RX8 or Mazda 6 and a bike??????
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RX8 or Mazda 6 and a bike??????
Hi everyone. I am glad to be a part of this forum! I love the RX8 and its beautiful powerplant. I am trying to decide what to do. I already own a 99 Eclipse GST Spyder and am looking for a vehicle for the wife.
She likes the mazda 6 but would be ok with driving the 8. I would be driving her car whenever we go anywhere together (long trips, ect). I can either get a 6 and a Yamaha R6, or an RX8. I would take either the rx8 or the R6 to the track about twice a month for some casual fun.
I know how much everyone here likes the RX8, so do I, but here is a cool vid about MOTO GP. It really gets me pumped about getting a bike.
MOTO GP
P.S. I'm not worried about getting hurt cause I wont be that crazy. lol
Michael
She likes the mazda 6 but would be ok with driving the 8. I would be driving her car whenever we go anywhere together (long trips, ect). I can either get a 6 and a Yamaha R6, or an RX8. I would take either the rx8 or the R6 to the track about twice a month for some casual fun.
I know how much everyone here likes the RX8, so do I, but here is a cool vid about MOTO GP. It really gets me pumped about getting a bike.
MOTO GP
P.S. I'm not worried about getting hurt cause I wont be that crazy. lol
Michael
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get the mazda 6 and the bike if the car's going to be used for road trips, family outings, etc..... i had my rx8 and a bike and love both of them, but if you can't afford to get the 8 and a bike and the purpose of the car is for family style then the 6 would be your best bet, since your eclipse obviously isn't going to be a family car. haha GL with the bike purchase
Klingon Grammarian
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,204
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From: Bellevue, WA
The big question: Do you already ride? I ask because if the answer is "no", then an R6 is NOT the place to start (I'll elaborate further if appropriate). Also, if the answer is "no", then I'd emphatically recommend getting the Mazda 6 and a bike (but a more appropriate bike to learn on). I love the RX-8, I think it's a magnificent car, but nothing in the world compares to riding. So if you're at all interested, it is an experience you should absolutely give yourself. After I learned to ride, I badly wished I'd taken it up 10 years sooner.
On the other hand, if the answer is "yes", then you are already in a position to judge your need-to-ride, and I can't help you. But for me, the equation is: ok car + motorcycle > great car. (and notice, I didn't say "great motorcycle")
On the other hand, if the answer is "yes", then you are already in a position to judge your need-to-ride, and I can't help you. But for me, the equation is: ok car + motorcycle > great car. (and notice, I didn't say "great motorcycle")
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No, I don't already ride. I have never ridden a bike before. I got interested in it because my sisters fiance rides a lot. He rides an R6. Why isn't that the bike to start on? I know the R1 isn't a starter bike but I thought the R6 was ok.
One thing I have to consider is that I will be at Los Angeles Air Force base. Great weather, but I found out I have to recieve a safety briefing before everytime I take the bike on a track.
Thanks so much for your advise!
Michael
One thing I have to consider is that I will be at Los Angeles Air Force base. Great weather, but I found out I have to recieve a safety briefing before everytime I take the bike on a track.
Thanks so much for your advise!
Michael
Last edited by Krypton Spyder; Mar 23, 2006 at 10:48 PM.
Blue By You
Joined: Jun 2003
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From: Milwaukee
Originally Posted by Krypton Spyder
No, I don't already ride. I have never ridden a bike before. I got interested in it cause my sisters fiance rides a lot. He rides an R6. Why isn't that the bike to start on. I know the R1 isn't a started bike but I thought the R6 was ok.
One thing I have to consider is I will be at Los Angeles Air Force base. Great weather, but I found out I have to recieve a safety briefing before everytime I take the bike on a track.
Thanks so much for your advise!
Michael
One thing I have to consider is I will be at Los Angeles Air Force base. Great weather, but I found out I have to recieve a safety briefing before everytime I take the bike on a track.
Thanks so much for your advise!
Michael
Klingon Grammarian
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,204
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From: Bellevue, WA
Yeah, what these guys are saying. Riding is a skill you have to learn, you can't expect you're going to instantly master it. It takes a little time, and one often makes mistakes along the way. That's not to daunt you, it is certainly something you can learn to do, you just can't expect to get on the first time and know what you're doing. The likelihood is that you are going to put the thing down some while learning, most likely on little mistakes (don't be *too* intimidated by people here using terms like "wipeout"). So what you want in a first motorcycle is: 1) something not too big or powerful, that you can handle easily (rather than it handling you!), and 2) something inexpensive that you don't have to lose sleep worrying about expensive new paint and shiny chrome if you put it down on some silly mistake.
