Hello my name is Keith i am new to yahoo's "answers" and i have a question, currently i weight 317 and i am looking into driving motorcycles. I have always been attracted to them. What do you think would be a great starter bike that could accommodate my weight, and still be a good ride.
P.s. i do not like Harleys!
2007-09-18 04:02:14 · 18 answers · asked by Keith G 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
I have a friend who would make you seem thin! He's around 400lbs. and rides a honda 750 shadow spirit. Seeing him coming down the street on that bike is quite a sight! But to make my point, we have rode through the mountains in Oklahoma all day long, and he didn't have any trouble keeping pace. So I know for a fact a 750 is plenty of bike, and I suspect a 600 would do you just fine as well. As to what brand to buy, I would advise you to follow your heart and get what you want.
2007-09-18 17:21:58 · answer #1 · answered by bikermog 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do not know how much you are willing to pay but i am just getting into riding and bought a 1982 yahama maxim 750 from a friend and it rides very nice and i have no problem with power going 50 and flooring the gas i can get to 70 in 2 telephone pole lengths. I also weigh around 300lbs. I would just say sit on a couple of bikes and see what's comfortable. I do not plan on riding very long distances at most 2hrs at a time and this bike works very well for that
2007-09-18 13:04:24 · answer #2 · answered by Matthew S 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Weight does have a lot of effect on the way a motorcycle rides. Theres no way with any one your size jumping on a 500 would get them any where. I work with motorcycles I have big men who ride as well. I suggest a 1000, its a lot of power to some but you will need it. And if your smart and safe you will not have a problem dont force your self to learn quick, take you time. I suggest a gsxr 1000, yamaha 1000... anything like that considering you are not interseted in cruisers.
2007-09-18 14:31:20 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm sorry you don't like harleys. Im 6'3" and weigh 324 lbs. I ride a 2007 full dress harley "ultra classic" and love it. My wife and I ride it everywhere. Before that, I owned a 2006 Harley "dyna wide glide" and before that 3 more harleys. I have owned 26 bikes total in 41 years of riding. Most makes and models out there. For your size, a harley would be perfect. what do you not like them? Your other choices are Honda goldwings or aspencaide, or maybe one of the bigger BMW, Kawasaki, or yamaha bikes. just boils down to personal preference and needs.
Good luck
2007-09-18 11:50:01 · answer #4 · answered by randy 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Most of the "cruiser" style bikes would be good for you. I definitely would go 1,000 ccs or above. I am a big guy too and I rode the Kawasaki 1000 police at work and then I know you'll hate this... the Harley Road King for 2 years before I retired.
Most of the bigger engine sized cruisers will have power to spare and a pretty comfy saddle. You'll be surprised how plus the suspension is on bikes now and I only give you one more hint or advice...
Take the MSF safe rider course. The motorcycle safety foundation is pretty much the gold standard for rider training and I think you'll enjoy it also.
2007-09-18 11:12:14 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 5⤊ 1⤋
I guess the first question I should ask is how "flexible" you are? You are going to need to be able to get your leg over the seat. Fortunately most street bikes are not like a motocross bike with 14" of wheel travel and 40"+ seat heights. But you are not comfortable with a 30" seat height, then a 1000cc+ cruiser style bike, like Honda VTX might be your first choice.
And if you have the money, and a yearning to travel in a serious way "in comfort" then get a Honda Goldwing. It is the best in its class and has been for decades.
2007-09-18 12:37:47 · answer #6 · answered by jrg1500 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Uh-oh, you've uttered the phrase which must never be heard - "I do not like Harleys". You're in trouble now....
Assuming you're in the US, then you have more options open to you than we do here in the UK for "starter bikes".
As you're such a big lad, you're going to need something with a decent sized engine and built to cope with heavy loads, something destined as a tourer would be where I would start looking. If you were in the UK, I'd suggest looking at something like a PC800, Honda Pan Euro, a Suzuki Bandit 1200, Yam XJ900 or any of the big Kwak tourers or a BMW.
Custom bikes will put too much weight on your backside and spine to be comfortable over long distances. Sports bikes will kill your neck and wrists.
Yep, a tourer is what I'd be looking for.
2007-09-18 11:28:55 · answer #7 · answered by Steve C 5 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Best thing for you to do would be to go to a large multibrand dealership and sit down on every bike that looks good to you. at least one will suit you and be to your liking. I myself am 6'5 300+ pounds and surprisingly the bike that best fit my needs, size, style, and skill level was a Honda 599 ironically a bike that is known for being uncomfortable for bigger guys. So seriously TRY EVERYTHING even if someone says that theres no way you'll be comfortable on it. And just about every bike is rated to hold at least 400 pounds so your not gonna break the limit on anything.
2007-09-18 21:29:58 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Welcome aboard! I don't like Harley's either. :)
Motorcycles are not only made for skinny people. There are many bikes out there that fit many types of people.
You have to decide what kind of riding you like. Do you like relaxing and cruising the countryside, leaning into corners with a more responsive bike, or touring to nearby or distant locations?
Once you answer that question, then you have to research the type of bikes you like. Just come up with a short list and go to a dealer or bike show and sit on the bikes that interest you. Remember that comfort will be a key factor, otherwise you won't like riding the bike.
For your build, I'd recommend something over 1000cc's. Stick to the major Japanese manufacturers for variety of product line, value and reliability.
Here are some sites to get you started:
http://www.motorcyclebg.com
http://www.totalmotorcycle.com
http://www.biketestusa.com
http://www.cybersportbike.com/2/breviews/2readreview.htm
Always wear protective gear when riding and take an MSF course if you're new to riding or you've been away from it for long.
Ride Safe!
2007-09-18 11:22:44 · answer #9 · answered by JustAnotherJoe 3 · 2⤊ 4⤋
A trike made by Honda or Cushman. They are the most stable. If you do not want a trike, get a Gold Wing. Best deal in the world and nice ride.
2007-09-18 13:41:22 · answer #10 · answered by Date Dr. 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