Question about which motorcycle to get?

Question

I am a big guy (215 lbs) but wife is small. We want a starter motorcycle to be safe but didn't know if a 250 cc or Suzuki boulevard 40 is enough bike. we just go county roads on our scooter right now at about 50 mph and don't plan to go faster

Answer 1

If I were you, I would seriously consider digging  a little deeper for a BMW.  They make a great F650GS, used can expect anywhere from $9,000 to 4000.  Great bikes, low on maint and easy to ride for women.  The dealer's, if that's who has one will let you test ride it.  If that BMW dealer does not leave immediately and report him to BMW U.S.A. It's a BMW requirement.  

If not a fun little 750 from Ural is a lot of fun and easy to maintain yourself.

Answer 2

I get this question a lot--what's a good "starter bike?"

My answer is always the same--leave the 250cc bikes for the ladies. You want a motorcycle that's going to be able to get out of its own way--especially two-up--as your skills improve as you transition from a scooter to a bike.

Suzuki makes some really good bikes. The S40, the one you're interested in, may be a bit small for two-up (only a 655cc air-cooled single). Singles are good for small-displacement scooters, but on a less-refined motorcycle, it could lead to some loose fillings. :-)

My suggestion? I'd step up to the S50. 850cc and liquid-cooled equals a far, far smoother ride. It's a great bike to grow into--you won't be disappointed.

Answer 3

I am also a Harley guy and my wife and I are more than comfortable riding together on my Road King.....but it does not sound like you want a Harley.  I would suggest a Honda Shadow 1100....big but not too big...plenty of power.

Answer 4

Not planning to go faster and being on a state hiway where speed lint is 60 are two different scenerios. When the 18 wheeler is hugging your rear fender guess what, you accelerate some what. So for two up riding, I'd go with a 650cc to 900cc V twin, one of the big 4 japanese brands. Yamaha makes a sweet 650 V Star twin and Kawasaki has a new V Twin 900cc and it is a full sixed cycle. I am a Honda guy and the 750 shadow (shaft drive) is excellent. No chinese stuff yet, period. If you buy used it must look new and cared for or move on. Have a great ride with helmets.

Answer 5

I'm a big Harley fan, but if you just want a good economical cruiser type bike just for the two of you, I would recommend maybe a Yamaha Vstar or Honda Shadow. I would go with a 750 cc or around in that area. Anything less than that just does not have the power for the two of you. These bikes are good, virtually maintenance free. You can pick up a nice one used for less than 4000.