Hi all, looking for a learners bike.
My mate said that I shouldnt bother spending much on a first bike, especially one just to learn on. He recommended a postie bike, because they're reliable and actually have demand and a decent resale value. Any ideas on where I can find some?
A postie bike that hasn't done a million km since decommissioning from Aust-post wouldn't be a bad choice, but you'd be better off IMO to get a bike that has a manual clutch. That way you'll learn the basics (unless you're happy riding scooters and posties) clutch, throttle, back and front brake modulation while getting a feel for the bike and road-traffic situations. Later you can build more advanced skills on a good foundation.
Your friend is right though, you are more likely to drop your bike as a learner and fairings are expensive to repair. Better get a well maintained, cheaper bike and upgrade if you decide to keep riding.
Good place to buy a postie or other learner bike is gumtree.com.au (in your location), otherwise eBay. Alternatively, bikesales.com.au but the prices there tend to be higher and the turnover lower.
I recommend the new Honda CB400. nice and easy to ride. Not really cheap though, but it could be a long termed ride as well unless you want a high powered wheelie machine.
Its all about getting them at the right price. Cbr250 RR are great rides. but getting people to work on them is a pain. so it suits people who like to get their hands dirty.
Couple of links:
Posties: http://sydney.gumtree.com.au/f-postie-Cars-Vehicles-Motorbik…
Learner Approved Motorcyles Scheme bikes(LAMS): http://sydney.gumtree.com.au/f-postie-Cars-Vehicles-Motorbik…
Aren't postie bikes a shocker? Considering how many km's they've done in their lifetimes.