How to choose your first motorcycle? Top 15 Models for Beginners

Introduction

The popularity of motorcycle driving in Russia is growing.
Smaller and more maneuverable than a car, this vehicle is at home on city streets and at a lower cost. The increased interest in motorcycles makes the question especially relevant: “How to choose your first motorcycle? Which motorcycle should a beginner choose? We offer some tips from experienced drivers and expert recommendations to help you make the right choice. In this article you will find a list of 15 models that, according to experts, will be worthy contenders for the place of your first iron “horse”.

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Motorcycles - which one a novice biker can buy.

And so, dear friend, you recently passed the traffic police exams and received category “A” (motorcycles), and naturally decided to join the auto-moto culture. You don’t yet know which is the best motorcycle to buy that would suit you and be of high quality. Friends, today we invite you to consider and study the best motorcycle technology in the world, which would be ideal for those who want to further comprehend and join the great world motorcycle culture.

Advantages of a motorcycle

Motorcycles have a number of significant advantages, which underlie the high popularity of this means of transportation.

• The compactness of the motorcycle makes it easy to maneuver it in dense traffic on the streets of a metropolis, eliminating the need to stand in long-term traffic jams.
• A motorcycle is easier to park: it requires much less space than a car.
• When riding a motorcycle, you can feel real drive and experience the feeling of flying.
• A bike requires less expenses for its purchase and maintenance than a car of the same class.
• Motorcycles look stylish and help create the image of a modern, dynamic person who likes to move towards his goal.

9) Buell Blast

Many expert experts, describing this motorcycle, call its motorcycle design the most boring of all ever created in motorcycle technology.

Yes, and here we must admit that the appearance of this Buell Blast really leaves much to be desired. But no one can argue with the fact that this motorcycle is still not a bad bike from the technical side of the issue and is perfect for any novice beginner. The riding position of the bike is simply excellent. But the truth is that the 500cc single-cylinder engine does not have very much torque.

Choosing a motorcycle

When choosing your first motorcycle, you should first decide what you need it for. Will you be driving it only in the city or are you planning to travel around the country?

If you intend to use a bike every day on city streets, it is better to go for a scooter with a small engine capacity. And if you drive along asphalt roads to other cities or towns, choose lined (hooded) models. Are you planning frequent off-road trips, for example to the countryside? Option with long travel suspension.

Which model is better for the city?

You have decided to take a model for urban conditions and have no plans (in the near future) to get out on the highway. Or you just don’t want to use a bike that’s too fast. In this case, the choice of motorcycle comes down to the following models:

• The KTM Duke 690 is bold, contrasty, but has a great riding position (no need to reach for the handlebars for long thanks to the small tank). It is also narrow, which makes it easier to maneuver in city traffic, and is characterized by low power and light weight. Very reminiscent of a typical 125 cc model, although it is not one (it is larger). Optimal speed is about 125 km/h;

• Honda CB600FA is comfortable, convenient and lightweight, with a stylish design. It has an improved design, modern technical features and a medium engine size. Well suited not only for beginners, but also for experienced bikers;

• Yamaha MT07 - has excellent traction and acceleration, weighs 180 kg. In general, an ideal option for the city, although it may be a little difficult to learn for beginners;

• Kawasaki ER6-N (aka “Ruff”) - attractive price, unusual design, comfortable fit. In terms of technical characteristics, it is a well-balanced option. It would be ideal if the steering wheel weren't too wide, making it difficult to maneuver between cars;

• Yamaha XJ6N is a mid-sized station wagon for leisurely riding with simple controls. Perhaps the best option if you are interested in urban models.

Motorcycle classes

Then experts recommend deciding on the class of motorcycle, and to do this, study the features of each and decide whether it is right for you.

Scooters

A good option for driving around the city. They are small in size, economical and have a trunk. Most models are equipped with a variator, which simplifies the control process. As the first two-wheeled means of transportation, the scooter can rightfully take one of the first places.

Road

Among experts, they are considered the most suitable for beginners. This choice is supported by good seat ergonomics, which will help you quickly develop the correct seating position, as well as ease of control. Modern models are equipped with an ABS system, sometimes TCS (traffic stability control). This makes the task easier for a novice motorcyclist. Road motorcycles are comfortable to ride both in the city and on the highway, for which they received the epithet “universal”.

