Free Mods To Dial In Your Street Bike’s Ergonomics | The Shop Manual

Ergonomics = Control.
Talk to anyone riding at a high level and they’ll say that comfort is one of the most important factors in riding well. We’re not talking about Gold Wing-sitting-on-a-couch comfort, but rather how in tune with the bike you are and how intuitively you’re able to interact with it.
So if your handlebar levers, handlebar or clip-ons, and foot controls aren’t set up for your height, body shape, and riding style, then you’re missing out on an optimized fit that can give you the confidence to be a better, faster, safer rider.
Watch the video to see what adjustments you can make for free, but if you can’t quite get the fit you need with the parts you have, RevZilla has you covered.
Adjustable brake and clutch levers are an effective (and stylish) comfort mod: rvz.la/3XXegMI
Aftermarket rearsets offer adjustable footpeg and pedal position: rvz.la/3rwcTsg
Need a different bend in your handlebar? We’ve got options: rvz.la/3Oc8kfg
If you ride a sport bike, aftermarket clip-ons are available in different heights and angels: rvz.la/46FAwyq

[@RevZilla]

RevZilla has all the parts you need to fully customize your motorcycle’s ergonomics. rvz.la/3rrvaXz

[@travisj2370]

i already knew this stuff myself but its great to see for newer riders and less educated riders so they can have a more comfortable ride that z900rs looks pretty nice btw im hoping one day we will see the KZ1000 return but as a kz900rs so same engine but a few adjustments to make it a sport cruiser

[@trevjsmith23]

You are the motorcycle dad I never had.

[@lovelessissimo]

Better hope Ari doesn't go out for cigs.

[@ZX4-RR]

@@lovelessissimo he'll be back one day

[@ElevenRush]

Lol😂

[@kenwolfe5697]

@@lovelessissimo hilarious

[@N0kJAA]

Waaaaaaaaaa Mi-A-Dead 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@MrSpeed-lt8gr]

Ari and Zack; you guys helped me fall in love with riding at 51 years old. I never had any desire to ride as family told me all my life I’d end up in the hospital or worse. But after my wife left me, losing my son and almost dying I decided to take the MSF course and fell in love with it. Riding my Bonneville gives me so much peace and joy. Thanks you guys.

[@fabiopunk1661]

Well done mate

[@schneir5]

I'm in the middle of taking the basic course right now. I just did the first day of actual riding today. My dad died last summer, my fiance left me two weeks later and I lost my job the next week. I've been so depressed since then. I'm really hoping that getting a motorcycle helps.

[@MrSpeed-lt8gr]

@@schneir5 I’m so sorry that you’re going through too much. I think it’s time to live for you and do what gives you joy. And I hope riding will give you as much joy and peace that it has given me after all the heartbreak I experienced.

[@conradbielicki774]

@@schneir5 it's great, especially with all the people you can meet riding. Just taking a bike and visiting all the scenic spots, twisty roads and touristy things near where you live on a day off is paradoxically great for time to yourself and meeting people!

[@georgekisselbrock8937]

Ride on brother. The best to you.

[@sereneturmoil]

I firmly believe that these adjustments, including rear spring adjustment based on rider weight, are something the dealer should do with and for you when going through the delivery process. I had dealt with one dealership purchase where I was told it would be done and it never happened. They basically threw me the keys and pushed me out the door, ultimately sourcing the experience and service expectations. I did the adjustments myself but never went back to that dealership for parts or service as a result.

[@_Corsa]

Unrealistic expectations. BMW did not walk me through tilt wheel or seat adjustments on my 5, and I didn't expect Motoradd to setup the GS on delivery. They did walk me through the TFT which was very appreciated but ergonomics are very personal. Pilots need to sort this at home where they can take the time and fine tune, not in a dealership scenario where everything always appears rushed.

