Can you recommend a bike for me? [Archive]

Matariki

3rd July 2011, 17:04

Hey guys, about two months ago I crashed my GN250E into a mobility van that failed to give way. My bike was a write off and I narrowly escaped with a compound fracture to my lower left leg. :facepalm:

Fortunately I have full coverage and the person who hit me, her insurance company is paying for a new bike. Although I am nervous and a bit scared to ride again, I'm determined not to let my fears get the better of me.

The insurance is covering for my helmet, my bike and my boots since they were damaged. So here's what I'm looking for:

$3000 or under (2nd hand is fine)
Road legal but is capable of going off road or on gravel
125 - 250cc
Lightweight
Suitable for wet weather (both road and off road)
Economical
Learner friendly
Electric start (preferably)

If possible I would prefer not to purchase another GN250.

dogsnbikes

3rd July 2011, 17:14

Hey guys, about two months ago I crashed my GN250E in a mobility van that failed to give way. My bike was a write off and I narrowly escaped with a compound fracture to my lower left leg. :facepalm:

Fortunately I have full coverage and the person who hit me, her insurance company is paying for a new bike. Although I am nervous and a bit scared to ride again, I'm determined not to let my fears get the better of me.

The insurance is covering for my helmet, my bike and my boots since they were damaged. So here's what I'm looking for:

$3000 or under (2nd hand is fine)
Road legal but is capable of going off road or on gravel
250cc
Lightweight
Suitable for wet weather (both road and off road)
Economical
Learner friendly
Electric start (preferably

Call in too langlands and have a chat with Ken Marshall in the work shop,Tell ken what you are looking for he may know of something around...

hayd3n

3rd July 2011, 17:15

scorprio :yes:

Ocean1

3rd July 2011, 17:25

scorprio :yes:

Yeah, you'll pick up a scorpio for that, and it'd be a good choice.

Unless you're serious about the off-road bit. And then you might want to look at some of the 250 trail bikes. You might even pick up a Honda CXRF230 for that... But you'll need to be "not short" to be comfortable on any dirt bike.

Go shopping, at bike shops, get a feel for bike classes other than cruisers. Then ask again.

akkadian

3rd July 2011, 18:04

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=386426618

GSX250 or

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-384880241.htm

Spada 250 (and this one goes offroad cos it's under a tree in the picture!!)

Both fun bikes but depends on what you're looking for I guess :sunny:

blackdog

3rd July 2011, 18:11

Get a Hayabusa or something with 'glide' in the name.

blackdog

3rd July 2011, 18:13

Yeah, you'll pick up a scorpio for that, and it'd be a good choice.

Unless you're serious about the off-road bit. And then you might want to look at some of the 250 trail bikes. You might even pick up a Honda CXRF230 for that... But you'll need to be "not short" to be comfortable on any dirt bike.

Go shopping, at bike shops, get a feel for bike classes other than cruisers. Then ask again.

XT250

Road/trailies that ride themselves.

ducatilover

3rd July 2011, 19:00

I took my Spada off road/gravel a lot :woohoo: Just keep her humming and sliding and it's super fun :innocent: A Scorpio would probably be better on gravel for you though, Spada is a far better bike elsewhere though.

Matariki

3rd July 2011, 19:59

scorprio :yes:

I like :yes:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3lE20-Byn0&NR=1&feature=fvwp

akkadian

3rd July 2011, 20:00

motor_mayhem

3rd July 2011, 20:14

Go with a KTM 200 EXC

Great in all places
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-388099180.htm

or

WR250F
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-386724783.htm

I've got a 525 EXC now (in the shop getting road gear put on), had a 450 EXC which was great on road and off.

jaffaonajappa

3rd July 2011, 20:20

scorprio :yes:

Agreed....100%

ducatilover

3rd July 2011, 20:21

Sounds a shite load better too!!
And will actually get up hills/pass people :yes:

EJK

3rd July 2011, 20:24

jaffaonajappa

3rd July 2011, 20:41

I had to watch that video a coupla times......Most excellent clip this week. By far.

