Men are getting bigger people are catching up to us who are 6'2 plus. I also collect expensive watches because I dig mechanical craftsmanship and I have every one of them 48mm-50mm. I am 6'4 built like you (a semi shaved Yeti as my friends say) and what I have done is go with big wheel bikes because a good custom builder will have the front end welded up properly and use the right triple tree for that rake. I have a 30 inch front wheel Road Glide with a Harley 120R motor and a fat tire 2021 which is the same diameter as a 23 inch wheel/tire. My builder put the 124 kit from S&S with a beefy cam. So the front end is kicked out a bit the frame has been stretched a bit and the longer custom bags make the bike even longer. I think your Heritage is ~96 inches axle to axle where my bikes are about 110 axle to axle then longer bags. It is costly my 2021 RG cost a bit over 60K all in and I am not even going to say what the 30 inch big wheel cost. Keeping in mind it has a ton of custom work done on it and it is a Harley that is built the way Harley should build bikes with air suspension front and back with center frame pedestals (no more kickstands) Check out F bomb baggers he makes amazing bikes with an attention to detail that puts stock HDs to shame. You can reduce the cost a bit like I did by not getting a 10K stereo put in it. I don't listen to music when I ride defeats the purpose of the serenity I get that keeps me from eating humans.
Hilarious! I love all your talk about the power and custom modifications of you bike that have absolutely nothing to do with what the video discusses. You must be sooooo rich with a big dong! /s
The funny thing about it now is that women are actually starting to get bigger than men. I routinely see women that are taller or at least the same height and they weigh more as well than men.@@alehlete830
At 6'3" myself, I'm a big proponent of flat seats (not scooped) that allow the rider to slide back and adjust their leg angle to their liking. A simple, cost effective change that manufacturers under utilize.
There are add-ons available from other manufacturers I put extended forward controls on my softail from aftermarket company probably better quality then Harleys made in China garbage
I’m 6’2”, I don’t consider myself tall but I thought I was being picky when all these bikes felt small. Now I know people my height do in fact feel cramped in the cockpit. Thanks for the video.
Couldn’t have said it better. I’m 184cm currently bought a 125cc retro style cruiser and it is the only bike that suits me because of my height. It’s not just how comfortable you are on a motorcycle but also to make sure you’re not looking like a kid on a bike or look too ridiculous
I'm 6'4", I also, have a Heritage Softail that I have been riding for the last 8 years. It's really way to short for me and uncomfortable to me when I go on ling trips. Last Spring I bought a Ultra Classic. That bike really fits me very well and a LOT more comfortable when going on long trips. I can ride a lot longer and it's hard on me. I think the wheel base on the Ultra Classic is longer than the Heritage. Go to your nearest Harley Dealer and take a Ultra Classic or a Road Glide for a test drive. I do believe you will be a lot more comfortable on the touring models than the Cruiser like the Heritage. Thanks for Sharing this Video with us.
Good video - it's rare to actually find videos for taller riders, pretty much all the search results are for shorter folk trying to fit on taller bikes. Even if those cruisers aren't the kind of bikes I personally ride, I still like giving the wave to fellow tall bikers out there 👋 At 6'4.5" / 36" inseam (194cm), I'm not even all *that* tall (I think that's about the minimum over at r/Tall), but I've still given up on fitting on certain kinds of bikes (sports, sports/touring, most cruisers, even some full-sized touring bikes are cramped). For me, I've settled in to tall ADV bikes and larger vintage Standards. I haven't completely given up on full-size cruiser-style tourers, but I've always felt that the more reclined position wasn't quite right for me. Still, I'm open minded... *all* bikes are cool, and if I were to find one that really fit me, I certainly wouldn't mind seeing a Harley or similar in my garage some day. Ride safe!
6'4" here, beginner; I wanted a big bike with a small engine and the best I could find was the DL650. Added bar risers, lowering foot pegs kit, taller seat, taller windscreen... Great choice, never regretted it, hope to keep this bike for many years to come!
You are so spot on pointing out that it's the wheelbase that matters most for tall riders. I'm 6'4" and feel very comfortable riding my Honda VTX1800, which has a wheelbase of 67.5 inches.
i'm 6'2" and believe me the struggle is real, i've had quite a few bikes in my time but just purchased a 2004 Yamaha XV1700 Road Star, fantastic bike and it's just about the first bike i've had were i can really stretch out, loads of room.
I’m 6’8” and have successfully stretched 3 HD (Road Kings & Glide CVO) 7 inches forward of the front motor mounts. Obviously this has a dramatic domino effect (ie. stretched tank, cables etc). But they all fit me perfectly after doing so with only minimal handling consequences. Yes it is expensive but we’ll worth it if your tall and want to ride in comfort.
I am a new rider at 6' 4" (194 cm). What I discovered is that the bikes that fit me (any manufacturer) are usually their most expensive options. For example, most Harley Softail bikes fit me, but they are so expensive, whereas, I make their Sportsters look like toys. I ended up getting a Kawasaki Versys X-300 as my first bike, because it is one of the few examples that fit me and is not one of the manufacturer's more expensive bikes. Also, if we look at the length only, I fit great on a Indian Scout 60, but the bike is kind of squished vertically so I just looked weird on it. If it was slightly bigger vertically, it would be perfect.
I've owned every brand out there over the years and have NEVER had a comfortable cruiser. The foot forward riding position puts too much weight on my back and being closer to the ground plays havoc on my now aging hips, especially pushing it backwards. I've found that "Standard" models as opposed to cruisers or sport bikes fit me best although I've yet to try an "adventure" or "dual sport" bike. Standards put the foot pegs and pedals in a more of a mid position which keeps me upright while riding.
Absolutely true! As I commented under other video, I do not get why after hundred years of motorcycle history motorbike companies do not offer various frame sizes like it is absolutely normal in bicycle world. It is unimaginable for road or MTB bicycle customer not being able to choose the frame size that will fit to him/her. I wonder what must be done for ALL motorcycle manufacturers to realize this and to implement it! So logical... If I would have enough funds, I would immediately start new manufacturing company as this is clear hole on the market! Great video, absolutely logical thinking, I sign every word you said, keep going!
I’m so happy you came out with this video. I’m 6’5” and have been looking for a bike but most of my buddies are average size and don’t know much about bikes for us big guys 👌
Im 192cm and im waiting for a Harley 48. I didnt test rode it becausec i dont have a licence yet but i still bought it. We will see if its okay for me. But i must say. When i saw your review about the 48 i was more calm that i bought it. Like you said is like something you can throw it around. And you didnt look too bad on it hehehe. Thanks man. Have a good day.
I'm 6'3" and my 2004 Honda VTX 1300C is very comfortable. Every Harley bagger I've ever sat on felt cramped. Handlebar shape has always been a big issue for me on comfort in the saddle. Straight bars let me stretch my arms out comfortably while bars that are bent back toward the rider make the whole bike feel small to me.
Thanks for making grown up reviews for tall riders :) it is the reason I follow your channel. Other reviews are useless - when the tester is an unknown size and says “its so comfy”...
I’m 6f3 also and have your problem. It seems cruisers are the only solution. The Kawasaki Vulcan S even gives the option of ergo-fit, so you can change the seat, position of the footages and steering handle and it will be alright. But then again the cruisers are not my cup of tea. So what to do! Probably I’ll have to accept riding the bike I want isn’t exactly for my size so I’ll get cramped on a longer tour. Your suggestion that manufacturers should offer a longer wheelbase, higher frame or just more ways to adept is of course not economical feasible, alas. I’ll stay cramped I guess. Cheers for your nice video’s.
All manufacturers need to look at the Vulcan 650 template. The ergo fit offers 3 sizes on seat, bars and the foot controls as standard. Then we would be able to pick the bike on style, and not based on size.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Sorry I can't answer that now. But, when I considered one a few years back, they had kits for the pedals and different seat designed for taller riders. I'm 6'2"
clanmac66 ok yes some manufacturers do that, but it’s still the same size bike for all and what I’m on a mission to make happen is an extended bike for taller riders 👍🏼
I’m 5’-19”, had a 1999 Yamaha RoadStar. I was too tall for the bike, so I had some forward control extensions that I fabricated for the floorboards. It added 4-1/2” in length, but created a problem where it hear the rear of the front fender when you turned the wheel and hit a dip. So I moved them back to 4”. Eventually sold that bike and got a 9’-6” chopper and purchased 8” forward control extensions. Those worked out nicely.
