What would be a good "starter" motorcycle for a 6'4" tall 300lbs guy

Question

I am interested in getting a motorcycle for better fuel economy (commute to college/work), and for a bit of fun :D

I know how to ride a bike but I haven't spent a lot of time on one. I am looking for more of a cruiser, with a bit of power!

What would you recommend for a large man (6'4" and 300lbs)

Bikes I have had a bit of interest in:

Harley Davidson Night rod special (I hear this is longer than the v-rod, i rode a v-rod when it was released a while back and I didn't fit to well on it)

Harley Davidson Fat Boy (probably around a 93)

Honda VTX 1300

Any suggestions/opinions would be awesome thanks in advance!

Answer 1

I'm 6'3" and 300, so I know where you're coming from. I'm happy with my Dyna with forward controls. If the controls are still cramped for you, you can get an extension kit to move then forward a few inches more. Myself, I went with the three inch extended forward controls, and the bike fits me great. Good luck with your search.

Answer 2

ok, so you dont have alot of experience, first, Id buy a USED bike, Next try not to go to heavy, and no v rod or crotch rocket, get a cruiser around 1100cc to 1300 cc, Honda and yamaha make very good ones and can be gotten cheap. Will fit your size, allow you to learn on a nimble safe bike, good for long trips, reliable and the right price.

Answer 3

I understand you like the cruisers, but I don't think they are a good choice for a new rider, especially if he has long legs.

The problem is that cruisers ride low and your legs are way out in front of you. This is okay when your are cruising, but when you must come to a stop (which is often if you are commuting), you must move your feett from the front of the bike to the pavement at a point centered under your hips to provide good balance. This means moving your foot almost 3 feet back just at the right time. It is an awkward motion.

I recomment a "standard" type cycle (like a Honda Nighthawk) where you ride in a more upright position and your feet are always right underneath your hips. This way, when you come to a stop, you just take your feet off the foot pegs and place them straight down to the pavement- a distance of less than 6 inches.

The standard bike also lets you maintain better control when cornering,  and allows you to stand up on the foot pegs to allow your legs to absorb the shock that occurs when you can't avoid debris on the road and must run over it.

Answer 4

The Fat Boy would fit you perfectly.