🎯 Key Takeaways
- Seat height is critical, motorcycles under 32 inches (ideally under 30″) offer better control and confidence at stops.
- Cruisers like the Honda Rebel 500 and Indian Scout Bobber offer some of the lowest seat heights, making them great for shorter inseams.
- Standards and naked bikes, such as the Yamaha MT-07 and Triumph Street Twin, provide upright ergonomics and lightweight handling ideal for urban and casual riding.
- Beginner-friendly sport bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and KTM RC390 blend performance with manageable ergonomics for shorter riders.
- Adventure-ready options include lowered ADV models like the BMW G 310 GS and Kawasaki Versys-X 300, suitable for off-road or touring without towering seat heights.
Imagine yourself at a red light, hesitating, not because of the traffic jam, but because your feet barely touch the ground. That was me, a short‑legged rider, feeling like every bike was built for giants. But then, I discovered motorcycles that bend to fit you, not the other way around.
Welcome to the world of the best motorcycles for short riders, with seat heights under 32 inches, crafted for riders under five‑feet‑five.
Let’s check out eight standout models grouped in categories to help you find your perfect match.
Comparison Table for Short Rider Motorcycles: Side‑by‑Side View
| Category | Model | Seat Height (in/mm) | Weight (approx) | Stand‑Out Trait |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MiniMoto | Honda Grom | ~29.7 in (761 mm) | ~220 lb | Featherweight cult fun |
| Standard | Suzuki SV650 | ~30.9 in | Midweight | Balanced, sporty, accessible |
| Standard | Triumph Bonneville T100 | ~31.1 in | Midweight | Retro style, modern comfort |
| Cruiser | Bajaj Avenger 160 | ~29 in (737 mm) | ~156 kg | Budget cruiser, very low seat |
| Cruiser | Honda Rebel 500 | ~27.2 in | ~418 lb | Light, low, easy to ride |
| Cruiser | Indian Scout Bobber | ~25.5 in | Midweight | Ultra‑low, big personality |
| Sport | Kawasaki Ninja 400 | ~31.9 in | <400 lb | Sporty, friendly for short legs |
| Sport | KTM RC390 | ~31.9 in | ~327 lb | Lively, track‑ready feel |
| Adventure | Triumph Tiger 900 GT Low | 30.3–31.1 in (770–790mm) | ~425 lb dry | Adjustable low‑seat adventure |
Best Motorcycles for Short Riders: Choose Your Favorite
Between factory-built models with low seats already and aftermarket lowering mods, short riders have way more options than ever before.
We’ll cover some top picks for the best motorcycles for short riders across popular styles like standards, cruisers, and off-road bikes. Everything mentioned has a low seat height of 32 inches or under for maximum comfort and confidence on two wheels.
MiniMoto & City Compacts
1. Honda Grom (MSX125)
- Seat Height: ~29.7 in (761 mm)
Built around a 125cc air-cooled engine, the Honda Grom is the motorcycle equivalent of a Swiss Army knife, compact, versatile, and surprisingly capable.
Weighing in at just around 220 lbs, it’s super light and easy to pick up if dropped, making it one of the most forgiving bikes for new or smaller riders.
With its minimalist, stunt-style look and a surprising aftermarket community, the Grom has become a cult favorite in cities and suburbs alike. Its seat is low and narrow, making it easy for riders as short as 4’10” to flat-foot both sides confidently.
Riding the Grom is pure, unfiltered joy. Twist the throttle and you’ll get a playful burst of energy, enough to fly down neighborhood streets or lane-split downtown traffic without feeling overwhelmed.
The handlebars are close and upright, the clutch is feather-light, and the low weight makes slow-speed maneuvering incredibly intuitive.
Standards and Classics
When it comes to low seat height motorcycles, standards and naked bikes really deliver. These upright riding bikes tend to feel much more approachable for short riders.
2. Suzuki SV650
- Seat Height: ~30.9 in
The Suzuki SV650 has long been a favorite for beginners and intermediate riders alike, known for its bulletproof 645cc V-twin engine and neutral, upright ergonomics.
With a curb weight under 435 pounds and a seat height just over 30 inches, the SV650 manages to strike a rare balance: sporty performance with real-world comfort.
Its narrow seat design is a game-changer for shorter riders, letting you get your feet down more easily than many bikes with similar stats.
The trellis frame keeps it stylish, while the torque-rich engine keeps things exciting—whether you’re city commuting or carving canyons.
