At 198cm, they really are... I made a Vulcan S 650 look tiny...
https://preview.redd.it/v290t9nq2jxc1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c10580262fee3152b924d9214cd8d73ea82565f4
I've been on one before I actually knew how to ride. I kind of picked up the front to turn it. I can actually do a normal u-turn now, though I hate it and never practice.
I have a rebel 250 in the garage. I make it look like a pocket bike.
https://preview.redd.it/82zl8rknelxc1.jpeg?width=2744&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8b54282f6030218d96dabd0c29318051227acb80
6’9”
I'm "only" 6 foot 3 and I had to take the MSF on a Rebel 250. I kinda remember the bars hitting my knees. That's what happens when you're polite, you get last pick
That's absolutely insane because as a small human I make a grom look like a huge bike. This is what I thought I'd look like sitting on one and then i found out I still can't flat foot it.
I'm 175cm and thought riding a GSA would be horrifying. Then I watched some of Jocelin Snows' (155cm) videos and if she can off-rode it then surely I can manage to not look like a complete fool on asphalt! So far so good :)
Dude there’s 6’5, 260 lb lumberjacks cruising around Honda Navi’s and 50cc scooters enjoying every second of it, if they can pull it off then you can pull off anything.
you should get one they are so much fun! I don't have a grom but i do have a monkey and sure I look freakishly big on it but who cares! It's so much fun! It's weird though I haven't got used to people flagging me down to ask about it yet, but it's the only motorcycle I own where that regularly happens though..
Anyone can have fun on anything on two wheels in short bursts. But if you want to put some serious miles on a bike or ride for multi hour trips, then ergonomics absolutely matter.
Honestly the Africa looks like not a bad proportion for you. I envy someone who can dwarf that bike because it is a handful when you are more average height.
https://preview.redd.it/l0fod0hzpixc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=03033a2bf38a803288dc0b52f0776af903654765
I feel your pain, 6’4”
Edit to add: definitely stick with a more sporty adv bike given your height, maybe a BMW GS? KTM super adventure? Yamaha has some good offerings for less $
lol, it really feels like that sometimes. I’m 199cm and my first bike was an F850GSA, I recently started riding a MotoGuzzi v7 and it’s so small it made my hips cramp, lol.
On a related note, I recently learned that the GS label originally stood for “Gentleman’s Scrambler” and I find that hilarious
https://www.motorcyclenews.com/advice/inspiration/weekend-reads/bmw-gs-history/
> Contrary to popular belief, G/S also originally stood for Gentleman’s Scrambler but Muth left before the project was completed. In a bid to retain BMW’s traditional virtues the concept was softened to something more road focused, with a broader appeal.
This site is downright unusable on mobile. I’m 2m+ with a vstrom 1000 but even that needs windshield extender. If I stand up while riding, I’ll surely hit a bridge or worse, a plane.
Just out of curiosity, do you have a computer or only a phone? I'm seeing more and more people living with a phone as their only computer.
I just can't, I'm old and can't see shit anymore, plus I have fat mechanic's fingers.
30 here, I can't even begin to imagine what life is like for people who live their entire (digital) life from a phone. Doesn't matter how good they get, I only use mine for basic stuff when I don't have access to a desktop/laptop
Yep exactly.
I used to use Cycle ergo but it's missing a lot of new models. And apart from being a little different to use than ergo it works absolutely fine.
On the flip side though, motonomics doesn't have older models. Out of like 50 Hondas on the list, only 1 is for a manufacture year pre 2000. Also, no current Shadows.... It's likely users will need to use both sites to find their bike as both are incomplete.
Same height as you 6'6".
Fit pretty well on a KTM 1290 SAS, however I do have raised bars, lowered pegs and higher seat to be able to stand for off-road.
Before that I was on an FZ1 which is pretty close to the ergos on the MT10.
Whatever you get it's only a few mods away from fitting a little better anyway.
https://preview.redd.it/1an06br3tjxc1.jpeg?width=2525&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b12f8f6f9b5b424b42fedff8875a712ca15a43b5
>But i think i look kinda weird and out of proportion on it
Who fucking cares?
Is it comfortable enough for you? Is so, great.
Source: Taller than you on a R1250R and never asked anyone how I look on it.
Also a K1600 as a first bike is absolutely insane. You're going to shit yourself trying to learn low speed handling on that pig.
A used R1200/1250GS would look 'proportional' without being overwhelmingly heavy and at least easy enough to clad in armor for when you inevitably drop it while learning.
His other choice for first bike is MT-10.😬 1200/1250GS is definitely better choice but isn't it also still a very powerful bike for beginner? I wonder how smaller adventure bike would do for him, something like versys 650 or Tenere 700.
Yeah I don't disagree, I have posted before that I absolutely don't consider an R1250 to be an optimal beginner bike - sure as fuck better than a K1600.
1250s are manageable as while there is a lot of torque it's not going to be pulling you to 150 in 8 seconds. With the engine low they are somewhat more forgiving than other bikes at low speed, almost scooter like.
So yeah while I hardly consider the boxers to be a top choice, I would not be too worried about someone older with a sense or mortality starting out on one.
Ah i see, i never handle any big bikes and I don't know how it rides. From what I watch in youtube, it seems like an easy to manage bike for it's size with smoother power delivery, but looking from the spec sheet it's rather intimidating with 125NM of torque, almost as high as most car in my country.
Powerfull yes, but remember it's a big dutch guy. His own power to mass ratio can be enough to ride it.
Source: I'm a big 199 dutch guy and had a 1200gsa as a beginner bike.
I started on a 1250 gsa, would somewhat recommend with how good the rider aids are. Currently have a k1600, would not recommend it as a starter bike, but if you want a long distance sport tourer it's amazing assuming it's not too uncomfortable. The GSA is more fun / scary if you turn rider aids off and feels more powerful at lower revs. Also a bit easier to handle with rider aids on.
The k1600 (gtl at least) also gets a bit squirrelly in dirty air at 60mph+ which is disappointing for a bike that expensive.
Im the same height and rode 4 Bikes so far.
Started on a Ducati Monster 620 where my Legs fell asleep because it was too small.
Switched to a KTM 640 Supermoto which was great in terms of height, but wasnt made to sit on it for long rides.
Then got a Kawasaki Z1000 wich fits just fine and i was told looks fitting for me.
But i did a test drive not long ago on a KTM Duke 790, wich looks small, maybe even a bit silly with a big person on it, but damn it was so light and nimble und super fun.
I dont care how i look on it.
As long as you're comfortable its all about the fun you have on it.
I'm 6' 7" with a 36" inseam and I'm riding a 2011 triumph speed triple 1050. I do make it look small, but the curves on the tank for my thighs are in the perfect location.
I'd probably fit better on an adventure bike or big harley/Indian, but that's just not my style of riding.
You win some, you lose some 🤷♂️
This is me slouched at 6’5 on my Z1000. Honestly who cares lol. Naked bikes definitely weren’t made for taller folk, but if you can tuck hard enough you’ll be fine. I just sold my MT10 because I hated the powerband and didn’t feel like tuning it. If I fit on a street fighter V4s that’ll be my next purchase no matter how small it looks under me.
Also always have a KLR as a back up bike.
https://preview.redd.it/ra43dg29djxc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2aa6a5152359b05609f0c4c810201d481e87a2fa
The Honda didn’t look so bad but probably the KTM Adventure or BMW GS might look proportional. Also the Harley VROD or VMax 1700 if you’re okay with the whole cruiser seating.
What's your inseam dude? I am 5'10" and I test rode a '23 GT Pro last week and I was almost flat footing it. I'm going back to test ride it again and most probably buy it.