First of nice beard, it looks badass, and second I'm 6'4" and for those who like naked sportbikes I recommend you try the Yamaha MT-09 it fits me quite well which suprised me
Well sir I've gone and done it! Just found you on youtube where I've been consuming videos about bikes regarding reviews, techniques, skills etc but never searched for tall riders! I've got your beard color maybe longer (minus the hair), 6' 7", 250 lbs and at 71 years old just starting all this up after some lifestyle changes. In reading many of the comments here I'm fascinated to see people taller than me wanting and trying to ride. I'm afraid I've already started down the road last fall with first, a 2022 300 GTS Vespa, 2022 BMW C400GT and a used BMW G310GS. The scooters are easy to bump around in town but the lightweight low end BMW 310 was acquired to learn shifting and such. Made a few changes plus getting a seat customized that really helps but does not make the world perfect either. I've already put money down on the BMW R1250GSA 40th year anniversary edition as so many reviews sold me. I may have moved too quickly now that I see your point of wheelbase being key. Being in the suburbs of Chicago Illinois I can visit many dealerships and it's not out of the question to make changes even though these recent acquisitions are new. Thanks for this insight you've provided. I'm rethinking this pursuit. It's great to see so many others with height commenting with their solutions and experience! Seems right that the industry should be working on some flexibility. I remember one time back in the late 70's or 80's I sat in every new automotive Honda model and put the seat all the way back to my surprise NONE of their cars world fit my frame. Went back to Ford and every single model in that day had much more adjustment back than others.
We’re glad the video helped. It’s not easy above 6’3” and the ultimate solution is really a customise bike. Indian motorcycles are larger framed than most, we discovered after making the video 👍🏼
6”7 skinny guy here. Finding it difficult to research bikes that would fit my build (if any). Your video is a big help however, great insight on a longer swing arm. Makes sense and is another good dimension to consider as well as the dreaded seat height. If there any other giants out there seeing this and you’ve got recommendations, I’d like to hear them without a shadow of a doubt. Thanks🤙
Very good idea to talk about it. I live in a country where most dealers can order me a specific model, but do not have one in the showroom for testing. At 6'2" I often find models I like on the screen to be cramped in real life. I wish more reviewers were making videos like that.
I'm 6'-1 and I immediately felt very comfortable on the Yamaha Stryker. It's pretty long as well (99.6 inches) and the controls are forward. I saw your video on the new BMW R18, and while I love the looks, It doesn't look comfortable due to the heads limiting the forward position of the controls. I like the Yamaha Raider and the Honda VTX and I have also ridden a Honda Shadow with a forward control kit that's pretty comfortable.
In regards to this, I think Kawasaki are onto something with the Vulcan S and the ergofit system that they use, that allows different parts (handlebars pegs etc) from factory. Or a system like the Can Am uses on the Ryker trike that again allows adjustments. It doesn’t necessarily need to be the swing arms that are adjusted, if they make the bikes big enough to begin with, with multiple bar, seat and peg options available from factory, then it can fit multiple sizes of people quite easily.
I bought the Kawasaki vulcan s for my first bike. I am 6.2 with a 43" inseam. They have an ergo fit system which changes the position of the footpegs a couple of inches, the seat and the handlebar if need be, which is the ideal solution. I fit on it really well. More manufacturers should do this, as it doesn't really change the aesthetics of the bike, but adds more ergonomical options straight out of the box.
I ditched BMW GS's after having them for years because they were getting progressively taller and I am getting progressively older! Also, my knees don't take kindly to being cramped up these days so the seat/ footpeg ratio is important to me. I bought an HD cruiser (as you know!) because you can stretch out your legs and be more comfortable. Engine bars and highway pegs help even more. In fairness to HD, they sell so many different mods to make your bike fit you, you are almost spoiled for choice (eg tallboy seats or 'reach' seats, forward controls, bar risers etc. etc. etc. The trouble is, it's expensive to experiment. I wonder whether they could do the same scheme here in the UK that they do in the US where you can try demo seats from the dealerships that they let you borrow for a few days for a refundable deposit. I found with my Heritage that I was gradually sliding backwards on the stock seat (either from the huge torque or posture or a combination of both) I bought a Harley Sundowner seat after reading a few reviews and some youtube vids....much more seat support ...problem solved. An interesting topic and one the manufacturers should take note of.....in the west the average biker is ageing and getting bigger. Keep up the good work!
If one doesn't like cruisers, there's always the tall adventure bikes. The KTM 890/1090/1190/1290 R models all have tall seats as do the 2016-2019 Africa Twins and the Harley Pan-American standard edition. I have a bad knee at 185cm and I ride a KTM 990 SMT with a seat height of 855mm. For beginners or people wanting smaller engines, the Supermoto bikes are a good place to look.
Great content! At6'1" (not terribly tall) I've always hated feeling cramped on a bike. Sold a Guzzi EV California because of it. Loved the bike; hated the cramped cockpit.
maybe because I look better than him? ;^) great subject at 6'-5" I've had the same troubles with everything short ladies excluded there's ALWAYS a way to fit the parts nicely
It's a fair point, I'm 5'11" so am quite lucky, only once have I had this problem, I tried an Africa Twin Adventure, liked it a lot but it was just too damn big and unwieldy. I think you just have to accept certain bikes 'fit' taller people much better and choose one that looks and feels right. Big blokes on tiny bikes do look a bit silly.
There's definitely bikes out there for taller riders. Triumph Scrambler XE, Tiger 900RP or the KTM 790 Adventure for the dual sport chaps. Indian baggers have much more leg room if you're looking to stay with the cruiser market but if you're looking for a naked I'd suggest the Yamaha XSR900 or the XR1200 from HD. Plenty to chose from but we're the minority (taller chaps/lasses) when manufacturer consider who to build a bike around.
You're so right Ol"Man. I'am 6ft 2 and it's hard to find a bike that fits me. I brought my 2012 Harley Fatbob FXDF (the one with the 2 headlights) a few years back because i wanted a bike i could be comfortable on for long distances. It has all the requirements you mentioned for a taller riders comfort. The seat height is low (irrelevant, as you mentioned) but has a long wheelbase and forward controls. I have been all over Australia on this bike and can comfortably cover distances of 500 miles or more in a day without any trouble.👍👍
I'm 6ft5 ,i had bmw k1200rs,fits very good and it has factory adjustment . Right now riding a suzuki gsx1250fa 2013 and again,it fits very good,very good ,quite upright position,loads of leg space. Thank you very much for video,beforw buying a bike,videos like yours are enormously helpful.
I’m 6ft3, had a 2013 wide glide with lepera daddy long legs seat, kuryakn 4 in extended foot pegs and taller bars. Fit great and would recommend to any tall riders
there’s a mountain bike company called specialized , they make their bikes with all the same stand over height , just taller seat posts , but the frames get longer in each size not taller , so one person can fit multiple sizes & just go with the most comfortable reach . no other mtb company does that , its what’s needed in motorbikes 👍
6’6” 280lbs all my bikes (dirt and street) I put the taller seat on to decrease the angle of my knees. With a lower seat it forces your knees above your waist decreasing blood flow and increasing sore knees. Keep the rubber side down! Good video.
I'm about the same size as you and all my mates are over 6 foot also. Motorcycle manufacturers either don't care, or don't seem to be aware that people are much taller than they were in the 1950s.
Good points here. I’d argue bikes have got less adjustable, about ten years ago many of the Honda’s had an adjustable seat that could go up and down, very few do this now, which could be to save money and weight as well as save space. It’s a shame. I’ve got the problem of being too short, so the adventure bike world is pretty much off limits for me.
In the comments you can find that people who are finding some bikes that fits them even though they are tall. Some people have taller upper body while others have taller lower body and that is why some taller people can find a bike that fits them. Push bikes come with different frames, I don't understand why motorbikes don't!
My only solution and most affordable one was to buy taller seat, and move pegs a bit forward. Sometimes, I would attach trunk bag in the back, because it makes the bike look longer.
Mate you nailed it.. I'm 6.5 and have a wr450 and have spent big bucks on for it suiting me. Bar raises footpeg drops etc also have Vstar and I'm massivesitting on this thing. Lol. But as you said the should make a bike and then a XL version. Same motor just bigger. Good video mate! Hopefully they'll fix it mate! Sick of it . Cheers!
