The 851 is a very comfortable bike. I'm 6'3" and, shall we say, "over" 200 lbs. and I love the riding position. You feel like you are settled IN the bike instead of perched ON it. There's alot of differences between the various years so do some research before you buy. Suggest you join http://www.yahoogroups.com (search yahoogroups for Ducati 851) group for the best chat about this bike.