Beginner riders who love sportbikes are in luck as there are now more accessible yet performance-oriented models available. Kawasaki is one brand that offers a good selection of these models, including the popular Ninja 400 and Ninja 650. In 2023, Kawasaki introduced the Ninja ZX-4RR, a small but powerful inline-four sportbike.
In 2024, Kawasaki is expanding its lineup with the addition of the Ninja ZX-4R. The ZX-4R shares many qualities with its double-R sibling, but it is slightly more affordable as it doesn’t include some of the premium features found on the ZX-4RR. The platform has proven to be a great balance of real-world enjoyment and track potential due to its manageable size and weight.
Both ZX-4 models are powered by the same 399cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine, producing 76 horsepower and 27.7 pound-feet of torque. While these figures may not seem impressive on paper, the sound of the high-revving motor is enough to turn heads both on the street and on the track. The ZX-4RR offers additional technology including a bi-directional quick shifter and premium adjustable Showa front suspension as standard. It comes with a price tag of $10,099 in KRT trim and $9,899 in standard trim. The ZX-4R is priced at $9,399.
For riders looking for a sportbike to cover long distances, while still keeping the Ninja name, Kawasaki offers the Ninja 1000 SX for the 2024 model-year. This model has been around for a while and comes with a comprehensive set of touring-focused technologies, including Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), cruise control, and Kawasaki Intelligent ABS (KIBS). It also features a full-color TFT display with smartphone integration through the Rideology app.
The Ninja 1000 SX is powered by the reliable 1,043cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine that’s also found in the Versys 1000 and Z1000 naked bike. It delivers 140 horsepower and 81.7 pound-feet of torque, providing a confident power delivery on both highways and twisty roads. The 2024 model comes in Metallic Matte Graphite Gray / Metallic Diablo Black and has an MSRP of $13,699.
Beginner motorcycle riders may find some of the largest touring bikes to be too big and intimidating, however, that does not mean beginner riders cannot buy a touring bike or take off on a long trip. Instead, they need to work their way up to those massive touring machines. Starting smaller, lighter, and with less power enables them to practice their skills and gain confidence. Then, when they are ready, they can upgrade to a larger and more powerful motorcycle. These 10 bikes are perfect for first-timers because they have the right amount of power, storage, and comfort.
Updated September 2023: Every year, manufacturers release new motorcycle models. In order to keep our readers well-informed, we will periodically update this article with all the latest information available to us.
Honda is in the business of getting new riders to sign up for the motorcycle life. As such, over their many years in the industry, they’ve developed quite a few very successful beginner motorcycles. For those new riders familiar with Honda and their welcoming reputation, the CB500X is the perfect choice to start their new life as motorcycle travelers. There’s nothing overtly exotic or even exciting about the CB500X and that’s the point.
It’s there to teach you how to ride for long distances, like a perfect coach as it won’t punish you if your throttle hand gets away from you. There are anti-lock brakes to save you when the inevitable rain hits out of nowhere. It’s light and nibble, which allows for a spirited ride down any street. The TFT is a no-frills affair, with all the basic readouts you’ll ever need on your trip. The tall windshield will keep the wind off you, and if you decide to bring a passenger with you, the bike includes handholds for them as well.
Pros
One of the smoothest power deliveries from a sub-500 ADV
Honda’s reliability and resale value
It is the most versatile option in this segment
Cons
Comfort is not its biggest attribute
It’s not really a hardcore adventure motorcycle
Design is just meh at best
9Kawasaki Versys 300
Kawasaki
The Versys is relatively new on the touring scene, but it has already made a big impact. The 296cc liquid-cooled flat-winged engine gives the bike plenty of power and stays true to Kawasaki’s roots as a sport bike manufacturer. However, because it is tuned for the Versys and is smaller in size, beginners don’t have to worry about the engine overpowering their abilities. One drawback of this bike is the tall seat height. Shorter riders will struggle to get their feet on the ground while riding this bike.
The Z650RS is a standard motorcycle. The type of Swiss army knife that used to be ubiquitous in the 1970s and 80s, made for people who just want that one bike. That’s all they need. And for beginners looking for a do-it-all motorcycle, the buck stops here. Its neutral seating position and comfortable seat are perfect for just about any style of riding (though maybe think twice before taking it off-road).
Want to commute to work every day? Here’s the Z650RS. Want to ride off on a week-long vacation trip? Kawasaki has got your back with the Z650RS. It’s a beautifully retro and lightweight, it is also tame and exciting at all once. The parallel twin is smooth and responsive, with plenty of torque on tap. And if you do decide to go on a longer trip, there are plenty of accessories and luggage options from Kawasaki or the aftermarket.
