Weight? I'm 6-1 280 and have a 34 inseam. My big ass rides a SV650. Granted, I've done my share of suspension work, but after a year and a half and 16k, I still feel like this is enough bike for me. Are you settled on cruisers, or what? I wanted a nekkid, so that's why I went that way. I have noe regrets, but it may not suit your riding either.

 

I wouldn't mind a standard.

 

Ya might want to consider the Honda Shadow. The 750 is reasonable in price and yet has plenty of power and the bike is large enough for your size and will give you a comfortable ride.

I'm 6'1" and 260 and ride a Honda Nighthawk but feel a step up to the Shadow or a HD Sportster would be a good idea. My brother-in-law rides a '01 Sportster 1200 and he's 6'4" and 280.

For a beginner, I personally think the 1200 is probably too much power, but, so many newbies have regretted that they started with a 500 or so and invariably want to trade up rather quickly.

Another 2 cents worth! TAKE A MSF COURSE!! It's help to teach you a lot of finesse moves and get you a discount on your insurance!!

Good Luck,
CD

 

Another 2 cents worth! TAKE A MSF COURSE!! It's help to teach you a lot of finesse moves and get you a discount on your insurance!!

Good Luck,
CD

I'm already signed up for a course in april. I'm hoping it will also give me an idea of what I really need. Thanks!

 

For a new rider, a well maintained used bike is a great way to go. Your bound to drop it once or twice and you'll feel better and pay less to fix up an older bike. I also recommend considering a dual purpose machine. It won't hande as well on the road, but then you won't be pushing any limits as a beginning rider. The added benefit is the abilty to take it on some back roads, even off road a little. You'll acquire skills much faster in a non-paved environment, skills that will transfer to the street. Also, dual purpose machines are much more robust. Pick 'em up, dust 'em off (or not), and you're back on your way. Once you get a few miles under your belt, then start looking for the ride that suits you best.

 

I have the same inseam and can tell you from experience that a 500 Shadow will be uncomfortable. Any of the standards should be fine, I had a Seca II that was a great fit. I now have a HD FXRS, and it's fine also but probably a bit big for what you're seeking.

 

I found a 2001 Ducati 750 monster. How about that for a beginner standard. Its a little over what I'm wanting to spend but not that much. $3500.

 

Have you considered a dual-sport motorcycle? Like a KLR-650 or DR-Z400? They're more friendly to taller riders and great for new riders to learn on.
A Suzuki DR-Z400SM would be in your price range if you can find one

 

I have yet to find any dual-sports in my price range. By the way, do you all know any good places to search for used bikes. There are quite a few on craigslist and a couple on cycletrader. Are there any others?

 

I am 6'3" and currently weigh 270 lb. I just bought a 03 Shadow Spirit 750. I feel very comfortable on it other than the location of the forward controls. I will soon be extending those about 4". I have been looking at kits on ebay to do that.

 

As a 6'8" 320lb-er, I've stuck with standards and the Gold Wings. Since the GL series is a liter and up, not an issue. (The fact they are designed around riding all the time throughout the year, and are set up to hold up under some weight, helps some...)

If you could find an 84 V65 Sabre, I think you'd fall in love. Good height for the more leggy amongst us, EXCELLENT power, very roadworthy for longer hauls, and some aftermarket stuff available as far as fairing and hard bags. Also, the parts bin (believe it or not) is pretty full as far as replacement parts and repairs.

Prices nowadays should be well within your budget.

 

I agree with cecilbdml. I have an '84 Sabre and it has a lot more legroom than my other bikes. The price was incredibly low ($1600) and it's easy to maintain. The shaft drive is a big plus.

 

I'm 6 '2" 240 I ride a 2002 suzuki marauder VZ800 it is a perfect size bike it only weighs about 450 lbs, you can get a used one for around 2000-2500 dollars. The dealer wants you to spend money look on craigslist for some. (my girlfriend wants me to tell everyone I am going balds.)

 

Old thread.