[@sereneturmoil]

@@_Corsa Tilt/telescopic steering wheel and sliding seat adjustments are incredibly basic and don't compare to the adjustments required for motorcycles. Motorcycle ergonomics where proper geometries need to be considered or spring adjustments that often require specialized tools should be part of the delivery process and done and reviewed by knowledgeable professionals, not new/novice riders or those lacking machinical skills/knowledge. Especially given said adjustments directly impact the effective and safe operation of the motorcycle. It also seems others agree with that opinion.

[@jakegarrett8109]

@@_Corsa If they said it would be done I would expect it to be done. I would just add a checkbox that says: Rider ergonomic setup $100, Rider weight suspension tune $100, then if people want those they can get them. Like I personally would do the ergonomics myself, but I would like a pro to dial in my suspension (maybe its $400, who cares, but if they have a pro that can adjust the pre-sag and dial in my rebound and compression damping and compression rates that would be great. And maybe its a service that takes place a month after owning so they can see tire wear patterns, whatever, but that would be great if they had an expert at the dealer that could do this).

[@jakegarrett8109]

@@_Corsa Also I'm pretty sure almost every bicycle dealer does this, so I don't understand why it would be unreasonable ask if they promised it.

[@tstartrekdude]

@@_Corsa The last new bicycle I bought came with an entire fitment session, including having them swap out the stem for one with a longer reach. 15 minutes of work that I am sure makes a lot of peoples ride better than if they did it themselves. A mechanic should be able economically to spend 15 minutes with people getting the basics of position set up given the absurd dealers fees they charge these days. If a bicycle shop can make it work on a $2000 bike sale a dealer can make it work on a $10k motorcycle sale.

[@jameshisself9324]

Great lesson! Lever position is so important and yet often overlooked or misunderstood. Most when properly adjusted are far lower than the assembly setup your dealer did. This is an area so often misunderstood that even dealers don't always know how to set it up properly. Proper brake lever position will also make you a safer rider as you will have much better access and control of the brakes in any quick stop scenario.

[@Jaimelapoesie]

Crazy that I never thought about even doing this, despite the fact that my new bike isn't terribly comfortable... extremely useful video!

[@Akash.Chaudhary.]

90% of my KZbin feed is always filled with motorcycle content..., I never have had came across this stuff before. Amazing! 😮

[@bfarm44]

38 yrs I’m riding and I always learn something new. Love to attend a track day tutorial with you teaching it.

[@cloud9847]

as someone who is about to buy their first bike - I feel like these guys and Dave Moss Tuning have taught me so much that when I pick up my bike in a few weeks I'll be leaps ahead of other first time owners.

[@ctrlaltowned5223]

As always, great advice from the Shop Manual. Thanks Ari!

[@StanleyAditya]

Pelase do upload The Shop Manual more often, its the open text book for us motorcyclist.

[@Skyhest]

Useful video! I did not know about the gear lever adjustment👍

[@jons9501]

Aweome video, Ari. This is such a great channel.

[@meshplates]

Good idea to do this video. Important and simple information that is often overlooked.

[@rj-gd3pc]

Exactly what I needed, I have the same z650rs but in green and this is really helpful and would like to thank u for showing this. Cheers

[@stevedavey82]

Thanks for taking time to make the video.

[@flatcapcaferacer]

Great tips, I've been doing these things for decades as well as adjusting the peg and handlebar height.

[@greenambles]

