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Comments for Heaven Bound - Colorado

Feb 24, 2013

Some text missing...
by: Judy

Well either it accidently or deliberately had some text deleted. It's missing where I was referring to Cruisers larger than 500cc as perhaps too heavy; and the mention of other good starter bikes like a Suzuki TU-250, Honda Nighthawk 250 & 450, and Kawasaki 250 Ninja. Also that bikes with modern suspension-single rear shock-can be lowered, as can the seat via cutting out some foam.

Again, good luck!

--- Judy, nothing was deleted on my end so I don't know what happened --- webmaster her-motorcycle.com

Feb 24, 2013

Beautiful place to ride
by: Lynn - Florida

Very good advice by Judy. I am short too - arms & legs. A small light bike, like they ones they use in the class is great as a starter bike. You can usually find good used ones.

Not only does my seat have a low seat height, but I have risers on the handlebars so I can reach them comfortably. This is really important so you don't end up with a stiff back.

My advice is to not get stuck on a particular brand. Shop around all the brands as prices go from very high to reasonable for excellent bikes.

Feb 23, 2013

A few tips
by: Judy

Sharry,
You height isn't really important, but your inseam length and overall strength is. Inseam length will determine, along with a bike's seat height, which will allow you to sit on and be able to put one or both feet flat on the ground, or at least put of your foot/feet on the ground. You will be able to feel more confident, especially in parked or slow speed situations if you're able to do so.

Most Cruiser style (HD and Harley lookalike) motorcycles have very low seat heights, between 26-29" off the ground. However, except for the smaller ones with engine sizes of street legal dirt bike like a Yamaha TW200 is lightweight and easier to handle.

Find out where your state's training program(s) such as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) or similar can be enrolled at. The cost is minimal, usually around $100-$250 and smaller, light bikes are provided. They will help you learn the basics of riding: using the clutch, throttle control, slow speed manuveuring, braking, turning, etc.
Once you successfully complete MSF training, go into several different dealerships and sit on literally dozens of bikes to get a feel for what is most comfortable. Bikes with modern rear suspension can be lowered and seats can have some foam removed to help with bike height vs. inseam issue, too.

Don't fall for the notion that you should buy a larger bike not appropriate to learn on; being intimated by either the size, heft, or power of some bikes will make it MUCH more difficult to properly learn on and gain confidence. Most "starter" bikes can be sold a year or two later for nearly what you paid for them.

Make sure you buy a complete set of good safety gear, don't skimp on this..your life and health depend on it. Also, presuming you look for a used bike, find someone truly knowledgable about bikes to bring along to help ascertain how mechanically sound it is. Look for chains and sprockets in good condition, not dry or rusty with worn teeth; oil leaks; unusual noises; smooth rolling chassis without issues like bent or warped brake rotors or worn steering head bearings/swingarm bushings; brake pads down to metal; dirty air filters, etc.

Good luck!

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