Quote:
Originally Posted by jerdesab
Hi Ty,
I am thinking of venom X22 125cc. Is this good for newbie like me? Totally no experience. I just finished my MSF training 2 weeks ago. Is the clutch easy to use? or Maybe the X22 GT 250cc automatic. Is this also good? Thanks
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I took the safety course years ago, as well. Was a great experience. For what’s it’s worth, my first bike was an 883 Sportster (significantly bigger, heavier, and more power). Wasn’t really my style. I prefer the x22 because it is so much easier to maneuver and control. Had I found this when I was first starting out, it would have been amazing. What style bikes are you into? What did you ride in your course? Did you like it or dislike it? Why? All big questions that will lead you to the right bike.
While I do believe the x22 is an excellent beginner’s bike, there are some things I feel I should mention:
- It is easy to handle and maneuver (maneuverability already got me out of one jam locally)
- It is comfortable. The “sport” position is one I prefer to a cruiser with forward controls or mid controls. Some folks aren’t into that position, though (back, comfort, etc.). What about you?
- I find no issues with the clutch and find it consistent. Just use proper technique and it will be smooth. Good habits work best. I adjusted my clutch after my first test ride.
- It doesn’t have a great deal of power that will get you into trouble. However, that means you also don’t have power on tap to get OUT of trouble if you need to.
- Know it’s advantages and limitations, as well as your intentions for it. I know this is not a highway bike and I’m fine with that. I didn’t expect it to be. I purchased mine for cruising around locally and it’s great for that.
-Where do you want to ride?
- Will a day come when you want more power? I intend to purchase an x22r down the line at some point so I could do some riding further away from home and power won’t be an issue. However, I fully intend to keep my x22 for local rides when that day comes. That said, if the 125 fits the bill, good for you.
I am mechanically inclined and confident in working on my own cars and bikes. That said, it could be a great learning experience for you to work on your own bike and the x22 is a good platform for that. If you are not interested in working on your own bike, and do not want to pay someone else, you may want to look elsewhere, as this bike (and all China bikes), will require regular maintenance and inspection to keep them in great shape. You will learn a lot quickly, which is great.
As for your question about the x22GT, that all depends. I prefer a manual bike, although I have owned two older automatics. I since sold those off. However, you may prefer automatic which is perfectly fine. That choice is up to you. If you’re questioning the automatic because you’re a new rider and maybe a bit intimidated by using a clutch, the x22 may be a great bike to develop your clutch skills on. Low power, easy to handle, and forgiving. Again, all of that is up to you and what you decide/prefer. I can’t say much more on this because I’ve never ridden the GT.
Overall, I love mine. It’s a blast to ride. I have no issues or concerns with it. Quality is better than expected and the process was smooth. I would buy it again in a heartbeat.
I hope this helps.