New to the biking world.

SoCal · November 2nd, 2010, 06:51 PM

Hey guys. I just got my motorcycle license and am currently searchin the market in the southern California area for a good beginner bike at a reasonable price (I don't want to cough up a lot of money for my first bike). I would love to find an 07-09 Ninja 250r because I learned on one and loved it.

I was wondering if you had any tips for when looking at bikes...prices, what to look for, etc.

Thanks for all the help.

p.s. love the site.

scotty · November 2nd, 2010, 07:00 PM

Welcome! Find a bike that suits your needs and you will be happy with!
Posted via Mobile Device

Cuongism · November 2nd, 2010, 07:40 PM

There's a big difference between 07 and 08+. The 07 is still part of the old gens while the 08+'s are the new gens. I've seen 07's on craigslist for $1900 with low miles. Cheapest new gen I saw was a 09 green for $2699 in Oceanside.
There's a lot to look for, but generally not much can happen to the bike in 3 years and most people buy the 250 as their first bike so they're generally careful on it (not too many people will trick on it or wheelie). Biggest thng you're looking for is if it's ever been dropped. If the seller has maintenance records, that's a huge plus.

SVBS · November 2nd, 2010, 08:58 PM

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2037842078.html
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2037170021.html
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2035038845.html
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2031896072.html

craigslist is your friend

have fun

SoCal · November 3rd, 2010, 09:45 AM

Thanks for the help guys. I looked at those on craigslist links before I posted.

Im actually going to look at some of em this weekend.

Is 3k too much to fork out for a first bike? Like for an 09 Ninja 250r?

want1sobad · November 3rd, 2010, 10:03 AM

welcome!

SoCal · November 3rd, 2010, 10:18 AM

You guys know of any good links of articles (or even videos would be nice) that give the low down on how to inspect a used bike? I wanna make sure I don't miss something critical me being new and all.

Havok · November 3rd, 2010, 10:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoCal

Thanks for the help guys. I looked at those on craigslist links before I posted.

Im actually going to look at some of em this weekend.

Is 3k too much to fork out for a first bike? Like for an 09 Ninja 250r?

That is pretty much what 09's go for so no, I don't see them droping in price a whole lot either.

setasai · November 3rd, 2010, 11:25 PM

Well I consider myself overpaying at almost $5500 brand new for a 09 SE green but now that I've had it for over a year, I really dont care how much I paid for it. I easily saved that much in both Gas and Insurance. So in the end what's another $1.5-2k. That's not to say you shouldnt look for a good deal but paying a little more for better records or lower mileage and definitely "not dropped/crashed" is worth it. Just my thoughts.

SoCal · November 4th, 2010, 05:10 PM

I went and looked at an 07 Ninja 250r today and it was in decent condition. There were some minor dents on the tank (2 roughly 1.5in in diameter) and some scratches on the tail pipe. I figured this was an obvious indication that it was dropped; however they said it was nearly 0mph. There was also some minor rust in these areas.

I checked the chain sprockets, frame under seat, etc...

are the dents and rust something to be cautious about. the price is @ $1900 btw.

SVBS · November 4th, 2010, 06:02 PM

that's a decent deal, check the rust thoroughly, if it's just speckle of rust, maybe it's been outside, it can be sand off, if the rust are deep gouge and eating into metal, then don't buy it, safety hazard, enjoy your new toy if you do buy it

rwheelz · November 4th, 2010, 06:07 PM

We picked up a mint condition 2009 with 930 miles on it for $2076 (we do not have sales tax here though). The local mint/low-mileage/as-new earlier style bikes (07 and earlier) are all under 2 grand, and look like they just rolled out of the show room. From what I see on here, the prices for these bikes vary widely depending on your geographic location.

At $1900, you should definitely getting a bike in as-new condition if it is a 2007 model, not one that was dropped and has damage. That bike would sell for more like $1500 around here.

Havok · November 4th, 2010, 06:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rwheelz

We picked up a mint condition 2009 with 930 miles on it for $2076 (we do not have sales tax here though). The local mint/low-mileage/as-new earlier style bikes (07 and earlier) are all under 2 grand, and look like they just rolled out of the show room. From what I see on here, the prices for these bikes vary widely depending on your geographic location.

At $1900, you should definitely getting a bike in as-new condition if it is a 2007 model, not one that was dropped and has damage. That bike would sell for more like $1500 around here.

You would be lucky to find a pregen with that low miles for 2k in so-cal.

