Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Hey guys - I've been poking around the 'net for a week trying to build a list of bikes to look at this weekend. I'll be enrolling for an MSF class shortly and would like to start riding & learning right after. My biggest problem (also the same problem I have with any other motoring hobby) is my size. Standing 6'10" and 260lbs isn't exactly what most engineers had in mind when making bikes... or anything else for that matter. My heart is set on a BMW F650 CS/GS but I'm trying not to get my hopes up. Other than that I'd like to know if anyone around here is a freakishly tall riders? Suggesting on what bikes to go sit on? I'm not really looking for a sport bike, but in the traditional/crusier/sport crusier area.

An SV650 may be up you're alley. You would have to use moderation and self-control as well, but I see no reason why somone you're size woulden't have an issue on that bike.

The Buell Ulysses was made for you! Probably not a good starter bike, but after a year of riding check out it, it stands tall as hell and is an awesome bike. http://buell.com/en_us/bikes_gear/ulysses/

Look at the various dual-sports. Many of them are tall and have seat heights that might suit you.

- VTX1800C with forward controls

- Triumph Tiger

- Suzuki V-Strom 1000

- Vulcan 2000

ZooTech wrote: - Suzuki V-Strom 1000

I stood next to one of those in a parking garage once... it honestly looked about twice as tall as my Radian. Might not be a bad bike for the guy's size, but a V-Strom 650 might be better for his skills.

ZooTech wrote: - Suzuki V-Strom 1000

- Suzuki V-Strom 650
- Kawasaki KLR650

Most people advise against the 1000cc+ bikes to start on.

I can flat-foot a BMW F650 (never tried the GS/CS as it works out) and I have stubby legs (I'm only 6' tall)... the problem I have with them is the shifter position is a little goofy for me which makes downshifting awkward. That is probably adjustable.

The reality is that seat height doesn't mean much, and it is about the only published specification that relates to rider height. Depending on how your body is proportioned (legs:torso:arms) a bike may feel totally awkward to you and totally comfortable to someone else of your height.

Thanks guys. Some of said bikes are already on my "to sit on' list, so I guess I'm headed in the right direction.

So next question, any warning signs I should look for that the bike is just too small? I mean, to me everything seems small and uncomfortable, but when does it become unsafe? Any books or sites that address proper cycle ergonomics for a peticular style?

I have my fingers crossed the bike dream doesn't die a horrible death like the dream to have a small sports car...

Just dont sit on bikes, carefully put your feet up on the pegs. If your legs feel scrunched after a minute on a bike at a dealership, it will feel much worse after an hour of riding.

Dont worry, you will find something. I hear Micheal Jordan likes to ride sport bikes.

Skier wrote:

ZooTech wrote: - Suzuki V-Strom 1000

I stood next to one of those in a parking garage once... it honestly looked about twice as tall as my Radian. Might not be a bad bike for the guy's size, but a V-Strom 650 might be better for his skills.

The 650 is an inch shorter than the 1000, though, FWIW. (I do agree with your point about it being more beginner-friendly).