The Best Bikes for Smaller Riders (and Budgets): 2019 Edition!

Bigger doesn’t always mean better, and fortunately for those of us looking for a fun, affordable motorcycle there are more choices than ever. Nearly every manufacturer now offers at least one model that will fit just about any rider’s size and/or budget.

Scroll down for Rider’s 2019 list of Best Bikes for Smaller Riders and Budgets. When possible we’ve included a link to our review, making it easy for you to get a real ride evaluation. We’ve also included the 2019 model year’s U.S. base MSRP (as of publication), seat height and claimed wet weight (when a wet weight was not available from the manufacturer, the claimed dry weight is listed). For more details, you can read our review, which includes comprehensive specs, or click on the bike’s name to be taken directly to the manufacturer’s page.

Check out Rider‘s 2019 Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles

Check out Rider‘s 2020 Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles

Aprilia Shiver 900

2019 Aprilia Shiver 900
2019 Aprilia Shiver 900

Aprilia Shiver 900
$9,399
32.0-inch seat
480 lbs.

Read our 2018 Aprilia Shiver 900 road test review

BMW F 750 GS

2019 BMW F 750 GS
2019 BMW F 750 GS (Photo by Kevin Wing)

BMW F 750 GS
$10,395
32.1-inch seat w/ optional 31.1-inch seat or 30.3-inch seat
493 lbs.

Read our road test review of the 2019 BMW F 750/850 GS

BMW G 310 GS 

2018 BMW G 310 GS. Photo by Kevin Wing.
2018 BMW G 310 GS (Photo by Kevin Wing)

BMW G 310 GS
$5,795
32.9-inch seat w/ optional 32.3-inch seat
374 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the 2018 BMW G 310 GS

How did the G 310 GS stack up against the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 and Royal Enfield Himalayan? Find out in our comparison test.

BMW G 310 R

The G 310 R is anything but boring. You can't see it, but I'm grinning inside my helmet.
2018 BMW G 310 R (Photo by Kevin Wing)

BMW G 310 R
$4,750
30.9-inch seat w/ optional 30.3-inch seat
349 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the 2018 BMW G 310 R

Read “Monkey Butt 500” about riding 500 miles in one day
on a BMW G 310 R, Honda Rebel 300 and Yamaha XT250

BMW R nineT Pure

BMW R nineT Pure
BMW R nineT Pure (Photo by Kevin Wing)

BMW R nineT Pure
$11,995
31.7-inch seat w/ optional 30.5-inch seat
483 lbs.

Read our road test review of the BMW R nineT Pure

Can-Am Ryker

Can-Am Ryker
2019 Can-Am Ryker Rally (Photo by Kevin Wing)

Can-Am Ryker
starting at $8,499 (600cc model)
23.5-inch seat
594 lbs. (dry, 600cc)

Read our first ride review of the 2019 Can-Am Ryker

CSC RX3 Adventure

The 2016 CSC RX3 is a surprisingly capable small-displacement adventurer tourer, at a price point that is undeniably attractive. (Photos: the author and James Norris)
CSC RX3 Adventure (Photo by James Norris)

CSC RX3 Adventure
$5,395
31.9-inch seat
450 lbs. (dry)

Read our road test review of the 2016 CSC RX3 Adventure

CSC SG250 Cafe Racer

CSC SG250 Cafe Racer
CSC SG250 Cafe Racer

CSC SG250 Cafe Racer
$1,995
26-inch seat
273 lbs. (dry)

Ducati Monster 797+

2018 Ducati Monster 797+
2018 Ducati Monster 797+

Ducati Monster 797+
$9,295
31.7-inch seat
386 lbs. (dry)

Ducati Scrambler Café Racer

2019 Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer
2019 Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer

Ducati Scrambler Café Racer
$11,995
31.7-inch seat
432 lbs.

Ducati Scrambler Icon

2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon
2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon

Ducati Scrambler Icon
$9,395
31.4-inch seat w/ optional 30.6-inch seat
417 lbs.

Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle

2019 Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle
2019 Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle

Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle
$10,995
31.4-inch seat w/ optional 30.6-inch seat
417 lbs.

Read about Ducati’s updates to the 2019 Scrambler lineup

Ducati Scrambler Sixty2

2019 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2.
2019 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2

Ducati Scrambler Sixty2
$7,995
31.1-inch seat w/ optional 30.3-inch seat
403 lbs.

Read about Ducati’s updates to the 2019 Scrambler lineup

Harley-Davidson Street 500 / Street 750 / Street Rod

The 2017 Harley-Davidson Street Rod is based on the Street 750, with sharpened handling and styling. It has a steeper rake, longer suspension travel and a higher seat height that enables deeper lean angles. (Photos by Brian J. Nelson)
2017 Harley-Davidson Street Rod (Photo by Brian J. Nelson)

Harley-Davidson Street 500 / 750 / Street Rod
starting at $6,899
25.7-inch seat
492 lbs. (dry)

Read our first ride review of the 2017 Harley-Davidson Street Rod

Harley-Davidson SuperLow

Harley-Davidson Superlow
Harley-Davidson SuperLow

Harley-Davidson SuperLow
$8,699
25.5-inch seat
545 lbs. (dry)

Harley-Davidson Iron 883

Harley-Davidson Iron 883
Harley-Davidson Iron 883

Harley-Davidson Iron 883 / 1200
starting at $8,999
25.7-inch seat
545 lbs. (dry)

Check out our first look review of the 2018 Harley-Davidson Iron 1200

Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom

2019 Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom.
2019 Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom

Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom
$10,999
26.6-inch seat
562 lbs. (dry)

Honda CB300R

2019 Honda CB300R
2019 Honda CB300R (Photo by Drew Ruiz)

Honda CB300R
$4,649
31.5-inch seat
318 lbs.

Read our first ride review on the 2019 Honda CB300R

Honda CBR300R

2019 Honda CBR300R.
2019 Honda CBR300R

Honda CBR300R
$4,699
30.7-inch seat
357 lbs.

Honda CB500F

2019 Honda CB500F.
2019 Honda CB500F

Honda CB500F
$6,199
30.9-inch seat
415 lbs.

Honda CBR500R

2019 Honda CBR500R.
2019 Honda CBR500R

Honda CBR500R
$6,699
30.9-inch seat
419 lbs.

