Nervous about test riding new bikes..

[Gone Burger]

So, I am sitting my full license test on Tuesday. If all goes to plan, I should finally have my full license and then the real fun begins (Going to cry like a baby if I don't pass).

Next weekend I am planning on heading out to look at bikes to upgrade to. Have some ideas about what I would like. Did completely have my heart set on a cruiser, but after attending some training on a race track, I just HAVE to test ride all sorts.

I'm pretty damn nervous actually about test riding these bigger bikes. I have gotten use to my tiny, light-weight bike. I know that anything I ride will feel completely different, and that it's about finding the bike that suits me and feel good. But test riding new or near new bikes just makes me nervous. Purely because I don't know how quickly I will get the hang of handling a larger and heavier bike. Did many other people out there feel that same way?

I am incredibly excited, as I know that this is where my fun really begins, just want to shake these nerves and not stuff up the test rides.

Looking forward to seeing what I end up liking, might suprise myself!

[Quasi]

So, I am sitting my full license test on Tuesday. If all goes to plan, I should finally have my full license and then the real fun begins (Going to cry like a baby if I don't pass).

Next weekend I am planning on heading out to look at bikes to upgrade to. Have some ideas about what I would like. Did completely have my heart set on a cruiser, but after attending some training on a race track, I just HAVE to test ride all sorts.

I'm pretty damn nervous actually about test riding these bigger bikes. I have gotten use to my tiny, light-weight bike. I know that anything I ride will feel completely different, and that it's about finding the bike that suits me and feel good. But test riding new or near new bikes just makes me nervous. Purely because I don't know how quickly I will get the hang of handling a larger and heavier bike. Did many other people out there feel that same way?

I am incredibly excited, as I know that this is where my fun really begins, just want to shake these nerves and not stuff up the test rides.

Looking forward to seeing what I end up liking, might suprise myself!

Hey there chickie - lots of test riding - so many different style of bikes out there. You are a very capable and competent rider so i know you going to have lots of fun playing.If you want to have a play on the MonstA - happy for you to do that.

have fun

and good luck for Tuesday

[blackdog]

go and see the boys(and girls) at tss. theres a nice quiet street out the back to putt up and down to get comfortable before venturing any further, and they won't mind you trying quite a few to get a feel for what yer after

and dont worry about your test, after following you from waikanae the other weekend im sure you'll be sweet :)

[Maha]

I am such a good boy and law abiding road user that, when I purchased a 600 sports bike while still on my restricted, I ask a mate if he would pick it up from Auckland for me, he did. I assured everyone that I would not ride it till I got my full. Well I couldn't help myself, I sold the 250.
Excited? yes Nervous? not not not not really.

[Insanity_rules]

You'll be fine, just breath deap and enjoy the test ride. It should be a fun time.

[MadDuck]

Dont be afraid...you are insured right? Kidding.

There is such a huge choice out there for us gals these days which havent been there in the past. You appear to be a sensible person around what will fit you. Dont let anyone sway you away from what you are comfortable with. I remember one test ride I did the shop person pushed the bike over to the kerb so I could actually get on the thing. When I got to my first set of traffic lights I thought ... OK this will be interesting.

The bike that gives you the biggest smile will be the one for you. Be it a cruiser or one of those other things.

[Maha]

Dont be afraid...you are insured right? Kidding.

There is such a huge choice out there for us gals these days which havent been there in the past. You appear to be a sensible person around what will fit you. Dont let anyone sway you away from what you are comfortable with. I remember one test ride I did the shop person pushed the bike over to the kerb so I could actually get on the thing. When I got to my first set of traffic lights I thought ... OK this will be interesting.

The bike that gives you the biggest smile will be the one for you. Be it a cruiser or one of those other things.

I have one of those other things on my watch list, I like!
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Tourers//auction-267227376.htm

[release_the_bees]

I've recently upgraded to a bigger bike, and the one thing I have learned is that it all comes down to confidence. Every time that I actively questioned my abilities whilst riding I struggled to control the bike. The first few times I leaned my new bike into corners I could certainly feel the extra weight, and it was somewhat off-putting, especially during slow speed maneuvers. However, once I got used to the sensation and gained confidence, it was no different to riding my old bike.

