Secrets on how to ride a BIG BMW R 1200 GS as a short rider REVEALED!

Is that lowered?
That a low seat yeah?
That's not yours...
You've not just arrived on that...
Things I often hear when people see me around my full height BMW GS.
Well, if you want to get the low down as to how I manage to ride a BMW GS - keep watching the vlog!
I hope you enjoy it!!!
Usernamekate 🏁
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#USERNAMEKATE #SHORTRIDER #BMWGS

[@UsernameKate]

I'd just like to pin this comment to stop people getting their knickers in a twist. I posted this video to show that as a 29 inch inseamer... riding a GS is possible. Of course you need to take factors into account like years of riding, confidence levels etc. I'm not saying a 4ft 11 human should go out and buy a hypermotard and that they will be completely safe. Just like I wouldn't jump on a full height GS Adventure (890/910mm height) and have it as my only bike. What I'm getting at is... a lot of people limit themselves to what bike options are available to them when the reality is they really don't have to with a bit of confidence and experience behind them. As getting both feet down at all times (when you have a bit of experience behind you) isn't a strict requirement to being able to ride a bike or dealbreaker for that matter!! Enjoy!

[@kevinpierce7079]

Hi Kate, if you swap out the BMW seat bobbins with the Wunderlich seat bobbins (£27.00 from Nippy Normans), it drops the front of the seat by 10mm. On a low chassis 2016 triple black with the standard executive set (that comes with the bike), the Wunderlich bobbins reduces the seat height to 790mm meaning that a person with a 29" inseam should be able to flatfoot it. Keep up the great vids!

[@michaelmclarney1994]

That's good to know, thanks.

[@pshivjee]

Great 👍 🎉 🎉 🎉 ❤

[@paulyflyer8154]

Thankyou. I've just ordered some. Just a thought though, as the nose of the seat is lower, is it noticeably pushing you towards the tank?

[@kevinpierce7079]

As you're probably aware by now, there is no noticeable difference of being pushed forward.Glad it helped.

[@inked-96]

Does this work on a standard GSA?

[@wandyone23]

Great video Kate. I'm 5'8" with a 29" inside leg and ride my full height Multistrada v4s. It's light as a feather when riding, but a hefty lump to move in the garage. It's a tall bike and I was a bit apprehensive before I had a test ride, but you are right, with a confident mindset and careful forward planning we short arses can enjoy the big bikes too. 👍

[@louiseworsfold47]

Best tip I was given for taking a heavy bike off the side stand, was to get on the bike and turn the handle bars full to the right whilst on the side stand. The bike is as light as a feather and I can literally use my left thigh to get my bike up straight. Works every time…

[@pjhammer78]

One question you haven’t covered. How do you cope with your tall bike when you find yourself on a wet and very slippery surface like wet cobblestones or diesel spills etc.?

[@tonybarton3746]

Totally agree with your comments Kate , I’m 5 “ 7 “ and been riding 51 years now and never had a problem. The infatuation with you must be able to put 2 feet down when you stop is rubbish, never done it , just pick your best place etc ( inclines , cambers etc , now I’ve started in my seventies I get a few aches in my hips when getting on the bike but hay ho it goes away if you sit on the bike while it warms up😊😊, and won’t stop me riding . Great vlog as usual 🤪😊👍👍

[@TheLastCrankers]

I'm 5ft6in and I can't even put both feet on a yamaha mt07. But seems I can splurge on a 1200gsa

[@clonSanG]

As a all weather rider of 40 years bmw are a complete rip off to expensive and give a awful lot of trouble especially abs trouble tru there range

[@StudioBrule]

Why? Buy a shorter, lighter, cheaper bike. You'll be much happier.

[@UsernameKate]

But I've never been happier, and I've owned LOTS of bikes in the past.

[@francoisleroy1633]

To drive the GS 1250 is not a problem for a short rider I agree but it is not the motorbike I will buy to go overland, yes if I ride it only on tarmac. I am 1.70 and 62kgs.

