Cruiser Fit.... ?

[tx_basser]

Noob here looking at Cruisers, I'm 6'4" 230 lbs, and comfort is of a primary concern for me.. Friend of mine has V-Star 650 and has been recommending it, so I went to out today and did some sitting. Problem was it just seem too small, and when I put my feet on the floor boards my knees seemed to be almost even with the top fo the tank.

So I started sitting on others and and noticed others fit very similar but not as bad as the V-Star. Conversely, I sat the the Vulcan 750 and it seemed to fit very well with my long legs and arms seemed to be more comfortable as well. The S50 also seems to fit a little better also.

Is there that much difference between mfg's and how they fit?

[V4underme]

yes, but there are also differences within the lineup of each mfg. Seat shape, seat height, handlebar shape, rise and pullback, etc.... best thing you can do is sit on everything you can until you find one that sings to you. Don't be afraid to look at the 1100 cc class if bikes, at your size they are a viable option. Each mfg has some great machines, keep sitting.

[Scott58]

What's your inseam? I looked at both the v star and S50 and decided on the S50. It's not bad but i'm still considering forward controls.

[Dragonhawk]

Is there that much difference between mfg's and how they fit?

Yes. Some bikes are taller. Shorter. Longer wheelbase. Leaned back seating. Hunched over. Upright. You name it. Bikes are made in all shapes and sizes and ergonomics. Since all human beings are different shapes and sizes, this is an intelligent way to engineer motorcycles; to give the manufacturers their largest possible market share.

So keep looking until you find something that comfortably fits your body, your pocketbook and experience-level.

Don't be shocked when some bikes fit far better or worse than others. That's the way it's supposed to be, kiddo.

[MotoF150]

I suggest the Suzuki S83, don't buy the S50!!! that bike is s-l-o-w the S83 is 1340cc engine the S50 is 805cc and the S83 is only $700 more, the hard seat and the riding postion will be better. If you like the Yamaha go with the 1100 V Star instead of the 650, hard seats are more comfortable than soft seats. If you want a big bike look at the Honda VTX1300, that will fit you perfect and they are a good buy, Honda Dealers are selling new VTX1300's for $6995 thats a lot of bike for that price.

[Scott58]

Hate to burst your bubble there MotoF, but the S50 is actually quicker in the 1/4 then the S83.

[Scoutmedic]

Sit on all different bikes and find the one that feels the best. If you're new to riding and decide on a larger engine bike, take it easy and remember there's a lot of power sitting there waiting to be unleashed. I've got an S50 myself and am really enjoying it. It cruises at 55 with only about 1/4 throttle. Plenty of speed and power left.

[jmillheiser]

Best thing you can do is sit on everything that suits your taste, budget, and experience level and buy the one that is the most comfortable to you.

[MotoF150]

Mr. Scott58,,, WHAT?? the S50 is quicker on the 1/4 mile than the S83??? Maybe ur right, but I find that hard to believe the S83 is 1340cc's and the S50 is 805cc's. I own a M50, same engine right? I know the S83 is quicker than my bike, um nooo I never rode a S83 but every dealer I talked too told me its faster and you know dealers never lie. I was looking about buying a S83 or a VTX1300

[tx_basser]

Thanks for the feedback guys, looks like i'm gonna be doing allot of sitting for a while and surfing the Cycletrader. Looking to get a cheap bike to learn on, and understand what kind of seated position I like. Don't understand what the big deal is to have you azz dragging the ground on a bike. Rode allot of dirt bikes in my younger days, and this cruiser thing is going to take some getting used to.