Your honesty regarding your own mistakes is what continues to bring us back. You can trust a man who has no shame sharing his faults. Thanks for the advice!👍🏽
@@Earthneedsado-over177 - I can't be the only person who watches motorcycle videos as a pleasant escape from toxic divisive politics. There are plenty of political videos if you need some place to vent some bile.
Last summer my coworker got a dynaglide low rider with like 10 inch ape hangers for his first bike. I had been riding since I was 11 got my dads dynaglide when I was like 22 and had been riding that for about 6 years. I’m No pro but I’ve never crashed and only dropped it once being extremely stupid. I told him to be careful it’s a heavy bike and had a lot of torque and power tried to tell him about breaking and how to do U turns but he was more interested in impressing our other coworkers and he takes off like a bat out of hell right away later that day hopped on the freeway same thing took off super fast swerved close to cars tryin to impress me and his dad, but we were in the work truck and cringed hard thinking he would crash I told his dad he needs to chill out or he’s gonna go down hard. 2 days later he dropped it turning in the neighborhood the next day crashed into a small trailer on a truck riding way to close to it. I tried my best to warn him and tell him what’s up but he didn’t listen. After he crashed he didn’t break anything got extremely lucky and once he healed up he bought a a fully dressed bagger that is twice as heavy with a way bigger motor. I was dumb founded and just laughed. I think he learned his lesson and he rides a lot safer now because his dad got a bike and he rides slow and safer. But if he would have listened and not tried to impress our other dumb ass coworkers pushing him to do shit he had no skill at all to do he would have been fine and still have that original bike he bought. Some people have to learn the hard way. I guess I’m lucky I already knew my limits and don’t give a shit to impress anyone. Shit I wear leather chaps that were my dads when it’s cold and everyone talks shit and laughs. I just laugh along with them and don’t give a shit because I’m warm and dry. Hahaha. Fuck trying to impress people that shit literally can kill you.
@@the1spyderryder 💯 all I give a shit about is my family and the people I love. You got a problem with my chicken strips? Your concern means nothing to me.
Awesome advice man. I just got a Ninja 400 as my first bike after much research and feel no shame in it (even though a few riders were suggesting I start off with a 600-750). As a new rider, I appreciate how you keep it 100%. My goal was to become a motorcyclist and have fun developing my skills over time. Your channel is like a lighthouse to new riders like myself. Keep up the great content!
Yep; do your own thing. Age 74 here with some back problems. Sold my big, heavy bike, and bought me a Honda Rebel 250. Small bike, but, hey, I can keep on riding now. .
Good and sensible, when I started in 1980 I was lucky enough to have guys around who advised caution. I went 125cc - 250cc off Road - 400cc twin - 550cc Sports - 750cc Sports - 1100cc Sports - and back down to 600/650cc Each step up was quite a leap, learning slowly, making LOTS of mistakes, but still here in my 50's Unfortunately a lot of my friends aren't, some are, but not all of them.
I'm up in the air now between a CBR250 or a Trail 125 lol, very different. Not technically my first bike but it may as well be. I broke my ankle in two weeks of owning a ninja 500 years ago without any training or experience. I'm taking the basic class soon.
@@DiagolonRider I ended up getting a Grom, then after a month I got a drz400s and then a few months later a Versys 650. So far the drz400s is my favorite for most stuff. Grom to ride to work. Versys for longer rides.
I did most of my learning on my dad's Goldwing when I was 17, Eddie. Then bought a 1000cc FZ1 as my first. Though I do not disagree with any of your points, I regret nothing.
@@captaintom9521 My FZ1 shares every aspect that Eddie detailed except for uncomfortable seating position. I think that makes it entirely relevant. Thanks for your opinion, however.
love my Kawasaki Z125 pro. imo great starter bike for where I live. (crap ton of windy hilly roads). growing confidence in going around corners at full throttle and leaning into turns deeper. next will probably be a Z400
I started with a 2018 z125 for 6 months. Then I realized I loved riding so much that I wanted to further ( meaning I wanted to ride on the freeway). So I got a Duke 390. The z125 taught me so much. BTW I started riding in my late 30’s and I’m now in my early 40’s.
And don't sell it either, if you can afford it. 125s make great 2nd bikes next to a bigger one - I didn't get my Grom until well after I got into full size bikes. IMO the Grom was a perfect minibike for around town next to my S1000RR and FZ1
Dude, your video on leaning and dragging your knee really helped me. I used to always be up on the tank. Moving back to the rear of the seat made all the difference! Thanks for what you do man.Love the videos!!!
This is why I got my Ninja 400. Cheap but high quality, relatively low cc, lightweight, good for riding through the tight twisties with all the dash info I need and isn't too tucked.
Yup my first bike was the very first GSXR- the mighty 400. Enough power that once i had some experience it was still fun to thrash, it handled nice, wasnt a complete leaned over thing but still sporty (or maybe i was younger lol), it was light and manouverable. I loved it. Once id done some advanced riding schools and so on I could stay with the 750r crowd. I was the 'damn dude you still with us!!??' Bloke. Then a gix750 which beast i had a baaad crash on. Then the first rgv250 sold in Australia, and back to sticking it up the big bikes 😂😂😂😂👍🏿👍🏿🇦🇺🇦🇺. Learn to go quick on a Z400/R3/CBR500 learn to ride on a bike thats not going to scare 6 colours of shit out of you every time you ride. Theres an art to riding a big bike slow and smooth too btw. Nice n gentle in traffic etc. manouvring around service stations. LEARN the skill set on the small bike - its much easier. The skillset transfers but is MUCH easier to learn on a nice light machine. 30 years later (after a bit of a break from bikes) Im riding a new Z900 and love it, after dialling back in on a nice slow VT750 and a faster XVS1300. My bike is and will remain stock. I will get pirellis or michelins once the dungplops are worn out (theyre ok. I just dont like bloody dunlops). Ride safe, shiny side up.
I just bought my first motorcycle 3 weeks ago. Its a Ducati Monster 821 and I'm practicing with the Urban mode selected. I wanted to thank you for these awesome videos you make. I've been learning a lot with them. Your honesty and transparency makes them trustworthy. Keep it up!
The most quotable video on the internet. If I may add: as educated as you may be your first bike will be a random choice. Only by riding it you’ll learn what you like or hate about a bike and after one or two years you’ll probably need to buy something that better suits your needs. So don’t go all-in on your first bike, cheap out a little bit and the second bike will be the one that you love. (Don’t worry, the first one will always have a special place in your heart ♥️)
MotoJitsu that definetly helps and for casual riding will be enough 🙂 But using my bike every day I had to average the experience of at least one year to find out what I really needed from it. 😄
@@MotoJitsu But who in their right mind would rent to someone who has no clue how to ride and is high risk? I sure wouldn't rent to me and at 51 and I consider myself a safe new rider with a solid WHITE BELT skill set I (I have your book). I feel comfortable on the road, don't speed and easily can manage myself around town and in traffic up to at least 50 mph. I also have a perfect driving record on my car and have been driving since I was 16, just to put my driving habits a bit into perspective.
I bought an xsr700 for my first bike and I love it. Good for comfort and can be grown in to. I don't have any real interest in a sport bike. Even full fairing miles I prefer the more upright seating position. I wanna go safely canyon carve for hours on end. I wanna be able to ride for many hours without the broken back
Here's a "cool story bro". I'm 50 and have ridden everything 2W since I was 5. Well, everything - except supersport 1000cc+. So for my 50th year I got an old CBR 1000F. An outdated and heavy, but quite potent bike. It sure made me glad I am the age I am and have the experience I have. It's like a Batbike, but without any helping bat-tech. Heavy, long and fast. I'll ride a rigid chopper or old Triumph like a reckless demon with the devil on his tail. I'm pretty ok at it too. But the CBR made a novice out of me again - and I love it! Learning is where it's at. But I also realize had I bought a bike like this at 20, it would have spelled my death.
Dirt bikes are a cheap way to learn, most of us coming up young learned that way. Biggest problem with modern sport riders is the mentality to push your performance riding learning curve on the street, and with your sweet ride. Buy a beater and go to a track to push your learning curve. Any street riding should have you inside your comfort level. Use the track to advance your comfort level to the next level. This isn't about racing either, its about any level of pushing your "performance" riding skill set. To many trying to push their skill levels up on the street, its just stupid, sure using it to reinforce skills you already have, but pushing them out further? Bad News is on the way... great vid thx.
I've owned small bikes for 15+ years and got a rebel250 a year ago.. I look at the listings all the time and legit still haven't found anything that I'd replace it with. It's a small, reliable bike that's fast enough, and importantly, about as simple as they get. I love bikes that I can work on, and. Can manage and job on the rebel in an afternoon.
I'm 6'4 260 just bought a 06 katana 600 as a new rider. Can't thank you enough for your videos. I've been watching all these other videos for months and realized I really didn't learn shit. I wasn't riding right or braking at all in turns (other videos said not to) and I went out today and finally bent my arms (lion king lol) it helped a ton. Thanks again I'll keep watching and learning.
