Another soon to be bikerchick (Miss D)

[CatTheBrat]

Hi everyone
I just got my BHS cert yesterday and will sit my learners next weekend. Just wanted to say hi :rolleyes: Looking at getting a VTR250, have found a really nice GSF250V bandit on trademe though. Although I really do love the look of the Ninjas... People tell me to get a naked bike in case I drop it but what if I don't.. lol :whistle:
Cheers
Dale

[FJRider]

People tell me to get a naked bike in case I drop it but what if I don't.. lol :whistle:
Cheers
Dale

Just dont plan to drop it then ... just because they did, doesn't mean you have to ... :cool:

And welcome to the site ... :2thumbsup

[CatTheBrat]

Yeah that's what I'm thinking.. thanks :yes:

[Maakz]

Hi Dale, welcome in...
Uuuuu bike selection-having just been through the whole gambit myself, i will say enjoy the thrill of poppin ur first bike cherry. The pain of parting with dosh will dissipate and ur lust for both ur bike and ride will prevail. Apologies for the rather dubious analogies. I agree with FJ-just don't plan to drop it, be confident you won't and practice. Some good advice thats helping me is - get good gear so if ya do come off you've got the best chance of staying in one piece, don't ever do the newb death grip (relax), look where ya wanna go-scan to ur vanishing line and control ur bike. Though i'm far from an expert being newly minted myself, i originally thought i'd have binned my bike by now, but so far so good. I'm not planning on a bin or a drop anytime soon...fingers crossed.

[Maakz]

Hi Dale, welcome in...
Uuuuu bike selection-having just been through the whole gambit myself, i will say enjoy the thrill of poppin ur first bike cherry. The pain of parting with dosh will dissipate and ur lust for both ur bike and ride will prevail. Apologies for the rather dubious analogies. I agree with FJ-just don't plan to drop it, be confident you won't and practice. Some good advice thats helping me is - get good gear so if ya do come off you've got the best chance of staying in one piece, don't ever do the newb death grip (relax), look where ya wanna go-scan to ur vanishing line and control ur bike. Though i'm far from an expert being newly minted myself, i originally thought i'd have binned my bike by now, but so far so good. I'm not planning on a bin or a drop anytime soon...fingers crossed.:calm:

[superman]

. Although I really do love the look of the Ninjas... People tell me to get a naked bike in case I drop it but what if I don't.. lol :whistle:

It's worth it having a Ninja :yes:

And you won't drop it if it's your super precious baby and you focus everytime you're near it. (touch wood)

Plus gives you something to wax (no pun)... but not too much polishing like a total chrome bike. :msn-wink:

[NighthawkNZ]

Welcome...
Me other half had a VTR 250 and clocked up huge km's on it... The VTR250 is an awesome learners bike, it is forgiving bike... and if you do drop it no fairings to replace. (but as FJRider says don't droop it) It will happily do the longer trips as well... we use to do all the rally's and big trips. Good choice for a first bike...

[CatTheBrat]

Hey thanks guys. That's kind of what I'm thinking, if I got a Ninja it would be my baby I'd love it and I'd be so careful with it - I think my heart's set on it. The VTR250 sounds really great but yeah I've fallen for the Ninja.
Thanks for the advice - the death grip! I've got the Keith Code dvd Twist of the Wrist II which explains about having a smooth throttle and being relaxed, and the 8 Survival Reactions that pretty much get in the way of perfect riding. Going to keep watching it over so I can learn it all. Not that I'll be hitting the track any time soon lol

[Maakz]

Heya
Yeap, must be mandatory viewing, am still chugging through stuff like the good little newb gurly swot that i am. All the better for self preservations and all that good stuff. Am finding the more relaxed i am the less muck ups i make...kinda the opposite of what i had thought at the very outset. Don't count urself out, i reckon you'll be NIKE-ing that track sooner than ya think! As and when ready...GO NINJA!!! Hee YA! (i'm a nobb but i so know it...)

[davebullet]

I own a VTR and have ridden a Ninja

I think the VTR is easier to ride, but the Ninja has more power (believe me you'll want it after a while on a 250).

The VTR is better made / quality. Nothing wrong with Kwakas, but I'd rate Honda build quality higher.

If you love the look of the Ninja - go for it. They are a great bike.

PS: if you are worried about dropping it, you could:
a) take the fairings off and run it naked until your confidence increases
b) buy some frame sliders / crash bungs (these fit to the frame between the fairing openings they look like a "door stop" and protect the bike so that if the bike falls over - they minimise damage).

[Genie]

Hi there and congrats...big exciting world just opened up for you.