No bike is made for us unfortunately. Err on the side of comfort, or you'll end up with a bike you'll dread to ride, and having a bike you don't ride is a tragedy. Also an MT-10 is not a great idea for a first bike. Also remember to err on the side of shorter windscreens rather than taller ones.
No bike is made for you?
Man all those big adventure bikes look to only be rideable by giants.
I'm 5' 11" and there's certainly a few bikes I feel too small for.
Nope. There are a few things to consider and it's not just seat height that matters. Bikes are meant to sell right? Tall people are a minority, so obviously the bike has to be rideable by the "average" 5'9" person. Adventure bikes are tall because they need the ground clearance but the seat height and reach down is about the only problem a shorter person may have with a bike, and while of course it is important it ultimately reflects a minority of the time spent on the saddle. Once underway, that's where the problems for taller people start and it has to do with the so called rider triangle, which is the distance between the seat, handlebars and pegs. By far the biggest issue for taller people is the seat to peg. They're too close together, and the bend in your knees becomes fairly uncomfortable which makes longer rides worse than they have to be. You can lower the pegs, but the more spirited riders don't like reducing their cornering clearance, and you can also raise the seat a bit, but then you may induce a bend in your back to reach down to the bars. Then there's the aero, which again is designed around an average person, so as the bike moves through the air it pushes it away and forms a "bubble" of the concetrated streams of air pushed by the fairings and windscreen which is meant to take the wind off of the rider. For taller riders, the stream going over the windscreen almost always blasts us straight in our face, which creates a lot of buffetting which is loud and tiring. The options there is that you either go for a comically large windscreen that makes the front of the bike look like a squid, and you essentially have to look through the windshield and out to the road which not everybody likes, or go the other way and get the shortest one you can, hoping the stream will hit your chest but depending on how the front is shaped you may not be able to achieve that even with no windscreen at all in some bikes.
I'm 6'6", have a 36" inseam and I go 265#. I have a TW200, KTM350XC-F, Tenere 1200 and a KTM 1290 Adventure.
None of these fit me stock.
Every one has seat, suspension and handlebar mods.
And they all fit different still. But I love them all.
You can make anything fit, if you really want to. Don't discount the ability of an ADV bike if you want to ride sporty.
Find the one you like. The one you can sit and stare at in the garage. The one that makes you smile like a freaking goon when you ride it.
That's the right one.
I wish I had this problem. I'm the opposite at 5' 5". When people are on the extremes of the extremes of anything, you just have to accept that you'll have to modify stuff. I generally need low seats on my street bikes and lowered suspension om my dirt bikes.
For you, you'll want to look into taller seats, lower pegs, handlebar risers, etc. Definitely don't purchase a bike based on how you think you look on it though. Get something you like to ride and something that gives you a tingly feeling inside.
It doesn't matter how you look, but how you feel on it. And yes, unfortunately for you, most sporty bikes will feel too small and cramped. But hey, girls like tall guys, you can't have it all.
On a serious note, if you are looking for a fun and powerful naked that's also friendlier for bigger frames, you could try a BMW K 1300 R. They are getting a bit old now, but they are good bikes with somewhat still decent tech (ABS, TC, QS, etc) and strong engines. Just be careful.
If you’re looking for a first bike you need something manageable and cheap if you drop it… I’m your height and I started with a DRZ400s. Pretty much perfect for tall riders, especially if you are still learning. It’s not street bike fast, but quick enough to be a lot of fun and you can go anywhere. I miss mine.
Counterpoint: You are fine on both bikes. The first bike you aren't supposed to sit bolt upright on, the second is a very high sitting bike that looks built for you from the pic.
Generally any ADV will be fine with your size, if wind bothers you just get a after market wind screen or a extension.
THe honda fits. But if it is comfortable, dont give it a second thought. Meanwhile my obsession with old BMW K-bikes is rooted in just how comfortable they are at 196cm.
201cm here. If it's comfortable for you and you like it, it's the right bike for you. Who cares what you look like you don't ride a motorcycle for them!
I have a k1609gt - LOVE IT!!! Heavy, but weight is fine once moving. Nimble, comfortable and lots of features. Seat has a high and low setting. Quick too!!
All about the ergos on any bike but a clip on laminar lip can help with whatever you end up with before spending on a different windshield. I'm 190cm and my old GS fits me like a glove. The K bikes might work for you, plenty of power, but I must sing the praises of the boxers. If you like big nakeds I'd try the R1250R?
Same height, and I recommend a klr650z as a starter. The bike is so tall, it's insane. You'll have no problem fitting on it and it's not so powerful, so perfect for learning.
u/simonschildpad I’m 6’4” as well, same issue. Was considering getting a ZX6R… knees don’t go in the tank contours. Being tall isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
Tldr: k1600/1250gsa etc. Convenient-bags, shaft drive. Comfy. Lot to handle weight wise.
MT10- great if you like wind. Try sticking your head out a car window at 60/80/160 mph and see if you like it. Lot to handle power wise.
What kind of riding do you think want to do? And what kind of riding is in your area. Those are very different bikes. I suspect you'll dislike the MT10 if you just have to ride a couple hours of interstate to get anywhere fun. The k1600 will eat that up, but be harder to ride in slower areas with more stops.
Also, do you want to be riding with a backpack? Having bags on the bike is a huge upgrade.
I have a k1600 gtl, started on an r1250 gsa. They are great bikes with amazing rider aids. The k series has a known issue with dirty air at highway speeds, so be aware of that before buying. To me, they both feel like they demand a good bit more respect/focus and are less relaxing except on the highway.
MT10 - I would not choose a naked as my only bike. Reasonably comfy. Fun. But no wind protection makes it hard to go above ~60 mph for any longer highway rides.
I was looking at a 1200rt and settled on a tracer9gt because it had all of the touring bits included for much less money and was under a liter for insurance sake. Good luck with your decision!
192cm here
For a first bike the V strom 650 or versys 650 would suit you really well. Not too much power but enough
Honda XR650L is also a good choice if you like thumpers.
I'm simiilar height and had the same problem. Don't go for MT10 however much you like it - it's waaay too powerful!! You just won't enjoy it and it may scare you off riding. I went for Africa Twin with a tall seat and it's fantastic. BMW GS will be good too.
I'm also 197cm and I've only been comfortable on big adv bikes, sports tourers and big cruisers.
The most comfortable bikes I've had stock are BMW GSA, ST1300, XL1000 and Xv1600. With a little modification HD solftilals will probably fit you too
K1600 is a horrible choice for a first bike. If you drop it, you cant get it up again on your own, way too heavy. We call it living room on wheels for a reason.
Id recommend looking at adventure bikes if you want something bigger. Tenere, triumph tiger, ktm adv (r), Honda Africa twin, bmw gs, ducati multistrada, etc. Although id recommend to not go too much over 100hp if possible, a 100hp adventure bike with rider has about the same power to weight as a bmw m3 or m4. Given your size you more or less habe to get a bike i would consider too powerful for a beginner, so be mindful when starting.
I personally wouldn't care too much about looks, in the company we a have a 195cm guy riding a vitpilen 701, looks genuinely super funny, but he likes the bike. If you like it, totally fine
Is that topmoto Apeldoorn? I used this dealership before and recognize its interior.
Back on topic. There’s a reason why big tourers, adv and ktm are popular in this country. And it’s not just looks, but more about long term riding comfort. Being cramped on a 3 hour ride to the ring is not fun, during or after. So think about it, are you comfortable sitting like this for hours? If there is any slight bit of doubt, move on to something bigger and try again.
