Choosing the right motorcycle size is crucial to ensuring a safe and comfortable riding experience. Motorcycles come in various sizes, styles, and types, and finding the right fit for your height and weight can be overwhelming. In this review, we’ll explore some key factors to consider when choosing a motorcycle size that fits your needs.
Firstly, it’s important to consider your height and inseam when choosing a motorcycle size. Your feet should be able to touch the ground flat while you’re sitting on the bike, and your knees should be bent at a comfortable angle. You should also be able to reach the handlebars and controls without straining or stretching.
When it comes to weight, it’s important to consider both your own weight and the weight of the motorcycle. Heavier riders may require a larger bike with a stronger engine to accommodate their weight and provide sufficient power. On the other hand, lighter riders may find a smaller, lighter bike more comfortable and easier to handle.
Another important factor to consider is the type of riding you plan to do. Different types of motorcycles are designed for different purposes, such as commuting, touring, or off-road riding. Each type of motorcycle has its own set of features and characteristics that can affect your riding experience.
For example, cruisers are typically larger and heavier, making them more comfortable for long rides but less maneuverable in tight spaces. Sport bikes, on the other hand, are lighter and more agile, making them better suited for high-speed riding and racing. Adventure bikes are designed for off-road riding and typically have larger engines and more suspension travel to handle rough terrain.
How to Choose a Motorcycle Size That Fits Your Height and Weight
In addition to considering your height, weight, and riding style, it’s also important to test-ride different motorcycles before making a purchase. This can help you get a feel for the bike’s handling, power, and overall comfort. You should also consider factors such as maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and fuel efficiency when choosing a motorcycle.
Overall, choosing the right motorcycle size requires careful consideration of several factors, including your height, weight, riding style, and budget. By taking the time to research and test-ride different motorcycles, you can find a bike that fits your needs and provides a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Signs Of A Poorly Fitting Motorcycle
Motorcycles are all about balance. Here are some signs to help you determine if you are not fit
- Inability to sit with both feet on the ground.
- Stands on tiptoe when standing
- Cannot reach the controls
- Reaching too far for hand or foot controls
- Cannot sit comfortably on the motorcycle
It is natural for a rider to feel uncomfortable on a motorcycle for the first time. However, if you are uncomfortable with the way your bike rides, that is reason enough to take a closer look at the ergonomics and see if you can modify it to fit you better۔
How Do I Calculate The Height Of A Motorcycle Seat?
A common method riders use to determine their ideal seat height is to stand barefoot on a hard surface with their back to a wall. Place a book between your legs and turn your back outward. Measure the distance from the floor to the top of the book, multiply the result by 0.883, and subtract one-eighth of an inch to get the correct seat height.
Whatever the result of the formula, only you know how comfortable you are on the bike. A heavy bike can be difficult to stand upright if you are standing still without the soles of both feet on the ground. With a lighter bike, the height of the seat allows you to stay comfortable even if your weight is closer to your toes.
Sitting down also allows you to feel how low the suspension will go in response to your weight. Other factors that affect saddle height include the width of the saddle and what you put on your feet when you ride. A wider saddle can raise the feet further off the ground, while thick-soled or heeled boots can increase the reach of the feet and legs.
Consider The Rider’s Weight.
Before you go to the dealership to buy a bike, weigh yourself. No, seriously, you need to know your weight. This is because the maneuverability of a motorcycle and the ability of its engine to reach it’s maximum potential depend on its loaded weight.
You may not be far behind the payload capacity of a particular bike, but the bike will carry more than your weight. You must also take into account the tools you carry in your saddlebags or in your backpack, and don’t forget to add the weight of your passengers.
Loading capacity or weight limits vary between 350 and 450 pounds. A simple way to determine the loaded capacity of a motorcycle is to subtract the weight of the motorcycle from the motorcycle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
As for the loading capacity, we are not done yet. A motorcycle has two weights: dry weight and empty weight. The dry weight is listed in the owner’s manual and is called the wet weight because it does not include the weight due to gasoline and other liquids that are necessary for the motorcycle to run. The wet weight is subtracted from the GVWR to show how much the bike can carry. The trick to simplifying the calculation is to make the weight of these liquids about 50 pounds.