I bought a brand shiny new Ninja, love it so much I'm keeping it. All the talk of dropping a new bike and scratching it...yeah I did it. It happens, it gives the bike some character, it reminds me to take more care and engage my brain quicker.

Indicators replaced...the scratch, it's part of my bike, do I care? Yes and no. I did at the time but now, it's ok. It proves I have a bike, it proves I've done something and it also gives me an idea for some fancy decorative work to make my bike more mine!

Whatever you buy, you may drop it, you may not. It is all part of the learning process. The next thing that comes is what you going to upgrade to when you get your full? You don't have too, you can do what ever you want.

Enjoy the new bike, enjoy meeting all the new people and enjoy your time here in KB land, the land of make believe, where all are equal and no body judges another.

[Jeeves]

Hey Miss D

You weren't by any chance one of the gals who did there BHS with Bike skills out at mt Albert?

[The Everlasting]

Welcome to KB.

[CatTheBrat]

Hey not that I know much if anything about the way bikes are built but yes have heard that the VTR is a great build, go forever and more comfortable.. But I kinda want to go impractical on this one lol Not that it's the same thing but I'm a bit of a road cyclist on a race type bike and used to sitting forward and hunched over for 4 + hours. I've never even sat on a Ninja which I spose I should do first lol But have fallen for the look. Saw one on the road today, with an L plate on the back and thought yeeeah that could be me lol

And yep to Jeeves I'm one of the 3 chix that did the BHS course at Mt Albert on Saturday. A dude was there as well but he had done some dirt bike riding I think? So another one of the instructors took him for 1 on 1 and he was done really quickly lol us 3 girls had never ridden before so were at the same level. :woohoo:

[CatTheBrat]

Jeeves I just seen your thread, was that you on the BHS course at 3pm?

[Gibbo89]

Hey not that I know much if anything about the way bikes are built but yes have heard that the VTR is a great build, go forever and more comfortable.. But I kinda want to go impractical on this one lol Not that it's the same thing but I'm a bit of a road cyclist on a race type bike and used to sitting forward and hunched over for 4 + hours. I've never even sat on a Ninja which I spose I should do first lol But have fallen for the look. Saw one on the road today, with an L plate on the back and thought yeeeah that could be me lol

And yep to Jeeves I'm one of the 3 chix that did the BHS course at Mt Albert on Saturday. A dude was there as well but he had done some dirt bike riding I think? So another one of the instructors took him for 1 on 1 and he was done really quickly lol us 3 girls had never ridden before so were at the same level. :woohoo:

The ninja isn't that hunched over, go have a sit and see what ya think :yes:

[Genie]

The ninja isn't that hunched over, go have a sit and see what ya think :yes:

Ha, I'd "sat" on mine about five times, made some right amusing noises, bought it without even starting it up! I just knew, I fitted with the bike and it fitted me. Some things you just "know".

Hey, Miss D....wish you all the best in your search for your bike.

[Jeeves]

i was on the 12-30 course just before you gals. I was signing my paperwork when you turned up.

[CatTheBrat]

Thanks Gibbo89 & Genie, can't wait to go and have a sit on one, I just know I'll be completely sold on them once I do lol :yes:

Oh ok Jeeves, I turned up last and was messing around with paperwork so didn't really see you :facepalm:

[Edbear]

My three picks for the 250's depending on preferred style and type, are the baby Ninja for sports, the VTR Honda for standards and the Suzuki VL for the cruisers.

I know you'll love whichever you choose and I do wish you the best! Please be careful, it only takes but a split second to really change your life for the worse! My biking days are over due to an accident last year in my van and while grateful to be alive and walking, I'm gutted to have to sell my beloved cruiser that I'd planned on keeping forever. :bye:

Sorry, not trying to be a killjoy, I hope you have as much fun as I've had over the last 40 years! :sunny:

[Drew]

I personally like the idea of a fairing for protection of the important bits. Cushions the landing and can mean riding home or sitting around waiting for a trailer.

