My first motorbike, a 2004 Kawasaki Z 750 is still in use today. Despite the fact it is now over 18 years old and has traveled more than 98,000 kilometers, it has been remarkably dependable.
In addition, I paid just under $4000 for my bike, which is amazing given the condition it is in. It’s a sleek-looking piece of powerful equipment.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to purchase a fantastic motorbike; there are many fantastic deals on secondhand bikes available, and perhaps new vehicles that provide riders with a ton of value. A handful of our favorites are listed below.
So, how to choose the best possible low-cost bike? In general, you need to check the condition of the motorcycle you plan to buy. The first thing you must do is to visually inspect the bike and ask the owner if he has had any accidents. Ask the owner to give you all the recipes so you can see that the bike was regularly serviced and well maintained.
This was a brief explanation, and below is a more detailed explanation as well as a list of the best motorcycles that you can buy at affordable prices.
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How to Choose The Best Low-Cost Motorcycles?
Just to be clear, you usually have to make some sacrifices when looking to get a secondhand bike that is affordable. In terms of its outward appearance, your motorcycle is probably covered in a variety of blemishes, including scrapes, knocks, dents, as well as other small to major flaws.
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When you shop on a budget, what you’re actually looking for is that uncommon motorcycle with superb mechanical and aesthetic qualities. With my motorcycle, I had a lot of luck, so I suppose that counts. But keep in mind that such opportunities are rare, so don’t expect to run into one.
It’s much more likely that you’ll find a number of motorcycles with well-kept brakes, suspension systems, and motors, as well as visual flaws and the occasional black eye.
The Best 5 Ways to Get a Great Motorcycle Deal
When looking at old motorcycles, I always follow these criteria as a guideline for what to look for. Even though I don’t want to go bankrupt, I still want to gain the most value possible. However, there are some areas in which I won’t make any concessions, such as the product’s security and its capacity to maintain its structural performance.
I always use these 5 principles to reduce my selections and focus on the best motorcycle:
1. Motorcycles Under 40,000 Miles (64,000 Kilometers)
As I wrote that my Kawasaki Z750 has 98,000 km, you may think that this is another rule of mine that don’t follow but that is not exactly the truth. I bought my Z750 when it had 57,000 km and the rest was ridden by me.
You need to know one thing when looking at motorcycles. While some may think that 100,000 km on a car is the same as 100,000 km on a motorcycle, that can’t be further from the truth.
A car with 40k miles (64k km) is essentially brand new, but your motorcycle has more wear and tear than that 40k for a car is equivalent to 90k for a motorcycle because bikes are ridden tougher and are more subjected to the elements.
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This is not a “hard and fast” rule, though, as you may frequently see cruisers and touring bikes that have a higher number of miles on the odometer yet still operate quite well.
I employ this as a general rule because, while I am capable of performing routine maintenance such as chain maintenance and oil changes, I lack the machining expertise necessary for the substantial touch-up work that more-mileage engines frequently need.
2. Consider Popular and Unpopular Bike Brands
This is a textbook example of supply and demand in action: the motorcycles that have an enormous surplus of supply or the models that no one actually desired initially place will sell at the lowest prices.
An illustration would be early-model Suzuki SV650s. Early SV650 models are still available for a terrific price, despite the fact that they weren’t an instant sales success. A 2004 SV650 typically costs $2,575, according to Kelly Blue Book. A 2004 Suzuki GS500F, which wasn’t as well-liked as other opening sport bikes, costs, on average, $2255.
Note: Use the same logic when purchasing a new bike.
3. Avoid Buying Motorcycles Older than 10 Years
Since I began this article by saying that I got myself my Kawasaki Z 750 in 2004, this may seem like I don’t follow my own principles. But the thing is that I bumped into a great deal and found an almost perfect bike.
However, in general, things tend to break more frequently the older they are. This holds especially true in situations with engines.
