Finding the right motorcycle can be a challenge for shorter riders, but the market offers plenty of fantastic options that combine style, performance, and accessibility. Whether you’re a novice looking for your first bike or an experienced rider seeking a more comfortable fit, there are several models designed with lower seat heights and user-friendly features. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best bikes for short riders, highlighting key models like the Suzuki SV650, Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650, and Honda CB500F. These bikes not only offer manageable seat heights but also deliver exceptional performance and style, ensuring that every rider can enjoy the thrill of the open road.
#1 BMW F 800 GS | 760-845mm
Triumph has a history of innovation, and the GT Low version of its old 900 Tiger triple is a prime example. This bike combines a fruity 95bhp motor with sprightly road handling, making it a joy to ride on and off the pavement. But the real star here is the seat height. Triumph has managed to lower the seat by a full 50mm compared to the standard model, resulting in an adjustable seat height between 770mm and 790mm. This adjustment makes the GT Low one of the most accessible adventure bikes on the market, without compromising on performance.
BMW F800GS: The New Contender
Not to be outdone, BMW has introduced the updated F800GS, a more novice-friendly version of its middleweight twin. This bike comes with a variety of seat height options, starting with a standard 815mm seat. For those needing a lower stance, BMW offers a 790mm low seat, a 780mm extra low seat, and even a suspension-lowered option that takes the seat height down to an impressive 760mm. Who said adventure bikes were out of reach? This flexibility makes the F800GS a strong competitor in the accessible adventure bike segment.
Under the Hood
Both bikes boast impressive specs, but they cater to slightly different preferences:
- Engine: The F800GS features an 895cc parallel twin, producing 87bhp, while the GT Low’s 900 Tiger triple is slightly more powerful with 95bhp.
- Kerb Weight: The F800GS weighs in at 227kg, making it a bit heavier than some might prefer, but still manageable for an adventure bike.
- Fuel Capacity: With a 15-litre tank, the F800GS ensures you won’t be stopping at every gas station.
- Seat Options: Both bikes excel in this area, but BMW’s F800GS offers more customization with its multiple seat height options.
Price Point
One of the most attractive features of the BMW F800GS is its price. As of March 2024, it starts at £9995, offering a lot of bike for your buck. The Triumph GT Low, with its slightly higher power output and established fan base, might come at a higher cost, but the exact price would depend on the model year and additional features.
#2 BMW F 900 XR | 825mm
BMW’s F900XR, launched in 2020, has quickly become a favorite in the adventure sport bike category. This ‘junior’ version of the impressive S1000XR is derived from the F850 parallel twin and offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and accessibility. Let’s dive into why the F900XR is one of the best bikes for short people 2024 looking for an adventure sport ride.
Power and Performance
At the heart of the F900XR is its 895cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC twin engine, which delivers an impressive 103.5bhp. This power output puts it right up there with Yamaha’s hugely popular Tracer 900. Whether you’re navigating city streets or carving through mountain roads, the F900XR’s engine provides plenty of punch to keep the ride thrilling and engaging.
Road-Oriented Chassis and Brakes
BMW has equipped the F900XR with a bespoke, road-oriented chassis that ensures comfortable and natural handling. The quality Brembo brakes provide excellent stopping power, giving you confidence in all riding conditions. This combination makes the F900XR not only versatile but also highly enjoyable on a variety of terrains.
Comfort and Features
Comfort is a key selling point for the F900XR. It comes with an easily adjustable screen, allowing you to customize your wind protection. The bike also features neat touches like a color TFT screen, which provides all the information you need at a glance. Additionally, BMW offers classy extras such as heated grips and the Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), enhancing your riding experience even further.
Accessibility: Perfect for Short Riders
One of the standout features of the F900XR is its accessibility, making it one of the best bikes for short people. The standard seat height is a fairly typical 825mm, but BMW goes above and beyond by offering a no-cost 795mm low seat version. For those who need an even lower stance, a lowered suspension version is available, bringing the seat height down to just 775mm. This range of seat options ensures that riders of all heights can find a comfortable and confident riding position.
#3 Triumph Bonneville Bobber | 690-700mm
Retro roadster style bikes are all the rage, combining modern technology with classic 1960s or ‘70s styling. These bikes usually feature twin-cylinder engines, tubular steel twin shock frames, and bench seats. One of the significant advantages of these bikes is their naturally lower seat heights, making them some of the best bikes for short riders. Let’s explore a few standout models in this category and see why they are perfect for shorter riders.
Triumph Speed Twin: A Perfect Blend of Style and Accessibility
The Triumph Speed Twin is a prime example of a retro roadster with a seat height of just 790mm. This makes it accessible and comfortable for shorter riders. Its classic look combined with modern performance ensures that you don’t have to compromise on style or ride quality. The Speed Twin’s lower seat height, coupled with its manageable weight, makes it an excellent choice for novice riders as well.
