When you’re a new motorcycle rider, the excitement of choosing your first bike can quickly turn into feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. From small-displacement motorcycles with user-friendly engines to stylish cruisers or nimble sportbikes, the choices are endless.
Many beginner motorcyclists prefer bikes with low sticker prices that are easy to mount and offer smooth flat-footing, ensuring a sense of stability. Whether you’re drawn to sleek street bikes or versatile adventure bikes, it’s essential to find the best motorcycle bike for beginners that’s easy to handle yet doesn’t feel too limiting as your skills grow.
As an experienced rider, I often recommend looking into models from trusted brands like Harley-Davidson, the Big Four, or popular offerings in Europe. These companies produce beginner-friendly options that cater to both older riders and MSF-course alums alike. For those starting out in 2024, there are plenty of bikes for sale that balance performance with simplicity.
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How Much is a Beginner Motorcycle?
If you’re looking for a beginner motorcycle, you’ll find that prices typically range between $3,000 and $10,000. On average, a new motorcycle in this category costs around $5,550, making it affordable for most riders starting their journey. Among the popular bikes, the Kawasaki Z400 stands out as a favorite choice, while the Yamaha V Star 250, priced at $4,699, is the least expensive option on this list.
Top 18 best motorcycle bike for beginners
1.BMW G 310 GS
The BMW G 310 GS is a perfect bike for beginners who admire adventure-ready designs without overwhelming power. This model is styled after the legendary overlanding overlord, the R 1250 GS, but offers a much more manageable experience. Instead of weighing 550 pounds and being powered by the robust 1,254cc boxer engine—an iconic feature of the Bavarian brand—the G 310 GS delivers a lighter option at 386 pounds, featuring a beginner-friendly 313cc single-cylinder engine. This small GS is built to deliver adventure in a more approachable package for new riders.
One of the standout features of the G 310 GS is its customizable seat height, which starts at 32.8 inches but can be lowered to 32.3 inches or raised to 33.4 inches with Original Equipment seats. Additionally, the clutch and brake levers are adjustable to accommodate various sized hands, making it suitable for riders of different builds. For those looking to explore beyond paved roads, the bike is equipped with 7.1 inches of suspension travel and a 19-inch front wheel, giving it the capability to handle dirt road riding and light off-road challenges.
The G 310 GS combines affordability and quality, with pricing that starts at $5,695, which is over 10 grand less than the 1250 GS. For riders venturing into unpaved paths, swapping the tires for ones with a more aggressive tread pattern enhances performance on fire roads or rough terrain. With these adaptable specs, the G 310 GS stands out as a reliable and versatile choice for beginners.
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2. BMW G 310 R
The BMW G 310 R stands out as the lowest-priced motorcycle in the BMW lineup, with a sticker price of $4,995. This naked-bike-styled package features a 313cc liquid-cooled single engine, making it both powerful and approachable for beginners. With modern features like ride-by-wire and a slipper clutch, the bike offers smooth throttle and clutch action, making it ideal for new riders. Weighing in at just 362 pounds, it’s light enough to handle with ease, especially for those new to motorcycling.
The bike’s standard 30.9-inch seat height is lower than the GS, and it can be adjusted 0.6 inches lower or higher with OE seats. This ensures that riders of varying inseam lengths can achieve confident flat-footing when stopping or propping the bike. The combination of an affordable price, beginner-friendly features, and comfortable design makes the
3. Honda CB300R
The Honda CB300R is a solid performer in its class, offering the perfect balance of performance and simplicity for new riders. Its docile 286cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine ensures smooth and reliable power without feeling overwhelming. At just 316 pounds, this lightweight bike is easy to handle, making it a great option for building confidence on the road. Priced at $5,049, it comes with a price tag that won’t break the bank. The CB’s smooth throttle response and balanced chassis impressed our team in the past, proving it’s a bike built for serious fun.
Whether you prefer the flashy Pearl Dusk Yellow or the sleek Matte Black Metallic version, the Honda CB300R delivers style and functionality. Although there are no major changes this year, its design and performance still tickle your fancy if you’re looking for something practical yet fun.
4. Honda Rebel 300 or Rebel 500
The Honda Rebel 300 and Rebel 500 are MSF-course favorites and solid choices for any new rider. Both models offer a stylish cruiser experience with composed handling and top-notch fit and finish, giving them bigger bike looks without intimidating weight or power. The Rebel 300 comes with a 286cc single engine in a diamond-type steel frame, producing a good 25 hp, while the Rebel 500 houses a 471cc single engine, delivering 40.8 hp on our dyno. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for a dependable option, these bikes are perfect for newbies.
Affordability is another reason these models stand out. The Rebel 300 starts at just $4,749, while the Rebel 500 is available for $6,449.
5. Honda Grom
The Honda Grom is a light and lively machine perfect for riding around your neighborhood or closer to home. Weighing just 223 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver for quick trips to campus, dinner, or the store. With a pint-size 124cc air-cooled single engine and a five-speed transmission featuring a fifth gear introduced in 2022, the Grom offers smooth and efficient performance. At just $3,499, it’s competitively priced, and its claimed 166 mpg makes it a cost-effective choice for commuting or everyday use. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a fun, practical bike, the Grom delivers in Honda’s signature style.