Now, once you know the required load capacity, you can use that to determine the engine size. Smaller motors are better suited for carrying lighter loads. For heavier loads, choose a more powerful and efficient engine.
Choose The Right Type Of Motorcycle.
Everyone envisions the perfect motorcycle, and the question of what goes with that perfection is always present. This section breaks down the different types of motorcycles and provides enough information to help you determine what style is right for you.
Cruisers generally have a much lower seat height. They are a “comfortable” option for first-time cruisers, as it is often said, “You don’t ride a cruiser, you sit on a cruiser. Cruisers come in a variety of designs, from simple to complex.
Sport bikes are shunners designed for low aerodynamic drag and high lean angles when cornering. Unfortunately, this means that smaller riders will be on their toes when trying to reach the ground.
Touring bikes are the comfortable raspberry boys of the motorcycle world. They are designed for long, comfortable rides and tend to be heavier than other bikes. They vary slightly from brand to brand but are usually mixed with sport-touring models that are less comfortable and replaced with sportier styles.
Standard styles are a simple mix of function and visual appeal. They do everything well on the street and are not designed for any specific purpose. Standards come in a variety of displacements and bike sizes, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.
Dual sport bikes can do just about anything. You can ride across the country, on the highway, or in the dirt, so if you want a model that you can ride anywhere all year round, a dual sport bike may be what you are looking for. The seat tends to be a little higher due to ground clearance, so consider that when choosing your size.
A Few Notes On Generalizations About The Relationship Between Style And Fit.
The size of the engine does not necessarily equal the capacity of the bike. A 600cc engine in a standard may have only half the power of a 600cc engine in a sport. Define what you want to use the bike for and let that be your guide. If you plan to use it for commuting and a few weekend rides, buying a bike with a bigger engine may not be a good idea unless you need it.
Your experience can also guide your choice.
If you are new to motorcycling, choose a bike that fits your needs and what you can handle. Touring bikes are heavy, and if you are tall, a small standard bike may not be enough for you.
What Size Bike Do You Need?
There are several ways to check if the bike you are looking at is the right size for you. Try the following methods
- Try putting the bike in front of you. Whether you are buying a used bike or from a dealer, the first thing you should do is sit on the bike you are considering.
- Tilt it to the left or right, move it back and forth, and feel it under your feet. If any of these movements feel unnatural or too difficult, it is a sign that the bike is not right for you.
- Check the distance from the seat to the controls: Make sure you can easily reach the controls with your feet or hands from the seat. If you have to stretch or twist to reach them, the bike is not right for you. This is also a good time to check if you can reach the ground easily.
- If for some reason you are unable to test ride the bike in person or can only shop online, don’t worry. You can use the information published online and your own measurements to determine the size of the bike.
- This information is always available on the manufacturer’s website, usually in the “specifications” section, whenever you see a motorcycle, and is a great way to compare specific types of bikes. This method is simple: by comparing the seat height to your inseam, you can get an idea of the bike’s rise height.
- We found a handy ergonomic bike simulator that allows you to try it before you go to the dealership. You can enter your height, inseam, and the bike you are considering to see if it fits. This will give you a good idea of which model to try first.
How to Adjust Your Bike for a Perfect Fit
Sometimes you get so attached to a bike in your mind that you can’t say no to it. If you find the perfect bike but it doesn’t fit you perfectly, here’s what we do to make it fit you perfectly
- Adjust the suspension to your height: Off-road bikes, motocross bikes, and dual sport bikes have some of the highest seat heights to allow for greater suspension stroke. This may seem too high for shorter people. Because the suspension on these bikes is softer, it flexes more with the rider’s weight, and because the seat is relatively narrow, it can be surprisingly easy to reach the ground on a dirt bike. Street riders may be able to replace the suspension or add a modified suspension system that lowers or raises the bike to suit their height.
- Replacing the Seat of a Motorcycle: An easy way to resize a motorcycle is to replace the seat. This method works well for larger touring bikes or cruisers with very padded standard saddles. Replacing the seat with a replacement seat that is shaped differently and has less padding can make a big difference in seat height, distance to the ground, and distance to the controls. In many cases, it can also improve comfort.
