Are you a beginner rider looking to hit the road without breaking the bank? Finding the perfect balance between affordability and quality can be challenging when it comes to purchasing your first motorcycle. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about finding cheap motorcycles for beginners.
Introduction
Choosing your first motorcycle is an exciting milestone, but it’s essential to make a well-informed decision, especially if you’re on a tight budget. As a beginner rider, you’re likely searching for a bike that offers affordability without compromising safety and performance.
Understanding the Needs of Beginner Riders
Importance of Affordability
For many beginner riders, affordability is a top priority. Investing in a cheap motorcycle allows you to enter the world of riding without significant financial burden.
Safety Concerns
While affordability is crucial, safety should never be compromised. Beginner riders must prioritize motorcycles with reliable safety features and easy maneuverability.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Motorcycle
Budget Constraints
Before browsing through motorcycle options, it’s essential to establish a realistic budget. Determine how much you’re willing to spend, including additional expenses such as insurance and gear.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs
Cheap motorcycles don’t necessarily mean poor quality. Look for models known for their reliability and affordability in terms of maintenance and repairs.
Ease of Handling
As a beginner rider, you’ll want a motorcycle that’s easy to handle and maneuver, especially during your learning phase. Opt for lightweight bikes with a comfortable riding position.
Top 5 Affordable Motorcycles for Beginners
Honda Rebel 300
Description:
The Honda Rebel 300 epitomizes the perfect blend of classic cruiser style and modern engineering. With its sleek, minimalist design and low-slung profile, this bike exudes a timeless appeal. Powered by a responsive 286cc single-cylinder engine, it delivers smooth performance ideal for city cruising and leisurely rides. Comfortable ergonomics and agile handling make every journey enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner rider or a seasoned enthusiast, the Honda Rebel 300 offers a thrilling experience on two wheels, effortlessly combining style, performance, and affordability.
Pros:
- Stylish Design: The Honda Rebel 300 boasts a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, drawing attention with its modern yet timeless appearance.
- Comfortable Riding Position: With its low seat height and forward-set footpegs, riders enjoy a relaxed and ergonomic riding posture, perfect for long journeys.
- Affordable Pricing: Offering excellent value for money, the Rebel 300 provides access to the cruiser motorcycle segment without breaking the bank.
- Easy to Customize: Owners can personalize their Rebel 300 with a variety of aftermarket accessories and modifications, allowing for individual expression and style.
Cons:
- Modest Engine Performance: While adequate for city commuting and leisurely rides, the Rebel 300’s 286cc engine may feel underpowered for those seeking high-speed highway cruising.
- Limited Highway Capabilities: Due to its modest displacement and cruiser-oriented design, the Rebel 300 may struggle during prolonged highway journeys, especially at higher speeds.
Yamaha YZF-R3
Description:
The Yamaha YZF-R3 epitomizes the perfect balance of performance and agility in the sport bike category. Powered by a potent 321cc twin-cylinder engine, it delivers exhilarating acceleration and precise handling. With its aggressive styling and aerodynamic design, the YZF-R3 commands attention on the road and track alike. Whether navigating city streets or carving through twisty mountain roads, this motorcycle offers a thrilling riding experience for both novice and experienced riders, making it a top choice in its class.
Pros:
- Powerful Engine: The Yamaha YZF-R3 has a potent 321cc twin-cylinder engine, delivering impressive acceleration and performance.
- Precise Handling: With its lightweight chassis and responsive suspension, the YZF-R3 offers precise handling and excellent maneuverability, making it ideal for cornering and spirited riding.
- Aggressive Styling: Featuring sleek lines, sharp angles, and a sporty silhouette, the YZF-R3 exudes a bold and aggressive appearance that appeals to enthusiasts.
- Track-Ready Features: Designed with performance in mind, the YZF-R3 comes with advanced features such as optional ABS, slipper clutch, and adjustable suspension, enhancing its capabilities on the track.
Cons:
- Limited Comfort: While optimized for performance, the YZF-R3’s aggressive riding position may feel uncomfortable for some riders during extended periods of riding.
- Higher Maintenance Costs: Due to its sport-oriented design and performance components, the YZF-R3 may require more frequent maintenance and servicing compared to commuter-oriented motorcycles.
