The Best Beginner-Friendly Cruisers Money Can Buy

Embarking on your journey as a new biker is extremely exciting. You are part of a tight-knit community of people that take pride in being the black sheep of society, and choose to live life on their own terms by operating a machine only enthusiasts understand. Now that you’re ready and excited about getting your first motorcycle, you must ask yourself “What kind of bike do I want?”

While some will gravitate towards high-speed sport bikes like a Kawasaki Ninja or a Honda CBR, some of you might want something a little more laid-back. You just got here, so you’re not looking to gun it on the highway anytime soon. You just want to get your hands on something that is comfortable, easy to ride, and perfect to take out on a warm summer’s day. Well, lucky for you, these are all aspects an entry-level cruiser motorcycle fits best, and here are 10 of these to make your decision-making easier.

Pulling data directly from manufacturers, and reputable news sites like motorcyclenews.com and other reliable sources, we’ve put together a list of great cruiser options for beginners.

Updated February 2024: Cruisers are one of the most popular categories of motorcycles in the world. This is particularly true in the United States, where Harley-Davidson and Indian reign supreme. But they’re not the only cruiser brands here, and if you’re ready to buy a cruiser as your starter bike, there are some great options available from these other brands. To keep our readers up to speed, this article will be updated periodically.

1 Yamaha V Star 250

MSRP: $4,699

Performance Specifications

One of the smallest cruisers available on sale in America is the vintage Yamaha V Star 250. This motorcycle fits the entry-level bill for a few reasons. Firstly, it carries the classic, chrome-heavy esthetic that many beginners find appealing. Second, the V Star is super accessible with a low 27-inch saddle height and a feather-like 324-pound curb weight. Third, the old-school flavor trickles down to the 250cc powerhouse that still comes with a carburetor and five-speed transmission. Thanks to these, it’s proven to be an ideal choice for riders looking for something simple.

PROS

• Lowest weight on the list
• 250cc Yamaha engine is perfect for learning to do maintenance on
• Profile and chrome harken back to vintage cruisers

CONS

• Maybe it is too small for larger riders
• Confident beginners will outgrow it fast due to low power and lack of tech

2 Royal Enfield Classic 350

MSRP: $4,699

Performance Specifications

There’s no arguing that Royal Enfield has been on a global tear as of late. Right from the dirt-cheap Hunter 350 to the Himalayan and the newly released Super Meteor, RE has been knocking it out of the park when it comes to sought-after, inexpensive, low-capacity motorcycles.

Nothing fits the bill better than the world-renowned Classic 350. The company sells millions of Classic 350s each year and if that’s now proof of its capabilities, we don’t know what it is. Why is it successful, you ask? Well, because it offers an impeccable blend of old-school esthetics, without feeling ancient like the V-Star 250. In fact, the baby cruiser underwent a massive overhaul just a couple of years ago which gave it a new lease of life.

PROS

• Charming esthetics
• Trusty powertrain
• Dirt-cheap at $4,599

CONS

• Enthusiasts will grow out of it quickly
• Freeway cruising can be an issue

3 Royal Enfield Meteor

MSRP: $4,699

Performance Specifications

Built on the same platform as the Classic is Royal Enfield’s premium 350cc cruiser motorcycle, the Meteor 350. It serves as a perfect for beginner customers that Harley and Indian don’t seem to care about, packing all necessary features, likable esthetics, and, most importantly, a punchy 350cc single-cylinder powerhouse.

We experienced it firsthand when we lived with the Hunter 350 and the mill was a pleasant surprise, even though it only has 20 horsepower. Plus, you’d also dig the plethora of color options that comprise everything from glossy single-tone paint to matte and dual-tone finishes.

PROS

• Adequate features for the pricing (informative cluster, LED tail lamp, backrest, ABS)
• Assortment of options
• Starts from as low as $4,699

CONS

• 350cc single might feel slow on the freeway
• A bit overweight for a small bike (~420 pounds)

4 Honda Rebel 300

MSRP: $4,899

Performance Specifications

If you want a similar, no-frills cruiser like the Meteor but with Japanese flavor, then the Honda Rebel 300 is the best bet. The baby Rebel serves duty as Honda’s smallest cruiser motorcycle in the United States, promising an unintimidating blend of performance, features, and looks. At its heart lies a 286cc, liquid-cooled powerhouse that produces 27-odd horsepower and 18 pound-feet.

This is topped by features like LED lights, a fully digital instrument cluster, and a slipper clutch. The crown jewel in our books, however, is a likable rider triangle. It seats you low, upright, and in a comfy position, all of which are well-suited for entry-level riders.

PROS

• Premium design and features
• Proven 286cc engine
• Prices start from just $4,769

CONS

• No pillion saddle
• ABS is not standard

5 Benelli Imperiale 400

MSRP: $4,899

Performance Specifications

In the niche entry-level cruiser market, the Imperiale 400 mostly faces competition from models with displacements under 350 cc. Like its rivals, the Benelli classic has remarkably simple mechanics that provide a smooth ride. It is powered by a 374cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that generates 21 horsepower and 22 pounds-feet of torque.

