Bike size (shape not cc power thread)

[Mowgli]

I've been shopping around for a*bike *to commute on a few times a weekend I was wonder is there a real size difference in a 250 compared to a 650 or other larger cc bike. I'm 6 1 at 170lbs and don't want to feel huge on it. I don't need the power of a larger bike and I like the mpg of a 250
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[Mowgli]

Ive seen some tall guys on bike (dont know what bike) that look huge on it. i dont want to look or feel like i got a little kids size bike
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[Whiskey]

This site should help you find out what will fit you & what wont.
At least give you an idea of what to sit on.
It doesn't give saddle width, which can make taller bikes feel shorter, or shorter bikes feel taller.

http://cycle-ergo.com/

[patw]

At your height, you should be able to flat foot a KLR 650. Despite having a lot more torque, the top speed is similar to the 250.

Plus, trail riding

[Mowgli]

Originally Posted by Whiskey

This site should help you find out what will fit you & what wont.
At least give you an idea of what to sit on.
It doesn't give saddle width, which can make taller bikes feel shorter, or shorter bikes feel taller.

http://cycle-ergo.com/

wow that site is awesome. the 250 is a more aggressive position than even the 650

[Zola]

Here's my '12 650 and '08 250.

Hard to believe they are manufactured by the same motor company, eh?

I'm 6'2", 195 lb. and comfortable on both. The riding position on the 250 is just slightly more aggressive than the 250. I'm generally ready for a break after 30 - 40 minutes on the 250 and comfortable riding the 650 for extended periods, 100+ miles before I need to stretch: 650 is bigger, faster, stronger, less busy.

As everyone here will attest, the 250 is a riot to ride; quick for a 250, nimble, terrific machine for developing/honing your skills - but modest displacement does have it's limitations, e.g. slow 40 - 60 an 60 - 80 roll-on, harsher ride. Both machines have excellent braking. The 650 has a much more compliant ride but both have responsive, neutral handling for machines at their price points.

Both are returning 50+ mpg under similar riding, i.e. aggressive rural riding, rolling hills, fast sweepers, maybe 15% tight twisties (western and southern Finger Lakes in NY).

No worries about 'looking huge' on the 250. The seat heights are identical and while the 650 is clearly bigger, I find the fit of both outstanding.

The 250 absolutely needs mirror extenders or alternative mirrors as many here will verify. The 250 seat is a plank and an aftermarket seat is a big plus. The 250 is carburated and many here have made mods that are well documented. Kawasaki will undoubtedly grace the next-gen 250 with fuel injection. All non-issues in the 650.

The 250 requires more engine maintenance than the 650: valve checks at 7,500 vs. 15,000 mi.

Both have smooth shifting transmissions and easy pull at the levers. 650's are adjustable.

If you're an inexperienced rider, seriously consider the 250. You'll have lower entry level costs, modestly less expensive insurance costs (likely), a terrific skill building motorcycle - and one that can provide the experienced rider fun on command.

Checking out forums dedicated to specific motorcycles is useful but be cognizant that owners of specific bike tend to develop biases. What a surprise.

Both machines are thoroughly reviewed in the motorcycle press; Cycle World, Motorcyclist, Rider magazines so 'expert' opinion is also readily available (usually that opinion is "buy this bike"). Yeah, another surprise.

Good luck and don't shoot your eye out.

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[Jiggles]

I see your red and raise you black

[Zola]

Originally Posted by Jiggles

I see your red and raise you black

Looking good, Lewis!

[geeker]

Originally Posted by Zola

Looking good, Lewis!

Feelin good, Billy Ray!

Damn. Now I need to watch that movie again. Lol

[Zola]

+1

[Malicious Logic]

Originally Posted by Mowgli

wow that site is awesome. the 250 is a more aggressive position than even the 650

A side note about that site: if you scroll the mouse wheel, it'll kinda overlay the images so you don't have to switch back and forth between bikes. A little something I discovered just now.

[Zola]

Originally Posted by Mowgli

wow that site is awesome. the 250 is a more aggressive position than even the 650

That 250 was designed and engineered as an entry level sport bike; the 650 as a "sporty ' standard, designed to fulfill a variety of purposes, hence the more sport orientation of the 250.