Hello, introduction, and question from a brand new rider

[watson]

Hey there!
 
Brand new rider; here's a little background on me: I'm 36 and live in the Madison WI USA area.  I just completed the MSF Basic Rider Course this past weekend, and got my class M yesterday.  A slightly-related passion: I've been a Subaru fan for years now and love my 2016 STi.  Up until a year ago I had never really considered riding a motorcycle at all, though.  Then one day my in-laws were visiting and they had ridden their bike down to see us.  We were in the driveway checking out/talking about my father-in-law's bike (I think a Harley Road Glide Ultra, which looks-wise does nothing for me).  Something got into me that day and ever since then I've been interested in getting licensed and my own bike.  After going through the MSF Basic with my wife it's calling me even more now.  
 
I've been in love the FZ-07 since I found out about it.  I love the looks and it seems like a very fun bike that will not get old as I gain riding experience.  I've watched countless reviews/vlogs on the bike (and others too), and I've read several forums about the 07 as well.  I've seen and heard many recommendations that this is a great bike for beginners, but I've also seen recommendations that it should not be a first bike.  One friend told me that I shouldn't even think of going with a 300, that I'd be ready to step up from it within a month.  I want to note that this past weekend was my first time ever riding a motorcycle, although I've had plenty of experience on two wheels before (thousands of miles on my road bike, so I understand the concepts of a two-wheeled vehicle).  I know it's basic stuff, but picked up the MSF easily.
 
I'm looking for your advice on what you think about the 07 being my first bike.  I'm looking at a 2017 w/ ABS.  Heading out for some test rides on a couple bikes this weekend and to maybe make the purchase.  I've also considered the CB500F as well but I feel like I'll be ready to trade up from that after 1-2 seasons of riding, while if I went with the FZ-07 I could keep that bike for years and be plenty satisfied with the power.  I know the bike is torque-y on the low end and that I'd have to mind the throttle as I learn.  Even if I'm comfortable after a test ride, I'm still a little bit hesitant at this point.  Any advice you can give is appreciated; thanks for your input!
 

[bigdaddybane]

Welcome! I would highly suggest FZ07 ... CB500F is a decent bike but I'm afraid you will outgrow it in no time.

[jmacas87]

FZ-07 all the way. The FZ does have a punchy engine so just be mindful of that as you learn. It's a great platform, with great support and aftermarket. I would agree that you would outgrow a cb500f long before you could potentially outgrow the FZ

[CapnKirk]

I learned on a Kawasaki 700 LTD in 1987 and did just fine. If you respect the power, you will be fine. If you don't, as a new rider you might get yourself into trouble. But that goes with any bike.
 
The FZ07 would make a great bike to learn on, it is very forgiving.

[Eastern Kayaker]

Welcome! I rode throughout my twenties, but after I got married I stopped riding for over twenty five years. I got interested in riding again about three years ago, so I signed up for a MSF course, since so much time passed without riding a bike. For me it was like starting over again, since I lost most skills I learned earlier. I was glad I went to the MSF course, since it helped with my confidence. I also considered the CB500F, but passed on it, since I felt I would get bored with it after a season of riding. When the FZ-07 came out I liked the looks and the reviews about the bike. I only wished it had ABS at the time, however I purchased a new red 2015 FZ-07 and have no regrets. You however, can get it with ABS in the red color only. If you don't like red, the panels are not expensive and you can change the color to one you prefer or have it painted. I purchased a red bike, which had the black frame. I also purchased the white panels and swapped out the red panels for white. My bike is now white with a black frame.
 
Since you are a new rider, I would not start riding in heavy traffic until you get familiar with your bike. Even experienced riders that get a new ride, need to get familiar with their new ride before they ride it in heavy traffic. When you get your new ride, take it to empty parking lots to practice shifting, using the clutch, using the throttle, using the front and rear brakes and using your turn signals. Practice what you learned in the MSF course. Try to use some less traveled roads to practice with your new ride. Remember, you most likely will stall the bike a few times when trying to use the clutch and throttle to go after stopping. Be sure to wear all your gear and be safe out there.

[SkH]

A few things.
 
-Everyone is different. Sometimes drastically different. It is completely a personal thing, based on your disposition and competence. Some cases in point. We have on here a seasoned rider who has ridden a 250cc bike for years. He switches to an FZ07 and he feels the throttle is too dangerous for him that he has to alter the bike to feel safer. Then we have a female rider who has an FZ07 as a very first bike, and not even a year later she gets herself an FZ09 upgrade and is completely fine on it. You see the huge chasm there? Yeah. That is individuality. We cannot say how it will be for you.
 
