5 Best Beginner Cruiser Motorcycles For New Motorcycle Riders

[@DanDanTheFireman]

Join the DDFM Crew SMART Riders by using code "YTMembersYAYA" at checkout for 80% off your first month. ddfm.me/AcademyMembership . I want all of you to become SMART Riders and this training will help guide you there. If you don't need the training, but you have a friend that doesn't ride, go ahead and give them the coupon 😁.

[@davidmesser8619]

I am 65 years old. When I began riding at age 16 there were no riding schools. I worked all summer for my dad and bought a new 1971 Kawasaki 175 dual sport. We unloaded it out of the van. My mom came out of the house and yelled at my dad and said, "if he gets hurt on that, you're in trouble buddy!" I kick started it and dad says, "how much gas do you give it?" I said, "I don't know, I have never ridden a bike before." I am sure dad was sweating bullets by now because my mom was closing in for the kill. There was a livestock fence 20' away, and I was pointed straight at it. Yes, you guessed it. I ran straight into the fence and climbed two thirds of the way up it and back down along side of it I went. That is until I got the handlebar tangled up in the fence. We got the bike untangled from the fence and pointed the opposite direction. Restarted the bike and dad said, "go the other way this time, because you have two acres to practice on." I'm telling you that I was in 7th heaven. Everything was surreal. Like in a dream. I had absolutely no problems after the initial mishap. I have a Triumph Bonneville now and I still love motorcycles. Vaughn

[@p_roduct9211]

Great story

[@aaronsmith6416]

God I wish I was there in person amazing story

[@gabrielmezaali]

Awesome story really enjoyed it.

[@idontknowwhatnametoputhere7809]

So would you say it’s ok to buy a brand new Rebel as a beginner?? I’m gonna get my license and want a rebel. I don’t really want a used bike because I don’t know enough to know if they are good, and pay 4K when I can pay double and get a New one, what do you guys think??

[@jayesh_7668]

Wow man ...super🙌

[@cpreid]

This guy looks exactly like a young Tom segura.

[@ryanwilson403]

As a fireman, he is a water champ in his own right.

[@christianbravo2591]

Definitely mommy like 👍

[@paullebon323]

...and then Buns woke up and tucked into the bucket of chicken on his nightstand.

[@NimbleC]

Yes!!!!

[@pacmaninchains]

Sounds like him too

[@BassOutcast]

I'll add the Vulcan 900 to that list. It's a 900cc bike that produces around 50 bhp, but it's bigger than the bikes on this list and is very comfy. For someone looking for a first bike to stay with for a long, long time - it's a great pick. They're fine cruising at 65-70 MPH all day, easy to work on and will fit larger/heavier riders.

[@colleengilroy624]

I learned on Rebel 250 5 months ago and went right out and got a 750 Shadow. It was an easy transition. Its not heavy and not intimidating. I’m 5’4” and 55 years old. For me it’s a great beginners bike. It’ll probably be all I’ll ever need.

[@OD_Plays]

I feel you on the short factor man im 5'4 20 years old with back problems due to being in the military and i love them cruisers got a honda rebel 1100 and on weekends i take my r6 out just for the fun of it but yeah being short and having a honda rebel is amazing feels right at home

[@justposi]

Thank you for this comment , im approaching my 40's and considering learning to ride and i was questioning myself am i too old to start now.

[@colleengilroy624]

@@justposi If you can drive a car with manual transmission, you can do this. This was one of my bucket list. I’m so glad I did it.

[@micheal49]

The answer is Hayabusa. Also acceptable: Turbo Hayabusa. Third choice: Batcycle.

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

micheal49 No way, H2 is the best starter bike out there.... the faster the bike goes the greater share of the work the bike does meaning the less work left for the rider to do...

[@micheal49]

@@Rick_Sanchez_C137_ I see you lips a-movin', but all I hear is blah blah blah. (end snark)

Just the fact that you put the Batcycle last shows that your priorities are mixed up.

[@CaffyPvP]

Turbo Busa is a great starter bike. You can go highway speeds in first gear, so you can focus on riding instead of shifting.

[@alexsaturnino1481]

You missed the Dodge Tomahawk, Viper V10 powered bike

[@SteelSteedStan]

The best bike out of the ones you listed is the Shadow 750! Super reliable, fool proof engine, low seat, low center of gravity, shaft driven. And she looks great! I've got one in my garage.

[@TwinsAndAPitBull]

When I was looking for a Shadow 750 as my starter project once I learned to ride, I stumbled across a VF500C since I wanted a classic and the performance is awesome compared to the Shadows, but nothing crazy for a beginner

[@kevinnielsen1356]

I don't care for the dual pin crank

[@sawyerramos3113]

YOu said stan! I got the Ace 1100 and I cant love that puppy more.

[@GaryHorn]

I learned on a Honda Rebel 250. Now I ride a Honda Shadow Spirit 750 and love it.

[@tigercatz]

Gary Horn Me too!

[@Voltomess]

I did my MSF and I'm looking to get a honda vlx 600 I just love this bike and it might be my first and last bike because I don't need anything bigger than that.

