There is a low seat and a taller seat. The knees don't bother me with the taller seat, but I agree I did not like the lower seat because of my knee bend. The throttle response is just tricky with takeoff and you quickly get used to it. I think the throttle is very smooth otherwise. I have about 1000 miles on mine so far and I'm very happy with it in general. However, I like to make all of my motorcycles comfortable for the long haul and I will need to find the right windscreen and a seat with a backrest before I will know if this one will fit the bill.