Excellent vid good relevant issues, im only 6 ft but have long legs so big bikes have been my only option, im picking up a benelli trk 502x next month which fits me like a glove, i know its a 500 but when i have litre bikes i never use all the power so will see how it works out👍
Bang on couldn't agree more. I'm 6'1" and being a born again biker the thing that stands out for me on modern machines is exactly as you say the ratio between the saddle ,pegs and bars seems to be crunched together . The bikes are huge compared to old ton uppers but the seating feels all crunched in the middle. Imho the stepped seating on everything but foot forward as on your HD for taller riders forces us to be bundled into the middle . Believe it or not although I looked like a elephant on a pimple I tried a little PCX125 scooter fitted with a far Eastern custom flat line seat no step. And just buy being able to slide my bum back 6 inches as you could on the old bikes saddles suddenly the running boards and bars fell into the correct place a pair of risers on the bars and it may have looked odd size wise but it would have been a comfortable ride even for me. If you don't take pillion passengers If the makers gave the option of a long line saddle with an adjustable tail rest instead of the "you Will sit here" standard ones. It would at least give taller riders a fighting chance to get the fit ratio correct
Same as me. want to join to the motorcycle world and searching for my first bike :) Im 6'4 and I really badly want Fat Boy 114 or Breakout 117. But my legs is to long for those bikes and handlebars are to low for my knees. But I figure out that if I will move foot controls as far as posible forward and change to taller handlebar it can work for me, at least I really hope it will work :)
I'm 6'-2" tall, I know I could use 2" more leg stretch on my VT1100C Honda Shadow Spirit. And, that is a larger sized "Mid Size" cruiser with a decent wheel base at about 62" (axle to axle). Increased forward control kit and / or more scoot back in the seat perhaps.
I’m 6’5” - GS adventure is short wheel base - seat at max height and lower pegs fits perfectly. I think the R18 with a modified bobber seat- slightly taller and slightly further back will be perfect. Thanks for your videos!
I hear your pain, I'm 6ft2 and there are so many bikes that I would love to own and ride but I just don't fit them. I went into the local Ducati dealer a few weeks back to look at a scrambler desert sled as a hop-on day to day bike but It felt like a toy! Anyway glad to have found the channel it's fantastic! I'm off to get another beer and binge-watch your previous videos.
Totally agree about making longer wheelbase,I’m 6’2” and my 1250 bandit has a longish wheelbase with the seat in highest position is fine. But watching the promotional videos for the new triumph trident that looks a short wheelbase and the rider looks ridiculous.
Thank you for this video! I am 6"2 280lbs and I have a 03 Heritage Softail Classic....It feels great to ride but I always hear oh your a big guy you need a Road King or a Road Glide but they dont look any longer of a bike actually to me they look a bit shorter of a wheel base not by much but a little bit....so I looked up the specs....the Softail wheel base 64.5 the Road King 64....what does everybody think?
I am a tall rider and my first bike was a Sportster Xl1200L. I didn't realised it was small until I bought myself a Tenere 700, and know I just feel very uncomfortable on it. The T7 just feels amazing, drivers can see me in traffic and I feel safer somehow. I guess no ordinary cruiser can give me that feeling. Now I am looking for a Yamaha Raider.
A Tallboy seat and forward controls will net a couple inches easy, and like you mentioned in the video risers and bars. Im 6'7" and us tall guys are limited market, not worth investing in..
Daughters first bicycle!!! Superb...Sorry couldn't resist even though this is irrelevant to me being a shade below average height. Addressing topics few do.
I'm 6'4" with a 36" inseam and am quite comfortable on my 1980 Yamaha XS1100. It beats the heck out of banging your shins on the engine guard of a Goldwing any day!
im 6'4" and over the motorcycles I owned the only one on which I was comfortable for long rides was a Honda Shadow ACE, which is exactly what you describe: a long wheelbase bike with a forward pegs.
@@rogacz5966 Sometimes. I just had to get off and walk around every couple of hours... which I wanted to do anyway. I upgraded to a Mustang seat and softened my shocks and that helped a little but there was no cure....
@@michaelwhitt4068 i want to start my motorcycle adventure (Had a dirtbike when little) with something big enough for me. Was thinking Honda Shadow 125
This issue really hacks me off. Not so much at the cheap end of bikes, a one size fits all for them is perhaps ok. But when manufacturers are asking £18k+ for a machine and there is practically no adjustment it definitely isn't ok. They will spend millions shaving off a few grams from the weight yet if there is seat height adjustment, it is only a few mm. I can diet and lose a bit of weight myself, there is nothing I can do about my height. If I go out and buy the cheapest car, it will have a driver's seat adjustable forwards/backwards, seat rake will be adjustable, probably the steering wheel and perhaps the seat height too. It can't be that hard on a bike.
I also struggle in cars, many amazing cars they are made for smaller people. I currently drive a Golf Plus just because it has lots of headroom. Taller people get punished for being tall (airplanes, cars, bus... Motorbikes)
Various SEAT sizes greatly assist with taller riders (look at Indian for example). BMW offer multiple seat sizes; this solution should be offered across the board.
I'm 1.71 mtr or 5.7 i believe. Think HD tourers are too big for me. Softails and dyna's are fine. Else it just looks weird imo. But then sometimes i see a bloke on a streetglide and it looks like it's smaller than a 883. The only times i don't envy a taller bloke.
This theory might work for bikes with forward controlls, but for more conventional bikes you wont be able to use the same logic. What matters is the position of the seat, pegs and gandlebar in relation to each other and unfortunately you can't easily read that on a spec sheet. Sometimes a higher seat is the answer, because these bikes usually have a bigger distance between seat and pegs. If you like curisers, sure, go for something low with forward controlls. But if you are not into these bikes, Something like a big ADV bike would be a good solution, a BMW GS for example. Some crossover touring bikes like a S1000XR for example also easily fit bigger people like us.
Im 6'2'' and 140kg; similar build to you but slightly fatter. I'm currently on a Honda vision 110 (lol cbt, going for my A soon) but I was around the showroom the other day and I couldn't believe the amount of bikes that had controls I could JUST fit in but wasn't comfy, even tall ADVs and some big cruisers. It's the same with gear as well, apparently only 5'9'' 78kg men can ride bikes in style and comfort. Thanks for making a video on this.
6'4" here, had a 2015 Heritage with apes and the seat pushed back, still felt cramped and didn't look right on it, knees above the gas tank......Traded in for a Road Glide and put on 14" bars lowered and pushed back the seat and got the long floorboards. Unfortunately, a stock bike does fit over say 6'3", you will have to put money into it or get lucky finding a used bike already setup.
I'm 6'5" and I weigh at 320lbs. I ride a 2002 HD softail standard fxst. My issues are leg cramping and after an hour or so riding my backside goes numb.this is due to the limited leg position. This is very dangerous in the fact once i loose feeling it becomes super hard to lift my feet off the pegs. Solution: they make a 3" extension for foot pegs and the forward controls. Also there is a company that makes a switch blade style foot peg that swings forward, instead of the traditional style that swings back for a heal rest. This peg gives you an additional 3" foward. As a larger than normal size person I find most of my life I'm forced to conform to things made for much smaller people. You might think this is no big deal,but it is a huge deal to those who do the conforming. The list is long. From clothing and shoes to the cars we are forced to drive. At 6'5" and 320 pounds I can forget about driving a sports car, or forget about a commercial flight. People my size generally are required to purchase 2 seats. I love being a big man but life for people like me can be tough and limited, trying to fit into the much smaller package of the average man, which is who our world is built for. MAKE IT BIGGER. Because size matters.
I’m 6’6” and like bikes like the 1972 Triumph I once had and the 1980 BMW R100T that I currently have. They both have long flat bench seats that I can slide my butt back on. Much better than the modern contour seats that have you locked into one position no matter how tall or short you are.
