getting back into biking - need advice on bike sizes

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linz
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getting back into biking - need advice on bike sizes

#1 Unread post by linz »

OK - i want to get back into bikes. Luv the crusers. I'm 6'3" and was looking at Kawasaki Vulcan 1500's -but due to the prices, started to look closer at the Kawasaki Vulcan 800.
Other than the obvious engine diff, does anyone know if the frame sizing is a problem? Should I look elseware? What smaller engined cruser bikes are fitted to us larger framed fellows?
Thankyou

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rider67
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#2 Unread post by rider67 »

The Suzuki C50 (800cc) has a 65 in. wheelbase and is slightly bigger than a Yamaha V-Star 1100 at 64.7 in.. Both are excellent choices for an advanced beginner if you have previous motorcycle experience. Some people even start out on these as first ever motorcycle.

I started on the Yamaha 650 as a totally new rider and finally moved up to a V-Star 1100. I"m 6'2" weigh 212 and even the 650 V-star fit OK. Personally I thought the Kawasaki seemed a lot heavier than the Yamaha 1100...it is heavier by 50-60 or more pounds. There is also a new Kawasaki 900 cc coming to the market in the next couple months if you can wait that long.

Buy used is my best advise. There are PLENTY of used motorcycle with just a few hundred or couple thousand miles where you can save hundreds and thousands of dollars. I did. May take a little searching on the internet but it's worth it. Be sure to sit on a bunch of different models and try them out for size.
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Lion_Lady
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#3 Unread post by Lion_Lady »

How long has it been since you've ridden?

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linz
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#4 Unread post by linz »

thanks for the info rider67
Anybody else want to add any info as good as this???

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Lion_Lady
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#5 Unread post by Lion_Lady »

How long has it been since you've ridden, and on what? Answer that and you'll get more educated answers.

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linz
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#6 Unread post by linz »

10 years since I last rode. Rode for 15 years before that . Biggest bike was the Honda 750

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#7 Unread post by jmillheiser »

I would suggest taking the MSF as a refresher. It shouldn't take you too long to get used to being in the saddle again. Im sure you will have little trouble with a bigger bike once everything comes back to you.

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Sev
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#8 Unread post by Sev »

Eh numbers are numbers. But the pegs and handlebars are positioned differently on every model by any manufacturer. The only way to tell what will fit you is to sit on them. Every winter most major cities will have a bike show where you can play with all the bikes in one building. Otherwise start heading to bike shops. Sit on everything you see there.
Of course I'm generalizing from a single example here, but everyone does that. At least I do.

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#9 Unread post by slider03 »

I'm 6'2", 190 lb, and started riding early this summer. After taking the MSF class, I ended up with a 2002 Vulcan 800. It's a great bike, and the most comfortable bike for me in that size class. It's 515 lb., easy to handle for a newbie, but has lots of power for interstate or 2-up riding. I've been riding to work, forty miles one way. The only problem I've had it that the carb is too lean, making it very cold natured. I had it rejetted by the dealer for under seventy dollars, and that took care of the problem. Good luck!

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