- Less Suitable for Long-Distance Touring: With its sporty ergonomics and focused design, the YZF-R3 may not be the best choice for long-distance touring, lacking the comfort and amenities found in touring-specific motorcycles.
- Higher Insurance Premiums: As a sport bike with powerful performance capabilities, insurance premiums for the YZF-R3 may be higher compared to less powerful or less sporty motorcycles.
Kawasaki Ninja 400
Description:
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 epitomizes the perfect blend of performance and versatility in the sportbike category. Powered by a potent 399cc parallel-twin engine, it delivers exhilarating acceleration and smooth power delivery. With its aggressive styling, iconic Ninja design cues, and aerodynamic bodywork, the Ninja 400 commands attention on the road and track alike. Whether carving through city streets or conquering winding mountain roads, this motorcycle offers a thrilling riding experience for both novice and experienced riders, making it a top contender in its class.
Pros:
- Powerful Engine: The Kawasaki Ninja 400 stands out with its powerful 399cc parallel twin engine, which ensures great acceleration and outstanding performance on the road.
- Aggressive Styling: With its sharp lines, sleek profile, and iconic Ninja design cues, the Ninja 400 exudes a bold and aggressive appearance that turns heads on the road.
- Excellent Handling: Equipped with a lightweight chassis, responsive suspension, and nimble handling characteristics, the Ninja 400 offers precise control and confidence-inspiring maneuverability.
- Versatile Performance: Whether for daily commuting, weekend rides, or track days, the Ninja 400 excels in various riding scenarios, providing an exhilarating experience for riders of all skill levels.
Cons:
- Stiff Suspension: Some riders may find the Ninja 400’s suspension setup to be on the stiffer side, leading to a firmer ride quality over rough or uneven road surfaces.
- Aggressive Riding Position: The sporty ergonomics of the Ninja 400, characterized by low clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, may be uncomfortable for riders seeking a more relaxed riding posture on longer journeys.
- Higher Maintenance Costs: As a high-performance sportbike, the Ninja 400 may require more frequent maintenance intervals and incur higher upkeep costs compared to commuter-oriented motorcycles.
- Limited Passenger Comfort: The Ninja 400’s focused design and narrow seat may provide limited comfort for passengers, especially during extended rides, making it less ideal for two-up touring.
Suzuki SV650
Description:
The Suzuki SV650 is a versatile and beloved middleweight motorcycle renowned for its exceptional performance and versatility. Powered by a lively 645cc V-twin engine, it delivers a thrilling combination of power and agility. With its sleek, minimalist design and comfortable ergonomics, the SV650 is equally adept at urban commuting, weekend touring, and spirited rides through winding roads. Renowned for its reliability and affordability, the SV650 continues to be a popular choice among riders of all skill levels, offering an exhilarating riding experience.
Description:
The Suzuki SV650 is a versatile and beloved middleweight motorcycle renowned for its exceptional performance and versatility. Powered by a lively 645cc V-twin engine, it delivers a thrilling combination of power and agility. With its sleek, minimalist design and comfortable ergonomics, the SV650 is equally adept at urban commuting, weekend touring, and spirited rides through winding roads. Renowned for its reliability and affordability, the SV650 continues to be a popular choice among riders of all skill levels, offering an exhilarating riding experience.
Pros:
- Lively V-Twin Engine: The Suzuki SV650 is powered by a responsive 645cc V-twin engine, delivering ample torque and smooth power delivery across the rev range.
- Versatile Performance: With its balanced chassis and agile handling, the SV650 excels in various riding scenarios, from city commuting to spirited canyon carving and long-distance touring.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: Featuring a neutral riding position and well-padded seat, the SV650 offers rider-friendly ergonomics that enhance comfort during extended journeys.
- Affordable Price: Renowned for its affordability, the SV650 provides excellent value for money, making it accessible to a wide range of riders.
Cons:
- Basic Features: Compared to some competitors, the SV650 may lack certain modern features such as advanced electronics or adjustable suspension, which could be desirable for some riders.
- Limited Wind Protection: The minimalist fairing and lack of wind protection may result in increased rider fatigue during prolonged highway rides, especially at higher speeds.
- Less Aggressive Styling: While subjective, some riders may find the SV650’s design to be understated compared to more aggressively styled sportbikes in its class.
