Author Topic: UPDATE - need advice on small(er) motorcycle  (Read 4143 times)

Online kballowe

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UPDATE - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« on: November 21, 2021, 12:55:47 PM »
Four months+ now , and I've graduated to walking with a cane. 

Of course not riding yet, but heading in that direction - and wanting to come back slowly.

The smallest thing that I own is a Suzuki DL1000 VStrom.

Recommendations for a smaller and lighter bike ?
P.S.  30" inseam.

And GO ......
« Last Edit: December 18, 2021, 08:23:47 AM by kballowe »

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #1 on: November 21, 2021, 01:06:32 PM »
A V7 would fit the bill. If the seat height on that is a too high a low sportster 883. Just mho

Offline sidecarnutz

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #2 on: November 21, 2021, 01:10:23 PM »
I got a full knee replacement 7 months back. I find my RE 650 fits me well and is easy to swing a leg over. I feel like I am done with large touring bikes. Mid size for solo riding is what I need now a days.
yeah, I might be addicted to brake fluid. But I can stop any time I want.

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Offline LowRyter

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #3 on: November 21, 2021, 01:13:10 PM »
900 Yamaha Tracer GT.  Maybe the new Honda 1000 Twin?  Ducati Multi V2.  Aprilia 660 Adv.
John L 
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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #3 on: November 21, 2021, 01:13:10 PM »

Offline wrbix

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #4 on: November 21, 2021, 01:37:53 PM »
Recently acquired a Yama TW200 - light, torquey, not your usual too tall dual sport, a strong dedicated following (look at YouTube). Strong aftermarket support. But hard to find - dealers have waiting lists and used get snapped up fast.

It’s what I’ll likely wrap up my riding career on.
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Offline malik

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #5 on: November 21, 2021, 01:56:55 PM »
Have a look at a BMW 310 - a mate bought one, he's 60kg, short, & getting on in years, the bike is some 130kg. He has not worries moving it around & still does highway speeds. Worth a look.
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Offline danomar

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #6 on: November 21, 2021, 02:28:09 PM »
I have a 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 400. It is lightweight, handles very, very nicely, and I have no issues with my 29" inseam. I am not a big fan of the styling, but it works for what I want. The Z400 is the same with less plastic. The 180˚ crankshaft makes it almost feel like a highly strung Triumph that does not need constant attention. HTH

Offline chuck peterson

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #7 on: November 22, 2021, 04:25:18 AM »
Step thru scooter in the 50cc range…

Piaggio Fly 50…

Start really small. After a two year layoff I could do 10mins. Then 20. When I went to my favorite burger joint an hour away it was three full years w PT and gentle yoga ..

Do less than you want… good to hear your itching to get back on

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Offline bad Chad

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #8 on: November 22, 2021, 06:30:31 AM »
Suzuki Savage.
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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #9 on: November 22, 2021, 06:31:57 AM »
Another vote for the BMW G310GS, it's a proper sized bike with loads of protection and weighs as much as a small child. My wife has one and I ride it whenever I'm in the mood. It's a different style of riding though. Goes fast enough when you wring it's neck and all the more enjoyable for it.  :thumb:

Offline twowheeladdict

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #10 on: November 22, 2021, 06:39:00 AM »
Light, but still plenty of power would be the 500 plus cc supermotos by the European marques. 

Light, but low on power, the 300cc dual sports / SMs.

Light, low seat height and low on power.  Van Van 200.

Since you do like cruisers the RE Meteor might be something to play with for a time.  Won't lose much $$ when you sell it. 
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Online Kev m

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #11 on: November 22, 2021, 06:48:04 AM »
I was just reminded in another thread that the new Rebel series is decent and low and light. The 500 and 1100 could be good choices.

How about Triumphs like the Street Twin (30" seat height, 476# wet), and the Bobber is < 28" seat height though 553# wet.

I didn't mention the V7s or V9s because you are obviously intimately familiar with them, but they are good options.

A Ducati might fit the bill, Jenn's Monster is the lightest bike we have with stumpy seat height, but I can't stand the riding position personally.

Sportys are low, but not particularly light even if they hide much of the weight, of course they are largely in the Triumph Bobber weight territory.

« Last Edit: November 22, 2021, 06:50:21 AM by Kev m »
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Online mechanicsavant

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #12 on: November 22, 2021, 07:05:23 AM »
Me , 100kg. 29” inseam . 2 knees + 1hip replaced . 2shoulders rebuilt ,numerous spine issues & arthritis.
My V7/850 fits & works fine. Rear shocks on softest setting & don’t bottom , radial tires are needed , as is decent hard bags (at least for me) . I’ve fitted a small shield & it’s quite comfy for 250 Mi. Days  :thumb:

Offline Bulldog9

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #13 on: November 22, 2021, 07:21:02 AM »
Had my right hip and knee replaced last year, was a major reason I got rid of my MGX (too heavy).

