Being tall has its advantages but can also make finding the best motorcycle for tall riders a bit challenging. As a 6-foot rider myself, I know how important it is to find a bike that offers enough wiggle room and comfort during long rides. My inseam plays a big role in making sure I can touch the ground with both feet at stops, giving me the necessary confidence and stability. Many taller riders, like my brother who is 6-foot-4, often gravitate towards bikes that are designed with higher seat heights and extra legroom, like Sport-tourers or ADVs. These models are known for providing a more comfortable riding experience, especially for the vertically gifted.
Finding the right bike for a tall rider isn’t always easy, but there are plenty of street-legal options out there. Whether you’re into dual sports or dirt bikes or prefer a classic cruiser, it’s all about getting that perfect fit. As someone with a taller build, I can say that small adjustments to your motorcycle, such as raising the handlebars or shifting the seat, can make all the difference. Riders like me and my friends understand the importance of choosing a motorcycle that suits our specific needs and gives us that much-needed wiggle room.
If you’re a tall rider looking for the perfect ride, don’t hesitate to explore a variety of options. Whether it’s increasing your legroom or finding a bike with longer inseams, it’s essential to take your time and find what works best for you. The right bike will not only improve your comfort but also give you the confidence to take on any road with ease.
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Top 24 Best Motorcycle for Tall Riders
BMW F 900 XR
When it comes to the BMW F 900 XR, many tall riders find it to be a great option. I remember when one of my coworkers suggested I try sitting on it, and I quickly realized why. My inseam allowed me to reach the ground easily from the 32.5-inch seat height, and the riding position felt incredibly upright, giving me extra room. For riders who are even taller, like my friend who is 6-foot-6, the high seat option, which raises the height to 32.9 inches, makes all the difference. There are also adjustments available for those who prefer a low seat, which lowers the height to 31.3 inches, or the low suspension option that brings it down to 30.5 inches.
The BMW F 900 XR provides flexibility for riders of different heights, whether through the extra high seat or the more compact low seat setup. It’s also priced reasonably, with the low suspension costing an additional $200, making it an accessible option for customization. The comfortably upright riding position is perfect for those with longer torsos, and it makes the bike feel stable on the road. For tall riders, the bike truly shines by offering the best mix of performance and fit, making it an excellent choice for those looking for the best motorcycle for tall riders.
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BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is a solid choice for tall riders, especially those with long legs who need the extra wiggle room. The seat height is claimed at 35 inches, but thanks to its height adjustability, it can go up to 35.8 inches, providing a flexible fit. With its adjustable windscreen, the BMW offers better control over the wind, enhancing comfort during rides. The 2021 review from CycleWorld highlighted the bike’s lofty design, with a nice bend in the handlebars that makes it suitable for both on-road and off-road riding. For those with a 32-inch inseam, the lowest seat setting with minimum spring preload allows a rider to flat-foot easily at stops, giving tall riders even more control.
The BMW accessories catalog offers additional options like different rider seats, foot pegs, and handlebar risers to further customize the dimensions and ergonomics of the bike. Whether you’re cruising the highways or tackling rough terrains, the flexibility of the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure makes it a great option for tall riders seeking both stability and comfort. With its adjustable features, including the footpegs and handlebars, this bike stands out as one of the best for taller riders looking to explore different environments.
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Ducati Multistrada V4
The Ducati Multistrada V4 offers great versatility for tall riders with its adjustable seat height ranging from 33.1 inches to 33.9 inches, providing flexibility for various heights. The standard model of the Multistrada is designed to offer a more comfortable riding position, especially for those with longer limbs. According to Senior Editor Adam Waheed, the lower pegs and wider bar on the Multistrada V4 S provide a more relaxed experience compared to the more aggressive setup of the Pikes Peak version. The ergonomics of the standard model offer a roomier rider triangle, which is perfect for taller riders looking for a bit more space.
The Pikes Peak variant, while offering the same adjustable seat height, has a more sporty feel with its different handlebar and peg positioning. While the riding position on the Pikes Peak is suitable for riders around 5-foot-7, the standard Multistrada V4 has more relaxed dimensions, making it an ideal choice for taller riders seeking comfort over an overly aggressive machine. Whether you’re going for the standard model or exploring the Pikes Peak, both bikes offer great versatility and can be adjusted to suit different preferences.
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Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
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Suzuki DR650S
The Suzuki DR650S is a great option for tall riders looking for a lighter weight bike with generous dimensions. With a seat height of 34.8 inches, it provides a good stretch to the ground, making it easier for taller riders. For those with shorter inseams, the optional lowering kit brings the height down to 33.2 inches, making it more manageable. Riders with a 30.5-inch inseam might find the standard height a bit tall, but for anyone with a longer inseam, the DR650S will be comfortable and practical for dual-sport adventures.
Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE is a great choice for tall riders, offering a relaxed and spacious riding position. With its narrow tank and generous legroom, it provides a comfortable ride in both standing and seated positions. The 33.1-inch claimed seat height allows the balls of your feet to touch the ground when at a standstill, making it manageable even for shorter riders. My husband, who is 5-foot-10.5 with a 31-inch inseam, finds the reach to the bars comfortable, though he mentions that without his dirt bike experience, being on his toes might feel a bit intimidating for others.
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Yamaha Ténéré 700
The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is a nimble ADV trekker that suits tall riders looking for some fun both on and off the road. With a 34.4-inch seat height, it offers plenty of legroom and is easy to stand up on, thanks to its slim design that resembles a dirt-bike. Riders with 30-inch to 32-inch inseams can comfortably manage the height, but for those wanting an additional height, the optional rally seat adds 1.6 inches to the stock height, making it even higher for those seeking more of a challenge.
BMW R1200GS Adventure
The BMW R1200GS Adventure is a perfect choice for taller riders and those with long limbs. It is often described as the Tonka toy of the motorcycle world due to its huge size and comfortable ride across any terrain. Despite its size, it remains a manageable machine, even for riders of average height, thanks to its excellent weight distribution. This bike is not only incredibly competent off-road, but also surprisingly agile on tarmac, making it a true do-it-all machine. Fans of The Long Way Round will already be convinced of its impressive capabilities, making it the number one choice for larger riders seeking adventure.
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Aprilia RSV1000R Mille
The Aprilia RSV1000R Mille is a great option for tall riders, especially the early versions of this V-twin motorcycle. Its tall saddle height and narrow waist offer more comfort for taller riders, allowing for a relatively low footrest height without compromising on ground clearance. While later models became more compact, these earlier bikes remain some of the best for a taller guy or girl. The unique Italian architecture of the 60° engine helps maintain a roomy feel, making it ideal for riders looking for a sports bike that suits their size.
Honda Africa Twin
The Honda Africa Twin is perfect for taller riders, especially those over 5’9″. It’s known for being both lower and narrower than other large capacity adventure bikes while still maintaining its off-road ability. Taller riders like six-footers will feel comfortable and in control thanks to the roomy riding position and well-considered ergonomics. Whether you’re standing to tackle a tough ravine or hunkering down against the wind, this bike is designed to fit your needs without compromising on performance.
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KTM Adventure
The KTM Adventure series is an excellent choice for tall riders who want a bike that can handle off-road sport with ease. With its tall seat height and wide bar, the bike offers a comfortable fit for taller riders. Known for its successful background in various disciplines, the KTM won’t disappoint when the terrain gets rough. There is a wide range of models available, allowing riders to choose the perfect specification to match their riding style and needs.
Harley-Davidson Breakout
The Harley-Davidson Breakout is a real head turner with its huge rear tyre and an amazing soundtrack. It’s a laidback cruiser with plenty of attitude, making it perfect for taller riders who want a stretched out riding position. The latest model, revised in 2018, keeps its traditional look but adds hidden technology to meet modern emissions regs. As part of the Softail range, the heavily chromed Breakout offers that classic cruiser feel, and pairing it with an open face helmet definitely adds some extra cool points.
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Triumph Rocket III
The Triumph Rocket III is an impressive cruiser that was first launched in 2004 by the Hinckley-based manufacturer. With a massive 2,294cc triple engine producing 221nm of torque, it offers a power figure similar to that of some family diesel cars. The riding position is incredibly roomy, making it a great option for taller bikers. Whether you prefer to ride with or without a screen is up to you, but the bike certainly looks cooler without it. The bike also offers extensive personalisation options at the point of sale, allowing you to configure it to your exact needs for any journey.
Kawasaki ZZR1400
The Kawasaki ZZR1400 is a true powerhouse that can challenge the top speed supremacy of bikes like the Hayabusa, reaching the 200mph territory with just a few mods. Unlike other bikes that can feel cramped, the ZZR offers plenty of room for a six-footer to stretch comfortably behind the bars. This bike is not just about speed—it’s an all-rounder that can handle track days, two-up touring, or even a daily commute. If you’re looking for a ballistic bike with versatility, the ZZR1400 should definitely be on your list to try.
Ducati Diavel
The Ducati Diavel is a true game changer for tall riders who want both performance and stunning looks. This Italian cruiser combines elements of a big naked bike and a traditional cruiser, making it stand out with its bold design. Powered by a 1200cc motor similar to the Multistrada, the Diavel isn’t a slouch—it handles surprisingly well with its huge rear tyre and raked forks, delivering easy, neutral handling. The Bolognese brand has truly created a bike that rocks and is sure to receive plenty of admiring glances wherever you go.
BMW R1200RT
The BMW R1200RT is an excellent choice for taller riders who want a relaxed yet engaging ride. Its powerful motor, similar to the one in the GS, offers plenty of torque and a smooth delivery, making it great for long journeys. The riding position is roomy, and the high screen ensures that long riders stay cossetted on extended trips. With superb handling and reliable ABS braking, this bike stands out in the touring category. Whether you’re after the character of the R1200RT or prefer the four-cylinder K-series machines, this bike gives you the edge in performance and comfort.