[@nitrorc4life1]

@@Voltomess if your new, you will want something bigger more than likely in time, key word "want" not need. Then in decades past, good chance you will want something smaller again, not all cases, but many

[@Voltomess]

@@nitrorc4life1 I changed my mind I want dyna low rider 😍

[@LeoTheComm]

The Honda 750 V-Twin "The sensible choice for an affordable midlife crisis!"

[@markcockerham646]

I started on a 09 Honda shadow spirit about seven years ago, and still love it. I’ve gone on multiple four day 1200 mile trips very comfortably. I’m only 5’7”, so I love the low seat height, and never felt under-powered.

[@saxman7131]

My problem is that I’m 6’7” tall and I look like a praying mantis sitting on a small grasshopper.

[@leodoingthings1706]

fetch me few inches man, i am 5'6

[@lpowers41]

Let me know when you figure out what cruiser works for us. I'm 6'9" lol

[@Strongest_under_heaven]

@@lpowers41 6'6 pls lemme know

[@lpowers41]

@@Strongest_under_heaven I sat on a Indian scout the other day and the dealer laughed at me. My Honda AT is the only bike I’ve found so far that fits me well, and even then I have custom lowered foot pegs and a higher touratech seat for it. It’s a tough hobby for guys like us.

[@Strongest_under_heaven]

@@lpowers41 shit man, makes you think.. its an untapped market, make us cool cruisers pls

[@Masenga_vb]

I learnt with a BMW F650GS, which I rode for 2 weeks, sold it and bought a Triumph Tiger 1200, which I have been riding for the past 2 years

[@marcvanartevelde5586]

The Rebel isn't only a beginner bike. I've been riding since '94, only litre bikes in the last twenty years. You reach a point where you start to analyse the ride, what makes the sport fun to you and what you really need in a bike. That's when you start going back to basics and you end up on a Rebel 500, because it can do everything that you do 95% of the time on a bigger, heavier bike.

[@ReymMachine]

Been pricing out my first bike for months and landed on the Rebel before even watching this video. Thank you for confirming what I already expected.

[@Patrickeox]

When I took the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, course I started off on a Suzuki 250. Once I passed I purchased my first motorcycle. She's a 2012 Honda Shadow Phantom vt750, and I can't be happier. Like the video and keep up the good work!

[@judosailor]

I started riding later in life. First, bike was an 82 Yamaha Maxim 650. Rode it as a daily driver for a little over two years. Then didn’t ride for 12 years! Just getting back into it (basically a beginner again) on an 09 Honda Shadow. Loving every minute of it!

[@PozziMotorsports]

Honda Rebel 500 w/ABS ... FTW. I'm 5'7" with a 31" inseam and loved the ability to flat-foot it when stopped. This motorcycle does everything really, really well and was the perfect "starter and forever" bike for me. Can you get really stoopid on one? Yes, but you have to really try. It's a simplistic motorcycle yet can hold it's own looks wise with a few cosmetic mods. The selling point for me was the ability to have my soles planted with the bike upright at stops, the foot pegs NOT in the forward "Harley cruiser bike" position, the controls easy to reach and apply, and the really uber-comfy Corbin custom seat that the bike came with. If you have a Honda Rebel, get on their website and my bike was the one used to manufacture the seats; it's grey with orange piping. It's a very compliant ride and just plain fun. Having the right motorcycle as a beginner ramped up the learning curve and even more so, the confidence curve. Yes ... I'm still slow compared to a lot of you out there but that's just me and I'll get quicker the more I ride.

[@Doberbull]

I’m learning rn on a Ninja 400 ABS. I’m a big dude, but even so, if you have no experience at all with motorcycles or dirt bikes or anything, I’d steer you towards something less powerful. You can wheelie the 400 in first gear if you dump the clutch on accident (I did it at a red light lol) not the best purely because of the power it has. I am so glad I didn’t get like an MT07 and just stuck with the little Ninja, cause even this is a bit of a handful at first. Edit: Also, please do what I did and buy some of the cones football coaches use on Amazon for $10, set them up in a parking lot and do exercises with your bike! Those cones are perfect because if you run them over (which you will) you don’t even feel it. Not gonna drop the bike from running those little things over. I’ve bought tailbags, phone mounts, communicators etc. and the best thing I’ve gotten myself is still 100% those cones. Stay safe, guys!

[@clydeosterhout1221]

After having surgery on my left leg, I was restricted to small light bikes for several years, so I got a TUx 250. My wife and I didn’t want to stop our touring, so for two years we used it like any of my other bikes: two up, loaded with camping gear on 2 week thousand mile trips. Rather to our surprise, it all worked out rather well. We generally had no problem keeping up with the slow lane traffic on the interstates around Norfolk VA, and were fairly comfortable (except for my wife’s knees). It never felt dangerous or torturous, and we had a great time on both trips. It was certainly easier to manage on and off the ferry boats that we take between islands. I am not recommending that other people use the TUx that way. My wife and I have been riding together for decades, and we have our teamwork well sorted out, but the TUx is hardly an ideal two-up touring bike. But would I take my TUx across the US if I was riding alone? Sure, even with over 40,000 miles on it. I have taken it on several solo trips. It’s been an amazingly reliable and flexible bike. I have owned 11 bikes since the 70’s, and I have enjoyed them all. Right now I have a sports bike, a cruiser, a scooter. But of all those bikes, the TUx is the bike I have enjoyed the most.

