First bike!

[zer028]

Hey everyone. I just purchased myself a gs500f 2008 with 5,000miles. New to riding as I do not have experience, license or helmet. I will be slowly getting each as I progress my skills in riding. So far ive only gone up to 30mph, waiting for my helmet before I go higher. This is my first bike and im super excited. First, gear, I will be needing a helmet, anyone can recc me a type or brand or is there any difference? Also im wanting to do some stuff to my bike to make it look cooler, I would mainly love to flush the turn signal lights, is there any way to do that? Thanks for reading and replies everyone!

[weedahoe]

Welcome to the site and congrats on the bike. Take some time and post some pics of it

How much did you pay for it?

I know it is hard to do but wait on making any changes to it until you get used to riding.

[Kerry]

[...]wait on making any changes to it until you get used to riding.

I agree ... unless you're thinking of (temporarily) replacing expensive parts that are easy to bend/ break with less expensive ones.  That way, your first spill (or two) won't be as traumatic. 

Regarding a helmet - your choice will be governed by 3 main things:

• How well it fits
• How much it costs
• Whether it has a DOT rating (just about all do) or, even better, a Snell rating

When it comes to helmets, it's a good idea to visit bike shops in the area and actually try on several brands and models.  I wouldn't go mail order on my first helmet ... at least not without trying on the same helmet in a store first.   

I guess you will have to decide between a full-face helmet (my recommendation), a helmet with an attachable face shield, or something else that's out of the ordinary.

[ericboutin]

Congratulations and welcome to the fold!! 

May I first suggest above all else that you consider taking the MSF course in your area.  It will be instrumental in bringing you up to speed (pun intended)  where you will feel comfortable going more than 30 mph.  You can ride their bikes  so if you have an oops...well no skin off your new GS!  You will also finish the course with your endorsement which is pretty awesome!  Nothing like practicing all weekend and then going immediately into taking your test!!   
As far as gear I don't know if you have a Cycle Gear or equivalent nearby but that is a great place to start.  They have their own brand "Bilt" which is very inexpensive and surprisingly nice too!  I agree that for a helmet and such it is much nicer to actually try on the helmet etc that you are interested in; that way you know it will be a proper fit when you leave the store.  There is also experienced...usually....folks in the store who can help you out.   I also agree that I would spend some money on riding gear before changing the bike up too much.  Most of all I can't recommend the MSF course enough.....Enjoy and keep the shiny side up!!!

[weedahoe]

As a new rider, the one thing I would consider buying for my bike would be frame sliders in case you drop it.

There is a nice set here for sale

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=64816.0