[CatTheBrat]

Sorry to hear about your accident Edbear :shit:
Yes it is serious and I will be very careful 1. because I'm just learning and not so confident and 2. because I will not want to damage the ninja. My Mother was horrified when I told her I was learning to ride. She lost her bf when she was in her early 20s to a bike accident, and another friend had half a leg amputated. So gots to be careful.
Enough of the serious talk thou! :blink: Hope to go looking at bikes on Sunday :clap:

[Edbear]

Sorry to hear about your accident Edbear :shit:
Yes it is serious and I will be very careful 1. because I'm just learning and not so confident and 2. because I will not want to damage the ninja. My Mother was horrified when I told her I was learning to ride. She lost her bf when she was in her early 20s to a bike accident, and another friend had half a leg amputated. So gots to be careful.
Enough of the serious talk thou! :blink: Hope to go looking at bikes on Sunday :clap:

If it helps in talking to your Mum, there were two accidents on the same corner within half an hour. A biker fell off and broke his leg, I came along in my large van, spun out on the same patch of oil at less than 50km/h, crashed, rolled and broke my back. Who was better off, the biker of the van driver..?

Unfortunately I also have Osteoporosis which means the spinal surgery was uncertain and I cannot afford to risk further injury, hence the sad decision by all concerned... wife, children, family, friends and the surgeon, :yes: to give up biking... :bye:

[CatTheBrat]

Aw that really is tragic Edbear, I'd be so gutted if I had to give up :crybaby:

She is set in her ways no one can change her mind. People die in cars, bikes, bicycles, and walking. Just means people should stop driving cars and start riding lol :niceone:

[Edbear]

Maybe you're right! Who knows what the future holds, so make the most of your age and health while you have it! :yes: Don't have regrets!

I've survived 40 years on the roads in/on all manner of wheeled contraptions with no other serious accidents and I've had a ball. So the fact I'm alive and standing upright after such a close call, is something I'm eternally grateful for! :sunny:

We still have the MX5 which is the next best thing to a bike and the most fun you can have on four wheels, (on the road, the off-roader's will claim the off-road fun), so I'll still be gadding about for the foreseeable future! :rockon:

Meantime, if you know of anyone who may want a one-owner C50T... :innocent:

[Mom]

And yep to Jeeves I'm one of the 3 chix that did the BHS course at Mt Albert on Saturday...

Us 3 girls had never ridden before so were at the same level. :woohoo:

Welcome to the world of two wheels, and welcome to KB! Congratulations on obtaining your BHS. Think carefully about what you want from your first bike, it will be one that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Mine was a little Yay Maha 125 2 smoker. Used to foul plugs if I went less than 30 miles per hour (yeah, yeah I am old) and ring its tits off if I dropped down a cog at the same speed :killingme Best bike in the world bar none!

[CatTheBrat]

Thanks, Mom! :2thumbsup

You're speaking a different language there lol maybe I'll google that hehe :baby:

[Katman]

The secret to not dropping your bike in the early learning stages is to spend plenty of time riding in secluded areas where there is very little or no traffic.

Don't be in a hurry to mix it in traffic and do it gradually once you do start to.

Become confident in controlling your bike before giving yourself too many things to think of.

[CatTheBrat]

Thanks Katman! I certainly intend on practising away from traffic. I was nervous doing the BHS course and definitely not ready for traffic. I will go back to Riderskills and do the confident rider course where it's 1 on 1 and they follow you on a ride in traffic and then take notes of errors etc and coach you in areas they feel you need it in.

[Mom]

The secret to not dropping your bike in the early learning stages is to spend plenty of time riding in secluded areas where there is very little or no traffic.

Don't be in a hurry to mix it in traffic and do it gradually once you do start to.

Become confident in controlling your bike before giving yourself too many things to think of.

You really do talk too much sense :D

I would also recommend riding in small groups of "sensible riders" when you first venture out on the open road, find yourself a mentor, take some lessons from an approved school.

[CatTheBrat]

Yup I have lots of friends that ride and am good friends with the crew at Hampton Downs Ride days - I work there on the ride days doing rider registrations so say hi if you're coming down to a ride day! So I wont be short of advice or experienced people to ride with :niceone: Can't wait for my first group ride!

And thanks Mom for that PM, I did not realise that and hadn't got that far yet - have fixed it :rolleyes: Much appreciated :yes:

[Gibbo89]

Also, another tip for not dropping your bike: Don't take your bike up hills etc and expect it easy to turn at slow speeds etc, just learn the balance etc side of things and have some confidence on your bike before tackling going to see a mate on a hill etc and think a u turn is as easy to do as in a car!

good luck

[CatTheBrat]

Thanks! Oh yeah, practising on the BHS course there were cones to weave through... I stalled it while weaving and she went over, :facepalm: not too far thou, managed to stop it from going all the way.. don't know how they're not exactly paper weights lol But yeah, lots of practise to be had in secluded areas!