[@paparalph4]

This fall I turned 66. I've never driven a street bike. Thought it was time so I got myself a 2004 HD Heritage Softail. Found out I should have bought a bike 50yrs ago. I'm loving it. Even with it's size I'm comfortable on it.

[@jonathancobb2976]

I learned on a Harley-Davidson Street 500 at the Harley-Davidson Rider Academy. The bike to me was easy to handle with just enough power. I end up buying the Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883. It rides great. Not intimidating and I feel confident riding it. I like to add that I like your Channel. You help me become a better rider and learn from other people’s mistakes.

[@joeomusula4480]

How much did you buy it for?

[@jamssnana4084]

Great video!! Especially since I just got my first bike (I'm 59 years young), a beautiful Honda Rebel 300 with a candy-apple red fuel tank and tons of mods to help keep me safer. My mother is livid, and is convinced that my husband and I will be dead within 6 weeks. He is getting a bigger touring bike; he likes Harlies and Triumphs. I'm a smaller woman as well, and the 300 just felt right from the first moment I say on it. Can't wait to start learning how to ride; my husband's an experienced rider, and will get me started. Then my safety class, then we'll be cruising the back roads and mountain park roads, waving at you guys!!!!😂

[@toastymcgee9788]

I’m about 29 years old and I’m just getting into it now. Mom is the same way. She thinks I’m going to be dead tomorrow. Moms never change ;)

[@JesterUSMC06]

Started riding on my 2019 Kawasaki Vulcan S. I'm 6'4" and 245 so it fits me well, especially with the Extended Reach setup. Don't think I'll 'grow' out of it any time soon. Great video as always.

[@scotthopson739]

This is the exact bike I would like to get. With the forward controls, how hard is it to get out of the seat if needed when riding over an obstacle say a branch or something in the road?

[@JesterUSMC06]

@@scotthopson739 Not too hard. I usually just kinda pick my ass up off the seat an inch or so as it passes under me. It's more like a hop actually.

[@scotthopson739]

@@JesterUSMC06 Perfect. I can manage that. Thanks for the quick response and safe travels to you.

[@the_wilkini]

@@scotthopson739 easy I do it often over speed bumps in my car park at work

[@scotthopson739]

Ian Wilkinson thank you. Very much appreciated.

[@jonmichael9379]

I started out on a rebel 250 and I can agree that they are perfect to start off with. They’re light, small, easy to ride and you get comfortable with it right away. It takes away the intimidation of bikes and gives you more confidence to ride

[@Taino871]

I was just In Denmark for Christmas and I had an entire family of My Danish side watching your videos! They loved them.

[@trincinf]

I bought a Triumph T100, which is high quality and very reliable. I consider this bike a great starter as well as something I would be happy with while my skills advance. Low seat, natural upright sitting position, ABS/Traction control, and really comfortable.

[@davidzavala337]

The rebel 500 is the bike I want for my first. I like the looks, all blacked out, old school looking but with modern touches, an engine that's seems to be perfect for highway commute, reliable, fantastic aftermarket support and not bad of a price if you can find one. Also, a feel a parallel twin sounds good.

[@lukepevensie]

I love the feel of the rebel 500. But the foot position is not as comfortable as the shadow phantom. Now if they can design a dirt bike with the foot position as a cruiser I would love to learn to ride with that as well.

[@demetriusstump8654]

I started off on a Vulcan 900 Custom, last year. Only because it was used and in the price range I could afford. Plus, was going through bankruptcy and needed a way to and from work since I was surrendering a vehicle. Bit heavy (612 lbs), but with a year and a half of riding under my belt, much more confident rider today than then.

[@Bernabecn]

Thank you, I am 64 years old and I got me 2018 Rebel 500 cc I am very happy with, its get a lots of attention from people.

[@igutz5160]

Just picked up my first bike today, a 2015 iron 883, and im already in love, it fits me great, i can flat foot it easy, doesnt have crazy amount of power but enough to keep you happy and even get you into trouble, and the sound is just absolutely amazing

[@lazar2453]

I just got my first bike a few weeks ago. 2009 Yamaha V Star 650, I love it. I'm 6'2" and 270 so I didn't want to buy anything less powerful.

[@semtexonur6]

2016 yamaha vstar 650. 😁 vstars' are great bikes. Also 6'2" and for the most part its extremely comfortable

[@MIkeHaubrichikonokast]

I bought an 07 Shadow Aero with 2700 miles on it. I love this bike. I hadn't ridden in 40 years, and it's a confidence-building bike for old guys, too. Smooth and comfy.