Even while I adore older motorcycles (my Z750 was like love at the first sight), they are more probably to require regular motorbike maintenance and may get you stuck if you are not careful with them. My Z750 is no different in that respect.
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Most starter bikes are best when they are between 6-8 years old. If you are looking for a bike in that price range, you will be able to choose between entry-level models of regular and sport bikes, in addition to certain cruisers with a smaller displacement. You might even locate some motorcycles that have anti-lock brakes and traction control (ABS and TC).
There are also several fantastic brand-new motorcycles that are ideal for beginning riders if your budget reaches $4,000. The sensation of a brand-new motorcycle is unbeatable.
4. “Inspect the Seller”
I want to purchase a motorcycle from a person who has committed to maintaining it in good condition and has kept up with maintenance. Here are some indicators that the seller is reliable:
- They hold receipts for parts, service records, etc.
Although there may be minor dents, scrapes, etc., the trim and all of the fairings should be in good overall shape. If repairs were made, they ought to have been done well and shouldn’t detract from the aesthetic appeal.
They are open and honest about the motorcycle’s specifications. I won’t even contemplate buying from someone who is evasive or ambivalent when responding to questions).
They are well-organized and appear to have everything together. Embrace your gut feeling.
PRO TIP: It might even be worthwhile to pay a little bit more for someone’s bike if you find yourself speaking with someone who checks off all those criteria. That motorcycle is much more likely to be one you can rely on.
5. The Motorcycle Market Price
People have the misconception that making lowball offers is the best approach to secure a good bargain; nevertheless, these offers are rarely accepted favorably and are likely to set a negative tone for the rest of the conversation.
Knowing the fair market value of the bike you want and being willing to pay it are the two best ways to get a fantastic deal.
Tip: Look at websites like Amazon to see what’s around if you can’t discover an offer that feels good in your neighborhood. If you locate some interesting offer that is only a couple of hours away, shipping a bike can be quite inexpensive.
The Top 5 New Motorcycles for Approximately $5,000
5. 2022 Yamaha V Star 250
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| MSRP: $4,599 |
| Engine Type: 15-cubic-inch (249cc) air-cooled, SOHC 60° V-twin, 2 valves |
| Transmission: 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch |
| Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gal / CA model 2.4 gal |
| Fuel Economy: 78 mpg |
The V Star 250 has a reliable 249 cc v-twin engine and a timeless design that has stood the test of time. This entry-level cruiser is excellent for beginners still discovering how to ride a motorcycle because of its low gravity center.
The V-twin has a top speed of about 85 mph and produces approximately 21 horsepower and 15 ft-lb of torque (140 kph). The V-modest Star’s weight of just 326 lbs makes it nimble and agile in the city, but it also allows for wind to move the motorcycle around, allowing it to easily cruise at 70 mph (110 kph).
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The V-Star 250 commuter bike has a range of roughly 200 miles (320 kilometers), making it one of the best entry-level models available.
4. 2023 Yamaha TW200 Dual Sport
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| MSRP: $4,799 |
| Engine Type: 196cc air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke; 2 valves |
| Fuel Delivery: Mikuni® 28mm |
| Fuel Economy: 78 mpg |
| Fuel Capacity: 1.8 gal |
You’ll like the novelty and practicality of a dual-sport motorcycle if your area has gentle/easy trails, gravel walks, or other light off-road places for riding. The TW200 is among the best options if you’re looking for a new model at a good price.
Even though it only has 11 horsepower and hasn’t changed much since the original model from 1987, the TW200 is surprisingly competent in moderate off-road riding and feels fantastic on paved streets as well. In addition, it hasn’t changed much since the original model from 1987.
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Even though it won’t win any championships, it will always start, get excellent gas mileage, and take you anywhere you want to go.
3. 2022 Kawasaki Ninja 400
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| MSRP: $5,199 |
| Engine: 4-stroke, Parallel Twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled |
| Fuel System: DFI® with dual 32mm throttle bodies |
| Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gal |
| Curb Weight: 366 |
For younger riders who still want a thrilling sports bike ride, the Ninja 400 provides lots of value for their buck, and while it’s not exactly under $5000, the non–ABS model is very close to the price.