Honda CB500X

2019 Honda CB500X. Image courtesy Honda.
2019 Honda CB500X

Honda CB500X
$6,599 (2018 model, 2019 pricing TBD)
31.8-inch seat
428 lbs.

Read about the updates for the 2019 Honda CB500X

Honda CB650R

2019 Honda CB650R. Images courtesy Honda.
2019 Honda CB650R

Honda CB650R
$8,899
31.9-inch seat
445 lbs.

Read our first look review of the 2019 Honda CB650R

Honda CBR650R

2019 Honda CBR650R. Images courtesy Honda.
2019 Honda CBR650R

Honda CBR650R
$9,399
31.9-inch seat
456 lbs.

Read our first look review of the 2019 Honda CBR650R

Honda CRF250L

2017 Honda CRF250L
Honda CRF250L

Honda CRF250L
$5,199
34.4-inch seat
(like other dual-sports, soft springs help the bike squish down under a rider’s weight)
318 lbs.

Read our review of the 2017 Honda CRF250L Rally

Honda Grom

2019 Honda Grom.
2019 Honda Grom

Honda Grom
$3,399
30-inch seat
229 lbs.

Honda Monkey

Honda Monkey
2019 Honda Monkey (Photo by Kevin Wing)

Honda Monkey
$3,999
30.6-inch seat
232 lbs.

Watch our video review of the 2019 Honda Monkey

Honda NC750X

2017 Honda NC750X
2019 Honda NC750X

Honda NC750X
$7,999 (2018 model, 2019 pricing TBD)
32.7-inch seat
478 lbs.

Read our road test review of the 2018 Honda NC750X

Honda Shadow Aero

Honda Shadow Aero
Honda Shadow Aero

Honda Shadow Aero
$7,699
25.9-inch seat
560 lbs.

Honda Shadow Phantom

2019 Honda Shadow Phantom
2019 Honda Shadow Phantom

Honda Shadow Phantom
$7,899
25.8-inch seat
549 lbs.

Honda Super Cub C125

2019 Honda Super Cub C125
2019 Honda Super Cub C125 (Photo by Drew Ruiz)

Honda Super Cub C125
$3,599
30.7-inch seat
240 lbs.

Read our 2019 Honda Super Cub C125 first ride review

Honda Rebel 300 / Rebel 500

2017 Honda Rebel 500
Honda Rebel 500 (Photo by Kevin Wing)

Honda Rebel 300 / 500
$4,499 (300) / $6,199 (500)
27.2-inch seat
364 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the Honda Rebel 500

Read “Monkey Butt 500” about riding 500 miles in one day
on a Honda Rebel 300, BMW G 310 R and Yamaha XT250

Indian Scout Sixty

Indian Scout Sixty
Indian Scout Sixty

Indian Scout Sixty
$9,499
25.8-inch seat
542 lbs.

Read our road test review of the Indian Scout Sixty

Indian Scout

2019 Indian Scout.
2019 Indian Scout

Indian Scout
$11,999
25.8-inch seat
550 lbs.

Read about Indian’s 2019 Scout lineup

Kawasaki KLX250

2019 Kawasaki KLX250
2019 Kawasaki KLX250

Kawasaki KLX250
$5,349
35.0-inch seat (squishes way down under rider’s weight)
304 lbs.

Kawasaki Ninja 400

2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS
2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS (Photo by Kevin Wing)

Kawasaki Ninja 400
$4,999
30.9-inch seat
366 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS

Kawasaki Ninja 650

2019 Kawasaki Ninja 650.
2019 Kawasaki Ninja 650

Kawasaki Ninja 650
$7,399
31.1-inch seat
426 lbs.

Kawasaki Versys-X 300

2019 Kawasaki Versys-X 300.
2019 Kawasaki Versys-X 300

Kawasaki Versys-X 300
$5,499
32.1-inch seat
386 lbs.

How did the Versys-X 300 stack up against the BMW G 310 GS and Royal Enfield Himalayan? Find out in our comparison test.

Kawasaki Versys 650

2019 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS
2019 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS

Kawasaki Versys 650
starting at $8,299
33.1-inch seat
478 lbs.

Read our comparison test of the Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Suzuki V-Strom 650

Kawasaki Vulcan S

2019 Kawasaki Vulcan S.
2019 Kawasaki Vulcan S

Kawasaki Vulcan S
starting at $7,099
27.8-inch seat
498 lbs.

Read our road test review of the Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe

Kawasaki Vulcan 900

2019 Kawasaki Vulcan 900.
2019 Kawasaki Vulcan 900

Kawasaki Vulcan 900
starting at $7,999
26.8-inch seat
617 lbs.

Kawasaki W800 Cafe

2019 Kawasaki W800 Cafe
2019 Kawasaki W800 Cafe

Kawasaki W800 Cafe
$9,799
31.1-inch seat
489.5 lbs.

Read our first look review of the 2019 Kawasaki W800 Cafe

Kawasaki Z125 Pro

2019 Kawasaki Z125 Pro.
2019 Kawasaki Z125 Pro

Kawasaki Z125 Pro
$3,199
31.7-inch seat
225 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the Kawasaki Z125 Pro

Kawasaki Z400

2019 Kawasaki Z400 ABS
2019 Kawasaki Z400 ABS

Kawasaki Z400
$4,799
30.9-inch seat
364 lbs.

Kawasaki Z650

2019 Kawasaki Z650.
2019 Kawasaki Z650

Kawasaki Z650
$6,999
30.9-inch seat
410 lbs.

Read our first ride review on the Kawasaki Z650 ABS

KTM 390 Duke

2018 KTM 390 Duke
2018 KTM 390 Duke (Photo by Kevin Wing)

KTM 390 Duke
$5,449
32.7-inch seat
359 lbs.

Read our road test review of the 2018 KTM 390 Duke here

Moto Guzzi V7III Stone

Moto Guzzi V7III Stone.
Moto Guzzi V7III Stone

Moto Guzzi V7III Stone
$8,490
30.3-inch seat
470 lbs.

Royal Enfield Continental GT

2019 Royal Enfield Continental GT
2019 Royal Enfield Continental GT

Royal Enfield Continental GT
$5,999
31.1-inch seat
461 lbs.

