I currently own a 1963 white vespa but would like something more powerful. Unfortunatly, I'm a girl on the smaller side of average and I'm not quite comfortable with motorcycles over about 550 pounds (with fuel). I realize that what might be managable for one 120 pound girl may be overwhelming for me, any how...
1. what is a good bike that would be easy to ride/handle
2. I love the look of old ('30s/'40s/'50s) motorcycles but would they be too heavy (and unsafe) for someone like me.
2006-09-12 14:10:13 · 14 answers · asked by allison 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
Easy. Honda Rebel. 250cc, very low, very lightweight. Or, Honda Shadow VLX. 600cc, also very low and very lightweight. With a little creativity and some effort, you could make them resemble the Bobbers of the 40's/50's.
2006-09-12 14:17:43 · answer #1 · answered by jkc6229 3 · 2⤊ 4⤋
I can think of three pretty good choices. Any one of them will be very lightweight and easy to handle. The MSF uses them in classes for people who have never ridden before, so you know they're beginner friendly.
The Yamaha Virago 250 has a V-twin engine and does a decent attempt at imitating classic bikes in 3/4 scale.
The Suzuki GZ250 also looks somewhat like an old bike, but with a single cylinder it kind of looks a bit more European then like an attempt at building a miniature Harley.
The Honda Rebel, with its parallel twin, may be the most common small cruiser, but the engine is definitely more '70s than '50s.
My advice is to take a look at all three and pick whichever one you feel the most comfortable riding. If you want a good deal more power than your Vespa, you might want to try a Kawasaki Vulcan 500 or a Honda Shadow VLX. The Sportster 883L is possible, but edging dangerously close to that 550 lb weight limit you were talking about.
2006-09-12 14:23:18 · answer #2 · answered by Mad Scientist Matt 5 · 1⤊ 2⤋
The 250s like the Rebel may not be enough passing power... Consider some of the low seat models with 650s or 750s... BMW has a 650, Honda has both 650 and 750, also, if you like old school stuff, look at the Triumph Bonneville, it might have a low seat option as well.
2006-09-13 04:22:55 · answer #3 · answered by morlock825 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The Buell Blast is made for smaller riders. It will satisfy your cravings for a little more power too. Also, a Honda Shadow 600 and a Harley Sportser 883 are good choices.
2006-09-13 11:28:29 · answer #4 · answered by atvman_400 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Suzuki makes a one cylinder 650 cc bike called a Savage. It is light and easy to maintain plus you can get on the freeway without being intimidated like on a Rebel. Plus has a nice look with wire wheels and all.
2006-09-13 04:24:46 · answer #5 · answered by chris B 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Check out the Ridley Automatic Transmission Cruisers.
2006-09-12 16:37:00 · answer #6 · answered by zavarob 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Take a look at the Honda 600 Shdow VLX and the Kawasaki, Vulcan 500. They are both powerful, low to the ground cruisers. If you can flat foot while stopped, you got it knocked.
2006-09-12 15:22:01 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
Look into the Honda Rebel or Night Hawk
2006-09-13 03:57:21 · answer #8 · answered by mariacdintraining 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Ninja 400 its low seat and its fast and easy to drive! If you buy a 30s,40, or 50s bike be ready to maintain it !! and deal with bad handling and bad brakes.
2006-09-12 20:35:43 · answer #9 · answered by terryhotshoe 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I would suggest looking at a Buell Blast. They're 500cc and have a low seat height, they are about 380 pounds but it's very low slung weight...how tall are you? or, more importantly, what's your inseam? the Blast's seat height is 25(or 27?).5 inches *I believe*
2006-09-12 14:15:07 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
maybe a Harley sportster like a 883. a smaller motor but still very nice looking or possibly a enduro like a Honda xr 250L might be a good choice
2006-09-12 14:15:39 · answer #11 · answered by eman 1 · 3⤊ 1⤋