7 Best Motorcycles for Tall Riders (2024) + Seat Height Matters?

If you’re a tall rider shopping for a motorcycle, it’s essential to consider your height. While most bikes are designed to fit the average rider, those over 6 feet tall may struggle to find a suitable option.

Like most products on the market today, motorcycles are designed with an “average” in mind for their riders. This ensures that the motorcycles that make it to production will fit the vast majority of people without any issues. However, riders over 6 feet tall don’t fall into that average, and as a result, it can be challenging to find a bike to accommodate them. 

While there are certain modifications that can be made to most motorcycles in order to better fit their owners, they are ultimately aftermarket options that can be difficult to install or simply not be what the rider in question is looking for. Fortunately, there are plenty of sports bikes on the market today in every style that can accommodate taller riders. From adventure bikes to cruisers, we’ve done the research to find 7 of the very best bikes that tall riders are sure to love.

Top Pick

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

The KTM Super Adventure R is our selection for the top of the list – with several industry-leading features and top-of-the-line performance. Read ahead for a full breakdown and more great options!

The Best Motorcycles for Tall Riders in 2024:

Here is a list of the motorcycles for tall riders: 

#1: KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

For tall riders looking for the very best both on and off-road style, KTM delivers with the brilliant 1290 Super Adventure R. This dual sport offering brings together KTM’s proven track record of quality construction with advanced technology for a package that dominates trails and highways alike. Utilizing such features as lean-sensitive ABS and adjustable riding modes for a variety of surfaces, this bike is also designed to inspire confidence in its rider. 

For taller riders in particular, the KTM brings a seat height of just under 35” as well as adjustable handlebars and foot pegs. The ergonomics of the sports bike are designed with comfort in mind, even for long journeys across difficult terrain. 

VERDICT: Best Overall

This adventure sports bike offers the best features and adjustability. KTM is known for their high-quality construction and innovative technology, and the 1290 Super Adventure R continues that long tradition. For more information on the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R and to locate a dealer check out their official website here. 

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#2: Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

A retro-styled icon loaded with modern-day equipment, Triumph’s Scrambler is a terrific option for tall riders that are looking for a more classic style without sacrificing the advances in engineering and technology of modern bikes. The Scrambler is equipped with a 1,200cc parallel-twin engine that offers exceptional performance, adjustable shocks for a custom riding feel, and several riding assists, including traction control and 6 different riding modes for confidence-inspiring control. you can count this as the best middleweight sports bike.

This motorcycle is more than just style, though. Designed to be multipurpose, the Scrambler is at home on both tarmac and dirt. Combined with the advanced assist options and adjustable suspension, this makes for a motorcycle that really can be whatever the rider needs it to be. With a 34” seat height and narrow frame, this bike also provides a classically styled option that riders with long legs will be able to enjoy. 

VERDICT: Best Classic

The styling of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE is the main draw of the bike, and it is an excellent throwback to the motorcycles of yesteryear without sacrificing modern technology. With a 34” seat height, the Scrambler is a particularly good choice for taller riders, and the narrow frame provides some extreme leg room. For more information on the Scrambler 1200 XE, including the special “Chrome Edition” check out Triumph’s official website here. 

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#3: Ducati Multistrada V4

Fans of Italian artistry and power will appreciate this offering from Ducati. The Granturismo V4 engine offers 170 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque for outrageously strong performance. This generation of Multistrada has also been revamped to be more compact and agile than previous generations, as well as more accommodating for tall riders of all shapes and sizes that need more legroom. 

The Multistrada also boasts some of the most advanced technology features ever fitted to a motorcycle. Integrated navigation and phone mirroring mean that you will no longer need to mount a phone holder to your handlebars, while front and rear radar allow adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection. 

VERDICT: Best Technology

The Ducati Multistrada V4 brings one of the best-regarded motorcycles in the enduro segment to new heights of technological superiority. This is the first motorcycle to be offered with front and rear radar, and many of the features on this bike would not be out of place in a luxury SUV. Coupled with Ducati’s racetrack-proven engineering, the Multistrada V4 is truly a state-of-the-art vehicle for the most discerning tall riders. Read more about the Multistrada V4 and its technology, as well as locate a dealership at Ducati’s official website here. 

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#4: Harley Davidson Breakout

This chrome-drenched offering from Harley Davidson, features a powerful engine and the sort of styling that has made the brand the standard for cruiser motorcycles. The V-Twin engine produces 123 lb ft of torque with a rumbling engine note designed specifically to get as much attention as possible. Chrome elements add to the look, and a wide rear tire gives the bike an even more aggressive stance. 

While cruisers typically have lower seat heights than sportbikes or enduro models, this is compensated for with a leaned-back seating position with controls mounted further forward to accommodate even the tallest of riders. 

VERDICT: Best Cruiser

This motorcycle is a stylish example of a modern cruiser, and one that brings all the classic elements of the segment into the modern era. Chrome styling and loud pipes exist alongside a modern LCD speedometer and engine management to create a cruiser with the look and feel expected of Harley Davidson. For taller riders, the forward controls, both on the handlebars and foot pegs, allow a comfortable ride on an otherwise very low bike. For more information on the Breakout, or to find a dealership, check out Harley Davidson’s official website here. 

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#5: Yamaha YZF-R1

For tall riders who also have a need for speed, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is an excellent option. With a 33.5” seat height and controls mounted toward the front of the bike, the R1 is especially accommodating to tall riders. The race-derived cross-plane crankshaft helps to make the engine performance stand out in the highly competitive sportbike segment, while a suite of rider assistance options helps keep the MotoGP-tested performance safely under control. 

