Enduro Motorcycles for the Beginning Motorcycle Rider

Deciding to ride enduro motorcycles as a beginner motorcycle rider is a great choice! Enduro motorcycles are also known as Dual Purpose or Dual Sport motorcycles, because they're street legal and off-road capable. Riding dual purpose motorcycles off road (on approved trails/fire roads) is a great way to hone your motorcycle skills.

First of all, perhaps most importantly for some, it is highly unlikely that you'll get blindsided by a cell-phone talking delivery truck or a minivan-driving soccer mom! Also, riding in rugged terrain is both mental and physical exercise.

Your motorcycle riding muscles - in your body and your head - will be tested and challenged unlike a street ride. Also, recovering from a spill off road is usually easier - anything is softer than concrete. This recovery also applies to your motorcycle. A spill on a street bike almost invariably required a trip to the mechanic or body shop. Not so with a dual purpose bike.

 Great Fun, Great Way to Learn

 Just imagine! You will have the luxury of jumping on your motorcycle and enjoying a brisk street ride to arrive at a favorite off road riding area. Mountain fire roads are usually good enduro off road destinations. As a beginning motorcycle rider, I've got three great enduro motorcycles to tempt you with:

• Suzuki DR200
• Yamaha XT225
• Kawasaki KLR250

All of these cycles belong to dual purpose motorcycle lines that have been around for a long time, improving all the time. In fact, although I like the Yamaha XT 225 slightly more than the others, I can't completely recommend any one over the other two.

They're all within about $350 price difference, two of the three are air-cooled, and they all have the benefit of hydraulic disk braking systems. Which one is best for you will depend on your seating comfort, or merely your color preference! Kawasaki KLR250 - Excellent Choice among Enduro Motorcycles for new riders

Yamaha XT225 - My Pick among Beginning Enduro Motorcycles

All three of these models have front disk brakes. All are single cylinger ("thumper") engines.

The Kawasaki stands out for a few reasons: 1) It's the most expensive of the three, 2) it has the largest engine, and 3) it's the only one with liquid cooling. Yep, the KLR250 has a radiator.

Now, an enduro motorcycle with a radiator may be a drawback: if you suffer a good spill and the radiator gets damaged (coolant leaks out) you may very well be sunk. If you're far away on a mountain top fire road, this is no place to be.

Granted, it's not likely, and this sort of spill isn't a casual oopsie-daisy moment, but... it can and has happened. It can strand you, far from the reaches of a rescuing bus or taxi. However, for 99.9999999% of the rest of the time, a radiator on a motorcyle prolongs engine life and is actually a good selling point.

Are Enduro Motorcycles for You?

Suzuki DR 200 - Another Option among Enduro Motorcycles for new riders Enduro motorcycles are a bit different creatures from your regular street motorcycles. Enduros usually have more immediate torque (engine "wheelie power") than street cycles. I've thought that enduro engines are really 1.5 to twice the displacement their street counterparts are. A 200cc enduro will feel as powerful as a 350cc street bike.

No 250cc street bike will hold its own against a 250cc enduro at least, not down low in the powerband. Simply put, enduro motorcycles do pack a bit more whallop. Your throttle skills will really be sharpened on a dual purpose motorcycle. The riding position is also quite different on DP's than regular street motorcycles.

 On an enduro, you sit ON the bike, up high. It's a very alert, sporty position, you may prefer it. Riding a cruiser motorcycle, in comparison, puts you closer to the ground. Another benefit with enduro motorcycles regards their (or their owner's) hardiness.

If an enduro motorcycle falls over, it's not nearly as heart-stopping as, say, a fully-faired Ninja; if a Ninja falls over, something is gonna crack or break, and it won't be cheap. Some cruiser riders will pull over to the side of the road to clean off their exhaust pipes if they happen to roll through a mud puddle and get soiled.

Enduro motorcycle riders, on the other hand, see little mars as badges. They're not nearly as anal about the aesthetics of their motorcycles. Heck, they were made to get dirty and have fun with!

Suzuki DR200SE

Learning with Enduro Motorcycles: Suzukis DR 200 SE


Enduro motorcycles make great first motorcycles. The big benefit with learning off road is that you'll usually have no vehicular traffic with which to contend - a big safety thumbs up. And, because riding off road is much more physical, your riding skills sharpen exponentially quicker than strictly street riding.

Suzuki DR200SE

Engine Size: 199cc
Motorcycle Style: Dual Purpose (Enduro)
Good Beginner Motorcycle? Certainly!
Pros: Lowest price, largest fuel capacity among the new models in its class of the big-4 manufacturers.
Cons: Even with the smallest engine, it’s still not the lightest or the shortest model.
Price: $ 3,899 New, 2005 ($50 price increase for 2006 model.)

