A wise man once said, “For a day, drink if you want to be happy. For a year, marry if you want to be happy. But for a lifetime, ride a motorcycle.” At Rokform, we feel like that’s saying something! So today, we’re going to cover the top 10 best motorcycles for beginners. The best beginner motorcycle is going to offer that perfect blend of performance and safety (and not break the bank). We’ve done our research here and evaluated these beginner motorcycles to help you find the most kick-ass ride for you. So, without further ado, let’s ride!
TL;DR
Rokform Motorcycle Mounts: The ultimate phone mounts – rock-solid and versatile for any ride.
Honda CB300R: Agile, stylish, and fuel-efficient.
Kawasaki Z400: Powerful, with killer ergonomics.
Yamaha MT-03: Smooth power, sleek modern looks.
Honda Rebel 300: Low seat height, easy to handle.
Suzuki GSX250R ABS: Sporty, responsive, pure fun.
Triumph Speed 400: Classic style meets modern tech.
Royal Enfield Himalayan: Built to conquer any terrain.
Kawasaki Eliminator: Comfortable, powerful.
Honda Grom: Fun, highly maneuverable, & a blast to ride.
- Kawasaki Ninja 400: Excellent performance, sporty design.
Comparing Options: Best First Motorcycle
Criteria Breakdown
To figure out the most awesome motorcycles for beginners, we used this key criteria:
Engine Size: We have selected engines from 125 to 500 cc. Why? You need just enough power to thrill, but not too much to feel like you're taming a beast.
Motorcycle Weight: Light is right, especially when you're starting out. The lower 300-400 lb range of a bike is easier to manage, especially at those tricky low speeds.
Seat Height: A lower seat height means better stability when stopping or maneuvering. No one likes the feeling of almost tipping over at a red light.
Cost: We get it. You don't want to sell a kidney to buy your first bike. Affordability is key. The best beginner motorcycle shouldn’t cost a ton of money.
Safety Features: Non-negotiable; ABS, solid braking systems, and stable handling, these features keep your rubber down.
Terrain Versatility: Whether you're cruising city streets or exploring off-road trails, a versatile bike will let you ride everywhere the wind takes you.
Ease of Maintenance: You're here to ride, not to be stuck in the garage all day. Godsend bikes are easy to maintain and have readily available parts.
- Community Reviews: Feedback from other riders can provide insights into real-world performance and reliability on the best motorcycle for beginners.
Rokform Motorcycle Mounts
When you're blazing the trail, the last thing you need is to fumble with your phone. Enter Rokform Motorcycle Mounts – the ultimate phone holders that allow you to stay connected without ever breaking your focus. These bad boys are constructed from CNC Machined 6061 T-6 aircraft-grade aluminum, so you know they're built to last:
Whether you ride a Harley, Ducati, BMW, Honda, or any other beast, Rokform's got a mount that fits like a dream on your best first motorcycle.
These mounts are not just to hold your phone but to keep it safe no matter where your ride takes you. The RokLock™ Twist Lock + Magnet + Safety Lanyard + Case System keeps your phone in place through the bumps and turns. It's like having a bodyguard for your phone. Perfect for accessing your GPS or music on the go, these rugged case and motorcycle mounts let you keep your eyes on the prize – the open road.
Features
At Rokform, our motorcycle mounts are the bee's knees. They’re the perfect fit for riders because of:
CNC Machined 6061 T-6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum: This is the kind of durability you need when you’re riding through hell and high water.
RokLock™ Twist Lock + Magnet + Safety Lanyard + Case System: Keeps your phone locked down and secure, no matter the terrain.
Universal Fit: Designed to fit a wide variety of motorcycle brands and models, making it a versatile choice.
Easy Installation: Most mounts come with all the tools and instructions you need for a quick and painless setup.
Vibration Reduction: Protects your phone from damage caused by the constant buzz and rattle of the ride.
Now, let’s get this party started and take a look at the top 10 best first motorcycles below:
Top 10 Best Beginner Motorcycles for 2024
Honda CB300R
Agile, Stylish, and Fuel-Efficient
Say hello to the Honda CB300R. For those looking for the best beginner motorcycles they may have met their match with one that’s just as manageable as it is thrilling:
Features
Due to its badass features, the Honda CB300R is a stellar beginner motorcycle pick:
Neo-sports Café Racer Design Minimally designed for that sleek look, taking cues from its bigger brothers in the CB series.
