Our Top Ten List Of Motorcycles For Beginners

Choosing your first bike is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a new rider, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options. Whether you’re searching for a beginner bike or a learner motorcycle, the same rule applies in Australia: it needs to be LAMS-approved (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) before you can ride it on your Ls or Ps.

We’ve put together our top ten list of the best learner motorcycles in Australia, covering a mix of standard, sport, cruiser and adventure bikes to suit different riding styles and budgets. Every bike on this list is a solid, reliable option for building your skills and confidence before you move up to something bigger.

The best learner motorcycles in Australia offer a balance of manageable power, easy handling, comfort and safety for new riders. When choosing your first motorcycle for beginners, look for learner-approved motorcycles that suit your experience, riding style and licence requirements. Lightweight, easy-to-handle models can also be ideal easy-to-ride bikes for beginners.

If you’re wondering what size motorcycle is best for beginners, consider factors such as your height, confidence, intended use and the bike’s weight and power, rather than focusing on engine size alone. Here are some of the best learner motorbikes to consider for different riding styles and experience levels.

This fantastic entry-level bike is an economical and fuel-efficient bike, great for day-to-day commuting around town and adventures out on the highway. A fun and easy-to-handle ride, these bikes are made with Honda’s reliable strength and durability. The Honda CB125E is a comfortable ride that is practical, stylish and fun to own.

Price: $3,647 AUD

• Bike Type: Standard/Naked
• Engine: Air-cooled 4-stroke
• Transmission: 5-speed

Notable Features: Reliable engine, convenient rear rack, comfortable riding position

Best For: First-time riders and city commuting

A fun ride for the city and the racetrack, the Suzuki SV650 is more than just a beginners bike. Whether you’re new to motorcycles or have been around them for decades, this bike is an extremely popular model throughout the world. The beauty of the SV650 is that it has the zip of a sportbike, but the comfort of a standard bike, making it the perfect all-rounder for commuting and weekend riding and a great first bike.

Price: $11,490AUD

• Bike Type: Standard/Naked
• Engine: Twin-V DOHC
• Transmission: 6 speed

Notable Features: Easy start engine, ABS brakes, LED lights

Best for: Beginners looking for a versatile motorcycle

This Yamaha model has been around since 1978 and still remains a popular bike particularly for newbies today. The classic style has low seating and an old school look making any rider feel pretty good out on the road. The SR400 is a light and well-made bike with just the right amount of power for beginner riders and a terrific option for getting into the market, especially if you can nab a good second hand deal.

Price: $8,999AUD

• Bike Type: Standard/Naked
• Engine: 4 stroke single SOHC
• Transmission: 5 speed

Notable Features: Lightweight chassis, kickstarter, two-seater

Best For: Riders who prefer a simple, classic motorcycle

Technology, power and easy to maintain, the Kawasaki Ninja is the classic urban sportbike. The 400 series is an upgrade from the well known 300 series, with a lightweight chassis and powerful engine that isn’t too overwhelming for new riders. It’s the perfect entry level sportbike that you can learn on and love for years as you become a more competent rider.

Price: $8,040AUD

• Bike Type: Sports
• Engine: 4 stroke 2-cylinder DOHC
• Transmission: 6 speed

Notable Features: Lightweight frame, LED lights, ABS brakes

Best For: Beginners wanting a sporty riding experience

A stylish and good looking bike, the Yamaha MT-03 offers the right amount of power and performance for someone beginning their sportbike journey. The MT-03 is a super fun bike to ride that looks good and is economical to run. The seat, handlebars and footrests on this bike are designed to work in unison to create comfortable upright riding, whether it be commuting in the city or out on the open highway.

Price: $5,699AUD

• Bike Type: Sports
• Engine: Twin-cylinder DOHC
• Transmission: 6 speed

Notable Features: Stylish, affordable, lightweight

Best For: Easy everyday riding and commuting

This bike ticks all the boxes for beginner riders that are after something in the sportbike range. With the perfect balance of weight, power and efficiency, this aesthetically pleasing vehicle will make any rider happy. Whilst a great for entry level rider, this is the kind of bike you can easily learn on but will want to keep riding as you progress. This is a great bike for both commuting and the open roads.

Price: $11,142AUD

• Bike Type: Sports
• Engine: Parallel twin DOHC
• Transmission: 6 speed

Notable Features: ABS braking system, aerodynamic, responsive and economical

Best For: Beginners looking for a sporty bike for longer rides

The Harley-Davidson Street 500 has the optimal mix of power and performance for someone new to motorbike riding. This is a great entry level bike with a low seat and a lighter frame, making it easier for a new rider to gain confidence as they hone their skills. This nice looking cruiser is the ideal first Harley and is suited to getting around urban environments.

Price: $9,995AUD

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Engine: Liquid cooled revolution XV Twin
• Transmission: 6 speed

Notable Features: Upright riding position, passenger seat, mid-mount foot controls

Best For: Beginners interested in cruiser-style riding

This cruiser has a timeless look matched with contemporary features making for a stylish and fun ride around town. The Honda CMX500 is lightweight with a low seat height and relaxed seating position meaning a comfortable ride all day long. This beauty offers power whilst being economical to run and there are plenty of factory add-on options so you can make your bike one of a kind.

Price: $10,267

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Engine: SOHC V-twin
• Transmission: 5 speed

Notable Features: ABS brakes, low seat, LED lighting

Best For: New riders wanting a comfortable, low-seat cruiser

This light and zippy bike is an excellent choice for those looking to find an affordable and fun entry into motorcycles. With the classic cruiser look, this vehicle is a joy to ride and versatile enough for both day to day and weekend riding. Retro handlebars and comfortable seating make this cruiser very easy to handle for first time riders.

Price: $8,299AUD

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Engine: Air cooled SOHC twin valve
• Transmission: 5 speed

Notable Features: Efficient engine, light frame with cruiser body, strong brakes

Best For: Beginners looking for a lightweight cruiser

This classic adventure bike is the perfect all-rounder for those starting out wanting to tour on and off-road. This bike has been around for decades, constantly evolving with modern technology for comfort and performance, whilst staying true to its original roots. Its versatility and decent price-point make it stand out from other bikes in this field.

Price: $8,390 AUD

• Bike Type: Adventure
• Engine: Single overhead camshaft
• Transmission: 5-speed

Notable Features: Long travel suspension, upright riding position, durable and torquey engine

Best For: Beginners interested in adventure and touring

Now that we’ve run through some of the best motorcycles for beginners, you’ve got some decisions to make. As we’ve mentioned, don’t be afraid to get a secondhand bike to start with, as they can give you a feel for what you like without the expensive overheads and without worrying about every little scratch. Whatever way you go, be sure to stay safe and wear the right equipment.

Get in touch with the Tyreman M/C team and we can offer you more advice on what kind of bike is right for you, as well as some maintenance tips, and even some of the best places to head out for a weekend ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to start on a manual or automatic motorcycle?

Most traditional motorcycles use a manual gearbox, which gives riders greater control and is an important skill to develop when learning to ride.

Are learner-approved motorcycles suitable for everyday commuting?

Yes. Many learner-approved motorcycles are suitable for commuting, offering easy handling, comfortable riding positions and practical performance.

Should I buy a new or used motorcycle as my first bike?

Both can be good options. New bikes offer warranty coverage, while used bikes can be more affordable. Always check the condition and service history when buying used.

What should I check before buying my first motorcycle?

Check the bike’s condition, tyres, brakes, chain, service history and registration, and make sure it meets your learner licence requirements.