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Searching for the best beginner motorcycles could be daunting as choices abound for new riders. This guide showcases a handpicked list of motorcycles perfect for beginners, from cruisers to sportbikes, all chosen for their easy handling, advanced safety features, and overall suitability for those new to two wheels.
Ready for a smooth start to your riding experience?
Key factors that a beginner rider should consider
Choosing the right beginner motorcycle isn’t just about picking a bike with the top reviews or the coolest look. It’s about finding a bike that fits your body, your skills, and your lifestyle.
Seat height and weight
When it comes to finding a bike that fits, seat height is a crucial factor. Being able to plant both feet flat on the ground while sitting on the bike increases stability and confidence when stopped. But remember, a lighter motorcycle may be manageable even with a taller seat height that requires being on your toes, while a heavier bike demands the ability to have the soles of both feet flat on the ground.
Advanced safety features
Safety is a crucial consideration when choosing a beginner motorcycle. Recommended advanced safety features include anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, electronic stability control, LED headlights, and adjustable suspension. Statistically, these features reduce the probability of accidents, affirming their importance for new riders. Discover more motorcycle safety tips for every level of rider.
Alignment with lifestyle
It’s imperative to align your bike choice with your lifestyle. Are you planning to use your bike for daily commuting, attending popular bike rallies, or weekend adventures? Do you prefer city streets or off-road trails? These are all factors to consider when selecting your first motorcycle.
Remember, the goal is to find a bike that you’ll love to ride, not just one that looks good in the showroom.
Exploring the best beginner motorcycles
As a new rider, you want to start with a bike that’s easy to handle, not too powerful, and affordable. A good beginner motorcycle is light, has a smaller engine capacity (250cc to 500cc), and is equally good whether new or used. You want a bike that you can easily mount and flat-foot, which means your feet can touch the ground when you’re stopped. But with so many options out there, how do you choose?
We’ll begin by examining two popular choices: the Honda Rebel 300 and the Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Honda Rebel 300
The Honda Rebel 300 is a quintessential starter bike. Known for its easy handling, low center of gravity, and composed handling, it’s an ideal choice for beginners. With a low seat height that allows riders to have both feet on the ground when stopped, the Rebel 300 is particularly well-suited for confident city riding.
Plus, it features a 286cc liquid-cooled engine with modern amenities like fuel injection, slipper clutch, and ABS brakes. If you’re a new rider looking for a bike that combines user-friendly features with a stylish look, the Honda Rebel 300 is worth checking out, especially with a base MSRP under $5,000.
Kawasaki Ninja 400
If sporty thrills are more your style, consider the Kawasaki Ninja 400. This bike features a 399cc parallel twin engine, a full fairing kit, upright ergonomics, and a seat height of 30.9 inches, making it suitable for beginners.
Its sporty design offers an ideal blend of thrills and manageability, perfect for city commuting and urban riding. Plus, it comes equipped with ABS, a key safety feature for those new to riding. The Ninja 400 is a great choice for new riders who want a sporty, manageable ride. Starting MSRP of $5,299.
Beginner-friendly adventure bikes
But what if you’re the adventurous type, dreaming of off-road explorations and the thrill of varying terrains? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll consider two of the best beginner-friendly adventure bikes of 2024: the BMW G 310 GS and the Royal Enfield Himalayan.
BMW G 310 GS
The BMW G 310 GS is a perfect gateway to the world of adventure biking for beginners. It offers:
- Adjustable seat height ranging from 32.3 to 33.4 inches, accommodating taller riders with added comfort and legroom
- A 313cc single-cylinder engine designed for both urban commuting and off-road adventure
- A versatile experience for beginner riders
Plus, its impressive payload capacity and standard grab rails make it ideal for carrying gear on long rides without compromising on performance or off-road capabilities. And with an attractive price point of $5,695, it’s competitively priced for new riders.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
For those who prefer a more rugged design, the Royal Enfield Himalayan is a great choice. With a tough frame, long-travel suspension suitable for uneven terrain, and spoke wheels indicative of its off-road capability, it’s ready for whatever adventure you throw at it.
The bike features a 411cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, providing a balance of power that is both manageable for city rides and sufficient for off-road adventure. Plus, it’s an accessible and budget-friendly choice for beginners looking to embark on touring adventures. Starting MSRP of $5,449.
Ready to ride? Explore the Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in North America.
Top cruiser bikes for beginners
Known for their relaxed riding position, low seat heights, and classic styling, cruisers are a popular choice for beginners seeking a more laid-back riding experience. Here are two top cruiser bikes recommended for beginners:
Kawasaki Eliminator
The Kawasaki Eliminator is a great choice for beginners, offering:
- Smooth power delivery
- Effortless handling
- A 451cc parallel-twin engine
- Non-intimidating power across the engine’s rev range
Plus, its engine architecture features a longer stroke to increase torque, allowing riders to cruise comfortably at low revs while also experiencing an invigorating performance when desired. With its lightweight build, it delivers effortless handling to promote rider confidence. Pricing for the Kawasaki Eliminator starts at $6,649.
Indian Scout Sixty
New riders who prefer a blend of classic style and modern performance may like the Indian Scout Sixty. It features a modern aesthetic with a mostly blacked-out frame and components, offering a contemporary look and a higher-end base MSRP of $11,749.
Powered by a 60ci liquid-cooled V-twin engine, it delivers a brisk performance with a claimed 78 horsepower and 65 pound-feet of torque, revving up quickly and maintaining power in the lower rev range during highway cruising. Plus, with a low seat and forward foot controls, riders can easily plant both feet on the road.
Dual-sport options
If you seek versatility, consider dual-sport motorcycles as good beginner motorcycles. They present a balanced riding experience suitable for both paved streets and off-road terrains.
Honda CRF 300L Rally
The Honda CRF 300L Rally is a fantastic choice for beginners seeking off-road excitement. Its features include:
- Lightweight frame
- Responsive handling
- Forgiving for novice riders
- Adaptability as skills improve
With a high ground clearance of 10.9 inches, it’s perfect for avoiding obstacles while riding off-road. Plus, with a light clutch lever effort thanks to an assist/slipper clutch, it’s more beginner-friendly and budget-friendly at a base price of $6,199.
Suzuki DR-Z400S
The Suzuki DR-Z400S is another versatile option for new riders. It offers:
- A lightweight chassis
- Advanced suspension
- Agile handling
- Comfortable ride quality
Its 5-speed transmission allows riders to smoothly transition between the demands of stop-and-go city traffic, open highways or rugged off-road trails. Whether navigating city streets or exploring country trails, the Suzuki DR-Z400S provides a great riding experience. Base MSRP of $7,099.
Triumph Speed Twin
For those who love the cool retro look, the Triumph Speed Twin is a fantastic choice. With a 65-horsepower engine, it provides a balance of power that’s accessible and enjoyable for first-time riders without being overwhelming. Pricing begins at $9,895.
BMW G 310 R
The BMW G 310 R brings European flair to the table. It features adjustable clutch and brake levers to accommodate riders with different hand sizes, enhancing comfort and safety. Plus, it offers an adjustable seat height, making this versatile bike a good fit for riders of different heights. The base model is listed at $4,995.
Yamaha TW200
This bike’s notable features include a low seat height, an easy-to-use powerband, and a fat rear tire that not only looks cool but also provides extra stability and grip. The engine of the TW200 is a 196cc air-cooled single-cylinder, which has a reputation for being extremely reliable and low-maintenance. The bike’s light weight makes it easy to handle, and the electric start adds to its overall convenience. Plus, its excellent fuel efficiency makes it a practical choice for daily commuting. Affordable base price of $4,999.
Considering buying a used bike? Be sure to read: Tips for Buying a Used Motorcycle.
Summary
Whether you prefer the easy handling of the Honda Rebel 300 or the classic style of the Indian Scout Sixty, there’s a perfect beginner bike out there for you. Each motorcycle offers unique features that cater to different riding styles while keeping in mind the needs of beginner riders.
The best motorcycle is one that fits your budget, meets your riding needs, and feels right to you. Remember, always wear appropriate safety gear when riding and take proper training before hitting the road. Happy riding!
If you found the perfect bike but it’s in another state or even across the country, consider having it shipped to your door with Montway Auto Transport.
Frequently asked questions about beginner motorcycles
What style of motorcycle is best for beginners?
Cruisers are the best style of motorcycle for beginners due to their relaxed riding position and variety of engine sizes.
What is the easiest motorcycle for beginners?
The easiest motorcycles for beginners include the Honda CB300R, Honda Rebel 300, or Kawasaki Ninja 400. These models are often recommended for new riders due to their user-friendly nature and manageable power.
What CC is good for a beginner motorcycle?
For beginners, a motorcycle with a smaller cubic centimeter (cc) engine, typically between 300cc and 500cc, is more manageable and recommended for starting out.
How important is seat height in choosing a beginner motorcycle?
Seat height is very important when choosing a beginner motorcycle because it affects stability and confidence when stopped. It’s crucial to be able to plant both feet flat on the ground while sitting on the bike.
What are some good beginner motorcycles for off-road adventures?
For off-road adventures as a beginner, consider the BMW G 310 GS or the Royal Enfield Himalayan. They both offer off-road capabilities and features that are friendly to new riders.