EJK

3rd July 2011, 20:48

I had to watch that video a coupla times......Most excellent clip this week. By far.

"Buttery biscuit base (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/139547-(Video)-Masterchef-Synesthesia?p=1130099007#post1130099007)" not good enough? :lol:

Matariki

4th July 2011, 01:05

ducatilover

4th July 2011, 15:59

Rosie

4th July 2011, 16:11

I have a pretty good idea what bike I'm after now, but... I wonder what other suggestions could be made? :innocent:

If price wasn't a factor, what in your opinion would be the best bike with the specification's stated my original post?

For a short-to-medium sized person a KL250 Super Sherpa, or an XT250 would be my picks. Or the CRF230L, if you wanted something a bit more off road oriented. A DR200 wouldn't have quite as much go as the others, but would still be ok for learning.

For a taller person, a KLX250 or DRZ250 would probably be a better fit. I really like my WRR, but the throttle is a bit twitchy at low revs, which may be off putting for a learner, and they are fairly pricey for a 250.

Squiggles

4th July 2011, 16:11

Scorpio or a GN :yes:

Matariki

4th July 2011, 22:06

After much thinking, since at the moment I can only have one vehicle I think at this stage it might be better to have a car and then to save up for a good quality 250cc bike once I start working again. Although, I'm not sure how motorcycle insurance works... would I have to buy another motorcycle? :blink:

Deciding what to have is doing my head in. :no:
I'm concerned about safety such as riding in the rain and at night (considering I've had bad experiences with both).

jaffaonajappa

4th July 2011, 22:20

After much thinking, since at the moment I can only have one vehicle I think at this stage it might be better to have a car and then to save up for a good quality 250cc bike once I start working again. Although, I'm not sure how motorcycle insurance works... would I have to buy another motorcycle and would I be kicked from the kiwibiker forums? :blink:

Deciding what to have is doing my head in. :no:
I'm concerned about safety such as riding in the rain and at night (considering I've had bad experiences with both).

Stick to cars mate, much simpler.
Volvos are good - ok looking and fast enough for a Grin.

PrincessBandit

5th July 2011, 00:39

Hey guys, about two months ago I crashed my GN250E into a mobility van that failed to give way. My bike was a write off and I narrowly escaped with a compound fracture to my lower left leg. :facepalm:

Fortunately I have full coverage and the person who hit me, her insurance company is paying for a new bike. Although I am nervous and a bit scared to ride again, I'm determined not to let my fears get the better of me.
.

Good for you for being determined to get back in the saddle and conquer those fears. Hope you have fun finding a new steed and your injuries heal quickly.

I have to confess when I first read through your post I got to the word "mobility" and was expecting ...scooter. I was ready to shake my fist, from the safety of my keyboard, at the unruly old coot who ran their mobility scooter into you! Mobility van though sounds just a tad more serious though so I'm glad you have escaped injuries which could have been worse.

Matariki

5th July 2011, 13:53

Good for you for being determined to get back in the saddle and conquer those fears. Hope you have fun finding a new steed and your injuries heal quickly.

I have to confess when I first read through your post I got to the word "mobility" and was expecting ...scooter. I was ready to shake my fist, from the safety of my keyboard, at the unruly old coot who ran their mobility scooter into you! Mobility van though sounds just a tad more serious though so I'm glad you have escaped injuries which could have been worse.

When I met the person who crashed into me at hospital, I asked her whether or not this was her method of gaining potential costumers. To make it worse it was a mobility van she was driving for a local taxi company. I decided not to prosecute her because of the circumstances. She couldn't see the traffic from her left because of the Masterton KFC being upgraded (there was scaffolding in the way obstructing her vision) so she had to (according to her) stick the front of her van over the give way line which put me in her blind spot. As she turned she hit into me. This all happened within a second. I tried to do use the emergency braking technique but the brakes were too slow to respond. My leg got caught in the bumper and because at the time I wasn't wearing armored pants or boots (I was wearing jeans and leather motorcycle boots) I ended up twisting my leg which resulted in a compound fracture to my lower, left leg (where both bones were exposed) and smashing my head against the windshield.

