When you’re a beginner female rider, choosing the best starter motorcycle for a woman can feel like a big step. From the freedom you feel while riding to the fun of exploring different streets, the experience is truly transformative. Over my seven years of experience, I’ve ridden a variety of motorcycles, from cruisers to adventure bikes. It’s important to find a new bike that’s not only within a comfortable price range but also fits your riding style. As someone who’s enjoyed this journey, I can say it’s crucial to choose wisely so you don’t end up biting off more than you can swallow.
An appropriate bike should offer a balance between control and power, allowing a beginner to gain confidence. Whether you’re into the thrill of adventure or prefer something more relaxed like a cruiser, there’s a bike out there for every female rider. The variety of options makes it easy to find something that matches your life and needs, without feeling overwhelmed. It’s all about finding that sweet spot that helps you feel the freedom of the road while ensuring you’re comfortable with your choice.
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Royal Enfield Meteor 350
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a comfortable yet stylish cruiser. Introduced in 2021, this bike offers a mellow ride with its 349cc single-cylinder engine, producing 17.4 hp and 18.2 pound-feet of torque. I remember when I first rode the Meteor, I was immediately smitten by its classic charm and easy handling. The low seat height of 30.1 inches, along with the wide, comfortable cushion, makes it perfect for those new to motorcycling who might find twisting the throttle a bit frightening at first.
In addition to its performance, the Meteor offers modern amenities like a navigation cluster, which adds a touch of convenience for riders who enjoy a few tech perks. With multiple trim levels available, the bike’s MSRPs start at $4,649 and go up to $4,799 for the higher-spec models. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a bike with a bit of touring capability, this Royal Enfield offers a solid, reliable option that makes every ride enjoyable.
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Honda Rebel 300/500
The Honda Rebel has been a favorite among motorcyclists for decades, especially for beginners. The Rebel 300 and Rebel 500 models feature low seat heights at a claimed 27.2 inches, making them easy to handle with their low centers of gravity. The bikes come with approachable engines that offer smooth power delivery, perfect for rider growth without feeling non-threatening. With Honda’s well-known reliability, these bikes are not only great for learning but also for enjoying the sport. For 2022, the MSRP starts at $4,699 for the 300 and $6,399 for the 500, providing a solid option for riders looking for value and performance.
Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS or Z400
For women who want something sporty, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS or its naked sibling, the Z400, are perfect choices. Both bikes offer a zippy and spirited ride with their 399cc parallel twin engines. The seat height is a bit taller at 30.9 inches, but these light sportbikes handle incredibly well, making them ideal for both the track and daily commuters. They’re also beginner-friendly, starting at $5,199, which is great for those looking for an exciting yet comfortable option.
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Yamaha YZF-R3
The Yamaha YZF-R3 is a fantastic option for women looking for a sporty, small-displacement bike with an aggressive riding position and sporty handling. Its 321cc twin-cylinder engine provides a manageable ride, making it a great introduction to the world of racing and high-performance bikes. With its superbike styling and special editions like the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP and World GP 60th Anniversary editions, it stands out as a top contender in its category. Whether you’re riding on the street or hitting the track, this bike is sure to offer a rip-roaring good time.
A track day on the YZF-R3 is highly recommended for honing your skills without the worry of traffic, and the competitive DNA of this bike makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced riders alike. At $5,299, this bike offers great value for those wanting to enjoy the thrill of the track while developing essential riding techniques.
Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 or Vitpilen 401
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401 are excellent choices for women who want a unique, stylish ride. Introduced in 2018, these bikes took the industry by storm with their futuristic looks and innovative design. Powered by 373cc single-cylinder engines, they offer two distinct flavors: the Svartpilen has an upright scrambler approach, while the Vitpilen boasts a cafe style with low-slung handlebars. These twin arrows—also known as the Black Arrow and White Arrow—are built for riders who appreciate both performance and style.
Both bikes come with a price tag of $5,399, making them affordable options with serious style. The Vitpilen is perfect for those who prefer a more aggressive approach, while the Svartpilen is ideal for riders who want a more relaxed stance. With the backing of Husqvarna’s trusted engineering, these models, along with their 701 and 501 counterparts, are designed for anyone ready to step into the world of motorcycling.
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KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke is a spunky, sharp-handling small-displacement motorcycle that’s perfect for beginners. It’s lightweight and compact, powered by a 373cc single engine that makes it less intimidating for riders of all skill levels. Inspired by its larger siblings, the 790 Duke, 890 Duke, and 1290 Super Duke, the 390 Duke offers plenty of fun on the road. You can also tap into its Supermoto ride mode to unleash even more excitement. Priced at $5,799, this bike is a great option for those looking for performance and thrill in a manageable package.
Kawasaki Versys-X 300
The Kawasaki Versys-X300 is perfect for women who want a versatile bike that’s great for both the commute and the scenic route. With its windscreen and upright riding style, you’ll be riding comfortably all the way. The bike is powered by a peppy 296cc engine and features a slipper clutch that makes the clutch action feel completely fatigue-free. It’s also ready for accessorization with options like hard cases, hand guards, and auxiliary lights to make your ride even more enjoyable. Priced at $6,099, the Versys-X is a great pick for those looking for flexibility and style.
