Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Motorcycle types for tall beginner, beginner, first

Question
A follow-up to your recent advice about engine sizes for beginning riders:

My son is 6'5" and weighs about 180.  His motorcycle instructor said that because of his height he should look for a "dual sport" as his first bike.  Is this sound advice?  He would not be taking it off-road.

Thanks for your help.

AK

Answer
Absolutely. The dual sports are tall and not overly powerful, which makes them great beginner bikes for taller folks.

They're also a ton of fun to ride...I've been halfheartedly looking for one for myself, for commuting.

The Kawasaki KLR, the Suzuki DR, and the BMW GS bikes 650cc and under all make great beginner bikes.

Pat