Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 9:44 pm
Fit is the most important aspect to consider. The fastest bike on the planet won't be worth squat if it's too big or too small...
How tall are you? I am just a tad over six foot, 34 inch inseam, at 195 pounds, when I sit on a 883 HD, my knees are up around the handlebars. Not a good fit if you intend to ride any farther than the corner store. On the other hand the Virago's are a mid size frame and fair power for around town, but 250cc is a bit lite for long hiway rides.
If you are hell bent on a HD, and you have some mechanical ability, go with at least the 1200. The frame fits a taller person and the power is there for all types of riding, but the comfort for a long hual on a 1200 sportster leaves a lot to be desired. But at least the 1200 is a small enuff and lite enuff bike to handle easily.
If you are riding in a lot of traffic, you're a lot better off with more power than you may ever need , to get out of the way in a hurry if you have to. Riding to work shouldn't rag you out so bad that you're too beat to do your job when you get there...comfort and power are important. Price is something to consider, but if you buy wise and take care of it, the investment will be well worth it. I bought a 1985 Yamaha Venture new in 85 and drove it 180,000 miles before I traded it in for a 99 Venture. So buy wise and take good care of it, you'll be glad you spent the extra bucks in the end
How tall are you? I am just a tad over six foot, 34 inch inseam, at 195 pounds, when I sit on a 883 HD, my knees are up around the handlebars. Not a good fit if you intend to ride any farther than the corner store. On the other hand the Virago's are a mid size frame and fair power for around town, but 250cc is a bit lite for long hiway rides.
If you are hell bent on a HD, and you have some mechanical ability, go with at least the 1200. The frame fits a taller person and the power is there for all types of riding, but the comfort for a long hual on a 1200 sportster leaves a lot to be desired. But at least the 1200 is a small enuff and lite enuff bike to handle easily.
If you are riding in a lot of traffic, you're a lot better off with more power than you may ever need , to get out of the way in a hurry if you have to. Riding to work shouldn't rag you out so bad that you're too beat to do your job when you get there...comfort and power are important. Price is something to consider, but if you buy wise and take care of it, the investment will be well worth it. I bought a 1985 Yamaha Venture new in 85 and drove it 180,000 miles before I traded it in for a 99 Venture. So buy wise and take good care of it, you'll be glad you spent the extra bucks in the end