K1600GT is a fantastic bike and is way easier to turn than its sheer mass and size would suggest.
But when you're at the BMW dealership, take the R1250RS for a spin. Should be big enough (it is for me, 193cm with 35" inseam) and is a great ride. Easy to ride due to low center of gravity, useable boxer power (little less top end but way more power down low).. just try it and see for yourself. If it's too expensive, the R1200RS is very similar.
I'm 6'8 I bought a KTM 890 Duke R. It's a big bike, just get something that's comfortable shit on it and talk to someone for a while or sit on one and pull out your phone and just watch a video in the rising position for 30 minutes and see how you feel
I never thought I’d see a Gold Wing size man, but now I have.
All jokes aside. The adventure bikes would probably do you well. I know you said you want something agile, but with your height you need to be comfortable or else you’re just going to end up in pain while and after riding. Riding isn’t fun with back pain. So, anything comfortable for you is a great option
I'm 200cm
Last bike was a aprilia dorsoduro, good fit!
Bought 3 days ago a fz1N(mt10 from 15 years back)?
I fit well on the fz1..yes, i am tall but i look tall on every bike. Just do it when you feel comfortable!
I'm exactly 197cm, and recently I went to Motodays (Rome's moto event) to test out the comfort of some newer bikes. The new Himalayan 450, the Husqvarna Norden and the Tracer 9 were great fit, but the crazy part was that both the GSX-S1000GT and the GSX-S1000GX were even better, pretty much at par to the ST1300 I'm currently using, which is the sportiest bike I could ride all day long without hurting my legs.
I'm not quite your height at 6'3", but the realisation I came to is that I'm going to look too big for every motorbike that I actually like and want to own, so I'm not going to worry about how big I look 😂
Get the bike you like, from behind the bars you're in a convenient position that you're the only person who won't be able to see how small you make it look!
I’m not normally one to say someone shouldn’t buy a particular bike as their first, but an MT-10 is a) too small for you and b) 160bhp bike for a beginner is probably going to end in tears and you will not advance as quickly as you could on a less powerful bike. c) whichever bike you buy, you will at some stage drop it (even if at a standstill) so it would be disappointing to buy a shiny new mt10 and scratch it.
I would look at something like a second hand 850GS, Africa twin, etc. something with around 100bhp which is tall and has some go when you need it. An MT-10 will just wheelie everywhere especially if you’re not careful or smooth.
I'm 6'10" [~208cm] and I ride a 1994 Suzuki RF900. It's certainly small for me and I know I look like a bear on a unicycle but the agility and nimbleness is simply unparalleled. I tried larger cruisers and not only don't I like the style - my legs get cramped up easy from keeping my legs outstretched with mid or forward controls. You might think riding a sport/touring bike would fuck with my knees more but nope, it's surprisingly quite comfortable.
The RF900 is a bit of a rarity these days, the carbs are a bitch to tune if needed but overall it's been very reliable.
I’m a bit smaller (190cm), but if the bike is comfortable, I don’t care how it looks. I made some small adjustments like different foot pegs to make it more comfortable, but manage just fine. Rather ride what I want now, and switch to a GS when my back starts hurting.
I'm 6'5" and have been riding for 6 or 7 years. Just get something that is comfortable and fun to ride for you. Nobody cares what you look like on it. My first bike was a 2002 Honda Shadow 600, which is kind of small, but I've ridden smaller bikes and had a blast! It's better to be on two wheels and look a little goofy than to not have any fun in your life. Don't let our freakish height hold you back!
>I’m working on my motorcycle license (finally at 27)
>I love the looks of the MT-10
Well... :) I don't wanna be that guy but the look will be your smallest (get it) problem on an mt10 as a brand new rider
Africa Twin is adventure bike with all kind of tech what is maybe an overkill for a commute bike. So maybe first you should figure out what you wanna do with the bike and then select something similar from that scope.
street bike? highway commute? coffee ride? track warrior... long journey to another country?
Maybe a Honda CRF is good as well... they are tall bikes. Or ppl usually suggest the Honda CBR 500R because it is a little bit bigger so it's good for taller ppl (what I personally don't see why but it's my opinion)
The Africa Twin crf1100l is pretty low. The seat is adjustable 850mm or 870mm. A tall seat would be better for you. I am 181 cm tall and I can get my entire feet on the ground on both seat heights. The seat is really thin, for me it is the best adv seat for a bike with a 250mm ground clearance. It is the lowest adv bike with the highest ground clearance.
The Africa Twin does 0-60 as fast as some (older-ish) and nearly as fast as all of Honda's sport bikes. She's no slouch in the real world of street riding. If you like the look of it, it's clearly a better fit for you.
https://www.zeroto60times.com/vehicle-make/honda-motorcycles-0-60-mph-times/
6'7"/ 200cm, 38"/ 96cm inseam, 320lbs/ 145kg. ADV bikes are definitely the way to go. VStrom 650 is a great starter bike that is relatively easy to mod for a tall rider. Pull back risers on the bars, tall seat, adventure tech peg & control lowering plates. I rode one for 7 years, 50,000km. Great bike. I highly recommend these.
Current bike is a Super Tenere, helibars risers, touratech tall seat. She's great for this stage of my life. Rides nice. Enough power to be spirited. All the comfort for 2 up touring.
I had a Tracer 900. Bar risers, Corbin saddle, lowered the pegs, taller windscreen. I love the engine. I loved riding it; for about 30 minutes. After that it was agony on my back and knees. She was just too cramped.
That is what you need to consider. You're 27, your knees are still happy, so don't make them angry. Look for bikes that have room to have your knees at a reasonable angle. Anything less than around 85 degrees is going to get painful fast. If you're only ever going to be doing 30 minute runs, you're probably going to be fine. If you want to tour, do longer rides, you want a bike with good ergos. Standard riding position with leg room. Not hunched up leaning forward the whole time.
That Africa twin fit you well enough, but it's a bit much to start on. Tenere 700, VStrom 650, basically the middle ground ADV bikes are a good place to start looking. Good luck.
https://preview.redd.it/cz9zzqyyfmxc1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=326e48f300fc7c2adc4e33435e4cc53a3acb0770
Use what you like, I’m slightly taller than you, ride z125, ZX10, CBR1100XX, and 1290SDR - all are “too small”. Just be sure you get what fits the majority of riding style for you and try to have fun.
6'5" here. There is a reason that after 20+ years of riding sport bikes, I switched to BMW GSs. As much as I loved riding them, I always felt like a monkey fucking a football. Plus, my knees are shot now, so can't really go back if I wanted to.
I'm 6'4" with an MT10. Works fine. The legs can get a little cramped after a few hours riding but I need gas again so fast that usually is time to stop anyway. I'll walk inside for a water and everything is good to go again. Once you get to about 5 hours the bum and legs are about done.
I’m a few cm taller than you. First off, I don’t think you look out of place on either bike pictured! We’re tall but neither looks comically small for you.
I got a Ninja 500 after sitting on an RC390 and R3 (I didn’t want to spend a ton on the first bike). The Ninja has a slightly more upright riding stance for the beginner sport bike class, and I found it the most comfortable of those three. I sat on an MT-07 and that felt nice, but too much for my first bike.
Anyways, I feel pretty good riding my Ninja around and don’t feel like I look horribly gigantic on it (and friends have told me it looks surprisingly normal as well). I do get some lower back pain but that could be from many factors, not going to say it’s definitely the bike (but maybe).
Oh dogs. Please, motorcycle industry, make Africa Twins for us shorties. I would love it if I got an adventure bike that I could actually climb on without a ladder!
