Cheap Thrills - Can you get started in motorcycling for $2,500 or less?

[Buddykitchen]

Having an adventure for under $2500 isn't even a challenge.

I bought my '82 CB900C for $1250, put about $250 in parts to make it run, paid $100 for a Windjammer, paid zero for a KG trunk, got a set of used-only-once Nelson-Rigg CL-850 saddlebags for $25.

30,000+ miles later, I'm still enjoying every minute of riding it. In fact, I'm entertaining the idea of taking it to Chile next year.

(Since this picture was taken, the trunk has been replaced with a Vetter trunk. Still way under $2500.)

[WhatThaFrig]

Originally Posted by DowDuer

Isn't there a $500 challenge thread floating around, and those five sons of russian immigrants who rode cross country on $500 bikes?

I've been trying to find that ride report. It was one of my favorites.

[ADK]

Originally Posted by WhatThaFrig

I've been trying to find that ride report. It was one of my favorites.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=366117
you're welcome

[WhatThaFrig]

Originally Posted by ADK

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=366117
you're welcome

Bless you kind sir!

[shadman]

I bought a DRZ400SM for $1300, spent $800 on a full (preventative) engine refresh including rings, clutch, clutch basket, seals, all new bearings. Titled it for $250. Gun box for $10. Dirt tires used for $100. Been to Mexico and back twice, once to Big Bend, and around Texas. Tops out at 95, cruises easily at 70, gets about 50 miles to the gallon, and is actually a great bike in all ways but the seat. YES, $2500 will get you into the joy of motorcycling...in style.


By peshaddock at 2011-05-19


By peshaddock at 2011-02-28


By peshaddock at 2011-02-28

[Fictitious]

$1300 for a DRZ?! :O Where do you live? I need to move there! :P

[motomike14]

$700 for a 1986 Honda XR600R; already had a title and DOT knobs. Threw on new chain and sprockets, homemade tail bag, a brake light switch from my pile of goodies at home and a mirror/GPS mount. Have less than $1000 in it and still tight as new.



Sub-$2500 bikes are easy to come by. Having mechanical skills and knowledge is incredibly helpful. Now-a-days, with so much ethanol problems, if you can work on a pair of carbs, you can find cheap bikes allllll day.

[tkent02]

Originally Posted by FlySniper

Hmmm... I can't recall even owning a bike that cost as much as $2500...

I've had one. Not much fun to ride as I didn't want to drop it.

[_CJ]

Starting from zero gear/experience, it cost me less than $2000.00 to get up and running.

-1990 DR350S
-bike mods (service manual, sprockets, chain, petcock, oil change, adjust valves)
-tool kit with tubes, patches, etc.
-two day MC class
-plates
-insurance
-helmet & goggles
-jacket
-pants
-boots

I just did my first overnight trip this past weekend which included ~180 miles of dirt roads, 4x4 trails, and pavement.

[jenkinskg]

Cost $1000 and pretty beat up
Needed a few parts, altogether maybe $300
Now it rides nice everywhere

[gunnabuild1]

$1500 and first trip 2500 k's near enough.And bikes here cost more than you would believe.
Those who suggested the various 250 dualsports are right on the money,especially starting out,do everything you need ESPECIALLY if your starting out.