For many of us, the journey into motorcycling began on smaller, more manageable machines before we yearned for something with more power and presence. The choice of that first bike often defined our early motorcycling experiences. Among the diverse categories available to novice riders, sports bikes have always held a special allure.
The dream of carving corners and experiencing the thrill of speed, inspired by legendary Grand Prix racers, is a timeless aspiration. Manufacturers understand this desire, and thankfully, the market continues to offer a fantastic selection of bikes that serve as excellent entry points into the world of sports riding. These aren’t just beginner bikes; they are capable machines with enough performance and dynamic handling to excite even seasoned riders, all while radiating that undeniable ‘cool’ factor. Here are ten of the Best Starter Sports Bikes to consider.
Updated September 2023: Motorcycle prices and features are constantly evolving. We’re committed to providing our readers with the most up-to-date information on the market.
Related: 10 Reasons Why The Yamaha R6 Is The Best Supersport
10. Aprilia RS 660
Starting MSRP: $11,699
Red and black Aprilia RS 660 showcasing its sporty design and Aprilia branding
For experienced riders venturing into the sports bike category for the first time, the Aprilia RS 660 presents an outstanding option. It masterfully blends the exhilarating performance, sharp handling, and responsive braking expected of a sports bike, all within a surprisingly comfortable and spacious package. Despite its rider-friendly ergonomics, the RS 660 maintains a lean and agile feel that is core to the sports bike experience.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 659cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Parallel-twin DOHC |
| Power | 100 horsepower |
| Torque | 49 pound-feet |
| Weight | 372 pounds (dry) |
| Transmission | 6-speed with Aprilia Quick Shift |
| Top Speed | 140 mph (claimed) |
The RS 660’s 100-horsepower parallel-twin engine, delivering 49 lb-ft of torque, provides thrilling performance perfectly matched to its capable chassis, suspension, and brakes. It’s an engaging and characterful ride that effectively communicates the essence of a true sports bike. For many, the Aprilia RS 660 could very well be the only sports bike ever needed, offering a perfect blend of performance and usability.
9. Kawasaki ZX-4RR
Starting MSRP: $9,699
Lime green Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR KRT edition on display stand highlighting its aggressive styling
For riders seeking a more traditional high-revving sports bike experience, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR emerges as a compelling choice. It retains the coveted inline four-cylinder engine configuration, now in a compact 399cc displacement. This powerplant delivers a claimed 78 horsepower and 26.5 lb-ft of torque at a screaming 15,000rpm. Weighing in at only 414.5 pounds (wet), it’s remarkably light, just slightly heavier than the ZX-25R. Sharing a similar chassis and suspension setup with its smaller sibling, the ZX-4RR offers a surprisingly roomy riding position within a super-compact motorcycle frame.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 399cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Inline-four DOHC |
| Power | 76 horsepower |
| Torque | 27.5 pound-feet |
| Weight | 414.5 pounds (wet) |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return shift |
| Top Speed | 157 mph (claimed) |
Equipped with twin radially-mounted front disc brakes for impressive stopping power and a bi-directional quick-shifter to keep the engine singing in its high-rev range, the ZX-4RR offers a premium sports bike experience. Its resemblance to the larger ZX-10RR is striking, making it visually indistinguishable to the casual observer. The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR presents a strong case as being the only sports bike many riders might ever desire, providing accessible high-performance thrills.
8. Triumph Trident 660
Starting MSRP: $8,595
Silver Triumph Trident 660 leaning into a corner showcasing its modern roadster styling
While perhaps not a traditional sports bike in the vein of others on this list, the Triumph Trident 660 earns its place with its sporty character and exceptional versatility. It serves as an excellent stepping stone for riders graduating from 125cc or 250cc machines, offering a significant upgrade without the intimidating leap to a full-blown 1000cc superbike.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 660cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Inline-three DOHC |
| Power | 80 horsepower |
| Torque | 47 pound-feet |
| Weight | 417 pounds (wet) |
| Transmission | 6-speed with wet multiplate clutch |
| Top Speed | 132 mph (claimed) |
The Triumph Trident 660 strikes a perfect balance between approachability and engaging performance. Its mild-mannered nature makes it unintimidating for newer riders, while its capable ride, handling, and performance characteristics provide ample opportunity to develop riding skills. The 660cc triple-cylinder engine delivers a smooth 80 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque, housed in a reasonably lightweight 417-pound package. Impressive build quality further enhances its appeal, leading many riders to question if they truly need anything more from a motorcycle, especially as a first “big bike.”
