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Posted by: firefly Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 11:31
Post #59165

Hi all,

I'm starting a new job next month and I've decided to go on two wheels as opposed to four.  I can't be bothered with sitting on a train day in, day out - so I've decided the best thing to do would be to pass my CBT test and get a bike.

I'm a total beginner, but I was thinking about getting a second hand 125cc bike (Aprilia, Honda).  Can anyone:
i) Recommend, or know of anyone who would sell such a thing
ii) Advise of the best kind of bike for me (I'd like as much grunt as 125cc can offer... )

Any other tips that you think would help would be gratefully received.

Cheers.

Posted by: chadders Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 11:43
Post #59167

Hi ff, may be a good idea to stick down your 'area' if you haven't already got an instructor lined up. Word of mouth is always best, and there seems to be a lot of bikers in here.

Posted by: peteturbo Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 13:00
Post #59190

ff,

the first thing is to decide your long term ambitions.

Cos if all you want the 125 for is to pass your test, then just spend peanuts on anything that  is fully legal, relaible and will sell fast afterwards, so you have more money for the real bike.

If you are going to keep the 125, what type if bike do you prefer?  sports, commuter, scooter, easy wan / rider.

The danger is;  My first 'bike' was a C50, then a 100cc test machine only whilst i dreamt of a cb200 benley commuter.  Trouble is that after passing my test, and looking at 200cc bikes, a bloody 350LC crept upon me and changed my life.  20 year ago that were.  You wont know what these numbers mean, but the bikers reading will - and you may soon too!

To reiterate; what is your long term goal bike, and be ready for that goal to change drastically.

Awful things bikes, especially the one on the left.  Bitch.

Posted by: OU812 Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 13:13
Post #59195

Since trying to find a Harley 125 is like finding rocking horse doo doo I've been toying with getting one for these for starters

http://www.southcoastscooters.com/niftysc125_28.html

Posted by: Clear Skies Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 13:28
Post #59199

some good ideas from essex, small number plates and smoked visors....

bad essex  ideas is all that weaving between cars, thinking bikes are indestructable..  one ex essex lad,  on the a127 , found two lorries overtaking , so went between them and was sucked under the wheels by the draughts
.
Lorry driver then had a heart attack and died.. altogether quite a mess...

note the wednesday and friday meets in the dengie/dengie bends  are now well policed with 6 new police bikes, and Herr flick also hiding in bushes on those specific days..that's In addition to weekends.. so france is much nicer for some 2 wheel  fun .
A130 also has plod on them almost every day and night since two deaths there.. one of which was caused by a marital row.. so much for speeding kills.

good luck

rgds

Posted by: firefly Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 13:50
Post #59202

Thanks guys,

I've no long-term ambitions to own anything too major.  It's purely a way of getting to work and back.  I've been told the Aprilia 125 is nice, and is nippy enough to get away from most things.

Basically I want something that's quick off the mark, between £1k-1.5k and looks OK.  There's stacks kicking about, but I wondered what the best option is.  The plan is to get one decent commuting bike and hold on to it when I pass the test.

Posted by: andy_foster Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 13:59
Post #59204

There are essentially 2 schools of thought:

(1) the CG125* is the best 125, after all it is an 'onda.

(2) bollox to that, you want a real** bike mate.

*Makes Sign Of Holy Pushrods
**500cc+ e.g. CB500, NV650, Bandit, Fazer

For commuting under 10-15 miles, in urban traffic only, a 125 might be ok. Other than that you'd be far better off with a bigger bike. 125s don't have the acceleration to get you out of trouble when some 'tard pulls out in front of you. Also, you're far more likely to get caught speeding in urban areas on a 125 because you need to maintain your momentum to make any progress.

If you take your test on a 125, you'll be restricted to 33hp for the next 2 years. If you take the direct access test (over 46hp - IOW 500cc) you get a proper licence.
Second hand 125s have always (well, since the limit was lowered from 250cc) cost more than comparable (slightly) bigger bikes.

