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The Buell Blast is a very unique bike, coming in somewhere between a cruiser and a sportbike. Buell, a branch of Harley Davidson, makes sportbikes and standard bikes. The Blast is one of the most popular bikes made by Buell.

While the Blast is a good beginner bike, it has a little more power than the 250s we’ve been discussing. The Blast is powered by a 492cc, air cooled, 4-stroke engine. This bike is perfect for beginners who find many of the other beginner bikes to be too small or underpowered.

The Blast is a rather small bike, weighing 360 lbs with a seat height of 27.5 inches. The light weight makes this bike very nimble and easy to control, even if it is a little powerful for a beginner bike. This bike rides very well in most all conditions, but really excels in traffic or city riding.

Unfortunately, the Blast does have a few cons. First, there is no tachometer, only a speedometer, which makes riding this bike more difficult for beginners. Riders will have to trust their judgment and guess when to shift gears. Also, the Blast has been known to have some problems including engine problems and faulty electronics. Some riders find this bike to be extremely reliable while others spend extraordinary amounts of time fixing it.

While the Buell Blast is a fun bike, it’s certainly not for everyone. Most beginners will find a 250 perfect for learning on, and will graduate to something larger, like the Blast. This bike is really only recommended for those who find typical 250s too small to start with.

Specs
Bore x Stroke: 3.500 in. x 3.125 in.
Compression Ratio: 9.2 : 1
Horsepower: 34 HP @ 6500 RPM
Top Speed: 95 mph
Primary Drive: Chain, 1.676:1 (57/34) ratio
Transmission: 5-speed, constant mesh 5-speed, constant mesh
Front Tire: 100/80-16M/CTL 50T
Rear Tire: 120/80-16M/CTL 60T
Fuel Capacity: 2.80 gal
Fuel Economy: about 70 MPG
Front Brake: Dual piston, floating caliper; 320 mm, stainless steel, fixed rotor
Rear Brakes: Single piston, floating caliper; 220 mm, stainless steel, fixed rotor Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: $4,795

-Julie

The Hyosung GT250R is one of the best looking bikes on the market. Though this is a great beginner bike, the GT250R has all the look and feel of a larger, more powerful bike. This modern styling makes the bike a very attractive sportbike for beginning riders.

The GT250R is powered by a two-cylinder, 249 cc, DOHC engine, perfect for beginning riders. This bike is powerful, though not overwhelmingly so, and handles great. Compared to the Kawasaki Ninja, the GT250R is said to have more power and reaches higher speeds, though it is more expensive than the Ninja.

Unfortunately, this bike has a high seat height (30.7 inches) and is a little on the heavy side (330 lbs). Some riders, regardless of height, find this bike to be uncomfortable, and shorter riders may have a hard time reaching the ground on the GT250R. Fortunately a few slight modifications can make this bike more comfortable.

While this bike is one of the most powerful and good looking beginner sportbikes, Hyosung is a relatively new company, and has not yet proved themselves in the motorcycle market. But if you’re looking for a beginner bike with the feel of a 600cc, the Hyosung GT250R is definitely the way to go.

Specs:
Engine: 4 stroke, air/oil-cooled
Displacement: 249cc
Horsepower: 30 hp @ 10,500 rpm
Ignition: Electric start
Transmission: 5-speed
Seat Height: 30.7 in.
Weight: 330.7 lbs
Horse Power: 27
Front Tire: 110/70-17 54H
Rear Tire: 150/70-17 69H
Front Brake: Dual DISK
Rear Brake: Single DISK
Fuel Capacity: 4.5 Gal
MSRP: $3,699

-Julie

The Yamaha Virago 250 is one of the most popular beginner cruisers on the road. Many beginning riders head straight for the Virago, known for its great handling and manageable power. The Virago has a great classic cruiser look, often getting mistaken for a small Harley Davidson.

The 249cc, SOHC, engine is great for beginning riders, giving the perfect amount of power for crusing the streets. Top speed clocks in at about 85 miles per hour, just enough for the beginning rider. As with most smaller bikes, the Virago does tend to blow around at high speeds, but installing a simple windshield has helped some riders overcome this problem.

The Virago is definitely geared toward small riders. With a seat height of only 27 inches, this bike may not appeal or be comfortable for taller riders. The Virago is also one of the lightest bikes on the market, coming in at 302 lbs.

Another great benefit of the Virago, especially in today’s economy, is the stellar gas mileage. Most riders report getting about 70 miles per gallon, though some claim to get closer to 90 miles per gallon. Given that the Virago is one of the more expensive beginner bikes (about $3,500 for a 2007), good gas mileage is certainly a plus!

