You shouldn’t feel the need to apologize for not making videos, if people don’t understand that your family has to come first then you don’t need them as a subscriber. Stay safe.
Me too man. Just put the first 500 miles on my r3, absolutely love it. Plan on doing a bunch of upgrades, then selling if I need to and getting an r6 lol or just something faster
When I was 16 I wanted an R6. My parents told me no. 10 years later I'm much more mature and I understand the limits of my abilities. I bought a 2005 R6 and quickly realized that at 16, I would have killed myself on this bike. My answer to the age old question, "Should I start on a 600?" is this: If you can honestly control the impulse to just rip that throttle and respect the amount of power you're sitting on, sure. The issue then is, "Can you tell a 16-18 year old kid to slow down or go easy?" In my experience, generally you can't. You certainly couldn't have told me to go easy at 16 if I had an R6. It's about personal responsibility and being honest with yourself.
Ethan Stutt There’s a difference between going to track days than actually being fast at track days. You can learn on anything. Doesn’t mean you’ll be fast. If you ARE FAST, then you should have most of the panic situations down, and should know how to moderate your inputs to not upset a machine. Bikes are still different from cars however, so don’t try ripping it in the twisties first time out. Ultimately it’s about how fast your reaction time is and how you deal with high stress, quick paced things. If you weren’t fast with the Ferrari, ultimately you can still start on a 600, but will have to take it slower.
I had 0 riding experience. My car got totaled and I really needed a mode of transportation quick!! And I just sent it and said aight ima get a bike. Came across an 08 CBR600RR for what seemed a fair price and pulled the trigger on it. I had the guy deliver it to me because I did not know how to ride. Once he left, I just got on it and within 5 minutes I was shifting and accelerating. Such a freeing feeling. I’m addicted now. So if you made it this far, whatever bike you start on GET GEAR. BE SMART, and respect the bike. Stay safe guys
You can certainly start on a 600cc sport bike, but I know with my experience, it crippled my ability to ride in corners confidently as I was more afraid of the bike and didn’t benefit at all besides being able to say I had one... so I switched to a ninja 300 and it gave me much more value and still was fun and quickly gave me the ability to move up to bigger bikes over the years. After riding for many years now, I definitely have bigger bikes now, but I don’t regret my decision from a 600 to a 300 when I first got my license.. best decision I made. When it did come time to me purchasing a liter bike, I didn’t have the same problems I did 5 years ago when I first started out.
@@koofdome How many miles though? Total miles is a better indicator than number of years. Also what percentage of those miles were spent riding at a decent pace on twisty roads? If you've spent a few thousand miles railing corners, you are probably ready, whether that took 6 months or 6 years.
kleinbottled79 I just recently did what I wanted to always do! I traded the 300 and got a 650! I got the 2018 CB650F and I loveeeeeee it. Feels like the bike I was meant to be on. The 300 was great to learn on, but man I'm happier now! Enough power to make my adrenaline rush if I want, but so much more comfortable and smoother for longer rides. The only thing that sucks is the different feel in a fat 180 wheel in the back. Wow what a difference. It definitely isn't as easily thrown around like a 300
I'm starting off on a 600. Just my personal preference. Any story I've heard of about someone being injured on a bike, was that person fault. It's not the bike that is the problem, it's the rider who is irresponsible.
Meh it depends on skill/experience too. A big part of riding bikes is knowing what to do in situations you aren’t planned for. Situations might arise where you need to maneuver and you do something in a panic that will make you fall, drop the bike, or hit a car/animal. Situations that would be easier to deal with on a less powerful bike with less weight. Just know that brakes and throttles are far more sensitive on higher cc sports bikes and if you grab or twist too much in a second you could be on the ground. I want to start on a higher cc also but I also know that I only have experience from dirt bikes and a friends 300cc. I’d recommend test riding a 300cc then test riding a 600cc and see how comfortable you are on both.
@@QuavyQua You bring up a point I think gets too little attention. As in, the sensitivity of the throttle (brakes too). I started riding with 20+ years experience taking corners and driving (cars) quickly and responsibly, but was still very glad I started on a 300. One of the biggest reasons was, as a beginner, I didn't have a good 'throttle hand' yet. Not that I didn't know how much power I wanted, it's just that a persons hand doesn't automatically have the millimetric precision that it develops after you've been riding for a while. On a powerful bike 1 millimeter of throttle can be the difference between driving perfectly out of the corner and running wide into oncoming traffic. The same corner on a 300 might give you a 3 millimeter window, making it less crucial to be exact. Jake the Snake compared this to using the coarse adjust vs fine adjust on a microscope. Same basic theory applies to brakes to a lesser extent. My brother and also another friend started riding at about the same time as me. My brother started on a big heavy 900cc UJM. My buddy started on a duke 390 but switched to a street triple within 3 months. I'm far faster than either of them in the mountains. I think the main reason for this is they were never able to zero in on the corner speed they can carry or the exact amount of throttle to dial in on corner exit. Had they spent more time on small bikes both of them would probably be faster now. Their well justified fear, trained into them by learning on bikes with sensitive throttles, is still holding them back years later. Do you want to own a faster bike? Or do you want to be a faster rider? That is ultimately the choice you are making between starting on a 300 vs a 600.
Started on a 2012 r6 raven. Never felt like it was too much bike for me. So I guess what I'm saying is, you know if you can handle it and if you know you cant then dont. It's all on a person to person basis
I had mates that died on 50cc 2strokes and I also know people (including me) that started on a 600cc a never crashed. It's up to the rider, not the bike. A bike does not accelerate by itself.
I feel like beginners can start on 600cc they have modes so you can tone it down AND if older models they would need to learn throttle control!!’ YEEEETTTT!!!
600cc is easy enough to control o_o got my bike licence here in germany last year and starting on a '03 built 600 Bandit S. that thing is almost as raw as it gets xD No ABS, no tractioncontrol, nothing :DD at the least it doesnt have a kickstart ... :D super easy to ride though and tbh, anything with less power would just feel 'WAY' too boring
My first bike was a matte gray 2013 R6. It really is all about throttle control. I've never ridden a motorcycle before besides the ones at my motorcycle safety course. I passed the course on the 27th of May, then I bought my R6 on the 1st of June from a private seller. I've only been riding for 7 months and I'm already on my second bike, a 2018 R6. Hurricane Michael totaled my 2013 R6. I think it really comes down to being responsible, respecting the throttle, reverting back to basics if need be and not pushing your limits. Obviously if you don't feel comfortable you probably shouldn't go through with it. But if you do, just be wary. Don't let your friends try and peer pressure you into starting on a bigger bike, it's your life on the line, not theres. I feel pretty comfortable on my R6 and all my friends want me to get a liter bike but I still don't think I'm ready for a 1000cc motorcycle. My friends with liter bikes like to compare my R6 to a moped. My R6 has all the power I need right now and I still get goose bumps when I ride it. What I'm really trying to say is don't get peer pressured into getting a 600, don't think you need to get a 600, be responsible, respect the throttle, be safe and please don't be a squid.
@@speedstar1988 Sorry for the late reply. It isn't the ideal type of motorcycle for long rides, but it's obviously possible and not very comfortable. The longest ride I've been on was 4 and a half hours. I had a backpack on but all I had in it was 2 medium sized water bottles and a hoodie and my back started getting sore 2 - 3 hours in from the prolonged stint of weight on my back. If you're doing a long ride like that on a supersport, I'd recommend looking into a tank bag or a bag that can mount on the passenger seat and switching your riding position every now and then so it isn't too uncomfortable. Daily rides are hit or miss, I'm stationed in Florida so lane splitting is illegal so being stuck in traffic is a pain, especially if it's slow moving, like 5mph slow. But for the most part it's pretty comfortable as a daily. I ride it to work pretty much everyday except when it rains and when I feel like my truck needs some attention too. It's pretty nice.
Best 650cc starter bike is the Kawi Versys 650. Balances great, fun to ride, gets about 50 mpg. I just rode 600 highway miles on it, cruising anywhere from 80 to 96 mph. Even at close to 100, it still had plenty left. Ten seconds from 80 to 100, reasonably quick for dusting a group of cars. I would NOT recommend an R6 as a beginner's bike, not unless the rider was a wiz on BMX or something. Waaaay too much power for a newbie. Don't fall for a macho trap.
Versys 650 will always be my guilty pleasure. Perfect seating position, enough power to lift the front end and still be faster then like 90% of car on the road. Miss that bike, it is a great beginners bike if that rider is mature enough not to whiskey throttle it. Im still jealous of the MPG compared to my fz1, went from like 50-60mpg to 25-30mpg
My first bike was a versys 650 aswell for the first week or so it feels scary but then once your use to it its kinda gutless but still faster than most learner legal bikes in my country
Best bike is the Ninja 300 or 400. Do not buy a 650. They weigh 210kgs, thats 40 more! And to all you wanks who think more power is better. I will smoke you full hanging off dragging knee on my 300.
@@ChocCad1905 it's not all about speed or performance. It's about the form factor. The ergonomics and usability of the versys. 650's have a place in the market and the versys is no different. It can do plenty that the 300 and 400 are unable to do. Especially for people who arent small and light, the extra power does come in handy. Plus, if you're buying a versys you arent trying to race with it or get a knee down. It's for long trips and touring, something that wont be as comfortable with the ninja form factor
Depends on your riding background. My first bike was GSXR1100 but had done 10 years of dirtbike riding as a kid before the Gixxer. I recommend a supermoto or dual sport for a fist bike if you have no previous experience. Perfect bikes to gain experience on. It’s almost inevitable that you’re wreck your first bike and sportbikes are expensive to drop. A 300 sportbikes must be the worst starter bikes in my opinion. It’s like a sport car with the engine from a delivery van!
My first bike is a 08 R6S and I love it, but I drove a standard car to begin with so I felt that I could tolerate throttle control and it hasn’t been an issue. If you can feel confident on the bike, you could honestly start on a 1000, but I decided to play it safe, but just remember when you pull that throttle back, you get what you receive, don’t push yourself or be plain stupid.
9:36 Slow down at intersections like that bro, one of the worst things you can do is running through it like that on a wet and dark day, a grey car would've been impossible to see in that situation and even if you saw it you'll try and turn and slip into it at whatever speed that was you were going.
