I’m a woman who is 4’11” with a 25” inseam and I ride a Kawasaki Versys 650 and a KLR 650. My Versys came at stock height of 33”, I lowered the bike with lowering links and shaved my seat to get the height to 29”. Once you get the techniques down to mount and dismount, it is very doable. Yes, I have to watch where I stop and I need to get off and manually push the bike to get it into a good parking spot but this bike is a pure joy to ride. I put about 20,000km on her last summer and looking to do at least another 30,000km this season.
Hurrah! Yes! a kindred spirit. I'm also 4'11' 25" inseam. I'm 66 now (bloke) and still ride a GSR750. Everything you say is bang on. Even lowered, it's one tip toe even if the video advise is followed. I've done 50 years on a bike like this. It's really slow speed stuff where a tumble can come, depending on the camber of the road. As you will know sometimes a left footed stop is impossible if the road camber is steep. You get my vote, I understand completely the snags that you are dealing with... It can be done though!! Bravo!
I wonder. I'm 5'4". The inseam is measured on pants. My jean's inseam measure 26" after a visit to the tailor. If you don't have a tailor, you may not be that short. My leg inseam is about 29", depending on where I start measuring from my low hanging fruit. I bought a KLR650 and planned to get a lowering kit. But that would have compromised it's clearance, not good. It was like a Three Stooges routine to watch me take off and stop on that bike. If I put the side stand up to mount the bike and leaned it over enough for me to get a leg over it, I couldn't get it upright. If I mounted it with the side stand down, I had to push it up right with my left leg then quickly shift my arss to the other side so my right leg could stop the bike from falling on its right side. But the side stand is still down and my left leg can't reach the side stand to bring it up. So I would shift to the left so that I could reach it but now the weight is on the side stand again and I can't bring it up though I can reach it. The dance I came up with was dangerous without it being laden down... So I bought a DR650! I'd like to see the RUclips video of someone even shorter than I dealing with the side stand issue. Let me know if you make one!
It sounds like the Roy Rogers technique would be a good idea for you. This is where you flip the stand up, put your left foot on the left peg, begin pulling on the throttle, and as the bike starts moving all in one motion swing your right leg over the bike. It 25° in Wisconsin now, but as soon as it’s warm enough to ride, I’ll do a video on this.
I’m 5’6” with a 28” inseam. My bike-the 2021 Africa Twin base model, not the AS with ES. I utilize the factory low seat in the lowest position. I can tippy-toe both feet, or flat-foot one foot. I dang sure have to think ahead at stoplights, in parking lots, at gas stations, etc. But I absolutely love the bike and I gain confidence each time I go out. My dream bike has always been the BMW R1250 GS, and I intend to have one in the near future, but for now, the Africa Twin has exceeded all my expectations and I’m really enjoying riding it. Thanks for sharing your perspective.
It's definitely a different experience than bikes with lower seat heights. Like you, the AT has exceeded my expectations and it'll be awhile until I find another bike that I love this much. The R1250 GSA might be the only one that would win me over. Thanks for watching!
For the first 20 years of riding, at 5’7” I avoided dirt and adv bikes because I just figured I was too short…. Finally gave it a try and it’s a total nothingburger. My 690 smc-r has a 35” seat height and never had a problem. Can’t believe it took me so long!
wow, I'm jealous, I'm 5' 4" also but only 24" inseam. I've resorted to riding sportsers because of the skinny seat and low seat height so I can be flat footed at a stop. I could ride a larger cruiser but the saddles are sow wide I'm left feeling very inadequate and unsure when stopping. PS: Finding pants the fit is impossible!😉
1,58m (+/- 5'3) with 70,5cm (+/- 27") and I'm looking into getting my riding license and got into the vortex of "let's find out tips and tricks for riding tall bikes!". And then, I watch the video (edit: any given vídeo, not this one in particular) to be told at the end the presenter is 15cm taller than me. "I can barely tip tip on an African Twins" - dude, my feet float if I sit on that motorcycle! Just like a 6yo sitting on a mountain bike. 😂😅
I lowered my AT with the HyperPro Spring set for a reduction of .25 mm, and I am also using a single piece Seat Concepts seat to round out the setup. So far it is working great. The springs also helped stop what I thought was excessive front dive during braking.
Buy the harley Pan-American. It lowers when you come to a stop and rise when you take off. Fantastic handling bike. Ii was amazed. The harley is my next bike. 2md BMW 3rd Triumph Honda
That’s if the ARH on the Pan America actually works and if the bike actually runs. It’s an adventure bike that should be capable of riding around the world. The Pan America can’t even make it around the block. I have four videos on my experience with the Pan America. It’s the worst bike I have ever owned. The challenge of riding a tall bike is part of what makes riding fun. It will be a long time until I find a bike I love at much as the Africa Twin.
I'm a relatively short dude at 5'7" and have decided most adv bikes are too tall for me to ride comfortably. If it is a light dual sport, I'm fine but once the weight of the bike gets up there, the height of the bike becomes a safety issue so I opt not to deal with the issue. I'd rather ride a dual sport off road than muscle a 500lb SUV anyway. I've always thought that a taller person telling a shorter person to just get used to it is nonsense. The taller person should just add 8 inches to their seat on their already tall bike and see if they can just get used to it. It's not so easy and the height is a real issue to us short people. BTW, I just picked up a Lowrider S yesterday. I'm really looking forward to more vids of yours in the future.
At 5'9", I'm definitely not tall. I'm sorry if I made it seem like I was saying that shorter riders should just get used to taller bikes. My intent was to give shorter riders that have a desire to ride tall bikes, or on the fence about riding them, some tips to make it easier.
I'm 5'7 with a 29 inch inseam and I ride a Suzuki vstrom 650 with a 32 inch seat ht. I'm able to easily flat foot with my left foot while keeping my right foot on the peg/brake. Sometimes I have to move my butt over slightly to accomplish this but overall it's easy. I love the bike.
@@GreatEgret i don't know how 5'9 is short, there everyone must be as tall as the empire state building... I'd consided 5'9 medium, maybe even closer to tall. I'm 5'5, i consider myself medium-short. This also depends on the average height on where you live, i guess, but here it's around 173cm for men, which is around 5'7 if I'm not mistaken.
When I created this video, I expected this to be a helpful tool for anyone feeling challenged by a tall adventure bike. I didn’t expect a debate about the description of my height, but here goes: It’s not based on the average height of everyone in the world, your country, city, or even five of your best friends. Any rider that can’t flatfoot a bike with both feet is short for the bike, regardless of how tall the rider is.
Great video. Yes, they are tall. It really comes down to not feeling the need to put down BOTH feet. Just one our the other. On my Tiger 800 I had to tip toe even with one foot, taught me some great balance control but I was always nervous. The Tiger 900 center of gravity is lower, and the bike is about 3/4” lower too. That was enough for me. I can flat foot my left and that is good enough. A tip for making sure the weight ends up on the left, always turn left a little and use front brake for that last little stop - it will move the weight forward and left. Then straighten bars while at a stop. Occasionally you will end up off camber and and have no chance to touch. Slide a butt cheek off and rotate your right hip a bit. You WILL get the left foot down, even if the right is dangling. Use that front brake to keep the bike stopped in that case. I will say that riding adventure bikes now makes me never nervous on anything else. If you can ride and control the weight it will make you a more confident rider on other bikes. And yes, the super high ride height is awesome. I can look into SUVs while riding because I am higher, and you can stand on the pegs and see over almost anything other than a semi.
Man, I love this community. Such great tips! Thanks Jason. While recording the ride part of this video, I was next to a van and thought how great it is to see over nearly every vehicle on the road while riding my AT!
I fully agree and i do the same practice on my AT 2019 stock model, but this is in situations where everything goes normal and smoothly, the problem is your body position is set up to lean on the left and suddenly you are in situation for some reason the bike has leaned on the opposite side and you right foot is already dangling in the air or stretched to the max on the right foot peg... and the free fall will happen then , ahhhh (happened to me twice during that last two years on the AT) it is really bad and nothing you can do about it, just wait until you hit the ground happened to me one time at a slippery floor in a gas station where i was about to park and suddenly the front wheel slipped a little bit, and one touch on the right side would have stabled the bike but unfortunately my left legs was already on the floor and no control the right side :(
5'7", I ride the older Adventure sports (2019). I use the low seat on its high setting when I commute and usually the standard seat on other rides. I have to hang off the seat a fair bit. It takes some practice but it becomes easier. Thanks for the video.