[@5coaly]

Great video. I love your confidence!! I agree it's all about the mindset. I came late into biking (at 52) and I have a GS1200 low chassis. For me, its perfect even tho' I'm 5'7". I have ridden a standard height one too and it was OK too but it's just the peace of mind for me to be able to flat foot it when needed. Yes , it's a heavy bike (tho not as heavy as my hubby's Tiger 1200) but it's low down weight which makes it easier to manoeuvre. When I ride a smaller bike (like the Striple or Z650), they feel tiny compared to mine and get back on my GS it's like getting in my old armchair again!! 🤣 If I ever chopped it in for something smaller/less heavy, it'll probably be something like a Z900 just for the fun factor!! 👍

[@UsernameKate]

Amazing! Loved reading your insights! Honestly TOTALLY get what you mean... I ride the comfy cloud then get on a naked bike and I feel like it's so small and it's nice to switch it up! The low down weight like you say is brilliant on the GS, can't fault it in that respect!

[@5coaly]

@@UsernameKate Thanks. I also prefer the upright position. I find my wrists ache on the bikes where I lean forward. I was really interested in a Striple but that slight lean forward didn't do it for me. I'd need bar risers. Tbh I also prefer a screen so not to be blown about by the wind!! We are all different with what works I guess.🤷‍♀️

[@myagoodbody7942]

Everything you say is true, I’m a good bit smaller than you, I bought the 1250 when they first came out and got rid in only a couple of months convinced it was too big for me, couple of months ago tried again,bought the lowered one and got the same mind set as you and started bossing it, now I’m loving it 😍

[@CallOfNova]

Hi Kate, sorry if I'm the 3797th person to ask, but what gear (jacket and jeans) are you wearing? We've got similar body type and I never like any gear. But yours looks awesome

[@UsernameKate]

Haha no worries!! I'm wearing an Oxford Mondial V1 textile suit 😊 and thank you!

[@headrace4863]

GS is really well weighted, for a heavy and tall bike. One of the real big guns in its already strong arsenal. Shame my Crosstourer at 295kg feels about the same as the QE2, and about as tall as the Statue of Liberty, veeeeery top heavy due to the V4. Feels heavier than a Goldwing to move around. I’m 6’1” and about 90k and it’s no more than manageable for me. Good vid, Kate. Useful info. 👍

[@UsernameKate]

Thanks HeadRace :) and QE2 LOL can just imagine!!

[@2wheelsrbest327]

You are so right. Traded in a GS for a DCT CT and it was so heavy to put on the centre stand I would get my wife to help me. After a few times of doing that, she suggested I get another bike. Now how often do you hear that from your partner. Just happy to be back on another GS.

[@UsernameKate]

@@2wheelsrbest327 she's a keeper!!

[@arsenvokrug4198]

Great vid Kate, and very interesting, even for those of us who in theory don’t have the same problem. However, I have to admit that my GSA is the only bike in my stable that I’m just a bit scared of. At every stop, I’m considering which foot needs to go down (it can’t be both!) I know gold standard would be left down, right on brake, but the slightest unevenness, pothole, gravel and especially, steep camber, means a rethink is needed. I think it’s a great road bike but I took it off-road once - never again! I’ll use my G650GS, because I can always pick that up!

[@bebok1234]

I am shorty 5.3 and I bought Triumph Tiger 900 GT low and I love it. And this is a short rider bike. And is make at home.

[@UsernameKate]

i LOVE that you love it Greg! Great to hear!

[@tonyvidtube]

Me too! With 30mm lowering links, Daytona Star boots and the Tiger suspension in comfort mode I am King of the road.😁

[@rastofikfak8069]

You should check her moral side. You are a professional and it is clear that an average woman of your weight and height, cannot drive a GS. Not just a woman, even an average man who is too small can't do it. It is an obvious advertisement that BMW is diligently paying to convince the doubters. What happens next, neither you nor they care!

