Choosing the Right Motorcycle Seat Height for Your Height

Introduction:

Are you 173 cm tall and considering purchasing a motorcycle but unsure about whether a seat height of 825 mm is suitable for you? This article delves into the details of measuring your inseam, the importance of comfort, and practical advice on selecting a bike that fits you well.

Understanding Inseam Measurement

To accurately measure your inseam, follow these steps:

Place a book squarely against the wall and up to your crotch to mark the wall. Measure the distance from the mark on the wall to the floor. Multiply this measurement by 0.883 to determine the inseam length.

This measurement will give you the distance from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat. A seat height of 825 mm would be close to 720 mm in inseam terms for those with a height of 173 cm.

Personal Experience and General Guidelines

Someone who is 6 feet (approximately 183 cm) tall rode a bike with a seat height of 825 mm and found it high compared to other bikes. However, the individual recommends riding the bike and making a decision based on personal experience. Adventure bikes generally have high seat heights.

City and Off-Road Riding Considerations

If you are planning to ride the bike in the city and on off-road trails, it might be better to opt for bikes with a lower seat height. The rider's height is less of a factor for off-road riding, but for city riding, comfort and ease of handling are more important.

Modifications for Non-Comfortable Seat Heights

For those who find a high seat height challenging, there are modifications available that can lower the seat height. It is advisable to consult with your dealership to explore such options and find a practical solution to your problem.

Examples of Adjustable Seats

For instance, a modification on a 310R can provide a lower seat height, and this should be applicable to the GS model as well. Taking a test ride is highly recommended; if you feel comfortable and excited, the decision will be simpler.

Motorcycling as a Skill

Motorcycling is a skill that evolves as you ride more often. Most riders who own larger motorcycles (around 1250 cc) cannot place both feet on the ground. There are numerous videos online demonstrating techniques to handle motorcycles with higher seat heights.

In the world of MotoGP and motocross, many riders, including some of the shortest in the sport, excel with seat heights close to 900 mm. So, don't be deterred by the height; if you can comfortably balance or place one foot on the ground, you're in good shape.

Personal Stories and Recommendations

A friend of the author is shorter than the given example (5'6" to 5'7") and was initially skeptical about buying the KTM ADV250 but now rides it effortlessly. The new G310GS is also recommended for its good performance as a touring bike.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the choice of a motorcycle should be based on personal comfort and practical considerations. Carefully measure your inseam and consider how comfortable the seat height will be. Don't let the height of the bike discourage you—many skilled riders overcome these challenges and enjoy their rides immensely.