I rarely used the low seat, so I sold it. I like the standard seat in the high position because it the most comfortable I think. I have to hang off the seat too and like you said, it becomes easier with a bit of practice. Thanks for watching!
Well look at you being all comfortable on a TALL Adventure Bike!! 😁 Great video as always sir! I also noticed that my “reach” seat on the Pan Am was less than desirable as well compared to the stock seat. I did combat the longer distance discomfort with a Airhawk seat pad. It does raise me about a 1/4-3/8”, but I would rather have comfort over something I can manage like seat height. Thank you for the info my friend, stay safe out there!!!
Dude, I miss riding with you! We gotta make that happen! I'm planning a TW*T ride in April and maybe a long BC/Alaska trip sometime in 2022. I'd love to have you along for the ride.
I just got my dream bike 2022 Africa Twin DCT Sports ES..... I'm 5'8" I can barely tip toe the standard seat. So I purchased the the next lower seat. A lot better, and with your technique, now I feel confident I can tame this beast. LOL.
I couldn't flat my last adv bike, so I just used my left foot for stops....as you should anyway. I developed a really good stopping habit, that is optimal anyway.
I'm 6'2" with a Corbin seat in the low position and I cannot flat foot both feet. My biggest fear is to come to a stop in traffic going up on a hill. It's torture.
lol that measuring the inseam was perfect! Glad you made this video because I am really concerned about not being able to flat foot on the adventure bikes. The Pan America has a nice feature where it lowers the seat a good inch when it comes to a stop. Great video!
Like a lot of things in motorcycling and in life, riding a challenging bike like an adventure bike takes practice. That's what makes it so much fun. That challenge. The PA adaptive ride hight is really nice and I bet it won't be long before other brands have similar tech on their flagship adventure bikes.
I'm 5'5" 158lbs and ride a CB500F comfortably, plus my dirtbike has a 35" seat height. I was surprised to fit on my friends 03 v-strom 650 just as easily.I want an AT so bad, just waiting for the right deal.
Great video Joe, they are tall but once you ride them they are not too tall to cope and enjoy.. once you are cruising along they are super comfortable and most off road riding is in a standing position, so I agree with you.. yes they are too tall but it shouldn’t put anyone off because you do very quickly get used too it 👍
Lots of options: Put it up before you get on and… 1. ride off as you throw your right leg over the bike. 2. Have a friend balance the bike as you get on 3. Practice balancing the bike with the engine off in your yard, driveway, or garage. After awhile you be good enough to balance the bike as you get on with the kickstand up.
I have a short inseam like 29" . At 6' tall my torso is longer than most . My Tenere 700 was just a little tall for me so I had it lowered . Then I got Motoz Tractionator ADV tires and I was back where I started . Did sit on a 2018 Africa Twin and it felt shorter and more comfortable than the Tenere . I like being able to stand on the pegs and scan ahead . Feel safer being taller with the ability to see danger sooner or trail obstacles faster .
I’m a smidge shorter than you and I keep the seat in the height position all the time because it’s more comfortable with how the foot pegs are setup. I love the AT.
I have a 33 inch inseam (without shoes), but with shoes (one inch) I can just flat foot a T7 (i weigh 65 kg), but tbh given the top heavy nature of the T7 I wouldn't mind another inch for those "sticky" situations out alone in the bush , or even during low speed traffic weaving.
The problem isn't only being high, but also top heavy. I moved from a T7 to a Super Tenere 1200 and even if the ST is way heavier, it doesnt feel so top heavy. Also lower seat ( adjustable)
My first motorcycle I can only manage to flat foot one foot, and found it forced to develop good habits, using the right foot on the brake while stopped and left foot down.
Learned on and still ride a CB500x with a 32" seat height with a 29"ish inseam. Got used to using one foot and paying some attention if the road is at a tilt and I've had no issues. Can get both balls of my feet (barely) down but am perfectly stable on one leg. Still need to build skills before I think I'd be fully comfortable on something like an AT, but I think it should be doable with the right practice, at least for on road purposes.
6'2" 32" inseam. I got my ktm 1190 adventure r in a trade with an aftermarket seat that puts the seat height at 38". Once you learn how to do it then you will be able to ride tall bikes just fine.
You’re 100% right. This video is for those that are afraid to get onto an ADV bike because of their height. Off road techniques are best left to Chris Birch and Jimmy Lewis and not the likes of me.
@@GreatEgret I was thinking more on road as where i live is very hilly and the off cambers at junctions particularly can be extremely difficult on these ADV's. Even more road focussed bikes seem to be getting higher and higher.
If you’re in motion and you can reach the pegs, bike height doesn’t play into that. Especially ADV bikes with a low center of gravity. The managing your balance, keeping your right foot on the peg while dropping your left foot, and putting weight on the suspension tips I suggest in this video would still apply in any road riding environment.
I'm 6ft6, all adventure bikes are to small. Stop complaining: beds, cars, seats, tables, are YOUR size. You don't hear me complain everything is to small, now so ya. So put a sock in it!
I’m actually not complaining about anything. This video is useful information for shorter riders that may be interested in riding bikes that they may consider too tall for them.
I use these techniques on a DR650 with the stock seat height. The DR is admittedly not as tall as a stock AT but at 5'8" with a 30" inseam I always thought the Suzuki would be too tall until I learned that you don't need to flat foot. Moving forward to the narrow part of the seat and shifting ever so slightly to the side at a stop and I've got a foot planted firm on the ground. Another tip is to slightly drag the rear brake when starting off from a stop, it seems to add a little stability. I don't feel I would be confident on a 1250GS but the AT I think would be manageable with the seat in the low position and I hope to try one out soon. All that said the DR650 is a lightweight and I don't know if my tricks would work on a heavier bike.
I'm 5.2ft. no idea what my inseem is. Know I've got short legs. These days I ride a Honda Africa Twin from 2019 that isn't lowered. I don't move backwards. I move to the side. That way I get half a foot on the ground when really needed. Next to the AT I also ride a Suzuki DRZ 400. That one is lowered by replacing the full suspension with custom made ones. Not through the links. But still need to use the same technique on it as I use on the AT
With skills and experience, anyone can ride any motorcycle. There are several disadvantages/inconveniences though do deal with too tall and/or too heavy motorcycles. Has anyone stopped and got surprised by a lower ground/hole right where your foot was supposed to land or on a lateraly inclined road? If you have a 30 in inseam or lower...
You bet! Here is the link for the tank pad: shop.powersports.honda.com/p/side-tank-pad And here is for the upper crash guard: shop.powersports.honda.com/p/light-bar-3?pp=24
Good point. The center of gravity is definitely higher than the GS. Especially with a full tank. Double especially on the Adventures Sports with a that huge 6.5 gallon tank.
I test rode the bmw 850gs and its is a bit challenging in bumper to bumper traffic and taking U-turns in traffic. I am 5.6ft and 860 seat height in traffic is definitely not for me. Still haven’t figured out what bike to buy and what the seat height should be for me so it doesn’t feel scary in traffic and congestion ? 😢
Like how you think, you’re vertically challenged with a 32” inseam. That’s more like the norm. Try having a 28” inseam and then talk about putting a foot down on an off camber road or trail.
There’s a lot of viewers on here telling me what I am or am not. What I’m experiencing vs. what I know I’m experiencing. Leave that stuff alone and take this video for what it’s intended and useful for: a helpful tool and encouragement for those that are interested in tall adventure bikes, but are a bit intimidated by their height. I’m other words: this video is not about me.
@@GreatEgret it was meant as a joke mate, as you have a much longer inseam than many of us shorter riders. But you seem to have taken it as an attack on yourself and your video. Perhaps you’ve had a humour bypass or something. Either way no need to get in a strop. The video was helpful unlike your response.
Brother, I’m not upset. I wish you could hear the tone that was intended I’m my reply. It wasn’t an attack on you. I believe it was a helpful comment because I think it’s important to take the focus off of me and back on the video.