-FZ07 was my very first bike. I was fine on it. It was never dangerous for me. Like you, I took the MSF course, I was one year older than you are now. I bought the FZ07 2 weeks after finishing the MSF course, rode home in 6pm Friday traffic. 1.5 years later I bought a 1000cc super naked.
 
-riding a bicycle (at least I'm assuming that was what you were referring to) should not even be mentioned as experience on two wheels relative to motorcycling.
 
And one final thing, myself included, we have had many, many members who have had the FZ07 as their very first bike. And based on your age, I'm thinking you'll be fine.

[Mr.Puss]

The FZ is my first bike, Im pretty close to as new as they come with around 2500 km street time, due to a very short riding season, so for what its worth I'll share my 2 cents.
 
I pondered a bunch of bikes around this mark as well but ultimately realized I would learn on the bike I planned to keep for years, I didnt want to do the baby step upgrade route. Why relearn a new bike over and over? I also knew I wouldnt be an ass on my bike of choice. Besides, the FZ is by far the sexiest looking ride in the group and reviews etc so it was a no-brainer.
 
I understand full well from the moment I sat on it that its plenty of bike for a first time rider. I never forget I could easily wrap myself around a pole or vehicle in a matter of seconds so I ride accordingly by respecting whats between my legs at all times. This doesnt mean I ride like a grandpa, every last moment on this bike is something special and there's plenty of appropriate times to tap into its abilities, its simply knowing when and where and how to do so. Ive definitely scared myself a couple times as Im sure all of us have learning to ride street. Hyper awareness should never take a back seat.
I absolutely love my FZ and am glad I went this route. 
 
Get what you KNOW you will handle responsibly, dont be a squid, keep learning from every source you can, and you'll do just fine.
 
The very best piece of advice I can offer is >>Always Baby Steps!<<  and  >>Proper Gear!<<
 

[norcal616]

Other questions to ask your self...what do you wanna do with your motorcycle? Daily commute? Mainly ride on weekends? Do you wanna ride all day on the freeway or backroads? Do you plan to ride 2up alot? Or plan on multiple day trips on a regular basis? Do you wanna stunt all day? Track/Drag racing only related duty? 
 
I should have asked myself these questions years ago because this is how I ended up with 2 motorcycles which suit all my needs for a motorcycle between the 2 of them...both get used pretty equally...

[vroomvroom]

Hey there! 
Brand new rider; here's a little background on me: I'm 36 and live in the Madison WI USA area.  I just completed the MSF Basic Rider Course this past weekend, and got my class M yesterday.  A slightly-related passion: I've been a Subaru fan for years now and love my 2016 STi.  Up until a year ago I had never really considered riding a motorcycle at all, though.  Then one day my in-laws were visiting and they had ridden their bike down to see us.  We were in the driveway checking out/talking about my father-in-law's bike (I think a Harley Road Glide Ultra, which looks-wise does nothing for me).  Something got into me that day and ever since then I've been interested in getting licensed and my own bike.  After going through the MSF Basic with my wife it's calling me even more now.  
 
I've been in love the FZ-07 since I found out about it.  I love the looks and it seems like a very fun bike that will not get old as I gain riding experience.  I've watched countless reviews/vlogs on the bike (and others too), and I've read several forums about the 07 as well.  I've seen and heard many recommendations that this is a great bike for beginners, but I've also seen recommendations that it should not be a first bike.  One friend told me that I shouldn't even think of going with a 300, that I'd be ready to step up from it within a month.  I want to note that this past weekend was my first time ever riding a motorcycle, although I've had plenty of experience on two wheels before (thousands of miles on my road bike, so I understand the concepts of a two-wheeled vehicle).  I know it's basic stuff, but picked up the MSF easily.
 
I'm looking for your advice on what you think about the 07 being my first bike.  I'm looking at a 2017 w/ ABS.  Heading out for some test rides on a couple bikes this weekend and to maybe make the purchase.  I've also considered the CB500F as well but I feel like I'll be ready to trade up from that after 1-2 seasons of riding, while if I went with the FZ-07 I could keep that bike for years and be plenty satisfied with the power.  I know the bike is torque-y on the low end and that I'd have to mind the throttle as I learn.  Even if I'm comfortable after a test ride, I'm still a little bit hesitant at this point.  Any advice you can give is appreciated; thanks for your input!

 
 
Get the fz, you will love it.

[modene]

Get the FZ 07 & just ride it at slower speeds until you get comfortable with all aspects of riding. I have a CB500F but the FZ 07 is what I will be getting Next!

[motomeek]

Welcome!
 
You are on an FZ forum, so as you can see, many will be biased as to what will be the best for you, haha. But my sentiments are with @skeeterh, it's up to you to decide. My wife came from a CBR250R to an FZ within 6 months. She racked up 10K miles within that time, and well - I sold it, so she didn't really have a choice. But she loves it because she commutes and the 250 wasn't cutting it going 70+MPH.
 