- Modest Passenger Comfort: The SV650’s pillion seat and accommodations may provide limited comfort for passengers on longer rides, making it less ideal for two-up touring.
KTM 390 Duke
Description:
The KTM 390 Duke is a dynamic and spirited naked bike renowned for its agile performance and cutting-edge features. Powered by a lively 373cc single-cylinder engine, it delivers exhilarating acceleration and responsive throttle response. With its sharp and aggressive styling, the 390 Duke commands attention on the road. Equipped with advanced electronics such as ride-by-wire throttle and optional ABS, it offers a thrilling riding experience with precise control and confidence-inspiring handling. Whether tackling city streets or carving through twisty mountain roads, the KTM 390 Duke delivers pure excitement for riders.
Pros:
- Agile Performance: The KTM 390 Duke is powered by a lively 373cc single-cylinder engine, delivering exhilarating acceleration and responsive throttle response.
- Sharp and Aggressive Styling: With its bold design and distinctive appearance, the 390 Duke stands out on the road, attracting attention wherever it goes.
- Advanced Electronics: Equipped with modern features such as ride-by-wire throttle and optional ABS, the 390 Duke offers precise control and enhanced safety for riders.
- Lightweight and Nimble: With its lightweight chassis and agile handling, the 390 Duke excels in urban environments and twisty roads, making it a joy to ride.
Cons:
- Firm Ride: Some riders may find the suspension setup of the 390 Duke to be on the stiffer side, leading to a firmer ride quality over rough or uneven road surfaces.
- Limited Comfort: The aggressive riding position and minimalist seat may lead to discomfort for some riders during longer journeys, especially for taller riders.
- Higher Maintenance Costs: As a high-performance motorcycle, the 390 Duke may require more frequent maintenance intervals and incur higher upkeep costs compared to commuter-oriented bikes.
- Limited Wind Protection: Due to its naked design, the 390 Duke provides minimal wind protection for riders, which may lead to increased fatigue during highway riding, especially at higher speeds.
Tips for Buying a Cheap Motorcycle
Research Thoroughly:
- Start by researching different motorcycle models that fit your budget and needs.
- Read reviews from both experts and owners to gauge the reliability and performance of each model.
- Look for forums and online communities where riders discuss their experiences with various motorcycles.
Set a Realistic Budget:
- Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a motorcycle, considering not only the upfront cost but also additional expenses like insurance, registration, and gear.
- Be realistic about your financial situation and avoid overextending your budget to prevent unnecessary stress.
Inspect the Bike in Person:
- Once you’ve narrowed down your options, visit dealerships or private sellers to inspect the motorcycles in person.
- Look for signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, or rust, which could indicate how well the bike has been maintained.
- Check the mileage and service history to ensure the motorcycle has been adequately cared for.
Test Ride Multiple Models:
- Don’t hesitate to test ride multiple motorcycles to get a feel for each one’s handling, comfort, and performance.
- Pay attention to how the bike accelerates, brakes, and corners, and make sure it feels comfortable and intuitive to ride.
Consider Additional Expenses:
- Remember that the cost of owning a motorcycle goes beyond the purchase price.
- Factor in ongoing expenses like maintenance, repairs, fuel, insurance, and gear when calculating the total cost of ownership.
- Consider whether aftermarket modifications or accessories are necessary and how much they’ll add to the overall cost.
Safety Gear for Beginner Riders
- Helmet:
- A helmet is the most essential piece of safety gear for any rider. It Protects your head during accidents protects against possible injuries and reduces the chances of head trauma.
- When choosing a helmet, opt for one that meets safety standards such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) certifications.
- Ensure a snug fit by trying on different sizes and styles. The helmet should sit level on your head and not move when you shake your head.
Riding Jacket:
- A riding jacket provides protection against abrasion in case of a fall and shields you from the elements.
- Look for jackets made from durable materials like leather or textile with built-in armor at the elbows, shoulders, and back for added impact protection.
- Choose a jacket with ventilation panels or removable liners to keep you comfortable in different weather conditions.
Gloves:
- Motorcycle gloves protect your hands from injuries and provide better grip and control over the handlebars.
- Select gloves made from abrasion-resistant materials like leather or reinforced textiles with padding or armor on the palms and knuckles.
- Ensure a proper fit without any excess material that could interfere with your ability to operate the controls.
