Vstrom and a sports bike.

[lekyuk]

Hi,

I'm in the "I've always wanted a Gixer 1000 club" and the time is coming to start searching. I'm looking at around the 4-5k mark, something with 20k or less miles on which means finding a newer one is impossible. Not matter, I love the blue/white of the K2-K5 which seem to fit in the budget.

But, I'm massive, 6 foot 9 massive. I have sat one one and seemed to be able to ride it but I haven't actually ridden one. So, can anyone help me on advice on how they compare to other bikes in terms of physical size, as in if I can't fit on a Gixer what else might fit. I was told physically its a small sports bike. I do have one eye on the GSXF1000S but second hand in my price range isn't possible. Are sports tourers generally bigger bikes?

Also, what to look out for on older bikes with low mileage? That is obviously looking for any crash related damage.

And....do sports bikes generally need more maintenance? More frequent services etc?

Ta,

Leky

[MartinW]

I'm a mere 6'7" dwarf by comparison, but I couldn't ride a Gixxer for more  than 30 minutes.

I guess it depends how bendy you are and how wide you are, so you may have less problems than me, but I cannot see it working too well.

But ... (There is always a but) - Isn't Conor Cummins the TT Rider also 6'7" ?

Also, I think the K5 is the favoured model amongst owners.

[lekyuk]

30 mins...I sense I may have to borrow several bikes to see which I can tolerate. Even the Strom gives my hips jip with lowered pegs.

Leky

[obalanga]

bloody hell.... man giants about

[Yoyo]

Have a look at a zx12 instead, they are big!

.

[Mr Nick]

Put your info into http://cycle-ergo.com/ and pick various bikes to get an idea what you'll look like on it & the angles of your knees & hip.

This is what a K4 with 6'9" rider (36" inseam) looks like:


Not looking comfy....

[lekyuk]

Oh dear god I'm fooked. 

I had no idea such a site existed!  Now for lots of faffing seeing what I look less stupid on.

Like on the Vstrom I can lower and shift the pegs. Looks like I'd be having to move the pegs back 3" and down 3" to get my knees in the tank recess. that's a long way! Custom job I think.

[tallpaul]

I'm 6'7" with a 36" inseam. I wouldn't even attempt it...

[MartinW]

Here's me on the CG125 they wanted me to use for training. No wonder I couldn't get the U-Turn done properly

[mr_diver]

Zero forward lean though! won't be too bad on the back.