Riding Tall: Pam's Short Person's Guide to Learning How to Ride a Motorcycle
Riding Tall: Pam's Short Person's Guide to Learning How to Ride a Motorcycle
Are you someone who's always dreamed of hitting the open road on a motorcycle but has felt disheartened by your height? Fear not! Being vertically challenged should never deter you from experiencing the thrill and freedom of riding on two wheels. In this blog, we'll explore the unique challenges faced by shorter riders (i.e. Pam and others) and provide valuable tips for learning how to ride a motorcycle as a short person.
First - Embrace Your Stature
First and foremost, remember that being vertically challenged is not a limitation; it's simply a different perspective. Look at Jocelin Snow. Shorter riders often have a lower center of gravity, which can actually be an advantage in some situations, such as maneuvering through tight spaces and maintaining balance at lower speeds. It's more impressive to see a short motorcycle rider because everyone knows that it takes more skill to ride.
Next - Choose the Right Motorcycle
When you're starting your motorcycle journey, selecting the right bike is critical. Opt for a motorcycle with a lower seat height, which will allow you to comfortably touch the ground with your feet. Cruiser-style bikes and some dual-sport motorcycles often have lower seat heights, making them ideal for shorter riders. My first bike was a KTM duke 390. I am so short that I cannot flat foot even this short bike! However, I was able to reach the ground on both tippy toes and because back then I was in such great shape (gym addict) it was very easy for me to man handle this bike. I also had extremely strong legs and calves from all the leg workouts at the gym. This greatly helped.
Subsequently - Get the Right Gear
Proper gear is essential for safety, comfort, and confidence when learning to ride. Invest in riding boots with thicker soles to give you extra height and ensure you can reach the ground comfortably. Additionally, choose gear that fits well, including a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing. I have met so many people that wrecked riding squid, either as my patients or as friends. It ain't pretty. Besides, it looks way cooler to see bikers in full gear. Instant hotness points.
Then - Learn Proper Technique
Learning to ride a motorcycle is not just about your height; it's about mastering the fundamentals. Enroll in a reputable motorcycle training course, where you'll be taught the correct techniques for balance, cornering, braking, and more. Instructors can also provide guidance tailored to your height. Bonus: Your insurance gives you a discount if you attend & complete a motorcycle safety course.
Maybe - Suspension Adjustments
If you've already got your dream bike but struggle to touch the ground comfortably, consider having the suspension adjusted. A professional mechanic can make modifications to lower the seat height, improving your ability to plant your feet firmly on the ground. This is exactly what I did to my 701.
Of course - Practice, Practice, Practice
Just like any skill, riding a motorcycle requires practice. Spend time in an empty parking lot or a quiet street to build your confidence. Practice low-speed maneuvers, such as figure eights and U-turns, to become more comfortable on your bike. Or to speed it up, ride it everyday for any reason. I trained myself by commuting every single day on a bike. I own zero automobiles, so rain or shine, I am on a bike and that increased my skills exponentially. Joining track days help, but it gets quite expensive if you're on a tight budget.
Use - Riding Tips for Shorter Riders
Shorter riders like me have developed some clever tricks to help them ride more comfortably. These include sliding forward on the seat when coming to a stop, using the rear brake while stopping to avoid putting your foot down, and wearing one-inch inserts in your boots for extra height. Once again, working on your leg muscles especially calves greatly helps. You can also use the kickstand technique to turn your bike around since you can't reach the ground. See me do this here - Turn your bike with the kickstand
Confidence Is Key
Believe in yourself and your abilities. Height doesn't define your skills as a rider. Many successful motorcyclists are on the shorter side, and they've proven that confidence and perseverance can overcome any physical limitations. Remember it's all in your head. What you believe is your reality.
Seek Support from the Riding Community
I am sure you can connect with other riders who face similar height challenges. There are most likely a slew of online forums and social media groups for shorter motorcyclists can provide a wealth of information, tips, and encouragement - my social media being one of them. I am personally glad I found out about Jocelin, because not only is she short but she's also female. Knowing that there's somebody out there like her, means it's also possible for us. So don't lose hope.
Last but not the least!
Learning to ride a motorcycle as a short person is a journey that requires determination, perseverance, the right tools, and a supportive community. Embrace your unique perspective, choose the right bike and gear for you, invest in training, and most importantly, PRACTICE and build your confidence. With the right mindset, you'll be cruising confidently on your motorcycle, regardless of your height. So go ahead, live your two-wheeled dreams and ride tall! See you out there!