I've learnt the following lessons:

Wear protective armour, cover all limbs.
Don't trust other drivers to follow the law, in places like Masterton they won't.
Slow down around areas such as intersections, espeically if there are no traffic lights or roundabouts!
Wear a reflective vest.
Ride closer to the center of the road when riding through town.
When buying or owning a beginners bike upgrade the brakes, the tires and the lights. Buy the best you can afford.
Ride with others, learn what you can. Build up your confidence safely.
Take defensive riding courses if you are new to riding (like I am).

I intend to do all of these things when I start riding again. Sometimes you the only way to learn is through the hard way. I intend never to crash again. :no:

imdying

5th July 2011, 14:05

Stick to cars mate, much simpler.
Volvos are good - ok looking and fast enough for a Grin.>Hell yeah :D

<img src="http://www.carlustblog.com/images/2008/02/22/8503.jpg" />

oneofsix

5th July 2011, 14:08

When I met the person who crashed into me at hospital, I asked her whether or not this was her method of gaining potential costumers. To make it worse it was a mobility van she was driving for a local taxi company.
:niceone:

I decided not to prosecute her because of the circumstances. She couldn't see the traffic from her left because of the Masterton KFC being upgraded (there was scaffolding in the way obstructing her vision) so she had to (according to her) stick the front of her van over the give way line which put me in her blind spot. As she turned she hit into me. This all happened within a second.
Don't think this should be your choice. The police should be deciding this. If the scaffolding was a problem it was up to her to proceed if added caution and to do her best to negate the problem even if it meant choosing another route. As a taxi driver I would expect her to be well aware of the KFC issue.

I tried to do use the emergency braking technique but the brakes were too slow to respond. My leg got caught in the bumper and because at the time I wasn't wearing armored pants or boots (I was wearing jeans and leather motorcycle boots) I ended up twisting my leg which resulted in a compound fracture to my lower, left leg (where both bones were exposed) and smashing my head against the windshield.

I've learnt the following lessons:

Wear protective armour, cover all limbs.
Don't trust other drivers to follow the law, in places like Masterton they won't.
Slow down around areas such as intersections, espeically if there are no traffic lights or roundabouts!
Wear a reflective vest.
Ride closer to the center of the road when riding through town.
When buying or owning a beginners bike upgrade the brakes, the tires and the lights. Buy the best you can afford.
Ride with others, learn what you can. Build up your confidence safely.
Take defensive riding courses if you are new to riding (like I am).

I intend to do all of these things when I start riding again. Sometimes you the only way to learn is through the hard way. I intend never to crash again. :no:

Don't see how the vest would have helped.
Riding towards the centre would have helped and would been your best course had you noted the obstruction, well usually you best option anyhow, but I'm sure you will learn this on your defensive riding course.
BTW it is not just Masteron or even the Wrapa where people don't obey the laws.

\m/

5th July 2011, 15:13

Wear a reflective vest.
:facepalm: If they can't see your headlight a vest won't make any difference.

Matariki

5th July 2011, 22:44

:facepalm: If they can't see your headlight a vest won't make any difference.

Even in a well lit area? :blink:

ducatilover

5th July 2011, 22:56

Even in a well lit area? :blink:

It can make a difference, but, it's debatable.
So, can you make kebabs? (because of the name....)

Matariki

5th July 2011, 23:16

:niceone:
Don't think this should be your choice. The police should be deciding this. If the scaffolding was a problem it was up to her to proceed if added caution and to do her best to negate the problem even if it meant choosing another route. As a taxi driver I would expect her to be well aware of the KFC issue.