Consider TriumphRocket3, install longer shocks to raise seat, highway pegs, handle bar pull backs. 6 10 here. Sometimes you just need the largest bike, instead of trying to make a one size fit all bike fit you. And if you think 140 hp ain’t fun then ride your HD.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan For some unknown reason my Account has six different riders attempting to fix HD for tall guys. If the issue was tall guys riding motorcycles isn’t your evaluation of the Rocket exactly what you and these other tall riders attempting to fix for the HD? The biggest difference in approach is my modifications result in a classic Police style riding position; higher seat, straight back, relaxed arms ability to tuck in or stretch out. Adding forward controls, ape hangers, highway pegs and keeping the seat height low, a classic chopper rider style isn’t my style. Isn’t the best option for HD to offer a tall rider option? Stretch the frame, increase the seat height, move the seat back, etc...ride what you like, modify it to fit.
Don't you find the low seat height a problem when you put your feet down? I am tenuously interested, emphasis on tenuously, in a cruiser for the first time: just the Kawasaki Vulcan S. I have come to realise that feet-forward is not uncomfortable as my ''car'', a Can-Am F3-S has a foot-forward stance which doesn't shift any weight on to the base of my spine as I'd feared. I am concerned, though, that the Vulcan's low seat height may make paddling the bike around a chore as my legs will be too long. I am just short of 6'1'', but my inseam is only 32''. Interesting video. You are fast becoming one of my favourite channels.
Thanks buddy! No the seat height is fine. No issues whatsoever. Forward controls are very comfortable and with footboards you can get your toes on the edge and almost be in a normal leg position
I've found KTM being the best for me at 6'4". For my SDGT I've had to buy the adjustable pegs and also push out the bars as far as they will go. The RC8 is also a very adjustable sports bike for tall people. I also have a 690 SMCR, I look silly on it but its still fun. Sometimes one just has to compromise
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Yes. As a teenager I always planned to buy a Lotus Elise and eagerly went to the Motorshow when I got my first job to sit in one. The Lotus rep was a hopeful chap and did eventually get me into one, but there was no way I could have operated the controls. A car made for midgets!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan ha! Same. There was a very rare SV version that was built a little larger. Mr Wheeler insisted TVRs were built to accommodate people as tall as him, but their handling can't be compared.
Thanks for making sense you’re the perfect video I was looking for I’m 6 foot five and I’m looking into getting a bike and I’ve been scratching my head trying to think what fits me👍
@@JollyGreenGiant072 the 2014 Harley Davidson breakout 1800cc excellent choice but if it’s too expensive the 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 900cc it’s another great choice and affordable both with gorilla handlebars of course your legs and arms are stretched out and their gas tanks are so long you feel like you’re riding a long couch with wheels 🤘🏻🏍😎
You're very adventurous person.i love your motorcycles and your experience.I want to own a motorcycle with the blessings of Good people and enjoy motorcycle riding❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️
I feel like there would be a market for it as well, theres many tall riders that would like something more sporty but there isnt anything. If one brand would make something for us I m sure many would buy it
I'm 6'3 250 and this is what I've found about any bike I look at . Seems like I am on a kid's bike. The heritage classic looks sweet tho. Might have to check one out this summer
I keep seeing you scoot back on the seat. The problem with bikes isn't so much the wheel base as where the seat is. I don't like a tall seat to give yourself a sense of extension to the foot pegs or floor boards. I want to scoot back and be lower. I feel more a part of the bike in this position. You can buy seats that move you back and slightly lower giving you more room to the floor boards. And you feel like you're part of the ride, not sitting on top of it.
I'm 6'1 200 lbs so I understand this issue very well. I remember wanting a Ducati Diavel but once I went to the shop and sat on it, it felt like a little toy bike! I feel like if you're a tall guy, you have two options: either a sport touring/enduro type bike which is what I got or if you have a lot of money lying around a big cruiser from Harley or Indian
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Men are getting bigger people are catching up to us who are 6'2 plus. I also collect expensive watches because I dig mechanical craftsmanship and I have every one of them 48mm-50mm. I am 6'4 built like you (a semi shaved Yeti as my friends say) and what I have done is go with big wheel bikes because a good custom builder will have the front end welded up properly and use the right triple tree for that rake. I have a 30 inch front wheel Road Glide with a Harley 120R motor and a fat tire 2021 which is the same diameter as a 23 inch wheel/tire. My builder put the 124 kit from S&S with a beefy cam. So the front end is kicked out a bit the frame has been stretched a bit and the longer custom bags make the bike even longer. I think your Heritage is ~96 inches axle to axle where my bikes are about 110 axle to axle then longer bags. It is costly my 2021 RG cost a bit over 60K all in and I am not even going to say what the 30 inch big wheel cost. Keeping in mind it has a ton of custom work done on it and it is a Harley that is built the way Harley should build bikes with air suspension front and back with center frame pedestals (no more kickstands) Check out F bomb baggers he makes amazing bikes with an attention to detail that puts stock HDs to shame. You can reduce the cost a bit like I did by not getting a 10K stereo put in it. I don't listen to music when I ride defeats the purpose of the serenity I get that keeps me from eating humans.
Great comments! Very good indeed. Bike sounds amazing! Custom is definitely the best way. Love your closing statement!! 💯👍🏼
Men are actually getting shorter lol every new year that is going into school and shiiz the teens are shorter and shorter soo
Funny comment about watches. I got into watches, bought a Rolex, and now I find myself HD obsessed!! Can't WAIT to buy a bike!
Hilarious! I love all your talk about the power and custom modifications of you bike that have absolutely nothing to do with what the video discusses. You must be sooooo rich with a big dong! /s
The funny thing about it now is that women are actually starting to get bigger than men. I routinely see women that are taller or at least the same height and they weigh more as well than men.@@alehlete830
At 6'3" myself, I'm a big proponent of flat seats (not scooped) that allow the rider to slide back and adjust their leg angle to their liking. A simple, cost effective change that manufacturers under utilize.
Good idea , never thought of that
A beard like this dude is what I aspire for
Don’t shave for a year and it’s yours 👌🏼
Beards and bikes
Yes bin laden been doing for years
Cowboy Gent
Was thinking the same thing. Envy. 😒
Extremely good points! Manufacturers definitely need to address this. I like the idea of an add-on option like you suggested 👍👍
Thanks!! Yes I think that would work 👊🏼
@Julian Crooks yes that’s a good thing. Luckily, Harleys are already pretty big, but most bikes are minute
There are add-ons available from other manufacturers I put extended forward controls on my softail from aftermarket company probably better quality then Harleys made in China garbage
This has been a problem for a long time with motorcycles. Thank you for sharing the idea.
Glad to help. We need a solution!
I’m 6’2”, I don’t consider myself tall but I thought I was being picky when all these bikes felt small. Now I know people my height do in fact feel cramped in the cockpit. Thanks for the video.
Couldn’t have said it better. I’m 184cm currently bought a 125cc retro style cruiser and it is the only bike that suits me because of my height. It’s not just how comfortable you are on a motorcycle but also to make sure you’re not looking like a kid on a bike or look too ridiculous
I'm 6'4", I also, have a Heritage Softail that I have been riding for the last 8 years. It's really way to short for me and uncomfortable to me when I go on ling trips. Last Spring I bought a Ultra Classic. That bike really fits me very well and a LOT more comfortable when going on long trips. I can ride a lot longer and it's hard on me. I think the wheel base on the Ultra Classic is longer than the Heritage. Go to your nearest Harley Dealer and take a Ultra Classic or a Road Glide for a test drive. I do believe you will be a lot more comfortable on the touring models than the Cruiser like the Heritage. Thanks for Sharing this Video with us.
Thanks for your comments bro 👊🏼
Good video - it's rare to actually find videos for taller riders, pretty much all the search results are for shorter folk trying to fit on taller bikes. Even if those cruisers aren't the kind of bikes I personally ride, I still like giving the wave to fellow tall bikers out there 👋
At 6'4.5" / 36" inseam (194cm), I'm not even all *that* tall (I think that's about the minimum over at r/Tall), but I've still given up on fitting on certain kinds of bikes (sports, sports/touring, most cruisers, even some full-sized touring bikes are cramped). For me, I've settled in to tall ADV bikes and larger vintage Standards. I haven't completely given up on full-size cruiser-style tourers, but I've always felt that the more reclined position wasn't quite right for me. Still, I'm open minded... *all* bikes are cool, and if I were to find one that really fit me, I certainly wouldn't mind seeing a Harley or similar in my garage some day. Ride safe!
6'4" here, beginner; I wanted a big bike with a small engine and the best I could find was the DL650. Added bar risers, lowering foot pegs kit, taller seat, taller windscreen... Great choice, never regretted it, hope to keep this bike for many years to come!
