Top 16 Best Motorcycles for Short Women Riders in 2024

Looking for the best motorcycle for short women?

I am 4 feet 10 inches tall and weigh about 105 pounds soaking wet.

I also rode my motorcycle from North Dakota, USA, across Mexico, and through Central America. An adventure ride spanning 10,000 miles across 9 countries.

One of my biggest fears, before I left on this epic adventure, was whether or not I could handle the motorcycle I was riding. Especially while packed and fully loaded.

So I spent many, many hours researching and reading about the best motorcycle for short women plus tips for smaller female riders. And my adventure turned out epically.

Women have been enjoying the thrill of riding motorcycles for years and are no strangers to the open road. However, female riders have some unique considerations when selecting a motorcycle.

Women riders tend to be smaller than men, which makes it hard to find a comfortable, well-designed bike.

Additionally, female riders may have different weight capacities, power, and overall design needs. Finding the right bike for you can seem overwhelming.

With these factors in mind, I put together a list of the top 16 best motorcycles for short women to make your decision easier.

Why Do Women Need Special Consideration?

Women riders may need special consideration when purchasing and riding motorcycles. This is because on average, they have different physical characteristics and proportions than men. 

Women often have shorter inseams and smaller hands than males, making it harder to reach the ground and hold the handlebars.

Women riders’ body proportions may also affect motorbike fit and feel. The best motorcycle for short women needs to have these factors in check.

Top 16 Best Motorcycles for Short Women

You’ve come to the right place if you’re a short woman looking for the best motorcycle to fit your size.

Below are the top 16 best motorcycles for short women based on their comfort, performance, and affordability.

Honda Fury

The Honda Fury is one of the best motorcycles for short women who want to get around town or even hit the open road. With its low seat height of 26.9 inches and smooth engine, the Fury provides a comfortable and enjoyable ride. 

The Honda Fury’s design is streamlined and aerodynamic, allowing women to feel comfortable and confident riding it.

The Fury weighs in at 663 lbs, making it one of the heavier bikes on our roundup.

The motorcycle features a fuel-injected 1312 cc engine, low-maintenance shaft drive, and a wide-ratio, five-speed transmission.

Honda CBR 300R 

The Honda CBR 300R is an ideal motorcycle for short riders. Its lightweight design and low seat height make it easy to maneuver for those with a more diminutive stature.

At just over 350 lbs, the CBR 300R is easy to handle. And its 30.7-inch seat height makes it accessible for even the shortest riders. 

Its sporty design is perfect for those looking for power and maneuverability, and its 286cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine is great for riders of all skill levels.

The Honda CBR 300R has many great features, like a six-speed transmission, anti-lock brakes, and Pro-Link shock suspension.

Honda Rebel 500

The Honda Rebel 500 is a great option for short women riders, as its lightweight design and low seat height make it an ideal choice. At just over 400 lbs, the Rebel 500 is easy to manage, and its 27.2-inch seat height makes it perfect for those with a shorter stature. 

Features like a 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, a six-speed transmission, and 2.9-gallon fuel capacity make this classic cruiser an excellent choice for all skill levels.

Kawasaki Vulcan 900

At 657 lbs, the Vulcan 900 is a heavier motorcycle. However it still easily makes the list of the best motorcycle for short women.

Its 26.8-inch seat height makes it accessible for even the shortest riders. This is one of the best bikes due to its powerful 903cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine. Which makes it a good choice for experienced and beginner riders. 

Its six-speed transmission and anti-lock brakes make it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable ride.

Additionally, the Vulcan 900 has a range of features, such as its classic cruiser styling, wide handlebars, and comfortable riding position.

Making it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and stylish ride.

Yamaha V-Star 250

The Yamaha V-Star 250 is a lightweight bike at 324 lbs, making it ideal for beginner riders.

It also has a low seat height of 27 inches, so it’s easy for shorter riders to reach the ground and have complete control over the bike. 

In addition, it has a classic design with a V-Twin engine, which provides excellent power for cruising and everyday riding. The V-Star 250 is also an affordable bike that you can use for touring and commuting.

Kawasaki Ninja 400

If you are a short female looking for a powerful sports bike motorcycle, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a great choice.

It has a lightweight design at 361 lbs. Making it easy to handle and maneuver, and it has a low seat height of 30.9 inches, making it ideal for smaller riders. 

The Ninja 400 also has impressive power and performance thanks to its 399cc torque-rich engine. Which is excellent for both experienced riders and novice riders.

It is perfect for commuting, touring, and sport riding, and it has a sleek modern design that is sure to turn heads.

Ducati Scrambler

The Ducati Scrambler has a lightweight frame of 381 lbs and a low seat height of just 31 inches, making it ideal for shorter riders.

It also has a powerful 803cc engine, offering plenty of power and performance for touring, sport riding, or even cruising around town. 

The Scrambler has a classic design with modern touches, and it is perfect for riders who want to stand out from the crowd.

It also has plenty of features, such as adjustable suspension, traction control, and a slipper clutch. Again, making it an excellent bike for both experienced and beginner riders.

