I am a large woman (275 lbs. 5' 4") and am a beginner on a bike. What bike is best for me?

Question

I recently received my motorcycle permit and plan to take the safety training course. I want a bike that won't overpower me yet give me the feel of a cruiser. Friends have tried to convince me to buy a scooter instead, but I want the real thing. It will be used for around town and highway use to get to/from work. Also, should I buy used - from a dealer to ensure safety?

Answer 1

honda 600

Answer 2

Don't mess around with a scooter if that's not what you want.

The Yamaha V Stars are popular with women because of their low seat height,

Take the MSF course before you make any final decisions about new or used.  There's an advantage to having a bike under warranty, but I sometimes think new riders on new bikes spend too much time trying not to scuff the paint.

Answer 3

I would recommend a Honda 750cc twin cruiser. They are forgiving bikes yet have enough power to safely go on the highway. The seat sits low and is really a perfect bike for a female beginner. A low mile used bike isn't very costly and they are very well made.

Answer 4

I'm partial to women with some structure, and Yamaha. I have a V-STAR 1100, so I'm suggesting a V-STAR 650...low center of gravity, nice on the curves and plenty of power when you want it. They also have a low seat, which is good for me with a 30" inseam. May I suggest you go to a dealer and try a few different models on for size. Let me know how it goes.

Answer 5

Your friends are actually right.  Check for a scooter with a low seat height.  Ideally your feet should rest flat on the ground when seated.  This is a very reassuring feel and will enable you to be a more confident rider.  Just remember a higher horsepower motorcycle can be just as short but will be considerably heavier.  To handle a heavier motorcycle requires a certain amount of muscle mass in the upper body.  If you are muscle bound and can handle the excess weight, fine; otherwise go a Suzuki Scooter.  It's auto transmission will give you the best of both worlds.  Convenience and easy handling.  Parking too should be a breeze.  Once you have ridden it for a couple of years, you can then decide if you need anything else.  It is advisable to make a small beginning.  Bikes are very different from cars, so lighter weight is important.

Answer 6

At 275Lbs you don't want any 250CC bike no matter what anybody here tells you.

Suzuki Boulavard is a nice cruiser with varied models in varied engine sizes.

Answer 7

Taking the class is the first step. Don't do anything until you finish the class. You'll train on 125 and 250cc bikes. That will give you an idea of what you need and what you can handle.

After the class you can visit several dealers to get an idea of what is available and to see what fits you. At your size you might want to start with something in the 250-400 range and then move to a midsize (400-800) after you get a year or so of practice time in.

Buying used is also a great idea for the first 3 or 4 bikes. Don't waste money on a new one until you are sure of what you want and need. Dealers don't usually have too many used bikes so try www.cycletrader.com and your local classifieds. Tell your instructors that you will be shopping for a used bike and maybe they will be able to reccommend a local service that will inspect the bike for you and let you know if it is a good buy or maybe somebody who would go shopping with you to show you what to look for.  

Good luck and ride safe!

Answer 8

I am about your height.  There are not many racers that will fit you (30 inch seat height or taller). But most cruiser style bikes start out at 25 inches.

But given your large weight you would need something in the 500 cc range.  I used to own the Kawasaki Vulcan 500.  It is easy to ride, and not overpowering. But it definitely have enough power for hwy cruising.

It had enough power for 2 people.  So it should have no problem with your weight.

Good luck...

Answer 9

Ah, my kind of woman - warm in the winter and shade in the summer (and I don't mean that in a derogatory way). I love a woman with some meat on her bones. If you've got beer I'm in Heaven.

Best that you get yourself a good sized cruiser in the 650cc and up range. There are some very nice ones on the market that can be fitted with a lowered seat allowing shorter riders to reach the ground. Wouldn't want to recommend a sportbike for anyone of your weight and height. It would not be a comfortable ride. If this is to be a first bike I would definitly NOT RECOMMEND used. Find a reputable dealer (any brand) and follow their recommendations when choosing your ride.

Answer 10

Any of the makes that are around the 700cc range should work.

Answer 11

my wife is about 5ft. 4in. and she like you has just started riding. I got her a BUELL Blast,it is a 500cc bike,it is light,and the fact that it is made by Harley Davidson make it all the better,as you won't find a better riding bike than a Harley