Enjoy a full review of the bike here:
From a short rider’s perspective, the SV650 feels surprisingly approachable. Throwing a leg over doesn’t require acrobatics, and the balance point is low enough that the bike feels planted even at a stop.
The engine note is deep and satisfying, and while it’s fast enough to excite, it’s not so aggressive that you’ll feel outmatched.
In fact, many shorter riders find this bike gives them “big bike” energy without the bulk and intimidation. You feel in control at low speeds and empowered at high ones—a rare combo in this price and performance bracket.
3. Triumph Bonneville T100
- Seat Height: ~31.1 in
With its iconic 900cc parallel-twin engine and classic styling, this bike is like stepping into a vintage film, but with ABS, traction control, and modern-day refinement.
The seat height is a manageable 31.1 inches, and because the seat is flat and narrow at the front, it offers better reach to the ground than its height suggests.
The low center of gravity, smooth torque delivery, and incredibly refined suspension setup make it ideal for riders who want vintage aesthetics without the mechanical headaches.
When you ride the T100 as a shorter rider, the first thing you’ll notice is how naturally everything falls into place, bars, pegs, levers, all feel designed for a petite human.
The upright seating position offers great visibility and control, and thanks to the engine’s low-end torque, there’s no need to wring it out to get moving. At red lights or in traffic, the bike never feels too heavy or unmanageable.
Cruisers
Cruisers are often a great choice for short riders since many models have lower seats to begin with. Two top contenders stand out as real crowd-pleasers.
4. Bajaj Avenger 160 (India)
- Seat Height: ~29 in (737 mm)
The Bajaj Avenger 160 is an absolute gem for short riders in countries like India, where affordable, lightweight cruisers are in high demand.
With a super low seat height of just 29 inches and a wide, cruiser-style stance, it offers the kind of comfortable ergonomics that allow even riders under 5 feet to flat-foot easily.
Powered by a 160cc engine, it’s not meant for high-speed touring, but it excels in commuter comfort and ease of handling. Its low-slung design and upright handlebars make every ride feel like a laid-back cruise, even through chaotic city traffic.
On the road, the Avenger 160 feels like a motorcycle designed specifically for short riders. Mounting and dismounting is effortless, and you never feel off-balance, even in tight turns or traffic stops.
The low seat puts your legs in a relaxed position, while the front-set footpegs give you that traditional cruiser feel. The bike absorbs bumps well and delivers steady, linear power, making it ideal for new riders who prioritize balance and comfort over blistering speed.
5. Honda Rebel 500
- Seat Height: ~27.2 in
The Honda Rebel 500 is possibly the most recommended motorcycle for short riders in North America. With a seat height of just 27.2 inches and a low-slung chassis, it’s practically designed for riders under 5’4″. The 471cc parallel-twin engine is smooth, forgiving, and punchy enough for highway speeds.
The styling is sleek and minimalist, blending modern design with subtle cruiser aesthetics. It’s also lightweight and well-balanced, making it a great option for new riders, commuters, or weekend adventurers.
From the saddle, the Rebel 500 feels like a natural extension of your body. You can easily plant both feet on the ground, even if you’re 5’1″, which makes low-speed parking and maneuvering stress-free.
The riding position is relaxed, with mid-mounted foot controls and a slight reach to the bars that won’t strain your arms or shoulders. Short riders often describe the Rebel as “confidence on wheels,” giving them the freedom to focus on the ride.
6. Indian Scout Bobber
- Seat Height: ~25.5 in
The Indian Scout Bobber is low, mean, and beautiful. With its aggressive cruiser styling, chunky tires, and deep, thundering exhaust note, the Bobber oozes road presence.
But despite its intimidating looks, it’s surprisingly short-rider-friendly, boasting one of the lowest seat heights in the cruiser category at just 25.5 inches.
The 1133cc V-twin engine offers serious grunt, making it a joy to ride both around town and on the open highway. It’s a bit heavier than others on this list, but the low center of gravity makes it manageable even for smaller riders.
Straddling the Scout Bobber feels like sitting in the bike rather than on top of it. Your feet are planted firmly, your reach is easy, and the controls are all comfortably within range.
Even for someone under 5’5″, the bike feels well-proportioned and easy to handle, especially at speed. The torque delivery is smooth but potent, and cruising in higher gears feels effortless.
Compact Sports
For the best motorcycles for short riders in the sports bike category, downsizing can be a smart move. These pint-sized missiles pack thrills without overwhelming new riders.
7. Kawasaki Ninja 400
- Seat Height: ~31.9 in
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a lightweight sportbike that delivers performance without being overwhelming.
