^

get a 1000, and you can hit 140km/h in 1st gear lolol

My first bike was a 2006 gsxr600. Bought it in 2009. I say go 1000cc and save the trouble of buying and selling. Go big or go home!

Don't forget, if you buy that 125 and do your test on it, you'll have a restricted license.

Why would I have a restricted license if I used the 125?

Idk if the rules changed but when I took my test, 16 years ago, if you did your road test on anything under 200cc's you were limited to <200cc bikes and couldn't carry a passenger.

I don't think much has changed since then, other than how they administer the road test and GLP.

I'd never suggest a 125 to anyone. I've worked at multiple dealers and those bikes come in on trade so fast. Everyone regrets starting with it. Buy at least a 250cc... the new Kawi 300 is a sweet bike. Go find an older ZZR250/Ninja250 from the 90's. GREAT learner bike.

falcon, did you ever work at Ducati?

ICE BOY mentioned it already, but here's the pic out of the learner's book

i also learned on a 600... all 600s are so similar that there really isnt one that would stand out over another when it comes to being "easy" to ride. but i found it quite easy to learn to ride with a 600 considering the power. you just have to appreciate and know the fact that this bike can kill you and you will probably never be able to hit its limits before reaching yours.

'600 I4' are the cool bike, but for city driving / commuting they are like tits on a bull.

You have fantastic top end power but nothing down low, all the fun starts over 7000 rpm.

They are a very fun toy, but for use a transportation a 650 V2 is a far better bike, you have power in the usable 2- 5000 rpm range and better ergo ride city/commute and longer distances.

The 6000 - 10000 rpm range the bike will do it all.

Also do not get an R6 that would be to much bike start small get the R1 :)

There is a good thread to read

Your experience on the feel of different engine configs

Your experience on the feel of different engine configs..

Yeah, I worked at both Richmond Motorsports when they were around and Vancouver Ducati in sales more recently. I'm out of the industry now though.

Gwilo, I dont think there is anything wrong with riding a 600RR, GSXR600 or similar in town. Half the time I never wound it out past 8-10k anyways. Sure not the BEST city bike but definatley manageable without much issue. A liter bike on the other hand is not really a good idea.

Personally if I were to buy a newer bike right now I would get something like a Aprilia Tuono or Hypermotard. Because I am a hooligan and dont really ride long distances anymore. But my two stroke '70 Suzuki will suffice for now.

You need at least a 250cc for road test to not get restricted license.
If you take a 200cc or less to a road test and pass, you're restricted to only ride 125cc legally.

maybe a ninja 300 would be nice for you (for commuting)