Awesome 👍🏼👍🏼
You are so spot on pointing out that it's the wheelbase that matters most for tall riders. I'm 6'4" and feel very comfortable riding my Honda VTX1800, which has a wheelbase of 67.5 inches.
i'm 6'2" and believe me the struggle is real, i've had quite a few bikes in my time but just purchased a 2004 Yamaha XV1700 Road Star, fantastic bike and it's just about the first bike i've had were i can really stretch out, loads of room.
Excellent! Glad you’ve found something that’s fits.
I'm 6'2" also and the best size of the bike which fits to me perfectly I found on the market is Yamaha Raider but after I installed 17" ape bar.
I’m 6’8” and have successfully stretched 3 HD (Road Kings & Glide CVO) 7 inches forward of the front motor mounts. Obviously this has a dramatic domino effect (ie. stretched tank, cables etc). But they all fit me perfectly after doing so with only minimal handling consequences. Yes it is expensive but we’ll worth it if your tall and want to ride in comfort.
Excellent! That’s great to hear 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
6'9" - Thank you! It's the proportions, not the bloody seat height! Great video.
I am a new rider at 6' 4" (194 cm). What I discovered is that the bikes that fit me (any manufacturer) are usually their most expensive options. For example, most Harley Softail bikes fit me, but they are so expensive, whereas, I make their Sportsters look like toys. I ended up getting a Kawasaki Versys X-300 as my first bike, because it is one of the few examples that fit me and is not one of the manufacturer's more expensive bikes.
Also, if we look at the length only, I fit great on a Indian Scout 60, but the bike is kind of squished vertically so I just looked weird on it. If it was slightly bigger vertically, it would be perfect.
Yes a combination of length and height would look better but length is definitely aesthetically more pleasing than a tall short bike
I ended up getting a 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom. Fits great and not a lot of cash. Love harleys but have to save up for that!!
I've owned every brand out there over the years and have NEVER had a comfortable cruiser. The foot forward riding position puts too much weight on my back and being closer to the ground plays havoc on my now aging hips, especially pushing it backwards. I've found that "Standard" models as opposed to cruisers or sport bikes fit me best although I've yet to try an "adventure" or "dual sport" bike. Standards put the foot pegs and pedals in a more of a mid position which keeps me upright while riding.
Absolutely true! As I commented under other video, I do not get why after hundred years of motorcycle history motorbike companies do not offer various frame sizes like it is absolutely normal in bicycle world. It is unimaginable for road or MTB bicycle customer not being able to choose the frame size that will fit to him/her. I wonder what must be done for ALL motorcycle manufacturers to realize this and to implement it! So logical... If I would have enough funds, I would immediately start new manufacturing company as this is clear hole on the market! Great video, absolutely logical thinking, I sign every word you said, keep going!
Thanks Robert! We’re getting attention from manufacturers and hopefully they will respond with options for taller people like we suggested.
I am 6 foot 2. I fit perfect on my Victory Crossroads. I have heard this before that longer humans fit good on the Victorys.
Thanks yes! Shame we can’t get them new any more.
Keep up the fight. I’m sick of having four bikes to choose from.
I’m so happy you came out with this video. I’m 6’5” and have been looking for a bike but most of my buddies are average size and don’t know much about bikes for us big guys 👌
Thanks bro. We’re on a mission to draw attention to the manufacturers
@@MrDarcy-OlMan hell yeah that’s the way to do it. Thanks bro!!
Im 192cm and im waiting for a Harley 48. I didnt test rode it becausec i dont have a licence yet but i still bought it. We will see if its okay for me. But i must say. When i saw your review about the 48 i was more calm that i bought it. Like you said is like something you can throw it around. And you didnt look too bad on it hehehe. Thanks man. Have a good day.
The 48 feels fine to ride but looks to others small. But it’s a great bike.
I'm 6'3" and my 2004 Honda VTX 1300C is very comfortable. Every Harley bagger I've ever sat on felt cramped. Handlebar shape has always been a big issue for me on comfort in the saddle. Straight bars let me stretch my arms out comfortably while bars that are bent back toward the rider make the whole bike feel small to me.
Yes good points. 👍🏼
Thanks for making grown up reviews for tall riders :) it is the reason I follow your channel. Other reviews are useless - when the tester is an unknown size and says “its so comfy”...
Yes I know it’s really frustrating! Thanks for your support 💯👍🏼
I’m 6f3 also and have your problem. It seems cruisers are the only solution. The Kawasaki Vulcan S even gives the option of ergo-fit, so you can change the seat, position of the footages and steering handle and it will be alright. But then again the cruisers are not my cup of tea. So what to do!
Probably I’ll have to accept riding the bike I want isn’t exactly for my size so I’ll get cramped on a longer tour.
Your suggestion that manufacturers should offer a longer wheelbase, higher frame or just more ways to adept is of course not economical feasible, alas.
I’ll stay cramped I guess.
Cheers for your nice video’s.
Another solution are ADV bikes. You'll fit just nice on a R1300GS for surw
All manufacturers need to look at the Vulcan 650 template. The ergo fit offers 3 sizes on seat, bars and the foot controls as standard. Then we would be able to pick the bike on style, and not based on size.
That’s a good idea bit my issue is the size of the bike itself.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Indian do kits for the Scout.
clanmac66 what does that consist of?
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Sorry I can't answer that now. But, when I considered one a few years back, they had kits for the pedals and different seat designed for taller riders. I'm 6'2"
clanmac66 ok yes some manufacturers do that, but it’s still the same size bike for all and what I’m on a mission to make happen is an extended bike for taller riders 👍🏼
I’m 5’-19”, had a 1999 Yamaha RoadStar. I was too tall for the bike, so I had some forward control extensions that I fabricated for the floorboards. It added 4-1/2” in length, but created a problem where it hear the rear of the front fender when you turned the wheel and hit a dip. So I moved them back to 4”. Eventually sold that bike and got a 9’-6” chopper and purchased 8” forward control extensions. Those worked out nicely.
The chopper sounds cool 👍🏼
First of nice beard, it looks badass, and second I'm 6'4" and for those who like naked sportbikes I recommend you try the Yamaha MT-09 it fits me quite well which suprised me
Thanks buddy! 👍🏼👍🏼
Well sir I've gone and done it! Just found you on youtube where I've been consuming videos about bikes regarding reviews, techniques, skills etc but never searched for tall riders! I've got your beard color maybe longer (minus the hair), 6' 7", 250 lbs and at 71 years old just starting all this up after some lifestyle changes. In reading many of the comments here I'm fascinated to see people taller than me wanting and trying to ride. I'm afraid I've already started down the road last fall with first, a 2022 300 GTS Vespa, 2022 BMW C400GT and a used BMW G310GS. The scooters are easy to bump around in town but the lightweight low end BMW 310 was acquired to learn shifting and such. Made a few changes plus getting a seat customized that really helps but does not make the world perfect either. I've already put money down on the BMW R1250GSA 40th year anniversary edition as so many reviews sold me. I may have moved too quickly now that I see your point of wheelbase being key. Being in the suburbs of Chicago Illinois I can visit many dealerships and it's not out of the question to make changes even though these recent acquisitions are new. Thanks for this insight you've provided. I'm rethinking this pursuit. It's great to see so many others with height commenting with their solutions and experience! Seems right that the industry should be working on some flexibility. I remember one time back in the late 70's or 80's I sat in every new automotive Honda model and put the seat all the way back to my surprise NONE of their cars world fit my frame. Went back to Ford and every single model in that day had much more adjustment back than others.
We’re glad the video helped. It’s not easy above 6’3” and the ultimate solution is really a customise bike. Indian motorcycles are larger framed than most, we discovered after making the video 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Good to know...will check them out for at least a comfort fit and comparison. Thanks!
6”7 skinny guy here. Finding it difficult to research bikes that would fit my build (if any). Your video is a big help however, great insight on a longer swing arm. Makes sense and is another good dimension to consider as well as the dreaded seat height. If there any other giants out there seeing this and you’ve got recommendations, I’d like to hear them without a shadow of a doubt. Thanks🤙
Thanks buddy. Hopefully you’ll find something 👍🏼👍🏼
I’m 1 inch taller than you, I ride a Suzuki C50T, no issues. But a C90 or M109 would be a bit larger and better.
