13 Best Beginner Motorcycle Models

Riding a motorcycle seems like such a cool hobby, doesn't it? Well, for some of the bike lovers it's more than a hobby. You could characterize it as a lifestyle.

When you see them getting all fired up talking about that new engine for their Honda, you don't understand what's all the fuss about. But then, your friend talks you into driving his bike for the first time, and the feeling is AMAZING! You feel totally invincible, and you decide that you must have one of these bad boys for yourself. But, what happens when you don't know which bike is the best for you as a beginner? The choice is definitely there, you just don't know which one is the right one.

Motorcycle on road

If you are new to the world of motorbikes, and if you're not sure which one to get as your first one, we have compiled a list of some of the best beginner motorcycle Models.

Things to Consider

If you're a beginner in the world of motorbikes, there are some things you need to take into consideration before buying yourself one.

For example, probably the most important thing to think about is the financial aspect. Buying the motorbike will be the biggest expense, but don't forget to save some money for insurance and safety gear (which you probably don't already own, considering you're a beginner).

Let's be honest: motorcycling sometimes is quite an expensive hobby. Nowadays it mostly requires a well-filled bank account. No wonder that the motorcycle industry is complaining that there will be no new buyers for the different brands.

What costs do I really have to expect as a beginner without a big budget

Realistically you should have around 4000 Dollar available, because there are also a few fixed costs: For the motorcycle driving license, depending on the country, above 1000 Dollars have to be paid. For the necessary motorcycle driver's equipment - like helmet, a leather jacket and trousers, cool boots and protecting gloves - the cost will be about 500$ minimum, provided that you can find a few cheap offers at the well-known accessory chains or you fall back on second-hand clothing. That's about already 1500 dollars until you are allowed to drive at all. The prices for new motorcycles over 600ccm in the US start at about 5500 dollars.

Don't take the cheap path for the best beginner motorcycles

Anyone who would like to be able to get the wind blowing around his nose on a motorcycle without falling into debt has to look around the second-hand market. A really good used motorcycle in an acceptable condition, suitable for everyday use with unproblematic handling, a low mileage is available for 2000 dollars, for some older model even for less than that. But it shouldn't be much cheaper either, because then there is often a lack of reliability. Also can repair costs, that are needed to keep the cheap bike alive, quickly empty your account.

Another important factor is the following question: "Where do you plan to drive your bike?"

Best Beginner Motorcycle Models

We have chosen 4 different bikes we find the most appealing to new bike lovers – two Kawasaki, and two Honda bikes.

HONDA CB 650F 2017

This powerful bike is perfect for most beginners, solely because of the fact that it packs so much power, but it is extremely easy to learn how to drive motorcycles with this bike. Once you get the hang of it, you won't need to change the bike, or look for something stronger, because this two-wheeled beast can be your partner in crime for life.

KAWASAKI NINJA 300 2017

A great motorcycle for anyone who enjoys sports bikes, Kawasaki Ninja 300 is lighter than your average bike, and with its low seat height, you shouldn't have too much trouble in learning how to control it in a short period of time.

HONDA REBEL 300

This black machine is truly a piece of art and a perfect fit for a beginner that is looking for a little more power in his bike. Its beautiful design is the main reason this bike is so popular amongst both bike lovers and beginners in the world of motorcycling.

KAWASAKI VERSYS 300-X

Probably the easiest of bikes to get accustomed to, Kawasaki Versys 300-X doesn't pack as much as power as his predecessors, but its fuel tank capacity surely makes up for a slight lack of power. You will have no problems driving the big distances with this bike, and getting to know this bike as a beginner is extremely easy.

These are only a few of the 13 best beginner motorcycle Models. We realize that there is a really wide choice of bikes for every new bike lover, but once you figure out what you want, and what you like in a motorbike, you should be able to find the perfect bike for yourself. The rest will follow.

First of all, the overall impression of the bike, but also of the seller is important. Just listen to your stomach.

  • Are all parts original? If not, the changes should be registered.
  • Do headlights, indicators and brake lights work?
  • Are there any signs of an accident? Pay attention to scratches on the handles and on the foot rest.
  • Can rust be seen on any part of the motorcycle?
  • Pay attention to whether liquids are leaking anywhere. Especially on the brakes.
  • What do the brake discs look like? Are they in a new conditions or really used already.
  • Can the wheels still be turned easily after the brake has been used several times?
  • Can you operate the different Bowden cables easily?
  • Does the sprocket have "shark teeth"? That means that it would have to be replaced.
  • If you can easily pull the chain away from the sprocket, the chain is worn out. A new chain can cost up to 100 dollars.
  • Turn the handlebars in both directions with the front tyre unloaded. Its important that it does not engage.

Pro Tip: Honda motorcycles are technically really robust and easy to handle from the chassis. A small used CB500 is fun without overtaxing you. A Honda VT600 is also a great choice, but a Suzuki Bandit or the good old GS500 are also good motorcycles that don't overwhelm a beginner.