But as you've mentioned - Throttle control! Something you can practice is place the bike in Neutral and sit on it. Turn it on and practice controlling the throttle by gradually moving it from 0k-3k and STOP right on 3k. Then gradually bring it back down. You'll begin to also notice the idiosyncrasies of the bike (every bike is different, some throttles JUMP and don't smoothly move). Everyone holds differently but I am a believer in using the area from your thumb to pointer finger. All the control is right there. ENJOY!

[jetgirl]

I normally wouldn't recommend this bike as a first bike but I also think that it's very do-able and if you're careful with the throttle, practice what you've learned, continue to learn and are in love with this bike then why not?  It's also very good at low speed maneuvering, better than my Ninja 250.

[ddog]

Based on how you're approaching things, your age, and that you seem to be an experienced cyclist I think it's perfectly reasonable for you to start out on something like the fz07. If you're worried about the touchy throttle as a beginner, you could set a goal mileage to allow yourself more freedom with the gas. Maybe avoid going over 6k rpm for the first 100 miles? See how it feels, what a safe range feels like to you, and stick with it for a while until you're comfortable with the bike.
 
I'm no professional, just my 2¢. Take it or leave it. Definitely get some professional training if it is in the budget. It pays 100 times​ over what you put into it.

[watson]

Thank you all so much for the replies, advice, and tips. This forum is awesome. The test ride (and likely purchase) is tomorrow and I'll post how it goes. A little more background:
 
My wife and I are starting to ride motorcycles together. She's likely picking one up over the next couple of weeks too (Not an FZ; she is into the classic styling and says the FZ-07 looks like a transformer). So we'll probably do some weekend riding together for the 6-8 months of the year that the weather allows us to. I also plan on using the bike to commute to work a good deal when the weather permits.
 
Modifications: Being a big Subaru fan...I'm already coming into this with the mod bug. I don't plan on doing too much this first riding season to the bike, but I plan on grabbing some frame sliders/a crash protection kit for the bike right away. Any recommendations on a good, reasonably-priced set? Then next year will start with at least an exhaust and tune.
 
My wife and I both plan on more advanced riding classes once we have our own bikes. There's the MSF BRC 2 which I hear is very similar to the BRC, but with your own bike. That's going to happen very soon. Then later this year we plan on signing up for the Advanced Rider Course, too.
 
Thanks again, all.

[zilrevva]

Im new here too and just ordered my fz-07. Ive been riding for a while and have one piece of advice.
 
Spend your money on good protective gear before doing upgrades. Good cold weather gear. Good Hot weather gear. That way you will wear it. Props on taking riding courses!
 
 
 

[watson]

Update: I headed to the dealership yesterday for some test rides on a few different bikes.  I was a little nervous, as I had literally never ridden on the road on a motorcycle before.  They suggested (and I was thinking along the same lines) of starting with something smaller and more along the lines of a power level that I rode in the MSF.  
 
I started out on a CB300F.  I really had no intention of getting this bike, but it was good to get out on the street with something a little bit more tame.  When I got back on that, confidence elevated, I took the CB500F out for a spin.  It was nice, and while I didn't wring the throttle on any bikes that I rode during the day, I could tell it was a more substantial engine.  After a few fun laps on that I pulled back into the dealership and the sales guy wheeling the FZ-07 out for me to try next.  
 
As I had intended, I respected that throttle.  And like the CB500F I could tell there was a LOT of power the thing could unleash.  But it wasn't hard to take it easy on the throttle.  The clutch felt much easier to use than the Honda bikes.  I can see what some of you mean by it being a forgiving bike.  And I felt more comfortable in the 07's seat than the 500F.
 
That was all of the test riding I needed to do. Then began the process of negotiations, gear shopping, and the financial stuff.  A few hours after I got there I rode this sweet new ride home.
 

 
Thanks again to all of you for your recommendations and advice.  So am I officially in the club?

[modene]

Update: I headed to the dealership yesterday for some test rides on a few different bikes.  I was a little nervous, as I had literally never ridden on the road on a motorcycle before.  They suggested (and I was thinking along the same lines) of starting with something smaller and more along the lines of a power level that I rode in the MSF.   
I started out on a CB300F.  I really had no intention of getting this bike, but it was good to get out on the street with something a little bit more tame.  When I got back on that, confidence elevated, I took the CB500F out for a spin.  It was nice, and while I didn't wring the throttle on any bikes that I rode during the day, I could tell it was a more substantial engine.  After a few fun laps on that I pulled back into the dealership and the sales guy wheeling the FZ-07 out for me to try next.  
 
