How to Choose Your First Motorcycle: A Beginner’s Guide
Hi there, I’m Johnny Gee — founder & CEO of Naked Racer Moto Co. I’ve been riding motorcycles for over 40 years, selling them since 1988, and I’m lucky enough to have a collection of more than 250 bikes! Choosing your first motorcycle is a thrilling milestone, but it can also be a little overwhelming. I still remember the mix of excitement and nerves when I picked out my very first ride.
In this guide, I’ll share some fun, friendly, no-nonsense advice to help you find a bike that really fits you — your size, your style, and your riding goals. We’ll cover the types of beginner-friendly motorcycles, important factors like weight, seat height, power, comfort, and how you plan to use your bike. I won’t dive into specific brands or models here (we’ve got a separate article for that!), but by the end, you’ll know what to look for. Most importantly, you’ll avoid the common beginner mistakes and kickstart your motorcycling journey with confidence. Let’s get started!
Start with Yourself: Goals, Fit, and Comfort Matter Most
The best first motorcycle for you depends on you – your body and your goals as a rider. There’s no single “best beginner bike” out there; it’s a personal choice. Before you even look at bike types, take a moment for some self-reflection. Ask yourself: Why do I want to ride, and what do I want to do with my motorcycle?
Why Ride & Riding Goals
Are you looking for a daily commuter to beat traffic, weekend fun on twisty roads, long-distance adventures, or just the pure thrill of riding? Knowing why you want to ride will help narrow the style of bike that suits you best. A cross-country dreamer will need something very different from someone chasing city zips.
Learning Pace & Temperament
Be honest about your skill level and learning speed. Are you a cautious rider who wants to build confidence gradually, or an adrenaline-seeker who might outgrow a small bike quickly? Remember, a motorcycle isn’t a bicycle or car – it’s a powerful machine that demands respect. Starting manageable is setting yourself up for success.
Your Body Size & Strength
Motorcycles aren’t one-size-fits-all. How tall are you, and what’s your inseam? How strong are you? If you’re shorter or lighter, a low, light bike feels way more friendly than a tall, heavy beast. Many new riders love being able to flat-foot both feet at stops – it builds confidence when you’re new.
Budget for Bike and Gear
Don’t blow all your savings on the bike itself and forget safety gear. A good helmet, jacket, gloves, boots, and pants matter just as much as the motorcycle. Expect to budget around $1,000–$1,500 for decent gear. It’s money well spent because “dress for the slide, not the ride” is more than a catchy phrase – it’s a lifesaver.
By reflecting on these points, you’ll build a clearer picture of your first bike. A cautious commuter may want comfort and fuel efficiency, while a weekend adventurer needs off-road potential. And don’t worry if you outgrow your first bike – that’s the whole point. Your first motorcycle is a stepping stone, not the finish line.
Types of Motorcycles for Beginners
Motorcycles come in many shapes and styles, each designed with different uses in mind. Every class of bike has its strengths and weaknesses, so understanding these can help you choose a type that aligns with your riding dreams. Here’s a rundown of common motorcycle categories and how they fit beginner riders:
Standard/Naked Bikes
These are often recommended for new riders because of their neutral, upright riding position and balanced handling. Standards (or “naked” bikes, which lack fairings) are the jack-of-all-trades of motorcycles – they do a bit of everything well. They typically have moderate engine sizes (often in the 300–650cc range for beginners) and a reasonable seat height. A standard bike is comfortable for everyday commuting, weekend rides on curvy roads, and even the occasional longer trip. It doesn’t specialize in any one extreme, which is great when you’re figuring out what kind of riding you enjoy. If you’re unsure what category you fall into, a standard bike is a safe bet for versatility and an easy learning curve.
Cruiser Bikes
Cruisers are the low-slung bikes with a relaxed, feet-forward riding position (think of the classic “American cruiser” style). They usually have a low seat height which is a big plus for shorter riders or anyone who likes being able to put both feet down flat at stops. Cruisers also carry their weight low (low center of gravity), so even if they are physically heavy, they can feel more manageable when riding slowly or balancing at a light. The riding posture is easy on the back and arms, and the power delivery on beginner-oriented cruisers is often gentle. This makes cruisers great for relaxed rides around town or scenic highways. Downside: cruisers can be quite heavy and not very nimble in corners due to their long, low design. If you dream of cruising along in a leather jacket and chaps, a small cruiser could be a fantastic first bike – just keep the engine size modest until you’re used to the weight.
