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Beginner motorcycles for tall riders are always categorized into adventure or cruiser types of motorcycle, but there are a whole lot of other motorcycles you can choose from that are affordable, fun, and most importantly ideal and compatible with tall riders.
This curated list of motorcycles for tall riders includes bikes that will eliminate the most common problems among tall riders such as lack of comfort and 3 crucial elements of the rider’s sitting position which are handlebar positioning, footpegs placement, and seat height (also known as a rider’s triangle).
Now say goodbye to sore backs, bent legs, and cramped-up sitting positions as we will look into the Top 15 Best Beginner Motorcycles For Tall Riders.
- Triumph Tiger Sport 660
- BMW G310 GS
- Honda CBR500R
- KTM Adventure 390
- Kawasaki Ninja 400
- Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
- KTM RC 390
- Husqvarna Svartpilen 401
- Yamaha R3
- Kawasaki Vulcan S
- Yamaha MT-07
- Triumph Speed Twin 900
- Honda Rebel 500
- Suzuki DR-Z400 SM
- Suzuki SV650
If you are on a budget but still need a capable motorcycle that can deliver excitement and fun while riding it whether it be a sports bike, adv, street naked, or cruiser we have got it all. Please check out the article.
1. Triumph Tiger Sport 660
First on our list is the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 which comes under LAMS also known as the “Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme” and is considered one of the ideal motorcycles for tall riders as a beginner.
This sports tourer has enough character to give you punchy power when it’s needed at a twist of the throttle but can also be ridden with calm and poise during your daily commutes.
The average height of tall males around the world is considered 5 feet 11 inches or 6 feet above. For women, it’s around 5 feet 8 inches and above.
So you can easily plant both feet on the ground or at least one foot while sitting in an upright commanding position.
The Tiger Sport 660 comes with a 660CC inline 3-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces 81 HP @ 10,250 rpm and a Max Torque of 47.2 lb-ft (64 Nm) @ 6,250 rpm.
The seat height sits at 32.87 in (835 mm) which will comfortably accommodate riders who are 5.10 ft to 6.5 ft tall.
Triumph Tiger Sport 660 can be your comfortable daily commuter and long-distance tourer if you are looking for that type of motorcycle.
2. BMW G310 GS
If you are looking for an adventure motorcycle on a budget that is capable of adequate off-roading and cross-country touring with daily commuting as well, then the BMW G 310 GS is the one you should really consider.
The G 310 GS comes with a 313CC single cylinder liquid cooled engine that produces 34 HP @ 9500 rpm and a Max Torque of 20.6 lb-ft (28 Nm) @ 7500 rpm.
The motorcycle seat height is around 32.87 in (835 mm) which is similar to Tiger Sport 660. The ground clearance is 8.6 in (220 mm) which is enough to tackle tricky off-road conditions.
The suspension setting is on the softer side which can absorb off-road terrain and uneven city roads with bumps and potholes.
So if you are on a budget and specifically interested in beginner motorcycles in the adventure segment, then BMW G 310 GS is the one for you.
3. Honda CBR500R
Sportsbikes are hit-or-miss scenarios for tall riders depending upon how tall you are due to their committed riding position. Cramped-up sitting positions are the most common problem faced by tall riders on sports bikes.
But the Honda CBR500R is one of those sports bikes that does not have super low and narrow handlebars with high footpegs. This motorcycle can easily fit a 6.6 ft tall rider.
The seat is wide enough to comfortably sit on and the handlebars are an even balance between sporty and street motorcycles.
Honda CBR500R comes with a 471CC parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine which produces 47 HP @ 9500 rpm and a Max Torque of 31.7 lb-ft (43 Nm) @ 6500 rpm.
The power curve is beginner-friendly and the bike stays stable at high speeds. CBR500R is one of the best beginner motorcycles for tall riders in the sportbike segment.
