[Tidybuoy]

I personally would recommend a 300cc range bike (this also depends on the size of your kid). I would also encourage the Highway Patrol safety course. I took that course prior to getting my bike and so I had my license before purchasing and had enough experience to buy and ride my bike home from the dealer.

I had never owned a bike but I did ride a Honda 750 for two weeks straight when I was in my early 20's and I had a mini-bike for many years as a kid (also had a moped). So, when I decided to purchase my BMW 1200cc at age 55, I was not exactly experienced but became very comfortable in a few months. I also have taken 3 safety courses and have learned a bit more each time. I currently have 15,500 miles on the bike.

Recently, I purchased a BMW G310R to have as a spare putt-putt bike. In reality, I almost never ride it because is it considerably slower than the big bike. Both bikes are about the same ride height but the 310 is shorter and definitely feels smaller. It also weighs about 180lbs lighter. It has plenty of power but you have to rev the engine pretty high to make it go.

Someone earlier on this thread stated that it's not the rider you have to worry about, it's the other vehicles on the road. That is very true which is why I feel much safer on the big bike. It can quickly pull away from a dangerous situation or pull ahead of traffic. The smaller bike will not pull forward nearly as quickly so I don't feel as safe.

The CHP safety course (#1) supplies the bikes and they were de-tuned Harley 500cc bikes. Very good bikes for learning. All the additional classes require your own bike.