Interested in riding

[danewkid]

To any and all who read this,

I'm interested in riding. I've dreamed about riding a Harley since I was a kid. Now that I am a grown woman and can afford a bike and the responsibility of riding one, I'm looking for that perfect cruiser. On a whim, I walked into the Orange County Harley store. I looked around until a bike caught my eye. The one that did was an 883 Sportster Custom. Beautiful bike and suprisingly affordable. However, I ran this idea past a few people, most of whom suggested that I get a Japanese bike such as the Intruder (1) because I could get almost twice the bike for about the same money and (2) because they ride better - less vibration. I'd like to get my bike by the summer. Do any of you have any additional info or suggestions? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[ChibbMD]

If you have never ridden before I think I would advise holding off on the Harley and buy something used for a first bike. Not because the Japanese bikes are a better bike, but more because you don't want to spend $7-8,000 on a brand new Harley and then ruin your year when you drop it while you're learning to ride.

I think many would advise new riders to purchase a less expensive used bike, preferably one that's a little smaller and less powerful (i.e. easier to learn on). It's not like you have to keep a beginner bike forever. You can build your skills and go through some of the growing pains of being a new rider (drops, etc.) on the less expensive bike and then graduate up to something bigger and fancier.

I know EVERYONE will also recommend that you take a MSF beginner rider course offered in your area to learn how to ride. They'll walk you through everything you need to know to get started and ride safely in the future. I took it and I can't imagine learning any other way. I'm sure there's a website where you can find locations for the course in your area.

Good luck as you begin your riding career. It's great fun. Be safe. Let us know if we can offer any other suggestions.

Adam C.

[Mike Burnham]

That was well said Chibb. In your heart is set on a Harley, than you may not be happy with a Intruder. It is true they have less vibration, and with shaft drive they don't have belts to wear and slip. The Intruder VS800 next to the Harley 883, the Intruder has better handling, larger stock tank, and the VS800 will out accelerate the 883. What the 883 has going for it is, you can find more after market parts, and it is more accepted in Harley circles. If you want the Harley prestiege, then you will not be happy till you own one. Keep in mind, if you buy a small used starter bike, you can have you skills down and shop around for the Harley you realy want. Every one I have seen starting on a Harley, tend to not have a great grasp of the weight of the bike. The 883 is sluggish, and with out the bike being able to respond to what you want it to do right off, you may have problems starting and stopping with grace. Also keep in mind, if you drop the bike you have to pick it up. Some states will require you to pick up the bike in the test. Maryland does not, but I have a few freinds I ride with from other states that have experienced this in their driving test. Preparing your driving skills on a heavier bike will take longer to be ready for you driving test.

[Louis]

The two posts above are to the point so I won't repeat.

Welcome to the site.

[Uncle Bob]

Ditto

Welcome to the site.

[jdh3000]

I wouldn't necesarily go for a smaller bike just because you are a beginner. If you can hold the bike up, you should do ok. I found that the 1400 seems lighter than my Volusia 800. Just take it easy when you start off. I've never dropped a bike, even when I was learning to ride. As long as you can stand flat footed, you shouldn't have to many problems.
About buy a smaller bike to learn then going up, if you do, definately get a used one because a new one will depreciate too much. You could take a new one back to the dealer the next day and you've already lost $2000 on it.
I'd suggest if you want a big bike, just be careful. And stay within your limits. Take a course if necesary. Don't worry about getting a Harley, the name is just prestige, and that's really all you are buying. I ride with Harley riders and fit right in on either one of my Suzukies.
One final note on the 1400... I don't know if all of them have a clutch problem, but mine wants to pop on me in first gear, like it's going to take off quick, so watch out for that. Take an experienced rider with you if you can find one to help when buying. Now the Volusia has an easy excelleration, takes off real smooth. It has a lot of pulling power for a small engine.
Good luck!!!
JD

Good, common sense replies. Let me see if I can add just a little more.

If you look around here much, you'll find that generally we recommend beginners start out with smaller, less powerful, used bikes. While that makes pretty good sense overall, there's something of a difference when the type of bike is a consideration.

We're usually giving out advise to younger riders who want the hottest, fastest crotch rocket - so they can move up (to what?) from there. In your case, however, the usual logic only partially applies. That is, you're looking for a cruiser, rather than a superbike. Chances are, you're not looking to scrape the pegs on the corners or wheelie through three gears. My advice to you would be to grab the MSF real soon, then go out and get your dream bike. With the style of riding you intend to do, you put yourself at very little risk regardless of the size of the cycle, once you get the basics down, and are willing to take it easy for awhile.

In reference to the brand of cycle, if a Harley's what you want, you won't likely be satisfied with any other, even though, in my opinion, most any of the foreign 'clones' are far and away better all around motorcycles. I've personally never had the slightest inclination to buy a Harley (well, a Buell Lightening might be fun). I don't see the type of bike I ride as any threat to my masculinity (or course, that wouldn't apply to you ). I'm perfectly happy with my big scooter.