It's official, I now own a motorcycle!!

[sharp4runr]

Some may remember that I posted that I had just got my Motorcycle endorsement on my driver's license. Well after a month of looking around, I finally bought my friend's bike. It's an older model but still runs very strong and it is in great condition for its age. Unlike most sellers, he actually let me take it for an extended ride so I could get an idea if this was for me. The bike fits me like a glove. It is much bigger than the 250cc bike at the MSF course but I think I can manage it. Also the clutch I'll have to get used to because I stalled it out a few times but I should get accustomed to it quickly.

1987 Honda "Super" Magna
700cc

This particular model was only made for 2 years so it is somewhat of a collectors item. It isn't cosmetically perfect but seems mechanically in good shape. With the money I saved buying a used bike compared to buying a new one though, I'll have plenty of money for upgrades and maintenance.

See you on the concrete jungle!

 

[mikes4runner]

The one thing I should have got before I said " I do"( you know the whole you will get killed thing).

She will let me have anything but that:

Enjoy for the 2 of us.


Mike

 

[RL Lemke]

Having an M endorsement on my drivers license for over 37 years, I've been around motorcycling for some time now.

That particular Honda motor is capable of moving you along. I rode a lot with a friend with that motor in a different Honda.

Anyway, if you live thru the first 1000 miles, or so, you will make it a lifetime.

Enjoy your new bike, and continue to practice your riding skills.

 

[MDT4RNR]

Nice Ride

I am happy for you!

i am considering buying a Scooter just to take me back and forth to work. Roughly 1200.00 dollars.
I know, we are talking about your bike, but I comeend for making a good move that will ensure you keep your runner for years to come regardless of the stinking price of gasoline.

Considering the size of the engine, Is it quiet or loud?

Dax

 

[sharp4runr]

Mike - tell your wife you could get killed crossing the street too but that hasn't stopped you before :

My buddy is going to deliver the bike to my house tomorrow and I'm just going to ride it around the neighborhood at first. I want to get accustomed to the bike and its capabilities as well as mine before I take it on any major roads or highways. The bike has roughly 80HP so that is a pretty powerful cruiser and from what I've read it will do 12s in the 1/4 mile. Thanks for the advice RL.

Dax - Thanks for the comps man. I wouldn't get rid of the 4runner just because of gas prices. It has been something I've always wanted and now that I have it, you won't be able to pry it from my cold dead hands : The truck has about 2 years before it is paid for and I don't think I'll get rid of it. It truly comes in handy for road trips and hauling my stuff to the paintball field. The Magna isn't loud like a Harley but it does give off a good exhaust note. It has a nice rumble that I can't really describe but it isn't irritating like the some of the Harley bikes I've heard. With the upswept pipes it may be making it louder for the rider compared to someone standing away from it though.

 

[RL Lemke]

Here is what I mean by practice:

1) Beyond the parking lot figure 8's; place a few small stones on the ground and while going in your 8 hit each with the front, rear, and both tires. This skill helps you know where your tires are while turning, and helps you become comfortable with the loose feeling hitting an obstacle brings.

2) Practice panic stops. You will be amazed at how you can grab all of your front brake without losing control. You need to know just how far your bike can stop within.

3) Gravel. Find some roads with gravel and ride them. Turns and stops with increasing speed. This will save your skin when you encounter sand and gravel on paved roads.

30% of motorcycle crashes involve hitting the ground on your chin. Wear a full face helmet.

I like my skin attached, so I wear the best quality safety gear I can.

 

[sharp4runr]

Awesome advice RL. I have a huge commuter lot that is normally empty on weekends so I'll ride around there. I got great marks on the MSF course and I felt very comfortable doing quick stops on the Rebel so I'll practice with the Magna too. I think I'll have to adjust the rear brake pedal as it is a little lower than I'd like for quick access.

Yeah I hear you on the full face helmet thing. I also can't understand why people don't wear helmets at all. I bought myself a Full Face helmet from Nolan, motorcycle gloves with some pads on the knuckle as well as a gell pad on the palms, and a jacket with "armour" on the elbows/shoulders/back. I have regular hiking boots for now but I'll buy something more motorcycle orientated next paycheck. Also for now I'll wear jeans while commuting to work, but I'll have to look into the touring pants.

 

[sharp4runr]

Awesome advice RL. I have a huge commuter lot that is normally empty on weekends so I'll ride around there. I got great marks on the MSF course and I felt very comfortable doing quick stops on the Rebel so I'll practice with the Magna too. I think I'll have to adjust the rear brake pedal as it is a little lower than I'd like for quick access.

Yeah I hear you on the full face helmet thing. I also can't understand why people don't wear helmets at all. I bought myself a Full Face helmet from Nolan, motorcycle cloves with some pads on the knuckle as well as a gell pad on the palms, and a jacket with "armour" on the elbows/shoulders/back. I have regular hiking boots for now but I'll buy something more motorcycle orientated next paycheck. Also for now I'll wear jeans while commuting to work, but I'll have to look into the touring pants.