The Suzuki DR200SE has the smallest engine of the three beginning enduro motorcycles I’ve covered here, but it’s not the lightest and it doesn’t have the lowest seat height either. It is priced competitively, a few hundred dollars or so less than the Yamaha XT and Kawasaki’s expensive KLR. And, the Suzuki does have the largest fuel capacity by a good half-gallon. That right there must be worth 30 miles or so. If you want the best new beginning enduro motorcycle upon which you can get gone and still get back, the DR 200SE may be your bike.

As with the other 2 entry level enduro motorcycles, Suzuki smartly outfitted the DR 200 with a disc brake on the front fork with a drum style brake on the rear wheel.

Riders-to-be looking for good beginning enduro motorcycles who are short and/or small in stature and/or young and inexperienced actually have some decent machines to choose from. If you’d like another option besides Kawasaki’s kickstart-only KLR 250 or the Yamaha XT 225, take a look at this competent Suzuki DR 200SE, a great looking, lightweight, affordable dual purpose cycle.

Adventure Awaits on Enduro Motorcycles!

As an enduro motorcycle, the DR 200 will serve you well on gravel or unimproved roads, fire roads, and APPROVED City/County/State/Federal off road motorized riding areas. Also, you'll be a different kind of motorcyclist if you choose to ride dual purpose machines. Suzukis DRZ400 has been widely acclaimed as a cliff-jumping bike made street legal - I also really like (as do the professional reviewers) Suzukis DL Strom pair of cycles (the 650cc and the 1000cc flavor). A new moniker - Adventure Bike - has been given to dual purpose rides quite recently. The Indiana Jones in you may be the one writing the check when you choose to buy an adventure bike. Life is short; why not have a DP and a regular street bike, too, for the best of both worlds?

Stylish Suzuki GZ 250

Cruiser Beginner Motorcycles: Stylish Suzuki GZ 250

Riders-to-be looking for good beginning motorcycles in the Cruiser flavor who are short and/or small in stature and/or young and inexperienced actually have some decent machines to choose from. . If you’d like another option besides Honda’s Rebel or the more expensive Yamaha Virago 250, take a look at this easy-on-the-eyes Suzuki GZ 250, a great looking, lightweight, affordable cruiser. Riders outside of the US of A get the 2-cylinder Marauder 250, an even meaner looking cycle that, I think, would put the Rebels and Viragos in their places.

Suzuki GZ 250

Years Available: 1984-1986
Engine Size: 249cc
Motorcycle Style: Cruiser
Good Beginner Motorcycle? Certainly!
Pros: An overlooked option for beginning motorcycle riders, Suzukis GZ 250 might be had for a great price, and it’s pretty decent looking, too.
Cons: Only a single cylinder…
Price: $ 3,199 New, 2005




Riders have complained that the wildly popular Honda Rebel is scaled down just too darn much. If you’re taller than 5’8” or just want another beginner motorcycle to swing a leg over before writing a three-grand-plus check, then check out Suzuki’s GZ 250. It’s really only drawback (and some would argue it ain’t much of a drawback) is that it’s only a single-cylinder engine. The GZ is gonna have a different engine note to it because of it. Technically, if your ride has one cylinder, one spark plug, then you’re sunk if anything happens to any part of the one cylinder. A twin or multiple-cylindered vehicle can still putt somewhere, much like a multi-engined airplane can fly if it loses one engine. It won’t be as enjoyable a flight, but you’ve got more control over your immediate fate is what I’m getting at here.

Suzuki GZ 250: A Great Option among Beginner Motorcycles

The GZ has a farther-from-the-pavement seat height of 27.8” (compared to Rebel’s butt-dragging seat height of 26.6”) and Suzuki thinks well enough of its new rider consumers to give you a pretty large gas tank of 3.7 gallons. With the mileage these quarter-liter motorcycles get, you can ride half-way to Rio de Janiero on 3.7 gallons of gas. Alas, your only color choice is Black. Well, you can give your new GZ 250 a custom paint job with the price difference (the Virago 250 by Yamaha is $300 more). And, Suzuki dealerships have a nice way of haggling to move their inventory, unlike their stoic Honda counterparts (in my experience, anyway.) Suzuki also puts a single disc brake on the front, so right away I can recommend this ten times more than the icky Honda Nighthawk 250 among beginner motorcycles. Finally, the GZ weighs a scant 302 pounds (not including the weight of any gasoline) so you less-physically threatening people need not worry about muscling your sweet little cruiser around the corners.

Interceptor 700

Interceptor 700: Curious Political Machine Of All Honda Interceptors

In 1984, there were four models of Honda Interceptors available for sale. The 1000, the 750, the 500... and the 700. This tariff-beating 700cc was Honda motorcycles' way of getting around the newly-enacted Danforth Tariffs which placed a disproportionate tax on all imported motorcycles displacing more than 700 cubic centimeters. Harley-Davidson was the intended beneficiary.