Read our road test review of the 2019 Royal Enfield Continental GT

Royal Enfield Himalayan

2018 Royal Enfield Himalayan
2018 Royal Enfield Himalayan

Royal Enfield Himalayan
$4,499
31.5-inch seat
421 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the 2018 Royal Enfield Himalayan

How did the Himalayan stack up against the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 and BMW G 310 GS? Find out in our comparison test.

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

2019 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
2019 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
$5,799
31.6-inch seat
473 lbs.

Read our road test review of the 2019 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

Suzuki Boulevard S40

2019 Suzuki Boulevard S40.
2019 Suzuki Boulevard S40

Suzuki Boulevard S40
$5,799
27.6-inch seat
381 lbs.

Suzuki Boulevard C50

2019 Suzuki Boulevard C50.
2019 Suzuki Boulevard C50

Suzuki Boulevard C50
$8,299
27.6-inch seat
611 lbs.

Suzuki Boulevard C50T

2019 Suzuki Boulevard C50T
2019 Suzuki Boulevard C50T

Suzuki Boulevard C50T
$9,499
27.6-inch seat
644 lbs.

Suzuki Boulevard M50

2019 Suzuki Boulevard M50.
2019 Suzuki Boulevard M50

Suzuki Boulevard M50
$8,699
27.6-inch seat
593 lbs.

Suzuki DR200S

2019 Suzuki DR200S
2019 Suzuki DR200S

Suzuki DR200S
$4,649
33.3-inch seat (its soft springs compress under a rider’s weight)
278 lbs.

Suzuki DR-Z400S

2019 Suzuki DR-Z400S
2019 Suzuki DR-Z400S

Suzuki DR-Z400S
$6,749
36.8-inch seat (its soft springs compress under a rider’s weight)
317 lbs.

Suzuki GSXR250R

2018 Suzuki GSX250R
2018 Suzuki GSX250R (Photo by Enrico Pavia)

Suzuki GSX250R
$4,599
31.1-inch seat
392 lbs.

Read our review of the 2018 Suzuki GSX250R

Suzuki GSX-S750

2019 Suzuki GSX-S750 ABS. Image courtesy Suzuki.
2019 Suzuki GSX-S750 ABS

Suzuki GSX-S750Z
$8,499
32.2-inch seat
469 lbs.

Read our road test review of the 2018 Suzuki GSX-S750

Suzuki SV650

2019 Suzuki SV650.
2019 Suzuki SV650

Suzuki SV650
$7,099
30.9-inch seat
432 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the 2017 Suzuki SV650

Suzuki SV650X

2019 Suzuki SV650X
2019 Suzuki SV650X

Suzuki SV650X
$8,399
31.1-inch seat
432 lbs.

Suzuki TU250X

2019 Suzuki TU250X.
2019 Suzuki TU250X

Suzuki TU250X
$4,649
30.3-inch seat
326 lbs.

Suzuki VanVan 200

2019 Suzuki VanVan 200.
2019 Suzuki VanVan 200

Suzuki VanVan 200
$4,649
30.3-inch seat
282 lbs.

A Man on a VanVan Without a Plan…read the story!

Suzuki V-Strom 650

2019 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS
2019 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS

Suzuki V-Strom 650
starting at $8,799
32.9-inch seat
470 lbs.

Read our comparison test of the Suzuki V-Strom 650 vs Kawasaki Versys 650

Triumph Street Scrambler

2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler (Photo by Kingdom Creative)

Triumph Street Scrambler
$11,000
31.1-inch seat
447.5 lbs. (dry)

Read our first ride review of the 2019 Triumph Street Scrambler

Triumph Street Twin

2019 Triumph Street Twin
2019 Triumph Street Twin (Photo by Kingdom Creative)

Triumph Street Twin
$9,300
29.9-inch seat
437 lbs. (dry)

Read our first ride review of the 2019 Triumph Street Twin

Triumph Street Triple

2019 Triumph Street Triple R.
2019 Triumph Street Triple R

Triumph Street Triple
starting at $9,950
31.2-inch seat
370 lbs.

2019 Yamaha Bolt.
2019 Yamaha Bolt

Yamaha Bolt
starting at $7,999
27.2-inch seat
542 lbs.

Yamaha MT-07

2019 Yamaha MT-07.
2019 Yamaha MT-07

Yamaha MT-07
$7,599
31.7-inch seat
403 lbs.

Read our road test review on the 2018 Yamaha MT-07

Yamaha MT-09

2019 Yamaha MT-09.
2019 Yamaha MT-09

Yamaha MT-09
$8,999
32.3-inch seat
425 lbs.

Yamaha TW200

2019 Yamaha TW200.
2019 Yamaha TW200

Yamaha TW200
$4,599
31.1-inch seat
278 lbs.

Read our review of the Yamaha TW200

Yamaha V Star 250

2019 Yamaha V-Star 250.
2019 Yamaha V Star 250

Yamaha V Star 250
$4,349
27-inch seat
326 lbs.

Yamaha WR250R

2019 Yamaha WR250R
2019 Yamaha WR250R

Yamaha WR250R
$6,699
36.6-inch seat (squishes down under rider’s weight)
295 lbs.

Yamaha XSR700

2019 Yamaha XSR700.
2019 Yamaha XSR700

Yamaha XSR700
$8,499
32.9-inch seat
410 lbs.

Read our first ride review of the 2018 Yamaha XSR700

We held onto our XSR700 for a long-term review; read it here.

Yamaha XT250

2019 Yamaha XT250.
2019 Yamaha XT250

Yamaha XT250
$5,199
31.9-inch seat
291 lbs.

Read “Monkey Butt 500” about riding 500 miles in one on a Yamaha XT250, BMW G 310 R and Honda Rebel 300

Yamaha YZF-R3

2019 Yamaha YZF-R3
2019 Yamaha YZF-R3 (Photos by Brian J. Nelson)

Yamaha YZF-R3
$4,999
30.7-inch seat
368 lbs.

Read our first ride review on the 2019 Yamaha YZF-R3

Zero FXS

2019 Zero FXS
2019 Zero FXS

Zero FXS
starting at $8,495
32.9-inch seat
251 lbs. (FXS ZF3.6 Modular)

Check out Rider’s Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles for 2019

87 COMMENTS

  1. I have been riding since 1974. I have a 27-inch inseam. Riders like me have few if any choices other than cruisers, which tend to be heavier than necessary and short on cornering clearance. This is how it’s always been. The motorcycling press and the motorcycle manufacturers simply write off anybody outside of the average. Not everybody wants to ride a cruiser.

