Motorcycle Repair: motorcycle, honda cb1, naked bikes

Question
Hi Jan,

How are you?
I was wondering if you could give me some advice. I'm getting ready to buy my first motorcycle and I don't know where to start. I need a forgiving and basic motorcycle that's well built and will last. I like classic-looking motorcycles, the naked bikes that have upright sitting position (not forward like sportsbikes or leaning back like Harleys). I like classic looks with one large round headlight, not too much shine (chrome, nickel), as quiet as possible, on the cheap side, and 250cc. Dependability is more important than performance. So far I've been thinking about Honda CBX250 (Nighthawk) or Yamaha YBR250 or Suzuki TU250. Do you have something to say to a beginner like me. Should I pay attention to the number of cylinders, gears etc? Which model is most dependable?
Thanks for your time.

Andres


Answer
Andres,

I always advise new riders to get some dirt or track experience first.  It may sound backwards, but the road is not the place to get experience.  Once you can ride the motorcycle without having to think about the motorcycle controls or operation, and you know what it does in different situations, then you can concentrate on the road and it's hazards fully when you go out there.

With reference to a good first bike, I really like the Honda CB1; but they are getting rare now.  I only ride CBX's so perhaps a CBX250 may be nice; but I have never ridden a CBX with less than 6 cylinders.  Good luck,  Jan