Hey! According to many your suggestions, the SV650 can be considered as a first bike purchase due to its weight, power delivery, torque and handling. Does that also applies to the Sv650x? The power and engine it’s the same, but there is a change in the design. The Sv650x includes clip ons, changing the riding position to something more sporty and also adds something like 30 lbs to the official weight.
Great advice! I started on an R3 myself, put on 25K~ miles commuting from OC to LA all the time. Super fun bike for sure, I could toss it around, pin it and it was super fun on the corners. I learned a lot on that bike, in terms of handling and control. Having that I went through a few bikes, I found the one that fits me, an 07' CBR600RR. Gives me that light, sporty feel I like and love that singing inline-4 every day I ride it. I'm sure after a few more years of riding supersport, I'll probably end up on a Street Triple R lol.
just bought an R3 for my son to learn on, and I haven't had this much fun on a bike in years, thinking of making it a daily rider after my son is finished with it, possibly even a track bike. Still will never sell my zzr1100 (ZX11) though....love that bike.
Your videos helped me and I didn't make the mistake of purchasing a supersport as my first bike. I read your books and will be picking up my 2019 KTM 390 Duke today!
This video is exactly what i've been looking for. My son just got his motorcycle learner's permit 2 days ago. He's already looking at Sport bikes. I spent an hour over lunch explaining why that was a bad idea, but of course, dad doesn't know anything. We will be watching this video together tomorrow. Thanks so much for your transparency. Good stuff!
Yeah I'm glad that I found this channel. I bought a ninja 300 but didn't ride it much due to time constraints, so I never really felt confident doing much of anything. Started watching this channel and it really motivated me to practice my low speed maneuvers for at least 30-40min before a full ride. It's amazing how much more confident I am riding. Only thing that's limiting me now are the pants, I need to get proper riding pants, once the shop opens back up (corona issues) it's the first thing i'm getting. You really helped me take the first step so thanks man!
I consider myself lucky. My first bike I got this April was a Honda CB500x. Kind of middle of the road. Good at most but not great in one area. Perfect for me. I was able to make mistakes and it was cheap enough where even when I dropped it in the parking lot practicing emergency breaking I wasn't that bummed about it. Plus it also allowed me do find out what kind of riding I like. I'll be looking for a sport touring bike next.
I think I came into it in one of the best ways.. Ninja 250 as a first bike, Katana 600 as a 2nd, and currently a Yamaha FZ, S1000RR, and Grom. I still have the most fun around town on the Grom. So maneuverable, and can go offroad no problem. It opens up a lot of possible escape routes when on back roads. But still enjoy practicing the most on my S1000RR, brakes are satisfyingly good - it's fun practicing emergency braking.
I challenge you to practice emergency braking on each bike...go 20mph and try stopping less than 18ft consistently without skidding the tires or engaging abs :)
@@MotoJitsu Funny enough, I do emergency braking practice on each bike I own weekly. I had my cones set to 20ft, but still easily stopped in time. Other very common exercise I do is emergency braking, but then looking in mirror to see a car approaching fast, and then take off as quickly as I can to avoid getting rear ended. I believe I may have seen that from a video from your practice nights.
Great info and Semper Fi. I waited until my 50’s to start riding and wrestled this very subject long and hard. I ended up getting the Honda CTX700, nice ride height I could add luggage and wind screen for long trips and leave it bare if I wanted a bit sportier feel. But just like another person said- At my age what do I care what people think? I’ll wear whatever safety gear I want, I didn’t buy this bike to die on.
Thanks for the continued level headed approach to riding. Keep up the great work! I just ordered both of your books off of Amazon and can't wait to work on the drills. FWIW, I started riding on a Ninja 650R (2 cylinder, 72 hp) for three years and have been riding a Street Triple R for the last 3 years. I've done several local track days (most recently at COTA) and gone to California Superbike School for two-day camps each of the last two years. Having ridden the school''s S1000RR's at CSS, I completely agree that I wouldn't want a Supersport as a daily rider. Way too much bike for public roads. Your philosophy regarding continuing education and expanding your understanding of the physics of riding a bike are spot on, IMO!
Great video, thanks for posting, I'm 52 and taking my first beginner riding course at a local Harley Dealer so I will have my endorsement after the 3 day class and getting a Honda CB300R in about 2 weeks as my first bike, ... love the naked bikes, only going to add frame and muffler sliders for upgrades... thanks for the tips !
Your advice is brilliant. For a while I was debating with myself whether to change my bike because of how ridiculously uncomfortable the handlebars are due to them being sport clip ons. Sure they feel nice at speed when your tucked, but because of the absurd limiting range of the turning radius, it feels so cramped and bad when you're trying to do slow speed stuff. It puts me right off turning the handlebars fully locked when trying to lean the bike over as my wrists hit the tank, therefore it fucks with my confidence levels doing slow speed manoeuvres. That's never good. This video's that last push to try some regular handlebars on it. If it still doesn't feel right though, I'll change the bike. Like they say, get a bike that's right for you, don't try and adapt yourself to the bike. Bloody love what you said about cutting through the disconnect, to cut the umbilical cord of peoples' opinions, wicked ; ) Thank you Eddie, nice one butt.
Good one. I started riding 25 years ago and I’m still alive. I made mistakes, and I think that they were part of the process. My main piece of advice to a new biker would be: you’re going to make mistakes too. Make sure they happen on a slow bike.
Been watching your vids for about 4 months all my friends have 750s 1200s and 1000cc... I listened to you and bought a 400 for my first bike, my friend got a 1000 as his first, we both have been riding for 3 weeks and I LOVE IT. Ive dropped it doing 8s and spend los of time at a parking lot. My friend however is terrified of his 1000 and seldom rides it...
Great advice. I've got a Honda 125 as I've only been riding 2 months. My plan was to use it regularly for 12 months and then my second bike would be a cb650r. Mainly because I had a go on it and felt very comfortable, what do you think.
thanks for your valuable lessons, a year ago i bought a Ninja 250 SL as my first bike, i hope i'm not too dumb... i weight 39kg (86 pound) and my goal is to commute
That's a good choice, just make sure to get some sort of decent luggage for it to carry your stuff. Small bikes like this are excellent for commuting in most areas, they warm up relatively quickly and are easy on the fuel intake.
A Girl with her Helmet Ninjas are more sport/sport tourers, it’s the ZX R’s from Kawasaki that are the nutty super sports that no beginner should buy. Ninjas that range from 250-400 are excellent beginner bikes IMO.
Bought a 2019 Sv650 as my first bike a few months ago (with 48hp im a new rider in Europe Comfortable, forgiving, easy to ride, with enough punch to have fun... really happy about that buy :)
MrOnyxHD that is honestly one of the better bikes. V twin acceleration and HP. You also have many after market options for comfort. Should last over 150,000 km.
I love my Kawasaki Z400. It's my first bike. My husband (also a new rider but is already at 12k miles) has the 2018 Ninja 400. I practiced on his then got mine and took the msf. To be honest I personally prefer the naked version of the 400. I think I'll always be into naked bikes. I love the look of them, they're sometimes cheaper, and they're comfortable. My husband also says he loves riding mine more than his haha.
Total beginner here. Bought husqvarna svartpilen 401 this Saturday and trying to learn. I loved it when he gave the example of his buddy getting Duke 390 which is basically my bike with a different look. I have a lot of learning to do..... can't wait to get decent and enjoy the ride
I just bought my first bike in February. A Ducati Monster 797+. It’s 803cc, very torque-y. Just went on my first real ride yesterday and it was super fun. Not the best first bike but I bought it because I wanted it and I don’t regret it. Can’t say that I haven’t dropped it, but it happens. It’s a beautiful bike that I plan on keeping forever.
Thanks for the honesty! I have always had standards, and scooters. Try scooters, they are fantastic for in town riding, best for that environment in fact.
I purchased a KLR 650 as my first bike- but I don't think it quite counts for being in the over 600cc category. I love it. It's not too slow and its not too fast.
I’ve recently picked up a 07 Kawasaki Versys 650 not to much power way more upright and still has lots of maneuvering abilities! I try to practice what you teach from your channel thanks for the lessons
I'm 6'3" 235 and 62 years old. Great video as all ways. I live in Philippines as expat and reason you state what bad for beginer good advice for older rider. I ride verysy 650 for those reason. Semper fi.
I've smoked Gixer 1000's on my wife's Scrambler 400cc. It's the rider, not the bike, and this is a great video. If you can get one newbie to avoid a "Busa," you've accomplished your mission.
Had a CR 250, later a 320# xr-350 then a cool little Yamaha XT200 fat bike. Not my first bike, but will be getting a Rebel 1100 and will learn with it in "Rain" mode, which cut's back on the throttle position and how much available power the bike will make. 63 years old, will leave it stock, and I've got zero concerns riding in groups or being fast in the twisties. It's a cruiser, I"m going to go slow and just cruise. Probably turn it into a bagger with a fairing so I can just do weekend trips.