Honda Fury
The Honda Fury stands out as one of the best-looking cruisers on the market, perfect for taller riders. Its rider triangle allows you to stretch out comfortably, and the seat is positioned higher off the ground than it appears. The handlebar sits higher, and with forward controls directly under the grips, this motorbike is a top competitor for keeping riders comfortable all day long.
Victory Judge
The Victory Judge is a great choice for tall riders, especially those with long arms and long legs. With its forward handlebar placement and a 25.9-inch seat, it allows the rider to comfortably stretch out during rides. The larger floorboards provide extra room for your feet, making this bike ideal for those looking for both comfort and style on the road.
Triumph Bonneville
The Triumph Bonneville may not be as widely recommended as some other bikes, but it still qualifies as a great option for tall riders. Its long flat seat allows riders to sit further back on the saddle, keeping their legs straight and their arms extended.
Suzuki C50 Boulevard B.O.S.S
The Suzuki C50 Boulevard B.O.S.S is an excellent option for tall riders who prefer a lighter cruiser. This 2014 model, part of the blacked-out B.O.S.S. models, is the smallest in the lineup but offers a better ride than its predecessor. With higher handlebars and bigger floorboards, it allows riders to stretch their legs comfortably. This motorbike is ideal for those who want the cruiser feel without the need for a heavy, high-cc bike.
Yamaha Star Raider
The Yamaha Star Raider is a strong competitor to the Harley-Davidson Breakout, offering a great option for taller riders. This American-made cruiser features a wide rider triangle and high reach handlebars, making it ideal for a 6′ rider or taller. With a knee bend angle of 132 degrees, it requires a long foot stretch for comfort. The deep dish seat that comes as standard can limit manoeuvrability, but there are multiple accessories available to help you find the perfect fit for your ride.
Indian Chief Classic
The Indian Chief Classic offers plenty of comfort for tall riders with its plush seat and wide handlebars. Though the seat is low at just 26 inches, the high handlebars and spacious floorboards provide enough room for your knees to stay clear, even with a knee-bend of 101 degrees. The overall design of this motorbike ensures that tall riders can enjoy a comfortable ride with ample room to move.
Harley Davidson Night Rod Special
The Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special is perfect for lanky bikers who want a cruiser with plenty of style and performance. With a long reach to the handlebars and foot pegs, the rider stays almost completely straight with a 130-degree knee angle. Boasting 125 horsepower, this bike is the future of Harley-Davidson, offering both power and attitude to make any ride memorable. Ideal for tall riders, this bike stands out among other bikes for its comfort and power.
Vulcan 900 Custom
The Vulcan 900 Custom, designed by Kawasaki, is a perfect mid-sized cruiser for tall riders who aren’t ready for a huge motorbike. With forward-mounted footpegs, the rider can easily stretch out, while the long seat provides plenty of room to move around comfortably. This makes it an ideal choice for taller riders seeking a balanced, spacious ride.
Harley Davidson Wide Glide
The Harley Davidson Wide Glide is one of the most comfortable cruisers for taller bikers. With its wide flat seat, the rider can sit high compared to other chopper-style motorbikes. The forward controls and drag bar, along with a 135-degree knee angle, make it perfect for riders who are 6′ and taller. While personal preference plays a role in choosing the right bike, doing some shopping and research will help tall riders find the best rider triangle for their physique.
Customising your bike to suit
When it comes to making a small bike more comfortable for taller riders, there are many options available in the aftermarket. For sports bikes, adding high-rise clip-on handlebars can help with height and reach, while footrest kits and plates can lower the footrests, though this may slightly reduce ground clearance at sharp lean angles. For street bikes or cruisers, riser handlebars and forward front controls can also make a significant difference, giving taller riders a more relaxed riding position.
To find the best fit, it’s important to assess the bike’s suitability by focusing on the rider triangle, which is the relationship between the three key contact points: your backside, hands, and feet. Customizing custom bikes with the right footboards and riser options can transform the overall riding experience, giving you the comfort you need for long rides.
Different bikes make different rider triangles
Different bikes make different rider triangles, and this greatly impacts how comfortable a rider feels, especially for tall riders. On a sports bike, the body position is more aggressive, with the rider’s body tilted forwards, the feet positioned back, and the hands placed low. This setup helps evenly distribute the rider’s weight over both wheels and allows for better movement during fast riding. However, the high footrests needed for better ground clearance in corners can feel a bit cramped for taller riders.
In contrast, a street bike allows the rider to sit higher, with the feet positioned below the elbows, offering a more relaxed riding experience. Cruisers, like many Harley-Davidson models, provide a very laid-back experience with the rider able to lean back, with hands above the knees and the feet placed forward. While this is the most relaxed option, it may not be the most comfortable for everyone. Before buying your first cruiser, it’s always a good idea to take a demo ride on different roads to test your comfort level.
