Best Motorcycles for Tall People 2024 | Top Picks for Comfort & Fit
Finding the perfect motorcycle can be a challenge, especially for tall riders who need a bike that offers both comfort and performance. With the right fit, you can avoid cramped legs, aching backs, and awkward riding positions, turning every ride into a thrilling experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the best motorcycles designed with taller riders in mind, combining power, ergonomics, and style to ensure you feel at home on two wheels, no matter your height. Whether you’re cruising, touring, or looking for something sporty, these bikes will have you riding in both comfort and confidence.
#1 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
Tall riders often struggle to find a bike that combines sheer power with comfort, but the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure checks both boxes with its adjustable 33.5 to 34.2-inch seat height. When considering the best motorcycles for tall people, this model easily stands out. Having tried it on varied terrain, the balance between off-road capability and long-distance touring comfort becomes apparent. The 1254cc engine is a beast, delivering incredible torque when you need it most, but what’s even more impressive is the bike’s agility despite its size. The bike doesn’t just feel big—it feels commanding.
The riding posture is almost too good to be true for a tall rider. You don’t have to constantly adjust your seating position to avoid back pain. With the ergonomically designed handlebars and foot pegs, it feels like BMW designed this bike with taller riders in mind. Whether it’s crossing dirt tracks or zooming down highways, the feeling is consistent: you’re in control.
Then there’s the tech. Advanced rider aids like traction control and the customizable ride modes let you tailor your ride exactly to the kind of journey you’re on. You’ll feel that the bike responds not just to the road, but to you. It’s hard to overstate just how important this is for long trips, especially when the ride changes dramatically from smooth highways to rocky trails.
#2 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE is a bike that feels like it’s crafted for exploration. Tall riders, often confined to cramped positions on traditional bikes, will appreciate the 34.3-inch seat height. The first time you swing a leg over, the stance feels immediately different—more open, more spacious. Standing on the pegs while hitting uneven trails, the Scrambler shines, providing a strong sense of control without making you feel awkward or hunched.
On curvy roads, the 1200cc parallel-twin engine packs a punch without making the ride feel unwieldy. It feels as though the bike was built to react perfectly with your inputs—leaning, twisting, powering through turns with ease. The high-mounted exhaust is more than just a visual treat; it actually prevents the awkward knee-bashing that some tall riders experience on other bikes.
What sets the Scrambler apart is how adaptable it feels. Off-road settings seem tailored for rough terrains, but it’s equally capable of handling daily commutes. You notice how smooth and predictable the suspension feels, soaking up bumps effortlessly, whether you’re tackling a steep incline or just cruising on the weekend.
#3 Yamaha Tenere 700
Few bikes are as dependable for tall adventurers as the Yamaha Tenere 700, and that’s not an overstatement. The 34.4-inch seat height ensures your legs have room to breathe, something every tall rider will appreciate. From the very first ride, the comfort of the upright seating position is noticeable—it’s like the bike was built to let you stand tall, literally.
The 689cc parallel-twin engine feels well-balanced and gives you enough power to tackle almost any terrain, yet it’s not over-the-top aggressive. It feels sturdy, nimble, and, most importantly, consistent. Even at higher speeds on the highway, the bike maintains composure. Off-road, it’s a revelation. The long-travel suspension eats up rocks, bumps, and potholes with ease, making long rides not just bearable but enjoyable.
This bike doesn’t come loaded with flashy electronics, but that’s where its charm lies. There’s a simplicity in its design that many tall riders will find refreshing—it’s all about the ride, the connection between you and the machine. And when you’re navigating rough backroads or steep mountain paths, that connection makes all the difference.
#4 Ducati Multistrada V4
The Ducati Multistrada V4 is built for the rider who demands everything—power, tech, comfort, and versatility. With its 33.9 to 34.3-inch seat height, taller riders instantly feel the space they need. On the road, the 1158cc V4 engine delivers a rush of power that feels endless, but it’s not just the raw horsepower that impresses—it’s how the bike adapts to different conditions with ease. Whether it’s sport mode on a twisty road or off-road mode on rugged trails, the bike transitions seamlessly.
For long-distance rides, Ducati’s focus on rider comfort is evident. The advanced rider aids, like adaptive cruise control and traction control, don’t feel intrusive—they enhance the experience, especially on long highway stretches. Tall riders will also appreciate the wide, upright handlebars, which prevent shoulder fatigue, keeping you in the saddle for hours without strain.
