Cruiser's Planet Journal
Best Used Superbikes for Beginners
Best Used Superbikes for Beginners - A Buyer's Guide for New Riders
While a jump from a basic commuter motorcycle to a truly spectacular superbike is always exciting, it can be overwhelming for someone just starting out in the motorcycle world.
This is why buying from the Best Used Superbikes for Beginners list requires more thought than simply opting to buy the motorcycle with the largest engine or highest top speed. A beginner-friendly premium bike should provide a controllable power delivery, predictable handling, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable brakes, not to mention advanced electronic safety features if available.
Buying used can also allow one to own a premium motorcycle with a more affordable price tag. A well-maintained used bike can get you in on a superbike without breaking the bank.
In this buyer's guide, we will discuss what beginners should be looking at, what kinds of motorcycles can fit the bill, and what checks should always be performed before buying your first used superbike.
What Makes a Used Superbike Beginner-Friendly?
While "least powerful" might seem like an obvious answer, it is far from the whole story. A beginner-friendly premium motorcycle should ideally offer a smooth power delivery, predictable throttle response, and comfortable riding position, and should ideally not be too heavy.
A beginner-friendly premium bike should ideally have:
• Smooth throttle response
• Comfortable riding position
• Predictable and controllable handling
• Good braking performance
• ABS
• Traction control (some models)
• Multiple riding modes (on newer models)
• Predictable and easy low-speed handling
• Easy maintenance
If you are coming from a smaller-capacity motorcycle, confidence and control should be your primary concern. Something that allows you to hone your skills gradually as opposed to something that is constantly testing your abilities is usually a better choice.
Why Buy a Used Superbike as Your First Premium Bike?
Buying a used motorcycle can make a lot of sense for someone who is just getting into premium motorcycles.
New superbikes can be prohibitively expensive, not to mention the additional costs of registration, insurance, accessories, riding gear, and periodic maintenance.
With a pre-owned motorcycle, much of the initial depreciation would have already occurred, and you may find yourself able to get a higher-spec motorcycle for your money.
Another advantage of buying a used motorcycle is the sheer variety on offer. The used market has a number of older models, discontinued motorcycles, and variants that would no longer be in production.
However, condition and maintenance are very important when it comes to used motorcycles.
Kawasaki Z650
The Kawasaki Z650 can be a sensible step towards the world of premium motorcycles.
This sporty naked-bike offers a relatively manageable package and an upright riding position that makes it more manageable in traffic.
A used Z650 can be a great choice for someone coming from a smaller motorcycle and looking for a bigger but more manageable machine to upgrade to.
Before buying a Z650, make sure to check the motorcycle's service history, condition of the chain and sprockets, tyres, brake pads, engine, and clutch. A well-maintained example can be a great gateway into the world of larger motorcycles.
Kawasaki Ninja 650
For those who want a full-faired sports-bike aesthetic but do not want to sacrifice comfort, the used Kawasaki Ninja 650 can be a great choice.
Although it sports a performance-oriented look, the Ninja 650's riding position is more relaxed than your average supersport motorcycle.
The Ninja 650 can be a great entry-level premium motorcycle for someone who wants the agility of a sport-bike but not the punishing riding positions of a supersport.
It can be a great city motorcycle, a weekend cruiser, and a highway tourer, and can be a great upgrade over a smaller motorcycle. When inspecting a used Ninja 650, make sure to look over the fairings for any accident damage and check the tyres, brakes, chain, clutch, and service history.
Triumph Trident 660
The Triumph Trident 660 is another motorcycle that can be considered by someone just getting into the premium segment.
This naked-bike offers a relatively approachable riding triangle and a number of modern electronics to aid the new rider.
Depending on the year and specification of the motorcycle, there are a number of rider-assistance systems on offer that can make the Trident a great first premium motorcycle.
Before buying a used Trident, make sure to check the bike's engine condition, electronics, dashboard warnings, tyres, brakes, and service history. Make sure the motorcycle does not have any accident damage. As with any premium motorcycle, condition is more important than simply finding the lowest price.
Honda CBR650R
For the rider who wants the inline-four engine and sports-bike look without immediately diving into the world of litre-class superbikes, a used Honda CBR650R can be a great choice.