You’ll have enough of get-up-and-go whether you’re riding on the street or participating on your first few track days thanks to a compact 399cc parallel-twin engine that generates 44 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 28 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 rpm.
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Additionally, you have Kawasaki’s helpful ergo-fit function to accommodate riders of varying sizes, as well as their economy riding indicator to help counteract the astronomical cost of gas these days.
2.Honda Rebel 300, 2022
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| MSRP: $4,699 |
| Engine Type: 286cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke |
| Fuel Capacity: 2.9 gallons |
| Miles Per Gallon: 78 MPG |
| Curb Weight: 364 pounds |
Honda’s smallest cruiser, with 27 horsepower available, is a wonderful experience to ride. The Rebel is a fantastic daily riding bike thanks to responsive controls, LED lighting, and strong brakes. It is almost always a better bike than the V Star, but it is also around 40 lbs heavier.
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The 286cc single–cylinder engine appears very meek in comparison to the V Star’s chromed-out V-Twin, despite the fact that the bare-bones heritage/cruiser appearance fits. The Rebel 300 achieves a remarkable 78 mpg and has a 200–mile range, similar to the V Star 250. (320 kilometers).
1. 2022 BMW G310R
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| MSRP: $4,995 |
| Engine: Water-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine, four valves, two overhead camshafts and cam followers, wet sump lubrication |
| Fuel consumption per 100 km based on WMTC: 3.5 l |
| Seat height: 785 mm |
| ABS: BMW Motorrad ABS |
Want to buy a BMW for only $5000 US? The G310R, which is driven by a tenacious 313cc single–cylinder engine producing 34 horsepower and 20 lb–ft of torque, makes it possible.
Yes, it is a fantastic little daily commuter, but it is not the type of Beemer bike you use to tour the United States. You can rely on the dependability of that German engineering, just like with any other BMW.
The Top Used Beginner Motorcycles to Purchase in 2020
The 10 bikes on this list are all fantastic choices if you don’t want to buy something completely new and wish to keep your expenses as low as possible. All of the bikes listed here are trustworthy and reasonably priced.
- Yamaha R3 2015 and above – $3,500
- 2006 Honda Rebel 250 – $1,880
- Suzuki DRZ-400 2010 and up: $2,850
- Suzuki SV650 from 2010 to 2014, $3,500
- 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 250 – $2,500
- Kawasaki Vulcan 900 from 2010 and up – $4,000.
- 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 – $2,215
- 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 500 – $2,500.
- 2008 Suzuki GS500F – $2,175
- V-star 650 Classic from 2005 Yamaha – $2,965
Use these rates as a starting point for negotiations and a reference, but be prepared for some variation depending on where you’re shopping. You might be able to purchase some of these motorcycles for even less than the costs I mentioned, based on your particular situation.
TIP: Save as much money as you can for your gear as soon as possible, now that you realize where to start looking for a bike to purchase.
Finally, without the right training, a motorcycle and its accessories are meaningless. I usually advise folks to take riding lessons in person. STARS, MSF, and Harley Davidson all provide courses (based on where you live).
Note: These training sessions often cost between $100 and $200 and continue for a weekend.
Furthermore, the knowledge you get in a course will stick with you forever and prepare you for a career riding motorcycles in a safe and healthy manner.
Conclusion
This article will help you with finding a great motorcycle that costs under $5000. We can see that the Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS version is slightly above $5000, but you can get it without ABS. It is possible that the price of these bikes (and others similar to them) may vary from $100-$300, but if you decide that the bike is in good condition based on the instructions that I have given to you in this article, my advice to you is to go for it.
Lastly, but most importantly, whatever the bike you choose to buy, protect yourself at all costs and do so safely.
Take care and see you soon in another post.