Hello Joe. My 06 KLR 650 is tall, but my friends XR650L is really tall! I am 6'1", 230 lbs. I put 1 inch lowering links on the shock. Slid forks up in triple tree 1 inch. Yeah, it compromised its capabilities, but I am 61 years old and no Malcom Smith. But...fun factor still 100%.
Maybe. Depends on your riding goals. My inseam barely reaches 32". If I have on thick riding pants, like the Klim ones I'm wearing in this video, I bet my inseam drops to no higher than 30.5". I give a few tips near end of this video on how short riders can handle these amazing bikes. I also feel every rider should try an adventure bike at least once in their life. They're so fun!
Love the looks of the Africa Twin, and it is a Honda for reliability, fit and finish. And even though they have lowered the seat height, it is still too top heavy for a lot of people. The BMW R1200/1250 GS is just so well balanced, no other bike comes close. For me the big bore GS is still king.
@@Devastator123 No. To be honest, the pan am does not appeal to me, basically because it is on the heavier side of which I would like adventure bikes to venture. The ideal adventure bike for me would be 600 cc along the lines of the new multistrada V2S. Is there something out there that comes clos??
I really hope Honda comes out with a sub 500lb 750cc Adventure bike. I don’t even care if they don’t call it the Trans Alp. I just want them to build it and sell it.
While I agree on what you said on the video I also believe that a different mind set of adventure motorcycle design by the manufacturers can also improve or take a lot of struggle from us short riders, for example the 2024 KTM 790 adventure would be my first choice as an adventure bike right now, it has the fuel tanks very low on the side of the engine helping the put the C/G very low, the seat height adjustable to 32 inches which is pretty good, and I might be wrong but it may also be lighter than the AT, it has also very good ground clearance and equally capable if not better in offroad situations.
I had an opportunity to ride a KTM 790. That fuel tank design is brilliant. So balanced with that heavy fuel weight slung low. It is definitely lighter than the Africa Twin by about 100lbs. It's 100% a great choice for shorter ADV riders and certainly a better choice than the AT if your adventures are off road. the only thing the KTM 790 Adventure R doesn't have is the the reliability reputation the AT has.
are the lower aftermarket springs really gonna take that much away from suspension?? can anyone tell me more about exactly how detrimental that would be?
Like a lot of things in life and motorbikes, the answer isn’t so straightforward. Anytime you reduce the travel and/or the spring rate, the more likely the suspension will bottom out. If you ride rough terrain, such as a gravel road with a lot of washouts, technical off-road, or even a city street with a lot of potholes, a bike with less travel and low spring rate will bottom out in those riding environments more than a bike with more travel and a higher spring rate. Also, when you lower a bike, you lower the ground clearance. A bike with lower ground clearance won’t be as effective off-road than a bike with higher ground clearance. This is why the Africa Twin is WAY better off-road than the new TransAlp. What it comes down to is a rider’s tolerance. If you don’t mind the jarring impact of suspension bottoming out, then it not that bad or if you don’t mind reduced ground clearance, it’s aIso not that bad. Personally, I would rather enjoy the benefits long travel suspension and higher ground clearance and learn the short-person skills needed to ride a taller bike.
@@GreatEgret this is valuable input. Thank you. I’ll mostly be taking a mountain dirt road to and from a cabin. Not too wild but less well finished than most dirt roads. If that transalpine comes out maybe I’ll look at that since I’m not doing too much trail riding. (Yet lol)
I believe anyone, with enough practice, can ride any bike they want. The key is learning how your bike handles with you on it. Shifting your weight to get the best balance and figuring out the best way to put your right foot down are key.
I don’t consider myself short because I’m an American. Iim actually not that short, but I am a short adventure bike rider. It’s not relative to where I live. It’s relative to other riders and those who choose to ride ADV bikes. “Shortness” should not prevent you from riding a tall bike and the companies are not only catering to those over 6 feet. I talk about s as lol this in the video.
@@GreatEgret I did watch the video, thanks a lot for your response. I am definitely referring here shortness in American cultural context. Actually I am 5'7'', from India and moved to the US 10 yrs ago at 26.I never has any stigma around height until I moves to the US where guys under 5'11'' are considered on the shorter side; and, everyone wants to be 6'2''. Somehow there is a height privilege. Unfortunately this metal conditioning has creeped into product design and manufacturing, where, if you are a male less than 5'86', you will have hard time finding products that fit you.
@@MrTeslaX You’re right. We do have this weird complex about height here in the US and it does impact product development, but tall adventure bikes are not tall because it’s designed for tall riders. I mentioned in the video, it’s for comfort and off-road performance, not because it’s designed for tall riders. There’s a reason riders want an Africa Twin over a CB500X. It’s off-road capability and long distance comfort, not because it’s a taller bike.
I’m 5 10 and I was about to buy a 1290 adv r. It wasn’t just the fact that I couldn’t flat foot the bike it was also this awesome, huge, fat tank and very heavy bike! I thought… how am I going to cross country this behemoth? What if it falls? What if I’m trying to climb a steep hill? Then I slip on rocks and I can’t flat foot it and it starts sliding backwards! NO! This bike is for 6.7, 160 kilo men or women! Not for me! I’m probably going to buy the Africa twin! It’s lighter it’s not so high and it looks like you can throw it around a little bit! Not as easy to throw around as a t700 but it’s going to be better on the hwy!
Are you mad? Africa twin and KTM 1290R are not rivals, the 1290 is in another class, the Africa twin rivals are mid weight adventure bikes, F860gs, Norden 901, tiger 900, KTM 890 and it doesn't do too well against them
Nope. Not mad. I never said they were rivals. What I did say I that this is an adventure bike shootout for me to determine the best bike for my needs and riding style. What do you mean the AT “doesn’t do well against” the KTM 1290? Does do well at what?! That answer depends on what you’re looking for out a bike. This is why this video and the series it is part of is about my needs and riding style. If I’m considering all theses bikes, I’m going to compare them.
I'm 6'4" with a 38" inseam. I definitely think that adventure bikes are just about the right height. In fact, I'd like a tall seat option on my Africa Twin. My knees are quite bent while seated, not as much as on a sport bike, but close. With my stock seat in the higher position, my feet are flat on the ground and my knees have a significant bend to them. Too much in this world is set up for short, or average people. Adventure bikes are really the only thing that caters to us taller folks without significant modification. :>)
You’re not wrong about this. It is 100% an average height person’s world. I see a bicycle helmet in your photo. Gravel? MTB? Road? I feel it’s definitely an average height rider’s world in the cycling community. The only time it would have been beneficial for me to be your height was during the severe supply chain shortage and the the only frames available were 60mm and above. 😀
In the world of tall bikes. It’s relative to those that choose to ride tall bikes, not to everyone in the world. I’m short compared to most tall bike ADV riders.
Im 5.9 with 32 inch inseam and i have a yam tenere 700 with is notoriously tall and top heavy, i use a low seat when im off solo with no luggage and put on the standard when i have a pillion and luggage.. i also dump the Sag on the rear shock a fair bit so it lowers under my 160lb frame xD.. its not easy but its still fun to ride. i Can put the both feet down on the balls with decent size boots, with low Sag and a bit of weight on the back almost flat foot one side.. fun of being a shortass.
