I just got an A class motorcycle licence (allowes me to ride up to 250cc), and I want to
buy my first bike. I am a complete rookie make no mistake. Some people suggested I should get
a second hand, old, very cheap bike (about 1500 Euros) with no plastic parts etc. but failed
to come up with any models. I myself thought of getting a new Honda XR125L for 2800 Euros, but
I know that a new bike in the hands of a rookie is probably not the best idea. I then considered
getting a second hand Varadero XL125V but it's way too expensive (3500 Euros) for a used bike.
Basically here are my questions:

1)As a total rookie which do you think it's best 125cc or 250cc?
2)Should I get a new Honda XR125L ? and if not why?
3)If you agree with the suggestion of getting an old used one, have
any models to suggest?
4)Which type of bike do you think it's best for a rookie, street, on-off,
enduro or custom?
5)Can't a used bike be dangerous? (I don't have any "experts" to bring along
and have them check the bike before I buy it)

I would like to thank you very much in advance for your time and effort.
Any advice will be highly appreciated!!!

Best regards,

Urian

Urian, by the fact that you are talking Euros I ssume you're not in the UK. I answer to your questions though

1) It depends on how big you are. Most find the bigger bikes better balanced and easier to ride as a result. Though if you are slight of frame or short of leg then a 125 may be better. The 250 will have a bit more power (usually) which will keep you interested for longer and be less of a strain to ride.

2) Buying new you will lose money the minute you wheel it out of the door, buying second hand someone else has already taken the hit. Just depends on how much you trust being able to choose something second hand that isn't going to fall apart immediately.

3) The model will have to be something that you feel comfortable on. For a rookie being able to get both feet on the ground will save you much heartache and minimise the number of times you drop it, which you will do hence the advice to get something second hand without expensive plastic. You will only find the right bike for you by sitting on a few to find out what suits you best.

4) See 3.

5) Yes, but if you buy from a dealer rather than private you are less likely to buy something in a dangerous condition. It can happen though and depending on the legislation where you are you could have some comeback on the dealer if it is. You need to try and make contact with other bikers in your area and get the inside info on how trustworthy the local dealers are. You can do this quite simply by hanging around the dealers at weekends and asking people as they come and go (most will be happy to give an opinion) or finding a local bike meeting place and going along and having a chat and asking these same questions. Most bikers are happy to offer an opinion to someone genuinely seeking advice. The only problem then is sorting out the good from the bad.

HTH

Nice to have you aboard mate, make sure you keep coming back - there're about a million years of biking experience here ( and thats just fastfitter and plug!).

As for the advice i think m'learned colleague Ian eloquenetly covered the bases.

Once again welcome.

Welcome Urian (sheesh.. nearly mispelt that then.... mmm nothing new there though), i think ...... aaahhh... oh yeah, Ian has covered the bases as Zombie sais, good luck and may the force be with you.