Big Girl On a 250cc

Big Girl On a 250cc

by Gabrielle
(Grand Rapids, MI)

I am a pretty big girl, and I am wondering if a 250cc will be okay. I don't need to go super fast or have extreme acceleration. I just want to take it on the highway for short trips. A friend of a friend suggested a 600cc, but I am hoping a 250cc would be good enough, because they certainly are cheaper. Any help?

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Big Girl On a 250cc

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Apr 23, 2011

Get what works for YOU!
by: Lisa

Hi Gabrielle! I currently own a Honda Rebel 250. It is my first bike and I love it. I am not a tiny girl - and the bike suits me perfectly. I agree with the other posters - the power/speed is limiting on this bike. That being said, I mostly ride out in the country by myself - and the bike is fast enough for me at my skill level. This is my very first bike, the one that I will always love the best, because it's what I learned to ride on. I am considering moving up to a bigger bike in the next few years. I am a very new rider, and I just got my motorcycle license about 2 years ago. I want to take my time and become a better rider before I move up to something bigger and faster. Do some research, and sit on different kinds and sizes of bikes to find one that feels right for you. Good luck and best wishes that you find the perfect bike! :)

Apr 21, 2011

WONDERFUL
by: Gabrielle

I was definitely looking at the Ninja. I have heard and read many good things about it. That'll be the bike then! THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!!!!!

Apr 20, 2011

Same Situation - Ninja 250 Only
by: Judy

I am currently @ about 2x my sports-playing days, and I owned a Ninja 250 I taught several new riders on....I rode it on the freeway many times, easily keeping to a sustained 80-85mph speed with more left.

I would absolutely NOT ride any other 250cc MC on the highway, especially the "Cruiser" types, including the Honda Rebel 250 or Nighthawk 250..they have far less power than the Ninja 250.

The Ninja 250 has little power below about 5000rpm, which is what makes it a great beginner bike. But between 5000-10,000 rpm is has PLENTY of power even for a women >250lb. such as myself. I am literally living proof a "big girl" can ride a 250cc bike but again, it is a far cry from the underpowered 250cc Cruisers or Honda's.

Good luck and have fun...I had to have gear Custom made because nothing off the shelf fits me, but its worth doing.

Apr 20, 2011

WOW, Thanks so much!
by: Gabrielle

It is great to hear your story. Knowing that, there is probably a way I can use it on back roads, and I will not be using it very often, so I will definitely look for a 250. And there is a monstrous price difference, as you said.

Apr 20, 2011

250 Yamaha Virago
by: emma

My first and only bike has been a 250 Yamaha and I love it. Normally we take day trips that averages between 125 to 200 miles my husband rides a Harley Soft Tail and I don't have any trouble keeping up. I must admit that we are not in it for the speed and we normally stick to country roads whenever possible but I have found that when I needed to pick it up my bike has always performed. I don't think you will many motorcycle riders who will tell you that you should buy a 250 but I can tell you that I have put over 10,000 miles on mine in the last year and I am still waiting for the need to replace it with a bigger bike. I do think there is a stigma placed on smaller bikes because after people find out what I am riding (they always assume it is a 650) they usually ask me if I am able to keep up with other bikes. I asked the questioned to a local bike shop owner (when do I need to upgrade) this is what he said. If you are planning to taking long trips and will be cruising at highway speed consistently you will put a strain on the motor and I would recommend something bigger. If you are riding back roads and your need for highway speed is moderate you will probably never need another bike. Now having said that I must admit I have never ridden any other bike I just know that for what I am doing right now the 250 is perfect. I also admit that price was a very big factor in my decision making. :)

Best of Luck whatever you decide. Ride safe and have fun.

Apr 20, 2011

Thanks!
by: Gabrielle

Thanks so much. I feel like I have something to go on now. I will definitely look for a 650cc or up.

Apr 20, 2011

Big or Small Girl Doesn't Matter
by: Wanda

A 250cc will support your weight. I don't think you will enjoy riding a 250cc on the highway, though. You'll have to ride at pretty high rpms on a 250 cc to stay ahead of traffic on the highway, and that can be tiring after a while. I started with a 650cc, and I'm glad I did. Many people start on a 250cc, and it is a good idea for gaining confidence and developing your riding ability. Most people tire of a 250cc within a few months, though, and want to trade up. I recommend shopping around to see what is out there. Sit on bikes and see what seems to fit you best; then work on finding a good deal.

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