650-750 Midship control bikes

[RDawson]

Starting another thread not to muddle Don's new rider thread. A friend that hasn't ridden in many years bought a 600 Shadow without a test ride. It had tall risers and ape hangers and he's about 5'6" or so with short legs. Once I moved the bars and adjusted everything I could for him the factory forward controls are a stretch. With the side mount exhaust moving the controls back isn't much of an option. His former smaller bikes from the past were all midship controls and he's not comfortable stretched out. Besides the Virago what's out there with a low seat and midships?

I looked at the VStar 650, can those controls be moved rearward without reinventing the wheel? He won't be touring, just riding an hour or two at a time.

[snyper316]

Starting another thread not to muddle Don's new rider thread. A friend that hasn't ridden in many years bought a 600 Shadow without a test ride. It had tall risers and ape hangers and he's about 5'6" or so with short legs. Once I moved the bars and adjusted everything I could for him the factory forward controls are a stretch. With the side mount exhaust moving the controls back isn't much of an option. His former smaller bikes from the past were all midship controls and he's not comfortable stretched out. Besides the Virago what's out there with a low seat and midships?

I looked at the VStar 650, can those controls be moved rearward without reinventing the wheel? He won't be touring, just riding an hour or two at a time.

 

My classic is forward controlled, and he shouldnt have a problem riding it either, my short friend ron can ride it just fine and he is 5-0

[luvmy40]

If older bikes are an option, look at Yamaha's XJ series. 650 and 750 SECA or Maxim models.

 

My '82 Maxim 750 is a very comfortable, easy handling and powerful daily ride. The wife and I have taken several weekend trips on it loaded for camping and it has no problem running 2up, loaded at highway speeds all day/.

 

Solid running bikes can be had for $500.00 or less. I've seen near mint bikes for $2500.00