Be confident, relax and enjoy the test ride(s). I'm sure you'll have no problems whatsoever!

[Insanity_rules]

I have one of those other things on my watch list, I like!
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Tourers//auction-267227376.htm

A flat Track replica? Nice! Almost temped myself.

[spacemonkey]

All the best for Tuesday Kate.... You'll be fine the test is easy, and your a good rider from what I've seen out on rides. :)

[Maha]

A flat Track replica? Nice! Almost temped myself.

Stunning aint it?...its a Yamaharley eh?

[Insanity_rules]

Stunning aint it?...its a Yamaharley eh?

Your right, It looks a bit of you. I'd like to take one for a strop to see what that geometry does for the 1200 iron horse. Could be fun.

[MadDuck]

I have one of those other things on my watch list, I like!
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Tourers//auction-267227376.htm

Very noice indeed!

[Gone Burger]

Thanks everyone. Yes I know, lacking confidence whilst test riding some new beasts will make for a less enjoyable ride. I am semi confindent with me as a rider, just on a bike that I am familiar with. I guees what my biggest fear is, testing riding some sports bike (weeee that's going to be fun). I have been so used to changing gears out front of my cruiser, that changing with my foot behind me is going to rather tricky for the first few times. Completely different riding position from what I am used to. Keen to try many different types of bikes, and don't want to make the dealers on edge about me taking one out for a spin.

Right, more confindence. Got it. Not too worries about the test, feel good to go on the one. Just the shiny new bikes. I'm sure after the first one or two I'll get into the swing of it all.

Damn - this is going to be fun!

[CookMySock]

If you are thinking of going to a sports bike, see if you can get an hour or two on a GT250R. It's only a 250, so theres nothing to be afraid of, but it tunes you into riding in that posture. Maybe that will bump you through a few fears before you go do it for real.

Another trick you can do, is ride a larger cc bike that looks almost exactly the same as your learner bike. That way your mind associates it with something you are already familiar with.

Larger bikes are of course a little heavier, but mostly the throttle is just heaps more sensitive, and moving away in first gear is has you moving much more quickly, so you can practice that on your learner bike taking off in 2nd gear, and intentionally taking great care with easing the throttle on and getting the clutch out more gently - all those things are quite different on a larger machine.

But yeah, your first month on a big bike is the culmination of much training and many plans coming together and a magical time for you. :niceone:

Steve

[Voltaire]

If you are thinking of going to a sports bike, see if you can get an hour or two on a GT250R. It's only a 250, so theres nothing to be afraid of, but it tunes you into riding in that posture. Maybe that will bump you through a few fears before you go do it for real.

Another trick you can do, is ride a larger cc bike that looks almost exactly the same as your learner bike. That way your mind associates it with something you are already familiar with.

Larger bikes are of course a little heavier, but mostly the throttle is just heaps more sensitive, and moving away in first gear is has you moving much more quickly, so you can practice that on your learner bike taking off in 2nd gear, and intentionally taking great care with easing the throttle on and getting the clutch out more gently - all those things are quite different on a larger machine.

But yeah, your first month on a big bike is the culmination of much training and many plans coming together and a magical time for you. :niceone:

Steve


Before you take any of Sillybastards advice read thru his previous posts.

"I am a licenced motorcycle instructor, I agree with dangerousbastard, no point in repeating what he said....over a year ago but it was the last time anyone agreed with me."
"read what Steve says. He's right.....hardly ever so cherish the moment"
"What Steve said pretty much summed it up .......amazingly."
"I did axactly as you said and it worked...some of the buildings nearby are still standing"
"Wow, Great advise there DB....its hard to believe 1 out of 6000 posts could be useful"
WTB: Hyosung bikes or going or not....which is probably most of them"

not bad....5 references in over 6000 posts.....flaketastic

[MadDuck]

I am a licenced motorcycle instructor, I agree with dangerousbastard, no point in repeating what he said

Says a lot about the said (motorcycle) instructor doesnt it?

[blackdog]

.......
Larger bikes are of course a little heavier, but mostly the throttle is just heaps more sensitive, and moving away in first gear is has you moving much more quickly, so you can practice that on your learner bike taking off in 2nd gear, and intentionally taking great care with easing the throttle on and getting the clutch out more gently - all those things are quite different on a larger machine.....


