New rider seeks advice for next season!

[Slide Panda]

An SV650 will be as close in engine feel to a small Duc, as opposed to an i4, something to ponder.

An SV650 will be *cheap* to fix. There's a ton of them running around, so the price point on replacement parts is a good bit lower than a Duc for new parts. If you don't mind scavenging some cosmetically challenged bits, they can be had for pennies on the dollar.

The SV650 is tough. A neighbor of mine crashed hers probably a good half dozen times and the wost of the damage was a broken lever and foot peg. It just wouldn't give up.

I've got no real love for 'em, but as a cheap track bike they are hard to beat.

If it's a track only bike, it's not hard to find a track prepped one for a good price. But keep in mind it *will* have been down. If not, then it's rider was never really pushing.. and hey you might get a better bike. But, as it'll probably have been down make sure to get a good look over before agreeing to a sale. Ideally, take a mechanic buddy or even  broker a deal with the potential seller to have a shop evaluate it. If the bike checks out you eat the cost of the inspection, if not, the seller does - might be a good way to filter out some of the less than honest sellers too.

Either way, check the bike out well, as what seems to be a good deal can quickly turn into a money pit if there's a number of undisclosed issues on the bike.

[ODrides]

I too recommend the SV650.  Cheap to set up, cheap to fix.  Adequate power to start out.  Next on the list would be a Japanese 600, but those have a ton of power.  Before you spend money on a dedicated track bike, make sure you're ready for the track experience.  I've seen some people show up to the track who don't have any desire to ride fast.  If you're uncomfortable at speeds over 100 mph, don't invest in a bike and gear.  Find a beginners racing class that allows you to rent that stuff.  If you fall in love with it then make some purchases.  Or bring your 696, but remove (don't just tape over) all the parts you don't need.

[DukeDenver]

solid advice everyone thank you.

I will be looking into those SV650's on everyones advice!

 [moto]

[matt922]

sv or one of the newer gen rs125s.  The 125s are probably more or less ready to put some track time on since the SVs come with poop suspension. (i have an sv, i can say it   ) 

sv will run you ~2500-3k depending on naked/ half faired, miles, year, etc for a decently kept one.  I've seen some rs125s going for 4k (slightly used).

[DukeDenver]

Sweeet, I was hoping someone would recommend one of those Aprilia's.

My local dealer has a few used ones at low prices!  AND I wouldn't have to worry about a fight breaking out in my garage between pasta and rice