The real magic of this bike is its versatility. One moment you’re pushing its limits on a curvy mountain pass, the next you’re comfortably cruising through traffic or handling uneven dirt paths. No matter what you throw at it, the Multistrada responds with precision and grace.
#5 Harley-Davidson Breakout
Cruisers aren’t always known for catering to tall riders, but the Harley-Davidson Breakout defies that stereotype. Despite its 26.2-inch seat height, the forward controls and stretched-out handlebars provide an ideal stance for taller riders. The moment you sit on the Breakout, there’s a sense of space—your legs stretch forward, your arms sit in a relaxed position. The 117ci engine roars to life with that unmistakable Harley rumble, delivering both power and a sense of presence on the road.
This bike isn’t just about looks, though the Breakout certainly has them in spades. It’s about the experience of the ride. Cruising down the highway, you feel the bike’s solidity beneath you, and that low center of gravity makes cornering feel smooth. The power is there when you need it, but it never feels like it’s running away from you.
There’s something about the muscle cruiser aesthetic that appeals to those who want to make a statement, but Harley didn’t sacrifice comfort for style here. The Breakout feels like a cruiser that’s ready for long trips, not just short city jaunts. You’ll feel the freedom of the open road without having to constantly shift your position to stay comfortable.
#6 Yamaha YZF-R1
Sportbikes don’t always cater to tall riders, but the Yamaha YZF-R1 flips that script. The 33.5-inch seat height and forward controls make it a contender for riders who want speed without sacrificing comfort. From the moment you twist the throttle, the 998cc inline-four engine sends a jolt of power that feels sharp, precise, and responsive. For taller riders, the ergonomics of the R1 are surprisingly comfortable. There’s enough room to shift and lean into corners without feeling cramped, making it a perfect blend of power and control.
On the track, this bike becomes an extension of your body—leaning, accelerating, and braking all feel incredibly intuitive. But it’s not just a track machine; it holds its own on the street as well. The adjustable suspension allows you to dial in the perfect settings based on your weight and riding style, which is especially important for taller riders who need more customization. In fact, when looking for the best motorcycles for tall people, this bike stands out as a top choice. The ability to adjust the suspension makes a huge difference, providing a ride that feels tailored just for you.
The power-to-weight ratio is something that needs to be experienced to be understood. There’s an exhilaration that comes from knowing the bike has more than enough power to meet your needs while still being light enough to handle with ease. It’s a thrilling ride that doesn’t compromise, even for taller riders.
#7 Kawasaki KLR 650
For tall riders who want adventure without breaking the bank, the Kawasaki KLR 650 stands out. Its 34.3-inch seat height means you’ll have all the legroom you need, and the upright riding position makes it ideal for long off-road trips. Powered by a 652cc single-cylinder engine, it’s not the fastest bike out there, but speed isn’t the focus—it’s about reliability and endurance.
The first thing you notice when riding the KLR 650 is the suspension’s ability to handle rough terrain. Whether it’s rocks, dirt, or uneven trails, the bike takes everything in stride, absorbing bumps and providing a smooth, controlled ride. For taller riders, the bike’s dimensions feel perfectly suited—you’re not scrunched up like on some smaller adventure bikes.
Where the KLR 650 truly shines is in its simplicity. There’s no overwhelming tech to figure out, just you and the bike. This straightforward nature appeals to riders who want a no-nonsense adventure machine that they can trust to get them through any terrain, no matter how remote.
#8 Ducati Hypermotard 950
The Ducati Hypermotard 950 brings an explosive mix of agility and power, especially designed for taller riders. With a 34.2-inch seat height, it offers a spacious riding position, which makes it incredibly comfortable for those with longer legs. The bike’s 937cc L-Twin engine is a beast, providing intense torque that translates into exhilarating acceleration. Whether you’re carving through city streets or tackling winding mountain roads, the Hypermotard handles with precision, making every ride feel like an adventure.
One of the standout features of the Hypermotard is its supermoto-inspired design. You immediately notice how nimble it feels, responding to the slightest input with sharp, confident turns. For taller riders, the upright riding position and wide handlebars reduce fatigue, even after hours of riding. The high foot pegs offer plenty of clearance, so your knees won’t feel cramped, making this bike as comfortable as it is thrilling.
Riding the Hypermotard isn’t just about speed; it’s about control. The bike feels like an extension of your body, with advanced electronics like cornering ABS and Ducati Traction Control, giving you the confidence to push limits without sacrificing safety. This bike is built for those who crave both power and finesse, making it an ideal pick for tall riders who want a machine that matches their physical and riding demands.