Posted by: firefly Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 14:09
Post #59205

Thanks Andy,

The Aprilia 125 is, apparently, f*ck off fast.  I know two guys who had one and say it's pretty much perfect for the sort of journeys I would be doing.  You reckon the Honda then?  I'll have a look...

Posted by: chadders Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 14:49
Post #59217

Are the bikers thinking what I'm thinking... give a little while after he passes his test...

And then discover the delights (as I did) of something like a GSXR-600; erm... 1st gear... red line... 85mph - oh crap!

Posted by: Bob_Sprocket Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 15:11
Post #59223

Hi ff,

I learned on a Honda CG125. IMHO this is a very good bike to learn on and made the CBT and round the bollards stuff a piece of pi$$. It is four stroke and has a little bit of low speed torque, much more than 125 two strokes. So when you are doing manouvers it is much easier to go at low revs with your back brake dragging a little and be intotal control with a bit of clutch feathering. When I did the first part of the test the younger guys on their two strokes were reving away and really struggling to get their bikes under control at low speeds.

Nowadays I would probably go to a school that would loan me a bike. I think that I would also do the direct access route and get onto a bigger bike quicker.

After I passed my test I used the bike for about a year and then had about 10 years without a bike. When I decided to buy a big bike I did a two day returners course and then got my 1100cc BMW to really start to learn.

Best wishes

Bob

Posted by: ZX6R Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 15:16
Post #59224

100% andy - they're dangerous on dual carriageways.  Too light in backdraughts, gutless up hills, and top heavy if your over 17.  Also, I'd find a 125 uncomfortable.  Its not just the engine size you need to consider, its the frame size, seat height, bar position...everything about the bike.

I'd go down to the local dealers and sit on a few 125's, you might change your mind then and decide on the the direct access route to something bigger.  Even on the A2 licence (tested on 125cc) you can ride anything provided it's restricted.

For commuting something like a bandit, fazer, SV, etc....  Or for a bit more fun as well, the 600 sports bikes are OK for commutes up to an hour or so.

Good luck with whatever you decide on ... and welcome to a world of complete freedom.

Posted by: Clear Skies Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 15:54
Post #59236

[quote="ZX6R"][quote=andy_foster]

I'd go down to the local dealers and sit on a few 125's, you might change your mind then and decide on the the direct access route to something bigger. .[/quote]

surprisngly, as very little else happens  there, u will find  a good dealer in stanford le hope,  king street.

rgds

Posted by: andy_foster Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 16:28
Post #59245

IIRC the one of the Prillers makes about 33 bhp when de-restricted. To do this legally, you'd need a full bike licence as (despite being within the power limits for restricted licences, the power to weight ratio is too high).
N.B. I'm pretty sure that this was the case a few years ago, however they might be using heavier paint or something to get the weight up now.

To get any real power out of a 125, it needs to be severely tuned - i.e. have a very narrow powerband. Two smokes also need to be given the berries as a matter of course, otherwise the engine will sieze.
If you're a skinny 17 year old headbanger who wants a bike for making lots of noise and/or throwing around tight twisty bends, then it's an ideal bike.

There is no such thing as a fast (unaccompanied) learner-legal bike.
I would strongly recommend against getting a 125 other than purely as a learner bike (unless you only intend to use it for urban commuting).

If you intend to take a bike test (and all the bikers here will tell you that you should) then you have 3 options.

(1) Buy a 125 hack, do the CBT, and teach yourself to ride and/or take a few lessons. Take your test - restricted to 33 bhp for 2 years. Keep 125 or sell and buy a bigger (probably restricted, unless 250cc) bike.

(2) Intense/residential  (3-5 days) on a 125 (supplied by bike school) . Take test, buy a restricted bike.

(3) Direct access test (intense/residential) on a >46bhp (Suzuki GS500E  :cry: ). Buy any bike you like.

The advantage of the first option is that you will get far more experience using a cheap hack and hopefully learn how not to crash.