Pros
A great, potent parallel-twin engine
Kawasaki reliability
Good ergonomics
Cons
Relatively expensive compared to other entry-level options
Braking isn’t exactly best-in-class
7Triumph Tiger 660
Triumph Motorcycles
This sport roadster is tailor-made for beginners who love the look and feel of Triumph’s Triple hotshot, the Trident, but want something more practical for longer rides. It’s comparatively smaller, but not all beginners can confidently say they are ready to commit to buying a larger touring motorcycle. The Triumph Tiger 660 lets beginners dip their toes into the world of touring without buying a bike that’s as intimidating as the BMW R 1250 GS.
Without the luggage, the bike looks clean and sporty, ready for a day on the curves or a ride through the city. Add the luggage, and you have a bike that’s ready for a long-distance ride. Should you decide you like touring, plenty of other accessories are available, such as additional lighting and heated grips.
Pros
A suite of advanced electronics and safety features
Multiple ride modes
Overall a versatile touring motorcycle
Cons
Seat height can be intimidating for shorter riders
Not off-road friendly even though it’s technically a Tiger
Expensive accessories if you’re looking at mods
6Royal Enfield Classic 350
Royal Enfield
On the surface, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 may seem like an odd choice for a first touring motorcycle. But hear us out. One, it’s comfortable. And two, it’s $4,699. No, it won’t win any races, but that’s not really what you need when you’re touring, anyway. And make no mistake, this gorgeously styled retro has everything you’ll need for a proper getaway, provided you stick mostly to local roads.
Its 350cc single thumper produces just 20 hp and 19 lbs-ft of torque. That’s pretty tame. But if you just got out of your motorcycle riding class, and your driver’s license is still warm from the DMV printer, this machine will be more than enough. It’ll be the perfect partner to usher you into the new world of motorcycle touring.
Pros
Timeless and iconic design
Simple, easy maintenance
Availability of a wide range of aftermarket customization options
Cons
Lacks necessary power
Vibrations at higher speeds affect long-distance comfort
Limited technology and modern features
5CFMoto 650 Adventura
CFMOTO
This decade will prove to be the dawn of a new power player in the world of motorcycles. China has made great strides into the market and perhaps no one is more successful at it than CFMoto. And with the introduction of the 650 Adventura, CFMoto has fired its first shot at the ADV touring market. But is it better than its more seasoned competitors?
Time will only tell, though from what we’ve seen so far, the Adventura has all the makings of a proper beginner touring motorcycle. It’s a relatively inexpensive, middleweight bike, that’s comfortable on longer rides and has some nifty premium features like a TFT display with Bluetooth connection, hard panniers and an adjustable windshield. This is the perfect motorcycle to train yourself on while commuting or taking that long weekend getaway with your buddies.
Pros
Highly affordable option
Stunning design and looks
Feature loaded for its price
Cons
It’s Chinese
Limited service and sales network
Long-term reliability is a question mark
4Benelli TRK502X
Benelli
The other Chinese manufacturer that’s ready to tackle the beginner riding world is Benelli, a former Italian brand that was bought by a Chinese company not so long ago. And while the motorcycles are produced in China, they’re still designed in Italy. One of those bikes is the TRK502X, and if the CFMoto Adventura is going after the Triumph Tiger, the TRK502X has BMW in its sights.
It is a modern, comfortable, road-biased touring motorcycle with similar features to the Adventura. And though the CFMoto bike has a bigger engine, the Benelli is lighter and more nimble. But the bottom line is that it just might come down to looks between these two motorcycles. And for newer riders looking for a little bit of that Italian flare, Benelli may be the right choice.
For the slightly more experience new rider, that has a bit of loose change in their pocket, this middleweight BMW is going to look real attractive. The GS line of BMWs goes a long way back. The German manufacturer knows what they’re doing by now. The F 750 GS is a real premium choice for riders starting to make their way out into the world. It’s got some real get-up-and-go in its two cylinder 853cc engine.
It is purpose-built for long range, road-biased riding. The seat is comfortable and fairly low to the ground at 32.1 inches. But the cool part is that BMW can provide a suspension lowering kit and low seat, which can bring down the height as low as 30.3 inches. That’s perfect for letting beginners have their feet firmly planted at traffic stops, especially since it’s a little on the heavier side at 493 lbs (wet). There are some great premium rider aides included as well, such as dynamic traction control, ABS, rider modes and adjustable brake and clutch levers. But you better watch out for the updated F 800 GS that will launch at the start of next year.
Pros
Robust build quality
Imposing road presence
Excellent ergonomics
Cons
Stiff ride
Comparatively expensive
A newer F 800 GS is on the horizon
2Suzuki V-Strom 650
Suzuki
Don’t let its boring reputation fool you. The Suzuki V-Strom 650 adventure touring bike is perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike, its tall stance and large wheels make it perfect for riding on the road and in the dirt. The 650cc parallel-twin engine is just the right amount of power for beginners. Although, the V-Strom is heavier than comparable bikes. Suzuki is known for producing reliable bikes, which makes this one a good choice. While there is a smaller 250cc model, it won’t perform as well on the highway because it lacks the necessary power.
