Re: New rider in Beijiing
Welcome! I live in Beijing and go riding frequently on the weekends...
As for shops, I'm sure everyone has their favorite. I bought my current bike from a big shop north of ShangDi on malianwa road. 马连洼路 They've treated me well and they have a lot of motorcycles to look at. The shop you buy your bike from should do everything for you... plate, insurance, etc. As far as what bike to buy, you'll get lots of advice from guys here... I don't know a lot about the dirtbike/dual sport offerings, but a friend has a Shineray 250 and he's very happy with it... If you can spend a bit more money you could go for a Japanese/Chinese venture... Yamaha has a Chinese 250cc dual sport I think...
good luck!