What do you think? Do you feel the challenge of riding a tall ADV bike is worth it? Here is the link to the video on how to use the TFT display: ruclips.net/video/2n_fDKl8uLM/видео.html Like What you watched? Support Me: koji.to/k/6F4i
Here is my 2 cents worth. I think that manufactures need to reconsider how they make their ADV bikes. Yes I get why they are tall, but that it cool for those planning to do some technical riding. I think that most people never will. For me traveling the back country roads of Central and South America is pretty much it. I have a Tenere 700 and I am 5’ 8”. I have no problem handling the bike on flat streets even though I am in my tors when I stop, but those of us who ride internationally and I imagine those who do sone off roading, often deal with streets and terrain that is not leveled and smooth. I’ve been living in Tijuana, Mexico for over a year now. A lot of Tijuana is nothing but hills. Some very steep stuff. Not only are the streets steep but they are deeps and potholes and sometimes even loose gravel. There is one hill that if you have to stop going up, you better use the rear break to hold the bike in place because if you use the front wheel it will lock and drag as the bike rolls backwards. You need to use the rear bake to put the weigh of the bike on the rear wheel. Restarting is super tricky. I know, it happened to me. Don’t even try it in the rain (I ride rain ir shine). Some streets have a lean at 90 degree angle from your direction of travel. So when you come to a stop at a stop sign, you better make sure that you stop perfectly straight, because if your bikes starts to lean to the downhill side, well, there is nothing but air waiting for your foot. You can slide your butt off the seat, and still not reach the ground. Your bike and you will take a nasty fall downhill and who know where it will stop. That almost happened to me once. I came to a stop a bit too hot and my bike started to tilt downhill, I knew that putting my foot down was 100% useless. There is no way I could had reach the floor. I was lucky that there was no cars going down the street I wanted to cross. So what I did is that I turned the front wheel downhill and gave it gas. The bike went downhill and I rode it off. I am sure that to people watching it might had looked like I intentionally turned downhill. That was not the case. I had to go hone and change my undies after that one, just about. Riding a tall and top heavy bike like the T7 in those hills are nothing but scary and takes every bit of concentration, ability to think fast and find solutions in a split second to something you have never trained for or seen before, and lots and lots of luck. To this day I thank my God that I haven’t fall. My point is that when I see videos of people saying not to lower your bike, or to do sone trick or another (I used to be one of them), in my head ai laugh. It’s obviously that they have been riding mostly in even or fairly even roads. I would like to see them riding in the hills near where I live. There is one street that I don’t dare to go down a bike. Doing it in a car is scary enough. I would have to wear some adult diapers for that one and some good body armor, just in case. By the way, yes, switching to seat there are some compromises, like confort. But I wonder if that is only with manufacture seats. It seems that manufactures don’t put a lot of thought designing seats. It’s more like they just put a seat because they have to, not because they want to. 😂 Which is stupid. But, how about a lower custom made seat. I am thinking about getting the Corbin seat for my bike. It looks like the most confortable there is for my bike. I have a gel seat cover, but even that kills my butt about just an hour or hour and a half of riding. There are two versions of the Corbin seat for my T7, but at 600-700 bucks they are very expensive. I really can’t understand why manufactures do such a lousy job designing the stock seats. May be they want us to spend the money.
In the adventure bike world, if you are below 6’ or your inseam is less than 34”, you’re short. Both are the case here. The video is not for short riders. It’s for those afraid to ride or challenged by taller bikes. Dude, stop being lazy and take time to actually watch the video.
And i can ride the gs 1200 with a low seat no problem did you see the yamaha tenere 700 wow . what is with that . why can they sell the same bikes with low suspention is not that hard . !!!!! No brains . they can sell so many more biker to regular people . !!!
Since you asked so nicely…😂 90% of my viewers use the imperial system. I have stats to back that up. The point of the video is it doesn’t matter how tall a bike is, don’t be intimidated by it. Measurements are useless here no matter system you use.
@@GreatEgret Of course the main and most important thing in your video is the tips you use to ride a tall bike. But that doesn’t mean the numbers, heights and measurements you give aren’t important. In fact it’s very important imo especially for short people who could make comparisons if the system used is universal. RUclips algorithm made me click your video but as soon as I heard that old imperial system I stopped, believe me I can’t be the only one in that case. Too bad I’m sorry numbers are important (I mean numbers I can understand lol) I can’t subscribe to your channel but I gently recommend to open your channel to the metric system, you’ll get so many new subscribers
@davidfromearth1102 as I said, I make a big part of the video that the numbers don’t matter and you shouldn’t be intimidated to ride a tall bike. I know the message of this video because, well, I made it. You spent more time telling me how my video is useless. You could have spent that time actually listening to the message of the video. I don’t care about subscribers. I care about community. I know my community, and how to create content for them better than you.
You short guys better ride some scooters and leave adventure bikes for tall men .There is nothing more pathetic than a short guy on a huge adventure bike. It looks just funny .
You mean like this: ruclips.net/video/zYp1zXyc0fA/видео.html Yeah, short riders are way more badass. They don't need to criticize other riders to make themselves feel better when they don't have the skills, like you. They show their skills on the bike.
That’s actually pretty funny. Buuuut… you can’t buy the skills to ride a bike. The analogy is more about working together with the bike like you work together in a relationship with the girl of your dream.
I’m a woman who is 4’11” with a 25” inseam and I ride a Kawasaki Versys 650 and a KLR 650. My Versys came at stock height of 33”, I lowered the bike with lowering links and shaved my seat to get the height to 29”. Once you get the techniques down to mount and dismount, it is very doable. Yes, I have to watch where I stop and I need to get off and manually push the bike to get it into a good parking spot but this bike is a pure joy to ride. I put about 20,000km on her last summer and looking to do at least another 30,000km this season.
I love this! So badass! Especially so because you describe riding it as a “pure joy”.
Hurrah! Yes! a kindred spirit.
I'm also 4'11' 25" inseam.
I'm 66 now (bloke) and still ride a GSR750.
Everything you say is bang on. Even lowered, it's one tip toe even if the video advise is followed. I've done 50 years on a bike like this.
It's really slow speed stuff where a tumble can come, depending on the camber of the road. As you will know sometimes a left footed stop is impossible if the road camber is steep.
You get my vote, I understand completely the snags that you are dealing with...
It can be done though!!
Bravo!
I wonder. I'm 5'4". The inseam is measured on pants. My jean's inseam measure 26" after a visit to the tailor. If you don't have a tailor, you may not be that short. My leg inseam is about 29", depending on where I start measuring from my low hanging fruit. I bought a KLR650 and planned to get a lowering kit. But that would have compromised it's clearance, not good. It was like a Three Stooges routine to watch me take off and stop on that bike. If I put the side stand up to mount the bike and leaned it over enough for me to get a leg over it, I couldn't get it upright. If I mounted it with the side stand down, I had to push it up right with my left leg then quickly shift my arss to the other side so my right leg could stop the bike from falling on its right side. But the side stand is still down and my left leg can't reach the side stand to bring it up. So I would shift to the left so that I could reach it but now the weight is on the side stand again and I can't bring it up though I can reach it. The dance I came up with was dangerous without it being laden down... So I bought a DR650! I'd like to see the RUclips video of someone even shorter than I dealing with the side stand issue. Let me know if you make one!
It sounds like the Roy Rogers technique would be a good idea for you. This is where you flip the stand up, put your left foot on the left peg, begin pulling on the throttle, and as the bike starts moving all in one motion swing your right leg over the bike. It 25° in Wisconsin now, but as soon as it’s warm enough to ride, I’ll do a video on this.
Right on! I am also 4’11” looking to buy my first adventure bike. I am SO excited to get out there and hit some dirt.
I’m 5’6” with a 28” inseam. My bike-the 2021 Africa Twin base model, not the AS with ES. I utilize the factory low seat in the lowest position. I can tippy-toe both feet, or flat-foot one foot. I dang sure have to think ahead at stoplights, in parking lots, at gas stations, etc. But I absolutely love the bike and I gain confidence each time I go out. My dream bike has always been the BMW R1250 GS, and I intend to have one in the near future, but for now, the Africa Twin has exceeded all my expectations and I’m really enjoying riding it. Thanks for sharing your perspective.
It's definitely a different experience than bikes with lower seat heights. Like you, the AT has exceeded my expectations and it'll be awhile until I find another bike that I love this much. The R1250 GSA might be the only one that would win me over. Thanks for watching!
I feel your pain, I’m 5’7 with 28” inseam.
Yup, 5'6" also. I own a 2021 ATAS Manual. Go to GS and you need to bring more wrench.
Thanks for that info I'm 57 and 29 inseam but got some lbs to squish but was wondering about that.
For the first 20 years of riding, at 5’7” I avoided dirt and adv bikes because I just figured I was too short….
Finally gave it a try and it’s a total nothingburger. My 690 smc-r has a 35” seat height and never had a problem. Can’t believe it took me so long!
Reading comments, people you are not short! I'm 5' 4" with a 29" inseam
wow, I'm jealous, I'm 5' 4" also but only 24" inseam. I've resorted to riding sportsers because of the skinny seat and low seat height so I can be flat footed at a stop. I could ride a larger cruiser but the saddles are sow wide I'm left feeling very inadequate and unsure when stopping. PS: Finding pants the fit is impossible!😉
1,58m (+/- 5'3) with 70,5cm (+/- 27") and I'm looking into getting my riding license and got into the vortex of "let's find out tips and tricks for riding tall bikes!". And then, I watch the video (edit: any given vídeo, not this one in particular) to be told at the end the presenter is 15cm taller than me.
