For many riders, the journey into motorcycling begins with smaller displacement machines before progressing to bigger, more powerful bikes. The initial choice of motorcycle often reflects a rider’s aspirations, and within the beginner bike category, sports bikes have always held a strong appeal. The dream of emulating MotoGP heroes is alive and well, and manufacturers continue to cater to this desire by offering a fantastic selection of beginner-friendly sports bikes. These bikes not only serve as excellent entry points but also provide enough thrill and capability to entertain experienced riders, all while radiating that unmistakable ‘cool’ factor. Here are ten of the Best Starter Sports Bikes that perfectly blend accessibility with sporty excitement.
Updated September 2024: Market trends and manufacturer updates are continuously evolving. We ensure our readers are informed about the latest developments and pricing in the motorcycle market.
Related: 10 Reasons Why The Yamaha R6 Is Still a Supersport Legend
1. Aprilia RS 660
Starting MSRP: $11,699
Sleek Aprilia RS 660 in a studio setting, showcasing its sporty design and fairings, a great option for best starter sports bikes.
For riders transitioning into sports bikes, the Aprilia RS660 is an outstanding choice. It masterfully combines the exhilarating performance, sharp handling, and powerful braking expected from a sports bike with surprising comfort and spaciousness. It never feels bulky, maintaining a lean and agile character perfect for learning the ropes of sports riding.
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, offers vibrant performance perfectly matched to its capable chassis, suspension, and brakes. The ride is thrilling and full of character, providing an authentic sports bike experience. For many, the Aprilia RS 660 could be the ideal sports bike, serving both as a fantastic starter and a long-term companion.
2. Kawasaki ZX-4RR
Starting MSRP: $9,699
Bright green Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR KRT edition displayed on a stand, highlighting its aggressive sportbike styling and features ideal for best starter sports bikes.
For those seeking a more traditional high-revving experience, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR revives the inline-four spirit in a beginner-friendly package. Its 399cc inline-four engine produces a claimed 78 horsepower and 26.5 lb-ft of torque at a thrilling 15,000rpm. Weighing just 414.5 pounds, it’s remarkably similar in size to the ZX-25R, offering a compact yet surprisingly accommodating riding position for a sports bike beginner.
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 discs for strong braking and a bi-directional quick-shifter for seamless gear changes at high revs, the ZX-4RR offers a premium feel. Its resemblance to the ZX-10RR flagship model is uncanny, making it a visually impressive and performance-oriented starter sports bike that might just be all the sports bike many riders ever desire.
3. Triumph Trident 660
Starting MSRP: $8,595
Silver Triumph Trident 660 leaning into a corner on a winding road, showcasing its sporty yet accessible nature, a great choice for best starter sports bikes.
The Triumph Trident 660 may not fit the traditional sports bike mold as closely as others on this list, but its sporty character makes it a superb choice for riders stepping up from smaller bikes. It’s an excellent option for those graduating from 125cc or 250cc machines who want more power without jumping straight to a high-displacement, aggressive sports bike.
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 Trident 660 is uniquely approachable and user-friendly, yet it delivers engaging ride, handling, and performance that will significantly improve your riding skills. Its 660cc triple-cylinder engine produces 80 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque, housed in a reasonably lightweight 417-pound package. The build quality is exceptional, making you question if you need anything more in a motorcycle, especially when looking for a sporty yet manageable starter bike.
4. Kawasaki Ninja 650
Starting MSRP: $7,999
Kawasaki Ninja 650 in action on a racetrack, demonstrating its sporty capabilities and agility, a solid contender for best starter sports bikes.
Similar to the choice between the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and ZX-4RR, the Kawasaki Ninja 650 caters to riders who want sporty aesthetics and performance without the extreme intensity of bikes like the Aprilia RS660. It’s a sporty, yet practical motorcycle, featuring a 649cc, 68-horsepower, 47 lb-ft parallel-twin engine. This setup, combined with a well-tuned chassis, capable suspension, and effective brakes, provides a balanced and enjoyable ride without excessive sporting aggression, making it a great starter sports bike.
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 capable chassis, create a confidence-inspiring and manageable step up to larger bikes. While not as overtly sporty as the Aprilia, this is actually a benefit for riders seeking a more versatile and less demanding starter sports bike.
5. Honda CBR500R
Starting MSRP: $7,299
Vibrant red Honda CBR500R parked, showcasing its CBR family design and approachable sportbike styling, a reliable choice for best starter sports bikes.
For riders who might feel too large for some smaller displacement options, the Honda CBR500R is an excellent fit. While pushing the upper limit for absolute beginners, its exceptionally forgiving nature makes it a solid platform for developing sports riding skills. The 471cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, predictable power with 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 CBR500R might not be brimming with raw character, but this understated nature contributes to its ease of use as a beginner-friendly sports bike. It’s a capable machine equipped with Showa suspension, twin four-piston radial calipers up front, and even winglets inspired by the Fireblade. Comfortable, practical for everyday riding, and confidence-inspiring on twisty roads, the CBR500R is a well-rounded and high-value motorcycle for its price.
