How Ground Clearance Impacts Your Motorcycle Purchase

Mar. 12 2025 Buying Guide By Monarch Powersports

Deciding to purchase a new motorcycle involves many factors to consider, one of which is ground clearance. But how much does ground clearance really matter when choosing your new ride?

What Is Ground Clearance?

In brief, ground clearance refers to the distance from the lowest point of your motorcycle's frame to the ground when the bike is upright. This measurement significantly impacts how your vehicle performs on different terrains. From riding over speed bumps or potholes in Orem, UT, to navigating gravel paths outside Salt Lake City and Provo, UT — a bike's ground clearance can make all the difference.

Why Ground Clearance Matters

A greater ground clearance allows for improved handling over obstacles commonly found on off-road trails or poor-quality roads. On the flip side, motorcycles with lower ground clearances are often better suited for highway cruising and offer easier maneuverability due to their lower center of gravity.

Making the Right Choice

Depending on where and how you plan to ride, you'll need to select a motorcycle with an appropriate level of ground clearance. Consider your typical routes — will you encounter lots of speed bumps and potholes? Or are smooth highways more your style? Identifying these patterns will guide you toward making an informed decision.

We invite you to bring these considerations when visiting Monarch Powersports located in Orem, UT. We cater not just to bikers in Orem, but also those from Salt Lake City and Provo, UT. Our team will gladly assist you in exploring our top-of-the-line options tailored specifically to your unique needs. Experience first-hand how different ground clearances can impact your ride and understand why it plays a pivotal role in choosing the right motorcycle for you.