If you’re looking to take your first steps into the world of motorcycle riding, or you’re ready to upgrade to something with a bit more power, a 500cc motorcycle could be the perfect choice for you. As an intermediate class of motorcycle, 500cc bikes offer a significant amount of power that can be a bit of a challenge for beginners, but also provide plenty of fun and excitement for more experienced riders.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at the top 500cc motorcycles for beginners, highlighting the features and specifications that make them great options for those just starting out. So whether you’re a complete novice or a more experienced rider looking for a new challenge, let’s explore the world of 500cc motorcycles and find the perfect bike for you.
But with so many different 500cc bikes to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this article to highlight some of the best options out there. Whether you’re looking for a cruiser, a sport bike, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and get ready to discover the 10 best 500cc motorcycles for beginners!
The Honda CB500F is a popular choice for beginners due to its comfortable riding position, responsive handling, and reliable performance. It features a liquid-cooled 471cc parallel-twin engine, producing 46 horsepower and 31 lb-ft of torque. The CB500F also has a low seat height of 30.9 inches, making it easy for riders of all sizes to reach the ground. With a price range of $6,199 to $6,699, the CB500F is an affordable option for riders on a budget.
The Yamaha MT-07 is a versatile and stylish naked bike that’s a great option for beginner riders. Its liquid-cooled 689cc parallel-twin engine produces 73 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for spirited riding. The MT-07 also has a relatively low seat height of 31.7 inches and a weight of 403 pounds, making it easy to handle for riders of all sizes. With a price range of $7,699 to $8,199, the MT-07 is a bit more expensive than some other options, but its performance and features make it well worth the investment.
Kawasaki Vulcan S:
Kawasaki Vulcan S:
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is a stylish cruiser that’s well-suited for beginner riders. It features a liquid-cooled 649cc parallel-twin engine, producing 61 horsepower and 46 lb-ft of torque. What makes the Vulcan S stand out is its adjustable seat and footpeg positions, which allow riders to customize their riding position for maximum comfort and control. The Vulcan S also has a relatively low weight of 498 pounds, which makes it easy to maneuver. With a price range of $7,499 to $7,999, the Vulcan S is a great value for riders who want a comfortable and customizable cruiser.
Suzuki SV650:
The Suzuki SV650 is a versatile sport bike that’s a popular choice for beginner riders. Its liquid-cooled 645cc V-twin engine produces 75 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for spirited riding. The SV650 also has a low seat height of 30.9 inches, making it easy for riders of all sizes to reach the ground. With a price range of $7,499 to $8,199, the SV650 is an affordable and fun option for riders who want a sporty ride.
KTM 390 Duke:
KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke is a lightweight and agile naked bike that’s well-suited for beginner riders. Its liquid-cooled 373cc single-cylinder engine produces 44 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for city riding. The 390 Duke also has a relatively low weight of 357 pounds, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver. With a price range of $5,699 to $6,199, the 390 Duke is a great value for riders who want a fun and easy-to-ride bike.
Royal Enfield Continental GT:
The Royal Enfield Continental GT is a classic cafe racer-style bike that’s perfect for beginner riders who want a retro look. Its air-cooled 499cc single-cylinder engine produces 27 horsepower and 30 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and easy-to-handle ride. The Continental GT also has a low seat height of 31.2 inches, making it easy for riders of all sizes to reach the ground. With a price range of $5,999, the Continental GT is an affordable and stylish option for riders who want a classic bike.
The Yamaha R3 is a lightweight and nimble sport bike that’s a great option for beginner riders who want a more aggressive riding position. Its liquid-cooled 321cc parallel-twin engine produces 42 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for spirited riding. The R3 also has a relatively low weight of 368 pounds, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver. With a price range of $5,299 to $5,599, the R3 is an affordable and fun option for riders who want a sporty ride.
Honda Rebel 500:
The Honda Rebel 500 is a cruiser-style bike that’s perfect for beginner riders who want a relaxed riding position. Its liquid-cooled 471cc parallel-twin engine produces 46 horsepower and 31 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and easy-to-handle ride. The Rebel 500 also has a low seat height of 27.2 inches, which makes it one of the lowest options on this list, making it perfect for shorter riders. With a price range of $6,299 to $6,999, the Rebel 500 is a great value for riders who want a comfortable and customizable cruiser.