Lightweight Frame: Tipping the scales at just 317 pounds, new riders can easily handle and maneuver it.
286cc Single-Cylinder Engine: Offers a great balance of power and control, ideal for beginners.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Ensures safety while moving on not-so-friendly roads.
Comfortable Seat Height: At 31.5 inches, it caters to a wide range of riders.
- Customizable: Offers various personalization options from Honda to truly customize the bike to your style.
Pros
Manageable Power
Excellent Handling
Great Fuel Efficiency
Stylish Design
Cons
Seat Height May Be Tall for Shorter Riders
Limited Off-Road Capabilities
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 5/5
Weight: 5/5
Seat Height: 4/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
The biker community and experts alike state that the Honda CB300R is an excellent and best first motorcycle choice. They appreciate its nimbleness, style, and fuel economy. Professionals say it is great in balancing performance and practicality, and hence it should be a top recommendation for new riders. It is a bike that will deliver on all fronts.
Price
Priced at around $4,949, the Honda CB300R is the in-expensive go-to for beginners that offers impressive features and performance.
Kawasaki Z400
Powerful, Great Ergonomics
With the Kawasaki Z400, you’re looking at a beast among the best motorcycles for beginners. When it comes to beginner motorcycles, this one is perfect for city cruising and highway adventures.
Features
The Kawasaki Z400 comes loaded with features that make it a stellar choice as the best beginner motorcycle:
399cc Twin-Cylinder Engine: Provides strong, linear power delivery.
Lightweight Frame: Weighs just 368 lbs, making it easy to handle.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Ensures safety on the road.
Comfortable Ergonomics: Seat height of 30.9 inches caters to a wide range of riders.
- Sporty Design: Modern, aggressive styling.
Pros
Strong Power Delivery
Excellent Ergonomics
Modern Design
Reliable Safety Features
Cons
Slightly Heavier Than Some Competitors
Higher Cost Compared to Some Entry-Level Models
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 5/5
Weight: 4.5/5
Seat Height: 4.5/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
The biker community and the experts dig the Kawasaki Z400. It’s touted as being the best beginner motorcycle, due to its power and ergonomics. It’s marked as a favorite among both new and experienced riders. Experts state that it performs strongly and is quite reliable.
Price
With the Kawasaki z400, you’re getting more bang for your buck. It’s priced at around $5,399, which is a good value, considering its performance and features.
Yamaha MT-03
Smooth Power Delivery, Modern Design
Next up on our list of the best motorcycles for beginners, we’ve got the Yamaha MT-03. This lightweight machine is such a breeze to handle, and as the best motorcycle for beginners, it gives a killer combo of style, performance, and safety.
Features
The Yamaha MT-03 knocks it out of the park as one of the best beginner motorcycles with features like these:
321cc Liquid-Cooled Two-Cylinder Engine: Smooth power delivery perfect for beginners.
Lightweight Design: 373 pounds makes it highly nimble and easily controllable.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Keeps you safe on the roadways.
Ergonomic Riding Position: Allows for a comfortable seat height of 30.7 inches.
Aggressive MT Design: Includes dual position lights and LED headlight. (for a bold street presence)
Advanced Features: Six-speed transmission, modern fuel injection, and compact exhaust system.
Pros
Smooth Power Delivery
Modern Design
Comfortable Ergonomics
Advanced Features
Cons
Limited Off-Road Capabilities
Slightly Higher Price Point
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 5/5
Weight: 4.5/5
Seat Height: 4.5/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Price
Honda Rebel 300
Low Seat Height, Easy to Handle
Get ready to ride out with the Honda Rebel 300. It's among the best beginner motorcycles for a reason. This bike is light enough to handle and gives new riders an easy, confidence-boosting start.
Features
The Honda Rebel 300 stands out as a swanky beginner motorcycle with its rider-friendly features:
286cc Single-Cylinder Engine: Offers manageable power output.
Low Seat Height: At 27.2 inches, it provides easy footing for riders.
Comfortable Ergonomics: Relaxed riding position with mid-mounted footpegs.
Stylish Design: Cruiser aesthetics with a modern twist.
