Looking to buy an inexpensive, reliable, and available motorcycle? Look no further-
Number 1- Honda CB500F/CBR500R/CB500X
Around since 2013, Honda’s 471cc liquid-cooled eight-valve DOHC parallel-twin platform pulls triple duty. The CB500F is your standard/naked option, the CBR500R is the midsized sporty option, while the CB500X is for the adventure-minded rider. Twelve years of model history means a healthy number of candidates for sale, all built with Honda’s usual over-engineering and robust reliability. And while you’re free to continue lusting after faster, less sensible motorcycles, these are the bikes you’ll actually love. True love is defined by longevity. And always starting, no matter what.
A quick audit of CycleTrader and several other sources show CB500X prices ranging from $4,750 to $6,000. CB500F prices track the same, but ADV-oriented CB500X examples are more plentiful. The sporty CBR500R occasionally dips into the low $4,000 mark, but keep in mind these may have seen track use. Buyer beware.
Number 2- Kawasaki Versys-X 300
You could make an argument for the Kawasaki Z400 standard/naked motorcycle, now in its fifth year of production. But for the sake of greater visibility, practicality, and touring, it’s hard to beat the versatility of the Kawasaki Versys-X 300. The engine makes you eligible for the Ninja club with the classic 296cc liquid-cooled eight-valve DOHC parallel twin that puts out a respectable 39.3 hp. More of that power happens at a lower rpm than with the Ninja 300. Otherwise, you get a fine windscreen and (more often than not) optional ABS, hand guards, hard cases, and other luggage. Pack lightly and you could see both American coasts in a single trip.
Prices are very reasonable, from $3,200 for first year examples to nearly $5,000 for fully kitted 2022–23 models. CycleTrader provided the aforementioned figures, but if you don’t mind a bit of work, prices will likely be less on Facebook Marketplace and the like, depending on region.
Number 3- Harley-Davidson Sportster 883
It’s strange to live in a world without the Sportster, but while traditionalist-minded types mourn, deals can be had. Some criticize the 883, pointing out that owners usually move up to the 1200. But that’s exactly how it’s supposed to work and it’s also why Harley-Davidson made the Sportster 883 in the first place. The last one rolled off the assembly line on November 22, 2022, but buyers have 15–20 years’ worth of modern-ish models to choose from. Know that 2004–on models have rubber-mounted engines, with fuel injection standard on all H-D models after 2006. High mileage isn’t usually a concern, but sometimes they’ve sat for a while after being replaced by a bigger model. Check tires, fork seals, and brake lines if that’s the case and budget for replacement.
Prices in the mid-$3,000 range aren’t uncommon for 2000-era models, but as you get into the 2010s, prices hit $4,000–$5,000, but seldom climb above $8,000, even for 2020–22 models. As always, better deals can be had in other corners of the internet besides official marketplaces.
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