If you must procure yourself a brand-new bike and don't want to stretch the budget, keep read. 2025 has some wonderful budget-friendly motorcycle solutions to offer. You can obtain yourself a decent entry-level commuter, a zippy mini-bike, or a snazzy retro unit within the budget of nearly $5,000.
In this article, we will include the top 10 cheapest motorcycles of 2025. We will examine the specifications, key characteristics, the pros and cons, and reveal the ideal bike that fits your needs.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Cheapest Motorcycles (Priced from Low to High)
Cheapest Motorcycle Model
Price
Honda XR150L
$3,099
Kawasaki Z125 Pro
$3,699
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
$3,999
CFMoto 300NK
$4,199
KTM 250 Duke
$4,599
Honda Rebel 300
$4,849
Kawasaki KLX230
$4,999
Yamaha TW200
$4,999
Suzuki GSX250R
$5,149
Triumph Speed 400
$5,195
1. Honda XR150L ($3,099)
Honda XR150L
The Honda XR150L is the cheapest new motorcycle you’ll find in 2025, coming in at just $3,099.
It’s kind of a rare deal, just costs about the same as an entry-level scooter.
But, it gives you a real 150cc dual-sport bike. That makes it a solid pick for newbies or anyone trying to stick to a budget.
Honda kept things simple to keep the cost down, so there aren't any bells and whistles here. But it’s got all the basics covered.
Unlike scooters, the XR150L has a manual clutch and real off-road clearance, so whether you’re cruising around town or heading down a dirt road, it’s ready for anything.
For first-time riders, the XR150L is super easy to handle. It's light, with controls that are simple to get the hang of, so it won’t feel intimidating. And since it’s a Honda, you know it’s built to last without costing you a fortune in repairs.
Honda XR150L Performance Specifications
Engine Type
air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Displacement
149cc
Max Power
12.1 hp @ 7,750 rpm
Max Torque
9.2 lb-ft @ 6,000 rpm
Transmission
5-speed
Top Speed
60 mph
Fuel Capacity
2.8 gallons (including 0.9-gallon reserve)
Weight (curb)
128kg
✅ Pros
Super affordable
Lightweight and easy to handle
Durable and simple to maintain
❌ Cons
Carburetor instead of EFI
Struggles at highway speeds
Best for: Riders who need a simple, tough bike for city streets and dirt roads, not highways.
2. Honda Grom ($3,599) / Kawasaki Z125 Pro ($3,699)
Next up are the tiny “pocket” bikes: Honda’s Grom (also known as the MSX125) starts at around $3,599, and its rival, Kawasaki’s Z125 Pro, comes in a bit higher at about $3,699.
Both bikes pack a 125cc single-cylinder engine—the Grom with 124cc and around 9.7 hp, and the Z125 with 125cc and about 9.5 hp. They both have manual transmissions (5-speed for the Grom, 4-speed for the Z125) and electronic fuel injection, which is a step up from the carburetor on the XR150L.
These bikes are ultra-light and super nimble, making them perfect for zipping around the city or running short errands. With their mini sport bike look (small wheels, upright seating), they’re also famous for having tons of aftermarket tuning options. You’ll get some modern touches like fuel injection and LED lights, but they still keep things simple and fun.
At just around $3,600, these bikes are a blast to ride and make a great choice for beginners or anyone looking for a small, fun ride for commuting or weekend joyrides.
Pros and cons shared by both the Honda Grom and the Kawasaki Z125 Pro
✅ Pros
Huge aftermarket support
Fuel-injected for reliability
Incredibly fun in the city
❌ Cons
Too small for long trips
Limited top speed (~55 mph)
Best for: New riders who want a fun city bike or experienced riders looking for a cheap second toy.
3. Royal Enfield Hunter 350 – $3,999
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
Royal Enfield’s Hunter 350 is the brand's first bike designed specifically for urban riders, and it comes in at a budget-friendly $3,999.