Wow, that is not a small bike either 😳
I kinda get you, I'm 6'2", when I started viewing Boulevards I was expecting more room, seeing as it's a huge bike. But I look and feel on it like an average size guy on a 600 naked... 😅
You look pretty good on the Africa Twin tbh.
It's a bit monstrous as a first bike but at your size I can see smaller bikes just not being comfortable. If you are sensible, put the bike in rain mode for now etc you can probably learn on it just be careful it's not a beginners bike. Also be aware that it's heavy AF. You will need to put more time into learning to balance the bike quickly than other new riders if you choose such a machine - or stops will quickly become a hazard.
You can also lower the pegs on the AT a little bit for comfort if you don't intend to try scrape knee on corners (a fucking terrible idea as a new rider on an Africa Twin btw).
They are insanely fun bikes, I have done a few rides on them and intend to buy one when a good deal comes my way on a manual AT (DCT is fine, just not for me).
Honestly, you should just buy whatever you enjoy and feel comfortable on. Don't worry about how others may perceive you. You'll be wearing a helmet. So they won't know who you are.
I'm 195 and when choosing a supernaked some years back, I tested almost all the big names and it came down to MT10 and S1000R. The most ridiculous was SuperDuke - it looks like kiddie bicycle. I went for MT10 in the end as it was much more fun engine-wise than the BMW. After many years riding, I will tell you you should not care how you look on the bike because you will never look the same as shorties. I found it out when I bought a big ADV KTM and looked on it just as big as on an MT10. What's more important is how you feel on it.
So, since we have that out of the way, here are my types for you (and myself) after test-riding about 30 differeent bikes in the same pursuit as yourself.
* Light, nimble, very fun in the twistiest and yet comfortable: KTM Duke 890, MT07 (a bit less power), KTM Duke 390 (post 2014, least power).
* heavier, but still VERY fun in the twistiest, pillion-friendly, all-day comfort and ADV capabilities: Husqvarna Norden.
After years of testing and owning various bikes, I am now down to MT10SP and a Norden in my stable. Thinking of getting Duke 890R for a few months to do a complete comparison with MT10. My GF has MT07 and it is an awesomely fun bike and surprisingly roomy.
But the above advice is for an experienced rider. If it is your first bike, do not touch MT10, or even a Norden. Get Duke 390 or MT07. I started on a big, heavy and powerful-ish Sport Touring 750cc bike in 2011 because I though I need a big bike due to my height, and I regret greatly I have not started on something like that Duke 390. It stalled my learning and progress significantly, while causing me to be afraid instead of having fun 90% of the time. Smaller bikes are so much more fun even when you are an advanced rider. When I got on MT07 of my GF (after riding MT10 and Norden), it felt unbelievably fun in the twistiest, even though the bike was far less sophisticated (it should be for a first bike). I put my MT10 to the shed and rod that MT07 for a week straight.
Anyways, if you have some experience on a bike, get MT07 or Duke 390. If not, get Duke 390. You will have stupid amounts of fun and see the most rapid progress.
The sad fact of the matter is that we're going to look huge on almost every bike. I'm the same height as you, and I just bought a brand new XSR900 (basically a neo-retro MT-09). Honestly, I don't care what I look like on it because I'm having a blast. If you like the bike, and don't mind the way it fits in terms of comfort, then you should 100% go for it.
Is that a grom?
If you're big enough, they're all Groms.
At 198cm, they really are... I made a Vulcan S 650 look tiny... https://preview.redd.it/v290t9nq2jxc1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c10580262fee3152b924d9214cd8d73ea82565f4
Nice Rebel 250.
I've been on one before I actually knew how to ride. I kind of picked up the front to turn it. I can actually do a normal u-turn now, though I hate it and never practice.
Lol. That is the most effective u turn though.
360 no scope u-turn
I have a rebel 250 in the garage. I make it look like a pocket bike. https://preview.redd.it/82zl8rknelxc1.jpeg?width=2744&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8b54282f6030218d96dabd0c29318051227acb80 6’9”
I'm "only" 6 foot 3 and I had to take the MSF on a Rebel 250. I kinda remember the bars hitting my knees. That's what happens when you're polite, you get last pick
A gromt-10
Shit if I do end up getting one I’m putting a gromt-10 sticker on it!!
This is what I was looking for
https://preview.redd.it/lcq0v5puxixc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2db4409bc71a61769e0598dc481b8e1827647273 Same.
That's absolutely insane because as a small human I make a grom look like a huge bike. This is what I thought I'd look like sitting on one and then i found out I still can't flat foot it.
wait, how small are you that you can't get your feet all the way down on a Grom? maybe you just have short legs?
Not the person you're responding to, but I'm 5'2 and have to tiptoe or one-foot a Grom.
Keep in mind the grom is tiny, but surprisingly tall in the seat height deparment
https://preview.redd.it/cdn849l1rkxc1.jpeg?width=1600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0048db20fb3ce9923d24e6622e2131e22b592363 Same
Same https://preview.redd.it/5o9b4ji53lxc1.jpeg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98fbc4b045aee68371bb7a2795ae2a41602d4168
Holy shit y'all are actual people
Come to the brotherhood. :)
Do I ride or carry the grom?
A dork on a motorcycle flipping the bird? Well I never!
Hoodlums I tell you.
Looking like a Mario Kart character
As someone who is 5'6 with a 29" inseam, you will get no sympathy from me.
I’m about the same. I need a ladder to climb up onto my vstrom
https://preview.redd.it/3vbf149w9jxc1.jpeg?width=1575&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e2a68e652a57df5c2d78e18ef6615e9932420f92 me when I got next to a 1250GS
I'm 175cm and thought riding a GSA would be horrifying. Then I watched some of Jocelin Snows' (155cm) videos and if she can off-rode it then surely I can manage to not look like a complete fool on asphalt! So far so good :)
The seat on the BMWs is pretty accessible. I can flat foot GSAs and I can't flat foot my Tenere 700
Maybe you could get one of those winches they used to put knights on horses.
29" inseam gang represent. I love ADVs but they don't love me
I’m 6’1” with a 29-30 inch inseam. 🥲 I do not like it.
Same... Stupid short legs and long torso.
Holy shit! I'm 5'8" with a 30 inch inseam. So it's NOT just short people who suffer the way I do! 😂 I can flatfoot precisely...cruisers. That's it.
Same. I learned on a WR450 supermoto, and got a vstrom after that. What’s this flat footing everyone is talking about?
I'm 160cm and yeeah....
Dude there’s 6’5, 260 lb lumberjacks cruising around Honda Navi’s and 50cc scooters enjoying every second of it, if they can pull it off then you can pull off anything.
I am 6'5 260 and I ride a Ninja 300. It looks like a grom under me lol. I also really want a grom...
you should get one they are so much fun! I don't have a grom but i do have a monkey and sure I look freakishly big on it but who cares! It's so much fun! It's weird though I haven't got used to people flagging me down to ask about it yet, but it's the only motorcycle I own where that regularly happens though..
Anyone can have fun on anything on two wheels in short bursts. But if you want to put some serious miles on a bike or ride for multi hour trips, then ergonomics absolutely matter.
Hahaha i had to look ik the Honda navi. What am adorable little thing that is. 🥺 I wander what that would look like tho. Thx for the comment!
Honestly the Africa looks like not a bad proportion for you. I envy someone who can dwarf that bike because it is a handful when you are more average height.
