Posture and the Motorcycle

Riding season is here! How’s your posture on the bike?

Different riding styles can change how your body feels during and after a ride. Whether you prefer a standard, cruiser, or sport posture, each position comes with its own pros and cons when it comes to comfort, control, and strain on your body.

3 Riding Styles

Standard Riding Posture

• Not leaned forward or back.

• Sit upright with shoulders squared over hips.

• Arms extended with elbows slightly bent.

• Knees rest against the tank with feet on the foot pegs at a 90-degree angle.

Pros - Neutral which should reduce stress to your neck, shoulders, and lower back.

Cruiser Riding Posture

• Looks “comfortable, confident, and relaxed”.

• Body is slightly reclined back with arms fully extended in front of you.

• Knees bent and almost level with your hips.

• Feet resting on the foot pegs ahead of your knees.

Cons - Taxing on the arms, shoulders, and upper body.

Sports Riding Posture

• Most aerodynamic position to reduce wind resistance and improve speed.

• Lean upper body forward so shoulders are in front of your hips with stomach resting against the tank.

• Feet rest on foot pegs positioned behind your knees.

Cons - Generally leads to neck or back pain while riding.

What can you do to decrease pain while riding?

• Be sure to keep your neck, shoulders, back, hips, and knees in neutral positions.

• Change positions frequently while riding for long periods of time or take breaks as needed.

• Gentle stretching while riding to keep from getting stiff.

• Wind screen - reduces wind and stress to your neck and shoulders while riding.

• Aerodynamic helmet - reduces stress to your neck while riding.

When off the bike

• Regular exercise to keep muscles strong and build endurance