Honda Interceptor 700
Engine Size: 698cc
Motorcycle Style: Sport
Good Beginner Motorcycle? Uh, sorry, not on your life.
Pros: One of the best sporting bikes to ever roll off the assembly lines; power delivery is butter.
Cons: The 700 did lose something in the translation from de-stroking.
Price: $3,598 (New, 1984)

If you were involved in motorcycling in the mid-1980's you no doubt recall the Reagan-era tariffs that exacted a stiff toll on imported motorcycles. Those motorcycles with engines larger than 700cc's had a rather large tax slapped on them as they passed through United States customs, and this extra cost was invariably passed on to consumers, as nature intended. Perhaps this tariff was intended only on motorcycles originating in The Land of The Rising Sun...?

The 1983 Honda Interceptor 750 cost $3,498; due to the tariff, the cost jumped up to $4,396 in 1984. Honda's 1000 Interceptor was a scant few hundred dollars more. Honda motors had to reply. In response, Honda destroked a portion of the 750 Interceptors and turned them into Tariff-Busters. All it really took was shortening the 4 connecting rods 3mm or so, and voila! Same cycle, less engine displacement volume, $800 less. What a crazy world.

Now, when all this was going on, I was but a boy of 15 summers and none too savvy of the world's curious balancing of economic subtleties. I read, month after month, in my Cycle magazine subscription issues that the reason for this tariff was to protect one Harley-Davidson, Incorporated, against the onslaught of cough**superior**cough Japanese motorcycles. It was hoped that the playing field would be leveled and help boost Milwuakee's factories sell more of their two-wheeled cars in the face of this onslaught of more efficient metric motorcycles. Due to this belief, I fostered a loathing of all things Harley and vowed to never have anything to do with them or their loud, big, slow, heavy, greasy-bearded motorcycles. I have since tempered my teenage angst - I would gladly accept a V-Rod anyday. But I digress. We're discussing the Honda Interceptor 700.

The Honda Interceptor 750 was first released in 1983 as the VF750 Interceptor. It was unlike any motorcycle seen up till then. It looked like it took a wrong turn off of the pits and found its way onto the Honda dealership floor. The colors, the compactness, the seating position were so revolutionary. And I thought the Nighthawk S was an alien thing.

The 700 Interceptor, like the other Honda Interceptors, featured a 90-degree vee-four liquid-cooled DOHC 4-valves-per-cylinder engine. Transmission hummed through 5 gears. Keeping all this power in check were twin-piston dual-disc brakes on the front wheel and a single disc brake on the rear wheel. The 700 weighed 543 pounds when its 4.8 gallon tank was full. It ran a quarter-mile from 0 to 108 mph in 12.63 seconds, and it churned 66.8 horsepower at 9,500 rpm. The 750 Interceptor did take a cut in power by reducing its 4 connecting rods 3mm. Eh... what's an Island Country of technologically advanced motorcycles to do to save a buck? The Harley Davidson 883 Sportster's quarter-mile runs weren't timed by the use of a stopwatch so much as a calendar. Speed was not the 883's intention.

The Honda Interceptors were made for one thing - cutting through twisty roads like they were straight. I also think they were clearly Honda's answer to Kawasaki's venerable GPz motorcycles. And man, if the Honda Interceptors didn't take a huge bite out of the GPz thunder. Oh, the GPz's competed. But remember, Kawasaki was working at their own drawing board. If the Honda Interceptors brought Kawasaki to the negotiating table, then Kawasaki Ninjas brought Honda back... Suzuki upped the ante with the release of the GSX 1000R in 1986...and then the next-gen Honda CBR Hurricanes in 1987...

The 80's were a fun time to be a motorcyclist!

Honda Nighthawk 250

Popular Standard for Motorcycle Beginners: Honda Nighthawk 250

It's hard for motorcycle beginners to find reviews of entry-level motorcycles. Magazines prefer to use their print and paper on expensive new models. I myself got started as a beginner on another Honda starter motorcycle, the 1983 Custom 250. That was 22 years ago. I currently ride and love my Yamaha V-Max. The 250cc class is a great size for motorcycle beginners. Start out slowly, build your skills confidently and you will have a V-Max (or GSX1000 or Gold Wing or Valkyrie) in your garage, too!

Honda Nighthawk 250

CB250
Years Available: 1990 - ?
Engine Size: 234cc
Motorcycle Style: Standard
Good Beginner Motorcycle? YES...but there are better.
Pros: Decades-proven engine; classic Nighthawk styling on a budget
Cons: Drum brakes front and rear; kinda pricey for a beginners bike
Estimated Used Price Range: $1,400-$3,00 ($3,599 New in 2005)


Honda has been using this 234cc parallel twin engine for decades. For motorcycle beginners in their late teens or early 20's this is a great choice for you. Its engine provides plenty of around-town power and pick-up for recreation and chore-duty. It can also carry the under-200 pound rider satisfactorily on the highways, though I doubt you'll ever be able to manage a speeding ticket. These 250's can manage about 65 with a tail-wind.



