10 Best Beginner Motorcycles for New Riders: A Comprehensive Guide

Getting started with motorcycle riding can be an exhilarating experience, but choosing the right bike is crucial for new riders. With countless options available, selecting a motorcycle that suits your needs and skills can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 beginner motorcycles, their features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision.

Introduction to Beginner Motorcycles

For new riders, it’s essential to start with a motorcycle that is easy to handle, lightweight, and forgiving. A bike with a low seat height, smooth engine, and good brakes can make all the difference in building confidence on the road. According to a survey by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, 70% of new riders prefer lightweight motorcycles with an engine displacement of 650cc or less. Moreover, the survey highlights the importance of taking a motorcycle safety course, with 90% of respondents recommending it for new riders.

What Makes a Good Beginner Motorcycle?

A good beginner motorcycle should have the following characteristics:

• • Low seat height (under 30 inches)

• • Lightweight (under 400 pounds)

• • Smooth and forgiving engine

• • Good brakes (abs or dual disc)

• • Easy handling and maneuverability

• • Relatively low cost (under $5,000)

• • Fuel efficiency

 

Top 10 Beginner Motorcycles

Here are our top picks for beginner motorcycles, including their features, pros, and cons:

1. Honda Rebel 500

The Honda Rebel 500 is a popular choice for new riders, with its low seat height, lightweight frame, and smooth parallel-twin engine. Its pros include:

• • Easy handling and maneuverability

• • Low maintenance costs

• • Fuel-efficient (up to 60 mpg)
    However, some riders may find the bike too small, and the engine could be more powerful.

 

2. Yamaha MT-03

The Yamaha MT-03 is a versatile and stylish bike, perfect for commuting and weekend rides. Its features include:

• • 321cc parallel-twin engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (30.7 inches)
    Some riders may find the bike too vibrations-prone, and the suspension could be better.

 

3. Kawasaki Ninja 400

The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a sporty and agile bike, ideal for new riders who want a more performance-oriented motorcycle. Its pros include:

• • Parallel-twin engine with 44.8 hp

• • 6-speed transmission

• • Slipper clutch

• • ABS brakes
    However, the bike’s seat height is relatively high (30.7 inches), and the engine can be a bit too powerful for some riders.

 

4. Harley-Davidson Street 500

The Harley-Davidson Street 500 is a great option for new riders who want a cruiser-style motorcycle. Its features include:

• • 494cc V-twin engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (27.4 inches)
    Some riders may find the bike too heavy, and the engine could be more fuel-efficient.

 

5. BMW G 310 GS

The BMW G 310 GS is a rugged and versatile bike, perfect for adventure-seekers and new riders. Its pros include:

• • 313cc single-cylinder engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (30.9 inches)
    However, the bike’s price is relatively high, and some riders may find the engine too small.

 

6. Suzuki SV650

The Suzuki SV650 is a popular choice for new riders, with its V-twin engine and low seat height. Its features include:

• • 645cc V-twin engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (30.9 inches)
    Some riders may find the bike too heavy, and the engine could be more fuel-efficient.

 

7. Ducati Scrambler

The Ducati Scrambler is a stylish and versatile bike, perfect for new riders who want a more Italian flair. Its pros include:

• • 803cc air-cooled engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (31.7 inches)
    However, the bike’s price is relatively high, and some riders may find the engine too powerful.

 

8. Honda CB500F

The Honda CB500F is a great option for new riders who want a more naked-style motorcycle. Its features include:

• • 471cc parallel-twin engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (30.7 inches)
    Some riders may find the bike too small, and the engine could be more powerful.

 

9. Kawasaki Z650

The Kawasaki Z650 is a versatile and stylish bike, perfect for commuting and weekend rides. Its pros include:

• • 649cc parallel-twin engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (30.7 inches)
    However, some riders may find the bike too vibrations-prone, and the suspension could be better.

 

10. Yamaha Star Venture

The Yamaha Star Venture is a great option for new riders who want a more touring-style motorcycle. Its features include:

• • 1298cc V-twin engine

• • 6-speed transmission

• • ABS brakes

• • Low seat height (29.9 inches)
    Some riders may find the bike too heavy, and the engine could be more fuel-efficient.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions related to beginner motorcycles:

• • What is the best motorcycle for a new rider? The best motorcycle for a new rider depends on their preferences, budget, and riding style. However, the Honda Rebel 500 and Yamaha MT-03 are popular choices.

• • How do I choose the right motorcycle for me? To choose the right motorcycle, consider factors such as seat height, engine displacement, weight, and handling. It’s also essential to take a test ride and consult with a professional.

• • What safety gear should I wear as a new rider? As a new rider, it’s essential to wear safety gear such as a helmet, gloves, jacket, and boots. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.

 

Pro Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some pro tips and mistakes to avoid as a new rider:

• • Take a motorcycle safety course: A motorcycle safety course can help you build confidence and skills on the road.

• • Wear safety gear: Always wear safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, jacket, and boots.

• • Start with a low-powered bike: A low-powered bike can help you build confidence and skills before moving to a more powerful motorcycle.

• • Avoid riding in heavy traffic: As a new rider, it’s best to avoid riding in heavy traffic and instead practice in a safe and controlled environment.

 

Conclusion

Choosing the right motorcycle as a new rider can be a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, you can make an informed decision. Remember to consider factors such as seat height, engine displacement, weight, and handling, and always wear safety gear. With practice and patience, you can become a confident and skilled rider. So why wait? Get out there and start riding!