Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: New rider, fender benders, honda 550

Question
Pat:

I have not ridden since the mid-70s (Honda 550-4) but I have a friend with a Road King who has got my blood up again.  I have explored the idea of vintage Triumphs, Nortons, new Yamahas etc. But I love the old retro look which brings me around to Harley again.  I was biased against them for so many years yet hear the quality is back. I would like to do an occasional x-country tour but mostly liesurely Sunday rides. Is a Road King or Dyna Low Rider too much to jump into? Those police models look mighty cool but may be pricey. I would like to make one purchase and stay with it for many years. What would you recommend in a Harley?

Answer
If I were to ever buy an H-D, it'd be a Road King. However, anything bigger than the Sportster is too much motorcycle for you to start with. I generally recommend that new riders go no larger than a 650 (2-cyl) or 500 (4-cyl) for a first bike.

Too many riders try to answer the question "What is the best bike?" when the question they should be asking is "What is the best bike FOR ME?" The best bike for you right now is one that's easy to manage and doesn't distract you from the real goal: learning to ride again.

I realize you've ridden before, but many, many dead and injured riders your age were in your exact situation. Your best bet is to buy a modest bike to re-learn on for at least one full year, preferably two, then move up to the bike of your dreams.

Absolutely, absolutely take the basic MSF course before you start riding again. Call 800-446-9227 to find a course near you. And bear in mind that you've been safely behind the wheel of a four-wheeled vehicle for 30+ years: you've had a few fender benders and survived, you've probably gotten used to the idea that you can have a drink or two with dinner and still drive home okay, and you've probably gotten lazy because you have the steel cage, seat belts, and air bags to protect you. You cannot take that attitude with you when you ride. You'll be vulnerable out there, you have to pay 100% attention, and you absolutely must be able to separate drinking from riding--no matter what your friends may be doing.

Good luck, happy shopping, and ride safely!

Pat