On Being Vertically Challenged

[bogatyrs]

I have a 28 inch inseam and my 2010 Nomad has a 28.7 inch height. You may not think this is a big problem but when you consider that the width of the seat also causes your legs to spread reaching the ground is a challenge.

I looked at a lot of options like finding a lowering kit - all indications are it is not a good option. One suggestion was rebuild the seat. Recently at a show in Toronto I found an upholsterer that specializes in motorcycle seats. After visiting his shop and talking to a couple of happy customers I gave him my seat to rebuild. He says he has been able to take 2 inches off the height and slim it a bit for other riders. So I decided to take the plunge and gave him my seat to rebuild.

I won't really know if it is better until the spring but based on my research I am very optimistic. This change will lower my CoG and get my feet comfortably on the ground. Based on my research all of this will be good. Using the new "Gel" products should ensure that my comfort will be as good as before. On my last bike I had a Mustang seat and it was not as comfortable as the OEM on my Nomad so he has a challenge.

I read on other forums this has been the best solution for us shorter folks and I hope it works for me... :-/

[AlabamaNomadRider]

That is probably the best option you had. I am in a similar situation as the pants I wear are 29 in length. I can handle the Nomad pretty well but do wish I had just a bit more length to my legs or the seat lower. Let us know how it turns out for you.

[cactusjack]

A 195/60-16 car tire on the rear will lower it almost an inch and you'll still have your full suspension travel. which you wouldn't if you replaced the shocks with shorter ones.

I just went back to a motorcycle tire from a car tire and there is a noticeable difference in height. I'm over 6', so it's not a big deal for me. Just something you might consider.

[ringadingh]

I have a reworked seat on my bike that probably dropped it at least an inch, Im also over 6' so I didn't need it for the extra reach, I just liked the look of the seat. When I installed my car tire it is a taller tire and actually raised the bike back up almost an inch.

[vulcans2]

Your only other option is to have a totally custom seat made, such as a Russell saddle. They can take your stock seat pan and build a seat that completely addresses all your concerns and requirements. Spendy, but well worth the money, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in the saddle. Hard to place a $$$ value on comfort.

[bogatyrs]

Your only other option is to have a totally custom seat made, such as a Russell saddle. They can take your stock seat pan and build a seat that completely addresses all your concerns and requirements. Spendy, but well worth the money, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in the saddle. Hard to place a $$$ value on comfort.

Couldn't agree more and that is exactly what he is doing to my seat using the exisiting pan and rebuilding it. It is costly but I want the comfort along with the best fit.

[caddman11]

WOW, I think I would have gone for platform shoes first.

[rewindgy]

That's why I am leaning away from the new 1700's! It's odd, they shortened up the damn bike's seating position but it sits taller and your right leg hits the side of the motor if you are vertically challenged! My 2006 has the Mustang seat 180 / 60 -16 tire and knee's are bent - flat footed - and bike fits like a glove. Hope you new custom built seat works out! Send picture's when you get it on and sitting on it for reference.

[bogatyrs]

That's why I am leaning away from the new 1700's! It's odd, they shortened up the damn bike's seating position but it sits taller and your right leg hits the side of the motor if you are vertically challenged! My 2006 has the Mustang seat 180 / 60 -16 tire and knee's are bent - flat footed - and bike fits like a glove. Hope you new custom built seat works out! Send picture's when you get it on and sitting on it for reference.

I will do that could be a while before the snow leaves but will pass on info and my reaction to seat. I agree with legs hitting the side. I think that is part of what caused my fall last summer.