Sport Bikes
Sport bikes are built for speed and agility – they have a forward-leaning riding position, higher foot pegs, and are generally lighter and more aerodynamic. Full-blown supersport bikes (like 600cc+ race replicas) are not beginner-friendly, but there are entry-level sport bikes (commonly 300cc or 400cc twins) designed for newer riders that provide a sporty feel without overwhelming power. If you admire MotoGP racers or love the idea of carving corners, one of these lightweight sport bikes might appeal to you. They typically have higher seat heights and a more aggressive posture, which can be less comfy for long rides but teach good riding posture and handling skills. The key is to keep the engine size and power in check at first. A 300–400cc sport bike can often outperform cars on the road, yet still be forgiving enough for a beginner to handle.
Dual-Sport & Adventure Bikes
Dual-sport motorcycles are like the SUVs of the bike world – they are street-legal but also built to handle off-road riding. Adventure bikes are the bigger cousins meant for long-distance travel, including dirt roads. Both types tend to have taller seat heights (for ground clearance) and a more upright stance (like a dirt bike). If you dream of exploring trails, camping via motorcycle, or riding rough backroads, a small dual-sport could be a perfect first bike. They are usually single-cylinder and lightweight, which makes them easy to handle at low speeds or if you have to push/pick them up. Just be aware: the tall seat can be a challenge if you’re not tall yourself, and at highway speeds a very light dual-sport might feel buzzy or wind-blown. For many beginners interested in off-road, starting on a dual-sport is great because you typically ride slower off-road and can develop strong bike-handling skills.
Other Categories
There are other types like touring bikes (big, heavy machines with luggage for long highway rides) or sport-touring (mix of sport and touring), and dirt-only off-road bikes. Generally, pure touring bikes or very large cruisers are not ideal for beginners due to weight. Scooters and mopeds are also an option for new riders, though a bit outside the “motorcycle” scope. For most young riders, though, the motorcycle bug means you’re eyeing one of the categories above. It’s okay if you’re not 100% sure which style you’ll love most – many riders only discover their true preference after trying out a bike or two. Motorcycling is all about experimenting and finding what makes you smile, so choose a style that excites you but will still be manageable as a first ride.
👉 Ready to see some real-world examples? Check out our guide to the 10 Best Beginner Motorcycles .
Common Mistakes New Riders Should Avoid
Every expert started as a beginner — and most of us made a few early missteps. Avoid these common pitfalls and you’ll have a smoother (and safer) start.
Buying Too Much Bike (Overestimating Your Skill)
It’s tempting to jump on a 1000cc superbike or massive cruiser because it looks (and sounds) amazing. But too much power and weight can slow your learning and increase risk. You’ll have more fun — and build skills faster — on a bike that forgives beginner mistakes. Keep your ego in check, start modest, upgrade later.
Skipping Training or Licensing
Riding is a skill you should learn properly. Take an approved beginner course in your region and get licensed before shopping hard. You’ll practice in a controlled environment, gain confidence, and often save on insurance. Do the homework first; your future self will thank you.
Not Test-Sitting or Test-Riding for Fit
A bike can look perfect online but feel wrong in person. Always sit on (and if possible, ride) several models. Can you reach the controls comfortably? Plant your feet confidently? Does it feel balanced at a stop? Ten minutes of real-world feel beats hours of specs.
Skimping on Safety Gear
Don’t spend everything on the bike and ride out in jeans and a bargain helmet. Buy a quality, certified new helmet, an armored jacket, gloves, sturdy pants/kevlar jeans, and proper boots. Dress for the crash you hope never happens — every ride, every time.
Riding Beyond Your Limits Too Soon
Early confidence spikes can lead to risky choices: heavy rain, night highways, or trying to keep up with faster friends. Build skills gradually — practice braking, swerving, and cornering in low-pressure spaces before tackling tougher conditions. Ride your own ride.