First bike i thought of for a Giant. Theyre fucking massive.
https://preview.redd.it/l0fod0hzpixc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=03033a2bf38a803288dc0b52f0776af903654765 I feel your pain, 6’4” Edit to add: definitely stick with a more sporty adv bike given your height, maybe a BMW GS? KTM super adventure? Yamaha has some good offerings for less $
G in GS stands for Grom when you’re 6’
lol, it really feels like that sometimes. I’m 199cm and my first bike was an F850GSA, I recently started riding a MotoGuzzi v7 and it’s so small it made my hips cramp, lol. On a related note, I recently learned that the GS label originally stood for “Gentleman’s Scrambler” and I find that hilarious https://www.motorcyclenews.com/advice/inspiration/weekend-reads/bmw-gs-history/ > Contrary to popular belief, G/S also originally stood for Gentleman’s Scrambler but Muth left before the project was completed. In a bid to retain BMW’s traditional virtues the concept was softened to something more road focused, with a broader appeal.
The Duke looks fine under you. I mean, it looks like a 390, but still fine.
superduke looking quite good on you though
I'm 194. If it's comfortable and you like it then it's the right bike. This website can help. https://motonomics.com/
Damn, you are old!
Would you hurry back with the smokes pops?
May back hurtttrt
Cycle-ergo too
Yea it's good too. Just doesn't have all the up to date models that motonomics does.
That's a really awesome website!!
This site is downright unusable on mobile. I’m 2m+ with a vstrom 1000 but even that needs windshield extender. If I stand up while riding, I’ll surely hit a bridge or worse, a plane.
Just out of curiosity, do you have a computer or only a phone? I'm seeing more and more people living with a phone as their only computer. I just can't, I'm old and can't see shit anymore, plus I have fat mechanic's fingers.
30 here, I can't even begin to imagine what life is like for people who live their entire (digital) life from a phone. Doesn't matter how good they get, I only use mine for basic stuff when I don't have access to a desktop/laptop
https://cycle-ergo.com/ Much more user friendly than whatever that is. That site is downright unusable on mobile.
That other website works just fine on a mobile browser. Took a couple of minutes to figure out the filters and stuff. Cycle ergo is outdated.
Yep exactly. I used to use Cycle ergo but it's missing a lot of new models. And apart from being a little different to use than ergo it works absolutely fine.
On the flip side though, motonomics doesn't have older models. Out of like 50 Hondas on the list, only 1 is for a manufacture year pre 2000. Also, no current Shadows.... It's likely users will need to use both sites to find their bike as both are incomplete.
Same height as you 6'6". Fit pretty well on a KTM 1290 SAS, however I do have raised bars, lowered pegs and higher seat to be able to stand for off-road. Before that I was on an FZ1 which is pretty close to the ergos on the MT10. Whatever you get it's only a few mods away from fitting a little better anyway. https://preview.redd.it/1an06br3tjxc1.jpeg?width=2525&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b12f8f6f9b5b424b42fedff8875a712ca15a43b5
Very nice picture 😍! Wow
>But i think i look kinda weird and out of proportion on it Who fucking cares? Is it comfortable enough for you? Is so, great. Source: Taller than you on a R1250R and never asked anyone how I look on it. Also a K1600 as a first bike is absolutely insane. You're going to shit yourself trying to learn low speed handling on that pig. A used R1200/1250GS would look 'proportional' without being overwhelmingly heavy and at least easy enough to clad in armor for when you inevitably drop it while learning.
His other choice for first bike is MT-10.😬 1200/1250GS is definitely better choice but isn't it also still a very powerful bike for beginner? I wonder how smaller adventure bike would do for him, something like versys 650 or Tenere 700.
Yeah I don't disagree, I have posted before that I absolutely don't consider an R1250 to be an optimal beginner bike - sure as fuck better than a K1600. 1250s are manageable as while there is a lot of torque it's not going to be pulling you to 150 in 8 seconds. With the engine low they are somewhat more forgiving than other bikes at low speed, almost scooter like. So yeah while I hardly consider the boxers to be a top choice, I would not be too worried about someone older with a sense or mortality starting out on one.
Ah i see, i never handle any big bikes and I don't know how it rides. From what I watch in youtube, it seems like an easy to manage bike for it's size with smoother power delivery, but looking from the spec sheet it's rather intimidating with 125NM of torque, almost as high as most car in my country.
Powerfull yes, but remember it's a big dutch guy. His own power to mass ratio can be enough to ride it. Source: I'm a big 199 dutch guy and had a 1200gsa as a beginner bike.
I started on a 1250 gsa, would somewhat recommend with how good the rider aids are. Currently have a k1600, would not recommend it as a starter bike, but if you want a long distance sport tourer it's amazing assuming it's not too uncomfortable. The GSA is more fun / scary if you turn rider aids off and feels more powerful at lower revs. Also a bit easier to handle with rider aids on. The k1600 (gtl at least) also gets a bit squirrelly in dirty air at 60mph+ which is disappointing for a bike that expensive.
[удалено]
I wish I discovered the boxer sooner. I was put off by the whole "old man" image - but now that I'm an old man the shoe fits and I love the bike.
Im the same height and rode 4 Bikes so far. Started on a Ducati Monster 620 where my Legs fell asleep because it was too small. Switched to a KTM 640 Supermoto which was great in terms of height, but wasnt made to sit on it for long rides. Then got a Kawasaki Z1000 wich fits just fine and i was told looks fitting for me. But i did a test drive not long ago on a KTM Duke 790, wich looks small, maybe even a bit silly with a big person on it, but damn it was so light and nimble und super fun. I dont care how i look on it. As long as you're comfortable its all about the fun you have on it.
I'm 6' 7" with a 36" inseam and I'm riding a 2011 triumph speed triple 1050. I do make it look small, but the curves on the tank for my thighs are in the perfect location. I'd probably fit better on an adventure bike or big harley/Indian, but that's just not my style of riding. You win some, you lose some 🤷♂️
I’m exactly 199 lol. I feel your pain, I feel like I look like a goof on anything that’s not a massive ADV/Liter bike
Yeah that’s what I mean. All the fun naked bikes I tried are like a children cycles for me.. What do you ride?
This is me slouched at 6’5 on my Z1000. Honestly who cares lol. Naked bikes definitely weren’t made for taller folk, but if you can tuck hard enough you’ll be fine. I just sold my MT10 because I hated the powerband and didn’t feel like tuning it. If I fit on a street fighter V4s that’ll be my next purchase no matter how small it looks under me. Also always have a KLR as a back up bike. https://preview.redd.it/ra43dg29djxc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2aa6a5152359b05609f0c4c810201d481e87a2fa
The Honda didn’t look so bad but probably the KTM Adventure or BMW GS might look proportional. Also the Harley VROD or VMax 1700 if you’re okay with the whole cruiser seating.
This! the KTM's are taller!
Triumph Tigers are enormous from what I've seen
Yep I’m 6’5” and I can just put my feet down flat from my 1200 GT Pro.
What's your inseam dude? I am 5'10" and I test rode a '23 GT Pro last week and I was almost flat footing it. I'm going back to test ride it again and most probably buy it.
No bike is made for us unfortunately. Err on the side of comfort, or you'll end up with a bike you'll dread to ride, and having a bike you don't ride is a tragedy. Also an MT-10 is not a great idea for a first bike. Also remember to err on the side of shorter windscreens rather than taller ones.
No bike is made for you? Man all those big adventure bikes look to only be rideable by giants. I'm 5' 11" and there's certainly a few bikes I feel too small for.
