philosopheriam
aka: Mr. Awesome
Dear FZ6 Enthusiasts,
Well, it happened - I got bit by the motorcycle bug and I can't stop thinking about buying one! :rockon: All of my buddies own bikes, and they always tell me how much fun they have in the summer - going to events, riding in groups, etc. In addition, the guy to whom I rent my 2nd bedroom owns a GSXR1000, and he's encouraging me to go riding, too. Needless to say, I don't want to sit on the sidelines this year (talk about peer pressure)!
For a multitude of reasons - looks, features, size, riding position, etc, I've decided on an FZ6 for my first bike. A used 05 or 06 is on my target list...
Long story short, I've never been on a motorcyle in my life. So, with this in mind, I decided to begin the process by being as responsible as possible:
1. I bought the book "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Motorcycles" - I intend to read it cover to cover.
2. I signed up for the Illinois State beginning rider training course - 3 days of safety and operational instruction, and it prepares one to walk into the DMV to obtain a motorcycle license.
3. I'm taking to as many riders as I can about advice, tips, etc.
I'm a self-taught mechanic, so maintenance and upkeep is no problem for me. I'm just curious to see what advice you guys might have and any things to "look out" for when I'm evaluating a used bike.
Also, when it comes to personal protective gear, who makes good helmets, etc. I intend to buy a helmet, a jacket, gloves, and a set of boots. I'll buy the helmet new, but I figured I might be able to get the other stuff from Craigslist, etc...
Thanks for your time and I appreciate the help!
Well, it happened - I got bit by the motorcycle bug and I can't stop thinking about buying one! :rockon: All of my buddies own bikes, and they always tell me how much fun they have in the summer - going to events, riding in groups, etc. In addition, the guy to whom I rent my 2nd bedroom owns a GSXR1000, and he's encouraging me to go riding, too. Needless to say, I don't want to sit on the sidelines this year (talk about peer pressure)!
For a multitude of reasons - looks, features, size, riding position, etc, I've decided on an FZ6 for my first bike. A used 05 or 06 is on my target list...
Long story short, I've never been on a motorcyle in my life. So, with this in mind, I decided to begin the process by being as responsible as possible:
1. I bought the book "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Motorcycles" - I intend to read it cover to cover.
2. I signed up for the Illinois State beginning rider training course - 3 days of safety and operational instruction, and it prepares one to walk into the DMV to obtain a motorcycle license.
3. I'm taking to as many riders as I can about advice, tips, etc.
I'm a self-taught mechanic, so maintenance and upkeep is no problem for me. I'm just curious to see what advice you guys might have and any things to "look out" for when I'm evaluating a used bike.
Also, when it comes to personal protective gear, who makes good helmets, etc. I intend to buy a helmet, a jacket, gloves, and a set of boots. I'll buy the helmet new, but I figured I might be able to get the other stuff from Craigslist, etc...
Thanks for your time and I appreciate the help!