As a person who is 6 feet tall, you'll generally find more comfort on motorcycles that offer a larger frame and have ergonomics suitable for taller riders. While individual preferences and body proportions can vary, here are some types of motorcycles that are often favored by taller riders due to their comfort and reliability:
Adventure Touring Bikes: Adventure touring motorcycles are designed for long-distance travel, providing an upright riding position and ample legroom. These bikes often have adjustable seats and handlebars, allowing you to customize the riding position for maximum comfort. Examples include the BMW R 1250 GS, Honda Africa Twin, or KTM 1290 Super Adventure.
Sport Touring Bikes: Sport touring motorcycles offer a balance between sporty performance and touring comfort. They generally have a slightly more relaxed riding position compared to pure sport bikes, providing a comfortable reach to the handlebars and enough legroom. Consider models like the Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX, or BMW R 1250 RS.
Cruisers: Many cruiser motorcycles have a low seat height and forward foot controls, which can be accommodating for taller riders. Look for cruisers with a more spacious legroom and handlebar positioning. Popular options include the Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Indian Chief, or Yamaha V Star 1300.
Dual-Sport/Enduro Bikes: Dual-sport or enduro motorcycles are designed for both on-road and off-road riding. They typically offer a tall seat height and adjustable suspension, allowing taller riders to find a comfortable riding position. Examples include the Honda CRF450L, Yamaha WR250R, or KTM 690 Enduro R.
Standard/Naked Bikes: Standard or naked motorcycles offer a neutral riding position with an upright stance and mid-mounted foot controls. These bikes often provide good legroom and a comfortable reach to the handlebars. Consider models like the Kawasaki Z900, Suzuki SV650, or Yamaha MT-09.
It's important to note that individual comfort can vary, and it's always recommended to visit a dealership and physically sit on various motorcycle models to assess your personal fit and comfort. Additionally, reliability can depend on factors such as maintenance, brand reputation, and adherence to regular servicing schedules. Conduct thorough research, read reviews, and consider factors like maintenance costs and availability of service centers when selecting a motorcycle for long-term reliability.