New Rider - PLEASE READ

[MotorcycleFreak413]

Hey everybody. I know this is kind of long but I would appreciate it if you guys would read it.

I'm not new to motorcycles but I'm new to actual riding.

I really like motorcycles and sportbikes and anything motorcycle related. I've loved motorcycles since I was a little kid (around 7/8) and I know a lot about motorcycles. I know different types, gear, what beginners should know, etc. I would want the 07 Suzuki GSX-R600, my fav. bike, but I'm not stupid. I will start with a proper beginner bike and I will always wear proper gear (helmet, gloves, jacket, boots and pants) and I will always be as careful as I can.

I'm a sophomore in high school. I get good grades (straight A's) and I have a good future. I consider myself a very mature, responsible person because I'm well disciplined, my parents trust me, I know how to drive (I'm a good and careful driver), and I'm not those typical teenagers that drive wreckless and stupid. I will never talk on the cell phone while driving, I know all the street rules because I've read the drivers handbook and I listen to my parents advice, and I follow all the street rules.

I talk to my parents and friends and family about motorcycles a lot of the time. Whenever we're on the road, I can instantly see a motorcycle from far away, and I can most of the time tell which one it is. But what I don't like is that my parents don't really care a lot about me liking motorcycles. I know what I am getting myself into...I've been researching a lot for years already and I still am. I'm always telling my parents that I will get a beginner bike and I will get all the proper gear and wear it. I will take the MSF course and I will be as careful and safe as I can.

My uncle has an 2002 Honda CBR954. I've actually been on it but he's never let me ride it. I've read and I do know how to start, ride, shift, and drive a motorcycle. I've read all of those handbooks from the MSF website so I believe I know all the rules and precautions and all the stuff. I know (not a little but also not a lot) about how a motorcycle works, the parts, fixing, etc.

So that's pretty much it. And please, you guys (and girls) post your comments or ask me any questions. And please don't criticize me and make bad comments and stuff like that.

God bless yall.
Peace.

[nig]

Honestly it'd be best to hold off on the street bike until you've got a few years of road experience, even if you are doing it the smart way.

Why not save for a dirtbike and learn to ride? You'll love it I'm sure.

[Rascus]

^^What he said.

[LowKeyedUp]

Love the enthusiasm and willingness to start the right way. This is a dangerous hobby/sport and taking a good first step is crucial. Unfortunately at your age, getting on a streetbike is going to be expensive as hell. You REALLY want to be in a cage for your first couple of years of driving on public roads. You will goof up a time or two and if any of those goofups result in an accident, that car will probably save your life. Get a dirtbike they are crazy fun.

[ruralhipster]

Just looked at the map and saw the incredible motorcycle roads in your area, you're a lucky man to have those roads to ride on. Take your time and ease into this wonderfull hobby, get as much general road experience in a car first that you can, then when you take your 250 to the twisties in your area in the future use restraint. Good luck and remember even when you start small and wear all the gear you are only lowering the risks not eliminating them.

[RayOSV]

Most has already been said. You certainly sound like you're on the right track. However, there's a HUGE difference between knowing what to do and actually doing it on the road in traffic. Practice is necessary to make the proper reactions automatic. As careful as you may be and proficient at the controls you may become, the other driver in the SUV that suddenly moves into your lane or your path is going to hurt.

I'd also suggest starting with a dirt bike and getting your first year or two of street experience in a cage. Traffic down your way is horrendous as I'm sure you know. Stay focused on school and keep your grades up. That will go a long way to convince your parents when the time comes that you're still responsible. Maybe even have one of them take the MSF class with you or at least watch some of the range exercises. It might help alleviate their concerns.

One last thing: great command and use of the English language. It's refreshing to see that in someone your age.

[UberGoober]

These guys are giving you great advice. I know when a person is young that it seems like tomorrow will never come, but if you stay out of biking until you have a year or two of good safe driving under your belt, you will be a lot better off.

For new drivers, the biggest obstacle is learning how the roads really work (it's not like your dirver's ed textbooks say) and how to be a good defensive driver. Once you have done this, you can take up biking and already be half way to being a good safe rider.

Good luck and hang in there.

[BSeay]

How do you drive @ 14?

i'd stay off the bike until you know what traffic really is like...

besides insurance on a bike would kill you... being only 14...

[Kalvin00]

I say when you're 17, go for it. I got my 250 when I was 17.

I can tell just by the way your grammar and everything in your post is nicely written that you have a well functioning brain between your ears. You will be fine out there..just remember to never try and show off for friends Hope the time passes quickly for you! hehe

[willvt13]

Originally Posted by RayOSV

Most has already been said. You certainly sound like you're on the right track. However, there's a HUGE difference between knowing what to do and actually doing it on the road in traffic. Practice is necessary to make the proper reactions automatic. As careful as you may be and proficient at the controls you may become, the other driver in the SUV that suddenly moves into your lane or your path is going to hurt.

I'd also suggest starting with a dirt bike and getting your first year or two of street experience in a cage. Traffic down your way is horrendous as I'm sure you know. Stay focused on school and keep your grades up. That will go a long way to convince your parents when the time comes that you're still responsible. Maybe even have one of them take the MSF class with you or at least watch some of the range exercises. It might help alleviate their concerns.

One last thing: great command and use of the English language. It's refreshing to see that in someone your age.

+1

Start in the dirt man, you'll love it.

[RyanVZ1]

My first street bike is the '07 gsxr 600; i'm happy with my decision... (but, i've been riding dirtbikes and atvs since i was 9; so...)

[Anthonyd5189]

Wait until your 17...Get used to the road and how other people act on it. It's not as much of yourself making a mistake that's the most dangerous, it's the other people on the road. Get used to how everything works in a car first. Then get your 250/500 when your turn 17 and start from there.

[chaos14]

Originally Posted by RyanVZ1

My first street bike is the '07 gsxr 600; i'm happy with my decision... (but, i've been riding dirtbikes and atvs since i was 9; so...)

for every one idiot that says something like this they completely counteract 10 people saying the right thing

[TuxedoMask]

This is not suppose to be a sarcstic comment so don't take it that way...
Start on a pocket bike...then move up to dirt bike ...

you can learn a lot of control on a pocket bike...

[UberGoober]

Originally Posted by Kalvin00

I can tell just by the way your grammar and everything in your post is nicely written that you have a well functioning brain between your ears.

Same thing goes for you.

I'm glad you pointed this out because it was something I noticed too. I make my living based upon my ability to communicate and I know from hard won experience just how important good language skills can be. I want to commend you both for well written posts that are right on target. It's nice to read posts like these from young people.