Honda CB750 question ...?

Question

I've read on this site, that although bulletproof, these aren't good for a first bike. I'm a big guy, 6' 280 lbs (closer to linebacker 280 lbs than weight watchers 280 lbs) and was by a friend who rides that I shouldn't look at anything less than a 750. Any thoughts on this? If not this bike then which would you suggest?

By the way, I'm looking at the older, early to mid 80's CB750's and Nighthawks, not CBR's or anything like that.

Answer 1

I had a 1978 CB750 super sport for a first bike. I had it for 15 years and just sold it last year. Great bike. Plenty fast. I am not as big as you, but these bikes have plenty of power. They are kind of heavy. You can adjust the springs on the back with a channel lock pliers for different weights. Never had any problems other than usual tires and cables.
The guy I bought it from had it as a first bike when he was 15 years old.

Answer 2

The CB750 is a great bike especially for someone your size. The only problem being is if you haven't had any riding experience this may be a little much. It could get you into trouble fast. I had a couple of friends killed on CB750s years ago and I believe it was because the 750's were their first bikes and they didn't have any experience making mistakes with a smaller (slower)bike first to learn how to stay out of trouble.
The ideal way to become a bike rider is to start small (preferably starting with a mini bike or dirt bike) and work your way up. You're way past minibike stage so if you have very little or no experience at all find something smaller and temporary and experiment and play with it in a field or wooded area. An old dirt bike or an old beater for a couple of hundred dollars for training purposes.
If you go straight for the CB 750 take the MSF riding course, wear a helmet and ride safe. Good Luck

Answer 3

The old CB 750 is a lot of iron and not the most stable of motorcycles ever conceived. Not to say any of the bikes from that era were. a Kawasaki Z had a little more agility and a lot more power, going into the Z and KZ 1000 range, and better engine technology, but they were what they were. great bikes, fun, durable and a little tricky for beginners.

The reason for people saying you need a high displacement is because your weight will affect the bike's performance, no question. So the more power, the more motorcycle experience you'll enjoy at your weight.

The Honda lost the rocker arms and single over head cam after a while, and even older models with the SOHC arrangement are great old bikes to own and ride.

Answer 4

The 750 is a good choice. I actually started with a 125, but I was only at 140 lbs. I went to a 350 and then the CB750. You'll love the 750, I'm sure!

Answer 5

These bikes are good ,cheap,bikes for beginners but to get the fuel economy and a good ride ,you probably want a 1000.The 80's model honda gl 1000 goldwing is a good bike you can sometimes find cheap.Some came with all the fairings and most did not.These bikes WILL keep up with the bikes of today.Most 600s and 750s like those are made for 150 to 200 lb.riders around 5'6 to 6' to ride comfortably you probably want a 1000.

Answer 6

Started riding this year on a S2R 800. I am 5'11" and 180. Have not had any problems. Experienced folks who talked to me about first bike all said 800 okay for starting out as an adult. They suggested most important aspect concerned how throttle delivered power and whether it was smooth. Also a consideration is concern that many new riders will drop the bike and one should consider repair costs. I agree with above comment that the MSF course is a very good idea. You get alot of time on their bikes with good instructors who stress safety and make alot of good points for keeping you safe. At 280 I probably would have opted for the 1000 cc version of the bike I purchased. Just my 2 cents and most of advice hearing is retread of what experienced riders told me when confronted with similar decision.

Answer 7

A Honda CB 750 is a big bike for your first bike, although you are a big man. I don't you would want to go any bigger than a 500 for your first bike but this is an exception because of the size of the rider. A 750 would fit you perfect, although check into it more when you actually go to the dealer. I have no idea what your friend is talking about, I think he just wants you to have more power, which the more power and speed for a beginner means the harder it is for learn.

Answer 8

OK, you've got the size to handle a larger bike, but I would caution you:

* Most newbie mistakes I've seen have resulted from too much power coming out of a turn. (Lowsiding.)
That big four will do that easy with a rough hand on the throttle.

* There have been a lot of advances in suspension-handling since the early '80`s and the big Hondas were'nt known as good handlers then.
Do not try to keep up with modern, (better handling), bikes.
You will be in way over your head in short order and there's only a couple of layers of cloth between you and a whole lot of hard uncompromising reality.

Answer 9

I outweigh you and I ride a 600, in fact if I even start opening it up I am over the speed limit before I know it.
I took my safety class on a 250, it had no problem moving me around. Do not let your size make you think you need a bigger bike. Plus a smaller bike handles better.

Answer 10

I'm in a similar situation myself. I just completed the moto safety course.

I was looking around. Part of me feels that anything less than a Harley makes me feel like a 2nd class citizen. But I'm not paying crazy amounts of money on a first bike.

The key is your height and weight, but having something you can strech out on as well as easy to ride. I found that the Yamaha V-Star 1100 is really comfortable and easy to move. The classic has shaft drive which requires basically no maint.

They've been out for a few years now so you may find a good deal. Plus it looks a lot like a harley. Check em out on www.youtube.com or on yamaha's site.