1984 Honda Nighthawk S

The Nighthawk line of Hondas was a very respected line in the 1980's. A perfect beginning motorcycle then was the Nighthawk 450, stylish and plenty powerful. Each Nighthawk had its own image: the 550 was more of a Shadow-like cruiser, the Nighthawk 650 was a sport-minded standard, the 750 of the early 1980's sported quad exhaust pipes and was a muscled standard, and the Nighthawk S was a sleek, efficient naked sportbike.

In the late 1990's Honda resurrected the Nighthawk as the CB750. Popular though bland, it appealed to a wide range of ages and skills. The 750 was subsequently dropped in early 2000; the Nighthawk 250 remains as the only current Nighthawk.


My Unenthusiastic Recommendation: ...Ehhh...

I can't give my whole-hearted recommendation for this 250 to motorcycle beginners. At a new 2005 price of $3,599 it is $500 more than the Honda Rebel which does have disk brakes on the front at least. The Honda Rebel, I might argue, is more aesthetically pleasing as well. The Nighthawk 250 is the economic of the motorcycling world.

Honda Rebel - A Better Choice for Motorcycle Beginners

Honda Rebel

Honda Rebel: Is It The Best Beginner Motorcycle?

The Honda Rebel gets my recommendation as a Best Beginner Motorcycle. If you're thinking about a cruiser motorcycle and you're a beginner, I can't make a better recommendation than this, the Honda Rebel.

CMX250C
Years Available: 1985-Present
Engine Size: 250cc
Motorcycle Style: Cruiser
Appropriate Beginner Motorcycle? THE BEST
The absolute epitome of what a best beginner motorcycle should be
Pros: Very manageable, nimble, confidence-inspiring, lots of accessories
Cons: It's not going to be the most powerful motorcycle you'll ride...but that's not a bad thing
Estimated Used Price Range: $1,000-$3,000 ($3,099 New in 2005)
Quote overheard about this cycle: "Dude, no way that's a 250. It looks too cool."

Originally introduced in 1985, Honda makes this very stylish motorcycle with the motorcycle beginner in mind. The 250cc size is a great engine size at which to begin - not too much power, but enough to get you around comfortably when your skills do improve. My second motorcycle was a 1983 Honda Custom 250, and Honda used the engine from that cycle as the power plant for the Rebel. Talk about a time-tested engine. 234cc of piston displacement, will get you moving confidently at first, making this engine size the best choice for a best beginner motorcycle. Later, you'll appreciate the cycle's ability to carry you at freeway speeds when you are ready for such riding. You can take comfort in knowing that the Honda Rebel is Honda's current longest-running street motorcycle model. Thousands upon thousands of motorcycle beginners got their start on this great cruiser.

A Best Beginner Motorcycle for Cruisers In Training!

For $3,099 you get a very stylish cruiser. Solid engine performance that's decades proven, a very inviting, low slung seat height, killer gas mileage (probably the best mpg motorcycle out there next to Kawasaki's Eliminator 125 which ain't freeway safe). For 2005, you also can have your Rebel in a gorgeous Candy Orange paint that definately doesn't look like everyone else's cruiser motorcycle! And, Honda saw fit to give the Rebel a disk brake on the front wheel. Why is this a notable feature? Disk brakes are much more effective than drum brakes, and you want a disk brake system up front. During braking, weight of the motorcycle and rider transfers up front (that's why cars and cycles dip forward during hard braking) and you want powerful stoppers up front. More weight demands better braking power.

The inclusion of a disk braking system and gorgeous color options make this a choice for best beginner motorcycle, one that you'll enjoy for years to come.

At 306 pounds, the Rebel weighs only 15 more pounds than a bike half its size - the Motorcycle Safety Foundation school trainer workhorse, Kawasaki Eliminator 125. The Rebel is only 2 more pounds than the super-fly-weight canyon carving fun bike extraordinare, the Kawasaki Ninja 250. If you want to spend $400 more for a more stylish V-twin engine, look at the Yamaha Virago 250. The Virago also comes fitted with way cool dual chrome staggered exhaust pipes, but the Virago is only available in black. Honda offers the 2005 Rebel in black and that crazy cool Orange Candy color. For 2006, the Rebel will be available only in black and a Pearl White. If you're crazy about that super-unique orange, hurry down to your Honda dealer and scoop one up before they disappear!