With a seat height of 31.9 inches, it might sound tall, but the seat is narrow enough to let shorter riders comfortably reach the ground.
The 399cc parallel-twin engine is zippy, reliable, and friendly for both new and experienced riders. Its aggressive styling gives you the “big bike” look, while the actual handling and ergonomics are tailored for approachability.
Once aboard, the Ninja 400 feels surprisingly compact. Short riders find that the narrow tank, low weight (~366 lbs), and upright riding triangle make it easy to ride, even in stop-and-go traffic. It doesn’t feel top-heavy or awkward at slow speeds, a rare quality for a sportbike.
8. KTM RC390
- Seat Height: ~31.9 in
The KTM RC 390 brings Austrian precision and racetrack DNA into a lightweight, short-rider-friendly frame. With its sharp fairings, aggressive stance, and a lively 373cc single-cylinder engine, the RC 390 is built to thrill.
Though the seat height matches the Ninja 400 at 31.9 inches, the slim tank and narrow profile make it easier for shorter legs to reach the ground. Plus, it weighs just 327 lbs, making it one of the lightest full-faired sportbikes on the market.
Short riders often rave about the RC 390’s compact cockpit, which offers a snug, confidence-inspiring fit. The bike feels nimble and flickable, perfect for carving corners or spirited city riding. The clutch is light, the controls are precise, and even at low speeds, it doesn’t feel unstable.
Adventure & Dual‑Sport
While dual-sports and adventure bikes tend to have taller stats, some options open up the dirt for shorter folks.
9. Triumph Tiger 900 GT Low
- Seat Height: Adjustable 30.3 to 31.1 in (770–790 mm)
Adventure bikes are typically too tall for short riders, but Triumph shattered that assumption with the Tiger 900 GT Low.
Designed from the ground up with a lower seat and suspension, this version of the Tiger drops the seat height down to just over 30 inches, unheard of in the ADV world.
It’s powered by an 888cc triple-cylinder engine that offers both grunt and refinement, and it’s loaded with features: cruise control, TFT display, heated grips, and top-tier Brembo brakes.
Sitting on the GT Low feels empowering, especially if you’ve always admired adventure bikes from afar but assumed they weren’t for you.
Short riders can actually flat-foot at stops, and the narrow seat design helps even more. The upright posture gives you visibility and control, and the bike’s balance makes it surprisingly nimble.
Off-road, it’s capable. On-road, it’s luxurious.
Custom Fit & Mod Options
Not seeing your dream bike? Here’s how to make nearly anything fit:
- Lowering seats or adding low shock links drops 1–3 in easily.
- Adjustable handlebars & peg placement to shape reach and stance.
- Professional tweaks, like Triumph’s factory‑lowered Tiger.
Consider swapping out the stock seat for a low-profile or “gel seat” that reduces height by 1 to 2 inches. Combine that with lowering links, which adjust the rear suspension geometry to bring the whole bike down.
Suspension tuning and preload adjustments are another subtle trick to bring the seat height down without compromising handling too much.
While lowering a bike can reduce ground clearance slightly, the payoff in confidence and flat-foot stability is often well worth it for shorter riders.
Need the controls closer to you? Install handlebar risers or pull-back risers, which draw the bars slightly upward and back, no more overreaching for grips or feeling stretched out. Meanwhile, adjustable brake and clutch levers make a world of difference for small hands.
Don’t overlook peg relocation kits, either. Moving your foot controls closer or adjusting their height can result in a much more natural riding posture, especially for riders under 5’5″.
How to Customize a Motorbike for Short Riders
Don’t despair if your dream motorcycle doesn’t come in a short rider-friendly configuration! With some basic modifications, you can tailor many bikes to improve ergonomics and control.
Here are some popular short rider motorcycle seat modifications to consider:
- Replace the Seat
- Get Lower Links and Shocks
- Consider Handlebar Risers
- Adjust Your Pegs and Controls
- Add Comfort-Focused Accessories
Replace the Seat
Replacement seats can shave 1-3″ depending on brand. It may feel trivial, but those extra inches unlock loads more rides for shorty stats. Suspension adjusting also subtly squishes space between asphalt and pegs.
Lowering links are another cheapish tactic at around $100-200 a pop. They basically shorten stock linkage for a lower stance. For bigger droops, aftermarket shock absorbers tailored for height-challenged hustlers work wonders.
Get Lower Links and Shocks
Items like lowered suspension links or progressive-rate shocks can help lower seat height a solid 1-3 inches from stock. Check for any handling impacts before ordering.