[@UsernameKate]

This isn't paid for by BMW. I don't work at a dealership anymore and I paid for this bike with my hard earned money. You shouldn't make assumptions 🤣

[@Bazza47]

I'm 5'7" with a 29 inside leg and am on my 3rd lowered GS. Originally I got the 1st one because SWMBO rode pillion, so being that bit closer to the ground really helped when coming to a stop. I could manage the full height demo bikes I test rode easily enough but the low one just works better for me. Coming to a stop just requires a bit of planning to decide which foot you're going to put down and if you dobthat you'll be fine. Getting on and off the bike is also easier if you put the bike's steering on full right lock as that lowers the seat and makes it far easier to lift the bike upright too. The lowered seat also has the effect of raising the bars so you sit a bit more upright which for me is a bit more comfy and it makes looking over my shoulder a bit easier too but you need to check that lowered seat doesn't make your knee angle uncomfortable. The other thing is the lowered bikes are always in demand and even though I traded both of my first 2 in during the winter both sold within a couple of weeks so dealers are always keen to take them off your hands. The other option for people to try are the Daytone M Star boors which are 25mm higher than a standard boot because of a raised insole inside the boot. The GS is perfect for shorties wanting a bike bike!

[@stevegilhooley5396]

I agree with you. Im a short arse 5.5 and ride a factory low suspension and low seat which I think makes it about 790mm. I still struggled with confidence in the first few rides and was terrified of dropping her at traffic lights/junctions etc so bought the Daytona boots. Expensive but not compared to the expense/tears in dropping the bike. They helped me over the initial getting used to her period. As Kate says you just need to plan a bit when stopping, parking etc. Beautifully balanced bike.

[@anthonyrobinson782]

I'd love a gs but I only have an inseam of 27 so it kind of puts me off getting one

[@rossalisdair3208]

Great video @usernamekate. Have you done or will you do a technique video on managing the GS, picking up a dropped bike etc.

[@UsernameKate]

I'll have to see if someone will let me drop their bike for that 🤣 maybe if I manage to do another offroad skills day, I'll try and record something 😊

[@hazarddavid6987]

The review is best done whilst not on the bike. Unless you are testing the bike performance.... Good narrative though.

[@UsernameKate]

It's funny because I often get critiqued for not doing reviews on the bike so I can't win in the fickle world of the Internet 🤣🤣 I just like to ride and chat, bit more engaging 😊

[@NooBiker]

Great advice, Kate! Good thoughtful approach 👍 I've a 30" inseam and have avoided the GS up to now (also, it's not the style I like. Getting off and pushing is definitely the right approach. Have you tried stopping on the rear brake (no front brake) with the left foot down?

[@UsernameKate]

Yea I try to but when you can't flat foot, depending on road - sometimes you have to do the other leg. Tbh, my balance is better with right leg down 🤣

[@iainf6]

Hi Kate very topical video 👏👏👏👏....if I was still able to ride definitely a GS would be on my shopping list . And being 7 inches taller than you I wouldn't have a problem. But you have proved that shorter riders can use the GS and enjoy your riding. So proud to be a subscriber on this channel and follow your journey. 🙏🙏🙏😎😎😎😎👏👏👏👏👏

[@xuwang2217]

make sure if you drop the big bike, you can lift it! meaning any place , and where!

[@marcbrasse747]

All the points you make are superb. For me it has however always been a matter of: Why should one haul around more then one needs. I am 1,78 m (5 feet 10 inches) and weigh somewhere between 95 and 100 kg ( 200 to 210 lbs). My ideal bike has a sort of 80ies formula: 180 kg fully loaded, 80 bhp, 800 mm seat height. In practice my machines are between 50 and 60 bhp. I could also be perfectly happy with a light 35 kW / 48 bhp bike. Making such a lightweight work for its money is part of the fun for me. The rest is overkill. Nice overkill maybe, but still.

[@yamahass66]

Not once did you drive it on road where it supposed to be driven. Anyone could do that, so pretty much pointless video.

[@UsernameKate]

I'd say the majority of people disagree with you judging by the comments but sure thing 😁

[@stephencritchley7169]

I bought a gsa low this year. Best bike yet! Also I am 5’10”, but with baby legs! Kate, thanks for your input and film, they are always enjoyed!

[@pistolpete6321]

Great video Kate. I’ve always had a confidence issue when riding tall adventure bikes being only 5’7”. I bought a full size GS and rode it for two years and had a few close calls almost dropping it but as you said if you think through things in advance it reduces your chances of having a mishap. The GS is incredibly nimble for such a big bike so once your moving you don’t notice the weight at all. About 18 months ago I decided to buy the low chassis XR and have to say it’s made a big difference confidence wise. I think if I were to do the GS thing over again I’d go for the low chassis just to make things a tad easier especially riding with a passenger.