Used Honda Rebels

You'll have no trouble finding a good used Honda Rebel for sale. If you're looking for your second third motorcycle, then have fun shopping. A caveat for beginners, though: I'm not shy in recommending beginners buy new motorcycles only.

You have plenty of stimulation starting out, and having road-worthiness as a concern is too much to worry about. Not to say that all new motorcycles will be 100% trouble free or that used motorcycles are all ticking time-bombs. With a new motorcycle, a warranty comes included and you'll have the peace of mind knowing that yours is the only butt who's sat in your motorcycle's seat.

You'll also know for sure the mechanical history and riding style the bike has operated under. Simply put, there's no previous-rider abuse to worry about and for a new motorcycle rider, that's one less headache. You'll enjoy this best beginner motorcycle as it rolls out off of the dealer's floor brand new, and it will give you great pride and joy for years.

I wouldn't recommend a used Honda Rebel motorcycle to you if you're a beginning rider. If you're getting a Rebel as your third or so motorcycle, then I'd say, Great. Just know that novice motorcycle riders aren't known for their, shall we say, "smooth operating touch."

If You Like the Honda Rebel, You Might also Like:

• Kawasaki Eliminator 125



• Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD



• Yamaha Virago 250



• Suzuki GZ 250



• Honda Nighthawk 450

Honda Nighthawk 450

A very popular, versatile, competent and stylish motorcycle for novice motorcyclists, I wish we had more cycles like the 450 around today. Nighthawk 450 motorcycles populated my high school’s parking lot in SoCal, and they made my little 15 year old heart green with envy.

An Ideal Beginning Motorcycle

Yep, I gush over lots of motorcycles - even those I've not had the pleasure of owning. Sue me. The Nighthawk 450 was such a popular bike when I was in high school in the mid-80's. Reviewers gushed over the then littlest Nighthawk, and that's probably more important than my praisings of the bike. It looked and performed more expensive than its $1,698 to $1,998 price, depending on model year. It was truly an ideal starter motorcycle.

Well balanced, solid feel, peppy acceleration, and good brakes were standard on this motorcycle. Experienced riders heaped praise on the 450, claiming its value as a limited range touring cycle was an overlooked benefit at its low price point. In a September ‘85 magazine, a veteran tester was impressed with the ‘hawk’s touring abilities. Winding back roads is where the 450 shone. On the open road, he dubbed it "a smooth operator" (Road Rider, pg. 45.) It simply filled many roles well.

The power wasn’t overwhelming, but I absolutely dug – and continue to dig – the Nighthawk’s styling. Fantastic macho lines, just enough chrome, a seat that stitched in a pattern that indicated Honda actually cared about this motorcycle … In comparison, Honda’s only surviving Nighthawk, the 250, looks unfinished yet costs nearly twice as much.I would love to own a 1985 or 1986 version today. She looks like the girl next door type, the type to whom you don't give enough credit but regret it years later. There are probably a few good samples of the ol’ 450 'hawk around here and there.

"It’s a timeless machine we’ve never needed more than now" (Cycle, December 1986.) Prophetic. Even more true today in my opinion. Current makes and models force you to choose either total cruiser or full-on back-killing sport bike. An affordable, competent, truly “standard” motorcycle is hard to come by today. In the 80’s it seemed easier. At least Honda tried to please all of the people with the Nighthawk 450 with this excellent all-around ride.

What’s out there now that comes close to this classic? Yamaha’s FZ6 ($6,600 new in 2004 but I’ve seen some models around the $5,600 mark recently.) Suzuki's two decent middle-weight do-it-all bikes, the SV650 and Bandit 600. Honda Nighthawk 750 from a few years ago, or the Honda Hornet 599 (which was kinda pricey at $7,100 in 2004, its last year, at least here in the U.S.)

Kawasaki KLR 250

Enduro motorcycles make great first motorcycles. The big benefit with learning off road is that you'll usually have no vehicular traffic with which to contend - a big safety thumbs up. And, because riding off road is much more physical, your riding skills sharpen exponentially quicker than strictly street riding.


Kawasaki KLR 250

Years Available: 1902-current
Engine Size: 249cc
Motorcycle Style: Enduro - Dual Purpose
Good Beginner Motorcycle? YES
As long as you can manage to throw your leg over its high seat!
Pros: Liquid cooled, 6 speed transmission, protective skid plate, attached rear pouch.
Cons: Pricey little number, kick start only, heaviest of the beginning enduro motorcycles
Price: 2005: $4,249.

The Kawasaki has the largest engine of the three beginning enduros (249cc vs Yamahas XT 223cc vs Suzukis DR200SE 198cc.) It is by far the heaviest of the trio (20 full pounds more than the next.) It's the only entry-level model with liquid cooling, which is a great feature, especially if you plan on riding in your share of paved traffic. It does have the best suspension travel, 9.1 inches both front and back.