Back at 1988 When I was a sophomore in high school I bought my 1st motorcycle which was a Kawasaki GPZ550. Yeah, I laid it down but I turn around and sold it for more money than I bought it for. It was pretty bad ass at the time but when I showed a picture of it to my 16 year old daughter and she said that it looked like a scooter. Ouch 😢
Really depends on you as a rider...as most have stated, the power band is above the 8K range so it's pretty tame in the low end. Some naked bikes have been tuned to have more low end torque which might be worse for some starting out. I started on a R6 and still am loving it after 7 years of riding it and doing the occasional track days on it. If doing it again I think I would have started on a smaller bike but I learned to have great respect for it early on. Also depends on if you want to either do track days or long distance riding cause an R6 is not comfy enough for long distance riding.
Naked 650 would be better. Something like a SV650 or ER6n, very forgiving below half the RPM range, and light enough to manage, while being very fun to grow into.
Why naked the faired versions are the same, just have fairings. The ER6f (Ninja 650) is awesome, yep I have one. Also 650 twins are quicker than the 600 super sport up to 40-60 mph (depending on the models in question) due to the torque delivery, then the super sport uses it's power to say bye bye. They weigh around the same too.
@@HalfdeadRider fairings is a big reason. If your new you're probably gonna drop your bike at a stand still. Fairings are expensive. Plus riding position is better for the position IMO
A beginner should never start on anything other than a 125cc or lower...but first bike is different. If you already have riding experience or training then for a first bike you can get 250cc +. I've seen way too many beginner inexperienced riders crash my 50cc motorbike and i'm just glad it was only 50cc because they would definitely not be able to handle anything more powerful
I’ve been on my Yamaha R3 for about 5 months and already out grew the bike BUT my bike has teached me things I wouldn’t have never learned in the motorcycle training course. Now I’m A+ confident getting on a r6 graduating from a r3.
I started on a Triumph Street Triple R ... 3 years later, I am still happy with it, did not feel it being too much, linear power delivery, not bored yet, nor it killed me. What do you guys think of the STR as first bike ?
I started on a 750 about a month ago. Rode in B mode which is low power mode. After 3 rides I accidentally rode in A mode, full power. I found full power to be more stable, easier to control, and most of all I had no more engine stalls. I attribute the no stalling to the power a 750 packs in 1st gear it just simply wants to go. I grew up around bikes so I always knew the safety rules and all that. I just never got the chance to ride. It’s up to you how you want to ride.
Everyone will go down! You have to choose, between going down at 60mph or 260 mph. If you’re ok with a really fast crashing go with a 600cc as your first bike.
I'm assuming that you aren't a fast rider since to be a really fast riders you need to ride small displacement since you have a higher margin of error.
*I never usually comment on videos, but I think my opinion could save a life, or bones* Fully agree on your opinion. Started on a 250 (owned for a week) - moved onto a ninja 650 (owned for like 4 months) - chilled during winter time and got an r6, if I started on the R6 I would’ve most likely gotten into some serious trouble, definitely wouldn’t have developed fundamental skills in a linear progression with confidence compared to other more suitable bikes. I ride my friends 250cc and I rip that thing up Way harder than I can on my R6 - if I started on an R6, I wouldn’t be able to easily push that 250cc like I can, Ofcourse I still have so much to learn and refine (it never ends)- a great lesson that really humbled me recently on the r6 (or any bike) was understanding how unforgiving a bike can be for making small mistakes around the same area you normally travel (every ride, every moment is a new one, don’t get complacent)… mind you I come from a motorcycle family it’s in my genes I was holding motorcycle handlebars from birth 😂 i’ve also taken up some govt funded courses to absorb as much knowledge as I can… The reason i’m saying all of this is not to brag (nothing to really brag about anyway) or try to sound like I know everything, it’s just in the hopes that a beginner reading this makes the better choice regardless of their talent/potential and actually becomes the best rider they can be. Slow and steady will win the race. It takes ONE mistake to possibly permanently damage your life, or even worse, end it.. I hope atleast one person can learn something from this, Ride safe 🤙
Just got my first bike which is a Ninja ZX6R 600cc. So glad I didn't buy a "beginner" bike! - BUT, I just began my 2 wheel journey at 30 years old, have driven manual transmission cars, took the MSF course and bought a 250cc dirtbike to learn the basics before I hit the streets. It all depends on you're personal abilities, mindset, and self control.
Just because you can drive a 600 doesn't mean you should be driving it, people are so ignorant lmao, i could get on a 1000cc right now and drive it fine that doesn't mean i should be on one, as soon as i get comfortable and test the bike one will end up dead, squids dont realize that until after they crash.
@@kevincorrigan1754 yes I agree. The problem is its "potential", which is vast and very fast, which if you try to unleash it on public roads is stupid #1, and stupid #2 is thinking you can harness that power with little experience. You can ride a 250cc and choose to do stupid shit and die just as easily. You can ride just about anything and have someone crash into and die even when not doing anything stupid. Point is maybe that ride responsible and choose something you're proud of having for whatever your desire and taste.
My first bike was a 600, it’s a great starter bike especially on a budget because if you go with a 300 you are going to want a bigger bike very soon. Plus lighter bikes are easier to steal. As long as you practice clutch discipline and throttle control you can ride any bike.
Erik Neumann So locking the steering wheel and leaving it in 1st gear is not enough? what’s the difference between doing that on a 300cc and a 600cc both bikes can get stolen no matter the size. Even a r1
Ragnarok bikes don’t have a steering wheel... locking the bars and leaving it in gear is literally nothing at all. The locking mechanism can be broken easily and there’s nothing preventing from shifting the bike into neutral. A 600 is heavier than a 300, the only way to keep it from being stolen easily is to lock the bike with a heavy duty chain and lock to something that can’t be moved or that the bike can’t be lifted over.
I think any bike could be a good starter bike as long as you understand and respect the power that it puts out, and you take your time making the corners and slow down when you come to intersections where most accidents happen....
It's simple. Start on a legit 300! It not just keeps you safe, but also makes you a lot better rider. There's soo much more to learn limiting a 300 than in baby'ing a 600.
Mototzigane I 100% agree if you can confidently ride a r3 or any 300cc you will have no problem transitioning to a 600 because the 300 has laid out the foundation for you and as you go up in cc’s you just keep building on that foundation. I started on a 2016 r3 NON ABS and that bike has taught me everything I need to know to handle a bigger bike now.
@@Demiurge66 Yess! R3 is one of those easy going yet exciting reliable bike. You made the right decision, congratulations you'll be a great rider as you climb up the cubic capacity stairs.
I've been riding my 2016 r6 for 3 days, it's my first bike. Yeah it's too fast for me atm but it's totally doable. Just learn to control the throttle and do slow corners
The most recent bike that I sold was to a new rider. He asked me if it was a good beginner bike and I told him "no it is not". It was a Kawasaki Concours. I told him that it could easily get away from a beginner and stressed that with a lot of maturity and restraint on throttle input it could be done but there has to be constant respect for what that machine could do. He bought it and last time I saw him, he had dropped the bike a couple times at what looked like very low speed damages to the fairing but he was still enjoying it. My current bike is a 2020 Versys 1000 which I love. It is a good bit slower than the Concours was but at 57yrs old, I am liking the more upright riding position much more.
I started on a 600cc as a junior in HS. 18 years later I bought another sport bike. Learn the mechanics & throttle control on the bike as well as using that thing between your ears called a brain and you’ll be fine
how did you afford it? im in the same situation ive got about 800 saved up but ill be working all summer. i just wanna get a bike and not get bored cause if i buy i bike im gonna have it for a long time
displacement is a silly metric. You can have a very powerful machine that is beginner friendly if it makes its power / torque in a linear fashion. Though the old saying, "bigger engine, bigger problems" is definitely true. The best thing you mentioned was the specific 'track only' nature of a bike like the R6. Definitely better of starting with an FZ-07 for it's neutral, more comfortable riding position; if you really refuse to start on a 300 or 350...
Definitely depends on the rider, there are many people who shouldn't be on anything more than a 300. I've rode dirtbikes and then harleys on the street.. Then when I purchased my CBR600RR having never rode a Super Sport, It was completely natural to me and added an R1 within 3 months of getting the 600. The 600 now feels like a moped in terms of power but still appreciate how nimble and light it is.
J.J. Pierson I agree having motocross experience I got an 07 zx6r for my first bike. Honestly first impression was awesome but after riding for a short time I wanted more.
I agree, not that it's too much power but I think super sports are more difficult to ride. I now own an MT09 coming off a ZX6R. This bike minus the power is much easier and comfortable to ride. I think a MT07 would make a great 1st bike!
As a fellow R6 owner and one who also but it as a first bike, I have to agree with you. Having a smaller CC bike and a cheaper one is honestly the best option for first time riders. I do not regret my R6 nor will I ever want change it if I had to do it again, but the wise answer is go smaller, cheaper, learn, enjoy and have fun and then when you’re ready after some good quality time in the seat go out and get a bigger bike. Great Video Moto, glad to see the R6 again and want more of it!
I started on a 07 CBR 600rr. Super lightweight. Easy to control. Super quick and fast. I grew up riding quads so i was already use to feeling a clutch out & shifting. But all my buddies have heavier bikes (‘04 gsxr 600, ‘06 cbr f4i, ‘16 cbr 1000rr). Love mine to death though.
My first bike was a crf150f when I was 15. That just taught me the controls of how a motorcycle works( shifting, turning etc). Just recently I got a ninja 300 at 18. Not gonna lie I kept it for only 5 months l got bored of it quickly, but it taught me the basics of riding on the street. Now, I have cbr f4i it’s much faster then the 300, but I feel a lot more comfortable and confident on it with the previous experience . So what I’m trying to say is start on a 300, 400 whatever just to get the basics. Don’t rush into something bigger until you know your ready. 600 will show you who’s boss if you don’t know what your doing. That’s just my opinion.
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Also, I started on a 05 GSXR 600, andI wouldnt say it was a bad choice but it also wasnt a good one. I find myself to be very responsible and go into things with an open mind. I knew that the bike was powerful and i could easily fall (which I did) One point that not many people talk about is how "twitchy" the throttle can feel to someone who has never ridden a bike before. which is one of the reasons why you always see the people who throttle it too much and wheelie it and flip it backwards. another thing is not knowing how to operate the clutch properly. If you know how to drive a stick shift car, you get a +1 in advantage because you know somewhat when to shift and what the sequence is, like let go of throttle, Pull Clutch, shift, release clutch and back on throttle. so that is pretty much the only edge that you can get, which fortunately for myself, I knew how. I started riding last year, mid June 2017 and bought my bike with 0 experience. went up and down my street like 2 times and decided it would be smart to take my bike a little further. ended up going about 2 miles away and dumping it cause i gave too much throttle and jerked the bike forward, not stalling it but it still scared me a bit and had a "target fixation" moment. (btw I highly recommend on learning about Target Fixaction cause that will save your ass in the long run) after falling, I realized that i broke my rear brake pedal but the bike was still rideable fine. so I pick the bike up, and ride it home with only using my front brakes, from this experience I learned alot. mainly, my clutch control, front brake pressure and the danger of not having enough experience. in a summary, I don't believe anyone SHOULD get a 600 (supersport) motorcycle as a first bike. It is possible and know many people who have and are totally fine, but i just dont recommend it.