[@carlosalonso9866]

I'm very interested myself in the XR (S1000). I sat on one in the showroom but found her too top-heavy for my 5 foot 6. How is the low-chassis one like? Did you test a regular height XR as well to have a comparison? Regards

[@pistolpete6321]

@@carlosalonso9866 I did try the normal height XR and didn’t feel confident coming to a stop but the low chassis XR has been fantastic. I now have 17,000 miles on it and just about to do the valve check service at 18k and have no plans to trade it in, it’s the perfect bike in my opinion.

[@KingP911]

Got my ball in my throat when I came to a stop when I drove it. 🥲

[@michaelrandle4128]

Thanks for that, I have the same problem with my gtr1400, I saw a bloke at Matlock with an old Suzuki gt750 kettle, he had boots with a two inch sole, he said it worked fine for him, if you don’t mind the glam rock look.

[@UsernameKate]

I can picture it now!!

[@seiphahmed7859]

Great video Kate, Big up to BMW for height consideration and Low chase profile but the Standard GS is Awesome

[@fritsjanssen]

You are trying so hard to explain that it's okay but you prove yourself wrong. There are so many good bikes for smaller people. If something unexpected happens, you must be able to keep both feet firmly on the ground at all times. I am 192cm and would like to ride an S1000rr which is for short people, so I can’t. Stop promoting this dangerous nonsense and adapt to the real world !

[@UsernameKate]

I'm not at all. I love riding smaller bikes too! But this is my bike and I'm saying you can make it work if the will/confidence and planning is there.

[@fritsjanssen]

@@UsernameKate in the ideal world it can but with other traffic it is dangerous, and not only for yourself, be wise.

[@davepowell6740]

think your good friend should be tested for testosterone hormone abuse

[@UsernameKate]

🤣🤣 took me a while to click, nah she's just hench 💪

[@davepowell6740]

@@UsernameKate yep I dated a woman a bit dare I say , err hench ? when a teener , she could out drink me , out play pool me , out ride me , the only other time ive had my balls taken off me was when in prison ! did quash the gross injustice I hasten to say

[@monkeyman41333]

It is not all about height. I believe leg length is the bigger factor. There is a big difference between 29" and 27" inseam. You might be 5'4", but 29" inseam isn't that bad. IMHO

[@UsernameKate]

Yes of course, it's the most important factor which is why I state it and don't just say 5ft4 😊

[@125ZJK]

tbh I've been 6ft since the age of 15. I honestly never thought about the weight or seat height of any big bike....Learning to ride was the problem as from the cbt stage everything was too small ! Great video though. Perspective is always a good thing.

[@chema1546]

hello, good morning, Kate, I just had to lower the footrests 2 cm and changed the handlebar post and that solves everything ok 👌👍 regards

[@mysterybiker1717]

You forgot to mention kate, it helps if you are a badass rider like yourself! I am so impressed at how you throw those big bikes around, puts many of us bigger chaps to shame. Really good contribution / help for those vertically challenged.

[@blackiesmisadventures3413]

Hi, you haven’t snapped your helmet strap up 😢😘

[@UsernameKate]

I know, it was doing my head in LOL

[@bmano7850]

Hello, I'm new to your channel. Do you have a video about your screen? Thanks

[@UsernameKate]

I don't unfortunately! It just came on the used bike when I bought it but it is an MRA tinted screen if that helps and it functions well

[@bmano7850]

@@UsernameKate thanks 🙏🏼

[@gardeningfishingjimw9364]

G'day Kate. I have just subscribed to the channel and am a fellow shortarse (5' 5 1/2") and I have a slightly different challenge apart from the height and that is I have short legs and getting one over to sit on a bike from standing on the ground is nigh near impossible; so I utilise the footpeg and get on that way. It works for me and I know I have a limited time for my passion so it's cruiser time for me. The back is shot, 2 bung knees, a crook ankle and 4 heart attacks so I gotta do it easy hence cruiser time. Still wish I could ride the sports tourers but I have to be sensible in my old age hahaha

[@lozv9974]

You should be proud Kate, that is an amazing achievement. Really great advice, thank you. I’m fortunately 5ft 9 but my issue is the weight of the GS which I hope to be my next bike as hubby has one and loves it, so this has really helped. Thank you 🙏🏻

[@GadgetMart]

The BMW GS is a great bike for sure. The thing is however there are plenty of other smaller great bikes out there.

