Hi all, my name is Mike. I'm 21 years old and live in San Antonio, Texas. I grew up with muscle cars and going fast due to my father's "hobby". I've been interested in bikes since the first time I saw my uncle's Indian and several big ass Harleys back when I was probably 13 years old. Only in the past year or two I have actually been entertaining the thought of having one. My girlfriend does not...how do you say..."approve" of it however I think she'll undertand and basically get over it. I've been looking at several bikes that are probably not the greatest beginner bikes and after speaking with some experienced riders I came upon a compromise between what I want and what would be better to start on. I originally wanted a Yamaha V-Max - newb killer. Then I learned how rediculously powerful it is, especially for a new rider, not to mention it's handling downfalls. So then I was interested in a few other large cruisers, all too much for a new rider. Finally I decided that a Suzuki SV650N would be perfect for me. It reminds me so much of the Ducati Monster bikes and is not too much reminescent of a crotch rocket. I love cruisers, they are my thing. I can't stand sport bikes to be honest, even if they are the epitome of performance in the bike world...I just want to cruise.
So I was just wondering everyone's thoughts for a beginner on one, etc. Things I can expect from it (maintenance wise) being a chain final drive. Gas mileage. Aftermarket accessories (I already love the idea of changing the gauges to the blue style Illumiglos
), all that good stuff. After I get a season or two under my belt I'll be moving on to a cruiser, and my sights are set for a Boulevard M50 - just can't stop going back to it, heh. So right now my plan is to get signed up for an MSF course around the summer time and then once I pass I'll be getting finances in order and buy the bike, a helmet, a jacket, gloves, and proper boots as well as insurance for the bike.
Well?
~elephant