1) What would you recommend as a “first” motorcycle for a newbie?
2) With a gazillion bikes to choose from, how would you advise a friend, new to the world of motorcycling, on which bike to purchase?
3) Should it be a used bike or a new one?
You and I will likely agree on this advice: “Do not buy the biggest and/or fastest bike available.”
OK. That’s obvious. Yet, according to an employee at my local motorcycle dealership, new buyers routinely purchase motorcycles they are not ready to handle. (And this is a LARGE dealership).
I’ve been at that same dealer when a guy bought a big, expensive bike, having never ridden before, and dropped it before he got 20 yards, breaking a lever and turn signal and causing other minor damage. (The rider was unscathed – just embarrassed). I asked one of the mechanics about it and he said, “It happens all the time” and repeated several recent examples of the same.
It’s not unthinkable that at least some of these new riders asked some rider friends about what they would recommend. What did those friends suggest?
Stated simply: If you are not an experienced rider, don’t buy a hyper-powered Suzuki Hayabusa, or Kawasaki ZX14. Don’t get a full-tourer, such as Honda Goldwing or BMW LT. Don’t buy any Harley Davidson bigger than a Sportster as your first bike. Do not purchase a sport-touring bike, such as a BMW RT or BMW GT, Kawasaki Concours14, Honda ST1300, or Yamaha FJR1300 as your first ride.
Would you advise a new rider to purchase a middle-weight bike?
Opinions diverge here.
“Middle-weight” still includes a significant variety of high-performance sport bikes, especially in the neighborhood of 600cc to 750cc.
A mid-weight could include an 883cc Sportster, which is “small” in the Harley Davidson family.
The supporting side of the argument for starting a new rider on a mid-sized bike is that once you get through your initial learning curve, you’ll be able to “grow into” the bike instead of buying another one. The idea is that there is an economical advantage to getting a bigger bike (midsize) than a new rider may be able to readily handle while he is learning to ride.
My view is more conservative: I recommend that men and women purchase a “small” bike as their first machine (250cc or smaller).
• Smaller bikes are easier to lift back up if you drop it when you fail to set down your side stand correctly, or if you lose your footing in some loose gravel at a stop sign.
• Smaller bikes are easier to handle and are more forgiving: Larger and more powerful bikes demand greater precision, skill, and smoothness to keep them controlled.
• Insurance costs are less for smaller bikes.
• There’s a fuel economy advantage with a small bike, too, although that will not be relevant to all riders. (Many riders would continue their bike passion even if fuel was more costly for a motorbike than a car).
EXAMPLES OF PRACTICAL FIRST BIKES FOR NEW RIDERS
This is not an exhaustive list of practical first bikes for new riders, but they do represent the concepts in this article:
- Honda Rebel 250 (Cruiser)
- Honda Nighthawk 250 (Standard)
- Honda CRF230L (Dual Purpose)
- Kawasaki KLX250S (Dual Purpose)
- Kawasaki Ninja 250R (Sport)
- Kawasaki Eliminator 125 (Cruiser)
- Suzuki GZ250 (Standard)
- Suzuki DR200SE (Dual Purpose)
- Yamaha WR250X (Dual Purpose)
- Yamaha WR250R (Dual Purpose)
- Yamaha XT250 (Dual Purpose)
- Yamaha V Star 250 (Cruiser)
Although not everyone I recommend such bikes to will follow through and buy a small bike (they’ll get a bigger one), I’m of the thinking that a gradient approach to learning and gaining experience will pay off in greater longer-term enjoyment and safety.
What about buying a used or new bike as a first motorcycle purchase? Click here.
It’s a real shame that there aren’t any 400cc bikes anymore, except for scooters.
The problem with scooters is that here is so much “tupperware” on them. This can get $$$ if a novice drops them at any speed at all; even while stopped. The same holds true for the little 250 Ninja
The old 400cc naked bikes, aka JSMs, were great first street bikes for anyone who had ridden minibikes or dirtbikes before turning 16, and were even good starter bikes for folks who were total begineers. Enough power for even the freeway, not so much to be dangerous for a newby, light enough to pick up if dropped. And no expensive body panels to break.
