10 Cheapest Two-Cylinder Sports Bikes On The Market

If you’re an adrenaline seeker on a budget, the world of two-cylinder sports bikes beckons. These machines offer a thrilling performance without the hefty price tag of their larger, three or four-cylinder counterparts. Of course, they do sacrifice some top-end power compared to their brawnier brethren. But they often boast a lighter weight, making them nimbler and more agile. This translates to a dynamic riding experience that gets the heart pounding.

The middle ground between single-cylinder machines and their bigger siblings, these bikes cater to a wide range of riders. Newcomers can appreciate the forgiving nature, while experienced riders can relish the surge of power all around the rev range. Furthermore, the two-cylinder layout brings with it a certain level of mechanical simplicity and higher fuel economy compared to more complex engines. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the exciting world of affordable two-cylinder sports bikes.

Looking at the data from OEM websites, and authoritative websites like cycleworld.com and motorcycle.com, we have crafted this list with the most authentic information. Motorcycles on this list are arranged in ascending order of price.

10 Suzuki GSX250R ABS

Base MSRP: $5,099

The Suzuki GSX250R flaunts an aggressive, fully-faired design inspired by the company’s bigger sports bikes. This aesthetic theme comprises an angular fairing that integrates seamlessly with the sculpted fuel tank, creating a sleek look. Behind the screen is a basic instrument cluster with an easy-to-read LCD, complemented by plastic switchgear. While the headlight utilizes a halogen bulb for nighttime visibility, the GSX250R maintains a modern touch with bright LED position lamps and taillight. Notably, ABS comes standard on this motorcycle, enhancing rider safety.

Engine Specs

(Sourced from Suzuki)

Powering the GSX250R is a 248cc parallel-twin engine specifically tuned to deliver strong low-to-mid-range torque. This translates to an easy-to-control power characteristic for everyday rides. A coupling-type balancer shaft attached to the engine’s crankshaft reduces vibration, offering an easy-going riding experience. ​Fuel injection further enhances the experience by providing a linear throttle response.

9 QJMotor SRK400RR

Base MSRP: $5,099

Chinese manufacturer QJMotor enters the ring in the affordable sports bike segment with its SRK400RR. This 400cc machine directly challenges the dominance of Japanese manufacturers by offering a similar price tag of $5,099 to the previously mentioned (and smaller) Suzuki GSX250R. And it doesn’t miss out on the competitive features such as a TFT dashboard, all-LED lighting, and dual-channel ABS.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from QJMotor)

The SRK400RR gets its power from an inline two-cylinder engine equipped with electronic fuel injection, the same as the manufacturer’s SRK400 naked bike. However, to complement the sportier character of the 400RR, the engine has been tuned to produce 44.2 horsepower compared to the 40 horsepower of its naked counterpart. That’s a lot of power for just $5,000!

8 Kawasaki Ninja 500

Base MSRP: $5,299

The Kawasaki Ninja 500 stuns with a unique front design. A hybrid setup combines projector low beams for focused illumination and reflector high beams for broader coverage, resulting in a fierce, high-tech visage. The bodywork complements this theme, featuring sleek lines that flow seamlessly. From a Monday commute to the office or a weekend highway ride, the Ninja 500 fits every mood due to its relaxed rider triangle and excellent seat comfort.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from Kawasaki)

The new 451cc, parallel twin engine unleashes smooth, responsive power across the rev range. This versatile engine adapts to your needs, offering both city tractability and highway passing power. City commutes become effortless thanks to the strong low-end power, while high-RPM capability lets you sing in the twisties or on the highway. A high-contrast LCD screen at its helm provides riding information and connects with your smartphone via the Rideology app.

7 Yamaha YZF-R3

Base MSRP: $5,499

The Yamaha YZF-R3 inherits the aggressive design language of the MotoGP YZR-M1. The sharp fairing houses a split LED headlight, and the rear-set footpegs with a tucked riding position emphasize its sporty character. The chassis is lightweight and well-balanced, making it nimble for navigating tight corners. The inverted front forks and single shock provide a comfortable ride without compromising on handling.

​​​​​​Engine Specification

(Sourced from Yamaha)

Under the skin is a 321cc in-line two-cylinder engine known for its smooth power delivery. The engine’s double overhead cams and four-valve per-cylinder design ensure a quick-revving performance and high RPM efficiency. Yamaha has given special attention to designing the cylinders and pistons to increase high-temperature performance and fuel efficiency. The R3 does not feature fancy technology, except the standard ABS for safety. However, this allows you to enjoy uninterrupted power delivery to hone some serious riding skills.