    • Could not agree more. I have the Ducati Diavel which I got as a near compromise but the weight and cruiser length are still an issue. I will be seeking an alternative, downsizing, because I am not getting any bigger. The Diavel is a super fun machine but I have now dropped me and the machine 3 times. No significant damage done and I need help getting her off the ground, Embarrassed. Bet your ass.
      PS I am 65, 27in seam and have an artificial hip joint

    • I am 5ft 1″ and ride a ninja zx6r which was very uncomfortable at first, but like us short people do so well, ive adapted and it has become comfortable, still a little heavy at 440lbs but i have a Honda Helix that a ride when i want to really take it easy. i have an 86 and if you don’t mind looking like a dork, The Honda Helix is totally great.

      • Hey josh. Out of curiosity, how are you able to reverse the bike (say when in a parking lot) when you cannot get both of your feet on the ground (I am guessing that would be hard?)?

      • I enjoyed the list.

        As soon as I was able to buy a bike without my parents permission I did. Started small and also borrowed my best friend’s bikes (he always had the best bikes & cars). My last bike was a BMW R75/7 full dress.

        Now at 69 I ride a 530cc Honda Silverwing scooter. It is a blast to ride, powerful enough to satisfy me, hold my own on expressways and comfortable for long trips.

        Scooters may have high seats (I’m 5’9″ with a 29″ inseam) but the cut away between the seat and the front of the scooter makes it easy to get on and off. The flat floor makes all the difference for us elders that have lost some of our flexibility but still hanker to ride.

        Only down side is that many scooters look like something George Jetson would ride! I still think of Triumph Bonnevilles as the real motorcycle look. But I get a kick out of gasing up next to Harley riders and teasing each other.

        With the Honda combined brake set up, ABS and scooter twin handbrakes (hands are quicker to respond in emergencies than feet IMHO) I feel much safer. I hit a 2×4 board at 70 mph on a crowded expressway and ABS helped me control the scooter. I don’t miss shifting as I’m not a hot rodder. Don’t knock big scooters until you try one – you just might be surprised. We call our Silverwings the Goldwing of scooters. 😉

    • I have been riding since 1966, and also have a 27″ inseam. You are not limited to cruisers. Most any bike with linkage suspension can be lowered. I had a Suzuki DR650 which I bought used and had to have the previous owner deliver it to me, as I could not touch the ground. With a lowering kit, and Sargeant low seat, I had no problem riding this bike.
      https://soupysperformance.com/

  2. This list seems not so much dedicated to those with short inseams than to include models from each of the manufacturers that are your bread and butter. Let’s be honest, listing any bike with more than a 29 inch seat can not be accurately presented as suitable for the short rider and yet many of the bikes listed in the article were well over that figure. Even 29 inches would be a real struggle for may short riders. This article is just a puff piece for your advertisers, not a real attempt to list bikes for short riders.

    • Well, William, you’re welcome to come up with your own list based on your own criteria. The point of this list was to provide a cross-section of motorcycle models from as many manufacturers as possible (most of which are not advertisers) that strike a balance between seat height, curb weight and sticker price. You are correct that not all motorcycles on the list have “low” seat heights–which makes it clear to astute folks like yourself that not all manufacturers make motorcycles for riders with short inseams. We also excluded motorcycles with MSRPs over $12,000, which is why the number of cruisers–which have the lowest seat heights of all street-legal motorcycles–is limited.

      • Well maybe rather than having a little “pop”at William you should rename the article to “Best bikes for nearly short people” how you can even consider something like a Versys or Vstrom for short riders is ludicrous. I’m 5,7 but have an inseam of 28” and one of those is of absolutely no use to me without spending money on a lowering kit. Why manufacturers don’t give riders the “low” option like Triumph do on the on the 800 is beyond me. You can buy a comfort seat for most so why not have the option of a low seat and lowering kit as well.

      • Snarky. I’m a little late to the party, because I’m shopping for a 18-19 now. I’ve only owned one brand new bike. Never again. Why would anyone when there are so many people that put less than 1,000 miles on before realizing they only thought they were a biker?
        I had to laugh when the very first bike came in at 32”.
        Then fumed when you “Well, William” replied to a very valid comment.
        Under $12000 is the only thing these bike have in common.
        My rule of thumb for reviews: If there is a direct link to buy the item, read a different review.

    • Yes, William, I believe they call short riders people at 5ft3″ and taller. I am really short, 5ft tall with an inseam of 25″. I managed to have and ride a XL250 (34″ high) when I was younger, but even with the low seat I only managed to put the tip of one foot on the ground. At that time I just decided to sell it as I was scared to ride in a nervous city like São Paulo, where I was living… Now I want to ride again and, still, I feel a bit left out… Motorcycles should have more adjustable features, like in a car. The engineers could rethink space under the seat to enable the rider to “really” set the seat’s height without having to compromise comfort on a shaved one, or the bike geometry on lowered suspension… That is not much to ask, is it? Maybe it will never happen…
      Now I have been thinking about the BMW F/G 650GS, but I guess that, with the adjustments I neeed to do, I won’t have the bike in its full potential… Well…
      Stay safe..

  3. Great list, but…… You failed to mention a few motorcycles. One of which has the lowest seat height of any manufacturer. But let’s start with the others first before we get to the lowest.
    Harley Davidson Roadster – 29.5
    Harley Davidson Fat Bob – 27.7
    Harley Davidson Heritage – 26.3
    Harley Davidson 48/48 Special – 26.2
    Harley Davidson Low Rider – 26.2
    Harley Davidson Deluxe – 25.9
    Harley Davidson Street Bob – 25.8
    Harley Davidson Sport Glide – 25.7
    Harley Davidson Breakout – 25.6
    ….and the lowest of ANY motorcycle out there…….
    Harley Davidson Softail Slim – 25.5
    Yes, I am a rabid Harley Fan. I’m also an owner. While many of these bike weigh more than the ones on your list, the lower the CG, the easier the bike is to handle. I know many pencil thin women who are riding Harley Davidson Softail models and handle them with ease, because of the Low seat height. Many of the bikes on your list exceed 30″ and despite their light weight, tippy toeing a motorcycle for many riders can do horrible things to a riders confidence.
    Don’t believe or fall into the media and rider stereotype bull about Harley Riders, owners and the brand. Go to a dealer, sit on one, take it for a ride and judge for yourself. You don’t have to be the stereotype. Just be a rider and love your ride.

