any tall riders out there? tips on adjustments?

[bdad57]

I'm seriously considering buying a 1980 XS11 special. I have a 2003 Honda VTX 1800R with a 67" wheelbase and I want a smaller bike just to ride around town and so forth. The XS has a 61" wheelbase and I'm wondering if it will seem too small for me.

It's been a long time since I've seen one. I'm 6'4". The VTX fits me well, but is actually a bit on the big side.

Any 6+ footers out there riding an XS11? If the handlebars feel too close are they adjustable? Are there any footpeg relocators, that sort of thing?

[madmax-im]

I'm seriously considering buying a 1980 XS11 special. I have a 2003 Honda VTX 1800R with a 67" wheelbase and I want a smaller bike just to ride around town and so forth. The XS has a 61" wheelbase and I'm wondering if it will seem too small for me.

It's been a long time since I've seen one. I'm 6'4". The VTX fits me well, but is actually a bit on the big side.

Any 6+ footers out there riding an XS11? If the handlebars feel too close are they adjustable? Are there any footpeg relocators, that sort of thing?

I know a guy here who is very tall over 6'7" and rides his 1980 XS1100SH so it can be done with fair comfort to boot... I'll let others chime in as to what if any mods they made to better accomodate them...BTW Welcome to CH.11

[mro]

originally posted by TC (for the vertically challenged )

The standards are a little taller than the specials due to their 17" rear wheel vs. the Specials 16". A search for shortening the height/lowering the bike/frame will show many options from shorter rear shocks, sliding the upper fork tubes a little into the tripple trees. Also, modding the seat foam can provide more leg room as well. Perhaps others with similar personal body dimensions will chime in on how their standards fit them without mods. I'm vertically enhanced at 6'6" tall, 36+ inseam, I have actually RAISED my bike's height!

Would be just the opposite as above.
Pretty sure at one time there was also some company that you could get longer forks that fit the XS.

mro

[CatatonicBug]

I know the main problem would be the controls. With the middle-set controls, long legs can make you feel like your knees are in your chest. There have been a few (including TC) who have added forward controls to help with that issue.

[Rocknroll90]

I got extended foot pegs

for the long rides. It would be great if the controls were out there too.

[oldyam80sg]

I think TC is a big guy!Maybe he can be of some assistance.

[TopCatGr58]

Size is all relative.

Hey there Bdad57,

Sometimes when I get on my Xs11, I feel like this.....



That's why I added these homebuilt/welded forward controls.





I also have 4" overlength front forks, which raises it up a bit also.

It's hard to tell from the above photos, but those are GoldWing bars, and they are mounted onto 1" setback/ups!

I think for just around town, and you being "only" 6'4", that it'll be alright.

It doesn't stop me from running thru the twisties! Taken a few years ago.




T.C.

[Fred]

Not vertically challenged

Hey Bro I'm 6'5" and am very comfortable on my '78 XS1100E with a few adjustments over the years.
1. Floor Boards with a rocking shift lever, the brake pedal on the right is pressed with the heel. I welded a larger plate to the arm to fit a rubber pad to
2. Engine bars with highway pegs.
3. Short Drag Bars to accommodate the long arm syndrome.

Fred
Patriots Australia
Life Member

[MaximPhil]

Hi bdad57,
If it is just your leg to the peg problem I find an inch of high density foam on top of the saddle is a big help. I use a sheep skin on top which adds even more comfort and a simple way of holding it in place.
I do not have a picture to show. Ofcoure a custom made saddle would have the same benefit.
Phil

[bdad57]

good info guys... thanks

TC, I take it you're taller than 6'4".

About those longer fork tubes.. Probably wise to use a fork brace, true? Seems the forks are generally regarded as a bit wimpy.

I'll search those topics. But if somebody wants to toss me some info on fork tubes and braces I would gratefully accept it.

[b.walker5]

6.2 and quote comfy on my SG. Wind open the throttle in third gear if you want to feel small.

[bikerphil]

if somebody wants to toss me some info on fork tubes and braces I would gratefully accept it.

Here's a link to the source for custom fork tubes.....


http://www.frankmain.qpg.com/

There's a member here (Tkat) that makes an excellent fork brace for the 11.