1.Honda CTX700


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Say what you will about the oddly-styled CTX700, it’s clear Honda is making a strong attempt to rejuvenate this sport. One way to do that is to introduce models appealing to a wide range of riders, including vertically challenged ones.

With a seat height only 28.3 inches from the ground, the CTX700 does just that. Mix in the forward pegs and pull-back handlebars, and the rest of the CTX package is one anybody would feel comfortable burning countless miles on.


2.Kawasaki Ninja 300


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When Kawasaki’s entry-level motorcycle, the Ninja 250, grew in displacement to become the Ninja 300, suddenly the doors opened to a range of riders who were yearning for something more powerful than a 250 but weren’t yet ready for a middleweight.

Besides the bump in power, the Ninja 300 also appeals because of its relatively benign 30.9-inch seat height, which is downright short in sportbike terms. Its low saddle, light weight and modest power make it an ideal motorcycle for a beginner looking to move up the sport bike ranks.



3.Suzuki SFV650


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Also hovering 30.9 inches off the ground, the seat on the Suzuki SFV650 is a solid choice for someone looking to graduate to an intermediate-level motorcycle beyond the Ninja 300 while still being able to touch the ground. Essentially a re-badged Gladius (which itself is a reincarnated SV650), the SFV’s 645cc V-Twin is a favorite at Motorcycle.com, which should provide plenty of performance to entertain new and experienced riders alike.


4.Zero XU


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If you haven’t given electrics much thought as being short-rider friendly, then maybe it’s time to reconsider. With its accessory low seat, the 2013 Zero XU is only 29.1 inches high — the lowest in Zero’s street legal lineup.

Why should you consider a Zero? If your moto needs consist of simply running errands around town or your workplace is less than 40 miles (75 with both batteries) from home, the XU can get you there with ease, and without the complications of shifting since there aren’t any gears — just twist and go.


5.Star V Star 1300 Deluxe


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Being short doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the luxuries of touring. Standing in a class of one, the Star V Star 1300 Deluxe is the perfect mid-size bagger for a variety of body types. A 27.2-inch seat height brings the Earth closer to your feet than many of its larger-displacement counterparts, while providing ample forward motivation to keep you from feeling bored.

Consider, too, the Star’s ample accommodations, like the batwing-style fairing, hard, color-matched saddlebags, GPS, and entertainment system, and the 1300 Deluxe will move you in in a style typically seen only in bigger baggers.