    • Yes, there are many more Harley-Davidsons and Indians and other cruisers with low seat heights, but with this list we tried to strike a balance between low seat height and weight and cost. We excluded motorcycles with MSRPs above $12,000.

      • and I’m glad you did!! Mayeb next time try and sort them by the 3 best in each category. Please leave Harley’s out as they can’t compete with the japs on bang for buck or reliability! 😉

      • I know this an old comment, but not so fast John… I’m 5’3″ with a 25.5″ inseam–long torso, short legs. I’ve owned a 2014 Harley Softail Slim for a few years now, and I absolutely love it! Prior to the Slim, I had an ’03 Sportster Hugger (the “low” model). The Slim is overwhelmingly better in every measurable category except for one–lean angle. I’m constantly dragging the kickstand and floor boards, which is fun for showing off, but obviously is a limiting factor I’m not fond of when out on a twisty road. Its no sport bike for sure, but I have a ton of fun on it. Big props to The Motor Company for making a sweet bike for us short folks.

  4. This list of motorcycles ruins my entitlement to sanctimonious nostalgia; everyone of them is better than what I started riding fifty years ago. And, taking into consideration inflation and cost of ownership, contemporary bikes are cheaper too. But, from where I sit, much of these improvements either go unrecognized or lost in the fog of bigger, faster and more autonomous technology. In my opinion, aside from hubris, 90% of people who ride bikes have no need to buy anything that isn’t represented in this category of motorcycle.

  5. I live and ride in the UK all year round and it is not uncommon to encounter fog. It amazes me that no motorcycle manufacturer pays any attention to fitting a rear fog lamp to a motorcylce, or more to the point why the regs don’t require one. Cars have been fitting them for years but motorcycles costing as much a car these days don’t have them. A rear fog lamp gives an approaching driver more time to plan as they will see you sooner. When riding in poor visibility you are more likely to be closer to other vehicles as you’re ability to see will restrict your speed….(be able to stop in the distance you can see and to the conditions), unfortuantely drivers will often follow the tail lights of vehicles infront of them but tend to sit further back when the vehicle in front has it’s fog light on. Note I am referring to using them legitimately not abusing them such as in rain. I bet none of the bikes listed here have any consideration to a rear fog light.

  6. The Triumph Bobber is missing from this list. Sadly, since my not tall wife traded here sportster low for one.

    Hopefully someday manufacturers will realize the sizable demographic of short riders who something besides cruisers!

  7. I am not clear why there was the need to conflate shorter bikes with cheaper (and less powerful bikes). It would be great if you simply ran a comprehensive list of ALL motorcycles at 30″/760mm or less, including cases where there is some factory low seat option of some higher bike. Somehow in the entirety of the Internet, there does not seem to be such a list. We are not as small a demographic as our statures would belie…

  8. As a long time short rider, (28″ in-seam) my dream bike would have a 28″ seat, weigh under 500lbs. It would have a windscreen and lowers to protect the legs. ………….Oh wait! It would have to be a miniature re-production of the Gold Wing 1800 I rode for ten years. The Honda CTX 700 I purchased later had a 28″ seat but chain drive and what felt like a hard tail. C’mon manufacturers, many of us want to ride long distances without giving up the comfort of a large touring bike.

  9. I miss the Honda Rebel 250. Their new Rebel 300 & 500 thta replaced it is hideous at best, just plain F’n awful…yechh

  10. I am a “medium” sized rider – 5’7″, but 29″ inseam. I have a Honda ST1300, which is listed as having a 31″ which is listed as having a seat height as low as 30.5″ (adjustable). It is “on the toes” for me at a stoplight. If I were shorter, this would be a stupid bike, as it is just too heavy, too hight a center of gravity (720 lbs). I agree that any seat height over 31″ cannot be listed as appropriate for a ” shorter” rider.

    Just a note: I did sit on a Kawasaki Ninja 650, and it did feel good. Maybe it has partly to do with seat width in the front.

    • Seat width does make a big difference. My BMW K1300GT was fairly narrow at the front of the seat and I could get both feet on ground with my 29″ inseam. The BMW R1150RT I had was much wider and even two-up I couldn’t flat-foot it. It made me nervous in difficult parking situations so I sold it and got the GT.

  11. Kawi 650 Vulcan should definitely be on this list. Real good performance, reliability, low seat, style, price. Needs more ground clearance, but I have found that fitting taller tires and putting suspension to highest setting makes a very nice improvement.

    • The Kawi 650 Vulcan is a great bike, in the article they neglected to say it was a 650. I’m 5″, 115 lbs, have had mine for 3 years and love it. I’ve taken long trips on it for up to 2 weeks at a time and never been uncomfortable.

  12. Since I am a short rider with a 28” inseam, I always looked for ways to modify my bikes. Manufacturers need to design bikes with adjustable seat height, begs and handlebars so you can customize your bike without an extra cost or compromise its performance! That will make the bikes available to more people and everyone will be happy!

  13. I’m 6’1″, 230 pounds, with a 31″ inseam. I’ve been riding for almost 50 years and the most expensive motorcycle I ever bought was brand new 1976 BMW R90/6 for about $3400, as I recall. I’ve owned many street and touring bikes, but my most comfortable one ever is the CN250 Honda Helix scooter that I currently ride. It fits me to a T. Some of the bikes on this list I might enjoy owning, but since here in the Northeast US our riding time is interrupted by winter, most of my riding is now recreational, as opposed to the daily commuting I used to do before retirement. Personally having been in the car business for decades and understanding depreciation, I have not bought a brand new bike since my BMW, and I certainly never will again (although I certainly do wish that I had kept that one).

    • I’ve been riding for 30 years and the Honda monkey is the most fun I’ve had on a bike since I was a kid on my ct70. I wouldn’t have it as my only bike but she sure is a blast. Btw, I’m 5’11 195 built and with the right shocks even bigger guys can enjoy this little rascals.

