Looking forward to skimming the archives and picking up knowledge from ya but gonna put it up from I'm not a Harley owner just yet. I actually would love to hear opinions on what bike you guys think would suitable best for a guy my size and the riding I'd be doing and I'm a new rider with currently no experience even on dirt bikes but, I'll be going through the Southern Tier Harley Davidson rider course. I'll try to give you the best information I can as to how I'd be riding but if you need anymore, I'd be happy to oblige

I currently stand at 5'7" and weigh 165 and I honestly would say the bike would be a lot of city driving but wouldn't be out of the question to ride a 2-4 hours away.

 

I'm 5'6" 165. I could physically ride any of them so your size isn't an issue.
Thought I wanted a dyna but after test rides chose a softail because they were more stable feeling. More comfortable for the long rides also.

 

Dude just get through the course first and then you'll have some idea of what a motorcycle should feel like. There are a lot of things to consider before purchasing a motorcycle especially when it's your first. Good luck on the class.

 

Dude, any would be great. You're size and weight has no baring as you honestly could handle them all. Take the course then test ride the ones that you think you would love to own. Pick the one that fits and feels best. Then ride the tires off it! :^) Good luck and have fun.

 

Take the course, then get a used bike that feels right to you. Don't worry about image or what other people like. All that matters is that you're confident on it and you enjoy riding it.

That said, you'll hear people say Sportsters are good beginner bikes. I disagree, because of their higher center of gravity. My Dyna, despite the increased weight and bulk, is easier to ride than my Sporty was. Once you get used to 'em, though, Sporties are freakin' fun.

 

My son is about your size and rides a Softail Deluxe. As advised previously, take the course and find what you like. Good luck.

 

Like everyone has said, get through your course and it'll make the decision easier.

 

One of my friends is 5'1" and 120 and she rides a full dresser. She has however been riding for years and grew up on bikes.

 

What type of riding will you do the most? Touring? Short hops? Day trips? I would suggest renting Harleys for a day each model you think you'll like.
I have a 13 Heritage and love the versatility. But then you may not like the style.

If you really want to be further confused when asking a Harley forum such a question, just ask which oil you should use, or if you will void the warranty if you do your 1,000 mile service yourself.

 

What heritage said.

Also, if you're new to riding, consider buying a used harley rather than new off the showroom floor. You may find that you don't really enjoy riding and if you buy new, you'll be out at least 3-5k. If you buy a used one, you could probably get all your money (or close to it) back out of it after 6 mo to a year.

But first things first...take the course, soak it all in. Then go and rent from a dealer. You can rent a sportster, dyna, softail, and bagger from most dealers. Start with what you think you want, ride the hell out of it for a day and then work your way through the rental lineup until you find a frame style that you enjoy. When you thinkyou've decided on a particular family (say, maybe the softails), then rent it again and ride it everywhere and on all types of roads til your face hurts or your **** hurts.

If your face is the one hurting, then start looking at craigslist and classifieds for a nice used version of that bike. If your **** or back or body is hurting, then go to the next frame style you liked and repeat the process.