Ari, just excellent as always of course! I'm a trained pianist and drummer - both skills that involve sitting whilst acutely aware and active with legs and arms...much like riding. I have a very good understanding of the importance of natural posture and ergonomics as a result of my years of playing. Whilst at music college we were given some lessons on Alexander Technique (look it up if not known) and my music teachers throughout my early years of learning did a great job of emphasising the importance of good posture. I took this learning in to the workplace in the jobs I had that desk-based and with HRs support helped colleagues in adjusting how they sat to improve their posture and alleviate issues such as neck and back pain - some having experienced this for years. The rise of the laptop - meant for portability and as such convenience with the trade off of compromise being the screen too close to the keyboard ergonomically resulting in strain at the neck due to the tilt - as a desk-based option (cheaper for employers and better for hot-desking) has only worsened the problems of upper-body ailments. I'd start off by adjusting the chair so arms at elbow sightly above desk height (now shoulders not hunching or back slouching to compensate for incorrect height) then - if a laptop being used - place it on a stack or stand so that it at eye level with a separate mouse and keyboard now attached. Colleagues would regard this strange looking set up with understandable skepticism initially but always feedback after a day or two that it way improved for them and within the fortnight would report that aches and pains, often from years of bad posture were finally departing! The less one distracted by the effects of poor posture the more efficiently we operate. Same for riding. I opt for stem mirrors rather than bar end as the look down means repetitive head dips down whilst wearing a helmet (so additional weight too). It also means I'm not being forced to look outside of my natural field of vision. This is because I ride a sit-up naked. (If on a sports bike with clip-ons the lean of my back and head more likely to fit with bar end mirror options ergonomically I suppose). For the same reason I keep my phone-based satnav on the stem so in my natural field of vision also. I'd also add that seat adjustment or swap out can help. I changed my contoured for a bench to give a small height raise and it a game-changer for improved posture (less knee bend meant less knee strain over time). I only meant to say thanks here Ari but clearly this got me thinking (and rambling!). Love the content.

[@cloud9847]

as someone who is about to buy their first bike - I appreciated this video. I've watched a lot of Dave Moss Tuning videos and the first thing I plan to do is adjust the bike to fit me perfectly before I really even put any miles on it. I honestly feel like you guys have given me a distinct advantage over other new riders that they'll neve even realize they're missing.

[@all8849]

Love those Shop Manual videos!

[@stumpy7777]

Always learn something from your videos.

[@pmdinaz]

Fantastic Ari and team!

[@Choirboyjr11]

Leaving a comment to support Ari Henning!

[@nsanerydah]

Good stuff. Will have to check that out.

[@TictacAddict1]

Excellent video and informative. Thanks, Arie.

[@tudajfor]

Love both videos, and thank you for them. Can you make a video about lowering bike height on the cheap vs at the expert? Thanks.

[@trustdre]

Great I needed that!😊

[@Porkycheun]

Valuable informations, thanks! 😉😉

[@johnhowells-vaughan5519]

Thank you for the excellent advice! By the way, love the Kawasaki!

[@jeffhachtel]

Adjusted my controls after this video and it changed my experience on the bike - for the better. In particular, it made slow speed drills easier. Only hitch is that the left hand guard on my 2022 Versys 650 LT hits the tank and prevents full lock if I put the lever down as far as I prefer it. So, the left lever stays just above where it would hit the tank while the right side is perfect.

[@joaomatos8286]

Thanks for the advice! Just bought my cbr500r, and will try to see if i can aply these somehow!

[@ReaversRespite]

Great video! 🎉

[@marscruz]

This is really good info that many new owners overlook. They just accept the setup of the bike as it is and don't get the most out of their bike, including the safety aspect. I just bought a used seven year old motorcycle. I've been riding for over 40 years. The shifter, rear brake lever and windscreen were uncomfortable for someone well over 6 feet tall... and the rear brake light switch wasn't adjusted properly... it wasn't coming on at all. I made adjustments to all these things and a few more. Now the bike feels much better and isn't a pain to ride. The shifter was REALLY bugging me. The PO had already replaced the stock seat... bonus. New tires? Revzilla. Tall windscreen. National Cycle.

[@zyonsdream]

Adjusting handlebar angle can become very tricky when it comes to putting your controls in the correct position. Often, the switch housings are “pinned” to the handlebars. This means the housing has a pin that protrudes into a hole drilled in the handlebar. This keeps the housing from rotating. If the pin isn’t in the hole, you can’t get the two sides of the housing to close up with the mounting screws. You can resolve this by drilling a new hole into the handlebar for the pin. You could also cut off the pin but then you risk the housings rotating on you from the vibration. Also, in some cases the handlebars are also pinned in place on the triple clamp. This is especially true if the bars are ape style. All things to consider.

