The Best Commuter Motorcycle for a 5'9, 280 lb Beginner College Student

Choosing a commuter motorcycle can be overwhelming, especially for a beginner college student. This guide helps you navigate the market, focusing on vehicles that are manageable for your height and weight while also fulfilling the commuting needs of a student. We'll cover the top options, including their pros and cons, and provide advice on what to consider.

Top Pick: Honda CB500F

The Honda CB500F is an excellent choice for a beginner college student. Its 471cc parallel-twin engine combines enough power for city commuting with a comfortable and manageable weight of around 416 lbs wet. Its seat height at 31.1 inches makes it easy for taller riders, and its dependable performance makes it a solid option.

Pros:

Comfortable for taller riders Good power for city commuting Reliable and manageable

Cons:

Slightly heavier than some alternatives but very manageable

Lightweight and Nimble: Kawasaki Z400

The Kawasaki Z400 is another fantastic option for a beginner. With a 399cc parallel-twin engine, it offers lightweight nimble handling and good fuel efficiency. Its comfortable riding position and seat height of 31.7 inches make it a great fit for those who aren't overly tall.

Pros:

Lightweight nimble handling Good fuel efficiency Comfortable riding position

Cons:

May feel small for larger riders but still manageable

Compact and Sporty: Yamaha MT-03

The Yamaha MT-03, with its 321cc parallel-twin engine, is a compact and sporty design. Its seat height at 30.7 inches and weight of approximately 368 lbs wet make it a highly maneuverable option. However, it offers slightly less power compared to the Honda CB500F, which may be a factor for commuters.

Pros:

Lightweight sporty design Good maneuverability

Cons:

Less power than the CB500F

Power and Comfort: Suzuki SV650

The Suzuki SV650 offers a great balance of power and comfort, making it suitable for both commuting and weekend rides. Its 645cc V-twin engine and seat height of 30.9 inches provide a comfortable ride, though its weight of around 432 lbs wet and higher power output might require more control for a beginner.

Pros:

Great balance of power and comfort Versatile for commuting and weekend rides

Cons:

A bit heavier and more powerful which may require more control for a beginner

Agile and Modern: KTM 390 Duke

The KTM 390 Duke is a light and agile motorcycle with a single-cylinder 373cc engine. Its 32.7-inch seat height and weight of around 362 lbs wet make it a modern and compact option. However, its slightly higher seat height might be a concern for some riders.

Pros:

Lightweight with agile handling Modern design

Cons:

Slightly higher seat height may be a concern

General Considerations

When selecting a commuter motorcycle, consider the following factors:

Comfort: Sit on the bike and ensure you can touch the ground comfortably. Riding Experience: Consider taking a motorcycle safety course to build confidence and skills. Insurance and Maintenance Costs: Check insurance rates for different models and factor in maintenance costs as a college student.

In conclusion, the Honda CB500F and Kawasaki Z400 are particularly good choices due to their manageable weight and comfortable riding positions. However, the best motorcycle will ultimately depend on your personal preference and comfort. If possible, test riding a few models can help you make the best decision.