Try the dealerships and see If they have any 09 in stock, you should be able to get a good deal for them and get it at 3500 otd. They are stocked on 10's and the Kawasaki is going to push the 11's on them soon. They will all want the white 11 se as it is going to sell well haggle and see what you can get.

8gauge · November 4th, 2010, 07:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoCal

Thanks for the help guys. I looked at those on craigslist links before I posted.

Im actually going to look at some of em this weekend.

Is 3k too much to fork out for a first bike? Like for an 09 Ninja 250r?

I got a 2010 limited edition, came with the fenders cut and a Jardine RT5 slip on. had 3k miles on it, and i got it for $3,000. You should try to go lower, especially if it still has that hideous stock tail fender.

Havok · November 4th, 2010, 07:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 8gauge

I got a 2010 limited edition, came with the fenders cut and a Jardine RT5 slip on. had 3k miles on it, and i got it for $3,000. You should try to go lower, especially if it still has that hideous stock tail fender.

If you can catch someone that needs to sell for financial reasons you can get a deal like that, it's not common though at least not from what I have seen. I try to keep track of the 09 prices to see what mine will be valued at when I go to sell next year.

8gauge · November 4th, 2010, 08:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Havok

If you can catch someone that needs to sell for financial reasons you can get a deal like that, it's not common though at least not from what I have seen. I try to keep track of the 09 prices to see what mine will be valued at when I go to sell next year.

what you're saying is true. But what i meant is, he should try to squeeze the best deal out because he shouldn't pay the same price i did for an older bike. especially if the tank is all banged up...

SoCal · November 6th, 2010, 10:05 AM

The guy who is selling is from Finland so Im hoping I can prob get him down to 1500 cash. But then again im going to look at some 09 Ninjas this weekend which are around $3,000-$3,500 with less than 2k miles on em.

I checked the rust and it was pretty minor, but the dents in the tank do worry me a bit. Wish me luck!

Havok · November 6th, 2010, 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoCal

The guy who is selling is from Finland so Im hoping I can prob get him down to 1500 cash. But then again im going to look at some 09 Ninjas this weekend which are around $3,000-$3,500 with less than 2k miles on em.

I checked the rust and it was pretty minor, but the dents in the tank do worry me a bit. Wish me luck!

As long as the rust is not bad I would not worry about the dents too much as it's just cosmetic. As long as you don't mind them it would just be cosmetic.

I agree with trying to talk the guy down as well. Get the best deal you can for the bile you want.

SoCal · November 14th, 2010, 09:48 PM

Hey guys thanks for the help! I just picked up an 09 Kawa Ninja 250 on Saturday!! I go to go get my license on Wednesday. I've ridden it around my enclosed neighborhood and so far I love it! So nice.

ahenthus · November 16th, 2010, 08:51 PM

Congratulations, I'm sure you'll love it. I got my 08 a few months ago and it's great. The most fun I've had on a motorcycle in 50 years of riding.

scotty · November 17th, 2010, 05:07 AM

Congrats!

November 2nd, 2010, 06:51 PM	#1
SoCal ninjette.org member Name: James Location: San Diego, CA Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250 Posts: 12	New to the biking world. Hey guys. I just got my motorcycle license and am currently searchin the market in the southern California area for a good beginner bike at a reasonable price (I don't want to cough up a lot of money for my first bike). I would love to find an 07-09 Ninja 250r because I learned on one and loved it. I was wondering if you had any tips for when looking at bikes...prices, what to look for, etc. Thanks for all the help. p.s. love the site.

November 4th, 2010, 06:07 PM	#12
rwheelz Moroccan Gold Imports Name: RJ Location: MT Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): '03 ZX9R, '03 ZX7R & wife's '09 250R Posts: 136	We picked up a mint condition 2009 with 930 miles on it for $2076 (we do not have sales tax here though). The local mint/low-mileage/as-new earlier style bikes (07 and earlier) are all under 2 grand, and look like they just rolled out of the show room. From what I see on here, the prices for these bikes vary widely depending on your geographic location. At $1900, you should definitely getting a bike in as-new condition if it is a 2007 model, not one that was dropped and has damage. That bike would sell for more like $1500 around here. __________________________________________________ MOROCCAN GOLD IMPORTS Where Excess Meets Extreme

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November 2nd, 2010, 07:00 PM	#2
scotty ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Scott Location: Carlise Ohio Join Date: Apr 2010 Motorcycle(s): Yahama v star 650 classic Posts: A lot.	Welcome! Find a bike that suits your needs and you will be happy with! Posted via Mobile Device

November 2nd, 2010, 07:40 PM	#3
Cuongism ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Cuong Location: San Diego Join Date: Jul 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250r, 2007 Daytona 675 Posts: A lot.	There's a big difference between 07 and 08+. The 07 is still part of the old gens while the 08+'s are the new gens. I've seen 07's on craigslist for $1900 with low miles. Cheapest new gen I saw was a 09 green for $2699 in Oceanside. There's a lot to look for, but generally not much can happen to the bike in 3 years and most people buy the 250 as their first bike so they're generally careful on it (not too many people will trick on it or wheelie). Biggest thng you're looking for is if it's ever been dropped. If the seller has maintenance records, that's a huge plus.