As with the other 2 entry level enduro motorcycles, Kawasaki outfitted the KLR with a disc brake on the front fork with a drum style brake on the rear wheel.

As an enduro motorcycle, the KLR will serve you well on gravel or unimproved roads, fire roads, and APPROVED City/County/State/Federal off road motorized riding areas. Also, you'll be a different kind of motorcyclist if you choose to ride dual purpose machines. Suzukis DRZ400 has been widely acclaimed as a cliff-jumping bike made street legal - I also really like (as do the professional reviewers) Suzukis DL Strom pair of cycles (the 650cc and the 1000cc flavor). A new moniker - Adventure Bike - has been given to dual purpose rides quite recently. The Indiana Jones in you may be the one writing the check when you choose to buy an adventure bike. Life is short; why not have a DP and a regular street bike, too, for the best of both worlds?

Kawasaki Eliminator 125

Made for Motorcycle Beginners: Kawasakis Eliminator 125

Kawasakis Eliminator 125 is made expressly for motorcycle beginners. It features a low seat height, it is very light-weight and Kawasaki gave it great styling. But is it really the best starter motorcycle for you?

Kawasaki Eliminator 125

Engine Size: 124cc
Motorcycle Style: Standard
Good Beginner Motorcycle? Their exclusive audience, perhaps
Pros: Excellent learning platform, pretty good looks and styling
Cons: Is anyone else besides the MSF buying them?
Price: $2,649 (New, 2005)

The Eliminator 125 has a way-low seat height of 26.8 inches at a bird-like 291 pounds. Its 3.4 gallon gas tank is huge considering it probably gets like 80 miles to the gallon. It is available only in black, but Kawasaki did see well enough to outfit the front wheel with a hydraulic disc brake. Some cycles twice this size only have mealy drum brakes on the front... yeah I'm looking at you, Nighthawk 250. It's a single cylinder only, and it's air cooled. Don't go driving across the Mojave desert in the middle of July on this thing, but then again, you probably don't need me to remind you of that.

Alright, let's not kid around. A 125cc street bike is a great, non-threatening ride for absolute motorcycle beginners. Heck, I don't think any two-wheeled experience (pedaled or powered) is a prerequisite for throwing a leg over this and taking laps around the nearest parking lot.

But remember... wasn't there a time when motorcycles were unpredictable, dangerous, even a little outlaw-like to you? This little Eliminator will, well, eliminate all those horrible, scary, alien images you may have about motorcycling. Heck, my first ride was a Yamaha RX50 2-stroke, and it was all the cycle my 16-year-old self needed at the time (for about a year, anyway). The forgiving nature of that little Yamaha 2-stroke really inspired confidence in me and helped me learn about motorcycle riding. It introduced me to the fun, daring, exciting, individualized world that motorcycling is in my eyes. And I don't doubt that this Eliminator will do that for thousands of motorcycle beginners.



Recommendation for Motorcycle Beginners

The 124cc engine isn't gonna want your 6 foot 200-plus pound mouth-breathing ass on it. No, I recommend the Kawasaki Eliminator 125 for motorcycle beginners who are, perhaps, still in high school, or the ladies with a short inseam. The rest of you XL sized - look elsewhere. Try the Nighthawk 250, the Rebel 250, or the Buell Blast.

When I read that the warning lights were mounted on the tank of the motorcycle, not higher in the driver's vision, I was upset with Kawasaki. However, the turn indicator lights / high beam / Neutral indicator lights aren't really crucial when you're in motion, defying the laws of gravity, so ... no harm, no foul. Lots of cycles have warning lamps in this location.

Yamaha RZ350

Motorcycle of the Year Candidate: Yamaha RZ350: 2 Stroke Purist Weapon


Yamaha RZ350

Years Available: As this particular iteration, 1984 only
Engine Size: 350cc
Motorcycle Style: Sport
Appropriate Beginner Motorcycle? NO
(It may have a small engine, but it was a potent racer)
Pros: Incredible replica racer, intensive true sport motorcycle
Cons: Suspension was very sensitive; different engine mechanics and riding strategy compared to 4 stroke sport motorcycles.
Estimated Used Price Range: $1,500 - $4,000 ($2,399 New in 1984)

"We promise you. This motorcycle will never bore you or gently romance you with lulling softness. The RZ is as intense as a medieval call to arms." (Cycle magazine, June 1984, p.71)

The Yamaha RD350 of the 1970's was given a good going over for this new RZ iteration, and it was aimed primarily at enthusiasts, purists of sport riding. First off, know that it is a 2-stroke engine. Engine braking simply does not exist with 2-stroke motorcycles as it does for 4 strokes. Let off the gas with a 4 stroke and the engine will retard its forward momentum. Let off the gas with a 2 stroke, and you'll coast for quite a while. This creates a different riding strategy. "Four stroke riders without two stroke experience will find the RZ amazing and peculiar" (Cycle magazine, June 1984, page 75.) The forward momentum is pretty much all off or all on with these guys. We're told that the Yamaha RZ350 works great on the freeway, but not well at all as a commuter where stop-and-go traffic plays havoc. Engine heat pegs the temperature gauge to the red easily, despite the radiator's best intentions.

