Ground Clearance

Ground clearance is the vertical distance from the ground to the lowest point of the motorcycle's chassis or engine, usually the sump, exhaust or frame rails. It is normally quoted with the bike unladen.

Off-road and adventure bikes need generous clearance to cross rocks, logs and ruts without hitting the engine cases. Road bikes have less, which can limit lean angle when footpegs or exhausts touch down. Adding luggage or a passenger compresses the suspension and reduces clearance.

Fitting a bash plate protects the engine on bikes that will see rough tracks. Lowering kits make a bike easier to reach the ground on, but always reduce clearance and sometimes cornering clearance too.