[CatTheBrat]

Hey will I even be allowed a Ninja 250R on a learners with this new power to weight ratio law? Anyone know when the law is coming in?
:wait:

[Gibbo89]

Hey will I even be allowed a Ninja 250R on a learners with this new power to weight ratio law? Anyone know when the law is coming in?
:wait:

You will be all good. Ninja's are not powerful at all. Most people assume that only 250 2 strokes will be banned for learners.

The ninja looks like like a sports bike, but the engine isn't. It's a prettied up commuter (have a look on trademe at the gpx250, that is what your ninja was from about 1987 to 2007). I'm not saying it doesn't do highway riding fine, because it will handle it fine but most see these small bikes as commuters and a bit of fun in the hills.

[Anita]

Hey MissD
I have had my licence about 4 months now. I was just like you, loved the Ninja, but I am quite tall and went to a bike shop to try out several different bikes. The Kawasaki was too small, the other HOnda I tried was ok, but the Ninja I found a bit crowded for my legs. I ended up buying a really sexy cool VTR 250 on Trade me! I love her! She is my sexy cool bike! I am out on her when ever I get a chance and she has been a dream to ride.
Having said all that, I will be looking for a larger bike as soon as I have my full. But for the next few months or so I will be more than happy with my red VTR.

[Jeeves]

Also if you want something bigger framed try out a suzuki 2003-? gsx the frame is based on the 500cc version it is still pretty comfortable for me at 6 foot 6.

[CatTheBrat]

Thanks Anita. & Jeeves. Yeah I'll need to try a couple out before I buy. I'd say if the Ninja doesn't fit me I'll go with either a VTR or a bandit, they are the naked ones I have liked :yes:

[Anita]

Hey Jeeves, thanks for that. I did not realise that it was that big. I am 6.1" and find the VTR ok, but like I said, I would like a physically bigger bike one day....but am so happy with mine now.

[Gibbo89]

Hey Jeeves, thanks for that. I did not realise that it was that big. I am 6.1" and find the VTR ok, but like I said, I would like a physically bigger bike one day....but am so happy with mine now.

Good to see your liking the vtr, also the Hyosung gt250 is good for tall people too :yes:

[CatTheBrat]

Yeup I've heard the Hyosung's are good for taller people :yes: Look cool too

[FJRider]

Yeup I've heard the Hyosung's are good for taller people :yes: Look cool too

Just get a bike that you can afford, you can ride ... and be comfortable on.

And ... can do the job YOU want it too ...

Looks are a little down the list ...

but as it's YOUR first bike you'll love it to pieces ... whatever it is ...

[Henk]

Go and troll around the bike shops and have a sit on anything that takes your fancy. I'm not sure how tall you are and that will make a diference. My wife is a litle on the short side and struggles to find bikes that she fits well. She is currently riding a 250 ninja and loves it, she's had a number of bikes over the years and has had her full for about 20 years and went to the ninja from a DR650, mainly due to height issues. People get hung up on the 250s for learners thing which I don't understand as riding a light low powered bike near its limits is a lot more rewarding than riding the latest literbike at 10% of what it is capable of. The ninja is still plenty fast enough to pick up demerits.
We just bought another 250 as a toy but to be honest having ridden it once or twice now I wouldn't recommend an RS250 as learner bike.

[Edbear]

Yeup I've heard the Hyosung's are good for taller people :yes: Look cool too

The wee Hyo 250 is NZ's best selling sportsbike so I'd definitely recommend having a look at them.


Go and troll around the bike shops and have a sit on anything that takes your fancy. I'm not sure how tall you are and that will make a diference. My wife is a litle on the short side and struggles to find bikes that she fits well. She is currently riding a 250 ninja and loves it, she's had a number of bikes over the years and has had her full for about 20 years and went to the ninja from a DR650, mainly due to height issues. People get hung up on the 250s for learners thing which I don't understand as riding a light low powered bike near its limits is a lot more rewarding than riding the latest literbike at 10% of what it is capable of. The ninja is still plenty fast enough to pick up demerits.
We just bought another 250 as a toy but to be honest having ridden it once or twice now I wouldn't recommend an RS250 as learner bike.

Ahhhh.... nooooo.... neither would I.... :laugh:

[bluebird]

There is a CBR250RR for sale on this site, old but fantastic ride, it looks in great condition with not too many K's.

[Henk]

The wee Hyo 250 is NZ's best selling sportsbike so I'd definitely recommend having a look at them.



Ahhhh.... nooooo.... neither would I.... :laugh:

Hell fun though :yes: might try gearing it down a tooth on the front, for legal speeds you only need gears 1 through 3:gob:

[Edbear]

Hell fun though :yes: might try gearing it down a tooth on the front, for legal speeds you only need gears 1 through 3:gob:

Won't that make 1st a bit too short?