I had a Yamaha xv535 as my first bike after passing my test, loved it, really comfy and reasonably maneuverable. A few years in and I felt like I wanted a bit more power but decided not to carry on riding if i wanted to keep my licence lol. My mate bought a gpz900r , he never could get the hang of going around corners and if he dropped it had to get help to pick it up. For me the bike wasnt really about speed but more about the feeling of riding vs driving a car. I'm riding ebikes now lol, but seriously enjoying the off road and silence and discovering Yorkshire all over again via bike trails etc.
@@DominicNS The f4i is the universally know "easy" 600 its a brute if you lay it down and the thing is so user-friendly its crazy not only that it has high sitting clipons so you don't have the regular sports bike arch so its comfortable for hours im not naturally gifted its just ana amzong bike
@@chasemcclary8861 oh really? Do you know the stats for it? I can understand that actually if it was like the ninja 650. I just assumed it was a full on sport bike whoops
@@DominicNS The bike its a 600cc touring/ race bike... kinda its kinda in a place of its own the thing is fast don't get me wrong but below 8k it has low power after 8k it hgits its powerband and your gone butttttt keep it bnelow or in a high gear and its one of the most calm bikes you will ever ride.
Uh, yeah. Started on a Suzuki 650 V-Strom. Oh so heavy and a very quick throttle. Had a come-to-jesus moment on it🤣 Sold it, got a Yamaha xt250. I am doing this program righteously and religiously!
I was working at a Kawasaki Dealership when the Ninja 900 was released, I can't remember the exact numbers, but of all the Ninjas we sold (as graduation presents Etc.) I had to pick up the wreckage of at least 1/2 of them! (some with blood & bits of the rider still attached!)
hi, I am a beginner and was just planning to buy the bmw f 900r when i watched your video. and it changed my mind and want to just buy the smaller bmw g310r i originally wanted to buy. you are right, the skills set should match your bike. thank you for the very informative advice. regards from the philippines!
98% of my students for trackday is spot on what he's saying 👏 learn on a small displacement fit for you before trying to look like Rossi on the track or street 😉
Cameron Wilson CBR500 is a little more upright and with its higher weight is better on the interstate, don’t get pushed around by the wind off of big trucks. Plus the latest gen CBR500 looks really good
My first bike 30 years ago: Yamaha Maxim 400 Perfect beginner bike IMO. Saved itself a couple of times (gravel, oil on road) before I even had a chance to react. Sold it after couple of years. Then 30 years later fell in love with a Midnight Cherry Victory Vision and bought one a month later. Appreciating your videos to tell me what I need to practice as soon as the snow is gone.
One of the few Real Men out there that keeps it real on UA-cam in the motorcycle community. (Mc Rider being another one) .. I respect what you do bro. #respect... PS: I am 6'4" (251 lbs).. and I ride a 600. Started with a 250 for 2 years, before I go a 600. I ride to work everyday and I really find it conducive. I avoid traffic and save gas. I don't ride in groups though.. I've been solo from day 1. PPS: that "Lion King" demonstration had me 😂😂😂🤣🤣...
i just bought an '05 CBR600rr as my first street bike at 46 years old...i grew up on dirt bikes and pretty much everything else with wheels but that doesn't mean a thing, other than i understand what a clutch is, it's been years since I've been on a bike so I'm taking it really SLOWWWW, practicing your slow speed turning and braking and all that, really getting to know the clutch, using clutch for the slow speed turns, counter balancing and all that. I'm planning my first actual school this summer, and then the track later in the season for some 1on2 coaching. i love it so far, but if i bought this thing when i was 20, and a LOT less disciplined, who knows where I'd be today. If you are a completely new rider, have never been on a bike, or even driven a standard car idk if I'd recommend a 600rr as a first bike either. Bikes take BRAINS, patience, massive discipline and most of all practice! hope everyone has a great summer, great riding and keep it safe out there
I’m really enjoying working on my skills as a new rider on a Suzuki GW250. It’s all the bike I need for now but I can tell in a year or two I’ll want something a little bigger! I don’t care what other riders think. It helps that I don’t have any friends who ride!
Same. I was under the impression because I was a dirt biker forever that I’d be ok buying a 2002 GSXR 750 a few years after it came out. I didn’t have any friends that had sport bikes but I figured the “middle” option was a safe decision. Lol. Boy was I wrong. Back then the acceleration was mind boggling and THAT is what I got addicted to. I had it for a few years and was very fortunate to have pretty famous canyon runs in AZ nearby and also a massive pair of balls. The lack of fear allowed me to keep pushing myself and became a pretty competent rider. After that there was no interest in something slower. So yeah, I started buying 1000’s. Lol. As much as I want to like this guy he comes off like an ass hat. Stupid this. Dumb that. Just plain disrespectful. Not that I disagree with him but his arrogance is off-putting. The ergonomics of a sportbike are definitely not something he chooses to “handle”. But we all have to have the same opinion? He was even making fun of how people sit up riding one...are we supposed to be tucked at all times. Or wait you’re saying NOBODY should be riding sportbikes period on the street. That it? It’s almost like he has a little insecurity about NOT riding one anymore. My guess is he actually does care what people think and that’s why it’s so easy for him to call us stupid and dumb. You need an attitude adjustment jarhead. You’re talkin to probably half of your subscribers numbnuts.
Way back when I took the MSF course in San Bernardino the advice I was given was to get a 500cc or smaller cruiser as my first bike. So, I bought a Honda VT500. At the time I lived 2 miles from the nearest paved road and laid it down many times in soft sand. Eventually I increased my skill on and off road and kept buying bigger bikes. Now I recommend to my friends who want to get into riding, to consider starting on a naked or dual-sport. Wish I had someone like you to recommend a good bike when I was still new, could have saved some money.
Love my Gsx-R 600 L3. Had an old heavy zx7R K1, The 600 was soo much nicer in tight busy areas like malls(412lbs), power mode B for heavy rain and even construction zones where road work was being done. Short rides around town, day to day use. Long trips suck, but having a bike that makes you smile and thinking about chain lubes while doing the dishes, worth it. Cant wait for next summer! Maybe I'll get her a self lubricating chain oiler for Christmas :)
The majority of people I know who ride aren’t even concerned about becoming a better rider. They are however extremely concerned about having the coolest bike or the loudest pipes or the slickest paint job or this accessory and that accessory, but improving your skills on the bike? No one ever, ever, talks about how to be a better rider. When I told a friend I was practicing U turns and some low speed maneuvers he was like “what for?” 🤷🏻♂️
“Conventional wisdom on the subject is to start off with something smaller and go up from there but bikes are so good these days, I really believe buying the bike that is your heartthrob is the best way to go. I don't believe the size and power of a bike is responsible for rider safety. Rider training is the way to achieve that end.” - Keith Code ( California Superbike School )
Man you have some of the best content on UA-cam on bikes and riding advice for new riders. You have also freed yourself from the shackles of social pressures, I like that.
Good video. I've been riding for 44years (38 years on the street) so I guess I probably look at things a bit differently but I think the perfect first bike is the Honda CTX700 which isn't the lightest bike out there. It's about 500 lb with fuel. But it's got decent power so you're not going to want to trade it right away, the handling speed is pretty good, the low-speed handling on the other hand is almost motor scooter like. It's fantastic at low speeds. I was playing with one that enough you brought to a party. I was able to actually ride that feet up oh, no drama, at what had to be about two miles an hour, while making effortless u-turns. It would be incredibly confidence-inspiring for new riders. Now, you're not going to get the same level of handling at normal speeds as you would from something like that R3 you're talking about, but it's going to be way better then most new riders would use. They have a version of it that is clutchless, but if you're serious about motorcycles I would recommend buying the one With the manual transmission, you know, like 99% of all the other motorcycles on the road. the really nice thing about them is you can buy a brand new one at a dealership, if you're willing to buy one that's been sitting for a couple years, for a little over $6,000. You can find a really decent used one with low miles for less than half of that.
Been riding for 3 weeks. I bought a buell blast 500cc. A lot of people told me to get a 650cc or higher. I was told a Kawasaki ninja 650, Honda shadow 750, GSX-r, but honestly I wanted something small and manageable. I really wanted a ninja 500, but every time they came up used, they sold within hours when priced in my range. I feel like the buell has plenty of power for me. I just want to learn how to ride safely. I can't lie, the peer pressure was definitely hard to resist. One of my friends told me to put down my purse, pick up my wallet and buy a man's bike...lol. Happy I did my own thing. Good video. Great topic.
Being 5’4” starting out on a cruiser mainly because my comfort level was I wanted to be able to stop with both my feet almost flat footed. Rode it for about 2 years then tried my buddies R6 and definitely could not ride it for longer than 2 hours. Eventually bought a Kawasaki z900 and it’s lighter than the Harley I used to have but definitely don’t have the limiting factor the R6 does. Thanks for the awesome video definitely sharing it with some of the new riders at the shop.
