Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Hi, I came across this forum this morning and after reading all the stickied threads and surfing around a bit I've already taken in quite a bit of information. This looks like a great forum

I was considering getting a motorcycle this spring, so I'm starting to do some homework to find out which models to look at. I'm 19 and 6'3", 175 lbs., so I want something that I don't feel cramped on. It would probably be used for commuting back and forth to college, so I want something with a comfortable riding position. I also like single cylinders and parallel twins. I've been looking at bikes like the Nighthawk 450, Suzuki GS 500, and Suzuki Savage.

I'd like to hear any suggestions and input that you guys have to offer. Thanks in advance!

Well you're on the right track.

At least you're not another person wanting to start on a 600+


Be sure to sit on the bikes to see what you want. I was looking at both the GS 500 and EX500 but the GS is torture on my knees. The tank indentions are not enough to comfortably hold my knees.

The EX fit well though. Plus it looks better so win-win.

I'm 5'8" and the savage fit me... might be a little small for you.

those are all good starter bikes. Just sit on em and figure out which one is the most comfortable, which on you like the most. And take an MSF



JWF

JWF505 wrote: those are all good starter bikes. Just sit on em and figure out which one is the most comfortable, which on you like the most. And take an MSF



JWF

Definitely. I just went through a BMW Club driving school a few weeks ago in my 325. It's incredible how much you can learn, and how much safer you become.

I like my Nighthawk 450 alot, it's perfect for me, but you won't know for sure unless you sit on it.

As others have said, you are off to a good start and are looking at some nice beginner bikes.

Check out this page I made for a whole slew of advice on how to learn to ride a motorcycle:
www.CaliforniaBikeNights.com/learn

Again, as others have said, just go sit on the bikes. There is no way for any of us to tell you what you will find comfortable. Before I learned to ride, I was dead-set on getting a cruiser like a Harley. Then I learned to ride and now I love standards like my SV650. So, you need to get your butt on some bikes before you know what you'll really enjoy.

SV650S thats what I say!