Any Ideas for Short Lady

Any Ideas for Short Lady

by Mark
(Devon, UK)

My wife is getting a little depressed with trying to find a bike she can ride. I introduced her to biking years ago and (of course!) she loves it. She's had a gpz305 and is currently on an er5, she's looking for something with a bit of get up and go but whilst she can handle stuff OK, she finds moving the beasts around for parking maneuvers almost impossible. She's tried my fzr600, r6, gsx600f but just isn't happy - I know what it's like because I find it just as tricky with the zzr1100. Has anyone got any tips for something that's not a cruiser. She's got a dodgy shoulder, 30" inside leg, petite frame and is 5'4". The r6 was a long reach over the tank but probably handleable. What she's after is a beast that's good for commuting and weekend jaunts without having to reach right over a monster tank. Any thoughts on machines or handling tips to bolster her confidence, cheers Mark.

PS: Let's see more girls on bikes - they don't handle as well twos up!

Comments for
Any Ideas for Short Lady

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May 03, 2011

Ninjas and Beemers
by: Ashley

I agree with earlier comments about ninjas and BMW's. BMW offer a lower suspension option on most models and ninjas are one of the lowest in the sports categories and pack a good punch.

You should though have a talk to a good mechanic or custom shop because a lot of bikes can have the suspension and seats altered to make them lower.

Also with regards to the maneuvering issue, I know a chick who finds it best to get off the bike and move it like a pushbike depending on what part of her is feeling the strain at the time.

Good luck and let us know how you go!

Apr 30, 2011

Suzuki S40
by: ShellyO

I, too, have a Suzuki S40 and absolutely love it. As stated below, it is light in weight and keeps up with my husband's much, much bigger bike.

Apr 28, 2011

650 Savage or S40 as They are Now Called
by: Maryann

I am 5"3, 120 pounds I ride a 650 Savage which I love, its lower than most but quite comfortable to ride, even on the long runs. I have no problems keeping up with my hubby who rides a 1200 Harley, I would highly recommend this ride, I have looked at other bikes but nothing feels as good as this one. It weighs 300 pounds or so wet, and very easy to handle and gets great mileage.

Apr 26, 2011

Ninja 500
by: Lois

I have a Ninja 500 and I love it. I am also short and I have no trouble moving this bike around. I just got back from a 4 day trip with my husband we covered almost 1100 miles and I was still fine at the end of the ride this is a great bike. I have had 4 bikes since I started riding the Suzuki TU 250 good bike but I out grew it then got a Bonneville rode it for a while but it was to tall and hard to back up by myself, I have a Moto Guzzi V-7 cafe which I love great for the back roads and the Ninja 500 which is also a lot of fun. Hope this helps.

Apr 24, 2011

One Other Suggestion
by: Wanda

Since you are in the UK, why not check out the Triumph Bonneville? It is a lot of motorcycle for the money and fits many women well.

Apr 24, 2011

I'm 5'4" too.
by: Wanda

I recommend the BMW G650GS single-cylinder with low seat and low suspension. I can flat foot it and reach the handlebars with ease. It is a very smooth and comfortable ride. It has 50 hp which is just enough power to ride on highways and the interstate with ease but no so much power as to to get her in trouble. The G650GS is very easy to handle. It is my first and only bike. I hope to keep it for a lifetime. I know several other ladies of relatively short stature who ride the same bike as me and love it.

Apr 24, 2011

Ninja
by: Julie

Maybe she should sit on a Ninja 250 or the 600ZZR. I am 5'2 and I find them quick, nimble and fun not to mention a beautiful looking bike. I myself like the older version 2004-2007 style and they are a little lower for us shorter girl's. They are very forgiving and handle so well. Many girls on this site have Ninja's. Check it out!! Good luck:) Julie

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