Steve

omg block your ears katie, that is the biggest pile of horseshit even db has managed to spout for a while.

take this advice only if you feel like having to replace the clutch before you sell it.......

[PhantasmNZ]

One thing I learned when I passed my test was not to be fixated on engine size - and particularly being scared that a bike is "too big" (in a capacity sense...).

In general bigger (heavier) bikes do take a little getting used to - and you do need to be able to move them around (would be bad to ride into a downward facing drive and not be able to get it out again :) ) - but on the road the weight is less important. I bought a 400 when I passed my test which I thought would be "plenty fast enough for me" - but it didnt take long until I realised it was actually a bit underpowered (particularly 2-up)

Take your time, be confident (but not overconfident - we all know what that does on 2 wheels!) and don't rush the decision....

[davebullet]

go and see the boys(and girls) at tss. theres a nice quiet street out the back to putt up and down to get comfortable before venturing any further

He's right. If you've never ridden a heavier / larger capacity machine, good to have a wide quiet road.

Just remember one thing - less twist of the wrist. You literally just need to use the weight of your wrist on a bigger machine to make it move. Don't give it a handful like you might be used to doing.

[Lurch]

And of course make sure you have someone there to film it.

<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/V8eftil7XYg&hl=en_GB&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/V8eftil7XYg&hl=en_GB&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>

[JR1]

^ hahhahha

[Gone Burger]

And of course make sure you have someone there to film it.

Gee thanks Lurch - that gives me the world of confidence. You are so not borrowing my Camera if you come along with me for some test rides. You cheeky bugga!

[Ronin]

Gee thanks Lurch - that gives me the world of confidence. You are so not borrowing my Camera if you come along with me for some test rides. You cheeky bugga!

Lol. Mr Plonker in the vid is on cold green tires. You will be fine. Trust in the fact that you know how to ride a bike and that applies to any bike. Just take it nice and easy untill you learn a bit more about how it reacts to your inputs. And cover the back brake if your gonna wheelie it :yes:

[MsKABC]

The first one will be the hardest Katiepie, after that your confidence will increase heaps. Generally most bike shops I've found to be quite welcoming toward me test riding a bike. They are insured, so don't worry about having an oopsie. If you don't like their attitude, walk out the door and take your money elsewhere.

Maybe don't ride something too aggressively styled straight away - try a sports/tourer before riding a pure sports bike.

I went 250 --> 400 -->750 and it was a good progression, although I didn't last long on the 400 before I was ready for something bigger. It was only meant to be a 600, but I test rode it "for the experience". The smile I came back with was what sold it. :slap:

The modern bikes are so light that there isn't a huge amount of difference in weight. At speed it makes very little difference anyway, it's the slow speed stuff that will get you, so practice lots in carparks and your confidence will increase. My bike is so beautifully balanced that slow speed stuff isn't really any harder than on my other bikes.

I also find I have to be careful where I park my bike, coz if there's a slight slope I'm absolutely stuffed! Fortunately for me, my partner is a mountain of a man and he moves my bike for me sometimes :love: A bit embarrassing when you're leaving a cafe though and all the punters are watching.... :o

Good luck for your test and have fun on your test rides! :D

[CookMySock]

At speed it makes very little difference anyway, it's the slow speed stuff that will get youThis is very true. If you head out of town, once you are past second gear you will be very comfortable. Click it up a few gears and hey! you are in 6th gear humming along at the speed limit. Easy peasy! Spend some time here settling in and enjoying the increased throttle response, and before very long you will past so so may of your fears. Get back to the low speed stuff when you are not feeling so afraid of it.

Another useful thing, is to go on rides on your 250, with someone else on their larger bike. If you suddenly have a burst of confidence, pull over, swap bikes and ride off. Done!

A couple of rules you can make yourself ;

Don't be rough the throttle - it will bite you. Practice being mrs gentle on the throttle, especially the first little part of it - it can be quite snappy there.

No suddenly releasing the clutch like you can on your 250. Again, bike will bite back, especially when combined with the above.