I started on a 125 zuma scooter and I’m glad I did. I got the riding down and was able to feel comfortable with knowing I can not give to much throttle. Whiskey throttle was my biggest fear for some reason. 3 years later I still ride it to work daily in warm weather. I money I save on gas is awesome. And then I moved up to a 650 cruiser bike (vstar 650)and I’m content with that bike and feel it has all the power I need. I’m not a speed freak and 65 is fast enough for me on the highway. Thanks for your videos.
For anyone new to motorcycles. I know a lot of people on this channel always think about sport bikes for your first bike. If you’re mind is fully set on that go for it. But if you just want to ride. Get a cruiser. There’s plenty out there that are inexpensive. They’re low and you can get something lighter. Get a Vulcan s. It’s small, light, has the same engine as a ninja 650. You can toss them around when you’re comfortable, they have torque for pulling out of turns which is fun. Since it’s low you’ll be more comfortable coming to a stop. And most of all in my eyes. Depending on what cruiser you choose. It won’t get boring fast like small cc sport bikes. The difference between something like a Vulcan s or scout to a big v-twin isn’t that much for straight line acceleration. It’s more how comfortable is it at 100mph for long periods of time.
600 naked bikes are perfect to start on, quick enough to get you sideways out of corners and pop wheelies once you know what you're doing but chill enough to calmy go for a ride and respect the power between your legs if you're brave enough :) but to each taste their own
I'd argue 600cc bikes are the Best bikes, if you are able to control it and yourself. Low torque at low RPM's and lots of fun in the high revs. My first and second bike were 600's, and it made me a happy, confident and competent rider. And with older bikes with No electronics, you do Not want a lot of torque at low revs. That's how a lot of newbies spinn out and crash while cornering. My CBR600F has basically no power up to 5000 RPM's and easy to control power up to 10K RPM's. Only at 10K-11K do you get the full effect, and you don't Have to ride at those RPM's.
My first bike, at 18 yrs old, is a 600 naked with only abs and no traction control (would prefer to have no abs tho tbh) and I think those are perfect to start if you're brave enough. I'm a very careful and defensive rider but found myself doing well controlled wheelies and scraping my footpegs, even after upgrading to pirellis after just a week, a month later the power already got boring and didn't feel fast even if it's able to come out of corners sideways and spin really easy when wet. Now I'm already looking to sell that thing and get something with more torque like a Husky Nuda 900r lol
Agreed, my first bike was an 02 cbr600f4i and I respected it and knew what could happen if I messed up. I put 40k miles on it in 3 years and had a blast. Went to an 05 zx6 (8 years on it) after that and now on an 05 r1.
Personally, I am glad I started on an SV650, but more power to people that feel comfortable starting on 600cc. I was not one of them, but I do love having a 600 now. That's for damn sure.
I’m so at odds about what first bike to get at first I was set on getting an R3 because I want a sporty bike cheap light and comfortable to learn on then maybe upgrade in the future. I talked with the dealership manager and he made a great point that like 80% of sport bike riders eventually upgrade from 300/400/500 bikes. Unless you’re buying your first bike cash it doesn’t make sense to finance a starter bike that you may want to trade in, in less than a year possibly. Figure out a 600cc that’s comfortable and take it slow, if I take an MSF course I’ll be fine. I was also worried about learning how to ride on a heavier/taller 600 bike harder to maneuver(I’m 5’6), however I sat on a R3 then a gsxr r600 and was shocked how the r600 was barely any heavier and had such a low seat. I honestly felt right at home. Had convinced myself to get the r600 after MSF, but now I’m rethinking it after you made a great point that you’re not positive what you’ll like to ride as a beginner. Any feedback from anyone?
Depends on the rider. Many of us learned on 600's. and I have friends that started on a Busa... Smaller bikes are easier, but if the person shows restraint and uses their head, larger bikes can work as well...
My first street bike was 850cc, I would’ve been more comfortable if it was lighter but man the power and torque are awesome. Depending on how the insurance works in your area I’d say the best starter bike is a supermoto/dual sport. Lower cc so it cheaper insurance and a grea power to weight ratio to have lots of fun.
Here in New Zealand, you can't legally ride a 600 on your learner or restricted license. Rule used to be anything up to 250cc excluding 250cc 2 strokes. Is now restricted to a power to weight ratio of 150kw per metric ton. We also have rider training courses you can do to advance to the next level of license quicker too.
So, there’s a saying in car racing that I feel might apply. “It’s more fun to drive a slow car fast than it is to drive a fast car slow.”. My first (and still my only) bike is my ‘82 Suzuki GS850G. I don’t get to ride it right now cause I broke it. It f I had it o do over again, I’d get a Sumo. Probably a DR-Z400SM just because I wouldn’t have had to tinker with it. It’s plenty fast and you can ride it on road, off road and a combination there of. They even have sanctioned supermoto racing to satisfy the go fast.
Living in Switzerland (and in Europe in general), you have no choice but to start with a "slow" bike (35kw=47.5bhp) and ride it for two years before moving on to something more powerful. I think that's a great system, had I started on my current R6 (instead of my R3), I don't think I'd have enjoyed or been able to enjoy it that much. I definitely recommend starting on a smaller displacement bike, you'll learn so much (it might be considered slow but that's already pretty fast, 5.4 sec 0-60 is more than enough).
over here in the UK you have to start on a 50cc at 16, or a 125cc at 17. honestly it makes for some better riders, but also some more idiotic ones once they reach the age to get to a bigger bike CBT - 16 - 50cc CBT/A1 - 17 - 125cc and 15hp A2 - 19 - 47hp A - 21 - unrestricted IF you have A2 for 2 years A - 24 - Same as 21 but direct access hope that explains stuff over here a little bit, i always see people being confused by it
I think any cc bike is good starter as long as the rider treats it with respect for what it can do. Congrats on your little gal and hope she feels better soon.
You said it perfectly. Now hopefully people will actually listen to you, because most of the time when people ask if they can start on a 600 they don't want the answer, they want validation for the answer they want to hear. and then discredit the actual answer.
Depends on how big they are? I was 6' 195 and started on a Honda XL250 and kept it for a few months and moved up to a KZ650 because I wanted a more powerful street bike. I think I started on the perfect beginner bike! Glad to hear your daughter is starting to feel better
I do kind of agree with what you say. Going on a cheaper, less powerful bike for a year or so is probably the best way. I don't live in the US and this does give me another perspective on this. One of the biggest costs related to bikes in Sweden is, besides the bike itself, insurance. Liability insurance is mandatory and driving a uninsured vehicle comes with a pretty hefty fine if caught. Insurance for a new rider, especially if one would live in a city is severe. This means that in order to be financially able to ride, the first bike has to be chosen from a cost of ownership perspective. Some figures. Insuring a smaller bike like a Suzuki 650 Gladius might be $400 annually for everything, a large Supermoto like a Husqvarna 701 is $2000 for the same insurance and a R6 is $3000-3500 annually liability only. That means if you buy a used R6 you may very well have to pay another half of the cost of the bike in insurance. My lesson is therefore. Don't buy your first bike with your heart. Use your head and when you have some time behind the bars, go where you want to go.
I started on the 2018 R6 Haven't had any accidents luckily and I've had it about a year now. I personally think if you're mature enough and know and ride to your limits, you could start on a bigger bike.
Started on a hornet 600. It was stolen after 6 months and I've had an R6 since. Commute on it daily, all year round. I had 12 years experience from the car first though, so know what to expect from other road users...
Bikes like the FZ6R are great beginner bikes for ppl who need to commute on the interstate. Super flickable and easy powerband management. There are definitely exceptions within this class of bike, it’s all in the hands of the rider 👍🏼
My first 'big bike' was a '04 GSXR600. I spent a couple of years on a Yamaha R125 whilst on my learners license and planned to get an SV650 as my first big bike but I decided to make the jump up to a K4 GSXR which i'd planned to pick up after an SV. I know the requirements for a full license are a little different in regards of training in the UK over the US but after doing my big bike license test and spending a bit of time of an ER6 during lessons I felt like an extra25-30bhp wasn't too much of a jump up as long as you're not silly and ride smoothly. Looking forward to picking up a S1000rr or RSV4 as my first 1000cc bike in a few months! 4/5 years and i'm looking forward to something bigger(and more torque/safety features and i've never ridden with either).
Wise words @ 12:30 Moto. For all newbies a sports bike is not a good starter bike. If you have zero exp you should definately not get a sports 600. You can get on a 2000cc non sports bike and find it easy to ride. But the way power is delivered on a supersports make them to aggressive for people with zero experience. I started on a VFR 800 (1998), a sports tourer. More cc yes but delivered in a friendly way for a new rider. Loved that bike.
I live in FL and my only ride is a bike. I sold my car didn't care to have it anymore. I love riding in the rain. It's like being on a fast water ride.
I started on a 600cc motorcycle at the age of 14. I probably weighed 125lbs and was 5’7ft. but that was a 98HP old zzr kawasaki. then I rode a cbr600rr then realized it was nothing like my old 600cc but still handled the power of that cbrr just fine
For most people that haven't ridden before I don't think people should look at a 600. I think try practicing on smaller rental or borrowed bikes. That's what I did for a while, and my first bike is an 800
I started on a '16 Ninja 650 and absolutely loved every second of it. Unfortunately I got tboned by a distracted driver about 3 months ago, totalling the bike before I was even remotely tired of it. I picked up an '06CBR F4i and that thing feels like being shot out of a railgun compared to the Kawasaki. If you're looking at getting your first bike, go with a used 650. They're fun little engines that have just enough power to get you into some real trouble. The SV650 is a great choice since they're so cheap. If you have your heart set on a 600, I'd recommend getting the detuned version if available(I.E. get the F4i over the 600RR.) Bikes like that will give you the power you want(but honestly don't need) with a more comfortable riding position. But be warned. ANY motorcycle has enough power to get you into some serious trouble if you try to ride beyond your limits
If it makes you feel better. My first street bike was a new 2011 Ducati 848 evo. Sadly sold due to divorce, fast forward 7 years. I bought a ninja 500 for under $500. Traded after 2 months on my FZ07 for a almost $1100 profit. Love your content brother. Let me know if you want help with bmx stuff. 😉
(First bike I owned was a z650 and I currently own a cbr 600rr) I personally would not recommend starting on a 600cc. My reason for that being; they're fast. Really fast. Sure you can say you'll have self control, but you're most likely a little younger and you won't. The 650 has decent top speed and great torque to start and it will take a little while before you get bored. (I got bored with my 650 somewhat quickly because I had ridden other bikes before actually owning one, so I was somewhat used to it). Getting on a 600 for the first time, I was shocked with how fast it is. I had watched all the videos and seen what they can do, but there is nothing like getting on a super sport. If you think you can have self control and not send it all the time, then start on a 600.
