Is a GN250 an ok bike to start out on?

**nzspokes** · 20th June 2011, 20:42

Im starting riding after I get through my BHS etc. Have been looking at a cruiser style 250. Would like a Intruder but way out of my current post divorce budget. So a GN looks to be the starter. Are they OK? Im 172cm so size would be OK? Im thinking about spending 2k on the bike and there seems to be a good few in that range.

**DrunkenMistake** · 20th June 2011, 20:42

Short Answer:

Yes.

**jaffaonajappa** · 20th June 2011, 20:44

Longer answer:

Yes, but for 2k (assuming thats not including safety gear) you can do better than a GN250.
Check the scorpions, XV250's, and VTR's. Loads of info on these forums...take an hour or three and read up on them all.

**hayd3n** · 20th June 2011, 20:45

great little town bikes and average on the open road plan well in advance before you attempt to pass any vehicles cheap parts and crash friendly

**DrunkenMistake** · 20th June 2011, 20:48

They are good on your wallet too, cheap on gas, and have tyres that will outlive the bike, Buy a ginnie with original tyres, let it sit in a shed and when you turn 60 discard the rusted away motor and frame and resale the spanking new tyres haha.

The Gn hasnt changed much at all in its production life, and its probably one of the most used learners bikes, so if your not looking for anything super quick but something reliable and bullet proof, go with the Ginnie. IMO anyway

**tigertim20** · 20th June 2011, 20:55

short answer yes, but frankly, there are a LOT of bikes out there for learners that areway superior bikes.
Personally, i wouldnt bother getting a GN,unless the sole purpose of it was commuting through town.

Youll be on this first bike for probably at least a year untill you get your full, so if you plan to use it for things other than just commuting, Id suggest waiting an extra month or two, saving a few extra coins, and getting something better.

**bluebird** · 20th June 2011, 21:03

A GN, ok if you like riding broomsticks, and may remind you of your ex-wife. Save some more coin and get a Hyosung 250, a Yamaha Virago, or a Honda Magna. Some keen sellers out there in Trademe land, make offers.

**Squiggles** · 20th June 2011, 21:06

They're a great learner bike. You should be able to get a reasonably tidy one for 2k. Try to get one that has had the tires replaced (The Cheng Shin tires they come with from factory are arse in the wet).

As Hayd3n said, plenty of parts around and it won't depreciate much (even if you give it a couple of war wounds).

**Subike** · 20th June 2011, 21:12

rthe only other bike that is as good as a GN for learning on is a 225 Yamaha Scorpio
Newer than the GN250s, but also in the $2000 price range

**jazfender** · 20th June 2011, 21:13

People recommend GN250's when they're being polite.

**DrunkenMistake** · 20th June 2011, 21:13

Originally Posted by Squiggles

They're a great learner bike. You should be able to get a reasonably tidy one for 2k. Try to get one that has had the tires replaced (The Cheng Shin tires they come with from factory are arse in the wet).

As Hayd3n said, plenty of parts around and it won't depreciate much (even if you give it a couple of war wounds).

Yip the tyres are like hard plastic.

**nzspokes** · 20th June 2011, 21:17

Well I just found this, http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/sh...post1130075934 . I really like that. Not due to cost but I love the look of it. I dont mind a project as Im not getting it for transport. I really hope its not sold.

Mainly looking at GNs due to its what I know as have seen them around a lot.

**nzspokes** · 20th June 2011, 21:18

Originally Posted by Subike

rthe only other bike that is as good as a GN for learning on is a 225 Yamaha Scorpio
Newer than the GN250s, but also in the $2000 price range

I have looked at those, they look a little little for my 100kgs. love pies......

**DrunkenMistake** · 20th June 2011, 21:26

Oh, dont worry man im 100 and I have riden one before,
You dont want a 250 project, I used to have a thing about sinking money into my old 250 but it was primo nick and I didnt need to, which im glad I didnt! now I have my 400 and have sunk my bank account into it..
Try get something that will require little work,

little work = little hassle,
Little hassle = saved money
Saved money = Dream bike when you get your full
Simple as that.