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I think I'll wait till I've done the CBT to decide but I'm leaning towards direct access, just got the thumbs up from Mrs Hammer to use a week of holiday for it... Now just need to rustle up the cash.
Is there any reason not to get a bigger bike other than the temptation to nail it and consequently run out of skill?
Dramatic_Hammer-
That's what I did. Straight into DAS from CBT. Not regrets as all the info was fresh in my head and I wanted to carry on riding. I also hated the smaller bikes for their jerkiness, lack of punch when needed and discomfort over distance.
Bigger doesn't mean better, but it is more stable at higher speeds/distance.If I had to go smaller again, it'd be a scooter for sure.
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Good call.Just to ask the obvious question, are you over 25yo? If not then there are different rules for getting your license and what you can ride afterwards.
bigger bike
You mean once you've got your full license? You obviously won't be able to legally ride a bigger bike until then.
Cost, insurance, fuel economy, weight/maneuverability if commuting, would all come higher up as reasons for not getting a massive bike. For e.g. my Triumph Scrambler is 900cc, but it's heavy and naked. A Kawasaki er6f* would knock its socks off. Nowadays most things over 350cc will be fun and plenty fast enough riding one-up.
Engine size shouldn't be your starting consideration, there are so many other variables. Just try out a few different bikes and get what you think you fancy. Luckily most main dealers let you take new bikes out for decent solo test rides
*Incidentally a really decent first big bike imo
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No reason not to get a 5/600 (or even a 300 in todays market) over a 125. A few good reasons not to go bigger than that for a first bike. Insurance would be a good one.
I would leave aside any ideas of getting a cool first bike and just go for the standard 5/600 class. Something comfortable for your physique and fitting the commuting you want to do.
If you are starting at this time of year you'll need a winter jacket and trousers, there are plenty around that will get you through even if you get a bit colder than you would in the expensive stuff. I started out with a Hein Gericke Master jacket that I wore out over 5 years, it was a budget option but stood up well. Literally stood up on it's own after 5 years of ingrained dirt.
Chak
hugo7
Airhead
What lynx said.
Bear in mind lots of kit is more expensive anyway. Decent jackets don't have to cost that much, but everything else adds up.
Having done the CBT+125, then Direct Access I'd say it's 100% your preference which is better. Going straight to DA will likely be cheaper as you only have to buy and insure one bike - even if you need more lessons.
The big plus of riding a 125 cc for a while is getting hours on the bike, which ultimately improves your riding.
Worth adding that some 125's will do +70mph. They just tend not to feel as stable or safe. If you do buy a 125 and have to ride at higher speeds I'd really recommend choosing a faux racing bike. They may look a bit naff, but they tend to go faster, have better brakes and more importantly a fairing - which helps no end.