6 CFMoto 450SS

Base MSRP: $5,699

Chinese manufacturers are known for offering premium-looking products with super affordable price tags, and CFMoto is the flagbearer here. For example, the winglets of the 450SS remind us of top-spec Ducati or BMW sports bikes. As per the manufacturer, these winglets create 1.6 times more downforce when you push the engine to its limits. Meanwhile, a track bike-inspired multi-link rear suspension setup and Brembo brakes (with ABS) inspire you to take on the twisties.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from CFMoto)

This awesome-looking sports machine is equally magnificent in performance. The 449cc parallel twin engine features a 270-degree crank angle and double balance shafts to minimize vibrations. The engine is compact and designed to deliver a smooth power curve across the rev range. If you like professional sports bike style riding, then the reverse shifting feature of 450SS allows you to change the shifting pattern to pushdown upshift. All this while, the cockpit comes with a 5-inch TFT with Bluetooth and CFMoto Ride App connectivity.

5 Aprilia RS 457

Base MSRP: $6,799

Aprilia has brought its RS 457 to America priced at $6,799. As we have revealed earlier, the 457 has several signature RS-style elements, such as the three-pod LED headlights and segmented fairings. It is intended to compete with all Japanese road-going sports bikes of its class, so special attention is also given to rider comfort. For example, the clip-on handlebars allow a relaxed yet sporty posture while the seat enables easy movement for you to move around.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from Aprilia)

The technologically advanced 457cc engine is equipped with a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, allowing for optimal performance. This engine produces a class-leading 47 horsepower, but the most interesting factor is the unbeatable power-to-weight ratio of 0.1343 HP/LB (dry weight 350 pounds). Although not an intimidating figure, there’s a full suite of rider aids, including traction control, ABS, three ride modes, and ride-by-wire throttle, to watch your back.

4 Honda CBR500R

Base MSRP: $7,299

The Honda CBR500R offers a sporty look with its aerodynamic fairing and track-inspired bodywork. Its focus on performance is reflected in the somewhat sporty riding position, although the handlebars remain high enough to create a balance of sportiness and comfort. The riding experience is further enhanced by a diamond-shaped steel tube frame that holds the engine with four connecting mounts, offering superior stability and ease of handling.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from Honda)

The 471cc engine delivers strong low-end horsepower and torque. All of it spreads across the rev range, making this bike a fun-to-ride machine. Programmed fuel injection ensures a crisp throttle response while the slipper clutch offers a fatigue-free lever feel. ABS is a standard feature on this bike with a digital LCD screen on the deck providing all necessary riding information.

3 Kawasaki Ninja 650

Base MSRP: $8,299

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 boasts a sharp aesthetic with its aggressive fairing and sporty tail. This menacing look is further accentuated by aggressive twin LED headlights and a sporty windshield. Riding dynamics match the looks, with hydraulic forks and horizontal back-link rear suspension working in tandem to ensure nimble handling. The trellis frame contributes to its agility, while Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires ensure a balanced ride with a sure-footed grip.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from Kawasaki)

Power comes from a 649cc parallel-twin engine partnered with a slipper clutch and three-mode traction control. This reliable unit delivers smooth power, making it manageable for new riders while offering a sufficient thrill for experienced riders. On the tech side, a 4.3-inch TFT dashboard offers excellent readability due to its auto brightness adjustment feature and connects with your smartphone via the Rideology app. Kawasaki is offering several genuine accessories to make your Ninja your own.

2 Yamaha YZF-R7

Base MSRP: $9,199

The popular belief is that bulkier equals more power. But this is not the case for the Yamaha YZF-R7. This awesome blue machine is featured with the class’ slimmest bodywork. It translates to sharp handling and agility, making it a dream for carving corners. Concurrently, the low-profile fuel tank and clip-on handlebars create a rider’s position that facilitates precise control, especially when tucked in.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from Yamaha)

Yamaha’s dependable CP2 engine beats at its heart, delivering a wide range of power. The engine’s 270-degree crank angle keeps engine vibration to the minimum while producing a linear torque for punchy acceleration. You can feel the direct connection when you twist the wrist because there is no rider assistance tech onboard.

1 Suzuki GSX-8R

Base MSRP: $9,439

Suzuki throws down the gauntlet with the GSX-8R. Its wind tunnel-refined fairing and sharp lines create a modern, aggressive aesthetic. Ergonomics prioritize rider comfort and sportiness courtesy of split seats, clip-on handlebars, and slightly rear-set footpegs. This translates into comfortable sporty riding that excels on both city stints and twisty sessions.

Engine Specification

(Sourced from Suzuki)

The GSX-8R employs a 776cc parallel-twin engine. This offers a balance of torque-rich low RPM power and a likable top-end. Suzuki has employed the cross balancer technology, for the first time on a production motorcycle, to make the engine compact and lightweight. In terms of tech features, the GSX-8R is way ahead of every bike on this list. It has the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S), which comprises multi-mode traction control, drive mode selector, bi-directional quickshifter, and ride-by-wire electronic throttle.