Cruisers

They have impressive dimensions and feel best on country roads with good coverage. The loose fit, low maneuverability and significant weight of such models can create certain difficulties for a beginner.

Sports motorcycles (sportbikes)

Designed for track driving. This option is hardly suitable for a beginner. Lack of experience creates danger when driving such a fast vehicle around the city. The risk of losing control is too high.

All-terrain motorcycles

They are equipped with a long-travel suspension, which opens up unlimited freedom of movement for the owner. However, the high cross-country ability is compensated by a reduced cruising speed, increased windage rates and a small tank volume. If you choose such a motorcycle to start riding, then you should choose dual-purpose models. Cross and enduro bikes are not a suitable option if you intend to drive around the city, and not just on the tracks.

Touring motorcycles

They are divided into three main groups - luxury, sports-tourist and all-terrain. The former make you feel comfortable and are equipped with a large trunk and weight, thanks to which they maintain good stability when driving in a straight line. However, such models are quite expensive. Sports touring cars have a powerful engine, comfortable seating and an even higher price. All-terrain vehicles have increased suspension travel and ground clearance, and they have an impressive weight. In general, such models are not the best option for a beginner, but there may be exceptions.

Choosing a bike for travel

The choice of a touring motorcycle sooner or later concerns everyone who is about to go on a trip. Ideally, a long-distance bike should meet the following criteria:

• Have a comfortable fit with a straight back;
• Have a soft suspension, moderately high ground clearance for overcoming country roads;
• Have good wind protection;
• Be hung with various trunks, bags, trunks (optional, you can finish it yourself);
• The volume of the fuel tank and gasoline consumption should allow you to ride the motorcycle for as long as possible (300-500 km from refueling to refueling);
• Ideally - ABS. This improves security. And long-term driving on the highway somehow dulls the reaction and reflexes of the pilot;
• The weight and size of the bike must be such that if it falls, the pilot can pick it up without assistance.

With or without a cardan is an eternal question regarding touring motorcycles. The presence of a cardan allows you to travel tens of thousands of kilometers without unnecessary worries. While chain maintenance is necessary every 500-600 km, as well as after every rain or wash. In this case, the cardan, which has served its life, will have to be replaced entirely - and this will hit your pocket very hard. While a chain with stars costs pennies, and you can change them even in the field “on the knee”. Here everyone makes a choice for themselves.

Classic “tourists” include BMW R1200GS , BMW R1200RT, Triumph Trophy 1200, Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager, Honda Gold Wing, and some other Honda and Yamaha motorcycles. Cruisers have also proven themselves to be good for tourists, allowing them to stretch their legs and relax on a long journey.

When choosing a motorcycle, remember that the best long-distance bike is the one you already own. It’s better to go on a trip in a small-capacity or road-going vehicle than not to go at all, saving money for years for the equipment of your dreams.

What to look for when choosing?

There are several points that deserve your close attention when choosing your first motorcycle.

• Price. Spending a significant amount on the purchase of the very first motorcycle on which you plan to gain riding experience is unwise. You should also not purchase models that require significant costs for maintenance and spare parts.
• Cubic capacity. Experts recommend choosing the first model with an engine whose volume does not exceed 400 cubic meters. This is important because, just like your first bike, your first bike is designed to help you develop basic riding skills.
• Controllability. An important indicator for a first motorcycle is ease of control. Until you have sufficient experience, you should choose models that are easy to maneuver. The best option is a model with a small engine capacity and maximum controllability.
• Weight. There is an opinion that the heavier the bike, the more difficult it is to control. However, experts assure that weight is not the only factor that affects handling. The location of the center of gravity is of great importance: the lower it is, the easier it is to hold the motorcycle when cornering.
• Saddle height. This indicator must correspond to the height of the future owner of the motorcycle. For short people, it is better to choose models with a small height.
• Landing. Let it be as comfortable as possible. From this point of view, it is better to choose scooters and road motorcycles. But sportbikes are not a suitable option.

Important

Prices for motorcycles change rapidly, and you will find the most current ones at the Auction.

The final cost of a motorcycle brought to Russia from Japan Life can be calculated using the Calculator

Honda CB300R Neo Sports Cafe

Where would we be without the legendary Honda CB? This is a classic! Beginners are always recommended to take a closer look at the Seabikhs and their variations. Even supported they are still popular. The new baby Honda CB300R is super lightweight at just 146 kilograms, a decel lighter than the KTM 390 Duke.

