The first motorcycle. It’s a rite of passage, a gateway to freedom, and a crash course (hopefully metaphorical) in two-wheeled living. The beginner bike needs to be approachable yet brimming with charisma—something to ignite your passion for riding without scaring you off.
After all, the coolest bikes aren’t always the fastest; they’re the ones that make you smile every time you thumb the starter. Here are eight machines that deliver just that. These are the coolest beginner motorcycles.
Honda Rebel 300
Honda’s Rebel 300 isn’t just a cool motorcycle; it’s an icon for new riders. Its low-slung seat and lightweight frame invite you to slide in, plant your feet, and take a deep breath. The 286cc single-cylinder engine doesn’t bite but offers just enough oomph to keep you grinning. Add the urban-chic styling, and you’ve got yourself a motorcycle that whispers, “Welcome to the club.”
Learn more about the Rebel 300 on Honda’s website.
Kawasaki Ninja 500
The Kawasaki Ninja 500 is the cool kid in the beginner class. With sharp styling borrowed from its superbike siblings, it looks like it’s doing 100 mph standing still. Beneath the aggressive fairing lies a forgiving parallel-twin engine that balances performance and approachability. It’s sporty but not overwhelming—a starter bike that might just convert you into a lifelong speed enthusiast.
Learn more about the Ninja 500 on Kawasaki’s website.
Yamaha MT-03
Yamaha’s MT-03 takes a stripped-down approach to cool. With its naked design and alien-inspired headlight, it has streetfighter vibes that scream confidence. The 321cc twin-cylinder engine is smooth, friendly, and punchy enough to keep your adrenaline up. It’s light, nimble, and makes city riding an absolute blast.
Lear more about the MT-03 on Yamaha’s website.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
The Meteor 350 is proof that simplicity can be cool. Royal Enfield has taken classic cruiser vibes and wrapped them around a modern, fuel-efficient engine. Its mellow thump and laid-back ergonomics make it perfect for relaxed rides, while its retro styling ensures you’ll get more than a few thumbs up at stoplights.
Learn more about the Meteor 350 on Royal Enfield’s website.
KTM 390 Adventure
The KTM 390 Adventure is the rebel of this list—an unapologetic hooligan off-road and on. It’s sharp, angular, and drenched in KTM’s signature orange, daring you to go faster. But it’s not just for show; the 373cc single-cylinder engine delivers thrilling performance in a package that’s easy to handle on the trail or on the highway. It’s a bike that reminds you that motorcycles are supposed to be fun.
Learn more about the 390 Adventure on KTM’s website.
Honda CB500F
If motorcycles were ranked by charm, the Honda CB500F would be a heavyweight contender. It combines beginner-friendly manners with a slightly larger parallel-twin engine, making it a bike you won’t outgrow too quickly. The upright ergonomics and smooth power delivery make it an excellent companion for long rides or city commutes.
Learn more about the CB500F on Honda’s website.
Husqvarna Svartpilen 401
If you’re looking for a beginner bike with serious style points, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 delivers as probably the coolest of all of the coolest beginner motorcycles on this list. Its neo-retro scrambler design is pure eye candy, but it’s not just about looks. The 373cc single-cylinder engine is shared with its cousin, the KTM 390 Duke, offering a balance of performance and ease of use. Lightweight, agile, and effortlessly cool, the Svartpilen is perfect for those who want to stand out.
Learn more about the Svartpilen 401 on Husqvarna’s website.
Vespa GTS 300
Yes, it’s a scooter, but don’t roll your eyes just yet, this scooter is cool. The Vespa GTS 300 has a style all its own. It’s practical, approachable, and oozing with Italian flair. The 278cc engine is zippy enough to keep up with traffic, and the automatic transmission makes riding as easy as twist-and-go. For new riders looking to make a statement, this one’s hard to beat.
Learn more about the GTS 300 on Vespa’s website.