[@UsernameKate]

Oh yea for sure! I just personally think the GS nails it from a comfort perspective - like you're riding a cloud lol

[@GadgetMart]

@@UsernameKate That’s the long suspension travel, I agree like a magic carpet. I’m tall and I regret not being able to ride smaller bikes - the 1970s 1980s classic jap bikes mainly. I’ve dropped my GS more than once I might add.

[@LisaHarrelson]

I really enjoyed the video. Thank You

[@UsernameKate]

Glad you enjoyed it Lisa! 😊

[@eruton]

I'm also 5ft4 and I own an F850GS standard height with a standard seat.

[@UsernameKate]

love that!!!

[@Muckyfellrunner]

How do you find the balance point of the weight of the engine on the 850GS? I find the weight is too high up for me, preferring the lower weight position of the boxer. It feels like there’s a large, heavy box in front of my chest. I almost bought a F800R (as a second bike to my RT) but it didn’t have quite the punch I was looking for.

[@UsernameKate]

Agree with you 100% re 850 weight. Boxer engine low weight over that parallel twin anyday

[@eruton]

i just practicing my figure eight and slow u-turn. after a will you will find the balance point.

[@ronadler4442]

Just because you can doesn’t mean you have to. You have the perfect body for a cool sport bike. Why ride an Olds man behemoth? Get a s1000 something.

[@UsernameKate]

My neck and back can't handle it 🤣🤣 a track day occasionally yes but not as a main steed 🤣🤣

[@paulyflyer8154]

At just 5'9 I was always nervous of stopping on steep cambers but I loved the bike. On my wife's suggestion I had my testicles surgically removed so I can now paddle it around the cafe car park in comfort.

[@UsernameKate]

lol!!

[@muhammadedisantuso1375]

The important thing is to stay motivated. Keep on making the next video I always wish you good luck

[@BikerandBits]

I purchased a brand new full height Adventure thinking I could live with the height & weight after the test ride but after doing a euro tour on it turned out the bike wasn't for me so sold the bike only 10 weeks old Oh I'm only 5'8 " with 28" inseam

[@UsernameKate]

Oh man, I have to say - I'm fairly confident but with my 29 inch inseam, I'd only ever go for a chassis lowered GSA if I had my heart set on it! Sorry you've had to fanny around with selling after such a short time.

[@hensola]

Nah, having driven a Tiger Explorer (dropped four times), and nearly slipped whilst commuting at lights on it, I chose a lowered version of a GS when it came up. Never looked back, and I wouldn't have bought a full height GS. I can easily flat foot the lowered GS with a low seat height at the lights. Very handy when standing at lights and the wind blows from the side.

[@QuackLoud]

Kate - what navigation are you using on your GS? Great video and information. Thanks.

[@Richibald1]

Hi Kate we are the same height but you have 5" of inseam on me! I'm only 24" of inseam lucky you. Inspiring video I'll just have a sit on one to 10:26 see what I'm dealing with first like you suggest. Thank you for making this video 👍

[@seebujais007]

What about me..? I am just 5.5 with 30 inche inseam Planning to buy a R1250gs Adventure lower suspension model...

[@abdulazizalsaie9535]

Hi , Thank you for your advice, I currently have BMW GS 750 hopefully will go to new GS 2024 1250cc. I like your jacket , what is the brand name of it. I am abdulaziz from Bahrain 🇧🇭.

[@keithmckendrick1722]

OK...thanks UNK that was useful...thinking of going for a Touratech Ultra low on a full height bike...I figure I would deffo cope when solo with a standard seat but with the missus on it...even though she is about your size and weighs 7 stone wet through...then that would be a problem...but glad you are bossing it....oh...and I almost shut my eyes at the red van point...ffs....did you breath in?...ride safe kid....🤘🏍

[@Greggspies]

Have you approached CFmoto 800 people would be interested how you find them?

