Last Updated on January 2, 2023 by Chase Manhattan
Regardless of riding experience, riding conditions, road conditions, etc.. There is an ongoing plight of tall riders everywhere..
Whats the best motorcycle for tall riders?
Well tall riders out there, we’ve got a list for you today!
#1 Suzuki DRZ 400SM
Naturally, a supermoto (or dualsport, in lieu of a supermoto configuration) will suit taller riders as there is a higher seat height to accommodate varied terrain when fully utilizing the bike’s intended use case.
P.S. This is my personal favorite and very possibly the best motorcycle for tall riders!
In the bike’s supermoto configuration, it boasts:
- 17 inch wheels
- 40 Horsepower (hp – rounded up)
- 29 Ft. Lbs. of Torque (tq – rounded up)
With roughly a 320~ pound wet weight, and high adjustable suspension, this motorcycle is plenty of fun for everyone and adjustable enough for our taller riders out there.
The Suzuki DRZ400SM is a street-legal dirtbike with 17-inch wheels, electric start, and a 12-month warranty[1]. It has an inverted Showa fork up front and monoshock in the rear, both of which are fully adjustable[1]. The bike is powered by Suzuki’s 398cc liquid-cooled single engine, producing 32 horsepower at the rear Dunlop[2][3]. It has a 2.6 gallon fuel tank[3], and features a PAIR (air supply) system to the exhaust for emissions compliance without affecting performance[2]. The DRZ400SM also has wide handlebars for direction changes, digital instrument cluster with twin tripmeters, clock, timer and stopwatch functions[1], and hydraulic Showa shock with adjustable compression/rebound damping and spring preload[3].The DRZ400SM is suitable for budget-minded riders who want to have urban fun without breaking the bank[3], as well as those looking for a dirt bike that can do a little bit of everything such as dual-sport riding on the road, gravel/fire roads, and some trail riding[4].
#2 Kawasaki Vulcan S
Kawasaki has provided many modifications to this motorcycle to accommodate the needs of all size riders – particularly our taller friends – hence it is here on the list. Many dealers will offer your selection from entirely forward controls, or a happy medium in a neutral control placement. This is known as Kawasaki’s ErgoFit package.
Otherwise, this motorcycle is boasting:
- a 650cc displacement, parallel twin (P-TWIN), engine found in Kawasaki’s Ninja 650 motorcycles.
- 61 Horsepower (hp)
- 47 Ft Lbs. of Torque (tq – rounded up)
In spite of the almost 500 pound wet weight, this motorcycle – having ridden one myself – is a pleasant mix between affordability, adjustability, comfort, nimbleness, and performance. Again, even for our taller riders out there! Also shoutout to our budget conscious friends as this bike retails at an average MSRP of $7099.
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is a cruiser motorcycle powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine with maximum torque of 46.3 lb-ft @ 6600 rpm[1][2]. It features Kawasaki’s “Ergo-Fit” technology, which provides 18 different rider configurations with modular parts adjustable for different rider sizes[2][3]. It also has a Positive Neutral Finder, allowing the Vulcan’s pilot to easily find neutral gear[1][3]. The Vulcan S is equipped with ABS and anti-lock braking system, which can reduce fatal motorcycle crashes by 31% according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)[3][4]. Additionally, it offers good performance and cornering around due to its dynamic efficiency through a combination of cruiser stability and sportbike handling[3]. The Vulcan S is suitable for new riders as well as experienced riders who may want to transition from something sporty to a more comfortable ride[5].
#3 Honda CBR 500R
Yes, we know that the Honda CBR 500R is not dropping many panties – if any – out there; but believe us when we tell you that it is incredibly practical and comfortable for you taller riders looking for a solution. Don’t count this little CBR out just yet, it boasts:
- a 471cc parallel twin (p-twin) engine
- 50 Horsepower (hp)
- 32 Ft. Lbs of Torque (tq)
- an understated 419 lbs wet weight, making this a deceptively (relatively) quick motorcycle
- Do note the $6699 MSRP places this less desireably on the list in terms of relative bang for your buck.
