Another Newbie Looking at a 600

[BostonMass85]

I have read many of the posts on this forum, yet I am still leaning towards a 600 (vs. a 250, etc., but either way I am going to buy used). Although you likely think I am stupid for even still thinking that a 600 is a good idea, I will try to rationalize my choice (but keep in mind that the fact that I am posting here means that I am not deadset on this....i.e. I open to persuasion).

I am a surgical resident in New Haven, CT and I have been relying on a horrific city transportation system since July to get me to and from the hospital. I have always wanted a sports bike, but I have always found an excuse why it is not realistic (a large part of this is routinely seeing the end effect of the small contingency of riders that ride out of control wheeled into the ER, mangled). Aside from that, both of my parents have HD's and I have ridden these around during the summers enough to be comfortable, but not proficient (this is why I am posting this on the new riders forum). I have an endorsement on my license and I took the rider safety course.

I know everyone that says they want to start on a 600 also says that they aren't going to be "that guy" attempting to ride wheelies and weave through traffic, but I really do have a desire to live. My reasoning for not starting on a small bike are: I am 6'4", I hardly have the extra time to advertise and sell bikes as I upgrade, and I really do like the "look" of the super-sports.

My sole intention for the bike is to use it as a commuter for a ~10 min trip. Although it gets VERY cold here, I hope to use the bike nearly year-round (...no I am not thinking of riding in the snow, sleet, or on days it is predicted to dump rain and I would obviously layer accordingly on cold days). No I am not kidding, but if this is ridiculous, I would like to know.

Anyhow, I am just looking for feedback and advice. Believe it or not, there are not many people here working at the hospital that I can ask for advice concerning sport bikes.

Thanks

[mac 1]

get a 1000

[Rascus]

Honestly, the reasons you don't want to start on something smaller are really not good points to justify going to a 600 only. It sounds like you are more concerned about how you will look on the bike then anything.

If you're just going to use it to commute, why a sport-bike, other then looks? Why not something more upright? A 650R or SV650 or even a 500?

[ARRA757-89-91]

Originally Posted by Rascus

Honestly, the reasons you don't want to start on something smaller are really not good points to justify going to a 600 only. It sounds like you are more concerned about how you will look on the bike then anything.

If you're just going to use it to commute, why a sport-bike, other then looks? Why not something more upright? A 650R or SV650 or even a 500?

Concur with both replies, if you are concerned with how it looks, fukk it, get a liter bike , its as dangerous as your right hand makes it........

But for rides to work and back....get an upright bike.....

[SynCitizen]

You work in a hospital, so you should know better than most the end result of what happens to people who have motorcycle accidents. Injuries, paralysis, death. They dont call them donor makers for nothing.
I'd say go for it, IF you do it the right way. MSF course, plan on practicing (alot) before you consider using to for your transportation. Get yourself some quality gear.

[L8 Braker]

I'd get a cruiser for a commuter...Something with a windscreen to block the cold...

[SleeveleSS]

Originally Posted by BostonMass85

I have read many of the posts on this forum, yet I am still leaning towards a 600 (vs. a 250, etc., but either way I am going to buy used). Although you likely think I am stupid for even still thinking that a 600 is a good idea, I will try to rationalize my choice (but keep in mind that the fact that I am posting here means that I am not deadset on this....i.e. I open to persuasion).

I am a surgical resident in New Haven, CT and I have been relying on a horrific city transportation system since July to get me to and from the hospital. I have always wanted a sports bike, but I have always found an excuse why it is not realistic (a large part of this is routinely seeing the end effect of the small contingency of riders that ride out of control wheeled into the ER, mangled). Aside from that, both of my parents have HD's and I have ridden these around during the summers enough to be comfortable, but not proficient (this is why I am posting this on the new riders forum). I have an endorsement on my license and I took the rider safety course.

I know everyone that says they want to start on a 600 also says that they aren't going to be "that guy" attempting to ride wheelies and weave through traffic, but I really do have a desire to live. My reasoning for not starting on a small bike are: I am 6'4", I hardly have the extra time to advertise and sell bikes as I upgrade, and I really do like the "look" of the super-sports.

My sole intention for the bike is to use it as a commuter for a ~10 min trip. Although it gets VERY cold here, I hope to use the bike nearly year-round (...no I am not thinking of riding in the snow, sleet, or on days it is predicted to dump rain and I would obviously layer accordingly on cold days). No I am not kidding, but if this is ridiculous, I would like to know.

