Allen Dye

Business Development/Business Operations Professional

Allen Dye
Dallas, TX
ph: 214-763-9656
allen@allendye.org

Motorcycle Training

I Have a Passion for Motorcycling..

and motorcycle training...

After riding many years and hundreds of thousands of miles, I decided it was time for me to give back to the sport that I have taken so much from. In the fall of 2009, I became an MSF instructor and began teaching students to ready them for both the joys and challenges of riding on the road.

I hope you find the links and some of my ideas helpful and my wish for you is a safe, life-long motorcycling career!

Before You Buy a Motorcycle:

budget money for good gear

Don't make the mistake that many new riders make; they set a budget, select a motorcycle, and with what's left over, they buy gear. It sounds like a lot of money (and it is) but I would budget $1000 for gear assuming you have nothing at all. There are good deals online, but your best bet is to shop locally and find a place with a nice selection. Find a shop that will spend the time to explain the features and benefits and are concerned with your safety and enjoyment to get you fitted properly.

Now You Can Look for a Bike!

My recommended Entry level bikes:

I'm asked in almost every class about my thoughts on good entry motorcycles. My response? Depends on many factors, not the least of which is your budget. Here are a few that grab my attention and may fit the bill for you. It's not an inclusive list, but a few that always seem to come to mind:

Ducati M620-Light/low seat and easy to manage power. Surprisingly easy to maintain and infinitely customizable. Additionally, this Ducati sports a "slipper clutch" which is a rare feature on an entry level bike. Easily one of my favorites!
Kawasaki Ninja 250-Attractive and popular, these light weight bikes are easy to ride and draw attention. I'm generally not a fan of 250's as I feel they are quickly outgrown and are a liability on the freeway. Still, they are a fine choice for smaller riders or those who are looking for an in town mount.
Suzuki SV650-Another twin that's attractive with plenty of power, but with a smooth delivery that's user friendly. Like the Ducati, this bike is a little more advanced and will feel big and powerful as a first bike. Still, it's manageable if it fits you and it's a bike that you won't outgrow.
Kawasaki Ninja 650R-Much like the Suzuki SV, this stylish twin has more neutral to upright position that inspires confidence and a smooth power delivery thats easy to apply.
Motards-If you're tall enough, these bikes are a lot of fun, sturdy and easy to ride. They come in a variety of displacements from 230's and up.
Cruisers-Again, if you fit, there are many out there. I would not advise the larger displacement bikes as a first mount primarily because of weight.

What i don't recommend. Period.

It never fails. I ask students at the beginning of each class what they want to ride once they are licensed and ready to get on the road. At least one new rider every weekend wants or (gulp) has a 600 or (big gulp) larger Supersport. "What is a supersport?" A supersport is generally a four cylinder, four valve per cylinder machine built specifically for one of the many national or international racing series. There are two and three cylinder supersports as well, but the market is dominated by the fours. "Why not a supersport?" In a nutshell, these bikes handle, accelerate and brake on a level that far exceeds the abilities of novice riders and most motorcyclists in general. There is a reason that insurance is nearly unobtanium on these bikes for younger riders.