[@CoolMotoRider]

You have encouraged me so much i have gained confidence in riding taller and heavier bikes. If you can do it, i shall do it too. Thanks for inspiring.

[@kevinallen4052]

Thank you so much for this video I am only five feet seven inches, and your information is very welcome.

[@rosemont5339]

Do you find yourself distracted by having to look through the windscreen? If it's dirty, which it almost always going to be, do you find yourself peeking around it?

[@arnoldtm31]

I'm 5ft 6 with a 29 inch inseam. I can ride any bike with an 850mm seat height. My last bike was a 21 1290 SAS. The one before that was a 2018 v strom 1000. GS is easier to handle than both of those bikes, I have test rode one. I'm currently on a 22 s1000rr but my next and probably last bike will be a GS.

[@rogerandroid2186]

Pulling the back end of that bike around at the T junction) WTF ?!? Looks like you'd had your 3 Shredded Wheat for breakfast that morning. If I'd tried that, then the bike would have ended up sideways on the floor.

[@Bawbag-u1w]

Nice lid babe 😘

[@anthonyrobinson782]

Hi following up from when i said i was gonna test drive the gsa, i sat on a factory lowered 1250 gsa and bear in mind im an inch shorter than you in the leg, i struggled to get the side stand up lol. It was a bit embarrassing. The side stand is a lot more forward than my kawasaki. You seem to have no problems with it

[@markmottershead646]

Ruby Rides must be a strong girl but heck, she is not only making her life hard but risking injury... The safer approach is to face away from the bike, make sure the bike is in gear (obviously), grab it behind you wherever is best - handlebar and grab rail, and then stand up straight like coming out of a squat at the gym. This approach is a far more efficient use of the largest muscles in your body, namely your glutes and thighs. Once stood up, you can change grip to face the bike or just flip out the side stand with your foot.

[@waterhouse235]

Good to see another short arse on a big bike, I'm also 5' 4" at 63kg with a 30" inseem I also have a 2002 bmw 1150gs, but that's not the tallest bike I've owned, let's see more short arse ppl on big bikes!

[@ChrisSmart1]

Nice vlog again shorty er i mean Kate :) you should be proud of mastering the bike it's no mean feat, kudos to you hun.

[@UsernameKate]

Thanks Chris!! :)

[@daronsalthouse2746]

Hi Kate you may remember I bought a gs1250 rallye low chassis the problem I had was reaching the side stand especially if the road was slightly lower on the right as it extends further forwards on a low bike so I fitted one off a standard height sa there the same length just doesn't go as far forward problem solved 👍 keep up the good work .

[@barrypearson8262]

Hi Kate, nice video and your right it's all in the head. I dropped my sons Honda having forgotten the side stand was up....DOHhh. Even though it was only around 190K being a 9stone weakling I couldn't straight lift it so resorted to KZbin where a very small Indian fella lifted a GSA using the same technique as your video link. So thinking if he can do it so can I, Eureka up she came, brain over braun. Stay safe and keep the vids coming.

[@davidcox8961]

It's not 'kinda like a great achievement'. It is a great one. Good on you girl !!

[@kevinplace9224]

What a cracking video thanks. Henry Cole needs to watch this and hopefully it will stop him being so smug/sarcastic

[@mike_magoo]

Great video Kate and perfect timing lol as I'm currently looking to change my Tiger 800xrx for the R1200GS TE 😃 problem I have now is GS TE, or the GS TE RALLYE or the GS TE ADVENTURE 🤔 I keep being drawn to the Adventure but it looks bloody massive 🤣

[@UsernameKate]

Haha you wont go wrong with any! I went GS because I personally didn't need the extra 100 mile range and prefer the GS because it feels less of a heffa haha

[@janjanssen6794]

Thank you, this gave me a little more confidence for for concidering a GS as a "shortass" haha

[@lyndelhale1094]

Should be riding with visor down or glasses, A bug in your eyes will put your bike on your side, be careful out there.