[@johnnycashbenham1192]

As a newbie rider my mind was overwhelmed with the choices in which bike would I buy, I had no idea because nobody that I know had any interests in bikes and i prior to the msf course never been on a bike, I first went and took the msf course then once i got my endorsement i went to different dealerships to sit on different types and style bikes, I would get the same reaction from the salesman telling me i needed something over 1000ccs because I am a big guy, well I am glad I didn't take those guys advice and listened to my gut and got something smaller that I can learn easily on, I bought an '86 Honda shadow 500 and I haven't regretted it one bit.

[@9770G]

ya those guys were trying to up sell u on something thats gonna cost u more so they would get a bigger commision check

[@jackheartsis]

I ended up learning on a Yamaha bolt 2017 R- spec Picked it up in a couple of weeks easily already modified it change the exhaust system to straight pipes give you an open air filter change the headlights and bought a brand new Mustang seat

[@jamespmcguire4355]

I have been riding for many years on various large bikes .The iron 883 considered "entry" level is now for me an "Exit " level. Was tiring of handling the large behemoth bikes. Purchased a 2020 iron 883 and love it !! So easy to maneuver and flick around. Plenty of power for cruising at any speed. I'm 5'7" ,160 lbs ,so it fits me well. Cannot emphasize enough how much I love this thing.Wish I would have done this yrs ago.

[@unionrdr]

I've loved Harley Sportsters since Then Came Bronson in the late 60's. The show used two '68 XLH's and one '69 XLCH. But the '69 Sportster XLCH I found in unmolested condition was a 4-speed for 8,500! And that was the low price! Sheez. But I came to like the '07 Sportster in that Blue Max sort've blue with the silver mags. Now the kicker...564lbs dry & 583lbs with fluids. Seems kind've heavy for a beginner, even with the 883 engine? What say you? I'm 66 and just gotta have one before the end...

[@zer08927]

Started on a 2016 Yamaha R3 to a 2008 Ducati Hypermotard to a 2014 Yamaha Bolt. I'm in love with my Bolt and have no regrets.

[@CasperJLT707]

Started on the 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan S and DEFINATELY RECOMMEND!!

[@sshamon72]

My first and only bike is a 2006 Suzuki S40. I've had this bike for almost five years now. it's not only a great beginner bike but also a bike you can grow into and hone your skills.

[@folkeroRGC]

Im Ryder for 5 years driving every single day in my Yamaha bolt, very stable, good brakes, fun to drive .... in city or Highway

[@gabestruckingadventures6460]

Started on a Vstar 650, outgrew it after a month traded it in and purchased a Yamaha bolt 950 absolutely love it, so reliable, great bike zero problems

[@aarona.aardvark4171]

Basically started riding A few years back after a long hiatus, I started with a Honda CTX700 with a DCT. I would recommend it.

[@dudehead456]

2021 Rebel 500. Never rode a motorcycle a day in my life. I decide I wanted to get into it, and went to my local dealer. After waiting a month and a half for the bike to be delivered I finally got it. Took it home on a Friday, put 250 miles on it by Tuesday the following week.

[@pistolpete5620]

A great beginner cruiser that I've owned and would highly recommend is the Kawasaki Vulcan S. It has a 650cc parallel twin, very smooth power delivery, ABS brakes, ergo fit system, and enough horsepower that a new rider won't get bored with the bike after a couple of months.

[@AlexOCPMurphy]

Yeah completely agree, it was a great beginning bike.

[@meghanjohnston2070]

Got my bike at 33 years old, been around motorcycles and off road vehicles my entire life. My first bike was and still is a Honda Shadow Spirit 750. It's been a dream bike of mine for a beginner bike and I am glad that it was the one I got. Has a low center of gravity and the seat sits lower, no problem being able to have both feet firmly planted on the ground. Might be a bit big of a beginner bike for some, but for me it was perfect!

[@keithjeep4920]

When I took the msf training, I also used a Suzuki tu250 for all the training exercises and the license exam. Fun little bike. Wouldn't recommend for anything but tooling around town and such but the controls, seating, etc is great for newer riders. Definitely would recommend for someone who is new to riding.

[@thespeez]

I wouldn't consider the TU250 to be a cruiser, but a standard. The Yamaha Virago/V-Star 250 is, a better example of a cruiser.

[@Sanisani9]

Most cruisers are for beginners, they are almost all slow, and easy to control, because they are low to the ground . If u ride it like normal person, you shouldn't have any issues. I started on 2009 cbr600rr, and love it!

