What is a good starter bike for a newbie about 6-0 200lbs?

Question

I am a newbie, getting permit, going to go to motorcycle safety courses for sure. Question is what are some bikes to consider upon completion of the training? Many say 250s are too small but dont go over 500cc. I'm hearing Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Boulevard s40 arent bad. I sat on a 250 ninja at work, didnt care for it too much. Honda nighthawk should make a 450! Any othe ideas on other starters? Appreciate it.

Answer 1

I'm 6'3" 200 lbs.  I have a bmw they're great for tall guys.

Answer 2

Look at the Honda Shadow VLX 600 or the Shadow 750. Both are V twins with Honda reliability. If you go 750 get the shaft drive. You'll have a bike you can ride on the hi way and on 150 mile hops. Enjoy.

Answer 3

dont use the word newbie around other bikers, thay will look down on u,  honda rebel 250

Answer 4

In the class you'll probably get to use a 250. After the class you'll know how it handles and how well it handles your weight. Knowing that, I think you'll want to start with something in the 400-500 range. When you get a little experience you'll probably want to move up a bit more. Buy used bikes for your first 3 or 4 until you're sure of what you like and need. Try as many bikes as you can before you spend money on a new one. One of my friends went through 4 brand new bikes in 3 years before he found one he really liked. A very expensive research project!

Answer 5

the one you feel comfy with,  and do not be afraid to check out the 750's.

Answer 6

SV650 is a good bike. You may not out grow it.

Answer 7

The Vulcan 500 is a great starter bike and it has the power that you need to safely ride on the freeway, not sure you can say the same thing about a 250cc. It might however be a little small for your taller frame.

The Suzuki s40 is a single cylinder, it wont be as smooth. You'll start to feel the vibes if you ride it for a while.

Go to lots of bike shops and sit on every bike you can find, new and used. You will get a good idea of what you want just by throwing your leg over a few rides.

Answer 8

Don't worry about a starter bike !  I went to the Laconia NH bike rally this past weekend where I saw virtually every size woman (person) riding virtually every kind of bike, of every size. Buy the bike you want (or can afford) and then just get some riding experience on it.