Besides the Honda Rebel, what is a good beginner's motor cycle?

Question

The Honda Rebel was recommended to me, but it seems too small. I am a little over 6 feet tall.

Answer 1

I'm about your height. There are plenty of different choices. A good rule is that almost anything 500 cc's and under is likely to be a decent first bike. Which one to pick depends on what sort of styling and what riding position you like. Here are some that are reasonable choices for a tall rider and relatively easy to find:

Standards:
Honda Nighthawk 250, Hyosung Comet 250 Naked, Ducati Monster 600/620

Sportbikes:
Kawasaki Ninja 250 and 500, Suzuki GS500, Yamaha Seca II*

Dual sports: **
Just about any model with a single cylinder engine.

Cruisers:
Honda Shadow VLX, Harley Sportster, Kawasaki Vulcan 750 and 800, Hyosung / United Motors GV250

* This is one of the very few 600 cc four cylinder bikes that I would recommend to a beginner. Most are way too unforgiving, both in power and handling.

** They're like big, street legal dirtbikes

You may wish to check out this link to some pictures of a tall guy sitting on a variety of bikes.

http://www.beginnerandbeyond.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&t=380&sid=8a2c8730aaa7b6093658e89b070e152b

Answer 2

Honda Rebel

Answer 3

Go with a Honda shadow or Yamaha Road Star. They are great bikes and the 600cc's are fun. I forget if they are 600 or 650, but they have plenty of power for a bigger person and they're not too powerful for a beginner.

If you like the sportbikes, the Suzuki Katana 600 is a decent ride along with the Yamaha YZF 600. They're more powerful than the cruisers, but not overbearing.

Answer 4

Being 6 feet tall I personally would recomend one more along the lines of a Hawk or a shadow instead of a rebel. I have help many newbies choose first bikes and one thing I have always stressed is fit. Sit it , streach out on it, see how it feels, stay with moderate power (i.e. 600, 700, ect...) , Keep looking until you find one that fits you and that you like the looks of, don't rush take your time. But most of all have fun and be safe.

Answer 5

The 883 Harley Hugger...or a Harley Sportster 885 or 1000. These are light and yet can handle the demand you are looking for, in a starter bike. Buy something that you can handle and holds it's value so when you are ready for bigger you don't take a big loss.

Answer 6

Honda Shadow. Refer to the most current review from Cycle World magazine. page 32 of the October 2006 edition. I believe it will answer most of your questions. www.cycleworld.com Review, study, practice and then enjoy the breeze between the knees!!!

Answer 7

Don't buy a small starter bike, or you will be disapointed in 2 weeks.

You can rent some bikes first is what I say.