[@lafitethepirate]

I’m in my fifties and took the MSF course on the Suzuki 250. Got my license and purchased an Iron 883. Largely just because I like it. I’ll admit it was a bit intimidating at first but you keep practicing what you were taught and soon you’re riding all over. What I learned from my experience is this, I wouldn’t go any bigger than the 883 for sure. However I wouldn’t go smaller than around 500cc’s for the reason you mentioned, highway travel. And unless you live in a small rural town you’re eventually going to be faced with interstate travel if even for a short distance. In our city for instance if you want to cross the river (and you do as the whole town is split by a river) you have no choice but to use the highways to cross. And it’s nice to be able to keep up and not get run over. (Stress reducing anyway) My brother has a Yamaha 250 and when we ride we have to purposely avoid the highways as the 250 simply can’t keep up highway speeds. Therefore I agree with your 500cc assessment. Fairly small, low to the ground, and relatively light bikes that can also travel highways means you can grow with the bike and not feel like you need to upgrade right away. Great videos thanks.

[@mongoardath1]

Sounds very similar to my story. Did the MSF course last year on the Suzuki 250 as well. Bought a 2004 Honda Shadow Sabre 1100 and love it to death. Just took it out yesterday for an impromptu 110 mile ride. Great starter bike for me.

[@rockin870]

Bought a '98 v-star 650 classic with 4,500 miles on it last year as a first bike....Paid $1500. Rebuilt the carbs and threw some whitewall tires on it. I kinda love it.

[@mikebjorgo7985]

Suzuki c50t was a nice bike to get into after a few years off of riding. After a year, I was convinced that I still loved riding and got my 07 Heritage Softtail.

[@Nightsider-xr5lx]

Started on a Yamaha Virago. Got somewhat comfortable over 2 months then traded that towards a Sportster 1200 custom and rode that for 2 years. 2 up with my wife on it. Rode it from Mentor, OH to Pigeon Forge, TN and back. Now riding a 02 HD Fatboy.

[@lordsilvis1048]

The first bike I was ever in, I was about 5 years old. Living in Missouri, late 80s/early 90s. Sat on the gas tank for a nice 140 mile ride. Fell asleep after the first 30. It was a 1953 Indian Chief 80. Been an Indian guy my entire life since.

[@12chrisrob]

Started on a Shadow 1100cc and couldn't be happier! Awesome bike, good power, not too heavy.

[@7nor0cali7]

I own the kawasaki Vulcan S 650 and I love it... I highly recommend it to everyone

[@baljinderbrar7021]

Gorgeous bike. After mastering my 250, i plan on getting that as my next/last/dream bike.

[@bannisterkids8084]

I bought my first bike in the military. A 91 Nighthawk CB750. I rode it for about 20 years. Sometimes as a primary form of transportation. Best bike ever!! I now have a 2001 Honda Shadow Spirit 1100 bobber conversion. Also love this bike. It is purely to enjoy the sport and ride.

[@stonehands0249]

I learned on a Honda Rebel at the MSF course. First bike was a Suzuki Boulevard M50 Black (800cc) cruiser. Shaft driven, low seat and still nimble enough to get around easily especially in the lower rpms. Still love riding that great looking bike even now as I have a Yamaha FJ09 for speed and distance. I don't think I'll ever sell it.

[@Spartansrule118]

How did it feel to start on a 800cc? You think it’s a bit too high?

[@JW-bw8nj]

I'm new to motorcycles and am taking my first MSF class this upcoming weekend (I've never ridden before). I have a 2013 Suzuki M50 in the garage that I'm going to ride for the first time after I finish the course, so I'm also curious about this question.

[@9r393]

Learned on a 2002 Suzuki SV650. First ride home literally nearly gave me a heart attack a few times because I was such a noob but got used to it after a few more rides and it loved it.

[@jbradley339]

I’m still learning on my Honda Shadow and I love it

[@chrisb9960]

That's a good looking machine.

[@theguitarhero898]

Have one myself. Reliable, forgiving and fun. Do I look at motorcycles all day to see what I want next? Sure. But I love my bike and really appreciate how great Honda is at making bikes. Just bought a 88 Shadow 800 that my father and I are working on.

[@joemann7971]

I got myself a Honda Shadow as well. I love the bike. It's fun to ride. Not too heavy. I'm 300 lbs and the bike has no problem taking me up to highway speeds. It's good beginner bike. I'll probably look at getting something a little faster, but for now, that's more than good enough.

[@trini_boi2414]

That's a good beginner cruiser 👍

[@WickedHazeSilver]

Hopefully getting My 2020 Honda Shadow Phantom this weekend!!

[@Mr350toyota]

I got a svartpilen 401 for my first bike and I’ve been really really happy with it. 2,200 miles since June 12th

[@NJ-Transit-]

After looking at lot of different bikes, I went with the Indian Scout, Thunder Black with ABS. I’m really loving it so far.

[@frankgrimm387]

Seeing a scout 60 abs made me sign up for basic riding class. Unfortunately, I can't afford one. So I'm still shopping around, mostly looking at used v-stars.

[@russelllivingood2724]

Good list of bikes, and we all have some more to add. In 1971 I sold my Triumph Bonneville so i could buy my wife's engagement ring, 42 years latter i started riding again on a Suzuki S40 Boulevard ( Savage ). Light weight, low seat height with 650 cc. I have added two more larger bikes for two up riding, yup, she's still riding with me.