I bought a 1996 ninja zx7 750cc for $1500 for my first bike. I just wanted cheap speed. It is uncomfortable and 400+ pounds so it can be a pain. Although i feel i do improve every time i ride i agree with your points. I wish I would have bought a dual sport first
Excellent video!!! People I work with see me on one of my bikes a ZX-14 and say they want one for first. I’m ALWAYS saying NO DONT!!! I’m over 6’ 235# for me it’s more comfort vs my cbr1k I had. My buddy has a Ninja 300 and that thing is sooo much fun!!! Sometimes smaller is better. Fun factor is high. My wife wants to learn after watching me over 15 years. I told her I will get a proper one to start with so she will enjoy it more then be scared of it as she gains experience.
at 60 years old I went through the whole gamut , sport rc51 , naked 919 bking , supermoto ktm590 drz450 and had a blast on each and every one , no regrets , but I sold them all , now I don't ride at all but damn do I have great memories ;-)
I'm currently doing the 600lb sport bike as my first bike and that duke 390 looks awfully nice right now. Although I am a bigger guy, around what you wrote down on the board, and I find my sport bike sport bike to be way more comfortable for me than something like those 250 Honda rebels that are used in the msf class.
I was just saying that smaller bike didn't feel as comfortable as a bigger bike. I am interested in picking up a KTM duke 390 to go along with my electric energica ego sport bike to be able to have a lighter bike to learn faster on. I realized my sport bike was terrible to learn on when I almost dropped it twice while trying to do a cone weave and decided I'm taking a class at Ride Chicago to actually learn. The class was awesome and can't wait to take their intermediate class.
I just saw your videos. I ride what i ride because i like what i ride and i enjoy riding, not to suit others. I catch guff from some Harley riders. I have been riding since before i was 18 the only thing i have up graded on my bikes has been head light bulbs from halogen to bright white LEDs, and up grading a wimpy horn, and adding additional lights on the front and all around so i can be seen. I have replaced a few exhausts, not to make them louder but because the ones were worn out. I had one bike that in two years i replaced exhaust gaskets about 5 times same place until i found ones made by a different bike maker that would last. I have taken several classes and you are right, i have enjoyed riding more and more as i improve my skills, i enjoy taking classed and becoming a better, and safer rider. Dont get me wrong, i like to cut up at times and going fast AT TIMES but, i just enjoy riding even slow coming to a stop and barely having to use brakes. I would love to sit in on a few of your classes you seem like a great teacher.
True, Eddie, mine was a ninja 1000. I also regret that heavy machine. Did all my trainings on the ninja, but i sucked on fast cornering. Got to a bmw gs1200 like yours, even bigger, but much more handling and forgiven. So my experience was not the big hp, but the unforgivness and comfort which put me in a better learning curve. Now i tour on my gs1200 and race on track with my gsxr-750. All due to your videos and extra trainingen with your book. Dude thanks, having a better base and experienced skills list because a big part of you :)
Thanks for this video. I started on a z300, good beginner bike but I was terrified of it. I cared too much about what people said I should ride, and how I looked. I ended up giving up riding because I was too scared to continue. Now I'm back, I'm on a Honda CT110, and I am riding to my current ability, and not giving any time to people who think I'm "slow" or "uncool".
I started many years ago with an old Honda CB400. I lost count of how many times I dropped it learning to ride slowly. Had a gs500e for 15 years. Now have a triumph tiger 800. Just remember your first bike isn't your forever one.
I found your channel a few days ago and really pleased I have. I have just ordered a ktm 790 duke and I was going to drop 2k on the full exhaust system. Instead I'm going to keep half the money and take a track school!. Been riding for 20 years but to use your phrase I have been practicing for 1 year 20 times so it's time to learn! Just ordered your mastery book from Amazon to. UK friends : any recommendations for track schools here in the Uk?
I'm a seasoned rider and still have a sportsbike. Its just an irrational love of that type of machine and its motor. I 100% agree though, they are not for learning on. I learned on an RGV250. It taught me respect but also slowed my ability to improve.
I started on a CBR 600 F2 as my first bike and still haven't crashed or dropped it within 2 years of ownership. It's comfortable for a sport bike (if not the most comfy sport bike ever) and quite civilized if you keep the revs bellow 7K. Maybe not the most ideal beginner bike out there, but a blast to ride if you respect it!
Something to think about before your next purchase.
i am a beginner and riding a Z800e 35kw ( 48 hp ) what do you think ?
Depends on your size, weight, & goals.
I want a ninja 400 abs for a first bike :(
Save up and get it!
@@MotoJitsu 6'7 goal is to get better and buy ktm 1190 in future
Your honesty regarding your own mistakes is what continues to bring us back. You can trust a man who has no shame sharing his faults. Thanks for the advice!👍🏽
You're very welcome my friend.
Hail Mary big Brother.
Dishonesty, unwilling to admit mistakes and faults, no capacity for shame? A man with those qualities is stinking up the White House.
@@Earthneedsado-over177 - I can't be the only person who watches motorcycle videos as a pleasant escape from toxic divisive politics. There are plenty of political videos if you need some place to vent some bile.
@@Liberty4Ever so don't read the comments.
"We buy things we don't need, with money we don't have, to impress people we don't like" - Edward Norton
👌🏾
Chuck Palahniuk actually wrote Fight Club.
I thought it was George Carlin... 😂
Which is oddly satisfying.
The things we own end up owning us
Who needs PowerPoint when you have good manual graphics talents. Nice job with the art!
Exactly!
yeah seriously good graphics 😂
I thought the same thing! Great job
If I never saw a video before this I would know you were a Marine. We love our turn charts!
Liked the line - "learn to ride a slow bike fast because the opposite never works". Food for thought!
Yes!
Riding within your skill level on an appropriate machine is so much faster than walking. If you can still walk.
It does untill you crash.
Worked out fine for me. 🤷🏾♂️
There are wrong bikes for the inexperienced, a seasoned rider referred to the fz09 as "his favorite bike that was always trying to kill him"
Peer pressure can literally be a ‘killer’. Never give a isht about what anyone else thinks. Ride your own ride.
Easy to say, hard to do.
@@MotoJitsu as you get older, you too will fall into the i don't give a f, you don't have to try.
Last summer my coworker got a dynaglide low rider with like 10 inch ape hangers for his first bike. I had been riding since I was 11 got my dads dynaglide when I was like 22 and had been riding that for about 6 years. I’m
No pro but I’ve never crashed and only dropped it once being extremely stupid. I told him to be careful it’s a heavy bike and had a lot of torque and power tried to tell him about breaking and how to do U turns but he was more interested in impressing our other coworkers and he takes off like a bat out of hell right away later that day hopped on the freeway same thing took off super fast swerved close to cars tryin to impress me and his dad, but we were in the work truck and cringed hard thinking he would crash I told his dad he needs to chill out or he’s gonna go down hard. 2 days later he dropped it turning in the neighborhood the next day crashed into a small trailer on a truck riding way to close to it. I tried my best to warn him and tell him what’s up but he didn’t listen. After he crashed he didn’t break anything got extremely lucky and once he healed up he bought a a fully dressed bagger that is twice as heavy with a way bigger motor. I was dumb founded and just laughed. I think he learned his lesson and he rides a lot safer now because his dad got a bike and he rides slow and safer. But if he would have listened and not tried to impress our other dumb ass coworkers pushing him to do shit he had no skill at all to do he would have been fine and still have that original bike he bought. Some people have to learn the hard way. I guess I’m lucky I already knew my limits and don’t give a shit to impress anyone. Shit I wear leather chaps that were my dads when it’s cold and everyone talks shit and laughs. I just laugh along with them and don’t give a shit because I’m warm and dry. Hahaha. Fuck trying to impress people that shit literally can kill you.
@@the1spyderryder 💯 all I give a shit about is my family and the people I love. You got a problem with my chicken strips? Your concern means nothing to me.
Awesome advice man. I just got a Ninja 400 as my first bike after much research and feel no shame in it (even though a few riders were suggesting I start off with a 600-750). As a new rider, I appreciate how you keep it 100%. My goal was to become a motorcyclist and have fun developing my skills over time. Your channel is like a lighthouse to new riders like myself. Keep up the great content!
Same here with a cbr300r Honda
Yep; do your own thing. Age 74 here with some back problems. Sold my big, heavy bike, and bought me a Honda Rebel 250. Small bike, but, hey, I can keep on riding now. .
:)
Hey I got a rebel too lol it’s my first bike
@@pablomyersmyers6914 They are excellent bikes.
As Clint Eastwood said in Magnum Force, a man's got to know his limitations.
The advantage of being an “old guy” at 52 you know longer care what anyone thinks. “Cool” is for little boys.
:)
The same
And that makes you really cool. Im only 25
not really many people are like that since teenage years they don't care about cool.