So basically you want to get something small and used. What Ike said was probably about right, maybe $2k, maybe even a little less. I recommend something Japanese, just for the reliability factor (given that its used); Honda is particularly good in this regard. A bike like that has already done most of its major depreciating, so you'll be able to sell it later when you're ready to move up to something "real", and get most of your money back out of it. And at *that* point, you'll know much more about riding and all, so you'll be in a much better position to know what you want in a "real" motorcycle.
Other points:
1) First step: take the MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course. http://www.msf-usa.org/. The introductory course provides you with a motorcycle to ride, so you can (and probably should) take the course before you even worry about buying a bike.
2) Proper riding gear! Expect to spend some money on this (you're worth it). Full-face helmet!
3) Take riding seriously. It's an amazing amount of fun, but you are more vulnerable and really have to take the safety issues seriously.
So basically you want to get something small and used. What Ike said was probably about right, maybe $2k, maybe even a little less. I recommend something Japanese, just for the reliability factor (given that its used); Honda is particularly good in this regard. A bike like that has already done most of its major depreciating, so you'll be able to sell it later when you're ready to move up to something "real", and get most of your money back out of it. And at *that* point, you'll know much more about riding and all, so you'll be in a much better position to know what you want in a "real" motorcycle.
Other points:
1) First step: take the MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course. http://www.msf-usa.org/. The introductory course provides you with a motorcycle to ride, so you can (and probably should) take the course before you even worry about buying a bike.
2) Proper riding gear! Expect to spend some money on this (you're worth it). Full-face helmet!
3) Take riding seriously. It's an amazing amount of fun, but you are more vulnerable and really have to take the safety issues seriously.
Registered
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 34
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From: Ottawa, Canada
Get the Rx8 and a bike (see my avatar, blue gsxr600 + white rx8) 
Or really if you can't do both then I'd say the mazda 6 and bike.
Ok as far as getting a 600cc bike as a starter, generally yes this is not a starter bike as it weights about 365lbs dry has 115hp and can do the 1/4mile in 11.x seconds. You can easily get yourself into trouble when starting out. However even with that said, if you are the type of person who is willing to take things slow and learn to ride properly (and doesn't give in to pressure when all these cars try to race you... yes even slow cars want their shot at trying to out run a bike), then I'd say there's nothing wrong with starting on a 600cc bike. But take a motorcycle course first to get comfortable. Most courses have small easy to manuver bikes to start with, as well as some bigger bikes which you can gain comfort on before going to your r6.
Again, get the bike, you won't be disappointed
Or really if you can't do both then I'd say the mazda 6 and bike.
Ok as far as getting a 600cc bike as a starter, generally yes this is not a starter bike as it weights about 365lbs dry has 115hp and can do the 1/4mile in 11.x seconds. You can easily get yourself into trouble when starting out. However even with that said, if you are the type of person who is willing to take things slow and learn to ride properly (and doesn't give in to pressure when all these cars try to race you... yes even slow cars want their shot at trying to out run a bike), then I'd say there's nothing wrong with starting on a 600cc bike. But take a motorcycle course first to get comfortable. Most courses have small easy to manuver bikes to start with, as well as some bigger bikes which you can gain comfort on before going to your r6.
Again, get the bike, you won't be disappointed
Registered User
Joined: Feb 2006
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From: Grapevine, TX
Ditto on what the other guys have said. I have a Yamaha FZ6, which is a the naked, slightly more torquey version of the R6. It's my third bike, after two cruisers, and the power of the FZ6 still scares me sometimes -- 0-60 in 3.25 seconds, 0-100 in a little over 7 seconds. The R6 is even faster.
As a starter sportbike, I'd seriously look at the new Kawasaki Ninja 650R. It looks like a pure sportbike, but it has a more upright riding position. And it has a parallel twin engine instead of an inline 4 like most sportbikes.
It is plenty fast for a beginner, with a top speed of about 120 mph, but it's less likely to get you dismembered than an R6. Plus, it's priced pretty reasonably, just over $6K I think.
I'm selling my FZ6 because the RX-8 now fills my need for speed.
As a starter sportbike, I'd seriously look at the new Kawasaki Ninja 650R. It looks like a pure sportbike, but it has a more upright riding position. And it has a parallel twin engine instead of an inline 4 like most sportbikes.
It is plenty fast for a beginner, with a top speed of about 120 mph, but it's less likely to get you dismembered than an R6. Plus, it's priced pretty reasonably, just over $6K I think.
I'm selling my FZ6 because the RX-8 now fills my need for speed.
Registered
Joined: Jan 2006
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From: Georgetown
Lots of good opinions here.
I trained on R6's and believe you me, a R6 has reflexes quicker than you. When it bites back you'll be on your head before you begin to realize something is wrong. People think 600cc's are nothing, but modern 600's are faster than practically every production car out there.