Anyhow, I am just looking for feedback and advice. Believe it or not, there are not many people here working at the hospital that I can ask for advice concerning sport bikes.

Thanks

You could get a new '08 Kawi 250 for the price of any used 600 SS and have still have the look you're after. As a bonus you get 70+ mpg and much cheaper insurance. If you can't make the time to upgrade you don't need to be riding a motorcycle.

[kevin_stevens]

Originally Posted by BostonMass85

I have read many of the posts on this forum, yet I am still leaning towards a 600 (vs. a 250, etc., but either way I am going to buy used). Although you likely think I am stupid for even still thinking that a 600 is a good idea, I will try to rationalize my choice (but keep in mind that the fact that I am posting here means that I am not deadset on this....i.e. I open to persuasion).

I am a surgical resident in New Haven, CT and I have been relying on a horrific city transportation system since July to get me to and from the hospital. I have always wanted a sports bike, but I have always found an excuse why it is not realistic (a large part of this is routinely seeing the end effect of the small contingency of riders that ride out of control wheeled into the ER, mangled). Aside from that, both of my parents have HD's and I have ridden these around during the summers enough to be comfortable, but not proficient (this is why I am posting this on the new riders forum). I have an endorsement on my license and I took the rider safety course.

I know everyone that says they want to start on a 600 also says that they aren't going to be "that guy" attempting to ride wheelies and weave through traffic, but I really do have a desire to live. My reasoning for not starting on a small bike are: I am 6'4", I hardly have the extra time to advertise and sell bikes as I upgrade, and I really do like the "look" of the super-sports.

My sole intention for the bike is to use it as a commuter for a ~10 min trip. Although it gets VERY cold here, I hope to use the bike nearly year-round (...no I am not thinking of riding in the snow, sleet, or on days it is predicted to dump rain and I would obviously layer accordingly on cold days). No I am not kidding, but if this is ridiculous, I would like to know.

Anyhow, I am just looking for feedback and advice. Believe it or not, there are not many people here working at the hospital that I can ask for advice concerning sport bikes.

Thanks

Your reasons contradict each other. Apart from the typical new rider caveats, if you were really concerned about your height, the *last* bike you would be looking at is a 600SS. Likewise that is about the worst powerband choice for low-speed commuting.

You should be looking at the Vstrom and similar bikes, or even the large scooters. If not, what you're really saying is that your sole criterion is the "I like the way SS bikes look" one. Might as well be honest with yourself.

KeS

[636blurr]

Ok look if you have some riding experience and you buy a older 600, are very carefull with it, you will probably be fine.
A ninja 250 are great on gas mileage and plenty quick (im 250lbs with gear was fine in traffic for me). but in reality, pick up a 500, or a ninja 650.
most of the newer 600s are not so street friendly. the older pre 2002 are.
remember to wear bright gear and be responsible and you will be fine.

[L8 Braker]

Originally Posted by BostonMass85

Anyhow, I am just looking for feedback and advice.

You're not looking for advice, you're looking for justification...You probably won't get it here...

It's obvious you're going to get a 600 or above, so pease at least look at the SV 650 or Kawi 650...Their powerband isn't as fierce as a supersport 600, but still pack quite a punch...Hopefully you won't end up a patient where you work...

[Spyke_Da_Fresh]

how about this argument:

you will die

that is all

[jimphunpants]

Originally Posted by mac 1

get a 1000

nicely done. i haven't laughed at my computer screen in a long time.

[OldSchlPunk]

Like others have posted, you're just looking for validation.

Not all those you see in your line of work are wheelie riding squids. Just as many are noobs riding a bike that's too much for their skills. While you have some riding experience, an SS bike's riding position and handling are like nothing you've experienced - trust me. Then there's the whole power aspect.

The 250/500 Ninjas, GS500 Suzuki, Hyosung 250 to name three will keep you entertained for at least a year. This will give you the chance to see if you want to deal with the traffic (read asshats who are constantly trying to run you down) every day on a bike. It's not for everyone.

This is your first bike, it doesn't have to be your last. Buy a used one. Next year the dealer will give you nearly what you paid for it in trade for whatever you decide to upgrade to.

We've all been there and want to make your journey as enjoyable as it can be. That and we hate to see our insurance rates constantly jacked up by people who started on the wrong bike and wrecked in the first year (or less).

[mssdrider]

Taken the MSF course yet?

another thing to consider: riding tired is much worse than driving a car tired. My cousin is a resident also and I know the insane hours you guys put in.

just a thought...