My First Motorcycle: Yamaha V-Star Classic 650

[sam3d]

im one of those "self taught clowns" i got my 650 classic as my first bike and never dropped it, put on it about 5k miles and parked it.

Its a 2001, and now for sale btw.

but its a beauty! not too big, but deff not puny looking like the virago.

50-60 mpg cant be beat! plus the fun of riding it.

I do agree that generally, it's not a good idea to jump on one of these without any training or experience.

[KC9SYJ]

Are motorcycles such as yours really that hard to operate? I have never operated one before and with gas prices being what they are,I am looking for an alternate means of transportation. I like the idea of a motorcycle,...much cheaper on gas,I bet!

How much could a newcomer expect to pay for a well cared for 2006 to 2009 model?

I need to find a rider education course,first,and learn to ride. I am afraid a 250cc bike may be too small actually!

[northwestmike]

@KC9SYJ I'd definitely recommend a day-long class on how to ride. Self-taught clowns often ride into the ditch after not understanding the real physics of bikes. The class I took used 250cc bikes and it's funny to look back at starting on such a small bike. At the time, it seemed like all I'd ever need. If I was going to buy another V-Star, I'd go for a used 1100 Classic. Jap bikes lose their value big time, so shop for a used bike and use the extra money on pipes/accessories. Have fun!

[drunkensnowgirl]

my hubby just got me one,,so excited its a leftover 2009 0 miles still new cant wait to ride it thank you for posting this video

[MonolithTyriss]

Honestly, this is a pretty good choice to start with! Most don't realize, the more powerful the bike, the -less- you need to shift it at slower speeds! A great bike would be where you could use first gear alone in city traffic, and just hit second for special cases, then above when your on the open road.

If you feel you have to get a 250.. remember. That throttle controls your speed. If it's a more powerful bike, just go _EASY_ on the throttle at first!

[northwestmike]

@MonolithTyriss I had a lot of fun with this bike, but if I could go back and do it all over again, I would have bought the V-Star 1100 Classic. The 650 was a little buzzy at highway speeds and-- if I would have bought the 1100-- I think the larger displacement (and more power) would have allowed me to keep the bike longer for two-up riding.

[yogisdad]

good choice, the v star is a great starter bike and it always looks good.