In "Mashed Potato Motorbikes," we'll be profiling used bikes for the common rider's soul—how to ride well on a budget of $2,500 or less.
Yamaha RD350: Two-Stroke Fun Machine
Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010
The RD350 is a 1970s-era Yamaha that is powered by a two-stroke, twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 348ccs. The RD’s power band is very peaky thanks to its two-stroke power plant, but in actuality the peakiness of the motor is one of the traits that makes this bike so much fun to ride. A single disc on the front and a drum brake setup on the rear stops the bike, and (for its time) its weight of around 350 pounds wet was feather light. Full story »
Kawasaki Ninja: A Sporty Beginner Bike That Also Races
Thursday, Oct. 22, 2009
Chances are that if you have been looking for a low-displacement sport bike, then you’ve at least taken a glance at Kawasaki’s smallest Ninja, the 250r (or EX250 for you technical guys). The Ninja 250 has been in constant production since 1983 and has had four different model generations. As usual, the American market didn’t see the Ninja until the second generation came out in 1986. Full story »
Honda Rebel: A Small Cruiser That'll Get You Started
Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2009
More often that not, I find myself drooling over motorcycles with prices nowhere near what I can actually afford. Similarly, many folks (well, besides the Hells Angels) have the perception that motorcycling is an activity that is only obtainable by people a little more financially stable than my farming day-job provides. Full story »