07-17-2017, 11:39 PM
(06-23-2017, 03:02 PM)F800GT_imp Wrote: Welcome !
Riding the CB1100 fast out there on the open road and not crowded is not that hard. It is when you have ride a heavy bike at slow speed then things get more difficult. Knowing how to stop a fast and heavy bike when you encounter a dangerous situation is a different story.
It's hard to ride a CB1100 in crowded areas with cars, pedestrians, dogs, deers, bicyclists ... crossing your path. If you add gravels, blind turns, oil, pot holes, ...
I would suggest to start with something like the Rebel like others have already mentioned or the Suzuki S40 ( http://www.suzukicycles.com/Product%20Li...7/S40.aspx ) to gain experience, and learn to anticipate dangerous road conditions to avoid them. The Rebel or S40 will be a lot more forgiving.
There is a LOT of wisdom on this thread. I would concur with the above two suggested starter motorcycles and especially the Suzuki which is the closest to being a bicycle with a motor on it. Few bikes will come up off the kickstand SO easily and that is an indication of easy/forgiveable low speed maneuverability. However, it is a 650 and has some reasonable grunt when called upon. As a bonus, it is belt drive and thus requires no chain maintenance. The Suzuki S40 was formerly known as the Savage and there are plenty of them available used and inexpensive.
In MY mind, WHATEVER you choose, you MUST be able to "Flat Foot" the bike with both feet when stopped. The CB1100 has a relatively high seat and a fairly big gas tank, both of which raise the center of gravity, especially when topped up with fuel. That weight can come on in a hurry as the lean angle increases.
Coming off a 2009 Goldwing, I find my 2017 CB1100 a lightweight, BUT it's not for a beginner. It is however, an amazing machine to aspire to as you pick up some practice miles and road smarts.
Happy CURUZIN