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Well, yes, many (if not most) people haven't done it the smartest way. That doesn't make it the right answer to not start the smartest way. That's why experienced people like me bother to speak up and promote the idea of starting the smartest way.I just wonder how many posters have started on a 200-300. Then gone to 500-600 and then gone to the liter.
My guess is less than half. That sounds really nice and all but passion drives a lot of choice and we all didnt end up bad riders or worse off for going a little bigger.
I'm not so worried about someone who buys a 620 as a first bike or an 821 or 1100 as a second bike. I'm more worried about the guy who buys a Panigale or Hyabusa or R1 within a year of starting to ride.
I started on a Honda 350, and then spent about 6 years on various scooters (160cc to 275cc) and small bikes (250cc to 450cc) before buying my Monster M900.
My wife and daughter both started on a Honda 250; my daughter is now on a Vespa 200, and my wife has an M900 Monster (she spent 2 years on the 250, and is making the transition very carefully). They both took the riding course before licensing. We all wear full gear all the time (minimum full helmet, leather jacket, good gloves and boots).
I advocate being smart about risky activities.
PhilB