[@jeanyvesfraiche8063]

Very cute Kate, what a sweet and pretty lady ❤ you are! How short are you Miss? As my grand-dad used to tell me: « There are no short people neither there are tall; the good length is when your feet touch the ground! »

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Great video Kate. Have you seen the girl in the States who is so small she stands on her footrest sets off and lifts her other leg over. Makes this old boy feel like a wimp.

[@yogeshchandthakur]

Whatever you say but its Not practical at all. I find it risky. There are fair chances to trip and fall especially if there’s a pillion and if that pillion is new to being a pillion then you know whats gonna happen during stops. So for me it’s only harleys and other tourers unless the bmws and triumphs come out with a little lower frame and seats to accommodate atleast someone whos 5ft 6

[@blueghost3647]

I am a guy I am 5 foot 2 and 1/16 but I am able to ride mt 2022 triumph street triple R low they lowered it at the factory 1 inch then I wear thick soul harley boot

[@JudsonRockefeller]

339 Weissnat Motorway

[@EnoCooling]

Interesting video, Kate, and well done for mastering the full height GS. As you say, from 1MPH the bike is a pussy cat to ride. I'm 5'8 with 28 inside leg, Ride a low chassis GS. and whilst the stock lowered seat is terribly uncomfortable, I use an Airhawk lowered GS seat which is super comfortable. And I can flat feet both at once, which is really useful, especially two up. No one can deny your ability, but it would be so much easier on a lowered GS. Try it next time. I don't think that you would go back to a full height GS. Irrespective, for other short people who might be afraid of the GS, don't be. Sure, short people can master the full height GS, no problem. But, take the lowered one, and be comfortable. It's so much easier!

[@marcbrasse747]

(Local accent) You. Driving humongous bikes? Never noticed.

[@steveaustin1820]

Long over due subject...I'm 6 ft. and for ever hear shorter riders having concern.

[@carlreiche4991]

Is that a cellphone or gps in the cradle. Your single handed control is great. You can be proud. Come visit africa

[@BrianJohnson-bs9cw]

Grate article it just shows you just have to think out the box,I'm 5.4" like but inseam is 3" less my GS is full hight with a low seat. i have had a Ducati 1260s which i did 23k in 3 years! I have always had standard bikes over the last 40 years you just have to find what works for you and planning when you stops well done Kate

[@johnsshed995]

little ladys rideing tall and heavy bikes puts me to shame . You all look like gracefull wild cats as I heave and grunt like a beached whale to acheve the same task . Well done .

[@kevinklingenmeier9096]

Oh yes ❤ and i wanna be your passanger

[@listert]

Thanks for the vid. I just tried a gsa which terrified me. Especially as a fell over stopping at a round about when it tilted too far over. Inspired to persevere with it.

[@bloodyhell451]

I went on an off road sesh in Wales and the (50 plus) Lady Guide was incredible. She couldn't get one foot down on a CRF 250 ! Every stop/start was a total one-side dismount. She made everything look easy. If you have the skills, I think anything is possible.

[@yorkshire6458]

I use to know someone who was around the same hight and had a Kawasaki z1300 and he no Problem to ride his bike

[@tonypyatt6556]

I would love to see your friend ruby ride’s pick it when she is in here 60s I have just down sized for that same reason a great video though keep up the good work

[@ferrilucacom]

yes but... when you're standing still and find a dip in the ground... you're down.

[@lovegar]

You've done well handling that GS. Parking & initial set off are the pinch points & worse on slopes & uneven ground Not being able to place two feet on the ground or at least balls of feet will always be a risk. At the end of the day if you feel happy with it then all well & good, a lot wouldn't have the confidence to deal with the daily risks

[@yorkshire6458]

Some older bikes have a reverse gear, i say this because of its not very good to pull the bike around using the side stand

[@zameerhussain6863]

Hi Kate, I came to you to buy a RS , you made me come down knowing you didn't have a RS to test drive because you knew I needed a GS , and I bought it, best bike I have ever had , thank you, good review and keep up the good work 👏

[@c0nsequence942]

Don't.

[@nickexarheas2880]

Maybe get a smaller bike?