I’ve been riding some 19 years now and been on two wheels since i was three, ive seen it all, done most things people would’t do!, but one thing strikes me is others reaction to “more training” trust me- YOU NEVER STOP LEARNING!!
I started on 125’s till i thought i was ready then went to a suzuki 400 bandit, then a year later a brand spanking new zx6r j1 in 2000, i put 50,000 miles on it in four years, which by then i wanted something a little less frantic…ahem, so i got a fireblade!, brilliant bike but not for the faint hearted- a year later, i was still feeling it too hungry for the revs, so i opted for something different-totally i got myself a Triumph T595, i could not imagine riding anything else other than a speed triple or a tiger.
I must admit i have had a charmed life so far on bikes considering i dont drive!, but i would give strong advice to those new to two wheels, take it easy – if you go crazy the only thing you will impress is your ego, not the cop that pulls you or the medical staff pulling the bits of stone and gravel out of your ass, start small and progress up experience is the way forward, anyone thinking they can just jump on something big is going to learn a very painfull lesson- like my brothers, they both have huge ego’s-it must go well with their accident rates, ive been down 8 times for various reasons (only 1 my fault!) my younger brother has crashed everything he has owned-many of them twice or more – not good, my other brother had a good start to his riding career (NOT), first day on his new 125-hit from behind, 5 months later his 400- five accidents, a year later got a cbr600 he only had it for four weeks but still crashed it four times, then six months later, he got an R1, he is 5 foot 5 inches high, weighs about as much as a wet bag of sugar……you know whats coming dont you! 3 more accidents, he went down to a sv650, but that managed to break his foot even though he wasnt on it!
so the short of the long story: 1- GET TRAINED, 2-START SMALL, 3-DONT RUSH GOING UP IN CAPACITY TILL YOU ARE READY, 4- LEARN FROM YOUR MISTAKES cos if you dont learn and improve your craft – it will take you – be it quickly or kicking and screaming but it will.
BEST BIKES TO LEARN AND GET CONFIDENT WITH ARE HONDA CBR600 OR BMW F800, BUT NEVER EVER BUY NEW, YOU WILL LOOSE TOO MUCH MONEY AND WREAK IT IN NO TIME!
ASK YOURSELF..HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A HIGH MILEAGE DUCATI?…ME NEITHER!.
Being an apprentice motorcycle mechanic I see a lot of ‘older’ bikes come in and out of the shop. A lot of them are rare. Recently a guy brought in an 88 Honda VF 400, I love it. I started young on dirt bikes because my dad somehow convinced my mom that it was a good idea, It was. My first road bike was a 1999 Honda CBR 600 F4 and it was perfect for my skill level and size, but that VF 400 made me double take. I would recommend that bike to anyone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. Forgiving V-4, lower-middle displacement. JSM roots in a sporty package, amazing stand over and simple mechanics.
But a huge thing to consider above displacement when getting a bike is your body weight as a percentage of the total weight of your and the bike. My 600 with a 120lbs person on it will absolutely fly compared to me at 200. A few pounds makes a huge difference, and the first thing you’ll want to study as a new rider is suspension, nothing will make a bigger difference to the feel and safety of your bike than having the right spring rate and damping.
But yeah VF 400 is my vote.
I am 20 years old. My first bike is underbone Kawasaki Kaze R 110 (in South East Asia only) and now I took hyperunderbone Kawasaki AX 125B (a.k.a Fury 125 in Phillipine). People in Indonesia usually has small bike under 250cc. Old bike (1960-1980) in 50cc, 110cc and 125cc and new bike until 250cc (Kawasaki KLX 250S and Ninja 250R and Minerva Sachs 250) . I prefer semi-automatic clutch than manual bike for advising newbie.