7. Kawasaki Ninja 650
Starting MSRP: $7,999
Rider in full gear testing the lean angle of a Kawasaki Ninja 650 on a racetrack
Similar to the distinction between the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and ZX-4RR, the Ninja 650 caters to riders who appreciate sporty aesthetics and handling but don’t necessarily require the extreme performance of bikes like the Aprilia RS 660. The Kawasaki Ninja 650 strikes a balance, offering sporty appeal without being overly aggressive. It features a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 68 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque, nestled in a well-engineered chassis with competent suspension and brakes. It prioritizes accessibility and everyday usability over outright track-focused performance.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 649cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Parallel-twin DOHC |
| Power | 68 horsepower |
| Torque | 47 pound-feet |
| Weight | 419 pounds (wet) |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return shift |
| Top Speed | 131 mph (claimed) |
The Ninja 650’s relaxed riding position and comfortable ergonomics, combined with its balanced chassis, make it a manageable and confidence-inspiring stepping stone to larger displacement motorcycles. While it may not possess the outright sportiness of the Aprilia, this is precisely its strength, making it a more practical and versatile choice for everyday riding and newer sports bike riders.
6. Honda CBR500R
Starting MSRP: $7,299
Red Honda CBR500R parked with a scenic backdrop showcasing its CBR family styling
For riders who feel they might be too large for some of the smaller displacement options, the Honda CBR500R offers a more substantial feel without sacrificing approachability. While it might be considered on the upper end for absolute beginners, its remarkably forgiving nature makes it a solid platform for developing sports riding skills. The CBR500R is powered by a smooth 471cc parallel-twin engine, producing 47 horsepower and 31.7 lb-ft of torque.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 471cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Parallel-twin DOHC |
| Power | 50 horsepower |
| Torque | 32 pound-feet |
| Weight | 423 pounds (wet) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Top Speed | 115 mph (claimed) |
The Honda CBR500R prioritizes ease of riding over outright character, resulting in an accessible and user-friendly machine that still offers a sporty experience. It boasts quality Showa suspension, twin four-piston radial calipers up front, and even subtle winglets integrated into its Fireblade-inspired bodywork. Comfortable and practical for urban environments, yet confidence-inspiring on open roads, the CBR500R is exceptionally well-built, as expected from Honda, representing excellent value for money as a starter sports bike.
Related: 2023 Honda CBR500R: Performance, Price, And Photos
5. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R
Starting MSRP: $6,500 (converted from Yen)
Lime green Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R in a studio shot highlighting its compact inline-four engine
Certain motorcycles, for various reasons, are not available in the U.S. market, a fact that often sparks debate among enthusiasts, especially when considering exceptional machines like the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R. Its specifications are truly remarkable: an inline four-cylinder engine, displacing a mere 250cc, with four valves per cylinder, revving to produce 43.5 horsepower at a screaming 15,000rpm. Even if outright speed wasn’t its forte, the sheer joy of riding the ZX-25R at full revs would be enough to captivate many riders.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 250cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Inline-four DOHC |
| Power | 43.5 horsepower |
| Torque | 15.6 pound-feet |
| Weight | 401 pounds (wet) |
| Transmission | 6-speed with wet multiplate clutch |
| Top Speed | 116 mph (claimed) |
While the torque figure is modest at 15.6 lb-ft, necessitating higher revs to access peak performance, the overall experience is exhilarating. Equipped with Showa suspension and a proper sports bike chassis, along with modern LED lighting, the ZX-25R visually mirrors its larger ZX-10R sibling. For beginner riders in Asian markets, where it is currently available, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R offers a truly unique and thrilling entry into the sports bike world.
