“Master Yoda” riding position/technique?

[ADKsuper10]

Any of you use this technique for better posture/control while riding your S10?

I think there may be something to it, and since I have experimented with it I may not need bar riders after all. Time will tell. I know my posture on the bike was horrible and if nothing else this will improve.

 

[ADKsuper10]

I think this also helps me shift/brake more comfortably with less effort also.

found the link:

http://bmwsporttouring.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2737

I know this is in relation to sport touring bikes, but maybe there is some application to any bike?

 

[EricV]

This is also known as the "Sport Touring Slouch" and well known in those circles. Ergonomics of the Super Tenere are different. On the FJR I used the slouch position and found it much more relaxed for long days in the saddle. There was a time that I routinely rode 20 hour days back to back doing endurance rallies.

I don't find this to be the same on the Super Ten. My riding position is much more "sit up and beg". In part due to my changes to the bike, but also the peg location more directly below me in a 'Standard" position, rather than behind like Sport Touring bikes. Hip to Peg relationships are different between the FJR and the Super Ten, for example.

Just my 2 cents.

 

[ADKsuper10]

Thanks Eric. Is there somewhere where I can find info on proper body positioning for these big adventure bikes?

 

[Eville Rich]

I've been playing around with the Master Yoda position on the S10. My S10's setup isn't great for it as I'd made adjustments to deal with pain and numbness from the stock seat and handlebars (it's a 2016 S10). So now I've got a corbin seat and 2" adjustable Rox Risers.

What I like about Master Yoda is greater emphasis on core balancing. I'd found with the standard sit up and beg, my tendency was to bend at the waist, not the hips. For now I consciously need to work the the technique, but it's helped quite a bit. I also found it difficult with the seat in the high position. In the lower position, I'm able to use my knees to grip and get my thigh muscles more into it. I think the lower seat position has the effect of changing where the pegs are in relation to my torso. I didn't realize what I was missing until I went from my '87 K75S where I was trying the technique back to the S10. The S10 felt ungainly until I lowered the seat and changed how I used my core/knees/thighs. Now I'm taking turns with more confidence (faster and deeper lean).

I would say that on an S10 you can't take the literal Master Yoda position (as described in the link) and apply it directly. But the principles are there and I think beneficial. I'm still sitting up and begging, but the base technique keeps my back and arms in a better position even when begging. I'm thinking of removing my risers and seeing how that changes things, but for now I'm just trying to apply the general theory to set a foundation/habit to experiment from. I also like to be able to stand and ride, which the risers are pretty key to making happen.

In general, I'd encourage some experimentation with the general theory on the use of your core and bending at the hips. Maybe lower the seat, though I suppose that depends on where you are starting from and the length of your legs.

Good luck,
Eville Rich
2016 S10
2015 WR250R
1987 K75S

 

[ADKsuper10]

I also have a Corbin seat and prefer the low position, even with the stock seat.

One thing I noticed immediately is that when I apply this posture it takes all the tension off my arms and I can bend my elbows while grasping the handlebars. It’s because I am sitting closer to them while still sitting on the rear part of the seat - due to bending at the hips instead of slouching forward at the waist.

I also sit taller this way, which can’t be bad for the old back.

 

[Davesax36]

I've been thinking about taking my risers off. Corbin seat in the low position with the bumper mod done, and it's almost too upright now. Might help with managing air flow as well.

 

[AdvToorer]

Has anyone tried motorcycle ergo website? You can select multiple bikes and swap between them with mouse wheel, watching how rider position varies.

 

[ADKsuper10]

Just checked out the site pretty neat. I guess I am trying to figure out what correct posture should be for my frame (6’ 3, 33-34” inseam) on this bike. If I am sitting with good posture I am hoping it will help with seat and handlebar ergos and general discomfort. I almost feel like I am close to having an epiphany, but only more time on the saddle will tell. Unfortunatey I do not get to ride nearly as much as I would like so this process could take awhile.

 

[Xclimation]

I shift myself position around in various ways based on conditions and what feels comfortable at the moment. One thing I like about this bike is that there are many ways to sit on it!

 

[ADKsuper10]

Agreed! She does have a lot of room.

 

[Sierra1]

Once I get my short little legs on the pegs, it is just a very natural position/posture. I've never had to think about it. Apparently the top half of my body is what Yamaha had in mind. ::025::

 

[ADKsuper10]

Went out for another 200 mile ride tonight. Between the Corbin seat, motoskiveez and correcting my posture I was good for 1 1/2 hours or so before stopping for a break. That wasnt because my rear was sore, I just needed a break.

I think no matter what seat I have or riding I do I would likely stop every 2hrs max to take a break and stretch out.

The Corbin seat is definitely a big improvement over the stock seat for me. Not magic, but definitely better.