[@windkante6210]

My top 5 cruisers for beginners: 1. Honda Rebel 500 2. Honda Rebel 500 3. Honda Rebel 500 4. Honda Rebel 500 5. Honda Rebel 500 Love that bike! The 2020 model got nice updates, as you mentioned.

[@daknyaz]

What if I am 6'5"? Rebel is not a helper over here...

[@iMotoTactic00L]

Still enjoying my 09 CMX250...my next is 2020 rebel 500 ABS..

[@rustybeatty6567]

Number one best beginner motorcycle is the Honda CTX700 DCT it's basically a automatic motorcycle that isn't a CVT style setup.

[@BigTimeTrucker432]

Bought my 2003 Suzuki Intruder VL800 as my beginner bike 4 years ago and I love that bike so much I decided to just keep it. Only costed $3k with a bunch of extra goodies on it and runs like brand new. Looked at Harleys and Indians multiple times but can’t bring myself to spend the way higher price tag just for a newer cruiser bike that is faster when mine runs so well.

[@ForestxWalker06]

The shadow is beautiful, absolutely drawn to it

[@glenmo1]

I started out 1977 ..with 78 Honda hawk 400....loved that bike ! . Yes I used to take it on highway.. used to ride my father's Suzuki 500 2-stroke also.. used to go riding all over long distance day rides..NO PROBLEM .. we later on both purchased Suzuki 750s ...but I like the handling nimble 400 better for around town

[@andyfreesmiles]

As soon as you wife came up at the beginning I knew it was that bike! I’m 5ft tall (I’ve only found videos of people 5’4 and up.. yes they are short, but their input is not as validating for me if I’m being honest) and for some reason I’ve still been doubting if I should get the rebel 500. But I feel like this kind of solidified it for me. Thank you for the post!

[@soniaallard8395]

Taking my safety class to get my license on a Honda rebel but ended up buying a Harley Deluxe softail, intimidating at first to practice on but I love it!!

[@gotstakeeprollin1903]

I learned to ride in the Harley Davidson msf class on their street 500 and it was a great little comfortable bike for a beginner but I ended up with a Shadow for myself and find it really easy to handle and a blast to ride

[@noahfreestone8029]

Just bought an 03 rebel 250 today. Take my msf in two weeks and super pumped about it. Had my dad test the bike before I bought it to make sure it could go 70 so I can drive it to work everyday (13 miles down a 55mph highways no turns)

[@Robbie123199]

i started on a 08 Honda shadow 750 and love'd riding it for my first year. going to work in the city's or going to the lake up north in the middle of nowhere. am happy to say i got a new 2019 Indian scout over this winter and CAN NOT WAIT for spring.

[@andrewfrye1703]

Do you think the scout is a reasonable second bike after a year of riding? I'll have been riding about a year at the start of next season and I'm considering an upgrade from the rebel 500. Just dont want to hop on a bike and learn that it's too much bike for me

[@shanemac75]

I learned on an old Yamaha XS650 until oil started leaking everywhere, went crotch rocket for my 20's & 30's on Ninjas, R6, then GSXR...now back to a cheap, comfortable, relaxing Suzuki Boulevard 50T in my late 40's and absolutely love it. I even threw my chop box and tools on it for work this past week.

[@austinj.-nelson4848]

Wasn’t expecting to see the Iron 883 on this list! Got a 2020 Iron 883 as my first bike last month, endless mods and fun to ride!

[@KingGreen78]

Just got mine as a new rider i thought it was too powerful

[@The-ApexViperRKO]

Learned on a honda rebel 250 and now i got iron XL883

[@austinj.-nelson4848]

@@The-ApexViperRKOIt's a lovely bike man

[@austinj.-nelson4848]

@@KingGreen78 Love Harley for the power

[@ryand121984]

I bought a CPO Triumph Bonneville T100, 900cc with 54Hp and it's an believable machine. I am 5'8 and the geo of the bike is very comfortable and super easy to flat foot on the ground. ✌🏽 cheers! Thank you for all the riding tips sir!

[@turtle19dad]

Im still on my Rebel 300. I love it.

[@CSmith77365]

2018 Kawasaki Vulcan 650S, absolutely love the bike. Super easy to learn on, high torque so you can get out of the way when you need to. All in all a great first bike!

[@Squatch_Rider66]

Learned on HD 500 Street, 1st bought 2007 Honda Shadow Sabre, love it

[@stevegonzales3612]

2007 is when I bought a my first bike...a Suzuki Boulevard 1500 touring bike. Big bike, enjoyed the bike & had no issues eventually selling the bike. I currently ride a 2019 HD Tri-Glide Ultra. To me its all about comfort.

[@trusttheprocess90]

I bought the 2019 Yamaha bolt r spec 6 months ago for my first bike and I love it

[@josenarvarte2603]

I just saw a black one 2020 Yamaha bolt .how did you deal with that power ? 950 ish cc I want one so bad

[@conusmarina397]

My first bike which I got a few months ago is a 15 Honda CRF 250l four stroke. I love it. It’s an enduro but it’s great because it built my confidence very quickly.

