any motorcycle riders out there???

[AzCat]

  You guys are right, I haven't ever ridden the sportbike, and didn't even think about that style at all because of it.  I have to completely ammend my previous statements about power being your friend, in this scenario I can easily see how a newbie could get themselves out of whack in a big damn hurry.  In fact I used to work across the street from a bike shop in Hutch where a kid working there used to love to do the front-wheel stand under breaking every time he showed up, who died about a month later on it. 

So, in retrospect, nevermind....... 

There ya go: too much power is just a bad idea. 

Now I'm off to shop for a turbo for the RIII.  I can't quite imagine what 200+ RWHP would be like on a bike so I guess I'll just have to experience it. 

Is that bike you posted a pic of, really what you ride?  Is that a Triumph or ??  Nice, whatever it is. 

Yep that's really the one I ride, it's Triumph's aptly-named Rocket III.  I was a dedicated sport bike rider for many years before a 6k mile road trip on one convinced me to give touring-oriented dual sports a try.  I'm not really into cruisers but the RIII is a bit unique and has been quite a bit of fun.

[swish1]

if you really wanna get a crotch rocket for a starter bike and there is no deterring your decision, then go with a katana.  they're 600cc but are also a little heavier and a lot longer.  easier to control and you dont have to worry as much about flying off the back when you get a little jumpy at a stop light.

thats what i ride and its my first bike.  ive had it for 2 years and after year 1 i already wanted a bigger bike.  imo you should learn on a pos 250 cruiser for a couple of months and then get a real bike that can last you for a couple of years without leaving you wanting more.