This sport-bike offers an attractive full-fairing while retaining a more approachable character compared to a supersport or hyperbike.
The riding position is less severe than a dedicated racing machine, making it more practical for regular road use. When buying a used CBR650R, make sure to check the engine condition, fairings, brakes, tyres, chain and sprockets, and service history. It can be a great choice for the rider with some experience who wants his first inline-four premium motorcycle.
Honda CB650R
The Honda CB650R shares many characteristics with the Honda CBR650R in terms of engine performance but with a more naked-bike aesthetic that puts the rider in a more relaxed riding position.
While the CBR650R offers an aggressive look and feel, the CB650R retains a more practical character that can be better for new riders getting their first premium motorcycle.
An upright riding position is usually much more forgiving for new and inexperienced riders on the road, making the CB650R a great first premium motorcycle. When inspecting a used CB650R, make sure to check the motorcycle's service history, tyre condition, brakes, engine leaks, chain condition, and any accident damage.
Triumph Street Triple
The Triumph Street Triple is one of the more performance-oriented motorcycles on this list. While it does not sacrifice practicality, the reduced weight and enhanced handling make it a more exciting motorcycle to ride.
However, this performance usually comes at the expense of a more demanding riding experience than the average middleweight motorcycle.
As a result, the Street Triple is more suited to the experienced rider who already has some experience with regular motorcycles that can handle the more involved throttle response and stronger acceleration.
Make sure to inspect a used Street Triple's service history, suspension condition, clutch, quickshifter (if equipped), electronics, tyres, and brake pads before buying. Different generations and variants of the Street Triple have varying levels of performance, so make sure to know what to expect before buying.
Kawasaki Z900: Only for the Confident Beginner
The Kawasaki Z900 is one of the most popular premium motorcycles in the Indian used motorcycle market. This sport-bike offers the rider a smooth power delivery in the form of an inline-four engine as well as a more comfortable riding position.
However, the Z900 is significantly more powerful than the other middleweight motorcycles mentioned in this article.
As a result, the Z900 should be considered as an upgrade by the rider who already has substantial riding experience and wants his first taste of higher-performance motorcycles. It is not recommended that a new rider coming from a basic commuter motorcycle immediately buys a Z900.
When buying a Z900, make sure that you are confident in your riding abilities and that you can handle the power the motorcycle offers. Avoid buying a Z900 simply because it offers high performance for the price.
Should a Beginner Buy a 1000cc Superbike?
In general, buying a litre-class superbike such as a BMW S1000RR or Ducati Panigale as your first premium motorcycle is not a great idea.
Superbikes tend to offer very strong acceleration and power that can be overwhelming for the unprepared rider.
Modern electronics such as traction control and riding modes can go a long way in reducing the learning curve for new riders, but electronics cannot replace experience.
A rider will have to have a thorough understanding of throttle response, braking, cornering, roadcraft, and body position before riding a superbike. Starting on a more manageable motorcycle can allow the new rider to learn these skills in a safer environment.
Check the Motorcycle's Weight
While engine capacity is an important consideration when buying a motorcycle, weight can also play a significant role in how easy or challenging a motorcycle can be to ride, especially at slow speeds.
Before buying a motorcycle, always make sure to sit on the motorcycle and inspect how easy or challenging it is to:
• Balance the motorcycle
• Park and move
• Make U-turns
• Reach the ground
• Control in slow traffic
Some large cruisers and adventure motorcycles can be surprisingly challenging to maneuver, even if they offer smooth power delivery.
A motorcycle should feel comfortable and manageable for your riding ability and physical stature. Always make sure to understand how the motorcycle handles before buying.
Look for ABS and Traction Control
For the rider upgrading into the premium segment, electronic rider-assistance systems can be very valuable.
ABS can help prevent wheel lock in critical situations. Traction control can help prevent loss of control in some circumstances.
Some motorcycles also offer riding modes that can alter the throttle response and other electronics to offer a more "beginner-friendly" riding experience.
These systems should not be relied on to the point of recklessness, but they can provide the new rider with an invaluable amount of additional safety. Always make sure that the electronics on a used motorcycle are in proper working condition and that the motorcycle does not show any warning lights on the dashboard.