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KTM 390 Adventure
The KTM 390 Adventure is a great option for women who want a more adventurous ride. It takes the familiar 390 Duke and adventure-fies it with off-road ABS, traction control, and a lean-angle-sensitive system, perfect for dirt roads and trails. Its 373cc single-cylinder engine is surrounded by bold styling, including a beaky front headlight and five-spoke wheels equipped with knobby Continental TKC 70 tires. With features like off-road ride mode and trail-ready performance, this bike adds another $1,000 to the 390 Duke’s price, bringing the MSRP to $6,799, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to take their riding off the beaten path.
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INDIAN SCOUT SIXTY
The Indian Scout Sixty is an excellent cruiser for beginner motorcycles and is particularly appealing for female riders. It’s lightweight, has a smooth power delivery, and is easy to handle, making it perfect for a new rider. The single seater design with a dual seat accessory offers flexibility, while the 642 mm seat height makes it accessible for most. Its liquid-cooled displacement engine and linear throttle provide an enjoyable riding experience, whether you’re going for a quick spin or a long-distance ride. For first-time riders, this bike is both welcoming and affordable, making it an ideal starter motorcycle.
To keep your bike in great condition, buying a motorcycle cover is a smart investment. Protective measures like this can prevent damage from weather and other elements. Whether you’re parking it for the night or storing it long-term, the benefits of a cover are clear. It’s important to equip yourself and your bike with the right gear, as buying these essentials will keep your new ride in top shape for years to come.
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Honda Grom 125
The Honda Grom 125, first released in 2014, quickly became a favorite among beginner women riders due to its compact size, good performance, and great fuel efficiency. Its relaxing handlebar position and easy to handle design make it perfect for those just starting out. Powered by a 124.9 cc air-cooled engine with 9.7 hp, this bike reaches a top speed of 73 mph. With a fuel tank capacity of 1.45 gal (5.5 L) and a remarkable 154.5 mpg (65.7 km/l), it offers impressive mileage, making it both fun and economical for city riding. Its price of $3,799 makes it an affordable option in Honda’s extensive lineup of cruiser, touring, and adventure bikes.
Built by Honda, a company founded in 1946 and known for selling vehicles in over 150 countries worldwide, the Grom 125 fits perfectly into Honda’s motorcycle market. With its sports bikes heritage and proven performance, this bike offers a fun and approachable ride for anyone looking to explore on two wheels. Whether you’re taking it for a spin around town or venturing into light touring or adventure, the Grom provides the reliability and ease that make it a great pick for new riders.
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Yamaha V-Star 250
The Yamaha V-Star 250 is an ideal cruiser for newer female riders who want a comfortable, easy-to-handle bike. Launched in 2008 and still in production, this model features a 249 cc air-cooled V-Twin engine that delivers 21 hp. Its fuel mileage of 78 mpg (33 km/l) and fuel tank capacity of 2.4 gals (9.1 L) make it a great choice for long rides. With a seat height of 27 inches (685 mm), the bike is designed to be accessible and comfortable for riders of all sizes. Its top speed reaches 85 mph (137 km/h), giving you the performance you need for everyday commuting or weekend adventures.
Inspired by the first Yamaha XV250 from 1988, the Yamaha V-Star 250 retains a traditional-looking design while offering modern features. Its smooth engine performance and comfortable handling make it a reliable option. With a base price of $4,599, this cruiser is not only affordable but also offers great value for those seeking their first motorcycle.
Harley Davidson Street 500
The Harley Davidson Street 500, first launched in 2014, is an excellent choice for a newer female rider due to its easier to handle design and less powerful engine compared to its sibling, the Street 750. Powered by a 494 cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine delivering 33.5 hp, this bike offers smooth performance. With a seat height of 28 inches and a fuel capacity of 3.5 gals (13.1 L), it provides comfort and a good riding range. The Street 500 achieves a fuel mileage of 60.7 mpg (25.8 km/l), making it an efficient option for both city commutes and longer rides.
Even though the base price of $9,995 is slightly more expensive than other 500 cc category motorcycles, the best riding experience you get from this bike is worth the investment. Its similar designs to other Harley models, like the Sportster and Softail, make it visually appealing while still being beginner-friendly. Whether you are interested in touring bikes or just a simple cruiser, the Street 500 stands out as an ideal option in Harley’s lineups.
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Triumph Street Twin
The Triumph Street Twin, first launched in 2016, remains a top choice for newer female riders looking for a lightweight and simple design. Powered by a 900 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers 64.1 hp, it’s an easy-to-handle bike that offers both power and control. The seat height of 30.1 inches makes it accessible, while the fuel tank capacity of 3.2 gals (12 L) provides a decent range for long rides. The bike’s fuel mileage of 68.9 mpg (29.3 km/l) also makes it an economical choice for daily commuting.
Manufactured by Triumph, one of America’s oldest motorcycle companies, this model continues in production after being bought by Polaris Industries in 2011. The Triumph Street Twin is known for its remarkable motorcycles and has earned its reputation as one of the best standard motorcycles. With a base price of $9,695, it combines great value with performance, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-control engine.
