Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Women: Part Two

In our previous article, “Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Women: Part One”, we talked about the misconceived notion that there are motorcycles specifically made for women.

To say that, women only ride “these bikes” is ludicrous. The reality of it, women just like men, need to take in a myriad of considerations when choosing the right motorcycle. Things such as, seat height, weight and experience are just a few.

In Part Two, we are going to talk about a few motorcycles women should consider based on general guidelines. I stress general, as each situation is unique.

The recommendations below are based on average inseam and height, along with riding experience. Keep in mind if you are taller, than the world is your oyster. Pick what fits your experience and desires. 

Harley Davidson Sportster 883 SuperLow – 5’3 or below, new riders.

With a seat height of just, 25.5 in., it is easier for shorter women to achieve the goal of both feet on the ground.

The approachable 883cc motor gives just enough output to have you smiling, but not so much to have you scared to continue your development as a rider.

The weight is a little on the bulky side considering its narrow frame and low seat height, but a dry weight of 545 lbs. is not overly unmanageable.

With proper riding classes, you feel confident in no-time.

Harley Davidson Street series – New Riders on the smaller side

Seat height is comparable to the SuperLow at 25.7, but it is nearly 50 lbs. lighter making it easier to maneuver.

This would perfect for those living in a city as it is easier to whip around town.

It is also great for college students looking to stay in budget. The 500cc starts at $6,899 and the 750cc at $7,599.

Triumph Bonneville – 5’4 and up.
 

With a seat height of 29 in., getting both feet down flat could be problem some for smaller riders, but if you can, you will not regret it.

It is shockingly light at 437 lbs. dry and has a 900cc motor that gives you something approachable. However, if you are an experience rider, its lightweight and relatively high torque, makes it enjoyable for all levels of riders.

The riding position is neutral and comfortable giving you confidence with every turn.

Indian Scout Sixty – experienced riders of all heights. 

The Scout sixty has an impressively low seat height at 25.3 in., but the 999cc motor might be too much to handle for inexperienced riders.

It has a low and mean attitude that we have come to expect from this historic brand. It has plenty of weight (524 lbs. dry) if you want to hit the open road.

Throw on some bags and windshield for a capable touring cruiser. 

Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe/ Indian Chief – Experienced riders 5’4 and up looking to upgrade. 

Both come in around 26 in. in seat height, therefore smaller riders might have an issue with fit, but if you can fit, these are great cruisers.

They are both heavy; H-D 698 lbs. and Chief 745 lbs., make sure you can lift it off the kickstand at the showroom.

Of course, with supervision from staff because if you drop it, well then you probably just bought it. These are not for beginner riders, they are almost double the output compared to those above.

Harley Davidson Street Glide – Experienced riders 5’4 and up looking to tour. 

Motor and seat height are about the same as the Softail Deluxe, but comes in significantly heavier at 796 lbs. dry.

If you can handle the weight, there is a reason this motorcycle is one of the best-selling bikes.

It comes with all the bells and whistles like GPS and stereo. If your goal is to hit the open road for long periods of time, then this is what you want. 

Honda CBR 500 – 5’6 and up 

Seat height is about 30 in. which puts it out of reach for most smaller riders. But if you are looking for a sportbike that this would be an excellent choice.

Though they have a CBR 300, the 500 is better all around small sportbike.

Honda is known for their reliability, so ride with ease.

If you are smaller, than 5’6 and want a sportbike, this is still a great option. However, make sure you to take classes where they can teach you how to use just one leg down. It will take some practice starting and stopping this way, but it is achievable.

BMW G 310 S – New Adventure riders

Seat height is 32 in. which seems a lot, but adventure motorcycles need to have more room for wheel travel so not to bottom out. But what makes this a great for new riders is its 374 lbs. dry weight.

Any adventure rider will tell you, you are going to fall and having to pick up a heavy bike is going to suck.

When you consider the weight doesn’t include your gear, you can see why this is important. 

Worth Mentioning:

These motorcycles listed, are just some of the motorcycles that can fit your situation. Let’s face it, you are not going to want a Harley or Indian if you want something sportier like the CBR.

Furthermore, you might want the original sportbike feel like a café race, which mean Triumph and Honda CB might be your best option.

Let’s not even get into brand loyalty and image, because that would take a while.

Take these guidelines and search for type of bike you like, that are like those above. Then take it a step further, and swing by your local RideNow dealer and go for a test ride. Because a test ride, is the only way to find if the bike fits.