Benelli Leoncino 500:
The Benelli Leoncino 500 is a retro-inspired naked bike that’s perfect for beginner riders who want a unique and stylish ride. Its liquid-cooled 500cc parallel-twin engine produces 47 horsepower and 33 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for city and highway riding. The Leoncino 500 also has a relatively low weight of 446 pounds, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver. With a price range of $6,199 to $6,399, the Leoncino 500 is a great value for riders who want a bike that’s both stylish and practical.
BMW G 310 R:
The BMW G 310 R is a lightweight and agile naked bike that’s a great option for beginner riders who want a premium feel. Its liquid-cooled 313cc single-cylinder engine produces 34 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and easy-to-handle ride. The G 310 R also has a low seat height of 30.9 inches, making it easy for riders of all sizes to reach the ground. With a price range of $5,045 to $5,295, the G 310 R is a great value for riders who want a high-quality bike from a premium brand.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing 500cc Motorcycles for Beginners
Engine type:
500cc motorcycles come with either a single-cylinder or twin-cylinder engine. Single-cylinder engines tend to be simpler and more lightweight, which can make them a good option for beginners. Twin-cylinder engines offer smoother power delivery and can be more powerful, but they may be more expensive and harder to maintain.
Seat height:
Make sure the bike you choose has a seat height that you’re comfortable with. Ideally, you should be able to touch the ground with both feet when you’re sitting on the bike.
Weight:
A lighter bike can be easier to handle and maneuver, especially for beginners. However, keep in mind that some heavier bikes may have features like ABS or traction control that can make them safer to ride.
Price:
As with any major purchase, you’ll want to consider your budget when choosing a 500cc motorcycle. Keep in mind that there may be additional costs beyond the initial purchase price, such as insurance, maintenance, and gear.
Maintenance requirements:
Different bikes will have different maintenance needs, so make sure you choose a model that you’re comfortable maintaining. Some bikes may require more frequent oil changes, for example, while others may need more extensive maintenance like valve adjustments.
FAQs
Why are 500cc motorcycles ideal for beginners?
500cc motorcycles provide a good balance of power and weight for beginner riders. They offer enough power to make riding enjoyable, while still being light and easy to handle.
What type of engine is best for a 500cc motorcycle?
Both single and twin-cylinder engines can be suitable for 500cc motorcycles. Single-cylinder engines tend to be simpler and easier to maintain, while twin-cylinder engines offer smoother power delivery and a more refined ride.
What is the average price range for a 500cc motorcycle for beginners?
The price range for 500cc motorcycles for beginners can vary but generally falls between $5,000 to $7,000. However, prices can vary depending on the brand, model, and features.
How important is seat height when choosing a 500cc motorcycle for beginners?
Seat height is an important factor to consider when choosing a 500cc motorcycle, especially for beginners. A comfortable seat height allows the rider to reach the ground easily, making it easier to control the bike at low speeds or while stopped.
What is the maintenance required for a 500cc motorcycle for beginners?
Like all motorcycles, 500cc bikes require regular maintenance such as oil changes, chain adjustments, and tire inspections. However, maintenance requirements can vary depending on the specific model and brand, so it’s important to refer to the owner’s manual for detailed information.
Is a 500cc motorcycle good for beginners?
Yes, a 500cc motorcycle can be a good option for beginners because it provides enough power to make riding enjoyable while still being light and easy to handle. Additionally, many 500cc motorcycles are designed with beginner riders in mind, with features such as lower seat heights and user-friendly controls.
How fast can a 500cc motorcycle go?
The top speed of a 500cc motorcycle can vary greatly depending on the specific make and model, as well as other factors such as rider weight, wind resistance, and road conditions. However, in general, 500cc motorcycles can achieve speeds of around 100 to 130 mph.
Final Words
In conclusion, 500cc motorcycles are a great option for beginners who are looking for a bike that’s both easy to handle and provides enough power to enjoy the ride. With a variety of options available, riders can find a bike that suits their individual needs and preferences.
Kamran Hussain is a motorcycle enthusiast and expert with over 5 years of experience in the industry. As a seasoned rider, he has a deep understanding of the motorcycle market and is dedicated to helping riders find the best bikes and gear to suit their needs.
Kamran Hussain has written extensively on motorcycle topics, including buying guides, product reviews, and maintenance tips. With his comprehensive knowledge of the industry, he is a trusted source for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking reliable information and advice.