4. KTM RC390
Starting MSRP: $5,899
Orange and black KTM RC 390 on a racetrack showcasing its aggressive supersport stance
KTM, renowned for its off-road and adventure motorcycles, has also successfully conquered the sports bike category. Enthusiasts who admire the flagship 1290 Super Duke can begin their KTM journey with the exceptional RC390. This model is a genuine mini-superbike, incorporating KTM’s extensive sports bike expertise and DNA.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 373cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled single-cylinder |
| Power | 43 horsepower |
| Torque | 27 pound-feet |
| Weight | 342 pounds (dry) |
| Transmission | 6-speed PASC™ antihopping clutch |
| Top Speed | 112 mph (claimed) |
The RC390’s single-cylinder engine delivers a surprising punch with 43 horsepower, providing performance that far exceeds expectations for its class. Its lean and aggressive design is complemented by excellent WP suspension, strong brakes, and razor-sharp handling. A skilled rider on an RC390 can confidently challenge even larger displacement sports bikes, making it a serious contender in the beginner sports bike segment and beyond.
3. Yamaha YZF-R3
Starting MSRP: $5,499
Blue Yamaha YZF-R3 in motion on a racetrack emphasizing its sporty R-series design
Japanese manufacturers are revisiting their heritage by offering a range of small-displacement, twin-cylinder engines, incorporating engineering principles reminiscent of 1960s Japanese Grand Prix bikes. Yamaha has achieved a significant success with the YZF-R3, effectively offering a miniature version of their iconic YZF-R1 supersport.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 321cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Inline-twin DOHC |
| Power | 42 horsepower |
| Torque | 21.8 pound-feet |
| Weight | 368 pounds (wet) |
| Transmission | 6-speed with wet multiplate clutch |
| Top Speed | 112 mph (claimed) |
The YZF-R3 is powered by a 321cc parallel-twin engine, producing 42 horsepower and 21.8 lb-ft of torque, with a total weight of just 374 pounds. It boasts genuine sports bike aesthetics and a sporty riding position, paired with a chassis that would be at home on a race grid. The R3 manages to be both beginner-friendly and a remarkably capable mini sports bike that punches well above its weight class, offering an excellent entry point into Yamaha’s R-series lineage.
Related: 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3: Performance, Price, And Photos
2. Kawasaki Ninja 400
Starting MSRP: $5,299
Green Kawasaki Ninja 400 KRT edition parked showcasing its approachable sportbike styling
Kawasaki’s extensive lineup of beginner-friendly sports bikes continues with the Ninja 400, a distinctly different proposition from the higher-spec ZX-4RR. While the ZX-4RR caters to riders certain of their sports bike preference, the Ninja 400 is designed for those seeking sporty styling and handling in a more accessible and less demanding package. It features a 399cc parallel-twin engine producing 45 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque, while maintaining a featherweight 370-pound mass.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 399cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Parallel-twin DOHC |
| Power | 45 horsepower |
| Torque | 27 pound-feet |
| Weight | 366 pounds (wet w/ ABS) |
| Transmission | 6-speed with wet multiplate clutch |
| Top Speed | 117 mph (claimed) |
The Ninja 400 possesses a big-bike feel, offering surprising comfort even for taller riders despite its compact dimensions. It arguably functions as a more well-rounded sports bike compared to the ZX-4RR, prioritizing everyday usability and a less frenetic riding experience. The excellent chassis inspires confidence, contributing to a refined and composed ride. Like other Kawasaki Ninja models, its resemblance to the ZX-10RR enhances its visual appeal, solidifying its position as a top contender for many riders seeking the best starter sports bike.
1. Suzuki GSX250R
Starting MSRP: $4,999
White Suzuki GSX250R riding through city streets highlighting its urban-friendly design
The Suzuki GSX250R, another small-displacement parallel-twin, is an undeniably attractive and approachable sports bike, though some riders might desire more power. Its 24 horsepower and 17 lb-ft of torque are modest figures, and the chassis is certainly capable of handling more performance.
Performance Specs
| Displacement | 248cc |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled Parallel-twin SOHC |
| Power | 24.7 horsepower |
| Torque | 17 pound-feet |
| Weight | 399 pounds (wet) |
| Transmission | 6-speed constant mesh |
| Top Speed | 85 mph (claimed) |
However, the GSX250R’s primary objective is not outright performance. Instead, it aims to attract a new generation of Suzuki riders by offering a typically well-engineered, lightweight, and compact sports model. Its unintimidating performance and confidence-inspiring handling make it an ideal entry point to the brand and the sports bike category. Mirroring the aesthetics of its larger Suzuki siblings and boasting a level of finish exceeding its price point, the GSX250R is a fun and stylish choice, particularly well-suited for urban riding and new riders.
