I'm really impressed with the FZ8, but I'm worried about the ergonomics, specifically the forward lean, the stretch to the handlebars. I'm just over 5'7" with a 30" inseam. I've sat on an FZ8 at the dealer and to reach the handlebars I have to lean forward about 20 degrees. I've been riding a cruiser, which allows a much more upright posture, and before that a big scooter. So I don't have anything to compare the FZ8's ergos to. Any other shorter FZ8 riders out there want to chime in? Does a stock FZ8 fit a shorter rider's frame w/out uncomfortable pressure on shoulders and wrists? I'd be riding every day, commuting about 10 miles each way, with the occasional 100 mile plus day on weekends. Thanks!
one big point you have to realize about the upright riding position is it takes in for the wind, which holds you up.
look back where cruisers came from, they have upright riding positions. The modern cruisers laid back, and fwd leg position is a result of the past 40 plus years of style over function development by HD. As the custom bike design keep crying for a lower seat so HD answered untill it seems the entire line has the Low Rider seating position.
The upright slightly fwd position of the FZ8 takes into the fact that it has no windshield and you will be having a lot of wind hit you in the chest. and then you do not even notice it. Plus notice it is not as radical as a super sport bike which puts you a lot more forward and the feet a lot more rear set.
I would go try to get a test ride, or try to borrow a bike with similar ergonomics for a bit. I can almost guarantee that a 10 mile commute you will love the bike, I live in the CA desert, it is a 50 plus mile ride for me to do anything and I love this bike.
Disclaimer:
that said, some guys just love the cruiser laid back riding position and nothing else works.