Buying my new bike...

[Tixylix]

Ok, so I've just got my learners license and now want to buy my first bike.

A few questions...

I've narrowed my search to two or three different model bikes but any tips for buying from a dealer. Ie will they let me test ride even though my experience is low and I have no helmet or gear? (hoping to get a deal when I purchase it)

Are some dealers better than others? (I'm in Auckland)

Should I spend the extra and buy new or what should I look out for when buying second hand?

Any advise would be gratefully received.

Looking at either vl250 or xv250 / xvs250... Thoughts?

[Edbear]

I think you'd be happy with any of those three models. Value for money, the Suzuki wins and if you're a bit tall, the Suzuki will offer more room. The XVS is a nice bike but I personally feel they are too expensive.

I'd definitely suggest riding them if you can, but all are good, reliable, economical bikes to run and own. I bought my bike from Bikesport in Helensville and had very good deals and service from them. I'm not sure if Matthew Link is still the owner, but they're nice people out there. :niceone:

[Cayman911]

go brand new. no matter how good its taken care of, it wont be brand new with 1 year warranty.

[hellokitty]

I had a VL250 and bought it new - it was a great beginner bike and when I traded it in, I got a great price for it as well. Such an easy bike to ride and so much fun too.

[phill-k]

I'd think seriously about where u will go for your next bike and buy a near new with the idea its just a stepping stone and u will be after a much bigger bike shortly anyway.
I managed to trade my first (re learners) on my next bike and actually managed to make $500 didn't need to do a service nor WOF, and just 3months reg, bike was near new with 2000kms.

Also remember the restrictions are ending / changing and some bikes won't be able to be ridden with "L" and some others will, this will change the small / first bikes values as the rules change.

[JimO]

hy honest opinion get a 2nd hand vtr250

[Magna83]

No love for the Magna! :no:

I got a really nice helmet off Trade Me from Emoto down in Christchurch:

Zeus 3000A Flip Front Helmet
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Helmets/auction-347079908.htm

Very good price. Reviews of the helmet are excellent. The whole helmet can be changed into a jet style helmet with a conversion kit (Emoto dont have them yet but theres a ozzie site that sells them).

Review, pics and videos on this page:
http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/zeus-helmet/zeus-zs-3000/

I got these gloves as well:
http://www.motorcyclegear.co.nz/afawcs0146619/CATID=954/ID=3371/SID=424001154/productdetails.html

At $50, they're an absolute bargain, IMO.

[Edbear]

hy honest opinion get a 2nd hand vtr250

I agree a great wee bike!