembo system, twin Brembo 320mm semi-floating hi
carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
- Rear brakes: Full Brembo system, single Brembo 220mm disc, Brembo 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper
- Brembo “Gold Line” front brake master cylinder
- Brembo “Gold Line” hydraulic clutch master cylinder
- Brembo rear brake master cylinder
- Brembo hydraulic clutch actuation slave cylinder
Transmission
- Gear box: constant mesh 5 speed
- Final drive: 525 “O” ring chain
- Clutch: Wet multi-plate hydraulic lifter
- Electric startPower Assembly
- Engine type: New engine developed by Norton and F1 engine builders, MCT of Oxfordshire, England. Parallel twin with push-rod valve actuation, dry sump, 3 bearing crank and balancer shaft.
- Displacement: 961cc
- Cooling system: Air
- Valve actuation: Push rod, 2 valves per cylinder
- Bore x stroke: 88mm x 79mm
- Compression ratio: 10.1:1
- Power: 80PS @ 6500RPM
- Torque: 90Nm @ 5200RPM
- Ignition: Crank fired electronic
- Euro 3 compliant with electronic fuel injection and multiple 3 way catalytic converter
Electronics & Controls
- Charging system: 300 watt hi-output charging system
- Instrumentation: Norton electronic analogue speedo & tachometer
Miscellaneous
- Fuel tank capacity: 17 litres (4.5 US gallon)
- Dry weight: 188kg (414.5 lbs)
- Seat height: 813mm (32 in)
- Steering: Fully machined billet yokes, triple clamp lower yokes
- Handlebars: Tubular steel in chrome
Carbon Pack
- Front mud guard
- Chain guard
- Rear wheel hugger
- Rear number plate hugger
- Headlight mounting
- Front wheel
- Rear wheel
Colour Options
- Black & Gold
Price: £15,995
Price shown includes the 'On the Road' costs and VAT for the UK.
- Location
- Los Angeles, CA
- Car
- 05 FX35 RWD
Pretty but Pricey
Nortons are rare on the streets, especially the vintage ones. You have a pic? Love those bikes.