52 myself and I support your message 👍🏍
had to take my headphones off to check if those sirens were outside my apt or not lol
hahahaha yeah wasn't expecting that...oh well.
Me too
LOL - same here!
Ditto! :)
Same here
Good and sensible, when I started in 1980 I was lucky enough to have guys around who advised caution.
I went 125cc - 250cc off Road - 400cc twin - 550cc Sports - 750cc Sports - 1100cc Sports - and back down to 600/650cc
Each step up was quite a leap, learning slowly, making LOTS of mistakes, but still here in my 50's
Unfortunately a lot of my friends aren't, some are, but not all of them.
:)
I'm up in the air now between a CBR250 or a Trail 125 lol, very different. Not technically my first bike but it may as well be. I broke my ankle in two weeks of owning a ninja 500 years ago without any training or experience. I'm taking the basic class soon.
@@keldonatorcbr250! lol
@@DiagolonRider I ended up getting a Grom, then after a month I got a drz400s and then a few months later a Versys 650. So far the drz400s is my favorite for most stuff. Grom to ride to work. Versys for longer rides.
I did most of my learning on my dad's Goldwing when I was 17, Eddie. Then bought a 1000cc FZ1 as my first. Though I do not disagree with any of your points, I regret nothing.
Ok
Fz1 isnt a sport bike though. They are very comfortable. I love those bikes
@@dallinkenyon1 Never said it was. A Goldwing is far from a sportbike as well.
@@MooneyGOAT you're missing the point of the video is that a sport bike doesn't make a good first bike your FZ1 was not a sportbike
@@captaintom9521 My FZ1 shares every aspect that Eddie detailed except for uncomfortable seating position. I think that makes it entirely relevant. Thanks for your opinion, however.
You do have a talent drawing and the patience to do it. Keep it going, I like those kind of videos.
Thanks!
+ also a good teacher. Many people may know something, but dont know, how to explain.
Yes, I also did like this kind of presentation. It's unique and easy to understand.
@@Enlightenment_2025 known as analog PowerPoint...😉
love my Kawasaki Z125 pro. imo great starter bike for where I live. (crap ton of windy hilly roads). growing confidence in going around corners at full throttle and leaning into turns deeper. next will probably be a Z400
:) Nice
I have a z400, awesome bike and very comfortable for a commuter and only ~5.2k
I started with a 2018 z125 for 6 months. Then I realized I loved riding so much that I wanted to further ( meaning I wanted to ride on the freeway). So I got a Duke 390. The z125 taught me so much. BTW I started riding in my late 30’s and I’m now in my early 40’s.
And don't sell it either, if you can afford it. 125s make great 2nd bikes next to a bigger one - I didn't get my Grom until well after I got into full size bikes. IMO the Grom was a perfect minibike for around town next to my S1000RR and FZ1
Riding a 125 everyday up/around poorly maintained mountain roads really improved my riding skills more than anything else I've experienced.
Dude, your video on leaning and dragging your knee really helped me. I used to always be up on the tank. Moving back to the rear of the seat made all the difference! Thanks for what you do man.Love the videos!!!
Awesome! thanks :)
This is why I got my Ninja 400. Cheap but high quality, relatively low cc, lightweight, good for riding through the tight twisties with all the dash info I need and isn't too tucked.
nice bike!
Same except mine's a 250. So far it's been a perfect beginner bike. The only time a tuck is necessary is the interstate
@@lucasa241 It is, the only really bad thing about it is that it's a real pain to work on. Fortunately, they're quite reliable if cared for properly.
LinuxPoweredCommunism I bought the Honda cbr500r for the same reason.
Yup my first bike was the very first GSXR- the mighty 400. Enough power that once i had some experience it was still fun to thrash, it handled nice, wasnt a complete leaned over thing but still sporty (or maybe i was younger lol), it was light and manouverable.
I loved it.
Once id done some advanced riding schools and so on I could stay with the 750r crowd. I was the 'damn dude you still with us!!??' Bloke. Then a gix750 which beast i had a baaad crash on. Then the first rgv250 sold in Australia, and back to sticking it up the big bikes 😂😂😂😂👍🏿👍🏿🇦🇺🇦🇺.
Learn to go quick on a Z400/R3/CBR500 learn to ride on a bike thats not going to scare 6 colours of shit out of you every time you ride.
Theres an art to riding a big bike slow and smooth too btw. Nice n gentle in traffic etc. manouvring around service stations. LEARN the skill set on the small bike - its much easier. The skillset transfers but is MUCH easier to learn on a nice light machine.
30 years later (after a bit of a break from bikes) Im riding a new Z900 and love it, after dialling back in on a nice slow VT750 and a faster XVS1300. My bike is and will remain stock. I will get pirellis or michelins once the dungplops are worn out (theyre ok. I just dont like bloody dunlops).
Ride safe, shiny side up.
I just bought my first motorcycle 3 weeks ago. Its a Ducati Monster 821 and I'm practicing with the Urban mode selected. I wanted to thank you for these awesome videos you make. I've been learning a lot with them. Your honesty and transparency makes them trustworthy. Keep it up!
Thanks 😊
The most quotable video on the internet.
If I may add: as educated as you may be your first bike will be a random choice. Only by riding it you’ll learn what you like or hate about a bike and after one or two years you’ll probably need to buy something that better suits your needs.
So don’t go all-in on your first bike, cheap out a little bit and the second bike will be the one that you love.
(Don’t worry, the first one will always have a special place in your heart ♥️)
That's why I recommend riding a bike you're looking at or renting one first.
MotoJitsu that definetly helps and for casual riding will be enough 🙂
But using my bike every day I had to average the experience of at least one year to find out what I really needed from it. 😄
:)
@@MotoJitsu But who in their right mind would rent to someone who has no clue how to ride and is high risk? I sure wouldn't rent to me and at 51 and I consider myself a safe new rider with a solid WHITE BELT skill set I (I have your book). I feel comfortable on the road, don't speed and easily can manage myself around town and in traffic up to at least 50 mph. I also have a perfect driving record on my car and have been driving since I was 16, just to put my driving habits a bit into perspective.
I bought an xsr700 for my first bike and I love it. Good for comfort and can be grown in to. I don't have any real interest in a sport bike. Even full fairing miles I prefer the more upright seating position. I wanna go safely canyon carve for hours on end. I wanna be able to ride for many hours without the broken back
Here's a "cool story bro".
I'm 50 and have ridden everything 2W since I was 5.
Well, everything - except supersport 1000cc+.
So for my 50th year I got an old CBR 1000F.
An outdated and heavy, but quite potent bike.
It sure made me glad I am the age I am and have the experience I have.
It's like a Batbike, but without any helping bat-tech.
Heavy, long and fast.
I'll ride a rigid chopper or old Triumph like a reckless demon with the devil on his tail.
I'm pretty ok at it too.
But the CBR made a novice out of me again - and I love it!
Learning is where it's at.
But I also realize had I bought a bike like this at 20, it would have spelled my death.
Dirt bikes are a cheap way to learn, most of us coming up young learned that way. Biggest problem with modern sport riders is the mentality to push your performance riding learning curve on the street, and with your sweet ride. Buy a beater and go to a track to push your learning curve. Any street riding should have you inside your comfort level. Use the track to advance your comfort level to the next level. This isn't about racing either, its about any level of pushing your "performance" riding skill set. To many trying to push their skill levels up on the street, its just stupid, sure using it to reinforce skills you already have, but pushing them out further? Bad News is on the way... great vid thx.
Awesome bro !!!! Thank you!!!
You're welcome my friend!
I've owned small bikes for 15+ years and got a rebel250 a year ago.. I look at the listings all the time and legit still haven't found anything that I'd replace it with. It's a small, reliable bike that's fast enough, and importantly, about as simple as they get. I love bikes that I can work on, and. Can manage and job on the rebel in an afternoon.
if it fulfills your goals, that's the right bike for you :)
Cruiser bikes comfortable? I found that the feet-forward controls make me feel like a folded taco, not comfortable at all. :)
Most are
First thing I took off on mine. We call it the Harley birthing position
Ha! Now that's funny. I'll tell my friend who just got highway pegs for his Harley!
Agreed
Pretty darn comfortable with long legs. I'm cramped with mids. Part of the buy the bike that fits you
I'm 6'4 260 just bought a 06 katana 600 as a new rider. Can't thank you enough for your videos. I've been watching all these other videos for months and realized I really didn't learn shit. I wasn't riding right or braking at all in turns (other videos said not to) and I went out today and finally bent my arms (lion king lol) it helped a ton. Thanks again I'll keep watching and learning.
Depends on your pace about the brakes....thanks, I'm glad to hear my videos hlep out :)
Hey! According to many your suggestions, the SV650 can be considered as a first bike purchase due to its weight, power delivery, torque and handling. Does that also applies to the Sv650x? The power and engine it’s the same, but there is a change in the design. The Sv650x includes clip ons, changing the riding position to something more sporty and also adds something like 30 lbs to the official weight.
