If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ by clicking the link above.
You may have to register before you can post: click the register link above to proceed.
To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.
New Rider ForumsJust joining the motorcyclist hobbie? Looking to get some information about a first bike? Or have some newbie questions. Are you new to the website?
I have read several of the "600cc first bike" threads. I am 6'3" and 246lbs. I used to ride a Ninja 500 about 7 years ago and did so for a year, but have not rode a bike much since then. Feel kind of like a newbie all over again (as if only a year of riding didn't already qualify as still new). I am looking at a 1997 Kawasaki ZX-6 that is in decent shape with 20k miles. The guy wants $2750. I think I can get it for less, but I wanted your opinions on whether I am setting myself up for failure by getting a 600. I liked my 500 but it could get a bit uncomfortable with my height. What do you guys think? Some of the threads I read suggested a 500 for guys up to about 6 foot, which I am obviously over. Also maybe, what are your thoughts on the price?
Posts: 14,694
Casino Cash: $555
Sportbike: 2008 KTM Super Duke
get a Ninja 500, save your cash and learn to ride again.
The 500 will have as much or more room than the 600.
Returning riders (anyone who hasn't ridden consistently in 3 years) are now the fastest rising fatality segment in motorcycle because it isn't just like riding a bike.
Get a 500, take the MSF BRC course and give it a few years. You'll be much safer and a better rider.
The 500R is not that much taller than the 250R. I sat on one for 3 hours waiting for the dealer to build my 250R and it's not that much different. I am 6'2'' and 300lbs and that little 250R hauls my fata$$ down the road just fine. I ride hours at a time practicin within the private neighborhood. The only thing uncomfortable is my hands go numb from holding the grips too tight, but it's a very comfortable bike for me. My size 14 foot could fit any better when I shift..
Quite simply, I think that a 250 would suit you fine. I may look like a gorilla on a pocketbike, but I am comfortable and having fun for long periods of times.
I have read several of the "600cc first bike" threads. I am 6'3" and 246lbs. I used to ride a Ninja 500 about 7 years ago and did so for a year, but have not rode a bike much since then. Feel kind of like a newbie all over again (as if only a year of riding didn't already qualify as still new). I am looking at a 1997 Kawasaki ZX-6 that is in decent shape with 20k miles. The guy wants $2750. I think I can get it for less, but I wanted your opinions on whether I am setting myself up for failure by getting a 600. I liked my 500 but it could get a bit uncomfortable with my height. What do you guys think? Some of the threads I read suggested a 500 for guys up to about 6 foot, which I am obviously over. Also maybe, what are your thoughts on the price?
20k miles and a 97 is too much...
Get a 600...you have to want them to go blindingly fast...unlike liter bikes...which can get away from people.
Don't waste more time riding a small bike..especially at your size.
The 600 will feel like a 500 at that size and weight.
__________________
“I believe in treating everyone with respect, but, first you have to get their attention.”
The twisties – not the superslabs –separate the riders from the squids.
After 7 years not riding you are going to be like a new rider with "little" experience. Like anyone doing ANYTHING they have not done in a long time, start slow and small and build up. Better to be safe than sorry...
__________________ Diana AKA ANKLEESTA Sitting on the Couch Facing Officer737
Proud member of the Pussy Posse 2005
Just call me Head Nurse...
I adore Chicago. It is the pulse of America.
- - - Sarah Bernhardt
My Old Avatar Was Courtesy of Shawn "Krazy Hawaiian" McCallister. RIP My Friend, I'll be thinking of you...
When I had my previous bike years ago I rode that for about a year and a half. Other than that there's just been an occasional ride on a friend's bike. What are some thoughts on getting a 250? Like I said, I am 6'3" and almost 250lbs. Am I going to look like a clown at a circus on something that size? I have not sat on one in a while and can't remember if they are much smaller than the 500. I have no prob riding a smaller bike for a couple of years before I break into the 600cc and above. I just want to get something that will aid in my learning. The fastest that I will need to go is about 80-85 mph on the freeway. Better go with the 500? 250 instead you think? I really appreciate everyone's input. Most of the guys I know ride Harleys so I get blank stare when I mention numbers as small as 250 or 500. Thanks for your continued input.
I'm going to buck the trend and say that a '97 600 wouldn't be a bad choice for you. You have some riding experience, and there's a huge difference between '97 and '07 SS bikes. Have the bike checked out carefully before you buy it; at 10 yrs. old things like wheel / steering head bearings, cam chain tensioner, piston rings, etc. might be a concern. Be sure to measure compression on each cylinder to try to spot any hidden problems before handing over any cash. The MSF course would be a great idea too for a good refresher.
Get a 600...you have to want them to go blindingly fast...unlike liter bikes...which can get away from people.
Don't waste more time riding a small bike..especially at your size.
The 600 will feel like a 500 at that size and weight.
+1 I started on a 600RR and it was good for me and im 6'1 294 lbs. That bike fit me like a glove. Its ashame it got totaled i loved that bike. So i wouldnt worry about a 600 being to small.
Posts: 14,694
Casino Cash: $555
Sportbike: 2008 KTM Super Duke
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dr_Dr
When I had my previous bike years ago I rode that for about a year and a half. Other than that there's just been an occasional ride on a friend's bike. What are some thoughts on getting a 250? Like I said, I am 6'3" and almost 250lbs. Am I going to look like a clown at a circus on something that size? I have not sat on one in a while and can't remember if they are much smaller than the 500. I have no prob riding a smaller bike for a couple of years before I break into the 600cc and above. I just want to get something that will aid in my learning. The fastest that I will need to go is about 80-85 mph on the freeway. Better go with the 500? 250 instead you think? I really appreciate everyone's input. Most of the guys I know ride Harleys so I get blank stare when I mention numbers as small as 250 or 500. Thanks for your continued input.
Just one question for you, have you reasearched how big a current 600 is? It's far less roomy than a Ninja 500 would be. A 600 would be far more cramped for you.
I'm 250lbs and 5'11" and the Ninja 500 fits me perfectly fine. I've sold a ton of them to taller guys as well.
So would the 250 be too small? I have a chance at 3 250's and one 500. It is surprising that there are not more bikes for sale in the Boise area. I live just over the Oregon border in a town called Ontario which is about 50 miles from Bose Idaho and the selection of private party bikes seems low right now. If I had 5 or 6 grand and was willing to go with a 600cc or a 1000cc the oprions would be greater but I am all for the smaller cc's. Tell me seriously, is a 250 a chick's bike? Or would it work for me? I am wanting the 500 but I dont think the guy will get down to my price range.
Posts: 14,694
Casino Cash: $555
Sportbike: 2008 KTM Super Duke
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dr_Dr
So would the 250 be too small? I have a chance at 3 250's and one 500. It is surprising that there are not more bikes for sale in the Boise area. I live just over the Oregon border in a town called Ontario which is about 50 miles from Bose Idaho and the selection of private party bikes seems low right now. If I had 5 or 6 grand and was willing to go with a 600cc or a 1000cc the oprions would be greater but I am all for the smaller cc's. Tell me seriously, is a 250 a chick's bike? Or would it work for me? I am wanting the 500 but I dont think the guy will get down to my price range.
I personally don't think a 250 is too small. In all honesty, you have to sit on them to test the ergonomics.
The Ninja 500 is very roomy and a decent learner bike.
I'm going to say that the older 600 is a very bad idea. They were still race bikes and not easy to work with.
I would also suggest you ask the experience of who you're getting info from before you accept it. We have a rider's resume section in here at the top of the forum. Click Here
Is a 600cc reasonable at my size?
he is going to weigh a 500 down
