I own a suziki gs500, what size bike would be better for my sister to ride?

Question

Like i said I own a suzuki gs500f, and I'm 5'7. My sister wants to learn to ride a bike to, but shes just about 5'4 and it's hard for her to have full control of the bike...Anybody know of any bikes lower to the ground?

Answer 1

The two bikes scott mentioned are great for beginners, also the honda nighthawk 250 and new 2008 kawasaki ninja 250r are great bikes for shorter people.

Answer 2

The GS500F is a rough sportbike. It's like a beginner version of a sport tourer. I wouldn't recommend a cruiser if she likes your bike.

If she can't fit on your GS, put her on a Kawasaki Ninja 250R, or a Honda Nighthawk 250. For the first time in about 20 years the Kawsaki Ninja was redsigned for 2008 to look like a real sportbike. Good luck finding one until next riding season though!

Answer 3

There is a big myth that you need to place both feet flat on the ground standing still on a bike.

I know of a woman who is 5Ft. even, and she rides a GSX/R 1000, no problem.

Let me explain the science.

The center of gravity on most sport bikes is the point where the seat meets the gas tank. That also happens to be the point where your body has the most influential point of contact with the bike, (The world too but we won't go there LOL), hence the term crotch rocket.

The upper most part of your inner thighs is what controls the bike. At a stop light a short person can plant their left foot on the ground and rest the bike on their inner thigh.

It might seem like that would be difficult and heavy but it is actually not hard or heavy. Most experienced riders do this anyway leaving their right foot on the peg.

When I ride the 2006 GSX/R600, I can't flat foot it with both feet and I'm almost 5'10". I just rest it on my inner thigh just like I explained earlier. No problem.

If you are comfy, let her practice on your bike. That is really all it takes is practice and patience. She can get a GS500F as well. These are awesome starter bikes because they are still fun even after your skills improve. Unlike the Ninja250 that will be boring after a few months.

Answer 4

Honda Rebel or Yamaha 250 Virago. Harley makes a very low sportster too.