Of course
Thanks!!
😁👌🏼
Watching this made me not buy an R6 as my first bike. You probably saved my life.
:)
Definitely! Lol
Great advice! I started on an R3 myself, put on 25K~ miles commuting from OC to LA all the time. Super fun bike for sure, I could toss it around, pin it and it was super fun on the corners. I learned a lot on that bike, in terms of handling and control. Having that I went through a few bikes, I found the one that fits me, an 07' CBR600RR. Gives me that light, sporty feel I like and love that singing inline-4 every day I ride it. I'm sure after a few more years of riding supersport, I'll probably end up on a Street Triple R lol.
just bought an R3 for my son to learn on, and I haven't had this much fun on a bike in years, thinking of making it a daily rider after my son is finished with it, possibly even a track bike. Still will never sell my zzr1100 (ZX11) though....love that bike.
Your videos helped me and I didn't make the mistake of purchasing a supersport as my first bike. I read your books and will be picking up my 2019 KTM 390 Duke today!
Hell yeah!! You'll love it. Remember my gf's 2016 KTM 390 Duke was my track bike for a long time! It's a great bike and the new ones are way better!
This video is exactly what i've been looking for. My son just got his motorcycle learner's permit 2 days ago. He's already looking at Sport bikes. I spent an hour over lunch explaining why that was a bad idea, but of course, dad doesn't know anything. We will be watching this video together tomorrow. Thanks so much for your transparency. Good stuff!
Yeah I'm glad that I found this channel. I bought a ninja 300 but didn't ride it much due to time constraints, so I never really felt confident doing much of anything. Started watching this channel and it really motivated me to practice my low speed maneuvers for at least 30-40min before a full ride. It's amazing how much more confident I am riding. Only thing that's limiting me now are the pants, I need to get proper riding pants, once the shop opens back up (corona issues) it's the first thing i'm getting. You really helped me take the first step so thanks man!
So good to hear!
"If you want to be a good rider invest in yourself" - this is wisdom.
yes!! SHARE IT
I just got my first bike an I'm nervous as hell to ride in traffic, most people are jerks in their cars and have no patience for anything.
Focus on you...people will do what they will do, can’t change them but you can change you.
I consider myself lucky. My first bike I got this April was a Honda CB500x. Kind of middle of the road. Good at most but not great in one area. Perfect for me. I was able to make mistakes and it was cheap enough where even when I dropped it in the parking lot practicing emergency breaking I wasn't that bummed about it. Plus it also allowed me do find out what kind of riding I like. I'll be looking for a sport touring bike next.
Cb500x is a great bike to learn on. A bit heavy to pick up without decent technique, but I've slogged mine out of mud holes.
Smart :)
Yeah but sport bikes are fucking cool man. If I want to be comfortable I’ll just drive my car.
I think I came into it in one of the best ways.. Ninja 250 as a first bike, Katana 600 as a 2nd, and currently a Yamaha FZ, S1000RR, and Grom.
I still have the most fun around town on the Grom. So maneuverable, and can go offroad no problem. It opens up a lot of possible escape routes when on back roads. But still enjoy practicing the most on my S1000RR, brakes are satisfyingly good - it's fun practicing emergency braking.
I challenge you to practice emergency braking on each bike...go 20mph and try stopping less than 18ft consistently without skidding the tires or engaging abs :)
@@MotoJitsu Funny enough, I do emergency braking practice on each bike I own weekly. I had my cones set to 20ft, but still easily stopped in time. Other very common exercise I do is emergency braking, but then looking in mirror to see a car approaching fast, and then take off as quickly as I can to avoid getting rear ended. I believe I may have seen that from a video from your practice nights.
Yes, I have an entire playlist about emergency braking and then taking off once stopped...awesome!
Great info and Semper Fi. I waited until my 50’s to start riding and wrestled this very subject long and hard. I ended up getting the Honda CTX700, nice ride height I could add luggage and wind screen for long trips and leave it bare if I wanted a bit sportier feel. But just like another person said- At my age what do I care what people think? I’ll wear whatever safety gear I want, I didn’t buy this bike to die on.
Thanks Chazz ;)
Thanks for the continued level headed approach to riding. Keep up the great work! I just ordered both of your books off of Amazon and can't wait to work on the drills. FWIW, I started riding on a Ninja 650R (2 cylinder, 72 hp) for three years and have been riding a Street Triple R for the last 3 years. I've done several local track days (most recently at COTA) and gone to California Superbike School for two-day camps each of the last two years. Having ridden the school''s S1000RR's at CSS, I completely agree that I wouldn't want a Supersport as a daily rider. Way too much bike for public roads. Your philosophy regarding continuing education and expanding your understanding of the physics of riding a bike are spot on, IMO!
You’re welcome!
Sport bike ? Heavy ? *laughs in Harley
Can u bench press 400pounds?
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
MY FAVORITE COMMENT! 🤣😂
or the suzuki m109r 🤣🤣
Great video, thanks for posting, I'm 52 and taking my first beginner riding course at a local Harley Dealer so I will have my endorsement after the 3 day class and getting a Honda CB300R in about 2 weeks as my first bike, ... love the naked bikes, only going to add frame and muffler sliders for upgrades... thanks for the tips !
You’re welcome!
Your advice is brilliant. For a while I was debating with myself whether to change my bike because of how ridiculously uncomfortable the handlebars are due to them being sport clip ons. Sure they feel nice at speed when your tucked, but because of the absurd limiting range of the turning radius, it feels so cramped and bad when you're trying to do slow speed stuff. It puts me right off turning the handlebars fully locked when trying to lean the bike over as my wrists hit the tank, therefore it fucks with my confidence levels doing slow speed manoeuvres. That's never good.
This video's that last push to try some regular handlebars on it. If it still doesn't feel right though, I'll change the bike. Like they say, get a bike that's right for you, don't try and adapt yourself to the bike. Bloody love what you said about cutting through the disconnect, to cut the umbilical cord of peoples' opinions, wicked ; )
Thank you Eddie, nice one butt.
Thanks!! I'm glad it helped :)
One of the first videos of yours I’ve seen 👍🏼 love the simplicity and philosophy. I’m hoping to get my first bike soon 🙏🏼
Over 300 to go through :) Thanks for watching
Good one. I started riding 25 years ago and I’m still alive. I made mistakes, and I think that they were part of the process. My main piece of advice to a new biker would be: you’re going to make mistakes too. Make sure they happen on a slow bike.
Yes and take more courses well above and beyond the 8th grade basic stuff.
MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.
I like that you're humble and able to observe and critique yourself. Thank you for your videos :)
thanks!
Been watching your vids for about 4 months all my friends have 750s 1200s and 1000cc... I listened to you and bought a 400 for my first bike, my friend got a 1000 as his first, we both have been riding for 3 weeks and I LOVE IT. Ive dropped it doing 8s and spend los of time at a parking lot. My friend however is terrified of his 1000 and seldom rides it...
exactly!!!!!
Great advice. I've got a Honda 125 as I've only been riding 2 months. My plan was to use it regularly for 12 months and then my second bike would be a cb650r. Mainly because I had a go on it and felt very comfortable, what do you think.
thanks. Test ride it....if it will fulfill your goals, great :)
thanks for your valuable lessons, a year ago i bought a Ninja 250 SL as my first bike, i hope i'm not too dumb...
i weight 39kg (86 pound) and my goal is to commute
Smart choice!
That's a good choice, just make sure to get some sort of decent luggage for it to carry your stuff. Small bikes like this are excellent for commuting in most areas, they warm up relatively quickly and are easy on the fuel intake.
I wish I weighed 39kg. My Grom would be a rocketship.
A Girl with her Helmet Ninjas are more sport/sport tourers, it’s the ZX R’s from Kawasaki that are the nutty super sports that no beginner should buy. Ninjas that range from 250-400 are excellent beginner bikes IMO.
Good solid choice. Learn your skillset at a reputable defensive riding school. And put it into practice EVERY time you ride.
Bought a 2019 Sv650 as my first bike a few months ago (with 48hp im a new rider in Europe Comfortable, forgiving, easy to ride, with enough punch to have fun... really happy about that buy :)
MrOnyxHD that is honestly one of the better bikes. V twin acceleration and HP. You also have many after market options for comfort. Should last over 150,000 km.
Nice!
Im looking at the same bike as my first big bike. Seems like a solid choice.
I love my Kawasaki Z400. It's my first bike. My husband (also a new rider but is already at 12k miles) has the 2018 Ninja 400. I practiced on his then got mine and took the msf. To be honest I personally prefer the naked version of the 400. I think I'll always be into naked bikes. I love the look of them, they're sometimes cheaper, and they're comfortable. My husband also says he loves riding mine more than his haha.
nice!
Check out the Yamaha Mt07 you won't be disappointed.. ask anyone.. looks damn good too.
