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Originally Posted by Motohead
But, the BEST advice I could give any rider, new or experienced, is get the right gear, for on the street. Just as important is also sign yourself up for a trackday at a local track.
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And take an MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course!
Gone are the days when a 600cc sportbike made a good "starter" bike. With well over 100hp at the rear wheel, race replica 600s can put you on your ass in a hurry. By far, the absolute best starter bike is a used dual sport, like the Suzuki DR400 or Honda XR650. Ride it off-road before advancing to the street. If you just absolutely have to have something sportier to start with, Suzuki's SV650 ranks highly, and can be converted into a hellaciously fun track bike.
One of the best things you can do, too, is hook up with someone with lots of experience. You'll be able to glean lots of good information critical to becoming a safe rider, like properly heating your tires for maximum traction, braking technique (I still can't believe how many newbies don't know that 99% of your braking should be done with the front brake), turn-in, throttle control, counter-steering, etc.
Sorry, I bleed motorcycles.
Pete