My first bike was a mini-bike my dad bought for me and my brother. I was all of about 13 or so. First road bike was a Honda 125 when I was 19. Traded it for a car out of necessity (we’re talking 30 years ago). Hadn’t been on a bike – not even 2nd seat – in over 25 years, and bought a MotoGuzzi 750. LOVED IT! Except… engine would burn my left leg unless wearing chaps. Couldn’t get accessories even thru the dealer, traded for a V-Star 1300 less than 6 months later. I’ve put over 14,000 miles on my V-star in 2 years, and haven’t looked back. However, I wish I had taken the rider safety course before buying any bike. I would likely have a sport bike now instead of a tourer…
My first owned ride was an old 1970 Honda 350, which I wish I still had. Great bike. Low maintenance. At 6′3″ it wasn’t too short. Followed that with a 1981 Honda CB900f Supersport which is a tall bike that I got with 18,000 miles on it. That’s a perfect fit. Got a 2004 Goldwing [1832 cc] which rides like a sport bike but seats just a little low for me.
I learned on a Suzuki GZ250 and it was the best choice for me (and probably any new rider). I took my state riding test with only 2 weeks practice and was the ONLY one of my group to pass (and I passed with no deductions). All of the other testees had at least a year more experience than me, but each had 650+ CC bikes. I have since upgraded to a Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic, which I love.
I started with riding a Scooter vino 125, then moved to a Majesty 400. I knew that I really wanted to tour and within 8 months bought a Yamaha FJR 1300. It is a heavy bike. I’ve dropped it a few times and it has been a challenge. I still have some anxiety pulling off road onto dirt and gravel but I love the bike and wouldn’t trade it. I have about 30K miles behind me now. I don’t recommend new riders take the leap and buy a big bike as soon as I did. A vstrom 650 might be a good alternative.
First of all, I agree. Smaller bikes, low power, are the best to start ever. But… sometimes there are specific situations. My case is one of these.
I bought my first bike 3 years ago, I was 46, with about 5′6″.
I live in São Paulo-Brazil, a HUGE city, with a traffic that is really not friendly to bikes. I do not like to ride inside the city.
Thieves love the 125/250 cc bikes here, so I would be a constant target.
My plan was to go to small trips maybe 100 to 200 miles around the city on weekends.
In our market we can find old HondaCB400 from 20 years ago, too old. Or a HondaNX350(trail) – too high.
So I saw the SuzyGS500, small, not too much heavier than a 250 (maybe 50kg more only), with more power available (useful on roads and with passenger), low seat (I mean it fits to me), not wanted by thieves, cheaper than the HondaCB500 ( and thieves loves the Hondas…).
A good start for me. Standard position (not a custom, nor a supersport), I can put my feet on the ground easily.
So in general I agree with you, but I had to evaluate my specifc sutuation in terms of objectives, risks, availability of models and so on.
Many hugs and thanks for your good hints and discussions.
Take a look at the group I am riding with, at http://www.aguiasdoasfaltosp.com.br I was lucky on meeting these nice-funny-crazy-responsible group.
Roque.
Can anyone please explain to me why 400cc are no longer manufactured. It seems to be the perfect transition from ameteur to novice.
Having been on the back seat of bikes since 1970 and having been involved in group participation for the last 12 years or so, as a short 5′2″ new Driver, I took the BRC class before making my bike purchase about 4 years ago. Bike of my choice was a 2006 Suzuki Burgman 400 with an automatic transmission purchased more than a year After I took the BRC class.
250 Rebels couldn’t keep up with the bigger bikes on interstate and mountain roads, the balance seemed top heavy, and my hand spread was too small for the brake and clutch levers.
The bike needs to be a good “fit.”(Seat height, balance, handle bar position, brake and clutch lever fit, windshield height, etc.–These are things you’ll learn about in a Beginner’s Rider Course)
I’ve watched a lot of ladies trade up to bigger bikes after being on 250’s or 650’s a while– and then quit riding because the bigger bike’s uncomfortable for them to handle.