Harley Sportster 883
The Harley Davidson Sportster 883 is a great option for those looking for a middleweight cruiser. First launched in 1957, this bike is part of Harley’s smallest bike category but still delivers with its 883 cc air-cooled V-Twin engine. It offers a respectable 49 hp, and with a fuel capacity of 3.3 gals (12.5 L) and fuel mileage of 51 mpg (21.6 km/l), it’s efficient for daily rides. The seat height of 25.7 inches and a hand clutch make it easier to manage, while the gear shifter on the right side and rear brake lever on the left side provide unique handling.
This enhanced version of the older Sportster 883 can reach a top speed of 105 mph (169 km/h) and is known for its balance between comfort level and power output. With a base price of $11,249, the Sportster XL883 offers a solid choice for new female riders looking for performance with a classic Harley style.
Suzuki SV650
The Suzuki SV650 is a reliable option for new female riders who want a bike with a balance of power and control. First launched in 1999 and later relaunched in 2016, it has remained a favorite in the market due to its 645 cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine that delivers 75 hp. With a seat height of 30.9 inches, this motorcycle offers a comfortable ride for women of various heights. Its fuel capacity of 3.8 gals (14.5 L) and fuel mileage of 56 mpg (23 km/l) make it an efficient choice for both city commuting and longer rides.
Known for its great suspension and performance, the Suzuki SV650 comes at a reasonable price of $7,749. As one of the models from one of the oldest motorcycle companies, Suzuki, it represents both durability and style. Whether you’re interested in sports motorcycles or naked motorcycles, this Japanese motorcycle company has crafted a model that stands out worldwide for its smooth handling and versatility, making it a great pick for beginners.
What to look for when buying your first motorcycle
The best way to find your starter bike is to go out and try as many as you can. Only by sitting on different bikes will you know how they feel and if they fit your body. Before buying my Kawasaki Z400, I had my heart set on another motorcycle, but once I sat on it, everything felt wrong. I loved how it looked, but I just knew it wasn’t right for me. However, as soon as I tried the naked bike, I instinctively knew it was the perfect fit for me.
When looking for your first motorcycle, there are some important factors to keep in mind, especially for female riders.
Seat height
When choosing a motorcycle, seat height plays a key role in comfort and safety. It’s important to ensure you can at least touch the ground with both feet when you stop at a red light. This gives you enough leverage to hold the bike steady. Some bikes come with an adjustable seat that allows you to lower the height for a better fit. Many motorcycles are made for men with larger inseams, so the size of the tank or the bike itself might be more of a problem for women riders. Be sure to find a bike that matches your body type to ensure a comfortable ride.
Weight
When you’re first learning to ride, it’s common to drop your bike, and that’s okay. The important thing is to be prepared if you find yourself alone on a street with no one to help. Your first motorcycle should be something you can lift in case of an emergency. Choosing a lighter weight bike makes it easier to handle and stop, giving you more control as you build your confidence.
Riding position
When choosing a bike, it’s important to think about your riding position. Being more upright will keep you comfortable for the long term, especially on longer rides. While sport bikes may look cool, constantly leaning forward and putting your weight on the handlebars can become tiring and might not be sustainable for longer journeys. Ultimately, the fit of your bike depends on your personal preference, so find what works best for you.
The engine
When you’re starting out, it’s important to find a strong bike that’s small enough to help you learn, but big enough to let you grow with it. Many riders begin with a 250 – 400cc bike, which is perfect for motorbikes for women. A 250cc is more than enough to get around town and even take on longer trips. You don’t need anything bigger unless you really want more power. Personally, I started with a 400cc and absolutely love it—it’s fast enough and handles curves better than some of the bigger bikes.
When I first tried a 650cc, it felt huge and bulky, and was just too uncomfortable for me. Now, after riding for a year, I can sit on a 650cc and barely feel a difference. Bigger bikes come with more weight, which often means a change in the seat and how the bike handles. It’s all about finding what feels comfortable as you gain more confidence and skill in riding.
Benefits of Buying a Motorcycle Cover
It helps to protect your bike
Using motorcycle covers can protect your bike from various types of damage caused by water, heat, ice, and UV rays. If water seeps into your engine or carburetor, it can lead to long-term damage. A good cover will repel moisture and prevent rust from forming on the essential parts of your bike. The XYZCTEM 420D cover, for example, is waterproof and offers multi-layer protection to safeguard your bike from wind, rain, and dust, ensuring it stays in great condition.
They extend the lifespan of your bike
A motorcycle cover can help extend the lifespan of your bike by protecting its components from wear and tear. While regular service keeps your bike efficient, you should also invest in a cover to reduce the need to frequently change or repair bike parts. By shielding your motorcycle from the elements, a cover ensures your ride stays in good condition longer.
It prevents theft
A motorcycle cover not only protects your bike from the elements, but it also prevents theft by acting as a deterrent. Thieves are less likely to target a bike that is covered because it creates a barrier that makes it harder to identify and steal. Many covers come with security locks and other features to further deter motorcycle thefts, especially if you park your bike outdoors.