So don't buy a bike because moto GP looks cool. See if you actually like it first. For non enthusiasts, motorcycling is uncomfortable, too hot or too cold, could be too expensive, too dangerous, too impractical, too cumbersome with the right equipment, etc. So get a cheap bike and see if you like it first. You can get a decent, certified 10 year old 600 for $2-3000 and you'll likely sell it for about the same. But also do what Krankor suggested, even throw in a entry level race school in there. Too many people leave motorcycling without really learning how to ride. Feeling a suspension react at full lean while your throttling on is like nothing else!
Oh, and get the 8, the 6 is boring
I trained on R6's and believe you me, a R6 has reflexes quicker than you. When it bites back you'll be on your head before you begin to realize something is wrong. People think 600cc's are nothing, but modern 600's are faster than practically every production car out there.
So don't buy a bike because moto GP looks cool. See if you actually like it first. For non enthusiasts, motorcycling is uncomfortable, too hot or too cold, could be too expensive, too dangerous, too impractical, too cumbersome with the right equipment, etc. So get a cheap bike and see if you like it first. You can get a decent, certified 10 year old 600 for $2-3000 and you'll likely sell it for about the same. But also do what Krankor suggested, even throw in a entry level race school in there. Too many people leave motorcycling without really learning how to ride. Feeling a suspension react at full lean while your throttling on is like nothing else!
Oh, and get the 8, the 6 is boring
Last edited by 9291150; Mar 26, 2006 at 10:42 AM.
Humpin legs and takin nam
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 2,433
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From: Clearwater, Fl
I have the 8 and a 650R, good bike to start on. Easy to handle and the throttle shouldn't get away from you too much.
These two vehicles are VERY similar..
Both look quicker than they should but don't perform as people precieve they should..
The 650R runs 12 sec 1/4 miles and tops out at about 130. Plenty quick and fast for me but other people expect it to run 11's and top out at 180 :p
In the car world, tourqe is what seems to matter to most people and the 8 is a high rev'r. In the sport bike world, top end power is what seems to matter and the 650r has tourqe and a lower top end.
Both very new vehicles with limited after market support.
Both have competition that's been around for a while in the same segment. (350z, SV650) that they get compared to ALL the time.
Both maximize comfort over performance.
Riders/Drivers of both vehicles state they can keep up with faster cars/bikes in the twisties
Both vehicles really do love the twisties.
Maybe I should have diversified. LOL
These two vehicles are VERY similar..
Both look quicker than they should but don't perform as people precieve they should..
The 650R runs 12 sec 1/4 miles and tops out at about 130. Plenty quick and fast for me but other people expect it to run 11's and top out at 180 :p
In the car world, tourqe is what seems to matter to most people and the 8 is a high rev'r. In the sport bike world, top end power is what seems to matter and the 650r has tourqe and a lower top end.
Both very new vehicles with limited after market support.
Both have competition that's been around for a while in the same segment. (350z, SV650) that they get compared to ALL the time.
Both maximize comfort over performance.
Riders/Drivers of both vehicles state they can keep up with faster cars/bikes in the twisties
Both vehicles really do love the twisties.
Maybe I should have diversified. LOL
Int'l Man of Mystery
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 3,651
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From: Central Florida
Originally Posted by Krankor
The big question: Do you already ride? I ask because if the answer is "no", then an R6 is NOT the place to start (I'll elaborate further if appropriate). Also, if the answer is "no", then I'd emphatically recommend getting the Mazda 6 and a bike (but a more appropriate bike to learn on). I love the RX-8, I think it's a magnificent car, but nothing in the world compares to riding. So if you're at all interested, it is an experience you should absolutely give yourself. After I learned to ride, I badly wished I'd taken it up 10 years sooner.
On the other hand, if the answer is "yes", then you are already in a position to judge your need-to-ride, and I can't help you. But for me, the equation is: ok car + motorcycle > great car. (and notice, I didn't say "great motorcycle")
On the other hand, if the answer is "yes", then you are already in a position to judge your need-to-ride, and I can't help you. But for me, the equation is: ok car + motorcycle > great car. (and notice, I didn't say "great motorcycle")
Nothing like riding a bike through the twisties... and that is still topped by tracking your bike. man... I still have dreams about my laps around Twin Ring Motegi.
me <--- wishing his bike was still running
Int'l Man of Mystery
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 3,651
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From: Central Florida
I agree with the other comments too...
Don't be a squid...
MSF class, maybe even some racing/track classes and be sure to get proper saftey gear... full-face helment (worn at all times!), gloves, riding jacket with protective armor (yes even during the summer... get a mesh jacket), boots, etc.
First time riders should avoid all supersport bikes... 600cc or not. Like people have said... they are incredibly powerful these days and very easy to get into trouble on. And on your first bike... you WILL get into at least minor trouble.
Don't be a squid...
MSF class, maybe even some racing/track classes and be sure to get proper saftey gear... full-face helment (worn at all times!), gloves, riding jacket with protective armor (yes even during the summer... get a mesh jacket), boots, etc.