4. KTM Adventure 390
Earlier we talked about adventuring riding on a budget but if you manage to up your budget by only a couple thousand dollars then you can get yourself a far more capable adventure/touring motorcycle with much more power and torque to keep things interesting.
We are talking about the KTM Adventure 390, The engine is tried and tested and pretty popular among beginner riders around the world but with different tuning compared to the KTM 390 Duke and KTM RC 390.
It comes with a 373CC single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces 43.5 HP @ 9000 rpm and a Max Torque of 27.3 lb-ft (37 Nm) @ 7,000 rpm.
Keep in mind if you are an avid beginner adventure motorcycle rider but finding it difficult to start out on a motorcycle that has decent power to keep the learning experience fun but not intimidating, then KTM Adventure 390 is a perfect package for tall riders.
The ground clearance of 7.8 in (200 mm) with a seat height of 33.6 in (855 mm) can comfortably fit a tall man or woman of 5.9 ft to 6.5 ft height.
The engine is far more capable than BMW’s G 310 GS and much more torquey and fun for daily commutes as well.
5. Kawasaki Ninja 400
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 has predominantly been a first choice as a beginner motorcycle in the sports bike segment for club racing, professional racing, and motorcycle riding schools/organizations all over the world, especially in the USA and European Nations.
The Ninja 400 comes with a 399CC parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that produces 45 HP @ 10000 rpm and a Max Torque of 27.2 lb-ft (37 Nm) @ 8000 rpm.
The seating position and the placement of handlebars are close to the neutral riding style. You don’t have to lean too much and even though it’s a sports bike the seat placement is somewhat closer to a sport tourer rather than a fully committed super sport motorcycle.
This motorcycle can play a great role in building your foundational riding skills and will be a great stepping ladder to a much more powerful motorcycle.
And as a tall rider your back won’t hurt as won’t need to lean too much to reach the handlebars and the footpegs are not super high to make you feel cramped up.
So a Ninja 400 can be a great track-riding motorcycle and a decent reasonably comfortable daily commuter as well.
6. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
So you are not interested in sportbikes, or adventure\tourer motorcycles, but instead looking for a laid-back motorcycle with an old school retro styling then pay attention to the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.
The Interceptor 650 has somewhat similar styling to a Triumph Bonneville with upright handlebars and a flat decently cushioned rider seat.
For tall beginner riders, this motorcycle is excellent for your daily commutes and occasional tours. The Footpegs sit slightly behind your keens but are similar to any street naked motorcycle, so even a tall big guy of 6 foot 5 inches can fit on this motorcycle with comfort.
It has a 647CC parallel twin air-oil cooled engine that produces 47.4 HP @ 7250 rpm and a Max Torque of 38.7 lb-ft (52.3 Nm) @ 5150 rpm. So the torque comes in early at low rpm as well as the power.
Retro motorcycle aesthetics are currently in trend and reasonably so, and the Interceptor 650 is a budget-friendly as well as beginner-friendly option for tall riders in the retro motorcycle segment.
I could have suggested the Continental GT 650 but due to its clip-on handlebars and high footpegs, it can definitely cause discomfort for tall riders and is not ideal for 6.3 ft or above.
But take a test ride and see how you feel before making a buying decision.
7. KTM RC 390
The beginner sportbike segment is really booming these days as there are a lot of motorcycles in this category, but the KTM RC 390 is only one of those motorcycles that embrace the true spirit of a supersport motorcycle.
Lean & narrow body combined with punchy power and lightweight makes this motorcycle a complete weapon on or off track. The stability while leaning and at a high-speed straight line is commendable.
It comes with a 373CC single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces 43 HP @ 9000 rpm and a Max Torque of 27.2 lb-ft (37 Nm) @ 7000 rpm.
Compared to its competitors like the Kawasaki Ninja 400, and Yamaha R3, the KTM RC 390 is way more advanced in terms of rider tech, superior suspensions and their adjustment, brake setup, and overall package it offers.
For daily commutes it’s a good option, on mountain twisties it’s a great option, and for track riding it’s one of the best motorcycles to level up and build your skill.
