A new V-Strom?

[#91]

Hello,

I am interested in a new V-Strom as a first motorcylce. Do any of you think that it is too powerful or difficult to ride for a beginner? I would really appreciate any information. I am also considering: Honda 919, Ducati Monster 800S i.e., Suzuki SV650 and the BMW F650CS. Any comments on those? Thanks for your time.

#91

[rider1951]

I don't think the V-strom is a good first bike. I'd go for the BMW or SV-650. Buy something used and cheap as you will probably drop it (almost everybody drops their 1st bike). The V-strom is a pretty easy bike to ride once you get going but it can be deceptively quick and you can find yourself going faster than you think. The brakes are okay but they don't stop the bike as fast as some other bikes. The saet height is on the high side with some of the weight up high. Go with something smaller and learn good riding style first.

[panick]

i have a sv650s and love it!
as just about anyone can tell you this is one great bike and worthy of ownership.
i believe the sv series can be a great starter bike for anyone who shows it some respect. just like a gun, a .22 can kill you, but is great fun and affordable for the responsible person.
you can drop anything and yet very few motorcycles have what it takes to do so much. read the sv sites online, some great ones there.
the V Strom is to big and tall for a beginner in my opinion.
ahh...and, i only wish Suzuki would make a DL650...now that would be the perfect motor for adventure rideing!
cheers

[rider1951]

I'd love to have a bike with the SV650 motor and the seating position of the DL1000. What a great bike that would be.

[Stromfer]

I have to agree with the guys.The strom is maybe a little too high and powerfull to learn correctly.You should do yourself a favor and buy a sv650 i think it must be one of the rare good bike you could learn and progress on it.I'm presently teaching my girlfriend how to drive on the strom so she could by a sv650 and at the same time do my self a favor and try the little beast. :wink:

[Roost]

What's right from some, is wrong for others. A bike is like a pair of britches. Try'em on and see how they fit. How tall are you? What do you weigh? If you're vertically challenged, the V-Strom may not be right for you.

My V-Strom is my 5th motorcycle in about 20 years. I learned on dirt bikes and small street bikes. Then, I graduated to a Ducati, which I still have. I bought the V two weeks ago, to provide a comfortable two-up ride, with the sound of the v-twin that I like and the comfort that sport-bikes don't offer.

My suggestion would be to take this in steps: 1) Buy something used, 2 grand or so. Preferably, a 400cc or less dual-sport. Ride it everywhere - especially on gravel and dirt roads. When you put this bike on the ground, you won't weep. If you start with an expensive sport-bike (ala Ducati), you'll cry for weeks if you dump it. Also, you won't have the skills to explore the limits of the bike, like acceleration, braking, and handling.

Step 2 is to buy a bike like the SV650. Ride it for a good long time. Think about what you want in a long-term motorcycle, look at everything, read everything, talk to other riders, then make a decision about a bike like the V. It's a great machine, pretty tall for some, and plenty powerful.

I know it's tempting to get a payment book on a new sport-bike, but you'll be a safer and happier rider over the long term if you take this in small steps. This advice is tried and true- I've seen it on many occasions.

No matter what, take the MSF course. Good luck, and let us know what you purchase!

Bill