10 Best Motorcycles For Short Women 2023 + New Vs Used

Choosing the right motorcycle for your height can be daunting if you’re a short woman. The challenge is finding a bike that’s comfortable, has a manageable seat height, and is powerful enough to take on the open road.

I’ll share my expertise as a motorcycle enthusiast with over a decade of experience testing various models. In this article, I’ll present my top 10 picks for the best motorcycles for short women.

Top Choice

My top choice is the Harley-Davidson SuperLow. This bike is perfect for short riders thanks to its low seat height and comfortable riding position. Its controls are also easy to reach and operate, making it a great bike for beginners and experienced riders.

Best Motorcycle for Short Women

1. Harley-Davidson SuperLow – Overall Best Motorcycle For Short Women

The Harley-Davidson SuperLow is a powerful motorcycle perfect for short women who want to ride in style. With a seat height of  27.7 inches, this bike is easy to handle and maneuver, even for beginners.

One of the biggest advantages of the SuperLow is its ergonomics. The bike’s low seat position, narrow profile, and forward-mounted foot controls make it ideal for shorter riders. This design allows for a more natural riding position and better control over the bike, which can be especially important for new or nervous riders.

The SuperLow’s weight is estimated at 568 pounds. While it’s a bit heavier than some bikes on this list, it shouldn’t be too much trouble to handle. Harley Davidson street is also a good option.

Features

• Engine: The SuperLow is powered by an 883cc air-cooled Evolution engine, which provides smooth and reliable performance. But due to its air-cooling, its fuel economy might not be as good as other options with liquid-cooled engines. 
• Fuel System: The bike features an Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) system that ensures optimal fuel delivery and efficient combustion.
• Transmission: The SuperLow has a 5-speed manual transmission allowing precise and smooth shifting.
• Suspension: The motorcycle features a front and rear suspension system that provides a comfortable and stable ride, even on rough roads.
• Brakes: The SuperLow features front and rear disc brakes that provide reliable stopping power, even at high speeds.
• Seat Height: With a seat height of just 25.5 inches, the SuperLow is designed to provide a comfortable and confident ride for shorter rider. 
• Weight: This bike weighs 564 pounds (256 kg) with a full fuel tank. It’s a bit heavy, which can be uncomfortable for short women with slender frames. However, it provides stability and a smooth ride on the road. 

Verdict: If you can afford it, the SuperLow is an excellent bike for commuting, weekend trips, and casual rides around town. 

Best Beginner Motorcycles for Short Women

2. Yamaha V-Star 250

If you’re looking for an option perfect for short and beginner riders, you won’t find much better than the Yamaha V-Star 250.  This cruiser-style motorcycle has a 27-inch high seat and weighs only 326 pounds, making it ideal for women looking for a comfortable ride. 

The low seat height means that short riders can easily touch the ground with both feet, giving them additional control on the road. Its lightweight design makes handling easy, even for riders with less experience. 

However, remember that the V-Star 250 isn’t the most powerful or speedy bike on this list. But unless you’re looking for a performance monster, it is still an excellent choice for short woman rider. 

Features

• Engine: This bike comes with a 249cc air-cooled, 60-degree V-twin engine. Although it’s less powerful than some options on this list, it delivers smooth, reliable power and fuel efficiency.
• Transmission: The V-Star 250 has a  5-speed manual transmission that provides a wide range of gears for optimal performance in different riding conditions.
• Fuel Injection: The bike’s electronic fuel injection ensures precise fuel delivery and smooth throttle response for efficient performance.
• Suspension: Its telescopic front fork and a single shock rear suspension offer a comfortable ride and stable handling.
• Seat Height: A low seat height of 27 inches makes it easy for riders of different sizes to comfortably reach the ground.
• Fuel Tank Capacity: A 2.5-gallon fuel tank provides ample range for short trips and commuting.
• Weight: A lightweight chassis and low centre of gravity make the bike easy to maneuver and handle.
• Fuel Economy: With an estimated fuel economy of 78 mpg, the V-Star 250 offers excellent efficiency for commuting and touring.