 Featuring launch control, lean-sensitive traction control, and more, this bike is a top performer that can be ridden safely, even by intermediate riders. Adjustable suspension and settings allow the rider to fine-tune the bike’s attitude to match their own personal style of riding, and many of the technological and engineering tricks Yamaha uses in their MotoGP bikes make their way to this street bike. 

VERDICT: Best Sportbike

The Yamaha R1 has always been a popular option among sportbike owners for its exceptional power and handling. With a full suite of advanced electronic assists backing it up, this latest iteration of Yamaha’s legendary motorcycle continues to be among the most thrilling options available, not just for tall riders but for short riders and all riders who are looking for a high-power sportbike. Find out more about the YZF-R1, or locate a dealership on Yamaha’s official website here. 

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#6: Kawasaki KLR 650 Adventure

For an accessible yet enjoyable option in the adventure segment of bikes, the Kawasaki KLR has always been a go-to option. Equipped with a 652cc single-cylinder engine producing just over 35 horsepower and 39 lb ft of torque, the KLR is a modestly performing, beginner-friendly option for riders of all kinds. 

The adjustable rear shock also allows for some fine-tuning of the bike’s riding feel, letting the rider zero in on the setting that they are most comfortable with. However, many of the technological options that are found on pricier models are nowhere to be found on the KLR, and the low power output may be disappointing to veteran riders who are used to faster bikes. 

VERDICT: Best Budget Option

This is a great bike, and for under $10k it brings reliability, performance, and style that is difficult to beat. However, the KLR is not a competitor to BMW, KTM, or Ducati adventure bikes. This bike is suited for riders of any skill level, however, and offers predictable and reliable performance that is not likely to overwhelm the rider. For more information about the Kawasaki KLR 650 Adventure, or to find a dealership check out the Kawasaki website here. 

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#7: Honda Gold Wing

For those riders who want the comfort and accessibility of a car, but the open road experience of a motorcycle, the Honda Gold Wing has always been one of the best options on the market. In 2023, that history continues with one of the most advanced and capable versions of the motorcycle ever produced. Powered by a 1833cc flat six-cylinder engine and available with an automatic transmission, the Honda Gold Wing is still the main name in touring motorcycles. 

Honda has packed the Gold Wing with features to make the quality of life much higher than on a normal motorcycle. The automatic transmission features a reverse mode, a radio comes standard on all Gold Wing models, and is even Apple car play and Android auto-compatible. Larger riders will have no trouble with this bike which is meant to accommodate any and all rider types comfortably. 

VERDICT: Best Touring Bike
The Honda Gold Wing is still a staple of touring bikes. With its numerous features and comfortable design, this bike is especially well suited for long journeys, and could even go cross country easily with minimal issues. Taller riders will benefit from the abundant room aboard the Gold Wing and the quality-of-life features that make this bike one of the very best in its segment. For more info on the Gold Wing, or to locate a dealership, visit Honda’s website here.

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Biker Rights also has a detail article on the best commuter motorcycles.

Factors to Consider When Looking for the Best Motorcycle for Tall Riders

The very first thing to consider when choosing your motorcycle is your own comfort. When riding a motorcycle, being uncomfortable sours the experience and can be downright dangerous. Choosing a motorcycle that matches your height is one of the most important factors in making sure your ride is as comfortable as possible, but this isn’t always an easy thing to do, especially if you happen to be a taller rider who doesn’t want to modify your bike to better accommodate you. 

Fortunately, most motorcycle brands have excellent options that can suit the needs of any rider, regardless of their height. While many may consider seat height to be the first and last thing to think about for a taller rider, the truth is that there are many factors to consider beyond simply measuring how high the seat is. Here are a few things to look out for when you’re picking out your own bike.

Seat Height

While the height of the seat isn’t the only thing to think about, it is still a major point of consideration for taller riders. This measurement is taken from the ground to the lowest part of the seat when the bike is sitting on the ground. A typical seat height can be anywhere from the low 20” to 34”, usually represented by cruisers at the low end and adventure bikes at the top. Some bikes come with adjustable seat heights.

A good rule to follow is to sit on the bike and plant your feet on either side. If the bike is the right height, you should be able to plant your feet firmly on the ground and keep the bike from rolling back and forth. If you find that you have to stand on your toes and can’t plant yourself on both sides of the bike, try a slightly lower seat height.

The Distance Between the Footpegs and the Seat

Another great metric is to check the distance between the foot pegs and the seat. Your knees should always be well clear of any of the controls and not need to be bent too far further than a 90-degree angle on most bikes. The further from the seat the highway pegs are, the easier it is for a rider to stretch their legs out comfortably. Some motorcycles will have adjustable highway pegs that move further from or closer to the seat as needed. 

Handlebar riding position is a similar situation, as more distance between the seat and handlebars can be a great thing for tall riders who also have longer than-average limbs. On big bikes with leaned-back riding positions, such as cruisers, this distance is longer by design, while many adventure bikes will be built to keep the rider sitting as straight up as possible without leaning over to reach the handlebars.

Conclusion

Here, we’ve taken a look at some of the things taller riders may want to look at when choosing their next motorcycle, as well as 7 of the best options on the market today that can easily accommodate them and break the idea that the only ideal bike that a taller rider can enjoy is one from the adventure bike segment. Riders of all heights can enjoy motorcycles of any type so long as they know what to look for. 

Always remember, though, that once you’ve finished up here, the absolute best way to tell if a motorcycle suits you is to actually go and check it out in person. With the tips we’ve provided, you should now be able to make an informed choice when it comes to the best bike for you.