Reliable and Easy to Maintain: Known for its hassle-free maintenance and being reliable for the long haul.
Pros
Low Seat Height
Comfortable Ergonomics
Easy to Handle
Reliable
Cons
Limited Power for Highway Use
Cruiser Style May Not Appeal to All Riders
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 4.5/5
Weight: 4.5/5
Seat Height: 5/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 4.5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Price
Suzuki GSX250R ABS
Sportbike Design, Responsive Performance
Looking for the best motorcycle for beginners that gives you that exhilaration and taste of a sportbike, minus the intimidating power? Then look no further than the Suzuki GSX250R ABS. Consider it your ticket to ride, Clyde.
Features
The Suzuki GSX250R ABS is loaded with features that make it one of the best beginner motorcycles:
248cc Parallel-Twin Engine : Strikes a balance between performance and manageability.
Lightweight Design : At 392 pounds, it is effortless to wield.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) : For safety on the road.
Comfortable Seat Height : 31.1 inches will give a lot of room for a wide range of riders.
Digital LCD Dashboard : Up-to-date functionality and an easy readout.
Sportbike Design : Aerodynamic styling inspired by Suzuki’s racing legacy.
Pros
Responsive Performance
Attractive Sportbike Design
Modern Features
Improved Safety with ABS
Cons
Slightly Heavier Than Some Competitors
Limited Off-Road Capabilities
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 4.5/5
Weight: 4/5
Seat Height: 4/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Price
Triumph Speed 400
Retro Styling, Modern Tech
Next up on our list for best beginner motorcycles, we’ve got the Triumph Speed 400. With this bike, you’re looking at a true classic that blends retro style with modern tech. The Speed 400 is built for today’s roads.
Features
The Triumph Speed 400 is a motorcycle for beginners that is literally jam-packed with some pretty interesting features:
399cc Single-Cylinder Engine : Smooth yet potent.
Lightweight Design : Weighs 375 lbs.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) : Playing it safe on the roadways.
Comfortable Seat Height : 31.1 inches
Retro Design : Retro styling with modern-day tech.
Hybrid Digital-Analog Display : That classic look with up-to-date functionality.
Pros
Timeless Retro Design
Smooth Performance
Comfortable Ergonomics
Modern Safety Features
Cons
Higher Price Point
Limited Off-Road Capabilities
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 5/5
Weight: 4.5/5
Seat Height: 4.5/5
Cost: 3.5/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Price
Royal Enfield Himalayan
Rugged, Off-Road Capable
When it comes to the best motorcycles for beginners, the Royal Enfield Himalayan is built for both off-road escapades and city cruising. You just might be looking at a ride that embodies the spirit of adventure motorcycling in its purest form.
Features
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is one of the best beginner motorcycles due to its killer features:
452cc Single-Cylinder Engine: Perfect for varied terrains.
Stable and Grounded: Weighs 432 lbs.
Switchable ABS: Safe on & off-road
Comfortable Seat Height: 31.7 inches
Rugged Design: Prioritizes functionality and ease of maintenance.
Adventure-Ready: Equipped with a digital compass and other practical features.
Pros
Rugged and Durable
Versatile for Various Terrains
Practical and Easy to Maintain
Attractive Price Point
Cons
Heavier Compared to Some Competitors
Limited High-Speed Performance
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 5/5
Weight: 4/5
Seat Height: 4.5/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 5/5
Ease of Maintenance: 4.5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Price
Kawasaki Eliminator
Comfortable, Powerful
Next up for the best beginner motorcycle we have the Kawasaki Eliminator. This bike gives riders the perfect blend of power and comfort, while packing just enough of a punch for quite the ride.
Features
The best beginner motorcycles come with features like the Kawasaki Eliminator has:
451cc Parallel-Twin Engine: Provides enough power for a fun riding experience.
Lightweight Design: Weighs 386 lbs.
Comfortable Ergonomics: Mid-mount footpegs and slightly leaned-forward riding position.
Low Seat Height: 28.9 inches
Sport-Cruiser Style: A mix of a cruiser and a standard bike, bringing on the comfort when riding out.