[@sathishrao7926]

No Kawasaki Vulcan S ? Guess you’re considering it for advanced riders because of the powerful Ninja in it ?

[@michealwhynot]

I just bought a Kawasaki Vulcan s cafe for my first bike and I don't even have my license yet

[@coltonj.9848]

@@michealwhynot do you have a learners permit if not get that because its gonna get you in a whole lot of trouble without eitger

[@michealwhynot]

@@coltonj.9848 I just did my knowledge test last week and I do my balance test November 1st can't get in any time earlier

[@ramblin_man23]

Are you getting in any practicing?

[@michealwhynot]

@@ramblin_man23 yes I got my learner's permit and I have 2,000kms on her now

[@sawyerramos3113]

Get this, I got a Rebel 250, learned, got my endorsement, outgrew the bike in two months. I know own a Shadow 1100 and couldnt love it more! Sold the 250.

[@jlmcgrot]

That Rebel looks great. As a shorter rider, it has moved to the top of my list for my first bike. Before, I was looking at the Honda mini-bikes or even their...scooter 😐. I’ll be enrolling in a safety course soon.

[@chuckmckee2741]

I really love your list. My son is 21. Everyone wants to race today . I pray he knows the difference from riding to racing

[@bikesrides3371]

I have a Vulcan S and as new rider myself I love it ❤️

[@1sicktaco]

Started riding 3yrs ago on a Yamaha Bolt. First bike ever, still have it and love it. Already put in 20k miles on it.

[@XxEmowolvexX]

My first bike was a Harley Davidson 48 special n loved it!! N now I'm on my lowrider s 2020 🐺🤘 loved everything about it!

[@alexanders1445]

Iron 1200 here, inspiring confidence with white knuckling torque.

[@RuneTemple625]

How’s the low rider s? Looking to get one

[@RuneTemple625]

Also how much did you pay out the door?

[@XxEmowolvexX]

Well I made a trade in, so for my lowrider s out the door was 15k so I got it in a good deal

[@XxEmowolvexX]

Lowrider s.. I love it!! Ride it everyday as I can lol really good bike! But wouldn't recommend for beginners it has alot of power!!! LOL she's a beast!

[@jovanblat6033]

I am 52 years old, my first cruiser (bike) was 1993 Heritage softail classic. I still have it. I never had a problem, not even as a new rider. Take what you like and ride. it's simple

[@TheInterloafer]

This is a great video and advice and selections. The Suzuki TU250 is a great choice and it just got a fantastic review from FortNine. But I don't actually consider it a cruiser, since you're seated upright, not leaned back. I consider it a modern-day UJM. (Nothing wrong with either category of bike, and both have their fans. Just two separate categories.)

[@MrTPF1]

As a young sailor in the late 70's, I started riding on a used, Suzuki GT-250 two-stroke that I bought from a guy in the barracks. I rode that bike like I stole it all around San Diego including on the freeways and never had a problem. Your list of beginner bikes is a good one.

[@all-yw2yr]

Indian scout sixty well balanced, enough power and just plain gorgeous, happy new year Dan to you and your wife.

[@ramblin_man23]

That's exactly the one I want but it's too expensive for a first bike.

[@all-yw2yr]

@@ramblin_man23 get a used one, they're worth it, easy to maneuvered, I graduated to a chieftain but I wish I would've kept it.

[@ramblin_man23]

@@all-yw2yr I looked but they're about the same price as the new one minus dealer fees.

[@ronruthruff2518]

2001 Shadow ACE was my first bike and have had it five years , absolutely the best choice a I made in a while

[@Kentaku3]

I started on my Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. Id put it in league of the Bolt and Shadow if not with the Rebel.

[@rickschoephoerster1149]

I started on the Rebel 500 for my first bike. After about a year and upgraded to the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom. My wife now has the Rebel 500 as an upgrade from a scooter.

[@ErickNagy]

Forgot the best one, Vulcan S.

[@DanDanTheFireman]

It'll be on another list. That is an amazing bike.

[@ErickNagy]

@@DanDanTheFireman the good thing about the vulcan s is that it can handle heavier weights better. Also, the ergo fit makes it more comfortable for all drivers sizes.

[@michaelcoffey2706]

Also it’s in the top 10 quickest acceleration cruisers. If I were into cruisers I’d get the Vulcan S but instead I like the ninja 650 more higher.

[@turtle19dad]

I like that one too. I just never get any test ride time on it to see how well it fits me.

[@CrimsonEsso]

@@michaelcoffey2706 Vulcan S has Ninja 650 engine, just tuned for torque. They are practically identical.

[@roughdraft593]

Started on an 08' V Star 650. Picked it up used with under 4,000 miles for 2,500 bucks and just sold it for almost double that. Money not being the primary factor here, it taught me a lot about what I want and what I don't want in a bike. I'm 5'9 155lbs and the bike being over 500lbs was scary at first but it's really not a big deal. Not a lot of people mention the V Star series but I think they're a good choice in the intermediate/beginner series of cruisers

[@Phntm27]

Learned on HD street 500, perfect for someone dipping their toe in the water.

