Coming to the dark side...
Discussion
Good advice being given and taken..
Just 3 things to add,
Mileage is everything, you never stop learning. After 30 years riding, someone recently mentioned the other day to think about turning in as late as possible, so I have been learning this of late. Get as many miles under your belt as you can, you learn on every corner.
Off road, any time you can get sliding around on mud helps.. You learn that a wiggling bike must be dominated and pointed where you fundamentally want to go.
Target fixation. Incredibly dangerous and we are all guilty, look and point the bike where you want to go. If you panic and stare at the approaching lorry, you will hit it, if you concentrate on looking at the escape route, you go there instead.
Just 3 things to add,
Mileage is everything, you never stop learning. After 30 years riding, someone recently mentioned the other day to think about turning in as late as possible, so I have been learning this of late. Get as many miles under your belt as you can, you learn on every corner.
Off road, any time you can get sliding around on mud helps.. You learn that a wiggling bike must be dominated and pointed where you fundamentally want to go.
Target fixation. Incredibly dangerous and we are all guilty, look and point the bike where you want to go. If you panic and stare at the approaching lorry, you will hit it, if you concentrate on looking at the escape route, you go there instead.
There's a lot to be said for buying the bike you want, but I would try and get something second hand to start with. There's lots of nice, desirable, quick bikes about that will cost less to insure than a CB650F, purely due to value and age. If you can't get the cash together, bank loans are cheap as chips at the moment and you'll end up owning the bike. My thinking:
- A cheap bike gives you the option of insuring TPFT
- You might drop it - and the chances are you won't want to claim on your new insurance so you'll be looking at quite a few quid on a new bike, but peanuts on a used one, due to the wealth of secondhand parts around.
- Depending on your postcode, used/older bikes are much less desirable to scrotes.
- You can sell it at any point, you're not tied to a finance deal/contract.
- You often don't know what sort of riding is gong to float your boat until you've ridden for a while. You might want to tour/sports and track/green lane etc. You have the option to change plans with a second hand bike.
- Servicing - you can service your cheap bike yourself with a bit of knowledge, you'll probably not want to do that with a new bike, due to resale value.
OP I did my DAS earlier this year as a 25 year old and also bought a new bike on a PCP too. It's amazing how much you can pick up on only 5 days and a decent instructor/ school will give you all the knowledge you need to pass, not necessarily to be a good rider out on your own however - as I'm still learning! Insurance was the most unexpected cost for me as i couldn't get under £1000 on an F800R. Enjoy the journey! 
AKDC
AKDC
Your budget and plan sounds good.
With regards to the CB650F, it should work for you perfectly. I have the CBR650F which is exactly the same but with lower bars and fairing. I bought it as my second bike (First being a KTM Duke 200). It's a good all round bike, I've got Givi top box and sport panniers on mine for longer trips and it manages those fine. The engine is super easy to handle for a beginner, it is pretty low on power below 4000rpm which is good for going around town then at about 4000rpm you get a surge in power so when out on the open roads thats the best place to be.
I did a review on the bike after having it for 6 months here: https://www.reddit.com/r/motorcycles/comments/3odj...
With regards to the CB650F, it should work for you perfectly. I have the CBR650F which is exactly the same but with lower bars and fairing. I bought it as my second bike (First being a KTM Duke 200). It's a good all round bike, I've got Givi top box and sport panniers on mine for longer trips and it manages those fine. The engine is super easy to handle for a beginner, it is pretty low on power below 4000rpm which is good for going around town then at about 4000rpm you get a surge in power so when out on the open roads thats the best place to be.
I did a review on the bike after having it for 6 months here: https://www.reddit.com/r/motorcycles/comments/3odj...
Some advice I was given is look at where you want to go. Do it on every corner so it's instinctive. When you get surprised by a van that's a little too far over, you'll not have time to be thinking about what that thread on PistonHeads said. Target fixation is a real thing, don't be the guy that goes "I hope I don't hit THAT TREE RIGHT THERE THAT I'M STARING AT"
Also, don't ride faster than you can see is clear and stop. High speed on a motorway that is clear for miles, no problem (of course I mean 70mph), but if you go round a blind corner and there's a broken down car, tractor whatever, you want to make sure you can stop or at least avoid it.
Aside from that, welcome to the gang! Sure you'll have a great time. Is there a biker cafe/night close to you? I'm not much one for clubs, but it's nice to head to a bike night and look over the bikes and chat to the owners.
