[larsabee]

Hey all-

These forums seem very helpful and informative, so I was wondering if I could get a few opinions.

I've been dreaming about motorcycles since I was a little kid, and now as a poor college kid, I'm able to barely afford a cheap one. I've found what seems to be a decent opportuntiy: A 1990 GSX Katana 750 with about 37k miles on it. The bike's got a few scratches on either side, but I don't care much at all about aesthetics as I just really, really want a bike.

My main concern is that I'm a newbie. I'm definately no idiot, I'm a responsible guy and wouldn't be a foolish/wreckless rider, but still I'm concerned with the size of the bike. I was hoping to find a 500cc or 600cc bike as something to learn on (oh by the way I'm 5'8" 160lbs), so my main question is how bad of an idea is it to get a 750 for a first bike? The bike's selling for $1000, I'm worried if I don't act soon this offer will pass by. I do plan on taking a Motorcycle Safety Course this spring before I really get into riding.

What do you all think? Thanks a lot. -Jon

 

[Uncle Bob]

Wouldn't be my first choice but a Kat is forgiving enough for a newbie if you use your head and take proper training.

What you want is a learning tool, and at $1,000 there is not much you could do to it to reduce the value. Of course at that price I might be worried about the shape it's in, you certainly don't want any surprises and big repair bills.

 

[MoBandy]

I would be a little weary about learning to ride on something with that much power. You never know when it will get away from you. I have only been riding for about 2 yrs. constantly ( I had a dirt bike when I was 12, now I'm 25) and I started on a honda CX500 (1980). When I thought I was comfortable on that, I started looking around for something bigger. I know own a Bandit 1200 for about 4 months and I am still getting used to the jump in power. Although I love it.

I say start smaller and work your way up. Also the price makes me wonder about the condition of the bike. Not just the physical, but the motor also.

 

[Guest]

my first bike was a 83 XT550 endro that i thought myself how to ride and i was lucky to have leaned without incident.

i would suggest starting out at between 250/350CC.

especially if your state DMV has as rigorous a motorcycle lic. drive test as CA dose. i.e. a pass or fail 3 part key course & road test wear you can't make a single mistake with out being failed.

believe me trying to drive that XT550 through the key at under 2 mph without crossing a line/hitting a cone/grinding a gear/slipping the clutch/putting a foot down/or just wobbling too much/any of which are an instant fail!

was next to impossible.

 

[Guest]

As everyone else has said here. A 750 is a lot of bike to start on. It sounds like you have the right attitude towards riding though so you will probably do alright with it. $1000 is a good price on that bike so I say as long as you can keep your head about you and realize that it's not a toy but a very powerful machine that will get you killed fast and therefore must be respected at all times, DO IT!

Buy a good helmet
Take the MSF riders course
Respect your bike

 

[Jonathan]

I agree with Bob and Braada. Be sure to watch and respect the bike. Its a great bike, but it can hurt you. Take the course and most diff buy a helmet. If you live somewhere that doesnt require them, wear it anyways.

 

[Suzukiman]

I am 16 about 5'9 and 139 pounds.. I started off on a 02 Honda 250cc Rebel when I was 15 after taking the proper training corses and was licened on a 250cc and under class. Now that I am 16 I own a 01 Suzuki Volusia 805cc. This bike is a big change between my Rebel and my Volusia. Now I have been riding 2years almost now and I think after the training corses a 750cc isnt too much. The most often problem I find myself having is me over acceleration like a 16year would around cornors and of the line to fish tail a little or spin it up at the red light to show down all the dang Rustangs here... I mean Mustangs... Otherwise a middle size bike is a great bike to learn on.

 

[ncb]

A 1990 750 Katana for $1000? Don't even hesitate!

I wouldn't hesitate to buy this bike unless it is TOTALLY rat bagged. ANY motorcycle is worth $1500!

Go to the Bank...withdraw $1000...do not stop...run to the sellers place and give them your money.

Duke