[@UsernameKate]

No thank you, I love my GS.

[@davidwallace6224]

My bike is pretty talk too,but I am almost 190 cm still when I push back on loose gravel or something and my foot slips it's dicy !

[@davidcolinfisher1034]

I don't know, I watch a lot of ADV rider video blogs, and worry a lot. I see an extensive amount of rationalizing. If a bike is too big for you, your frame, your strength, then its too big for you. Low seat, low suspension setting, don't make the bike any lighter. And, I hate to say it, but stating the obvious, talking with your hands while riding down the road on a motorcycle, looking down to fans seems like a terrible safety issue. Focus, hands on the bars, and less rationalizing. I am one of those with a conflicting view. I disagree, that "its all about technique". It depends if you are not trapped underneath that bike, that fell on you. That woman in the video looked youthful, and athletic, and was obviously into weight lifting in some capacity or another. You are rationalizing, motorcycles are dangerous, I will remind of that...hands on the bars, you bloggers. I learned 30 years ago the danger's of trying to film, and ride, when video cameras came out to the masses. And along with that was me visiting my friends in the hospital, The GS1250 has had its day, the modern bikes, the manufacturer trends are all beginning to go back to the lighter weight bikes. Engines are more advanced, engineers and designers have learned from their mistakes. There is such thing as a bike that is too heavy for the average rider. We are not talking about Paris Dakar historical figures anymore, or professional athlete riders. The average rider can not handle this type of weight in any circumstance where there is a problem, ie being stuck in rut. Learn from actual dirt bikes.....Enduro bikes, 450's and such. That is future, GS1250, is the past. Good luck, hope you don't break a leg.

[@windwalker583]

I agree with you....if she was loosing control on mud or rut she will drop bike and probably trapped under it with broken crushed leg as she would put center of balance to one side...also rocky stream or river she will need 2 feet planted again will force her to be trapped under bike and that's drowning... Also long turm hip issues also.. So I very much disagree with her that it's ok to have bike to tall for you. It is not ok... I'm 5.6 and tall bikes are not safe for shorter riders especially off road and even on road... I'm a male...so I don't have that feminist macho thing to prove I'm better and more powerful than a man feminist thing... Safety is first Allways..tall bike short legs truly don't mix..honestly..

[@kirkyslifestuff4184]

Not for me all stick with my Honda crf for adventure riding

[@yellownev]

I'm a shorty 5'6" and use Daytona Mstar boots that put me closer to the sky - not cheap but good Gortex boots

[@heydavemyers1]

Hi. Recently stumbled onto your channel and have been enjoying it. I'm a "short-arsed" old man, going on 75. I used to be 5'4".. don't think I am anymore. There was a time when I really wanted a GS but didn't go for it due to the seat height. While I agree with everything you cover in this vid, I need to say that, if I were a young man I might consider it. But, as you age, you get weaker and at least for me, you have a tendency to pull muscles, etc., when fighting with the weight of your bike. Sooner or later, you're going to drop the bike where you wouldn't if you had "more leg". It's worse when riding with others because they don't always respect the challenges a short person has and they do tight u-turns, park on slants, or other things that present a challenge for short riders. I now have 5 bikes and the most comfortable of them is the one (Yamaha Bolt) where I can comfortably flat-foot. My adventure bike is a 2018 Triumph Tiger 800, low suspension model with a low seat which nearly enables me to flat-foot the bike with my 27" inseam! What you give up is ground clearance if you want to ford streams and ride over large logs and rocks, all things I never attempt.

[@UsernameKate]

Totally valid points and you know, at a 27 inch inseam, it can make all the difference. My aim wasn't to say its possible for everyone as so many factors, as you say, age can influence things but I just wanted to give people hope that a bike they might have disregarded... might just be within grasp 😁

[@27jollytall]

I am 6ft 3" so the height has never been an issue, but at 70plus years the weight is something to consider, but as you say, the weight is so well distributed on the GS, that it feels lighter and easier to ride than many bikes of less pounds on paper.

[@neilwiddison6529]

I would love a gs ,but I just can't afford one aaaaaarrrrgggghhhh

[@martinhughes9769]

Safety would be my concerns when stopping