One-tenth of Yamaha's production costs went into the exhaust system and mufflers. Two -strokes aren't exactly ecologically the soundest of power sources, and much engineering attention and tinkering was necessary to bring the emissions to 49-state standard (California has not had the pleasure of the RZ350's company, alas.) The RZ doesn't do two-up riding. Passengers aren't allowed despite the seating. And, reviewers have complained about the Yamaha RZ's suspension settings. Very fickle, the shock absorbers need constant tweaking and experimentation depending on what type of riding, and over what type of road conditions you want to ride. The RZ is blessed with excellent brakes - your "safety net" on those hard charging backroad hooligan sessions. And one other small detail - the RZ is kick start only! Another nod to nostalgia-replica-racing, no?

For me, there's just something special about sub-500cc sport bikes that I find ethereal. I've been fond of the replica racer Yamaha FZR400 from the late 1980's and the Honda CB1 400cc naked sport bike. Both earned a spot on my dream garage roster.

See, I'm not a big fan of top speed capabilities of motorcycles. Riding a motorcycle much above 90 mph just isn't my idea of fun. But taking the twistiest (think 25 mph turns) on a lithe, light, maneuverable little fighter is a blast. I had a few motorcycling friends when I was stationed at Kelly AFB in San Antonio. I had my new Kawasaki EX (Ninja) 500, they had a Hurricane 1000 and a new Kawasaki ZX-7 (with a rear tire the size of an SUV's). For sure, they left me behind on the gradual, swooping turns - I wasn't willing to go past 100 mph... But I lost them on the 25 mph turn segment, though. Flick-flick-flick... I like working gears, acceleration, and positioning over all-out speed. (Pay no attention to the Yamaha V-max in my carport.) Plus, the law enforcement response to slower speed fun is less severe than zipping along at three digits.

But what's out there now, if not an RZ 350, FZR 400, or CB1?

The Ninja 250 is. A good choice for beginners, but the littlest Ninja has plenty to offer experienced riders, too. There's plenty of engine exploration on a motorcycle with a redline of 14,000 rpm. The FZR and RZ had neat replica racing styling, though, styling that the Honda CB1 and Ninja 250 just don't have.

Find the Best Cruiser Motorcycle for Motorcycle Beginners

There are lots of cruisers to choose from, but I'll help you pinpoint the best cruiser motorcycle for you, the beginning motorcycle rider.

I've ridden, owned, and passionately followed street motorcycles and motorcycling the last 22 years. I'm excited to help you with one of the most fun buying decisions you'll make!

 Riding a cruiser motorcycle is a great choice if you see motorcycling as a chance to unwind and forget the world, or if you want to experience the simple pleasures of motorcycle riding in a relaxed mindset. If this doesn't quite sound like what you're about, then please see my other page,

Objective Advice about Starter Motorcycle Riding For younger people, ladies, people less than 5'11" and/or 200 pounds, I highly recommend one of the following motorcycles for you as your best cruiser motorcycle:

• Honda Rebel 250
• Yamaha Virago 250
• Suzuki GZ 250

For people nearing 30 years or older, or over 5'11" and/or 200 pounds, or those with a little motorcycling experience, the best cruiser motorcycle for you may very well be one of these highly recommended motorcycles:

• Honda Shadow VLX 600
• Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD
• Suzuki Boulevard S40 (665cc)
• Yamaha V-Star Custom (650cc)

250cc-Class Beginning Cruisers

 Let's start off with the smaller cruiser motorcycles, namely the Honda Rebel 250, the Suzuki GZ 250, and the Yamaha Virago 250. These bikes are perfect for younger new riders, or riders who are under 200 pounds, 5-foot 10 inches.

I would not recommend either of these cycles for anyone pushing 200 pounds or the 6 foot mark. You just won't be as comfortable on them as you might a middle weight cruiser.  

Suzuki GZ 250 - A Great Option for Beginning Cruiser Motorcycle

The Rebel has been in Honda's lineup since 1985. It was offered for one or two years as a 450 cc, but that experiment was short lived. The Rebel 250 has been a very popular beginning cruiser motorcycle for good reason. It features a simple air-cooled 234cc 2-valves per cylinder twin engine with a single carburetor.

This is not a fire breather, and new riders will probably appreciate this for their first year on the streets. All 3 quarter-liter cruiser beginner motorcycles have a single disc brake on the front and a drum brake on the rear wheel.

