[robz71lm7]

I asked a few others (co-workers, local F-body board etc) but thought I'd ask here as well since I trust the judgement and value the opinions on this board. First of all I have never ridden a motorcycle, but have toyed with the idea for the past few years. I got my motorcycle permit last week and am taking an MSF course in a couple of weeks. As you can probably guess I want a sportbike. I have a 30 mile one way commute on 2-lane roads and the interstate (70 mph+). I'd mainly be getting it as a toy, but I'd like to be able to ride to work too so I can somewhat justify it in my head. I have thought about track days, but that is a ways away if ever.

I've had recommendations ranging from a 250 all the way to a 750 sport bike (Ninja 250r, R6, or GSXR 600 or 750). Thoughts?

[trackbird]

Buy an inexpensive/reliable used commuter bike. I learned to ride on a Yamaha Seca II (600cc). It doesn't make enough power to outright kill you (no 75 mph wheelies becaused you twitched the throttle) and you'll probably wreck it anyway (the one I learned on was wrecked/dropped half a dozen times by the owner and friends). My other friend bought one used with 300 miles on it and it has 70k on it now (also wrecked a few times). Once you survive a year or so on something like that, then consider a sport bike.

I ultimately totalled a 1993 Katana 750 (in 1993) doing something stupid. After clearing the handlebars and landing in a field at 100+ mph, I decided to stick to cars. Your results may vary.