So you wanna ride?

We get it. Figuring out how to start riding and which bike to start on can feel overwhelming. To help put you on the path to success, we’ve simplified the process here. Whether this is your very first step into the world of riding, or you’re looking to re-enter the sport, you’ve found the right place. Keep reading to find answers to some of the most common questions from new riders.

Which motorcycle is best for me?

Before you decide on a category of motorcycle, we suggest you establish some basic riding skills first. While there are many ways to learn, the best is through an official training course like those offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

Proper training will help you be better informed when answering questions, such as: Where will you ride most days? Do you want to lean into curves on twisting mountain roads? Or do you prefer to sit back and enjoy a comfortable ride? Will you take it off-road? Will you be riding in city traffic? What about room for a passenger, or extra storage space?

Getting your first motorcycle will be a core memory you will never forget. It is also the bike that you’ll use to develop as a rider, which means it’s normal for it to get scratched or dropped.

Consider starting with an inexpensive model, because the less afraid you are to fail, the more success you are sure to find.

We also recommend looking at lower displacement motorcycles, which is bike-speak for models with smaller engines.

Trying to decide between buying new and used? There are benefits to both. Used models are generally more affordable, but they often come with additional “hidden costs” in terms of service and maintenance. Determining vehicle history is more challenging. Buying new from a dealership means your purchase has warranty coverage and opens the door to flexible financing options.

What size motorcycle do I need?

Like their riders, motorcycles come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. The important thing is to find one that fits your body. In his book, TOTAL CONTROL, Lee Parks says that ergonomics is “how man relates to his machine”. Whether you plan to ride around town or across the country, you need to be comfortable on your bike. The following two paragraphs feature some tips from Lee on ergonomics, great for when you visit the dealership and sit in a few saddles.

First, ensure that your feet can comfortably touch the ground when you are seated. Being able to flat-foot both feet will provide you with an immediate confidence boost, which is especially important for new riders. Then make sure you can easily access all controls at all times: your arms should be slightly bent while holding the handgrips, your knees should be comfortably tucked in against the gas tank, and your feet should rest firmly on the foot pegs.

It's also important to remember that engine displacement size does not always determine performance. Motorcycles are specialized machines, so be honest with yourself about where and how you will be riding. It doesn’t matter what bike the person next to you is looking at—focus on your own experience.

What are the best motorcycles for beginners?

Once you’re ready to choose a category of motorcycle, Honda has more beginner-friendly options to choose from than anyone else. From the street to the dirt, from boulevard cruising to backroads carving—for women and men alike—first-time and beginner riders have a plethora of options to choose from in the current Honda lineup. Here is a list of our top recommendations by category:

First-time riders: Navi

• Honda’s miniMOTO lineup features several models great for those who have never ridden before, but the Navi stands out as the top choice. With its twist-and-go full-automatic drive, super-lightweight design, and ultra-compact size, this quick-handling fun maker is the perfect way to get into the world of two wheels.

Adventure/Dual-Sport for beginners: CRF300L

• Boost your confidence on and off the road with the CRF300L lineup, featuring the standard 300L, low-seat 300LS, and Dakar-inspired 300L Rally. With easy-to-handle power and long-travel suspension, these dual-sport bikes are ideal for navigating city traffic and exploring new adventures without the intimidation of larger models.

Sport for beginners: CB300R

• Taking inspiration from our full-sized streetfighters, the CB300R serves as the perfect introduction to the realm of naked sport bikes, delivering agile performance and contemporary styling with accessible power.

Cruiser for beginners: Rebel 300 E-Clutch

• Featuring an ultra-low seat height and friendly power delivery, the new Rebel 300 integrates Honda’s revolutionary E-Clutch. This motorcycle combines advanced technology with timeless cruiser styling and stall-free control, making it accessible to riders of all skill levels.

Off-Road bikes for beginners: CRF50F – CRF300F

• Countless kids have been introduced to the sport of off-road riding through the CRF/F lineup. Starting with the CRF50F, they are designed to provide riders as young as 4 or 5 years old with the perfect platform to learn and develop good habits. With a range of models tailored to grow with them from childhood to adulthood, there is a CRF/F trail bike for every rider in the family.

Checking over your motorcycle is something you should do before each ride. Any information you’ll need on correct pressures or adjustments can be found in your owner’s manual. Here is the checklist provided by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation:

• Check the tires for pressure and cuts.
• Check the controls. Look for kinking or stiffness, or anything unusual in their operation.
• Check your lights, including brake light, headlights, and turn signals.
• Check the oil, fuel, and coolant levels.
• If your motorcycle has a chain drive, check that the chain is properly tensioned and in good shape.
• As you roll off, check your brakes.

Whether you plan to buy new or used, start by setting a budget for yourself. Don’t forget to factor in gear and insurance costs. Decide if you will pay cash or plan to finance. To find some of the best deals available, visit the current offers page. And, of course, Honda Financial Services is standing by to assist with any financing needs you may have.

What's next?

After you’ve learned the skills and found the right motorcycle, it’s time to get out and ride. Go explore, learn about yourself, and discover the world around you. Sites like REVER are a great way to find good routes and meet other riders in your community. But don’t ever think you’re done learning. No matter how long you’ve been in the saddle, it’s always smart to consider continuing your rider education with an advanced course. There are also numerous helpful content creators online who assist new riders in building confidence and addressing common questions.

Congratulations, you’re one step closer to your life as a rider. Now, get to enjoying it.