It rides on single disc brakes and a set of 19/18-inch wheels, while a steel double cradle chassis supports the engine and is complemented by telescopic forks and two shock absorbers at the back. Extended fenders, round lights, peashooter muffler, and the classic-styled tank all demonstrate how simplistically designed the entire Benelli bike really is.

PROS

1. Classic styling inspired by vintage motorcycles
2. Smooth and refined engine performance
3. Comfortable seating position

CONS

1. Limited color options compared to other models
2. Relatively smaller dealer network
3. Slightly higher weight

6 Honda Rebel 500

MSRP: $6,499

Performance Specifications

Dig the Rebel 300 but could use some more horsepower? Fret not, Honda has the Rebel 500 for you. Designed to be more of a well-rounded motorcycle, the Rebel serves as an ideal cruiser for normal riding as well as occasional ripping sessions. Be it a casual cruise through the back roads or a sprint on your twisties, it has the capabilities to deliver on both fronts.

Honda designed the Rebel 500 to be an entry-level cruiser for the 21st century. So you get plenty of modern tidbits, such as a blacked-out esthetic, bronze wheels (in some colorways), a slipper clutch, an all-LED lighting package, and a digital instrument cluster. Topping all this, of course, is the 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine (same as the CBR500R, CB500X, and CB500F) with 45 horsepower.

PROS

• Likable design
• Dependable Honda power plant found in other models
• Thoroughly modern in looks

CONS

• ABS costs $300 extra
• Compact form may be too small for larger riders

7 CFMoto 450 CL-C

MSRP: N/A

Performance Specifications

With the CL-C, CFMoto makes its entry into the reasonably priced cruiser market. The Chinese brand has quite a few remarkable value-for-money bikes under its belt and the new cruiser isn’t any different. It gets a host of features including turn-by-turn navigation via the CFMoto app, dual-channel ABS, traction control, and a slipper clutch.

It gets all the elements of a contemporary cruiser too, including its wide tires, curved tank, and low stance. Features-wise, it could be the most advanced cruiser in its category. The antique round 3.6-inch TFT instrument panel displays all the pertinent info. It could well be worth being the master of everything once it makes its way to the US.

PROS

1. Retro-styled American cruiser design
2. Affordable price point
3. Comfortable seating position for long rides

CONS

1. Limited availability of authorized service centers
2. Less established brand presence compared to others in the market
3. Hasn’t yet made it to the US

8 Kawasaki Eliminator

MSRP: $6,649

Performance Specifications

Kawasaki had seemingly only one motorcycle in their sights when they were developing the new Eliminator — the ever-popular Honda Rebel. With the Rebel’s long history and popularity, Team Green had nothing in their stable that could possibly answer it. So, the bikemaker took the Rebel’s recipe and perfected it to birth the new-for-2023 Eliminator. Though the first model came with a 400cc twin (identical to the Ninja 400), the US-spec Eliminator boasts a bigger 450cc mill with 31.7 pound-feet. Add to this its 22-pound weight advantage over the Rebel, and you’re looking at more grunt here. You also get a more informative LCD here, smartphone connectivity, and a pillion saddle as standard equipment–all absent on the Honda.

PROS

• Placement between the Rebel 300 and 500 might be the ace up its sleeve
• High-tech features and phone connectivity
• Should offer better performance

CONS

• Costs $200 more than the Rebel
• Looks too similar to the Honda

9 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

MSRP: $6,999

Performance Specifications

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is a living example of Royal Enfield’s rich history and its continuing influence in the retro market. This bike has an alluring fusion of British and American cruiser design elements that have been painstakingly honed over time to produce a unique motorcycle personality. At 740 mm, the seat height is quite high for a cruiser, but it unexpectedly adds character to the bike and makes it stand out from the throng.

The powerful 648cc Parallel-twin, 4-stroke, SOHC engine at the heart of the Super Meteor 650 has four valves per cylinder and provides enough power for easy and smooth highway travel. In conclusion, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 proves to be a strong, attractive, and practical choice that is well worthy of your attention.

PROS

• Looks beautiful
• A powerful engine boasts good road performance
• Value for money

CONS

• Subpar ride comfort
• Gets inadequate wind protection

10 Kawasaki Vulcan S

MSRP: $7,349

Performance Specifications

A common pattern seen among many of the motorcycles on this list is their mass appeal. Not just in terms of power and price, but in comfort. What makes the Kawasaki Vulcan S such a popular choice for new riders is its accommodating ergonomics. While some motorcycles are better suited for certain heights, the Vulcan S suits all kinds of riders (super-short or super-tall). A low seat and forward controls back this up well. To make matters sweeter, you get a trusty 649cc, parallel-twin mill between your legs. There’s ample juice (61 horsepower) to keep new riders entertained for a long time.

