Interested in Buell for first bike

[olwell72]

I am interested in either the 9sx or 12. I have read through much of the posts regarding this topic, and it seems like almost everyone says go for it being a first bike. Other sites I have been to, everyone says its one of the worst to start out on. It seems on this site, the thought is just be smart and responsible and you'll be ok? All advice would be helpful in making a good decision.

 

[RegulatorMIA]

the thought is just be smart and responsible and you'll be ok

that about sums it up... I've ridden all sorts of bikes and while I will say even when you're careful some bikes are still to much for a beginner (my old 'busa being the first one that comes to mind lol), as long as you respect the machine and know how to use the clutch to keep from killing yourself you should be ok. Just remember: Just because you feel like you know what you're doing doesn't mean you do. To many people get the oh i've been riding for long enough now attitude after only having a bike for a few weeks. Just don't ever forget that you are a beginner and you should be fine. Just my 2 cents... ps accidents happen regardless of skill/experience.

 

[dave_xb12r]

Technically, my first bike was a Suzuki bandit, but I consider my buell to be my first bike. Just be safe. I wouldn't buy it and start commuting on it. You should learn how to ride before you start learning how to ride IN TRAFFIC. Buells are great bikes for around town AND for up in the twisties, so its a great choice. Get the bike, but take your time to learn to ride.... and have fun!!

 

[ROJO]

I just got my lightning xb12s in August, and is my first bike. I have some dirt bike and atv. experience, but it was still a whole new world to me. I have been fine so far. You just have to use your head. One rule to remember no matter what you are riding.

"Don't ride beyond the capability of you or your bike"

 

[Stevenc150]

If this is this to be your first bike and biking experience all in one, I highly recommend taking a MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course. Then start out with a Buell, and take it kinda slow, before you know it you'll calmly look at the speedo, and be appalled that you're doing 85 on a back-country road. Just never give up on a curve, just lean it, the Buell can take it. Ride safe bro.

 

[Thaloc]

I would concur with everyone. Buell has ALOT of torque and it gets away from people real easy, but its just takes some common sense and a little restraint and you'll do alright. I mean we're bikers, if we practiced common sense or restraint we'd be in mini vans but...

Buell will give you wayyyyy more fun if you plan on riding every day compared to a weekend riders. It looks WAY different than any other street bike out there, you get crazy stares EVERYWHERE! Sounds amazing, very unique. You cant do 200mph, which is a reality check in itself, we're not fuckin peregrine falcons...we're not sposed to go that fast...

Alot of people live to "Theres two types of bikers, the ones that crashed, and the ones who will crash" Try to break that rule. But you will crash, and as long as you keep your head to some degree you will do fine. Just get back on it, then or down the road depending on damage and ride again.

Hope to some pics of ya soon standing next to a Lightning/Firebolt/Uly/Blast[up]

 

[climberfreak]

2 words of advice

DO IT!!!!!![up][up][up]

 

[RHYNOXB9R]

learn to ride on a dirt bike if you could,it will do things that are just natural behavior traits of a dirt bike,they don't stop well,handle well,get away from you,ect.all things that would be great seat time for transitioning to a road bike.maybe a track day learning to ride at your own pace without cars near you,above all,nomatter what bike you buy,use your head.

 

[EVLXB]

Take a MSF class (motorcycle safety foundation) it will be the best and safest way to learn all the things you need to know before hitting the streets. My first bike is was my XB9S and i would not change my decision for anything. I love it, it's a great bike.

One thing to consider... what is the purpose of getting the bike? if it is cummuting be aware that Buell Lightnings are kinda windy on the highway.

 

[ophawk]

I'll echo what has been said above. Take the MSF course, then get comfortable with your bike, one that fits you. If you can ride a dirt bike 1st, they do things that can prepare you for the street, ie hitting a sand or gravel pile in the street will wash out that tire that hit the pile, no more traction, your ability and balance is the only thing that will save you. On a dirt bike those challenges are at every turn. My 1st street bike was my Buell, and I have never wanted to get another one, other than to upgrade to a newer one.
One last thought, I have mentioned in the Forum before from my Father, "You can get killed on a small bike just as easily as on a Big Bike, Get one that Fits You, that you are comfortable with, and it will reward you"
Be safe, Have fun, and Be Careful, the Cages don't care if you live, but a Biker hurts for everyone that is lost.
Later

 

[ADAMLEE]

Don't do it!!!!!!

You'll have way to much fun and meet way to many cool people that love your bike. Your sex drive will increase as well as your preformance stamina.

I repeat NEVER, NEVER buy an awesome Buell. It'll only make you Happy!

 

[squiers007]

Go for it! I had never ridden any kind of motorcycle before I got my XB9R. I took a MSF class and took my time getting comfortable on my bike. The more time riding the better you will get. And now I ride mine to school everday and couldnt be happier with my decision.

 

[GatorBuell]

MSF class is a must [up] I would do that first then get the bike.

 

[ADAMLEE]

MSF is great.

I've been on motorcycles for about ten years. I took the class about six months ago and didn't realize the mistakes that I had grown to love could cost me in the end.

It's funny thinking that a honda 250 can help save your life but it does!

 

[XBear9S]

I had an '81KZ750E and it was way too much bike for a kid like me.
Still have it actually.
Dropped it twice and learned to love the taste of gravel.
It was a good bike to make mistakes on, and I made plenty.

If I had a kid starting out on a bike,
I'd get him a midsized beater to learn on.
Somethin' easy to tinker with.
Save the pretty bike for when you know what yer doin'.

You know. Like me!

Robtk! a.k.a. "Special K"

"Most motorcycle problems are caused by the nut that connects the handlebars to the saddle."

--Anonymous SageBuelly

 

[Orion]

My first bike is my current bike, who would have thought! an '03 XB9S that came with the race kit on it. It has been a great first ride so far and I am sad that I can't use it due to this yearly thing called winter. I have had a blast with it so far, it was really easy to learn to ride. Just remember the bike is only as fast as how far you twist your wrist.

 

[Roccodart440]

XB9SX was my 1st bike. I think it is gret to learn on. Not too much power and easy handling.

 

[streetfighterxb9s]

I wouldn't suggest any other brand of motorcycle. Buell's are built from the rider down and the engineering behind these excellent motorcycles proves it. The Trilogy of Tech theory has developed a brand of bikes that practically drive themselves. The MSF course is the smartest investment you will ever make, other than buying a BUELL.

 

[RegulatorMIA]

msf course ftw... and the navy has a course now designed for sport bike riders but i'm not sure if there is a civilian application yet. gonna have to take that one next year when i get another bike lol

 

[Brazenbuck]

If you're responsible enough to take the time and learn how to ride it, I say get the bike. My first (current) bike is my 12SS. I wouldn't have it any other way. I took the Rider's Edge course and would recommend it to anyone.