Do you want to go fast, look good, and be comfortable? Unfortunately, “comfortable” is hard to come by for taller riders. Most sport bike motorcycles are made for riders with a smaller frame so they can go fast, corner well, and keep the weight down. But only some sport bike riders go to the track to set land speed records.
If you’re a tall rider looking for a sport bike to fit you, you’ve come to the right place. This article will identify what makes a bike more comfortable and the best sports bikes for tall riders.
Size Testing a Motorcycle
Who is considered tall? We’re going to identify a tall rider as 6’0 plus. Sorry for everyone under 6’0, but you’re short. When we’re trying to find a bike that fits us right, what’s most important is the distance of our arms to the handlebars, the seat height, and the leg room. Although we know what we need for a taller rider, the best way to be sure a bike is right for you is to sit on it and honestly give it a test fit.
A motorcycle is created on the scale of the average human, and sorry taller folks, but we’re not average. I’m 6’3 and right on the cusp of being comfortable. Sports bikes aren’t designed for taller people. But if there’s a market for taller people’s bikes, why aren’t they being made? Bikes for taller folk are made, and they’re called cruisers. We need to do our best to find what fits us best.
Seat Height
The seat height on a bike is measured from the ground to the lowest point on the seat. This measurement is essential because it will show you if your feet are flat on the ground or if you’re on your tippy toes.
Distance of Arms to Handle Bars
When purchasing a bike, this measurement is essential because if your arms are too long, there will always be a slight bend (which we want, just not too significant), or it’s too far, and you have to lean forward(which we don’t want).
Leg Room
Legs room is an essential factor in any ride. Take it from a veteran rider with bikes too small and too big. You want to stretch your legs out at some point during your ride. If your legs are bent the whole time you step off, you’ll feel it in your knees.
You should be on the bike comfortably, with plenty of leg room.
The Best Sports Bikes For Tall Riders
1. Suzuki Hayabusa – 31.5 inches
The Suzuki Hayabusa has been one of the fastest bikes ever since 1999. As well they’re one of the largest sports bikes. When riding a Hyabusa, you have everything you need in a bike, performance, comfortability, size, and weight distribution. With a 31.5 inches seat height, even the tallest riders can find some comfort on a Hyabusa. The bike allows one to adjust footpegs and handlebars in case one feels uncomfortable. It is best to test-ride the bike before you decide to buy it.
Before jumping on one, be sure you’re not a beginner rider; you’re well-practiced and require speed. These bikes are known for their speed and going straight.
Seat Height: 31.5 inches
Overall Height: 45.9 inches
Price: $18,599
2. Kawasaki ZX14 – 31.5 inches
Another massive engine sport bike, the Kawasaki ZX14, is the giant sports bike on the market, both in size and engine size. The ZX14 is a bullet in the streets. It is matched with its new aerodynamic plastics and 1400cc engine, making this bike the fastest on the road. With a 31.5 inches seat height, it is the same height as Hayabusa and plenty high and long for a taller rider.
The handlebars of the ZX14 are positioned high and wide, which helps in the upright riding position. The adjustable footpegs allow riders to position it as per their height. The wider seat provides more room for taller riders.
Once more, be sure to have plenty of practice, skill, and technique before stepping onto one of these beasts. This bike is fast.
Seat Height: 31.5 inches
Overall Height: 46.1 inches
Price: $15,599
3. Kawasaki Z1000 – 32.1 inches
The Kawasaki z1000 is the size below the zx14. Although a slightly smaller engine size, the Z1000 is a more comfortable bike for the taller rider. With a seat height of 32.1 inches (relatively high for a naked sportbike), you’ll have plenty of legroom while sitting at the red light. This is a favorite of mine. This bike has plenty of distance for arms to handlebars and seat height.
The footpegs are positioned relatively high and is towards the rear. It gives extra legroom for taller riders and upright riding position.
Although this motorcycle has a slightly smaller engine, don’t let it fool you. The 0-100 on this motorcycle is still impressive.
Seat Height: 32.1 inches
Overall Height: 41.5 inches
4. Royal Enfield Interceptor – 31.5 inches
Although the Royal Enfield Interceptor isn’t your average sports bike, it’s still classified as one. A retro classic with plenty of room, excellent looks, and space for every tall rider. You’ll be extremely comfortable on this motorcycle with a seat height of 31.5 inches and the ability to sit with your back straighter.
The upright riding position and flat and wide seat provide plenty of room for tall riders. The handlebars are positioned high and wide, which helps taller riders. The footpegs are relatively forward, which offers more legroom.
If you’re getting into sports bikes, consider purchasing a Royal Enfield Interceptor. They’re reliable and excellent overall. Be sure to test-ride a few, and don’t jump on the first bike you see.
Seat Height: 31.5 inches
Overall Height: 45.9 inches
Price: $6,149
5. Harley-Davidson FXDR 114 – 27.7 inches
This is a sports bike article, and we are talking about sports bikes. Harley Davidson decided to step up and enter the sports bike industry. The FXDR114 is the fastest motorcycle Harleys Davidson produces when comparing 0-60 mph time. With the more hybrid-cruiser-sport bike look, this bike offers plenty of leg room, a comfortable posture, and all the speed you could ask for.
The bike allows adjusting foot controls to accommodate riders of different heights. The suspension is also designed for a smooth and comfortable ride, beneficial for taller riders. However, tall riders are sensitive to bumps and vibrations on the road.
If you’re looking for a traditional rocket, there might be a better bike for you, but if you are okay with the look, this bike is a great option.
Seat Height: 27.7 inches
Price: $19,599
Final Thoughts
As tall riders, we’ll never have the bike we’re drawn to with aesthetics. We’ll likely have to take some losses on either make, model, or motorcycle. Before entering the market, research each of the bikes on this list. Go out to a dealership and test-ride each bike. You will only know if a bike is right for you if you physically go and sit on one. My overall pick for the best sports bike for taller riders is the Suzuki Hayabusa. The bike looks great, is very fast, and is comfortable.