Why Choosing The Right Size For Your Bike Is Important
A motorcycle keeps the rider upright when in motion, but it is the rider who must keep it from tipping over when stationary. An appropriately sized bike is one that can be controlled at all times, both when moving and when stopped.
If you cannot prevent a fall by keeping your hands on the ground, you risk damaging the bike and injuring yourself. Standing on your toes does not give you the control necessary to keep a 550+ pound cruiser upright at a red light. Before test riding, turn off the engine of the bike you are considering and sit down to see if you can keep it from tipping over.
The size of the bike will also affect whether you can reach the controls and should not require you to reach for the handlebars. If something doesn’t feel right, try a different model or brand until you find the right bike for you.
The goal is to find the right bike for you. You do not want a bike that requires you to adjust how you sit or how tall you are so that you can reach the controls and handlebars. If you feel uncomfortable now, imagine after riding for an hour or more in your current position.
FAQs
Which Bike Is Best For 5.7 Height?
When it comes to choosing a bike, height is an essential factor to consider. For someone with a height of 5.7 feet (173 cm), it’s important to select a bike that is the right size to ensure comfort and safety while riding.
There are several types of bikes available, and each type has its own sizing chart. However, the general rule of thumb is that for someone with a height of 5.7 feet, a bike with a frame size of 17 to 19 inches is suitable.
Here are some types of bikes and their recommended frame sizes for someone with a height of 5.7 feet:
- Road Bikes: Road bikes are built for speed and are ideal for long-distance rides on paved roads. For someone with a height of 5.7 feet, a road bike with a frame size of 54 to 56 cm is suitable.
- Mountain Bikes: Mountain bikes are designed for off-road trails and rough terrain. For someone with a height of 5.7 feet, a mountain bike with a frame size of 17 to 19 inches is ideal.
- Hybrid Bikes: Hybrid bikes are a mix between road and mountain bikes, making them suitable for both on-road and off-road use. For someone with a height of 5.7 feet, a hybrid bike with a frame size of 17 to 19 inches is recommended.
It’s important to note that these are general recommendations, and the best bike for someone with a height of 5.7 feet ultimately depends on their individual body measurements and riding preferences. It’s always recommended to test-ride a bike before purchasing to ensure it is the right fit and comfortable to ride.
Can A 5 Foot 6 Person Ride A Motorcycle?
Yes, a person who is 5 foot 6 inches tall can ride a motorcycle. Height is one factor to consider when selecting a motorcycle, but it’s not the only factor. There are several types of motorcycles available, and each type has its own seating position, footpeg placement, and handlebar height.
For shorter riders, it’s important to choose a motorcycle so that they can comfortably reach the ground with both feet while sitting on the bike. They should also be able to reach the handlebars and controls without straining. Some motorcycles are specifically designed for shorter riders, with lower seat heights, narrower seats, and lower footpegs.
It’s also important for all riders to wear proper protective gear, including a helmet, jacket, gloves, and boots, regardless of their height.
If you’re a shorter rider, it’s a good idea to visit a motorcycle dealership and try sitting on different models to see which ones fit you best. You can also consider taking a motorcycle training course to improve your riding skills and learn how to handle a motorcycle properly, regardless of your height.
How Should I Fit My Bike For My Height?
Proper bike fit is crucial for comfort, safety, and optimal performance while riding. Here are some steps you can follow to fit your bike to your height:
- Measure your inseam: This is the distance from your crotch to the floor. To measure your inseam, stand barefoot against a wall with your feet shoulder-width apart and a book pressed up against your crotch. Measure the distance from the top of the book to the floor.
- Determine your frame size: Most bike manufacturers provide a size chart that recommends the appropriate frame size based on your inseam. Alternatively, you can use an online bike fitting tool or visit a bike shop to get professionally fitted.
- Adjust your saddle height: Your saddle should be adjusted so that your knee is slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke. To adjust your saddle height, sit on the bike and place your heel on the pedal. When the pedal is at the bottom of the stroke, your leg should be fully extended but not locked out.
- Adjust your saddle fore-aft position: Your saddle should also be positioned so that your knee is directly above the pedal axle when the pedal is in the 3 o’clock position.