I have an uncommon perspective on this. I came to Vietnam, where I decided to travel through the country on a 100cc Honda Win. Being only 19 at the time, I didn't have a license. Besides the engine being tremendously small, all of the mechanics are more or less the same. Long story short, a year later I bought my first 'real' bike, an R6, and it has just been pure pleasure. And I'm riding it in Ha Noi in Vietnamese traffic. I honestly think anyone with a mature brain and a license could do it too. Especially on American roads. Sidenote: my dad rides too, he didn't even know beginner bike was a term, because he hasn't been caught up with UA-cam and whatnot like the rest of us. He started on a 750cc gsxf, a really heavy bike. Never crashed it, never dropped it. So stop the drama. Ride safe, with gear, within the speed limits, on whatever bike you want. Don't push it in the corners. Good luck.
i am probably in the minority here but i started on a 650 that was also modded with tune and full exhaust, let me just say i am so happy i started where i did. i have experience in other vehicles with manual transmissions so that helped but i would have gotten bored of a 250-300 the same day i got it
I started riding this summer and I started on a 2012 ninja zx6r (rcf the race version) yes the bike is a death trap. I knocked in deaths door far to many times than I’m happy with.... but I daily drove a build evo for over 2 years and I knew I knew how to be responsible when it comes to speed.... so the whole starting in a 600cc bike will get you killed isn’t completely true...... the real killer for these bike is the fact that you become addicted to the speed
Gr8 info. Another thing that doesn't get taken into consideration is a rider's build. You take a big guy like myself & put him on a 250 or 300 as a learner, he'll never learn proper throttle control. He'll have to crank it nearly wide open just to get it move him cause of the weight. He's probably better off starting on a Ninja 650 or a 400 depending on how tall he is.
I think your mindset when you start to ride is more important than your starting bike, but it will also inform what kind of starting bike you want. A careful, cautious approach to learning to ride -practicing, taking classes, and being careful not to out-ride your abilities will lead to better control and understanding of the bike as you ride more. An uncautious approach with an aggressive riding style and invincible attitude will get you killed. The first rider is already more likely to start with a lower CC bike, the latter is more likely to start with their big fast dream-bike. But in both cases their attitude is what is going to inform their riding much more than the bike itself.
I bought a 300 in 2013 as my first bike (new). Its great for beginners. And motonositys old how to videos was what got me started (and i use those videos to teach people now). The 300 was great. But i got bored with it real quick. I still have it but i wish i can buy a 600 (no budget right now). Lets just say, if i started learning with a 600....i would have crashed it.
I bought a 2007 ninja 250 for my first bike. It has been great for a starter bike. And for commuting short distances is great. I do have to commute 1.5 hours to work. It's not bad for that commute, but the RPM range is really high for too long. But besides that. I am having a blast even on a 250 sports bike.
you know you do have a point. My first bike was a cbr600rr, i got it just over a year and a half ago (and still have it) but i found myself focusing too much on the power. I still find myself learning a few things about the bike even after 20 months of riding, maybe with a smaller cc bike i could have learned to ride better because it wouldn't be as much of a challenge and then move on to a 600/1000. I personally believe a 600 naked will be best for a beginner because they are not as aggressive as supersports and they can still do everything from city riding to highway and on top of that they are quite comfortable. A used suzuki gsr 600 for example would be perfect in my opinion. I just think that 250s are a waste of money. They can't do highway and they limit the rider on how much they can learn and improve their riding.
I've "started" on a 50cc moped (Switzerland bike law suck), actually dragged knee on it even though it's stupid to do on the road and jumped on a 600 inline 4 after a longer break of riding and found myself dragging pegs and popping wheelies not even a week after I got the bike. After a month of riding I was already at the point where it's not enough performance personally even after I switched from some Michelin all weather tire to some pirellis for riding hard. A 600 is definitely a good beginner bike if you kinda know how to handle it and are brave enough to keep it somewhat safe and treat it with respect, if you don't by all means don't start on anything with more than 25 hp you'll wreck that thing faster than you can imagine. Just my opinion/experience.
I think it really depends on the person. I started on a ninja 650 a couple months ago, and I’m looking to sell it for a ZX-6R after 2k miles. I definitely think it was better than a 6R, but I think that had more to do with confidence on the bike, not necessarily how much power the bike had. If I was on a 1000cc bike that I could’ve put in a low power mode, where it wouldn’t power wheelie and had a low seat height, I think it would’ve been fine. Starting on smaller bikes I think that confidence is more important than what the bike will do. It’s hard to learn on a bike if you’re scared of it, but once you have your feet wet moving from 300 to 600, or 650 to 600, isn’t a problem. I debated on jumping straight to a 1k now but honestly I think it will be too touchy on the throttle for me, and going to 4x the hp with the 1000 vs 2x with a 600 feels like too much of a jump imo.
I should also add that the 650 isn’t a bad bike, it’s a fantastic commuter, and a wonderful bike to learn on, but it’s not really what I want after riding it for 2k, I kinda got into bikes because of their performance to cost ration, and the 650 is fast don’t get me wrong, but it tops out at 120 which really isn’t the performance I’m looking for, and it doesn’t feel as sporty in the rider triangle.
I started on a R6 as long as you have self control but also being aware on how powerful it is. And also to be scared of it because if your not scared you will probably get yourself killed from doing something stupid.
that or the daytona triumph 675 are the best street bikes, you will hate an r6 if you have a daytona triumph 675, you only endure the uncomfortability to "show off"
I think it also depends on your size. if you are a big or small guy, how strong you are, how much you weight. my first was and still a 650 and it's amazing for me because I am 200lbs and 6'2"
It's quite interesting, I've just passed my test and am looking at getting a 600, as soon as I say that though people assume I'm talking about a brand new R6 or something when in reality I'm currently looking at an old Suzuki Bandit. You can get them cheap here in the UK, like under a grand and it's a bike that I'll actually stick with. I don't see the point in buying an R3 or Ninja 250 when over here they cost about 2.5K and I'll probably want to move to something bigger in 6 months anyway. Plus I think the fact I've started late (I'm 25) means I've kind of matured a bit, done most of my stupid shit and had my close calls at 17 when I first started driving a car and now I'm happy to just take it easy, ride/drive sensibly. All these things I reckon I should be ok, just gotta be careful. Of course this is my extreme rookie opinion, i might be proven wrong.
I started on dirt bikes at the age of 11 but my first street bike was a sv650 love that bike and still have it then I bought my r6 and all say it I'm glad I got seat time in the 650 first
You shouldn’t feel the need to apologize for not making videos, if people don’t understand that your family has to come first then you don’t need them as a subscriber. Stay safe.
Solid comment
Just shows how cool this guy is, but yeah definitely don't need to apologize for being with your family.
Well said
You're going to offend some people with all that common sense
I’m starting on a R3, absolutely love it. Going to keep it for commuting/fun, and get an R6 for when I’m married and ready to die.
Me too man. Just put the first 500 miles on my r3, absolutely love it. Plan on doing a bunch of upgrades, then selling if I need to and getting an r6 lol or just something faster
I am about to get married.. maybe i should start on the R6 then >.< lol
🤣🤣🤣
Wow, you guys realy love your women haha
😂🤣
When I was 16 I wanted an R6. My parents told me no. 10 years later I'm much more mature and I understand the limits of my abilities. I bought a 2005 R6 and quickly realized that at 16, I would have killed myself on this bike. My answer to the age old question, "Should I start on a 600?" is this: If you can honestly control the impulse to just rip that throttle and respect the amount of power you're sitting on, sure. The issue then is, "Can you tell a 16-18 year old kid to slow down or go easy?" In my experience, generally you can't. You certainly couldn't have told me to go easy at 16 if I had an R6. It's about personal responsibility and being honest with yourself.
Ethan Stutt There’s a difference between going to track days than actually being fast at track days. You can learn on anything. Doesn’t mean you’ll be fast. If you ARE FAST, then you should have most of the panic situations down, and should know how to moderate your inputs to not upset a machine. Bikes are still different from cars however, so don’t try ripping it in the twisties first time out. Ultimately it’s about how fast your reaction time is and how you deal with high stress, quick paced things. If you weren’t fast with the Ferrari, ultimately you can still start on a 600, but will have to take it slower.
Ethan Stutt how many wheels does a Ferrari have? There is your answer. Can’t compare a motorcycle to a car
i’m 16 i think i’m responsible enough, i have a 450 dirt bike and i’ve been riding for years so i think it’ll be omay
2fitty rippin Yeah I’m 16 and got a 636. I’ve been fine lmao. Don’t know why a 600 as a starter bike is so taboo.
@@supotsuka933 yes you def are inrode 250f onlh for 9 months and at 15 r6 was perfect you can def do it
I know people who died while riding 125cc. It's not the bike, it's the rider
yeah and the bike will kill someone if they cant handle it
I find it hard to believe that u know someone who died on a 125cc. What did they do, drive off a Cliff?!
@@Sakamoto__-83 it happens mostly in the developing world, crowded streets, uneducated drivers(very VERY common here).
