[jeremykindy]

Hi, I’m Jeremy in NC.

I’m taking the MSF course in October, no bike yet but researching a lot. Thought I’d pop in here and ask some questions.

I’m 6’3″ and ~230 lbs and an avid cyclist, so I hope that translates into quicker learning for motorcycles.

Anyway, I’m trying to decide what type/size bike to buy. I’m somewhat worried about highway crusing on a 250, given my size. Also, I’ve been told by a friend that she thinks I could pretty easily start out on something like the DL650 V-strom.

Anyway, I’m interested in commuting and touring, with the potential to explore off-road a bit.

Thanks,
Jeremy

[JackTrade]

650s twins are considered right on the upper edge of being appropriate novice bikes; general rule-of-thumb is that they’re acceptable with a few caveats.

Basically, if you pass the BRC, and honestly feel confident with the skills (only you can really know that), then you’ll likely be fine with a V-Strom. It’s the same 650 engine that’s on the SV650, and I know there’s a few people here that started out on those with no problems (Hopefully, WeaponZero will be along any time now…)

So see how the MSF course goes…if you pass+feel good, then go for it! Also take a look at the Kawasaki Versys…same type of bike.

[WeaponZero]

I started out on an SV650 and the power was not at all uncontrollable. The only issue I found difficult to manage at first was the weight. It’s definitely a massive step up from the bikes you use in the BRC or a bicycle as not only is it heavier overall, but it’s also more top-heavy. Low speed maneuvers are no joke. It’s a lot easier to drop it practicing low speed maneuvers than any of those bikes and this definitely makes for a steeper learning curve. I admit I dropped mine a couple times. Go into it knowing that and being prepared for it and I’d say you’re okay.

[jeremykindy]

Thank you for the replies. I’m not buying a bike until after the BRC, so I’ve got time. I’ll see how it goes and base my purchase on that.

[CBBaron]

The DL650 may not be a good choice for a starter bike. It is the same engine as the SV650 which is the upper limit of recommended bike but the bike design is heavier and taller, which makes it more top heavy and can cause you some problems. Not saying you can’t do it especially if you are strong but a lighter bike even like the SV650 would be better.

Highway speeds are not much affected by weight, power and aerodynamic play a bigger factor. Any of the 250cc bikes would be capable of 65+mph with you riding. Bikes like the Ninja250R and WR250R which are water cooled and a little more power will do 80+mph without much trouble.

I’m 6’2″ 220#, so of similar size. I ride a `06 Ninja 250R. It will out accelerate most cars when I need to and accelerate briskly up to 80+mph. The seat is low so my knees are pretty well bent when riding but as long as I take a break to strech my legs every hour I do not have a problem.

Dual sport and supermoto bikes fit a tall guy a little better than other small bikes. They have high seat heights and fairly large seat to peg distances. Good models are:
WR250(x/r), DRZ-400S(M), DR650se and KLR650.
If you like the DL650 the KLR maybe a good choice that is lighter, cheaper and easier to learn but is of a similar category. Its more oriented to dirt than the Vstrom but is said to have very good egronomics for larger riders.

Craig

[Author]

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