Looking Ahead...

[-OGz-Candiru]

Right now I'm learning on an 82 Nighthawk 450cc, but already I'm thinking about the next bike. I like to read up and do my research. I probably won't buy another bike until after this coming season...but here's where I could use some help..

I'm 6'2 210 lbs..long legged and looking for a comfortable ride for cross country trips. I'm in Indiana and planning some trips out to Vancouver, B.C. I'm curious what bikes you all would suggest in the 6500 dollar or less range. I'm in for a lot of miles. and I'm not sure if I'd be better of with a cruiser or a touring bike. While I have these trips in mind, I still want to have something I can manuever through a small city fairly easy, but I don't want to get blown around too badly by semis. And I figure I'll need some power in the mountains. Some friends have advised me to look at no less than 1100cc.

For me..Comfort is important since I'm looking to put in some miles.

Thanks in advance for any and all suggestions on where I should begin my search!

[sapaul]

Here is an idea for you

http://www.motoguzzi-us.com/bikes/ev_tour/index.html

[ZooTech]

I'm 6'2 210 lbs..long legged and looking for a comfortable ride for cross country trips.

Suzuki V-Strom.

[Sev]

What Zootch said I agree with!

Or a KLR

[flynrider]

You don't necessarily need 1100cc just because you'll be going long distances. I toured most of the Western U.S. and Canada on a 750 that put out around 50 hp. Power was never a problem.

For long trips one of your top priorities will be comfort. A semi-upright riding position seems to work best on a long haul ride. Another consideration is vibration. Optimally, you'll want to ride something that isn't going to be constantly shaking you to pieces at highway speeds.

[-OGz-Candiru]

Certainly appreciate the ideas! I like what i"m reading about the V-strom. My brother happens to be looking at the Buell Ulysses, but that's out of my price range. Not too sure what that extra cash buys you over the Suzuki anyway. Also, I have looked at a 95 Moto Guzzi California I saw in Ft.Wayne, IN. Very nice bike. Appreciate the info and will take a look at these models further.

[Gadjet]

Kawasaki Concours
Honda ST1100/ST1300
Yamaha FJR1300

Older 1100/1200 Goldwing

[jmillheiser]

The V-Strom sounds right up your alley, and your price range.

Also look into a used touring bike, just be aware most touring bikes will have a lot of miles of them but are usually taken care of, and not ridden by squids

[-OGz-Candiru]

For my size, would I be better off with a 650 or 1000cc V-Strom or does it matter? I think if I planned to take anyone with me...then I'd have to have the 1000 but if I'd mainly be riding alone does the 650 have enough power to get me around and pass in traffic? Incidentally, I really like the look of the Yamaha FJR1300 but that might be more bike than I need unless I can get a good price for one.

[sapaul]

If you like the look of the FJR then another option is a pre owned BMW R150RT. More than enough power, plenty big enough and bullet proof engines. New they are expensive but maybe a pre owned one would be better for you. 50 000 kms and we Beemerphiles just consider them "run in"