@@Sakamoto__-83 you obviously don't ride on the streets then if you say that lol. It can happen on any bike easily
Well, in the Philippines you'll meet a lot of uneducated underbone riders here. Haha. I own a 150cc bike too, planning to upgrade on a 400cc bike soon
I had 0 riding experience. My car got totaled and I really needed a mode of transportation quick!! And I just sent it and said aight ima get a bike. Came across an 08 CBR600RR for what seemed a fair price and pulled the trigger on it. I had the guy deliver it to me because I did not know how to ride. Once he left, I just got on it and within 5 minutes I was shifting and accelerating. Such a freeing feeling. I’m addicted now. So if you made it this far, whatever bike you start on GET GEAR. BE SMART, and respect the bike. Stay safe guys
You can certainly start on a 600cc sport bike, but I know with my experience, it crippled my ability to ride in corners confidently as I was more afraid of the bike and didn’t benefit at all besides being able to say I had one... so I switched to a ninja 300 and it gave me much more value and still was fun and quickly gave me the ability to move up to bigger bikes over the years. After riding for many years now, I definitely have bigger bikes now, but I don’t regret my decision from a 600 to a 300 when I first got my license.. best decision I made. When it did come time to me purchasing a liter bike, I didn’t have the same problems I did 5 years ago when I first started out.
What about going from a 1200 Sportster to a sports bike? Go with an r3 still?
How long did it take for you to feel ready to move up? I'm at about the 1.5yr mark and I feel ready for a 600 or so.
@@koofdome How many miles though? Total miles is a better indicator than number of years. Also what percentage of those miles were spent riding at a decent pace on twisty roads? If you've spent a few thousand miles railing corners, you are probably ready, whether that took 6 months or 6 years.
kleinbottled79 I just recently did what I wanted to always do! I traded the 300 and got a 650! I got the 2018 CB650F and I loveeeeeee it. Feels like the bike I was meant to be on. The 300 was great to learn on, but man I'm happier now! Enough power to make my adrenaline rush if I want, but so much more comfortable and smoother for longer rides.
The only thing that sucks is the different feel in a fat 180 wheel in the back. Wow what a difference. It definitely isn't as easily thrown around like a 300
@@koofdome Glad to hear it man. That's a good looking motorcycle. Ride it in good health!
I'm starting off on a 600. Just my personal preference. Any story I've heard of about someone being injured on a bike, was that person fault. It's not the bike that is the problem, it's the rider who is irresponsible.
That's what I'm saying! Ppl saying it's to much power! You don't have to drive like a maniac, just take it easy
How was youe experience?
I agree. Bikes are like guns. Guns/bikes don't kill people. People kill people.
Meh it depends on skill/experience too. A big part of riding bikes is knowing what to do in situations you aren’t planned for. Situations might arise where you need to maneuver and you do something in a panic that will make you fall, drop the bike, or hit a car/animal. Situations that would be easier to deal with on a less powerful bike with less weight. Just know that brakes and throttles are far more sensitive on higher cc sports bikes and if you grab or twist too much in a second you could be on the ground. I want to start on a higher cc also but I also know that I only have experience from dirt bikes and a friends 300cc. I’d recommend test riding a 300cc then test riding a 600cc and see how comfortable you are on both.
@@QuavyQua You bring up a point I think gets too little attention. As in, the sensitivity of the throttle (brakes too). I started riding with 20+ years experience taking corners and driving (cars) quickly and responsibly, but was still very glad I started on a 300. One of the biggest reasons was, as a beginner, I didn't have a good 'throttle hand' yet. Not that I didn't know how much power I wanted, it's just that a persons hand doesn't automatically have the millimetric precision that it develops after you've been riding for a while. On a powerful bike 1 millimeter of throttle can be the difference between driving perfectly out of the corner and running wide into oncoming traffic. The same corner on a 300 might give you a 3 millimeter window, making it less crucial to be exact. Jake the Snake compared this to using the coarse adjust vs fine adjust on a microscope. Same basic theory applies to brakes to a lesser extent.
My brother and also another friend started riding at about the same time as me. My brother started on a big heavy 900cc UJM. My buddy started on a duke 390 but switched to a street triple within 3 months. I'm far faster than either of them in the mountains. I think the main reason for this is they were never able to zero in on the corner speed they can carry or the exact amount of throttle to dial in on corner exit. Had they spent more time on small bikes both of them would probably be faster now. Their well justified fear, trained into them by learning on bikes with sensitive throttles, is still holding them back years later. Do you want to own a faster bike? Or do you want to be a faster rider? That is ultimately the choice you are making between starting on a 300 vs a 600.
Started on a 2012 r6 raven. Never felt like it was too much bike for me. So I guess what I'm saying is, you know if you can handle it and if you know you cant then dont. It's all on a person to person basis
I had mates that died on 50cc 2strokes and I also know people (including me) that started on a 600cc a never crashed. It's up to the rider, not the bike.
A bike does not accelerate by itself.
Where you able to learn on it like ypu could a 600? Like was cornering a problem and all that stuff?
I feel like beginners can start on 600cc they have modes so you can tone it down AND if older models they would need to learn throttle control!!’ YEEEETTTT!!!
600cc is easy enough to control o_o
got my bike licence here in germany last year and starting on a '03 built 600 Bandit S.
that thing is almost as raw as it gets xD
No ABS, no tractioncontrol, nothing :DD
at the least it doesnt have a kickstart ... :D
super easy to ride though and tbh, anything with less power would just feel 'WAY' too boring
Yeah the news ones on a R6 if you put it in B mode it acts like a R3 then once your used to it gradually just go up till your comfortable
My first bike was a matte gray 2013 R6. It really is all about throttle control. I've never ridden a motorcycle before besides the ones at my motorcycle safety course. I passed the course on the 27th of May, then I bought my R6 on the 1st of June from a private seller. I've only been riding for 7 months and I'm already on my second bike, a 2018 R6. Hurricane Michael totaled my 2013 R6. I think it really comes down to being responsible, respecting the throttle, reverting back to basics if need be and not pushing your limits. Obviously if you don't feel comfortable you probably shouldn't go through with it. But if you do, just be wary. Don't let your friends try and peer pressure you into starting on a bigger bike, it's your life on the line, not theres. I feel pretty comfortable on my R6 and all my friends want me to get a liter bike but I still don't think I'm ready for a 1000cc motorcycle. My friends with liter bikes like to compare my R6 to a moped. My R6 has all the power I need right now and I still get goose bumps when I ride it. What I'm really trying to say is don't get peer pressured into getting a 600, don't think you need to get a 600, be responsible, respect the throttle, be safe and please don't be a squid.
Thank you so much for your comment 😉👍 is it comfortable for longer ride as well? How about daily rides? Thanks
leader bike*
@@speedstar1988 Sorry for the late reply. It isn't the ideal type of motorcycle for long rides, but it's obviously possible and not very comfortable. The longest ride I've been on was 4 and a half hours. I had a backpack on but all I had in it was 2 medium sized water bottles and a hoodie and my back started getting sore 2 - 3 hours in from the prolonged stint of weight on my back. If you're doing a long ride like that on a supersport, I'd recommend looking into a tank bag or a bag that can mount on the passenger seat and switching your riding position every now and then so it isn't too uncomfortable. Daily rides are hit or miss, I'm stationed in Florida so lane splitting is illegal so being stuck in traffic is a pain, especially if it's slow moving, like 5mph slow. But for the most part it's pretty comfortable as a daily. I ride it to work pretty much everyday except when it rains and when I feel like my truck needs some attention too. It's pretty nice.
@@APACHESTRATHE140 thank you men in the meantime I got my MT-09 😀 amazing man 😉
Best 650cc starter bike is the Kawi Versys 650. Balances great, fun to ride, gets about 50 mpg. I just rode 600 highway miles on it, cruising anywhere from 80 to 96 mph. Even at close to 100, it still had plenty left. Ten seconds from 80 to 100, reasonably quick for dusting a group of cars.
I would NOT recommend an R6 as a beginner's bike, not unless the rider was a wiz on BMX or something. Waaaay too much power for a newbie. Don't fall for a macho trap.
no 650 is a starter bike, only 125cc or lower for beginners. Trust me most beginners can't even handle 50cc definitely not a 650 cc
Versys 650 will always be my guilty pleasure. Perfect seating position, enough power to lift the front end and still be faster then like 90% of car on the road. Miss that bike, it is a great beginners bike if that rider is mature enough not to whiskey throttle it. Im still jealous of the MPG compared to my fz1, went from like 50-60mpg to 25-30mpg
My first bike was a versys 650 aswell for the first week or so it feels scary but then once your use to it its kinda gutless but still faster than most learner legal bikes in my country
Best bike is the Ninja 300 or 400. Do not buy a 650. They weigh 210kgs, thats 40 more! And to all you wanks who think more power is better. I will smoke you full hanging off dragging knee on my 300.
@@ChocCad1905 it's not all about speed or performance. It's about the form factor. The ergonomics and usability of the versys. 650's have a place in the market and the versys is no different. It can do plenty that the 300 and 400 are unable to do. Especially for people who arent small and light, the extra power does come in handy. Plus, if you're buying a versys you arent trying to race with it or get a knee down. It's for long trips and touring, something that wont be as comfortable with the ninja form factor
Depends on your riding background. My first bike was GSXR1100 but had done 10 years of dirtbike riding as a kid before the Gixxer. I recommend a supermoto or dual sport for a fist bike if you have no previous experience. Perfect bikes to gain experience on. It’s almost inevitable that you’re wreck your first bike and sportbikes are expensive to drop. A 300 sportbikes must be the worst starter bikes in my opinion. It’s like a sport car with the engine from a delivery van!
My first bike is a 08 R6S and I love it, but I drove a standard car to begin with so I felt that I could tolerate throttle control and it hasn’t been an issue. If you can feel confident on the bike, you could honestly start on a 1000, but I decided to play it safe, but just remember when you pull that throttle back, you get what you receive, don’t push yourself or be plain stupid.
9:36 Slow down at intersections like that bro, one of the worst things you can do is running through it like that on a wet and dark day, a grey car would've been impossible to see in that situation and even if you saw it you'll try and turn and slip into it at whatever speed that was you were going.
mom in the works
So he’s supposed to slow down at a green light?
@@nate.hanlon well they are too many stupid drivers that like Cross in a red light...
Helmer ibarra yeah I know bu you don’t need to just slow completely down and look.
Back at 1988 When I was a sophomore in high school I bought my 1st motorcycle which was a Kawasaki GPZ550. Yeah, I laid it down but I turn around and sold it for more money than I bought it for. It was pretty bad ass at the time but when I showed a picture of it to my 16 year old daughter and she said that it looked like a scooter. Ouch 😢
@@evansolomon169 Right?
Really depends on you as a rider...as most have stated, the power band is above the 8K range so it's pretty tame in the low end. Some naked bikes have been tuned to have more low end torque which might be worse for some starting out. I started on a R6 and still am loving it after 7 years of riding it and doing the occasional track days on it. If doing it again I think I would have started on a smaller bike but I learned to have great respect for it early on. Also depends on if you want to either do track days or long distance riding cause an R6 is not comfy enough for long distance riding.
