Suzuki 650cc V-Strom too much for a beginner?

[cmiych]

Hello.  I'm glad to have found your community.  Hopefully you can help guide me in the right direction and make some informed choices as I venture in this wonderful world.  I've been reading through these forums over the past week, and I'll be honest, alot of the specifics of particular bikes have begun to run together.  Aesthetically, and pragmatically, the  Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom seems to fit exactly what I'm looking for in a bike.  This will be a first bike for me.  I have seen people recommend certain 600cc and 650cc bikes, but gasp at the thought of others for a beginner.  Which category does this fall into? Will this bike be too much for me? Is it even remotely considered a beginners bike? I am a 23 yo male, 5'11 and 191 lbs.   If I am pushing the limits too far, what are some good alternatives?  The proportions of the bike are not only very visually pleasing, but seem very stable.  I will be using the bike primarily on highways as a commuter (with the occasion recreational drive through the CA canyons of course).   I would love a bike on the lighter side to get started.  I do want a bike that I can easily handle.  I want to clarify, I AM NOT looking for a high performance sport bike.  I am not that guy.  FYI, due to financial constraints, I would hope whatever entry bike I choose would last me in the 4-5 year range rather than 2-3.  Reliability and repair cost is also important for similar reasons.  This is not a "toy buy" as much for me.  It does have some fun perks of course, but I currently drive a '95 Chevy pickup... in OC... 45 mile commute for work in that = NOT fun.  Any suggestions for me?

[cmiych]

Followup:

Just wanted to put this in as well.  Thank you all for having such an amazing community.  Per your suggestions, I have also developed an interest in the Suzuki SV650.  I'll be honest, I never really pegged myself for a traditional guy, but the Kawasaki Vulcan is absolutely beautiful.  Would either of these be a significantly better option?  I heard "cruiser" style bikes are not recommended for beginners.  Does the Vulcan fall into that category? So many options, so many beautiful bikes...  Thanks in advance for all your help.

[bogfro]

What type of riding experience do you have?  I'd say if you have ridden a few hundred miles on the street, know how to shift, turn, brake, etc..... then the DL650 should be fine for you.  Just make sure your very FIRST experience on the street is on something else.  I started on a Kawi EX250, and rode it for 2300 miles before getting my V-Strom.  But in reality, I could have avoided a lot of the annoyances of that 250 by switching much sooner.  Reflecting on my own experience, I probably could have switched to the 650 after just a few day rides on the 250.  For riding on the interstate, you really need something with enough power to get you out of certain situations......something the 250 wasn't capable of.  I intend on keeping my V-Strom until it dies....in my opinion it's the rider, not the bike, that makes the difference.  The V-Strom is very comfortable, ergonomic, maneuverable, and has plenty of power for any real-world application.  I like the "up-high" seating position, because it makes for good visibility and control.  The mirrors are great, and the headlight is bright.  It's extremely fun on curvy roads (with something other than the stock tires), and fully capable of going on some light duty dirt and gravel.

I'm 6'0", 170 lb, and this bike fits me perfectly.  I've had it since February, and have averaged riding it over 70 miles per day since then.

The SV650 might feel a little cramped for someone who's 5'11", but I've never actually ridden one so I can't say for sure.  That bike has the same motor as the DL650.  I'd stick with a bike like this over ANY cruiser.

[cmiych]

Thanks for the input.  I'm still a little cautious about it.  My riding experience is minimal.  Growing up in the Southeast, I would ride a dirtbike from time to time down trails in the woods, but never owned one or truly developed the skill.  Other than that, I'm limited to parking lots on a buddy's Honda Shadow during college.  Been mountain biking most of my life, but I don't know if that's at all relevant.  I want to make sure I don't overextend myself, but do catch on to things very quickly even in regard to muscle memory (I'm basing that on my exp with freestyle wrestling and music).  Initially I wont be on the interstates (for about 6 months) because of the permit restrictions in CA for a new M1/2 approval.

Edit: I don't know if its relevant... at all... but I have driven nothing but a manual transmission my whole life, I am not concerned about that aspect.  I am familiar with basic physical principles of riding, but lack extensive hands on application.

[bogfro]

Thanks for the input.  I'm still a little cautious about it.  My riding experience is minimal.  Growing up in the Southeast, I would ride a dirtbike from time to time down trails in the woods, but never owned one or truly developed the skill.  Been mountain biking most of my life, but I don't know if that's at all relevant.  I want to make sure I don't overextend myself, but do catch on to things very quickly even in regard to muscle memory (I'm basing that on my exp with freestyle wrestling and music).  Initially I wont be on the interstates (for about 6 months) because of the permit restrictions in CA for a new M1/2 approval.

