Newbie biker needing some guidance

[cv01jw]

Hi All

I take my CBT on Tuesday having never been on a motorbike before.

As such, I have a very limited knowledge of bikes / manufacturers / models etc. I decided to get a bike as I liked the idea of getting a custom for summer use, but am coming around to the idea of getting a bike to commute to work on (35 mile round trip along Dorset country roads). To this end, I might leave the custom idea for a while and go for a good all rounder / small tourer such as the Honda Deauville. Can anyone suggest alternatives I could look at? I like the idea of a Triumph Trophy but wonder if it might be a bit big as a first bike, and as my budget will be circa £2k then they would be a bit old perhaps?

Cheers

Jimmy

[EvoBarry]

Get a CBR600, £2k will still get a decent one. Probably the best all rounder bike there is imo. It'll commute with comfort and ease, scratch when you feel the need, and should be reliable... well, its a Honda...

After a year or so you'll feel confident enough about your riding to make the decision about getting a big cruiser or trailie style bike I reckon.

[cv01jw]

Thanks evobarry, will look into CBRs in more detail. Had a quick look and there seem to be loads about, many well under my £2k budget which is good. I also spotted a nice Kawasaki GPZ EX500 which was well within my price range and a 2001 Y plate.

As soon as I get my license I will have to go test riding a few bikes to see which suits me best. Need some leathers first, and a helmet, boots, gloves........

Edited by cv01jw on Sunday 29th June 22:52

[EvoBarry]

GPZ is an ancient machine, stick with the CBR idea ;o)

Worth picking up a couple of the bike mags tbh, to get a feel for what to look for, bargains etc.

Good luck with whatever you get, anything with two wheels will put a smile on your face tbh

[spunky-mon]

I take it your going on to do your full test.

The CBT only lets you ride a 125cc bike for 2 years on an L plate.

[cv01jw]

spunky-mon said:

I take it your going on to do your full test.

The CBT only lets you ride a 125cc bike for 2 years on an L plate.

I am going on a DAS course over the summer.

[lawrence567]

Honda's are bullet proof.
& the majority of jap bikes...
Hondas, Yamaha's, Kawasaki, Suzuki etc are relatively cheap for parts etc.
Everyone has their preference to manufacturers.
I ahve a Yam Thundercat that i commute on and it's comfy as hell!