Hi, only interested in cruiser? If not, try BMW K1300S or of course adventure bikes like KTM or Africa Twin.
African twin
Very good idea to talk about it. I live in a country where most dealers can order me a specific model, but do not have one in the showroom for testing. At 6'2" I often find models I like on the screen to be cramped in real life. I wish more reviewers were making videos like that.
OK yes that makes it hard! Keep watching our reviews because we always talk about fit
I'm 5ft 10in . Bought a low rider s . I moved the controls to the forward position and put 14in todds cycle bars to make the bike fit me perfectly.
It's pretty much made for your height luckily bro
I'm 6'-1 and I immediately felt very comfortable on the Yamaha Stryker. It's pretty long as well (99.6 inches) and the controls are forward. I saw your video on the new BMW R18, and while I love the looks, It doesn't look comfortable due to the heads limiting the forward position of the controls. I like the Yamaha Raider and the Honda VTX and I have also ridden a Honda Shadow with a forward control kit that's pretty comfortable.
That's good to hear!
In regards to this, I think Kawasaki are onto something with the Vulcan S and the ergofit system that they use, that allows different parts (handlebars pegs etc) from factory. Or a system like the Can Am uses on the Ryker trike that again allows adjustments.
It doesn’t necessarily need to be the swing arms that are adjusted, if they make the bikes big enough to begin with, with multiple bar, seat and peg options available from factory, then it can fit multiple sizes of people quite easily.
Yes that’s true. Ideally they would make bigger bikes in the first place with longer wheelbases and allow adjustable pegs etc
I bought the Kawasaki vulcan s for my first bike. I am 6.2 with a 43" inseam. They have an ergo fit system which changes the position of the footpegs a couple of inches, the seat and the handlebar if need be, which is the ideal solution. I fit on it really well. More manufacturers should do this, as it doesn't really change the aesthetics of the bike, but adds more ergonomical options straight out of the box.
That’s great! 👍🏼
I ditched BMW GS's after having them for years because they were getting progressively taller and I am getting progressively older! Also, my knees don't take kindly to being cramped up these days so the seat/ footpeg ratio is important to me. I bought an HD cruiser (as you know!) because you can stretch out your legs and be more comfortable. Engine bars and highway pegs help even more. In fairness to HD, they sell so many different mods to make your bike fit you, you are almost spoiled for choice (eg tallboy seats or 'reach' seats, forward controls, bar risers etc. etc. etc. The trouble is, it's expensive to experiment. I wonder whether they could do the same scheme here in the UK that they do in the US where you can try demo seats from the dealerships that they let you borrow for a few days for a refundable deposit.
I found with my Heritage that I was gradually sliding backwards on the stock seat (either from the huge torque or posture or a combination of both) I bought a Harley Sundowner seat after reading a few reviews and some youtube vids....much more seat support ...problem solved.
An interesting topic and one the manufacturers should take note of.....in the west the average biker is ageing and getting bigger.
Keep up the good work!
Great points! My Heritage seat has compressed somewhat, giving me another couple of inches length
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thanks. I was always surprised that you hadn't fitted the 'Tallboy' seat, or fitted bars and pegs?
Simon Hickey Yes it’s fine without tbh
If one doesn't like cruisers, there's always the tall adventure bikes. The KTM 890/1090/1190/1290 R models all have tall seats as do the 2016-2019 Africa Twins and the Harley Pan-American standard edition. I have a bad knee at 185cm and I ride a KTM 990 SMT with a seat height of 855mm. For beginners or people wanting smaller engines, the Supermoto bikes are a good place to look.
Good video as usual. Considering all the sound distractions, the audio quality was really good! Now wind noise came through.
Great content!
At6'1" (not terribly tall) I've always hated feeling cramped on a bike. Sold a Guzzi EV California because of it. Loved the bike; hated the cramped cockpit.
Why no one talking about this guy,
Dayumm you look great, tall with good physique and beard🔥🔥🔥
I'm 185 cm tall but skinny😑
Thanks buddy 💪🏻
maybe because I look better than him? ;^)
great subject at 6'-5" I've had the same troubles with everything
short ladies excluded there's ALWAYS a way to fit the parts nicely
@@gschady haha nice one 👊🏼
It's a fair point, I'm 5'11" so am quite lucky, only once have I had this problem, I tried an Africa Twin Adventure, liked it a lot but it was just too damn big and unwieldy. I think you just have to accept certain bikes 'fit' taller people much better and choose one that looks and feels right. Big blokes on tiny bikes do look a bit silly.
100% J
There's definitely bikes out there for taller riders. Triumph Scrambler XE, Tiger 900RP or the KTM 790 Adventure for the dual sport chaps. Indian baggers have much more leg room if you're looking to stay with the cruiser market but if you're looking for a naked I'd suggest the Yamaha XSR900 or the XR1200 from HD. Plenty to chose from but we're the minority (taller chaps/lasses) when manufacturer consider who to build a bike around.
Yes you’re right but even they could be bigger
Im 6"2 and i ride a kawasaki vn1600d nomad, most comfortable bike i have ever ridden, recommend to anyone 👌🏻
Beautiful scenery
Thanks yes 👍🏼👍🏼
Great commentary sir, I love your off the cuff comments. But it’s your knowledge and “way of thinking” that gives us so much value. Thanks guys, D.
You're so right Ol"Man. I'am 6ft 2 and it's hard to find a bike that fits me. I brought my 2012 Harley Fatbob FXDF (the one with the 2 headlights) a few years back because i wanted a bike i could be comfortable on for long distances. It has all the requirements you mentioned for a taller riders comfort. The seat height is low (irrelevant, as you mentioned) but has a long wheelbase and forward controls. I have been all over Australia on this bike and can comfortably cover distances of 500 miles or more in a day without any trouble.👍👍
Thanks buddy. It definitely makes all the difference 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan 👍👍
@@slydawwg I'am not an Aussie, iam British. I'am just living in Australia...for now. 👍
I'm 6ft5 ,i had bmw k1200rs,fits very good and it has factory adjustment .
Right now riding a suzuki gsx1250fa 2013 and again,it fits very good,very good ,quite upright position,loads of leg space.
Thank you very much for video,beforw buying a bike,videos like yours are enormously helpful.
Thanks very much George 👍🏼👍🏼
I’m 6ft3, had a 2013 wide glide with lepera daddy long legs seat, kuryakn 4 in extended foot pegs and taller bars. Fit great and would recommend to any tall riders
Awesome 👍🏼👍🏼
there’s a mountain bike company called specialized , they make their bikes with all the same stand over height , just taller seat posts , but the frames get longer in each size not taller , so one person can fit multiple sizes & just go with the most comfortable reach .
no other mtb company does that , its what’s needed in motorbikes 👍
with respect that would just change the centre of gravity and could make a bike dangerous to ride.
I totally agree wow. I have been saying make bikes for taller men!! I’m 6’3 which shouldn’t be a problem.
Yes! Let’s hope a manufacturer listens because they will get huge publicity over it
Men???? Like women aren’t tall too
6’6” 280lbs all my bikes (dirt and street) I put the taller seat on to decrease the angle of my knees. With a lower seat it forces your knees above your waist decreasing blood flow and increasing sore knees.
Keep the rubber side down!
Good video.
Great idea. Thanks buddy
I'm about the same size as you and all my mates are over 6 foot also. Motorcycle manufacturers either don't care, or don't seem to be aware that people are much taller than they were in the 1950s.
Yes it’s odd how they don’t cater for us
Good points here. I’d argue bikes have got less adjustable, about ten years ago many of the Honda’s had an adjustable seat that could go up and down, very few do this now, which could be to save money and weight as well as save space. It’s a shame. I’ve got the problem of being too short, so the adventure bike world is pretty much off limits for me.
Thanks buddy! We need bikes for all sizes
In the comments you can find that people who are finding some bikes that fits them even though they are tall. Some people have taller upper body while others have taller lower body and that is why some taller people can find a bike that fits them. Push bikes come with different frames, I don't understand why motorbikes don't!
Yes we’re thinking that the other day.
My only solution and most affordable one was to buy taller seat, and move pegs a bit forward. Sometimes, I would attach trunk bag in the back, because it makes the bike look longer.