Inspect the Engine Before Buying
Always make sure to inspect the engine of a motorcycle you are considering buying. If possible, ask to test the engine while it is cold.
Listen out for any unusual noises, vibrations, or smoking. Make sure the engine does not exhibit strange ticking or knocking.
Make sure to check for any oil or coolant leaks as well. If you do not have sufficient knowledge about premium motorcycle engines, always bring an experienced mechanic for the engine inspection. A professional opinion can save you from potentially expensive engine repairs later on.
Check Service History
Service history is one of the most important considerations when you are buying your first used superbike.
When looking at a motorcycle's service records, make sure to ask about the following:
• Engine oil changes and filters
• Air filters
• Brake fluid and coolant
• Spark plugs
• Chain maintenance
• Scheduled maintenance and inspections
A well-maintained motorcycle is usually much easier to inspect since its condition is already well-known.
Avoid the temptation to buy a motorcycle with very low mileage that has been sitting unused for a long time. A motorcycle with low mileage but little maintenance can also require more maintenance.
Inspect Tyres and Brakes
Premium motorcycle tyres can be rather expensive, so make sure to inspect the tyres for the following conditions:
• Tread depth
• Manufacturing date
• Cracks and tears
• Uneven wear
• Sidewall damage
Make sure to also inspect the brakes. Check the brake pads, discs, fluid, and ABS system for proper working condition. Good tyres and brakes are especially important for new riders using a more powerful motorcycle.
Take a Proper Test Ride
A test ride is always an important step for a new rider considering buying a motorcycle.
During the test ride, make sure to assess the following:
• Riding position
• Throttle response
• Clutch take-up
• Gear shifts
• Brakes
• Steering
• Suspension
• Low-speed handling
While acceleration is an important consideration, make sure to also assess your ability to park, make slow turns, and generally ride in slow traffic as you would on a regular day. Avoid buying a motorcycle that is uncomfortable or intimidating to ride in slow traffic.
Budget for Riding Gear
Your motorcycle should not consume your entire budget. Premium motorcycles require protective riding gear as well. Consider buying a certified helmet, riding jacket, gloves, and boots. Comfortable but protective riding trousers or riding gear should also be considered.
Quality riding gear is an important consideration for anyone upgrading into a premium motorcycle.
Understand Maintenance Costs
Used superbikes may be cheaper to buy, but premium motorcycles in general tend to require much more in terms of maintenance than regular motorcycles. Always budget for the following:
• Periodic maintenance
• Engine oil and filters
• Tyres
• Brake pads
• Chain and sprockets
• Insurance
• Batteries
• Spare parts
Choose a motorcycle that you can comfortably afford to maintain. It is never a good idea to buy a superbike and then put off essential maintenance solely due to the high cost of maintenance.
Buy From a Trustworthy Source
Always make sure to buy a motorcycle from a trustworthy source, whether it is from an individual or a professional dealer.
Ask for the following information:
• Registration year
• Kilometres driven
• Number of owners
• Service history
• Accident history
• Modifications
• Documents
At Cruiser's Planet, riders can browse the extensive selection of premium pre-owned motorcycles and compare various motorcycles according to their riding experience, preferences, and budget. Having a number of options to choose from can help a first-time buyer compare different motorcycles and see which ones offer the most value for their money.
Final Thoughts
The Best Used Superbikes for Beginners guide highlights the fact that finding the best first premium motorcycle is about finding the right motorcycle for the rider, not the other way around.
Middleweight motorcycles like the Kawasaki Z650, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Triumph Trident 660, Honda CBR650R, and Honda CB650R can be great first premium motorcycles for new riders, while more powerful examples like the Triumph Street Triple or Kawasaki Z900 may be more suited to the more experienced rider.
Always make sure to inspect the motorcycle's engine, service history, tyres, brakes, electronics, documents, and owner history. Most importantly, make sure to get a motorcycle that is comfortable and controllable for you.
When searching for the Best Used Superbikes for Beginners in India, take a look at the extensive selection of premium pre-owned motorcycles at Cruiser's Planet and compare different motorcycles according to your experience, comfort, and budget.
