As a “vertically challenged” motorcycle rider, I know a thing or two when it comes to making a bike “fit” the rider. Of course the vertically challenged folks aren’t the only riders who want a lowered motorcycle. It then becomes a matter of preference, instead of necessity. The lowering of a motorcycle definitely affects handling, especially when rolling into those tight corners at high speeds.

Many experienced riders enjoy occasionally scraping pegs or pipes, giving the people behind them a little sparks show. My favorite change though, is the lower center of gravity. I didn’t fear loosing my balance any more. The balance and handling that came from the changes, made my bike become more like a part of my body. You sit in the bike, instead of on top of the bike. It takes only a slight movement of the hips, and you have just easily avoided that dangerously loose manhole cover in the middle of the road. Those winding country roads become natural movements, rather than forced actions.

When I hear people say, “Harleys are big & heavy” or “hard to handle”, I offer them a seat on mine. I have converted many folks whose well-intentioned friends have advised them to get smaller bikes because of their stature. Whether you’re converting a stock bike, or wish to build from the ground up, there are many ways to make your bike fit you and your riding style.

The easy fix to my stock 87 FXR began many years ago. The first thing we did was install shorter shocks. Not long after that came the conversion to a wide glide front end. With the installation of the fork lowering kit, I was finally able to get my feet flat on the ground. That gave me the stability I was seeking.

I could confidently maneuver my bike in and out of tight parking spots, gravel roads, and steep driveways. The next job was to customize my seat. We cut my old two-passenger seat in half, and made it into a solo seat. We shaved the foam on the sides, deepened the saddle portion, and covered it with new leather. Many seat makers now have seats in stock that they call “low profile”. The drawback to some of these seats is the loss of comfort, so consider gel inserts when looking at the thinner seats, especially if you want to put miles on your bike.

The handlebars were the last thing to be changed. I chose 13 inch apehangers, but since they were on extended backorder, I ended up with 12 ½-inch apes. The bars came pre-drilled for internal wiring. It’s worth the extra time to run your wiring through the bars. It gives your bike the cleanest look. My conversion was complete when I received a pair of awesome risers for my birthday. My handlebars were finally at arm’s length. The fit was perfect. No more leaning forward. No more low back strain.

Of course your budget plays into your decision making process. Everything I mention here is available in a wide range of style & price. You can do all your changes at once, or do like I did, and stretch the process out over a few seasons, until it’s just right.

When you’re building a custom bike, everything I‘ve mentioned here still applies, except that you begin at the beginning, the frame. Your builder should discuss the many options available to you in building the bike that suits all your needs. That’s what custom is about. There are so many frame & suspension styles available these days, that your custom bike builder should have no problem making the bike a perfect fit to your stature, or your style of riding,right from the start.

Take your time and enjoy the process,
Debby Deb Radloff

Classic Ironworks
15125 NE 90th Street
Redmond, WA
(425) 820-1080
www.classic-ironworks.com