Be great if all manufacturers could offer a fitting service, where foot pegs, bars and seat are set to your dimensions.
Yes that’s at least something. Harley Davidson dealers do
Great video. You’re right most all bikes are made for mid to smaller riders and not taller riders. Choices are slim but they are out there.
Right on! thanks bro
Great video thanks! I’m 6”4 and thin so a big heavy adventure bike is always the best option!
Yes they are bigger than many bikes
I was suppose to say “so a big heavy adventure bike is NOT always the best option
Amateur El OK. Well they are usually bigger than other bikes but not as roomy as a Harley Davidson cruiser or suchlike
Mate you nailed it.. I'm 6.5 and have a wr450 and have spent big bucks on for it suiting me. Bar raises footpeg drops etc also have Vstar and I'm massivesitting on this thing. Lol. But as you said the should make a bike and then a XL version. Same motor just bigger. Good video mate! Hopefully they'll fix it mate! Sick of it .
Cheers!
Thanks bro! Yes it's an issue we often mention in our reviews (check them out)!
Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already
Excellent vid good relevant issues, im only 6 ft but have long legs so big bikes have been my only option, im picking up a benelli trk 502x next month which fits me like a glove, i know its a 500 but when i have litre bikes i never use all the power so will see how it works out👍
chris erskine thanks Chris! Nothing wrong with a 500. Often I find it more fun on a bike you can use all the power
Bang on couldn't agree more.
I'm 6'1" and being a born again biker the thing that stands out for me on modern machines is exactly as you say the ratio between the saddle ,pegs and bars seems to be crunched together .
The bikes are huge compared to old ton uppers but the seating feels all crunched in the middle.
Imho the stepped seating on everything but foot forward as on your HD for taller riders forces us to be bundled into the middle .
Believe it or not although I looked like a elephant on a pimple I tried a little PCX125 scooter fitted with a far Eastern custom flat line seat no step.
And just buy being able to slide my bum back 6 inches as you could on the old bikes saddles suddenly the running boards and bars fell into the correct place a pair of risers on the bars and it may have looked odd size wise but it would have been a comfortable ride even for me.
If you don't take pillion passengers
If the makers gave the option of a long line saddle with an adjustable tail rest instead of the "you Will sit here" standard ones.
It would at least give taller riders a fighting chance to get the fit ratio correct
Yes we absolutely HATE the silly stepped seats! Great comment Lee!
Thank you for this video I definitely needed this info. I'm 6 ft 5 and looking to join the motorcycle world.
Same as me. want to join to the motorcycle world and searching for my first bike :) Im 6'4 and I really badly want Fat Boy 114 or Breakout 117. But my legs is to long for those bikes and handlebars are to low for my knees. But I figure out that if I will move foot controls as far as posible forward and change to taller handlebar it can work for me, at least I really hope it will work :)
I'm 6'-2" tall, I know I could use 2" more leg stretch on my VT1100C Honda Shadow Spirit. And, that is a larger sized "Mid Size" cruiser with a decent wheel base at about 62" (axle to axle). Increased forward control kit and / or more scoot back in the seat perhaps.
I’m 6’ 4”. Great insight! Love your channel!
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
I’m 6’5” - GS adventure is short wheel base - seat at max height and lower pegs fits perfectly. I think the R18 with a modified bobber seat- slightly taller and slightly further back will be perfect.
Thanks for your videos!
Totally agree. Thanks buddy!
Good point made bud we definitely need more fitment options the kawasaki vulcan 650 has a good system well worth a look 👍🏻
claretbuck1882 thanks! We’ll check it out 👍🏼
I hear your pain, I'm 6ft2 and there are so many bikes that I would love to own and ride but I just don't fit them. I went into the local Ducati dealer a few weeks back to look at a scrambler desert sled as a hop-on day to day bike but It felt like a toy!
Anyway glad to have found the channel it's fantastic!
I'm off to get another beer and binge-watch your previous videos.
Thanks buddy! Yes it’s a genuine problem that no manufacturer is addressing
@@MrDarcy-OlMan No worries! Credit where credits due. It's refreshing to watch real unadulterated reviews, keep up the good work .
Cheers.
stederk thanks 💯
Totally agree about making longer wheelbase,I’m 6’2” and my 1250 bandit has a longish wheelbase with the seat in highest position is fine.
But watching the promotional videos for the new triumph trident that looks a short wheelbase and the rider looks ridiculous.
Yes I'd take a guess that their testriders are all about 5'7" so they haven't factored-in taller people at all.
I'm 6'4" 245lbs on a good day and I found a lot of adventure bikes fit really well if you don't like cruisers
like what?
Thank you for this video! I am 6"2 280lbs and I have a 03 Heritage Softail Classic....It feels great to ride but I always hear oh your a big guy you need a Road King or a Road Glide but they dont look any longer of a bike actually to me they look a bit shorter of a wheel base not by much but a little bit....so I looked up the specs....the Softail wheel base 64.5 the Road King 64....what does everybody think?
I am a tall rider and my first bike was a Sportster Xl1200L. I didn't realised it was small until I bought myself a Tenere 700, and know I just feel very uncomfortable on it. The T7 just feels amazing, drivers can see me in traffic and I feel safer somehow. I guess no ordinary cruiser can give me that feeling. Now I am looking for a Yamaha Raider.
A Tallboy seat and forward controls will net a couple inches easy, and like you mentioned in the video risers and bars. Im 6'7" and us tall guys are limited market, not worth investing in..
Thanks buddy! Useful input 👊🏼
Daughters first bicycle!!! Superb...Sorry couldn't resist even though this is irrelevant to me being a shade below average height. Addressing topics few do.
Haha thanks Pike 👊🏼
6'10" and a big bike like honda vtx fits me well. i can also fit on an r3.. as long as im sitting on the cowl lol.
I'm 6'4" with a 36" inseam and am quite comfortable on my 1980 Yamaha XS1100. It beats the heck out of banging your shins on the engine guard of a Goldwing any day!
My goodness the beard is insane Waiting to friggin grow mine
Good points. Bikes for taller people, listen up manufacturers.
Thanks! Hopefully someone is listening!
im 6'4" and over the motorcycles I owned the only one on which I was comfortable for long rides was a Honda Shadow ACE, which is exactly what you describe: a long wheelbase bike with a forward pegs.
Have a question , didn't your lower back hurt?
@@rogacz5966 Sometimes. I just had to get off and walk around every couple of hours... which I wanted to do anyway. I upgraded to a Mustang seat and softened my shocks and that helped a little but there was no cure....
@@michaelwhitt4068 i want to start my motorcycle adventure (Had a dirtbike when little) with something big enough for me. Was thinking Honda Shadow 125
I'm 6'3 and love the suzuki boulevard M109r. Fits like a glove.
This issue really hacks me off. Not so much at the cheap end of bikes, a one size fits all for them is perhaps ok. But when manufacturers are asking £18k+ for a machine and there is practically no adjustment it definitely isn't ok. They will spend millions shaving off a few grams from the weight yet if there is seat height adjustment, it is only a few mm. I can diet and lose a bit of weight myself, there is nothing I can do about my height. If I go out and buy the cheapest car, it will have a driver's seat adjustable forwards/backwards, seat rake will be adjustable, probably the steering wheel and perhaps the seat height too. It can't be that hard on a bike.
Yes definitely! It would be really simple to add a longer swingarm and slightly longer forks to compensate.
I also struggle in cars, many amazing cars they are made for smaller people. I currently drive a Golf Plus just because it has lots of headroom. Taller people get punished for being tall (airplanes, cars, bus... Motorbikes)
Joe Haddad This is true. To make matters worse; we live in an old house and I hit my head on the beams every day!
Various SEAT sizes greatly assist with taller riders (look at Indian for example). BMW offer multiple seat sizes; this solution should be offered across the board.
Owen C Thats one thing but generally it’s still like putting the seat up on a bike thats too small overall
I'm 1.71 mtr or 5.7 i believe.
Think HD tourers are too big for me. Softails and dyna's are fine. Else it just looks weird imo.
But then sometimes i see a bloke on a streetglide and it looks like it's smaller than a 883.
The only times i don't envy a taller bloke.
6’4 and 265lbs. 2012 Goldwing with (king) Ultimate Seat 👌 perfect fit
Yes the GW is pretty good!