PROS

• Trusty 650cc engine has no shortage of grunt
• Kawasaki’s ErgoFit technology guarantees the bike will fit any rider

CONS

• Lack of features.
• Uninspired looks, fit, and finish

11 Honda Shadow Phantom

MSRP: $8,399

Performance Specifications

Widely considered one of the most popular cruiser bikes for beginners, the Honda Shadow checks off all the boxes one looks for in a beginner’s cruiser. Simple, stylish, and smooth are some adjectives that fit this bike well, all of which help you introduce your inner badass to the rest of the world.

The motorcycle has undergone a sizable update for 2023, gaining notable updates such as a new seat, handlebar, and a digital instrument cluster. Topping this is a new rear fender, blacked-out exhaust, and fork gaiters, all of which make it look more butch. You’d also appreciate the reduction in weight and seat height.

All this while, the motorcycle carries forward the likable 745cc liquid-cooled V-twin four-stroke engine, which delivers the right amount of kick for a new rider to make them feel in control, and not present itself as overpowering. So the Shadow is ideal for beginner riders just looking to cruise around town and build their confidence operating a real motorcycle in real-life traffic without feeling intimidated by it.

PROS

• Low seat height is perfect for beginners
• Pullback handlebar suited for comfort
• 745cc liquid-cooled V-Twin is powerful but unintimidating

CONS

• Quite hefty at 543 pounds
• Sparse technology

12 Suzuki Boulevard C50

MSRP: $9,199

Performance Specifications

Suzuki has its own take on the old-school cruiser with the Boulevard C50. While the basics are identical to others (low seat, forward controls, and lots of chrome), a unique touch here is the set of floorboards instead of your usual footrests. These ensure a much more comfortable riding experience than footpegs, and get you ready for the full-sized tourers if that’s your end goal after starting out on small cruisers. Under all this lies a decent-sized 805cc V-twin engine to promise an authentic American cruiser experience. Bonus points for the low-maintenance shaft-drive here (it’s the only motorcycle here to feature it).

PROS

• Great classic look without the Harley price tag
• Floorboards for better foot comfort
• Shaft-drive is a rarity in the segment

CONS

• Outdated and seemingly forgotten by Suzuki
• Heavy and lumbering at 611 pounds
• Barely any features

13 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec

MSRP: $8,899

Performance Specifications

On our list of entry-level cruisers, the 2023 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec is an able option that swoons with its ageless charm. There is no denying that there exists a startling similarity in its design to the Triumph Bonneville Bobber. The bike’s minimally raised handlebar encourages a somewhat forward-leaning riding stance, which amplifies the experience’s aggressiveness.

The Bolt R-Spec has a double-down tube frame design that gives the engine strong support. This bike has a 942cc, air-cooled, SOHC V-Twin, four-valve engine that produces an amazing 65 horsepower, giving it a great option for highway driving. The Bolt R-Spec should be your first pick if you’re prepared to shell out some money for a vintage American cruiser that can handle long-distance travel.

PROS

• The striking presence of a classic bobber with a neo-retro appeal
• Powerful engine
• Exceptional comfort for city riding

CONS

• Small fuel tank capacity
• The instrument cluster is basic
• Stock seat might be uncomfortable for longer rides

14 Indian Scout Bobber Sixty

Starting MSRP: $10,749

Performance Specifications

Among all these beginner-friendly ones, the Indian Scout Bobber Sixty is without a doubt the most beautiful. Its tiny fenders, blackout detailing, matte-finished blue indigo paint, and sleek lines all work so well together to create a fantastic overall appearance. Coming with a 1,133cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine that spits out an amazing 100 horsepower at 8,100 RPM, the Scout Bobber Sixty has enough to keep you thrilled. Even though it’s perhaps on the higher end of the budget range, for those who can afford it, it definitely offers great value.

PROS

• Easy to handle and maneuver
• It has a powerful engine that delivers a smooth and responsive ride
• It has a low seat height that makes it accessible to riders of all sizes

CONS

• The bike has a limited range due to its small fuel tank
• Stiff suspension can make for a bumpy ride on rough roads
• High price tag compared to other cruisers in its class

15 Harley-Davidson Nightster

MSRP: $11,999

Performance Specifications

We know you were waiting for it, and it’s here. Though not exactly an entry-level cruiser, the Nightster is the smallest Harley-Davidson cruiser money can buy right now. It checks all the right boxes, offering a comfortable riding triangle, easy-to-reach seat height, and a low weight–three crucial aspects for new riders.

The only problem is its 975cc V-twin engine that has 90 horsepower, which may be a bit much for those riders just starting out. However, Harley-Davidson has thrown in modern rider aids to keep you right side up. So, if you simply must have a brand-new Harley as your first motorcycle, the Nightster is going to be the easiest out of all current HD options to tame.

PROS

• Accessible ergonomics
• Loads of power to keep you entertained for years
• Only bike here with electronic rider aids

CONS

• Over $13,000 MSRP is a lot for newbies
• The engine can feel intimidating