Also, don't ride faster than you can see is clear and stop. High speed on a motorway that is clear for miles, no problem (of course I mean 70mph), but if you go round a blind corner and there's a broken down car, tractor whatever, you want to make sure you can stop or at least avoid it.
Aside from that, welcome to the gang! Sure you'll have a great time. Is there a biker cafe/night close to you? I'm not much one for clubs, but it's nice to head to a bike night and look over the bikes and chat to the owners.
horsemeatscandal said:
What's it like when you first go out on your own? Are you s
tting your pants at all times or do you get comfortable on two wheels pretty quickly? I live in a part of the country pretty popular with bikers (Lakes) so have some good roads to build up experience.
It's absolutely incredible! I'm one who tends to push my limits a bit and I scared myself many times in my first few months on a bike, usually just from arriving at and turning into corners faster than my skill level allowed. After that, I paid lots of attention to re-programming my survival reactions (as per the book Twist of the Wrist II) and I enjoyed every single ride-out. that I did. That was way back when I was 21 and I took every opportunity to be out on the bike, I loved it that much.tting your pants at all times or do you get comfortable on two wheels pretty quickly? I live in a part of the country pretty popular with bikers (Lakes) so have some good roads to build up experience. mx5tom said:
One thing I'd say is if you don't "get it" straight away, just keep at it. I sucked at first. Couldn't do any slow speed stuff, generally just a liability. I knew it was something I wanted to get good at, so kept at it. Would have been very easy to just say "it's not for me" and leave it at that.
I'm pleased to read this because I struggled on my first DAS lesson on Saturday with the slow speed stuff. It's just about building confidence and keeping practicing I think.
Cheers for all the advice so far, really appreciate it.
I'm still leaning towards new with regards to purchase (ooh, new shiny thing), otherwise it would be a loan on used but young, low-mileage bike which would probably end up costing the same anyway.
Currently just practising away on a theory test/HP app I've bought (saw it mentioned in another thread) which is pretty decent, also2 watching a few videos on YT discussing what to expect at the CBT, how to be best prepared, etc.
Also been looking at gear; I want to have helmet, gloves, boots and jacket before my CBT if possible. Wanting to buy new, gives me loads more choice in terms of brand, style, size, etc. plus I'd just generally feel more comfortable buying new. I also want to buy in store rather than online to make sure I get the correct sizes, only problem being that just reduces choice again. One local spot also has an online store and a lot of their stuff is Spada or Held, what's the general consensus on those brands? Can't find much online apart from a few specific product reviews. Example of some stuff I'd consider buying:
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Spada-Curve-Evo-...
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Spada-Moto-Glove...
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Held-Masuda-Helm...
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Spada-Corsa-GP-W...
Yeah, I prefer black. Let me know what you reckon.
I'm still leaning towards new with regards to purchase (ooh, new shiny thing), otherwise it would be a loan on used but young, low-mileage bike which would probably end up costing the same anyway.
Currently just practising away on a theory test/HP app I've bought (saw it mentioned in another thread) which is pretty decent, also2 watching a few videos on YT discussing what to expect at the CBT, how to be best prepared, etc.
Also been looking at gear; I want to have helmet, gloves, boots and jacket before my CBT if possible. Wanting to buy new, gives me loads more choice in terms of brand, style, size, etc. plus I'd just generally feel more comfortable buying new. I also want to buy in store rather than online to make sure I get the correct sizes, only problem being that just reduces choice again. One local spot also has an online store and a lot of their stuff is Spada or Held, what's the general consensus on those brands? Can't find much online apart from a few specific product reviews. Example of some stuff I'd consider buying:
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Spada-Curve-Evo-...
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Spada-Moto-Glove...
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Held-Masuda-Helm...
http://www.kcsuperbikes.co.uk/buy/Spada-Corsa-GP-W...
Yeah, I prefer black. Let me know what you reckon.
Op, I haven't read through all the posts so forgive me if I'm repeating the above.
I passed my DAS may this year (24y/o). The training/tests are very easy and I was surprised how quickly you can obtain a licence with minimal lessons if you are familiar with motorbikes.
I bought a K8 GSXR1000 (£6500), spend circa £1.5K quality leathers, boots and helmet and insurance was £1K, so not cheap, but I wouldn't personally skimp on leathers, the thing that is going to protect you most if you hit the tarmac...