The weight alone puts the model at the top of the list as the first motorcycle for girls. When a girl chooses a motorcycle that is too heavy for herself, the phrase “I was thinking about making a face while I was lifting it” no longer seems funny.

The manufacturer characterizes this motorcycle as predictable, reliable at all levels of operating ranges, and maximally loyal to the driver. The engine is four-stroke single-cylinder.

Purely urban option. The fuel tank size is only 10 liters. The motorcycle is squat, actually, which is also more beneficial for fragile girls.

Price – 415,000 rubles.

What to look for when buying second hand?

There are several points that experts recommend paying attention to.

• The year of manufacture of the motorcycle on the brake hose, discs and in the documents must be the same.
• An external inspection should not reveal any traces of welding, scratches or dents.
• Chains and sprockets must be intact.
• When pressing on the seat, there should be no traces of grease left on the asphalt.
• There should be no rust in the gas tank.
• The rubber must be of high quality and intact.
• When starting, the engine should start the second time, no more; and its sound should be smooth and not interrupted.

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Piaggio Vespa

Indeed: why do you need a motorcycle? You can take a stylish scooter, it will definitely be very easy to drive. The legendary Vespa produced in 2008 with a mileage of 21,000 km is sold for $2,350.

“Permissions” are needed, since there are 150 “cubes” here, and there is no need to change gears. I threw my laptop into the trunk and flew to work. Very convenient and economical! The description for the ad is laconic: “Excellent condition, no mileage in the Republic of Belarus.”

Top 15 motorcycles for a beginner

We offer several of the most suitable, according to experts, models for beginner motorcyclists.

Scooters

1.Honda PCX150

Capable of accelerating to 120 km per hour. The model is good for the city; the large seat creates additional comfort on long trips. The trunk allows you to grab the things you need. This model costs about 200 thousand rubles from dealers.

2.SYM Joymax 300

It has good wind protection and is equipped with a powerful engine with a combined braking system. The advantages include a large trunk under the seat and an air deflector. Price – from 359 thousand rubles.

3. Vespa GTS Super 300 IE

A luxury model, which is distinguished by an all-metal body, which is also a frame. A relative disadvantage is the engine capacity is 50 cubic meters, which means a rather high transport tax. You can buy the model for 448 thousand rubles and more.

Road bikes

4.Honda CB125

With a sleek design, a small engine capacity and a built-in gear indicator, it is a good choice for a beginner or an experienced driver. The downside is the small size, which limits the user’s weight. Price – from 151 thousand rubles.

5. Bajaj Pulsar 200NS

Indian model without hood. An injection engine, an anti-lock braking system, a low seat height, and excellent maneuverability give confidence to a novice motorcyclist even with a short stature. The cost is one of the most affordable on the motor market: from 179 thousand rubles.

6. BMW G310R

A bright representative of the German brand, capable of giving its owner maximum comfort. The bike is equipped with a comfortable seat, an anti-lock braking system and, in addition, consumes little fuel. Disadvantages include high operating costs. Cost – from 312 thousand rubles.

7.Honda CB650F

Refers to the bestsellers of the Japanese automobile industry. It is good on city streets and country roads. A powerful engine of 87 horsepower is successfully combined with low weight and modern design. However, this can also play a cruel joke on a beginner: driving a light but powerful motorcycle is not so easy. The price of the model is from 584 thousand rubles.

Cruisers

8. Kawasaki Vulcan S

A small-sized representative of its class from the Japanese automaker, equipped with a two-cylinder engine with high torque. This provides an easy start to movement, which is important for a beginner. Price – from 550 thousand rubles.

9. Suzuki Intruder C800

It is one of the most budget models. High engine power, a comfortable seating position and a center of gravity located closer to the rear wheel provide a significant advantage. But the lack of an anti-lock braking system is a minus for a novice motorcyclist. Cost – from 549 thousand rubles.

10. Harley-Davidson Street 750

Classics of the genre. The legendary brand and the USA offers beginners a comfortable fit due to the high handlebars and low saddle height, as well as a belt drive. Such a charismatic model costs from 574 thousand rubles.