November 2nd, 2010, 08:58 PM	#4
SVBS ninjette.org member Name: KT Location: Left Coast Join Date: Oct 2010 Motorcycle(s): 1 of them Big Four Posts: 84	http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2037842078.html http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2037170021.html http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2035038845.html http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/2031896072.html craigslist is your friend have fun

November 3rd, 2010, 09:45 AM	#5
SoCal ninjette.org member Name: James Location: San Diego, CA Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250 Posts: 12	Thanks for the help guys. I looked at those on craigslist links before I posted. Im actually going to look at some of em this weekend. Is 3k too much to fork out for a first bike? Like for an 09 Ninja 250r?

November 3rd, 2010, 10:03 AM	#6
want1sobad Ninjette CPT Name: Vince Location: jacksonville, fl Join Date: May 2009 Motorcycle(s): Black 08 250r Posts: A lot.	welcome!

November 3rd, 2010, 10:18 AM	#7
SoCal ninjette.org member Name: James Location: San Diego, CA Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250 Posts: 12	You guys know of any good links of articles (or even videos would be nice) that give the low down on how to inspect a used bike? I wanna make sure I don't miss something critical me being new and all.

November 3rd, 2010, 11:25 PM	#9
setasai ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Brian Location: Detroit, MI Join Date: Jun 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R Green Posts: A lot.	Well I consider myself overpaying at almost $5500 brand new for a 09 SE green but now that I've had it for over a year, I really dont care how much I paid for it. I easily saved that much in both Gas and Insurance. So in the end what's another $1.5-2k. That's not to say you shouldnt look for a good deal but paying a little more for better records or lower mileage and definitely "not dropped/crashed" is worth it. Just my thoughts.

November 4th, 2010, 05:10 PM	#10
SoCal ninjette.org member Name: James Location: San Diego, CA Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250 Posts: 12	I went and looked at an 07 Ninja 250r today and it was in decent condition. There were some minor dents on the tank (2 roughly 1.5in in diameter) and some scratches on the tail pipe. I figured this was an obvious indication that it was dropped; however they said it was nearly 0mph. There was also some minor rust in these areas. I checked the chain sprockets, frame under seat, etc... are the dents and rust something to be cautious about. the price is @ $1900 btw.

November 4th, 2010, 06:02 PM	#11
SVBS ninjette.org member Name: KT Location: Left Coast Join Date: Oct 2010 Motorcycle(s): 1 of them Big Four Posts: 84	that's a decent deal, check the rust thoroughly, if it's just speckle of rust, maybe it's been outside, it can be sand off, if the rust are deep gouge and eating into metal, then don't buy it, safety hazard, enjoy your new toy if you do buy it

November 6th, 2010, 10:05 AM	#17
SoCal ninjette.org member Name: James Location: San Diego, CA Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250 Posts: 12	The guy who is selling is from Finland so Im hoping I can prob get him down to 1500 cash. But then again im going to look at some 09 Ninjas this weekend which are around $3,000-$3,500 with less than 2k miles on em. I checked the rust and it was pretty minor, but the dents in the tank do worry me a bit. Wish me luck!

November 14th, 2010, 09:48 PM	#19
SoCal ninjette.org member Name: James Location: San Diego, CA Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250 Posts: 12	Hey guys thanks for the help! I just picked up an 09 Kawa Ninja 250 on Saturday!! I go to go get my license on Wednesday. I've ridden it around my enclosed neighborhood and so far I love it! So nice.

November 16th, 2010, 08:51 PM	#20
ahenthus ninjette.org member Name: Claude Location: SC Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R, 1994 HD Sportster, 1975 Yamaha XS650B and many works in progress. Posts: 60	Congratulations, I'm sure you'll love it. I got my 08 a few months ago and it's great. The most fun I've had on a motorcycle in 50 years of riding.

November 17th, 2010, 05:07 AM	#21
scotty ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Scott Location: Carlise Ohio Join Date: Apr 2010 Motorcycle(s): Yahama v star 650 classic Posts: A lot.	Congrats!