[desertrat]

I live out it 29 Palms, all we have here is heat, its our main export
I am looking into getting my first bike, I commute to work (over 100 miles round trip) and I am tired of driving the four banger back and forth. If you have any suggestions for a first bike with plenty of guts for a 6’2″ guy to get over some pretty good hills let me know.

[megaspaz]

welcome! now, can you be specific in what you like? cruisers, sport bikes, etc…? cruisers or standards would definately be the most comfortable for long distance commuting. if you like a sportier look, sport tourers would be decent for commutes as well.

[SantaCruzRider]

Top on my list would be a bike that is relatively narrow as it opens up lots of possibilities for filtering through stopped traffic. My current bike is a sport tourer and not particularly narrow, but I’ve removed the rear bags and the widest part is now the spring adjustable mirrors. These give me about 4″ of safety on either side (the mirrors will fold back without damaging a car, unlike having the handlebars or highway bars being the widest).

Next on my list would be a windshield. Cutting down the helmet buffeting will make the ride much less tiring and also cut down on sand blasting you’re likely to get on windy days. A fairing also helps, but the downside is that it can also hold in some of the engine heat — which you don’t need.

[Author]

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