[@fabiopunk1661]

I discovered this long ago on my first bike. Now there’s Ari telling you. Nice

[@FirstLast-bn6nl]

Thank you SO much for this. I don't think enough riders realize how ergonomics and comfort affects performance. As a cyclist, quality shops spend time to photo/film riders and adjust sizes (seat height, frame size, and even crank length). I have never understood why moto shops don't do the same and use it up-sell buyers into proper modifications. My advice, have a friend film you on a test-ride and watch your knees, ankles, elbows, head, and posture. Fun 10-mile test rides can become brutal 100-mile trips.

[@j3tztbassman123]

What helped my ergonomics most was a seat change. Defo not a free fix, but it did wonders.

[@Lasergun74]

These small advice are golden nuggets for all riders! Thanks Ari!

[@danmanthe9335]

Ari deals in facts

[@banzobeans]

¡Muy bueno y servicial! Da verdad! Muchas!

[@JamesBond-is5du]

THANKS

[@rockway32]

coming from the cycling world i was surprise most people don't adjust their motocycle at all. I ever got comments that I changed my handlebar and lever "for looks" , I got a really good set up on my mountain and just copy pasted that onto my motorcycle

[@monophobia1885]

Great video, can I add adjust your headlight as well so you can see through turns at night.

[@ifartwhenimangry5587]

Can you make a video on how to setup a fully adjustable suspension according to rider weight?

[@daksh_saroha]

Good content good video

[@Unky69]

Just to share with my fellow bike aficionados, i did my PhD on the topic of motorcycle ergonomics from 2011-2014. The output of the study is a software that provide the information to 'fit' the motorcyclist onto their respective motorcycle. The 'fit' is based on individual body measurement (anthropometry) and body mass (weight). Hence, it is critically individualized. The software was validated via surface electromyography (sEMG) measurement which compare the reading of muscle activities before and after 'fit' adjustment. and i would like to add just a lil, ergonomics = control = safety. my main advocate for the study was on safety.

[@bloodknottrevelian3396]

Regarding rotating the levers on the bars to achieve your straight line, some manufacturers have a pin on the inside of the clamp that has to locate in a hole in the bar so your only option is to rotate the bars in their clamps which may give the ideal lever alignment but not the ideal bar position.

[@aluisious]

I adjusted my seat height...and then some years later adjusted it back. The Multi was set up well from the factory.

[@mikelyons9971]

All this and seats. I have had a shadow with the factory seat and it felt like an initiation paddling at a fraternity after 15 minutes. Then I got a mustang seat for it and I could ride for a fully tank (145 miles) without hurting.

[@robertmaitland09]

Turn the handlebar ends down a little and you'll get more feel from the front end.

[@rifattepe2804]

Looking forward to watching your New documentaries with Zack in exotic countries

[@richiedagger733]

Oh man i never knew you could adjust clip ons. I smash my hand into the tank at full lock and it always drove me nuts as little as it actually happens

[@rendarecorrentecomopcoes2336]

The biggest improvement I make to any street bike I ever own, is to install a handlebar riser. Your spine will thank you as the hours go by on the road, and as the years pass by in your life.

[@blondiejoe]

Just last week I was like, wait why do I put my bicycle controls at the perfect angle but I just leave my motorcycle stock??? You read my mind.

[@danchovanes2612]

"juggle the rod length" is the only advice necessary

[@TiroxSnapJack]

I want that shirt ! COMOTO for the win !

[@BINK-ln6jx]

Please make one for cruisers next.

