Best Bike for Large Rider?

[mawp]

Looking for advice on type of bike to purchase.

I'm 6'4" and 305 LBS. Riding experience = little.

I have a friend who recommends I got nothing less than a 450 4-stroke but those are pretty spendy and being a beginner I don't want to plop down $4,000. I've set a budget of no more than $2,500 for a 1st bike and would like to stick to that.

I'm wondering if a 250 4-stroke would do the job. I usually ride in Ocotillo Wells which is in Southern California. It's hard pack (very little sand).

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[gwcrim]

Look for a Honda XR400. It's not a high strung race bike. It's a mellow trail bike. Less money, less maintenance.

 

[_JOE_]

Look for a Honda XR400. It's not a high strung race bike. It's a mellow trail bike. Less money, less maintenance.

Absolutely! :cool:

 

[jb_dallas]

The XR400 would be a good choice. You dont have to spend $4K to get a good bike...I paid $1300 for my YZ400F (so far, I think it was a steal), however, I would steer clear of the "new generation" 4 strokes (like mine and newer) unless you like performing alot of maintenance. You can read many threads on this site about the maintenance issues.

 

[mawp]

Thanks for the advice.

I went and looked at a XR400 today, the guy wanted $1500 for it. There was a small tear in the seat and the plastics were pretty rough but I offered him $1300 and he took it.

Kelly Blue Book retail value is $2600 and trade in value is $1800 so I think I got a fair deal. Can't wait to go riding now!

 

[_JOE_]

Cool. Have fun!

 

[DougTx]

XR400 - Great Choice

Good call... you will love it.