Thinking of buying a motorcycle...

[SaintsIn2009]

I've been looking into this for a while now and I have a few bikes I'm keeping my eye on. I've rode ATVs, dirtbikes and such growing up but I was just looking for some input. Bike size I'm looking into is the 500cc engine and cruiser style (Kawasaki Vulcan 500). I've already got pre-approved for my loan for it but I'm just nervous about pulling the trigger. Basicall I'll be paying $110 a month on the loan and this is what I keep pondering over. I keep asking myself "Do I really need another bill to pay?" "Is this a smart decision?". Things like that.

So basically what I'm asking is for a little extra advice maybe? Is it totally worth it to get out there on the open road and just go riding on my days off? Any advice from experienced, or amateur riders is appreciated.

[kansast]

I'm about as broke as broke can be. Just about. But If I could be approved for a deal like that. I think I'd jump all over it.

Don't want to go back to having a motorcycle as my only form of transportation. I did that for many years. Come rain or shine or freezing temps. Sure would like to have one now for when the weather is nice.

[kooldak]

The only downside to owning a bike is the addiction that you will certainly develop. I've ridden something ever since I was 14, but bad back has stopped me from owning or riding anything on 2 wheels in the last few years.

And, man, am I jonesing for a bike. Happens every year when the weather turn nice. You will never kick the addiction. Never.

When things got stressful, I'd get out on the road for a day or two. Come back healed.

Get it. Enjoy it. Never look back. You won't be sorry.

[SaintsIn2009]

That's what I thought, lol. The addiction that comes with it. I live in Florida but from louisiana and I only work 3 days a week so I'd have time on my hands to joy ride here. What was/is the problem with your back? Is it the weight of the bike while stopping, backing up etc? Or is it the position you have to ride in that bothers you? Reason is I do t have the beat back either.

[Brown]

victoria highway run 299km - YouTube




sent from my iphone. *

[SaintsIn2009]

Brown, that guy is a moron. I actually value my life ya know. Nonetheless a cool vid.

[kooldak]

Originally Posted by SaintsIn2009

That's what I thought, lol. The addiction that comes with it. I live in Florida but from louisiana and I only work 3 days a week so I'd have time on my hands to joy ride here. What was/is the problem with your back? Is it the weight of the bike while stopping, backing up etc? Or is it the position you have to ride in that bothers you? Reason is I do t have the beat back either.

See the bold. Can't ride in a bent position. I tried a couple of sizes of ape hangers, but still had problems. Just sitting position. 4 discs in my lower back are shot and getting worse. When you start getting old, **** happens.

I've got this dude for a little off-road fun. Love it, but not the same and not street legal

[Druss]

I had a Vulcan 800 but it was a little small for my size 6' 1" and 230 lbs so I had to get a bigger bike. It was a real good bike though I sold it with over 30,000 miles on it and it's still on the road.

If your feeling the itch I say buy one but I'd make sure the 500cc is big enough for you especially if you will be doing any riding of any distance.

Just remember you really have to be a defensive driver on a motorcycle, it's like being in a real life video game you have to look at every vehicle like its going to try to kill you. lol

[MC HIPPY]

I sold my bike two months ago and have regretted it every day since. There aren't many better feelings than a nice day on the open road. I'm sad now, thanks.

[kooldak]

Originally Posted by Druss

...Just remember you really have to be a defensive driver on a motorcycle, it's like being in a real life video game you have to look at every vehicle like its going to try to kill you. lol

Fact.

[Druss]

Originally Posted by kooldak

Fact.

Yea I put the lol at the end but it's no joke, you can make eye contact with someone stopped at an intersection and they may still pull right out in front of you.

[ld_in_sc]

buy a used bike (preferably one you can pay cash for) and see how much you ride it

[SaintsIn2009]

Originally Posted by Druss

I had a Vulcan 800 but it was a little small for my size 6' 1" and 230 lbs so I had to get a bigger bike. It was a real good bike though I sold it with over 30,000 miles on it and it's still on the road.

If your feeling the itch I say buy one but I'd make sure the 500cc is big enough for you especially if you will be doing any riding of any distance.

Just remember you really have to be a defensive driver on a motorcycle, it's like being in a real life video game you have to look at every vehicle like its going to try to kill you. lol

Well I'm 5'9 175lbs. The 500 should be ok for me since I'm so short ya know. I understand the defensive driving aspect of it since drivers are so bad anyways, they even pull out in front of full sized SUVs! I was looking at the Vulcan 500 or the 800. Besides power, what's the difference in the frame size? Is 800 too much for a first timer (on the street legal side anyways)?

[kdwwms]

Hello, I've been riding for over 20 years(started when I was 11) and I still love it. I'm into sports bikes but all are fun. Check out this website below, and you can find all the answers you need from experts, but of course the experts here can answer some too. Enjoy and Happy Riding. I would definitely get a bike if you can. There is nothing like being free in the wind.

Motohouston.com Forums

[saintingeorgia]

Originally Posted by Druss

Just remember you really have to be a defensive driver on a motorcycle, it's like being in a real life video game you have to look at every vehicle like its going to try to kill you. lol

This is the number one reason I will not get on my hubby's bike. That and not enough metal between me and them......