Ride Safe Keep Braaapin
BanditRyder
Total beginner here. Bought husqvarna svartpilen 401 this Saturday and trying to learn. I loved it when he gave the example of his buddy getting Duke 390 which is basically my bike with a different look. I have a lot of learning to do..... can't wait to get decent and enjoy the ride
I just bought my first bike in February. A Ducati Monster 797+. It’s 803cc, very torque-y. Just went on my first real ride yesterday and it was super fun. Not the best first bike but I bought it because I wanted it and I don’t regret it. Can’t say that I haven’t dropped it, but it happens. It’s a beautiful bike that I plan on keeping forever.
Now just keep taking more courses & practice :)
My first bike was a mt-07, loving it so far, I got it 2 mouths ago and Im so happy :D
fun bikes
Fairings are pretty expensive also.
Thanks for the honesty! I have always had standards, and scooters. Try scooters, they are fantastic for in town riding, best for that environment in fact.
scooters are King for traffic. No clutch or shifting, etc.
I purchased a KLR 650 as my first bike- but I don't think it quite counts for being in the over 600cc category. I love it. It's not too slow and its not too fast.
Nice!
I’ve recently picked up a 07 Kawasaki Versys 650 not to much power way more upright and still has lots of maneuvering abilities! I try to practice what you teach from your channel thanks for the lessons
you're welcome!
HAHA love the straight arms impression! Reminds me of some half wits I see, posing with their r1s which they spend no time actually riding.
yes!! lol
I'm 6'3" 235 and 62 years old. Great video as all ways. I live in Philippines as expat and reason you state what bad for beginer good advice for older rider. I ride verysy 650 for those reason. Semper fi.
Thanks!
I've smoked Gixer 1000's on my wife's Scrambler 400cc. It's the rider, not the bike, and this is a great video. If you can get one newbie to avoid a "Busa," you've accomplished your mission.
Thanks
Had a CR 250, later a 320# xr-350 then a cool little Yamaha XT200 fat bike. Not my first bike, but will be getting a Rebel 1100 and will learn with it in "Rain" mode, which cut's back on the throttle position and how much available power the bike will make. 63 years old, will leave it stock, and I've got zero concerns riding in groups or being fast in the twisties. It's a cruiser, I"m going to go slow and just cruise. Probably turn it into a bagger with a fairing so I can just do weekend trips.
I had a Yamaha xv535 as my first bike after passing my test, loved it, really comfy and reasonably maneuverable.
A few years in and I felt like I wanted a bit more power but decided not to carry on riding if i wanted to keep my licence lol.
My mate bought a gpz900r , he never could get the hang of going around corners and if he dropped it had to get help to pick it up.
For me the bike wasnt really about speed but more about the feeling of riding vs driving a car.
I'm riding ebikes now lol, but seriously enjoying the off road and silence and discovering Yorkshire all over again via bike trails etc.
:)
MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.
Okokok but..... The f4i I rest my case comfortable, full fairing, forgiving below 8k and power to grow into
Good on ya but do remember that most people wouldn't be able to start on that. Some people like yourself have a nac for bikes and can do it.
@@DominicNS The f4i is the universally know "easy" 600 its a brute if you lay it down and the thing is so user-friendly its crazy not only that it has high sitting clipons so you don't have the regular sports bike arch so its comfortable for hours im not naturally gifted its just ana amzong bike
@@chasemcclary8861 oh really? Do you know the stats for it? I can understand that actually if it was like the ninja 650. I just assumed it was a full on sport bike whoops
@@DominicNS The bike its a 600cc touring/ race bike... kinda its kinda in a place of its own the thing is fast don't get me wrong but below 8k it has low power after 8k it hgits its powerband and your gone butttttt keep it bnelow or in a high gear and its one of the most calm bikes you will ever ride.
@@DominicNS Look into the cbr 600 f4i its universally loved.
Getcha one of them turbo ‘Busas!
hahaha
Get outta here you yammienoob fanboy lol
Not a turbo but a stock one is a great beginner bike.
John Kelley lmfao
I see VulcanDude is a man of culture......lol
Uh, yeah. Started on a Suzuki 650 V-Strom. Oh so heavy and a very quick throttle. Had a come-to-jesus moment on it🤣 Sold it, got a Yamaha xt250. I am doing this program righteously and religiously!
I was working at a Kawasaki Dealership when the Ninja 900 was released, I can't remember the exact numbers, but of all the Ninjas we sold (as graduation presents Etc.) I had to pick up the wreckage of at least 1/2 of them! (some with blood & bits of the rider still attached!)
hi, I am a beginner and was just planning to buy the bmw f 900r when i watched your video. and it changed my mind and want to just buy the smaller bmw g310r i originally wanted to buy. you are right, the skills set should match your bike. thank you for the very informative advice. regards from the philippines!
Smart! :)
98% of my students for trackday is spot on what he's saying 👏 learn on a small displacement fit for you before trying to look like Rossi on the track or street 😉
:)
Wow, 100k now! Keep it up, man
Thanks :)
Get a ninja 400 great bike easy to handle enough power to grow into but not to much
Awesome!
@@MotoJitsu great video as always greg!I think the Kawasaki 400 is the best beginner bike for most but the cbr 500 is great also!
Cameron Wilson CBR500 is a little more upright and with its higher weight is better on the interstate, don’t get pushed around by the wind off of big trucks. Plus the latest gen CBR500 looks really good
My first bike 30 years ago: Yamaha Maxim 400 Perfect beginner bike IMO. Saved itself a couple of times (gravel, oil on road) before I even had a chance to react.
Sold it after couple of years. Then 30 years later fell in love with a Midnight Cherry Victory Vision and bought one a month later. Appreciating your videos to tell me what I need to practice as soon as the snow is gone.
Thanks! :)
Did anyone notice the effort he put in the shadowy texts??
:)
I'm looking at getting a a 390 ktm duke for a first bike. I can buy one brand new for 5k CAD
TheTrueCanadian I've got a 2014 duke 390 as my first bike. They're amazing to ride! Would highly recommend
I like the avatar...
Sweet bike! I had it as a track bike even...2016 100% stock. Was awesome.
I thought about the same thing the only thing is I do a lot of highway rides probably half of my riding.
I think that's a great bike.. dont bother with anything smaller..
One of the few Real Men out there that keeps it real on UA-cam in the motorcycle community. (Mc Rider being another one) .. I respect what you do bro. #respect...
PS: I am 6'4" (251 lbs).. and I ride a 600. Started with a 250 for 2 years, before I go a 600. I ride to work everyday and I really find it conducive. I avoid traffic and save gas. I don't ride in groups though.. I've been solo from day 1.
PPS: that "Lion King" demonstration had me 😂😂😂🤣🤣...
Thank you so much! :)
i just bought an '05 CBR600rr as my first street bike at 46 years old...i grew up on dirt bikes and pretty much everything else with wheels but that doesn't mean a thing, other than i understand what a clutch is, it's been years since I've been on a bike so I'm taking it really SLOWWWW, practicing your slow speed turning and braking and all that, really getting to know the clutch, using clutch for the slow speed turns, counter balancing and all that. I'm planning my first actual school this summer, and then the track later in the season for some 1on2 coaching. i love it so far, but if i bought this thing when i was 20, and a LOT less disciplined, who knows where I'd be today. If you are a completely new rider, have never been on a bike, or even driven a standard car idk if I'd recommend a 600rr as a first bike either. Bikes take BRAINS, patience, massive discipline and most of all practice! hope everyone has a great summer, great riding and keep it safe out there
I’m really enjoying working on my skills as a new rider on a Suzuki GW250. It’s all the bike I need for now but I can tell in a year or two I’ll want something a little bigger!
I don’t care what other riders think. It helps that I don’t have any friends who ride!
Broooo! Clipons are that low for a reason!!
You should be wheeling it all the time...... ;-)
lol
Dropping a like just because these drawings are on point 🔥
thanks
My first road bike was a ninja 650l and worked fine for me I feel attacked haha
Same. I was under the impression because I was a dirt biker forever that I’d be ok buying a 2002 GSXR 750 a few years after it came out. I didn’t have any friends that had sport bikes but I figured the “middle” option was a safe decision. Lol. Boy was I wrong. Back then the acceleration was mind boggling and THAT is what I got addicted to. I had it for a few years and was very fortunate to have pretty famous canyon runs in AZ nearby and also a massive pair of balls. The lack of fear allowed me to keep pushing myself and became a pretty competent rider. After that there was no interest in something slower. So yeah, I started buying 1000’s. Lol. As much as I want to like this guy he comes off like an ass hat. Stupid this. Dumb that. Just plain disrespectful. Not that I disagree with him but his arrogance is off-putting. The ergonomics of a sportbike are definitely not something he chooses to “handle”. But we all have to have the same opinion? He was even making fun of how people sit up riding one...are we supposed to be tucked at all times. Or wait you’re saying NOBODY should be riding sportbikes period on the street. That it? It’s almost like he has a little insecurity about NOT riding one anymore. My guess is he actually does care what people think and that’s why it’s so easy for him to call us stupid and dumb. You need an attitude adjustment jarhead. You’re talkin to probably half of your subscribers numbnuts.
