(Possible) new rider.

So I'm seriously considering picking up a lightly used 250 or 300 street bike. I'm military so I can pick up the motorcycle safety course and get licensed and all that jazz without too much hassle. The bike would mainly be used to puttz around base and nearby outside base to keep miles off my truck. The only problem is I know next to NOTHING about motorcycles. I'm a mechanic, so any of the mechanical aspects of owning a bike aren't a problem. I'm looking for a little help on what bike to choose. specifically, are there any brands/models I should stay away from due to mechanical or safety issues? 300cc is what I would like, and I'm not into Harley's or anything so I want to stick with a Kawasaki or Suzuki or similar.

Any input/help/advice for a new guy would be greatly appreciated

 

Also, I'm 6'4" so I don't want to ride a little kids bike lol

 

When you say "street bike" do you mean street legal or sport bike/crotch rocket?

I'd recommend looking into dual sports as well. I'm 6'2" and started riding street on a KLX250. Perfect beginner bike, ergos were good for my size, and mechanically simple with lots of room to work/wrench. Also good for light trail or off-road riding. Great way to sharpen your skills without worrying about being run over by traffic or looking drunk. Plus it's usually more fun!

Single cylinder Japanese bikes would probably be your best bet.

Definitely take a MSF course, they are very helpful.

4 bikes later and I'm now on a Triumph Scrambler. Love it.

 

If you're in CO I'd recommend a dual sport also. There are a whole lot of dirt/gravel roads that lead to beautiful scenery in CO that you'd be missing out on if you bought a ninja 250 or similar. Plus at 6'4" the taller seat height will suit you better.

DRZ400 has been basically the same bike for over 15 years. Any "problems" are well documented with easy fixes. Another great option is a Yamaha WR250.

 

The MSF course itself will be a good groundwork to learn about motorcycles and how to handle them in various situations. After two days straight of riding motorcycles, you will feel more in tune with what's going on. Harley, while you don't want one offers a free course for vets, active duty, and first responders. There is no obligation to buy a Harley after you complete the 2.5 day course. I had use them earlier this year since I'm a disabled vet. You learn on their 500 street bikes and they are extremely forgiving on mistakes if made (you will make them).

As far as smaller bikes, others would be more helpful than I. I ended up getting a Indian Scout for myself and love it but it's also 1130cc's of juice that has a half-crotch rocket mentality when I get on it and the cruiser look and feel when I'm just cruising (90% of what I'm doing anyways).

 

I really liked my suzuki dr650 dual sport.

I know the Army was a real pain when it came to soldiers owning bikes; our commander (also a rider) would personally inspect any known motorcycles at the barracks every Friday and also give the owner a safety lecture.

Hopefully the Air Force is more chill in that department.