Bike for a real short guy
 

I'm 5'3" (160 cm) tall and looking to buy my first bike. Anyone out there have some advice for me?

Sherpa 250 (real low)

Then...
DR650 lowered
F650 lowered

Hi Marshall,

it really depends on what type of bike you want.

Some of the lowest machines are small capacity cruisers from Japan. However if you fancy a trail machine the Yamaha Serow is low & light. If you want a sporty number then the 400cc Honda's are tiny. etc

As stated above depend what you want to do with the bike. I'm 162cm and got a 650GS. The seat was too high for me and I had it customised. By removing the foam and replacing it with a gel seat, it can lower the seat by about 4 or 5cm. Then there are lots of other things you can do to lower a bike, depending on models. Other option are cruisers (if you like that sort of bike). My first big bike was a cruiser and the seat was 68cm high so I had my feet flats on the ground. Of course not ideal bike for travelling.

Starting with a 400 CC Japan bike like Honda looks correct decision for the beginning.
After you ride for some time (not less than 6 months) you will/can decide for the next step.

I have a friend same tall as you rides an original F-650, which is not lowered.
After experienced and having skills, you can ride it without lowering.

How is the F650 off of paved roads? I'm actually considering one right now (has a lowering kit installed already) and I've been leaning towards it. I'm looking for something for my extremely short daily commute that can double up for road trip duties in North and Central America.

A very good road bike and will handle the easier dirt roads.

430 lbs dry, 19" frt