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noobiebikegir...
L Plate Warrior



Joined: 29 Sep 2011
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PostPosted: 19:07 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Hi Reply with quote
Hi Everyone

I am new to this forum as well as to biking!
I passed my CBT on the 10th September 2011. I am not very confident but every time I go for a ride on my little 125 (It's a Spitzer, please don't laugh!) I come back grinning from ear to ear. I just love it.

Once I have gotten a bit more confident I hope to do my DAS but I am a little worried about the ground handling. I really like the GSXR and the CBR600 but they are so heavy. Is it something you just get used to? Or will I be stuck on a 125 forever?!
Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks
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snikks
Spanner Monkey



Joined: 15 Jan 2011
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PostPosted: 19:14 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Re: Hi Reply with quote
noobiebikegirl wrote:
Hi Everyone

I am new to this forum as well as to biking!
I passed my CBT on the 10th September 2011. I am not very confident but every time I go for a ride on my little 125 (It's a Spitzer, please don't laugh!) I come back grinning from ear to ear. I just love it.

Once I have gotten a bit more confident I hope to do my DAS but I am a little worried about the ground handling. I really like the GSXR and the CBR600 but they are so heavy. Is it something you just get used to? Or will I be stuck on a 125 forever?!
Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks


Hi and welcome Smile.

Handling a big and heavy bike is something that gets better with practice, but in general they're not really much harder than a 125 to wheel about, as long as you keep them upright and don't let them tip beyond the point of no return. But then unless you're capable of holding up 200+ kg with pure muscle (i.e. unless you're he-man) the bikes going over once it's past that point, so that's not really a rider-strength issue.
____________________
- CBT: 02/01/11 Theory: 26/04/11 Mod 1: 19/05/11 Mod 2: 19/08/11
- 2007 Honda XL125V Varadero (Sold), 1999 Yamaha FZS600 Fazer (Sold), 2001 CBR600F
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Recluso
Brolly Dolly



Joined: 16 Mar 2011
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PostPosted: 19:20 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Welcome to the forum!

I'm just about to do my DAS myself (next week, woo!) and like you, I've been worried about the weights of the 'big bikes'. But, as people have pointed out to others (myself included) even that 125 of yours is heavy if you drop it. Most of the time it's all about getting the knack for moving that particular bike (you don't want to know how long it took me to get the hang of putting my YBR on its centre stand!)

But! As your first bike, there's nothing to dictate that you MUST get a 600+ machine! You might find that you're comfy on your 125 for the now, and if that's the case, maybe you might want to consider doing the A2 restricted test for now and sitting on your 125 for the 2 year restriction duration to pootle about, build your confidence and do your learning on. Consider it an apprenticeship!

Until then, enjoy being out and about! Sounds like you're loving it Very Happy

Welcome again!
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'Just erotic. Nothing kinky. It's the difference between using a feather and using a chicken.'
Honda PS125i > Yamaha YBR125 > Yamaha XJ6 Diversion > Yamaha Tracer 900
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Slacker24seve...
World Chat Champion



Joined: 10 May 2010
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PostPosted: 19:27 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Welcome aboard.

Where the weight of your post DAS bike is centralised might me more important than outright weight. The sports bikes you listed aren't heavy; in fact they are designed with light weight in mind. However a more newbie friendly 500 or 600 naked bike or one of the smaller 400 sportsbikes might be more manageable to begin with and certainly not too far behind in terms of the amount of power you can exploit on the road.
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Triumph Daytona 675 track bike + girlfriend's Honda Hornet 600
Selling a hack/winter bike for less than a grand? PM me.
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The Shaggy D.A.
Super Spammer



Joined: 12 Sep 2008
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PostPosted: 19:32 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Hi Thumbs Up

1. What ^ they said.
2. What's a Spitzer?
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Chances are quite high you are not in my Monkeysphere, and I don't care about you. Don't take it personally.
Currently : Royal Enfield 350 Meteor
Previously : CB100N > CB250RS > XJ900F > GT550 > GPZ750R/1000RX > AJS M16 > R100RT > Bullet 500 > CB500 > LS650P > Bullet Electra X & YBR125 > Bullet 350 "Superstar" & YBR125 Custom > Royal Enfield Classic 500 Despatch Limited Edition (28 of 200) & CB Two-Fifty Nighthawk > ER5
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Handsome
World Chat Champion



Joined: 30 Dec 2005
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PostPosted: 19:36 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Welcome... Thumbs Up
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Previous Bikes...Honda NSR 125 RR...Kawasaki Zephyr 550...Suzuki SV 1000 S...Yamaha FZ8...Current Bike...Suzuki GSX-R 750...
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noobiebikegir...
L Plate Warrior



Joined: 29 Sep 2011
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PostPosted: 19:39 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Thank you all! Your advice has made me feel much better. I think I will probably end up doing the test on my 125 and maybe get a 250 for a couple of years. It really depends how I get on I suppose!