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6 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 or Vitpilen 401
Husqvarna caught a lot of attention in 2017 with the launch of its futuristic Svartpilen and Vitpilen bikes. Though they look similar, these two models serve different branches of motorcycling: scrambling and cafe racing. The Svartpilen 401 provides a more upright riding position, making it ideal for off-road enthusiasts, while the Vitpilen hunkers riders down with clip-on handlebars, giving it a sportier vibe. The rugged Svartpilen has knobby tires and dark bodywork, offering a stark contrast to the bright white body and road tires of the Vitpilen.
Both bikes share the same 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, delivering 40 hp and packing enough power for winding mountain roads or carving through street corners with aplomb. At 335 pounds, they’re light enough for beginners to handle with ease. With their WP suspension and impressive chops, these bikes ensure smooth rides across diverse terrains. Both models have an MSRP of $5,649, making them not just stylish but also affordable options for beginner riders.
7. Kawasaki Ninja 400 or Z400
Team Green offers a slew of approachable bikes perfect for the new rider demographic, and the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Z400 are excellent choices. Both models share a 399cc parallel twin engine that delivers fun and power, with a smooth spool up that keeps riders engaged without feeling tired. The Ninja 400 is equipped with a full fairing kit for a sleek, aerodynamic design, while the Z400 boasts a streetfighter style with upright ergos for a more relaxed riding position.
Both bikes are lightweight, weighing approximately 360 pounds, and have a seat height of 30.9 inches, making them easy to leg over. Safety features like ABS (antilock braking system) are available, with the Ninja offering it as an option ($5,299 without ABS and $5,699 with ABS) and the Z400 including it as standard equipment ($5,399). With new colors introduced this year, these models remain fresh and exciting. For more details, check out the Ninja 400 First Look or Z400 First Look to see which bike fits your style best.
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8. Kawasaki Versys-X 300
The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is an excellent adventure-tourer alternative to the BMW G 310 GS for beginners. This small-displacement ADV offers versatility and comfort, designed for both urban commutes and light off-road rides. It features spoked 19-inch and 17-inch wheels and a windscreen to protect the rider from wind and bugs. The bike is powered by a 296cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine, delivering smooth and efficient performance. Its assist and slipper clutch minimizes left-hand fatigue during long rides and ensures easy gear shifting through its six-speed transmission.
While the seat height of 32.1 inches may be slightly tall for some, it’s manageable for most taller riders. With pricing at $5,899 without ABS and $6,199 with ABS, the Versys-X 300 remains affordable while offering advanced features for the price.
9. Royal Enfield Meteor 350
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 offers a classically styled design that feels timeless and elegant. Its mellow power output of 17.9 hp, delivered by a 349cc air/oil-cooled single engine, makes it perfect for riders who prefer to enjoy the flow of traffic rather than race through it. Although its wet weight of 421 pounds might not make it the lightest option, the weight is centralized for excellent straight-line stability. The plush, comfortable seat is positioned at a seat height of 30.1 inches, making it easy for most riders to swing a leg over and keep a natural bend in the knee at stoplights.
With a spectrum of colors to choose from, the Meteor 350 allows buyers to find a look that suits their style. Prices range from $4,699 to $4,899, offering good value for its features. Whether you’re a fan of its classical styling or impressed by its modern functionality, this bike balances heritage and practicality seamlessly. For more insights, check out the full review of the past Meteor 350.
10. Royal Enfield Scram 411 or Himalayan
For riders who want a bike that can handle more than just paved roads, the Royal Enfield Scram 411 and Himalayan are fantastic choices. The Scram 411 is the more street-focused of the two, while the Himalayan is better suited for off-road adventures, ready to romp through dirt with ease. Both bikes feature a fuel-injected SOHC 411cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, ensuring dependable performance for various terrains. With a 4-gallon fuel tank, 41mm telescopic fork, and linkage-style monoshock, they offer stability and comfort. The Himalayan has 0.4-inch-longer front travel and a 21-inch front wheel, compared to the 7.5-inch travel and 19-inch wheel of the Scram, catering to different rider preferences.
The seat height of the Himalayan is 31.5 inches, while the Scram 411 sits slightly lower at 31.3 inches, making both bikes relatively manageable for a range of riders. Adding to the appeal, Royal Enfield provides a three-year warranty and roadside assistance program with these new bikes, giving riders added peace of mind.
11. Suzuki DR-Z400S
The Suzuki DR-Z400S is a great option for riders seeking the best of both worlds, offering the versatility of a dual sport bike that performs equally well on dirt and street. Designed with features that are akin to dirt bikes, it comes equipped with a 49mm cartridge-style fork and shock, providing 11 inches of travel at both ends. The 21-inch and 18-inch spoked rims, wrapped in Dunlop D208 dual-purpose tires, ensure smooth handling across varied terrains. Its silhouette and lightweight build make it an attractive choice for taller beginners, although the seat height of 36.8 inches might be challenging for shorter riders.
