They're actually 562 "in running order" which doesn't even mean a full tank apparently. Fill the tank and you're talking another 20 pounds. I wouldn't call that light. My riding bud has a Triumph Street triple that is 170 pounds lighter than my xl883. Light for Harley.. sure, but now they have the street 500/750.

 

A used Honda 650 Shadow is a good reliable bike to learn on.

Take the MSF course first.

Good luck.

 

Taking the course made me realize a lot of things about what I wanted from a motorcycle and what I needed in terms of fitting the bike to me. (When you spend 6 hours the first day and 8 hours the second day on the bike, you quickly start figuring out what irritates you and what feels good)

That said, I took my BRC on a Street 500 and found myself pleasantly surprised.

 

I'm gonna get the course done next week, I wish it wasn't $250 though! (:

 

It's more than worth the price. No-one said motorcycling was cheap.

 

Ok, here's a question for you and no offense. How does $250 compare to the price of getting a cheap used bike that you might not like or want after you take the course?

 

As stated, the price is more than worth it. Also, if you find it is something you really enjoy and decide to continue, $250 is just a drop in the bucket.

Pretty much any small Japanese cruiser will fit your bill for an inexpensive bike. Search Craigslist, Ebay even some local dealers and get an idea of prices and what is available in your area. Anything along the lines of a Vulcan, Rebel or Shadow is a good start to name a few.

 

I agree it will be worth it. I want to learn to ride well.

 

Take the rider course,maybe you "ll see something there you like.I bought my ex a Honda Rebel to learn on,and I got a kick out of riding it! [ex decided riding wasn't for her] After the course,if you decide to buy one,find something on CL for 1000-1500,and if the seller wants to sell,you can pay a local shop to check it out mechanically before you buy it.

 

I would look for a nice, used CBR 250 or Ninja 250. CBR250's sold new for $3990 so you should be able to pick one up for maybe $2,500? My friend bought a used CBR250 last year for his first bike and I got to ride it. It’s easy to ride because it’s light, low, and narrow and makes good power that’s easy to modulate. I can tell you it’s a great looking motorcycle, fun to ride, Honda quality, and gets great mpg to boot!

http://easttexas.craigslist.org/mcy/4824371558.html

or http://dallas.craigslist.org/mdf/mcy/4848547223.html