Bikers, advice please.

Fayshun · 13-01-2007, 21:12

I'm thinking of going 2-wheeled for getting to work, it's about 35 miles each way and either Motorway or nice rolling country roads, which even I can tell would be perfect for biking.

The last time I rode a motorbike was when I was 14 along farm tracks on a knackered old Suzuki something or other 125.

So can the bikers among you advise me of A) how much it's likely to cost to get licence, bike, insurance, protective stuff and B) what sort of bike to get. I suppose B) depends on A) anyway.

I want a proper bike not a twist and go, I think a big bugger like me would look a bit daft on a scooter anyway.

Will · 13-01-2007, 21:30

Direct Access Course approx. 400-500 quid
Decent gear including helmet anything from £450-£1000

Insurance could be as low as £400 TPFT for a new rider of your age with lots of driving experience with something like a Bandit 600 S which would fit your needs beautifully.

Fayshun · 13-01-2007, 22:16

*starts saving*

Will · 14-01-2007, 12:17

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatiain

*starts saving*

It can be cheaper - but I tend to not skimp on protective gear, my lid alone cost £300 at the time. My leathers cost me £350 on sale...

FakeSnake · 14-01-2007, 22:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Le Hoff

It can be cheaper - but I tend to not skimp on protective gear, my lid alone cost £300 at the time. My leathers cost me £350 on sale...

Listen to this advice... My protective gear is what stopped me being dead in my bike accident. Seriously, protection is paramount. Dont let that put you off though... I would love to be biking again.
Even a 400cc would be ok for just a commuter bike..but you may be left wanting. Do your Direct Access, you usually learn on an ER5 (500cc) which may be enough for your needs.
I paid 400 for my direct access, but I guess it probably will not have gone up that much.

Will · 14-01-2007, 12:16

Then do it!

Fayshun · 14-01-2007, 23:27

I'm only going to stick my head in a top quality bone dome, it's a tough nut but it's not that tough.

Burble · 14-01-2007, 23:31

It isn't just the crash hat you need to worry about. Don't scrimp on boots, gloves, jackets, trousers and so on.

Fayshun · 14-01-2007, 23:41

Quote:

Originally Posted by Burbleflop

It isn't just the crash hat you need to worry about. Don't scrimp on boots, gloves, jackets, trousers and so on.

I used to flat share with a bike rider, he said the same.

He also said that there's 2 very important words in bike clothing.

Water

and

Proof.

Will · 14-01-2007, 23:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatiain

I used to flat share with a bike rider, he said the same.

He also said that there's 2 very important words in bike clothing.

Water

and

Proof.

Paul doesn't ride in the rain.

Then again I try not to either, but I do have a nice set of textile kit which I use in the winter months which is warmer and waterproof.

13-01-2007, 21:12	#1
Fayshun Rocket Fuel Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Adrift in the Orca Posts: 6,845	Bikers, advice please. I'm thinking of going 2-wheeled for getting to work, it's about 35 miles each way and either Motorway or nice rolling country roads, which even I can tell would be perfect for biking. The last time I rode a motorbike was when I was 14 along farm tracks on a knackered old Suzuki something or other 125. So can the bikers among you advise me of A) how much it's likely to cost to get licence, bike, insurance, protective stuff and B) what sort of bike to get. I suppose B) depends on A) anyway. I want a proper bike not a twist and go, I think a big bugger like me would look a bit daft on a scooter anyway. __________________ We must move forward not backward, upwards not forward, and always twirling, twirling, twirling...

13-01-2007, 21:30	#2
Will BBx woz 'ere :P Join Date: Jan 1970 Posts: 2,147,487,208	Direct Access Course approx. 400-500 quid Decent gear including helmet anything from £450-£1000 Insurance could be as low as £400 TPFT for a new rider of your age with lots of driving experience with something like a Bandit 600 S which would fit your needs beautifully. __________________ *No No!*

13-01-2007, 22:16	#3
Fayshun Rocket Fuel Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Adrift in the Orca Posts: 6,845	starts saving __________________ We must move forward not backward, upwards not forward, and always twirling, twirling, twirling...

14-01-2007, 12:16	#6
Will BBx woz 'ere :P Join Date: Jan 1970 Posts: 2,147,487,208	Then do it! __________________ *No No!*

14-01-2007, 23:27	#7
Fayshun Rocket Fuel Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Adrift in the Orca Posts: 6,845	I'm only going to stick my head in a top quality bone dome, it's a tough nut but it's not that tough. __________________ We must move forward not backward, upwards not forward, and always twirling, twirling, twirling...

14-01-2007, 23:31	#8
Burble Rocket Fuel Join Date: Jul 2006 Posts: 7,826	It isn't just the crash hat you need to worry about. Don't scrimp on boots, gloves, jackets, trousers and so on.