Not ridden in 40 years...bought an M50 LE - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

imphilb · 04-30-2008, 02:09 PM

I did a lot of research online and spent many hours in different showrooms. Finally decided on the M50 Limited Ed. and picked her up on April 21.

This was my first time on a bike in 40 years! Dealer told me it would be a good bike to re-learn on...kind of like a starter bike. Well this is definitely NOT a starter bike. First time let I out the clutch, I almost lost my grip. Wasn't prepared for the amount of torque this thing has. First timers beware, this is not like riding Honda 90's or 250's for that matter (my previous rides). Having said that, I find the M50 is easy to ride, and after a few miles I relaxed my "death grip" and started to enjoy the ride. All the controls are where they should be, although people with smaller hands may find the clutch lever a bit of a reach. My only gripe is I wish it had self-canceling turn signals. I see a lot of people complaining about the rear drum brake, but I find the brakes stop the bike just fine.

I've got about 150 miles on it now and still have to remind myself to take it easy on the throttle starting out in first gear. I can be in the trunk of the car in front of me in no time.

I think my wife is a bit jealous of the new bike. We may be getting her a new C50!