After a week or so once you are getting the hang of it, limit your revs to say 5,000rpm. The bike mostly cannot bite you under 5,000rpm. If you rev the bugger out hard in 2nd or 3rd things change verrrry quickly indeed, limiting the revs helps keep a lid on this.

Practice counting gears. You really don't want to go down to first gear in town and slide the rear tyre, so you need to know when you are in second gear. As you come off the open road, go down from top (6th) gear and say to yourself "I'm in fifth", and then "I'm in fourth."

In the end, it's just grabbing the bull by the horns and doing it, but a little preparation won't go amiss.

Good luck and have fun. It's epic riding larger bikes. :niceone:

Steve

[george formby]

I always feel nervous jumping on a bike other than my own, particularly if it is valuable, deeply cherished or a very different style . After a km or 3 when I know where everything is I'm fine. I ended up riding my mates freshly polished & newly tuned fireblade through some minging wet, slippy, downhill roadworks the other day. All my weight on the front end, wrists aching, sphincter clenched & terrified of a drop. No probs though, all in my head. I do reccomend caution.

[MsKABC]

Practice counting gears. You really don't want to go down to first gear in town and slide the rear tyre, so you need to know when you are in second gear. As you come off the open road, go down from top (6th) gear and say to yourself "I'm in fifth", and then "I'm in fourth."

...or do what I did, and buy a nice gixxer with a gear indicator. It's primo! :niceone:

[CookMySock]

...or do what I did, and buy a nice gixxer with a gear indicator. It's primo! :niceone:all the mod-cons ay. :niceone:

Steve

[John_H]

If you want to have a go on my bike up and down the road prior to going to the bike shops you are more than welcome. Might be a little less pressurised.

[blackdog]

If you want to have a go on my bike up and down the road prior to going to the bike shops you are more than welcome. Might be a little less pressurised.

good lad....

[hellokitty]

Good luck ! I find having a heavier and biggger bike (went from a 250 to a 750) when I want to move it around, I get on it and walk it rather than push it - no chance of dropping it - yes I look like a dork, but a dork in control!
I also did that in the parking area of bike shops to see if I could cope with the weight, as the 750 is 100kg heavier, but it is easy. I would take an experienced friend with you and get him/her to ride to a quieter place - less pressure without the entire shop watching.
I rode back to the shop I got my bike from today and did the meanest stall going from the road into their drive as I was going too slow in 2nd gear - huge big lurch and looked like an idiot!
I just played the dumb blonde.....

[Gone Burger]

Some great advice from you all, thank you very much. I will head into TSS and take something for a quiet pootle out the back. I'm sure it will all feel so much better after the first bike or two. Have just remembered that I may get to test ride some sports bikes next Monday. am booked in for the next training day at Manfield, and I believe the local Suzuki dealer will have some bikes there to demo. Didn't have my licence in time for it last time, timing is much better this time round.

Will let you know how I get on. I reckon I am going to end up with something I never expected to get :) As if motorcycling couldn't be any more fun - I really have no idea what I'm in for. What a life - what a bloody fantastic life!

[blackdog]

from memory stu(tss) has a nice 900 monster(very similar to Quasi's) at a well reasonable price, i reckon that should def be on your 'to try' list....

[John_H]

from memory stu(tss) has a nice 900 monster(very similar to Quasi's) at a well reasonable price, i reckon that should def be on your 'to try' list....

They also have a 600 monster that has been hanging round for a long time. I emailed them and asked about the price and they instantly knocked a grand off so they are obviously open to negotiation. While these new bikes are more powerful it's more just fear of the unknown, all you need to do is take things very gently and you'll wonder what you were worried about.

[IdunBrokdItAgin]

So, I am sitting my full license test on Tuesday. If all goes to plan, I should finally have my full license and then the real fun begins (Going to cry like a baby if I don't pass).

Next weekend I am planning on heading out to look at bikes to upgrade to. Have some ideas about what I would like. Did completely have my heart set on a cruiser, but after attending some training on a race track, I just HAVE to test ride all sorts.

I'm pretty damn nervous actually about test riding these bigger bikes. I have gotten use to my tiny, light-weight bike. I know that anything I ride will feel completely different, and that it's about finding the bike that suits me and feel good. But test riding new or near new bikes just makes me nervous. Purely because I don't know how quickly I will get the hang of handling a larger and heavier bike. Did many other people out there feel that same way?