Steer clear of these mistakes and you’ll learn faster, enjoy more, and stay safer. We all tip a bike or miss a line now and then — what matters is learning, improving, and keeping the stoke alive.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bike
Beyond the general type of motorcycle, there are some key factors you should compare when evaluating any particular bike. These details hugely affect how beginner-friendly a motorcycle is. Let’s break down the most important things to look at:
Engine Size & Power
As a new rider, smaller is usually better when it comes to engine displacement and horsepower. It’s a common rookie mistake to think you need a big engine to avoid “outgrowing” the bike soon – but a high-performance machine can actually slow your learning and increase risk. A bike in the 250cc–500cc range is perfect: enough power to handle city and highway speeds, yet still forgiving and predictable. Remember, the goal is to build confidence, not scare yourself. You can always trade up later when you’re ready for that dream machine.
Weight & Size of the Bike
Pay close attention to a motorcycle’s weight and balance. As a beginner, you want something light and agile – think 300–400 lbs (140–180 kg) instead of a massive 600+ lb cruiser. Lighter bikes are easier to handle at slow speeds, less intimidating, and much more forgiving if you lose balance. Also check how the weight is carried: cruisers often feel stable because of their low center of gravity, while some adventure bikes with high tanks can feel top-heavy. Sit on the bike, rock it gently, and see if it feels manageable before you buy.
Seat Height & Ergonomics
Confidence at a stop is a big deal. Many new riders feel more secure if they can at least get the balls of both feet down when seated. If you’re shorter, look at bikes with low seat heights or consider lowering kits. If you’re taller, avoid bikes that feel cramped. Comfort matters: check that your back, wrists, and knees feel natural when seated. An upright posture is usually best for beginners, offering good control and visibility.
Intended Use (Where & How You’ll Ride)
Think about how you’ll use your first bike in the first year. Daily commuting? Weekend backroad fun? Highway trips? Light trail adventures? Match your bike to your reality. No bike does everything perfectly, so it’s smarter to pick a bike that fits most of your riding. If unsure, go with something versatile like a standard/naked and refine your preferences later.
New vs. Used Bike
Here’s an old-timer’s tip: your first bike doesn’t need to be brand new. In fact, buying used has huge benefits: cheaper to buy, less heartbreaking if you drop it (and you probably will at some point), and easier to resell later when you upgrade. A lightly used, reliable beginner bike is often the smartest choice. But always buy a brand-new helmet – never secondhand.
Budget for Insurance & Gear
Don’t forget the ongoing costs! Insurance can be pricey for young riders, especially on big or sporty bikes. Always get a quote first. Just as important: budget for quality safety gear. At minimum you’ll need a certified helmet, armored jacket, gloves, sturdy pants or kevlar jeans, and proper riding boots. As the saying goes: “dress for the crash you hope never happens, not the ride itself.”
Modern Safety Features
Many modern bikes come with features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control. For beginners, ABS is especially valuable, helping prevent skids during hard stops. If available, it’s worth having as an extra safety net. Tech won’t replace skill, but it can make learning safer and less stressful.
Enjoy the Ride and Keep Learning
As you embark on this adventure of motorcycling, remember it’s a journey, not a race. The fact that you’re researching how to choose your first bike already shows you’re on the right path to becoming a thoughtful and safe rider. At the end of the day, the best first motorcycle is one that makes you grin every time you see it, while still giving you the space to build your skills with confidence.
Trust your gut and take your time. Don’t let anyone pressure you into a bike that doesn’t feel right. It’s your ride, and only you can decide what truly suits you. Once you find that first machine, take pride in learning it, mastering it, and making it your own. There’s a special joy in looking back after a year and realizing how much you’ve grown — and how that once-intimidating motorcycle now feels like an old friend.
Finally, remember that every expert rider you’ll ever meet once stalled at traffic lights or wobbled through wide turns. With patience, practice, and the right mindset, you’ll soon gain confidence and skill. Gear up, ride within your limits, and enjoy the freedom, the wind, and even the lessons that come from small mistakes. Motorcycling is one of the most rewarding hobbies — or lifestyles — you can pursue.
Be safe, have fun, and welcome to the ride of your life. 🏍️
Good luck — see you out there on the road!
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