Getting (back) into motorcycling

**nz_samurai** · 5th October 2008, 19:49

Hey guys and girls of the Kiwi Biker community! I've had a great time on the forums since joining yesterday - heaps of excellent articles, advice and questions and I'm looking forward to being part of the community.

The reason for this thread is I need some advice about getting back into motorcycling after having not ridden for about 15 years or so. When I was younger, I did a lot of of off-road riding, then later moved to road bikes. I've owned a few different bikes, a VF400, a VF750 a GPZ900 and finally the urge has returned to get back on the road.

I've got my eye on one of the GSX750F's that are floating around at the moment. My riding style is pretty sedate and while a new 750 might be a lot of bike for me to handle initially, I'm after something that will last me many years without having to continually re-invest in upgrading my machine as my confidence returns and my experience grows. My budget is 8-10k for a bike, with the rest going on good gear (total 12k). I haven't test ridden the 750 as yet, so I know that's the first thing I've got to do (I might find it's not suitable at all).

Do you think that's a suitable approach? If so, are there any other bikes of a similar nature (mix of sports/tourer) that would be worth considering for that budget?

Any and all feedback gratefully received.

Cheers and thanks,
nz_samurai

P.S. My username is NOT the reason I'm looking at GSX.......

**Bonez** · 5th October 2008, 20:09

KiwiKat is your man. He's done exactly what you're going to do.

Welcome to KB.

**Nasty** · 6th October 2008, 01:05

Love my GSX750F .. its a beautiful bike ... as for your approach to getting back into riding .. would actually have a chat to one of the mentors in your area ... contact the Senior Mentor in your area .. I think its The Stranger http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/sh...ad.php?t=80017, and he can get you in touch with the right person. hmm you need to get your post count up but you can post a visitor message with your email address or something http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php?u=3507.

**Jerry74** · 6th October 2008, 01:06

I have got back into it this year after a 10 year break... more fun now than then except when I'm on it seems like I'm 18 again lol

**chubby** · 6th October 2008, 14:38

Welcome back. Firstly don't worry as there are a lot of us returnees around.

Secondly, wether or not your decisions are suitable depends on you and your level of confidence. You've ridden before so it shouldn't be a problem as long as you don't play silly buggers too soon.

If I can say anything its take advantage of the track days, the advanced riding training, try out the mentor system instigated here and respect your own feelings and abilities.

I can't help you with your choice of bike as thats personal to you. Work out how and what sort you'd like to ride and there will be a group knowledgable in that area who can lead you.

Good luck and happy returning.

**slofox** · 6th October 2008, 16:22

Did the same six months ago after 20 years off bikes. Bought an SV650S, pootled for a few days/weeks as the confidence slowly returned but after 4000km and six months it's like I never got off. Just stick within your happy zone and don't feel you have to perform to anybody's expectations apart from your own. You don't HAVE to crank the throttle wide open all the time.....apart from when you're...ahhhh never mind....... Just stay within your limits and you will be sweet. Have a great time!

**BMWST?** · 7th October 2008, 20:43

Originally Posted by slofox

You don't HAVE to crank the throttle wide open all the time

I am about to do the same too...thats very good advice there and some which more than just returnees and learners should take note of...

**puddy** · 7th October 2008, 21:15

Originally Posted by slofox

Did the same six months ago after 20 years off bikes. Bought an SV650S, pootled for a few days/weeks as the confidence slowly returned but after 4000km and six months it's like I never got off. Just stick within your happy zone and don't feel you have to perform to anybody's expectations apart from your own. You don't HAVE to crank the throttle wide open all the time.....apart from when you're...ahhhh never mind....... Just stay within your limits and you will be sweet. Have a great time!

Welcome back! Like he said, stick in the happy zone........... and take a look at an SV1000.