The same as men, short ladies can ride a motorcycle. However, some motorcycles can be trickier to ride than others, particularly for those of us who aren’t exceptionally tall. There isn’t a set height limitation, so don’t let that prevent you from riding. You simply need to choose the greatest motorcycle for petite women.
We shall examine the top ten suggestions for short women in today’s post!
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Why Do Short Women Need Special Attention When Choosing a Motorcycle?
You might be asking why we feel the need to point out which two-wheelers are more suitable for smaller female riders. When compared to men, women are often smaller than men. According to statistics, female riders are typically between 100 and 170 pounds in weight and between 5 feet and 5 feet 4 in height.
In contrast, men typically weigh more and are 5 inches taller than women. The inseam is significantly affected by the 5 inches, which has a significant impact on seat height as well.
A motorbike that is lightweight and easy for short women to operate is essential, in addition to the seat height, which is often lower for short women.
The Top 10 Suggested Motorcycles for Short Women
The following are our top 10 suggestions for smaller women:
1. Honda CBR 300R
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Six-speed gearbox |
| Electronically controlled ignition |
| A single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine |
| 38-millimeter throttle body |
| A 3.4-gallon fuel capacity |
| Wide powerband |
| 357-pound curb weight |
| 30.7-inch seat height |
The entry-level sportbike for the company is the Honda CBR 300R. It will fit a short woman and has excellent qualities for a sportbike. It has Grand Prix style and is slim and light.
It’s the perfect motorcycle for getting around town. It is highly aftermarket supported and very customizable. This model stands out for short women in part because of its narrow form. It is not overly substantial, making it simpler to place your feet. You have more control with the single-cylinder engine, and it just fits tiny women better.
It boasts a simple-to-use six-speed transmission. It is highly agile, and women will use the throttle with much lighter pressure.
2. Harley-Davidson SuperLow
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Twin mufflers |
| An electronic speedometer positioned on the handlebars |
| It weighs around 568 pounds |
| Short and chromed exhaust chrome |
| ESPFI fuel system |
| The air-cooled evolution engine |
| The Seat height is approximately 27.7 inches |
| Approximately 3.9 inches of ground clearance |
The Harley-Davidson SuperLow is one of the motorcycles that is selected by petite ladies more frequently than any other model. This particular make and model of machine has been available for close to ten years and is considered to be an entry-level product.
It provides a balanced center of gravity, which is an ideal feature for riders who have bodies that are on the smaller side. Since short women are usually between 5 feet and 5 feet and 4 inches tall, a seat height of about 27.7 inches is best.
The capability of the SuperLow to enable even the smallest lady to firmly plant both feet on the ground while she is standing still has contributed to the shoe’s popularity among women.
3. Yamaha V-Star 250
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Five-speed gearbox |
| Electric ignition |
| V-twin air-cooled engine |
| Ultra-Efficient Engine |
| Compact Custom |
| Classic Exhaust Layout |
| Strong Brakes |
| Low-maintenance engine |
The Yamaha V-Star 250 has every feature that is necessary for a motorcycle to have for a rider of shorter stature. You’ll be able to ride in an open position thanks to the handlebar that has a custom style.
The V-Star 250 weighs somewhere in the neighborhood of 326 pounds. This is wonderful news since it means a rider of a lower weight class can manage the load. The seat height of only 27 inches is astonishingly low, even for the rider who is the smallest possible.
A saddle with a low step and a soft seat provides outstanding comfort and a straightforward flatfoot position when the rider stops.
This motorcycle is one of the most welcome entry-level models in the 2021–2022 line for newer, shorter female riders. It was designed with them in mind. Riders get more confidence because of the highly linear torque and power distribution that this product offers, but it does not provide them with an overwhelming quantity.
4. Honda Rebel 300
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Each cylinder has four valves |
| Six-speed gearbox |
| A single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine |
| 27.2-inch seat height |
| 364-pound curb weight |
| 2.9 gallons of fuel capacity |
| The ignition is fully transistorized |
The Honda Rebel 300 is an approachable cruiser that is straightforward to ride. It has a very small engine and is undeniably a lot of fun to ride, all of which make it an excellent option for novice female riders who are short.
This bike has a low seat height, which is another important aspect that makes it an excellent option for ladies who are on the shorter side. With a seat height of approximately 27.2 inches, this motorcycle has one of the lowest seats available on the market. If you prefer to drive with a flat foot in parking lots and at stoplights, you should consider purchasing this bike. A woman who is only 5 feet tall would enjoy riding this motorcycle because it isn’t too intimidating.
