Considering my first motorcycle and should it be a BMW, need advice...

[bimerguycw]

as a newbie to motorcycles and interested in the BMW models?

I'm considering a project motorcylce and have a few BMW cars I do all maint on for the last several years and I have heard good things about the bikes and wanted advice on what might be a good starter BMW bike(i.e. - inexpensive buy, reliable and a good entry bike with parts availability and reasonable pricing.) What models and years to look for and which to stay away from.

Or if too far off topic, can someone direct me to a good BMW bike forum?

Thanks as always,

[632 Regal]

there is a beemer forum here, not a lot of action but worth a post, also you can PM Ed and see what advice he has for you.

Good luck!

[Derek A.]

Buy a jap bike to start with. Parts are much less money and for a starter bike its a better way to go. I didn't spend a ton on my bike, got to learn about motorcycles and its only got liability insurance on it - which helps to keep costs down - until you are sure you are 100% about the activity.

[Bleeding_Knuckles]

like this?

[Alexlind123]

like this?

Thats aweseome!

[bimerguycw]

I've thought about that also and am still unsure about what is a good jap bike to say less than $2000 to get my feet wet.
I appreciate any personal advice about biking as I've never owned one for street use...only dirt bikes way back.

[John in CT]

Good thing we have eliminated BMW bikes 'cause that's just enough for an exhaust system......

I would consider this old girl, or one of her sisters....

http://newyork.craigslist.org/fct/mcy/163092633.html

http://www.motorcyclehunter.com/cb900f.htm

because I am partial to Hondas. Well built, well designed, kinda pretty too. The 1981 CB900F is running about 90 hp, can leave any car behind, just don't try to drag race a modern 14,000 RPM crotch-rocket. The Corbin seat and the factory case guards are worth 400 bucks right off the top. You would never lose a dime with this bike. There are about 500 models/types of bikes in your price range, this is only one example.

Good luck,

John in CT
1980 Honda CBX

[Paul in NZ]

whats wrong with an older beemer twin?.Shaft drive and only two cylinders.I dont think a honda cb900 would be as long lived as one of those.
There is only one truth about motorcycle riding,if you are involved in a accident with another vehicle you will be worse off,so you must learn to avoid bad situations...In my world EVERYONE would know how to ride a motorcycle and will have ridden one for some time.I beleive that my motorcycle time taught me anticipation and observation far superior to most car drivers.Good times...I had two of those Hondas,and nine other motorcyles too....

[shogun]

The good thing on the old BMW's is, that you still get spare parts and an R50 lasts forever
http://www.bmbikes.co.uk/photopages/photosr50.htm

[632 Regal]

nice site!

The good thing on the old BMW's is, that you still get spare parts and an R50 lasts forever
http://www.bmbikes.co.uk/photopages/photosr50.htm