New guy, dumb question

Shep · May 14, 2014

I'm tire kicking for a new ride. I currently ride a Street Triple R. Have had it 4 years, no plans to sell. Looking for s second bike to "travel" some on. I use the Street Triple for that now, but could use just a little more wind management and a bit of stretching room. Already owned nearly all the big tourers and sport tourers. At this point I prefer sub 500 lbs, minimal tourers. I've owned 5 Ducs, so not a newbie to the brand. Here is the question: I'm short. I mean 29" inseam at the very best. I don't mind tiptoes. I've owned many tall bikes. Have not ridden a Hyperstrada yet, so I don't really know how it feels. Any short guys or gals have some feedback on the fit? Anyone doing long days? Thanks for any feedback. I plan to buy in about 30 days or so and have been looking at just about everything I can think of.

Shep

gatdammit · May 14, 2014

I think 29" will definitely require the low seat version. I'm barely 33" and I tip-toe with both feet down; can plant one fully with the other on a peg- on standard seat height.

Dryer · May 14, 2014

I'm just under 5'7'' with a 30 inch inseam and ride a Hypermotard (slightly taller than HS). I got used to only being able to touch down with one foot on my last bike and continue to be fine with the HM which is a further reach. I can flat foot one side only if I shift my butt left or right on the seat. You sound like a seasoned rider so I would guess you would be able to cope with it just fine.

With all that said, I would definitely check one out in person and definitely test ride if possible.

Shep · May 14, 2014

Thanks for the quick feedback. Low seats tend to equal torture to me. I want to be able to walk after a 500 mile day! Yeah, I've had lots of bikes that allow me one foot down at stops, also they were much heavier. As you said, I'm just going to have to give one a go soon as I get a chance. To put some of the previous bikes in height perspective, I've had two 1100 Multistradas, 2 BMW GS bikes (1150 and 1200). Barely tiptoe on the 1200 Multistrada, a bit more than I like, but could do it. Same for KTM SMT, although I was more comfortable tiptoeing it, due to its light weight and narrow stance. I would prefer a little better reach, just for those few moments when there is no ground below, particularly mountain roads. I also want to be able to get a degree of comfort for longer days. I don't need Goldwing comfort...just decent wind management mainly to help reduce fatigue. I have always liked and ridden dirt bikes, but am really a street guys, meaning the "motard" style really appeals to me, including 17" wheels. Thanks again.

Shep

Monstard · May 14, 2014

if you can manage the 1200 bmw and multistrada, i don't see you having vertical reach issues with the much lighter HS

only issue is your personal comfort level. best to hop on one to know for sure

suprphreak · May 15, 2014

I'll be doing 3000km this coming weekend, I'll post a report about the long days when I get back.

Shep · May 16, 2014

Thanks. Look forward to it.

Shep

HyperstradaHopeful · May 19, 2014

Shep, I had the same concern. Bought the Hyperstrada and found the seat height manageable, but still a little higher than I'd like. More than the height though, I found the WIDTH of the seat pushing my thighs out and making it slightly uncomfortable. I sent the seat to Rich's Customs Seats and they were awesome. For about $400, they lowered it, narrowed it, and covered it in a custom beige leather for me. It feels great. It's roughly the same height as the Strada Low Seat (I tried the Low Seat and couldn't notice a difference in height between that and the standard seat that Rich's customized and sent back to me), but the fact that they narrowed it made a huge difference and made it a lot more comfortable. Instead of buying the Low Seat and spending $300 on that, just send your regular seat to Rich's and for $300-$400 they will make it custom for you and much more comfortable than the Low seat!

New guy, dumb question

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