    • While you may think of scooters as small, they often have surprising seat heights and, more to the point, wide seats. The Vespa 150 Sprint, for example, has a seat height of 31.1″, and it’s a wide seat. The 300 GTS has the same seat height and an even wider seat.

      • I have a Piaggio Fly 150 and the seat height is 31″. I’m only 5’4″ and I can just almost flat foot when wearing boots, if I’m forward on the seat. It’s wider further back. The advantage to scooters here is the pass through floorboard type deck where you can comfortably have one foot up and one foot down, and also still be able to walk it around when necessary, like if I have to back it up. I wish I had bought the Vespa 300GTS though, so I can go out on the freeway. Maybe I wouldn’t be considering a motorcycle and googling best bikes for short women and landing on this page, if I had gotten a more powerful scooter!

      • I am a new rider and have a 2007 Honda Reflex 250 scooter in great condition. I love it! I am. 5’3” and can flat foot. It can easily reach 70 mph. Very comfortable, Lots of storage, and ample wind screen, etc. I am entry level but previously rode a dirt bike. (Also small). I am ready to purchase a motorcycle.I am considering the Yamaha VStar 250 or Honda Rebel 300. Oh… I am 63.

        • Hi,

          I am a new rider, just under 5′ and bought a Honda Rebel 300. I am 62 years old. I can flat foot the bike while wearing motorcycle boots. I find walking it back hard — then I am on my toes. You will probably be okay. I find the bike heavy for me. I weigh about 95 pounds and when I lean the bike over at a standstill (just testing), it feels like it would go down at about 20 degrees, and I would have to lay it down. I saw this in a review, which I thought was hilarious:

          “The low seat height inspires confidence, especially for new and shorter riders. I’m 5’ 6” with a 29-inch inseam, and on the Rebel 300, I can reach the ground flat-footed.”

          I don’t consider 5’6″ short!

          Have fun!

  14. At a lowly 1.75m (5’9) and weighing in at 70kg I find it hard to find a bike that is both light enough for a 70 year old to wheel out of the garage and low enough for my feet to touch the ground and am a bit limited for choices. My present bikes are a Benelli Leoncino (a bit on the high side but right weight) a Triumph America and a Honda VT750, both the right height but too heavy. Seriously considering a Moto Guzzi V7 or a Kawasaki vulcan 750. Another point of frustration for me is small tanks. Anything under 15l I consider a joke for the long distance touring I do.

    • You will like the Moto Guzzi V7III. I moved to one from heavier BMWs as my riding preferences have changed and thoroughly enjoy it. Great combination of classic looks, modern technology, and user friendly maintenance. We also have a top notch dealer in SW Ohio, Cadre Cycle in Cincinnati. 29” inseam and can flat foot it, senior rider appreciating the relatively light weight of this bike.

  15. I’ve been riding for the past 51 years and am 5’5″ with a 28″ inseam. I have had 21 bikes in the past years and now own an Indian Scout. I love the bike as far as low center of gravity and low seat height but it’s not a distance machine. In 1981 I purchased a new Honda gl500 Interstate. Did many long rides on it but still high and heavy. Last Fall, I once again purchased a used 1982 Honda gl500 Interstate and spent the Winter tearing it down and making it reliable again. I’ve cut down the seat padding and am looking for a shorter shock to lower the bike another inch. At 72 years old, I’m not sure I can handle the weight but it’s a great bike for touring.

  16. Excuse me if I don’t shed a tear for the problems you kids with 27-28 inch inseams are having. I’m 83 with a 25 inch inseam and have ridden since I was 14. Started on a 1939 Harley 45. I’d list the bikes I have owned but few of you would recognize the names. I have long ago realized that the manufacturers were not interested in the short riders unless you were super talented then they crammed your pockets full of money as a FACTORY RIDER. and didn’t tell any future customers that Gary wasn’t 5 10 with a 30 in inseam and that the bike they wanted to sell you wasn’t the same as what he won the race on. I recently bought a Suzuki TU250 with hope of extending my riding a few more years. Put on a 16 front sprocket and still have a hard staying out of the way of traffics. I told Suzuki to raise the engine capacity to 350 cc , add a six speed tranny, get rid of the tube/spoke tires and put on another shift to fill the orders. This little Suzy is the only modern light weight that still looks like a motorcycle!

  17. I’m 72 years old and a life long rider. I’ve owned many big/tall/heavy bikes. My first bike, at 16, was a Hodaka Ace 90, and I wanted my last bike to have the Same easy to live with character, especially important was easy on and off and easy to pick. I found a Kymco Spade at an insurance auction. It spoke to me like a wiener dog at a rescue sight. I bought it, I fixed it, I ride it, and I love it as much as I did that Hodaka. In this report, you included bikes from CSC and the Grom twins, from Honda and Kawasaki. The Spade fits those parameters. Why was it left out?

    • To be perfectly honest, it wasn’t on our radar screen. Kymco hasn’t promoted the Spade 150i much and we weren’t aware of it. Thanks for bringing it to our attention.

  18. I am 69 and short one end, top end when standing, bottom end when on a bike. 4 foot fifteen and a half all up. I have a Honda CMX500, or Rebel in other countries. Can flat foot that one. I also have a Honda CB500F. Great bike to ride, but always wear my thickest socks and boots when riding it, and still feel nervous when I have to stop. I am of the opinion that manufacturers could quite easily make bikes with adjustable rear subframes. Up for tall riders and down for people like the majority here, which would make bikes suitable for a much larger range of riders, at very little extra cost.

  19. Russell Roberts
    I started riding at age 37 on my son’s Bridgestone 90. I am now 95 and riding my thirteenth motorcycle, a Honda Silverwing Scooter, and it is the perfect motorcycle for balance, wind protection, and all around comfort. The seat height lets me get my feet securly on the ground, but the scooter style lets me stretch my legs forward when seated. I have owned bikes up to 1500cc Honda Goldwings, but had to downsize to more manageable weight, and lower seat height. I am sorry to learn that Honda is no longer offering the Silverwing. It will easily keep pace with traffic, and is capable of long comfortable rides. I have a 28″ inseam, and weigh 165 lbs.