Way back when I took the MSF course in San Bernardino the advice I was given was to get a 500cc or smaller cruiser as my first bike. So, I bought a Honda VT500. At the time I lived 2 miles from the nearest paved road and laid it down many times in soft sand. Eventually I increased my skill on and off road and kept buying bigger bikes. Now I recommend to my friends who want to get into riding, to consider starting on a naked or dual-sport. Wish I had someone like you to recommend a good bike when I was still new, could have saved some money.
I wish I had my videos/books when I started...but no better time than now
@3:33 wow! I never even thought of that! thank you Motojitsu ! that just makes too much sense! :)
One of the best beginner bike advice video's
Thanks and SHARE!
I love my GSX-R 600 K8 as my first bike. ❤️
great
Love my Gsx-R 600 L3. Had an old heavy zx7R K1, The 600 was soo much nicer in tight busy areas like malls(412lbs), power mode B for heavy rain and even construction zones where road work was being done. Short rides around town, day to day use. Long trips suck, but having a bike that makes you smile and thinking about chain lubes while doing the dishes, worth it. Cant wait for next summer! Maybe I'll get her a self lubricating chain oiler for Christmas :)
Semper FI!
The majority of people I know who ride aren’t even concerned about becoming a better rider. They are however extremely concerned about having the coolest bike or the loudest pipes or the slickest paint job or this accessory and that accessory, but improving your skills on the bike? No one ever, ever, talks about how to be a better rider. When I told a friend I was practicing U turns and some low speed maneuvers he was like “what for?” 🤷🏻♂️
Yup and those people will never be any good and will crash more often.
“Conventional wisdom on the subject is to start off with something smaller and go up from there but bikes are so good these days, I really believe buying the bike that is your heartthrob is the best way to go. I don't believe the size and power of a bike is responsible for rider safety. Rider training is the way to achieve that end.” - Keith Code ( California Superbike School )
I don’t agree at all, no matter who said it.
Man you have some of the best content on UA-cam on bikes and riding advice for new riders. You have also freed yourself from the shackles of social pressures, I like that.
Thanks :)
Good video. I've been riding for 44years (38 years on the street) so I guess I probably look at things a bit differently but I think the perfect first bike is the Honda CTX700 which isn't the lightest bike out there. It's about 500 lb with fuel. But it's got decent power so you're not going to want to trade it right away, the handling speed is pretty good, the low-speed handling on the other hand is almost motor scooter like. It's fantastic at low speeds. I was playing with one that enough you brought to a party. I was able to actually ride that feet up oh, no drama, at what had to be about two miles an hour, while making effortless u-turns. It would be incredibly confidence-inspiring for new riders. Now, you're not going to get the same level of handling at normal speeds as you would from something like that R3 you're talking about, but it's going to be way better then most new riders would use. They have a version of it that is clutchless, but if you're serious about motorcycles I would recommend buying the one With the manual transmission, you know, like 99% of all the other motorcycles on the road. the really nice thing about them is you can buy a brand new one at a dealership, if you're willing to buy one that's been sitting for a couple years, for a little over $6,000. You can find a really decent used one with low miles for less than half of that.
Thanks Jim!
Been riding for 3 weeks. I bought a buell blast 500cc. A lot of people told me to get a 650cc or higher. I was told a Kawasaki ninja 650, Honda shadow 750, GSX-r, but honestly I wanted something small and manageable. I really wanted a ninja 500, but every time they came up used, they sold within hours when priced in my range. I feel like the buell has plenty of power for me. I just want to learn how to ride safely. I can't lie, the peer pressure was definitely hard to resist. One of my friends told me to put down my purse, pick up my wallet and buy a man's bike...lol. Happy I did my own thing. Good video. Great topic.
Smart!! :)
Being 5’4” starting out on a cruiser mainly because my comfort level was I wanted to be able to stop with both my feet almost flat footed. Rode it for about 2 years then tried my buddies R6 and definitely could not ride it for longer than 2 hours. Eventually bought a Kawasaki z900 and it’s lighter than the Harley I used to have but definitely don’t have the limiting factor the R6 does. Thanks for the awesome video definitely sharing it with some of the new riders at the shop.
Next week is a video about tips for short riders :)
I bought a 1996 ninja zx7 750cc for $1500 for my first bike. I just wanted cheap speed. It is uncomfortable and 400+ pounds so it can be a pain. Although i feel i do improve every time i ride i agree with your points. I wish I would have bought a dual sport first
No better time than now
Excellent video!!! People I work with see me on one of my bikes a ZX-14 and say they want one for first. I’m ALWAYS saying NO DONT!!! I’m over 6’ 235# for me it’s more comfort vs my cbr1k I had. My buddy has a Ninja 300 and that thing is sooo much fun!!! Sometimes smaller is better. Fun factor is high. My wife wants to learn after watching me over 15 years. I told her I will get a proper one to start with so she will enjoy it more then be scared of it as she gains experience.
Thanks!
at 60 years old I went through the whole gamut , sport rc51 , naked 919 bking , supermoto ktm590 drz450 and had a blast on each and every one , no regrets , but I sold them all , now I don't ride at all but damn do I have great memories ;-)
👌🏼😁
I'm currently doing the 600lb sport bike as my first bike and that duke 390 looks awfully nice right now. Although I am a bigger guy, around what you wrote down on the board, and I find my sport bike sport bike to be way more comfortable for me than something like those 250 Honda rebels that are used in the msf class.
There’s many other options besides a 250 rebel
I was just saying that smaller bike didn't feel as comfortable as a bigger bike. I am interested in picking up a KTM duke 390 to go along with my electric energica ego sport bike to be able to have a lighter bike to learn faster on. I realized my sport bike was terrible to learn on when I almost dropped it twice while trying to do a cone weave and decided I'm taking a class at Ride Chicago to actually learn. The class was awesome and can't wait to take their intermediate class.
I just saw your videos. I ride what i ride because i like what i ride and i enjoy riding, not to suit others. I catch guff from some Harley riders. I have been riding since before i was 18 the only thing i have up graded on my bikes has been head light bulbs from halogen to bright white LEDs, and up grading a wimpy horn, and adding additional lights on the front and all around so i can be seen. I have replaced a few exhausts, not to make them louder but because the ones were worn out. I had one bike that in two years i replaced exhaust gaskets about 5 times same place until i found ones made by a different bike maker that would last. I have taken several classes and you are right, i have enjoyed riding more and more as i improve my skills, i enjoy taking classed and becoming a better, and safer rider. Dont get me wrong, i like to cut up at times and going fast AT TIMES but, i just enjoy riding even slow coming to a stop and barely having to use brakes. I would love to sit in on a few of your classes you seem like a great teacher.
thanks!
True, Eddie, mine was a ninja 1000. I also regret that heavy machine. Did all my trainings on the ninja, but i sucked on fast cornering. Got to a bmw gs1200 like yours, even bigger, but much more handling and forgiven. So my experience was not the big hp, but the unforgivness and comfort which put me in a better learning curve. Now i tour on my gs1200 and race on track with my gsxr-750. All due to your videos and extra trainingen with your book. Dude thanks, having a better base and experienced skills list because a big part of you :)
Awesome!! Thank you so much :)
bought my first bike and got the license this summer :) a 2010 BMW f650 gs and i love it
Nice!
Thanks for this video. I started on a z300, good beginner bike but I was terrified of it. I cared too much about what people said I should ride, and how I looked. I ended up giving up riding because I was too scared to continue. Now I'm back, I'm on a Honda CT110, and I am riding to my current ability, and not giving any time to people who think I'm "slow" or "uncool".
You're welcome!
I started many years ago with an old Honda CB400. I lost count of how many times I dropped it learning to ride slowly. Had a gs500e for 15 years. Now have a triumph tiger 800. Just remember your first bike isn't your forever one.
true that :)
I found your channel a few days ago and really pleased I have. I have just ordered a ktm 790 duke and I was going to drop 2k on the full exhaust system. Instead I'm going to keep half the money and take a track school!. Been riding for 20 years but to use your phrase I have been practicing for 1 year 20 times so it's time to learn! Just ordered your mastery book from Amazon to. UK friends : any recommendations for track schools here in the Uk?
Welcome aboard!! :) YES get into more training!!!!!
I'm a seasoned rider and still have a sportsbike. Its just an irrational love of that type of machine and its motor. I 100% agree though, they are not for learning on. I learned on an RGV250. It taught me respect but also slowed my ability to improve.
I started on a CBR 600 F2 as my first bike and still haven't crashed or dropped it within 2 years of ownership. It's comfortable for a sport bike (if not the most comfy sport bike ever) and quite civilized if you keep the revs bellow 7K. Maybe not the most ideal beginner bike out there, but a blast to ride if you respect it!