Great Starter Motorbikes: Our Guide To Choosing Your First Bike

Thinking about getting your first motorcycle? Here's our guide to choosing a bike that's easy to ride, enjoyable to own and right for you.

Buying your first motorcycle is an exciting step. Whether you've just completed your CBT, are working towards your A1 or A2 licence, or are simply looking for an affordable and approachable bike to get you out on the road, choosing the right machine can make a huge difference to your riding experience.

At GP Motorcycles in Grantham, we help riders of all experience levels find the right motorcycle for their needs. As a main dealer for Benelli, Keeway and Voge, we have a wide range of motorcycles to suit different riders, styles and budgets.

But what actually makes a great starter bike?

What makes a good first motorcycle?

There isn't one perfect first bike for everyone. The best choice depends on your height, experience, where you intend to ride and perhaps most importantly, which type of motorcycle makes you want to get out and ride.

There are however, a few things we think every new rider should consider.

1. Weight and size

A motorcycle that's easy to move around at low speed can make a new rider feel much more confident. Think about more than just the engine size. The overall weight, seat height and riding position can all affect how comfortable you feel when manoeuvring, parking or coming to a stop.

2. A comfortable riding position

You'll probably spend plenty of time learning and building your confidence on your first bike, so comfort matters. Some riders prefer the upright position of a naked motorcycle. Others love the relaxed feel of a cruiser, while an adventure-style motorcycle can offer a commanding riding position and plenty of versatility.

There is no right answer. It's about finding what works for you.

3. Manageable performance

More power isn't necessarily better when you're learning. A motorcycle with manageable performance allows you to concentrate on developing smooth throttle control, braking, cornering and road awareness without feeling overwhelmed.

For many new riders, a 125cc motorcycle is an ideal place to start.

What can you ride on a CBT?

If you're new to motorcycling, it's important to understand what your licence allows you to ride.

In Great Britain, after completing your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), a rider aged 17 or over can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc and 11kW, subject to the relevant licence and learner restrictions. A CBT certificate normally lasts for two years.

A full A1 licence also covers motorcycles up to 125cc and 11kW. Riders can progress to A2 from age 19, while the unrestricted A licence can be obtained through the appropriate route from age 24, or from 21 through progressive access.

Always check the current GOV.UK requirements for your individual circumstances before buying a motorcycle.

Great 125cc starter motorcycles

For many new riders, a 125cc motorcycle offers a great combination of accessibility, economy and fun. At GP Motorcycles, we have a selection of 125cc motorcycles from Benelli, Keeway and Voge, giving new riders plenty of choice.

Benelli BN 125: the everyday all rounder

The Benelli BN 125 is an excellent example of a straightforward, stylish motorcycle that's well suited to riders starting out. It's a 125cc, five-speed motorcycle with A1 licence compatibility, making it a natural option for learners and newer riders.

The BN 125 has the traditional naked-bike look, giving it an authentic motorcycle feel while remaining approachable. It's particularly worth considering if you want a bike that can handle everyday riding, commuting and getting out for a weekend ride without feeling intimidating.

Ideal for: commuters, new riders and anyone looking for a classic naked-bike experience.

Benelli Leoncino 125: retro style with modern practicality

If appearance is high on your list, the Benelli Leoncino 125 deserves a look.

The Leoncino name has become an important part of Benelli's modern range, and the 125 brings that distinctive retro inspired styling to the smaller capacity market. It's an A1 motorcycle with a six speed gearbox, making it another option for riders who want a 125 that looks and feels like a 'proper' motorcycle rather than simply a means of getting from A to B.

Ideal for: style-conscious riders who want something distinctive.

Benelli BKX 125: for riders who like the adventure look

Not every first bike has to be a naked motorcycle.

The Benelli BKX 125 brings adventure inspired styling to the 125cc class. GP Motorcycles currently lists both the BKX 125 and BKX 125 S, giving riders another route into motorcycling if they like the look and riding position of an adventure machine. The BKX 125 is an A1 motorcycle with a six-speed gearbox.

Ideal for: riders who want adventure-bike styling and a more upright feel.