I agree but I was at a loss of what to do at the time. I wished that the police had waited until I recovered before giving me that choice on whether or not to prosecute. Fortunately the woman who hit me wasn't on the job at the time so she wasn't carrying any disabled passengers. I don't know how she could of missed seeing me, I was riding in the center of the left lane with my light on. So she must of stuck out her van well past the give way line to miss me like that. I really don't know to be honest. At the moment I'm not sure what to think or what to do. :facepalm:

Matariki

5th July 2011, 23:18

So, can you make kebabs? (because of the name....)

Yep. :yes:

ducatilover

5th July 2011, 23:24

Yep. :yes:

Proper ones? This means you can do an iskender?

I'm getting excited, KB discount?

TOTO

5th July 2011, 23:58

suzuki GN 250

jaffaonajappa

6th July 2011, 00:25

suzuki GN 250

LOL No Troll

Matariki

7th July 2011, 23:07

I'm also looking into dual sports and considering using my $2700 as a down payment. Any other recommendations?

ducatilover

7th July 2011, 23:59

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-387327163.htm Something like that?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-388156443.htm

I'd take a Scorpio 225 over a dual purpose if you're a bit short (I am :facepalm: )
You get a newer and easier to ride bike for less money.
At the end of the day you can ride anything in the gravel if you're keen :rockon:

ducatilover

8th July 2011, 00:03

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-385699140.htm

Nice little Scorpio in Feilding, not too far from you. I could scoot over next week possibly to take a look at it?

ellipsis

8th July 2011, 00:21

..a CZ175...BEARS eligible..and an underrated 2t m/c..trouble free motoring...

Ender EnZed

8th July 2011, 00:24

I'm looking for:

Road legal but is capable of going off road or on gravel

How off road are we talking here?

Matariki

8th July 2011, 03:34

How off road are we talking here?

Gravel and grass, maybe even sand or a shallow stream.

Matariki

8th July 2011, 03:43

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-385699140.htm

Nice little Scorpio in Feilding, not too far from you. I could scoot over next week possibly to take a look at it?

If you're willing that would be very much appreciated.
By the way, whats the difference in the handling between a dual sport and the Scorpio?

Ender EnZed

8th July 2011, 13:28

Gravel and grass, maybe even sand or a shallow stream.

If you see yourself as having more fun off sealed roads than on then any road bike is going to be somewhat limiting. That said, any road bike will handle gravel just fine provided you don't succumb to the psychological terror many road riders seem to have of the stuff.

whats the difference in the handling between a dual sport and the Scorpio?

On a dual sport you sit higher up in the wind, higher bars and the bigger front wheel will make it less bothered by any bumps in the road, off road oriented tyres will feel different to ride on and offer less traction (particularly in the rain), power and weight might actually be quite similar between the Scorpio and most 250 trailies but the Scorpio will likely have higher gearing and won't be as strained on the open road (but both will do 100 just fine). The most immediate difference that you'll notice will be that on the Scorpio you'll (probably) be able to flat foot it with both feet, on something like an XR250 it'll likely be a matter of tip toes on one foot. This isn't necessarily as bad as it sounds but it does require a fair bit more confidence compared to a Scorpio which is about as learner friendly as bikes come.

Not realated to handling but a major difference worth considering is that for your budget you'll get a near new Scorpio or ~15 year old dual sport.

ducatilover

8th July 2011, 13:35

If you're willing that would be very much appreciated.
By the way, whats the difference in the handling between a dual sport and the Scorpio?

Send me a PM if you're interested and I'll try organise a time.
It's been a while since I have riden such a small bike :bleh:

I'd say Ender EnZed covered it all with handling.
I wouldn't recommend a dual sport to anyone who is shorter than me (5ft 6.5) because I have trouble riding them. The Scorpio would be nice on the road by miles too. It's all a compromise really

ducatilover

8th July 2011, 13:37

. That said, any road bike will handle gravel just fine provided you don't succumb to the psychological terror many road riders seem to have of the stuff.