Verdict: The V-Star 250’s limited power and speed might be a turn-off for experienced riders, so it’s good that this bike is a beginner-friendly option for short riders.

3. Suzuki SV650 ABS

The Suzuki SV650 ABS is a sleek, versatile motorcycle with a lightweight chassis that offers riders nimble handling and a comfortable ride. 

This bike has a low seat height of just 30.9 inches and weighs around 437 pounds. While it isn’t particularly lightweight, it’s still easy to handle and maneuver. Its 5.3-inch road clearance also offers good balance and handling. 

Features

• 645cc V-Twin Engine – This engine provides a smooth power delivery with a broad torque range, allowing for easy acceleration and comfortable cruising.
• ABS Brakes – The Anti-lock Braking System provides improved stopping power and control in emergency braking situations, allowing the rider to maintain stability and avoid accidents.
• Suzuki Easy Start System – The push-button starting system simplifies starting the engine and eliminates the need for a choke.
• Fully Adjustable Suspension – The suspension system is adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound damping, providing a comfortable and customized ride.
• Low Seat Height – The SV650 ABS has a low seat height of 30.9, making it easier for shorter riders to reach the ground.  
• Lightweight Chassis – The bike has a curb weight of around 198 kg (437 lbs.) Its lightweight chassis and slim profile make it easy to handle and maneuver, providing a responsive and nimble riding experience.

Verdict: The Suzuki SV650 ABS is a fantastic motorcycle that offers impressive performance on the road, especially for those that fit within its design parameters.

You can visit our article on The Best Women’s Motorcycle Boots.

Best High-Performance Motorcycle for Short Women

4. Kawasaki Ninja 400R

The Kawasaki Ninja 400R has a lightweight chassis, agile handling, and a powerful 399cc engine, delivering an exhilarating riding experience. 

One of the main reasons why the Ninja 400R is ideal for short women is its low seat height of just 30.9 inches which provides stability and balance.  Additionally, the bike’s narrow and compact design allows easy maneuverability in tight spaces, making navigating through traffic or parking in crowded areas a breeze.

However, the 400R is designed for performance rather than comfort. The aggressive riding position and stiff suspension may not be ideal for riders planning long trips or regularly commuting on the highway. 

Features

• Engine: The Ninja 400 is powered by a 399cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, which delivers smooth and responsive power across the rev range.
• Suspension: The motorcycle comes with a 41mm telescopic fork at the front and a bottom-link Uni-Trak rear suspension, which provides superior shock absorption and handling on rough terrain.
• Brakes: The Ninja 400 features powerful brakes with dual 310mm front discs and a single 220mm rear disc, providing reliable and consistent stopping power. 
• Exhaust System: The Ninja 400 has a lightweight and efficient exhaust system.
• Transmission: The motorcycle features a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch, allowing for smooth and effortless gear changes while reducing the risk of rear-wheel lockup during downshifting.
• Weight: The Ninja 400 has a curb weight of 366 pounds, which is relatively light for a sports motorcycle. This low weight, with its responsive engine and agile handling, makes it easy to maneuver and control.
• Seat Height: This motorcycle has a seat height of 30.9 inches. This low seat height makes it easier for shorter riders to reach the ground and maintain motorcycle control at a stop. 

Verdict: The Kawasaki Ninja 400R might be an expensive option. But it’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a thrilling ride for short trips and weekend excursions.

5. Kawasaki Vulcan 900

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 is a sleek and powerful cruiser motorcycle with a seat height of just 26.8 inches; it is easy to handle and maneuver, even for riders with shorter inseams.

The low seat height is especially beneficial for short riders, allowing them to easily reach the ground with both feet. Meanwhile, the road clearance of 5.5 inches offers a low centre of gravity, giving you good balance and boosting handling. 

It comes with a liquid-cooled V-twin 4-stroke engine with a displacement of 903cc. Housing a heavy-duty engine, This bike weighs around 610.8 pounds and houses a heavy-duty engine. 

