Thanks for the tip. What should I do for security? I have been thinking an alarm system and a hidden master kill-switch??? Anyone done this?

 

I parked my rides in the kitchen. I rode more than I cooked anyways.

 

Haha. If i didn't live on the second floor that would be an option. My told me he did this back in the day.

 

Just having a bike is fine, and you've made a good choice of first bike. Apart from MSF course and gear, pay special atention to waterproof gear if you can't jump in a car when it rains. Textile gear is more comfortable, more convenient and generally more weatherproof than leather and gives more than adequate protection.

A top box is useful - I use one to park my gear when I'm off the bike, but they're not for carrying heavy loads. A quick trip back from the shops is OK if you're carefull.

Cheap throw over panniers are best for carrying stuff, and a tank bag is also useful - probably the best way to carry heavy stuff. Back packs affect your ability to control the bike if there's a lot of weight in them, and make your back and shoulders ache.

Rob