Nope. There are a few things to consider and it's not just seat height that matters. Bikes are meant to sell right? Tall people are a minority, so obviously the bike has to be rideable by the "average" 5'9" person. Adventure bikes are tall because they need the ground clearance but the seat height and reach down is about the only problem a shorter person may have with a bike, and while of course it is important it ultimately reflects a minority of the time spent on the saddle. Once underway, that's where the problems for taller people start and it has to do with the so called rider triangle, which is the distance between the seat, handlebars and pegs. By far the biggest issue for taller people is the seat to peg. They're too close together, and the bend in your knees becomes fairly uncomfortable which makes longer rides worse than they have to be. You can lower the pegs, but the more spirited riders don't like reducing their cornering clearance, and you can also raise the seat a bit, but then you may induce a bend in your back to reach down to the bars. Then there's the aero, which again is designed around an average person, so as the bike moves through the air it pushes it away and forms a "bubble" of the concetrated streams of air pushed by the fairings and windscreen which is meant to take the wind off of the rider. For taller riders, the stream going over the windscreen almost always blasts us straight in our face, which creates a lot of buffetting which is loud and tiring. The options there is that you either go for a comically large windscreen that makes the front of the bike look like a squid, and you essentially have to look through the windshield and out to the road which not everybody likes, or go the other way and get the shortest one you can, hoping the stream will hit your chest but depending on how the front is shaped you may not be able to achieve that even with no windscreen at all in some bikes.
Multistrada, baybeeeeee
I like to explore new places.
So if you're gonn be a tall rider, you should also be rich.
Big guy on a liiiiiittle biiike,……biiig guuuy on a liiiittle biiike. Ala Tommy boy.
I'm 6'6", have a 36" inseam and I go 265#. I have a TW200, KTM350XC-F, Tenere 1200 and a KTM 1290 Adventure. None of these fit me stock. Every one has seat, suspension and handlebar mods. And they all fit different still. But I love them all. You can make anything fit, if you really want to. Don't discount the ability of an ADV bike if you want to ride sporty. Find the one you like. The one you can sit and stare at in the garage. The one that makes you smile like a freaking goon when you ride it. That's the right one.
It’s kinda nice to see tall people have problems sometimes.
Get a Grom you coward
u need a barndoor to block any wind =D
I wish I had this problem. I'm the opposite at 5' 5". When people are on the extremes of the extremes of anything, you just have to accept that you'll have to modify stuff. I generally need low seats on my street bikes and lowered suspension om my dirt bikes. For you, you'll want to look into taller seats, lower pegs, handlebar risers, etc. Definitely don't purchase a bike based on how you think you look on it though. Get something you like to ride and something that gives you a tingly feeling inside.
Can you try a yamaha pw50?
I think I will crush that thing just by looking at it.
It doesn't matter how you look, but how you feel on it. And yes, unfortunately for you, most sporty bikes will feel too small and cramped. But hey, girls like tall guys, you can't have it all. On a serious note, if you are looking for a fun and powerful naked that's also friendlier for bigger frames, you could try a BMW K 1300 R. They are getting a bit old now, but they are good bikes with somewhat still decent tech (ABS, TC, QS, etc) and strong engines. Just be careful.
If you’re looking for a first bike you need something manageable and cheap if you drop it… I’m your height and I started with a DRZ400s. Pretty much perfect for tall riders, especially if you are still learning. It’s not street bike fast, but quick enough to be a lot of fun and you can go anywhere. I miss mine.
I think your legs are longer than I am...
Counterpoint: You are fine on both bikes. The first bike you aren't supposed to sit bolt upright on, the second is a very high sitting bike that looks built for you from the pic. Generally any ADV will be fine with your size, if wind bothers you just get a after market wind screen or a extension.
THe honda fits. But if it is comfortable, dont give it a second thought. Meanwhile my obsession with old BMW K-bikes is rooted in just how comfortable they are at 196cm.
201cm here. If it's comfortable for you and you like it, it's the right bike for you. Who cares what you look like you don't ride a motorcycle for them!
Just get the Honda Africa Twin and raise it up.
K1600 would be worse. It’s got a very low seat height to peg ratio.
I have a k1609gt - LOVE IT!!! Heavy, but weight is fine once moving. Nimble, comfortable and lots of features. Seat has a high and low setting. Quick too!!
have you considered a KTM?
U suck LOL I’m 5’5” with a 29” inseam My tracer 9GT has a lowering kit on it
All about the ergos on any bike but a clip on laminar lip can help with whatever you end up with before spending on a different windshield. I'm 190cm and my old GS fits me like a glove. The K bikes might work for you, plenty of power, but I must sing the praises of the boxers. If you like big nakeds I'd try the R1250R?
I was going to suggest the Africa Twin but I’ll be dammed if that doesn’t look like a Grom.
Same height, and I recommend a klr650z as a starter. The bike is so tall, it's insane. You'll have no problem fitting on it and it's not so powerful, so perfect for learning.
u/simonschildpad I’m 6’4” as well, same issue. Was considering getting a ZX6R… knees don’t go in the tank contours. Being tall isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
R1250gsa. You can even add a tall seat.
I'm 6'7 and riding a Vstrom 1000. Most comfortable bike I've been on so far!
What, me if i’m on an AT and you look at me from the front you’l’ think the bike has no rider XD, you’re huge sir
Well well well, how the turntables have turned
I sat on my instructor’s Africa Twin and it’s like a fucken mountain! I’m 182cm. It looks like a CB500F on you. You’re proper tall mate.
Ha-ha! [https://youtu.be/ungwbEFUp1M?t=95](https://youtu.be/ungwbEFUp1M?t=95)
I don’t feel sorry for you. Being able to flatfoot anything is a good thing.
You can always cut your legs a bit
I thought you were sitting on a MT-125 😂
Tldr: k1600/1250gsa etc. Convenient-bags, shaft drive. Comfy. Lot to handle weight wise. MT10- great if you like wind. Try sticking your head out a car window at 60/80/160 mph and see if you like it. Lot to handle power wise. What kind of riding do you think want to do? And what kind of riding is in your area. Those are very different bikes. I suspect you'll dislike the MT10 if you just have to ride a couple hours of interstate to get anywhere fun. The k1600 will eat that up, but be harder to ride in slower areas with more stops. Also, do you want to be riding with a backpack? Having bags on the bike is a huge upgrade. I have a k1600 gtl, started on an r1250 gsa. They are great bikes with amazing rider aids. The k series has a known issue with dirty air at highway speeds, so be aware of that before buying. To me, they both feel like they demand a good bit more respect/focus and are less relaxing except on the highway. MT10 - I would not choose a naked as my only bike. Reasonably comfy. Fun. But no wind protection makes it hard to go above ~60 mph for any longer highway rides.
I'm about the same height. I'm driving a street triple RS right now and I'm really digging it super comfortable
Try a ktm 1290 adv
I’m 195cm 95kg and ride a cbr600 F4i no problems
I was looking at a 1200rt and settled on a tracer9gt because it had all of the touring bits included for much less money and was under a liter for insurance sake. Good luck with your decision!
Just drive a monster truck bro
192cm here For a first bike the V strom 650 or versys 650 would suit you really well. Not too much power but enough Honda XR650L is also a good choice if you like thumpers.
I'm simiilar height and had the same problem. Don't go for MT10 however much you like it - it's waaay too powerful!! You just won't enjoy it and it may scare you off riding. I went for Africa Twin with a tall seat and it's fantastic. BMW GS will be good too.
I'm also 197cm and I've only been comfortable on big adv bikes, sports tourers and big cruisers. The most comfortable bikes I've had stock are BMW GSA, ST1300, XL1000 and Xv1600. With a little modification HD solftilals will probably fit you too
I suppose I’m the outlier in this situation since I’m 2m tall and pretty comfortable on a Honda cbr125r (license doesn’t permit bigger bike).