I am incredibly excited, as I know that this is where my fun really begins, just want to shake these nerves and not stuff up the test rides.

Looking forward to seeing what I end up liking, might suprise myself!

Hey Katie,

Good luck with the test.

I didn't realise that there was a chance to test bikes at the training day - I'll be up for a a test ride on a gixxer myself.

Let me know when you will be heading up for palmy.

[blackdog]

They also have a 600 monster that has been hanging round for a long time. I emailed them and asked about the price and they instantly knocked a grand off so they are obviously open to negotiation. While these new bikes are more powerful it's more just fear of the unknown, all you need to do is take things very gently and you'll wonder what you were worried about.

also, i'd be very surprised if a 600 monster is any more than about 10kg heavier than the keeway too (just did a quick check) 900 monster 183kg keeway 172kg :)

[DJSin]

Good luck with your test on Tuesday.

When you get to the shop that has a bike you want to test let them know you are a bit nervous and they might be able to help position the bike in the best place for take off and recommend a quite test ride area so you can settle into the feel of the bike.

I'm sure you'll be just fine with the test and then the test ride :)

[Gareth51]

You should have no problem there girl,just remember you're not doing the takas and you don't have to get your knee down to pass the test

[blackdog]

heres another one i reckon would be worth a ride, it might be the sort of thing that will pleasantly surprise you with real allround ability. low mileage and legendary reliability too.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Dual-purpose//auction-285392029.htm

[R-Soul]

Thanks everyone. Yes I know, lacking confidence whilst test riding some new beasts will make for a less enjoyable ride. I am semi confindent with me as a rider, just on a bike that I am familiar with. I guees what my biggest fear is, testing riding some sports bike (weeee that's going to be fun). I have been so used to changing gears out front of my cruiser, that changing with my foot behind me is going to rather tricky for the first few times. Completely different riding position from what I am used to. Keen to try many different types of bikes, and don't want to make the dealers on edge about me taking one out for a spin.


Right, more confindence. Got it. Not too worries about the test, feel good to go on the one. Just the shiny new bikes. I'm sure after the first one or two I'll get into the swing of it all.

Damn - this is going to be fun!

As your bike gets bigger, good technique becomes more important. At low speeds and at high. and planning for what you are doing (through all the stages) and how you are going to do it.

[R-Soul]

I also find I have to be careful where I park my bike, coz if there's a slight slope I'm absolutely stuffed!

YES - VERY IMPORTANT!! Nothing dents your confidence like dropping the thing at standstill.

If you are on a slope that runs from right to left or vice versa (and your legs are "vertically challenged"), make sure that your weight is on the upper side, and that you can put your foot down on that side when you come to a stop. With heavier bikes, if the bike goes over a just a little too much, it can become unmanageable. If you are forced to put your foot down on the lower side, the potential for a stuff up is higher (and you could drop the bike on yourself). You have to plan this stuff on heavier bikes if you dont have teh strength to hold them up yourself...

My wife did this just sitting on my bike, on a very slight slope, and it nearly ended up dropping on her!!

I have also done few stoopid things (like not seeing that the stand had been pushed in when pushing it into garage) but luckily was strong enough to save it. there is no way that wifey would have been able to.

Do yourself a favour as well: Check on youtube for lesson on how to pick up a bike that has fallen over. It goes something like this:

1) Stop engine and wheels spinning
2) Put bike in gear
3) Put stand up if bike has fallen on its right hand side (so that you can drop it over from the opposite side when you have pcked it up)
4) Bend knees and put back to bike saddle
5) Grab rails /frame under saddle
6) Use LEGS (NOT back) to lift bike.
7) Balance bike upright
8) Kick stand down with foot (if bike fell on left side)
9) Push bike over onto stand gently

Using this method, you will at least be able to pick up bike and get it home if you do drop it, and not add to teh experience by having to find a guy to help.
Can't remember if this is everything - I think I might have left something out - so check out teh Youtube videos as well.

