A charismatic engine, smooth performance and striking looks – but perhaps just a little too tall? For many motorcyclists, the dream bike is out of reach because of a few centimetres of seat height. With a range of well-engineered lowering solutions, from replacement springs to premium electronic shock absorbers, Touratech makes adventure and road bikes more accessible and comfortable for a wider range of riders. Long suspension travel and generous ground clearance are hallmarks of the adventure bike segment. However, these features often result in seat heights that can be challenging for some riders.
Whether manoeuvring in a car park or negotiating stop-start traffic, maintaining secure footing can be difficult on many adventure bikes and even some road models. With more than 15 years of experience developing premium suspension systems for on- and off-road use, Touratech Suspension offers a variety of lowering solutions designed to make motorcycles more accessible without compromising handling.
“Having your feet firmly on the ground is essential for confident handling and plays a key role in making riding enjoyable,” explains Tilo Jentzsch, Portfolio Manager at Touratech. “That’s why we’ve developed practical lowering solutions to give even more riders access to some fantastic motorcycles.”
Spring kits: a cost-effective entry point
The simplest way to reduce seat height is by replacing the standard springs with shorter versions. Touratech offers almost 200 model-specific spring kits, providing a wide range of lowering options. Depending on the motorcycle, different reductions are available. For example, the BMW F 850 GS can be lowered by either 20mm or 40mm. Progressive-rate fork springs ensure responsive everyday performance while retaining sufficient reserves for spirited riding or carrying heavy loads. Replacing the springs is a particularly cost-effective solution for riders looking to improve ergonomics without replacing the entire suspension system.
Integrated lowering with shorter shock absorbers and cartridges
For those seeking the ultimate lowering solution, Touratech offers specially developed shorter shock absorbers. Unlike spring kits, these systems integrate spring length, damping characteristics and suspension travel into a package tailored to the rider’s weight, riding style and ergonomic requirements. Available in specifications ranging from the entry-level E1 to the premium Extreme2 range, these shock absorbers are offered for numerous models. Selected motorcycles can be lowered by different amounts. For example, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin is available with either a 25mm or 40mm reduction.
Touratech also offers dedicated lowering cartridges that fit inside the standard forks. Currently available for almost 20 models, they cover popular adventure bikes including the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, BMW F 850 GS, KTM 790 Adventure, Honda XL750 Transalp and Yamaha Ténéré 700. These cartridges provide the same adjustment options as the standard versions, including spring preload, rebound damping and compression damping. Despite the reduced suspension travel, they maintain responsive performance and excellent bottoming resistance.
Lowering solutions for electronic suspension systems
Owners of BMW GS models equipped with ESA can benefit from specially developed electronic lowering shock absorbers that retain the factory assistance and adjustment functions. Thanks to revised spring and damping settings combined with a lower seat height, these systems provide safe and comfortable handling both on-road and off-road, even when the bike is heavily loaded.
Improved ergonomics with lower seats
Seat height can be reduced further by fitting a lower-profile seat. Touratech offers comfort seats with reduced padding height to complement its suspension modifications. To maintain comfort on long journeys, specially selected foam densities provide the ideal balance between support and cushioning despite the thinner profile. An optimised shape with reduced crotch width also makes it easier to reach the ground. These seats retain the features of the standard comfort models, including a pressure-relieving coccyx recess and Touratech’s Fresh-Touch cover, which helps minimise heat build-up in direct sunlight. Supplied as complete units, they can be fitted directly in place of the original seat.
Greater accessibility without sacrificing performance
With a modular range that includes spring kits, shortened shock absorbers, cartridges and low seats, Touratech Suspension offers solutions to suit different requirements and budgets. The result is not simply a lower seat height, but a motorcycle tailored to the rider’s individual ergonomics while preserving the handling characteristics that make these machines so enjoyable to ride.