Behind its cool café-racer retro vibe, you'll find a 349cc air/oil-cooled single engine (the same “J-series” engine used in the Classic and Meteor 350) that puts out 20.2 hp at 6,100 rpm and 19.9 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
While the power is on par with the Classic 350, the Hunter 350 is lighter (weighing just 181kg, about 10–15 kg less than the Classic/Meteor), and its more compact frame (shorter wheelbase and sharper geometry) makes it feel more agile and quicker on city streets.
It's got a bunch of rider-friendly features too, like a 31.5" seat height, 17" wheels (a bit smaller for an RE), tubeless tires, and dual-channel ABS for added safety. If you're after that classic Royal Enfield “thump” and vintage style without breaking the bank, the Hunter 350 is a solid pick—it delivers solid build quality, retro looks, and all that iconic Enfield charm for just under $4K.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Performance Specifications
Engine Type
Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air/oil-cooled
Displacement
349cc
Max Power
20.2 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Max Torque
19.91 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission
5-speed manual with assist-and-slipper clutch
Top Speed
70 mph
Fuel Capacity
3.4 gallons
Weight (curb)
181kg
✅ Pros
Classic looks with modern reliability
Affordable entry into retro style
Lighter and nimbler than other RE models
❌ Cons
Heavier than Japanese rivals
Performance is mild
Best for: Riders who want vintage charm with everyday usability at a bargain price.
4. CFMoto 300NK – $4,199
CFMoto 300NK
The CFMoto 300NK is a budget-friendly naked sport bike that delivers a lot of value for its $4,199 price tag in the US. At this price, it's loaded with features you wouldn’t normally expect.
Powered by a 292cc DOHC liquid-cooled single engine (29 hp and 18.7 ft-lb of torque), it pairs with a 6-speed transmission and a slipper clutch. What really sets it apart from other bikes in this price range is the premium gear—it comes with a 37mm upside-down (USD) fork, rear monoshock, a 5.5” full-color TFT dash, and dual-channel ABS. Weighing in at 333 lbs (151kg), it’s pretty nimble and rides on alloy wheels with grippy tires.
The downside? CFMoto doesn’t have the same brand recognition as Honda or KTM, which means it might depreciate faster and have fewer dealers around for support. But if you’re a budget-conscious rider who wants modern features and near-300cc performance, the 300NK is a solid choice—especially since you won’t find many bikes this cheap with USD forks and a TFT screen.
CFMoto 300NK Performance Specifications
Engine Type
Single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4 valves
Displacement
292cc
Max Power
29 hp @ 8,750 rpm
Max Torque
18.7 lb-ft @ 7,250 rpm
Transmission
6-speed with a wet, multi-plate, CF-SC slipper clutch
Top Speed
85 mph
Fuel Capacity
3.3 gallons
Weight (curb)
151kg
✅ Pros
Excellent value with high-end parts
Good power for a small single
Sharp naked-bike styling
❌ Cons
Lower resale value
The dealer network is smaller
Best for: Budget-conscious riders who want modern features without paying Japanese-brand prices.
5. KTM 250 Duke – $4,599
KTM 250 Duke
The KTM 250 Duke is a small but powerful street bike with bold, aggressive styling, priced at around $4,599 for 2025.
Under the hood, it runs a 249cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine with fuel injection, putting out 31 hp and 18.4 lb-ft of torque. At just about 165kg curb weight, it’s light and quick—tests show it can hit 0–60 mph in around 8–9 seconds, with a top speed close to 95 mph.
Its look is pure streetfighter: sharp bodywork, upright bars, and a sleek LED headlight. KTM also loads it up with class-leading tech, including a 5” full-color TFT display, LED lighting, ride-by-wire throttle, a slipper clutch, and switchable ABS. Suspension comes from WP, featuring a 37mm non-adjustable front fork, while braking is handled by 320mm/240mm discs with cornering ABS for extra safety.
On the road, the 250 Duke feels like a mini version of KTM’s bigger Duke lineup—nimble, responsive, and way quicker than most entry-level bikes thanks to its ~30 hp engine. Sitting in the mid-$4K price range, it’s easily one of the most exciting 250cc naked bikes you can buy.
