05-23-2018, 01:05 AM
Hello Mike, welcome to the Forum. To my mind, your question has a three part answer, and obviously just my opinion. First, I think many if not most of us started with smaller displacement bikes to learn the mechanics of actually riding and operating a motorcycle. With your previous experience in riding dirt bikes, I think you are probably competent with the mechanics.
Second, CB1100, weight, size, and power. The CB1100 is a joy to ride, and I find it a easy to ride in all situations, slow speed around town, cruising speed on the freeway, and everything in between. It is not a crotch rocket, but does have plenty of power. With your physical size, you should have no problem handling it. Ever see a 140ish lb. woman riding a Harley that weighs a lot more than the CB?...I have.
Third is where my only concern might be. Like many of us, I started riding on the street with small displacement at age 17, and I am 66 now. As the years went on, I went to bigger displacements as my "street" experience and riding knowledge increased. It was a progression, because riding schools did not exist. Riding the street, in my opinion takes a different skill and mind set to do safely than riding in the dirt, and from what you said it sounds like you have little or no street experience. So for a first street bike, my best suggestion would be to complete a good motorcycle riding & safety course first, regardless of what street bike you decide is right for you. Most good courses supply a bike, and every thing but helmet and riding gear. The cost of a course is not prohibitive, compared to the price of a bike and an investment in safety.
Combined with a safety course, I think the CB1100 would be a choice you would be very happy with.
Second, CB1100, weight, size, and power. The CB1100 is a joy to ride, and I find it a easy to ride in all situations, slow speed around town, cruising speed on the freeway, and everything in between. It is not a crotch rocket, but does have plenty of power. With your physical size, you should have no problem handling it. Ever see a 140ish lb. woman riding a Harley that weighs a lot more than the CB?...I have.
Third is where my only concern might be. Like many of us, I started riding on the street with small displacement at age 17, and I am 66 now. As the years went on, I went to bigger displacements as my "street" experience and riding knowledge increased. It was a progression, because riding schools did not exist. Riding the street, in my opinion takes a different skill and mind set to do safely than riding in the dirt, and from what you said it sounds like you have little or no street experience. So for a first street bike, my best suggestion would be to complete a good motorcycle riding & safety course first, regardless of what street bike you decide is right for you. Most good courses supply a bike, and every thing but helmet and riding gear. The cost of a course is not prohibitive, compared to the price of a bike and an investment in safety.
Combined with a safety course, I think the CB1100 would be a choice you would be very happy with.