Specs:
Engine: 249cc, air-cooled, SOHC, 60 degree V-twin
Displacement: 249cc
Bore and Stroke: 49mm x 66mm
Ignition: Digital TCI
Transmission: 5-speed
Final Drive: Chain
Fuel System: 26mm Mikuni carburetor
Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
Seat Height: 27.0 in.
Wheelbase: 58.7 in
Weight: 302 lbs. dry
Suspension/Front: 33mm telescopic fork; 5.5" travel
Suspension/Rear: Twin shocks w/adjustable spring preload; 3.9" travel
Brakes/Front: 282mm disc
Brakes/Rear: 130mm drum
Tires/Front : 3.00-18
Tires/Rear : 130/90-15
Miles Per Gallon: 70+
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gal.

-Julie

Beginning riders looking for a relaxed, comfortable cruiser should check out the Honda Rebel.

This 234cc four-stroke twin engine has been around on Honda bikes for decades, making it a very reliable choice. The Rebel is a powerful and very responsive bike, and is great for commuting around town. For the average rider (120-200 lbs), the bike will go 0-60 in 5 seconds.

While the Rebel boasts a relaxed riding position, some larger riders might find this bike to be too small or very uncomfortable. In addition, larger riders might find the Rebel struggling a bit to reach top speeds, especially on highways.

Weighing in at 331 lbs, the Rebel is a very lightweight bike and easy to handle. Few riders report feeling blown around on this bike. Beginning riders with find this a great bike to learn on. The Rebel especially excels around turns, making a new rider feel like a pro in no time!

With outstanding gas mileage, and a great list price, the Honda Rebel is one of the most reliable and economical cruiser bikes for beginning riders.

Specs:
Engine Type: 234cc air-cooled parallel twin-cylinder
Bore And Stroke: 53.0mm x 53.0mm
Induction: Single 26mm diaphragm-type constant-velocity (CV) carburetor
Ignition: CD
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Valve Train: SOHC; two valves per cylinder
Transmission: Five-speed
Final Drive: O-ring sealed chain
Front Suspension: 33mm fork; 4.6-inch travel
Rear Suspension: Dual shocks with five-position spring-preload adjustability; 2.9-inch travel
Front Brake: Single-disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear Brake: Drum
Front Tire: 3.00-18
Rear Tire: 130/90-15
Wheelbase: 57.1 inches
Seat Height: 26.6 inches
Curb Weight: 331 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 2.6 gallons, including 0.7-gallon reserve

-Julie

The Suzuki GZ250 is a favorite among both men and women riders. This beginning bike is fun and easy to operate, and has the look and features of a larger cruiser.

With a seat height of 27.8 inches and a weight of 302 pounds, the GZ250 is easy to maneuver and very responsive around turns. Many beginning women riders find this bike very comfortable and perfect for their skill level.

The four-stroke, SOHC engine provides good power and acceleration without completely overpowering its rider. The 5-speed transmission offers strong performance in almost any situation. Riders will find that this bike handles well in a variety of different weather and road conditions. Most riders of the GZ250 find the bike excels on short rides and in heavy traffic.

One of the best parts about this cruiser is the classic styling. Though it’s a beginner bike, this one will make you look and feel like a pro! Priced around $3,300 new, the Suzuki GZ250 is definitely a ride worth having!

Specs:
Fuel Tank: 3.7 gallons
Front Tires: 110/90-16
Rear Tires: 130/90-15
Front Brakes: Disc
Rear Brakes: Drum
Engine: 4-stroke, air-cooled, OHC
Bore Stroke: 72.0 x 61.2mm
Compression Ratio: 9.0 : 1
Fuel System: MIKUNI BSR32
Lubrication: Wet sump
Ignition: Electronic ignition (Transistorized)
Final Drive: D.I.D 520V, 110 links
Overall Length: 2160 mm (85.0 in)
Overall Width: 815 mm (32.1 in)
Overall Height: 1090 mm (42.9 in)
Ground Clearance: 125 mm (4.9 in)
Wheelbase: 1450 mm (57.1 in)
Suspension Front: Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Suspension Rear: Swingarm type, coil spring, oil damped

-Julie

After you’ve purchased your motorcycle and helmet, you may be left wondering what other gear you need. There are a lot of options when it comes to gear. You may find that some of the things on the list below just aren’t for you. Most though, help to keep you safe and comfortable while riding. While it’s easy to hop on your new bike and go, consider purchasing some additional items before your first ride.

