Im 47 yrs old and have just started the process to getting my UK motorcycle license. (i know i have left it rather late). I am 5'9 - 5'10 and i am interested in owning an adventure bike and was wondering if you would recommend a Vstrom 650 for a 1st bike, or am i mad???? If the answer is yes any suggestions on budget and what to look out for. It will be used mostly for road use....

Maybe. To be honest, I'd recommend something with a lower center of gravity. Most people will drop their 1st bike in the 1st year. You should be able to find a beater for cheap, use it for a season, sell it and then buy whatever you want.

These are tall bikes for a beginner, but if you get a used one, you won't need to be so scared of dropping it. You need the practice on how to pick it up anyways.

650 is really too powerful if you haven't ridden before. You could start out with something like a 250 until you develop muscle memory for the controls, then get a Vstrom later, it all depends on how you think you will make out.

A friend of mine bought the 650 Vstrom for his first bike. He dropped it half a dozen times during his training, and after a year of riding we went on a 9 US tour where he dropped it 5 times, the first time was in my driveway as we were getting ready to depart. It was pretty funny watching him fall over constantly, had my eyes watering every time.

The previous two posts speak wisely. I'm not a beginner by any means but the high center of gravity for a ~500 lb bike is a challenge.

You say road use, so you might also consider if you'll be using it on highways. If you don't need to go over 70mph, and you want to sit more upright like a V instead of a sport bike, something like Suzuki's Van Van 200 might be ideal, has a classic look and won't break your bank account. I'd love to own one... reviews all seem good but I don't know anyone with one yet.

Nope, you need a 2018 Kawasaki H2. Little on the expensive side, but...



I'd think the V is about perfect for a nOOb.

I think a used, lightweight "beater" is a good choice for a first bike. Something that you PLAN on dropping. Lots of good advice on the previous posts.

And the 650 has a LOT of power for a beginner. It really gets up and goes. Might be intimidating for a 1st timer.

When you drop a bike, it usually equates to $$$.

Your first bike doesn't have to be your last. I always recommend just getting something small and cheap that runs well (SoTex's 'beater'), riding it a bunch, and then re-evaluating what you want with some miles under your belt.

The new L7 650 is even faster!

+1 for the above,
Yes, it can be done but you will drop it, probably more than once and it would delay developing your riding skills or could even spoil you on the sport.
If you get a used, lighter, lower center of gravity bike, in one season you can get to intermediate or higher proficiency.

Tips for getting your first motorcycle - New Rider Series on MCrider
11:10
https://youtu.be/4iTbeV8_F0w


Either way, enjoy,

Something like a Royal Enfield would be a great starter bike.


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