I started riding carefully 3 months after surgeries, and stuck to the V7 Stornello, and had NO issues at all. The bike is very light and easily takes lowered pegs if you need. As part of my PT recovery, I would go out and sit on my bikes while on the stands for 30 minutes and move feet around on pegs to ensure I could fit and do so comfortably.  Priorities you know ;-)

I am 18 months post hip and 12 post knee, and I often forget I had surgery. I can easily ride and hold all of my bikes without issue. Weight training is key once you get to that point in recovery. Be patient with yourself, I'm sure you will be back at it, but to your question, there are many options, the V7, Triumphs, RE's and a couple of the Japanese bikes.

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Offline egschade

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #14 on: November 22, 2021, 07:35:57 AM »
You want to be very careful not to put too much stress on your knee. As others have mentioned think light and low. Would you ever consider a bigger scooter or even a Piaggio MP3? A step-through frame might be very helpful.

Maybe a Honda Trail 125? Seems like folks love them.
« Last Edit: November 22, 2021, 07:42:46 AM by egschade »
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Offline dirtiegirtie

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #15 on: November 22, 2021, 07:45:19 AM »
So many options... I think you need to define a few more criteria to narrow down the list. What style do you want? How much are you willing to pay? Other criteria like 'must have luggage'? My buddy has nerve damage in one of his legs from an accident some 20+ years ago. As such, he is always cognizant of the seat height and height of the rear fender... he has trouble throwing his leg over any bike.

Me? I'm about to buy a little honda shadow 750 to turn into a bobber. It's light for a cruiser, but still almost 100 lbs heavier than your suzuki!

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #16 on: November 22, 2021, 08:02:57 AM »


MINNEAPOLIS, MN

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #17 on: November 22, 2021, 08:12:24 AM »
^^^^  easy catch with a bad knee, or just step away and let it fall.. 
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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #18 on: November 22, 2021, 08:16:04 AM »
I agree with the scooter idea.  Get yourself a nice Vespa, they look fun.
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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #19 on: November 22, 2021, 08:22:13 AM »
Recently acquired a Yama TW200 - light, torquey, not your usual too tall dual sport, a strong dedicated following (look at YouTube). Strong aftermarket support. But hard to find - dealers have waiting lists and used get snapped up fast.

It’s what I’ll likely wrap up my riding career on.

I have the TW200's little 125cc brother and this bike was instrumental in my move from the B1100 to the V9 Roamer

It's a real giggle. Light and flickable and, at least with my 125, you arrive a a corner and just throw it in, primarily because it refuses to get above 50MPH  :grin:

If it wasn't such a POS (learner bike not well looked after and not my best buying decision) I might not have got to the V9
A TW200 would have been nice, but they are much rarer over here
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Offline adaven

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #20 on: November 22, 2021, 08:35:45 AM »
1,2) Kawasaki W650 or 800.
3) maxiscooter or MP 3

I have a 29" inseam and getting shorter. I am 71 yo and have had a few surgeries that affect my legs and hips. They work OK, not great. I have a 650 and it is terrific although the carb setup needs a little fussing with. It seems that the 800 with FI may have solved that issue.
I had a Vespa BV350 that was really fun, but somewhat limited as an all arounder. Personally, I never felt happy above 55-60 mph. A step-through has some obvious advantages and the built in storage is really convenient.

Offline pat80flh

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #21 on: November 22, 2021, 08:57:44 AM »
My 84 V65C is a really light bike, low seat height, easy to handle, comfortable at 70-75 mph

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #22 on: November 22, 2021, 08:57:51 AM »
Hi K,                                                                                            11-22-21

I second the Harley Sportster... low seat height, 560 lb, easy riding.  I had an '07, white, rubber mount motor, fuel injection, reliable.  I made it into a mini tourer, windscreen, bags, etc.  Great bike but I outgrew it because of single front brake...not enough in the twisties.  Unless you plan aggressive riding, I believe it will check the boxes.

Be well, stay well,
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Offline grebmrof

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #23 on: November 22, 2021, 09:03:22 AM »
Maybe shoot for something in the 300# range, the bikes won't be very powerful, but perhaps light enough for enjoying the ride.  Stay away from tall, go small.  Good luck with your decision. 
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Offline Navydad

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #24 on: November 22, 2021, 09:09:47 AM »
66 and still traveling the country. Went with a Spyder RT for our two up travels and I have a 2016 V7 Stone for my solo adventures. This combo works well for me.

