December 12, 2024

Best Retro Motorcycles for Beginners: Features, Prices, and Specfications

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.

Royal Enfield Classic 350
FeatureRoyal Enfield Classic 350
Engine349cc, single-cylinder
Power20.2 HP
Torque27 Nm
Fuel Capacity13 liters
Fuel Mileage37-41 km/l
Transmission5-speed
BrakesDisc front, drum rear
Seat Height805 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.

Honda CB350 H’ness
FeatureHonda CB350 H’ness
Engine348cc, single-cylinder
Power21 HP
Torque30 Nm
Fuel Capacity15 liters
Fuel Mileage35-40 km/l
Transmission5-speed
BrakesDisc front and rear
Seat Height800 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.

Yamaha SR400
FeatureYamaha SR400
Engine399cc, single-cylinder
Power23 HP
Torque27 Nm
Fuel Capacity12 liters
Fuel Mileage36-40 km/l
Transmission5-speed
BrakesDisc front, drum rear
Seat Height785 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.

Kawasaki-W800
FeatureKawasaki W800
Engine773cc, parallel-twin
Power48 HP
Torque62 Nm
Fuel Capacity15 liters
Fuel Mileage20-25 km/l
Transmission5-speed
BrakesDisc front and rear
Seat Height790 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.

Benelli Imperiale 400
FeatureBenelli Imperiale 400
Engine374cc, single-cylinder
Power21 HP
Torque29 Nm
Fuel Capacity12 liters
Fuel Mileage30-35 km/l
Transmission5-speed
BrakesDisc front and rear
Seat Height780 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.

Triumph Bonneville T100
FeatureTriumph Bonneville T100
Engine900cc, parallel-twin
Power64 HP
Torque80 Nm
Fuel Capacity14.5 liters
Fuel Mileage21-23 km/l
Transmission5-speed
BrakesDisc front and rear
Seat Height790 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.

Yamaha XSR700
FeatureSpecification
Engine689cc, parallel-twin
Power73 hp @ 8750 rpm
Torque68 Nm @ 6500 rpm
Fuel Capacity14 liters
Fuel Mileage~23-25 km/l
Transmission6-speed manual
BrakesDual front disc, Rear disc
Seat Height835 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.

Triumph Street Twin
FeatureSpecification
Engine900cc, parallel-twin
Power64 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque80 Nm @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Capacity12 liters
Fuel Mileage~24-26 km/l
Transmission5-speed manual
BrakesFront and rear disc brakes
Seat Height765 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.

BMW R nineT Pure
FeatureSpecification
Engine1170cc, flat-twin
Power110 hp @ 7750 rpm
Torque116 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Capacity17 liters
Fuel Mileage~20-22 km/l
Transmission6-speed manual
BrakesDual front disc, Rear disc
Seat Height805 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.

Moto Guzzi V7
FeatureSpecification
Engine744cc, V-twin
Power52 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque60 Nm @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Capacity21 liters
Fuel Mileage~24-26 km/l
Transmission6-speed manual
BrakesFront and rear disc brakes
Seat Height780 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.

Suzuki TU250X
FeatureSpecification
Engine249cc, single-cylinder
Power16 hp @ 7200 rpm
Torque17 Nm @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Capacity12 liters
Fuel Mileage~40-42 km/l
Transmission5-speed manual
BrakesFront disc, Rear drum
Seat Height770 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.

Harley-Davidson Iron 883
FeatureSpecification
Engine883cc, V-twin
Power50 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque70 Nm @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Capacity12.5 liters
Fuel Mileage~20-22 km/l
Transmission5-speed manual
BrakesFront and rear disc brakes
Seat Height760 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.

Fantic Caballero 500
FeatureSpecification
Engine449cc, single-cylinder
Power40 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque43 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Capacity12 liters
Fuel Mileage~26-28 km/l
Transmission6-speed manual
BrakesFront and rear disc brakes
Seat Height820 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.

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