Regards to bike, I would just get whatever you fancy, I went straight for the 1000cc and I'm glad I did, the power is slightly daunting at first, but you quickly become used to it.. as for riding skill, every ride out is a lesson and constant learning curve, but its great fun. The bike cost was a lot in my case, but I can't say I've had any close calls yet in the first 6 months (3500 miles) of riding.
Hope this helps!
I passed my DAS may this year (24y/o). The training/tests are very easy and I was surprised how quickly you can obtain a licence with minimal lessons if you are familiar with motorbikes.
I bought a K8 GSXR1000 (£6500), spend circa £1.5K quality leathers, boots and helmet and insurance was £1K, so not cheap, but I wouldn't personally skimp on leathers, the thing that is going to protect you most if you hit the tarmac...
Regards to bike, I would just get whatever you fancy, I went straight for the 1000cc and I'm glad I did, the power is slightly daunting at first, but you quickly become used to it.. as for riding skill, every ride out is a lesson and constant learning curve, but its great fun. The bike cost was a lot in my case, but I can't say I've had any close calls yet in the first 6 months (3500 miles) of riding.
Hope this helps!
mopman94 said:
Your budget and plan sounds good.
With regards to the CB650F, it should work for you perfectly. I have the CBR650F which is exactly the same but with lower bars and fairing. I bought it as my second bike (First being a KTM Duke 200). It's a good all round bike, I've got Givi top box and sport panniers on mine for longer trips and it manages those fine. The engine is super easy to handle for a beginner, it is pretty low on power below 4000rpm which is good for going around town then at about 4000rpm you get a surge in power so when out on the open roads thats the best place to be.
I did a review on the bike after having it for 6 months here: https://www.reddit.com/r/motorcycles/comments/3odj...
My brother just sold his CB650f bought new on a 66 plate done 1300 miles sold last week for £4650With regards to the CB650F, it should work for you perfectly. I have the CBR650F which is exactly the same but with lower bars and fairing. I bought it as my second bike (First being a KTM Duke 200). It's a good all round bike, I've got Givi top box and sport panniers on mine for longer trips and it manages those fine. The engine is super easy to handle for a beginner, it is pretty low on power below 4000rpm which is good for going around town then at about 4000rpm you get a surge in power so when out on the open roads thats the best place to be.
I did a review on the bike after having it for 6 months here: https://www.reddit.com/r/motorcycles/comments/3odj...
Another learner here 
Got my CBT tomorrow, theory next week and DAS 1 in early October. I did a CBT years ago but never really rode, hated the 125 I bought (I'm 6foot4 17stone) so jumping straight to 'proper' bike.
I'm pretty much decided on the Kawasaki Vulcan S, brand new zero APR at around 7k it didn't seem to make much sense buying second hand. I'm not interested in race style bikes, want a more relaxed, muscle car/cruiser look and the vulcan seems to tick all boxes until I feel confident to move up to a harley fatboy (which is what I really want!).
I'm 42, been putting this off for years but really looking forward to it now. Assuming I pass everything of course!
Got my CBT tomorrow, theory next week and DAS 1 in early October. I did a CBT years ago but never really rode, hated the 125 I bought (I'm 6foot4 17stone) so jumping straight to 'proper' bike.
I'm pretty much decided on the Kawasaki Vulcan S, brand new zero APR at around 7k it didn't seem to make much sense buying second hand. I'm not interested in race style bikes, want a more relaxed, muscle car/cruiser look and the vulcan seems to tick all boxes until I feel confident to move up to a harley fatboy (which is what I really want!).
I'm 42, been putting this off for years but really looking forward to it now. Assuming I pass everything of course!
ozzuk said:
Another learner here
Got my CBT tomorrow, theory next week and DAS 1 in early October. I did a CBT years ago but never really rode, hated the 125 I bought (I'm 6foot4 17stone) so jumping straight to 'proper' bike.
I'm pretty much decided on the Kawasaki Vulcan S, brand new zero APR at around 7k it didn't seem to make much sense buying second hand. I'm not interested in race style bikes, want a more relaxed, muscle car/cruiser look and the vulcan seems to tick all boxes until I feel confident to move up to a harley fatboy (which is what I really want!).
I'm 42, been putting this off for years but really looking forward to it now. Assuming I pass everything of course!
