[jeb1979]

I have two questions.
1. I haven't ridden motorcycles since I was a teenager but I recently purchased a Yamaha Zuma scooter and got the bug for a real bike. Is the Stryker too much bike to begin with?
2. I can purchase a Stryker for $9100 but the dealer has a 2009 holdover new Raider for 12200. Obviously if the answer to the first question is yes, then the Raider is out of the question, but if its not then would the Raider be a good deal given that it's effectively 3 years old though it's a "new" bike.

Thank you for your responses.
jeb

 

[ICEBOX]

Get what you want because after you dont you will be sorry that you didnt.. life is to short... 8)

 

[richard3]

This bike is longer then most and has alot of power, not sure if its the best bike for a beginner, I would love to say no problem go get a stryker, but I would hate to see you get hurt, but after awhile you will want more power if you go with a smaller
bike, good luck..... Be safe

 

[MY LIFE]

My Dad at 76 years old decided to start biking again after 45 years of not riding. He bought a brand new Yamaha 650 for his first ride. He drove it the first season and then last year traded it in for a new Raider. He rode this entire year ( now 78)with his Raider and was fine. He loves riding and spends as much time as he can doing it. The reason he respects the bike and does not drive it beyond his abilities. I've only been riding since the summer of 2007. Four years on a 800 Suzuki and this year on my Stryker.

So my opinion is go with what you want, just respect the bike and understand your abilities. You ride the bike, don't let the bike ride you. I've driven both bikes and everytime I ride the Raider I can't wait to get back on my Stryker. Just a better feel to me. Good Luck. Ride Safe.

 

[jeb1979]

Thanks everyone for the responses. I really would love to have a Stryker and I am generally a pretty cautious person so I don't think I'd push myself beyond what I am capable. I also worry that if I bought a V Star 950 I'd be dissatisfied within a year and I don't think I'd be in a position to trade motorcycles that soon.
jeb

 

[MNStryker26]

I had a Kawasaki Vulcan 900 for my first bike at the begining of this summer. Although I had a lot of fun on it I knew it wasn't going to sufice for too long. Fortunately (kind of) I got cut off and laid it down and it was totalled so I got to pick out a new bike and went with the Stryker. I'm very happy with the power and don't feel like it is too much of a bike with little experience.

 

[bekohlko]

My stryker is not only the first bike I've ever owned, but the first bike I've ever ridden more than just around the block. As soon as I bought it, I took it for about a 2 hour ride to get used to it. I just stayed on back roads that I was familiar with so I could pay more attention to the feel of the bike. Which ever bike you decide on, learn it before you go on any rides too far from home or with any groups. I will tell you one thing though: When I bought my bike, the dealership didn't have a raider on the floor. When I went in for my second oil service, they did. After taking it for a ride, I realized I made a mistake. At 6'4", the raider fit me a lot better. I recommend taking both bikes for a decent test ride to see which is more comfortable for you.

 

[Saltyseafarer]

Look around and see if there is an advanced riding course you can take on bigger bikes. Some of the Harly dealers do this just for people in your situation. Designed to build confidence and polish skills. I did a Basic Rider Course here in Florida, and they mentioned the availability of "big bike" courses, usually one or two day affairs.

 

[raven_stryker11]

The stryker is my real "first bike". I had a yamaha roadstar midnight silverado I learned on. I drove it around my subdivision and on back roads until I got the hang of it and then traded it for the stryker. I really liked the Roadstar but the Stryker is a better fit for me. So... to answer your questions IMO it is a GREAT starter but get the bike you REALLY want. Dont settle. You will regret it if you settle!! I dont regret getting my Stryker!! And you can find a motorcycle begginers course which may be helpful as well. Good luck! I hope that helps!