Tell me about it, once I started to relax on gravel and not go at a snails pace (I'm still a wuss though) I found it totally fine. The CB400 was hilarious on gravel with it's nice wide bars, could hook it into some massive drifts :wings:

Matariki

8th July 2011, 15:18

I'm 5 foot 8, but I prefer to have both of my feet on the ground and I want something that has good traction in wet weather. So I'll probably get the Scorpio but upgrade the tires, the lights and the brakes.
The only reason why I wanted the dual sport is because I love fishing. I've gone fishing before on the GN250 and managed to fit my surf-caster on it, but riding on the gravel to get to the place was a bitch especially with those Cheng Shin tires. Never again!

ducatilover

8th July 2011, 16:36

Those factory fitted tyres on the GN are scary :confused: I had some on my GN for about 2000km before I decided to put it on its side in the wet on the 'Takas.
At 5 Ft 8 you'd probably be fine on a dual sport, maybe it'd be worth finding one and trying it for size?

Beren

8th July 2011, 16:39

Indeed that is a truly epic video :)

Matariki

8th July 2011, 17:15

Those factory fitted tyres on the GN are scary :confused: I had some on my GN for about 2000km before I decided to put it on its side in the wet on the 'Takas.

Tell me about it. Its like something out of a horror film. :no:

First time I crashed was into a bank when I went around a corner riding on gravel. Fortunately I wasn't hurt but it was scary and there was no one around to help me with my bike, but I managed to get it out safely. The second time it was on the wet and I was whisked off to hospital, after that I had the tires changed. The last crash wrecked my bike for good.

At 5 Ft 8 you'd probably be fine on a dual sport, maybe it'd be worth finding one and trying it for size?

Yeah, thats what I was thinking. But I want something that has good traction control, espeically in wet weather.

Matariki

9th July 2011, 00:24

So, being 5'8, what sort of dual sports would I be looking at that is between 125cc to 250cc and has good road traction (in the wet)?
Or could I mod my potential Scorpio? :scratch:

ducatilover

9th July 2011, 00:58

I'd say the traction in the wet is more of a tyre issue, there's always a compromise. I know nothing about dual sport tyres, my knowledge is all on road bikes sorry. perhaps doing some reading up on books about riding would help? I have "A twist of the wrist" one and two by Keith Code, but, they wouldn't be suitable for anyone not wanting to go uber fast :msn-wink:

Ocean1

9th July 2011, 10:17

I'd say the traction in the wet is more of a tyre issue, there's always a compromise.

Correct.

And dual sport machines aren't called that for nothing, they're less capable than pure dirt bikes in the dirt and less capable than a road bike in that environment. One of the biggest compromises is tyres, they do offer a fair bit of feedback but on the road the ultimate grip is way down on say a Michelin PR2. Especially in the wet.

Having said that if you stay off road markings or anything else that looks shiney in the wet it's unlikely you'll get to lean angles that'll see you on your arse.

I tend to advise people to start on a dirt bike, 'cause if you're going to learn anything worth learning you're going to make mistakes along the way. And mistakes hurt way less in dirt, believe me. However, from what the OP has said I'd say a Scorpio represents good value, especially with those PR2s fitted, because they address the greater risk. Just spend a bit of time learning how to deal with them in the gravel, they'll squirm around a bit and you need to learn to deal with it.

Matariki

10th July 2011, 00:22

Correct.

And dual sport machines aren't called that for nothing, they're less capable than pure dirt bikes in the dirt and less capable than a road bike in that environment. One of the biggest compromises is tyres, they do offer a fair bit of feedback but on the road the ultimate grip is way down on say a Michelin PR2. Especially in the wet.

Having said that if you stay off road markings or anything else that looks shiney in the wet it's unlikely you'll get to lean angles that'll see you on your arse.

I tend to advise people to start on a dirt bike, 'cause if you're going to learn anything worth learning you're going to make mistakes along the way. And mistakes hurt way less in dirt, believe me. However, from what the OP has said I'd say a Scorpio represents good value, especially with those PR2s fitted, because they address the greater risk. Just spend a bit of time learning how to deal with them in the gravel, they'll squirm around a bit and you need to learn to deal with it.