Features

• Liquid-cooled V-twin 903cc engine: This powerful engine provides smooth and efficient performance, delivering ample power and torque for a comfortable ride.
• Belt drive: The belt drive system reduces maintenance requirements and provides smooth, quiet operation.
• Fuel injection: The fuel injection system ensures reliable starting and smooth throttle response while also improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
• Electronic ignition: The electronic ignition system provides reliable and consistent starting performance in all conditions.
• Five-speed transmission: The five-speed transmission allows the rider to select the appropriate gear for any riding situation, providing smooth and efficient shifting.
• Weight: The Kawasaki Vulcan 900’s curb weight ranges from 620 to 657 pounds (depending on the specific model and configuration), making it a substantial and sturdy motorcycle.
• Seat height: The seat height of the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 is 26.8 inches, which is relatively low for a cruiser-style motorcycle. This makes it easier for shorter riders to reach the ground and maintain control at stops.

Verdict: Overall, the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 is a great choice for short women who want a motorcycle that’s powerful, reliable, and easy to ride.

Best Stylish Motorcycle for Short Women

6. Honda CBR 300R

The Honda CBR 300R is a stylish and powerful motorcycle with a compact frame. With its smooth handling, agile maneuverability, and powerful engine, the CBR 300R is perfect for short women who want to feel confident and in control on the road.

At just over 30 inches in seat height, the CBR 300R is an ideal choice for short riders. Don’t let its smaller stature fool you – this bike is plenty powerful! It comes with a liquid-cooled 286cc engine that can easily keep up with bigger bikes on the road.

While it’s perfect for shorter commutes and weekend trips, its compact size and sporty design may be less comfortable for extended periods on the road.

Features

• Engine: The CBR300R is equipped with a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel-injected 286cc engine that produces 30 horsepower and 20 lb-ft of torque. This engine has excellent fuel efficiency and is designed to deliver a responsive and smooth performance.
• Suspension: The bike features a 37mm telescopic fork at the front and a Pro-Link single shock at the rear, offering a comfortable and stable ride even on rough roads.
• Brakes: The CBR300R comes with a single 296mm disc brake at the front and a 220mm disc brake at the rear, offering strong and reliable stopping power.
• Fuel Tank: The CBR300R has a 13-litre fuel tank that provides a decent range for long rides without frequently refuelling.
• Weight: The bike has a curb weight of 357 lbs (162 kg), making it easy to handle and maneuver on the road.
• Seat Height: The CBR300R has a low seat height of 30.7 inches (780 mm), making it suitable for riders of all sizes and skill levels.
• Fuel Economy: This bike has an excellent fuel economy with an estimated mileage of 71 mpg (30 km/L), making it very efficient and cost-effective for daily commuting and long-distance rides.

Verdict: The Honda CBR 300R is an excellent choice for short women. While it might lack features like traction control, riders will enjoy its lightweight design and agile handling.

7. Ducati Scrambler Icon

The Ducati Scrambler Icon is a sleek, stylish motorcycle that perfectly blends retro design with modern performance. This bike exudes a cool and classic vibe with its iconic teardrop tank, round headlight, and high-mounted exhaust. 

But what sets the Ducati Scrambler Icon apart from the competition is its ideal specs for shorter riders. Its low seat height of just 31 inches means that even those with a shorter inseam can comfortably plant both feet on the ground at a stop. And at just over 400 pounds, this bike is light enough for shorter riders to easily handle and maneuver in tight spaces.

It is a fairly powerful bike with an 803cc engine.  While it may be perfect for short women in size and weight, it may require some skill and experience to handle its full potential safely. 