Yamaha MT 07

The Yamaha MT 07 is a lightweight and agile motorcycle, designed with a low seat height of only 31.7 inches.

I love these smaller bikes with a lower seat height that makes it very easy for shorter riders to reach the ground. The bike’s lightweight 406 lbs are also ideal for shorter riders, making it easier to maneuver, especially in tight spots.

The design of the Yamaha MT 07 is sleek, modern, and stylish.

This is a great bike that has a compact and slim profile, making it look great and also helping to make it more maneuverable. The bike has an aggressive, sporty look that will turn heads.

Triumph Street Twin

The Triumph Street Twin’s 900cc parallel twin engine for smooth acceleration, a low seat height of 30.1 inches, and a dry weight of only 476 pounds make it a midweight on this list. 

The Street Twin has a classic British design with a modern twist that adds to its aesthetic appeal.

Torque-assist clutch for easy shifting and a ride-by-wire system for more responsive power delivery make this an impressive find.

BMW G650

The BMW G650 is another excellent choice for short ladies, as it has a low seat height of 30.7 inches and a dry weight of only 385 lbs.

It’s a sleek and modern design, with a moderate amount of chrome and a classic BMW badge. The G650 features an impressive 650cc single-cylinder engine, a 6-speed transmission, and a low center of gravity for better cornering. 

With its combination of comfort, power, and style, the G650 is an ideal choice for shorter adventure riders looking for a motorcycle that fits their needs.

Other features include a powerful headlight, adjustable rear suspension, and a large fuel tank for extended trips.

Harley-Davidson Street 500

The Harley Davidson Street 500 is also an excellent choice for short women. Its lightweight body of just 492 lbs makes it easy to handle and control.

Its seat height of 28 inches makes it a perfect fit for short riders. 

The Street 500 is a stylish and fashionable bike, and its uses range from recreational to practical. Its main features include a V-Twin engine, dual-disc front brakes, and a six-speed gearbox.

Kawasaki Versys

The Kawasaki Versys is an adventure motorcycle with a versatile and rugged look. It is lightweight, at only 483 lbs, making it easy to handle.

The low seat height of 33.3 inches also makes it accessible to riders of all heights. The design focuses on providing an enjoyable ride with its long-travel suspension and appropriate seating position. 

The Versys is also highly versatile, able to take on any terrain. Unique features such as the adjustable windscreen, hand guards, and 12V power outlet make it even more practical.

If you are on the hunt for adventure bikes, this one is for you.

Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster

The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster’s cruise bikes have a classic look and a powerful narrow parallel twin engine.

This bike weighs just 580 lbs, and its low seat height of 27.7 inches ensures that even short riders can handle it easily. 

The Speedmaster is also perfect for long-distance riding, with comfortable ergonomics and modern technology. The Triumph Bonneville line maintains its classic styling with modern touches, such as the LED headlight and LCD instruments.

Harley Davidson Super Low

The Harley Davidson Super Low is an excellent motorcycle choice for short women due to its low seat height of 26.8 inches and its light weight of 536 lbs.

The design of the Super Low is classic, featuring the signature Harley style and a unique silhouette. 

It is equipped with a powerful 883cc engine, allowing riders to take full advantage of the open road. The Super Low also features a 5-speed transmission, allowing a smooth and steady ride.

It is perfect for cruising around town or taking a more extended road trip.

Ducati Monster 1200

The Ducati Monster 1200 is an excellent motorcycle for short riders, thanks to its low seat height of 31.2 inches and its lightweight design at just 408 lbs.

Its impressive 1198cc engine gives riders superior riding performance. 

The agile Monster 1200, with a sophisticated chassis and suspension system, helps provide a stable and comfortable ride.

It also features a 6-speed transmission, allowing riders to take full advantage of the powerful engine.

Honda Grom

The Honda Grom is a capable bike with a low seat height of 30 inches and a lightweight design of 231 lbs.

It features an efficient and powerful 124cc engine, allowing riders to quickly get around town.

You may not think of a Honda Grom when you think of touring bikes, but this smaller motorcycle absolutely rocks to take on a more extended road trip. 

With a sporty chassis and suspension system that provides a stable and comfortable ride, it also features a 4-speed transmission, allowing you to take full advantage of available power.

Honda Monkey 125

This is my absolute favorite choice. I may be slightly biased but this is my pick for the best motorcycle for short women.

Don’t let the size fool you. People will love to tell you that the Honda Monkey 125 isn’t good for longer distances, but they are so wrong.

This is the motorcycle I rode on my long journey across the United States, through Mexico, and Central America, all the way down to Panama.

And let me tell you, it was so much fun.

Yes, it has a smaller engine. However, I also saved so much money on fuel.

Weighing in at 231 lbs, the Honda Monkey 125 is a fashionable bike intended for both beginner riders and more experienced riders.

The seat height of the Monkey 125 is only 30.5 inches, which makes it easy for a short woman rider to reach the ground while seated.