Posted by: MrsMiggins Wed, 22 Jun 2005 - 17:34
Post #59257

If it's only for commuting just buy a scooter.  They are easier to ride, smaller so they fit through gaps in the traffic more easily and there's space under the seat to carry stuff!

Posted by: FooMan Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 11:32
Post #59359

I would second that, if it's only for commuting, although I don't actually have a scooter (Husky Supermotard). I believe the Gilera Runner VX 125 is pretty good. I have had a go on an earlier version and it was well built and quick.

Posted by: peteturbo Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 12:26
Post #59381

I think FF wanted sensible replies!
scooters

Posted by: Blackbird Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 13:21
Post #59392

Just to put my two penneth in, I would avoid 2 stroke bikes as a commuter.  Too much maintenance.  I'm not anti 2 stroke - used to own RG500 but would back up Bob's comments on usability.
Having met FF I think he would be a prime candidate for Direct Access (anybody please correct me if the rules have changed in the last year, I know they are due to).  Use a school bike, pass the test and then there are some wonderful commuter bikes available  :D

Regards

Posted by: ZX6R Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 14:08
Post #59400

http://www.dsa.gov.uk/Category.asp?cat=93

AFAIK, DAS scheme hasn't changed in the last year.  Certainly late last year, a friend of mine passed by DAS, so unless it's changed in the last 6 months and the DSA haven't updated their website, it's still an option.

I did read rumours in MCN last year that the DSA were considering changes.

Posted by: Blackbird Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 14:38
Post #59405

Thanks ZX6R

Me too hence my 'reservation'.  I was lucky to have passed my test  when all it consisted of was twice round the block and the examiner jumped out in front of you to see if you knew where the brakes were  :shock:
I took my test on a BSA Bantam but I had a Bonnie parked outside the test centre so that I could ride away in style  :D

Regards

Posted by: firefly Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 15:02
Post #59411

Many thanks one and all.

To be honest, I don't want anything too big (i.e. powerful).  The reason for this is that I just don't trust myself in it.  I take the point about having more torque available, and the argument about the weight etc, but some of the 125s are pretty darned quick from what I can make out.

Any thoughts on http://atsearch.autotrader.co.uk/WWW/bikes_search.asp?nU=0&make=APRILIA&model=ANY&ccappr=125&min_pr=75&postcode=CM14%204JR&miles=40&max_records=50&modelexact=1&photo=1? (Aprilia 125, two from the bottom).

Posted by: OU812 Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 15:43
Post #59420

Perhaps someone can clear this up for me (havent been able to find a definitive answer on the web yet)

If I've held a car licence for 12 years and I want to take my direct access, do I still need to take a theory test (I realise I have to do CBT if I want to ride anything over 50cc) before I can take direct access?

Also does anyone know if you can restrict a Harley Sportster 883 down to 33bhp (please no Harley bashing :-) ) my local Harley dealer wouldnt comment on it/wouldnt do it

Posted by: peteturbo Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 15:45
Post #59422

Who's this demolay character someones been keeping quiet about anyhow, eh, eh?

At least he finally answered my question about the pace answer by the highway!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Posted by: Blackbird Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 15:52
Post #59424

Hi FF

 I fully take that point and a wise decision when you first start riding.
I would however reiterate my points.  The RS125 is one of the most powerful 125cc bikes but it makes it's power at a cost.  All 2 strokes need loads of revs to produce their power, otherwise they are as flat as a pancake. Running costs are also 'high'.  Being a Race Rep the RS is a heads down bum up max revs ride - not what you need in traffic.  I commute when I work 'local' (up to 30 miles) on a dirt bike, high up to see over the traffic and hence the gaps, plenty of low down grunt for overtakes which leads to plenty of daily fun.  Longer distances are covered by something with a little more power  :wink:
I still feel that DA would be the way to go then you can choose something that has enough torque, speed and last but not least comfort if that is your thing.

Regards

Posted by: firefly Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 16:02
Post #59428

Thanks Blackbird.  Point taken.