Offline MMRanch

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #25 on: November 22, 2021, 09:59:34 AM »
 kballowe

I've had and have a Suzuki Savage (also known as S-40) for over 10 years and will have it when  all the others are gone.

I've rode it from Middle TN to SanAtino 6 times in the last 10 years .   I've rode it to western Arkansas at least 3 times ,  to visit my buddy in Oklahoma twice , to Northen Kentucky twice , and Just anywhere I might want to go.   

Its a 380# , 26" seat , 650 one cylinder ,Belt Drive , FUN BIKE.    Power wise its like a Harley 883 with a shorter seat .    I still ride the wife on it but my V-7II has more seat room so we normally take it if she goes.   On paper it is rated as 33 HP - but that is deceiving low .   The low RPM is very torque  and will pull off a red light with the best of them.   Mine has about 60,000 miles on it but a buddy in Texas has over 200K on his and its still a daily rider.   
I ride with the CMA group a lot and most of the time - the Goldwings and big Harleys don't keep up ... on the twisty roads they can't keep up.   On the interstate I keep up with them up to 80-85 and beyond that I don't want to keep up.

Its a GREAT LITTLE BIKE  (B&S (94mm X 94mm)) notice I didn't say MOTORCYCLE .       I put GS450 cast wheels on mine  so I can go tubeless and I modified a Harley seat to fit it. 


 





Yea !  This will be my "OLD MAN" bike ...    :thumb:
« Last Edit: November 22, 2021, 10:40:13 AM by MMRanch »
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Offline Guzzistajohn

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #26 on: November 22, 2021, 10:03:22 AM »
900 Yamaha Tracer GT.  Maybe the new Honda 1000 Twin?  Ducati Multi V2.  Aprilia 660 Adv.

I was just looking at one of those Yamaha's down in Harrison, I like it!
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Offline Brand X

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #27 on: November 22, 2021, 10:22:11 AM »
This was my favorite smaller bike.. I put 80/20 avon tires, and geared it up a bit.. Cruised at 65 all day.. 88 mpg doing so...Wind did not blow it around at all like my little KLX-250s..The air cooled Yamaha was a gem...





 

Offline John A

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #28 on: November 22, 2021, 10:24:24 AM »
The trouble is that there are so many good choices. I’d buy a Paiggio MP3 if I found a decent 500 but haven’t found one yet.
John
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Offline jas67

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Re: Help - need advice on small(er) motorcycle
« Reply #29 on: November 22, 2021, 10:27:19 AM »
Step thru scooter in the 50cc range…

Piaggio Fly 50…

Start really small. After a two year layoff I could do 10mins. Then 20. When I went to my favorite burger joint an hour away it was three full years w PT and gentle yoga ..

Do less than you want… good to hear your itching to get back on

 :thumb:

Most of the 50cc scooters weigh exactly the same as their 125-150cc counterparts.   They (50cc) are too slow for most traffic situations and struggle on hills.   if you're thinking scooter, skip the 50 and go for the 125-150 class (240ish lbs).   The Vespa GTS in 250 or 300cc displacement would be an excellent choice.   They may be 100# heavier than the 50-150cc class, but, carry their weight real low, and feel MUCH lighter than my (your old) V7 III.   I have a 2007 GTS250ie.   It handles way better than I ever thought a scooter with 12 inch wheels would.  The suspension is MUCH  better than cheaper scooters in the 250-300cc class.

Someone else mentioned the BMW 310.    I've ridden the G-310R, but, not the G-310GS, which I'd assume is somewhat taller.
The G-310R is a perfectly capable lightweight.    Despite being a small single, it handles 75 MPH highway travel just fine, and is great fun  on the twisty roads.

Also see the Kawasaki Z400.  A cousin of mine just got one, it is nice and light, also plenty of go for highway and great fun on the twisty roads as well.

The Honda CB300R is in the same class as the Z400 and G310R.    It has lower HP than both (low 30's, IIRC), but, I'm sure the torque is probably similar to the BMW 310.  It has a round headlight, and, IMHO, looks better than the Z400.

Discussion of the 300-400cc class would not be complete without mentioning the Duke 390 or Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen, which is based on the Duke 390, but, much cooler looking, IMHO.

I've not sampled the Kawasaki 650 twins, but the new Z650RS is far better looking, IMHO, than the insectoid Z400 (and Z650 from which it was derived).   It is similar in style to the Z900RS, but, with the 650cc twin.  There is no Z400RS (yet).

As Kev says, V7/V9 are great choices, but, you're already familiar with them.

The Royal Enfield 650 twins might be good candidates as well.
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