[Henk]

Will be worth it if it makes 2nd more useable. There is quite a large gap between the two and downshifting into first makes it scream like a girl. At the moment 2nd will take me to about 75 and apparently dropping a tooth off the front drops the top speed to about 180, I can live with that. Given the price of front sprockets it's worth a try. Worst comes to worst it's more crap for the random pile in the garage.

Miss D
Sorry if I've hijacked your thread.
Go and try some bikes for size, if you find one you like all good, if not you can always upgrade when you get your full. I've though on a few occasions that the bike I had just bought was going to be all I'd ever need and that I'd have it forever, been wrong every time, priorities change, not to mention the relentless march of technology. My old GS1000ST was the shit in the day, now my commuter bike SV650 would stomp all over it in every direction.

[ClutchITUP]

Hey this thread is all about bikes :gob: I thought this was KB?
Are you single Miss D

[superman]

Are you single Miss D

Smooooooooooooth

[Latte]

Smooooooooooooth

You're just bummed he beat ya to it (Joking).

Gee, another person from work on the forum..... :Pokey: (James from ESS here).

Shame you weren't buying bikes a little earlier, with Rhys and Christian both selling theirs - they were both good buys. For the amount of time you'll keep it either a ninja or a vtr will be fine.... buy 2nd hand so you don't lose too much - unless they have been thrashed they'll still go forever.

And i'd say you'll be on your full by the time that power to weight law comes into effect - so really you should by my NSR and get a real 250. :scooter:

[CatTheBrat]

Hey this thread is all about bikes :gob: I thought this was KB?
Are you single Miss D

LMAO :killingme:


And hey James, yep just a bit late for Christian's VTR. I haven't got my license yet need to study more. When I do get it I'll get a bike but yep I will go and have a look at the likes of Red Baron and have a sit on a few.

For the person that mentioned height, I am 5'8 so not sure if that makes me an ok height for a Ninja.

[Latte]

You'll be fine for a ninja, and if thats what you like then go for it.

Guess you'll be out in Group 1 showing up Rachel now :chase:

[CatTheBrat]

Cool but yeah I need to go try them.

HAHA no way I'll keep up with Rachel, I've only just learned to ride and never got out of second gear lol Need heaps of practice :scooter:

[Dutchee]

You may find the Ninja a bit cramped. I can flat foot it at 5'3". The Hyobags might be a better fit, as I found the one I sat on (sorry, can't remember if it was a GT or whatever model) a bit tall for me.

No need to go new though, it's a case of finding a bike you like the look of, seeing how it fits and taking it from there.

Remember, with luck and time, your first bike won't be your last (meaning some people don't actually enjoy riding as much as they thought they would - hard to believe for some of us).

Good luck with the hunt, that's part of the fun, the other part is definitely riding.

[CatTheBrat]

Yup I do like the look of the Hyosungs, I was just told they were big and probably too big for me. I'll try them out too :yes:

Yep riding is definitely fun :msn-wink:

[CatTheBrat]

Tried on a few on Saturday, The CBF250 was rather comfortable, and I wish they still did CBR250s! I sat on a new CBR125 and loved it. But don't think I can allow myself to get a 125 :oi-grr:

The only ninja in sight was a 900 so didn't bother trying that lol Didn't have time to go looking for 250 Ninjas. Will try Hyosung when I do. :yes:

[C.Linnell]

Nooo to Hyosungs! Unless you want to learn how to repair motorbikes at the same time as riding them.

The CBR 125s are hilarious fun as they're so light, and really easy for learners to ride. Having said that, they're not super great for touring NZ because of the hills. There are several spots even between Auckland and Rotorua that a CBR125 can't make 100kph on.

Get a VTR, or James' NSR, or that Ninja that you want. You won't be disappointed with any of them (though the Ninja might make you into a dickhead).

They just started making CBR250s (http://www.ultimatemotorcycling.com/files/2011-honda-cbr-250-r%202.jpg) again btw.

[Little Miss Trouble]

Hey chick, spotted this and thought of you. Same engine as the new Ninja just with the older style fairings.

I still have very fond memories of my time on one just like this :)

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/forum.php#showthread.php/131757-Kawasaki-EX250F?forcenoajax=1

[Latte]

Get a VTR, or James' NSR, or that Ninja that you want. You won't be disappointed with any of them (though the Ninja might make you into a dickhead).



Matt will be a long soon to say it's not suitable for learners...... :rolleyes:

[CatTheBrat]

Nooo to Hyosungs! Unless you want to learn how to repair motorbikes at the same time as riding them.