"I can barely tip tip on an African Twins" - dude, my feet float if I sit on that motorcycle! Just like a 6yo sitting on a mountain bike.
😂😅
I lowered my AT with the HyperPro Spring set for a reduction of .25 mm, and I am also using a single piece Seat Concepts seat to round out the setup. So far it is working great. The springs also helped stop what I thought was excessive front dive during braking.
Buy the harley Pan-American. It lowers when you come to a stop and rise when you take off. Fantastic handling bike. Ii was amazed. The harley is my next bike.
2md BMW
3rd Triumph
Honda
That’s if the ARH on the Pan America actually works and if the bike actually runs. It’s an adventure bike that should be capable of riding around the world. The Pan America can’t even make it around the block. I have four videos on my experience with the Pan America. It’s the worst bike I have ever owned. The challenge of riding a tall bike is part of what makes riding fun. It will be a long time until I find a bike I love at much as the Africa Twin.
As someone who is 6’8 the AT has been an amazing bike to accommodate me. Hope Honda never changes it!
It’s the best bike I’ve ever ridden.
How's the weather up there?
I'm a relatively short dude at 5'7" and have decided most adv bikes are too tall for me to ride comfortably. If it is a light dual sport, I'm fine but once the weight of the bike gets up there, the height of the bike becomes a safety issue so I opt not to deal with the issue. I'd rather ride a dual sport off road than muscle a 500lb SUV anyway.
I've always thought that a taller person telling a shorter person to just get used to it is nonsense. The taller person should just add 8 inches to their seat on their already tall bike and see if they can just get used to it. It's not so easy and the height is a real issue to us short people.
BTW, I just picked up a Lowrider S yesterday. I'm really looking forward to more vids of yours in the future.
At 5'9", I'm definitely not tall. I'm sorry if I made it seem like I was saying that shorter riders should just get used to taller bikes. My intent was to give shorter riders that have a desire to ride tall bikes, or on the fence about riding them, some tips to make it easier.
I'm 5'7 with a 29 inch inseam and I ride a Suzuki vstrom 650 with a 32 inch seat ht. I'm able to easily flat foot with my left foot while keeping my right foot on the peg/brake. Sometimes I have to move my butt over slightly to accomplish this but overall it's easy. I love the bike.
As a shorter rider, the challenge of riding these taller bikes makes me love it more.
@@GreatEgret i don't know how 5'9 is short, there everyone must be as tall as the empire state building... I'd consided 5'9 medium, maybe even closer to tall. I'm 5'5, i consider myself medium-short. This also depends on the average height on where you live, i guess, but here it's around 173cm for men, which is around 5'7 if I'm not mistaken.
When I created this video, I expected this to be a helpful tool for anyone feeling challenged by a tall adventure bike. I didn’t expect a debate about the description of my height, but here goes: It’s not based on the average height of everyone in the world, your country, city, or even five of your best friends. Any rider that can’t flatfoot a bike with both feet is short for the bike, regardless of how tall the rider is.
Great video. Yes, they are tall. It really comes down to not feeling the need to put down BOTH feet. Just one our the other. On my Tiger 800 I had to tip toe even with one foot, taught me some great balance control but I was always nervous. The Tiger 900 center of gravity is lower, and the bike is about 3/4” lower too. That was enough for me. I can flat foot my left and that is good enough. A tip for making sure the weight ends up on the left, always turn left a little and use front brake for that last little stop - it will move the weight forward and left. Then straighten bars while at a stop.
Occasionally you will end up off camber and and have no chance to touch. Slide a butt cheek off and rotate your right hip a bit. You WILL get the left foot down, even if the right is dangling. Use that front brake to keep the bike stopped in that case.
I will say that riding adventure bikes now makes me never nervous on anything else. If you can ride and control the weight it will make you a more confident rider on other bikes. And yes, the super high ride height is awesome. I can look into SUVs while riding because I am higher, and you can stand on the pegs and see over almost anything other than a semi.
Man, I love this community. Such great tips! Thanks Jason. While recording the ride part of this video, I was next to a van and thought how great it is to see over nearly every vehicle on the road while riding my AT!
I fully agree and i do the same practice on my AT 2019 stock model, but this is in situations where everything goes normal and smoothly, the problem is your body position is set up to lean on the left and suddenly you are in situation for some reason the bike has leaned on the opposite side and you right foot is already dangling in the air or stretched to the max on the right foot peg... and the free fall will happen then , ahhhh (happened to me twice during that last two years on the AT) it is really bad and nothing you can do about it, just wait until you hit the ground
happened to me one time at a slippery floor in a gas station where i was about to park and suddenly the front wheel slipped a little bit, and one touch on the right side would have stabled the bike but unfortunately my left legs was already on the floor and no control the right side :(
5'7", I ride the older Adventure sports (2019). I use the low seat on its high setting when I commute and usually the standard seat on other rides. I have to hang off the seat a fair bit. It takes some practice but it becomes easier. Thanks for the video.
I rarely used the low seat, so I sold it. I like the standard seat in the high position because it the most comfortable I think. I have to hang off the seat too and like you said, it becomes easier with a bit of practice. Thanks for watching!
Great video, I'm also an average Joe and love the idea of moving on to a big adventure after 20 yrs of Sports bikes. Seems a little less daunting now!
Well look at you being all comfortable on a TALL Adventure Bike!! 😁 Great video as always sir! I also noticed that my “reach” seat on the Pan Am was less than desirable as well compared to the stock seat. I did combat the longer distance discomfort with a Airhawk seat pad. It does raise me about a 1/4-3/8”, but I would rather have comfort over something I can manage like seat height. Thank you for the info my friend, stay safe out there!!!
Dude, I miss riding with you! We gotta make that happen! I'm planning a TW*T ride in April and maybe a long BC/Alaska trip sometime in 2022. I'd love to have you along for the ride.
I just got my dream bike 2022 Africa Twin DCT Sports ES..... I'm 5'8" I can barely tip toe the standard seat. So I purchased the the next lower seat. A lot better, and with your technique, now I feel confident I can tame this beast. LOL.
It’s a fun bike to ride and a lot fun for short people like us to figure out how to ride.
Thank you for filming this
I couldn't flat my last adv bike, so I just used my left foot for stops....as you should anyway. I developed a really good stopping habit, that is optimal anyway.
I compared the tenere with the African twin in the showroom and the yam is off the list ! The Honda wasn’t too bad for my 30” inseam.
I'm 6'2" with a Corbin seat in the low position and I cannot flat foot both feet. My biggest fear is to come to a stop in traffic going up on a hill. It's torture.
lol that measuring the inseam was perfect! Glad you made this video because I am really concerned about not being able to flat foot on the adventure bikes. The Pan America has a nice feature where it lowers the seat a good inch when it comes to a stop. Great video!
Like a lot of things in motorcycling and in life, riding a challenging bike like an adventure bike takes practice. That's what makes it so much fun. That challenge. The PA adaptive ride hight is really nice and I bet it won't be long before other brands have similar tech on their flagship adventure bikes.
I'm 5'5" 158lbs and ride a CB500F comfortably, plus my dirtbike has a 35" seat height. I was surprised to fit on my friends 03 v-strom 650 just as easily.I want an AT so bad, just waiting for the right deal.
The AT is a great bike! It’s so popular, so deals are hard to find. M as my used bike cost nearly as much as new ones.
Great video Joe, they are tall but once you ride them they are not too tall to cope and enjoy.. once you are cruising along they are super comfortable and most off road riding is in a standing position, so I agree with you.. yes they are too tall but it shouldn’t put anyone off because you do very quickly get used too it 👍
How do you get the kickstand up if you can't reach it with the other leg and it doesn't have the little thing to pull with the heel?
Lots of options:
Put it up before you get on and…
1. ride off as you throw your right leg over the bike.
2. Have a friend balance the bike as you get on
3. Practice balancing the bike with the engine off in your yard, driveway, or garage. After awhile you be good enough to balance the bike as you get on with the kickstand up.