Pros
Versatile tourer for both on and off-road
Comfortable riding position
Cons
Small windshield
Basic electronics features compared to others
1Honda NC750X
Honda
Not much is ever written about the NC750X. It is quite often, a forgotten, distant choice for motorcycle riders. And that’s a real shame because its low price, plush ride and automatic dual-clutch transmission make it the ideal beginner touring bike. It’s so easy to ride, that it almost feels as if Honda built it specifically to induce confidence in new riders looking to explore the world.
It’s comfortable, has several riding modes, comes with an integrated storage compartment, has a windshield and a low seat height. For those new riders who are desperate to get into motorcycles, but are still struggling with manual transmissions, taller seats and heavy bikes, the Honda NC750X may be the perfect answer to all their traveling dreams.
Yamaha has introduced the 2023 YZF-R125 and YZF-R15 sportbikes in Japan, targeting beginner riders in license-restricted countries. These pint-sized motorcycles are designed for the moped class 2 and light motorcycle classes, drawing inspiration from their larger counterparts, the YZF-R7 and YZF-R1.
Unlike other affordable and accessible sportbikes in the beginner segment, Yamaha differentiates itself with the YZF-R15 and YZF-R125 through their impressive features. Both models come equipped with an assist and slipper clutch, enhancing control during downshifting and ensuring smoother riding. They also boast a traction control system, offering greater confidence to beginner riders in various weather conditions.
On the technology front, Yamaha equips these beginner-friendly bikes with impressive features. Both models come with a bi-function LED headlight and an LCD instrument panel similar to the previous generations of the YZF-R1. The sportbikes ride on 17-inch wheels and feature inverted front forks and a rear monoshock with a premium aluminum swingarm for excellent running gear.
When it comes to performance, the YZF-R125 and YZF-R15 are not designed as powerful machines. They are equipped with a 125cc and 155cc single-cylinder engine, respectively. However, both models feature liquid cooling, fuel injection, and Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system. This system optimizes valve timing for fuel efficiency and low-end torque while providing adequate power at higher RPMs. The power is transferred to the rear wheel through a six-speed manual transmission with a slipper clutch. Additionally, there is an optional quick-shifter available for even more exciting performance.
The Yamaha YZF-R125 and YZF-R15 will be available in Japan starting October 16, 2023. The YZF-R125 is priced at 517,000 Yen ($3,502 USD), while the YZF-R15 carries a price tag of 550,000 Yen ($3,725 USD).
Suzuki is known worldwide for its wide range of motorcycle models suitable for riders of all experience levels, especially beginners. The company has recently expanded its lineup in Australia by launching the new Gixxer 250. This exciting addition comes in both naked and fully faired versions, giving riders diverse options to match their preferences and riding style.
The Suzuki Gixxer 250 has already gained popularity in the Asian market. In Australia, it is expected to be a popular choice for novice riders with learner’s licenses. Interestingly, these new Gixxer 250 models will be available alongside the V-Strom 250 SX adventure-tourer. They share the same frame, engine, and technology, providing riders with a familiar yet diverse lineup to choose from.
The name “Gixxer” is derived from the GSX range of premium models, known for sportbikes like the GSX-R600 and GSX-R1000. This time, the quarter-liter Gixxer proudly carries that name as its official title. In terms of style, the Gixxer 250 offers a naked sportbike aesthetic, while the Gixxer 250 SF comes with a full fairing. Both models feature comfortable upright ergonomics, making them accessible and inviting for riders of all levels.
Performance-wise, these bikes are equipped with a powerful 249cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine. They deliver 26.7 horsepower and 15.5 pound-feet (22.2 Newton-meters) of torque, providing ample power for an exciting ride. The six-speed manual transmission gives riders control over speed and acceleration, while the chain final drive ensures a responsive and engaging riding experience.
The appeal of these two new models lies in their accessibility, thanks to their approachable performance and lightweight design. The Gixxer 250 weighs just 156 kilograms, making it easy to handle. The Gixxer 250 SF weighs slightly more at 161 kilograms but still maintains a comfortable riding position. Both options cater to a wide range of riders, offering a user-friendly yet thrilling riding experience.
The new Suzuki Gixxer 250 models are expected to be available in the Australian market starting November 2023. The Gixxer 250 will be priced at $6,490 AUD (approximately $4,178 USD), while the Gixxer 250 SF will have a slightly higher price of $6,790 AUD (approximately $4,371 USD). These competitive prices make them an affordable choice for motorcycle enthusiasts in Australia.
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