Features

• Engine: The Scrambler Icon is powered by an 803cc, L-twin, air-cooled engine that delivers 73 hp and 49 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine allows the motorcycle to accelerate quickly and maintain high speeds.
• Transmission: The bike has a six-speed manual transmission for precise gear changes. This allows riders to shift gears easily and control the motorcycle’s speed.
• Suspension: The Scrambler Icon has a Kayaba upside-down fork at the front and a Kayaba monoshock at the rear. This suspension system provides excellent stability and handling, even on rough terrain.
• Brakes: The motorcycle comes with Brembo brakes, which provide excellent stopping power and control. The front brake has a 330mm disc, while the rear brake has a 245mm disc.
• Seat height: The Scrambler Icon has a low seat height of 31 inches, which makes it easy for riders of all sizes to comfortably reach the ground.
• Weight: The bike has a dry weight of 408 pounds (185 kilograms), which makes it relatively lightweight and agile.
• Fuel economy: The Scrambler Icon has an estimated fuel economy of 46 miles per gallon in combined city/highway riding conditions. This means the bike can travel up to 200 miles on a single gas tank, depending on riding style and conditions.

Verdict: Overall, the Ducati Scrambler Icon is a great choice for anyone looking for a motorcycle that combines style, performance, and a comfortable ride for shorter riders.

Best Affordable Motorcycles for Short Women

8. Honda Rebel 300

The Honda Rebel 300 is an entry-level bike that combines comfort and excellent performance. 

With a seat height of just 27.2 inches and a weight of only 364 pounds, it’s the perfect ride for short women looking for a motorcycle that fits them like a glove.

The low seat height gives short riders control and allows them to easily plant their feet on the ground when stopping. Its lightweight design makes the bike easier to handle and maneuver, especially in tight spaces or when making quick turns.

Features

• Engine: The Honda Rebel 300 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 286cc, single-cylinder engine, which provides ample power for cruising and commuting.
• ABS Brakes: The bike comes equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which helps prevent wheel lock-up and improves control in emergency situations.
• Fuel Injection: The fuel injection system in the Rebel 300 provides more precise fuel delivery, resulting in better throttle response and improved fuel economy.
• Transmission: The Rebel 300 has a smooth-shifting six-speed transmission, allowing easy acceleration and smooth shifting between gears.
• Weight: The curb weight of the Honda Rebel 300 is 364 pounds (165 kg). This makes it a lightweight and easy-to-handle motorcycle.
• Seat Height: The seat height of the Honda Rebel 300 is 27.2 inches (690 mm). This low seat height makes it easy for shorter riders to reach the ground and provides a more stable riding position.
• Fuel Economy: The Honda Rebel 300 has an estimated fuel economy of 71 miles per gallon in combined city/highway riding conditions. This means that it can travel up to 250 miles on a single tank of gas, making it an efficient and cost-effective choice for commuting and cruising.

Verdict: The Honda Rebel 300 doesn’t offer many storage options, but it’s affordable and an excellent choice for short riders.

9. BMW G310R

The BMW G310R is a sporty motorcycle that packs a punch in a compact package. With a powerful 313cc engine and agile handling, this bike is perfect for zipping around town or hitting the open road.

At just over 30 inches in seat height, the G310R offers a low profile that allows shorter riders to easily plant their feet on the ground, giving them more control while riding.

This bike weighs only 349 pounds. Its lightweight design makes maneuvering in tight spaces easy. It’s the perfect motorcycle for short women who want to ride easily and comfortably. 

The G310R is tailor-made for short riders. Its compact size makes it less comfortable for taller riders who may feel cramped or uncomfortable after extended periods of riding. 

Features

• Engine: This bike has a liquid-cooled, 313cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 34 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque, providing sufficient power for quick acceleration and high speeds.
• Chassis: A lightweight steel frame, inverted front fork, and rear monoshock suspension ensure good stability and handling, while the 17-inch wheels provide ample grip and control.
• Brakes: The front and rear disc brakes, coupled with standard ABS, offer excellent stopping power and safety, even in wet or slippery conditions.
• Weight: The BMW G310R weighs around 158.5 kg (349 lbs), making it relatively lightweight and easy to handle for riders of all sizes.
• Seat height: The seat height of the BMW G310R is 30.9 inches, making it easily accessible for shorter riders while providing a comfortable and spacious seating position for tall riders.
• Fuel economy: The BMW G310R has a fuel-efficient engine that can deliver up to 71-82 mpg on average. This makes it an economical choice for daily commuting or long-distance travel.
• Transmission: The BMW G310R has a 6-speed manual transmission that provides smooth and precise shifting. This allows riders to adapt to different road conditions and riding styles easily.

