I am 6'5'' and weigh 280lbs. I am a beginner to motorcycles, what is a good starter bike?

Question

I would like to get a sportbike like the GSXR, gsx katana, or ninja. I really appreciate your help. thanks.

Answer 1

begginners should get a 600 or a 750gsxr

the power of a 1000 may be too much to handle

Answer 2

all good answers above, but as you are a large person, have you considered a giant trail bike, such as a ktm or a bmw rg1200? should be quite user friendly for a beginner and quite comfortable for someone 6'5"

Answer 3

don't get a katana and definitely don't get a ninja!

if you want a sport bike... BUY A SPORT BIKE, I think it's a great idea.

your new and you admit it so just know that you have a 99% chance of at least dropping your bike within a few weeks of owning it. So if you buy something new and flashy it's just going to loose half it's value the first few weeks you have it!!! I can't stand new riders that go out and buy brand new bikes, I've been riding for two years and I don't have a brand new bike!!

what I'm saying is go older, it doesn't have to look like ****, but older bikes will be much cheaper, less powerful and most of all if you put it down it's not nearly as costly as dropping something new!

oh, and don't listen to all the people on here that will recommend the ninja 250, you'll be bored in no time and trying to sell your POS for a loss! The older sportbikes have just the right amount of power for a newbie, just make sure you get the 600cc ones not the 1000!

bike recommends:

98-02 CBR 600RR or F4i if you can stand the looks

96-02 GSX-R 600

98-02 R6

there's some other stuff out there, you just have to look around, try craigslist.com

Answer 4

Welcome to motorcycling :)  It's allot of fun when you get the hang of it.

Now to answer your question. I wouldn't get a sportbike as my first bike (not that I have anything against them) if I were you. Reason being, you are just to big. Have you ever sat on one? The footpegs will have your knees up in your throat. It will most likely be a very uncomfortable position to ride in for any length of time. However I believe they do make peg extendors so that may help a little if you are dead set on getting one.

Personally I'd opt for something like a Honda vtx1300. It'd be a much more comfortable ride for you but if you have your mind set on a sportbike GO FOR IT! They are all good bikes you mention. Good luck and ride safe.

Answer 5

Ninja 500 or 650.

SV650. GSF650.

(all twin cylinders?)

Any idiot can ride fast in a straight line. Get one of these used and build up your cornering and handling skill, then maybe buy new. These are much more forgiving, but by no means "kid bikes." The 650 will do 0-60 in ~3.7.

No supersport 600's or above, you will be more likely to die.

+1 on buying used.