Motorcycles are a different breed. You can’t hop on one and hope for the best. If you’ve been riding motorcycles for a while, you understand how important it is to find the perfect bike that matches your riding style and skill level. But if you’re a beginner, you’ll want to find the safest motorcycle available.
Many entry-level motorcycles still house a lot of power, which is why it’s essential to learn the basics of riding motorcycles, the specs of your motorcycle, maintenance requirements, and the safest bikes for first-time drivers.
Before you purchase your two-wheeler, let’s get familiar with the different types of beginner bikes and what you should consider when purchasing a motorcycle.
What Should a Beginner Look For?
What is the safest motorcycle? There are so many different types of entry-level motorcycles, and it can be challenging to begin your search. However, you can help narrow the search by asking yourself, “Why do I want a bike?” By knowing your intended usage for the motorcycle, you can narrow down the search to the type of bike.
If you want a motorcycle for commuting or joyrides, you must get an electric or gas bike. However, if you plan to use your bike for tricks and racing, you should look at adventure or sports motorcycles. Make sure the bike you get is ideal for your intended purposes.
Entry-Level Considerations
When you first begin shopping for the best motorcycle for a first-time rider, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. As you search for a motorcycle, the salesperson may throw out a dozen specs and use vocabulary that may not sound familiar to you. There are a few areas you need to focus on when buying a bike for the first time. Below are crucial aspects to picking the perfect motorcycle for you.
Engine
The bike’s engine is the heart of the motorcycle and should be the first thing you look at when purchasing a bike. You should limit your choices to bikes with a displacement of 500 ccs or less for new riders. A displacement is another way to measure the volume of the bike’s cylinders.
Speed
The motorcycle’s power-to-weight ratio determines how fast and long the bike will run. Models that are capable of speeds exceeding 70 mph allow first-timers to ride on the freeway or do long-range riding. By understanding the bike’s top speed, you can better understand the bike’s riding applications.
Weight
The more the motorcycle weighs, the more challenging it is to control. Smaller bikes have smaller engines, a lighter suspension setup, and an overall lightweight frame. Smaller bikes are the way to go for first-time riders, and once you get more experience, you can purchase a larger bike.
Top 8 Beginner Motorcycles
As stated above, there is an abundance of beginner-friendly motorcycles on the market. Saferoad Insurance is providing a list of the top eight safest motorcycles for first-time drivers to help narrow your choices!
Cruisers
A cruiser is an excellent and popular choice for beginner motorcycles. Cruisers are best known for their relaxed look and great long-distance riding choices.
Yamaha V-Star 250
This stunning Japanese motorcycle is perfect for a beginner. It has a top speed of 85 mph and has a lightweight appearance. The V-Star is great for commuting and long-distance travel with its 78-miles-per-gallon fuel economy.
Specs
- Engine: Air-cooled 249 cc V-Twin
- Power: 21 hp and 15.2 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 85 mph
- Weight: 324 lbs
Honda Rebel 500
The Honda Rebel 500 was introduced in the 1980s and has become the go-to cruiser for beginners. This motorcycle is perfect for new riders ready to take to the freeway, but it is still small enough for beginners to control easily.
Specs
- Engine: Liquid-Cooled 471 cc Parallel-Twin
- Power: 40 hp and 30 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 95 mph
- Weight: 408 lbs
Adventure Bikes
Adventure bikes are a fast-growing option in the bike world. Adventure motorcycles are durable machines that handle on and off the road and are tour-friendly, giving unlimited exploration for riders.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
Most modern adventure bikes boast their high-end technology, but Royal Enfield Himalayan bikes represent an excellent old-fashioned approach with a few modern twists.
Specs
- Engine: Air-Cooled 411 cc Single Cylinder
- Power: 24.3 hp and 23.6 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 80 mph
- Weight: 438 lbs
BMW G 310 GS
In 1980, BMW unleashed the first ever modern adventure bike with the R80 GS. Recently, BMW has become one of the most popular modern adventure models for beginner and expert riders.
Specs
- Engine: Liquid-Cooled 313 cc Single Cylinder
- Power: 34 hp and 20 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 88 mph
- Weight: 386 lbs
On & Off-Road Bikes
Dual sports bikes are intended for on- and off-road usage. These lightweight motorcycles are dirt bikes with a headlight, license plate, and indicators. These bikes are great for all environments, from cities to the country.
Kawasaki KLX 300SM
The Kawasaki KLX 300SM has the look, feel, and performance of a dirt bike but is appropriate to ride on the street. This new release model is an excellent choice for beginners who want the thrill of a dual bike with a lightweight body.
Specs
- Engine: Liquid-Cooled 292 cc Single-Cylinder
- Power: 33 hp and 21 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 80 mph
- Weight: 304.4 lbs
Honda CRF300L
The Honda CRF300L is extremely popular because it is “greener” than its counterparts. This reliable bike has a high-powered engine and sharp handling.
Specs
- Engine: Liquid-Cooled 286 cc Single-Cylinder
- Power: 27.3 hp and 19.6 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 75 mph
- Weight: 309 lbs
Sport Bikes
“Supersports,” or entry-sport bikes, have the best speed, acceleration, braking, and lean angle for any beginner rider, no matter the genre.
Kawasaki Ninja 400
The Kawasaki Ninja 400, or Team Green’s Ninja 400, is among the best in its caliber. The bike has a sleek design with LED lights adorning the two wheels.
Specs
- Engine: Liquid-Cooled 399 cc Parallel-Twin
- Power: 45 hp and 28 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 105 mph
- Weight: 366 lbs
Aprilia RS125
The Aprilia RS125 is genuinely one of a kind. This Italian-built motorcycle is one of the highest-performance supersports bikes in its class and is excellent for beginners ready to take the next step.
Specs
- Engine: Liquid-Cooled 124.2 cc Single Cylinder
- Power: 14.75 hp and 26 ft-lbs
- Top Speed: 70 mph
- Weight: 317 lbs
After you’ve found the safest motorcycle for beginner, there’s one more aspect to consider. Don’t forget about bike insurance! Beginner riders should invest in motorcycle insurance in case of an accident to protect their finances, which can also include obtaining gap insurance. Saferoad Insurance Services offers great low-cost motorcycle insurance in California. Contact us today to get your beginner friendly motorcycle covered before you hit the road.
