If you frequent motorcycle sites, you might come across advice for short riders from time to time. Being a short rider encompasses a range of characteristics that may or may not be related to a rider’s height. For example, a 5’3″ rider with a 31-inch inseam will have a different experience compared to a 5’3″ rider with a 27-inch inseam (which happens to be me). The four-inch difference in leg length makes a significant impact when figuring out how to handle a bike for short riders. Other factors like arm length, hand size, and torso length also play a role.

These characteristics, although not talked about as frequently, can greatly affect how a bike fits a short rider. While longer legs make it easier to reach the ground, a longer torso may help with reaching the handlebars. Each of us has our own strengths and challenges to consider in the riding experience.

In a video from Bennetts BikeSocial, tall motorcycle journalist Michael Mann interviews Adam Child, a 5’6-and-¼” moto journalist, and Leonie, an experienced short rider standing at 5’3.5″. Michael, being over six feet tall, allows the two shorter riders to guide the conversation since he doesn’t face the same challenges.

Adam and Leonie provide incredibly useful advice for short riders. Seat height is one factor, but it’s not the only one. Seat width, suspension sag and preload adjustment, low center of gravity, luggage options, and control accessibility are all important considerations for short riders. They also discuss the mental calculations required for short riders, such as assessing the ground conditions when coming to a stop and evaluating road camber and foot placement. These calculations can vary depending on inseam length.

One conclusion reached in the video is that it’s now easier to find bikes that fit a wider variety of rider heights in 2023. However, there is still room for improvement. OEMs offering a range of seat height options is great, but it would be even better if short riders could try out bikes with low saddles in showrooms. Demo rides with low seat height bikes are crucial in convincing short riders that they belong on a bike and can have as much fun as their taller counterparts.

Another important point raised is the role of a rider’s confidence. By making low seat options readily available rather than special orders, more riders will be able to envision themselves on a particular bike. This is especially important for riders who learn through experience.