These bikes are made for cool, smooth riding, not for thrashing about on the backroads, so they don't need to have the optimum (expensive) brakes. The Rebel is fitted with a 2.6 gallon tank, the Virago has a 2.5 gallon tank, but the Suzuki GZ has a cavernous 3.7 gallon fuel capacity.

With easily 60 miles per gallon fuel efficiency, you can ride your GZ 250 across a state line or two without having to refuel. (Those fugitives wanted by Federal Authorites, pay no attention to that last line.)  

Honda Rebel - A Best Cruiser Motorcycle for Beginners

The Rebel and the Virago share many standard points. The Virago does feature a bit more involved engine and exhaust layout. For an extra $400 (the Rebel is $3,099 the Virago has a $3,499 sticker hanging off of its handlebar at the dealer) the folks at Yamaha outfitted this little 250 with a V-Twin engine.

Many cruiser riders will say that the V-twin is the hallmark of a true cruiser motorcycle. The Virago also sports dual chrome exhaust pipes. One of these will be the best cruiser motorcycle for beginning riders, so explore them on the showroom floor and test-ride carefully. Pay attention to the riding position, seating comfort, and "ergonomics," that is, how far away the operating controls are in relation to your hands and feet. A regular test-ride may be the only true way to determine these important considerations.

 Yamaha Virago 250 - Another Great Beginning Cruiser Motorcycle Option

 For 2005 Honda Rebels come in Black and a gorgeous Candy Orange color, while the 2006 models will only be offered in Black and Pearl White. If you really dig that crazy Orange color, you better hurry down and scoop one up before they disappear. Yamaha and Suzuki both only offer their 250's in black.

• Look good when you take your motorcycle helmet and leather jacket off.
• Look GOOD when you get to where you're going...

Middle-weight Class of Beginning Cruiser Motorcycles

If you're above the 200 pound mark, taller than 5 foot 10 inches, are a bit more older/experienced and can afford a new larger size beginner cruiser motorcycle, then I'd recommend you select from this gang of offerings:

• Yamaha V Star Custom (650cc)
• Honda Shadow VLX (600cc)
• Suzuki Boulevard S40 (665cc)
• Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD

Super Beginner Cruiser, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD

After reading over the material and setting my own large-size rumpus down on these bikes, the bike that gets my overall nod is the Kawasaki Vulcan 500. The Vulcan gives you very nice, complex styling, a 500cc parallel twin engine (while Suzuki Boulevard leaves you with only one single cylinder) a 6-speed gearbox (the other 3 bikes have only 4 or 5 gears) at a price that's hard to beat. Of these four my least favorite is the Suzuki Boulevard.

Yep, it's the cheapest of the four, but you get an air-cooled single cylinder engine with only black or white to choose from. I do appreciate the fact that the Boulevard has a belt final drive, belt is a good alternative drive as it is reliable and much lighter than either chain or shaft drive options. If money is no object for you and you're looking in this category,

I'd happily steer you towards the Yamaha V Star. I really like Yamaha's overall fit and finish quality, and they have oodles of customizing options and add on accessories. Plus, I think it's just the baddest looking of the assembled bunch here.

One of the options (pushing the V Star to the $5,699 price point) is the awesome Galaxy Blue with Flames paint scheme - just gorgeous. This is the bike you could sit with for a longer period.

Help for Motorcycle Beginners

Help for Motorcycle Beginners - Objective Advice about Beginner Motorcycles

Motorcycle beginners have a lot of fun ahead, shopping and comparing candidate beginner motorcycles. Your final decision on what bike you buy will be an important one...
but there's no reason it can't be a fun learning process!

With my 22 years experience riding, loving, and following motorcycle models and makers, you'll soon narrow down your best choices and have fun learning.

Several factors will influence your beginning motorcycle buying decision.

But perhaps the most important factor guiding your starter motorcycle choice will be your desire. What kind of motorcycle do you want? In other words...What Kind of Motorcycle Riding Interests You?

CRUISER Beginner Motorcycles

If you long to ride in a laid back, relaxed mindset; if you see motorcycle riding as a time to unwind and forget the world for a while, then I think your first motorcycle should be a Cruiser.

ENDURO (Dual Purpose) Beginning Motorcycles

If getting off the street and hitting some bumps, fire roads, and puddles gets you excited; if you don't mind getting a little dirty or sweaty, perhaps your first motorcycle should be an Enduro or Dual Purpose motorcycle.

SPORT Beginner Motorcycles

If you see street riding as an intense sport, one which demands 100% of your focus, then your best starter motorcycle just may be a Sportbike.

STANDARD Beginning Motorcycles

If you're really not sure yet of what specific type of riding you want to do, or don't want to categorize your riding preferences now, then your best starter motorcycle could be a Standard motorcycle.