Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Motorcycle Engine Size, new, rider

Question
Pat:

I am a pretty big guy, I stand at 6' 4" and weigh around 265 pounds.  I am in the market for my first ever motorcycle (I'm licensed, but haven't bought a bike yet) and I was wondering what size engine I should be looking for.  I found a bike by Kawasaki (the Vulcan 500 LTD) with a 500cc engine for $5,499, and for less money than that (costing $4,899) I found a Suzuki Boulevard S40 with a 652cc engine.  Both of these bikes are new by the way and I will be buying them at a dealership.  Taking into consideration my size, would you recommend one engine size over another?  I also want you to understand...once again...that I have never owned or operated (other than the course to get my license) a motorcycle at all before.  Any suggestions you have would be appreciated.

Thank you.

Answer
Between the two bikes, I'd recommend the Boulevard.

In general, for new riders I recommend a 4-cylinder bike no larger than 500cc or a 2-cylinder bike no larger than 650. The S40 is right in that range. I assume you've sat on both bikes and they both fit you (sizewise) comfortably.

However, being a bigger and presumably stronger person, you could safely go with a twin up to 750 or 800cc. If the 500 or 650 feels a little small, this will open up quite a few more options.

One other suggestion is that you read my 2nd book, "How to Ride a Motorcycle." Since you've already taken the BRC, it'd be a perfect fit--it picks up where the BRC leaves off, with lots of information and riding drills to take what you learned on the parking lot out onto the street, and learn the ropes as safely and effectively as you can.

Best of luck to you, and happy shopping!

Pat