[@hpham417]

Beautiful z650rs ❤

[@tigrecito48]

have you guys ever done the TOP GEAR trip in Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi? I did it but in the other direction on a 50cc moped I bought for $250. I actually continued after Ho Chi Minh into Cambodia. I was gonna continue into Thailand but I was told they wouldnt let me cross the border with Vietnamese plates...

[@octavio9648]

Is there a way to make a cruiser sit like a standard? Like modifying a Kawasaki Vulcan classic from floorboards to mid-controls?

[@nothingtoseehere93]

Woah what? I’ve never heard to ride while covering your brakes seems like a good way to flip over or low side.

[@46rrodriguez]

dont be daft. Its much safer than suddenly grab the lever in emergency braking. Try it practice it and im sure you will love it

[@Clonex43]

What if you ride a street orientert adv or upright sport touring?

[@Horizon_KI]

My motorbike may not fit me. But I can "fitting" myself into it. I think that's love

[@1719pankaj]

Hii Ari, I plan to the handlebars off of my naked bike and switch over to clip-ons. I recon that I'll be exerting more of my weight on the bars and loading up the front more. How is it going to affect the handling/stability of the bike and what should I do to mitigate this? Do note I don't have any adjustment available on the front forks and only preload on rear. Thanks.

[@andyboyd7511]

Ari knows my weekend plans before I do

[@ZLBarrister]

How you do you rotate your clip-on handlebars? I've been trying to do it on my 22 RC 390, but cannot figure it out despite watching this. Is there something more I need to buy?

[@Daschickenify]

They often have a notch that sticks up into the triple clamp to lock them in place, so you can only move them a tiny bit, if at all.

[@ZLBarrister]

@@Daschickenify Thank you so much. Really appreciate it.

[@ross2k220]

Got any tips for TALL riders on a bike like a 1994 Honda Magna? I'm 6'6 and LOVE my bike, there's nothing like the roar of a 360 degree V4, but even after flipping the handlebar mounts backwards to get the bars out of my lap I still can't ride more than about 20 minutes before my 23 year old hips start screaming! I feel like I need an aftermarket seat but that's $600+ Love the work you guys do, keep it up

[@marscruz]

You could try a sheepskin wrap over the seat, dyed black. Does it have ape hanger bars? That is a styling design, not a comfortable riding position. Your hands should help support some of your weight. If your weight is all on your butt then your butt will get sore really quickly. Cruiser bikes are notorious for uncomfortable ergonomics. No weight on your feet or your hands makes for a sore butt. PS: the stepped saddle on the Magna locks you into one position. One designed for someone shorter than you. You may need to bite the bullet and get another saddle or try to find an old V4 Interceptor, Sabre or ST1100.

[@ross2k220]

@@marscruz I actually have a sabre lol, I just have a ton of work to do to it so I'm riding my pretty magna. I have all stock controls, except my bike came with cobra floorboards which probably aren't helping, so I've also turned the handlebars up about 8 inches which is way better, but you're right about that seat, it's so bad I frequently move up to the pillion and just ride from there, I can still reach the bars and my shifter lol

[@marscruz]

@@ross2k220 I think I saw the seat height is 28 inches on some Magnas. That's almost in the dirt. Your inseam must be over 36 inches. Where the heck do you find jeans or pants at that height. I'm four inches shorter than you and I have enough trouble finding clothes that fit. Someone should open a store for Big and Tall guys and call it *_SASQUATCH_*

[@ross2k220]

@@marscruz I usually just end up buying Carhartt pants because yeah, I'm a 36x36 lol, so riding gear that fits and doesn't cost 3x normal prices pretty much doesn't exist. I did, however; get some cheap highway pegs that allow me to push my butt where the seat won't allow during normal riding and it helps a lot! At this point I think I'd be best off by learning to make my own custom seat by hand, because why spend $700+ on a custom leather seat made by someone else when I could spend $350 on materials and $500 on tools to just do it myself?