[R-Soul]

After a week or so once you are getting the hang of it, limit your revs to say 5,000rpm. The bike mostly cannot bite you under 5,000rpm. If you rev the bugger out hard in 2nd or 3rd things change verrrry quickly indeed, limiting the revs helps keep a lid on this.

Practice counting gears. You really don't want to go down to first gear in town and slide the rear tyre, so you need to know when you are in second gear. As you come off the open road, go down from top (6th) gear and say to yourself "I'm in fifth", and then "I'm in fourth."



I beg to differ - my bike will bite her up to 5000rpm (if she is used to a GN250 or something like that!)-its more about the amount of throttle you give it until 5k rpm! If you dont open the throttle, it cant bite you. Just get used to the throttle first.

And gear counting is useful, but it takes up concentration when it could be used on other things. Just like a car, you can hear if an engine is laboured. If it is , change gear...

Again, it just takes a bit of getting used to what a laboured engine sounds like.

[Lurch]

I beg to differ - my bike will bite her up to 5000rpm (if she is used to a GN250 or something like that!)

Too right, if you give any 1000cc V-Twin 5K worth of throttle at the wrong time you're in for some fun!

And even though you never want to have to use it, here's how you correctly pick up a bike of any weight : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPjYweKeiLk

[Old Steve]

I've been looking around at bigger bikes - tho still 7 months away from any chance of my 6F. Lusting after a Shadow or Vulcan, oh yeah.

One thing I'd suggest, if you're going to try a sports bike, see if there is a naked bike of similar size that you can ride first. Going to the naked bike first will make the transition to a sports bike easier.

The naked bike has you sitting more upright with your gear change foot just slightly behind you and the bars are a little higher. On a sports bike you are almost lying down on the tank, your gear change foot is stuck up the crack of your bum, and all your weight is on your hands on the lower bars.

Old Steve - cruiser til I die

[Gone Burger]

O.K... bit of an update for you all!

I have spent the past few days browing the shops and sitting on a few different styles of bikes. Felt very shy about it all, but have met some very helpful folk at the dealers who have been happy to help me out.

Found with most of the sports bikes and naked sports bikes (I have no idea if that is the right jargan) that I felt awesome on some of them, but could barely touch the ground. Was on the very tips on my toes and didn't feel that was something I could get used to... Wow i'm such a short ass!

Saw some cruiers that I liked, but didn't love.

I took my first bike out for a test ride today. I was a bundle of nerves as I knew I would be. But as soon as I was on the bike and left the curb, all of a sudden I didn't feel nervous any more. I felt incredible! I was riding a big proper grown up bike. And what a bike. It handled beautifully, and there was power between my legs - sorry, I don't mean to sound rude but really not sure how else to put that!

I did some around town riding as slow pace, then headed out onto the highway. Simply awesome. And it was a very windy day so it was good to get hit by somes decent gusts of wind as she how it felt.

I'm buzzing, absolutely buzzing.

More to the point, I fell in love with that bike. Am heading in tomorrow to bring her home. Have not "brought" the bike yet as such, but all going to plan, she will be mine. Oh yes, she will be mine.

I planned on this process being much longer than this. I really didn't expect to find something that I loved so quickly.... Awwww love at first sight. I'm such a girl. Speaking of which, its a lovely colour! :)

Not telling you all what it is yet. Will hopefully see some of you at the track on Monday, and I will be on it. For the rest of you, I'll let you know on Tuesday.

***Smitten**

[elle-f]

COOL! I always buy my bikes quick smart and they have always been the right decision

[DJSin]

nooooo I can't wait until Tuesday :(

But congrats on finding "the one" so quickly :)

[Lurch]

Am heading in tomorrow to bring her home. Have not "brought" the bike yet as such, but all going to plan, she will be mine. Oh yes, she will be mine.

So if you see Katiepie and two burly guys in a Ford Transit driving past then it might be time to turn back around and go check your garage.

[blackdog]

hmmmm

not a sprots bike, not a cruiser.

and its shexxxy........

whats your guesses people?

[Gone Burger]

hmmmm

not a sprots bike, not a cruiser.

and its shexxxy........

whats your guesses people?

Well I think it's sexy, others may have different opinions. Didn't say that it wasn't one of those, just that I tried some of each that I didn't reallt take too...

