[ikinbuk]

I’m looking to get a reliable, used cruiser that’s not too heavy for me to ride confidently. I’m 5’5 and weigh 48kg (105 lbs). I learned to ride on a 250cc Yamaha Virago and I was comfortable riding it, but was curious if anyone knows the maximum speed that a 250cc could comfortably do on a highway. Also, am I too light to stay on the bike and not get ‘blown around’ while riding at 65mph (110kmh)? Or should I consider getting a 450cc cruiser instead? My only concern with a 450cc is that it’ll be too heavy for me to control and confidently ride. Are there any 450cc cruisers out there that are no heavier than the Virago and are good for beginners? Thanks!

[owlie]

I’ve been looking at Suzuki’s S40 which is a single cylinder 650cc. Not to sure how heavy the Virago is, but the S40 only weighs about 340lbs. It is really the lightest 650cc cruiser that I have sat on.

You might look at this comparison sheet that Eternal put together to get some other ideas.

[ikinbuk]

Thanks for the comparison sheet, that helps a lot. As a female beginner rider, I’m not keen on getting a cruiser with more than 450cc. I want to start small and work my way up so I can build the confidence to ride something more powerful one day. Does anyone know if 65mph (110kmh) is too fast for a 250cc cruiser to comfortably reach on a highway? I need to make sure that the bike can do that speed for my M2 exit test.

[Munch]

Naw it should do just fine. I have found though most of the push you feel from cars and trucks on highway come from more from the bikes with fairings, or with substantial side mass. For example the HD Fat boy has a solid plate style rear rim and those things have a terrible time getting shoved around. Besides, who says you have to blow past a truck anyway? Full dressed Goldwings I have watched get pushed some to. I have seen alot of Busa’s and sport bikes get that push to. However my V500 and my V900 I could ride beside a truck all day long (though not suggested) and barely feel any kind of push. Just be mindful of where you are and you will find that it’s not to bad.

[Munch]

one more thing…. while your learning on the smaller bike go ahead and take the time to get some strength training for your move up. Even though I have seen women riding full on Honda Valkyries that way little more then you do it will be good for your confidence. However it’s little do as much with strength as it does leverage.

[ikinbuk]

Thanks everyone for your advice and comments, my decision is a lot easier now. I’m looking into used 250cc cruisers (Yamaha Virago, or Honda Rebel), so I can practice riding on one of those instead of being nervous of riding a new one. Thanks again for all your input, very much appreciated!

[Author]

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