Boots:
- Motorcycle boots offer ankle support, protection against impact and abrasion, and better grip on footpegs and the ground.
- Look for boots with sturdy construction, ankle protection, and non-slip soles for traction.
- Choose boots that cover your ankles completely to minimize the risk of injury in case of a crash.
Essential Riding Skills for Beginners
Basic Control and Balance:
- Mastering basic control and balance is crucial for beginner riders to feel confident and safe on the road.
- Practice starting, stopping, and maneuvering your motorcycle in a controlled environment such as an empty parking lot.
- Focus on maintaining a smooth throttle and brake control to avoid sudden jerks or skidding.
Turning and Cornering:
- Learning how to turn and corner smoothly is essential for navigating through traffic and around obstacles.
- Practice leaning your motorcycle into turns while maintaining a steady speed and looking ahead to anticipate the path of travel.
- Remember to use countersteering technique, where you gently push the handlebars in the direction you want to turn.
Shifting Gears:
- Understanding how to shift gears effectively is fundamental for controlling your motorcycle’s speed and power.
- Familiarize yourself with the gear shift pattern (usually 1 down, 5 up) and practice shifting smoothly without jerking the throttle or clutch.
- Learn to match the appropriate gear to your speed and riding conditions to ensure smooth acceleration and engine performance.
Braking Techniques:
- Knowing how to brake properly can mean the difference between a safe stop and a potential collision.
- Practice using both the front and rear brakes independently and in combination to achieve controlled stops.
- Remember to apply gradual and progressive pressure to the brakes, avoiding sudden or harsh braking that could cause skidding or loss of control.
Maintenance Tips for Cheap Motorcycles
Regular Servicing:
- Despite being budget-friendly, cheap motorcycles still require regular servicing to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals outlined in the owner’s manual for tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and valve adjustments.
- Schedule routine maintenance appointments with a qualified mechanic or perform basic servicing tasks yourself if you’re comfortable and knowledgeable enough.
Check Fluid Levels:
- Regularly inspect and top up essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid as needed.
- Ensure that fluid levels are within the recommended range to prevent overheating, corrosion, or mechanical issues.
Inspect and Clean Air Filter:
- Ensuring a pristine air filter is vital to maintaining peak engine performance and increasing fuel efficiency.
- Check the air filter regularly and clean or replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially if you frequently ride in dusty or dirty conditions.
Maintain Chain Tension and Lubrication:
- If your cheap motorcycle is chain-driven, proper chain maintenance is crucial for smooth operation and longevity.
- Regularly inspect the chain tension and adjust it as necessary to prevent excessive slack or tightness.
- Keep the chain properly lubricated using a high-quality chain lubricant to reduce friction and wear.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding a cheap motorcycle for beginners requires careful consideration of various factors, including budget, safety features, and ease of handling. By following the tips outlined in this guide and exploring recommended motorcycle options, you can embark on your riding journey affordably and safely.
FAQs
What is the easiest motorcycle to learn to ride on?
The easiest motorcycle for beginners to learn to ride on is typically a lightweight and low-powered bike with a manageable seat height. These motorcycles are often referred to as “starter bikes” or “learner bikes.” Examples include small-displacement cruisers, standard motorcycles, or dual-sport bikes with engine sizes ranging from 125cc to 400cc. These bikes offer a forgiving riding experience, making them ideal for novice riders to develop their skills and confidence on the road.
What size motorcycle should a beginner start with?
Beginner riders should start with a motorcycle that suits their physical size, riding experience, and comfort level. Generally, it’s recommended for beginners to start with a motorcycle in the range of 250cc to 500cc. This engine size provides enough power for city commuting and highway cruising while still being manageable for new riders. Additionally, choosing a motorcycle with a lower seat height can make it easier for beginners to reach the ground and maintain stability at stops.
What cc motorbike for beginners?
When considering the engine size for beginner riders, motorcycles in the range of 250cc to 500cc are often recommended. These bikes offer a good balance of power, maneuverability, and ease of handling, making them suitable for learning the fundamentals of riding. However, some beginner riders may opt for smaller displacement motorcycles, such as 125cc or 300cc bikes, particularly if they’re primarily riding in urban environments or restricted by licensing regulations. Ultimately, the best cc motorbike for beginners depends on factors such as riding goals, experience level, and personal preferences.