Consider Handlebar Risers
For riders who feel stretched out, raised bars relocated a few inches closer can help achieve a more upright and natural riding position.
Adjust Your Pegs and Controls
Forward-mounted footpegs better align your body posture. Adjusting brake and clutch levers an inch inward also enhances control ergonomics.
Add Comfort-Focused Accessories
Use grips with extra padding and vibration-damping seat covers. They are not just for comfort and aesthetic purposes. They directly improve ride comfort over time.
With some simple tweaks, any motorcycle can be tailored for smaller stature. Don’t hesitate to modify; it might unlock a whole new world of two-wheeled joy otherwise inaccessible.
Top Motorcycles for Short Riders Around the World
Motorcycling culture, and availability, varies drastically by region. What’s easily found in the U.S. or Europe might be rare or impractical in India or Southeast Asia.
But no matter where you ride, there are incredible options for shorter riders that suit the unique conditions, roadways, and market demands of your area.
Here are a few regional standouts that deliver approachability, comfort, and confidence for riders with a smaller stature.
United States / Canada
Cruisers rule the roads in North America, and it’s no surprise that many short riders here gravitate toward bikes like the Honda Rebel 500 or the Indian Scout Bobber.
Their ultra-low seats and upright ergonomics make them incredibly beginner-friendly, while still delivering enough torque to handle long-distance cruising or highway speeds.
For sportier tastes, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a favorite, offering serious performance without towering seat heights.
United Kingdom / Europe
European riders often favor standards and retro-styled machines like the Triumph Bonneville T100 or Moto Guzzi V7 Stone. These bikes aren’t just stunning to look at, they also tend to have lower seat heights and accessible riding triangles.
In cities like London or Paris, where filtering and tight parking are daily tasks, shorter, narrower bikes such as the Honda CB500 series or Yamaha MT-07 shine, providing control in congested environments.
India
In India, smaller-displacement bikes dominate, and that’s great news for short riders. Bikes like the Bajaj Avenger 160 and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V are local favorites due to their manageable seat heights and lightweight builds.
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350, while a bit heavier, also gets love for its relaxed ergonomics and accessible design. Most of these models are also budget-friendly, and widely supported with spares and service centers.
Philippines / Southeast Asia
In regions with tighter urban layouts and more frequent rain, lighter bikes with maneuverability are king.
The Honda Click or Yamaha Mio scooters dominate here, but short riders seeking motorcycles often go for bikes like the Yamaha XSR155, Suzuki Raider R150, or Honda CBR150R.
They offer sharp styling, low maintenance, and ergonomics that work beautifully for riders in the 5’0″–5’4″ range.
Japan
In Japan, compact bikes like the Kawasaki Z125 Pro, Honda Monkey 125, and Yamaha SR400 are popular for their size and efficiency in city environments.
Smaller roads and parking spaces mean that bikes with a low seat height and tight turning radius are often preferred, perfect for short riders who want practicality without sacrificing character. Japanese riders also benefit from a wide aftermarket for custom seats and lowering kits.
The Final Words
No matter your height, there’s a perfect motorcycle out there waiting to be explored. With a variety of motorcycle options boasting low seat heights and user-friendly ergonomics, shorter riders can experience the thrill and freedom of the open road just like anyone else.
This guide is just a starting point. Research different models, visit dealerships to sit on bikes, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The most important factor is finding a motorcycle that feels comfortable and allows you to confidently take control.
FAQs about Best Motorcycles for Short Legs
How do I measure if a motorcycle is right for my height?
Measure your inseam by standing barefoot and measuring from the crotch to the floor. Compare this to a bike’s seat height; ideally, you should flat-foot or at least be able to touch the ground with the balls of both feet to ensure comfort and stability.
What modifications help motorcycles fit shorter riders better?
You can fit most bikes by adding lower-profile seats, lowering links, handlebar risers, and adjustable footpegs. These tweaks improve reach and reduce seat height by 1–3 inches, boosting confidence at stops and making your ride feel custom-tailored.
Which bike is best for 4.9′ height?
We would suggest Bajaj Avenger bikes for your mentioned height (4.9 feet) as they have low seat height and wider tires for better balancing. You can also consider the Mahindra Gusto scooter as it has seat height adjustable features, which can be adjusted from 735 mm to 770 mm.
What is the best motorcycle for a 5’2 rider?
There isn’t a single “best” bike, but many great options! Look for motorcycles with seat heights under 32 inches, like the Honda Rebel 500 or the Kawasaki Ninja 400. Consider factors like riding style and experience too.