Nice one!Got my CBT tomorrow, theory next week and DAS 1 in early October. I did a CBT years ago but never really rode, hated the 125 I bought (I'm 6foot4 17stone) so jumping straight to 'proper' bike.
I'm pretty much decided on the Kawasaki Vulcan S, brand new zero APR at around 7k it didn't seem to make much sense buying second hand. I'm not interested in race style bikes, want a more relaxed, muscle car/cruiser look and the vulcan seems to tick all boxes until I feel confident to move up to a harley fatboy (which is what I really want!).
I'm 42, been putting this off for years but really looking forward to it now. Assuming I pass everything of course!
You know, I didn't even consider booking my DAS stuff before I'd done the CBT. I'll be making a phone call tomorrow I think!
Are you doing a series of lessons then tests or going for the full day then test at the end approach? I'm going for the latter hopefully, but not looked into it too much yet.
I know it will differ from place to place, but do you mind if I ask if you were expected to pay upfront, deposit or or just pay on the day?
horsemeatscandal said:
Nice one!
You know, I didn't even consider booking my DAS stuff before I'd done the CBT. I'll be making a phone call tomorrow I think!
Are you doing a series of lessons then tests or going for the full day then test at the end approach? I'm going for the latter hopefully, but not looked into it too much yet.
I know it will differ from place to place, but do you mind if I ask if you were expected to pay upfront, deposit or or just pay on the day?
The theory test was hardest to book, over a month delay as they were booked up. I've paid deposits up front. I booked DAS1 for monday 9th OCt, takes 5 hours, then the test is on the 10th, takes 20 mins but they will let me practice on their bikes for a few hours before. If I pass that I can book my DAS2. As I haven't done my theory yet they will refund the DAS if I don't pass theory. IIRC DAS 2 is same format, day training then test day but I think test is 3 hours.You know, I didn't even consider booking my DAS stuff before I'd done the CBT. I'll be making a phone call tomorrow I think!
Are you doing a series of lessons then tests or going for the full day then test at the end approach? I'm going for the latter hopefully, but not looked into it too much yet.
I know it will differ from place to place, but do you mind if I ask if you were expected to pay upfront, deposit or or just pay on the day?
Edited by ozzuk on Friday 15th September 08:43
ozzuk said:
The theory test was hardest to book, over a month delay as they were booked up. I've paid deposits up front. I booked DAS1 for monday 9th OCt, takes 5 hours, then the test is on the 10th, takes 20 mins but they will let me practice on their bikes for a few hours before. If I pass that I can book my DAS2. As I haven't done my theory yet they will refund the DAS if I don't pass theory. IIRC DAS 2 is same format, day training then test day but I think test is 3 hours.
Mod2 test is around 45minsEdited by ozzuk on Friday 15th September 08:43
horsemeatscandal said:
So passed my theory test today, proper chuffed!
Gonna start buying gear next weekend then my CBT is on the 11th November. Can't wait!
Congrats on the pass Gonna start buying gear next weekend then my CBT is on the 11th November. Can't wait!
I'm another one who's put it off for too long so I've finally got my DAS booked. Wanted a bike since I was 10 and now 28 I've got my CBT on Saturday (my third one over the years) then Mod1 training and test the weekend after.
I can't wait! Although it'll be a while before I buy a bike as I need to sell a couple of toys before I do.
This thread brings back some memories - it's just coming up to 20 years since I got my bike licence.
I did my test in Edinburgh (home is London) when I was a student and had just had my 21st birthday so I did the old Direct Access route. The excitement when the examiner told me I had passed and I could ride back to the test centre by myself was fking brilliant.
Bought myself a grey import Bandit 400 and hooned around the Borders as much as I could. Kit wise I can't even remember now but basically consisted of gear from the cheaper end of the shop. Spent the most money on a decent lid, gloves and boots.
All you just getting your licence, I'm almost envious of the you having the thrill of experiencing that joy and freedom for the first time...
I did my test in Edinburgh (home is London) when I was a student and had just had my 21st birthday so I did the old Direct Access route. The excitement when the examiner told me I had passed and I could ride back to the test centre by myself was f
king brilliant.Bought myself a grey import Bandit 400 and hooned around the Borders as much as I could. Kit wise I can't even remember now but basically consisted of gear from the cheaper end of the shop. Spent the most money on a decent lid, gloves and boots.
All you just getting your licence, I'm almost envious of the you having the thrill of experiencing that joy and freedom for the first time...
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