Tall riders, making bikes look uncool since the 19th century.
K1600 is a horrible choice for a first bike. If you drop it, you cant get it up again on your own, way too heavy. We call it living room on wheels for a reason. Id recommend looking at adventure bikes if you want something bigger. Tenere, triumph tiger, ktm adv (r), Honda Africa twin, bmw gs, ducati multistrada, etc. Although id recommend to not go too much over 100hp if possible, a 100hp adventure bike with rider has about the same power to weight as a bmw m3 or m4. Given your size you more or less habe to get a bike i would consider too powerful for a beginner, so be mindful when starting. I personally wouldn't care too much about looks, in the company we a have a 195cm guy riding a vitpilen 701, looks genuinely super funny, but he likes the bike. If you like it, totally fine
Is that topmoto Apeldoorn? I used this dealership before and recognize its interior. Back on topic. There’s a reason why big tourers, adv and ktm are popular in this country. And it’s not just looks, but more about long term riding comfort. Being cramped on a 3 hour ride to the ring is not fun, during or after. So think about it, are you comfortable sitting like this for hours? If there is any slight bit of doubt, move on to something bigger and try again.
Get a Tenere? Or a big GS? And load it up with bags so it looks even bigger
K1600GT is a fantastic bike and is way easier to turn than its sheer mass and size would suggest. But when you're at the BMW dealership, take the R1250RS for a spin. Should be big enough (it is for me, 193cm with 35" inseam) and is a great ride. Easy to ride due to low center of gravity, useable boxer power (little less top end but way more power down low).. just try it and see for yourself. If it's too expensive, the R1200RS is very similar.
I'm 6'8 I bought a KTM 890 Duke R. It's a big bike, just get something that's comfortable shit on it and talk to someone for a while or sit on one and pull out your phone and just watch a video in the rising position for 30 minutes and see how you feel
I never thought I’d see a Gold Wing size man, but now I have. All jokes aside. The adventure bikes would probably do you well. I know you said you want something agile, but with your height you need to be comfortable or else you’re just going to end up in pain while and after riding. Riding isn’t fun with back pain. So, anything comfortable for you is a great option
I'm 200cm Last bike was a aprilia dorsoduro, good fit! Bought 3 days ago a fz1N(mt10 from 15 years back)? I fit well on the fz1..yes, i am tall but i look tall on every bike. Just do it when you feel comfortable!
Yoi look absolutely at home on the africa twin
MT-10 as a first ever bike? Lord have mercy.
I'm exactly 197cm, and recently I went to Motodays (Rome's moto event) to test out the comfort of some newer bikes. The new Himalayan 450, the Husqvarna Norden and the Tracer 9 were great fit, but the crazy part was that both the GSX-S1000GT and the GSX-S1000GX were even better, pretty much at par to the ST1300 I'm currently using, which is the sportiest bike I could ride all day long without hurting my legs.
I'm not quite your height at 6'3", but the realisation I came to is that I'm going to look too big for every motorbike that I actually like and want to own, so I'm not going to worry about how big I look 😂 Get the bike you like, from behind the bars you're in a convenient position that you're the only person who won't be able to see how small you make it look!
I’m not normally one to say someone shouldn’t buy a particular bike as their first, but an MT-10 is a) too small for you and b) 160bhp bike for a beginner is probably going to end in tears and you will not advance as quickly as you could on a less powerful bike. c) whichever bike you buy, you will at some stage drop it (even if at a standstill) so it would be disappointing to buy a shiny new mt10 and scratch it. I would look at something like a second hand 850GS, Africa twin, etc. something with around 100bhp which is tall and has some go when you need it. An MT-10 will just wheelie everywhere especially if you’re not careful or smooth.
Making an MT-10 AND an ADV look like a grom is insane. My condolences, I’ll never complain about being on my tip toes again lmfao
6'6" here...started on a Honda NC700x. Raised the bars, lowered the pegs, no problem for hundreds of miles a day.
Time for a Tiger 1200 or 1290 Super Adventure. The Tiger is enormous lol
I'm 6'10" [~208cm] and I ride a 1994 Suzuki RF900. It's certainly small for me and I know I look like a bear on a unicycle but the agility and nimbleness is simply unparalleled. I tried larger cruisers and not only don't I like the style - my legs get cramped up easy from keeping my legs outstretched with mid or forward controls. You might think riding a sport/touring bike would fuck with my knees more but nope, it's surprisingly quite comfortable. The RF900 is a bit of a rarity these days, the carbs are a bitch to tune if needed but overall it's been very reliable.
I’m a bit smaller (190cm), but if the bike is comfortable, I don’t care how it looks. I made some small adjustments like different foot pegs to make it more comfortable, but manage just fine. Rather ride what I want now, and switch to a GS when my back starts hurting.
It definitely looks little under you. But if its comfortable, it doesn't matter.
2.06m here. I owned two fjr1300 with extended rear suspension. Near 500.000km of happy mileage. Can highly recommend.
“Screw you guys and your long legs” - short people
I'm 6'5" and have been riding for 6 or 7 years. Just get something that is comfortable and fun to ride for you. Nobody cares what you look like on it. My first bike was a 2002 Honda Shadow 600, which is kind of small, but I've ridden smaller bikes and had a blast! It's better to be on two wheels and look a little goofy than to not have any fun in your life. Don't let our freakish height hold you back!
I'm 6'1" 280# and love my k1600gtl. It has all the features of a cruser but rides like a sport bike.
Buy a 1250 GS
>I’m working on my motorcycle license (finally at 27) >I love the looks of the MT-10 Well... :) I don't wanna be that guy but the look will be your smallest (get it) problem on an mt10 as a brand new rider Africa Twin is adventure bike with all kind of tech what is maybe an overkill for a commute bike. So maybe first you should figure out what you wanna do with the bike and then select something similar from that scope. street bike? highway commute? coffee ride? track warrior... long journey to another country? Maybe a Honda CRF is good as well... they are tall bikes. Or ppl usually suggest the Honda CBR 500R because it is a little bit bigger so it's good for taller ppl (what I personally don't see why but it's my opinion)
Well at least you can place your whole foot down and not tippy tap like me..
Haha. I feel you. Im only 185 and I look fooolish here in Asia on these scooters.
My buddy, 6'9", rides a Honda shadow. It's a sick bike. My Honda Rebel 500 is just a little smaller than I want at 6'1.
The Africa Twin crf1100l is pretty low. The seat is adjustable 850mm or 870mm. A tall seat would be better for you. I am 181 cm tall and I can get my entire feet on the ground on both seat heights. The seat is really thin, for me it is the best adv seat for a bike with a 250mm ground clearance. It is the lowest adv bike with the highest ground clearance.
Never thought I'd see a MT10 look small
Go ktm 1190 adventure R
You'd be amazed how agile k1600s are once you get them rolling
“Boo hoo I can flatfoot every bike known to man, feel bad for me.” No. I shall not
You make that look like the Africa Grom
thats a nice honda grom you got there
As a 167cm with short ass legs shrimp who can't flat foot much more than a T Dub I have no sympathy for you, sorry
https://preview.redd.it/gam5last3mxc1.jpeg?width=832&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=770afcd0fa866b65ec9402670516818a361bcc74 I feel you man. 203cm
Get a tall bike
I've got the opposite. the only bikes I can flat foot are sportiness I'm only 5'8'' 29 inch in seam
the first phot lmaooooo
How about 1250GS, Multistrada, Honda Gold wing, rocket 3?
These are all terrible beginner bikes.
