New Rider looking for a bike

Chief Jeff

Chief Jeff

Graphic Artist
cbspec said:
Hi. I just finished (and passed) the beginner rider class at PGCC this past weekend. So now I'm certified to go 15 mph in a parking lot. But I really want to get my own bike now that I've had a taste of riding alone. I was told by a friend, that the Yamaha 650 V something Classic would be good for someone like me, until I want to move up to bigger, faster and more expensive. So my question is, where do I start looking for a good used bike like that for a few thousand bux? Down here not up the road?

Oh yeah, in case you need to know, you can get into the classes at the college on a stand by basis. Just go there when it's class time and wait to see if someone doesn't show up. They'll give you the info on payment etc. if you're accepted. We had two people get into our class like that. But you must be ON TIME or early.

Thanks much.
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Congrats on your riding class, hope to see ya on the road soon...
 
C

cbspec

Fat Hen
Update

Hi. Haven't posted in a little while. Thought I'd update you on my adventure in bikedom. I bought a nice little Sportster a few weeks ago. Not new, but new to me. You can see pictures of the bike (and me on the bike) here.

I've been practicing riding it and went on a 2 hour ride around Leonardtown/St. George's Island. I'm almost ready for rush hour traffic! I don't have much time to ride after I get home on the weekdays, but the weekends are mine for practice. Lot less traffic too so I feel much more comfortable.

I'm in the process of lower the backend of the bike so I can flat foot it. I have new shocks to put on that will lower the backend a few inches. I tried adjusting the shocks on it now but it just softened the ride. Made the ride nicer though. But shorter shocks will lower it more and I will still have a firmer ride. I have the original service manual and I'm quite good at this type of tinkering, so I'm sure it will turn out just how I want it.

I'm really looking forward to more ride time and more long distance putting. This bike sounds so good and feels so good and well, you know, is MINE.

I'll keep you posted on how I do and if you have any input on the shock replacement, please let me know. I'm always happy for more information.

Chris
 
jbooty

jbooty

New Member
So, you did get a red bike afterall.. LOL.. it's nice looking..

I sold my 650.. haven't passed it on the road yet and the guy that bought it lives only about 5 minutes away..

This is my new bike..
 

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aps45819

aps45819

24/7 Single Dad
cbspec said:
I'm in the process of lower the backend of the bike so I can flat foot it. I have new shocks to put on that will lower the backend a few inches.
I'll keep you posted on how I do and if you have any input on the shock replacement, please let me know. I'm always happy for more information.

Chris
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After you lower the back end. raise the front forks up in the clamps about 3/4" to 1". This will help maintain the original geometry (rake and trail) on your bike. Changing one end will change how it steers.
 
C

cbspec

Fat Hen
Hi again. Yeah JBooty, turns out I got a red bike. But it's a darker red than your other bike I think, more a maroon color. Looks like the color in the pics of your new bike. Reddish purple. Your new bike is sure pretty!

Turns out I have to tweak the back fender's wheel guard so it won't hit the swingarm (?) I think it's called. So that's where I am. Thanks for telling me about the front forks. I'll check it out.
 
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