My size and gz250

[Bumbadawg]

Hi all,

My name is Joe and I am from Greensboro, NC. I am 6'1 (6'2ish) and 239lbs..though by the time I get a bike (6 months or so) I will hopefully be back down to my average weight of 200lbs. I have read that though the gz250 is small engine wise, it is not totally uncomfortable for someone my size. I was wondering if this was true in actual practice. Anyone about that height and own one? The area I live in and my commute would be on some very nice long and windy roads with some minor Blvds (Speed limit 50mph) etc. I know that I should probably go and sit on one but the closest one to me is about 45 minutes away and I am looking for some preliminary help. I appreciate any and all information regarding this. Also...once I am at about 200lbs..my wife is usually around 170ish and is 5'9..is it even possible to two up with 370lbs on this bike? Thanks all.

Joe aka Bumbadawg

[JWR]

The GZ can do what you want...but there will be more negatives than pluses for using this bike.

1. Power will be down.
2. Not a lot of room on bike for two.

[Water Warrior 2]

I would think the GZ would be ideal for you on your commute with the posted limits. As for 2 up not so good. Maybe think of the GZ as a trainer with the idea of moving up to a larger bike after refining your skills and gaining experience. My SO had her GZ for 3 seasons before moving up and wouldn't have had it any other way. It is also not a good idea for a newer rider to ride 2 up till they have some experience and skills. Get a GZ and hang around here. We can help and suggest some movin on up bikes for the future.

[Bumbadawg]

Thanks for such fast responses. Yea I have a good ways to go before I even get one and I did tell my wife that it would prolly be 6 months if that before I even felt comfortable enough to take a passenger. Thanks all.

Joe

[Water Warrior 2]

Originally Posted by Bumbadawg

Thanks for such fast responses. Yea I have a good ways to go before I even get one and I did tell my wife that it would prolly be 6 months if that before I even felt comfortable enough to take a passenger. Thanks all.

Joe

Sounds good. You have to learn to walk before you can run.

[ncff07]

Probably isnt much help but I'm 5'10" and weigh 135 now and the GZ does fine by me but when I first got it last year I weighed around 180 to 185 and it still did fine.

[mole2]

Originally Posted by Bumbadawg

Thanks for such fast responses. Yea I have a good ways to go before I even get one and I did tell my wife that it would prolly be 6 months if that before I even felt comfortable enough to take a passenger. Thanks all.

Joe

You didn't mention it so I'll give you a bit of advice. If you haven't already I'd recommend you take the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course. Most of the classes have some GZs so you'll not only get proper training to develop good habits but you'll get some seat time on a GZ. Good luck and ride safe.

[mrlmd1]

For just about the same price, look at a Suzuki S40, one step up in size and power, single cylinder 650cc, may fit you better, same reliability and maintenance.

[Gz Rider]

...

[Water Warrior 2]

Originally Posted by Gz Rider

I had considered the s40 as a step up if I couldn't get a GZ. I was put off by what looks like a systemic problem with the cam chain. People seem to be reporting failures around 15000 miles. That was too much of a problem for me to dealwith considering the mileage I'd put on.

Do you think this report is incorrect?

The can chain seems to be the only factory wart on an otherwise good bike. When it goes south just replace it with a better design from the aftermarket. Check out S-40 forums for the full story.