Sports

11. Aprilia RS4 125

It is distinguished by its compact size and low engine power of 15 horsepower, and at the same time it is very easy to operate. A beginner will find it easy to control the bike thanks to its low center of gravity. The low saddle is comfortable for girls. Price – from 250 thousand rubles.

12. Kawasaki Ninja 300

It looks great and is optionally equipped with an anti-lock braking system, which is important for a beginner. An additional plus is a large selection of colors, including pearlescent shades. The bike easily maneuvers in dense city traffic and is capable of reaching speeds of up to 18 km per hour. The model costs from 451 thousand rubles.

Tourist

13. CF-Moto 650 TK

From a Chinese manufacturer, it looks like BMW and Honda models. This reliable and comfortable bike is equipped with an ABS system and a luggage rack. Price – from 395 thousand rubles.

14. Kawasaki Versys 650

The all-terrain crossover with a flexible in-line engine and excellent maneuverability is equipped with a long-travel suspension. The model features good ergonomics, reliable wind protection and a straight fit. Price – from 165 thousand rubles.

15. BMW F800GT

Especially safe for a novice motorcyclist. The model is equipped with various electronic systems that facilitate control. The bike will be an excellent solution for traveling around the city and beyond. The cost of the model from the German automaker is from 798 thousand rubles.

Where to start looking for your first motorcycle?

With an understanding of two things. The first thing is your safety! The second is comfort. Both are impossible if you don’t understand why you need a motorcycle! After all, motorcycle classes are not an extra line in the PTS, but an important criterion in determining applicability.

Where, who and with whom will travel

Here are the basic questions you need to answer for yourself to ensure you understand which motorcycle to buy and not regret your choice. Let's start with the last one - with whom.

With no one. If you are just starting to master motorcycle technology, then wait a while with passengers. After all, the weight distribution and inertia of a motorcycle in the presence of a passenger are completely different, plus, there is a high probability of inappropriate behavior of the passenger. And until you learn to confidently handle a bike, it is strictly not recommended to ride someone. Therefore, when choosing the first model, first of all you need to look at your own comfort, and not about the large back seat or its tilt in your direction (so that the girl would snuggle closer).

Ratio between motorcycle and driver dimensions

Even a technically ideal vehicle will be difficult to drive if the rider is not comfortable. You must take into account your own anthropometry. Therefore, the rule “the lighter and smaller, the better for a beginner” is not entirely correct - for a two-meter and one hundred kilogram “guy” riding some “Honda Dio” will be uncomfortable and even dangerous.

Free, correct fit (and different classes have their own), trouble-free control of the controls, good visibility (including from the mirrors), lack of stiffness and pressure, but no unnecessary movements in the saddle, on the pegs and levers - this is the required minimum . The maximum is when you also visually like the motorcycle itself and the way you look on it, because thoughts about being comical do not contribute to attentiveness. The ideal is if all this is combined with safety precautions.

Each motorcycle has its own roads

If a motorcycle is necessary for everyday driving around the city, then a small small-capacity motorcycle will be “the thing.” On a moped or scooter it will be easy to “break through” the taffy, just park and maneuver, but on the contrary, it will be difficult to overheat even a “fifty kopeck” over short distances. If the intended “habitat of the iron horse” is country roads, dirt roads, areas with a large number of curbs, different types of surfaces, then it makes sense to look at models with high ground clearance, decent suspension travel and large wheels. The worse the roads, the more “specialized” the motorcycle should be. For medium and long distances, it is better to choose models with good wind protection and a low center of gravity.

Hold off on buying a sportbike

Wind in your face, adrenaline, mobility and maneuverability, attention of the opposite sex - all this can be obtained on any motorcycle. But when motorcycling experience is limited to a motor school site or country dirt roads, there is no need to rush. That is, a sports motorcycle for beginners is definitely a bad choice. Attention, muscle memory, the ability to determine the situation in a split second and respond correctly to it come with time. But a sports motorcycle does not give it and does not forgive mistakes, and not only yours - poor-quality coating, unsuitable fluids, unqualified service (and qualified service costs a pretty penny, which we will talk about later) - all this needs to be taken into account.

The largest number of accidents on city streets and highways involving motorcyclists occurs with newcomers to “sports”!

