Motorcycle advice.......

[thejimrose]

wow steve you still own the k1! awesome bike.. 123k is amazing.

i don't know a lot about the nighthawks, but agree that the weight is
definitely an issue for a first rider. the cg is probably pretty low given
it's cruiser-style, but 500lbs is heavy.

i really like [as was mentioned] the suzuki gs500e, and the kawi ninja
ex500. theyre both a scream to ride, loads of fun even for more experienced
riders. theyre also bulletproof, and are still in production so parts are
dirt cheap. late model ones can be had for a couple grand in great shape by
someone looking to upgrade from their learner bike. the sv650 is also a
great bike, but cramped for taller riders. the bandit 600 is another good
first bike choice esp for taller people.

i would just caution on the cheap / old / used bike purchase that you very
carefully and thoroughly look it over or have it looked over pre flight. you
want to be positive that all the mechanicals are up to snuff. esp on an
older bike, worn shocks, bad tires, dodgy cables, loose linkages, etc etc
can be hazardous to your health.

good luck. this is way off topic but nice to know there are lots of
motoheads on the list. =)

cheers
jim

past - 90 kawasaki zx10 [in retrospect not a good learner bike]
past - 98 ducati st2
current - 98 triumph daytona 955i turned speed triple