I've posted in the past about trying to find a bike that fits me. I have short legs, about a 29" inseam. I recently test rode several bikes, some where I can just touch the ground, some that I can put my feet flat on the ground. I feel so much more in control of the bike when I can put my feet flat, even if the bike weighs 100-150 lbs. more. The problem is that those bikes are more for riding on the pavement than off road. With a trip to South America in the works, my question is how much off road, or bad road traveling is there? The Kawasaki Vulcan S, for example, weighs close to 500 lbs. yet I felt so much more stable at a stop than the Suzuki DR650, at 350 lbs. where I can barely touch the ground. It's impossible to get a dealer to lower any bike low enough for a test ride, so that is my dilemma. I want to read any thoughts or opinions, especially from any short people out there that have had the same problem. (Including any women)

Another question: has anyone out there ridden a Ducati Scrambler on a long trip? I can't find enough info to form an opinion either way. Any thoughts about Ducati?

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Lots of opinions and back and forth on the Scramblers. Popular bike here in San Fran Bay Area with wealthy High Tech Hipsters who've shown up here last few years with the Tech boom. It's a 1st bike for many.

It's a low budget bike, not Ducati's best effort IMO. But fun for someone who knows little or nothing about bikes! YMMV.

Note:
We often see new riders wanting to get both feet flat on the floor. It's all in yer' head. Learn to ride with only balls of feet touching. (I am 5'6", 29" inseam)

PS: The DR650 can be lowered EASILY down 1.5" to 2".
Lowering links added, raising fork tubes UP in triple clamps. This a a common and basic modification.

Also, Suzuki DR has built in lower options which dealer CAN do, should be at NO COST when you buy the bike. If not, call Suzuki HQ in Brea, CA. It's part of set up for the bike. (per Suzuki)

Factory lowering option lowers bike by 1.25". To go lower, add lowering link. (one hour job for slow mechanic) and raise up fork tubes.

Don't go too low. Kouba company can tell you how much their lowering link will lower the bike. Usually 1.5 to 2 inches. So with Suzuki factory option, you are down about 3" total. This is HUGE. Maybe TOO MUCH?

I haven't seen the other threads, since I am terrible about keeping current on the HUBB. But, low seat heights and off-roadiness are usually in opposition, since the high ground clearance and long suspension travel that makes a motorcycle good off road force the seat higher.

In more practical terms, a small road bike might suit your needs. I've traveled a lot on a 1981 SR250, which is no dirt bike, but weighs about 330lb fully packed and has a low enough seat I can easily flat foot (about 32 for me). Having said that, the SR isn't really the best choice. It's getting a bit rare here in the USA and some of the unique parts are becoming an issue. If you are willing to go this route, look for a Honda CB450 or smaller.

I've recently started riding a RX3. It's also surprisingly low, and I can get my feet flat, though it's a nearer thing than the SR and I don't think you would be able to - but I also don't think you'll be on tiptoes. The bike is heavier empty than my SR was packed, but it carries the weight well and I haven't noticed. It is also better off road, though that is probably more the tires than anything else. Getting one to try out can be a little tougher, but check with CSC and see if a nearby owner is willing to let you take a look. If not, fly over here to Milwaukee to sit on mine and I'll get you a .

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I write books about motorcycle travel. Small, cheap, motorcycle travel. Also superheroes.