So if I was sticking to the 125, something like http://atsearch.autotrader.co.uk/WWW/bikes_search.asp?page=4&modelexact=1&make=&model=&ccappr=125&min_pr=1000&max_pr=&mileage=&agerange=&postcode=cm14+4jr&miles=40&max_records=50&source=0&keywords=&photo=1&sort=3&search=SEARCH would be the order of the day (2000 W-reg Hyosung)?

Cheers.

Posted by: ZX6R Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 16:04
Post #59429

You'll need to do CBT and Theory for bikes (it's a different test to cars) before you can sit practical DAS test.

Normally you'd do CBT before theory, but I don't think that's necessary.

Reagrds

Posted by: andy_foster Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 19:07
Post #59461

IMHO that's a lot of money for a gutless bike that you'd probably drop and therefore lose a lot on when you come to sell.

You could do Direct Access and get a half decent http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=9806&item=4556519842&rd=1 (not insanely quick, but enough power and torque to get out of trouble and commute/tour with ease) for less than that.

If you have serious self-control issues, I doubt you'd be happy with a 125 for more than the first mile or so anyway.

Posted by: Blackbird Thu, 23 Jun 2005 - 19:43
Post #59470

Andy

 Couldn't have put it better myself and bikes like that are cheap to run maintain and if dropped repair.

Regards

Posted by: OU812 Fri, 24 Jun 2005 - 09:34
Post #59568

Thanks

Posted by: Bob_Sprocket Fri, 24 Jun 2005 - 11:41
Post #59603

I agree. In terms of safety a 500 cc bike would be a much better bet than a 125. For commuting I would also think about something with a bit of weather protection.

Bob

Posted by: firefly Tue, 28 Jun 2005 - 14:05
Post #60140

Whilst all you bikey guys will no doubt snigger... , I went with a nearly-new Suzuki 125.  Tried it out for a couple of miles and I'm happy enough with the take off from standing, plus the cruising speed (happy at 70mph).

If I do decide to upgrade, I'll not lose too much on the trade-in (judging from the other prices quoted).

http://img55.echo.cx/my.php?image=att1632952aw.jpg

Posted by: ZX6R Tue, 28 Jun 2005 - 15:27
Post #60170

Congrats, and no sniggering here.

Not a bad choice, IMHO, as 125's go.  Should be OK for you to begin with, and as you say it'll trade in OK if you upgrade.

At least you ignored the scooter advice....

And 125 'sports' bikes are best left for 17 year olds...

Keep us all posted on how you get on.

Good Luck

Steve

Posted by: peteturbo Tue, 28 Jun 2005 - 16:04
Post #60184

fair enough

just keep it upright (well, nearly)

Posted by: andy_foster Tue, 28 Jun 2005 - 16:14
Post #60188

1. What ZX6R said.
2. Get a half-decent lock and chain. If a bike ain't locked to something heavy, it ain't locked.
3. Half-way through a tight bend when you relise you're going too fast, you probably aren't - if you crank the bike right over, you'll probably make it (or fall off from 6" above the road). If you brake, you'll go into the hedge/on-coming traffic.

Posted by: LancashireLad Thu, 30 Jun 2005 - 21:42
Post #60636

I would still think about hiring for a direct access course because 125cc soon leads to 250 which soon goes to 400 (then I had an accident on my CBR400 and got the fear for a while before going back to CB600 Hornet)  Trust me you will get sick of winding up the throttle to get up to 60.  I have only ever had 4 strokes so I can't comment on 2 stroke stuff (cb125, cbr 400 and cb600, I like hondas )

And as everyone else here has said, essentials are decent armour plating, broken legs arent fun.  Decent lock and chain. £150 chain means £3000 bike still there when you get back.  Kryptonite 'fahgettaboudit' chain is good (the lock is crap, I got my lock from a local locksmith) it isnt very long though.

