Futura as second bike?

[rs50 2002]

I have always loved how the aprilia looks. Looks even better in person with that hot flame red paint job. If I gotan RS 50, or even a used 600 katana for 3 grand, Would it be ok to move up after a year and a half to two years to a futura? I know in 2004 the futura will probably be the same, and if not will deffinately get a used 02 or 03. The looks are outstanding. It has a smooth range of torque through the powerband. A comfy suspension, good ergos, what more could you ask for? I will probably wind up touring anyways. I don't need to do 150 down a road to have fun. I am not a wheelie popping stoppie freak who's 16 years old. I don't look at my age, or anyone's age. I look at who they are and how much they respect something and how much they enjoy it. I look at myself this way. I know I would respect the bike for what it is. The aprilia has some serious power. I do realise this, but that's why I am going to buy used and smaller first to gain alot of experience before opening a can of torque muscle builder. The katana(year 99) is a smaller sport tourer. I have always wanted one as well. So I could enjoy learning on one bike I have wanted forever(was my first love lol), and then move up to a bike I like 10 times as much would be an awesome experience. You could litteraly almost tour the world on a bike without the help of plane or boat. Think about it. You have America, Canada, Mexico, Alaska(part of USA), Antartica, and south america. That would be one awesome road trip. And alot of good food! lol. So how should I go about this? I really want the futura. I see this as my only option. I want to save up for it, but I also don't want to be in turmoil while I wait and not get to ride. Which is what the Kat will be for. I dunno guys, sounds like a good plan to me, what you think?

[buck000]

Sounds like a cool plan to me.

I'm a novice rider, and succumbed to the RST's charms only 3000 miles into my riding life, after riding a 20 year old Honda CX500. One nice thing about the Futura (or maybe V-twins in general) is the smooth powerband. Not knowing any better, I'm a bit scared of inline 4's onrush of power at higher revs. The Futura has always been very docile, but is more than willing to make life as exciting as I want it to be. :p

Best of luck.

Paul
'01 Flame Red

[paul111]

Sounds like a good idea to me! My Futura is my second bike, and I love it!!!!

I started with (and still have) a '00 Shadow (750 cc). I've put just about 6k miles on it in the almost three years I've had it. I don't think the Futura (or any liter bike, for that matter) is a good idea as a first bike. There's too much power to get into trouble with too fast, and it's not a light bike.

Start with the smaller (displacement, but size as well) bike and learn to ride well, and polish your skills, then UPGRADE! How long this takes is up to your comfort (read: skill) level and finances.

IMHO, it's the best way to go, so you can enjoy the Futura and know how to handle and respect its power. It was well worth the wait! Now I can't wait for it to get a little warmer so I can take some trips!

Good luck!


_paul.