The DR-Z400S is built to handle tough terrains while remaining stable on the road, making it ideal for new riders eager to explore both urban streets and off-road trails. While it costs $7,099, which places it in the higher prices bracket, its features justify the investment.
12. Yamaha YZF-R3 or MT-03
The Yamaha YZF-R3 and MT-03 are among the top choices for newer riders, offering excellent performance in the small-displacement bikes category. The YZF-R3 is a sharp-handling, track-ready playbike ideal for riders looking to hone their skills on the track, while the MT-03 features turn-on-a-dime handling with comfortable egos for a more relaxed daily ride. Both bikes are powered by a lively 321cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine, delivering a good time as you develop your skills. With ABS standard, these models are as safe as they are fun.
The Masters of Torque (MT) series is known for affordability, and the baby MT-03 follows suit with a low $4,999 price tag, making it accessible to many first-time riders. The YZF-R3, priced at $5,499, offers a slightly premium option for those who want a sportier experience. Yamaha’s attention to performance and rider comfort ensures these bikes stand out.
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13. Yamaha XT250
The Yamaha XT250 is a dual sport bike perfect for aspiring travelers who want to explore both dirt trails and pavement. Its 249cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine keeps the bike narrow between the knees, offering excellent onboard maneuverability. Weighing just 291 pounds, it’s light enough to wrestle around on the trail with ease. With a 32.7-inch seat height, the XT250 is more approachable for shorter riders compared to the DR-Z400S, and its lower $5,299 price tag makes it an accessible option for beginners looking to start their adventures.
14. Suzuki SV650
The Suzuki SV650 is a versatile bike that fits perfectly on any beginner bikes list. Whether you’re commuting, touring, or enjoying sport riding, this bike adapts seamlessly to your needs. Powered by a 645cc V-twin engine delivering 75 horsepower, it’s powerful yet surprisingly easy to handle, thanks to its lightweight and balanced chassis. With a fuel capacity of 3.8 gallons and a wet weight of 432 pounds, the SV650 offers a blend of performance and practicality that ensures confidence for new riders.
15. Harley-Davidson Street 500
The Harley-Davidson Street 500 is an excellent starter bike for anyone drawn to the classic look and feel of a Harley. Powered by a 494cc liquid-cooled engine producing 32 horsepower, it’s not the most powerful bike on the list, but it offers plenty of fun and is easy to ride. With a fuel capacity of 3.5 gallons and a wet weight of 513 pounds, the Street 500 provides the perfect combination of practicality and timeless style for new riders.
16. KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke is an agile bike that offers excellent performance for new riders looking for a mix of power and ease of use. Powered by a 373cc liquid-cooled engine producing 44 horsepower, it’s more powerful than many other beginner bikes on this list, but it remains easy to handle due to its lightweight chassis and low seat height. With a fuel capacity of 3.5 gallons and a wet weight of 366 pounds, the 390 Duke is a thrilling yet approachable option for anyone starting their motorcycling journey.
17. Triumph Street Twin
The Triumph Street Twin is a retro-styled bike that offers new riders a classic look and feel while maintaining modern performance. Powered by a 900cc parallel-twin engine delivering 64 horsepower, it’s more powerful than many other beginner bikes on this list. Despite its strength, it remains easy to handle, thanks to its low seat height and well-balanced chassis. With a fuel capacity of 3.8 gallons and a wet weight of 437 pounds, the Street Twin is an excellent choice for riders seeking a mix of timeless design and practical functionality.
Related: How Fast Do a 125cc Dirt Bike Go?
18. Ducati Scrambler Sixty2
The Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 is a stylish and fun bike that’s perfect for new riders seeking something different. Powered by a 399cc L-twin engine delivering 41 horsepower, it’s not the most powerful bike on this list, but it’s plenty enjoyable to ride. With a fuel capacity of 3.2 gallons and a wet weight of 403 pounds, the Scrambler Sixty2 combines lightweight handling with a distinctive look.
What Makes These Bikes Great Starter Motorcycles?
When it comes to choosing the right bike for your first motorcycle, there are several reasons why the bikes on this list are perfect starter motorcycles. They are all lightweight and easy to handle, which is essential for new riders still learning to balance on two wheels. With manageable power outputs and engines ranging from 286cc to 900cc, these bikes are both suitable and fun, offering an engaging riding experience without feeling overwhelmed by too much performance. This balance is critical for building confidence and enjoying the ride.
Another important consideration for beginners is price. All of these bikes are affordable, with prices ranging between $4,000 and $9,000, making them accessible for those looking to buy their first bike without spending a fortune. Despite the lower price point, they still offer high-quality features, ensuring an enjoyable riding experience for all. Whether you’re commuting to work, cruising the highway, or carving through twisty roads, these bikes are capable of delivering the fun and engaging ride that every beginner looks for.
Starting your motorcycling journey can feel like a daunting task, but finding the right bike can make it an exciting and rewarding experience. These bikes are a perfect combination of manageable power, easy handling, and comfort, ensuring your first ride is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