The CBR 125s are hilarious fun as they're so light, and really easy for learners to ride. Having said that, they're not super great for touring NZ because of the hills. There are several spots even between Auckland and Rotorua that a CBR125 can't make 100kph on.

Get a VTR, or James' NSR, or that Ninja that you want. You won't be disappointed with any of them (though the Ninja might make you into a dickhead).

They just started making CBR250s (http://www.ultimatemotorcycling.com/files/2011-honda-cbr-250-r%202.jpg) again btw.


Really? Hyosungs no good?

Hmm i'll leave the 125 looking pretty in the shop then I think.

Yeah still keen on the Ninja, and O M G thanks for the link now I'm in love with 2 bikes lol I shall look for one and see what damage it will do to my bank account.

LOL is that because you knew someone with a Ninja.... :killingme

[CatTheBrat]

Matt will be a long soon to say it's not suitable for learners...... :rolleyes:

HAHA well we can just tell Matt that yes they do make CBR250's now :2thumbsup

[C.Linnell]

Yeah, those Hyosung GT250s definitely go (though I think my VTR was faster), but the build quality is not so great. That's why they're so cheap.


I think the VTR is easier to ride, but the Ninja has more power (believe me you'll want it after a while on a 250).

That's completely false...
Ninja:
151kg dry,
26.4 hp at 11000 rpm
13.6 ft lb torque at 9750 rpm

VTR:
141kg dry,
32.1 hp at 10500 rpm
17.3 ft lb torque at 8500 rpm

So the Ninja has less peak torque (so less fun around town), less peak power, and is heavier. The VTR will get you to 100kph more than 1 second faster than the Ninja. The only advantage? The Ninja will pull ahead a little bit at high speed because it has fairings.

[CatTheBrat]

So the Ninja has less peak torque (so less fun around town), less peak power, and is heavier. The VTR will get you to 100kph more than 1 second faster than the Ninja. The only advantage? The Ninja will pull ahead a little bit at high speed because it has fairings.

Hmm yeah high speeds.. sounds a bit daunting to me at the moment. I wonder who will win my heart in the end.. did see a couple of awesome VTR's on tardme today.. It's just the cool look of the Ninja that's got me hooked.

[patarch]

So the Ninja has less peak torque (so less fun around town), less peak power, and is heavier. The VTR will get you to 100kph more than 1 second faster than the Ninja. The only advantage? The Ninja will pull ahead a little bit at high speed because it has fairings.

I had a mate describe the ninja as the slowest bike you can get without going less than 250cc. not sure how factual that call was but they are some pretty basic tech wrapped in some nice shiny plastic

ohh and hi Miss D

[Henk]

I had a mate describe the ninja as the slowest bike you can get without going less than 250cc.

That may be true but they are still fast enough to pick up tickets for 130 k on the Desert road according to someone I know.

Lets face it, a 250 four stroke twin is never going to win any horsepower shoot outs, but then that isn't really what they are about. And given our current draconian speed laws maybe that's not such a bad thing.

[schrodingers cat]

The Ninja looks coolest.
It is the coolest colour
It has the coolest name.

You know when you go to a resturant and look at the menu? You know what you want but you sit there and sit there until you think ' I'll be a bit different tonight"

Now remember how unsatisfied you are - every time? Remember how you always wish you'd got the dish you really wanted?

GET THE NINJA

[Gibbo89]

look at a late model honda hornet 250, I have seen 2005 ones on TM before. they have a cool looking rear wheel, as it is a full size tyre

[badblackbuell]

There will be many opinions but...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-354428396.htm

I sold this to the current owner while I was at a bike shop here in ChCh, it'd be the tidiest Bandit 250 I've seen plus heaps of extras and lady owned.

Good luck! :woohoo:

[CatTheBrat]

Yay so got my 6L last weekend! :banana:

I'm going to do a 'confident rider' course, and then BUGGER IT going to get the Ninja! It's what I really want. If I drop it/ crash it and wreck the fairings then meh I'll just have to park it up until I can afford to fix it and drive the car.

I don't care if it's slow compared to others, it's probably a good thing while I'm learning. Less trouble to get into / out of. I'll worry about a faster bike when I get my full.


Hi patarch :D

[Reckless]

My son had a vtr250 def a good bike and easy to ride! And they can get along OK. Less gear changes then the inline four 250 he has now! Good choice for you!
V twin's are the best!! LOL!!!