Related: 2023 Honda CBR500R: Performance, Price, And Photos
6. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R
Starting MSRP: $6,500 (converted from Yen)
Dynamic shot of a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R in motion on a track, emphasizing its high-revving inline-four engine and sporty handling, a unique option for best starter sports bikes.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R is a standout model that, unfortunately, remains unavailable in the U.S. market. This is a true shame, as it represents a unique and thrilling option for beginner sports bike riders. Its specifications are remarkable: a 250cc inline-four engine with four valves per cylinder, producing 43.5 horsepower at a screaming 15,000rpm. Even if outright speed isn’t its primary focus, the sheer joy of riding it at high revs is incredibly appealing, making it a fun and engaging starter sports bike.
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 high-rev riding, the ZX-25R compensates with Showa suspension and a proper sports bike chassis. It also features LED lighting and styling that closely mirrors the ZX-10R, offering the look and feel of a larger sports bike. For beginner riders in Asian markets where it’s available, the ZX-25R is an exceptional and exciting choice.
7. KTM RC390
Starting MSRP: $5,899
Aggressive KTM RC 390 on a racetrack, highlighting its sharp lines and sporty ergonomics, a track-focused choice for best starter sports bikes.
KTM is renowned for its off-road and adventure bikes, but they’ve also excelled in the sports bike category, particularly with the RC390. For KTM enthusiasts aspiring to own the 1290 Super Duke, the RC390 serves as an ideal starting point. It’s a genuine mini-superbike, incorporating KTM’s extensive sports bike expertise into a smaller, more accessible package, perfect as a best starter sports bike.
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 belies its displacement. Its lean and mean build, combined with excellent WP suspension, strong brakes, and precise handling, make it exceptionally capable. A skilled rider on an RC390 can easily outperform a less experienced rider on a larger, 1000cc sports bike, demonstrating the RC390’s prowess as a nimble and exciting starter sports bike.
8. Yamaha YZF-R3
Starting MSRP: $5,499
Dynamic blue Yamaha YZF-R3 on a racetrack, showcasing its R-series styling and agility, a popular choice for best starter sports bikes.
Japanese manufacturers are returning to their roots by offering a range of small displacement, twin-cylinder engines, reminiscent of the engineering found in 1960s Japanese Grand Prix bikes. Yamaha has successfully captured this spirit with the YZF-R3, a miniature version of the iconic YZF-R1. It’s a fantastic entry point into the world of Yamaha sports bikes and a top contender for best starter sports bikes.
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 features 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 authentic sports bike aesthetics and a sporty riding position. Coupled with a chassis that wouldn’t be out of place on a race grid, the R3 is both beginner-friendly and a remarkably capable mini sports bike that performs well beyond its class.
Related: 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3: Performance, Price, And Photos
9. Kawasaki Ninja 400
Starting MSRP: $5,299
Lime green Kawasaki Ninja 400 KRT edition parked, highlighting its accessible and sporty design, a highly recommended best starter sports bike.
Kawasaki continues to dominate the beginner sports bike segment with models like the Ninja 400. While the ZX-4RR is designed for riders fully committed to the sports bike experience, the Ninja 400 appeals to those seeking a sporty motorcycle that’s not overly aggressive. It features a 399cc parallel-twin engine producing 45 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque, while weighing a mere 370 pounds. This combination makes it an incredibly approachable and enjoyable best starter sports bike.
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 offers a ‘big bike’ feel with comfortable ergonomics, even for taller riders, despite its compact size. It is arguably a better all-around sports bike for everyday use than the ZX-4RR due to its less frenetic and more practical nature. The excellent chassis inspires confidence, and the ride is refined and sophisticated. Like other Kawasaki Ninja models, it shares styling cues with the ZX-10RR, making it visually appealing and a top contender for beginner riders.
10. Suzuki GSX250R
Starting MSRP: $4,999
White Suzuki GSX250R cruising through city streets, emphasizing its urban-friendly nature and approachable styling, a budget-friendly best starter sports bike.
The Suzuki GSX250R is another excellent small displacement parallel-twin sports bike, perfect for introducing new riders to the Suzuki brand. While its 24 horsepower and 17 lb-ft of torque might not be exhilarating, and the chassis could handle more power, that’s not the GSX250R’s primary goal. It’s designed to be an unintimidating, confidence-inspiring, and well-built entry-level sports bike.
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) |
The GSX250R aims to attract a new generation of Suzuki riders with its lightweight, compact sports bike design and manageable performance. Like the other bikes in this list, it mirrors the aesthetics of its larger siblings and boasts a level of finish that exceeds its price point. It’s a fun and practical choice, especially for city riding, and a great starting point for anyone interested in sports bikes.