This motorcycle has a curb weight of just 364 pounds with a full tank, which makes it a great deal more manageable and pleasurable to ride for riders of smaller stature. The low center of gravity is something that will appeal greatly to shorter women. Because it encourages uniqueness and expression, the blacked-out style is something that every lady will find attractive.
5. Kawasaki Ninja 400
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Lightweight trellis frame |
| Compact 399cc twin-cylinder engine |
| Uni-Trak® rear suspension |
| Sporty & Comfortable |
| Assist and slipper clutch |
| Seat height 30.9 inches |
| Sharp & Modern |
| Six-speed transmission |
| DFI fuel system |
If you are looking for a motorcycle that has just enough power for highway speeds, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is undoubtedly a fantastic option for you to take into consideration.
Every single lady in the world finds something about the timeless design of a Kawasaki sportbike to be irresistible. It gives off the impression of being very sleek and powerful.
You won’t have much of a reason to complain about this motorcycle because it is entirely loaded and ready to go. This is especially true if you are just starting as a rider.
The seat height of the Ninja 400, which is around 30.9 inches, is exactly suitable for providing a rider of shorter stature with sufficient control.
The weight of this bike, which comes in at 366 pounds, is perfect for female riders. The 399 cc engine is held by a frame that is both exceptionally thin and small, which makes ground reach quite easy.
6. Kawasaki Vulcan 900
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Fuel-injected 903cc V-twin engine |
| Low seat height |
| Smooth-shifting 5-speed transmission |
| Height adjustable windscreen |
| DFI fuel system |
| Ground clearance of 5.5 inches |
| Sculpted 5.3-gallon fuel tank |
Any woman will initially enjoy the boulevard-style cruiser Kawasaki Vulcan 900. Even a short woman will have fun on this bike, as it is one of those powerful cruisers.
More power and torque are available with the 903cc heavy-duty liquid-cooled V-twin 4-stroke engine for better riding efficiency. However, this also means that the machine is rather hefty (around 610.8 pounds), making it somewhat difficult for certain women with smaller body frames to ride.
The seat is just right for riders between the heights of 5 feet and 5 feet 4 at 27 inches. On the other hand, the 5.5-inch ground clearance offers a lower center of gravity, which makes it simpler to balance and control the bike. Along with better aerodynamics, decreased ground clearance should be expected.
We believe that a short rider with prior motorcycle experience may find this beast to be a very good alternative. But for someone on a limited budget, its MSRP might be a little high.
7. Suzuki SV650 ABS
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Fuel injection with SDTV |
| 645cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90˚, V-twin engine |
| Wet, multi-plate type clutch |
| 14.5 L (3.8 US gal.) fuel capacity |
| Electronic ignition (transistorized) |
| Chain, DID 520V0, 112 links |
One of those stylish motorcycles for short women is the Suzuki SV650 ABS. You have a strong, reliable chassis and a friendly, nimble engine.
The SV650 ABS’s low curb weight of 437 pounds makes it a good choice for women with tiny frames. On the highway or in bends, controlling and handling it won’t be too difficult.
The bike can be handled easily thanks to the 30.9-inch seat height. On the other hand, the 5.3-inch ground clearance enhances performance and handling.
This bike offers the most remarkable ergonomics. It provides a comfortable and slightly sporty riding stance. Because of the slender fuel tank/seat connection, standing with both feet on the ground won’t be a problem.
8. Ducati Scrambler Icon
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Electronic fuel injection, 50 mm throttle body |
| Consumption is 5,2 l/100 km – 120 g/km |
| 803 cc engine |
| 417 pounds wet weight |
| Chain, front sprocket 15, rear sprocket 46 |
| Hydraulically controlled slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch |
| 798 mm (31,4 in) – low seat 778 mm (30,6 in) available as an accessory |
We think that the Ducati Scrambler Icon is an excellent choice for shorter ladies who are interested in finding a balance between heritage and innovation. The new Scrambler is not only more secure and comfortable but also more stylish.
The seat height of the Scrambler is around 30.6 inches, which makes it simple for women with more diminutive bodies to ride and operate the vehicle. Because it weighs 417 pounds when wet, the Scrambler Icon is manageable for the vast majority of women who are on the shorter side. Both the ground reach and the clearance are extremely reliable.
The Ducati Multimedia System, together with the new handlebar switch and hydraulic clutch control, is another outstanding feature of this model that we believe short women would like.