[GPXchick]

I have the ex ninja model- so i have been told. the same engine as you in a different Body. The model is Kawasaki GPX250R. 2007

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-360256037.htm

I love my boy been riding now 5 weeks ish' and LOVE IT. this bike actually has more BHP than the Ninja, just doesn't look as sexy :)

Happy riding, and good luck with your choice.

[CatTheBrat]

yea I have seen them on trademe but I'm completely sold on the Ninja. I'm not worried about power at this stage :baby: :innocent:

[mikemike104]

yea I have seen them on trademe but I'm completely sold on the Ninja. I'm not worried about power at this stage :baby: :innocent:


Howdy miss d

Who cares about perceived power, I've been on my GPX250 a year as at yesterday and I dont care who's 250 is faster.. seriously if I wanted fast I would have gotten my full by now and a bigger bike to do so.

But those new EX250J's (New model Ninja's) are a sexy little bike aren't they?

[CatTheBrat]

Hey Mikemike
Yep it's not about speed / power for me and shouldn't really be for anyone learning... But yep I love them, sexy sexy!

[The Stranger]

I have the ex ninja model- so i have been told. the same engine as you in a different Body. The model is Kawasaki GPX250R. 2007

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-360256037.htm

I love my boy been riding now 5 weeks ish' and LOVE IT. this bike actually has more BHP than the Ninja, just doesn't look as sexy :)

Happy riding, and good luck with your choice.

Not trying to bag your ride, but - that model have about the worst front suspension ever put on a motorcycle (well in the last 25yrs anyway). That said, if you weigh < 45kg it's passable.
I seriously question the wisdom of lumping a noob who is least able to ride around it with the worst suspension.

[JacksColdSweat]

So why is it that the chicks always get the most replies? Lots of lonely men on this forum! Welcome aboard Miss D!

[CatTheBrat]

haha! Someone told me this was a biker dating site?? :eek:

[CatTheBrat]

Just bought a ninja :woohoo:

Picking it up on Wednesday from Tauranga! Stoked!! :woohoo:

[Mental Trousers]

Just bought a ninja :woohoo:

Picking it up on Wednesday from Tauranga! Stoked!! :woohoo:

Wicked :D

Congratulations. Next ride day isn't too far off either :niceone:

[DMNTD]

Just bought a ninja :woohoo:

Picking it up on Wednesday from Tauranga! Stoked!! :woohoo:

Ahhh...sounds like the one that was looked at by another certain KB'er.
Great price and condition

[CatTheBrat]

Yup! umm not quite ready to jump straight to the track though lol I haven't ridden since my BHS in January! Need to do a bit of practise on quiet streets / car parks first. Lisa hooked me up with some people down there to look at it for me, yep apparently it's a minta - real bargain. woohoo! :wings:

[DMNTD]

Lisa hooked me up with some people down there to look at it for me, yep apparently it's a minta - real bargain. woohoo! :wings:

Yeah mate, that's the one then. You've scored a stupidly good deal :yes:

[Mental Trousers]

That's the wrong way around. Jump straight out on the track and you'll end the day with a level of confidence you wouldn't believe. Talk to Rachel. I'm betting you and her will ride about the same speed and she always looks like she's having a great time on the track.

It's a much safer place to learn than on the road.

[CatTheBrat]

That's the wrong way around. Jump straight out on the track and you'll end the day with a level of confidence you wouldn't believe. Talk to Rachel. I'm betting you and her will ride about the same speed and she always looks like she's having a great time on the track.

It's a much safer place to learn than on the road.

Really? After only 2 hours riding experience?? I agree it's a great place to learn but thought I should get the basics first? Like not falling over?? lol :baby:

[nodrog]

mmmm bourbon

[CatTheBrat]

Haha! Gordie??

[Mental Trousers]

Really? After only 2 hours riding experience?? I agree it's a great place to learn but thought I should get the basics first? Like not falling over?? lol :baby:

Yeah sure. There's a whole lot of people at the Ride Days that are happy to help you out. Do a bit of BHS practice and you'll be fine.

[CatTheBrat]

Yeah sure. There's a whole lot of people at the Ride Days that are happy to help you out. Do a bit of BHS practice and you'll be fine.

Sweet just organised with Rach to go for a ride together on Sunday afternoon. Will do a bit of that before hitting the track, definitely need to brush up on BHS.

[Mental Trousers]

Sweet just organised with Rach to go for a ride together on Sunday afternoon. Will do a bit of that before hitting the track, definitely need to brush up on BHS.

Sweet as. Just remember that riding on the track is worth about a month on the road. You learn at an accelerated rate there so don't leave it too long.

