QuestionHi,
I am looking to purchase a used BMW motorcycle and am wondering if you can suggest a model which is both fairly inexpensive (less that $3500) and also suitable for a taller rider (6'4"). I want a bike that I can ride for the next five or six years and don't want to be uncomfortable riding 6 or 7 hundred miles a day. I am looking at a 1993 K-Series 1100 right now and also a K75s? Can you tell what BMW's are NOT for taller riders?
AnswerHi Dan,
Thanks for the question.
Basically, bigger will be better for you. I'm sure that's obvious. You'll probably not fit well on their FS650 Enduro. As for finding a large-size BMW for under $3500, that's going to be a challenge. BMW's are well known for retaining their value, so a $3500 BMW is most likely going to be old, high-mileage, and maybe a little worse for wear.
As for which BMW's are "not" for tall riders, that's not as cut and dried as you may think. One nice thing about BMW's is that they are highly customizable. So a bike that you initially feel too big for could be "just your size" with a different seat, different bars and relocated footpegs. Some BMW seats are adjustable in height from the factory.
I think the K75S would be too small, while the K1100 might be good, perhaps with a larger windscreen. Of course, I say all this not knowing if your height is due to a long inseam or a long trunk. It makes a difference.
Six or 700 miles days are not easy unless it's high-speed freeway droning (even then, not very easy). I've done a few, but only a few. You'll definitely need a comfortable bike. Have you considered any of the big GS models? They are the big boxer dual sport models. I hear from a lot of tall riders that these are the ticket if you have long legs, as they are a bit taller overall for their off-road capabilities. Of course, locating one for $3500 will be a challenge, but not impossible.
So for your budget, you'll probably see mostly K-series bikes (inline 4 or 3) as they do not hold their value as well as the boxer models. You'll need a large one, unless you are willing to invest in mods to make it fit you better. That's always an option.
I'd seriously look at a used GS model. They are big, comfortable, and if you see a dirt road that looks promising, they have that capability. And they are tough as nails. Maybe a bit more than $3500, but if you find one near that price and wave cash at the owner, I'll bet he'd let it go.
Good luck, ride smart.
Bill Roberson
