Best Motorcycles for Short Guys - Finding the Perfect Fit
When it comes to motorcycle height fit, short stature can pose challenges in choosing the right bike. However, with a bit of research and knowing which models are designed for shorter riders, you can find the perfect motorcycle to suit your height and riding preferences.
Popular Motorcycles for Short Stature
For short guys, some motorcycles, such as the Bajaj Avenger Street 220 (737cc), Royal Enfield Meteor 350 (765cc), Jawa 42, Jawa Perak (750cc), TVS Raider 125 (780cc), and Kawasaki Vulcan S (705cc), have been popular choices. Each of these models has its own unique appeal and is suitable for shorter riders. However, the fit and comfort can vary, and it's crucial to test ride them to ensure the best experience.
Personal Experience and Insights
As someone who is 5 feet 5 inches tall and a seasoned Harley rider, I can provide first-hand insights into what works and what doesn't for short stature riders. I myself ride two Harleys and have tested a Harley Dresser, which came with its own set of challenges. The wider seat and the addition of saddle bags made it difficult to touch the ground, and the weight increased the difficulty of balancing the load. This experience has taught me that wide and heavier bikes can be problematic for shorter riders. On the other hand, bikes with a more compact frame and shorter shocks, such as the aforementioned Jawa and TVS Raider, have been much more comfortable.
Bicycles for Short Stature
For short stature cyclists, bicycles offer a more diverse range of options. Bicycles like the Trek and Liv are great for finding a proper fit. If you're even shorter, riding a foldable bicycle can be the best choice. Foldable bikes can be easily adjusted to the rider's height and stem and seatpost height can be modified for a comfortable ride.
Bicycles with a 14 inch wheel size are particularly suitable for children around age four to six. For an even younger rider, 12 inch wheel size foldable bicycles are also available and just as suitable for a child aged four. It's important to choose a bicycle with a handlebar that is within reach for a shorter rider. Some foldable bikes come with T-shaped handlebars, which are straight, and more expensive options have a quick-release mechanism at the stem, allowing the handlebars to be removed and replaced with a different type that curves towards the rider.
Additionally, BMX bikes can be ridden by children age six and are another excellent option. Leisure or city bikes, with their low toptube, are built specifically for shorter riders. These bikes are available in different wheel sizes: 20 inch (suitable for a child age six), 24 inch (for a child age nine), and 26 inch (for a child age 10 and above).
For a younger rider, the curving handlebars of a 20 or 24 inch wheel size fatbike can make it easier to reach the handlebars. Once the tube is fully inflated, a 20 inch wheel size fatbike will look like a 26 inch wheel size bike with a smaller frame, making it ideal for a shorter rider.
To ensure the best fit, it's important to follow the instructions given in the bicycle manual, such as the one from Apollo Bicycle. When choosing a bicycle, make sure there is at least a one-inch space between the top tube and your crotch area when you straddle over it. This will prevent injuries in case you stumble while cycling.