I have a short inseam like 29" . At 6' tall my torso is longer than most . My Tenere 700 was just a little tall for me so I had it lowered . Then I got Motoz Tractionator ADV tires and I was back where I started . Did sit on a 2018 Africa Twin and it felt shorter and more comfortable than the Tenere . I like being able to stand on the pegs and scan ahead . Feel safer being taller with the ability to see danger sooner or trail obstacles faster .
I’m 5’10” and I can 95% flat foot my 2021 AT. Love it!
I’m a smidge shorter than you and I keep the seat in the height position all the time because it’s more comfortable with how the foot pegs are setup. I love the AT.
Great video. I’m 5’9 and this is my dream bike.
Thanks! It’s a fun bike to ride!
I have a 33 inch inseam (without shoes), but with shoes (one inch) I can just flat foot a T7 (i weigh 65 kg), but tbh given the top heavy nature of the T7 I wouldn't mind another inch for those "sticky" situations out alone in the bush , or even during low speed traffic weaving.
I agree ... Thank you #!!!!! . finally sombody talks about this problem !!!!!
The problem isn't only being high, but also top heavy. I moved from a T7 to a Super Tenere 1200 and even if the ST is way heavier, it doesnt feel so top heavy. Also lower seat ( adjustable)
My first motorcycle I can only manage to flat foot one foot, and found it forced to develop good habits, using the right foot on the brake while stopped and left foot down.
Learned on and still ride a CB500x with a 32" seat height with a 29"ish inseam. Got used to using one foot and paying some attention if the road is at a tilt and I've had no issues. Can get both balls of my feet (barely) down but am perfectly stable on one leg. Still need to build skills before I think I'd be fully comfortable on something like an AT, but I think it should be doable with the right practice, at least for on road purposes.
I love this attitude towards bikes, building skills, and practice.
I love what you said. If you a dream girl that is 3 inches taller than you, you will adjust yourself to adapt......and enjoy the ride.😁
Thanks man! This was a fun video to make.
6'2" 32" inseam. I got my ktm 1190 adventure r in a trade with an aftermarket seat that puts the seat height at 38". Once you learn how to do it then you will be able to ride tall bikes just fine.
Unless you’re Shaq, ain’t nobody gonna flat foot a bike with a 38” seat height. Kudos for riding that bike with that seat height!
At 6'1" it's not usually an issue but the adaptive ride height on the PAS I can flat foot with bent knees at a stop. Nice ride Joe!!
Thanks! That ARH is genius. I wouldn't be surprised if you see it on other brands soon.
I'm 5 feet 4 inches I don't like most of the smaller bikes this was helpful
I’m glad it helped out, man!
Great if you are living/riding on the flat. Maybe you should do a follow up in the hills with lots of off cambers.
You’re 100% right. This video is for those that are afraid to get onto an ADV bike because of their height. Off road techniques are best left to Chris Birch and Jimmy Lewis and not the likes of me.
@@GreatEgret I was thinking more on road as where i live is very hilly and the off cambers at junctions particularly can be extremely difficult on these ADV's. Even more road focussed bikes seem to be getting higher and higher.
If you’re in motion and you can reach the pegs, bike height doesn’t play into that. Especially ADV bikes with a low center of gravity. The managing your balance, keeping your right foot on the peg while dropping your left foot, and putting weight on the suspension tips I suggest in this video would still apply in any road riding environment.
I'm 6ft6, all adventure bikes are to small. Stop complaining: beds, cars, seats, tables, are YOUR size. You don't hear me complain everything is to small, now so ya. So put a sock in it!
I’m actually not complaining about anything. This video is useful information for shorter riders that may be interested in riding bikes that they may consider too tall for them.
I use these techniques on a DR650 with the stock seat height. The DR is admittedly not as tall as a stock AT but at 5'8" with a 30" inseam I always thought the Suzuki would be too tall until I learned that you don't need to flat foot. Moving forward to the narrow part of the seat and shifting ever so slightly to the side at a stop and I've got a foot planted firm on the ground. Another tip is to slightly drag the rear brake when starting off from a stop, it seems to add a little stability. I don't feel I would be confident on a 1250GS but the AT I think would be manageable with the seat in the low position and I hope to try one out soon. All that said the DR650 is a lightweight and I don't know if my tricks would work on a heavier bike.
Those are some good tips. I bet you could handle a 1250GS. I’m looking for something more manageable off-road.
Tanks for the video nice editing, I’m 165cm will this bike fits me, africa twin 1100 adventure sports 2023.
Thanks, really helpful. Just to allow comparison - is your 32" measurement down to the floor (outseam) or down to your ankle (inseam)? Thanks.
It’s outseam. Down to the floor with low profile shoes.
@@GreatEgret Thanks 👍
I'm 5.2ft. no idea what my inseem is. Know I've got short legs. These days I ride a Honda Africa Twin from 2019 that isn't lowered. I don't move backwards. I move to the side. That way I get half a foot on the ground when really needed.
Next to the AT I also ride a Suzuki DRZ 400. That one is lowered by replacing the full suspension with custom made ones. Not through the links.
But still need to use the same technique on it as I use on the AT
I would kill to have a 32 inch inseam
With skills and experience, anyone can ride any motorcycle. There are several disadvantages/inconveniences though do deal with too tall and/or too heavy motorcycles. Has anyone stopped and got surprised by a lower ground/hole right where your foot was supposed to land or on a lateraly inclined road? If you have a 30 in inseam or lower...
I couldn’t agree more! Motorcycling, especially on an adventure bike, takes practice to learn how to ride well no matter how short or tall you are.
5’1 and i tried the gs1250 with low suspension and lowered seat i can flat foot both my feet
That’s awesome! Do you ride offroad at all? I’ve never ridden a bike with lowered suspension. How is it in the dirt?
Consider also a rolling mount & dismount - Jocelin Snow shows this one on her R1250GS. She's tiny.
I love watching her ride!
Seems incredibly impractical when riding in town.
Difficult, yes. But not impractical. Just takes practice.
And the newer bikes are too tall for me. I would have to mod them
The bast bike for a shorty is the bmw gs low frame . !!! Thank you bmw . yoy do have brains !!!!!
very good, very positive
I am 6.35 and still its hard to sit or alight but after sitting its easy for me.
Greetings
Excellent video 🇺🇸🍾🎉🇺🇸
Would you provide me with the tank pad and upper faring bar protector links.
Thanks, keep producing more videos.
You bet! Here is the link for the tank pad: shop.powersports.honda.com/p/side-tank-pad
And here is for the upper crash guard: shop.powersports.honda.com/p/light-bar-3?pp=24
Is not the height that I’m concerned with but its the AT high COG.. That’s were the R1250 GS is appealing for me.
Good point. The center of gravity is definitely higher than the GS. Especially with a full tank. Double especially on the Adventures Sports with a that huge 6.5 gallon tank.
I test rode the bmw 850gs and its is a bit challenging in bumper to bumper traffic and taking U-turns in traffic. I am 5.6ft and 860 seat height in traffic is definitely not for me. Still haven’t figured out what bike to buy and what the seat height should be for me so it doesn’t feel scary in traffic and congestion ? 😢
I know it’s a bigger bike, but the adjustable ride height on the Pan America seems like a good fit for you.
So at 5'5" all adventure bikes are no go for me.
Then you have us 5 ft 7 guys who think your a giant.
5’9” is not short. I’m 5’1”. Technique is the key to riding tall bikes.
Technique is exactly what I talk about and demonstrate in this very video.
@@GreatEgret yep. Good video.
Like how you think, you’re vertically challenged with a 32” inseam. That’s more like the norm. Try having a 28” inseam and then talk about putting a foot down on an off camber road or trail.
There’s a lot of viewers on here telling me what I am or am not. What I’m experiencing vs. what I know I’m experiencing. Leave that stuff alone and take this video for what it’s intended and useful for: a helpful tool and encouragement for those that are interested in tall adventure bikes, but are a bit intimidated by their height.
I’m other words: this video is not about me.
@@GreatEgret it was meant as a joke mate, as you have a much longer inseam than many of us shorter riders. But you seem to have taken it as an attack on yourself and your video. Perhaps you’ve had a humour bypass or something. Either way no need to get in a strop. The video was helpful unlike your response.