9. BMW G 310 R
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Water-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine, four valves, two overhead camshafts, and wet sump lubrication |
| Electronic fuel injection |
| Has a top speed of 88 mph |
| 313 cc |
| Three-phase alternator with 308 W |
| Multi-disc oil bath clutch (anti-hopping) with self-reinforcement |
| Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox |
The BMW G 310 R is a motorcycle that is specially made to appeal to a woman’s preferences on the streets. Sportiness, ease of handling, and maneuverability are all present.
The G 310 R is a 313cc streetfighter that has a strong-looking appearance. The simple style is ideal for short women. The BMW G 310 R is a small-body rider-friendly, a lightweight motorcycle that weighs about 361 pounds.
Nevertheless, the seat height is ideal, making it easy for a lady who is on the shorter side to get on and off.
The exceptional robustness of the tubular space frame chassis in any orientation is another outstanding aspect of this vehicle. In addition to this, your ground clearance is quite low, and your center of gravity is quite high.
10. Harley Davidson Street 500
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| 2-piston floated rear and front brakes |
| 514 pounds wet weight |
| Fuel capacity is 13.1 l |
| Liquid-cooled, Revolution®X V-Twin |
The Harley-Davidson Street 500 is a good option for petite women seeking a rapid and agile urban riding experience.
This bike, which has a 500cc V-twin engine, is our recommendation for inexperienced riders who want to gain confidence. It offers power delivery and performance suitable for beginners. Girls, the progressive throttle should ensure a smooth reaction.
The motorcycle definitely stands out thanks to its 5.7-inch ground clearance and 28.3-inch seat height. Most shorter women will benefit from these two distinctive characteristics since they provide superior performance, handling, and control. Although the weight, at roughly 514 pounds, is a touch high, most short women shouldn’t have any trouble carrying it.
What Motorcycle Should Short Women Buy?
When looking for the finest motorcycle for short women, have the following in mind:
Is It Better to Buy a Used or New Motorcycle?
Should a short lady purchase a new or used motorcycle?
Only if the motorcycle is brand new can you be sure it hasn’t been altered (maybe with a lowered seat height). You might not find the features and functionality you seek in a used motorcycle, but the most recent model offers them. The manufacturer’s warranty covers any shortcomings in the caliber of the craftsmanship.
If you are on a tight budget, you might prefer a used bike to a new one. A used bike typically has a lower beginning cost than a brand-new motorcycle. As long as it still has plenty of life left, you might think about purchasing a used motorcycle if you know what to look for. But always check to see if the used motorcycle has been altered.
Additionally, look at these top motorcycles for women.
Customized Motorcycles
You might think about adding aftermarket components to a huge motorcycle. The seat suspension, handlebars, side stand, and center stand may all be modified by lowering kits. You will have the proper ergonomics and comfort thanks to the adjustments.
However, you must be mindful of the trade-offs made while lowering a motorcycle. The first effect will be a reduction in your cornering clearance. The motorcycle won’t be able to be tilted as far as the supplier planned.
Purchasing a motorcycle with a lower seat height directly from the manufacturer is the best and most perfect solution.
Inseam and Seat Height
The distance from the seat’s lowest point to the ground is known as the seat height. In terms of how high that seat is off the ground, it is essentially a rather static figure. You must consider the seat’s width because the longer the reach to the ground, the wider the seat. As you plant your foot, you must also take into account how thin it is.
The length from your groin underneath to the inside of your ankle is known as the inseam. The motorbike seat height can be problematic for women with short inseams. You must be able to stand on the motorcycle when you stop and be able to get on and off it without difficulty in order to ride.
If you have inseam issues, you should be prepared for some difficulties with certain motorcycle models. For instance, several sportbikes and adventure and sport tourers are renowned for having high seat heights. You won’t feel very secure and comfortable on a greater seat height if you have a short inseam. This is true since you won’t be able to plant both feet simultaneously.
But lower doesn’t always mean better. The ride will not always be more pleasant over longer distances if you are riding a motorbike with a lower seat height, such as a cruiser. Since the seat is broader on a normal cruiser motorbike, more leg reach is required. You must adopt a wider attitude as a result.
However, you won’t be able to be certain unless you sit on a variety of several models. If possible, test-riding a range of two-wheelers is the best method to determine which one matches you as a short rider.
Final Verdict
We have included our top ten suggestions for you. However, you still need to do a few more experiments on your own. We advise you to visit a showroom and test-ride the motorcycle you like. See how it feels and fits by sitting on it. If you can, try a few different types to create a more thorough comparison. The ideal motorcycle for petite ladies should be cozy whether you’re standing or seated. The best motorcycle will also provide you with a sense of security and control at any speed.