Pros
Comfortable Ergonomics
Manageable Power
Lightweight Design
Low Seat Height
Cons
Higher Price Point
Exhaust Note May Not Appeal to Traditional Cruiser Enthusiasts
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 5/5
Weight: 4.5/5
Seat Height: 5/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Price
Honda Grom
Fun, Highly Maneuverable
Yes, we’ve got another Honda on our list for best beginner motorcycle. The Honda Grom is fun, easy to ride, and perfect for those city commutes.
Features
Here’s the features that make the Honda Grom one of the best motorcycles for beginners:
125cc Single-Cylinder Engine: Produces low enough power that a beginner will be able to handle it.
Lightweight Design: Weighs 224 lbs.
Reliable Braking System: Has a 220mm disc in front and a 190mm disc in the rear.
Comfortable Ergonomics: Easy handling and maneuverability.
Playful Design: Compact and beginner-friendly.
Pros
Extremely Fun to Ride
Highly Maneuverable
Fuel Efficient
Affordable
Cons
Limited Power for Highway Use
Compact Size May Not Suit Taller Riders
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 4/5
Weight: 5/5
Seat Height: 5/5
Cost: 5/5
Safety Features: 4.5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Price
Kawasaki Ninja 400
Excellent Performance, Sporty Design
Last but certainly not least, for the best beginner motorcycle, we have the Kawasaki Ninja 400. This little rockstar is the perfect choice for those seeking a thrilling and enjoyable ride.
Features
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is well-endowed with features that make it a kick-ass choice as one of the best motorcycles for beginners:
399cc Twin-Cylinder Engine: Strong power for a thrilling ride.
Lightweight Design: Weighs 366 lbs.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Again, safety first.
Comfortable Ergonomics: Slightly leaned-forward riding position.
Stylish Design: Sporty and sophisticated appearance.
Modern Features: Gear position indicator and other advanced features.
Pros
Strong Performance
Stylish Design
Comfortable Ergonomics
Advanced Features
Cons
Higher Price Point
Limited Off-Road Capabilities
Criteria Evaluation
Engine Size: 5/5
Weight: 4.5/5
Seat Height: 4.5/5
Cost: 4/5
Safety Features: 5/5
Terrain Versatility: 4.5/5
Ease of Maintenance: 5/5
Community Reviews: 5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
For a beginner motorcycle, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 has received stellar reviews across the entire riding community. Riders truly dig its strong performance and stylish design. Experts recommend it as one of the very best motorcycles for beginners.
Price
You can own a Kawasaki Ninja 400 for around $5,199.
Notable Mentions
When we talk about the best first motorcycle, we didn’t have room to go over all of the best in-depth, so here’s a few more to consider:
Honda CRF250L
BMW G 310 GS
Yamaha XT250
KTM 390 Duke
When this badass enters the arena, everyone is sure to take note. From shark-like edges to visible air intakes, you may be looking at the complete package.
FAQs
What is the best engine size for a beginner motorcycle?
Are ABS brakes necessary for a beginner motorcycle?
Absolutely, they enhance safety by preventing wheel lock-up during sudden braking.
How much should I spend on my first motorcycle?
Aim for a budget of $3,000 to $6,000 for a reliable beginner bike.
What type of motorcycle is best for beginners?
Standard bikes, sport bikes, and lightweight cruisers are your best bet for manageable power and easy handling.
How can I ensure my motorcycle remains in good condition?
Regular maintenance is key: follow the schedule, check the oil, inspect tires and brakes, keep it clean, and store it properly.
Final Thoughts
Indubitably, friends, choosing the best motorcycle for beginners is all about balance. And at Rokform, we believe that this quote truly resonates, “No hour of life is wasted when it’s spent on two wheels.” -Unknown
So, from the Honda CB300R to the Kawasaki Ninja 400, we hope you can find the best beginner motorcycle for you. Truly, the best motorcycles for beginners are going to prioritize performance and safety and be light on your wallet. No matter which bike you choose, just be sure to do your research and enjoy the ride.
At Rokform, we take pride in offering the best motorcycle mounts to keep you connected and safe on any terrain.
What’s more, we make sure our mounts are a breeze with videos to help you along the way. Feel free to check them out below:
So you can rest easy knowing you’ve got a brand that cares about your safety on the road. Additionally, we give first responder discounts to show those who serve our communities some love.
No matter where the road takes you, no matter which bike is for you, just enjoy the ride, my friends!
Your Privacy Choices