is a kawasaki ninja 650r a good beginner bike?

Buck

New member
ive been thinking about getting a bike this coming spring. i was wondering if a 650 would be to much bike for me im 5'11 and 150. i was thinking about a 250 but i dont want to get something im gonna want to trade in in a few months.im a quick learner and i have more sense than to act stupid trying to impress people. my only bike experience was on a dirt bike. only rode a few times loved the hell out of it
 
There is alot more to choosing a good beginner bike than CCs. For Example a 1200cc Harley Sportster is a decent novice choice. A ZX-6R Ninja is a horrible choice. The Suzuki RG500 is even worse, but the Suzuki GS500 is a great first ride. See the lack of correlation. Its all about the bikes intended purpose.

The EX650R Ninja (the one you are asking about) is a good choice. It was designed as a economical, sporty commuter. It is reasonably comfortable, so you will have one less distraction to contend with. It has a tourquey tractable motor, which is easy to use. It has soft, forgiving, confidence inspiring suspension. It has enough speed and handling to be genuinely entertaining. It is economical. The one negative thing Ive heard is that some have poor break feel, but not all magazines say this, and the one I rode was fine.
 
Yes, but may I suggest a used one. This way you won't have to break it in and you won't be so upset when you drop it. The reason I am telling you that yes it is a good beginner bike is because its a strait twin instead of a v-twin... meaning, the strait twin will be more cooperative then the V because the torque will be less and you will have an easier start and down shift.
Have fun! and be careful!!!
 
the thing is with getting the 250R is you will learn a lot faster. the 250 also retains it's value much better than bigger bikes because they will always be in demand for new learners. I suggest getting the 250, riding for about 3000 miles, then deciding on what bike you want next. That way you get a feel of what you are really looking for. street and dirt are two different playing grounds. on dirt, you don't have to watch for cross traffic, debris flying at you, cars not paying attention to you.
 
I transitioned from a 80cc dirtbike to a 600 crb when I turned 16. I had no problem at all. The power difference though is great, but you learn as you ride.
So I'd say it depends on how comfortable you are with the skills you already have.

Taking a Motorcycle Safety Class would be a great idea for you to do also.
 
i see your point to want the 650 instead of just trading the 250 in after just a little but but the 500 is also a good choice
 
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