KTM 250 Duke Performance Specifications
Engine Type
SOHC, liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder
Displacement
249cc
Max Power
31 hp @ 9,250 rpm
Max Torque
18.4 lb-ft @ 7,250 rpm
Transmission
6-speed with PASC slipper clutch
Top Speed
95 mph
Fuel Capacity
4.0 gallons
Weight (curb)
165kg
✅ Pros
Sporty handling
High-quality components from WP and Bosch
Stylish “big bike” looks
❌ Cons
Firm ride for long trips
Slightly pricier than some rivals
Best for: Riders who want KTM performance and style in an affordable entry-level bike.
6. Honda Rebel 300 – $4,849
Honda Rebel 300
The Honda Rebel 300 is a low-slung cruiser with a starting price of $4,849 for the non-ABS model (an ABS version is available for around $5,149).
It’s powered by a torquey 286cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine (DOHC, 4-valve) that produces around 24–25 hp. The Rebel comes with fuel injection, a 6-speed gearbox, and a wet slipper clutch to keep things smooth and manageable on the road. What makes it such a great choice for beginners is Honda's “low seat, easy ergonomics” design—its seat height is just 27.2 inches, making it super approachable and easy to handle, especially for shorter riders.
In terms of styling, think bobber-inspired cruiser: chunky tires, swept-back handlebars, and a minimalist vibe. Plus, there’s a ton of available accessories—luggage, windscreens, and more—if you want to customize it.
The Rebel 300 often gets overshadowed by its bigger sibling, the Rebel 500 (with a 471cc engine), which packs more power for just about $1K more. A lot of riders suggest stretching your budget for the 500 if you can.
But if you’re looking for a cruiser that's easy to ride and doesn't break the bank, the Rebel 300 is still a solid option. It’s nearly as affordable as a commuter bike, but with that classic cruiser style. Quiet, easy to ride, and lightweight, it's perfect for new riders who want that cruiser look without the heft or price tag of a bigger bike.
Honda Rebel 300 Performance Specifications
Engine Type
liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Displacement
286cc
Max Power
25 hp @ 7,640 rpm
Max Torque
17.6 lb-ft @ 7,320 rpm
Transmission
6-speed manual with slipper clutch
Top Speed
85 mph
Fuel Capacity
3.0 gallons
Weight (curb)
165 kg (non-ABS), 167.8 kg (ABS)
✅ Pros
Easy to ride and confidence-inspiring
Classic bobber style
Optional ABS
❌ Cons
Modest power
Rebel 500 offers more value for just a little more money
Best for: Beginners who want a cruiser look and a low seat without heavy weight.
7. Kawasaki KLX230 – $4,999
Kawasaki KLX230
Kawasaki’s 2025 KLX230R is a dual-sport bike built for off-road adventures, with a price tag of around $4,999.
It’s powered by a 233cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine (2-valve SOHC), now with a fuel injection upgrade for 2025, delivering just under 19 hp and around 13 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed transmission and a wet multi-plate clutch, the KLX230R is designed primarily for trail riding. It comes with 21" front and 18" rear wheels for high clearance, along with 9.8" of suspension travel (37mm front fork) and a tall ~35.6" seat height, making it perfect for rougher terrain.
At around 132kg wet, it’s fairly lightweight, but don’t expect stellar pavement performance—top speed is about 70–75 mph, so it’s definitely better suited for trails or forest roads. Many riders love its engine’s low-end power, making it easy to handle off-road, even with the relatively mild horsepower.
For $4,999, you’re getting a modern small dirt bike with up-to-date features like fuel injection and an updated ECU. It’s pricier than a Grom or a dual-sport scooter, but it’s a genuine off-road machine that you can still take on the street if you want.
Best for: Riders who want an affordable street-legal dirt bike.
8. Yamaha TW200 – $4,999
Yamaha TW200
The Yamaha TW200 keeps its beloved off-road cruiser vibe, priced at around $4,999.
It’s powered by a simple 196cc air-cooled SOHC single (carbureted) that makes 14–16 hp, paired with a 5-speed transmission. The TW200’s standout feature? Its giant fat tires (130/80-18 front, 180/80-14 rear) give it a “moon buggy” look while offering impressive low-speed traction on dirt.
