02-27-2018, 05:02 PM
Cory, I'll add my two cents in too (doesn't make this a cheap thread, tho!) for a perspective from a bit smaller person than some of our other members.
Having graduated from a Cushman scooter to a Honda S90, I went directly to the top for my third motorcycle, a 1953 Indian Chief 80 cubic inch. Foot clutch, hand shift. I was 18, (invincible) 5'8", 150lbs. I had no problem switching over to the different controls on the Indian, and no problem with the bulk and weight of the machine.
Fast forward 46 years: like everyone else on this forum, I was instantly attracted to the classic looks of the CB1100. It looks like a real motorcycle! The CB is certainly no lightweight, but lighter than some of the bikes I've had over the years. So here's the deal: at 64 years old, I'm not as limber or as strong as I used to be. I don't like a tall, heavy motorcycle much anymore. And, I went on an extreme weight loss program last summer, dropping from 170 down to 130lbs. And it wasn't picky, I lost a lot of muscle along with the fat. I will admit, hoisting the CB1100 up on the center stand takes all I have right now, but otherwise the weight doesn't bother me at all. As soon as the clutch engages, the weight disappears. I was riding my CB (The Big Pussycat) around town doing errands today, and several times I thought about what an easy, pleasant bike for city riding!
So, a couple examples of a rider with experience going to a heavy large displacement bike and easily adapting. I think you'll be fine with a CB1100. Just do all that common-sense stuff, take it easy and practice, practice, practice! Enjoy the adventure!!
Having graduated from a Cushman scooter to a Honda S90, I went directly to the top for my third motorcycle, a 1953 Indian Chief 80 cubic inch. Foot clutch, hand shift. I was 18, (invincible) 5'8", 150lbs. I had no problem switching over to the different controls on the Indian, and no problem with the bulk and weight of the machine.
Fast forward 46 years: like everyone else on this forum, I was instantly attracted to the classic looks of the CB1100. It looks like a real motorcycle! The CB is certainly no lightweight, but lighter than some of the bikes I've had over the years. So here's the deal: at 64 years old, I'm not as limber or as strong as I used to be. I don't like a tall, heavy motorcycle much anymore. And, I went on an extreme weight loss program last summer, dropping from 170 down to 130lbs. And it wasn't picky, I lost a lot of muscle along with the fat. I will admit, hoisting the CB1100 up on the center stand takes all I have right now, but otherwise the weight doesn't bother me at all. As soon as the clutch engages, the weight disappears. I was riding my CB (The Big Pussycat) around town doing errands today, and several times I thought about what an easy, pleasant bike for city riding!
So, a couple examples of a rider with experience going to a heavy large displacement bike and easily adapting. I think you'll be fine with a CB1100. Just do all that common-sense stuff, take it easy and practice, practice, practice! Enjoy the adventure!!