Royal Enfield Classic 350: Even Lower and Novice-Friendly
Royal Enfield has long been a favorite in the retro bike segment, and their new Classic 350 is no exception. With a seat height of just 765mm, it’s one of the lowest in its class, making it incredibly easy for shorter riders to handle. The Classic 350 is also relatively light and straightforward to ride, enhancing its appeal to both novice and experienced riders alike.
Moto Guzzi V7: Timeless Design with Great Accessibility
Moto Guzzi’s perennial V7 is another fantastic option for short riders. Its seat height is a comfortable 770mm, and like the other bikes in this category, it boasts a timeless design that appeals to those who love the retro look. The V7’s lightweight construction and user-friendly nature make it a joy to ride, whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising down country roads.
BSA Gold Star: A Classic Reborn
The new BSA Gold Star brings a touch of nostalgia with its classic styling and modern features. It offers a seat height of 780mm, making it a great option for shorter riders. The Gold Star is designed to be relatively light and straightforward to ride, which adds to its appeal as a novice-friendly bike.
Specifications at a Glance
- Engine: 1200cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC twin
- Power: 77bhp
- Kerb weight: 251kg
- Fuel capacity: 12 litres
- Seat options: Yes
- Price (Mar 2024): £13,195
#4 Indian Scout Bobber | 649mm: The Best Cruiser for Short Riders
When it comes to cruisers and custom-styled bikes, their low, laid-back design naturally lends itself to having ultra-low seats. This has always been a big draw for shorter riders. Think back to classics like Yamaha’s XV535 Virago or Harley’s Hugger, which were favorites among shorter riders and women for their low saddles and slim V-twin engines. Fast forward to today, and the options are even better, offering modern performance without compromising on style. Among these, the Indian Scout Bobber really shines as the best pick for short riders.
Classic Meets Modern
The Indian Scout Bobber perfectly blends classic US styling with modern technology. Its 649mm seat height makes it one of the lowest on the market, which is a big win for short riders.
Why It’s Great for Short Riders
One of the main reasons the Indian Scout Bobber is so appealing is its accessibility. With that incredibly low seat height, even shorter riders can feel confident and comfortable. You’re not struggling to reach the ground at stops, which makes for a more enjoyable and safer ride.
Performance and Style
But don’t think for a second that a low seat means you’re getting an underperforming bike. The Scout Bobber is powered by a 1133cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin engine that delivers a robust 100bhp. This bike is all about blending power with style. Weighing in at 243kg and featuring a 12.5-litre fuel capacity, it’s designed to give you the best of both worlds.
Competitive Options
Harley-Davidson offers a range of low-seat options too. The new Nightster comes with a 705mm seat height, the ‘Big Twin’ Street Bob sits at 675mm, and the hot rod style Breakout is even lower at 665mm. Honda’s new 1100 Rebel also provides ease and comfort with a 700mm seat height. But when it comes to the lowest seat, the Indian Scout Bobber takes the crown.
#5 Suzuki SV650 | 785mm
If you’re a shorter rider in search of a practical, no-nonsense roadster, the Suzuki SV650 might just be the perfect match. This bike is a great example of how simplicity can be combined with performance and accessibility, making it one of the best options out there for those who need a lower seat height without sacrificing ride quality.
Designed for Accessibility
The Suzuki SV650 is engineered with shorter riders in mind. Its 785mm seat height is lower than many of its competitors, making it easier to handle for those who might find taller bikes intimidating. This feature ensures that you can plant your feet firmly on the ground, providing stability and confidence, especially at stops and in slow-moving traffic.
Smooth Performance
Equipped with a 645cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin engine, the SV650 offers a robust 71bhp. This means you get a bike that is both lively and responsive, ideal for city commuting and weekend rides alike. Its lightweight build, at 197kg, further enhances its maneuverability, making it a joy to ride in various conditions.
Practical and Affordable
One of the standout aspects of the SV650 is its practicality. It features a 13.8-litre fuel tank, allowing for longer trips between fill-ups. Additionally, the bike’s straightforward design keeps things simple, ensuring that maintenance and handling are hassle-free. Priced at £7399 (as of March 2024), it also represents excellent value for money, offering a lot of bike for a reasonable price.
Competitive Edge
When compared to other bikes in its class, the SV650’s low seat height gives it a significant advantage. While Yamaha’s MT-07 offers a 805mm seat height and Kawasaki’s Z650 comes in at 790mm, the SV650’s 785mm seat height makes it more accessible. Even Honda’s CB500F, with a 789mm seat height, doesn’t quite match the SV650 in terms of ease of use for shorter riders.
