I'm partial to the 883's. It's just my thing. First bikes should be something ala Buell Blast, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, etc. The Sportster is a bike that you kinda need to learn to ride, not learn to ride on.

 

Another good starter bike for a woman, that you can pick up dirt cheap and re-sell easily, is a Suzuki 650 Savage. (The newer ones are called an S40.) It is a thumper, but I rode mine all over the Rocky Mountains and it has plenty of power. Once she rides enough to get comfortable, then buy her the 1200.

 

>>>.one more round???BUY THE 1200cc) my wife picked mine
out,,LOL

 

not to spoil the sporty party but if you read enough forums you get the idea that soft tails are lower and easier to ride than sportsters. don't get me wrong, I like mine alot but I'm here spending your money not mine

 

I agree with those saying to get a cheaper bike at first like a used metric that way if it is dropped then no big deal. After she is comfortable enough and gets her skills up then move up to the 1200 especially at your size if you are wanting to ride it also.

 

Thanks to everyone who replied. Your information is invaluable. I am still in the consideration stage.

The problems is I agree with all of your points. Just can't decide. Maybe I should say she is in her mid 50's.

Nellybelle

 

We wish you luck and safety for the Mrs.

 

i think a person's personallity should also be taken into consideration. my 1200L is my first bike. i took the msc and past , went , took the test, lpast the first time. but i agree, that does not make me a rider. i was stuck on the sporty , couldn't be talked out of it (not even for the dyna low , or anything 'easier to ride') and i am very independent and stubborn and usually accomplich what ever i set my mind to. if your wife is someone like that, what ever she chooses, she will (eventually be fine on) and she should like what ever she gets , or that too will take the fun and excitement out of it (IMO) i also agree the sporty is NOT easy to learn on. i got real spooked, with how top heavy and powerfull it was. the msc was like learning on a tricylce compared to the sporty. but BOY! do i love it now!! wouldnot trade it for anything. good luck , in what ever you decide.

 

Just got back from the International Motorcycle Show in Cleveland.
I checked out a Kawasaki Vulcan 900.
That is one Hell of a nice bike, and only $7000. That may suit the bill as a great bike that isn't too much to start on, and would provide plenty of room to grown in to.
I was really impressed with this bike.

 

if your going to get a sprortster, get the 1200.... if you don't think she's going to ride it/ or she'll be dumping it, get a used honda or something for her.... i have the 883, and wish i'd got the 1200.... actually wish i'd got the street bob but, hubby just got a new road king, and he deserved the bigger bike.... i took the cheaper way out... i have frinds that took the class, ran out and bought bikes, and don't ride now.... why waste alot of money.... i'd ride a vespa, if that's all i had, well maybe not...