You remind me of a older me. I’m 6’3 burley man and being big sucks when they don’t make stuff for us
Yes it’s a shame
This theory might work for bikes with forward controlls, but for more conventional bikes you wont be able to use the same logic.
What matters is the position of the seat, pegs and gandlebar in relation to each other and unfortunately you can't easily read that on a spec sheet.
Sometimes a higher seat is the answer, because these bikes usually have a bigger distance between seat and pegs.
If you like curisers, sure, go for something low with forward controlls.
But if you are not into these bikes, Something like a big ADV bike would be a good solution, a BMW GS for example. Some crossover touring bikes like a S1000XR for example also easily fit bigger people like us.
Im 6'2'' and 140kg; similar build to you but slightly fatter. I'm currently on a Honda vision 110 (lol cbt, going for my A soon) but I was around the showroom the other day and I couldn't believe the amount of bikes that had controls I could JUST fit in but wasn't comfy, even tall ADVs and some big cruisers. It's the same with gear as well, apparently only 5'9'' 78kg men can ride bikes in style and comfort. Thanks for making a video on this.
Thanks very much. No problem 👍🏼👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan do you think a BMW F 750 GS would fit a 6’ 5 rider ?
@@80hd49 Best to sit on one if you can. The scooped out adventure seat isn’t ideal
6'4" here, had a 2015 Heritage with apes and the seat pushed back, still felt cramped and didn't look right on it, knees above the gas tank......Traded in for a Road Glide and put on 14" bars lowered and pushed back the seat and got the long floorboards. Unfortunately, a stock bike does fit over say 6'3", you will have to put money into it or get lucky finding a used bike already setup.
Yes true. The Indians come up more roomy, we have since discovered
Nice vid, 6'2 here... By the way, love the background hehe
I'm 6'5" and I weigh at 320lbs. I ride a 2002 HD softail standard fxst. My issues are leg cramping and after an hour or so riding my backside goes numb.this is due to the limited leg position. This is very dangerous in the fact once i loose feeling it becomes super hard to lift my feet off the pegs.
Solution: they make a 3" extension for foot pegs and the forward controls. Also there is a company that makes a switch blade style foot peg that swings forward, instead of the traditional style that swings back for a heal rest. This peg gives you an additional 3" foward. As a larger than normal size person I find most of my life I'm forced to conform to things made for much smaller people. You might think this is no big deal,but it is a huge deal to those who do the conforming. The list is long. From clothing and shoes to the cars we are forced to drive. At 6'5" and 320 pounds I can forget about driving a sports car, or forget about a commercial flight. People my size generally are required to purchase 2 seats. I love being a big man but life for people like me can be tough and limited, trying to fit into the much smaller package of the average man, which is who our world is built for. MAKE IT BIGGER. Because size matters.
Very good points! The world is increasingly average snd it’s very hard as you say 👍🏼👍🏼
We're about the same size. Have you tried a Vulcan S? You think motorcycles are bad... you should try getting kayak fishing.
"it's not about the height, it's about the length... Just ask the ladies" amazing 😆, almost choked on my tea!
Haha there you have it 😉
I’m 6’6” and like bikes like the 1972 Triumph I once had and the 1980 BMW R100T that I currently have.
They both have long flat bench seats that I can slide my butt back on.
Much better than the modern contour seats that have you locked into one position no matter how tall or short you are.
Consider TriumphRocket3, install longer shocks to raise seat, highway pegs, handle bar pull backs. 6 10 here. Sometimes you just need the largest bike, instead of trying to make a one size fit all bike fit you. And if you think 140 hp ain’t fun then ride your HD.
I guess with modifications its ok but as standard we thought it was quite a compact riding position (see our review in 2020)
@@MrDarcy-OlMan For some unknown reason my Account has six different riders attempting to fix HD for tall guys. If the issue was tall guys riding motorcycles isn’t your evaluation of the Rocket exactly what you and these other tall riders attempting to fix for the HD? The biggest difference in approach is my modifications result in a classic Police style riding position; higher seat, straight back, relaxed arms ability to tuck in or stretch out. Adding forward controls, ape hangers, highway pegs and keeping the seat height low, a classic chopper rider style isn’t my style. Isn’t the best option for HD to offer a tall rider option? Stretch the frame, increase the seat height, move the seat back, etc...ride what you like, modify it to fit.
@@tomrodgers8265 in standard trim, Harleys are more roomy than the Rocket. Modified then that depends on many factors 🤫 Indians are even more roomy!
Don't you find the low seat height a problem when you put your feet down? I am tenuously interested, emphasis on tenuously, in a cruiser for the first time: just the Kawasaki Vulcan S. I have come to realise that feet-forward is not uncomfortable as my ''car'', a Can-Am F3-S has a foot-forward stance which doesn't shift any weight on to the base of my spine as I'd feared. I am concerned, though, that the Vulcan's low seat height may make paddling the bike around a chore as my legs will be too long. I am just short of 6'1'', but my inseam is only 32''.
Interesting video. You are fast becoming one of my favourite channels.
Thanks buddy! No the seat height is fine. No issues whatsoever. Forward controls are very comfortable and with footboards you can get your toes on the edge and almost be in a normal leg position
I've found KTM being the best for me at 6'4". For my SDGT I've had to buy the adjustable pegs and also push out the bars as far as they will go. The RC8 is also a very adjustable sports bike for tall people. I also have a 690 SMCR, I look silly on it but its still fun. Sometimes one just has to compromise
Us tall peeps are always compromising!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Yes. As a teenager I always planned to buy a Lotus Elise and eagerly went to the Motorshow when I got my first job to sit in one. The Lotus rep was a hopeful chap and did eventually get me into one, but there was no way I could have operated the controls. A car made for midgets!
@@user-cn8vb9hh5z I always fancied a Caterham 7 but the steering wheel is under my chin!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan ha! Same. There was a very rare SV version that was built a little larger. Mr Wheeler insisted TVRs were built to accommodate people as tall as him, but their handling can't be compared.
Thanks for making sense you’re the perfect video I was looking for I’m 6 foot five and I’m looking into getting a bike and I’ve been scratching my head trying to think what fits me👍
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
Lmk what you end up getting im in the same boat 6'5" 220-240lbs
@@JollyGreenGiant072 the 2014 Harley Davidson breakout 1800cc excellent choice but if it’s too expensive the 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 900cc it’s another great choice and affordable both with gorilla handlebars of course your legs and arms are stretched out and their gas tanks are so long you feel like you’re riding a long couch with wheels 🤘🏻🏍😎
@@JollyGreenGiant072 👍🏼👍🏼
You're very adventurous person.i love your motorcycles and your experience.I want to own a motorcycle with the blessings of Good people and enjoy motorcycle riding❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️
Exactly what i wanted! Thanks buddy👊🏽
Vivek Singh No problem Vivek 👍🏼
Totally agree and well presented as always manufacturers should look into this , Very nice looking Harley
Thanks Glenn. Definitely.
I swear manufacturers dont give af about tall ppl. It sucks because i wanna start riding and i want it to be as comfort as possible
I feel like there would be a market for it as well, theres many tall riders that would like something more sporty but there isnt anything. If one brand would make something for us I m sure many would buy it
I'm 6'3 250 and this is what I've found about any bike I look at . Seems like I am on a kid's bike. The heritage classic looks sweet tho. Might have to check one out this summer
Yes there aren’t many bikes that fit!
I keep seeing you scoot back on the seat. The problem with bikes isn't so much the wheel base as where the seat is. I don't like a tall seat to give yourself a sense of extension to the foot pegs or floor boards. I want to scoot back and be lower. I feel more a part of the bike in this position. You can buy seats that move you back and slightly lower giving you more room to the floor boards. And you feel like you're part of the ride, not sitting on top of it.
Yes good points 👍🏼
I'm 6'1 200 lbs so I understand this issue very well. I remember wanting a Ducati Diavel but once I went to the shop and sat on it, it felt like a little toy bike! I feel like if you're a tall guy, you have two options: either a sport touring/enduro type bike which is what I got or if you have a lot of money lying around a big cruiser from Harley or Indian
Yes that’s basically it!
Hi! Have you taken a look at the Indian scout? How do you think it will fit for you? I'm the same height as you and I'm digging for a Indian Bobber
@@kaskynightblade8490 check out our Indian Scout review! ruclips.net/video/PhHkGS2eMz8/видео.html