do we have any bikers on board?

[The Fingers]

The point to note here is the following:-

1st BIKE & 600cc don't mix very well.

if it is your first bike I would suggest getting a 2 stroke 125 field bike (albeit road registered) something like a Yam DTR 125, de restrict it and you have a 2 stroke screamer that will pull about a ton and get to 60 quicker than most VW TDI's. Keep this for a year and then move up.

Upright trials bikes are going to be a lot more forgiving that a leant over racer. If you drop a road bike like a CBR is going to be goosed, trail bikes tend to bounce better and 9 out of 10 times you pick it up and ride on!

I had a few bikes until i had kids, started on a pedda at 16, then a TZR125 and a DTR125 (best bike i had would have another tomorrow) after i learnt to ride i then moved up to an RGV 250 and ended my riding on a CBR 400 RR (jap import - i am only liccle and didnt feel comfortable on the CBR600.

The 2 strokes are also very easy / a joy to pull apart.

I bounced a few and can confirm the right gear is a must, i had the top half sorted (jacket / decent gloves and a one off helmet) however bottom half was usually jeans and trainers, these arn't the best when sliding down the road at 60 ish on your ***, i still have the gravel rash scars to prove it 12 years on!! - SO GET KITTED OUT

One final tip if you do get in the saddle - if you get a slip in a corner - Kick The Floor, saved me many times during my early racing to Matlock Bath Days, those were the days.

I want another now , there is nothing like the smell of 2 stroke in the morning.

If this isnt your first bike then ignore my waffle and take the plunge!!

[Bratty]

I got the "Bike bug" in 1996 and did a two-day direct entry course in Bristol, then after passing I went out and bought a CBR900RR fireblade. Have to say "The learning Curve is quite steep!".

In 2004 I bought a new CBR600RR and what a revelation, it was incredibly easy to ride (compared to the Fireblade) as its frame was so well designed and compact but it was Very Very Quick!
A modern 600 sports bike just needs respect and a whole lot of awareness!! (Plus you can restrict the horsepower output to something like 40-50 to get yourself started).

Safety equipment- Buy the best you can afford, and do not forget a back protector.

Dunk