  20. At almost 50 years old, never having ridden a motorcycle (only a scooter), I get the urge to get a motorbike. I am 173 cm (5’8 in) tall and having a hard time finding a comfortable bike that is at least 600cc. The only bike that fits me like a glove is the Ninja 400 but I wanted 600ccs so I sat in he Ninja 600 and it felt too big for me! Looking at the specs for both bikes, the Ninja 600 is slightly longer. I wonder if there is such a combination of a bike with the dimensions of the Ninja 400 with a 600 to 660cc engine in another make….

  21. Some of us shorter riders have been riding motorcycles most or all of our lives, and don’t really want to settle for a “beginners” bike. I’m almost 77 and ride a Goldwing 1800 and doing just fine despite my 29 inch inseam. But I know that sometime in the future I will have to downsize to a lighter bike, even if not right now. When I do, I want a bike with some degree of performance as well as comfort, something I can add a windscreen and some soft bags and do more than a one hour ride with a stop at the tavern. The one’s that I am most inclined to consider are not made by the big four Japanese companies or by Harley Davidson, and so dealer accessibility is also a consideration. I well might end up with a decent scooter. I already own a PCX150 and it is more fun to ride than most motorcyclists could even imagine, but of course with that little engine it is not highway capable. I don’t think its out of the question that when I retire the 900 pound Goldwing I will end up with a 300cc or 400cc scooter that can do it all and yet is easily handled by a shorter, older rider.

  22. I stand 5’8” and have a 29” inseam. I enjoy touring or at the least long day trips. At 70 years old I’d like a bike I can flat foot, carry enough for a weeks travel, be light enough to handle in garages and tight parking lots (certainly under 500lbs), offer protection from the elements, and have a cruising range of 200 miles. If I could have a BMW R 1250 or a Goldwing with those specifications I’d be a happy camper (well, a happy motel’er anyway). I don’t need or want a 1250 engine, 700 or 800cc would be great to haul the weight of me, my gear and the accoutrements that come with a bike of this type. Based on the responses to this article it appears motorcycles specifically built for shorter riders are in demand.

  23. I’m close to 68 and have riding for 52 years starting out on a Honda sport 50 and maxing out on 800 lb. Honda 1500 & 1800 Goldwings around 2004 after that I thought that I was retired from riding until I saw a 1996 Honda Helix for sale 2 years ago. It’s funny but like a lot of others I thought that the Helix was just plain ugly but eventually it just overwhelmes you into believing it is just a pure beautiful historic scooter that was way ahead of it’s time. I totally enjoy everything about this bike from it’s 350 lb. Weight, no shift CVT transmission, rear foot brake, trunk storage capacity, low seat height, stretched feet forward riding position, ease of maintenance, 70 mpg, 75 mph top speed with the capability to cruise under stressed at 65-70 as others and articles have reported although I try to stay off interstates and opt for parallel 50 -55 mph back road rides up to 200 miles. At one point around 35 years ago I owned a moped, a Honda CB-125 and a Kawasaki Z-1 900 all at the same time and everyone wanted to know how I could drive 3 bikes so different apart in size? I would reply “that’s easy to answer” I lived in a small flat town with 30 mph speed limits so I drove the moped around that area averaging over 100 mpg, I was 7.5 miles from my work with a couple of hills so I drove the 125 all week to work and back on 1 gallon of gas since it got 90 mpg, the 900 I drove on weekends on county rides and usually averaged 45 mpg. To make a long story short one should realize that any size bike is fun to ride, especially under the right driving conditions. Enjoy and be safe!

  24. I think I’ve got you all beat; 5’6″ and an inseam of almost 26.5″ (but I have to really focus)! I have and love my ’02 Honda Shadow 750 ACE — lowered, of course. Would it be stating the obvious to say that it is next to impossible for me to find anything other than a cruiser to feel “secure” with. Yes, seat height; yes, seat width. Other considerations: if your legs are short, then likely so are your arms and fingers. So additional issues that I’ve encountered are: reaching for clutch & brake levers; maneuvering a bike (if you’ve got to reach across to seize the grip, you’re sacrificing foot grip/traction/torque. I echo the sentiments of others in that this article is kinda useless (sorry, RM). One final note: scooters. There are those of us who like changing gears & being more “involved” in the riding (and car driving for that matter) experience.
    Safe riding to all!

  25. Hi I am a female 4ft 9 with inside leg of 25″ . I have dropped every bike I have owned due to not being able to touch the floor, I have over the years rode bikes where I can only touch with the tips of toes on one side, but the other issue with cruisers is that they put the controls to far out in front, so you can touch the floor but not the controls. Seat heights seem to be getting higher. I need a seat height below 700 mm or 27″, which leaves nothing but cruiser. Come on manufacturers think of us short riders, and make something other than a cruiser

  26. Note to the editors… As honorable as your intentions may have been, capping the budget was a bad idea. As a short rider (5’3″ with 25.5″ inseam), I can tell you 100% that leaving viable options out because of an artificial price constraint, and instead including bikes that are ‘affordable’ but completely unfeasible due to seat height does not do people like me any favors. If the two are mutually exclusive then so be it. As much as I like saving money, I’ll pay the premium if required to get a bike that fits me and delivers the goods (hint, hint, sport bike manufacturers). Although it does not have the lean angle I desire, my H-D Softail Slim has been like a godsend to me. I haven’t regretted the purchase for a single second. And by the way, fellow short riders, there are plenty of them out there now for under $12k.

  27. Motorcycle and scooter manufacturer’s would make a lot more money if they offered more bikes with a lower seat height and less reach for controls. We’re stuck with cruisers whether we like them or not. The controls and handlebars are out of reach as well. Who wants to pay for modifications after paying for a new bike? Not me.

  28. Hyosung GD250R = 31.1 in
    Stylish? Yes
    Budget friendly? Yes
    Good beginner machines? Yes
    Very popular? No.
    3 out of 4 ain’t bad, eh?

  29. Hi,

    I am a new rider, just under 5′ and bought a Honda Rebel 300. I am 62 years old. I can flat foot the bike while wearing motorcycle boots. I find walking it back hard — then I am on my toes. You will probably be okay. I find the bike heavy for me. I weigh about 95 pounds and when I lean the bike over at a standstill (just testing), it feels like it would go down at about 20 degrees, and I would have to lay it down. I saw this in a review, which I thought was hilarious:

    “The low seat height inspires confidence, especially for new and shorter riders. I’m 5’ 6” with a 29-inch inseam, and on the Rebel 300, I can reach the ground flat-footed.”

