Motorcycle Ergonomics: How to Make Your Motorcycle Comfortable for You

What Is Motorcycle Ergonomics and Why Does It Matter?

Motorcycles come in many different shapes and sizes, but no matter which bike you go for, some universal principles apply. As you can learn about in the video below, you should be able to feel a “triangle of comfort” (also called the “triangle of control”) from your hands on the handgrips, to your hips in the saddle, to your feet on pedals, and back up to your hands. So, even while different styles of bikes—from cruisers to touring to more aggressive sport bikes—lend themselves to different styles and postures of riding, the same triangle principle applies for optimal motorcycle ergonomics.

The Signs of an Improper Motorcycle Fit

So, now you have an idea of how to get comfortable on a motorcycle according to the triangle of comfort. But how do you know when things still aren’t quite set up right for you? Begin by watching out for these five common signs of an improper motorcycle fit.

1. A Sore Back
   If at any point you’re feeling pain from a ride, it’s probably time to take action and get fitted. Discomfort in the lower back is a common indication that something’s wrong with your bike fit—potentially your motorcycle seat, foot position, motorcycle handlebars, or even a combination of all three. Stop in to see a Fit Shop expert to evaluate your ride and your motorcycle position so you can get back on the road in total confidence.
2. Worn Out Hands
   A grip diameter that doesn’t match the size of your hands can wear you out faster and can make a long ride more torture than pleasure. If your hands are tiring over time, try to find a grip diameter that lets you grab the controls firmly and capably—and do so for long periods.
3. On Your Toes
   Not having your feet planted firmly when you come to a stop not only poses a safety risk but can also put a damper on your confidence in the saddle. Adjusting to a proper, lower center of mass will strengthen your command of the road. Drop your seat height and suspension to a point where you have solid control when starting and stopping.
4. Knees Are High
   A cramped riding position can put unnecessary strain on many parts of your body—from your feet up through your knees, hips, and back and negatively impact motorcycle ergonomics. Try stretching out a bit more by moving your foot position forward. If this doesn’t quite do the trick, you may need to test-sit some seats that offer a different position.
5. Reaching Too Far
   Stretching too far to reach your handlebars can be downright exhausting. Over time, you might feel it in your shoulders, neck, arms, and lower back. Plus, it can make for tougher handling in tight spaces. A fit with the right handlebar and seat combination can go a long way toward taking the weight off your arms and the strain off your upper body.

How to Make Your Motorcycle More Comfortable

To help ensure that your riding posture is as comfortable as possible, you can zero in on some of the areas of your motorcycle covered above and make simple adjustments. Soon, you’ll have a customized fit that allows you to confidently hit the road.

Rear Suspension

Adjusting your rear suspension is a go-to strategy to instantly lower your ride height. With a lowering kit, you’ll be able to plant your heels with confidence and get a deep-set custom look.

Front Suspension

Feel the difference in the responsiveness of your front end, while keeping the ride quality of a standard suspension. Careful though: slamming the front fork should only happen in tandem with a low-profile rear suspension.

Handlebars

There are three primary measurements for any handlebar:

• Rise: The distance from the body of the bike to the top of the bar
• Width: The measurement of the handlebar’s total width, taken from the widest point, where grips are installed
• Pullback: The distance forward or back from the top of the bar to the tip of the handle

These three measurements will determine your ability to reach the bike’s hand controls and, ultimately, your overall feeling of comfort and control. However, these measurements are not necessarily the end-all, be-all when it comes to fit.

Many bars can be mounted using various handlebar risers that affect the final positioning and give you a more comfortable, customized fit. In addition, H-D offers the Reach line of handlebars (as well as seats and foot controls) that are specially designed to give shorter riders between the heights of 5’2” and 5’8” a more enjoyable ride. It’s important to note that handlebar height is regulated in many locations. Check local laws to ensure your motorcycle meets applicable regulations.

Learn more about Harley-Davidson's motorcycle handlebar types.
 

Foot Controls

Where your feet meet the foot controls is equal parts riding style and fit to your body. Do you want to ride aggressively or more laid-back? Now, take your inseam into account. At the intersection of these two factors, you’ll find the position that’s best for you. Keep in mind: as we discussed above, foot position determines ankle, hip, and knee angles—so keep it comfortable.

Seat

There’s a lot more to a seat than padding. Where the seat positions your waist relative to the foot controls, hand controls, and the ground is very important to consider. Harley-Davidson offers a wide range of motorcycle seats, with various heights and shapes, giving you dozens of combinations to choose from and helping you find a custom fit that works for you.

Learn more about Harley-Davidson’s most comfortable motorcycle seats.