The Shaggy D.A. this is a spitzer ..... (Sorry I don't know how to insert a photo!)
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FerretFing
World Chat Champion



Joined: 11 Nov 2007
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PostPosted: 20:35 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Welcome Thumbs Up
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FerretFing
World Chat Champion



Joined: 11 Nov 2007
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PostPosted: 20:35 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Welcome Thumbs Up
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Clanger
Stirrer



Joined: 27 May 2004
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PostPosted: 20:54 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Re: Hi Reply with quote
noobiebikegirl wrote:
I really like the GSXR and the CBR600 but they are so heavy. Is it something you just get used to? Or will I be stuck on a 125 forever?!


They only seem heavy because you are inexperienced and new to biking. Once you have some riding experience under your belt, and better confidence you will be able to throw your 125 (I'm guessing thats what you've got as never heard of your bike...it sounds a bit like a fizzy drink!?!?!)...a larger bike will be nothing in no time and you will wonder why you didn't keep your too heavy comments off a public forum... Wink
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SweenyT
Trackday Trickster



Joined: 22 Sep 2010
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PostPosted: 20:57 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Hi, welcome and congrats on completing your CBT.

When I first got my YBR I thought it was heavy but now I can move it around like it's a pushbike. The only time it ever feels a little heavy is when it has a full tank.

I also wondered whether I'd get used to a bigger bike when I upgrade and I'm sure I will after a while as will you. The confidence will come the more you ride and if you do your DAS then have a word with your instructors and if you find you can't get to grips with a 500+ bike, switch to a 125 and do your A2 instead.

Have fun and safe riding Thumbs Up
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Current ride - 2005 Suzuki GSX-R600 K4 - 2x 2014 Honda NC750s long term courtesy bikes - 2003 Fazer FZ6 written off as idiot reversed into me - 2009 YBR125 - still have from new
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J Charles
Borekit Bruiser



Joined: 26 Aug 2011
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PostPosted: 21:05 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Hello there and Welcome.

Congrats on the CBT.

Regarding bikes i would consider some on the 400 sportsbike as mentioned previously maybe CBR400R or vfr400.

Both relatively lightweight and lowish seats.

https://www.dvmoto.ru/images/archiv_foto/honda/honda_cbr400_fireblade_1993/honda_cbr400_fireblade_1993_4.jpg

https://www.simonevans.co.uk/v-four/images/vfr400.jpg
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Clanger
Stirrer



Joined: 27 May 2004
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PostPosted: 21:12 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
J Charles wrote:
Both relatively lightweight and lowish seats.

I don't suppose you are leather jean manufacturer are you? One that assumes all women are short arses and therefore don't need leg length in their troos. Rolling Eyes
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Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter won't mind - Dr. Seuss
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Slacker24seve...
World Chat Champion



Joined: 10 May 2010
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PostPosted: 21:24 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Clanger wrote:
J Charles wrote:
Both relatively lightweight and lowish seats.

I don't suppose you are leather jean manufacturer are you? One that assumes all women are short arses and therefore don't need leg length in their troos. Rolling Eyes


What 'ee said.

As an NC29 owner at 5'10" I reckon you'd have to be 5'6" or smaller to do any real distance on one.

After a ride back from Hampshire on mine, with many stops, I was knackered. The upper body wasn't too bad, a bit of aching in the lower back but the legs were absolutely shagged Rolling Eyes

Great fun though and ideal for what I want it for, ie. hooning about on a track and throwing into a gravel trap at some point.
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Triumph Daytona 675 track bike + girlfriend's Honda Hornet 600
Selling a hack/winter bike for less than a grand? PM me.
Banger rallies are ace
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J Charles
Borekit Bruiser



Joined: 26 Aug 2011
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PostPosted: 21:50 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Clanger wrote:
J Charles wrote:
Both relatively lightweight and lowish seats.

I don't suppose you are leather jean manufacturer are you? One that assumes all women are short arses and therefore don't need leg length in their troos. Rolling Eyes


Fair point, but then the reason most jean manufacturers make short legged leathers for women is because generally women are shorter. They don't just do it for a laugh surely?
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Handsome
World Chat Champion



Joined: 30 Dec 2005
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PostPosted: 22:06 - 29 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
If you want short leathers look at Rayven as I've never seen a longer leg length in them, just bigger waists...
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Previous Bikes...Honda NSR 125 RR...Kawasaki Zephyr 550...Suzuki SV 1000 S...Yamaha FZ8...Current Bike...Suzuki GSX-R 750...
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trikeschick
Traffic Copper



Joined: 14 Mar 2010
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PostPosted: 00:56 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Welcome! I am 6'2" but struggle with the weight of the bike. I only had an issue on the manual handling but there are techniques that your instructor will show you ( apparently the boys struggle too!)