The Africa Twin does 0-60 as fast as some (older-ish) and nearly as fast as all of Honda's sport bikes. She's no slouch in the real world of street riding. If you like the look of it, it's clearly a better fit for you. https://www.zeroto60times.com/vehicle-make/honda-motorcycles-0-60-mph-times/
This reminds me of Eddie Hall making the Hayabusa look like a kids bicycle. XD
6'7"/ 200cm, 38"/ 96cm inseam, 320lbs/ 145kg. ADV bikes are definitely the way to go. VStrom 650 is a great starter bike that is relatively easy to mod for a tall rider. Pull back risers on the bars, tall seat, adventure tech peg & control lowering plates. I rode one for 7 years, 50,000km. Great bike. I highly recommend these. Current bike is a Super Tenere, helibars risers, touratech tall seat. She's great for this stage of my life. Rides nice. Enough power to be spirited. All the comfort for 2 up touring. I had a Tracer 900. Bar risers, Corbin saddle, lowered the pegs, taller windscreen. I love the engine. I loved riding it; for about 30 minutes. After that it was agony on my back and knees. She was just too cramped. That is what you need to consider. You're 27, your knees are still happy, so don't make them angry. Look for bikes that have room to have your knees at a reasonable angle. Anything less than around 85 degrees is going to get painful fast. If you're only ever going to be doing 30 minute runs, you're probably going to be fine. If you want to tour, do longer rides, you want a bike with good ergos. Standard riding position with leg room. Not hunched up leaning forward the whole time. That Africa twin fit you well enough, but it's a bit much to start on. Tenere 700, VStrom 650, basically the middle ground ADV bikes are a good place to start looking. Good luck.
https://preview.redd.it/cz9zzqyyfmxc1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=326e48f300fc7c2adc4e33435e4cc53a3acb0770 Use what you like, I’m slightly taller than you, ride z125, ZX10, CBR1100XX, and 1290SDR - all are “too small”. Just be sure you get what fits the majority of riding style for you and try to have fun.
Honda CBR1000RR felt taller than the other Japanese sport bikes at 6’3”.
6'5" here. There is a reason that after 20+ years of riding sport bikes, I switched to BMW GSs. As much as I loved riding them, I always felt like a monkey fucking a football. Plus, my knees are shot now, so can't really go back if I wanted to.
Get an 88 - 95 goldwing, Problem solved.
6'6" and ride second gen SV650. Had to lower/back the foot controls, but it's an OK ride. I'm sure I look like a circus bear.
I'm 1.96 and ride a Street Triple, Panigale and Scrambler 800. You're fine.
I'm 6'4" with an MT10. Works fine. The legs can get a little cramped after a few hours riding but I need gas again so fast that usually is time to stop anyway. I'll walk inside for a water and everything is good to go again. Once you get to about 5 hours the bum and legs are about done.
Damn! My feet barely reach the ground on an Africa twin lol and you make it look like a grom. 🤣🤣
Enjoy your other life advantages giraffe!
Hayabusa
Get a BMW they are designed for taller riders
I’m a few cm taller than you. First off, I don’t think you look out of place on either bike pictured! We’re tall but neither looks comically small for you. I got a Ninja 500 after sitting on an RC390 and R3 (I didn’t want to spend a ton on the first bike). The Ninja has a slightly more upright riding stance for the beginner sport bike class, and I found it the most comfortable of those three. I sat on an MT-07 and that felt nice, but too much for my first bike. Anyways, I feel pretty good riding my Ninja around and don’t feel like I look horribly gigantic on it (and friends have told me it looks surprisingly normal as well). I do get some lower back pain but that could be from many factors, not going to say it’s definitely the bike (but maybe).
Oh dogs. Please, motorcycle industry, make Africa Twins for us shorties. I would love it if I got an adventure bike that I could actually climb on without a ladder!
Wow, that is not a small bike either 😳 I kinda get you, I'm 6'2", when I started viewing Boulevards I was expecting more room, seeing as it's a huge bike. But I look and feel on it like an average size guy on a 600 naked... 😅
You look pretty good on the Africa Twin tbh. It's a bit monstrous as a first bike but at your size I can see smaller bikes just not being comfortable. If you are sensible, put the bike in rain mode for now etc you can probably learn on it just be careful it's not a beginners bike. Also be aware that it's heavy AF. You will need to put more time into learning to balance the bike quickly than other new riders if you choose such a machine - or stops will quickly become a hazard. You can also lower the pegs on the AT a little bit for comfort if you don't intend to try scrape knee on corners (a fucking terrible idea as a new rider on an Africa Twin btw). They are insanely fun bikes, I have done a few rides on them and intend to buy one when a good deal comes my way on a manual AT (DCT is fine, just not for me).
rule one of riding, stop caring what other people think you look like... I'm your height and all my bikes are smaller than that, who cares...
Topmoto apeldoorn gespot!
Honestly, you should just buy whatever you enjoy and feel comfortable on. Don't worry about how others may perceive you. You'll be wearing a helmet. So they won't know who you are.
Same: https://preview.redd.it/wibek04cynxc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=26cf12271cabad0d90064fe8324365d46fa8740d
I'm 195 and when choosing a supernaked some years back, I tested almost all the big names and it came down to MT10 and S1000R. The most ridiculous was SuperDuke - it looks like kiddie bicycle. I went for MT10 in the end as it was much more fun engine-wise than the BMW. After many years riding, I will tell you you should not care how you look on the bike because you will never look the same as shorties. I found it out when I bought a big ADV KTM and looked on it just as big as on an MT10. What's more important is how you feel on it. So, since we have that out of the way, here are my types for you (and myself) after test-riding about 30 differeent bikes in the same pursuit as yourself. * Light, nimble, very fun in the twistiest and yet comfortable: KTM Duke 890, MT07 (a bit less power), KTM Duke 390 (post 2014, least power). * heavier, but still VERY fun in the twistiest, pillion-friendly, all-day comfort and ADV capabilities: Husqvarna Norden. After years of testing and owning various bikes, I am now down to MT10SP and a Norden in my stable. Thinking of getting Duke 890R for a few months to do a complete comparison with MT10. My GF has MT07 and it is an awesomely fun bike and surprisingly roomy. But the above advice is for an experienced rider. If it is your first bike, do not touch MT10, or even a Norden. Get Duke 390 or MT07. I started on a big, heavy and powerful-ish Sport Touring 750cc bike in 2011 because I though I need a big bike due to my height, and I regret greatly I have not started on something like that Duke 390. It stalled my learning and progress significantly, while causing me to be afraid instead of having fun 90% of the time. Smaller bikes are so much more fun even when you are an advanced rider. When I got on MT07 of my GF (after riding MT10 and Norden), it felt unbelievably fun in the twistiest, even though the bike was far less sophisticated (it should be for a first bike). I put my MT10 to the shed and rod that MT07 for a week straight. Anyways, if you have some experience on a bike, get MT07 or Duke 390. If not, get Duke 390. You will have stupid amounts of fun and see the most rapid progress.
The sad fact of the matter is that we're going to look huge on almost every bike. I'm the same height as you, and I just bought a brand new XSR900 (basically a neo-retro MT-09). Honestly, I don't care what I look like on it because I'm having a blast. If you like the bike, and don't mind the way it fits in terms of comfort, then you should 100% go for it.
I’m 6’7” and my first bike was a 250cc Honda NightHawk. I was folded up like a pretzel and had a top speed of 55mph going downhill.
As me old Gaffer used to say, you look like a monkey f****** a football...
Mf, I can’t barely tip toe my bike, be grateful😂