I’m still learning my limits and the limits of my bike at 25,000+ miles and counting.
Funny, isn’t it, how your legs need to reach the ground (Some bend in the knees is good, you should NOT be standing on tippy toe), your arms need to be relaxed at the handlebars, your hands need to be able to manipulate the levers, you need to see Over the windshield, and last but not least, you need to be able to get the bike off the kickstand and be able to back it up! If you can’t do all of these, it’s not the bike for you!
I think it’s important to have the right mindset about owning a motorcycle. Are you choosing the bike because it’s comfortable and has the capabilities you are looking for in fuel economy, comfort, reliability, and visibility? Or are you just looking for a white knuckled ride that will require a change of underwear after every excursion?
Use common sense (NOT AVAILABLE IN ALL MODELS).
Get advice from friends who also ride, because the sales person doesn’t usually care as long as they get their commission for each sale they write up.
Safe riding is each rider’s responsibility! If you plan to carry a passenger your responsibility just doubled!
I can understand the recommendation for a 250 or smaller bike as a starter bike in terms of lightness ease of handling etc.
I’ll be devils advocate and say however that out on the road I have often been in situation where the power of the bike has been able to get me out of dangerous situations.
Ideally I think a light bike with good brakes and some power might be best for a learner. While some 250s might meet this criteria, I am thinking more along the lines of a 400 cc bike.
Just by way of reference, I am 52, 5′ 6″ and about 145 lbs. I own a Harley VRSCAW, a KTM 950SM, a Buell Xb12Ss and a Honda crf450r.
I would start with a used bike in what ever kind of riding you are going to do that way if you die someone will not have the bill to pay off . Start small and work up .
I’m 56 years old and 1.80 cm/109kg. Last year I took a basic training course with a honda 250cc for about 3 weeks. Immediately after I was on a bmw f800gs which I made 2000 km on and off road without any problem.Being able to ride a 800cc bike so early in experience gives you a fake confidence which could be fatal if you don’t watch out. I made a right turn at an intersection where I found a child trying to cross the road.I hastily applied the brakes but couldn’t hold up the bike. I dropped the bike on my leg and crushed my ankle and feet. Ankle and two bones from the foot were broken. I had to spend the next 6 months both in hospital and home trying to recover.
My recommendation for new beginners is to start off with a bike that isn’t heavy and tall. 250-450 cc, 100-120 kg and 85-90 cm seat height is normal. My bmw was 207 kgs and it was impossible to hold it up once inclined 10-15 degrees.
And another important experience I gained is that if you have to drop a bike let it go and don’t try to save it at the expense of injuring yourself. After the accident I sold my bmw f800gs and now I’m planning to buy the 450x version which is around 117 kgs. have a safe ride……..
The weight of the bike can be intimidating.
For many skipping the lightweight (under 400 lb) bike is a financial move. By stating on a lighter weight mdi size bike, you can ride it for years and not be limited on where you can ride. My wife, at 5′ 2″ – 120 lbs, started on on a Suzuki S-50 (previously intruder) and is still riding it 3 years later. It is 800 CC and weighs approx 450 lbs iwth accessories. It was a mart move for us because she can keep up wih me and our riding groups on the freeway at 80 plus mph. The would be impossible on a honda rebel. We belive it is most important that the bike fits the height confidence of the new rider. Thanks for the great articles,
LJ
The only bike I recomend is the Suzuki 600 Bandit 96-99. Yeas it does have some power but it is so easy to manage and it is a very forgiving ride even when you goof up. It could do what ever you need to cheap, to repair if dropped, and get really good MPG. I had 2 people I know get one of these and both have moved on to larger bikes, 1 to a ZX10 and the other to a VTX1300, and both had a very plesent leaning experience with the wee Bandit.
I think I would have a friend start out on a Kawai 250 ninja. Light weight, handles great and not quite enough power to hurt themselves too bad. Then I always HIGHLY suggest them to go take the local MSF course.