The rest of the time you don't notice the weight so am sure you will be fine.
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Last edited by trikeschick on 13:03 - 30 Sep 2011; edited 1 time in total
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noobiebikegir...
L Plate Warrior



Joined: 29 Sep 2011
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PostPosted: 07:29 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Thanks all, I wasn't expecting so much great advice. It really has made me feel so much better.

I am glad it's not just me but I do feel a bit silly posting about the weight thing now!! hehe.

Unfortunately, as much as I hate being a stereotype, I am only 5ft so I will definitely have a look at the CBR400R and vfr400
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J Charles
Borekit Bruiser



Joined: 26 Aug 2011
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PostPosted: 10:21 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
noobiebikegirl wrote:
Thanks all, I wasn't expecting so much great advice. It really has made me feel so much better.

I am glad it's not just me but I do feel a bit silly posting about the weight thing now!! hehe.

Unfortunately, as much as I hate being a stereotype, I am only 5ft so I will definitely have a look at the CBR400R and vfr400


Apologises for the Stereotyping on my behalf.

As said before, getting the technique right is key. I am only 5ft 7 and a weakling, but i can move about my big BMW with relative ease.

Have fun getting some miles under your belt and good luck with the future DAS
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Rogerborg
nimbA



Joined: 26 Oct 2010
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PostPosted: 12:37 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
noobiebikegirl wrote:
I am only 5ft so I will definitely have a look at the CBR400R and vfr400


Inside leg is what counts.

How's the Spitzer for size? It looks like another CBR125 clone, and that's a teeny bike. You'll struggle to find anything that small with a larger engine size, but the good news is that most bikes can be lowered a few inches by tweaking the suspension and modifying the seat (height and width), so don't get disheartened if you don't immediately find anything that seems suitable.

On the weight issue, it's all about keeping it upright, leaning it slightly towards you to taking the weight against your hip, and going slowly - I dropped a mate's Bandit by wheeling it backwards too fast. Embarassed

To get your confidence up, you might want to consider a naked bike with crash bars when you move up, then dropping it won't be an issue.

One thing I feel compelled to say is: find the right bike for you. You'll have loads of well intentioned people advising you to get a ZX-Foo or an XZ-Bar, but you'll only enjoy yourself if you're on a bike that you feel comfortable with handling. Try to resist being talked into something too big on the assurance that you'll "get used to it" - until and unless you do, you may find that it puts you off biking. It's a pleasure activity, so ride whatever makes you happy. Very Happy
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GONE: HN125-8, LF-250B, GPz 305, GPZ 500S, Burgman 400 // RIDING: F650GS (800 twin), Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500 AVL, Ninja 250R because racebike
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sidewinder
World Chat Champion



Joined: 24 Aug 2011
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PostPosted: 14:08 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Hi and welcome to bcf Thumbs Up


i thought a spitzer was a space telescope
https://www.spitzer.caltech.edu/ Very Happy
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Bendy
Mrs Sensible



Joined: 10 Jun 2002
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PostPosted: 17:09 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Behold my twitting awesome post on the subject https://www.bikechatforums.com/viewtopic.php?t=230544
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andy_uk
World Chat Champion



Joined: 13 Aug 2011
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PostPosted: 17:56 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Welcome along Smile
As for the Spitzer... Nice bike! I wouldn't say no!!
and as others have said... No need to go for the biggest bike you can find when you've passed your test, just work your way up to what you feel comfortable with Smile
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Aprilia Classic 125, GS500E, ER5-A1, ER5-C4, ER6 & an XJ6 project frame...
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SweenyT
Trackday Trickster



Joined: 22 Sep 2010
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PostPosted: 19:46 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
Bendy wrote:
Behold my twitting awesome post on the subject https://www.bikechatforums.com/viewtopic.php?t=230544


Excellent post Bendy - answers so many questions - glad its been made a sticky Thumbs Up Karma
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Current ride - 2005 Suzuki GSX-R600 K4 - 2x 2014 Honda NC750s long term courtesy bikes - 2003 Fazer FZ6 written off as idiot reversed into me - 2009 YBR125 - still have from new
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Clanger
Stirrer



Joined: 27 May 2004
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PostPosted: 19:59 - 30 Sep 2011    Post subject: Reply with quote
J Charles wrote:
the reason most jean manufacturers make short legged leathers for women is because generally women are shorter. They don't just do it for a laugh surely?


Thinking No, absolutely not funny at all. It's a major pain to be honest. Rolling Eyes
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