One Bike Fits All

People come in all different sizes, and everyone has a different preference for baggage and gear. In the motorcycle rental business, we've learned that one bike does not fit all....unless, we make some changes.

Our BMW Dakar, is a great example. With the stock seat, the bike is pretty tall. I have a 30" inseam, so I guess I'm in the "Inseam Challenged" group. One time I rode the Dakar, in stock condition, to the gas station. I was well aware of how tall the bike was. I made sure I didn't stop where the ground was sloping, and even on flat stops, I had to slide one cheek off the seat to touch the ground. Obviously, this is not an ideal situation. Worrying about reaching the ground, is taking your attention away from other important aspects of riding. 

The good news is, we have some easy modifications to make the Dakar, and other bikes, lower and safer to ride for those of us with shorter inseams. We have a lowering link, which will bring the height of the bike down a little bit, and also a factory lowered seat, which will bring the height of the bike down a little bit more.

 Here is the bike with the lowering link, and the lower seat. I'm comfortably reaching the ground on both sides of the bike. Also in this picture, is one of the baggage options, Large silver colored panniers, from Happy Trail.

Here is the bike with the lowering link, and the original seat. I'm touching the ground, but on my toes a little more than than I should be. If the large panniers are too much for your day trip, maybe the smaller tail bag will fit your needs.                                 

 ...Or maybe you need something in between. The smaller, black panniers are also available, as well as tank bags, and water proof duffles.

So, with a few easy changes, and some advanced planning, one bike really does fit all!