The design is pretty basic: steel frame, drum rear brake, and analog gauges—nothing fancy, but it gets the job done. With a 31.1" seat height and weighing around 278 lbs, it’s an easy bike for shorter riders to manage.
While its off-road capabilities are on the mild side (low power, short suspension travel), it’s better suited as a “dirt-ready commuter” than a hardcore dirt bike. That said, it's torquey and relaxed at low speeds, making it perfect for beginners or anyone who loves vintage-style bikes. Plus, it delivers fantastic fuel economy at about 78 mpg.
At $4,999, the TW200 is a niche choice: super simple, not the fastest, but famously reliable. Motorcycle enthusiasts swear by it for fun cruising and light off-road riding—just don’t expect highway speeds or modern tech.
Yamaha TW200 Performance Specifications
Engine Type
air-cooled, SOHC, 4-stroke, single-cylinder
Displacement
196cc
Max Power
16 hp @ 8,000 rpm
Max Torque
11 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm
Transmission
Constant-mesh 5-speed; multi-plate wet clutch
Top Speed
66 mph
Fuel Capacity
1.8 gallons
Weight (curb)
126kg
✅ Pros
Super reliable
Unique fat-tire design
Low seat height
❌ Cons
Outdated carburetor
Limited highway ability
Best for: Riders who want a quirky, dependable dual-sport that can handle dirt, sand, and city streets.
9. Suzuki GSX250R – $5,149
Suzuki GSX250R
The Suzuki GSX250R, a fully-faired quarter-liter sportbike, stays consistent for 2025 with a price tag around $5,149 (with ABS), making it one of the more expensive options on this list.
Under the hood, it’s powered by a 248cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, cranking out 24–25 hp—pretty much the same as the Rebel 300, but with the added benefit of a twin-cylinder. It's built solidly and reliably, though it’s a bit on the heavy side for its class, coming in at about 399 lbs (181kg), which makes it feel a little slower and less agile than lighter bikes.
Ergonomically, it’s designed with commuters in mind, offering an upright riding position and a seat height of 31.1" (790mm), making it fairly comfortable for a variety of riders. It’s also got all the modern sportbike features you’d expect: fuel injection, ABS, LED lighting, and an LCD dash. Plus, its styling takes cues from Suzuki’s bigger GSX-R superbikes, giving it a sporty, aggressive look.
Performance-wise, it's not a speed demon—0-60 mph takes around 8–10 seconds, with a top speed under 90 mph. So, it’s definitely not a racer, but more of a smooth, easy-to-ride entry-level bike. Riders love it for its rock-solid engine and dependable nature—it’s a tough, no-fuss commuter that’ll get you where you need to go without any drama, even if it’s not going to set any speed records.
Suzuki GSX250R Performance Specifications
Engine Type
liquid-cooled, SOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement
248cc
Max Power
24.7 hp @ 8,000 rpm
Max Torque
17.3 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
Transmission
6-speed constant mesh
Top Speed
85 mph
Fuel Capacity
4.0 gallons
Weight (curb)
181kg (ABS)
✅ Pros
Full fairing with sportbike looks
Reliable twin-cylinder engine
Comfortable ergonomics
❌ Cons
Heavier than rivals
Not very fast for a “sportbike”
Best for: Beginners who want sportbike styling without intimidating power.
10. Triumph Speed 400 – $5,195
Triumph Speed 400
Finally, the 2025 Triumph Speed 400, a British newcomer that just sneaks over the $5K mark, starting at around $5,295 (some dealers even offer it for $5,195).
It’s powered by a 398cc liquid-cooled “TR-series” single-cylinder engine, delivering a solid 39.5 hp at 8,000 rpm and 27.7 ft-lb of torque at 6,500 rpm—way more than most bikes in the sub-$5K range. Despite the nearly 400cc engine, it stays pretty lightweight at around 375 lbs (170kg) wet, thanks to its modern frame, making it super agile on the road.
Styled like a smaller version of the Triumph Bonneville (think modern-retro roadster vibes), the Speed 400 comes with some serious premium parts: a 43mm inverted fork, a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS, and traction control (TCS). The low 31.1" seat height makes it beginner-friendly, and it mixes analog-digital gauges for that retro feel with all the modern functionality you want.