Recommended

Motorcycle Jacket
A good jacket will not only protect you from the elements, but help to keep you warm as well. Research different brands and types of jackets before you buy. Some people wear a heavy leather jacket, while others prefer something more lightweight with extra protection in certain areas. A few good brands are Joe Rocket, Speed & Strength, and First Gear.

Jeans
Almost all riders wear some type of jeans, either regular or with added protection. Don’t ever wear shorts or sweat pants or anything that will tear easily should you go sliding across the road.

Riding Pants
Riding pants are a good option to help protect you even more. Some pants you can even wear over your jeans. Not only will they keep you safe, but they will keep you warm when riding in colder conditions.

Advice on fabrics for pants and jackets can be found here

Gloves
I talked about gloves a few weeks ago. Don’t go without them. They’re one of the cheapest and most necessary pieces of gear you can buy.

Boots
Again, many different options when it comes to boots. There’s tall boots and short boots, ones with laces and ones without. Decide which is best for you and which you will feel most comfortable in. Either way, just buy a pair.

Optional

Eyewear
This is only optional for those that wear a full helmet, in which case additional eyewear is most likely not practical. For riders wearing a half helmet, eyewear is an absolute necessity. Goggles will keep your precious eyes safe from bugs, wind, road debris and other elements.

Socks
Some riders prefer to buy long socks that will cover most of their legs, and won’t ride down into their boots. As long as you’re wearing good boots and pants, socks won’t be the most important purchase you make.

Rainsuit
If you’re going to be doing a lot of riding, it’s probably wise to get a rainsuit. Nothing is worse than getting stuck in a storm and getting drenched.

Reflective Vest
Like crossing guards wear. If you’re going to be doing some night riding, especially on dimly lit roads, it’s a good idea to wear a reflective vest.

Ear Plugs
Riding is loud. If someone tells you otherwise, they’re lying. Between the engine and the wind rushing past, riding can damage your hearing. Ear plugs are cheap. They save your hearing. Should be a no-brainer.

Heated Clothing
Not necessary unless you’re driving in cold conditions. Heated clothing can vary from some plain long johns to actual pants with electric heating elements in them, similar to an electric blanket.

Clearly there is a lot of gear recommended for riding. If you don’t think you can afford the necessary gear, you may want to rethink your motorcycle purchase. You really can’t put a price on your life.

Many of these, and other items can be found online at www.rockheadbikes.com.

-Julie

Over the weekend I was talking to a friend who bought his first motorcycle about 4 years ago. I asked him the famous question “What do you know now that you wish you knew then?” Here’s what he came up with…

1. Do your homework
So you absolutely have to have a Kawasaki. But have you even checked out the other options out there? Before anything else make sure that you have done research and know exactly why you want the bike you want. So many people make impulsive decisions without even knowing what they’re getting into. If you’re going to be riding this bike, you better know all there is to know about it. Better to find out now that it doesn’t go over 60mph rather than when you’re on the highway.

2. TRY them out
Try all the motorcycles you can. Take them on test drives if possible. Borrow a friend’s bike. Try everything. Even the ones you would never be seen on. You just never know what you may end up liking.

3. Buy used
Besides the fact that you won’t mind bumps and scratches, buying a used motorcycle allows you to change your mind. If you realize 6 months in that you absolutely hate the sportbike you had to have and instead want a cruiser, you’ll feel less guilty about getting rid of it. Besides, if the used bike has been kept in good condition, it’s as good as new.

4. Ask a friend’s opinion
Ask your more experienced friends which bikes they like and why. Take a friend along on shopping trips if possible. You may have your heart set on something but your friend may point out a major issue that you hadn’t though of. Talking to someone who has been riding for a long time can give you some insight into possible scenarios and situations you hadn’t thought of.

5. Get a really good helmet
Even all the experience in the world can’t prepare you for the unexpected accident. No matter what else you do, just make sure that your head has some good protection. And a half helmet won’t do. Just go all the way, make it a full helmet, and make sure its rated well.

Buying a bike can be a very exciting time. But if you’re not prepared and not informed, you may end up making a huge mistake. Taking a little extra time to really learn about riding will really pay off in the end.

-Julie

If you crave a versatile first bike, perfect for learning how to ride and extremely comfortable, the Kawasaki Eliminator Cruiser is certainly a good option.

The classic style and chrome frame make this a very attractive bike. The 125cc, air-cooled, SOHC engine, while powerful, will keep new riders safe and out of trouble. The engine, at about 12 horsepower, is designed to be powerful at lower speeds, making it a great bike for riding around town. The electric ignition does not require adjustments, and you can count on it being pretty reliable.