My first bike was an FZ 09. I kept it in B mode for a while. Sold it last year and now I'm looking into getting a super sport, '19 ZX6R.
Well, my first bike is a pretty old 740cc with a carb. Sounds sooooo nice with that aftermarket exhaust!
Just like old racing bikes used to. :D
Naked 650 would be better. Something like a SV650 or ER6n, very forgiving below half the RPM range, and light enough to manage, while being very fun to grow into.
Why naked the faired versions are the same, just have fairings. The ER6f (Ninja 650) is awesome, yep I have one. Also 650 twins are quicker than the 600 super sport up to 40-60 mph (depending on the models in question) due to the torque delivery, then the super sport uses it's power to say bye bye. They weigh around the same too.
@@HalfdeadRider fairings is a big reason. If your new you're probably gonna drop your bike at a stand still. Fairings are expensive. Plus riding position is better for the position IMO
A beginner should never start on anything other than a 125cc or lower...but first bike is different. If you already have riding experience or training then for a first bike you can get 250cc +. I've seen way too many beginner inexperienced riders crash my 50cc motorbike and i'm just glad it was only 50cc because they would definitely not be able to handle anything more powerful
@@GrowingDownUnder The first bike i ever rode was a 2006 er6n in driving school. Never had the chance to ride a 125.
I’ve been on my Yamaha R3 for about 5 months and already out grew the bike BUT my bike has teached me things I wouldn’t have never learned in the motorcycle training course. Now I’m A+ confident getting on a r6 graduating from a r3.
I started on a Triumph Street Triple R ... 3 years later, I am still happy with it, did not feel it being too much, linear power delivery, not bored yet, nor it killed me. What do you guys think of the STR as first bike ?
triumph.. literally best street bikes there is. The best sport street bike is literally the daytona triumph 675
I started on a 750 about a month ago. Rode in B mode which is low power mode. After 3 rides I accidentally rode in A mode, full power. I found full power to be more stable, easier to control, and most of all I had no more engine stalls. I attribute the no stalling to the power a 750 packs in 1st gear it just simply wants to go. I grew up around bikes so I always knew the safety rules and all that. I just never got the chance to ride. It’s up to you how you want to ride.
Four minutes in an this bro is still talkin bout why he was gonna make this video
Everyone will go down! You have to choose, between going down at 60mph or 260 mph. If you’re ok with a really fast crashing go with a 600cc as your first bike.
I got me a 02 yzf r6 as my first bike i still learning not rushing just taking my time getting use to it you gotta respect the bikes power
started on 1000cc sport bike and still love the bike
I bet u ride like shit
@@Adrenalean767 you can't assume anything based on their bike's cc.
I'm assuming that you aren't a fast rider since to be a really fast riders you need to ride small displacement since you have a higher margin of error.
*I never usually comment on videos, but I think my opinion could save a life, or bones*
Fully agree on your opinion. Started on a 250 (owned for a week) - moved onto a ninja 650 (owned for like 4 months) - chilled during winter time and got an r6, if I started on the R6 I would’ve most likely gotten into some serious trouble, definitely wouldn’t have developed fundamental skills in a linear progression with confidence compared to other more suitable bikes. I ride my friends 250cc and I rip that thing up Way harder than I can on my R6 - if I started on an R6, I wouldn’t be able to easily push that 250cc like I can, Ofcourse I still have so much to learn and refine (it never ends)- a great lesson that really humbled me recently on the r6 (or any bike) was understanding how unforgiving a bike can be for making small mistakes around the same area you normally travel (every ride, every moment is a new one, don’t get complacent)… mind you I come from a motorcycle family it’s in my genes I was holding motorcycle handlebars from birth 😂 i’ve also taken up some govt funded courses to absorb as much knowledge as I can…
The reason i’m saying all of this is not to brag (nothing to really brag about anyway) or try to sound like I know everything, it’s just in the hopes that a beginner reading this makes the better choice regardless of their talent/potential and actually becomes the best rider they can be. Slow and steady will win the race.
It takes ONE mistake to possibly permanently damage your life, or even worse, end it..
I hope atleast one person can learn something from this, Ride safe 🤙
Just got my first bike which is a Ninja ZX6R 600cc. So glad I didn't buy a "beginner" bike! - BUT, I just began my 2 wheel journey at 30 years old, have driven manual transmission cars, took the MSF course and bought a 250cc dirtbike to learn the basics before I hit the streets. It all depends on you're personal abilities, mindset, and self control.
Just because you can drive a 600 doesn't mean you should be driving it, people are so ignorant lmao, i could get on a 1000cc right now and drive it fine that doesn't mean i should be on one, as soon as i get comfortable and test the bike one will end up dead, squids dont realize that until after they crash.
@@kevincorrigan1754 yes I agree. The problem is its "potential", which is vast and very fast, which if you try to unleash it on public roads is stupid #1, and stupid #2 is thinking you can harness that power with little experience. You can ride a 250cc and choose to do stupid shit and die just as easily. You can ride just about anything and have someone crash into and die even when not doing anything stupid. Point is maybe that ride responsible and choose something you're proud of having for whatever your desire and taste.
I agree 100%. Start with something that is manageable and more forgiving that allows you to fine tune your skills and then move up.
My first bike was a 600, it’s a great starter bike especially on a budget because if you go with a 300 you are going to want a bigger bike very soon. Plus lighter bikes are easier to steal. As long as you practice clutch discipline and throttle control you can ride any bike.
Erik Neumann So locking the steering wheel and leaving it in 1st gear is not enough? what’s the difference between doing that on a 300cc and a 600cc both bikes can get stolen no matter the size. Even a r1
Ragnarok bikes don’t have a steering wheel... locking the bars and leaving it in gear is literally nothing at all. The locking mechanism can be broken easily and there’s nothing preventing from shifting the bike into neutral. A 600 is heavier than a 300, the only way to keep it from being stolen easily is to lock the bike with a heavy duty chain and lock to something that can’t be moved or that the bike can’t be lifted over.
said like a true squid
I think any bike could be a good starter bike as long as you understand and respect the power that it puts out, and you take your time making the corners and slow down when you come to intersections where most accidents happen....
Love the fast acceleration in the school zone
Still want to get a 600 though 💯
Good video. I started on a Honda CBR 500, and for the past 5 yrs I've been riding a GSXR 600 and absolutely love it
It's simple.
Start on a legit 300!
It not just keeps you safe, but also makes you a lot better rider.
There's soo much more to learn limiting a 300 than in baby'ing a 600.
Mototzigane I 100% agree if you can confidently ride a r3 or any 300cc you will have no problem transitioning to a 600 because the 300 has laid out the foundation for you and as you go up in cc’s you just keep building on that foundation. I started on a 2016 r3 NON ABS and that bike has taught me everything I need to know to handle a bigger bike now.
@@Demiurge66
Yess!
R3 is one of those easy going yet exciting reliable bike.
You made the right decision, congratulations you'll be a great rider as you climb up the cubic capacity stairs.
Mototzigane I might get a ninja h2 for my first bike because I will get bored of a 1000cc in a week
@@milorider9659
Very smart move!
my first bike is a Triumph Street Triple R. Its powerful and somewhat agile and with the TC you can control (somewhat) the response to make it easier
I've been riding my 2016 r6 for 3 days, it's my first bike. Yeah it's too fast for me atm but it's totally doable. Just learn to control the throttle and do slow corners
Exactly same for me
What about Now do you regret it ?
@@titouanficello8397I don’t regret it, but I did wreck it so she is gone
The most recent bike that I sold was to a new rider. He asked me if it was a good beginner bike and I told him "no it is not". It was a Kawasaki Concours. I told him that it could easily get away from a beginner and stressed that with a lot of maturity and restraint on throttle input it could be done but there has to be constant respect for what that machine could do. He bought it and last time I saw him, he had dropped the bike a couple times at what looked like very low speed damages to the fairing but he was still enjoying it. My current bike is a 2020 Versys 1000 which I love. It is a good bit slower than the Concours was but at 57yrs old, I am liking the more upright riding position much more.
You are the GOAT vlogging in the cold rain, MUCH respect for you dude 🤟🏻
I got a honda cbr 600 f as a first bike and its amazing. Low rpm it forgiving and still gives you smiles riding in high rpm. I would recommend
I started on a 600cc as a junior in HS. 18 years later I bought another sport bike. Learn the mechanics & throttle control on the bike as well as using that thing between your ears called a brain and you’ll be fine
how did you afford it? im in the same situation ive got about 800 saved up but ill be working all summer. i just wanna get a bike and not get bored cause if i buy i bike im gonna have it for a long time
displacement is a silly metric. You can have a very powerful machine that is beginner friendly if it makes its power / torque in a linear fashion.
Though the old saying, "bigger engine, bigger problems" is definitely true.
The best thing you mentioned was the specific 'track only' nature of a bike like the R6. Definitely better of starting with an FZ-07 for it's neutral, more comfortable riding position; if you really refuse to start on a 300 or 350...
Definitely depends on the rider, there are many people who shouldn't be on anything more than a 300. I've rode dirtbikes and then harleys on the street.. Then when I purchased my CBR600RR having never rode a Super Sport, It was completely natural to me and added an R1 within 3 months of getting the 600. The 600 now feels like a moped in terms of power but still appreciate how nimble and light it is.
J.J. Pierson I agree having motocross experience I got an 07 zx6r for my first bike. Honestly first impression was awesome but after riding for a short time I wanted more.
I agree, not that it's too much power but I think super sports are more difficult to ride. I now own an MT09 coming off a ZX6R. This bike minus the power is much easier and comfortable to ride. I think a MT07 would make a great 1st bike!
As a fellow R6 owner and one who also but it as a first bike, I have to agree with you. Having a smaller CC bike and a cheaper one is honestly the best option for first time riders. I do not regret my R6 nor will I ever want change it if I had to do it again, but the wise answer is go smaller, cheaper, learn, enjoy and have fun and then when you’re ready after some good quality time in the seat go out and get a bigger bike. Great Video Moto, glad to see the R6 again and want more of it!
