I'm a male menopause motorcycle enthusiast. I have never been on a bike in my life until a few weeks ago when I started taking lessons. I want a RE ! I love the history of this bike. I adore the look. I don't even mind the thought of routine simple maintenance provided I have a good manual to follow.
In the land of OZ, there is the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) This restricts new riders to certain motorbikes that have a certain power to weight ratio, for the first year of their licence. This is to give the newbie a year to learn how to ride and handle a motorbike before allowing him/her to ride whatever bike he/she wants. It is forbidden to carry a passenger during this time. All Royal Enfields are in this category. Thats good.
I don't want to go fast, just the speed limit of 60 mph. I don't intend to go far, just about 1/2 hour a day. The RE is perfect for this.
But I don't want to ruin my first bike experience. I have read alot of posts on this forum and there are plenty relating to problems with their bikes. Not major ones, but ones that have taken them off the road for a short time. (oil leaks, bike won't start, wheels out of alignment) Even the new UCE motors have some problems.
Also, I'm 6,3 and weigh 250 lbs. I have never ridden a RE, but I have sat on one. A 1998 military model. It was cramped and uncomfortable. This is not about vanity, but I also looked a little slilly. The bike was small under me.
My question#1..Can the driving position be adjusted to allow for bigger blokes comfort and aesthetics?
My other LAMS option is the Yamaha Star 650. It fits me better and dosen't need the attention the RE does. But I want the RE! I don't mind routine maintenance but I don't want to live in fear of my bike breaking down because it's Tuesday!
I live in a country down and the dealer is a 3 hour drive away. So the "warranty" is not so easily attended to.
Question #2.. Would you recommend the RE to someone with my concerns?
Thank you very much for your assistance.