    I don’t consider 5’6″ short!

    Have fun!

    • I am going to have to agree with you! I am 5′ and hearing people at 5’5 or 5’6 complain about their height, or see some of these motorcycles on the list that are over 29in in seat height I just roll my eyes. this does me no justice. Good to know I am not alone

  30. I am 77 and have been riding since I was in my late 20’s. I did have about 25 years where I did not ride and then I got back into it. The biggest bike I had was a 750 Honda Super Sport and it was just too high off the ground. Eventually went to a 500 Honda with direct drive and loved it. Then came the house and had to give up riding due to the hours of the day working. When I retired from teaching I started riding again with a 250 honda scooter and then moved to NH and switched to a Honda Silver Wing. Felt that was a little to top heavy and trucks were able to push me around. Switched to a Suzuki Burgman (used) and eventually got a new 2014, 650 Burgman with ABS and love it. Keeps up with others and doesn’t get pushed around. Great center of gravity, can cruise at 75 and a joy to ride.

  31. Seat heights over 31.5 inches are not “low” bikes. So toss out virtually every adventure bike, and a lot of sport touring bikes. As noted by other contributors, this leaves few choices outside the cruiser and semi-cruiser class. (Hats off to Kawasaki for some interesting new cruiser/sport look hybrids! ) Manufacturers respond to a market – and this suggests younger taller riders, and ones who will put up with instability in a resting bike, heavy, high center of gravity weights, and large cc engines. However, I notice a high percentage of recent 1000cc VStroms and Versys up for sale used – not so many of the 650cc versions. So maybe some functional sanity is returning – lower seat heights, lighter weights, engines under about 1100ccs, with rider position adjustments – all on a bike that can be screamingly fast, with ample power. There are too many over-sized, over powered, and over weight (but utterly beautiful and sexy) offerings.

  32. Great article! I loved seeing all the bikes I’m trying to look at side by side and even found some I hadn’t heard of yet. I would consider myself a small rider, I’m 150lbs and have been looking for a lighter bike +-400lbs.

  33. I agree with those who have commented on the high seats. Now I am 70yo I find the seats are much higher. But also go back through the list and choose the bikes that are easily mounted by a passenger and comfortable to ride for 300 miles per day two up and the list suddenly shrinks. It’s a pity that the reliable and popular Suzuki Burgman 650 is no longer being produced. I have an older one with near 50,000 miles and it is excellent for my short legged wife and I. Can you include comments on suitability for passengers and riders in their post middle years when you do tests please. The riding community is aging after all. Thanks.

  34. I’m 68 years old, 5’9″ and 31″ inseam and have been riding since 1974. I currently have a 2015 Moto Guzzi V7 and a 2019 Kawasaki Z900rs. Believe it or not , the Kaw feels lighter than the Guzzi and both get great gas mileage. I wear boots with a heel to help keep me flat footed and it seems to work well. I used to ride cruisers but they are too heavy and are not as much fun as lighter motorcycles. I like motorcycles that have a comfortable ride so I had to change the suspension and seat on the Guzzi. The Kawasaki Z900rs has a comfortable ride and a descent seat right out the box and the stock exhaust sounds great! The things I want the most weren’t mentioned by most people and that is electronic cruise control followed by shaft drive. My hands bother me more now and my knees don’t like cleaning chains. The Guzzi has shaft drive and I love it! I wish someone would come out with a 700-1000cc bike that weighs under 500 lbs and has shaft drive and cruise control with of course a low seat height and a comfortable ride.

  35. NO. Stop giving me lists with bikes of 30+ inches. It doesn’t work, it’s not comfortable, I can’t put a foot down if the ground is slanted. Sure, if I’m at a flat dealership, but the real world has roads with angles. I’m 5’3 with a 29″ inseam and I’m not out of the ordinary for females.

  36. The trouble is not that the magazine listed mostly tall bikes so much as the manufactures simply don’t make short bikes. Even bikes like the Honda Monkey or Grom, or scooters like the Super Club are 30+.

  37. I’m 4’10 with a 24 inch inseam and 90lb. Most of these are too big for me. I’ve sat on a Harley 883 but found it too top heavy. Would like a sports bike made for my size without modification

  38. I have a 28″ inseam and agree that a 32″ seat height is far from “small rider” friendly. I also prefer sport-touring and ride on comfortably with only my toes touching. It is a shame that 32″ seems to be the new standard for seat height, but thank you for putting this list together.

  39. I left a comment on this page 2 years ago but thought it might be of interest to update my remarks. I loved my Goldwing, but as a shorter (5’6 or 7″) and older (I am now 79) and after two tip overs, one of which trapped me until I could get help to get out, I decided that this 920 behemoth was just too much for me anymore. Looking around for a bike with a lower seat, yet powerful enough to ride 2 up comfortably I was more than a bit frustrated. I ended up going for 3 wheels. My Can Am Spyder’s stability and comfort have been perfect for myself and my passenger wife. I did add a handlebar riser to make for a better fit, but seat height becomes far less important when you don’t have to put a foot down when coming to a stop. I still use my scooter, a Honda PCX 150 that is great fun to ride, but often wish I could trade that in for a “real” motorycle that would fit me and be fun to ride. Still looking.

  40. What I liked the most about this article were the comments. They made laugh so much. I’m a short rider and I have to say that low center of gravity is key. At 68 I rode a VTX 1300T with no problems (750 lbs.). I had to pick it up from the ground a couple of time and for anyone that doesn’t lift weights, you better carry a winch with you. I tried purchasing an adventure bike (not new) and I couldn’t find one low enough. Ran into an advertised Tiger 1200 xrx low and the dealer told me they had to take it to auction due to some damage. Guess it had been owned by a short rider…

  41. I have a 2007 BMW650 GS single. I’m 5’4” with a 27 “ inseam. The bike came with a short rider configuration but now at 72 I find the bike too heavy and I can’t put my feet flat on the ground. I have had the bike fall over on me at stops. The cruiser style bikes have seat heights that fit but the problem is the forward pegs. I can’t reach them. I really like the Vulcan S but even with the adjustable pegs, they are still to far forward. I have been riding since I was 14 so you would think that with the passage of 58 years, manufacturers could produce something that fits a a variety of rider sizes. They would sell a lot to shorter riders.

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