Edit: I don't know if its relevant... at all... but I have driven nothing but a manual transmission my whole life, I am not concerned about that aspect.  I am familiar with basic physical principles of riding, but lack extensive hands on application.

I also crossed over from mountain biking, and yes that's VERY relevant in my opinion.  I think I would have had a much harder time, if I didn't have all the previous mountain bike experience.  Also, driving a manual transmission car, in my opinion, is VERY relevant as well.  I also drove nothing but manuals, and I think that really put me ahead of the game, too.  Shifting and clutching was something I never really had to think about too much when getting into motorcycling.

That sucks you won't be able to ride the interstates for 6 months....... I went on one my 3rd ride on the 250!!!

Take the MSF course, and then I'd suggest renting or borrowing a street legal 250 for a couple days.  See what you think, and I bet then you'd be ready for the DL650.  Be sure to wear good gear.  Enjoy!

[cmiych]

I think for the first time in my life, I just got "giddy."  I am DEFINATELY planning on taking the course, hopefully within the next month or so. The various stunt driving courses, when I first got my drivers license were very helpful and informative.  I can only imagine this would be 100x so.  I've been trying to be conservative as I laid out what bikes I would consider, and expected I had reached too far.  Renting a smaller bike for a few days is clearly a good idea.  Any other last minute advice you'd give an aspiring rider (other than in the standard safety regards?)

[Sarchi]

Any other last minute advice you'd give an aspiring rider (other than in the standard safety regards?)

Do it!

Read a lot, talk to other riders, understand why people crash, ride with responsible people, stay away from group rides with idiots.  Stay within your own limits and what you're comfortable with.  Invest in good gear and wear it.  You sound pretty mature, you should be fine.  

Personally I would go for a Versys over the VStrom, but that's just personal preference.  

[cmiych]

Thanks!  I looked at the Versys, and it may be just idle vanity, but the vstrom is just "prettier" to me.  I'll keep the recommendation in mind though when I go actually check them out.  Who knows where the road may take me.  Either of you (or anyone else) have any CONCERNS with the vstrom?

[bogfro]

Any other last minute advice you'd give an aspiring rider (other than in the standard safety regards?)

Read "Proficient Motorcycling" by David Hough cover-to-cover before starting.  It talks about why motorcyclists crash, and how you can avoid it.  Since reading that book, I practice those traffic management techniques in my car, every time I drive.  Things like being aware of when other vehicles are likely to pull out or turn in front of you, safe lane positioning, checking behind you to make sure you don't get rear-ended, not pacing other vehicles, etc.  It will really open your eyes to traffic management situations specific to motorcycling.

There's lots of other good books out there you can read, but I'd start with the best one first.

[Sarchi]

Thanks!  I looked at the Versys, and it may be just idle vanity, but the vstrom is just "prettier" to me.  I'll keep the recommendation in mind though when I go actually check them out.  Who knows where the road may take me.  Either of you (or anyone else) have any CONCERNS with the vstrom?

The 650 VStrom is a well respected bike, I don't think it has any big issues.  I actually like the way it looks too.  I test rode one about six months after I started riding, I just didn't really like the way it made power (very spinny motor), I imagined I'd have to be shifting a lot in town.  It might've just been me, but I didn't gel with that bike.  Now I have a twin and maybe I'd react differently.  I like the Versys based on sitting on it in the showroom, it fits my tall self well and I like that it has a more sportbike bent (17" wheels etc), since I don't really go off road.  Haven't had a chance to ride one yet tho.

[UHOH]

yeah try to get a little experience (MSF course?) in a 150-250 ish bike: balance, leaning, steering, braking

V strom 650 would seem good for you, should last for a long time.

also, V-strom has an engine guard available (friend has one) and this would be a good option
 to protect the bikes good looks in the event of a parking lot tip-over  ...

[cmiych]

UHOH,
I will certainly be getting the engine guard.  Thank you all for your input.

And I'll be going to get that book tonight.  I'll read it over the weekend... that is if I don't get to distracted window shopping  

[mygala]

Aesthetically, and pragmatically, the  Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom seems to fit exactly what I'm looking for in a bike.  

Aesthetically?!?!  Seriously? You're LOOKING for a bike that is as "aesthetically" pleasing as V-strom?