Keeway: plenty of choice for new riders

One of the biggest advantages of looking at the Keeway range is the variety of styles available.

Keeway's current range at GP Motorcycles includes models such as the Superlight 125, RKF 125, RKV 125, RKS 125, K-Light 125, V-Cruise 125C, X-Light 125 and Fact X 125, among others. That means two new riders can both choose a 125cc Keeway and end up with completely different motorcycles.

Keeway Superlight 125: the cruiser option

If you like the classic cruiser look, the Keeway Superlight 125 is worth considering.

With its low slung cruiser styling, it's aimed at riders who want something relaxed and distinctive rather than a sporty naked bike.

It's a good reminder that choosing your first motorcycle isn't just about specifications. You should choose something that makes you excited to ride.

Ideal for: cruiser fans and riders who prefer a relaxed riding style.

Keeway RKF 125: sporty naked-bike character

At the other end of the spectrum is the Keeway RKF 125. Its sharper, sportier styling makes it a natural choice for riders who want a more aggressive looking motorcycle while staying in the accessible 125cc class.

Ideal for: riders who want sporty styling and an upright naked-bike riding position.

What about Voge?

Your first motorcycle doesn't necessarily have to mean a 125cc motorcycle.

Depending on your age, licence and experience, stepping into the A2 or larger-bike category can open up another world of possibilities. Voge's range covers everything from the R125 and R125S through to larger adventure and touring motorcycles.

For a rider who is already progressing through their licence or who has the appropriate entitlement, a larger motorcycle can make sense. The important thing is not to buy more motorcycle than you're ready for. A bike should inspire confidence rather than undermine it.

Don't choose your first bike on paper alone

One of the biggest mistakes a new rider can make is choosing a motorcycle entirely from a specification sheet. Engine size, power and price are useful, but they don't tell the whole story.

Come and sit on the bike.

Can you comfortably reach the controls? Does the riding position feel natural? Can you confidently manage the motorcycle when stationary? Do you like the way it looks?

And perhaps the most important question:

Does it make you want to ride? That's something you can't always work out from a website.

New or used for your first bike?

A used motorcycle can be a sensible option for a first bike, particularly if you're not sure how long you'll keep it.

However, a new motorcycle also has some advantages. You know its history from day one, you have manufacturer warranty protection, and you can choose the colour and specification you want. At GP Motorcycles, we offer both new and used motorcycles, so we can help you compare the options rather than assuming that one approach is right for everyone.

Don't forget the rest of your budget

When budgeting for your first motorcycle, remember that the bike isn't the only expense. You'll also need to consider:

• Insurance

• Helmet

• Gloves

• Boots

• Jacket and trousers

• Security

• Fuel

• Servicing and maintenance

• Tax and other running costs

• 
  

It's worth budgeting for good protective equipment from the beginning. Your motorcycle is important, but so is the person riding it.

Why buying locally can make sense

Your relationship with your motorcycle dealer shouldn't end when you ride away from the showroom.

At GP Motorcycles in Grantham, we're an independent motorcycle dealership with decades of experience, selling new and used motorcycles and providing servicing, repairs and workshop support.

That means if you're buying your first motorcycle, you can talk through your options with people who understand motorcycles rather than simply choosing a bike from a list online.

We're a main dealer for Benelli, Keeway and Voge, giving riders access to a wide range of styles and engine sizes.

Ready to find your first motorcycle?

There's no single motorcycle that's perfect for every new rider.

For some people, it's a sporty 125. For others, it's a cruiser. Some will want the upright position of an adventure-style bike, while others will already be looking towards an A2 motorcycle.

The important thing is finding a machine that suits you.

If you're looking for a starter motorcycle in Grantham, come and see the team at GP Motorcycles, 3–4 Ruston Road, Alma Park Industrial Estate, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9SW.

Have a look around, sit on the bikes and tell us what you're looking for. We'll help you work out which motorcycle makes sense for your experience, licence, budget and plans.

Your first bike should be the start of your motorcycling story, so choose one you'll love riding.

Motorcycle licence requirements can change. Always check the latest information on GOV.UK and ensure you have the correct entitlement, insurance and training before riding.