Choosing a new bike means making some considerations—cost, style, efficiency, and performance, to name a few—but there’s one thing riders rarely think about: proper fit. You could find a Harley that looks great, sounds mean, and checks all the boxes, but all that effort will be wasted if it’s not the right fit. Here, we’ll list a few points to keep in mind when finding the right ride.

Determining the Right Seat Height: Tips for New Riders

While finding the right seat height is easy, only you’ll know whether the bike is truly suited to your stature. A heavy Harley may be tough to keep on two wheels without having both feet on the ground, but a lighter bike will likely be easier to balance between your legs.

Seat width and shoe selection also affect seat height requirements. For instance, a wider seat will lift a rider’s legs off the ground, while heavy, thick-soled riding boots will slightly extend the reach of their feet and legs.

Carrying the Weight: It Matters When You Ride

Before heading into the nearest Harley showroom or browsing the American Motorcycle Trading Company’s inventory of pre-owned motorcycles, it may be a good idea to step onto the scale. Although it may not make much sense at first, weight is a crucial consideration when selecting a motorcycle.

Rider weight greatly affects a bike’s performance and maneuverability, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Your bike will also bear the weight of passengers, gear, and vital fluids. Deduct the bike’s total weight—including oil and gas—from its gross vehicle weight rating to get its weight limit.

Now that you’ve determined how much weight you’ll need the bike to bear, use that information to select an engine size. Smaller powerplants work well under lighter loads, but those who frequently carry passengers and heavy gear will need something more powerful.

Size Matters When You’re On Two Wheels

As you’re sitting astride the bike, both feet should be flat on the ground. All bikes feel light when they’re upright, but even the slightest lean will make them feel heavy. Sitting flat-footed allows a rider to keep their bike upright at a complete stop, which makes sudden starts that much easier and safer.

The next step is to ensure that all controls are easily accessible. Ensure that the handlebars and pedals can be reached without issue. If you’re stretching to reach the handbrake or in an awkward position, it won’t just ruin the fun; it can throw the bike off balance.

Although it’s easy to find information online, such as frame size, weight, and seat height, the best riders take things a little further. The only real way to see how a bike fits is to throw a leg over it—and thankfully, we make it easy for riders to find their perfect fit.

Motorcycle Styling Choices: There’s Something for Everyone

Motorcycles come in numerous types and shapes, and the type of riding you do plays a significant role in sizing. Do you do a lot of highway cruising? These motorcycles typically sit lower, which makes them better for people of smaller stature. Cruisers can be heavy, though, so it’s best to try a few options before making the commitment.

For some, it’s all about the thrill of high-speed riding—and for that, only a sportbike will do. Sportbikes usually have riders leaning forward sharply, which puts pressure on the wrists and back during longer rides. If you’re used to a more upright riding posture, a sportbike may not be the best choice.

Dual-sport motorcycles are becoming more popular, as they perform well across various terrains and weather conditions. Despite their benefits, these bikes are too tall for some riders. Finally, street bikes are another common option. With their upright riding postures and wide size range, these motorcycles are purpose-built for agility and comfort, and that makes it easy to find the right fit.

Making It Work for You

If you’re set on a certain style of motorcycle but the fit isn’t quite right, it may be possible to make a few changes. The most common ways to alter a bike’s fit are to adjust the suspension or seat height, which essentially lowers the bike. Most motorcycle repair shops and dealerships can do it for you, setting the bike up according to your measurements and preferences.

Most of today’s bikes are designed to accommodate riders of various sizes and body shapes, which can make the selection and adjustment processes a little easier. Many motorcycles have adjustable suspensions, seats, and handlebars, which can be moved with a few simple tools. When making these adjustments, don’t forget about the side stand. After all, you don’t want to find your bike toppled over because the kickstand was set too high!

Motorcycle Selection: The Takeaway

Choosing a motorcycle can be tough, especially for new riders. When selecting a bike, be sure to:

• Find one at a size and weight that’s easily maneuverable.
• Sit on it with both feet on the ground.
• Reach the brakes, throttle, clutch lever, and shifter easily.
• Find a riding posture that’s safe for your wrists and back.

If you’ve found a bike that you love but can’t quite meet these criteria, a few minor adjustments may make the difference between a safe, comfortable ride and an awkward, dangerous one.

Count On Us for the Best Selection of Clean, Low-Mileage Harleys

Finding the right motorcycle for your weight and height can be difficult, simply because everyone is different and there are so many options available. By following these tips, though, you’ll make the bike selection process easier and more enjoyable.

The American Motorcycle Trading Company has one of the country’s best selections of pre-owned Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and we would love to help you find your perfect fit. Browse our inventory online or call us for additional information on any of our bikes. We look forward to helping you!