I started on a 07 CBR 600rr. Super lightweight. Easy to control. Super quick and fast. I grew up riding quads so i was already use to feeling a clutch out & shifting. But all my buddies have heavier bikes (‘04 gsxr 600, ‘06 cbr f4i, ‘16 cbr 1000rr). Love mine to death though.
that was an actually good, "don't get a 600" video as a learner. thanks man
My first bike was a crf150f when I was 15. That just taught me the controls of how a motorcycle works( shifting, turning etc). Just recently I got a ninja 300 at 18. Not gonna lie I kept it for only 5 months l got bored of it quickly, but it taught me the basics of riding on the street. Now, I have cbr f4i it’s much faster then the 300, but I feel a lot more comfortable and confident on it with the previous experience . So what I’m trying to say is start on a 300, 400 whatever just to get the basics. Don’t rush into something bigger until you know your ready. 600 will show you who’s boss if you don’t know what your doing. That’s just my opinion.
I saw the first few minutes and thought, "that looks a lot like GA" great to see another rider in GA
As an old scuba diver that has had ear infection issues, I have suggestions for the baby's infection. Two drops of 90% rubbing alcohol in both ears, some vitamin C chewables at least 500mg up to 1000mg daily for a week, and a teaspoon of Manuka Honey. Manuka Honey will help bacteria balance in sinus system. Manuka doctor is the one to eat and medihoney is topical.
Also, I started on a 05 GSXR 600, andI wouldnt say it was a bad choice but it also wasnt a good one. I find myself to be very responsible and go into things with an open mind. I knew that the bike was powerful and i could easily fall (which I did) One point that not many people talk about is how "twitchy" the throttle can feel to someone who has never ridden a bike before. which is one of the reasons why you always see the people who throttle it too much and wheelie it and flip it backwards. another thing is not knowing how to operate the clutch properly. If you know how to drive a stick shift car, you get a +1 in advantage because you know somewhat when to shift and what the sequence is, like let go of throttle, Pull Clutch, shift, release clutch and back on throttle. so that is pretty much the only edge that you can get, which fortunately for myself, I knew how. I started riding last year, mid June 2017 and bought my bike with 0 experience. went up and down my street like 2 times and decided it would be smart to take my bike a little further. ended up going about 2 miles away and dumping it cause i gave too much throttle and jerked the bike forward, not stalling it but it still scared me a bit and had a "target fixation" moment. (btw I highly recommend on learning about Target Fixaction cause that will save your ass in the long run) after falling, I realized that i broke my rear brake pedal but the bike was still rideable fine. so I pick the bike up, and ride it home with only using my front brakes, from this experience I learned alot. mainly, my clutch control, front brake pressure and the danger of not having enough experience. in a summary, I don't believe anyone SHOULD get a 600 (supersport) motorcycle as a first bike. It is possible and know many people who have and are totally fine, but i just dont recommend it.
I started on a 125 zuma scooter and I’m glad I did. I got the riding down and was able to feel comfortable with knowing I can not give to much throttle. Whiskey throttle was my biggest fear for some reason. 3 years later I still ride it to work daily in warm weather. I money I save on gas is awesome. And then I moved up to a 650 cruiser bike (vstar 650)and I’m content with that bike and feel it has all the power I need. I’m not a speed freak and 65 is fast enough for me on the highway. Thanks for your videos.
For anyone new to motorcycles. I know a lot of people on this channel always think about sport bikes for your first bike. If you’re mind is fully set on that go for it. But if you just want to ride. Get a cruiser. There’s plenty out there that are inexpensive. They’re low and you can get something lighter. Get a Vulcan s. It’s small, light, has the same engine as a ninja 650. You can toss them around when you’re comfortable, they have torque for pulling out of turns which is fun. Since it’s low you’ll be more comfortable coming to a stop. And most of all in my eyes. Depending on what cruiser you choose. It won’t get boring fast like small cc sport bikes. The difference between something like a Vulcan s or scout to a big v-twin isn’t that much for straight line acceleration. It’s more how comfortable is it at 100mph for long periods of time.
600 naked bikes are perfect to start on, quick enough to get you sideways out of corners and pop wheelies once you know what you're doing but chill enough to calmy go for a ride and respect the power between your legs if you're brave enough :) but to each taste their own
I'd argue 600cc bikes are the Best bikes, if you are able to control it and yourself. Low torque at low RPM's and lots of fun in the high revs. My first and second bike were 600's, and it made me a happy, confident and competent rider. And with older bikes with No electronics, you do Not want a lot of torque at low revs. That's how a lot of newbies spinn out and crash while cornering. My CBR600F has basically no power up to 5000 RPM's and easy to control power up to 10K RPM's. Only at 10K-11K do you get the full effect, and you don't Have to ride at those RPM's.
My first bike, at 18 yrs old, is a 600 naked with only abs and no traction control (would prefer to have no abs tho tbh) and I think those are perfect to start if you're brave enough. I'm a very careful and defensive rider but found myself doing well controlled wheelies and scraping my footpegs, even after upgrading to pirellis after just a week, a month later the power already got boring and didn't feel fast even if it's able to come out of corners sideways and spin really easy when wet. Now I'm already looking to sell that thing and get something with more torque like a Husky Nuda 900r lol
Agreed, my first bike was an 02 cbr600f4i and I respected it and knew what could happen if I messed up. I put 40k miles on it in 3 years and had a blast. Went to an 05 zx6 (8 years on it) after that and now on an 05 r1.
Personally, I am glad I started on an SV650, but more power to people that feel comfortable starting on 600cc. I was not one of them, but I do love having a 600 now. That's for damn sure.
I’m so at odds about what first bike to get at first I was set on getting an R3 because I want a sporty bike cheap light and comfortable to learn on then maybe upgrade in the future.
I talked with the dealership manager and he made a great point that like 80% of sport bike riders eventually upgrade from 300/400/500 bikes. Unless you’re buying your first bike cash it doesn’t make sense to finance a starter bike that you may want to trade in, in less than a year possibly.
Figure out a 600cc that’s comfortable and take it slow, if I take an MSF course I’ll be fine.
I was also worried about learning how to ride on a heavier/taller 600 bike harder to maneuver(I’m 5’6), however I sat on a R3 then a gsxr r600 and was shocked how the r600 was barely any heavier and had such a low seat. I honestly felt right at home.
Had convinced myself to get the r600 after MSF, but now I’m rethinking it after you made a great point that you’re not positive what you’ll like to ride as a beginner.
Any feedback from anyone?
Depends on the rider. Many of us learned on 600's. and I have friends that started on a Busa... Smaller bikes are easier, but if the person shows restraint and uses their head, larger bikes can work as well...
My first street bike was 850cc, I would’ve been more comfortable if it was lighter but man the power and torque are awesome. Depending on how the insurance works in your area I’d say the best starter bike is a supermoto/dual sport. Lower cc so it cheaper insurance and a grea power to weight ratio to have lots of fun.
Here in New Zealand, you can't legally ride a 600 on your learner or restricted license. Rule used to be anything up to 250cc excluding 250cc 2 strokes. Is now restricted to a power to weight ratio of 150kw per metric ton.
We also have rider training courses you can do to advance to the next level of license quicker too.
So, there’s a saying in car racing that I feel might apply. “It’s more fun to drive a slow car fast than it is to drive a fast car slow.”. My first (and still my only) bike is my ‘82 Suzuki GS850G. I don’t get to ride it right now cause I broke it. It f I had it o do over again, I’d get a Sumo. Probably a DR-Z400SM just because I wouldn’t have had to tinker with it. It’s plenty fast and you can ride it on road, off road and a combination there of. They even have sanctioned supermoto racing to satisfy the go fast.
Living in Switzerland (and in Europe in general), you have no choice but to start with a "slow" bike (35kw=47.5bhp) and ride it for two years before moving on to something more powerful. I think that's a great system, had I started on my current R6 (instead of my R3), I don't think I'd have enjoyed or been able to enjoy it that much.
I definitely recommend starting on a smaller displacement bike, you'll learn so much (it might be considered slow but that's already pretty fast, 5.4 sec 0-60 is more than enough).
over here in the UK you have to start on a 50cc at 16, or a 125cc at 17. honestly it makes for some better riders, but also some more idiotic ones once they reach the age to get to a bigger bike
CBT - 16 - 50cc
CBT/A1 - 17 - 125cc and 15hp
A2 - 19 - 47hp
A - 21 - unrestricted IF you have A2 for 2 years
A - 24 - Same as 21 but direct access
hope that explains stuff over here a little bit, i always see people being confused by it
Wow 125cc 15hp.. In malaysia 150cc just 15hp😂
What do you think of gsxr 600 for someone that knows clutch control but has no experience on a motorized two wheeler
You will learn slower than you would on a smaller bike.
I think any cc bike is good starter as long as the rider treats it with respect for what it can do. Congrats on your little gal and hope she feels better soon.
You said it perfectly. Now hopefully people will actually listen to you, because most of the time when people ask if they can start on a 600 they don't want the answer, they want validation for the answer they want to hear. and then discredit the actual answer.
I started on a 250 now I have a 600 glad I did it that way
Depends on how big they are? I was 6' 195 and started on a Honda XL250 and kept it for a few months and moved up to a KZ650 because I wanted a more powerful street bike. I think I started on the perfect beginner bike! Glad to hear your daughter is starting to feel better
I do kind of agree with what you say. Going on a cheaper, less powerful bike for a year or so is probably the best way. I don't live in the US and this does give me another perspective on this. One of the biggest costs related to bikes in Sweden is, besides the bike itself, insurance. Liability insurance is mandatory and driving a uninsured vehicle comes with a pretty hefty fine if caught. Insurance for a new rider, especially if one would live in a city is severe. This means that in order to be financially able to ride, the first bike has to be chosen from a cost of ownership perspective. Some figures. Insuring a smaller bike like a Suzuki 650 Gladius might be $400 annually for everything, a large Supermoto like a Husqvarna 701 is $2000 for the same insurance and a R6 is $3000-3500 annually liability only. That means if you buy a used R6 you may very well have to pay another half of the cost of the bike in insurance. My lesson is therefore. Don't buy your first bike with your heart. Use your head and when you have some time behind the bars, go where you want to go.
I started on the 2018 R6
Haven't had any accidents luckily and I've had it about a year now. I personally think if you're mature enough and know and ride to your limits, you could start on a bigger bike.
Started on a hornet 600. It was stolen after 6 months and I've had an R6 since. Commute on it daily, all year round.
I had 12 years experience from the car first though, so know what to expect from other road users...
My first bike is a 2004 Honda Hornet Cb600f as well, sorry to hear yours was stolen. What are your thoughts comparing the Hornet to the R6?
Fz6 (not the r model) GREAT bike to grow into. I've had mine for 3 seasons and it does nothing wrong.