So If I got a Scorpio I could change the tries to a 60 to 40 or 80 to 20 road/off-road tires? Or would it be better to just get a dual sport.

I've been on gravel with the GN250 a few times (with those scary cheng shin tires) but I found myself riding at a snails pace. Not fun because I found myself slipping allot and from time to time with my butt on the ground. <_<

Wet roads are scary and I find I can't ride normally on them, I ride slower. Even on dry roads I avoid anything and everything that looks like it could be slippery. But once I can walk again, get my new bike and the 'ok' from the doctors I intend to learn how to ride again by going out with groups and taking courses.

Ocean1

10th July 2011, 00:44

So If I got a Scorpio I could change the tries to a 60 to 40 or 80 to 20 road/off-road tires? Or would it be better to just get a dual sport.

I think you'll struggle to get genuine dual purpose tyres for the Scorpio. Besides, if you're not confident on the road on a road bike with good road tyres then any change in the dirt direction might not be a good idea.

You need to make a choice, either you get a road bike and learn how to ride it carefully while hoping you never find yourself in a situation you can't control, or... You get a trail bike (dualsport) and learn how to control a bike in a much wider range of situations than you'll be exposed to on the road.

They're both valid means to learn how to ride. In my opinion the second method produces riders more skillful in adverse situations. Either way you need to regain your confidence if you're going to enjoy riding again, and you should look for mentors that can teach you the basics at your pace. Expertise of both flavours is hardly thin on the ground in the Wairarapa.

Matariki

10th July 2011, 03:47

I think you'll struggle to get genuine dual purpose tyres for the Scorpio. Besides, if you're not confident on the road on a road bike with good road tyres then any change in the dirt direction might not be a good idea.

You need to make a choice, either you get a road bike and learn how to ride it carefully while hoping you never find yourself in a situation you can't control, or... You get a trail bike (dualsport) and learn how to control a bike in a much wider range of situations than you'll be exposed to on the road.

They're both valid means to learn how to ride. In my opinion the second method produces riders more skillful in adverse situations. Either way you need to regain your confidence if you're going to enjoy riding again, and you should look for mentors that can teach you the basics at your pace. Expertise of both flavours is hardly thin on the ground in the Wairarapa.

So what models of bike would you recommend?

Ocean1

10th July 2011, 09:44

So what models of bike would you recommend?

I've already said. Either a Honda CRF230 or a Yamaha Scorpio.

However, any Japanese equivalent models would be almost exactly the same and just as suitable, and it's far more important that you feel comfortable on it.

Don't place all your expectations for a pain free riding life on the choice of bike, getting the rider well sorted will produce far better results.

Matariki

10th July 2011, 13:34

I've already said. Either a Honda CRF230 or a Yamaha Scorpio.

However, any Japanese equivalent models would be almost exactly the same and just as suitable, and it's far more important that you feel comfortable on it.

Don't place all your expectations for a pain free riding life on the choice of bike, getting the rider well sorted will produce far better results.

Thanks for the advice, I'll get in touch with the motorcycle company I'm with and suggest they search for those two models of bike (or anything similar). I completely agree with you about the rider being responsible for their own handling of the bike and I will admit, I'm a noob at riding. So hopefully several courses and group rides should set me straight. :shifty:

Matariki

10th July 2011, 13:42

Is the Honda CRF230 street legal or can it be made street legal? :)
Does anyone know of any other similar bikes?

Ender EnZed

10th July 2011, 15:09

Is the Honda CRF230 street legal or can it be made street legal? :)

Very few of them will be and putting a bike on the road takes a fair bit of extra money and effort. I doubt you'll be able to find one within your budget.

kilgh

10th July 2011, 15:55

However, from what the OP has said I'd say a Scorpio represents good value, especially with those PR2s fitted, because they address the greater risk. Just spend a bit of time learning how to deal with them in the gravel, they'll squirm around a bit and you need to learn to deal with it.

Hey there, just to clarify, are you saying that for wet weather grip that changing out the stock Scorpio tyres with PR2s would be a good investment?

