Motorcycle Riding Position Basics: An Easy Guide to Understanding the Pros and Cons of Sitting vs. Standing

The RIDE Adventures guide to motorcycle riding positions is primarily concerned with off road riding, but the topics addressed and questions answered within this ebook can apply to a number of motorcycle travel situations, on both paved and unpaved roads.

We’ll walk you through a handful of scenarios to discuss potential outcomes based on your riding positions, i.e. sitting versus standing.

For example, if you’re standing while riding, will you have the same braking ability in an emergency situation, as you would while sitting?

Does your level of handlebar control change in either position?

Have you considered your changes in viewpoint, both forward and behind, from one position to the other? Mirror angles? Ability to jump off the bike if necessary?

We would like to remind future readers that this guide contains general advice, primarily acquired over years and miles of guiding international tours. Opinions will vary from rider to rider! (And note that this guide might be best for a beginner, but also possibly seasoned riders who haven’t been off road in a while.)

RIDE on!