We often come across the question “What are the best bikes for beginners?” Is it 250cc, 450cc and some of the insane says 600cc. But before answering this question, there are a lot of factors to weigh, but 300cc is always an ideal category to start with. Which bike is best for a beginner? It all depends on what kind of riding you’d like to have. All of the choices on this list give a great commencement for new riders.
If you’re interested in joining the world of two wheels check out these excellent starting points that cover all the categories including sport bikes, adventure motorcycles, and naked bikes.
Best Bikes for Beginners
Honda CB300R (CBR300R & CB300F)
Honda is one manufacturer that has immersed its model line with plenty of 300cc and below two-wheeled offerings. The 286cc liquid-cooled Single found in the CB300R is used in three other models itself. In case you are not attracted to the neo-retro look of the CB300R? Maybe you’re interested in a fine standard bike like the CB300F or perhaps the sportier CBR300R. The CB300R looks like a replica of its elder bro, the CB1000R, which means this is one symbolic lightweight bike. A 41mm inverted fork, advanced Showa shock, and radial-mount brake calipers are some of the details that set the CB300R apart from others in the class, and the Honda family.
Honda Rebel 300
Yeah exactly, our next best would also be a Honda! They have so many to offer! The Honda Rebel has been active since the ’80s, leading in new riders with its small size and receptive, but nearly feeble 250cc single. Well, guess what!? Honda plonked its 286cc Single in the Rebel as well, giving the little cruiser a renovated mill to compete with the times. Not to suggest the Rebel is also available with a 500cc motor if you’re thinking playful. The 300 starts at $4,399 and is available with ABS for 300 extra smackers. If you’re interested in much more fun, but still aren’t completely sure where the clutch is, maybe you should start with the Rebel 300.
Kawasaki Versys-X 300
We’ve had a lot of fun on the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 that pioneered its way through jungles and seashores. That’s the best thing about the Versys, the versatility. We’ve traveled hundreds if not thousands of miles on the Versys and the sewing-machine-smooth 296cc Twin has kept us coming back and choosing it as the conqueror in multiple shootouts. The ruling champ you could say. If you’re ADV-curious, but want a venture bike that’s smaller and easier to master on than most of the 13,000cc 6-foot tall beasts in the market, prefer the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 as a starting point for a base price of $5,399.
Yamaha R3
Yamaha’s R3 just got a full upgrade that was also featured at the brand’s presentation at AIMExpo. Originally developed to challenge other 300cc sportbikes, Yamaha was one of the last to develop a bike for the entry-level class after Kawasaki and Honda had shown notable success in the modern market. The new R3 receives a multitude of upgrades with an inverted fork, styling nostalgic of the R6 and R1, and a slightly improved rider triangle, all of which you get at the same price point as the 2018 model, starting at $4,999.
KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke was the model that made us reevaluate the term entry-level. The 390 Duke can be an entry-level motorcycle, but it also gives a level of finish, consideration to feature, and performance, that’s hard to match in its class. Well, the 373cc Single is much larger than many of the models on this list, but certainly, it’s our list and we do what we want to do. From the Duke’s torquey 373cc Single, TFT display, three-way switchable ABS (including Supermoto mode), in-your-face styling, and WP suspension, you get a lot of motorcycle for $5,299. No doubt, it is one of the best road bikes in 2019.
BMW G310GS
The BMW G310GS had some big shoes to fill for a model carrying the GS moniker, maybe that’s why I came away from the launch of the bike with mixed feelings. The motor felt underpowered and the suspension under sprung, but maybe I was holding it to too high of a standard. When we compared the wee GS to the Royal Enfield Himalayan and Versys-X, the playing field was level and made me appreciate the bike for what it was, a stable entry point to the BMW brand as well as a great looking adventure motorcycle platform for those starting. At $5,695, it’s absolutely a decent applicant in the market. It is considered as one of the best bikes for beginners in 2019.
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