The Best Motorcycles for Short People
Shorter folks can have a hard time finding a motorcycle they feel comfortable and confident on. The motorcycle market tends to favor the “average-size” rider. If you are bigger or smaller than this average, then buying a bike can get tricky. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner rider, riding the right-size bike is important. These are the best motorcycles for short people.
The best ADV, cafe, and scrambler bikes for short people
This category can be tough in some ways (adventure bikes, in particular). While adventure bikes tend to be on the taller end of the spectrum, the marketplace is exploding, and as a result, more makers are offering a wider variety of ADV bikes.
The Yamaha XT250 is a great option for the best motorcycle for short people. Although the taller suspension is needed for ground clearance, the seat height is a friendly 31.9 inches. This lower seat height is key for our friends closer to the ground to be comfortable and safe while riding off-road. According to Gear Patrol, other honorable mentions in this category go to the BMW G 310 GS (32.2 in)and the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS (32.1 in).
For the scrambler/cafe segments, it’s hard to find a better motorcycle for short people than the Triumph Street Scrambler (31.1 in). With light off-road chops and plenty of class and style, this metropolitan bike is as slick as greased lightning. The other best motorcycles for short people in this category are the BMW RnineT Scrambler (31.1 in) and the tiny Ducati Scrambler (32.9 in). Don’t sleep on these two classy bikes.
Sportbikes were kind of made for our shorter friends
There is no shortage of great sports bikes for shorter riders. After all, these bikes are modeled after motor GP, which are often piloted by jockey-esq madmen. Either way, the KTM Duke 390 (32.7 in) is a standout smaller sportbike with great performance in a smaller package. The Ducati Monster (31.3 in) is still an all-time favorite for many sportbike fans. This beefy little beast might be on the shorter side, but it barks and bites like the big dawgs do.
Let’s also not forget about the Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS (30.9 in). Of all the best motorcycles for short people, the sportbike edition, the Ninja, has the shortest seat height.
The best cruiser motorcycle for short people
While cruisers tend to have the lowest seat height of all motorcycle segments, they are also the longest and heaviest bikes. Depending on the weight and the positions of the footpegs, cruisers can be really tough for shorter riders, but Gear Patrol points out a few models that should work well.
The Honda Rebel (27.2 in) is the default beginner motorcycle for new riders. It is small, lightweight, and easy to ride. The new Indian Scout Bobber (25.5 in) is a bit beefier, but its low center of gravity and tight stance make it a great option for short people. The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster (28 in) is another of the best motorcycles for short people due to its low seat, upright stance, and tight footpeg area.
How to pick the right motorcycle
Like most other things in life, reading about an item before buying is always smart, but there is no replacement for hands-on experience. All of these bikes are great, but that doesn’t mean they are all great for everyone. Ride as many bikes as you can before making up your mind. Unlike cars and trucks, comfort on a bike can make you much safer.