Same here bro had my license for a month and my fz6 for 2 lol great motorcycle
Bikes like the FZ6R are great beginner bikes for ppl who need to commute on the interstate. Super flickable and easy powerband management. There are definitely exceptions within this class of bike, it’s all in the hands of the rider 👍🏼
My first 'big bike' was a '04 GSXR600. I spent a couple of years on a Yamaha R125 whilst on my learners license and planned to get an SV650 as my first big bike but I decided to make the jump up to a K4 GSXR which i'd planned to pick up after an SV. I know the requirements for a full license are a little different in regards of training in the UK over the US but after doing my big bike license test and spending a bit of time of an ER6 during lessons I felt like an extra25-30bhp wasn't too much of a jump up as long as you're not silly and ride smoothly.
Looking forward to picking up a S1000rr or RSV4 as my first 1000cc bike in a few months! 4/5 years and i'm looking forward to something bigger(and more torque/safety features and i've never ridden with either).
@motonosity you and Dan are the only motovlogers I watch love your videos. But it's ok to be a father first
Wise words @ 12:30 Moto. For all newbies a sports bike is not a good starter bike. If you have zero exp you should definately not get a sports 600.
You can get on a 2000cc non sports bike and find it easy to ride. But the way power is delivered on a supersports make them to aggressive for people with zero experience.
I started on a VFR 800 (1998), a sports tourer. More cc yes but delivered in a friendly way for a new rider. Loved that bike.
I live in FL and my only ride is a bike. I sold my car didn't care to have it anymore. I love riding in the rain. It's like being on a fast water ride.
I started on a 600cc motorcycle at the age of 14. I probably weighed 125lbs and was 5’7ft. but that was a 98HP old zzr kawasaki. then I rode a cbr600rr then realized it was nothing like my old 600cc but still handled the power of that cbrr just fine
For most people that haven't ridden before I don't think people should look at a 600. I think try practicing on smaller rental or borrowed bikes. That's what I did for a while, and my first bike is an 800
I started on a '16 Ninja 650 and absolutely loved every second of it. Unfortunately I got tboned by a distracted driver about 3 months ago, totalling the bike before I was even remotely tired of it. I picked up an '06CBR F4i and that thing feels like being shot out of a railgun compared to the Kawasaki. If you're looking at getting your first bike, go with a used 650. They're fun little engines that have just enough power to get you into some real trouble. The SV650 is a great choice since they're so cheap. If you have your heart set on a 600, I'd recommend getting the detuned version if available(I.E. get the F4i over the 600RR.) Bikes like that will give you the power you want(but honestly don't need) with a more comfortable riding position. But be warned. ANY motorcycle has enough power to get you into some serious trouble if you try to ride beyond your limits
If it makes you feel better. My first street bike was a new 2011 Ducati 848 evo. Sadly sold due to divorce, fast forward 7 years. I bought a ninja 500 for under $500. Traded after 2 months on my FZ07 for a almost $1100 profit. Love your content brother. Let me know if you want help with bmx stuff. 😉
(First bike I owned was a z650 and I currently own a cbr 600rr) I personally would not recommend starting on a 600cc. My reason for that being; they're fast. Really fast. Sure you can say you'll have self control, but you're most likely a little younger and you won't. The 650 has decent top speed and great torque to start and it will take a little while before you get bored. (I got bored with my 650 somewhat quickly because I had ridden other bikes before actually owning one, so I was somewhat used to it). Getting on a 600 for the first time, I was shocked with how fast it is. I had watched all the videos and seen what they can do, but there is nothing like getting on a super sport. If you think you can have self control and not send it all the time, then start on a 600.
I have an uncommon perspective on this. I came to Vietnam, where I decided to travel through the country on a 100cc Honda Win. Being only 19 at the time, I didn't have a license. Besides the engine being tremendously small, all of the mechanics are more or less the same. Long story short, a year later I bought my first 'real' bike, an R6, and it has just been pure pleasure. And I'm riding it
in Ha Noi in Vietnamese traffic. I honestly think anyone with a mature brain and a license could do it too. Especially on American roads.
Sidenote: my dad rides too, he didn't even know beginner bike was a term, because he hasn't been caught up with UA-cam and whatnot like the rest of us. He started on a 750cc gsxf, a really heavy bike. Never crashed it, never dropped it.
So stop the drama. Ride safe, with gear, within the speed limits, on whatever bike you want. Don't push it in the corners. Good luck.
Motonosity, question; how did/were you feeling when you weren’t able to push out content for your fans?
i am probably in the minority here but i started on a 650 that was also modded with tune and full exhaust, let me just say i am so happy i started where i did. i have experience in other vehicles with manual transmissions so that helped but i would have gotten bored of a 250-300 the same day i got it
I started riding this summer and I started on a 2012 ninja zx6r (rcf the race version) yes the bike is a death trap. I knocked in deaths door far to many times than I’m happy with.... but I daily drove a build evo for over 2 years and I knew I knew how to be responsible when it comes to speed.... so the whole starting in a 600cc bike will get you killed isn’t completely true...... the real killer for these bike is the fact that you become addicted to the speed
5:43 is why you are here.
Gr8 info. Another thing that doesn't get taken into consideration is a rider's build. You take a big guy like myself & put him on a 250 or 300 as a learner, he'll never learn proper throttle control. He'll have to crank it nearly wide open just to get it move him cause of the weight. He's probably better off starting on a Ninja 650 or a 400 depending on how tall he is.
I would suggest for those that are dead set in their ways and want that R6/636/jixxer no matter what, get a throttle tamer and frame sliders
I think your mindset when you start to ride is more important than your starting bike, but it will also inform what kind of starting bike you want.
A careful, cautious approach to learning to ride -practicing, taking classes, and being careful not to out-ride your abilities will lead to better control and understanding of the bike as you ride more.
An uncautious approach with an aggressive riding style and invincible attitude will get you killed.
The first rider is already more likely to start with a lower CC bike, the latter is more likely to start with their big fast dream-bike. But in both cases their attitude is what is going to inform their riding much more than the bike itself.
very well said
I bought a 300 in 2013 as my first bike (new). Its great for beginners. And motonositys old how to videos was what got me started (and i use those videos to teach people now).
The 300 was great. But i got bored with it real quick. I still have it but i wish i can buy a 600 (no budget right now). Lets just say, if i started learning with a 600....i would have crashed it.
I bought a 2007 ninja 250 for my first bike. It has been great for a starter bike. And for commuting short distances is great. I do have to commute 1.5 hours to work. It's not bad for that commute, but the RPM range is really high for too long. But besides that. I am having a blast even on a 250 sports bike.
you know you do have a point. My first bike was a cbr600rr, i got it just over a year and a half ago (and still have it) but i found myself focusing too much on the power. I still find myself learning a few things about the bike even after 20 months of riding, maybe with a smaller cc bike i could have learned to ride better because it wouldn't be as much of a challenge and then move on to a 600/1000. I personally believe a 600 naked will be best for a beginner because they are not as aggressive as supersports and they can still do everything from city riding to highway and on top of that they are quite comfortable. A used suzuki gsr 600 for example would be perfect in my opinion. I just think that 250s are a waste of money. They can't do highway and they limit the rider on how much they can learn and improve their riding.
I've "started" on a 50cc moped (Switzerland bike law suck), actually dragged knee on it even though it's stupid to do on the road and jumped on a 600 inline 4 after a longer break of riding and found myself dragging pegs and popping wheelies not even a week after I got the bike. After a month of riding I was already at the point where it's not enough performance personally even after I switched from some Michelin all weather tire to some pirellis for riding hard. A 600 is definitely a good beginner bike if you kinda know how to handle it and are brave enough to keep it somewhat safe and treat it with respect, if you don't by all means don't start on anything with more than 25 hp you'll wreck that thing faster than you can imagine. Just my opinion/experience.
I think it really depends on the person. I started on a ninja 650 a couple months ago, and I’m looking to sell it for a ZX-6R after 2k miles. I definitely think it was better than a 6R, but I think that had more to do with confidence on the bike, not necessarily how much power the bike had. If I was on a 1000cc bike that I could’ve put in a low power mode, where it wouldn’t power wheelie and had a low seat height, I think it would’ve been fine. Starting on smaller bikes I think that confidence is more important than what the bike will do. It’s hard to learn on a bike if you’re scared of it, but once you have your feet wet moving from 300 to 600, or 650 to 600, isn’t a problem. I debated on jumping straight to a 1k now but honestly I think it will be too touchy on the throttle for me, and going to 4x the hp with the 1000 vs 2x with a 600 feels like too much of a jump imo.
I should also add that the 650 isn’t a bad bike, it’s a fantastic commuter, and a wonderful bike to learn on, but it’s not really what I want after riding it for 2k, I kinda got into bikes because of their performance to cost ration, and the 650 is fast don’t get me wrong, but it tops out at 120 which really isn’t the performance I’m looking for, and it doesn’t feel as sporty in the rider triangle.
I starting on a 600 now and coming from built banshees and drag cars it has been a breeze. Just keeping it under 7000rpm and ive had no issue.
I started on a R6 as long as you have self control but also being aware on how powerful it is. And also to be scared of it because if your not scared you will probably get yourself killed from doing something stupid.
MY 675cc Street Triple R is my 3rd bike!! :D :D :D I still don't know what I'm doing...
that or the daytona triumph 675 are the best street bikes, you will hate an r6 if you have a daytona triumph 675, you only endure the uncomfortability to "show off"
I think it also depends on your size. if you are a big or small guy, how strong you are, how much you weight. my first was and still a 650 and it's amazing for me because I am 200lbs and 6'2"
It's quite interesting, I've just passed my test and am looking at getting a 600, as soon as I say that though people assume I'm talking about a brand new R6 or something when in reality I'm currently looking at an old Suzuki Bandit. You can get them cheap here in the UK, like under a grand and it's a bike that I'll actually stick with. I don't see the point in buying an R3 or Ninja 250 when over here they cost about 2.5K and I'll probably want to move to something bigger in 6 months anyway. Plus I think the fact I've started late (I'm 25) means I've kind of matured a bit, done most of my stupid shit and had my close calls at 17 when I first started driving a car and now I'm happy to just take it easy, ride/drive sensibly. All these things I reckon I should be ok, just gotta be careful. Of course this is my extreme rookie opinion, i might be proven wrong.
I started on dirt bikes at the age of 11 but my first street bike was a sv650 love that bike and still have it then I bought my r6 and all say it I'm glad I got seat time in the 650 first