[@marscruz]

@@ross2k220 Yeah, I love Carhartt pants too. If you get the thick duck double knee version those could be about the best you can do for off the rack “motorcycle pants” as far as protection goes. Building your own saddle is probably a real good learning experience. If you have the skills why not try? What could go wrong? You can always keep at it until you get it perfect.👌

[@Moe_nashhty]

Is it OK to fill up my motorcycle tires with nitrogen instead of regular air????

[@Kodreanu23]

That's all nice and fine, but what about seat being too low

[@myousic4564]

I wanted to adjust levers on my tracer 9 gt but because it has handbars there is almost 0 adjustment... You can't make them go down because handbars will hit tank (and you can't move levers without moving handbars - what a stupid idea).

[@charlieb1696]

Ari: ride height, raising/lowering the forks, seat, rear dog legs... another video pls

[@bossHogOG]

Nothing about rider height and foot pegs?

[@abrahamqurbani4228]

When you will compare CFMoto 450 vs Ninja 400?! Or do you ever?!

[@ZinoAmare]

I didn't realise this was a new shopmanuel until the end lol

[@SpringfieldFatts]

Damn that Z650RS looks pretty good. Shame about that engine though...

[@prosimulate]

Nope, it probably doesn’t but the cool-ometer is maxed out in my head when I ride…so…shrug.😂

[@cobias12]

Is that bike porn music in the background??? Where can I download? Great tips and educational value!

[@BN1960]

Leever

[@pulz1112]

😉

[@REN-zh2wd]

I can ride my Suzuki bandit for 3 1/2 hours before my ass starts to feel like it was sexually assaulted😂

[@abrahamqurbani4228]

When do you want to review CFMoto 450SS? Or I better ask, do you ever want?! 🤔

[@dikadikun8306]

after 3 bike i bent the brake lever.. and i see this video.. oh god..

[@zionlascano2487]

First comment!!!

[@zionlascano2487]

I love REVZILLA so much!!!

[@Stay100chicago]

🤐🤐🫣🫣

[@jbojason5312]

As a advanced rider and x instructor (now examiner) Completely dis agree with this need to hover over brake levers on the street. Increases risk of panic braking and confusing brake light signals. 4 fingers or no fingers will stop you using the brake and gas together by mistake and give more leverage from the end of the leaver as well as prevent you trapping your own fingers.

[@AriH211]

I’m not gonna lie, it scares me that you’re an instructor and feel this way. I assure you, you are in the minuscule minority. Your explanations for why it shouldn’t be done can and should all be eliminated with basic training and mindfulness.

[@monophobia1885]

I think it depends on what you are doing to cover your brakes. As an experienced rider I know for sure I don’t always cover mine.

[@jbojason5312]

@@AriH211 do you hover over the trigger of a gun when not about to pull? Do you use both peddles of the car at the same time with the same foot? Basic training

[@inb4230]

I'm also an experienced rider with thousands of track hours all over Europe, if you browse around for Peter hickman videos you'll find a conversation with me and pete about track days we shared, along with the late William dunlop, dean Harrison and lee Johnston to name a few, and I've NEVER known a fast rider that doesn't have either one (my style) or 2 fingers on the brake lever AT ALL TIMES, you'll see that from junior riders to wsb to motogp ,90% uses index finger only. I can see why you would have newbies doing that though since you guys in the us can have kids without any motorcycle experience on 1000cc bikes,but if you're an experienced motorcycle rider cover your brakes at ALL TIMES, you might disagree but it kept me blemish free for 26 years and god knows that wouldn't be the case have I not been doing that multiple times

[@MachoMadness69420]

Sorry, but short non-black levers belong on a clapped out Gixxer ridden by a guy dressed in shorts and flip-flops.

[@AriH211]

Haha, that lever actually came off our ‘05 GSX-R1000 beater 😂 Good assessment

[@conradbielicki774]

You beat me to it shaming anodized stubby levers!

[@Viperawezome]

If I need tips on how to rebuild an engine can I text your number