Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Honda or Kawasaki 250 sportbikes, kawasaki 250, honda kawasaki

Question
I'm 6'2 230-240 lbs., never riden a bike before, but am considering getting My liscence. Would a Honda & Kawasaki 250 be a good fit for Me ?

Answer
Adam,

The 250cc sportbikes have a lot of power for their size and can make a great first bike. Depending on your intended use of it some people chose to stay with a 250cc bike and others move up gradually to a 500cc or 600cc, or 650cc sportbike. I strongly suggest that you limit your search to the milder 600cc sportbikes rather than the full race-ready 600 class bikes if you chose to buy a bike that large after the 250cc bike.

I suggest visiting both a Honda and a Kawasaki dealer to sit on and feel the hand and foot controls of both bikes to determine how they each fit you. Because some people are longer in the legs, torso or arms there isn't one size fits all. Sit on each bike long enough to get a feel for how it will be for you when you are actually riding it. Being comfortable on the bike also impacts your safety and whether you will enjoy riding it. However, be aware that some dealerships will try to talk you into a larger bike than you want or need. I also always suggest looking for a used bike in good and well maintained condition as a first bike. You can save a lot of money buying used and if you shop smart, recoup most of it if you decide to move up to a larger bike as you become more comfortable and proficient with riding.

If you haven't already taken the MSF rider safety course I highly recommend that you take it. Not only will you learn good riding habits but you will be able to hopefully get some good advice from the instructors about some bikes that are right for you. Additional, most insurance companies offer a discount for riders who have taken the course.

I hope I've helped your decision. Please feel free to contact me as you continue your search for a motorcycle.

Good luck and ride safe.

Tom Wright