The Honda CBR500R is a full-sized bike with a modern design, LED lighting, and an LCD display[3]. It has been upgraded for 2022 with an entirely new front end featuring a 41mm Showa upside-down SFF-BP fork, dual front disc brakes, and radial-mount four-piston calipers[1]. It is available in two models: the CBR500R ABS (MSRP $7,199) and the CB500F ABS (MSRP $6,699)[2].The Honda CBR500R is suitable for commuting due to its stable and flickable nature[3], as well as its torque-forward engine. It also performs well as a sports bike when pushed hard[4], making it a versatile option for riders. The CBR500R has been praised by MCN for its value for money[5].
#4 BMW G310 GS
Accessible German engineering at its finest. Don’t want to drop a sweet $17995 on a new BMW R 1250GS? Here’s your huckleberry.
Surprising to a 313cc single cylinder motorcycle, this bike boasts:
- Surprising seat height of 32.8 inches, which is ALMOST enough for 6’3″ riders to be tip toeing!
- 34 Horsepower (hp)
- 21 Ft. Lbs of Torque (tq – rounded up)
- Pleasant price point of MSRP $5695
The BMW G310 has several positives, including its engine which delivers 33.5 hp at 9,700 rpm and 20 pound-feet of torque at 7,700 rpm[1], with a top speed of 99 mph[1]. It also has a 0-62 mph sprint time of 7.2 seconds and 0-30 mph in just a little over two seconds[1]. The bike is also equipped with ABS and Ride by Wire technology for improved safety and stability[2], as well as KYB suspension with 25 clicks of rebound and damping, along with an eight-step preload adjustment[1].The BMW G310 is also relatively affordable, with an MSRP of $5695[3] and quality components such as the instrument cluster which would be right at home on a premium adventure bike[3]. It has been praised for its punchy engine and good value for money, receiving 4 out of 5 stars from Motorcycle News[4].
#5 Yamaha XSR700
Surprised to see this bike on the list? Well you’d be surprised to know that many taller riders out there are reporting this motorcycle as extremely comfortable, even for long haul riding.
Get this, the Yamaha XSR700 has a TALLER seat height than the BMW G310 GS. This means it is boasting:
- 32.9 seat height
- The wonderful, FZ/MT07 transplanted, 689cc parallel twin (p-twin) engine.
- 74 Horsepower (hp)
- 50 Ft. Lbs. of Torque (tq)
- 410 pound wet weight
The Yamaha XSR700 has several positive features, including a lively engine and soft, forgiving chassis[1], traction control, ABS, semi-adjustable suspension, and ride-by-wire throttle control[2], as well as a relatively low price tag of £8,000 ready to roll[1]. It also has an updated appearance for 2022 with a new LED headlight design, new side covers, and a revised cockpit[1]. Additionally, the XSR700 Legacy edition for 2023 features an integrated headlight guard, a new handlebar, and a new seat layout in the colour “Speedblock Silver”[4]. It is also possible to customize the XSR700 with slimmed down body work and custom aluminium headlight plate[3].
Summary
As you’ve noticed, we focused on a few primary points for those of you shopping for a motorcycle, as a tall rider.
Consider the seat height of the motorcycle. It’s important to find a motorcycle with a seat height that is comfortable for you to sit on and reach the ground with your feet. Don’t be afraid to go to your local dealership and sit on a few motorcycles to get a feel for your needs.
Similiar to the height of the motorcycle, weight plays an important role for a tall rider. Heavier motorcycles will typically be more stable, and easier to handle at low speeds.
With weight and height in consideration, you should also look at the wheelbase of your motorcycle. Typically a tall rider will prefer a longer wheelbase as it will give you more room for your legs and torso.
Lastly, consider the fact that we’ve listed five different types of motorcycles – albeit mostly beginner friendly.
From a naked bike, sport bike, adventure bike, cruiser, or supermoto, many of these things will simply align with your preferences and comfort levels. This is why we suggest taking some time to visit your local motorcycle dealer to sit on some of their bikes.
For any questions, concerns, or inputs otherwise, please feel free to chat in the comment fields below!
Let us know what you think is the best motorcycle for tall riders!
