Licence suitable
Make sure the bike matches your licence, whether that’s CBT, A2 or full category A.
First bike guide
Best First Motorbike
Choosing your first motorbike is a big step. The best first bike should suit your licence, feel manageable, be affordable to run and give you confidence every time you ride.
Whether you’re starting on a 125cc motorbike after your CBT or looking at A2-friendly options, SuperBike Factory has a wide choice of used bikes to help you get started.
What makes the best first motorbike?
The best first motorbike is not always the fastest, biggest or most expensive. For new riders, the right bike is usually one that is easy to control, comfortable, licence-suitable and affordable to own.
Easy to manage
Lighter bikes with predictable power are usually easier to handle while you build confidence.
Affordable to run
Insurance, servicing, tyres, fuel and maintenance costs all matter when choosing a first bike.
Right for your riding
Think about whether you’ll use the bike for commuting, weekend rides, training or longer journeys.
Best first motorbikes by licence
Your licence will decide what you can ride, so this is the best place to start.
125cc Motorbikes
Riders aged 17 and over can ride a 125cc motorbike after completing a CBT course. These are often the best first bikes for new riders because they’re light, manageable and affordable to run.
View 125cc bikesA2 Motorbikes
A2 bikes give you more choice than a 125cc, but suitability depends on power output and power-to-weight ratio. Always check the exact bike before buying.
View A2 bikesBeginner-friendly larger bikes
A full licence gives you a wider choice, but a new rider may still prefer a bike that feels manageable, comfortable and easy to control.
Shop used bikes
Important: For A2 bikes, engine size alone does not confirm licence suitability. Always check power output, power-to-weight ratio and restriction status before buying.
Best types of first motorbike
The best style depends on how you’ll ride. These are some of the most popular options for new riders.
125cc Commuter Bikes
Simple, economical and practical. A strong choice if you’re riding to work, college or around town.
View 125cc bikesNaked Bikes
Upright riding position, easy handling and a simple feel make naked bikes popular with newer riders.
Shop used bikesScooters
Scooters are easy to ride, economical and ideal for city journeys, commuting and short trips.
Shop scootersLightweight Adventure Bikes
Upright, comfortable and practical, especially if you want more road presence and longer-ride comfort.
View adventure bikesA2-Friendly Bikes
A good next step after a 125cc, with more choice and stronger performance when matched to your licence.
View A2 guideRetro Bikes
Classic looks, relaxed riding positions and manageable power can make retro bikes appealing first choices.
Shop used bikesWhat should you avoid for a first motorbike?
A first bike should build confidence, not make riding feel intimidating. Bigger engines, heavy bikes and aggressive riding positions can make learning harder, especially at slow speeds.
Too much power
Very powerful bikes can feel overwhelming for new riders and may not suit your licence.
Too much weight
Heavy bikes can be harder to manoeuvre, park and control at low speeds.
Uncomfortable fit
If the seat height, reach or riding position feels wrong, it can affect confidence quickly.
Popular brands for first motorbikes
Many major manufacturers offer bikes that work well for first-time riders, especially across 125cc, A2-friendly, scooter and commuter categories.
Honda
Reliable, practical and popular with new riders.
Yamaha
Good choice across 125cc, naked and commuter models.
Kawasaki
Sporty looks with plenty of learner-friendly and A2-style options.
Suzuki
Practical, approachable and often good value used.
KTM
Lightweight handling and sharp styling on smaller-capacity bikes.
Royal Enfield
Relaxed, classic-style bikes with manageable power.
Lexmoto
Affordable 125cc bikes and scooters for riders starting out.
BMW
Some lighter BMW models may suit newer or returning riders.
Find your first motorbike
At SuperBike Factory, you can browse thousands of used motorbikes, including 125cc bikes, A2-friendly options and beginner-friendly models across a wide range of styles and budgets.
Best First Motorbike FAQs
What is the best first motorbike?
The best first motorbike depends on your licence, budget, confidence and riding needs. 125cc bikes, lightweight naked bikes, scooters and commuter bikes are popular first choices.
Is a 125cc bike a good first motorbike?
Yes. Riders aged 17 and over can ride a 125cc motorbike after completing a CBT course, making them one of the most common first bikes.
Should I buy a used bike as my first motorbike?
A used bike can be a sensible first choice because it can reduce upfront cost and gives you plenty of choice across different styles and budgets.
Are A2 bikes good first motorbikes?
A2 bikes can be a good step up, but you must check the bike’s power output, power-to-weight ratio and restriction status before buying.
What should I check before choosing my first bike?
Check licence suitability, insurance costs, seat height, weight, running costs, service history and whether the bike feels manageable for your experience level.
