So I've been searching around for all kinds of bikes under $4500 that would be fairly easy to ride and start out on, but yet not under powered, also cheap to insure because of my nasty driving record. And the 650r caught my attention tonight on craigslist. I've read countless reviews about them, but I want to read what every one here has to say about the bike.
Thanks, Brandon
IMHO, the 650r, while being a mid-size performance bike, would not be a suitable first bike. Being a legitimate 12 second machine(real low 12s), it has the ability to get away from you very easily unless you know what you're doing. Very few, if any, new riders possess that kind of skill.
I have a 2009 650R. I think it's a great light weight, low maintenance, sports tourer with a nice balance of handling and comfort- if that's what you're looking for. There're no complicated suspension setup to tune or worry about unlike it's super-sport cousin. Powerwise, it's got plenty of it and will pop a wheelie if pursuaded. Throw on some Givis or soft bags and you've got a pretty nice commuter/tourer. Seat isn't comfy but few are from the factory, two hours is about the max I go before I have to stop and stretch.
In an ideal world all new riders would start out on a DR400 thumper and work their way up. However, where I live I'll get killed out here if I didn't have the power to get the F outta there when the cages start crowding. So if you have self-control to not go showing off then go for it. But if your driving record is an indication I'd advise against it, start with the Ninja 250R instead and work your way up. Even a 250cc or a 100cc can get you in a lot of trouble on a bike so don't think a small bike is a guarantee against something going wrong. Definitely, do a school or two such as Lee Park's Advance Riding course even if you've done MSF. You'll need lots of parking lot practice. Read Proficient Motorcycling cover to cover a few times. Get the best gear you can find. My suggestion would be a good quality leather jacket+pants that zip together, quality gloves, good long boots with ankle protection and of course a good full face helmet (Arai, Shoei etc).
