What are some good first motorcycles for a beginning rider?

[Pea]

I have signed up for the MSF Safety Course, and have been trying to find a list of good beginner bikes. I have read some good articles. I realize that bike weight, horespower, and size all must be considered. I don't care necessarily if it is a new bike or an older used bike. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[razonje]

Honda Shadow 600 or 750 cc is a great first bike! Do not go with anything smaller than 600 cc because you will get bored very quickly.

[tfuzzy427]

If you dont mind an older bike the kawasaki LTD 440 is a great first bike you should be able to find one for about 1000$

[curious]

My 15 yr old son just completed his course and is starting out on a Honda Rebel 250. It's a good bike to gain experience on. BTW he is 6'2" and 260lbs so don't think a 250 is too small a bike to learn on. After he gets a year under his belt he can move up to a Harley.

[vonpipes26]

well, it all depends on what style of bike you want. i'm a cruiser guy myself. i took the msc in N.Y in 06 and went out and bought a 05 yamaha vstar 650 custom from a dealer for 5000 with a 2 year warranty and it only had 1600 miles on it. your going to use the little 250 bikes in your course ,you could always get one of these but hold on a windy day. if you want a cruiser anything from a 650 to 750 will be fine. if you want a street bike start with a 600. good luck and be safe.

[JRoc30]

ask at the MSF course when you're there. Also you'll get a chance to ride a few of those, so you will be able to make a decision for yourself. You can evaluate your own skills and decide if you want a 250 for a while, or if you want more. wait and see, then take some test rides at your local dealerships.
if you go ahead and do something too soon (cuz you're too excited) you'll probably be happy now, but unhappy in the long run

[timothy stewart]

suzuki gsf 500 is great beginner back and forgiving for new rider common mistake

[arklatex]

If your looking for a very good bike, take a look at either the :
HYOSUNG GV250 or the KYMCO VENOX. Both are cruiser bikes.
Both bikes are GREAT bikes and weigh 350 - 417 lbs. and travel great on the highways up to 80 easy. Both come with 2 year warranties and unlimited mileage.
Look at CRUISER MAGAZINE on line. They compare these bikes against the Honda Rebel and the Yamaha Virgo?, and one other. Both out class the others.
Whatever you choose, be sure it is a bike you enjoy, feels good for you, and you feel safe on it...good luck.

[bonnie&clyde]

if ur still looking for a bike im trying to get rid of my 2004 suzuki 600 for a dirt cheap price, its an awsome beginners bike, let me know if ur interested

[TammieB760]

I strongly suggest the MSF class for all new riders. I started on the Yamaha Virago and went to the 2005 Honda Shadow Aero - it was heavy in the front and slow cornering for me. I just purchases a 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R and love the bike - I wish I had it for my first bike - it is very user friendly and cornering is second nature.
Best of luck in your riding adventures.