Now don't get me wrong. They're great bikes, they do damn near everything well, ...but buying them for their looks?  

[cmiych]

Mygala, you're right.  I won't get one.

Followup Edit:  I do like the looks.  As i said, the proportions just seem to fit.  I like the way the bike presented itself to me.  I'm not saying its the most beautiful bike I've ever seen.  But its an appealing and appropriate presentation on top of the fact that it seems to do exactly what I want/need from my first bike.  And among the comparable options... yea - it's perfect.  I would make an analogy to my taste in women, but I figure I'll keep the thread as civil as possible.  Although in re-reading this paragraph, I guess I kinda already did.  

[highside]

Everything is too much for a beginner. No matter what you will be in over-your-head, thats the only way to learn how to do anything. That said, I think the V-Strom is a fine choice. Its an easy bike to ride and a lot of fun. Just be careful and remember that the moment where you actually think you know what your doing is the most dangerous time, cause thats when you can get really hurt.

[bogfro]

Aesthetically?!?!  Seriously? You're LOOKING for a bike that is as "aesthetically" pleasing as V-strom?

Now don't get me wrong. They're great bikes, they do damn near everything well, ...but buying them for their looks?  

And they look even sexier once you get them covered with bugs and dust!    

[birdrunner]

Thanks!  I looked at the Versys, and it may be just idle vanity, but the vstrom is just "prettier" to me.  

Those are words I thought I'd never hear.  

I think the Strom would be just about perfect btw.

[The Shepherd]

The Wee-Strom is a good all around bike. It has an engine that produces enough power but is not overwhelming, is surprisingly good in the corners, rock solid reliabile and cheap. I'd think it would make a great started bike for someone.

Check out www.stromtrooper.com for alot more info on the bike.

[guitardad]

This is kinda a hard question.  Sme bikes it's easy to say, "No way!" and others are clearly easy for beginners to handle.  The Wee-Strom is too much bike for SOME new riders - others would do just fine.  So I can't really tell you without having you in my class.  Here's some food for thought, though.  The bike you'll ride in you class (if it's a typical 250) will have around 20 hp, and weigh around 300 pounds.  The Wee weighs close to 500 pounds, and has about 70 hp.  So once you get that experience base in class, ask yourself how big a jump from that bike you're really ready to take.

One last thing to consider - it's pretty common to buy a small beginner bike used, ride it for 6 months to a year, and sell it for what you paid.  About as close to a "free" bike as you'll ever get.  I understand not wanting to lose a lot of money on a short-time bike, but if you do it right it can work out real well.

[Zerosum]

Coming to this thread a little late... there's some good advice here.  In my opinion, if you're okay with the height of the V-Strom, and have some motorcycle experience, you'll be fine starting on one.

I used to think that any 650 twin was too much for a beginning rider, but after owning a V-Strom for a year, I changed my tune.  Unlike other 650 twins like the SV or the Hawk GT, it's tuned for a little more mid-range power and a little less off-the-line grunt.  So, in terms of power output, the bike is very tame and beginner-friendly.  At 3-4K RPM, it's a pretty tame, docile bike.  It "wakes up" at around 5K RPM, and pulls nicely up until around 8K RPM.  So, unlike the SV, there's a wider band of "tame" power for a new rider to say within.

It's a superb commuter bike, IMO.  The luggage rack can accept a trunk with ease (virtually every other bike requires you to buy a rack separately).  The wind protection is fine.  (Not great, but adequate.)  It's very light and maneuverable.  It looks top-heavy, but it really isn't.  The height of the bike does virtually nothing to its ability to handle, IMO.  I ride this thing every bit as hard as I ride my Hawk or VFR.

As for the whole "aesthetics" thing, WTF ever.  I'm tired of this "pile on" effect of everyone bashing the bike's appearance.  I like the way it looks.  It's Form is defined by it's Function, not the other way around.  It's tall and affords the rider with excellent visibility.  It's 19" front wheel and long-travel suspension allows you to eat potholes for breakfast.  It's a visually imposing bike that gets noticed in traffic.  It has the best stock headlight on the market.  If you're an engineer-type who thinks functional things are inherently good-looking and doesn't care what other people think, you'll think this bike is good looking.

This bike is so fun and so useful, I think that anyone who finds themselves thinking seriously about one should just get one.  The chances are very great that you'll love it.  If you don't believe me, go shopping for a used one... you'll notice that used ones are pretty hard to come by! :P

Here's mine, all outfitted for "sport commuting"