Another major benefit of this bike is its height. This bike is one of the shortest and lightest on the market, with a weight of approximately 291 pounds and a seat height of 26.8 inches. Though short riders will probably find this bike very comfortable and natural, taller riders may find that the Eliminator is just too small.

Most beginner riders want their first bike to be very affordable. The good news is that this one, approximately $3,000, certainly won’t break the bank! And even better, the Eliminator gets about 60-70 miles per gallon, very good news, especially if gas prices rise again.

Specs:
Transmission: 5-Speed
Front Tire Size: 90/90-17
Rear Tire Size: 130/90-15
Wheelbase: 57.9 in.
Front Brake: Hydraulic Disc
Rear Brake: Drum
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.4 gal.

-Julie

This is one of the most popular beginner bikes. The ninja 250 has a 249cc, parallel twin DOHC engine, which gives just enough power, but not too much to get a beginner rider into trouble. The ninja is one of the fastest 250’s on the market, with a top speed of about 100mph and can go from 0-60mph in just under 6 seconds.

At roughly 370 lbs, the ninja is a very light bike, good for beginners learning to handle and maneuver a bike. The lightweight may make you feel a little uneasy when riding at high speeds, but with some practice you will feel more comfortable.

With approximately a 30-inch seat height, the ninja sits at a good height for most all riders. Short riders will feel especially comfortable on this bike. Tall riders may find the positioning a little uncomfortable, but probably not enough to dislike the bike.

In addition to being a very comfortable and easy bike to learn to ride on, the ninja is also priced at the lower end of the spectrum. At about $4000 brand new, the ninja is definitely an inexpensive bike. In addition, the 4.8-gallon gas tank will get between 55-75 miles to the gallon, saving on visits to the local gas station. Aside from the plastic fairing bodywork, the ninja is relatively cheap to repair and maintain.

As the Kawasaki Ninja has been around for years, you can trust that you are getting a dependable, solid bike.

Other Specs:
Front Wheel Size: 110/70-17
Rear Wheel Size: 130/70-17
Wheelbase: 55.1 inches
Transmission: 6-speed
Front brakes: 290 mm hydraulic disc
Rear brakes: 220 mm hydraulic dics
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.8 gal

-Julie

Purchasing your first bike can be a nerve-wracking experience. You want to get a bike that you feel comfortable riding and handling, but not something so basic that you’ll get sick of it quickly.

Two very important things to consider when purchasing your first bike are weight and seat height. In terms of bike weight, you want something that you can easily maneuver and learn to balance and handle well. A bike that’s too heavy is harder to brake and accelerate, and is not as easy to balance. On your first bike you want a seat height that allows you to be able to touch both feet on the ground when stopped. While some more experienced riders may only use one foot to balance, starting out you want both feet able to reach the ground. This will also give you more stability and help with balance.

Of course, there are very different styles of bikes available, which make choosing the perfect one even more difficult.

Cruisers, such as the Yamaha Virago 250 or the Kawasaki Vulcan 500, are for more relaxed rides. While these bikes may be more popular among the older crowd, mid-sized cruisers are perfect to learn on, and are affordable. Most cruisers have a low seat height and are easy to maneuver. These bikes are very versatile and good for long or short rides, highway or city driving.

Standard bikes are popular due to their comfortable position and versatility. These bikes are a little “cooler” than cruisers, but not quite as fast as the sportbikes. A good standard bike is the Honda Nighthawk 250 or the Suzuki TU250. Some standard bikes can have a little too much horsepower though for rookies, so be sure to investigate before you buy. A bike with 250cc or less is probably a good place to start.

Touring bikes are great for long distance rides and are very comfortable, but are not great bikes for beginners. These bikes, including the Yamaha FJR 1300, can be heavier and more powerful than other bikes. These bikes are heavy, expensive, and hard to maneuver, making them a bad choice for beginners.

Finally we have sportbikes. These bikes are popular among younger generations and are built with speed in mind. Sportbikes are very lightweight, but are extremely powerful, and can make riding unpleasant for those who are not experienced. In addition, many sportbikes can become costly, even to replace parts. If you’re looking for a rookie sportbike, check out the Kawasaki Ninja 250R.

These few ideas should get you started on your big purchase. Over the next few weeks we’ll go over different beginner bikes in depth, highlighting the pros and cons of each one. If there’s a particular bike you’re considering that you would like an opinion on, let us know!

-Julie