The Monkey 125 has a classic monkey bike look, a round headlight, a chromed-out exhaust, and a fuel tank with vintage-style graphics.

It has plenty of power for running errands or cruising on weekends and features a comfortable two-up seat, and an easy-to-read LCD to keep track of your speed.

Motorcycles for Female Riders: What to Consider

Female riders must consider factors such as comfort, weight, handling, and the bike’s intended use when choosing a motorcycle.

Read on to learn about what else to consider when shopping for the best motorcycle for short women.

Seat Height

The height of the seat is an essential factor to consider when buying a new motorcycle because it affects the overall comfort and usability of the bike. 

The seat height can determine how easy it is to touch the ground while seated, which is especially important when starting and stopping the bike.

Low seat height can impact many riders’ ability to reach and operate the handlebars and foot pegs, as well as their ability to shift weight to control the bike. 

A higher seat can provide a better view of the road, and a lower seat can provide better control and maneuverability.

Inseam

The inseam will help you determine the size and type of bike that best suits you and your riding position.

Your inseam is the distance from the floor to the top of your inner thigh, and it is essential to know your inseam before you purchase a motorcycle.

Safety

Safety should be a top priority when purchasing a motorcycle, especially for women and new riders. Here are some safety features to consider when looking for a motorcycle:

• ABS brakes: Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) can help prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the rider to maintain control of the motorcycle.

• Traction control: Traction control systems can help prevent the rear wheel from slipping, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

• Engine cut-off switch: An engine cut-off switch allows the rider to shut off the engine in an emergency quickly.

• Headlights: High-intensity discharge (HID) or LED headlights provide better visibility for the rider, especially at night or in low-light conditions.

• Reflective materials: Reflective materials on the motorcycle can help make the rider more visible to other drivers, especially at night or in low-light conditions.

• Adjustable suspension: Adjustable suspension allows the rider to customize the suspension to their weight, riding position, and preferred comfort level.

• Comfortable seat: A comfortable seat can help reduce fatigue on longer rides and make the ride more enjoyable.

• Windshield: A windshield can help reduce wind resistance and fatigue on longer rides.

• Passenger footpegs: If you plan on carrying a passenger, make sure the motorcycle has passenger footpegs.

• Adjustable handlebars: Adjustable handlebars can help the rider find a comfortable position, which can be especially helpful for shorter riders.

Know Your Needs

Understanding your needs before buying a motorcycle is essential in ensuring you get the right bike.

Consider your lifestyle and budget when deciding on the best motorcycle for short women.

Long-distance travel may require better fuel economy, while commuting requires a comfortable seat.

Research the various models that fit your budget. And remember the cost of maintenance, fuel, and insurance.

Lowering Kit

Lowering kits allow riders to customize their bikes to fit their size and riding style.

Adjusting a motorcycle’s seat height and handlebars makes reaching the ground with a flat foot and handling the bike easier. 

However, you should be aware of trade-offs before lowering your motorcycle. Lowering the bike reduces turning clearance, and you can’t lean the machine as far.

Suspension

Suspension is an important safety feature for any motorcycle. It reduces the risk of injury by absorbing and dampening the impact of road bumps, potholes, and other irregularities.

Without a proper suspension system, the rider can be thrown off balance and even ejected from the bike. 

Engine

Choosing the right engine for your needs is essential to getting the most out of your bike.

The engine is the most crucial component of a motorcycle, as it provides the power needed to move the bike. Some engines provide more power or speed or have better fuel efficiency. 

Typically you want to opt for a larger engine if you primarily ride on highways or open roads and a smaller size for city street driving. 

However, after riding a 125cc Honda Monkey across North America, I say pick the engine size that works best for you. And ignore the naysayers who try to rain on your parade.

New vs. Used

When purchasing your first motorcycle, there are several factors to consider, including whether to buy a new or used one.

The advantages of buying a new motorcycle are that it will be in excellent condition and have the latest safety features and technology.

Additionally, it’s more likely to come with a warranty and have a longer lifespan than a used bike.

Buying a used motorcycle often has more financial benefits because they are much cheaper than a new one. You could save money and get a better model than you would have been able to afford if you bought a new one. 

Final Thoughts: The Best Motorcycle For Short Women

If you’re a short woman looking for your first bike, the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

However, some great options include the Honda Rebel 500, Kawasaki Versys, and Ducati Scrambler.

And for super short, adventurous women like myself, I strongly suggest trying the Honda Grom or Honda Monkey 125.

These bikes are great for various riding styles because they have good ergonomics, light frames, and robust engines.

Plus, their smaller size makes them easier to handle for short riders. Be sure to bookmark this list of the best motorcycles for short women for future reference.

And if you are looking to treat yourself or your fellow riders, make sure you check out my article about the best motorcycle gifts for awesome riders like you.

Good luck to you on your journeys. I hope this article helped you narrow down the best motorcycle for short women. And helps you decide on the best motorcycle for you!

Happy travels my friend. ✌️

And keep the rubber side down. 🏍️💨