Introduction
Motorcycles with retro styling are more popular than ever, blending nostalgic charm with modern performance and technology. For beginner riders, retro motorcycles often provide an accessible ride with moderate power, stable handling, and attractive designs. If you’re a new rider looking for a retro-inspired bike that offers style and function, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best beginner-friendly retro motorcycles. Retro motorcycles have gained popularity among beginners, combining vintage looks with modern reliability, manageable power, and excellent fuel efficiency. These bikes are ideal for new riders, offering approachable performance with classic aesthetics.
Below, we review the top retro motorcycles for beginners, with detailed tables covering each bike’s key specifications, including price, engine type, fuel mileage, and features.
Best Retro Motorcycles for Beginners
1. Royal Enfield Classic 350
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is one of the most iconic retro motorcycles, blending old-school charm with contemporary technology. Known for its sturdy build and thumping engine, this bike is accessible for beginners due to its manageable power and easy handling.
| Feature | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 349cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 20.2 HP |
| Torque | 27 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | 37-41 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Brakes | Disc front, drum rear |
| Seat Height | 805 mm |
| Price (Approx.) | $4,500 |
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The Classic 350 is simple to handle and provides a relaxed ride. The low-end torque makes city and highway rides smooth and beginner-friendly.
2. Honda CB350 H’ness
The Honda CB350 H’ness brings a premium touch to retro bikes, emphasizing refined build quality and Honda’s signature reliability. Its smooth performance and impressive fuel efficiency make it an excellent option for new riders who seek vintage appeal with modern features.
| Feature | Honda CB350 H’ness |
|---|---|
| Engine | 348cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 21 HP |
| Torque | 30 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | 35-40 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Brakes | Disc front and rear |
| Seat Height | 800 mm |
| Price (Approx.) | $5,200 |
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The bike has a smooth throttle response and easy handling, making it comfortable for beginners. Additionally, the CB350 comes with advanced safety features like dual-channel ABS and traction control.
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3. Yamaha SR400
The Yamaha SR400 offers a minimalist, retro vibe with its classic styling and air-cooled engine. It’s lightweight, making it particularly suitable for beginner riders. Known for its simplicity, the SR400 offers a kick-start mechanism, appealing to purists and fans of traditional motorcycle design.
| Feature | Yamaha SR400 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 399cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 23 HP |
| Torque | 27 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | 36-40 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Brakes | Disc front, drum rear |
| Seat Height | 785 mm |
| Price (Approx.) | $6,000 |
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Lightweight and easy to maneuver, the SR400’s kick-start system and classic lines are perfect for those who appreciate authentic retro elements with beginner-friendly handling.
4. Kawasaki W800
The Kawasaki W800 is inspired by Kawasaki’s classic designs and brings a strong retro feel with modern-day functionality. Its relatively low power and comfortable ergonomics make it a good choice for beginners who want to enjoy relaxed riding on a classic bike.
| Feature | Kawasaki W800 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 773cc, parallel-twin |
| Power | 48 HP |
| Torque | 62 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | 20-25 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Brakes | Disc front and rear |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Price (Approx.) | $9,200 |
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Although the engine size might seem large, the power output is manageable. The W800 offers stable handling, a relaxed riding posture, and vintage aesthetics, making it a solid choice for newer riders looking to transition into larger bikes.
5. Benelli Imperiale 400
Benelli’s Imperiale 400 is a retro-styled motorcycle that combines Italian design with performance suitable for new riders. Its easy-going nature and simple mechanics are ideal for those just beginning their motorcycle journey.
| Feature | Benelli Imperiale 400 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 374cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 21 HP |
| Torque | 29 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | 30-35 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Brakes | Disc front and rear |
| Seat Height | 780 mm |
| Price (Approx.) | $4,000 USD |
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The Imperiale 400 is affordable and accessible, with a low seat height and relaxed power delivery, making it suitable for riders building confidence on the road.
6. Triumph Bonneville T100
Triumph’s Bonneville T100 is a legendary name in the retro motorcycle world. Though slightly more powerful and higher in price, the Bonneville T100 is approachable, and its manageable handling makes it appealing for enthusiastic beginners.
| Feature | Triumph Bonneville T100 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 900cc, parallel-twin |
| Power | 64 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.5 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | 21-23 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Brakes | Disc front and rear |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Price (Approx.) | $11,000 |
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The bike offers a low center of gravity and excellent balance, with smooth throttle control, perfect for a beginner looking to start with something iconic yet beginner-friendly.
