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1980 Suzuki GS850L

by Amy
(Pittsburgh)

I have searched through the available blogs and have not found anything, really, on older bikes. I just bought my first motorcycle, a 1980 Suzuki GS850L. Of course I would love to try as many bikes as possible to find the perfect bike, but funds aren't allowing that right now. Being a full-time mom and master student isn't allowing it!

I want to know if any other women on this site have ridden this bike or something similar. I have sat on it (of course!) and my feet reach the ground. The bike's dry weight is right around 600 hundred pounds. I am 5'4'', 170 lbs.

Will this be a safe size?

Comments for 1980 Suzuki GS850L

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Feb 14, 2013

Learning, as well!
by: Amy

Thanks for the support! It's nice to hear about women riding bigger bikes. I've done a lot of research (mainly because I'm so ANXIOUS!) and I found very few people who supported the idea of a woman (ahem) riding a bigger bike.

I'm also learning to ride on this bike. I know a few male riders that will be by my side as i'm learning. I am taking the motorcycle course offered in PA. So, hopefully this will give me a good segway into mastering my own bike.

Thanks!

Feb 13, 2013

1976 Honda Gold Wing
by: Anonymous

This is my first bike... bought it 3 years ago and am very happy with it. It might be nice to have a new bike - parts are easy to find - but it's more important that the bike fit you so you have control. My bike started at 650 lbs and then I added the fairing with full size windshield, bags, and trunk. I use it for a car unless it's raining and like the storage for groceries or other goodies.

If you can reach the ground flat footed, you are best off. I don't think the weight is as important as the height. If you've never taken one, do take a motorcycle safety course and practice manuevering at low speeds. It gives confidence and can save your life at any speed.

Enjoy!

Feb 13, 2013

"Safe Size"
by: Mary

I believe the only "safe size" is whatever you're comfortable with, I'm about your size and my bike (2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic) weighs a bit more than the Suzuki. I'm very comfortable with my bike, granted, once in a GREAT while, my hubby or one of the guys I'm with assists in certain things, but otherwise, it's great! I've known women with bikes much bigger, as I'm sure you'll see when the rest of the comments hit.

Good luck and keep the shiny side up!

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