Buying a first motorbike

[alexander-a]

With the fuel prices going up and traffic in Auckland increasing I have been tempted to get a bike but I know nothing about them or have ever ridden one!
Any advice on what to lookout for in buying and owning a cheaper second hand bike would be welcome

[kNuTz]

I do not have one, but have often thought about getting a bike for the days that weather permits. I am aware the ruling changed from Learners under 250cc to a list of approved bikes (LAMS): http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/getting/motorcycles/approved-motorcycles.html.

Listing of bikes: http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/getting/motorcycles/lams.html