2010 VFR1200f DCT as first bike?

Please share your comments and thoughts about a VFR1200f DCT as a first bike. I am considering this bike because I have very limited mobility in my left ankle and have not been able to find an apparatus that will allow me to operate a conventional shifter properly. My concern is that the bike will be too big and powerful for a first bike. I am signed up for two training courses but will not be able to use their bikes due to my ankle. Your thoughts and comments are appreciated.

It is very tough to say what is right for a total stranger clear across the internet, but if your gut is hesitant, it is probably right.

My take is that a VFR1200 is way too heavy and too powerful for a first bike, but that doesn't mean it can't be done.

My own opinion is that it's also too expensive of a bike for a first bike, particularly for somebody with limited mobility. You can total a sportbike without trying, and just dropping a faired bike in the parking lot can cost thousands to repair. Are you willing to risk that?

There are other automatic bikes out there; the only one that comes to mind at the moment is the Aprilia Mana. I don't know much about it, but I believe even in its Italian glory, it is still cheaper than the 1200.

The more obvious answer is, what's wrong with a scooter? We sometimes give people grief about them not being "real bikes" but the fact is something like the Burgman 650 will moooooove. :wheel:

So I dunno... I applaud the love for the VFR1200, but I think it's reaching a bit far to get started on. Good luck.

As a long time rider and owner of a DCT, the answer is NO. It is not a beginner's bike, and the cost of mishaps which will surely happen often will quickly drain your bank account and reduce the resale value of your top tier motorcycle to nothing.
As the previous post suggests, get a scooter. There are many choices these days and some are outright performers, yet the price of entry is much lower and much easier to maneuver especially with a bum ankle.

I have owned a Ridley Automatic Cruiser, Yamaha 250 Virago, Piaggio MP3 250 & 400, and now have a Yamaha Tmax. I would say the Tmax is the best Scoot/Motorcycle I have owned. Best handling and cornering performance of any scooter and many sport bikes. I would recommend and scooter for a first bike, if you can handle the comments. Most good though. For ease of use and comfort no motorcycle can match them. I plan on getting a vfr1200 dct as soon as a used one comes available that is reasonably priced. 17k is just way too much to me. But, the fun you can have on a maxi scoot is just incredible.

Honda Hawk auto - YES
VFR1200 -NO

If mobility is your biggest problem, best to start with a scooter style bike which is auto.

Something automatic and also easier to ride would be a Honda DN-01. Nice and low to the ground, very relaxed riding.

The VFR1200 DCT gearbox will certainly fix your mobility issues but the bike in general is heavy and quite powerful. I'd be happy to ride one after a year of experience, but not as my first bike.

Thanks for all of the great comments. I think I will continue my search for something that is more geared to a beginner. Hopefully, I will be back to the VFR Discussion Forum in a couple of years. Thanks again.

Any size two wheeler may be difficult to control with a bum ankle. My other bike is a Can-Am Spyder, you may want to look at them.