Sorry about your accident Hotkebab.
I can recommend the Scorpio as a very easy learner bike. I started on a KLX250S dual sport but it was way too twitchy for me to start off with. I had it lowered so I could just about touch the balls of my feet down but compared to the Scorpio it was waaaay more difficult to learn on. But much nicer to look at!:crybaby:
So it's a pity you are in Masterton cause it's for sale and would be perfect for your height right now!:msn-wink:

But I definately like my Scorpio. Got it for $4,000 brand new.

Ender EnZed

10th July 2011, 16:04

Hey there, just to clarify, are you saying that for wet weather grip that changing out the stock Scorpio tyres with PR2s would be a good investment?

Yes. The tyres they come with aren't as good as they could be. This thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/136887-Yamaha-Scorpio-SX-4W-basic-maintenance?highlight=scorpio+tyres) has some discussion of the matter.

kilgh

10th July 2011, 16:33

Thanks!

Will have a read.

Ocean1

10th July 2011, 17:40

Is the Honda CRF230 street legal or can it be made street legal? :)
Does anyone know of any other similar bikes?

I must admit a lot of them will be over your budget limit, but they're out there for not too much more.

This is the machine new and road legal:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-389856367.htm

And this second hand but not road legal:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-361556207.htm

You just need to keep your eye out for the right deal.

This might be worth a look too:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-389593151.htm

Yamaha TTR230 might be a bit dear but worth keeping a watch for a bargain there too.

Most of the 200cc to 250cc air cooled trail bikes are pretty bullet proof, they've all got their good points and minor faults but they're all pretty abuse tolerant.

Ocean1

10th July 2011, 17:48

Hey there, just to clarify, are you saying that for wet weather grip that changing out the stock Scorpio tyres with PR2s would be a good investment?

Hell yes. The standard tyres aren't exactly crap but they're definitely not very good in the wet.

18" both ends I believe... Talk to the shop to see what they think but I'd be looking to fit some Michelin pilot sports or similar. And for a learner I'd be doing it now, not when they're worn.

kilgh

10th July 2011, 20:25

Right, might have to invest in some new tyres then. They are 18s. Brand new at the moment but still, $400 isn't too much for peace of mind.

Matariki

10th July 2011, 20:40

Hmm... I think I might go with the Honda CRF230 and see if I can make it road legal. I think it would be a far more practical bike for Wairarapa, especially where I live out in the country. I'll see If I can change the tires too for something more 'wet weather road friendly'.

Rosie

11th July 2011, 08:39

Is the Honda CRF230 street legal or can it be made street legal? :)
Does anyone know of any other similar bikes?

There are two very different flavours of CRF. The CRF230L is road legal and has a relatively low seat, so it would be a good learners dual purpose bike. The CRF230F is a full-on trail bike, so they generally aren't road legal (and have a tall seat to match), and (although I've never ridden one) I don't think they would be a good choice for a learner.

For general cautious/sensible riding less aggressive dual purpose tyres do pretty well in the wet. I ride a bit slower in the wet and try to avoid heavy braking etc, and I've never had any scary moments on wet seal with the WR, or the sherpa I had before that.

I agree with Ocean1 that riding on gravel does help you develop confidence on marginal surfaces.

Matariki

11th July 2011, 09:47

There are two very different flavours of CRF. The CRF230L is road legal and has a relatively low seat, so it would be a good learners dual purpose bike. The CRF230F is a full-on trail bike, so they generally aren't road legal (and have a tall seat to match), and (although I've never ridden one) I don't think they would be a good choice for a learner.

For general cautious/sensible riding less aggressive dual purpose tyres do pretty well in the wet. I ride a bit slower in the wet and try to avoid heavy braking etc, and I've never had any scary moments on wet seal with the WR, or the sherpa I had before that.

I agree with Ocean1 that riding on gravel does help you develop confidence on marginal surfaces.

Hmm... I'm going down to see the dealer today, it looks like I'll have to get the bike on finance.
What about the Honda XR?