Actually, it's pretty predictable. You'll understand when ya see it. Will post a photo up when I get it (oh boy I hope it all goes through tomorrow)

[blackdog]

well i got my fingers crossed for ya, hope it all goes well and we see ya at the cafe 2moro avo :)

[Toaster]

Well I think it's sexy, others may have different opinions. Didn't say that it wasn't one of those, just that I tried some of each that I didn't reallt take too...

Actually, it's pretty predictable. You'll understand when ya see it. Will post a photo up when I get it (oh boy I hope it all goes through tomorrow)

Well done on the purchase Katie. Great timing for the training day Monday and getting used to the new and significantly bigger bike.

[IdunBrokdItAgin]

C'mon! tell us what you've bought - no fair keeping it a secret!

It's not one of those bikes with three wheels is it?

[hellokitty]

C'mon! tell us what you've bought - no fair keeping it a secret!

It's not one of those bikes with three wheels is it?

Or one of those big scooters? LOL

C'moooooooooooooooon tell usssssssss

[Bald Eagle]

Or one of those big scooters? LOL

C'moooooooooooooooon tell usssssssss

or another monsta

[blackdog]

i know wot it is.......and i'm not telling :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Big Col]

Its just gotta be a goldwing ????.

[hellokitty]

or another monsta

Yeah! I tried a 400cc Monster and it was great for short and small people! :yes:
nice and low and light! Plus it looks cool

[jasonzc]

Suzuki an!!!!

[Gone Burger]

My new baby is.... a 2009 Suzuki Boulovard M50z Limited Edition (I just like saying that last part). It's a gorgeous Black and white. Picked it up on Saturday and what an incredible few days I have had! When I left the dealers, very very white with nerves, I headed out to see a bunch of my new friends (you all know who you are) at the Shortstraw cafe in Whitemans valley, and was very warmly welcomed. I manged to get about 100ks on the clock before heading home to do some things that I needed to tend to.

Sunday was a ride up to Feiliding for the training the next day, and came back home today. Not too many k's on the clock, nearly 500. Ha, might have to get my first service after one week.

Will do a full write up when I have a little more time. But I love it to pieces. She have a lovely low rumble that almost sounds like a purr as you crusie along at a very comfortable speed. The weight really helps you sit into corners, and feel like you are firmly on the road. I am soooooo happy and can't wait until my next ride.

Have no idea how to attach phots to this thread but will try to figure it out soon, and complete a full write up about what a fantastic week this has been for me.

For all of you who were hoping that I would choose a sports bike, I did get to test ride a demo Suzuki SV650 at Manfield and really loved that too. I had a good blat around the track, and enjoyed the corners so much. But my ride it chosen for my long trips up to Auckland, and I think I have chosen very well. Plus, I'm a girl that is a sucker for bling. Now I have some big bling to look after.

Full update soon - but I am one happy chick!!!

[jasonzc]

Congrats!!!

frekin awesome choice.. thats gonna be my next bike.. with Vance and Hines Cruzers... hmm

one more year... lol

glad ur having fun

[Eyegasm]

Nice Katie (Cept that now I have no 250cc friends!!!)

And Jasonzc, I feel your pain. Although I only have till the end of the year till I get my Trumpet!

[sels1]

My new baby is.... a 2009 Suzuki Boulovard M50z Limited Edition !!!
Yay, congrats Katie, look fwd to seeing it

[Smifffy]

It looks awesome - love that paint job, - and you get to get some pro pics of it all nice & new & shiny!!

[Gone Burger]

It looks awesome - love that paint job, - and you get to get some pro pics of it all nice & new & shiny!!

Thanks, yes I think the paint job is nice for something a lttle different. Just seen the pics and love them. The pipes are a bit shiny and give some glare haha! There is one shot where you can see me smiling under my helmet. See, this must be the right bike for me. I only stoped smiling once, and that was to feel sorry for myself (I'm sure those who were there know why that was).

Cheers Eyegasim! I hope you still come along on the rides, now being the only 250 you have become extra special. Don't worry, I'm still tagging along at the back of everyone and will be for quite some time. She is a huge bike for me and it will take me months to settle in on it so I'll be taking it nice and gentle.