[rachprice]

That's the wrong way around. Jump straight out on the track and you'll end the day with a level of confidence you wouldn't believe. Talk to Rachel. I'm betting you and her will ride about the same speed and she always looks like she's having a great time on the track.

It's a much safer place to learn than on the road.

oh, I thought you were talking about me! :cry:

[Mental Trousers]

oh, I thought you were talking about me! :cry:

If D rode the same speed as you straight off the bat I'd be worried ;)

[DMNTD]

Haha! Gordie??

Aunty Gordie...

[CatTheBrat]

Sweet as. Just remember that riding on the track is worth about a month on the road. You learn at an accelerated rate there so don't leave it too long.

Yep I'll get on the track as soon as I get the basic stuff sorted.

And Gordie thanks for Sunday! I shall be hand delivering bourbans on Wednesday evening :yes:

[Stirts]

1 more sleep!!!!!

[CatTheBrat]

1 more sleep!!!!!

YESSS I KNOW!!!! :woohoo: :wings: :lol:

[nodrog]

im thirsty

[CatTheBrat]

im thirsty


HAHA - 1 more sleep :laugh: :p

[DMNTD]

im thirsty

Dude, there's no I'm in we! :love:

[CatTheBrat]

OMG I'm so excited.. only hours left now!! :woohoo: :love:

:first: I'd just like to thank Lisa and Aunty Gordie for making this all possible, my friends at Hampton Downs Ride Days for all your advice and support
haha the excitement's gone to my head lol :wings:

[nodrog]

Im dehydrating

[Latte]

Finally on 2 wheels :D Have fun

[CatTheBrat]

Hang in there Aunty Gordie! I'm picking some up on the way down so they'll be fresh out of the piss shop. :drinkup:

Yep James, just need to work on converting the rest of IS, haha

[CatTheBrat]

Wow, she's a real beauty. Absolutely mint so happy!! :yes:

[nodrog]

have you wheelied it yet?

[CatTheBrat]

have you wheelied it yet?

haha not likely. Hasn't moved since Lisa parked it in the garage. I need some lessons on on wheeling it about, the last thing I want is to make a stupid mistake because I don't know what I'm doing and damage it, it's a real minta.

[Mental Trousers]

Hint #1 for not looking stupid by falling over at low speed:

Approach Petrol Station pumps EXTREMELY slowly and carefully. More often than not there's oil or spilt petrol there and putting your foot in it when you stop leads to lots of swearing and bruised egos.

[CatTheBrat]

haha good pointer thanks.

Wow I really need practise, slow riding is so tricky I rode to the end of the driveway tonight HAHA started heading for the bush when I started off lol Need to go find a big car park or industrial area. Pretty fuggin nervous just quietly

[CatTheBrat]

Just had my first ride yesterday! Was scared shitless and really nervous / shaky in the beginning but once getting to a car park for practise away from traffic I relaxed and did pretty good! The ride home was sweet. I'm so lucky I have lots of great friends that ride, and that come and ride with me :yes: So glad I had a few friends behind me to keep traffic away from me especially at intersections and round a bouts

[Stirts]

Was scared shitless and really nervous / shaky in the beginning but once getting to a car park for practise away from traffic I relaxed and did pretty good!

Teeeheeeee - don't forget to breathe <img src="http://forum.fendertalk.com/images/smilies/panting.gif"></img>

Well done D!!! Each time you get on your Ginga Ninja it will get easier and easier. Just get your sexy butt on the bike as much as possible. :niceone:

[CatTheBrat]

hehe thanks :rolleyes:

Yup I am going to ride any chance I can! Once I have all the coordination sussed so traffic doesn't stress me out then I shall be riding to work into the CBD. Can't wait for Easter weekend, hope it's fine! :woohoo:

[GPXchick]

Not trying to bag your ride, but - that model have about the worst front suspension ever put on a motorcycle (well in the last 25yrs anyway). That said, if you weigh < 45kg it's passable.
I seriously question the wisdom of lumping a noob who is least able to ride around it with the worst suspension.

So i have done some research and was just wondering where you get your infomation from regarding my suspension. My bike as far as i can tell has WAY better suspension then the Hyosungs. I haven't found any problems, no drops, or spills. I feel i have total control. I weigh 72 kgs so no im not tiny or anything. I check my tire pressure all the time, and maintain it. What makes it THE WORST EVER suspension?

[GPXchick]

Keen for a ride anytime :)

[CatTheBrat]

Keen for a ride anytime :)


Absolutely! Let me just get a bit more practise first so I get confident and not stalling in intersections and can take off smoother and then I'm definitely keen :yes: