20 Best Beginner Motorcycles for New Riders
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Whether you’re new to motorcycling or upgrading from a smaller bike, this list highlights 20 beginner-friendly motorcycles perfect for road trips and everyday use. Each bike offers features suited to new riders, focusing on durability, stability, maneuverability, weight, and seat height.
1. Honda Monkey
A trusted name in motorcycles, the Honda Monkey features a 125cc fuel-injected single-cylinder four-stroke engine with a four speed transmission and low seat height. Priced between $3,999 and $4,199, it’s ideal for weekend adventures and commuting. This bike offers strong stopping power through hydraulic disc brakes, adding to its appeal for beginners.
Key Features: ABS, LED lights, low seat height.
2. KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke boasts a 373cc fuel-injected single-cylinder engine with a 6-speed transmission, offering 40 HP. With a mid-range seat height of 31 inches and firm suspension, it’s manageable for beginners and capable of highway speeds. Priced around $5,299.
Key Features: Easy to manage, highway capable, boost rider confidence.
3. Kawasaki Ninja 300
A versatile sportbike with a 296cc fuel-injected twin-cylinder engine and 6-speed transmission. It has a higher seat and footpegs for tight cornering, suitable for commuting and weekend rides. Price ranges from $4,999 to $5,299.
Key Features: Versatile, high footpegs, full fairing.
4. Yamaha V Star 250 Raven
A cruiser with a 250cc carbureted V-twin engine and 5-speed transmission. Known for comfort on long rides, it features a low seat height and impressive fuel efficiency. Priced around $4,349.
Key Features: Lightweight, strong brakes, V-twin engine, impressive fuel efficiency.
5. Yamaha SR400
This standard motorcycle has a 399cc fuel-injected single-cylinder four-stroke engine with a 5-speed transmission. Its retro styling and kick starter appeal to classic bike enthusiasts. Seat height is under 31 inches. Price about $5,999.
Key Features: Retro style, compatible seat height, four stroke engine, valve gear.
6. Kawasaki Z400
A naked streetfighter with a 399cc parallel-twin engine and 6-speed transmission. It offers aggressive styling, lightweight chassis, and a low seat height of 30.9 inches. Price is around $4,999.
Key Features: Aggressive styling, lightweight, upright riding position.
7. BMW G310GS
An adventure bike with a 313cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine. Suitable for various terrains, it has a seat height of 32.9 inches and produces 33.9 PS. Price varies.
Key Features: Versatile, relaxed riding.
8. Suzuki GSX250R
A sportbike with a 248cc fuel-injected twin-cylinder engine and 6-speed transmission. It features a low 31-inch seat height and full fairing but lacks ABS. Priced competitively.
Key Features: LED headlights, LCD screen.
9. Suzuki DR-Z400S
A supermoto with a 398cc carbureted single-cylinder engine and 5-speed transmission. Built for urban riding with supple suspension and minimal bodywork. Seat height is 35 inches. Price about $7,299.
Key Features: Lightweight, torque-rich engine.
10. Kawasaki Z125 Pro
A compact 125cc single-cylinder bike with a four speed gearbox, ideal for urban commuting. Seat height is 32.1 inches. Priced around $3,199.
Key Features: Agile, great for city traffic.
11. Ducati Monster 937
A powerful 803cc twin-cylinder bike with a 6-speed transmission. Not for beginners who are faint-hearted, it offers advanced features like under-seat USB and LED lights. Price is higher.
Key Features: High power, advanced tech, offset cylinder
12. Harley-Davidson Street 500
A cruiser with a 494cc fuel-injected V-twin engine and 6-speed transmission. It has a low seat height (25.7 inches laden) and weighs 500 pounds, suitable for new riders. Price varies.
Key Features: Easy handling, great for commuting.
13. Yamaha MT-03
A 321cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine with 6-speed transmission. Known for agile handling and ABS standard, it suits urban and track riding. Seat height 30.7 inches. Price about $4,999.
Key Features: Agile, ABS equipped, excellent throttle response, hydraulic dual piston caliper.
14. Harley-Davidson Superlow
A 373cc fuel-injected twin-cylinder cruiser with a 6-speed transmission. It offers easy maneuvering with a low 25.5-inch seat height. Price around $8,699.
Key Features: Lightweight, comfortable.
15. Honda Grom
A mini sportbike with a 125cc fuel-injected single-cylinder engine and four-speed transmission. Priced between $3,399 and $3,599, it’s perfect for city commuting and weekend rides. The 2019 Grom in incredible green is known for its fun all-around ability, smooth gear shifts, and manual clutch. It features a roller rocker arm, hydraulic single piston caliper, fuel gauge, 1.45-gallon fuel capacity, and comes with a Honda Protection Plan.
Key Features: Compact, fun all-around ability, four-speed gearbox, manual clutch, fuel capacity, absolute blast, roller rocker arm, Honda Grom, 2019 Honda Grom, incredible green, hydraulic single piston caliper, fuel gauge, correct fuel mixture, Honda Protection Plan.
16. KTM RC 390
A 373cc fuel-injected single-cylinder sportbike with 6-speed transmission. Lightweight with aggressive styling and high footpegs, ideal for daily commuting and spirited riding. Price about $5,499.
Key Features: Agile, corner-carving.
17. Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS
An adventure touring bike with a 296cc fuel-injected parallel twin engine and 6-speed transmission. Features include a medium windscreen and adjustable suspension. Price ranges from $5,399 to $5,699.
Key Features: Adventure-ready, comfortable.
18. Suzuki GW250
A naked standard bike with a 248cc fuel-injected twin-cylinder engine and 6-speed transmission. It has a low seat height and adjustable features for rider comfort. Price around $4,099.
Key Features: Adjustable brakes, versatile.
19. Honda CB1100 EX
A classic inline-4 bike with 1140cc displacement. It offers easy maneuverability and a durable steel chassis. Seat height is about 31.3 inches.
Key Features: Classic styling, triple-disc brakes.
20. Scrambler Ducati Desert Sled
Designed for off-road and highway riding, it has an 803cc fuel-injected L-twin engine and 6-speed transmission. Features adjustable suspension and a high seat height for control.
Key Features: Off-road capable, stable.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right beginner motorcycle depends on budget, weight, comfort, usability, and power. Always prioritize safety, wear proper gear, and select a bike that matches your riding goals and skill level. Enjoy your journey into motorcycling!