[@KD-xb8nc]

I know its controversial but my first bike is a Chinese hawk 250, and honestly im glad i started here because not only is the bike super forgiving, but the parts are cheap, and the bike is easy to work on yourself which I feel like is a good skill to learn. honestly the bike has been more than reliable and has taught me a lot!

[@michaelgenio6473]

Here in the Philippines, most of the people learned how to ride a bike using an underbone or scoot

[@scottladd5692]

I bought two Honda Shadow Vlx 600 cc bikes red for my wife. Black for me. Both bikes had windshield,engine guards. We really had a lot of fun on these bikes. A lot of short rides to begin and build confidence and abilities. We then after a year up graded to triumph America and Suzuki boulevard c50 which we have now had for two years and probably won’t up grade till next year

[@rcktgirl05]

I'm learning on my 155cc scooter 😅 It's good to learn the physics of turns, braking, swerving etc as well as general safety, without worrying about shifting at first. Planning to upgrade to a motorcycle eventually, that's why I love these suggestion videos. Been leaning towards the Honda Rebel for sure. But I made a 1 year commitment to my scooter.

[@geddstock]

Brains before badass............👍

[@rcktgirl05]

@@geddstock Definitely upgraded. I was still going to get a Honda but my dad bought me a used Harley for my birthday. So there's that LOL

[@geddstock]

@@rcktgirl05 that’s awesome you lucky thing😂 Ps...counter steering is everything. Good luck out there

[@zam5704]

I started on a Kawasaki Ninja 650R about a year after I passed the MSF course. I had that bike for a few years, until it got stolen. I quit riding for 2 years, but I started getting the itch to ride again. So 3 years ago, I went on a 2-month quest to look for the right bike for me. I'm not a beginner rider, but I was able to test ride a couple of the bikes in this video and thought I'd share my experience: 1) 2017 HARLEY-DAVIDSON IRON 883: Awesome bike and I really enjoyed riding it. On my first big turn, I scraped the right peg or pipe (not sure which). Having come from riding a sport bike, it took me by surprise. Don't be discouraged by that, though. Cruisers in general just don't have high lean angles. The Iron 883 truly was a joy to ride and if I could, I would buy it as a second bike. 2) 2017 YAMAHA BOLT R-SPEC: Also a great bike that was similar to the Iron 883, but it vibrated less. I'm 5'7" and I felt like the handlebars had a slightly further reach than the Iron 883. No big deal. I didn't scrape any pegs during the test ride, so I definitely noticed a slightly higher lean angle, as advertised by Yamaha. Like the Iron 883, it too was fun to ride. 3) 2015 KAWASAKI VULCAN 900 CLASSIC: A beautiful bike with a comfortable stock seat. I have to be honest, I struggled with this bike a little during the test ride. The handlebars angle back toward the rider, similar to the way handlebars on a beach cruiser bicycle do. I was used to riding motorcycles with straighter handlebars. Nothing wrong with the Vulcan 900 Classic. It was all me. The floorboard was nice. The gear shifter was a toe and heel shifter. I didn't quite get used to heel shifting, because I only test-rode it for about 10 minutes. I feel the need to redeem myself and wish I could buy this bike, so that I could practice and master riding it. 4) KAWASAKI VULCAN 900 CUSTOM (I forgot what model year, but +/- 2015): I loved riding this bike. The Vulcan 900 Customs have forward controls. I felt like I had really good control of this bike and felt one with it. I came very close to buying it, but ultimately went with bike #5. 5) 2015 HARLEY-DAVIDSON FAT BOB: This is the bike I fell in love with. Like the Vulcan 900 Custom, it has forward controls and is a blast to ride. My wife loves to ride as a passenger with me, so I decided on this because it's better for 2-up riding than the other bikes. I would not recommend it for beginners though. If you're a beginner rider and your dream bike is a bigger, heavier motorcycle, hold off on buying it. Seriously. Practice on something lighter and cheaper first, so you can get good at riding.

[@packgrog]

I started riding in part thanks to this channel. I took the course with tiny japanese bikes. My first bike wound up being a Sportster 883. I don’t think it was a good first bike. I got the hang of it eventually, but the weight of it (and condition, since it was older and had some issues that needed addressing) made for a very challenging first few months. Finances aside, I would have been MUCH better served by something like the Rebel 500. I still want something like that or a Yamaha Virago/V-Star 250 for commuting. I also find the Sportster uncomfortable over 55mph since it starts shaking like mad (I have a 2003, the last of the rigid mounts). Now, I’d like to help my wife learn to ride. She couldn’t handle the Sportster due to its weight and her height (she’s 5’ 0”, maybe a bit under). The smaller bikes that I love might be better for her. I worry that the newer Rebels might still be a bit heavy for her, and that seat sucks (might be better on the 2020 version). She has sat on one of the newer Rebels and still couldn’t quite flat foot it. She’s expressed more interest in Vespas as a result. Any other tips or suggestions for helping a super-short would-be rider?