8. Husqvarna Svartpilen 401
Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 has a unique and distinct look to it and is best for your daily commute.
If you don’t know naked motorcycles have a harder time with tall or bulky riders due to their short and compact body design elements(tank design, footpegs placement, seat height).
Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 seat height sits fairly higher at 32.8 in (835 mm) compared to other naked motorcycles with raised handlebars.
It comes with a 373CC single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces 43 HP @ 9000 rpm and a Max Torque of 27.3 lb-ft (37 Nm) @ 7000 rpm.
The Svartpilen 401 also has the capability of touring and is one of the best options in the naked motorcycle segment for beginner motorcycles for tall riders.
9. Yamaha R3
The Yamaha YZF R3 is a good option for beginner riders who are tall and searching for a sports bike.
I would only recommend this motorcycle if you really need a Yamaha motorcycle and inline-twin to be exact. If you are specific with your choice and need a Yamaha then go for it.
Now if you do not have allegiance to any brand and need a motorcycle that is totally worth your money, then I would not recommend R3 due to simple reasons such as an underpowered engine, older design, lack of rider aid/tech, subpar suspensions and brake setup compared to competitors.
At the same price or a couple of dollars more you could opt for RC 390 or Ninja 400. But take a test ride and make a decision if you are having second thoughts.
The Yamaha R3 comes with a 321CC inline-twin liquid-cooled engine that produces 41.4 HP @ 10750 rpm and a Max Torque of 21.8 lb-ft (29.6 Nm) @ 9000 rpm.
So if you really need a Yamaha motorcycle go for it. It is a good motorcycle but lacks in multiple aspects compared to its competitors.
10. Kawasaki Vulcan S
I haven’t forgotten my cruiser motorcycle lovers who don’t seek adrenaline rush from cornering a motorcycle or hooligan satisfaction from off-road riding on an adventure motorcycle.
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is probably the best cruiser beginner motorcycle for tall riders. Aside from an amazing engine derived from Ninja 650 and the bulky cruiser look, it has an excellent rideability feature called Ergo Fit.
As I earlier mentioned in this article about the 3 crucial elements of the rider’s sitting position ( also known as the Rider’s Triangle), the Kawasaki Vulcan S changes the elements of the rider’s triangle according to your height.
You can literally change the placement/position of the handlebars, footpegs, and riding seat according to your height which will deliver a better and comfortable riding posture for taller riders.
It comes with a 649CC parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine derived from the Ninja 650 that produces 61 HP @ 7500 rpm and a Max Torque of 46.3 lb-ft (62.7 Nm) @ 6600 rpm.
This motorcycle is perfect for those who need that laid-back riding style for the daily commutes and the capability of long touring with ease and comfort.
So my last thought on the Kawasaki Vulcan S, it can be ridden by someone who is 5.6 ft tall or under and someone who is 6.1 ft tall or above just by taking advantage of their Ergo-Fit feature.
11. Yamaha MT-07
As a beginner rider, you probably want a motorcycle you can grow into and hold onto for multiple years. In the lower cubic capacity (200cc-300cc) naked motorcycle segment people could get used to the power and grow out of it within a year or two.
The Yamaha MT-07 is one of those perfect beginner motorcycles for tall riders who can grow into it and develop their riding skills while still keeping the experience fun and interesting.
It comes with a 689CC parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that produces 74.8 HP @ 8750 rpm and a Max Torque of 50 lb-ft (68 Nm) @ 6500 rpm.
The MT-07 is a lightweight nimble motorcycle that can shit side to side with no effort and is a great option for your daily commutes, part or full hooligan riding with touring capabilities to mount panniers and bags on the motorcycle.
The punchy torque and power can be felt from the low to mid Rpm range, and can easily maintain highway/expressway speed limit.
The Yamaha MT-07 has been a successful and highly purchased motorcycle in its segment due to its reliability and fun nature.