7. Yamaha XSR700
With its modern features and classic look, the Yamaha XSR700 is a great choice for riders seeking something versatile yet stylish.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 689cc, parallel-twin |
| Power | 73 hp @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 68 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | ~23-25 km/l |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Brakes | Dual front disc, Rear disc |
| Seat Height | 835 mm |
| Price | $8,500 – $9,000 |
8. Triumph Street Twin
The Triumph Street Twin is the epitome of style and reliability, perfect for beginners looking for an iconic brand with accessible power.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 900cc, parallel-twin |
| Power | 64 hp @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 80 Nm @ 3800 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | ~24-26 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Brakes | Front and rear disc brakes |
| Seat Height | 765 mm |
| Price | $10,200 – $10,800 |
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9. BMW R nineT Pure
A classic retro model with modern technology, the BMW R nineT Pure is great for beginners who want to invest in a premium brand.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1170cc, flat-twin |
| Power | 110 hp @ 7750 rpm |
| Torque | 116 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | ~20-22 km/l |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Brakes | Dual front disc, Rear disc |
| Seat Height | 805 mm |
| Price | $12,500 – $13,000 |
10. Moto Guzzi V7
The Moto Guzzi V7 is an Italian classic, offering unique styling and a user-friendly experience with its smooth power delivery.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 744cc, V-twin |
| Power | 52 hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Torque | 60 Nm @ 4900 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 21 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | ~24-26 km/l |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Brakes | Front and rear disc brakes |
| Seat Height | 780 mm |
| Price | $8,000 – $8,500 |
11. Suzuki TU250X
The Suzuki TU250X is an ultra-lightweight, affordable, and fuel-efficient retro bike, great for beginners looking for something easy to handle.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 249cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 16 hp @ 7200 rpm |
| Torque | 17 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | ~40-42 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Brakes | Front disc, Rear drum |
| Seat Height | 770 mm |
| Price | $3,800 – $4,200 |
12. Harley-Davidson Iron 883
The Iron 883 is a perfect entry-level cruiser with retro styling and classic Harley-Davidson character, great for riders with a bit more budget.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 883cc, V-twin |
| Power | 50 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 70 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.5 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | ~20-22 km/l |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Brakes | Front and rear disc brakes |
| Seat Height | 760 mm |
| Price | $9,000 – $10,000 |
13. Fantic Caballero 500
The Fantic Caballero 500 combines retro scrambler style with agility and lightweight handling, making it ideal for both city and trail rides.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 449cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 40 hp @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 43 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12 liters |
| Fuel Mileage | ~26-28 km/l |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Brakes | Front and rear disc brakes |
| Seat Height | 820 mm |
| Price | $7,500 – $8,000 |
Features to Prioritize When Choosing a Beginner Motorcycle
Engine Size and Power
Aim for a moderate engine size (300cc–500cc) for the best balance of power and control. Smaller engines make learning less intimidating while still providing enough power for safe riding.
Weight and Handling
A lightweight motorcycle is easier to maneuver, especially at low speeds. Retro bikes with simple frames and lower seat heights are often ideal for beginners.
Fuel Efficiency
Most retro motorcycles are fuel-efficient, making them suitable for city commutes and short rides.
Maintenance and Reliability
Choose a model with a good track record of reliability and easy-to-source parts, as frequent repairs can deter a beginner.
Why Retro Motorcycles Are Perfect for Urban Riding
Maneuverability in Traffic
Retro motorcycles are generally agile, making them ideal for navigating city traffic and tight spaces.
Comfort and Style for City Commuting
Their upright seating and simple controls enhance comfort, and their iconic designs make a stylish impression.
Fuel Efficiency for Everyday Use
Retro bikes usually have smaller engines, providing great mileage and low fuel costs, perfect for frequent short trips.
Safety Tips for Beginners on Retro Motorcycles
Start with a Motorcycle Safety Course
A certified motorcycle safety course is essential for learning safe riding techniques and motorcycle handling.
Always Wear Proper Gear
Protective gear like helmets, gloves, and jackets is crucial for rider safety. Invest in retro-styled gear to keep the aesthetic consistent.
Get to Know Your Motorcycle’s Features
Spend time familiarizing yourself with your bike’s controls and features, from the brakes to the ignition, before hitting the road.
Practice Defensive Riding Techniques
Stay alert, watch for hazards and practice controlled braking and maneuvering to become a confident rider.
FAQ: Best Retro Motorcycles for Beginners
Can a beginner handle a retro motorcycle safely?
Yes, retro motorcycles with smaller engines and simple designs are often quite beginner-friendly.
What’s the best engine size for a beginner’s motorcycle?
300cc to 500cc is ideal for balance between power and control.
Are retro motorcycles fuel-efficient?
Yes, most retro motorcycles are designed with efficiency in mind, making them affordable to run.
Is a retro motorcycle suitable for long trips?
Some retro motorcycles can handle longer rides, though models with smaller engines may be better for shorter commutes.
How do I maintain my retro motorcycle?
Regular checks on oil, brakes, and tire pressure, along with a basic service every few thousand miles, will keep your motorcycle in top condition.
What’s the typical lifespan of a retro motorcycle?
With proper maintenance, a retro motorcycle can last over 10–15 years.