- Adjust your handlebar height and reach: Your handlebars should be adjusted so that your upper body is in a comfortable and relaxed position. You should be able to reach the brake levers and shifters without stretching or straining.
Check your bike fit periodically: Your body may change over time, so it’s important to periodically check your bike fit and make adjustments as needed.
If you’re unsure about how to fit your bike, consider consulting a professional bike fitter or visiting a bike shop for assistance. A proper bike fit can significantly improve your comfort, reduce the risk of injury, and improve your overall riding experience.
Is A 450 Too Big For A Beginner?
A 450cc dirt bike can be too big for a beginner rider, especially if they are not used to riding a motorcycle or have limited experience with off-road riding. The power and speed of a 450cc dirt bike can be overwhelming for a beginner rider and can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
It’s important for beginners to start with a smaller, less powerful dirt bike that is more suitable for their skill level. A 250cc or 300cc dirt bike can provide ample power and speed while still being manageable for a beginner rider. These bikes are also more forgiving and easier to handle, allowing riders to build confidence and improve their skills before moving up to a larger bike.
Riders should also consider their height, weight, and overall physical ability when selecting a dirt bike. A bike that is too big or too small can be difficult to control and increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
In summary, a 450cc dirt bike is typically too big for a beginner rider. It’s important for beginners to start with a smaller, less powerful bike that is suitable for their skill level and physical ability. As riders gain experience and improve their skills, they can consider moving up to a larger bike if they feel comfortable and confident.
Is 350cc Big Enough Motorcycle?
Yes, a 350cc motorcycle can be big enough for many riders, depending on their needs and riding style. A 350cc bike can provide enough power and speed for commuting, touring, or even some off-road riding.
In general, a 350cc motorcycle can be a good choice for beginners or riders who are looking for a lightweight and easy-to-handle bike. These bikes can be more forgiving and easier to control than larger, more powerful motorcycles, making them ideal for building confidence and improving skills.
However, riders should also consider their specific needs and riding style when selecting a motorcycle. A 350cc bike may not be suitable for riders who are looking for more power and speed for racing or long-distance touring. Riders who frequently carry passengers or cargo may also need a larger bike with more carrying capacity.
Ultimately, the size of a motorcycle depends on the individual rider’s needs and preferences. Riders should consider factors such as their experience level, riding style, physical ability, and intended use when selecting a motorcycle.
Is A 600cc Bike Too Much For A Beginner?
A 600cc bike can be too much for a beginner rider. These bikes are typically high-performance and can have a lot of power, making them more challenging to handle and control for inexperienced riders.
In addition to the power and performance of a 600cc bike, these bikes can also be heavy, which can make maneuvering them more difficult for a beginner rider. The weight of the bike can make it harder to balance and control at low speeds, such as in parking lots or in heavy traffic.
It’s important for beginner riders to start with a smaller, less powerful bike that is easier to handle and control. A 250cc or 300cc bike can provide enough power and speed while still being more manageable for a beginner rider. These bikes are also more forgiving and easier to control, allowing riders to build confidence and improve their skills before moving up to a larger bike.
In summary, a 600cc bike can be too much for a beginner rider. It’s important for beginner riders to start with a smaller, less powerful bike that is easier to handle and control. As riders gain experience and improve their skills, they can consider moving up to a larger bike if they feel comfortable and confident.
Can A 6 Foot Man Ride A 26 Inch Bike?
While a 6-foot man could physically ride a 26-inch bike, it is likely that the bike would be too small and uncomfortable for him. 26-inch bikes are typically designed for children and smaller adults, and they have lower seat heights and shorter top tubes. A taller person would likely feel cramped and hunched over on a 26-inch bike, which could result in discomfort or even injury while riding. It is recommended that a person of this height consider a bike with a larger frame size, such as a 27-inch or 28-inch bike, to ensure a comfortable and safe riding experience.
Conclusion
Choosing a motorcycle size that fits your height and weight is essential for your safety and comfort while riding. To ensure you select the right size, consider factors such as the seat height, weight, and power of the motorcycle. You should also take into account your experience level and riding style. When shopping for a motorcycle, test-ride several different sizes to find the one that feels the most comfortable and natural to you. Ultimately, choosing the right motorcycle size will not only improve your riding experience but also increase your safety on the road.
