Tall returning biker on a budget

[munster]

OK, I have 'provisional' approval from SWMBO to buy a bike. I'm 39 , 6 foot 3, touch over 100kg's and have a dodgy back so can't ride sports or tourers, love cruisers, $3k budget (excluding boots, pants, jackets, gloves & helmet).

Had 250's (CB250R and CBX250) when I was younger, looking for something to fine day commute and occasional weekend cruise. Have ridden bigger bikes, just never owned one.

So far I like;

Yamaha XV750 Virago (yes I know about the starter issues)
Suzuki LS650 Savage

Any others I could / should be looking at within my budget? I would look to add highway pegs (if not already foot forward), pack rack and maybe saddle bags.

[pete376403]

An older KLR 650 (new ones are around $10K)
You'd be sitting up straight and long travel fairly soft suspension would be kind to your back. More than enough power for the cut and thrust of commuting, big 20+ litre tank.

[munster]

yeah there's one of those on trademe at the moment, but it's not the style of bike I'm looking for.

cheers anyway

[P38]

I got two identical 1986 Honda CB650 Four Customs that might fit the bill. Ones is in almost daily use and one is deregistered and needs fixing up (running on three cylinders only) but good for parts.

Otherwise try any of the following

Honda Shadow or ACE Shadow 750cc

Suzuki Intruders 750/800cc

Kawasaki Vulcan 800cc

[my-bonaventure]

trade me

I too am tall and well proportioned and found the savage and the virago were too low for me and not comfortable, but rode a Yamaha XJ750 and was smitten. Managed to get the score of the year price wise on trade me and for under $1500 I have a very tidy road legal bike. Trade me rocks

[fridayflash]

sounds like any big old japper inline four would suit you?

[Griffin]

The Yamaha XVS is a great model - not sure what engine sizes they go up to but bound to be a mid size (700 - 1100) available. They are a step up from the standard XV (Virago) model... search for Dragstar. They are a great bike.

Otherwise I can personally recommend the Suzuki C50T but your budget will have to stretch somewhat for either of these bikes... thought about getting a 'luxury loan"?