First time riders should avoid all supersport bikes... 600cc or not. Like people have said... they are incredibly powerful these days and very easy to get into trouble on. And on your first bike... you WILL get into at least minor trouble.
Rotary NooB
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Livermore, CA
You should get the RX8 and then buy a Kawasaki Ninja 250 for around 1500-2000 used. Its VERY fun to ride. Then after a while you would upgrade to a 600cc sport bike.
I ride a Honda 954RR and its a nutty bike. I rode a 600RR before that. I avoided the sausage monster because I learned on the 600. It was one of the most retarded things i have done. If i had to do it all over again i woulda started on a smaller bike. I had countless oh **** moments, that i barely managed to avoid. (i was bieng stupid) Now i mainly ride at the track, and that is the best thing ever.
Moral of the story start small, be safe then work your way up to the bad boys. Your wife will love you better if your alive.
Mike
I ride a Honda 954RR and its a nutty bike. I rode a 600RR before that. I avoided the sausage monster because I learned on the 600. It was one of the most retarded things i have done. If i had to do it all over again i woulda started on a smaller bike. I had countless oh **** moments, that i barely managed to avoid. (i was bieng stupid) Now i mainly ride at the track, and that is the best thing ever.
Moral of the story start small, be safe then work your way up to the bad boys. Your wife will love you better if your alive.
Mike
Mu ha.. ha...
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 14,361
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From: Cali
Going to the track in a car is expensive.
Learning to ride a bike and expect to race it 1 to 2x per mnth on the track is not wise.
One needs to learn how to ride on the street and gain experience for at least a year before tracking.
I've been riding for 35yrs. Every kid I've met and talked to crashes because they want to be a race boy. Some are mamed while others are dead.
You need to learn how to ride. How to be defensive. You need to learn respect.
For lack of respect will make you dead or mamed. Even with respect one needs to learn defensive driving or you will end up dead or mamed anyways.
Not every one has the skiil to ride and live.
Learning to ride a bike and expect to race it 1 to 2x per mnth on the track is not wise.
One needs to learn how to ride on the street and gain experience for at least a year before tracking.
I've been riding for 35yrs. Every kid I've met and talked to crashes because they want to be a race boy. Some are mamed while others are dead.
You need to learn how to ride. How to be defensive. You need to learn respect.
For lack of respect will make you dead or mamed. Even with respect one needs to learn defensive driving or you will end up dead or mamed anyways.
Not every one has the skiil to ride and live.
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I have both and I agree and R6 is not a starter bike. Try for a 500cc Ninja or a Suzuki SV650. See my avatar picture? Thats me on my race SV. I took the MSF, did some raceschools, and plenty of track time. I started riding on a ninja 250 and it was the best advice anyone ever gave me. A r6 is an awesome bike, buts its too much power for a novice rider. One little extra twist of the wrist could get you killed. Maybe a YZF-600 is more appropriate, but I think that bike is overpriced and there is better out there. I love my 8 and I loved my bike (recently sold it), but its apple and oranges and each serves an entirely different purpose. If you have a car, I say get a bike, just not an R6 and get plenty of good instruction and learn how to ride safe. Keep all the high speed stuff for the track. I am sick of jackasses who think its cool to wheelie at 80mph or decide its safe to stand on their bikes while riding down the highway. Thats how people get killed, how drivers in cars get pissed, and why you will see how outrageous insurance rates are for people on bikes esp. if you are under the age of 25. I love MotoGP as much as anyone, but I can tell you its not a good idea to go ride after watching a MotoGP race. Those guys are pro's, you are not. Having ridden at high speeds on a few of the best tracks in the country, I can say that it looks way easier than it is. A day at the track is exhaustive both physically and mentally. Like it was said before, not everyone has what it takes to ride and live. Riding is 90% mental. The more mature you are, the better your odds are of staying out of trouble.
Also, there are two types of motorcycle riders:
Those who have crashed and those who WILL crash.
I put my bike down at Talledega and it sucked but I walked away. If it were the street, well, I'd probably not be so lucky. Nothing compares to riding a bike, esp. on the track. Just make sure you take all the right steps to learn how to ride safe. Its a blast.
Also, there are two types of motorcycle riders:
Those who have crashed and those who WILL crash.
I put my bike down at Talledega and it sucked but I walked away. If it were the street, well, I'd probably not be so lucky. Nothing compares to riding a bike, esp. on the track. Just make sure you take all the right steps to learn how to ride safe. Its a blast.
Last edited by djseto; May 1, 2006 at 04:57 PM.
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Originally Posted by Razz1
Learning to ride a bike and expect to race it 1 to 2x per mnth on the track is not wise.
One needs to learn how to ride on the street and gain experience for at least a year before tracking.
One needs to learn how to ride on the street and gain experience for at least a year before tracking.
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