Nobody forbids mastering a sportbike from scratch. But it’s better to do this on a motorcycle track, under the supervision of an experienced instructor, gaining road experience on a calmer vehicle. If absolutely not, then let us remind you that today there are enough motorcycles and scooters with good dynamics, but not so sensitive accelerator and some limitation of power and speed, stylized as “sports”. For the first time they will be enough, and then you can take more serious equipment

Equipment

When planning to buy your first motorcycle, it is worth foreseeing in advance the costs of obtaining a driver’s license, purchasing a compulsory motor insurance policy and paying transport tax. A significant part of the costs is also the purchase of equipment.

• A good quality helmet will cost from 10 thousand rubles.
• Gloves cost from 3 thousand rubles.
• Jacket with special built-in protection – 10,000 or more.
• Boots - from 8 thousand rubles.
• Trousers – 8,000 or more.

Important

In addition, it would not hurt to install protective arches (sliders) on the motorcycle, the purchase of which will cost from 10 thousand rubles.

Does it make sense to take dockless?

We strongly advise you not to choose a motorcycle without documents. This choice brings with it many inconveniences:

• There is a risk that the bike is stolen - you will be considered an accomplice;
• The vehicle can always be “squeezed out”, stolen, you will never be able to contact law enforcement agencies, put on the wanted list and generally prove that this is your equipment;
• The traffic police will always be interested in people without docks. You will not be able to calmly go to a rally, or go on a motorcycle trip, or ride in a convoy to the opening or closing of the season. The fear of the law will always be present;
• If you get into an accident, you will always be at fault, no matter how fast you were driving or who should have passed whom. You simply did not have the right to be at additional traffic police stations in an unregistered vehicle.

Registering a motorcycle is a simple procedure and will not take much of your time. The main thing is to initially buy a “clean” bike, check it by frame number, get a certificate-invoice or draw up a sales contract. But after this you can be confident and calm. Which also increases reaction and safety on the road.

The choice of motorcycle is very important. Take this seriously, and then you will only enjoy driving!

6) Kawasaki Z650 (or any universal Japanese motorcycle)

The term "universal Japanese motorcycle" (JM) refers to specific types of these motorcycles that were produced back in the early 70s and 80s. What is this universal motorcycle?

The main platform of a utility motorcycle is usually vertical, with the engine located directly under the seat, which includes a carburetor, air cooling, and at least one disc brake. The design of this type of motorcycle is very simple and without any frills. But thanks to its simple design, this type of motorcycle has become very popular in motorsports.

This type of motorcycle is not very expensive, but it is reliable, and this motorcycle also has quite decent power. This class of motorcycles is perfect for both professionals and beginners. For example, a novice biker can buy himself a Kawasaki Z650 model or any other equally versatile motorcycle.

3) Suzuki SV650

Having carefully looked through many forums dedicated to motorcycles, we saw for ourselves that most motorcyclists recommend that beginners buy the Suzuki SV650 model. Friends, we would like to introduce you to this stated position, that is, why many people advise buying this particular model of motorcycle:

It has a comfortable seating position that allows a beginner to feel more confident behind the wheel of a motorcycle. Despite its small engine power and torque, it will be quite sufficient for those who are just starting to join the motorcycle culture and drive a motorcycle. Friends, please note that this motorcycle is equipped with a V-shaped engine. Which is definitely encouraging.

4) Kawasaki Ninja 250

The Ninja 250 is the quintessential model for any aspiring beginner taking his first steps into the world of motorcycle culture. Here, friends, are the main advantages of this motorcycle model:

- Price.

- Availability.

— Competitive pricing.

- Easy to sell.

— Sufficient power.

This motorcycle can teach and teach you at the same time how to ride any motorcycle.

5) Honda Grom

Grom is a tiny bundle of joy for fans of any motorcycle. This small motorcycle has a power of 9 hp. and weighs only 100 kg. For traveling in dense city traffic, this Honda is one of the best solutions for all novice bikers who do not yet feel completely confident behind the wheel of a motorcycle.

2) Honda CB300F

This is one of the best motorcycles for those motorcyclists who have only recently received a license with category “A”. By purchasing this equipment, you will get exactly what you wanted, that is: - light weight, efficiency, power and excellent ergonomics. We advise, dear friends, if you are still new to this motorcycle issue, to first buy a used motorcycle. First you need to gain experience, and then you can always sell it on the used market and buy a new bike.