No wheelie?! I think this is a great beginner’s bike if you are tall enough. I helped a short friend pick out his first bike, and it was a barely used Ninja 300. For the money he spent, getting a light pulling slipper clutch, ABS, low seat height, and a motorcycle that can do highway miles was pretty great. He’d definitely prefer the ergos and styling of the Versys, but the seat height is just too high. The 300 gearbox does provide LOTS of shifting practice for a new rider though, especially in city riding.
Doesn't the MC in MC commute refer to Motorcyclist Magazine? Now Cycle World is dusting off an 11 month old Motorcyclist video and presenting it as their own. This is a 2017 bike review that was posted last year.
I think it makes a lot of sense on this bike, as it doesn't have the torque to start from 2nd anyway. I have a Versys 1000, and even on it, it would take a lot of clutch-slipping. There's really no point; it's better to make neutral super-easy to find, as long as it doesn't screw up the normal shifting action. (and it doesn't)
What did you get, Roman? I would have chosen based on where I live and where I'll ride the bike more. This will be better in a place with fewer stops, as a small motorcycle like this with a 6-speed transmission makes for a LOT of shifting. For that duty, nothing beats a scooter. Also, the underseat storage trunk on the scooter is nicer than the overpriced bags on this. The scooter will be just as much fun on a twisty road, and more fun in the city and suburbs. This will have a smoother ride on rough pavement; by a LOT. This will teach you how to ride a *motorcycle*, too. I live and work in the suburbs, so I'd go with the scooter.