Verdict: Finding a motorcycle that fits comfortably can be challenging for short riders. But the BMW G310R is a bike specially designed to give you the comfort and confidence you need on the road.

10. Honda Shadow

The Honda Shadow is a classic cruiser motorcycle that exudes style, power, and comfort. A V-twin engine powers the Shadow and features a comfortable saddle that allows riders to cruise for hours without feeling fatigued.

With a seat height of only 25.8 inches, this bike is perfect for short women. The Shadow weighs just over 500 pounds. While it’s heavier than most bikes on this list, it’s still relatively lightweight and easy for shorter riders to handle. 

Features

• 745cc V-Twin Engine – This powerful engine gives the bike a lot of torque, making it great for cruising on the open road and accelerating quickly when needed.
• Shaft Drive – The low-maintenance shaft drive system provides a smooth ride by eliminating the need for a chain or belt.
• Five-Speed Transmission – The five-speed transmission allows the rider to shift gears smoothly and easily, providing a comfortable ride on highways and city traffic.
• Hydraulic Disc Brakes – The front and rear hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, allowing the rider to confidently handle any road conditions.
• Weight: The Honda Shadow Phantom has a curb weight of 549 lbs (249 kg), which makes it a mid-range weight cruiser motorcycle.
• Seat Height: The seat height of the Honda Shadow Phantom is low, at just 25.8 inches. This makes it easy for most riders to reach the ground and have good control over the bike.
• Fuel Economy: The Honda Shadow has an estimated fuel economy of 56 miles per gallon under typical riding conditions. This means that riders can travel a good distance on a single fuel tank, making it an economical choice for commuting or longer rides.

Verdict: Overall, the Honda Shadow is a fantastic choice for short women who want a reliable, comfortable, and stylish motorcycle that is easy to handle and packs a punch.

Buying Guide – Things to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle for Short Women

Here are five things to consider when buying a motorcycle for short women:

1. Seat Height

The motorcycle’s seat height is crucial for short women riders. It determines how easily you can reach the ground with your feet.

Short women must look for motorcycles with low seat heights, typically around 25-30 inches. This allows them to comfortably touch the ground with their feet when stopped, improving confidence and stability.

2. Weight

The motorcycle’s weight is another important factor to consider for shorter riders. Heavier motorcycles can be challenging to handle for riders with shorter stature. 

Hence, you should look for motorcycles with lighter weights, which can be easier to handle and control. Consider the overall weight of the motorcycle. This includes the fuel tank and weight distribution to ensure a balanced and manageable riding experience.

3. Handlebar Reach

The reach to the handlebars is crucial for comfortable control and maneuverability. Shorter riders may have shorter arms and may find reaching the handlebars on certain motorcycle models uncomfortable. 

There, short women must look for motorcycles with adjustable or customizable handlebars. This allows you to adjust them to fit your reach comfortably. Alternatively, you can also consider motorcycles with narrower handlebars, which can be easier to reach for shorter riders.

4. Footpeg Position

The position of the footpegs can also impact the comfort and control of the motorcycle for shorter riders. Look for motorcycles with footpegs positioned closer to the rider’s body. This can help in maintaining a more comfortable and ergonomic riding posture. 

5. Bike Style

The style of the motorcycle is also an important consideration for shorter women. Different motorcycle styles have different seat heights and ergonomics. So choosing a style that suits your body type and comfort level is important.

For example, cruisers and standard motorcycles tend to have lower seat heights, making them more accessible for shorter riders. Meanwhile, sport bikes and adventure bikes may have higher seat heights, which may not be as suitable for shorter riders.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right motorcycle can significantly benefit short women riders. Adventure bikes with lower seat heights, comfortable riding positions, and easy-to-reach controls are the key features to consider when selecting a motorcycle.

With the right bike, short women can enjoy a comfortable and confident riding experience on the road. If you’re looking for the best choice, The SuperLow’s low seat height and comfortable riding position make it one of the best motorcycles for short women.