What are the best motorcycles For Petite females? Female riders currently make up just over 10% of the motorcycle market, a number that has grown markedly in recent years.
Although people are at pains these days to discount the physical differences between men and women, the fact remains there are some and they’re going to be relevant when choosing a motorcycle.
What this means is some motorcycles are a better fit for guys than girls and vice versa.
Potential dealbreakers
For small and vertically challenged females, the height and weight of the bike are potential dealbreakers. Unless you’re relatively immune to being laughed at, it’s important to know that if you stack your bike in peak hour traffic you can pick it back up from lying. If you have to call the local firehouse to help lift it, then it’s probably not the bike for you.
Likewise if every time you stop in traffic, the people in the car behind are taking bets over whether you’re going to topple over, and extra thick boot soles aren’t going to fix the problem, the Sportster 883 probably isn’t the bike for you.
Here are our top three choices of Best Motorcycles For Petite Female
1. Harley Davidson Sportster 883
Harley-Davidson has become a symbol for a lifestyle, with the old-style Harley cruisers representative of a more laid-back and easy-going lifestyle. While not quite Wyatt’s Captain America chopper, the Sportster 883 with its low-travel rear suspension, laidback riding position, bucket seat, and retro styling is a worthy substitute.
The main issue is likely to be the weight. With several of the models in this range-topping 550lbs, this bike isn’t light. The low seat height of 27.8 inches, on the other hand, is a definite plus, accommodating most heights. The handlebars are well spaced and the controls shouldn’t present too many issues for most women.
An impressive 4.5-gallon gas tank makes it ideal for cruising, although the bike performs equally well in the city. The low center of gravity contributes to a well-designed and safe bike. The Harley Davidson Sportster 883 is easy to ride and presents no control issues. Although, its weight can make low-speed maneuvers difficult. Models are priced from $9,500.
Specifications:
Engine: V Twin
Displacement: 249cc
Transmission: 5 speed
Torque (Nm): 68
Drive: Belt
2. Yamaha V-Star 250
In contrast to the Sportster, the Yamaha V-Star 250 is featherweight, tipping the scales at 326lbs. Not only is the V-Star 250 lightweight, but it’s also narrow and low as well, making it a good choice for those of small stature. The comfortable riding position is accentuated by a custom-style handlebar, which with the stylish fenders create a unique and modern bike.
The compact bike offers easy maneuverability, and with a low center of gravity is a stable and safe ride that is suitable for all levels of experience. While the fuel tank could have been a little larger, the V-Star 250 is nonetheless an impressive performer across a variety of different road types
The seat height of 27.1” is easily accessed by women of all heights. Those looking to hear an authentic V-Twin experience won’t be disappointed with the V-Star, its 249cc engine coming complete with that unique V-Twin soft rumble. The Yamaha V-Star 250 retails from $4,599.
Specifications:
Engine: V Twin
Displacement: 249cc
Transmission: 5 speed
Drive: Belt
3. Honda Fury
The Honda Fury was the first custom-looking production chopper. Priced at $10,500, the Fury is the most expensive of the three bikes, although some would agree it’s worth every cent. The 1,312 cc engine has all the power you’ll need but doesn’t carry the intimidation tag that some of the larger bikes have.
While the weight is getting up there at 663lbs, the seat height comes in at 26.9’, the lowest on our list. The chopper-style bike does take a little getting used to but is no issue after you’ve had a few hours on the bike. The low center of gravity contributes to its stability and although maneuverability is a little challenging at times, the Fury presents as a reliable option.
Styled after the outlaw choppers of the 1960s and 70s, the Fury is a little short in the fuel storage department, with 150 miles being at the upper limit of its capacity on one tank of gas. The fury may lack some of the features of the other two bikes, such as a fuel gauge, but it more than makes up for it in other departments.
Specifications:
Engine: V Twin
Displacement: 1,312cc
Transmission: 6 speed
Drive: Belt
About the author: Michael Parrotte was the Vice President of AGV Helmets America, and a consultant for KBC Helmets, Vemar Helmets, Suomy Helmets, Marushin Helmets, KYT Helmets, Sparx Helmets. In addition, he is the founder and owner of AGV Sports Group.
FM/M