Brother, I’m not upset. I wish you could hear the tone that was intended I’m my reply. It wasn’t an attack on you. I believe it was a helpful comment because I think it’s important to take the focus off of me and back on the video.
Hello Joe. My 06 KLR 650 is tall, but my friends XR650L is really tall!
I am 6'1", 230 lbs. I put 1 inch lowering links on the shock. Slid forks up in triple tree 1 inch.
Yeah, it compromised its capabilities, but I am 61 years old and no Malcom Smith.
But...fun factor still 100%.
In my entire life, I'll never have the skills Malcom Smith has in his 70s. Fun factor is the MOST important factor!
Why not make it that you can adjust the gas 2 “ lower in the computer??
When your 5,7. They are too tall. At least for me.
Maybe. Depends on your riding goals. My inseam barely reaches 32". If I have on thick riding pants, like the Klim ones I'm wearing in this video, I bet my inseam drops to no higher than 30.5". I give a few tips near end of this video on how short riders can handle these amazing bikes. I also feel every rider should try an adventure bike at least once in their life. They're so fun!
I'm 5'4 got 28 inseam & ride stock klr 34 inch seat crf250l 34 seat hieght Himalayan think was lowest 31-32?
That’s really cool! I bet you love every minute on each of those bikes. I just bought a CRF300L yesterday. It’s a great bike.
Love the looks of the Africa Twin, and it is a Honda for reliability, fit and finish. And even though they have lowered the seat height, it is still too top heavy for a lot of people. The BMW R1200/1250 GS is just so well balanced, no other bike comes close. For me the big bore GS is still king.
Have you ridden the new Pan Am?
I just bought one a month ago. Nearly 1000 miles on it already.
@@Devastator123 No. To be honest, the pan am does not appeal to me, basically because it is on the heavier side of which I would like adventure bikes to venture. The ideal adventure bike for me would be 600 cc along the lines of the new multistrada V2S. Is there something out there that comes clos??
@@davidmallia628 I hear ya! A lot of people like the smaller bikes for off-road. 👍
I really hope Honda comes out with a sub 500lb 750cc Adventure bike. I don’t even care if they don’t call it the Trans Alp. I just want them to build it and sell it.
You had me till you said you're short at 5 9 lol
I'm 5 5 and I don't reach the bottom of my v str 650 and it's not even that tall lol
Anything below 6’ is short In the adventure bike world.
@@GreatEgret I think in America in general 😄
@@renano95 ha! Too true😂.
you have africa twin also and a pan america as well ?
I sadly no longer have the Africa Twin.
Nice vid
Thanks, bro
While I agree on what you said on the video I also believe that a different mind set of adventure motorcycle design by the manufacturers can also improve or take a lot of struggle from us short riders, for example the 2024 KTM 790 adventure would be my first choice as an adventure bike right now, it has the fuel tanks very low on the side of the engine helping the put the C/G very low, the seat height adjustable to 32 inches which is pretty good, and I might be wrong but it may also be lighter than the AT, it has also very good ground clearance and equally capable if not better in offroad situations.
I had an opportunity to ride a KTM 790. That fuel tank design is brilliant. So balanced with that heavy fuel weight slung low. It is definitely lighter than the Africa Twin by about 100lbs. It's 100% a great choice for shorter ADV riders and certainly a better choice than the AT if your adventures are off road. the only thing the KTM 790 Adventure R doesn't have is the the reliability reputation the AT has.
are the lower aftermarket springs really gonna take that much away from suspension?? can anyone tell me more about exactly how detrimental that would be?
Like a lot of things in life and motorbikes, the answer isn’t so straightforward. Anytime you reduce the travel and/or the spring rate, the more likely the suspension will bottom out. If you ride rough terrain, such as a gravel road with a lot of washouts, technical off-road, or even a city street with a lot of potholes, a bike with less travel and low spring rate will bottom out in those riding environments more than a bike with more travel and a higher spring rate.
Also, when you lower a bike, you lower the ground clearance. A bike with lower ground clearance won’t be as effective off-road than a bike with higher ground clearance. This is why the Africa Twin is WAY better off-road than the new TransAlp.
What it comes down to is a rider’s tolerance. If you don’t mind the jarring impact of suspension bottoming out, then it not that bad or if you don’t mind reduced ground clearance, it’s aIso not that bad. Personally, I would rather enjoy the benefits long travel suspension and higher ground clearance and learn the short-person skills needed to ride a taller bike.
@@GreatEgret this is valuable input. Thank you. I’ll mostly be taking a mountain dirt road to and from a cabin. Not too wild but less well finished than most dirt roads. If that transalpine comes out maybe I’ll look at that since I’m not doing too much trail riding. (Yet lol)
Goddamn the imperial units. WTF is 3/4 of an inch? How am i supposed to picture that? :D Both the GS adventure and AT are about 82 cm tall.
Yeah, I agree we’re a little backwards. The metric system is so much better in so many ways. 3/4 inch is about 19 mm.
Im 5'7" with 30" inseam without shoes...will it be ok for any adv bike?
I believe anyone, with enough practice, can ride any bike they want. The key is learning how your bike handles with you on it. Shifting your weight to get the best balance and figuring out the best way to put your right foot down are key.
I would absolutely not telling a fine looking dame that is a solid 3" to F off HAHAHAHA That would just be ruuuuuuddeee!
Only in America a 5'9'' guy will be considered short. It's a shame that most of the bike companies which are from Japan cater to 6 foot+ riders!
I don’t consider myself short because I’m an American. Iim actually not that short, but I am a short adventure bike rider. It’s not relative to where I live. It’s relative to other riders and those who choose to ride ADV bikes. “Shortness” should not prevent you from riding a tall bike and the companies are not only catering to those over 6 feet. I talk about s as lol this in the video.
@@GreatEgret I did watch the video, thanks a lot for your response. I am definitely referring here shortness in American cultural context. Actually I am 5'7'', from India and moved to the US 10 yrs ago at 26.I never has any stigma around height until I moves to the US where guys under 5'11'' are considered on the shorter side; and, everyone wants to be 6'2''. Somehow there is a height privilege. Unfortunately this metal conditioning has creeped into product design and manufacturing, where, if you are a male less than 5'86', you will have hard time finding products that fit you.
@@MrTeslaX You’re right. We do have this weird complex about height here in the US and it does impact product development, but tall adventure bikes are not tall because it’s designed for tall riders. I mentioned in the video, it’s for comfort and off-road performance, not because it’s designed for tall riders. There’s a reason riders want an Africa Twin over a CB500X. It’s off-road capability and long distance comfort, not because it’s a taller bike.
LOL OMG 10lbs wieght gain, yep me exactly lol.
Story of my life during Covid. Still trying to work it off 😂
I’m 5 10 and I was about to buy a 1290 adv r. It wasn’t just the fact that I couldn’t flat foot the bike it was also this awesome, huge, fat tank and very heavy bike! I thought… how am I going to cross country this behemoth? What if it falls? What if I’m trying to climb a steep hill? Then I slip on rocks and I can’t flat foot it and it starts sliding backwards! NO! This bike is for 6.7, 160 kilo men or women! Not for me! I’m probably going to buy the Africa twin! It’s lighter it’s not so high and it looks like you can throw it around a little bit! Not as easy to throw around as a t700 but it’s going to be better on the hwy!
The Africa Twin is only 3 kg lighter than the 1290 Super Adventure R.
@@GreatEgret wot! Looks like a moped for me!
28" here.
No problem! You can ride any bike you want! 👍✌️
They're all fine to ride until you have to stop on a pothole or camber, then over you go! Just not worth the stress and anxiety they bring.
Yeah, that makes sense. You need to feel safe what you’re riding. What are you riding now?
come on dont aay 5'9 is a short height what about us 5'4 height?😭
Are you mad? Africa twin and KTM 1290R are not rivals, the 1290 is in another class, the Africa twin rivals are mid weight adventure bikes, F860gs, Norden 901, tiger 900, KTM 890 and it doesn't do too well against them
Nope. Not mad. I never said they were rivals. What I did say I that this is an adventure bike shootout for me to determine the best bike for my needs and riding style. What do you mean the AT “doesn’t do well against” the KTM 1290? Does do well at what?! That answer depends on what you’re looking for out a bike. This is why this video and the series it is part of is about my needs and riding style. If I’m considering all theses bikes, I’m going to compare them.