I love how Triumph packed “big-bike features” into an entry-level package, with one dealer even calling its performance “class-beating.” For around $5.2K, you’re getting nearly 40 hp and premium components, which makes it a standout value in this price range—way more than the typical entry-level bike under $5K.
Triumph Speed 400 Performance Specifications
Engine Type
Liquid-cooled single-cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves
Displacement
398cc
Max Power
39.5 hp @ 8,000 rpm
Max Torque
27.7 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
Transmission
6-speed with a wet, multi-plate, slip-and-assist clutch
Top Speed
95 mph
Fuel Capacity
3.4 gallons
Weight (curb)
170kg
✅ Pros
Excellent performance for the price
Premium components
Classic Triumph styling
❌ Cons
Just above the $5K mark
Heavier than small 250s
Best for: Riders who want maximum value – a stylish, powerful, modern bike at an entry-level price.
Which is The Best Motorcycle at Low Price?
For a low-price motorcycle that feels refined, well-equipped, and fun, the Triumph Speed 400 is the top bargain pick.
Priced just under $5,000, it delivers all features rare at this price. These include: premium build quality, full LED lights, traction control, ABS, and even a USB-C port.
Many riders, including me, praise it as “a lot more bike” compared to similarly priced options. Because this model has excellent handling and modern tech.
What Time of Year are Motorcycles the Cheapest?
Wait until late fall or winter, and especially around year-end! You may snag the cheapest motorcycle deals during this period.
Motorcycles are usually cheapest during the off-season—late fall through winter (roughly October to February).
We all know that, as the riding season winds down, the motorcycle dealerships face lower demand. So they often discount older models to make room for new ones. During this period, you can get better deals and more negotiating power.
January and February are standout months. Buyers often get the best prices because both dealers and private sellers are motivated.
Year-end clearance events around November and December also bring deep discounts, especially on previous year models.
Dealers may additionally offer price discounts around holidays and at month-end or quarter-end, when they need to hit sales targets.
New vs. Used: Which One Should You Choose When Buying Cheap Motorcycles?
If you want affordability and don’t mind extra checking and maintenance, choose a used motorcycle. If you prioritize worry-free ownership, safety tech, and peace of mind, and can stretch your budget, then choose a new motorcycle.
Used motorcycles often win the value contest. They cost less upfront, face slower depreciation, and typically cost less to insure. Then you will have more budget for gear or upgrades.
However, I must mention, buying used brings risks. Used models may lack modern safety tech like ABS or traction control. Besides, they may have hidden maintenance issues, and usually come with no warranty.
In contrast, new motorcycles offer the latest tech, full warranties, and known condition. But cost more, depreciate quickly, and have higher insurance.
On Reddit, many first-time riders say:
“Used all the way… you’ll need the extra money for the insurance”
“First motorcycle should always be used… you will be making mistakes”.
If you’re looking for the best options without breaking the bank, here’s a quick breakdown of the top choices for 2025:
Cheapest Motorcycle: Honda XR150L – $3,099
Best for City Fun & Customization: Honda Grom & Kawasaki Z125
Retro Style: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 & Triumph Speed 400
Best for Off-Road: Kawasaki KLX230 & Yamaha TW200
Most Comfortable Cruiser: Honda Rebel 300 – Beginner-friendly
Overall, the Triumph Speed 400 stands out as the best value pick, offering near-premium specs at an affordable price. Whatever bike you choose, the 2025 market shows that you don’t need a huge budget to hit the road.
👉 Tip: Always check your local dealer for fees, destination charges, and availability. Prices listed are U.S. MSRPs and may vary slightly.
With over 10 years of experience working on cars and trucks Item Training Supervisor Richard Reina is known around the office as one of our technical experts & real an "automobile person".
His rate of interest began, in his very own words, "at the age of two when his father educated him the distinction in between a Chevy and a Ford. Since then it's been cars regularly."
As a serious lover of practically all things with a motor Richard can address nearly any kind of inquiry related to car upkeep, fixing, or restoration & is a fact professional in electric motor background.
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