You Ask/You Answer: Old or new first bike?

I recommend getting an old used bike first - doesn't have to be a heap but it means you can concentrate on learning to ride and getting good experience under your belt without having to worry too much about the bike - e.g experience includes maintaining it and keeping it clean and getting used to riding in all conditions. Then when you're ready, get the bike you really want - you'll have a much better idea what bike that is once you've been riding for while and make a better choice - you'll also enjoy it more when you do get it as you'll have become a more seasoned biker and worked your way up to it. I'd reckon getting a new restricted bike will only hold you back a bit so best be patient. good luck!

New or old it is best to stick to a naked as plastic is expensive to replace. No point buying cheap to spend a fortune on new plastic. Otherwise buy what you can afford and as most others say, you are likely to re-consider that wild impulse to throw it round a bend if it is new (showing off your new bike that is now scratched to bits isnt cool - as my son soon found out)