Best bikes for new riders…..So listen—I used to think motorcycles were for one of three people:
- Dudes in leather jackets named Blade or Viper
- Women who could bench press me
- Everyone who starred in Sons of Anarchy
Basically… not me.
I was more of a “cries in traffic while listening to sad indie music” kind of driver. But then my buddy James (who, yes, does wear a leather jacket unironically) let me sit on his Honda Rebel one night after three tacos and a terrible breakup. And I swear—just sitting on it gave me main character energy.
Anyway, that was the beginning. And if you’re even thinking about dipping your toe (or boot) into the wild, rumbling world of two wheels, then finding the best bikes for new riders is kind of a big deal. Like, don’t-accidentally-buy-a-monster-bike-and-wipe-out-on-your-cul-de-sac big.
So here it is—my honest, slightly chaotic breakdown of the top 5 beginner motorcycles that won’t scare you, break your spine, or bankrupt you.
1. Honda Rebel 300 – The Cool, Calm Introvert of Bikes
Look, this bike is the Golden Retriever of motorcycles.
Not too loud, not too flashy, but it’s there for you. Like, emotionally. I started with this one because James swore by it and let me ride his in an abandoned school parking lot (10/10 recommend a big empty lot for your first ride, btw).
Why it rocks:
- Friendly weight — Only around 364 lbs. Easy to move, even if you’re a noodle.
- Low seat height — If you’re short (like me), this is chef’s kiss.
- Not terrifying to throttle — You won’t rocket-launch into a mailbox.
I dropped it once—on myself—and I only cried a little. Still love it.
Starter vibe: Chill commuter who wears vintage boots and listens to Hozier.
2. Kawasaki Z400 – The Overachiever Who’s Also Fun at Parties
Okay, so the Z400 is the kid who aced math but also snuck out to concerts. It’s got power, yeah, but it delivers it in a way that won’t rip your arms off.
I rented this for a weekend road trip and almost cried when I had to return it.
What I loved:
- It’s light but zippy — 399cc and about 364 lbs. Good combo for not feeling like you’re piloting a spaceship.
- Naked bike style — No bulky fairings, which means less repair cost if (when) you drop it.
- Looks fast. Feels controlled. Perfect balance if you want a taste of speed but not chaos.
Warning: You will get attention at red lights. Someone literally yelled “YooOOo, that’s clean” from a Civic. I blushed.
Starter vibe: Your slightly hot barista who also builds PCs and probably skateboards.
3. Yamaha MT-03 – The Edgy One With a Soft Side
This one? A total flirt. Looks intimidating but actually super gentle.
I didn’t expect to vibe with the MT-03. It seemed too aggressive. But once I took it around the block, I was like—wait, why is this thing caring for me like a gentle storm?
What stood out:
- Upright posture — Super comfy. Didn’t feel like I was wrestling a metal beast.
- Smooth clutch and throttle — Like spreading warm butter on toast.
- LED lights — Not important, but they look very sci-fi cool.
I dropped this too (don’t judge)—but it survived, and so did my ego. Mostly.
Starter vibe: The person at the gym who looks tough but helps old ladies carry groceries.
4. Suzuki SV650 – Okay This One’s Like Dating Someone Out of Your League But They’re Nice to You
First time I saw this bike, I legit gasped.
It looks like it belongs to someone who owns fingerless gloves and maybe rides into the desert at night just to think. But plot twist—it’s very beginner-friendly, especially the newer “SV650 ABS” version.
Reasons to swipe right:
- V-twin engine — Sounds deep and mean but rides smooth.
- It’s forgiving — Mess up a shift? It won’t kill you.
- Kind of sexy. Let’s be honest.
It’s a bit heavier than the others (around 432 lbs), but if you’ve got the confidence or you’re not a beanpole like me, you’ll love it.
Starter vibe: That person who drinks black coffee, reads Murakami, but still laughs at fart jokes.
5. Royal Enfield Meteor 350 – The Vibe is Sunday Mornings and Pancakes
Okay, I didn’t expect to fall for this one. I test rode it just because I liked the name (Meteor? Come on).
And let me tell you—it’s like a cozy blanket with handlebars. If your whole thing is enjoying the ride and not pretending you’re in Fast & Furious 12: Suburban Drift, this is your bike.
Why it surprised me:
- Comfy af — Like riding a recliner.
- Classic cruiser style — Everyone’s dad nods approvingly when they see it.
- Digital display + nav — Fancy for a chill cruiser.
I rode this with a friend to get waffles at 9 AM and felt like a small-town hero. Highly recommend.
Starter vibe: Sunday market energy with a leather jacket.
Real Talk: A Few Tips If You’re Actually Gonna Do This for best bikes for new riders
Please, for the love of cheese, take an MSF course.
It’s worth every awkward slow-speed wobble and every minute of that one guy asking too many questions. (There’s always one.) Plus, some states let you skip the DMV test if you pass. Win.
Also:
- Buy used. You’re probably gonna drop it.
- Gear is not optional. Helmet, gloves, jacket. Even if it’s hot.
- Watch FortNine and Yammie Noob on YouTube. Funny, actually helpful, and less preachy than Reddit.
Final Thoughts of best bikes for new riders
I used to think riding a motorcycle was a death wish. Or at least, not something “people like me” did.
But then I got on a Rebel 300. And yeah, I stalled it. I panicked at a stop sign. I even accidentally waved at a bush once thinking it was a person.
But I also laughed like an idiot under my helmet, screamed joy into the wind, and got a thumbs-up from a random Harley dude.
If you’re thinking about it? Do it. Start small. Go slow. Find your bike.
And then ride like your heart’s on fire.
(But like… wear a helmet, okay?)
