Perfect learner bike on the motorway?

[CookMySock]

I have a lovely family and 2 kids.

I don't think you should be doing that particular ride on your learners license, considering your inexperience.

Perhaps get some experience for a few months, and then try it.

A bike with upright bars is a lot easier to manage.

Steve

[hmmmnz]

pah, motorway riding is fine, just take it easy to start with, eg no filtering ec,
i would be looking for a il4 like the bandit 250 gsxr250 cbr250 ect ect
or a pararlel twin like he gpx250 cb250, the single cylinder 250s have enough power for the motor way, but it takes a while getting there, and passing is ... well difficult


here a a few bikes that i reckon would be good
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-273139342.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-271524242.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-271226395.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-244271531.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-272402803.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-269421438.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-269773486.htm (great buy)

[aprilia_RS250]

If safety is your top priority then don't completely drop the rs250 out of the picture. It's light and brakes extremely well.Very forgiving bike. I learned to ride in it. Also read the the "Twist of the Wrist" by Keath Code.

[hmmmnz]

yeah there is nothing wrong with 250cc 2 strokes, i did my learners time on a rgv, saying that im surprised i didnt kill myself, far too much power for a 15 year old with no restraint,
if i were to do it again, i'd go for a single cylinder 2 stroke, just to keep the cost of rebuilds down,

[Jonno.]

If you want a cheap commuter get a FXR 150
-30 km/l
-CAN go 100+ km/h and doesn't take "ages" to get there.
-Can get one for 1600 on trademe at the moment leaving you money to buy gear with.

[Old Steve]

Trade Me prices seem to be highly over inflated, I see bikes where the seller is sking $5000 and I bought a similar bike for $3200. Make a silly offer if its a set price, at least you're establishing interest. If its an auction, ask a question so you get included if the seller sets a set price offer after the auction closes with no bids.

[skinman]

I ride a Yamaka Virago & one comment I can make is that on bikes with no windscreen you really notice the wind! If I was to look for anything it would be some fairing/screen if you are on the motorway a lot PS naughty naughty riding on M/way on learners your not meant to exceed 70km. of cause I never did (at least with the L plate on)

[Latte]

Definitely try a few bikes out 1st. Everyone is different and getting a bike that "fits" you and you feel comfortable on is paramount.

If you're not a hormonal teenager that only understands "no throttle" and "full throttle" you'll find the "faster" 250's no issue so don't rule them out. I wouldn't suggest a 2 stroke unless you _want_ one, purely because they are noisy , and require constant maintenance - there's something to do pretty much every ride (albeit small, and it becomes part of the routine), they need a bit more forethought in regards to warming up etc.

If you look at bikes with a sporty riding position go for a longer test ride if you can, pay attention to your wrists and thighs/seat etc - a lot of people get aches/cramps after as little as 15 mins ride time.

If you have narrowed it down to a few specific bikes ask the folks on here for someone to give you their opinion on condition etc - you'll find someone will be happy to give it a once over and test ride for you (nothing worse than your new toy turning out to be a lemon).

[dragon_fly]

Hi there
I also am a new rider and i have a suzuki intruder vl 250 it is cruiser style, nice and light and easy to manuvere(not sure how to spell that). Have riden from Otaki to Wellington heaps of times and it easily does the speed limit. (gets blown around badly if it is really windy). But is comfortable for long riding.

[Phreak]

Cough Cough CBR250 Ahem...!
Earlier models are getting really well priced for low kays, plenty of power to keep up with traffic, and very stable on the road...
But seriously, try out a few different styles, makes and models to find something that fits you personally.

Ride Hard, Ride Safe!

[avgas]

GN125 - good for about 125-130kph, so long as the engine is tight.
Otherwise the Scorpio is good.
Aprilla 125 is good for about 140kph, but you have to ring the shit out of it to go anywhere.
RS250 is great, but not so for learning at 200+kph

[bkker]

pah, motorway riding is fine, just take it easy to start with, eg no filtering ec,
i would be looking for a il4 like the bandit 250 gsxr250 cbr250 ect ect
or a pararlel twin like he gpx250 cb250, the single cylinder 250s have enough power for the motor way, but it takes a while getting there, and passing is ... well difficult

I agree with hmmmnz, sport bikes do have a little more "oomf" which is nice to have on the motorway.
If you want a cruizer then some of those ones with twin-cylinder engines like the Intruder that dragon_fly mentioned are good. Single cylinders like the GZ250 can go 110, but on a windy day up a slight incline and you may find the bike is maxing out at 90.

[R-Soul]

For commuting, 250's have decent enough fuel economy (compared to 125's). When you are in traffic, itis nice to have n upright sitting position (as opposed to leaning back - crusier- or leaning forward - sports bike), the more comfortable you are, the more aware you will be and teh safer you will be.

The VTR250 is a nice upright sitting position, and you can see over cars.

For NZ weather, fairings are nice (which the VTR dont have - maybe a small light shield) - but if you have decent gear, you wont get wet.
The V-twin engine also offers good mid range oomph, and less having to change up and doen the box for suitable gears. And sounds quite nice.

There are a coupl of other Vtwin or twin bikes out ther too - prolly some with a fairing.

[GOONR]

I'd be guessing that Simfish may have a bike by now..

Just incase, I'm gonna chuck in my 2pence worth. I have a 250 bandit and it suites (me) just fine for a commute and a little bit of fun at the weekends (when I get the time). I was very lucky and got mine for bang on your budget (bought it off a mate), I doubt that a decent one for your kinda money would come up to often though.

[Genie]

Well you've certainly got plenty to think about now. As one poster mentioned, pop down your local motorbike shop and sit on a few. It's fun, don't forget to make the right noises! I bought myself the Kawasaki Ninja 250 and I'm loving it. Fantastic little bike that can get you out of trouble should you need assistance. 'tis a nimble wee thing that likes the corners and will take you anywhere, even gravel roads.

All the best for your search and have a safe and fun time on the road.