For some, a motorcycle is a distant dream, for others it is an ordinary means of transportation, and still others are in search of their first “iron horse”. To help them is a selection of motorcycles for beginners.
In fact, for your first motorcycle it is absolutely not necessary to be light and low-powered. Motorcycles that are heavier than “small-sized ones” may well be suitable, the main thing is that there is traction at the “bottoms” and that the bike is easy to control. In addition, we must take into account that for people of large build, getting on small motorcycles is not easy. In general, we enclose a selection of the best options for your first bike.
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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Tips and tricks on technical issues
Before going anywhere on a motorcycle, a novice rider should be savvy in some basic issues. Two-wheeled equipment needs proper maintenance no less than a car. What does a beginner need to know about motorcycles before purchasing his first iron horse?
- It is very important not to forget to change the engine oil in a timely manner. According to the rules, this is required to be done every 5-6 thousand kilometers. If the bike is equipped with a high-speed engine, then the lubricant is changed every 3 thousand.
- Beginners should take into account that fuel-injected motorcycles are easier to maintain. The carburetor requires finer tuning, so at first it is better to entrust the care of such a fuel system to a professional.
- As for brakes, changing the brake fluid once a year is quite enough. It is better not to skimp on it, because the quality of braking directly affects the safety of both the motorcyclist himself and other road users.
- A transmission with a chain is considered the most difficult to maintain, but it is also inexpensive. The chain is lubricated every 500-1000 kilometers, and replaced every 12,000. The cardan transmission does not require much attention, but if you completely forget about changing the oil in the gearbox and do not change the boots, then such a transmission will come out very soon.
Two-wheeled vehicles need proper maintenance
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yamaha XJ6N
The Yamaha XJ6N is a versatile mid-sized bike tuned for leisurely riding. The motorcycle is intended primarily for novice riders: it is very easy to control. The engine begins to produce maximum thrust at very low speeds, so you can start almost from idle. This characteristic also contributes to vigorous starts from traffic lights: the XJ6N can “shoot” faster than many more powerful bikes.
At the same time, all controls are made as soft as possible to make it more comfortable for a novice rider. Due to the steel frame, the motorcycle turned out to be quite heavy. The suspension is simple in design. Its capabilities are enough for a comfortable ride on high-quality roads, but on uneven asphalt it will not be very comfortable. Naturally, it is better not to go on primer roads.
The bike looks aggressive due to the deliberately protruding headlights and the overall dynamism of the image. Overall, it is perceived as more expensive than it actually is. The simple and clear dashboard leaves a pleasant impression, and the rear-view mirrors do not vibrate in any of the driving modes. There are vibrations on the controls, but they are insignificant. But the seat is not very comfortable. It is set low, made too narrow and rigid. Because of this, there is no feeling of unity with the motorcycle, and it is not very pleasant to ride.
Motorcycle comparison:
| Volume | Weight | Max. speed | Price, rub) | |
| KTM Duke 690 | 690 cm3 | 160kg | 200km/h | 840 000 |
| Honda CB600FA | 599cm3 | 207kg | 221km/h | 429 900 |
| Yamaha MT07 | 689 cm3 | 180kg | 190km/h | 575 000 |
| Kawasaki ER6-N | 649 cm3 | 204 kg | 174 km/h | 458 300 |
| Yamaha XJ6N | 600 cm3 | 210kg | 220km/h | 564 900 |
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.
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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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.
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!