As I had intended, I respected that throttle.  And like the CB500F I could tell there was a LOT of power the thing could unleash.  But it wasn't hard to take it easy on the throttle.  The clutch felt much easier to use than the Honda bikes.  I can see what some of you mean by it being a forgiving bike.  And I felt more comfortable in the 07's seat than the 500F.
 
That was all of the test riding I needed to do. Then began the process of negotiations, gear shopping, and the financial stuff.  A few hours after I got there I rode this sweet new ride home.
 

 
Thanks again to all of you for your recommendations and advice.  So am I officially in the club?

 

[pineappleunderthesea]

Congrats!
If you like modding cars, then you'll like modding the FZ, tons of little things you can do cheaply enough.
 
You'll burn through some money to get the right protective gear, which is more important as a beginner. When I learned to ride my biggest challenge was learning to take curves properly--and by that I mean having confidence to lean over and not fixate your eyes on the very thing you don't want to hit. But it all gets better with time.

[poefosho]

You sound like the same story as me... Wrx owner in my 30's fz07 was also my first bike. Enjoy dude! Just be aware of other people and your limitations.

[12ival]

i was in the same exact same situation also. 35 brand new rider. fz07 is my first bike and I'm glad it was. still to this day iys enjoyable. lightweight and nimble. its very forgiving as long as you control the twist of the wrist...enjoy!

[Eastern Kayaker]

Congrats! You may know this already, but the shift pedal is adjustable to make it more comfortable to use. If fine as it is, no need to adjust it. However, it can be raised higher or lowered a few degrees each way if needed. The shift rod (long bar attached to shift pedal) has a nut at each end (one is LH thread, other RH thread) that needs to just be slightly loosened. After the nuts are loosened you can rotate the bar towards you or away from you to raise or lower the shift pedal. Remember to tighten both nuts when finished. Somewhere in your owner's manual it describes how to do this adjustment.
 
Also, make sure the dealer gave you the following:
 
-owners manual and Yamaha riding tips booklet
 
-two ignition keys
 
-the key code (small metal tab with numbers stamped on it) to order replacement keys if you loose both keys
 
-attached on the underside of the pillion seat a 2 part screwdriver and 2 Allen keys
 
-in the small compartment under the pillion seat is a small black pouch with the 2 part wrench to adjust the rear shock and a short looped cable used to hang your helmet to your bike when parked
 
-black strap with metal loops used to hold black pouch with shock wrench in small compartment under pillion seat
 
This is what the dealer gave me. The black fold in the upper left of picture was for my registration and insurance card. Not sure if all dealers give that item.
[attachment id=2477" thumbnail="1]Y
 
 
 

[Mr.Puss]

Nice! This will also be my wife's first season riding, really looking forward to it. 8-)
 
If you have a "bit" of money to burn on gear you might want to check out these guys out of California... http://www.motoport.com/  All fully customized and made to order.
 
I dont really have money to burn on gear but IMO in the end it really is worth it at any price. Took me 2-3 years to commit due to the ridiculously daunting final price after adding a few things like full armour, a single cargo pocket and some 3m reflective....(and Im Cdn $$, so ;-| ;-| ), but as soon as my wife wanted to ride I said to hell with it and ordered a couple pairs of the "Airmesh street jeans" for the both of us. 
Given the years of anal-retentive research/scouring Ive done she's content leaving all her gear up to me and I'd never forgive myself if I outfitted her in anything but the best. According to reviews and forums its all apparently unrivaled in quality and durability, and it bloody well better be after all this, haha. Great warranty too. Really looking forward to these. (also I dont work for motoport )
 
I'll be sure to post a thorough review when they come in.    
 
I also absolutely love the Helite airvest! (vendor here)  Also bought one for my wife. I cant recommend enough this overlooked yet obvious and extremely logical piece of kit. Definitely check these guys out and testimonials around the interwebs.
 
(Helping folks spend their money, one member at a time)
 

[thchaime]

Hi Watson. I'm a complete newbie as well at 38 years of age. Never ridden a motorcycle in my life. Got my license a few weeks ago. Bought an FZ07 10 days back and have been riding it since: highways, traffic, stoplights, crowded mall carparks, etc. Not a problem with control. It's light, low seat, and extremely manoeuvrable. 
 
Yes the throttle is jerky, but after I practiced balance clutch and throttle in first gear for 30min in the car park, I became MUCH more in control on the roads, especially in dense traffic. I can now comfortable use a combination of clutch and throttle in first gear to crawl through traffic at 2mph without putting a foot down.
 
I have 0 regrets on buying this as my first ever bike (I also struggled with that decision for weeks and almost went for a 300).
 
Have fun and ride safe!!