I began riding 4 years ago at age 55. I started with a 1200 cc Honda Shadow Sabre. It was admittedly bigger than what is usually recommended, but I actually had more trouble riding the little 250cc bike in the rider training class than the 1200. I began riding an 1800cc Goldwing a few months later and haven’t looked back since. It just depends on the person. Also, maybe I was just lucky.
I started riding a Vespa when I was 12 yrs old. and moved all through the bikes, 175 Honda, 350 Honda, 650 Honda, 750 Honda, 750 BSA, 900 Honda then the 1100. I now ride a Yamaha 1700. So you can see I started slow. I do believe in this approach but I don’t think a 650 is to big to start on. I got one for a girlfriend of mine and she did just fine. Take the safety class first then get out and enjoy to road. Take every safety class you can as practice makes perfect.
I am 45 and 5′1. I have been riding since 2003. My husband had bought me a 883 Sportster prior to me taking the Motorcycle Safety Course, thinking it would be a good starter bike for me. It had already been lowered. Needless to say, it was was not the best starter bike. It was very intimidating. The manager of out local Harley shop called him and told him that they had gotten a Suzuki GZ250 in on trade in, so he went and bought that for me. It was the perfect thing to get some seat time in on. I rode it for about 2 months and got about 2500 miles in and then I graduated to the Sportster. I rode it throughout 2003 and then I saw a 2004 Glacier Pearl White Lowrider at the dealership. It had been sold but I ordered one and it came in on my birthday in March of 2004. I rode that and then in March of 2006 my husband and I both ordered new 2006 Heritage Softtail Classics. His in black and mine in white. Of course we had to get add-on’s put on prior to picking them up. He already has a 1998 Ultra Glide Classic, which I ride on the back of when I want to sight see. We picked up the bikes after we got back from Myrtle Beach in 2006. I guess what I am trying to say is, you really need to start small if you have never ridden before. Don’t ride something that you do not feel comfortable on because it will usually cause problems. When you are riding your bike, you should be able to be relaxed and not have to worry whether you will be able to control the or worry whether you will be able to touch the ground when you stop. Forgot to say, that at my height, I have had to have all of my bikes lowered prior to riding.
In my opinion, much of what will determine a good first bike is the size of the rider. A smaller person may well be served by a smaller displacement motorcycle due to weight of the bike. Other riders may handle one of the twins that are currently on the market; Ninja 650, SV650 or Ducati 620/695 of the previous vintage. While these bikes have more power and larger displacements, they are not “peaky” in power delivery which is frequently what get’s new riders into trouble.
Still, the smart money is spent on a used small or mid displacement bike as I and others have mentioned. I know the industry doesn’t want to hear this, but bikes of that sized are almost always dropped, and lose value quickly.
I’m 5′7” 20years old and started on a Honda Rebel last year. It was perfect to start training myself to ride because it wasn’t too fast, heavy and was low. After a couple months i felt ready to move on though and am now looking for a 600-750cc sportster. Highway and backroad practise on a Rebel are easily controlled situations. Best thing about most beginner bikes is the resale value.
I am a 61 yr old 5′2″ grandma who started riding 20 yrs ago. My first bike was a CR305 Kow. Being of small stature and age 40 this was a very good bike, and easily handled by me. Size is important but so is the design, and balance of the bike. My husband and I would load the kids, pack a lunch and just ride to the country.
One of my most important recommendations for a new rider is to take a course, and learn all the defensive skills.
Riding is great fun but you are invisible to everyone on the road. Anyone with short legs I would recommend staying away from the rebel. Even though it is short the engine covers can make riding very uncomfortable after a while. My daughter is now talking about riding, and was looking at a 800 Intruder (I don’t think so) we talked her out of it, and picked up a 1982, Honda 350 to start. I just got a 1992 Vulcan 750 and plan on passing it on to her when she knows what she is doing.
Riding is the greatest, but becoming one with your bike, adds a whole new dimension, and that only come with a slow start and perfection.