Posted by: MrsMiggins Thu, 30 Jun 2005 - 22:38
Post #60647

I don't know; you boys and your toys, especially you, peteturbo, and your scooter aversion  :roll:

The man wanted something which was not too fast, easy to ride and good for commuting.  A scooter fits all those criteria.  The immediate leap to 'you want a proper bike' was a wee bit sad, especially as he never once mentioned looking at, never mind sitting on, a Hardly Dangerous.  I hesitate to make a comparison between the size of a man's engine and the size of his 'equipment' but...

ff, enjoy the 125.  It's a good basic bike and should serve you well, although I won't be surprised if you get a bit bored and decide to do direct access within the next 6-12 months!

Have you arranged that CBT yet?  If not, and you want any help or advice beforehand, let me know.  I teach CBT at the weekend as a pleasant diversion from the strains of sitting behind a desk all day, so I should be able to answer any questions you might have.  It'll be a pleasant change being the one in the know on this forum.

Either way, welcome to the world of 2 wheels; yer gonnae love it!

Posted by: chadders Sat, 16 Jul 2005 - 16:22
Post #62718

Just chatting with a Kwik-Fit fella, who's passed his bike test recently and got a nice gixxer-6.

Anyway, he mentioned how he had to be careful as he's on probation with his licence - as in how a new beginner with a fresh licence is. So whether he get's points for driving car or bike and get's 6, it's a re-test  :shock:

All despite driving car for 17 years, just by adding a new category to his licence. Is this correct?

Posted by: MrsMiggins Sat, 16 Jul 2005 - 17:27
Post #62723

AFAIK, you are only on probation when you get your first full licence, so he has the full 12 points to play with.  Edited to add this from the DVLA website (my emphasis in bold)

6. The Road Traffic ( New Drivers) Act 1995

This Act will affect you if you passed your first GB driving test after 1 June 1997 when it came into force. If the number of valid penalty points shown on your driving licence total 6 or more during the two year probationary period immediately following your first driving test, your full driving licence will be revoked by DVLA until such time as you pass a further driving test.

Posted by: chadders Sat, 16 Jul 2005 - 22:59
Post #62744

I wonder where he got that info from then? Just goes show! I'll print and give him the good news next time I passing.

Posted by: peteturbo Sun, 17 Jul 2005 - 08:10
Post #62750

mrs miggins wrote;

Sorry Mrs!!!

Posted by: firefly Thu, 17 Nov 2005 - 18:48
Post #82999

Glad to report that I passed my "big" bike test today.  :D   Did the direct access course and am picking up a Kawasaki ER-5 on Saturday.

As I have been used to riding a 125cc, the step up to the 500cc was great fun.  Opening the throttle and something actually happening was fantastic!  I don't suppose it'll be that long before I'm after something else...  

I hear the new Kawasaki ZZR1400 is something else...  :D

Posted by: flopper Thu, 17 Nov 2005 - 19:22
Post #83001

well done!

Not surprised you upgraded, it gets sooo much better.  :wink:

You will find your commute a fair bit easier as the power does the work for you rather than just hope. ooer

Posted by: Insider Thu, 17 Nov 2005 - 19:49
Post #83006

Don't you just love it  :D  :wink:

Congratulations Mr. ff

Posted by: Blackbird Fri, 18 Nov 2005 - 06:13
Post #83088

Many congratulations to you sir, enjoy  :D

Regards

Posted by: chadders Fri, 18 Nov 2005 - 13:49
Post #83162

Whoop! Well done indeed sir, hope you have many "uneventful" miles ahead of you!

Posted by: peteturbo Fri, 18 Nov 2005 - 15:20
Post #83177

insider wrote;

Happens to us all. I never intended more than a 200 benley.  The 350 LC put paid to that.

Well done firefly!

Posted by: Blackbird Fri, 18 Nov 2005 - 16:55
Post #83198

Looks like I have always been stupid  :oops: Jumped off the 250 I took my test on (long time ago!) and jumped onto the Bonnie a mate had previously parked outside the Test Station.  :D

Regards

Posted by: MrsMiggins Sat, 19 Nov 2005 - 17:28
Post #83295

congrats ff.  Happened a bit quicker than I predicted too  :D