Hi,

Im a fairly large man, 6 ft and about 280 lbs. Im looking at getting a bike but im hesitant about it because I dont want too small of a bike.

I've been looking at the Kawasaki Vulcan 900, the Suzuki Blvd M50, or the HD Sportster 883 Custom as my top 3 picks. (in that order as well)

Now granted, I'll be riding them before making a decision, but I want to know if they are maybe a little bit too small for a guy my size.

Just for your info, I'll be doing mostly solo riding to work and back, about half an hour.

Thank you  

I suggest that you take a close look at the Honda Shadow Spirit 1100 (VT1100C).  I have about the same dimensions as you and this bike fits me perfectly.  The bike is very well-mannered around town and very stable on the highway.  Also, I have noted that Honda has not unveiled an '08 version of the model; our local dealers have a plethora of '07 models in stock that they are looking to move.  Finally, I have a Mustang one-piece, two-up seat; use your own judgement on the stock seat.  

I haven't looked at the Honda 1100 yet because they stopped making them for 2008. that meant that I never got to see one first-hand at the bike show, but I will be looking at bikes around that size when I go to the dealerships later.  

I'd have thought the Sportster would be a bit on the small side for you. I am a similar size to you and whilst I've not ridden the Sportster sometimes you can tell whether a bike fits you or not by just sitting on it - which is what I thought as soon as I sat on a Sportster.

The other 2 would probably fit you better. Have you considered the Yamaha Roadstar ? That's what I ride and after sitting on it I find that many other bikes feel cramped by comparison. Perhaps that would be worth a look ? OK it's a 1700 which is larger than the bikes you mentioned but it is pretty mild mannered and very stable and confidence inspiring. I'd have thought it would fit you well.  

I agree. The Sportster is considered a smaller bike by todays standards and you probably would be cramped on it. I also have an '04 Roadstar that I bought new 30,000 miles ago. I'm 6'6" and 275 and just love it. Even riding two up it has plenty of power, handles pretty well, and in 30K miles I've only had a couple of light bulbs fail.

Bob F.  

Ok. I kinda figured the sportster was a wee bit on the small side as well. It fits me (the custom) but ya, its a small bike. And I'll have to look into a used roadstar. I would love a larger bike, but I just cannot afford one. Thats why I'm looking at the smaller bikes. But ya, if I can find a used Roadstar for a good price, I'll check it out. Thanks.  

HI; You should ride the Kawasaki or the Suzuki.They are very close in performance. I have the C50 which has the same engine as the M50. I would think that the 900 would be better choice do to your size. These bikes are very easy to use in traffic. Have good throttle responce. Just easy to ride. If this is your first bike either would be good. I ride with a guy with an 883 the tank is small. We always have to stop for gas   when he is with us.
I like the power of my( 05 C50T) has I have no problem running with the guys 1100"s and bigger. Most think that it has a bigger engine. It gets about 45-50 mpg. depending on how I ride. I am only 5'11" at 195lbs.
Ride both and see which fits you best. hope this helps.. scruffy..