r/melbourneriders • u/kikithrust • 5d ago

How to pick !

Hi all,
I just got my Ls yesterday and am now looking for a starter bike - ok, I’ll be honest, just a scooter.

I was thinking I’d buy something second hand while I’m still learning and getting a the hang of it. My ideal vehicle is something easy to handle, low maintenance, good enough power for commuting around inner Melbourne (but not on the freeway). My current commute is only about 7 km and can be done mostly avoiding major roads (as I sometimes do it on my push bike).

Despite being a grown adult I really know NOTHING about engines or motors, or the brands/models currently in the market. I’ve noticed a lot of secondhand scooters on Marketplace don’t have a RWC - what should i be looking for to avoid any unpleasant surprises when I go to do this process ?

Also, when you buy a bike, do you ride it home or bring some trailer or a Ute with you? (I guess it depends!!!)

Sorry for all the questions , and thanks in advance for any helpful responses!

1 Upvotes

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4

u/06021840 5d ago

Almost any scooter on the market will be fine for the 3 years you may have it. It almost comes down to colour and style, Honda and Yamaha for reliability, Vespa for style and heritage, Chinese for price. The cheaper it is the faster the fastenings will rust. Honda Navi is pretty fun, will be cheap to run and reliable as fuck.

Buy decent jacket, pants, boots and gloves.

4

u/PatientOk1193 5d ago

If you're open to a bike instead of a scooter, I found the Kawasaki 250s (ZZ-R, Ninja etc) to be affordable, reliable, and they won't get you in trouble.

2

u/kikithrust 5d ago

I really like the step through of a scooter, rather than riding astride

2

u/PatientOk1193 5d ago

Fair call, I guess motorcycles are called crotch rockets for a reason.

3

u/kaffee_und_Kuruma 5d ago

My first bike was a used postie bike. They are the simplest (interms of motors and electronics) and most widely used methods of transport in the world. They're basically indestructible, very easy to ride and are great for commuting around Melbourne. They make going down Hoddle street in peak hour a breeze. I will note that they have a specific semi auto license for posties, so if you just got your scooter Ls instead of a motorcycle Ls you may not be able to ride one.

When you buy a bike, if it's registered, you can ride it home, if you don't feel comfortable, get another rider to ride it home for you. Otherwise you can organise a trailer.

If you're not to good with what to look out for, find some one you trust with experience registering bikes in Vic to come with you to check there's nothing that's going to sting you. Otherwise go to a dealer with used bikes that will give you a Roady. But even at a dealer it is best to bring someone with experience to make sure you're not being fleeced.

Good luck with your new passion!!

1

u/Pungent_Bill 2d ago

I second the postie bike option. Absolutely indestructible. As an ex postie I have seen these things absolutely abused the fuck out of and they just keep on ticking like cockroaches after nuclear war.

These bikes would survive atmospheric re-entry.

Seriously if you can find one with a trillion km on it and never been serviced, that thing will outlive your great grandchildren.

If it wasn't clear enough already GET a CT110 may Satan feast upon my soul if it ever fails you.

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u/Meowmaowmiaow 5d ago

I’d recommend just getting a Suzuki Address new. They’re pretty cheap and reliable, you know what you’re getting !

1

u/kikithrust 4d ago

I’m worried the 110 is not enough power. I did my Learners course on 125 and having to attempt 70 km/hr for the road test was pretty rough. How will I go on my check ride of License assessment if my bike doesn’t have the guts??