Lots of Advice Needed for a New Rider

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emilydeibert

New member
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Hi All,

Living in Toronto I've always found it easy to get around without driving, via TTC or biking, because driving really isn't my thing. However I have lately had reason to go back and forth between Hamilton a lot, and am looking for a more reliable way to get there than the Go, and I think a motorcycle might be my answer.

I think my main concern is riding on the highway--I'm a small, 20yo female, at only 5'6" and weighing around 120lbs, so I'm kind of nervous about going at such fast speeds in something so small compared to cars. I'm also a bit confused about what you are and aren't allowed to drive on the highway--most people I've asked are of the opinion that Vespas aren't allowed, which is why I'm considering getting a motorcycle, however I've seen quite a few that are really small and I can't imagine that driving on the highway on one of those would be very safe. Advice/opinions from seasoned highway riders?

I'm also wondering about affordability, as I'm a student. Do dealers do financing options, like with cars, or am I realistically looking at one large payment all at once? It wouldn't be IMPOSSIBLE for me, just not the best.

As well, can anyone recommend any good, affordable courses, preferably close to the downtown core?

Finally how difficult would it be to learn? I bike a lot but I'm a horrible driver, however something about the idea of riding a motorcycle has always appealed to me in a way that driving never has.

Thanks all in advance for replies.
 
Hey Emily, Welcome to the site!

Highways are fine after get used to it, you have to make sure you are never in a blind spot and be vigilant.
You should start with a Minimum 250cc if you plan on going from Toronto to Hamilton. You can buy an older Ninja 250r in good shape for less than $2,000. and that will do it

Moto Soul's Instructor seemed like a solid person when I met him, plus they have all new bikes to train you on, Cbr 125's and and CSW Misfit's


Get to your license, take the course, if you're not comfortable or don't like it. at the worst, it was an experience.

Spend some cash on good comfortable gear.


Have fun and Good luck


-C
 
The good:

Riding on the highway isn't too bad. I ride the 401 for my daily commute but I do have a larger bike. I have seen quite a few 250cc bikes on the highway and they don't seem like they have any problems at all. The 50cc scooters in Ontario are considered limited-speed motorcycles and they have a maximum attainable speed of 70 km/h or less. These will not be able to go onto the highway. That said there are larger displacement scooters (600cc?) that are more than capable of handing highway speeds. There's a couple of users on here that do ride these types of scooters maybe they can chime in on what that's like.

Riding a bike wasn't very difficult to learn. I would suggest taking the safety course through something like RTI especially if you're not comfortable driving.

The bad:

When I was a student the limiting factor wasn't the cost of the bike it was the insurance. Before you do anything I'd give an insurance company a call to price out a few models of bikes / scooters to see if that will be your determining factor.
 
Riding on the highway is a lot less scary than it's made out to be. I find it more relaxing on the bike because I can see all around me. If you're worried about speed just stick to the right lane.

If you're not very comfortable driving a car you should consider the reasons behind that before getting a motorcycle. There's a lot more to watch out for on a motorcycle, but at the same time you are inherently more aware of your surroundings. Take a course for sure, including one that teaches both motorcycle skills and basic driving skills (if you haven't driving in a while you should take a defensive driving course before a motorcycle course).

And find a few good riders to go on rides with you before you start commuting daily on the bike... you can learn a lot from shadowing the right people.

You can finance a motorcycle from a dealer or go to a bank and get an auto loan. But getting a used bike could be a better option for you.
 
It should probably be said here that riding a motorcycle is not that much cheaper overall than driving a small car when insurance, maintenance and gear are factored in. Then there is the thought of having to ride on that nasty QEW between Toronto and the Hammer. Then there is the factor of inclement weather (cold, rain, snow) that might make a motorcycle a poor choice for a primary vehicle. Fun and adventure factor is 1000X over driving a car, though!
 
Someone should say it, not sure if it's my turn but I'll go anyway. If you're a horrible car driver, chances are you will have even more difficulty on a bike. Not to dissuade you, but if you want affordable reliable transport, a bike is NOT what you want to get. And you can only ride for a portion of the year. If you are still determined, then go write the M1 and sign up for the M2 course. If you can pass the M2 course then maybe you are a bit better than you think. This is a motorcycle forum, so we will all tell you to get a bike, but if your only reason is that it appeals to you in some intangible way I'd say do the course before you commit any funds. Just my thoughts.
 
How often are you traveling to Hamilton? If you're going there frequently year-round, consider that you'll only be able to ride it for part of the year, and then you'll have to store it for the winter. Plus you'll want to practice riding before going long distances, especially if it's in traffic (keep in mind that if you have to travel during rush hour, traffic on the QEW/403/401 can get really bad and as a new rider you'll want PLENTY of practice controlling your bike at low speeds as well, stopping and starting frequently). I find high speeds easier to deal with than heavy traffic, since you generally just go at the same speed most of the time.

It also IS a lot of fun, so if you really want to check it out, check out what insurance rates would be like, then go get your M1 and do the M1 exit course before anything else.
 
at 5 ' 6" ,120 lbs approx, you needn't worry about size as far as bikes are concerned. Only the very latest supersports will give you some grief but the others you should be able to flat foot no problems; some thing that most newbies (including myself sometimes) prefer to have.
Like others have said, perhaps a 250 would suffice. Even a 125 will be a blast ( I knew it was for me anyways!) around town.I know a person who could smoke guys on much larger SS with her tiny 125, so yes, that's always an option and cheaper than other bikes to maintain, on gas and on insurance!
 
Learning to ride a motorcycle takes A LOT of patience and practice. Riding in traffic takes more skill and focus. If driving really isnt your thing - then riding a motorcycle may be even less of your thing since it requires even more from the rider! However, taking a GOOD course - with extra info on riding in traffic and on cornering and slow speed would be just what you would want. Check out Motorsoul which is right downtown at Ontario Place. www.motorsoul.ca
 
Most of the others have covered what you're asking but I'm just going to say one thing on commuting all year round- I do it. Last season, I rode all year round and only had a few weeks (Slush/Freezing rain) where I didn't ride. But if you go with this option, you will need GEAR! Heated grips aswell, it gets cold. Also with your age and your location, I'm sure insurance is going to be very expensive too. If you still decide to do this, take an MSF course aswell find someone to ride with.
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