I suggest you take a look at the KTM Duke 790, It can be a little handful and intimidating, but if it’s right for you and makes you feel all tingly in the right places (* cough*cough) go for it.
12. Triumph Speed Twin 900
Retro motorcycle has their own charm but if it’s done right in the aspects such as ride quality, engine performance, and comfortable ergonomics package, then you will get Triumph Speed Twin 900.
The Speed Twin 900 has been a very popular and crowd-favorite motorcycle among many riders and is considered one of the best entry-level retro/classic motorcycles.
It comes with a 900cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that produces 64.1 HP @ 7500 rpm and a Max Torque of 59 lb-ft (79.9 Nm) @ 3800 rpm.
Due to its torquey performance at lower RPM, it keeps the riding experience around the city and during your daily commutes super fun and interesting.
Despite being a 900CC engine it produces pretty beginner-friendly and tractable power figures with a smooth riding experience.
The upright sitting position and raised handlebars are ideal for tall beginner riders for long-riding sessions such as touring.
13. Honda Rebel 500
The Honda Rebel 500 is a perfect affordable option between a Rebel 300 and a Rebel 1100 in the beginner cruiser segment.
It comes with a 471CC liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that produces 45-47 HP @ 8500 rpm and a Max Torque of 33 lb-ft (45 Nm) @ 6,000 rpm.
It creates enough power to enjoy your daily rides and trips with ease. But as a standard version, it only comes with a single seat and you may have to add on a passenger seat if you wish. That is the only downside I have about this motorcycle.
This motorcycle is reliable, easy-going, nothing much, nothing less. So if you are on a budget and need an affordable reliable cruiser, then the Honda Rebel 500 is the one for the picking.
14. Suzuki DR-Z400
Suzuki DR-Z400 is a great learning platform for tall beginner riders as they can be bought brand new or you could get a used one at a super low price in good condition since Sukuzi hasn’t made any changes to this motorcycle for many years.
The DR-Z400 comes in dual sport, street, and supermoto trims/models that you can choose from. The motorcycle is as raw as it can get, and I would suggest you get a pre-owned DRZ 400 cause it doesn’t make sense to buy a new one because of the updates reason mentioned earlier.
It comes with a 398cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 4-stroke engine that produces 39.7 HP @ 8500 rpm and a Max Torque of 28.8 lb-ft (39 Nm) @ 6600 rpm.
The sheer lightweight of this motorcycle makes it super easy and fun to ride and maneuver through difficult riding conditions.
So if you are on a super tight budget and need an affordable beginner motorcycle as a tall rider, then check out Suzuki DR-Z400 models (in pre-owned condition).
15. Suzuki SV650
If you are not into the MT-07’s sharp slender look and looking for a naked motorcycle with classic but brawler bulky appeal, then shift your attention towards the Suzuki SV650.
The SV 650 is an iconic sporty naked motorcycle with retro styling. It comes with a 645CC liquid-cooled V-Twin engine that produces 75 HP @ 8500 rpm and a Max Torque of 47.2 lb-ft (64 Nm) @ 8000 rpm.
It can cut corners with ease and you can lean the motorcycle with confidence thanks to its nimble steel trellis-style frame.
It’s a naked motorcycle with a sports bike spirit combined with the comfort of a naked motorcycle.
So the Suzuki SV650 is an ideal naked-styled one of the best beginner motorcycles for tall riders.
Best Seat Height For Tall Motorcycle Riders
The best seat height for tall motorcycle riders is around 31-33 inches (787-838 mm) with the inseam anywhere around 32 inches to 36 inches which can generally fit a tall rider who is 5 feet 10 inches tall to 6 feet 5 inches tall.
Conclusion
This list is carefully curated for tall riders who are beginners by taking aspects of riding ergonomics and power delivery into account such as handlebar height & its reach, footpeg placements, seat height, power & performance, rider aids/tech to deliver maximum comfort & solid ground to develop riding skills of beginner riders.