No point . nobody ever goes over a 12" log . !
Nothing impossible.
Too true!
Yes man that is my questuon why adventire bikes are so dam tall !!!! Are going over a 100 foot tree. Wy !!!!!!
I'm 6'4" with a 38" inseam. I definitely think that adventure bikes are just about the right height. In fact, I'd like a tall seat option on my Africa
Twin. My knees are quite bent while seated, not as much as on a sport bike, but close. With my stock seat in the higher position, my feet are flat on the ground and my knees have a significant bend to them. Too much in this world is set up for short, or average people. Adventure bikes are really the only thing that caters to us taller folks without significant modification. :>)
You’re not wrong about this. It is 100% an average height person’s world. I see a bicycle helmet in your photo. Gravel? MTB? Road? I feel it’s definitely an average height rider’s world in the cycling community. The only time it would have been beneficial for me to be your height was during the severe supply chain shortage and the the only frames available were 60mm and above. 😀
5.9 is short bro the world average height is 5.6 so compared to you most of us are dwarfq
32" in seam.........3" longer than me and I ride ans ATAS no problem
Nice!
To bad they've already discontinued it
What was discontinued?
Now try being 6'6" and riding a sports bike. 😂
in what world is 5'9 a shortie? holland? lol
In the world of tall bikes. It’s relative to those that choose to ride tall bikes, not to everyone in the world. I’m short compared to most tall bike ADV riders.
When is the world gonna figure out that one’s height is near irrelevant. It’s your inseam length that determines the reach on a motorcycle. Duh!
Yup. That’s why I measured my inseam in this video.
asik kita nonton motor mahal
WTF is inches????
Ha! An arcane unit of measurement for those of us too dumb to use the metric system. 😀
Lol every guy commenting is like 5ft7... Then there's me at 5ft4 and just bought a Yam Tracer
Solid choice for a do it all bike. Low seat height and easy on the wallet too!
Im 5.9 with 32 inch inseam and i have a yam tenere 700 with is notoriously tall and top heavy, i use a low seat when im off solo with no luggage and put on the standard when i have a pillion and luggage.. i also dump the Sag on the rear shock a fair bit so it lowers under my 160lb frame xD.. its not easy but its still fun to ride.
i Can put the both feet down on the balls with decent size boots, with low Sag and a bit of weight on the back almost flat foot one side.. fun of being a shortass.
Yes they are way too tall . no reason for that . !!!!! Is fullysh
What do you think? Do you feel the challenge of riding a tall ADV bike is worth it?
Here is the link to the video on how to use the TFT display: ruclips.net/video/2n_fDKl8uLM/видео.html
Like What you watched? Support Me: koji.to/k/6F4i
Here is my 2 cents worth. I think that manufactures need to reconsider how they make their ADV bikes. Yes I get why they are tall, but that it cool for those planning to do some technical riding. I think that most people never will. For me traveling the back country roads of Central and South America is pretty much it.
I have a Tenere 700 and I am 5’ 8”. I have no problem handling the bike on flat streets even though I am in my tors when I stop, but those of us who ride internationally and I imagine those who do sone off roading, often deal with streets and terrain that is not leveled and smooth.
I’ve been living in Tijuana, Mexico for over a year now. A lot of Tijuana is nothing but hills. Some very steep stuff. Not only are the streets steep but they are deeps and potholes and sometimes even loose gravel.
There is one hill that if you have to stop going up, you better use the rear break to hold the bike in place because if you use the front wheel it will lock and drag as the bike rolls backwards. You need to use the rear bake to put the weigh of the bike on the rear wheel. Restarting is super tricky. I know, it happened to me. Don’t even try it in the rain (I ride rain ir shine).
Some streets have a lean at 90 degree angle from your direction of travel. So when you come to a stop at a stop sign, you better make sure that you stop perfectly straight, because if your bikes starts to lean to the downhill side, well, there is nothing but air waiting for your foot. You can slide your butt off the seat, and still not reach the ground. Your bike and you will take a nasty fall downhill and who know where it will stop.
That almost happened to me once. I came to a stop a bit too hot and my bike started to tilt downhill, I knew that putting my foot down was 100% useless. There is no way I could had reach the floor. I was lucky that there was no cars going down the street I wanted to cross. So what I did is that I turned the front wheel downhill and gave it gas. The bike went downhill and I rode it off. I am sure that to people watching it might had looked like I intentionally turned downhill. That was not the case. I had to go hone and change my undies after that one, just about.
Riding a tall and top heavy bike like the T7 in those hills are nothing but scary and takes every bit of concentration, ability to think fast and find solutions in a split second to something you have never trained for or seen before, and lots and lots of luck. To this day I thank my God that I haven’t fall.
My point is that when I see videos of people saying not to lower your bike, or to do sone trick or another (I used to be one of them), in my head ai laugh. It’s obviously that they have been riding mostly in even or fairly even roads. I would like to see them riding in the hills near where I live. There is one street that I don’t dare to go down a bike. Doing it in a car is scary enough. I would have to wear some adult diapers for that one and some good body armor, just in case.
By the way, yes, switching to seat there are some compromises, like confort. But I wonder if that is only with manufacture seats. It seems that manufactures don’t put a lot of thought designing seats. It’s more like they just put a seat because they have to, not because they want to. 😂 Which is stupid. But, how about a lower custom made seat. I am thinking about getting the Corbin seat for my bike. It looks like the most confortable there is for my bike. I have a gel seat cover, but even that kills my butt about just an hour or hour and a half of riding. There are two versions of the Corbin seat for my T7, but at 600-700 bucks they are very expensive. I really can’t understand why manufactures do such a lousy job designing the stock seats. May be they want us to spend the money.
Tt
Video for short riders. Dude in the video “I am 5’9”. You are not short bro 🙄
In the adventure bike world, if you are below 6’ or your inseam is less than 34”, you’re short. Both are the case here. The video is not for short riders. It’s for those afraid to ride or challenged by taller bikes. Dude, stop being lazy and take time to actually watch the video.
And i can ride the gs 1200 with a low seat no problem did you see the yamaha tenere 700 wow . what is with that . why can they sell the same bikes with low suspention is not that hard . !!!!! No brains . they can sell so many more biker to regular people . !!!
It's not to tall your to short.......
Uh, yeah. The Title says I’m short.
@@GreatEgret tall bikes are only tall when your getting on and off and stopping .🤣
Uh, yeah. Watch the video. I talk about that.
Useless video for 80% of the viewers including me as u don't use the metric system
Since you asked so nicely…😂
90% of my viewers use the imperial system. I have stats to back that up.
The point of the video is it doesn’t matter how tall a bike is, don’t be intimidated by it. Measurements are useless here no matter system you use.
@@GreatEgret Of course the main and most important thing in your video is the tips you use to ride a tall bike. But that doesn’t mean the numbers, heights and measurements you give aren’t important. In fact it’s very important imo especially for short people who could make comparisons if the system used is universal. RUclips algorithm made me click your video but as soon as I heard that old imperial system I stopped, believe me I can’t be the only one in that case. Too bad I’m sorry numbers are important (I mean numbers I can understand lol) I can’t subscribe to your channel but I gently recommend to open your channel to the metric system, you’ll get so many new subscribers
@davidfromearth1102 as I said, I make a big part of the video that the numbers don’t matter and you shouldn’t be intimidated to ride a tall bike. I know the message of this video because, well, I made it. You spent more time telling me how my video is useless. You could have spent that time actually listening to the message of the video. I don’t care about subscribers. I care about community. I know my community, and how to create content for them better than you.
@@GreatEgret ok if you don’t care about subscribers sorry for my dumb comments then. Have a great ride
You short guys better ride some scooters and leave adventure bikes for tall men .There is nothing more pathetic than a short guy on a huge adventure bike. It looks just funny .
You mean like this: ruclips.net/video/zYp1zXyc0fA/видео.html
Yeah, short riders are way more badass. They don't need to criticize other riders to make themselves feel better when they don't have the skills, like you. They show their skills on the bike.
Ill make the girl of my dreams love me.. all she will take is 20% down and $499 month for 60 months
That’s actually pretty funny.
Buuuut… you can’t buy the skills to ride a bike. The analogy is more about working together with the bike like you work together in a relationship with the girl of your dream.