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I am a new rider...first post also. Im looking into getting a cruiser or a cruiser style standard. I have looked at the various 250s out there and have pretty much decided on the suzuki gz250 or the virago. only thing is...im 6 ft tall and about 200 lbs. are these still good bikes for me? am i going to look like a giant on these bikes?

It doesn't matter what you look like - it matters how they feel. For the most part, unless it's a bad fit on the bike, you're just gonna look like a dude on a bike. You need to go sit on them and see how you fit on them. If you're too cramped or stretched out than they're likely not right for you.

Remember - first bike not last!

You should sit on both to answer your size question as its you inseam and arm length that has the most impact on riding comfort. Depending on money, there are some 500 plus cc bikes out there that offer Interstate ability. Nothing over 650 cc for a cruiser, 250cc for sport.

You didn't mention if you took a safety class. If not, do. Even if it makes you wait on the bike. It kept me out of serious danger more than once and on a bike that is the only kind.

Same goes for basic safety equipment. Good equipment does not have to cost a fortune but also is not cheap.

thanks for the input....
i have a safety course lined up....
what did yall start on? if you started with a cruiser

HD Sportster 883c.

Article comparing the Virago 250 and GZ250: Motorcycle Cruiser comparo article

My wife and I both started on a 250cc scooter (Honda Reflex), she went from there to a Marauder 800 and I to a Triumph Bonneville (790cc).

Have you checked out the Beginner's Guide? There are also stickies and the Learn To Ride A Motorcycle page which is downloadable in PDF format (Created and maintained by Dragonhawk).

I started out on a Suzuki Boulevard S50. It's 805 cc and at the upper end of the recommended HP & Torque from what I could gather. I've found it difficult to find reliable HP measurements.

Good luck with your search and, as someone else mentioned, a training course is definitely a good idea. Also going to different dealerships and sitting on the different styles of bike is important as well. Get the feel for the different seating positions. You just mentioned cruisers and sports in your post, don't forget dual sports.

+1

Scoutmedics links are amazing resources for a new rider.

topher13 wrote:thanks for the input....
i have a safety course lined up....
what did yall start on? if you started with a cruiser

Suzuki GS650L. Early 80's kinda cruiser, kinda standard. Cruiser like in the bike design, standard in the seating position.

My husband and I are "newbies" and learning to ride, he is 6 feet tall and around 200 lbs and our honda shadow a.c.e fits both of us very well, I do see him graduating to something bigger in time but for now he is comfortable with the bikes we have. You need to go to a dealership and sit on a variety of sizes to truly find the right fit for you. sales people will only be to glad to help you.

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