New rider, looking for good bike SOURCE

 

I just competed the MSF course on Friday, and I'm ready to get something to
ride. I plan on getting a new GS500 or SV650, or something comparable to
those, in the near future, but I'm looking for something to ride around for
a bit while I get used to riding. We rode 250 Nighthawks at the course, and
those seemed to be a decent starter bike.

Basically, what I'm looking for is if anyone would have any suggestions on
where to look for something in the <$1000 range for a good starter. I've
been looking in the Cycle Trader, and at various dealers, but there doesn't
seem to be much for less than $2500. I have found a couple in the Recycler
for that price, but most of them have been bigger ones needing a lot of
work.

If anyone knows of a good used dealer, website, publication, or something
like that in Southern California (or if you have something like that for
sale!), please let me know.

Thanks!

-Tony

 



Check out craigslist.org.

 



When I went looking for a used scoot for my son what I discovered was there
is an awful lot of junk out there.  I have seen bent frames, twisted
steering heads, baffles chopped out, clogged carbs, raced bikes and more.  
Finding a good clean MC is tough and the ones that are clean sell quick if
they are anywhere near market price.  With gas prices the way they are, the
demand outstrips the supply which makes them even higher priced.  Craig's
List is a good place to start. Take along someone who has had experience
riding when looking at used bikes.  If it doesn't feel right, don't buy it.  
I rode one bike a fellow had for sale and it handled so badly it was damn
near a death trap.  Of course he claimed it had never been wrecked.  I know
the frame had all those weld goobers on the left side from the
factory....not!  There is nothing more miserable than fighting a bike with
a bent frame.

pierce