 

[jeb1979]

What a great forum! All of your responses have been so helpful and supportive. I'd get a Stryker just to be part of this forum, though that's hardly the only reason I want one. Thanks to all for your kind and thoughtful posts. I look forward to getting my new bike and becoming part of this incredible fraternity.
jeb

 

[ktourville]

My stryker is not only the first bike I've ever owned, but the first bike I've ever ridden more than just around the block. As soon as I bought it, I took it for about a 2 hour ride to get used to it. I just stayed on back roads that I was familiar with so I could pay more attention to the feel of the bike. Which ever bike you decide on, learn it before you go on any rides too far from home or with any groups. I will tell you one thing though: When I bought my bike, the dealership didn't have a raider on the floor. When I went in for my second oil service, they did. After taking it for a ride, I realized I made a mistake. At 6'4", the raider fit me a lot better. I recommend taking both bikes for a decent test ride to see which is more comfortable for you.

I Agree. Get the bike that you feel most comfortable on. I tried both and the Stryker just fit better. I have been riding for 26 years and it isn't always about the engine size and cost. The Stryker is far from under powered!!!! Go with the feeling in your gut and ass. You won't be disappointed.

 

[UrbanRage]

I didn't even test drive the stryker... I saw it, loved it, and bought it.. I have no regrest at all. The bike has great power, good low speed manners, comfortable in the turns, has no problem crusing at 75 on the highway and average about 40-43 mpg..

Like others have said... the most important thing, is that you are happy with your decision... know your limitations.

Oh yeah the stryker is my first cruiser and haven't been on a bike since the mid 90's..

Let us know what you decide on.

 

[kingofleon]

My first 'cruiser' too, had everything else already. It takes some getting used too. Its heavy unless you have only ridden cruisers all your life. The cool factor is definately a 10 but the power and acceleration are not on par with even a 600cc sportbike.

 

[jester624]

The Stryker was my first bike too. I had ridden a Hyabusa once for about a mile, and a GXR1000 I think for about the same, never highway speeds. I have not had a problem with the bike as far as handling, weight, etc, but its also coming from someone with little experience. I've got over 3600 miles in since the last few days in August... LOVE IT

 

[chubbleyum]

unless the Raider has some upgrades on it, that is too much for an 09 leftover. got one out of the crate here in May for 9.9

 

[middleagecrisis]

I've only been riding since march. Went from an 800cc Suzuki Marauder to the Stryker after just two months. I really liked the Raider for it's size and power but the Stryker offered everything the Raider offered (minus 500cc). I couldn't justify paying 4k+ more. I have to say I have no regrets. The power, control, sitting position ( one of it's greatest features in my opinion), and looks are the total package.

If you really like the raider get it. Don't worry about your experience. Just respect the bike and drive within your comfort and skill level. Remember while pushing your limits is fun the possible consequences are NOT worth it.

I'd check around and use the Internet as your guide. If new is not a necessity you probably can get a very low miles bike for a fraction of the price.

Let us know what you decide.

 

[WildFan]

My first 'cruiser' too, had everything else already. It takes some getting used too. Its heavy unless you have only ridden cruisers all your life. The cool factor is definately a 10 but the power and acceleration are not on par with even a 600cc sportbike.

My first cruiser as well - have only owned sportbikes up to this point. For me comfort was one of the biggest factors in choosing the stryker. The low seat and natural riding position was what really sold me on the bike. Of course it didn't hurt that it looks as cool as it does too!

 

[Guest]

Coming from riding a GSXR 600, the Stryker is my first cruiser! I felt that I ride too aggressive on a sport bike. I wanted something that still looks aggressive, but is actually relaxed... That's how I found myself on the Stryker. It has just enough power for me when feel like opening it up, but the seat position and handle bars leaves me fighting wind so much I never break 100mph! Whereas on the Suzuki I would be hitting 150+ at times... So in my case, it calmed me down. My only complaint is no stowing capacity, unless your into bags -which I'm not. (just my 2 cents) the Stryker is a great bike overall!

 

[Stryker Lunatic]

Jeb, that was gonna be my question... how tall are you, and what do you weigh? that'll help us a bit. there are some big cats here that ride the Stryker and it has plenty of power for them

 

[jeb1979]

I'm 6-2, 205. 34 inseam